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Description
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ToC Cover: The Return of the Rock Star [Kiyomi McCloskey] by Kim Hoffman (p56); Asking and Telling by Adam L. Brinklow (p32); Frenchie Takes Over by Jilian Eugenios (p36); Well Suited by Merryn Johns (p42); Living Out Loud by Sarah Toce (p40); The Life of the Party by Emelina Minero (p48); Reaching for the Stars by Constance Parten (p52); Sweet Home/Made by Stephanie Schroeder (p53); A Life on Lesbos by Alison Terry-Evans (p70); Cover Photo by Leslie Van Stelten.
See all items with this value
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issue
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9
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Date Issued
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November 2012
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Format
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PDF/A
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Publisher
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Frances Stevens
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Identifier
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Curve_Vol22_No9_November-2012_OCR _PDFa.pdf
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extracted text
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BEVERLY MCCLELLAN
FRENCHIE DAVIS
ZINE
MOUTHWATERING
MUST-VISIT
DESTINATIONS
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NOVEMBER 2012 VOLUME 22#9
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Features
56
NOVEMBER
2012
The Return of the Rock Star
Hunter Valentine's lead singer and guitarist
Kiyomi McCloskey rocks hard and burns
up the small screen as part of the cast of
The Real L Word. By Kim Hoffman
32
Asking and Telling
What is life really like for lesbians in the military
after the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell?
By Adam L. Brink/ow
36
Frenchie Takes Over
The big-voiced alum of The Voice and
American Idol is finally hitting her stride.
By Jillian Eugenios
42
Well Suited
Androgynous women have their fashion
prayers answered with this hot line of clothing
by sisters Vee and A Lee. By Merryn Johns
TheDelicious
Issue
Meet the women making our lives yummy,
cake by cake, dish by dish, song by song.
40
Living Out Loud
Beverly McClellan rocked our socks on
The Voice and continues to enchant her
lesbian fans. By Sarah Toce
48
The Life of the Party
Karen Portaleo creates works of art with
cake batter and icing. By Emelina Minero
52
Reaching for the Stars
Top Chef Ashley Merriman continues to
make a name for herself in Manhattan's
Waverley Inn. By Constance Parten
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38
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Sweet Home/Made
A food-centric lesbian couple build a
culinary business while helping build their
community. By Stephanie Schroeder
70
A Life on Lesbos
On our namesake Greek island lesbians
are loving and living in harmony with
history and nature. By Alison Terry-Evans
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IN EVERY ISSUE
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Our monthly profile of lesbian couples
who live, love and work together.
Letters
Editor's Letter
Contributors
24
Out in Front
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Politics
The war on women has become a political
hot button but this very real battle wages on
in our lives. By VictoriaA. Brownworth
Lipstick & Dipstick
Scene
-
Stars
Awesome activist cupcakes straight
out of Seattle; let cinephile Jenni
Olson match some of your favorite
lesbian movies with delectable
dishes and drinks.
74
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Music: Bisexual soul goddess Neneh
Health
78
Books: The late, legendary writer Cheryl B
has left behind a lasting literary legacy.
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Cherry is back with a brilliant new album.
Curvatures
Queer women also struggle with
eating disorders but help is at hand.
Laugh Track
Jessica Kirson loves chicken, so who better
to bite back at the bigots at Chik-Fil-A than
this hungry comic.
72
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This Is What a Lesbian Looks Like
Lesbofile
The Two of Us
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Film: The incredibly true story of a Swedish
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through the process of making a movie.
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ADVISORS
I want to make s__,_
what's mine is you s
Do you and your partner know who will inherit your money and assets? When it comes to
your financial legacy or estate, it's never too early to take action. That's a very good reason to
have a conversation with one of our ADPA-certih.ed Financial Advisors soon. We understand
the issues domestic partners face, and we can help you make sure that the assets you've built
as a family stay in your family. Learn more at wellsfargoadvisors.com/adpa.
Together we'll go far
Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor'M and ADPA'Mare service marks of the College for Financial Planning®.
© 2012 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. Member SIPC. All rights reserved. CAR# 0512-1252A
e
Head of the Pack
e
Longtime curve columnist and author Sassafras
Lowrey talks gender politics and queer teens in our
chat about her fantastic new book, Roving Pack.
Read our interview with the award-winning writer on
curvemag.com.
e
e
Viva Vero
You've seen her on stage with Hunter Valentine,
on The Real L Word and even in the pages
of curve as a former "This Is What a Lesbian
Looks Like" subject, now get to know Vero
Sanchez in our interview with the beautiful
bassist on curvemag.com.
e
Project Runway's first out lesbian
and the talent behind the gender
defiant clothing line Original
Tomboy, Alicia Hardesty, sat down
to tell us all about emerging lesbian fashion
trends, life on reality TV and which reality star
she doesn't want you to compare her to.
Almost Famous
All-lesbian Canadian rock band Perpetual Detour
reflect on their rock star dreams and wonder if they
might be just about to come true with their debut
album What if it Was You?
The Original Tomboy
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Must Stream TV
There's nothing funny about being unemployed,
but when the socially relevant web series
Falling Upwards-which stars out
lesbian Michelle Bonilla-follows
four friends on a quest for landing
the right profession, it's sure to
create a chuckle.
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The Real Laura Petracca
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Hunter Valentine's rockin' drummer
and lesbian reality TV star Laura
Petracca opens up about the frenzied
world of touring, baring herself on
camera and her lighthearted, unabashed
wild side on curvemag.com.
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LETTERS
From Curve's
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Mental Health Help
NEW WORKOUT
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MOMS·TO·BE
LUXURY
PACKAGE
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STARTINGNOW!
As a lesbian who has struggled with bipolar
disorder for the past 10 years I was very
thankful to read the two articles in your
October Issue [22#8]. Congratulations to Ellen
Forney ["The Mind's Eye"] and Stephanie
Schroeder ["Done With Crazy"] who haven't
let the disease beat them but who have instead
become successful and able to help others who
suffer from these disorders. While diseases
such as breast cancer have a high profile, very
little positive media coverage is given to the
epidemic of mood disorders and this silence
makes the sufferer's life so much harder.
Thank you for contributing to ending the
silence. -MaryBeth D., Paterson NJ.
Even More Lip
Awesome October
I was dazzled by your October Issue [22#8].
Everything about it was stunning, from the
in~depth story on Kelli Carpenter ["The
Trip of a Lifetime"] to the gorgeous fashion
spread ["Board Room Games"]. I particularly
love Stella and Lucy! They have the right
attitude and are so charming and funny.
-Arty femme, via email.
I would like to request an interview with
the beautiful Australian actress who plays
Lexy Price on Lip Service [Anna Skellern].
God she really does it for me. That accent
just makes me melt! -M. Sanchez, North
Hollywood
Editor'sNote:Request received!
Marriage Equality British Style
We have set up a petition addressed to
[Prime Minister] David Cameron calling for
the legalization of same~sex marriage in the
U.K. Show your support for our cause at
change.org/ petitions/ mrs~mrs~campaign.
We are not just a label and are more than our
stereotypes. We need everyone who believes
in justice and equality to stand up and fight.
We will not just lie down and be walked all
over. It really is time to make a change. Stamp
out discrimination-make us one equal nation.
-Stella and Lucy, London UK.
I lovemesomeSuze!
-Karen Mazzarella
I loveher!Sheis the onefinancialexpert
I actuallytrust... -Val Schaeffer
Can'twait to readit! :) -Gay Girl
Revolution
Honestlyshescaresme -Julie Smith
Loveit, she'son my passlist. If the
chanceshouldariseI wouldgeta pass
to bewith her.Smartis soosexxxyyyy
-Micha Nett
Goodchoiceandgreatrolemodel!
-Laurie Jacobson
Loveseeinga businesswoman
thereneedmore!awesome-Jennifer Sha
Chan
Sheis amazing!!-Fran Alsbrook
Shekills,loveSUZE-Letitia Rae
Smartis a newsexy!-Worama Nil
I wouldnot bewhereI amtoday
withouther!thanksSuze.loveher!!
-Lisa D Gilmore
Thisis great!Lesbiansneedmore
rolemodelslike Suzewhoarenotjust
knownfor a realityshows,political
agendas,art, movies,etc.
-Monalisa Lopez
WhatYouSaidAboutcurvemag.com
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When you wine and
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A rideto the burgerjoint
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I
curve
THE BEST-SELLING
LESBIAN
MAGAZINE
REMEMBER
INTERVIEWING
Hunter Valentine three years
ago in a West Village cafe called 'sNice-an appropriate location, because the girls were just that. I also found
them to be articulate, driven and determined to fulfill their
destiny as rock legends. I wasn't afraid to ask them how they
were going to do it. "Work, work, work;' said front woman
Kiyomi McCloskey. "You have to be tough. You have to be
able to get back up, over and over:' Yes, I liked these girls who
had left their home, Canada, and quit their day jobs to take a
shot at stardom. And rather than being a liability, as so many
lead singers in rock bands turn out to be, McCloskey was a
visionary. ''As a 17 -year-old, I had a fundamental belief that
the music we were playing would take us
around the world:' And, she added (music
to any lesbian's ears), "We will never hide
who we are:'
I decided to check them out playing live
in Brooklyn, supporting another excellent LGBT band, The Cliks. As I watched
McCloskey-the
incarnation of a leatherclad rock star, a lesbian who could possibly
fill Joan Jett's pioneering shoes-I said a
silent prayer to the fame goddess. If anyone deserved to make it, she did.
Fast-forward and here we are with
Kiyomi McCloskey gracing the cover of
our Delicious issue. Apparently, my prayer
was answered: She is getting major exposure
on The RealL Word, and Hunter Valentine
got even more attention with the release of
its third album, Collideand Conquer,earlier
this fall.
We have loads of other tasty things in
this issue: heavenly lesbian chef Ashley
Merriman's triumphant relocation to an A-List restaurant;
the soulful and scrumptious Neneh Cherry's latest album;
the delectable vocalists Frenchie Davis, Beverly McClellan
and AG leading the lesbian entertainment revolution; mouthwatering cakes and cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth; simple
and sophisticated food and wine pairings; indulgent travel
destinations for culinary enthusiasts; and perhaps most delicious yet-original and elegant androgynous fashion from A
and Vee Lee.
I found myself frequently drooling while getting this issue
together. What else can I say now but Happy Thanksgiving
and Bon Appetit!
THINGS
THAT
MAKE
~
~~,_.
Merryn
Editor-i
merryn@curvemag.com
s I curve
NOVEMBER
2012
I
VOLUME 22 NUMBER 9
Publisher Silke Bader
Founding Publisher Frances Stevens
EDITORIAL
Editor in Chief Merryn Johns
Managing Editor Rachel Shatto
Associate Editor Jillian Eugenios
Book Review Editor Rachel Pepper
Contributing Editors Victoria A. Brownworth, Gina Daggett,
Sheryl Kay, Stephanie Schroeder, Constance Parten
Copy Editor Katherine Wright
Editorial Assistants Adam Brinklow, Kim Hoffman
OPERATIONS
Director of Operations Laura McConnell
ADVERTISING
National Sales
Rivendell Media (908)232-2021, todd@curvemag.com
Business Development
Sallyanne Monti (510)545-4986, sallyanne@curvemag.com
ART/PRODUCTION
Art Director Stefanie Liang
Production Artist Kelly Nuti
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Kathy Beige, Kelsy Chauvin, Lyndsey D'Arcangelo, Maria De La 0,
Jill Goldstein, Lisa Gunther, Melany Joy Beck, Kristin Flickinger,
Gillian Kendall, Charlene Lichtenstein, Karen Loftus, Sassafras
Lowrey, Jess McAvoy, Ariel Messman-Rucker, Emelina Minero,
Constance Parten, Laurie K. Schenden, Stephanie Schroeder,
Janelle Sorenson, Allison Steinberg, Stella & Lucy, Dave Steinfeld,
Edie Stull, Yana Tallon-Hicks, Sarah Toce, Tina Vasquez, Jocelyn Voo
CONTRIBUTING
ILLUSTRATORS
& PHOTOGRAPHERS
Erica Beckman, Meagan Cignoli, JD Disalvatore, Sophia Hantzes,
Syd London, Cheryl Mazak, Maggie Parker, Constance Parten,
Leslie Van Stelten
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Volume 22 Issue 9 Curve (ISSN 1087-867X) is published monthly (except for bimonthly
January/February and July/August) by Avalon Media, LLC, PO Box 467, New York NY
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Contents of Curve Magazine may not be reproduced in any manner, either whole or in part,
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CONTRIBUTORS
Editorial assistant Kim Hoffmanis a writer who, in her
spare time, is hard at work on the next great American
lesbian TV screenplay. Prior to lending her talents to
curve she has contributed to BuzzFeed, Wetpaint and
MV Remix. In 2009 Hoffman self-published her first
novel, Sun Block. Follow her on Twitter @the_hoff and
check out her exclusive interview with lesbian rock star
and curve cover girl, Kiyomi McCloskey, on music, love
and reality TV fame on page 56.
KathrynLounsbery
is a Los Angeles-based musician and
comic best known as one-half of the musical comedy
duo That's What She Said. Her piano skills afford her
a fascinating existence that includes solo musical comedy
stand-up, musical theater direction, solo piano gigs at
awkward events (maybe her favorite), and composing
and producing tracks for websites, commercials and web
series. Most recently she was seen microwaving a burrito
in her underwear prior to serenading a young couple on
the most important day of their lives. Her interview with
comic Jessica Kirson is on page 28.
,o I curve
Constance
Partenis an award-winning journalist who has
worked in the national media for more years than she
cares to admit. A native of Austin, Texas, and a graduate
of Texas A&M University, she most recently worked as a
senior digital producer at NBC News. She also is a graduate of The French Culinary Institute in New York. When
she's not eating or cooking (or thinking about eating and
cooking) you can find her pursuing her other passions of
photography or travel. She writes about a culinary excursion through the Stockholm archipelago on page 66.
AlisonTerry-Evans
is an Australian at home in many places
in the world including the U.S., Greece and the UK. At
the moment she is living on the Greek island of Lesbos
while she writes and takes photographs for her book
Feeding Body and Soul: On A Greek Island. She is passionate about living a creative life that includes travel, cooking,
food growing and gathering, sea kayaking and photography. On Lesbos she leads cooking participation groups
where women from all over the world learn how to cook
Greek food. Her feature on Lesbos is on page 70. ■
to CURVE Magazine
Seattle Sweet Treat
Cupcake Royale's Jody Hall is building community one cupcake at a time.
J
ody Hall, 40, got her start working for "this tiny
entrepreneurial
company" you may have heard
of called Starbucks. Back in 1989, it had only 55
stores, and over the course of her 11 years there,
she did everything from working on charitable giving to
a partnership with Lilith Fair, all of which helped guide
her when she started her own business, the Seattle bakery
Cupcake Royale. Cupcakes, though, were a secondary part
of Hall's mission of"creatingjoyous experiences and com~
munity connection:' While today gourmet cupcakes are a
trendy treat, at the time, an all~cupcake bakery was seen as
a bizarre venture. "My friends thought it was crazy, 'You're
going to spend all your Starbucks stock options opening a
cupcake place:''"
But Hall wanted to bring back the model of coffee shop
society, where cafes were central gathering places. "It's in our
DNA to be social, in the real sense;' she explains, and she
wanted to provide a location for real~time connections in
our hyperlinked world. She'd been observing the success of
Top Pot Doughnuts and was on the lookout for a sweet
treat to sell when she saw Isaac Mizrahi interviewing
Magnolia Bakery fan Maggie Gyllenhaal on a TV show,
and knew the single serving, baked~from~scratch treats fit
with her mission. Less than a year after getting laid off from
her marketing job at REI, Hall opened Cupcake Royale's
first shop in December 2003. Flavors range from bestseller
salted caramel to Hall's personal favorite, Dance Party, a
vanilla/vanilla cupcake.
Hall's instincts were right and the company has continued
to expand. They recently launched their sixth location, near
the famed Pike Place Market, and expanded to offer its own
ice cream line. Ethical practices and social action are part
of their mission, whether using locally sourced flours and
fruits (including pumpkin and huckleberry), to fundraising
efforts."Last year, there was some tragic stuff going on. Tyler
Clementi had jumped from the George Washington Bridge
after being bullied for being gay; it literally broke my heart;'
recalls Hall. In 2011, Cupcake Royale launched rainbow~
adorned "The Gay" cupcake, with $1 from each sale going
toward Dan Savage's It Gets Better Foundation, enabling
Hall to present the charity with a $10,000 check. In 2012,
through cupcake sales and a matching donation, they gave
$15,000 toward marriage equality, an effort near and dear to
Hall. The bakery's offerings include wedding cupcakes (for
all sexual orientations), such as those made for lesbian singer
Brandi Carlile's nuptials.
Hall, an out lesbian, knows the importance of shared
values with her staff. "We
will hire people for values
over skills, because you can't
train that. It's in your heart or it's not. Part of our values are
around being an active part of our community and that has
to do with having a voice around marriage equality;' Hall
says when asked if she's ever concerned about alienating
potential customers. Quite the opposite; she reports that
even in the tony Bellevue neighborhood, kids who love rain~
bows come in begging their parents to buy them "the gay"
cupcake. "When they say,'We'll take two gay cupcakes, and
two lattes; I know they had a conversation about these issues
that night;' says Hall. While seeing the smiles on custom~
ers' faces is a highlight of her job, for Hall, cupcakes are
more than just a sweet treat; they're a vehicle for engaging
with the world. "Using the business as a platform for social
betterment has been super rewarding. It's allowed us to
have a bigger amplified microphone to talk about issues
we think our community cares deeply about:' That's delish!
(cupcakeroyale.com) [RachelKramerBussell
November 2012
I 13
CURVATURES
Silver Screen Sommelier
Make the most of movie night with tasty treats and tantalizing tipples. By Jenni Olson
For many lesbians, a home~cooked candle~lit dinner, wine and snuggling on the couch in front of the latest
lesbian movie is the perfect idea of a romantic date. Who better to ask for screening suggestions than Sapphic~
cinephile, Jenni Olson:' Here are her top seven suggestions for dinner, drinks and a movie-at home.
JOE+BELLE
Pair this super-fun Israeli dark comedy
with a Middle Eastern platter eaten with
your fingers-think olives, vine leaves,
hummus, pita bread and falafel washed
down with a spicy Syrah.
ELENA UNDONE
Oysters are known to be
among the greatest culinary
aphrodisiacs. This super
steamy romantic drama
about star-crossed lovers is
the perfect accompaniment.
Then toast your ladylove
with a chilled glass of your
favorite sparkling wine.
CHUTNEY POPCORN
You could choose any number of
spicy Indian dishes to go with this
classic South Asian lesbian family
romance. Tandoori chicken or saag
paneer? Naan or roti? Just don't
forget the chutney-and an icy
cold Kingfisher beer-or two.
14
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+
+
LOVING ANNABELLE
A student at an all-girl boarding
school falls in love with her
teacher and the teacher returns
her affections! For this tantalizing
May-November romance we suggest
mixed baby greens dressed in aged
balsamic vinegar, apple pie topped
with vintage cheddar and how about
a cherry Martini for a nightcap?
MANGO KISS
Francisco lesbian romance
acknowledges the long-standing
lesbian fascination with that
luscious fruit. Get her taste buds
tingling with chips and mango
salsa and keep things tropical
with a mango margarita!
DESERT HEARTS
In this classic Southwestern period piece an uptight
female professor waiting for her Reno divorce is
seduced by a feisty local femme. Loosen up your
lady with finger-licking fajitas and a few cold and
butchy Buds.
GIRL SEEKS GIRL
It's been called the
Spanish L Word and this
sexy and hilarious web
series is like a tapas
meal of hot lesbians.
Order in some lip-smacking
bites such as empanadas,
croquettes, pinchitos and
paella. Mix up a jug of
Sangria for a muy caliente
finish.
I
CURVATURES
the rundown
Former ArmyColonel
TammySmithhas been promoted to Brigadier
Generalless
than a year after the repeal of Don'tAsk,Don'tTell,making her the first general
officer to come out while serving her country. Smith was honored at a private
NationalCemetery.
Her stars were
ceremony at the Women'sMemorialat Arlington
presented by her wife, TraceyHepner.On life since the repeal Smith says, "The
support we've received has been amazing ... ! wasn't surprised that people were
so accepting, but in some cases it has been even celebratory. It's like nothing has
really changed for us, and yet everything has changed:' ... MaryKayHenryhas been called "the most powerful lesbian in the
International
Union,which
country" by SeattleGayNewsfor her role as the first woman president of the ServiceEmployees
at the Democratic
National
represents more than 2 million workers. Henry, a native of Detroit, spoke against MittRomney
saying"Even though Mitt Romney and I both call Detroithome, it seems like he learned a very different set of
Convention
Innin Lyndonville,
Vt.
values;' and called him out on his business practices and record of failing workers ... TheWildflower
has settled a lawsuit brought by lesbian couple KateandMingLinsley.The resort refused to permit their wedding reception
after the innkeepers said they did not host'gay receptions:' As part of the settlement, the resort will pay $10,000 to the
VermontHumanRightsCampaign
and $20,000 to a charitable trust to be disbursed by the couple. The Inn also agreed to no
longer host wedding receptions ... 83~year old lesbian EdieWindsorof NewYorkand her lawyers have filed a petition to ask
There are now three cases that could
the SupremeCourtto review her case challenging the DefenseOfMarriageAct(DOMA}.
challenge DOMA that the Supreme Court must decide if they will hear. Windsor sued the government in 2012 after her
partner of over 40 years died and she was forced to pay over $363,000 in federalestatetaxesbecause the federal government
didn't recognize their marriage ... ZachWahls,a 21~year~old year old gay rights activist and child oflesbian mothers, spoke
NationalConvention
praising President BarackObama's
support of same~sex marriage. He also criticized
at the Democratic
MittRomney
for his opposition to the issue, and in turn to
his family. "Governor Romney says he's against same~sex
marriage because every child deserves a mother and a father;'
Hot Tee of the Month
said Wahls. "I think every child deserves a family as loving
and committed as mine:' Wahls is an EagleScoutand the
a national organization pres~
founder of Scoutsof Equality,
suring BoyScoutsof Americato end homophobic policies ...
CharlieRogers,
the Nebraska
lesbian who reported to Lincoln
police that three masked men broke into her home, stripped
her, tied her down and carved homophobic slurs into her
body before trying to set her and her house on fire, has
been arrested. Rogers has been charged with lying to police
after an investigation including forensic pathology reports
conducted by the FBIdetermined that the injuries were self
Lowrey]
inflicted. [Sassafras
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proud but rememberwhen she was
in the closet and code for baby dykes
in the know? Closet Case doesl and
celebratesone of our favoriteformerly
secret lezzieswith theiradorable
DarleneConnertees and tanks,
($30,otherwild.com)
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OUTINFRONT
Latina
Leaders
Lesbianfeminism,
CentralAmericanstyle.
By Sheryl Kay
Viva la Feminista
For EmmaAuroraChaconAlvarado,activism
is truly in her blood. Born to dedicated communists in Costa Rica, Chacon learned the
chants of dissenters before she learned nursery
rhymes. But even though her parents were
politically progressive, and well-schooled in
civil disobedience, her mom's reaction when
Chacon came out to her was traditional.
"I believe for her, and for many others,
it's a cultural thing;' says Chacon. "It wasn't
easy, and it takes time to make changes:' And
so Chacon made peaceful revolution a part
of her life. As far back as 1989, Chacon has
been an active member of both the LGBT
community and the women's community
in Costa Rica, first joining Las Entendidas
(Those Who Understand, an early lesbianfeminist group), then continuing her political
activism by supporting many other organizations, including Las Humanas, the Provincial
Party New Feminist League, the Autonomous
Women's Forum and the Central American
Alliance for Sexual Diversity.
She's run seminars and workshops on
human rights, women's health, the history
of the LGBT civil rights movement, gender
equality, strategic planning and the fight against
HIV/AIDS.
"It is a passion that runs through my veins,
almost like a drug;' she says."I just can't think
of my life without being politically active:'
Most recently, Chacon teamed up with
Mesa de Dia.logo, an LGBT political action
committee dedicated to advocacy and lobbying the Costa Rican government. She also
helped found the lesbian-feminist Colectiva
lrreversibLes, which runs programs on capacity building for lesbians and documents the
historical development of lesbian rights in
Costa Rica.
Having worked on several projects that
brought her into contact with women in other
outlaws in vitro fertilization.
Interestingly, though, it's not against the
law to be gay, she says, but the police do
enforce oppression.
"They will continually hassle you, hassle
the gay bar owners, until you disappear from
view;' she said.
Since her first altercation, back in 2000,
Salas has joined many Costa Rican LGBT
and feminist groups, and was a founder of
Beso Diverso (Diverse Kiss), a group that
helps to organize rallies at bars, restaurants
and other establishments known to discriminate against the queer community by
Professor With Pride
throwing out same-sex couples who show
Don't let the smile fool you. Yes, Margarita public affection. (During these protests,
SalasGuzmancan light up a room with her
Salas and her associates show up and kiss.)
intellect, her wit and her warmth, but the
She also recently helped coordinate Marcha
34-year-old is a true warrior, dedicated to
de los Invisibles (March of the Invisibles), a
making life better for the LG BT community
rally in June where several thousand people
in Costa Rica, and beyond.
demanded equal protection in Costa Rica on
issues such as gay rights and the establishA social psychologist by profession, Salas
first got involved with activism about a
ment of a secular state.
decade ago, after she'd been thrown out of
Given her very real public prominence
bars for showing a small amount of public
in a place where she has no legal protection
affection for other women.
from constant harassment, some might won"Costa Rican culture is very nonconfrontader why Salas, an international speaker and
tional;' notes Salas, "but when it comes to being
a professor at the University of Costa Rica,
would take such risks. "I believe visibility is
gay, you just can't be obvious:'
The government, she says, is based on a the greatest security you can have;' she says.
Catholic charter and priests are actually on
"The more visible you are, the higher the
the payroll of the state, so a tolerance for
price they pay if they kill you. If I don't come
home, they make me a martyr-and
they
legislation that supports Catholic doctrine
don't want to do that:'
runs deep. Costa Rica is the only country in
And we sure don't want that either! ■
the Western Hemisphere, for example, that
countries, Chacon says that keeping a global
perspective is the best way for lesbians to face
their challenges and overcome them. Even if
there are some cultural differences, lesbians
will always have a great deal in common. 'J\ll
lesbians live in very similar situations, regardless of which country we live in;' she says.
"One way or another, we all live the same
joys, the same sorrows, the same hopes and
the same despairs. And because we do have
so many similarities, there is so much we can
learn from each other, which will help us in
our fight for civil rights :•
November 2012
I 19
LESBOFILE
On Display This month'scelesbiansare baringall.
By Jocelyn Voo
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With the Olympic torch
already faded, we wanted
to give a nod to LGBT
athletes representing their
countries in the Gamesand in particular athletes
who used the spotlight as a way to celebrate,
not turn away from, their orientation. Lori
Lindsey, a member of the U.S. Women's
national soccer team and an alternate in the
2012 Olympics, has done just that by confirming that she's gay.
Like with most out figures in the public
eye, Lindsey's sexual orientation has been
known amongst her close circles, but undisclosed to the larger public. Lightning round
of facts: She's been out since age 20, her
mom is a lesbian and Lindsey's single. Dig
blondes in knee socks? We suggest you consider that ESPN channel package after all.
Walkonthe Bi Side
So, what's it like being a lesbian on a popular reality TV show? It means you should
watch what you say about lesbians.
20
I curve
Romi Klinger knows this
firsthand. In an interview
with Dr. Drew, the Real L
Word star admitted that
though she's been seeing
women for the past seven
years, she's gone back to men
for the time being. Viewers of the show
have latched onto this revelation, sending her hate mail calling her a "traitor"
and "slut:'
While it may look like Klinger pulled an
Anne Heche, perhaps the whole hating on
bisexuals thing has gotten out of hand with
postal mudslinging. Can't we all get along?
BowDownto the Ladies
Benchpresses and deadlifts?
A cakewalk compared to
what mothers go through,
says fitness phenomenon
Jillian Michaels.
"Women who go
through that are
soldiers;' Michaels
told Larry King in
an interview, rhapsodizing how her partner,
Heidi, went through 27 hours of labor to
have their son Phoenix. ''After seeing what
she went through those 10 months, the labor
and everything-I bow down:'
Moms, you heard it here.
PrimetimePolicing
Singer/ dancer/ pioneer of the big booty
JLo has been all over the media map, and
most recently added TV show producer to
the list with her new series for ABC Family
that documents a lesbian couple raising a
family. However, it looks like One Million
Moms, the conservative organization that
has the purported goal of mobilizing parents to "stop the exploitation of children"
by the media, has finally heard of this and
is up in arms about it.
Wait. You're telling us that there's
a show starring a 7 -year-old pageant queen who self-named herself
Honey Boo Boo and pulled ratings
equivalent of Bill Clinton's DNC
speech-and
this is what they have
a beef with? ■
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She Said
Friend or Faux? What to do when someone gets too close to your girl.
By Lipstick and Dipstick
Dear Lipstick & Dipstick: My girlfriend and I have been in a
relationship for a few years. We have a mutual lesbian friend
who invites us out as a couple constantly but is very attentive
to my girlfriend and can be passive-aggressive at times toward
me. I have had friends try to come between me and past
girlfriends and this feels similar. Something isn't right. I catch
her watching my girlfriend, she buys her gifts and has said
things to me like, "We have to put up with you to hang out with
her." Am I just crazy-jealous, or do I have a legitimate reason to
feel threatened?-Between
a Rock and My Girl's BFF
Dipstick:
Is the girl hot? If not, don't worry
about it. If she is, then just consider this
a relationship test. Even if she weren't trying to worm her way to the core of the
apple of your eye, it could happen anytime,
anywhere. Temptation is around every corner. It could be the cute lifeguard where
she swims her morning laps, or the hottie
behind the steam table serving up rice and
beans. It's just important that the two of you
talk about what's happening. Let her know
fun flirtation is OK, but keep the words of
comic Vickie Shaw in mind: "It doesn't matter
where you get your appetite, as long as you
eat at home:'
Lipstick:Something's rotten in Denmark
Dykemark! What is it with some lesbians? I once knew a woman-we called her
Roadhouse Robin-who
was a chronic
relationship destroyer. She went from one
woman to the next, stealing lezzie ladies,
leaving a dog-haired trail of destruction in
her wake. Most lesbians who've been out for
many years, and grown through numerous
relationships, have found themselves in
this pre-dyk-ament, yours truly included. I
think it comes down to three things: communication (like Dip says), boundaries and
22
I curve
medicine. Not traditional meds-the ethereal kind. Preventive "medicine;' disguised
as the work you do to keep a relationship
healthy, so it doesn't rot from the inside
out. That problem that keeps popping up
for you and your lover If you're not getting
to its source and healing it, it will further
decay and leave a gaping entry wound for
the Roadhouse Robins to steal in through.
Another good idea: Gently sever ties with
people you don't trust.
DearLipstick& Dipstick:
I thinkI'm a lesbian
andI'vereallygota crushonmyfriend.I can't
stopthinkingabouther.I'm nearly21, have
hadboyfriends,
but I couldnevergetserious
aboutthem,no matterhowgreattheywere.
Myfriendhasbeenoutforthreeyears.She's
notin a relationship,
soshe'savailable.
We've
beenfriendssincewewereinschooltogether.
She'smybestfriend,butI wantmore!I'm not
worriedaboutwhatpeoplethink.If theycan't
acceptme for who I am, they'renot worth
knowing.I'm worriedthat if I tell her how I
feel,I'll loseherasa friend.WhatshouldI do?
-Ready to RockHerWorld
Lipstick:If I had a Loonie for every time I
got this question, I could board up my advice
booth and retire.
Dipstick:What? The last thing we need,
Lip, is more loonies approaching us.
ex:
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Lipstick:
I'm talking about our dollar coin,
you silly Yank. That's what we call it up
here in Canadaland.
Dipstick:Why is everything so weird up
there:' And why do we lesbians always
imagine a worst,case scenario:' What
about the best one:1 The one where you
confess your feelings and your friend tells
you she feels the same way. The two of you
fall onto her dorm bed in a pile of giggles
and kisses, only to come up for take,out
Chinese and episodes of The Real L Word.
When you finally pull yourselves together
and out of each other's arms, you realize all
"It doesn't matter
where you get your
appetite,as longas
you eat at home."
the things that made her a great friend are
the same things that make her a fantastic
girlfriend. When you tell your friends and
your family, they'll throw their hands up
in glee, happy that you two have finally
figured out what they knew all along, that
the two of you were meant to be together.
Lipstick:Dip's got it wrong. Instead of
confessing, just let it happen organically,
with a big fat bottle of wine and some
smooth moves. Turn up the sexy tunesMaxwell works every time-and turn up
the heat ( candles!). You'll know pretty
quickly if the feeling is mutual. If it isn't, I
doubt it'll destroy your friendship. In fact,
I'll bet she's flattered. Life's too short to sit
on the sidelines, Rocker Girl, so get into
the game.
DearLipstick& Dipstick:I am in a wee bit
of a pickle.I am in my late 20s and have
beenseeinga woman,Jessica,who is 1O
yearsmysenior.We'veneveractuallydated.
WhenI met her a year ago, she and her
partnerhad separated-but her marriage
wasn'ttechnicallyover{sheand her partnerhavea 2-year-oldson,sotheystilllived
together).Throughout
the year,I've dated
otherpeople,butneverseriously,
because
of
Jessica.
I'vebeenholding
outforher,butafter
a year,I decided,to hellwith it!-and told
herso.It was hardbecauseI was breaking
my ownheart,too.At the sametime,I met
Chloeat a party.Shewasfun,hilariousand
closerto myownage.TwodaysafterI met
Chloe,Jessicatoldmethat her relationship
wasoverandherwifewasmovingout.I was
ecstatic,butthenI'd heardthisbefore.Chloe
and I textedand saw eachothera couple
of times but nothinghappenedbecauseI
was still unsureaboutJessica.Lastweek,
Chloeand I reallyconnected.
We went out
on somedates,laughedandtalkeduntil5
a.m.Wehaveso muchin common,
andshe
doesn'tappearto be nearlyas encumbered
as Jessica.It was goinggreatuntil I saw
Jessica.Herwife reallyhadmovedout.I'm
notsurewhatto do!Jessicaisa risk,butI've
put in so muchtime,loveand energywith
her-I feellikeI needto exploreit, nowthat
she'savailable.But I reallylike Chloe!I'm
confusedand hopeyou guyscan give me
someobjective
advice.-Tornin Two
Lipstick:Is Jessica really available:' You
may find she's far from it, emotionally. My
objective advice, T.I.T.: Stay on track with
Chloe. There's less baggage and no poten,
tially jealous ex in the wings.
Dipstick:Duh. The answer is easy. Date
them both! There's no reason you should
have to pick one or the other. Just make
sure both ladies know you're not exclusive.
Eventually, the superior one will rise to
the top. It's called dating, ladies. We could
all benefit from doing more of it.
Lipstick:I dated two women at once ...
once. I soon found out Woman No.1 was
Jack Wagon crazy when I spotted her hid,
ing in the bushes outside the bar where I
was having a drink with Woman No. 2.
Note to self: Lesbians have a reallyhard
time sharing, so if you decide to double
down, T.I.T., hide your bunnies before
you head out. ■
ADVICE Health
Hunger Games Are you, or is someone you love, struggling with an eating disorder?
Specialist Bridget Whitlow says help and recovery are at hand. By Emelina Minero
From emotional eating to anorexia, binge
eating to bulimia, eating disorders (EDs)
are some of the most mysterious and mis~
understood medical conditions of recent
times. Although many lesbians assume
that EDs are a problem for heterosexual
women, lesbian actor Portia de Rossi
wrote a book on the subject. Her 2010
memoir, Unbearable Lightness: A Story of
Loss and Gain, details her struggle with
anorexia nervosa, revealing that EDs
can become a potentially life~threatening
affliction regardless of sexuality. In the
San Francisco Bay Area, therapist, active
community member, loving mother and
wife, and out lesbian Bridget Whitlow
specializes in helping people recover
from eating disorders. Whitlow has an
unbridled passion for her community,
has worked with the San Diego chap~
ter of the International Association of
Eating Disorders Professionals, and is cur~
rently the president of Eating Disorders
Recovery Support, Inc. (EDRS, Inc.), a
Bay Area nonprofit. Whitlow also acts as
the social media committee member of the
Academy for Eating Disorders; volunteers
with the American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention, the Spectrum LGBT Center,
Art for AIDS, and Pets Are Wonderful
Support; and has her own private practice.
Clearly, Whitlow is nothing if not com~
mitted to helping others, and took time
out to reach out to curve readers and
offer her expertise.
Whatmotivates
youto giveso muchof your
timeandenergyto thecauseof eatingdisordersrecovery?
The largest motivator for me is that despite
the notable prevalence of eating disorders
in all genders and ethnicities, and the fact
that they have the highest mortality rate
out of all psychiatric diagnoses, eating
disorders still remain largely misunder~
stood-both
in society as a whole and in
the healthcare community. There is a tre~
mendous need for increased education.
Being able to contribute to this, working
24
I curve
alongside other passionate people in this
field, is incredibly rewarding.
Whyis it so importantto spreadawareness
andeducation
abouteatingdisorders?
Because eating disorders remain largely mis~
understood. Many harmful myths continue
to be held as truth, even among healthcare
professionals. With more education on how
to identify, intervene appropriately and prop~
erly treat eating disorders, people can recover
and get on with their lives.
Whatare the mostimportantthingspeople
needto understand
aboutthenatureofeating
disorders?
One, eating disorders are not a choice. While
we do not know the exact cause of these
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disorders, research indicates that there is
a large genetic component-there
is a 50
to 80 percent heritability risk. Two, eat~
ing disorders impact all genders, sexual
orientations and ethnicities. And three, full
recovery is absolutely possible!
Howcansomeone
besupportive
ofa lovedone
whois struggling
withan eatingdisorder?
The number one thing that people can
do is express their concern to their loved
one and help them seek out treatment,
consistently and relentlessly. As with any
sensitive issue, scaring, blaming and using
threatening words is not helpful. Talking
one~on~one, and using a calm and lov~
ing approach, will yield the most positive
results. Resources and support are avail~
able for friends and family, and they can
be very helpful in figuring out how to best
support your loved one. The National
Eating Disorders Association has a help~
line, 800.931.2237, and locally, all of us at
EDRS, Inc. also welcome calls to provide
further ideas and support at 415.827.0283
or 707.778.7849.
Whatare someof the stepsthat someone
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struggling
withaneatingdisorder
cantake
to gethelp?
The first steps to getting help include
reaching out to someone you trust,
telling them what is going on and ask~
ing for support to get additional help.
Undeniably, eating disorders thrive in
isolation, and letting someone in-some~
one who knows you and will be with you
for the long haul-is incredibly valuable.
The next imperative step is to look for a
healthcare provider who specializes in
the treatment of eating disorders and
who can assess your treatment needs. It
is critical that whomever you work with
is connected to other specialists and can
assist in forming a treatment team.
At EDRS, Inc., part of our mission
is to provide treatment scholarships to
California residents who might other~
wise lack the funds to pursue treatment.
If you know anyone who might benefit
from this resource, or if you would like
to make a tax~deductible contribu~
tion to this fund, please visit edrs.net.
(bridgetwhitlow.com)
■
Eatingdisordersare
not a choice.While
we do not know the
exact cause of these
disorders,research
indicatesthat there
is a largegenetic
component-there
is a 50 to 80 percent
heritabilityrisk.
November 2012
I 25
THETWOOFUS
T.L. and Jasmine
Feminist and queer cultural studies professors and activists, Jasmine Rault and TL Cowan,
on love and life in the Big Apple. By Stephanie Schroeder
How they met
Jasmine:We met over a pack of cigarettes at an academic dance
party. That is, the dance party was taking place during the
Canadian Women's Studies Association conference in Ottawa,
Canada, in case that first bit sounded glamorous.
T.L.:I was very social and vocal and Jasmine was not. We liked
that.
On sharing their beliefs
T.L.:I am a performance artist, and Jasmine gets roped into those
performances sometimes. We both do "binge activism" -we try to
make it out to as many demos as we can-i.e. Occupy/Decolonize
Wall Street stuff, May Day immigrant worker rights, stop-andfrisk, etc.
Jasmine:We tend to think, really, that our academic work and
T.L:s performance work are all part of our activism. Maybe what
best makes sense of what we try to do is bell hooks' idea of feminism as transformational politics. We think together a lot about
the ways that our teaching is part of our politics; for example, this
year we are developing courses on queer creative resistance, queer
of color critique and trans-feminist cultural studies.
On changing the world together
Jasmine:
We have a collaborative research project on feminist and
queer digital archives and speculative, politicized computing. We
started out with an idea for trying to make an online database and
gossip rag for radical/ grassroots feminist and queer artists activists and audiences, then we got a grant to think about this project
and build something.
& Queer Cultural Studies:• We also co-edited a special section
of Topia: Canadian Journal of Cultural Studies, which we called
Feminist Mediations-with
our colleague Kate Eichhorn-and
we have co-organized some [conferences] and talks.
T.L.:And we collaborate on activist stuff-or
rather, we tend to
do that all together. We both believe in non-corporate queer
politics and economic justice for queers and trans folks-and
everyone-and
have been turned off by the "Pride Inc:' celebrations of recent years.
How they get over obstacles
Jasmine:We tend to sit together on a couch, with a computer in
each lap, and sort of write back and forth to each other. T.L. helps
me get over my massive writer's blocks, and I help T.L. focus. As
you can imagine, these styles can conflict, but we tend to be pretty
patient with the process even if sometimes we get frustrated by it
and with each other.
T.L.:Also, when we get really frustrated, our pattern tends to be
that Jasmine comes up with a clear idea or finds a quote that she
likes and I go off to develop some kind of "visual aid" -preferably
with sparkles-for the whole thing. And when it comes to writing
together, having two computers going on the same document is
really the trick. Otherwise, one person is just watching the other
person type, which is very, very boring. And we prefer not to bore
each other! ■
T.L.:However, the more we think about the project, the more we run
into the political problems of digital archives and computational
logics and now we're theorizing ourselves in circles. But that's kind
of what we do together. Also, this process was part of our "project
plan": Read. Think. Write a bit. Read more. Think more. Get
paralyzed by ideas and not be able to write. You know, deep stuff.
Why they work well together
Jasmine:We have to juggle our time between the individual
projects that we have on the go, our teaching, and this project;
however, you could say that we're always collaborating because
we're always thinking together, though not always directly on this
one "officially shared" project. We also write and present research
papers on this topic and we often present our individual projects
together on panels with themes such as "Feminist Epistemologies
26
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LAUGH
TRACK
Fed Up
How one hungry comic bites back at the bigots. By Kathryn Lounsbery
Energetic and passionate, Jessica Kirson is one of the most outspoken comics around. Her comedy, whether she's doing live stand-up
or Street Talk video episodes, often returns to the subject of food,
especially chicken, so who better than this out-and-proud lesbian
to give the anti-gay marriage fast-food chain Chick-fil-A a taste
of marriage equality? Kirson's Chick-fil-A video, which went viral,
takes a shot at the "family-owned" company by presenting her own
family of queer supporters. Kirson performs the whole family,
demonstrating her ability to slip effortlessly from one character
to the next and make a statement while she's at it. If you haven't
already laughed out loud at Jessy K, try to catch the Jewish Jersey
girl live, especially at one of Poppy Champlin's Queer Queen of
Qomedy gigs.
In French,
thewordforchicken
ispouletIn Spanish
it'spolio.Whyisour
English
wordforchicken
sofunny?
I really don't know. But I love it. I love the word and I love chicken.
Some people say that words with the letters "C'' and "K" are funny.
Now I want chicken.
Yourvideoresponse
totheChick-fil-A
protest
againstmarriage
equality
washilarious.
Yourabilityto gofromcharacter
to character
is Oscarworthy.Howplanned
out,if at all,wasthatvideo?
Ha, thank you so much. It was not planned at all. They usually
are not planned. My comedy is always better when I don't plan too
much. The more passionate I feel about something, the funnier it is.
Inthevideo,
you'redriving
whilefilming.
Areyoua drive-thru
kindofgal?
Whichrestaurants
areyourgo-toplaces,
andwhatdoyouorder?
I know-so many people commented on me filming and driving.
I was in bumper-to-bumper traffic. I am not a drive-thru kind of
person. The only drive-thru I do is Starbucks, normally. I love
diners. I'm Jewish, so that is a given. I love going out for sushi,
Greek, Mexican, really anything. I usually order chicken or fish. I
eat Greek salads constantly.
A friendofminewhodoesa lotofcommuting
hasa largeplasticsmock
sheputsoverherentirebodywheneatinginthecar.
That's actually a great idea. I thought of doing it with a burka, but
then I wouldn't be allowed to laugh, dance, drive, etc., so a plastic
bag would work. My grandmother used to wear a gold metallic bib.
Picturethis:It's 2 a.m.You've
justhada killershow.You'realonein a
swankhotelroomwithan extensive
late-night
diningmenu.Whatthree
thingsdoyouorder?
Onion soup, chicken Caesar salad and some hope.
It's 2 a.m.You'vejust hada killershow.You'rewith yourpersonal
physician,
BruceJennerandRickiLakein a swankhotelroomwithan
extensive
late-nightdiningmenu.Whatthreethingsdoyouorder?
Nachos, key lime pie and a gun.
I recently
cutmyhandreaching
intoa jar of peanutbutterduringa late2s
I curve
nightrampage(hunger,
be notproud).Haveyousufferedanyinjuries
whileeating?OrdidI totallyjustembarrass
myself?
Yes,thatis a twopartquestion.
You did not embarrass yoursel£ I get it. I once burnt my arm because
I had to get a piece of popcorn from a burning hot pot.
You're
Jewish.Doyouobserve
a Kosher
diet?
No, not at all. Last night I ate a live pig. I am not religious.
You'veperformed
in comedy
clubsaround
theworld.Whatclubhasthe
bestfood?
I would have to say the Comedy Cellar in New York City. They
have amazing Middle Eastern food.
Doesit distract
youwhenanaudience
iseating?
Sometimes it distracts me. Like when they just focus on the food
and don't even look up. Go to a restaurant, not a show. I can always
tell when audience members have smoked pot, because they are
completely focused on the food.
Haveyouevereatenduringa set?
I've never eaten during a set, but I have thought about food during a set many times. In the middle of doing one of my jokes I can
think of a whole meal. It's amazing.
Cakeorpie?
Oh boy, this is a hard one. I think I have to say cake. But I really
love pie too. vessicakirson.com)■
SCENE
Sunshine Girls Plenty of sunshine, an impromptu moped race
and the best sunsets. It must be Key West Womenfest.
Next time you're looking for something fun to do Labor
Day Weekend, think no further than Key West, Fla.
and the Business Guild's Annual Womenfest! With
multiple events scheduled throughout the week and
throughout the island, many of the events were held at
Pearl's Key West, including Speed Dating, fundraisers
for Womankind and the ASPCA, Pearl's Pink Happy
Hour and Pearl's Pool Party and Bikini Contest. Each
event was hosted by curve's funny lady, Christine
O'Leary, who was a source of non-stop humor all week
long, from her morning recaps of the night before to her
nightly hosted events!
Live music at Pearl's came courtesy of DJ Rae-Rae and
Beverly McClellan of The Voice while Jennifer Corday and
the Cougars made their home at Cowboy Bill's Honky
Tonk, and Sister Funk played at Hog's Breath Saloon.
These ladies kept the days and nights rockin' !
Fury and Sunset Watersports offered women-only
excursions complete with live performances by Corday
and Sister Funk while Erin Foley, Sandra Valls and
Chantal Carerre put on a great show full of laughs at the
Curiously Strong Comedy show. Start planning your trip
now for September 3-8, 2013 and don't wait too long to
get your tickets to the main events as this year's events sold
out thanks to the record number of women in attendance.
(womenfest.com) [RobinPerron]
November 2012
I 29
POLITICS
The War on Women
Why it's not just an election issue-it's personal.
By Victoria A. Brownworth
In the early afternoon of September 4,
2002, right before I was raped in my nextdoor neighbor's yard, I was in the alley
that runs alongside my house, bringing the
trash cans up from the sidewalk.
It was a beautiful day on my quiet, treelined block, made quieter by the fact that
the children who'd filled the street with
their noisy games all summer had gone
back to school just that morning.
Suddenly, a man appeared. The tone
of his voice when he asked, "Hey, pretty
lady, need some helpt was one I had heard
before. We're all familiar with that voice
men use with women-low
and full of
sexual implication.
I smiled and thanked him, said I was
fine, and turned my back-to indicate that
the conversation was over, and that I was
not afraid, all the while wondering how
quickly I could get up my front steps and
lock my door behind me.
He was close. Too close.
Then he was behind me, his arms locked
around mine. He wasn't much taller than I
am (5 foot 9) but he was incredibly strong
as he shoved me farther down the alley
and into the neighbor's yard. He punched
me repeatedly. He bit me hard around my
nipples-a
circle of bites that would be
there for months. He slapped me-my
arms, my shoulders, my thighs. He leaned
his weight on me. He was thin, but his
weight felt suffocating. He held his penis
against my mouth, rubbed it on my breasts
(he had torn off my dress with his teeth
and hands), shoved it into me everywhere.
It was incredibly violent. For weeks, I had
the bites on my breasts, bruises the size
of platters on my thighs and arms, a huge
bruise on my lower back, because there
had been a rock beneath me. My arms had
been pinned behind me throughout the
attack, so my arms, wrists and hands were
scraped and bruised. One fingernail was
torn off.
30
I curve
My rapist was, like over half of all rapists,
a serial attacker. While I was being interrogated at the SVU (Special Victims Unit), I
discovered that the man who raped mehis way of pinning his victims' arms down
so they couldn't move was very specifichad assaulted several other women in my
immediate neighborhood. Like me, they'd
thought they were safe in broad daylight.
But women are never safe from rape.
One in three women will be raped in
her lifetime, some by men they know,
some by strangers. Some women, like
me, will be raped more than once. Others
will be attacked but escape. We are all
under threat. According to FBI statistics,
100,000 rapes were reported in the U.S. in
2002. And year in, year out, that's a pretty
constant number. Rape crisis agencies assert,
however, that fewer than half of all rape
z
~
z<(
0
::.'.
zw
I
0
0
0
g
w
co
victims file a report. My first experience of
rape, when I was 17, was so awful that it
made me not want to file a report in 2002.
But I did, because the rape crisis counselor
I spoke to shamed me into it. "You'll be
as guilty as the rapist if you don't call the
police;' he said, "because the next woman
he rapes will be on you:'
When I went through the grueling process
again, at the SVU (Special Victims Unit,
where victims are treated as anything but
special), I learned that nothing had really
changed. The first thing I was told by the
male detective who interviewed me was
that if I was lying I would be prosecuted.
As the 10,year anniversary of my brutal
rape approached, the topic itsel£ which rarely
gets any attention despite the huge numbers
of victims, was in the news. In advance
of the Republican National Convention,
Todd Akin, a Republican congressman
from Missouri who was running for the
U.S. Senate, "misspoke" when he claimed
that pregnancy in the case of "legitimate
rape" is very rare because the woman's body
is capable of "shut[ ting] that whole thing
down:' In doing so, he reminded women,
me among them, of something that many
men forget-rape
is a terrible crime that
can destroy the life of the victim.
Mine was what Akin (R, Mo.) would
call "legitimate;' or what Republican Vice
Presidential candidate Paul Ryan (R,Wis.)
would call "forcible" rape. The police called
it aggravated sexual assault with the intent
to kill; my attacker threatened to kill me
throughout, and during the attack I cer,
tainly thought I would die. The bruises
around my neck were proof that he was
strong enough to choke me to death if he'd
chosen to.
The discourse about rape got politi,
cized by the conventions soon after Akins
comments about what was "legitimate" and
Ryan's comment that it was just another
form of conception. The politicizing was
done on both sides and was all about abor,
tion-whether
a woman should be able to
get an abortion if she becomes pregnant
from being raped.
But that discussion ignored the fact that
the majority of women who seek an abor,
tion haven't been raped. Their unwanted
pregnancies are the result of having consen,
sual sex with a loving partner.
My loving partner is female, so I am never
going to end up pregnant by her. I could very
well, however, have become pregnant from
being raped. But an unwanted pregnancy is
an unwanted pregnancy, whether it's from
forms. It's about crimes perpetrated by men
against women. The war on women isn't
just about a stranger pinning you down in a
neighbor's yard. It's about women being able
to fight back and say no: no to rape, no to
sex they don't want, no to babies they can't
have-for whatever reason.
The war on women is personal because
every woman will want to be able to make
her own choices-to try to grab back some
The war on women is personal
becauseeverywoman willwant to
be able to make her own choicesto try to grab back some measure
of autonomyafter somethingterrible
has happenedto her.
being raped or from having sex with some,
one you love. If you don't want a child, it will
ruin your life, no matter who the father is,
and do grievous harm to the child as well.
Men who dismiss a woman's right to
control her body don't understand the
concept of choice, which refers to many
things. Akin and Ryan are Republicans,
but it's not just one party that forgets
who owns a woman's body. Rep. Bart
Stupak (D,Mich.), along with a coterie of
other Democrats, got abortion protection
removed from the Affordable Care Act.
The Democratic senator from my state,
Bob Casey, a staunch pro,life candidate,
sided with Stupak's amendment.
The war on women is real. It isn't just
about election,year politics and which
party gets into the White House or gains
control of Congress. Even though many
Republicans are pro,choice, just as many
Democrats are pro,life, the presumption
remains that Republicans are conducting a
war on women and Democrats are not.
Except this isn't about parties or plat,
measure of autonomy after something ter,
rible has happened to her-whether
that
terrible thing is being raped or getting
pregnant when she never wanted to be.
All this will be true the day before, the
day of and the day after the election. Which
means all women must take a vigilant inter,
est in maintaining control over their bodies.
Why? Because the people in power are
still men. And if one in three of us is being
raped-by a stranger, by someone we know,
by a member of our family-someone
is
doing the raping. He might very well look
like a nice man, someone who wants to help
you with your heavy trash cans, someone
who voted for the same party you did, or he
might even be the person you voted for.
The war on women won't end with one
or another candidate attaining or retaining
a place in the White House. It will only
end when all men, regardless of party, rec,
ognize that rape is pandemic, that men are
the perpetrators, and that women should
not be forced to have sex or to have babies
against their will. Ever. ■
November 2012
I 31
Lesbian vets reflect
on their service in
the closet and in a
post-Don't Ask,
Don't Tell world.
Hf ADAML. HRINKLOW
KA Y B RH ~"KI'Sparents were both career
Navy vets, so her own service seemed a given. Terra Lathrop felt
aimless in college and joined the Navy for a sense of purpose and to
have an adventure. Eva Belanger saw a high school friend in an Air
Force uniform and felt inspired to sign up hersel£ These women
were just like many other volunteers for the armed services, eager to
wear a uniform and be part of a team. They were just like everyone
else-except for one thing.
"I didn't figure it out until I was already in;' says Borkoski. "By
then I'd signed the paperwork promising that I wouldn't be gay:'
"I didn't realize how strict the policy was;' says Lathrop. "I had to
learn to re~closet myself all over again:'
"When I first enlisted, it wasn't something I realized;' says
Belanger. "I was two years in before I started to wonder. But losing
my career was just not something I was willing to risk:'
All three of these women are veterans, all three served in Iraq
32
I curve
under the shadow of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and all three came
home to face a different challenge: finally being honest about who
they are after careers of secrecy.
For Borkoski, the realization that she was gay couldn't have
come at a worse time. She was following in the footsteps of her
mother and father, both Navy vets who served until retirement. At
first, the agreement regarding her sexual orientation seemed like
just one more piece of paper. It wasn't until later that she realized
she'd become contractually obligated to be someone she wasn't. "It's
difficult anyway to be figuring yourself out;' she says, "but then to
have that looming over your head [makes it harder]:•
Serving with a secret took its toll. "You have people that are
always asking you, 'What did you do this weekend:" Since all my
weekends were wrapped up with a girlfriend, I couldn't tell them.
It was difficult to always be telling half~truths:' In an environment
where you're trained to trust the people you work with implicitly, to
be forced to keep them at arm's length creates a tremendous strain.
This while Borkoski served as a bomb disposal tech in Iraq at a time
when she estimates there were a hundred bomb-related calls every
day across the country.
Eventually Borkoski came out to a few team members. They kept
her secret, but there was always an element of risk on both sides of
that decision. "I chose never to verbally tell anyone because I didn't
want my friends to have to lie;' says fellow Navy vet Terra Lathrop.
After years of serving together, Lathrop's other Naval search-andrescue divers couldn't help but realize that there were things she
wasn't telling them, but the truth had to remain unspoken.
"Pretty much anywhere I went I was the only female diver;' she
says. "I was constantly surrounded by dominant males, so I had
to walk this fine line of being able to hold my own, but not seem
too strong and confident, because that would make me seem like a
dykey female:•
For years, Lathrop was part of a team, but in some ways she
had to be a woman apart. That proved difficult even for someone
who jumps out of helicopters to retrieve half-drowned people
for a living. "You're always lying," she says, "and there's guilt that
goes with that. You feel ashamed. A lot of what the military is
about is integrity. You're constantly talking about what it means
to be honorable, but there's a glass ceiling to that, because you're
constantly lying. You feel like, I'm so proud of my service, but my
service isn't proud of me:•
It was particularly hard for Lathrop to lie about her sexuality after
having been open about it in her civilian life. She knew about Don't
Ask, Don't Tell when she signed up but didn't realize how far it
went: Even speculation that she was gay could be enough to out her
in the eyes of the Navy."Someone just perceiving what they thought
they knew was enough;' Lathrop says. "Perception is everything:'
A 2003 pamphlet from the Servicemembers Legal Defense
Network, a nonprofit that provided legal counsel to American
soldiers in danger of discharge under Don't Ask, Don't Tell,
elaborates on the many dangers of being outed: ''As the law has
come to be implemented, there is no privacy for service members. If
a military commander finds out that a service member has confided
their sexual orientation to anyone-even parents, a psychologist or
chaplain-the service member will likely face discharge:' It goes on
to warn that once outed it was "virtually impossible" for a soldier
to deny it or defend themselves against the charge. Don't Ask,
Don't Tell was so strict that it even included provisions against gay
marriage even though not a single state allowed it at the time the
legislation was written.
Lathrop says the cautionary tales about how easy it was to be
outed were true: A woman she supervised in basic training wrote
a letter to their commanding officer speculating that Lathrop was
a lesbian (Lathrop insists it was a lucky guess). The CO buried the
complaint but cautioned Lathrop that unfounded rumor, once put
into writing, could end her career.
Lathrop and Borkoski had a lot of hurdles, but Air Force vet
Eva Belanger had it even worse. Even when she realized she was a
lesbian, Belanger couldn't accept it. "I thought I could make myself
not gay;' she says, "and I worked at it for years:• Belanger couldn't
reconcile her Christian faith with her emerging sexuality. Everything
in her life-from her upbringing to her religion to her career in the
military-told
her that this was something she couldn't be. "I had
grown up Christian and I was and am very strong in my faith;' she
says. "Those things made it very difficult for me to come out. You
consider just not wanting to be around because it's so painful and
you don't know where to fit in:'
Belanger had to go all the way to Iraq for a breakthrough. There
she experienced sectarian warfare and daily mortar attacks. At one
point a falling bomb blew her clear across a room. Faced with the
constant threat of death, Belanger had to take a hard look at her
faith, her life and herself. "Being blown up a couple times, you start
to think about what really matters;• she says.
So what's scarier, going to war or coming out? "For me, coming
out was scarier;' Belanger says, noting that she'd been trained for war
and had a vast infrastructure to support her in it, but had nothing
to rely on when she came out except the hope of goodwill. The first
person she told was a fellow officer, who not only accepted her but
helped her reconcile her religious conflicts. "She told me, 'God loves
you just the way you are: She was completely accepting and loving;'
Belanger says.
By the time President Obama dissolved the ban on open service,
Belanger had already left the Air Force. "I wanted to be me;' she
says. "I felt that the higher I was going in rank, and with where we
were with Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the secrecy, having secrets, it's just
painful. I didn't want to do that any more:' Would she have stayed if
she'd known the ban would be repealed? Maybe, she says. "But that
wasn't in the cards at that time:•
Lathrop eventually had her fill of secrecy too. Though proud of
her service, she wanted out of the Navy and out of the culture of
secrecy. Her superiors, excited to think how far their only female
rescue diver might go, all but begged her to stay. "My chief was like,
November 2012
I 33
What are you doing, you have the perfect career, why would you
leave? And I said, Because I could never have a family. I can't
even be in a relationship because I can't get email with their
name on it:'
Some dangled the pending repeal as an incentive to stay (like
almost everyone she served with, Lathrop's immediate superiors put two and two together about her sexuality long ago), but
Lathrop didn't buy it. "You don't get a whole lot of current news
in Iraq;' she says. "I had heard that the repeal was on the table,
but when I came back it hadn't been voted on yet. I honestly
never thought that it would get repealed, I didn't:'
Borkoski alone experienced the transition to a post-Don't
Ask, Don't Tell military. "I led a relatively open military life, [but] it
was great when I could finally come out to my guys;' she says. "The
very first week people came up to me and asked, Hey, how is your
girlfriend? Everyone was kind of breathing a sigh of relief that they
could actually [acknowledge it J:'Borkoski eventually transitioned
from active duty to reserves. But although all three of these women
had more or less returned to civilian life by 2012, their service was
still not quite finished.
This year the White House put out a call for videos about
"unsung heroes" in the gay community for Pride month. Lathrop,
Belanger and Borkoski all appeared in Just Like You, a video produced by the Military Acceptance Project (MAP, a nonprofit
aimed at promoting diversity in the armed services) highlighting
the careers of gay service members. In July, all three joined the rest
of the MAP crew at a special function at the White House honoring their accomplishments. When gay service members were able
to walk the halls of power openly after spending their careers in
the shadows, it was a big day.
"Watching the emotion on the faces of each of those featured
in our video as it was played during the ceremony" was a profound
moment for John "Jasper" Kump of MAP. "These are people who
34
I curve
WIIAT'S
SC~ARIERr/
t,ttlNt,
Ttt WAR
ttR
have protected my freedom
for years while not being free
themselves:'
MAP is the creation of
Kristen Kavanaugh, a lesbian
ex-Marine who wanted to do
more for gay and lesbian soldiers. MAP started as a class
project while Kavanaugh was
attending the University of
Southern California. "We were
drawn together by our collective desire to make life better for all service members and veterans;'
she says. "MAP's focus is creating cultural change-within
the
military and [society] as a whole:' Kavanaugh says that while the
repeal of the ban is a huge leap forward, it doesn't solve all the
problems facing gay service members; culture dash and regulations such as the standing Defense of Marriage Act hinder their
efforts toward full acceptance. She hopes that MAP can be part of
a wider reform.
Borkoski is still a reservist. She worked as a stuntwoman for two
years after quitting active duty, but now wants a quieter life and
thinks about starting a family. Family is the reason that Lathrop left
the Navy too. She wants to finish college and settle down herself.
Belanger is putting the lessons she learned on the long, hard road
to accepting her sexuality and coping with the challenges of Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder to good use as a counselor for other
veterans. She's finally comfortable and happy with who she is.
Despite what Just Like You says, these women were not, in fact,
just like any other soldiers. They all had many extra miles to go. But
now that they are secure in the knowledge that future recruits can
serve openly, they really can afford to feel just like everyone else.
Finally. ■
.dol&e
1va
taste
the
NOWHERE IN THE RECENT
EXPLOSION OF A-LIST
LESBIANTALENT HAS IT BEEN
MOREPRONOUNCEDTHANIN
THE MUSIC SCENE. THIS MONTH
WE CELEBRATETHREE RISING
STARSWHOSE HOT LOOKS,
HUGE VOICES AND CELEBRITY
SMARTSARE TAKING THEM
ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP.
r,enchie
tal<esover
THE ALUM OF
AMERICAN /DOLAND
THE VOICE IS OUT,
ON HER OWN,AND
SHOWING FANS WHO
SHE REALLY IS.
BY JILLIAN EUGENICS
FrenchieDavis, whose power vocals are hitting a dance floor near you,
wasn't always so certain that a recording career was in the cards.
Years after she performed on American Idol in 2003, Davis was in
West Hollywood, Calif., singing classic diva covers at a gay club,
one of her favorite places to perform. That night, the casting director
for NBC's talent show The Voice happened to be in the audience
and asked her to audition. Davis wasn't sure. She'd been burned on
American Idol after telling producers that topless photos of her, taken
when she was 19, were out there somewhere in the ether. Though the
photos never surfaced, the risk-averse producers didn't want to take
a chance that they might. They asked her to leave.
Notone to let something like that kill her dreams, Davis
hit the Broadway stage, performing in Rent and the
Grammy-nominated revival of Ain't Misbehavin'. By the
time the casting director for The Voice approached her,
she was already established on Broadway and loving her
career on the stage.
"I decided to be brave and take a chance, and I'm really
glad I did;' Davis says about agreeing to audition. She
found herself performing on The Voice three months later,
and watching the sign beneath Christina Aguilera's chair
glow "I want you:'
Now, Davis is out with the single "Love's Got a Hold on
Me;' from her forthcoming album Just Frenchie, where fans
will hear her performing her own songs instead of covers.
She sees this as a way to reintroduce herself in her own
way, not through the medium of reality TV. "I decided to
make Just Frenchie because the world has gotten to know
me through performing on Broadway and being on Idol
and being on The Voice. For the first time, it's me doing my
own music. It's just Frenchie:'
Her album is also an ode to all the artists in her life who
made her love singing and the art of performing. Aguilera
can count herself as one of them. Davis says she loved the
concept of the coaching on The Voice, as opposed to the
judging (and, sometimes, the humiliation) of Idol."It's not
just a whole panel of people critiquing and judging you;'
she says, "but it's fellow artists saying, 'Hey, I think you
have something, but, based on my experience and exper36
Icurve
tise, this is what I think you can
add to it to make it better:,,
Davis was one of the finalists on The Voice, and her cover
of "When Love Takes Over"
hit No. 3 on the iTunes dance
chart. She gives Aguilera a lot
of credit for pushing her to
explore dance pop.
"To have all the songs I did on the show chart on the
dance charts-it
was like an eye-opening thing for me.
I realized maybe I don't have to do R&B, maybe I can
do this dance thing. It felt like a perfect fit because of
the following I've had in the LGBT community and how
much the people love dance music:'
"I feel like the gay community has been right there with
me from day one;' she says. "From the very early days of
my career, when I was a college student in D.C., performing at local gay clubs to make extra money for schooleven from those days, I feel like the gay community has
been by my side throughout this whole entire journey:'
After Davis came out publicly as bisexual, earlier this
year, she said hadn't planned on it, but she hadn't planned
on staying in either. She said she was put in a situation
where she was asked a question and she just answered
honestly. "The journey to self-love and self-acceptance is
too long and too hard to get to the end of it and then
have to give ambiguous answers about who you are;' she
said. "I just don't want to have to do that:'
Perhaps someone anticipated Frenchie Davis's coming
out, and gave her a little nudge. When she auditioned for
The Voice with "I Kissed a Girl" by Katy Perry, she had
to laugh. ''A lot of people don't know that for The Voice
audition, the production team picks your song for you;'
she said. "I just thought, OK, God's hilarious, and clearly
there is going to be a coming out in my future, because I
couldn't write this:' (frenchiedavis.org) ■
November 2012 I 37
the artist
AG CAUGHT OUR EYE WITH HER GENDER
BENDING MUSIC VIDEO AND HELD OUR
ATTENTION WITH HER SOULFUL VOICE
AND STUNNING PAINTINGS.
BY RACHEL SHATTO
Whatwasthe inspiration
for youramazingmusicvideofor "I
WannaBeYourMan"?
What I wanted to do was to have a real-time transformation-and I kind of wanted to confuse people, people that
haven't really been exposed to transgender culture at all. A
good way to do that is by covering probably the most wellknown rock band of all time. It will expose me to a lot of
people that wouldn't necessarily go searching for exposure
to transgender culture. That was me trying to do my duty.
Doyouhopeto bea spokesperson
forthetranscommunity?
It's not necessarily the transgender community-it's [about]
gender fluidity. That's what I believe in. I believe in human
rights in general. Anybody can love and marry and be whoever they choose to be and choose to be with. The first video
was covering that end, gay/ transgender culture, but in my
next video I'm going to be focusing more on all kinds of
different people. I don't want it to be just about one thing,
because I want it to be about so many different things so
that people can get what they want out of it, even if it's just
somebody who really loves Beatles songs and really loves
my rendition-that's
cool with me. If it's somebody who
really loves acoustic music, great; if it's somebody who
thinks it's so awesome that a girl is singing about another
girl, and it's Beatles songs- I want to be for everybody. At
the same time, if I do see an opportunity to represent, I will,
which is what I did.
TheBeatlesare so well loved.Wasthe ideaof doinga cover
intimidating?
I have sort of a voracious appetite for challenge. I've always
believed that nobody should be covering the Beatles, they're
the founding fathers of modern pop music. To try and do
their songs justice is really hard, near impossible, and I've
heard a lot of really, really bad Beatles covers.
I'm with a publisher ... that just happens to own the rights
to these six songs. They wanted me to do what's called
"inspired versions:' I really got into it, there are opportunities
here to do stuff I always wanted to do. It was a huge challenge.
I looked at my producer and said, We shouldn't be doing this,
it's going to be really hard and we're either going to totally nail
it or we're going to totally fuck it up and it'll be horrifying. I
think we nailed it-thank God.
Haveyoueverfelt any pressureas a musicianto stayin the
closet?
When the Rescues first got signed to Universal it was pretty
incredible. I finally had the opportunity to be an out musician in the mainstream, which is what I've always wanted to
do. They never wanted me to change, never asked me to not
say anything or not be out. You hear all these stories about
people having to be in the closet and I never had to be, and
it's pretty incredible.
I've always been out, but there was a period right before
we got signed when I started wearing a wig and wearing
heels, and then I realized, wait, this isn't right, this is not
who I am and I need to stop. I think everybody goes through
that struggle if they want to be in the mainstream, which I
do. Not because I want to be Lady Gaga but because I want
as many people as possible to hear my music and be moved
by it, straight or gay.
You'realsoa visualartist.Whendidyoustartpainting?
I've been painting my whole life but I didn't start doing it on
a professional level until a couple of years ago. It was just an
extension of my music, I wanted to reinvent my lyrics and
make them more visual. It was really, incredibly cathartic
for me, because I got to the point where I was really bored
with having just music as my only form of artistic expression, and painting renewed [my passion]. I've always had an
immense love for lyrics, so I love the fact that now they can
be seen as well as sung. I just did a piece, a Beatles one, that
says "Love is all you need:' I want to do art for the people,
I've never wanted it to be art for the critics. ■
LezzieLightnilgRound
Whatis yourguiltiestpleasure?
Sci-fifantasy.I'm readingGameofThrones
rightnow.I'm kindofobsessed.
Doyouhaveanyotherhiddentalents?
I'mstarting
to direct.I directed[the"IWannaBeYourMan"video],andI'm
directing
a couplemorefora coupleoffriendsof mine-Garrison
Starand
MaiaSharp-comingupreallysoon.
If youweren'ta musicianwhatwouldyoube?
A photographer,
a painterora director-something
intheentertainment
world.
Doyouhavea celebritycrush?
OhmyGod... I haveto sayKristen
Stewart.
She'ssinglenow,youknow...
I'm not,unfortunately
forme.
November 2012
I 39
Is a musicalcollaboration
with either
Raitt or Etheridge
comingup in the
new life in L.A. She's in the middle of a well-publicized tour-and
nearfuture?
the venues are a far cry from the humble South Florida clubs she
I'd be honored to collaborate with
played for 20 years before she got her "big break" on the small
them, no doubt. There are a number
of artists I would be so lucky to work
screen. Four independent albums are out there with her name on
with ... Since I didn't get to meet my
them plus one album as part of a double act with Tammy Gorden,
idol, Etta James, I would love to col,
recorded before Fear Nothing, her large-scale debut album, which
laborate with Dolly Parton. She
was also one of the voices on the
was released last November. McClellan has officially traded in her
mountain, shining on me since The
Barbie Hot Wheels for the real deal as she carefully consumes the
Porter Wagoner Show.
celebrity that comes along with her newfound fame.
South Floridawas your home turf
beforeTheVoicewhiskedyouawayto
NBC'sTheVoiceintroduced
youto millionsof viewerswho Hollywood.
WhatdoyoumissabouttheSouthern
sceneversus
wouldbecomededicatedfans.Did that experience
change thevibein L.A.?
yourlifeprofessionally?
I am really lucky to have such a loyal fan base and solid
friends in South Florida, but I found my stars in L.A. I
Completely. I am really honored to have had the exposure
have a real special kinship for L.A., after everything I've
from The Voice.I wanted for my music to be heard outside
been through. L.A. has become home to me.
of South Florida, and I give all the credit to NBC for that.
Before the show, I could only have dreamed of opening
Isit truethatyouleftfora lunchbreak,whenyouwerea dental
up for B.B. King! Thanks to NBC, this became a reality. assistant,
andneverreturned?
Basically, The Voiceset the bar and showed me how far I
Yes, and I would do it again.
could go. I'm on continual tour now, playing my own music.
Doyoureallyplay1Odifferentinstruments?
Anddoyouhavea
I'm living my dreams.
favoriteortwothatyouplaymoreregularly
thantheothers?
Howdidtheshow'spopularity
changeyourlifepersonally? I know how to [play 10 instruments], yes. I've picked up
so many instruments throughout the years ... ! can't help
I don't really know what privacy is anymore, but it's a small
price to pay for living my dream. I was very much in control
myself but to experiment with new sounds. When it comes
of my life before the show-very free. I live to a schedule
to instrumentation, "I can't" isn't in my vocabulary. Violin
now, constantly on the road, playing to audiences that want
and flute, however, I am not really good at! Piano and guitar
to hear my music. What could be more amazing than that:'
are my go,to instruments, any day.
Howimportantwas it for youto be an out contestanton FearNothing
is yourfirstwell-publicized
CD,butit is actually
TheVoice
thefifthinyourcareerprogression.
Howdoesit compare
tothe
otheralbumsyou'vereleased?
I never thought about it. I have always been very aware
of who I am and have never tried to disguise myself. My
Versus me and my friends playing all the instruments:' On
experience on the show was no different. I thank NBC for
Fear Nothing, I had Etta James' musicians and David Z's
valuing all of us as individuals in that way.
magic ear and skill.
Thejudgesandmediaalikedrewcomparisons
betweenyour Youwerenominated
for a 2012GLAAD
MediaAward.Doyou
soundandthat of EttaJames,JanisJoplin,BonnieRaittand welcome
theattention
fromtheLGBT
community?
MelissaEtheridge,
to namea few.Wouldyouagreethatthose I am honored by the nomination and humbled by the
assessments
werefair?
attention I've received from the community for simply
It is an honor to be compared to any of them. If I have being myself.
that sauce in my voice-like any of [those) artists-I am
If youcouldsenda message
totheLGBT
youth,ortotheadults
grateful, but I'm still me at the end of the day.
whoarecomingoutlaterin life,whatmightthatbe?
Howdidthecomparisons
to thosemega-stars
makeyoufeel? I hope that it's to embrace their individualities. Labels
It didn't really change my perspective. It is nice to hear-to
simply don't matter. We're all human.
be compared to such great talents is a huge complimentOutside
of FearNothing,
wherecanfansfindyourwork?Are
but I have my own feeling about myself that nothing really thereanyotherprojects
intheworks?
My previous two albums, recorded with Chris Monteleone
touches. I'm still that kid that sang to her hairbrush in front
at SoundBox Records, can be found on iT unes. As for the
of a mirror. That spirit hasn't gone away, but I guess I don't
future: more traveling and writing. (beverlymcclellan.com)
need a hairbrush anymore.
■
Nearly one year later, McClellan has comfortably settled into her
40
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WELL
SUITED
Makeup/ Hair/ Style:
PangSophieLovanyi
PaKouXiong
TazmeMoua
Models:
FeatherRaeDawnDayle
Kelli Kickham
LuluZhang
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42
I curve
STREET SMART
Checkered,
blackandgray
shirt; Blackandtan vest;
Tanandbrownpants
NOWHERE IS THE MALE-FEMALE gender binary
more limiting than in fashion-as
any woman who
has found herself furtively scouring the men's or boys'
department to acquire masculine clothing will agree.
Sisters A and Vee Lee recognized that there was a gap
in the market for androgynous women, knew it was
keenly felt, and decided to do something about it. They
started a clothing line called VEEA, a blending of the
sisters' names. A Lee, who identifies as an androgynous
lesbian, is the founder and Vee Lee is the head designer
and co~founder. It's not that the Lees are opposed to
feminine fashion. Rather, they are concerned that the
absence of masculine attire for women forces them to
conform to an externally imposed ideal; androgynous
women are denied the opportunity to truly explore the
idea of fashion as self~expression. "VEEA encourages
you to stay true to yoursel£ You shouldn't have to be
anybody else to be accepted;' says A Lee.
To make their dream a reality, the Lees launched a
27 ~day campaign on Kickstarter. Clearly, they were not
the only not~so~feminine women to have envisaged a
closet full of edgy and epicene garments-the
campaign
exceeded its target by over 100 percent. A Lee says that
the lesbian demographic in particular was "extremely
supportive" of the project. "I don't think we would have
made it without their support and help. Thank you!"
For too long, lesbians have stood accused of promoting
an anti~fashion bias, but this is changing-in much the
same way as the lesbian demographic itself is evolving
and diversifying. "I think [fashion] really comes down
to individuality," says Lee. "We may belong to a group
because we share the same interests or experiences, but
we all have characteristics that make us unique. VEEA
is about celebrating these very differences that set us
apart from the rest of the world:'
Inspired by the aesthetics of Asian cinema, in par~
ticular the films of Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar~Wai
and anime master Hayao Miyazaki, VEEA fashions are
the epitome of cool, and may even tempt the occasional
femme into their classy, clean~cut men's wear, because it
was designed to fit women.
THE AESTHETIC
Simplicityof form meetssolid
colorsandtonesjuxtaposed
with checks,stripesand
. blocksof contrastingcolor
whichcreatea flatteringline.
THE MOTTO
"Youshouldn'thaveto be
anvbody
elseto beaccepted."
"We spend a lot of time on the designs and the
quality of the construction;' says Lee. "We believe that
only the best design and construction is good enough.
It's a long process, but it's worth it:'
The Lees try to be as conscious as they can of
the ethical issues that concern the fashion industry,
from the environmentally destructive production of
textiles to unfair labor practices. "We grew up not
having much and learned to work around very strict
resource constraints. Our mother was a seamstress
who worked very hard for very little. Growing up
under these conditions has helped us tremendously.
We think long~term and don't make decisions based
on short~term benefits. We think about cultivating
relationships, and about what we can do to make life
better for the people we come into contact with.
"From the start to the finish, we're constantly
thinking of how to eliminate as much scrap as possible.
And with the scraps, we think of ways to incorporate
them into the details of other designs:'
The debut collection comes out this fall, just in time
to spruce up your wardrobe with some very elegant
queer couture. To paraphrase Mark Twain: Clothes
make the (wo)man. (androgynouifashion.com) ■
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November 2012
I 47
aren Portaleo's cakes are more than sweet treats-they are breathtaking,
intricate works of art. The granddaughter of a pastry chef, Portaleo grew up in
bakeries and in artists' studios: She has two painters in her family, her mother
and her sister. She herself has enjoyed a diverse artistic career, designing
jewelry, creating sets and props for the advertising industry and sculpting in clay. Portaleo
now sculpts in cake batter and icing, and
she has elevated the domestic enterprise
of cake decorating to an art form. She won
the Food Network's Halloween Wars, is the
lead decorator of lesbian-owned Highland
Bakery in Atlanta, and has made cakes for
celebrities such as Jane Lynch, Elton John
and Demi Moore-all of this without any
culinary training.
Youseemto bringart intoeveryaspectof yourlife.Whatis it
thatmakesyousopassionate
aboutit?
Everything. It's so much a part of how I live that it's hard
to parse it out as a separate act in my life. It's a compulsion.
It's like eating-or falling in love. It's necessary. I have busy
hands. I just moved, and while organizing my new home
and studio, I've had to confront what I can only describe as
a serious case of art supply hoarding. Every scrap, pencil,
or feather has potential, and I cannot part with it. I may
need help.
Doyoumakecakeswiththeintention
ofconveying
a message,
or evokinga specificemotion?
Usually, I am trying to represent those things for my client,
to help them tell a story of some kind. This is what I think
is unique about cake decorating, among other work in the
culinary world: Cakes are the storytellers, the centerpieces
that express something about why everyone has gathered.
I can tell that story visually, as well as with the flavors
inside the cake.
Whatdoyoulovebestaboutworkingwithyourclients?
I love being a part of their celebrations, helping them tell
part of their story to their guests. I've also been doing
this long enough now to have gone through a series of
wonderful events in some couples' lives, from first dates
to baby showers!
YouwontheFoodNetwork's
Halloween
Wars.Whatis it about
youandHalloween?
I like playing on the edges of scary. Not actual real~life
scary, but the monster~under~the~bed, whistling through
the graveyard, dancing skeleton in a top hat kind of scary.
I grew up in the punk rock days, and we pushed the enve~
lope in every which way. I think Tim Burton is a master
of this imagery. There's a dark twist and a broken~tooth
smile to his imagery that I love. Halloween is like a national
holiday for freaks like me!
You'vemadea lot of cakesof voluptuous
women.Do you
makea conscious
effortto promotebodypositivity
through
thosecakes?
Absolutely! But it's also my idea of true beauty. Of course,
as a woman, I've struggled with my personal place on the
body spectrum, but in my art I have always gravitated
toward the voluptuous curves that speak to me of
sensuality and pleasure.
Whichcakesonyourmust-make
listhaveyounotyetmade?
There is a list, and they will all be in my book! I am in the
early stages of making a book that will include my cakes,
as well as some illustrations, some stories, and a little bit
of instruction. (karenportaleo.com)■
November 2012
I 49
Hotter
new lesbian chef is heating up
Hell's Kitchen, the Fox TV reality
series that features the world's grumpiest
chef, Gordon Ramsay-and he's just one
of the show's many challenges. Christina
Wilson not only made it into the final-round
cook-off in Las Vegas but won it to come
out on top of season 10. During the season,
Wilson was reunited with her girlfriend, after
five weeks of separation, in what was the
first obvious display of lesbian affection in
the show's history. This curve reader, who
says we gave her the inspiration to be out
and proud, recently took time to tell us
more about her rise through the ranks.
so I curve
ThanHe
Out chef
Christina Wilson
can take the heat,
both in and out
of the kitchen.
By Constance
Parten
Wherewere youon September
10,whentheshowrevealed
that
youwerethewinner?
Monday night, I was alongside Justin [Antiorio, the other
finalist] at Fox's Fall Junket party in Los Angeles. We had
a grueling press day and actually had a private screening
of the finale, which I watched alone and Justin watched
with his mother and stepfather. My mother and my girlfriend, Sara, were aware of the results, but unfortunately
I was unable to tell anyone else. The show's success is
slightly based on the surprise factor, so it's important that
no one reveal the outcome. Although I wasn't able to be
with friends and family, that didn't stop them from having
viewing parties-I was able to step away minutes before
the show started to give a big thank-you to my hometown,
where my mother had organized one. I was sent a video of
the room's reaction to me coming through the door [as the
winner] and it was priceless! I wish I could've been there.
Whenareyouheading
backto Vegasto takeonyournewrole
at Gordon
Ramsay's
Steakat ParisLasVegas?Willyourgirlfriendbegoingwithyou?
I will be headed to Las Vegas tomorrow morning [Sept.
12], not even two full days after the finale aired. Chef
Ramsay is a successful businessman, and it's time for me
to get back down to business. I will take on the head chef
position, working under one of chef's best, Kevin Hee, who
is the current executive chef there. Unfortunately, Sara will
not be with me to see all of this come to life. She has her
own PR firm and has obligations to her clients. I will be
bringing the most loyal and loving female in my life, my
fancy domestic shorthair, who is always in her tuxedo. Her
name is Oodie. I picked her on the second day of her life,
and we have been inseparable since. It will be nice to have
her to come home to, for sure.
You'reoriginally
fromJerseyandhavelivedin SouthPhillyfor
a numberof years.Areyoulookingforwardto somedesert
living?
I am proud to say I was raised in Phillipsburg, and have
lived in Philadelphia or the surrounding suburbs for almost
15 years. I am definitely looking forward to the move-the
first big move I've made in my life-and I know it's the right
choice to make professionally. I will miss my East Coast
family for sure, but it's time to put my head down and push
forward, so I can accomplish all I desire in this life.
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It seemsthat morelesbians
are openabouttheirsexualityin
therestaurant
industry,
andin kitchens
in particular.
Whathas
yourexperience
been?
It's my life. It's who I am. I think I've been lucky in that I
get along with most people right away, and I take my craft
seriously, so it's my work that makes me respected in a
kitchen, not my sexuality. I have the thinking that if you
liked me and worked well with me before you knew I was
gay, and then changed your tune once you found out, that
makes you the asshole, not me!
RealityTVhasapparently
takenyouralreadysuccessful
career
to a newlevel.Wasit a calculated
riskto goonHell'sKitchen?
It was definitely a risk to go onto HK. I left a really great job
[at Mercato] that was chosen as one of the 10 Best BYO Bs
in the Country by Travel & Leisure magazine during my
tenure. But the truth is, I pretty much maxed out at that job.
I hit a plateau and there was no more room for real growth.
Then along came this opportunity to essentially interview
for a position under highly decorated chef Ramsay, and
with a $250,000 salary. I was nervous about the cameras
and the microphones. I knew I was allowing myself to be
vulnerable to a country full of critics. And they really don't
hesitate to tell you what they think. I do my best not to read
the negative online comments, and luckily I am able to duck
almost all of them. But people can be really hurtful, and it
wasn't something I was necessarily prepared for. At the end
of the day, it was a job that I wanted, so I went for it.
Whatadvicewouldyougivetoyoungwomenwhowanttoenter
theculinary
field?
It's traditionally a man's profession, but that is rapidly chang~
ing. Don't lose focus or determination. Eat out as often as
possible and keep ahead of food trends. Make New York's
and Chicago's restaurant scenes your playground. Don't
take constructive criticism personally. It's meant to help you.
Don't listen to any other form of criticism. It's meant to hold
you down.
What'snextforyou,bothshort-term
andlong-term?
Next, I spend a year working with chef Ramsay's team in
Las Vegas. After my contract is up, I will see what oppor~
tunities are presented to me. For now, I just want to get
back into my chef's whites, doing what I love to do. Ten
years from now? Of course, I hope to open my own sea~
sonal restaurant back in the state I love, New Jersey. Once
my body can't hold up to the 15~hour days, I'd love to go
back to school and get a master's in nutrition. I want to
work with kids and young adults and teach them how to
cook and make healthier food choices. Obesity is plaguing
our country and destroying our youth. I'd love to make
eating healthy and working out fun again! ■
PEetite
ats
Carla
Hall's
Alchemy
cookies
are bitesized
magic.
Two-timeTopChetcontestantandco-hostof
TheChew,CarlaHall,is alsoan outspoken
supporterof same-sexmarriage.Sherecently
participatedin BroadwaySingsfor Prideand
hasevenvowedto boycottChick-fil-Ain
solidaritywith the LGBTcommunity.So,we
areexcitedto returnthe favorby supporting
all herendeavorsincludingAlchemyby Carla
Hall-and it doesn'thurtthat hergourmet,
hand-made
treatsareoh-so-yummy.
Alchemyfeaturestwo linesof snacks:the
sweetcollectionandthe savorycollection,
whichmeansthat afteryearsof watchingHall
cook,you'llfinallybe ableto getyourhands
andtastebudson hercooking.All the cookies
andbitesare madewith European-style
butter,
organicsugarandflours,couverturechocolate,
artisancheeses,freshnutsandseasonalfruits.
WhileAlchemy'scookiesaresmallin stature
theyarehugein flavor.
Hersweetcollectionincludesdelectable
nibbleslike her mini MexicanChocolate
Chip
cookies,whicharesoft,chocolatyanddelicious,
andevenhavea hint of cinnamon.TheAlmond
GingerCherryShortbreadis butteryandtangy,
andthe Oatmealwith WhiteChocolate
& Dried
Cranberries
cookiesarea crisp,tastysweet
treat.Howeverthe standoutin the sweet
collectionhasto bethe BlackForrestCrinkle.
Thesebrowniebitesare handglazedandpacka
doublepunchof cocoaandcherry.Yum!
Forthoselookingfor a gourmetsnackon
the savoryside,Hall'sCheddarPecanbites
are madewith sharpcheddarandare highly
addictive.TheHarissaSpicedNutsarea mix
of pecans,walnutsandalmondsglazedin
brownsugarand harissawhich are a both
sweetand savorywith just a hint of heat.
But it's the GoatCheeseCranberrybitesthat
take the cake.Thesmoothnutty flavor of the
goat cheeseis offset by the tangysweetness
of cranberries,andthe combinationof
theseflavorsis downrightalchemic.
(alchemybycarlahall.com)
[RachelShatto]
November 2012
I 51
Ashley Merriman brings her own aspirations
to a New York institution. By Constance Parten
W
hen lesbian Top Chefalum Ashley Merriman seized
the reins at VanityFair editor Graydon Carter's The
Waverly Inn in New York's West Village last year, she
already knew it was going to be a good fit. The cozy dining
hotspot with its trademark red banquettes is a noted
celebrity haunt with a constellation of stars from fashion,
film, music and media meeting there to see and be seen. On
one night you might see Top Chefs Padma Lakshmi and
author Salman Rushdie dining next to Tony Award nom~
inee Justin Vivian Bond; on another, Victoria Beckham
and Marc Jacobs chatting about a new fashion venture.
Such a famous celebrity haunt might seem a surprising
venue for Merriman's cuisine, which she describes as
approachable and thoughtful. After all, the well~respected
chef gained quite a following at Manhattan's Butter and
The Darby, where she worked as the chef de cuisine under
executive chef Alex Guarnaschelli.
"I was pretty hesitant [when I interviewed for The
Waverly Inn], because I had been working hard on my
own business plan and was starting the process of raising
money to open my own restaurant;' Merriman says. "Once
I interviewed, however, I knew that it would be a good fit
and that it was a huge opportunity:'
While the Waverly Inn might not afford Merriman
the opportunity to showcase her dishes in the way that
her own restaurant would, she has enjoyed the challenge
of making the menu her own without changing it much.
"There are things on the menu here that have been
here since day one and won't ever come off-it's my job to
make them as good as they can be and make sure that the
other food we cook here makes sense with the restaurant;'
Merriman says.
She has introduced four or five specials each night
that allow her to express herself, but her biggest focusand her greatest passion right now, in addition to the
food-is the staff.
"The way I approach management is that I think it's
my job to make the cooks who work for me better than
they were the day before;' she says. "Ideally, there are a few
cooks who will end up better than me-that's my goal. I
approach every day like that. And I want to create habits
of excellence in all of my cooks, in everything we do.
52
I curve
"I guess that's how my management style could best
be described-creating
habits of excellence, just trying to
bring out the best in every cook who works for me. I'm
literally nothing without the people who show up and
work for me every day, and I treat them as such:'
Merriman's style certainly instills loyalty in her
staff. Take, for example, her sous chef, Quinton, whom
Merriman nurtured as an intern seven years ago while
she was working as a sous chef in Seattle.
"The other sous chef and head chef thought I was wast~
ing my time on trying to teach him and make him better.
I just saw something in him-tenacity, really-that made
me want to push him and make him better:'
Today, Quinton sports a tattoo of Ashley's initials on
his arm next to a large butterfly, symbolizing his transition
and honoring the woman who helped him achieve it.
"I think I helped Quinton develop a style where he tries
to get the most out of himself every day, where he pushes
himself to be better than he was yesterday, where he learns
something new-and
that's part of the way he manages
the cooks who work for us now;' Merriman says.
And Merriman applies this philosophy to herself as
well, always pushing to be better, to reach the next level.
''I'd really love to have my own restaurant at some point,
but I'm really happy where I am right now;' she says. "I
hope in 20 years I can say the same thing-that
I'm really
happy where I am now:' ■
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Home, Sweet
with a Silicon Valley start~up and, when the tech bubble
burst, responded to a Help Wanted sign at a French place
in her neighborhood. "I thought, 'While I'm figuring out
what the hell I'm gonna do when I grow up, why don't I
apply for this parMime job: I loved to cook:'
Twenty years later, she is still cooking. Along the way,
Byrne had her own place, November Cafe. "It struggled
and struggled, from day one. I had some great custom~
ers, including Williams~Sonoma and their corporate staff.
Chuck Williams would eat soup at my bar for lunch most
days, which was awesome. But I was never able to pay the
bills on time. I came back to New York and I struggled and
struggled and worked hard and scraped together a teeny bit
of money, but not much:'
This is where Swenson comes in: "It was at a funny
time in my life;' she says. "Monica wanted to open a wine
bar and I was like, 'I know nothing about that: "But, says
Byrne, "she loved me and wanted to help make my dreams
come true. I had big dreams and she was at a crossroads,
and she was willing to support me making them happen:'
Actually, Swenson-who
has a background in theater
and worked as a professional stage manager for many
years-had been having a similar dream. She had always
wanted to have a partner who she could own a business
with. "I didn't know what, but it was something I had always
thought about, and the time was right:'
To support their wine bar and cafe, Byrne became an
accidental caterer. "I did a wedding about eight years ago,
and the person I did the wedding for liked to write online
a lot. He gave me a referral to another person who also
blogged a lot, and I catered her wedding, and she wrote
about it ... and as a result, I became a wedding caterer:'
For the most part it's weddings but the duo also caters
corporate events and cocktail parties. "We do some small
lunches, dinner parties at people's houses ... and we have
a wonderful architect firm that we do their Christmas
party every year and out of which we've created great stra~
tegic relationships to do other work, some of it volunteer
work, with the [New York City Gay and Lesbian] Anti~
Violence Project. We now produce AVP's annual gala,
the Courage Awards. And we've produced the Red Hook
Pride Festival:'
Byrne and Swenson are cultivating an appetite for activ~
ism and formed the Red Hook LGBTQ Alliance. "We
contacted Red Hook Initiative, that serves kids who live
in the neighborhood-primarily
kids who grow up in the
Red Hook Houses, our [public housing] project, which is
half the population of Red Hook;' says Byrne. "They have
an LGBTQ teen group, so we contacted them to see if they
would like to participate, and they came on board. Within
six weeks we put together this organization and created this
amazing event. It was really phenomenal, and it is the start
of a lot of other work we could do:' (homemadebklyn.com)
■
Home/Made
Monica Byrne and Leisah Swenson pair their
food with queer activism. By Stephanie Schroeder
M
onica Byrne, co-owner and chef at Home/Made and
head honcho at Roquette Catering in Brooklyn,
N.Y., is an accidental chef. But she's making the most of
her good fortune in being able to finally follow her passion,
with delicious results. "I loved food but I was doing floral
design, which led to doing tabletop and photo styling. I
went to culinary school because I thought it would be fun,
and I wanted to learn how to make things taste the way I
could make them look:'
Along with her life partner, Leisah Swenson, Byrne is
living out her business and culinary dreams in Red Hook,
Brooklyn, east of Liberty Island in Upper New York Bay.
Trained at the French Culinary Institute, to get a foun~
dation and learn the basics, Byrne grew up in Manhattan's
T ribeca, "at a time when there were no grocery stores, only a
couple of cool restaurants, and the farmers' market at Union
Square:' As to what her culinary inspiration is based on,
she says, "For the most part, what I cook comes from what
I have done with my mother and what she and I have done
together, replicating things that we liked when we ate out.
A huge amount of what I cook today is a result of trial
and error and experimentation-things
that I had at other
places and loved and admired:'
Before she opened Home/Made, Byrne lived in San
Francisco,"when the economy was really bad and there was
no work in the design industry:' She says she got involved
November 2012
I 53
d
Uncor e
Canadak
E
rica Watson, who has advanced
certification in wines and spiritsan industry that is constantly
evolving-earned
her stripes at Colio Estate
Wines, where she sold wine, conducted
tastings and made wine and food pairings.
Here she opens up about her country's vino,
and serves up six personal favorites.
Yougrewupin Canada's
wineregion.I didn'tknowit hadone!
I grew up on the Niagara Peninsula, which is the largest vi~
ticulture area in Canada, and it is absolutely gorgeous. The
Beamsville Bench sub~appellation-where
I'm from-is
a small ribbon of land bordered to the north
by the south shore of Lake Ontario, and to the
south by the Niagara Escarpment [think cliff, as
in Niagara Falls]. It has quite a unique climate,
which enables it to produce some truly excellent
cool~climate wines. We can have extremely cold,
damp winters with a lot of snow, then incredibly
hot, humid, sunny summers, which allows for
perfect ripening conditions for wine grapes. The
area's proximity to Lake Ontario, with its warm~
ing effect on the air temperature, keeps these two
climate extremes in check, and the slopes of the
Niagara Escarpment afford growers maximum
exposure to the sun.
As wine~producing regions go, Niagara is
fairly small, with about 11,000 acres of vines,
but that doesn't mean the region doesn't make
an impact. On the world stage, Ontario is most
definitely best known for ice wine. Canada is
the only country that can consistently produce
ice wine year after year, and it is always highly
sought after. We also produce some incredible
Rieslings, Gewurztraminers, Chardonnays and
Sauvignon Blancs for white wines, and Pinot
Noirs, Gamays and Cabernet Francs for reds,
and many others. Unfortunately, though, most
of the world hasn't discovered this yet, because
very little Ontario wine is exported for sale.
I'veheardthatthewineindustry
canbehomophobic
andsexist.Areyououtat work?
54
I curve
A Canadian comes out as
a lesbian, and a sommelier.
By Merryn Johns
Yes, I am. I have been extremely lucky in that my sexual
orientation hasn't made any difference in regard to how
others at my workplace treat me. I have been well~accepted
by all my colleagues and have never felt the need to hide
who I am.
Morefemalechefsare enteringthe culinaryarts,but what
aboutwinemaking?
Willtherebemorefemalewineexperts?
Much of the wine industry is still dominated by the Old
Boys' Club mindset, but with wineries coming out with
labels and brands like Strut, Girls' Night Out, and Little
Black Dress, among others, there is a definite push toward
female~targeted marketing on the consumer side. On the
production side, I do believe more and more women are
starting to really make their mark in the avenues of wine
making, tasting, reviewing and writing. Women like Jancis
Robinson, Heidi Barrett, Mary Ewing~Mulligan and Helen
Turley, just to name a few, are helping to pave the way
for other women to come into their own as notable con~
tributors to wine culture. I do believe, at least in New
World wine~making regions, the gender bias is starting
to fade somewhat.
Anyadviceforlesbians
longing
to learnmoreaboutwine?
Read everything and anything you can find about wine.
There are hundreds of good books about wine and wine cul~
ture out there, aimed at everyone from the complete novice
to the seasoned professional. Educate yoursel£ and allow
Six Sippers
0
2005(2003iflcan
spoilmyself)Fontanafredda
Barolo,Piedmont,
Italy:
Thisverydry,medium-fullbodiedredoffersaromasof
spice,rosesandlicorice.It
hasfirm tanninstypicalof the
variety,well-balanced
acidity
andflavorsof riperaspberry,
aniseandleather.ThisBarolo
is a bit fruitierthansome
olderexamplesbut goesdown
deliciouslyandisn't too harsh,
leavinga mediumfinish.
Pairing:Ossobucco,roastbeef,
wild gameor a tomato-based
beefstew.Becertainit is a dish
with enoughproteinandbody
to matchthe tanninof the wine.
yourself to experiment with trying wines you've never
approached before. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in
the idea that good wines have to be the most expensive ones
on the she1£ or that good wines only come from the Old
World [France, Spain, Italy, etc.]. There are innumerable
wines out there, from all over the world, that are very reason~
ably priced and very good. That's probably the best way to
start. But overall, let your taste buds be your guide. You can
have all the knowledge and formal education in the world
about wine, but what truly matters is what you enjoy. ■
Erica's Top Half Dozen and Their Perfect Food Match
from a few yearsin the
bottle,makingit a lovely,
flavorfulwine.
Pairing:SteakOscarwith
grilledasparagus,roastbeef
with scallopedpotatoesand
greenvegetables,herbed
porkloin with roastedroot
vegetables.
8
2008 ColioEstateCEV
GamayNoir,VQALake
ErieNorthShore,Harrow,
Ontario,Canada:Lightin
bodyandeasy-drinking,
this
Gamayintroducesitself with
aromasof darkcherries,wild
strawberriesanda touchof
spice.Thepalateis pleasantly
fruity, continuingthe dark
f} 2007 KatnookEstate
cherryintroductionand
Founder's
BlockCabernet
bringingflavorsof raspberry
Sauvignon,
Coonawarra,
andpomegranate.
Moderate
SouthAustralia:Full-bodied acidityandlight tannins
and very pleasing,with a
balanceout the bodyof this
classicCabernetnose-full
wine andgiveit a very nice,
of rich dark berries,cedar
refreshingfinish.
anda hint of vanilla.It follows
Pairing:Roastturkey,grilled
throughwith flavorsof plums,
chicken,mildto medium
blackberries,mint andeucalyp- cheeses,or serveit very
tus. Thetanninsarefirm but
slightlychilledandenjoyit on
not austere,havingbenefited
its own.
8
2010/2011CrushFirst
White,VQAOntario,Winona,
Ontario,Canada:Thisis a
greatsummerwhiteto enjoy
out onthe patiowith friends.A
blendof PinotGrigio,Sauvignon
Blanc,Riesling,Gewurztraminer
andChardonnay,
it bringsboth
floralandfruit qualitiesto the
bouquet,with notesof rose,
gooseberry
andelderflower.
Thepalateis easyandrefreshing,bringingforwardcitrus,
juicy pearanda bit of orange
blossom.
Pairing:Barbecued
chicken,
grilledwhitefish,summer
salads,sandwichesor other
lightfare.
0
LegendsEstates2007
Chardonnay
Reserve,VQA
Ontario,Beamsville,
Ontario,
Canada:Thisis a fairly big,
medium-bodied
white,bringing
aromasof smoke,buttered
toastanda hint of apricots.
An excellentmineralqualityis
supportedby additionalflavors
of hazelnut,vanillaandripe
pear,with a beautifullongand
lingeringfinish.A solidcoreof
aciditygivesthis wine a lively
yet elegantfeel andensures
that it will last on the wine rack
for a few moreyearsto come.
Pairing:Spicychickengumbo
with Andouillesausage,
creamychickencornchowder,
barbecuedporkchopswith
cornon the cobanda spinach
andradicchiosalad.
0
GilbertChonClosde la
ChapelleMuscadetSevreet-MaineSur Lie,Loire,
France2009: Notshort on
complexity:Aromasof white
peach,citrus, perfumeand
seasalt leadthe way to a
refreshingpalateof lemon,
lime,apricot,fines herbes
and mineralnotes(iodine).
Havingbeenleft on the lees
(encouragingcomplexity),
this wine hasa zestyquality
backedup by fine acidity,
leavinga long,deliciously
mouthwateringfinish.
Pairing:Shellfish,steamed
musselsin a white wine
andSauceFinesHerbes,
bouillabaisse,
coldroastpork
or vegetariancabbagerolls.
November 2012
I 55
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THE
RETURN
HE
BYKIMHOFFMAN
~Thursday
night, and K,yomiMcCloskey is on your TV
She emerges on stage, a guitar slung in front of her and gripping
a bottle of Jack Daniel's. "Cheers!" she salutes the crowd, her voice
soaked with raspy rock 'n' roll seduction. And then, with a ferocious
growl, she introduces her band. "We're Hunter Valentine-who's
ready to party?" They're on tour, and their lives are being filmed
for The Real L Word, where there's no contest as to who the new
bad girl will be. But if you think lesbian reality television perfectly
captures McCloskey's life, think again.
With her jet-black hair and pouty lips, her body clad head-to-toe
in leather, Hunter Valentine's front woman may not look like someone you'd bring home to meet mom- this Canadian is a serious
dose of wild child Sapphic eye candy-but
behind those designer
shades is a woman who is trying to pull off a risky tightrope act,
balancing being a rock star with being an adult-which
means
managing both her band and her relationships, and knowing when
to walk away. On the third season of The Real L Word we watched
McCloskey survive breakups (both professional and amorous),
rock the stage, hit the road on tour and even find a new love,
but that was just the beginning.
November 2012
I 57
lene Chaiken, the creator of The Real L Word, went
bi~coastal this season and brought in a handful ofladies from
the East Coast to add more texture to the show. If you've
been keeping up with the guilty pleasure of TRLW, you
know that McCloskey isn't exactly chucking TVs into the
hotel swimming pool or diving into spontaneous threesomes
at Dinah Shore, despite the image she projected in the first
few episodes."Half the things I say on the show-I'm joking;'
McCloskey says in her own defense.
Her queer~rock dreams have hurtled into the living rooms
of a post-L Word world where reality is painted onto a seem~
ingly black~and~white canvas, where the characters all seem
to fit a certain stereotype, some remnant of Shane, Jenny, or
Alice. But McCloskey-who has been called everything from
the real~life Shane to the East Coast Whitney Mixter-isn't
trying to be anyone but hersel£ When we first spoke, early
in the season, she said, "I think that I'm being painted as a
pretty bad guy. But maybe there'll be a turnaround by the
end of the season:' After all, it's entertainment, and she isn't
short on that.
So, who is the real Kiyomir
She's a rock star cut from the same cloth as her hero, Joan
Jett-whom
she cites as a major influence."JoanJett has that
upper lip snarl to her, and she has that rock 'n' roll attitude;'
McCloskey says. Though their sounds are on different ends
of the rock spectrum, there is a gutsy raucousness in both
their voices. They are wild bellowers who tell it like it is. And
ss I curve
that kind of unapologetic authenticity can easily come off
as cockiness. But to assume that McCloskey is all ego is to
misunderstand her completely. As to her bad~girl (read hard~
partying and one~night womanizing) behavior, McCloskey
has this to say: "Some people might look a little deeper and
realize that I was actually doing some self~exploration:'
McCloskey adds, "I think people read me as being this
super~tough guy. But you can't judge this leather~bound book
by her cover. And I'm sort of the opposite of that. I feel things
deeply-that's why I'm a songwriter. If a situation doesn't get
resolved in my head, it will stay with me for weeks:' I ask her
if she's a romantic, and her response is a resounding yes. 'T ve
felt that way since I was a teenager;' she says. And as many
of us know, romantics don't just reach up their sleeve and
produce frilly cliches. Sometimes they shoot to thrill-being
realists and dreamers all in one. And that's McCloskey. She's
not as jaded and as impossible to impress as we think, when
it comes to love. After all, her Twitter handle is Kiyomance.
Speaking of her love life, we all watched along as the
selfprofessed commit~o~phobe fell head over heels for her
gorgeous pink~haired cast mate, Lauren Russell, in Palm
Springs while at Dinah Shore. But for McCloskey and
Russell what happened in the desert didn't stay there, and in
the season finale the duo made it official.
So, what's happened since the credits have rolled on
The Real L Wordr McCloskey confesses that she and
Russell are still going strong; in fact, they've recently made
plans to U ~ Haul it to the Big Apple "I learned that it is
possible to love someone unconditionally;' says McCloskey
of her Dinah~born romance. "She has changed my whole
world:' She thinks it'll be funny for them, 10 years from
now, to watch their budding relationship as it was docu~
mented on camera.
McCloskey says she's come a long, long way from who
she was in episode one, when she acquired her heartbreaker
reputation. "The first few episodes really set the tone for what
people thought my personality was. I really watched myself
transform on camera, coming out of a not~so~good situation,
where I was unhappy, to a situation where I was happy:' She
was enlightened by what she observed.
McCloskey has finally found some peace and happiness in
her relationship with Hunter Valentine, as well. She formed
HV in 2004, while she was still living in Toronto with her
best friend, the drummer Laura Petracca. According to
McCloskey, Petracca knows her better than anyone else. The
two met shortly after McCloskey had come out, at 16, and was
sneaking into Toronto's gay bars. "I was a little bit of a punk;'
McCloskey jokes. "I snuck into this bar, one of the older
bars in Toronto called Crews and Tangos, and my friends and
I were wearing these '80s cycling glasses, and Laura took one
look at us and was like, 'I wanna talk to those girls: She walks
up to us with all her bravado, and we start chatting, and my
friend is like, 'You should hear Kiyomi play music, she's really
good: And Laura was like, 'Oh yeahr Sure she is:"
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'two
talked about music for the rest of the night, but
their connection was nearly lost in the following months,
despite McCloskey's attempts to track Petracca downwhich included trying to reunite with her at the restaurant
where she worked, only to discover that she'd just left for a
three~month sabbatical. Several months later, they ran into
each other one night by chance, at the same bar. "I was like,
'I need you now!'" McCloskey recalls with gusto. "She came
over to my house, we jammed, it worked out really well, and
we started playing shows as a two~piece. The rest is history:'
The duo became a trio with the addition of bassist
Adrienne Lloyd, and by 2005 the Hunter Valentine EP
was released. The idea of Hunter Valentine began as a sexy,
gender~neutral, James Dean~like figure who, McCloskey
says, "encompassed this rock 'n' roll heartbreaker who carried
that rock 'n' roll attitude:' Two years later, after the success of
The Impatient Romantic, their first full~length album, Hunter
Valentine began to tour with other like~minded musicians,
including the Cliks, Dragonette and the all~girl rock group
Sick of Sarah, who are now their close friends. By the time
2010 rolled in, they were prepared to release their third
album, an epilogue to the years of touring and partying,
the highs and lows of relationships, the hard~won wisdom
of growing up. Appropriately, it was called Lessons From the
Late Night.
After six years, McCloskey and Petracca parted ways
with Lloyd and began to reconstruct the rock~hard bones of
Hunter Valentine, adding bassist Vero Sanchez. "We were
about to go on tour with Sick of Sarah and Vanity Theft, for
the Lady Killer Tour, and we really needed a bass player. I go
to Metropolitan all the time on Wednesdays, which is the big
girl~night in Brooklyn, and Vero is a bartender there, and is
like that one bartender you can kind of tell all your problems
to;' says McCloskey.
60
I
curve
Sanchez, the laid~back and sensible voice of reason in
the group-who,
in the season finale of TRLW noted, "It's
hard to be a Valentine" -spoke about wanting to pick up
the bass again. So, McCloskey put her through bass boot
camp and taught her all the HV songs. She's been with
them ever since. "Laura and I both have very strong person~
alities. Extroverts. She's more of an extrovert than I am, as
you can see with her getting naked in the middle of the street.
But Vero really balances out the band and keeps everybody
grounded;' McCloskey says, recalling how predictable-if
over the top-their
dynamic can be at times. "That was like
a regular Hunter Valentine moment [when Laura got naked
in a TRL W episode that involved some good old~fashioned
day~drinking]. We were like, 'Oh my God: But at the same
time, not that shocked:'
Incidents like that are spinoff~worthy reminders that
Hunter Valentine is a band of take~it~or~leave~itladies, each
powered by a strapping personality. They can embrace one
another's behaviors, but, like any group of girls, sometimes
they find themselves in the eye of a hurricane, their forces
clashing. TV audiences got a front row seat for exactly what
that can look like in the band's short~lived collaboration with
its now former keyboardist, Somer Bingham. According to
McCloskey, she hasn't seen much of Bingham lately. With a
heavy sigh, she dispenses a few words of almighty girl~band
wisdom. "There is no doubt in my mind that Somer will do
big things with her career and music. When you're in a band
together, you cycle up-no
I'm just kidding;' she laughs,
offering up that lightness we've seen many a time."It's hard to
be in a band, in general;' she continues. "You have to navigate
everyone's different personalities. I always say, I would take
hanging out with a crazy person over a boring person any day
of the week. And we're all crazy in our own little ways-you
just need to learn to have this ultimate respect for your band
mates and you have to learn how to pick and choose your
battles;' says McCloskey, knowing well that the patience to
do so only comes with time.
And time has certainly brought Hunter Valentine the
much~deserved recognition they set out to achieve. After all,
it is all about the music, and that's something they can agree
on, putting their differences behind them the minute they
reach the stage and plug in to the night.
"When the good times are rolling, it's the best thing ever.
And when you finally get out of the van, after a 12~hour drive
and numerous fights, you get to play on stage with your close
friends to a roomful of people who have been waiting to hear
your music. There's nothing really more rewarding than that,
at the end of the day;' says McCloskey.
The group is standing tall, still touring like mad, and
remaining grounded in the post~release high of their first
album as a foursome, Collide and Conquer, which dropped
in October. It's all about perspective. "Out of all of our
records, for this one we really sat down in the studio every
day and hammered out songs piece by piece. There's ballads
on there, there's harder rock songs, there's straight up pop
songs;' says McCloskey.
"I THINKPEOPLE
README
ASBEINGTHISSUPERTOUGHGUY BUTI'M
SORTOF THEOPPOSITE
OF THATI FEELTHINGS
DEEPLYTHAT'SWHY I'M
A SONGWRITER."
Collideand Conquersteps away from previous HV albums,
playing on new themes. Collaboration was at an all,time
high, everyone's opinions and ideas reaching the proverbial
drawing board. "You're working with a bunch of musicians,
which means you're working with a bunch of egos, and so
you don't really want to be negative about anyone's ideas
when they first come to the table;' she explains.
On the album, you'll find a song about a Vegas girl working
on the Strip, as well as their homage to the "It Gets Better"
campaign-a queer youth anthem sure to please young fans,
many of whom reach out to McCloskey daily and want to
know what it takes to be just like her.
She's playing it smart, too-making
sure to focus only
on the positive, instead of Googling around for negative
comments about her and the show, which she knows all too
well are out there. Truly, there's no time for drama as Hunter
Valentine keeps showing up for gig after gig. Since she's
hardly ever alone, McCloskey has learned how important it
is to take a long walk after the sound check and leave some
time just for herself. But after the band has been touring for
months on end, getting off the road and returning home can
also be daunting-they're
like rock warriors returning from
a battle zone. "There's this weird culture shock when you get
off of a tour, where you don't really feel like a human being
because you've been doing the same thing for a number of
months, so you don't know how to relate to your friends right
away. You sit in your house for a couple of hours and you feel
so strange, and you call your band mates and you're like, 'Let's
hang out. Help me!'" she says, with a catch in her voice.
This may surprise some TRLW viewers, who only saw
the rocky side of Hunter Valentine. McCloskey explains that
many of the scenes that showcased the friendship between
her band mates were left out of the final cut. "I wish they
could have shown more of my dynamic with Laura, because
it's a very complex one:'
With the season behind her now, she's ready to take
on anything. She's even doing some acting-most recently,
taking the lead in the short film Hector, a project that
Michele Abbott, co,creator of The L Word, is involved in.
McCloskey is playing Hector, and she's buzzing to explore
this new terrain.
She's also exploring new territory with Hunter Valentineliterally.The focus remains on always expanding their audience.
It isn't unusual for McCloskey to get on a plane to go cross,
country, or drive up to Canada for the night, zigzagging across
the U.S. and back again. Since grinding it out on the road is
what they do best, the band has their eye on some untouched
frontiers-possibly Japan and Australia next.
While the world is always ready for Hunter Valentine, the
question is, is McCloskey's new relationship actually ready
to withstand all the touring:' Some say you can't have the
career and the relationship, but power lesbians know better.
According to McCloskey, her partner just has to be on board
with a musician's come,and,go situation. In this case, she says
she's found that in Russell, who has her own career as the
founder and designer of Lyon Fine Jewelry-just check out
her Equality bracelet, which represents the fight gor gay mar,
riage rights. "Being a musician can affect your relationship,
because it takes a lot of time and dedication, if you're really
going to do it. I really need somebody to be equally as driven
and passionate about what they do. I think it's important in
a relationship for your partner to inspire you, and for you
to inspire your partner;' says McCloskey, pausing to consider
one final "must": "I kind of like a little bit of a bad ass:'
Lately, all the pieces of her life are coming together for
McCloskey, not only as a musician but as an individual. Her
tightrope act has gotten easier to perform. And as for that
wild,child label she's got-well, let's just say, she doesn't give
a damn about her bad reputation. ■
November 2012
I 61
THE MIDWESTERN CULINARY CAPITAL OFFERS SO MUCH MORE
THAN DEEP-DISH PIZZA. BY KELSY CHAUVIN
IT IS A DELICIOUS CITY, Chicago: Just ask anyone which
food the Windy City is most celebrated for and they'll come up
with deep~dish pizza and hot dogs. Never mind that the pizza
came from Italy and hot dogs from Coney Island-it is the mighty
appetite of Chicagoans that brought them both to the next level of
decadence. And this town has many more scrumptious dishes to
tempt the willing traveler.
One of the top culinary destinations of late belongs to TopChef
season four winner (and cutie pie) Stephanie Izard. Open since
2010, GirlandtheGoat(girlandthegoat.com) is part of a vibrant res~
taurant scene situated in and among the converted warehouses of
the West Loop. Izard's lovely, preserved~industrial vibe creates a
luscious space where diners come to be dazzled by her innovative
fare. Like most of today's top restaurants, the Goat uses simple,
fresh, seasonal ingredients, and magically transforms them into
many~flavored explosions-think
roasted cauliflower with pickled
peppers, pine nuts and mint, or Squash Blossom Rangoon: crab,
chive yogurt and almonds. Although getting a table may take a spell,
sipping on the Goat's outstanding cocktails will inspire patience.
If serious barbeque appeals, drift a bit northward to Barn&
62
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Company(barnandcompany.com) in Lakeview. The theme here is
"slow and low;' and the flavor~packed pulled pork, the smoky ribs
with a sauce sampler, and the crisp~yet~juicy chicken all showcase
that succulent style. Features include an outdoor patio and daily
fire~pit specials.
Of course, you can't leave Chicago without some deep~dish. Local
chains such as LouMalnati'sor Giordano's
will satisfy, but an evening
at Lincoln Park's ChicagoPizzaandOvenGrinder(chicagopizzaan~
dovengrinder.com) will have you proclaiming, "It is a far, far better
thing that I do:' The place often has a line out the door, and for good
reason: Its famous Pizza Pot Pie has no rival. Visualize if you will a
dough~lined bowl filled with cheese, sauce and other toppings, and
capped with a baked~dough blanket-which then somersaults onto
your plate as a stuffed pizza that the server cuts into wedges. This
place is legendary.
Speaking of classics, take your appetite to breakfast at Lou
Mitchell's(loumitchellsrestaurant.com), a restaurant and bakery
in the Loop. The cure for any hangover is waiting for you at this
1923 Chi~town institution; consider the sour cream and tomato
"fluffy jumbo omelette;' served in a frying pan half~filled with
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The famous Chicago theater sign (clockwise from left); architectural
wonders of the Lake Michigan waterfront; Chef Stephanie Izard and
signature dish wood oven-roasted pig face; hot dog Chicago-style
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crispy hash browns. (Don't forget the homemade biscuit.)
Boystown has long been a conveniently named gaybor,
hood not far from downtown. It's a great area to stroll,
shop and of course dine like the locals do. But in recent
years, Andersonville has emerged as the premier queer
stomping ground, thanks to its many gay,owned and
,operated establishments. After you shop at Women&
ChildrenFirst(womenandchildrenfirst.com)
and the non,
(howardbrown.
profit secondhand shop TheBrownElephant
org), wet your whistle at one of many lesbian,friendly
cafes and lounges along North Clark Street, like Parlour
(parlouronclark.com). Farther down on Clark is T's Bar&
Restaurant
(tsbarchicago.com), where you can enjoy a meal
on the outdoor patio. You can get a great burger, or try
something with more flair-maybe the pretzel,encrusted
chicken or pumpkin seed pesto over fusilli.
bakery,restaurant
Drop by gay,owned A Tasteof Heaven
(atasteofheavenchicago.com) for a yummy brunch or light
dinner, or just to grab a fresh,baked cupcake. The gay
Mary's(hamburgermarys.com/
restaurant chain Hamburger
chicago), across Clark Street, has fun events at Mary's Attic
and the sports,bar,style Mary's Rec Room, with satisfying
pub fare to boot.
It is joyful and fulfilling just to sample what's cooking in
Chicago-especially if you remember to pace yoursel£ ■
November 2012
I 63
YOU'LL BE SATED, SCANDALIZED
AND SOMEWHAT STUNNED BY
SIN CITY. BY GILLIAN KENDALL
l'VE ALWAYS WANTED to join the Sisters of Perpetual
Indulgence. Founded in San Francisco, the Sisters comprise street
theater/ social awareness/ activist groups of drag nuns who often
sport bearish beards with their habits and pray to the Blessed Virgin
in deep, throaty voices. In their black-and-white gowns and rhinestone rosaries, they clown around with onlookers at Pride marches,
protest anything homo-oppressive and generally promote safe,
not-so-innocent fun that's of the sexiest, most self-indulgent kind.
Unfortunately for me, the Sisters are mostly male, and they don't
have a chapter where I live. But last week, I felt like an honorary (or
dishonorary!) member of the troupe during my time in Las Vegas.
My first visit to Sin City, to research all things queer, left me more
than satisfied: I was sated, scandalized and somewhat stunned by
the onslaught of food, drink, drag and other forms of, yes, perpetual
indulgence that combine, clash and kaleidoscopically converge in
the four-mile-long area known as the Strip.
For the first time in my life, I was picked up from the airport in
a stretch limo. From then on, Presidential Limo supplied the ride
every time I left the hotel-or actually, every time I left"THEhotel
at Mandalay Bay;' as it's called and capitalized. That contrived spelling encourages pronunciation with the emphasis on the definite
article, as if it's the onlyhotel in Las Vegas, instead of one of dozens
that collectively offer 150,000 rooms. THEhotel is at THEend of
THEStrip-get
it?
Still, despite its gimmicky moniker, THEhotel does offer THE
best view of the Strip from its Alain Ducasse-inspired miX Lounge
on the 64th floor, and my spacious suite was tres luxe, if a little less
than restful, due to the late-night revelry from the streets, cocktail
bars, pools, casinos and partying sisters six floors below.
But no one comes to Vegas to get a good night's rest, and anyway, most nights I was out late. For instance, I spent a few cheery
hours at the Chandelier Bar at the Cosmopolitan, where the "mixologists" unveil trays of lavender, sea green and pale orange drinks
like intoxicating works of art. True to its name, the Chandelier
Bar is not just lit but surrounded by interwoven strings of crystals,
which are draped like blingy cobwebs. The bar is a perfect place
for a romantic marriage proposal, or a romantic quickie (if you can
find a dark corner).
My companions and I had ample opportunities to, uh, network
at the many parties (pool, cocktail, cocktail-in-pool, etc.) organized
by MGM Resorts' Fabulous Las Vegas, an annual weekend event
aimed at the gayest of revellers. Even beyond the massive MGM
complex, the Strip's endless parties, shows, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and, oh yes, casinos, all wanted us badly-now. And beyond
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the Strip lies the rest of Las Vegas, including the old, neon,lit
Fremont Street area (pedestrians,only ). You'll find the overwhelming
entertainment choices listed in the free gay print magz: Night Beat
or QVegas (with a female editor!), or you can download Q Vegas,
the new, free, all,gay iPhone app, for up,to,the,nanosecond party
news and more.
One show not to miss is Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas at the
Imperial Palace, a two,hour, ooh,la,la extravaganza of impressive
impersonations, catty celebrity gossip and a little bit of real heart.
A person can get worn out with all the late nights, long after,
noons and early mornings-not
to mention endless libations and
clever conversation-so it was with relief that I scheduled a morning
at the Caesars Palace Qua Spa. An amazing deep massage started
the relaxation routine, which I completed with long silent soaks in
pools of various thrilling temperatures, until I was rehydrated and
ready for more of everything va,va,va,Vegas.
Serendipity 3, a wildly popular pink,and,white eatery at Caesars,
resembles an idealized ice cream parlor from the '50s. It's only on
closer inspection that one observes the rows of top,shelf liquor
behind the soda fountain, and notes the 2012 prices for the indul,
gent brunch items (Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is a big seller, though
too sweet for this sugar addict). If deep,fried Oreos sound a little
intense, go for the Tex,Mex,y eggs or an omelet. No matter what
you want to eat, go early, before everyone else has shaken off their
hangovers, or be prepared to wait for a table.
Just as Las Vegas is called "Vegas" by its residents, they never
refer to Cirque du Soleil by anything other than its first syllable.
There are currently three Cirque shows playing in Vegas, and a local
man who learned that I was seeing Zumanity said, "Oh, you' re going
to the porn one!"
Well no, not really. The "adult" show didn't seem pornographic
to this polyamorous bi,dyke, but, strangely, a couple of gay male
friends were actually offended, though I think less by the displays of
nudity (no shirts on the women, big deal) than by the lack of overt
male sex acts. I myself-and, no doubt, the many straight men in
the audience-relished
the sight of two young women cavorting
inside a large fishbowl, and I liked the panorama of reason,
ably diverse sexuality throughout the show. One caveat: The two
fat characters were also the only ones who were totally comic and
asexual. I kept hoping for a scene that would reveal the two large,
middle,aged women's beauty and sensuality, but there was none.
The best and most purely beautiful hours I spent in Vegas were in
a front row center seat for the k.d lang show at the graceful, brand,
new Smith Center for the Performing Arts. To my amazement, the
theater was not sold out, but the locals seemed enthusiastic, espe,
cially when k.d., who has performed in spectacular venues worldwide,
praised the new art deco-style theater, saying how lovely it was
and how very grateful she was to be there. For myself, I will never
again wash my right hand: k.d. high,fived me in passing during
the rock,out version of"Miss Chatelaine:•
Thanks to a marketing catchphrase, it used to be that "What
happens in Vegas stays in Vegas:• Now, apparently, what happens
in Vegas goes viral, especially weddings at the Viva Las Vegas
Wedding Chapel, where not only can a marriage be performed
by Elvis in a vintage pink Cadillac, or a goth union be witnessed
by vampires popping out of coffins, but the event can be streamed
live on the Internet for thousands of your closest cyber friends.
Ironically enough, the business is owned by a gay couple, who can't
legally marry in their own state; nevertheless, a small percentage of
their 400 to 500 celebrations a month are same,sex unions.
After too much fun, I was delighted to board my boring AirTran
flight to the relative serenity of Atlanta Hartfield Airport: I slept
all the way. I enjoyed what happened in Las Vegas, and I'd go back
next year for Gay Days, or Shedonism at Rumor Boutique Hotel,
or another Cirque show. But my first attempt to rock glitzy Sin
City had been altogether overwhelming. Anybody want to join me
at a nunnery:' ■
Almost everyone
has a favorite part of
Vegas-something that
keeps them coming
back. Maybe it's the glitz
of the Strip, or the thrill
of the roulette wheel.
For me, it's Rumor, a
queer-friendly boutique
hotel that serves as
my personal retreat
in Sin City. Unlike the
labyrinthine mega-hotels
Vegas is known for,
Rumor, just off the Strip,
is a sophisticated place
with an easy-to-navigate
floor plan. The hotel
has no casino to speak
of, giving it a relaxed
atmosphere, but should
you fancy a flutter, hop
across the street to the
Hard Rock Hotel, known
for its great casino and
world-class events. For a
small fee, Rumor guests
can also head to the Hard
Rock's remarkable gym
and spa facilities.
Rumor is elegant.
Each of its 149 suites
(every room is a suite)
has gorgeous blackand-white decor, silver
lighting and violet, red
and aqua accents. The
beds are deluxe, with
fluffy comforters and tons
of pillows, and there are
mirrors. Lots of mirrors. If
you enjoy a good
soak, like I do, make
sure to request a room
with a soaking tub-big
enough for you and your
lovely lady.
And because you
are, after all, in Sin City,
Rumor is a wee bit
naughty. The artwork in
the rooms hints at the
hotel's reputation as a
swingers' destination,
as do the sofas facing
the five-person shower
in the "Wet Room" (one
of Rumor's four megasuites). Yeah, I said
"mega-suites." These
enormous themed suites
are great for birthday
parties, bachelorette
parties and any kind of
one-on-one naughtiness.
What else? Rumor plays
host to queer events,
including Shedonism, the
official women's event
for Las Vegas Pride, and
Gay Spring Break. For
lesbian ethical eaters,
Addiction Restaurant
can accommodate a
vegetarian, gluten-free
diet. And for pet-loving
lesbians, Third Thursday
Yappy Hours cater to
four-legged friends
and their owners.
(rumorvegas.com)
[KristinFlickinger]
November 2012
I 65
Outdoor hot tub (clockwise);
Sandhamn signage; beer and
shrimp; fresh chanterelles
OUTDOOR FUN AND FINE FOOD ON
STOCKHOLM'S ARCH I PELAGO.
BYCONSTANCEPARTEN
IF YOU'VE BEEN PINING FOR a beautiful European
getaway that includes fresh and innovative cuisine, cutting~edge
culture and a pristine and breathtaking natural setting-and
doesn't require learning another language-Stockholm
and its
surrounding cluster of islands could be just the thing.
Summer in Stockholm is a relaxed time to visit, and August is
often the warmest month of the year. It's also when crayfish are in
season. This national delicacy is celebrated everywhere with feasts at
which the diners wear party hats! In addition to the Mediterranean
weather and the festive shellfish dinners, there's also Stockholm
Pride-one of the largest Pride festivals in Europe (boasting some
very stylish queer girls). And since almost everyone in Scandinavia's
Capital City speaks English, you won't feel excluded if your Swedish
is a little rusty. Once you're done with the eating, the partying
and Pride, though, you'll definitely want to stick around for other
adventures. There's plenty more to do, see and eat-regardless of
your venturesome proclivities.
and incomparable views of the Royal Palace and the Gamla Stan
or Old Town. The Grand Hotel (grandhotel.se) is also a dining
hub: For a world~class Swedish smorgasbord, there's Veranda res~
taurant; in addition, there are Mathias Dahlgren's two restaurants,
which between them have earned three Michelin stars. When you
stay, don't skip the Nordic Spa & Fitness club-the Swedes do this
so well! Going from the ladies' sauna to the ice~cold plunge pool
(it's designed to resemble a woodland pond both in appearance and
temperature) is an addictive and exhilarating experience.
If the Grand is a bit out of reach financially, a more affordable
but still stylish option is the Clarion Hotel Sign (clarionsign.com),
conveniently located near public transportation and the city center.
The hotel's full~service spa is a great place to unwind after a busy
day of sightseeing, and the outdoor patio, just steps away, is perfect
for a glass of champagne and a light snack while you're still wearing
your spa robe. Then get a good night's rest in your spacious roomwhich of course features modern Scandinavian design-because
you'll need to be ready for your next foray into Baltic culture.
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BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BEST
The Grand Hotel is five~star luxury, with Old World decor and
service. It's been a destination of choice for Europe's elite since
1874. Whenever the legendary Greta Garbo visited her home city,
she invariably chose to stay at the Grand, with its waterfront location
66
I curve
ART IN THE ARCHIPELAGO
There are countless cultural wonders in the city of Stockholm, from
the brilliant Fotografiska (The Swedish Museum of Photography),
open since 2010, to the Nordiska Museet (Nordic Museum), open
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smce 1873 and featuring the history of Sweden from the 16th
century onward. The new Sprit Museum (spritmuseum.se), an
unusual and entertaining experience, is dedicated to the history of
alcohol consumption in Sweden, and is also a monument to Absolut
vodka. Among its offerings, Sprit Museum houses many works of
art that Absolut has commissioned to advertise and commemorate
its exceedingly gay-friendly liquor. By all means, take the tasting
tour. You'll never do a shot of vodka the same way again.
Because you are in Scandinavia, culture doesn't stop in the city
but continues all the way to the Arctic Circle. Don't worry-you
outdoor showers and an incinerating toilet. All the structures are
in harmony with the surrounding environment, but for that little
touch of glam, the tents feature designer beds, tasteful furnishings
and compact wood-burning stoves. The large outdoor hot tub,
which overlooks the Baltic Sea, is heated by a wood fire. Soaking in
it at sunset, as the sea birds arc overhead on their way to roost, is an
unforgettable and very romantic experience.
Accommodating two to 21 people, Island Lodge is just the spot
for an idyllic wedding, a family gathering or an extraordinary anniversary celebration. Bonde and Berglund offer a host of customized
experiences, everything from berry picking to beverages on their
private dock. Local chefs can be engaged to provide daily meals during your stay. Berglund and Bonde both speak fluent English, will
answer any questions through their website, and are eager to make
your visit the experience of a lifetime.
SAND DUNES AND SALTYAIR
won't have to go that far to enjoy Artipelag. It'sjust a 20-minute drive
(or a one-hour boat ride) from the heart of Stockholm (artipelag.se).
This new international cultural center, which is the brainchild of
the family behind the Baby Bjorn brand, brings together architectural innovation, art exhibitions, cultural activities, music, design
and good food in a woodsy waterfront environment.
Situated on a 54-acre island and nestled among pine trees,
with magnificent views of the water, the building was designed
by the late Swedish-American architect Johan Nyren. View the
art and architecture, walk the nature trails around the island, then
enjoy a romantic dinner at Baggen Restaurant (be sure to make a
reservation), taking in a beautiful sunset over the archipelago.
GO ISLAND HOPPING
If you're ready to explore the 60-kilometer-wide oasis of islands and
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islets that is the archipelago, consider a lunch cruise aboard the SS
Stockholm, from Stockholm to the picturesque town of Vaxholm.
Not only will you get a lovely view of the islands, the lunch offers
a variety of classic Swedish fare, including local salmon, fish roe,
dilled potatoes and shrimp salad. Vegetarian and vegan options are
available upon request.
To truly experience the tranquility of the archipelago, there is
a place that's perfect for groups or couples seeking total seclusion:
Island Lodge (islandlodge.se). This rustic, sustainable and yet luxurious accommodation is a short boat ride from Vaxholm and was
designed by two very smart Scandinavians. Torkild Berglund, from
Norway, and Kristina Bonde, a Swede who has spent time in South
Africa, both of whom understand glamping (glamorous camping)
at its absolute finest. This private, uninhabited and undeveloped
island has seven geodesic dome tents, a tented lodge and kitchen,
For a well-populated experience, head to Sandhamn ( sandhamn.
com), a quaint old fishing village on a small island on the outer edge
of the archipelago. Sweden's answer to Martha's Vineyard, it has
just 100 permanent residents, but don't expect Sandhamn to be
quiet and sleepy, especially in the summer. It is a favorite destination of pleasure boaters and sun seekers, who gather at the town's
marina, its restaurants, bars, cafes and sandy beaches to celebrate
the short sweet season.
Surprisingly, Sandhamn doesn't feel crowded, even at the peak
of the tourist season. One reason is that the island doesn't allow
motorized vehicles, so the only way to explore the quaint shops and
laneways-or the island's beaches (warning: the water is a bracing
68 degrees at most)-is by foot or on a bicycle.
When it comes to accommodations, try Seglarhotell, the largest
of a handful of hotels in Sandhamn. Situated on the marina, it is at
the center of everything. While the average double room is small,
the furnishings are comfortable and the food at the restaurant is
outstanding. The smoked shrimp with garlic aioli should not be
missed and, paired with an ice-cold local beer, the meal is a Swedish
culinary gem.
As you wend your way through the islands on your return trip to
Stockholm, courtesy of Cinderella Boats, you'll notice some lovely
vacation homes, no doubt owned by Sweden's elite; but you'll also
see tents pitched on the hills, people hiking and sightseeing, fishing
and boating around the shore. All this outdoor recreation is not
financed through Parks and Recreation permits or seasonal fees, but
is available because of a basic Swedish law known as allemansratt,
literally "all-mans-right;' which allows everyone to roam and camp
freely, as long as they keep an agreeable distance (150 meters) from
a landowner's primary dwelling. Martha's Vineyard it's not, so raise
your glass of aquavit and say ska.Ito the ever-tolerant and generous
Swedes, who will give you a summer vacation to savor.
HOW TO GETTHERE
Gay-friendly SAS flies direct from New York to Stockholm (flysas.
com). For the Vaxholm cruise, a brunch or dinner cruise, a boat to
Artipelag, or the Cinderella Boats, Stromma Kanalbolaget offers
reliable, clean, efficient and affordable service (stromma.se). To begin
creating your itinerary go to visitstockholm.com/ gay-lesbian. ■
November 2012
I 67
A VISIT LACED WITH ITALIAN PASTRIES,
SOUTHERN BAR BEQUE AND THE SPICY
MADDOW. BY JILLIAN EUGENICS
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The Blue Heron (from left); Boston Museum of Fine Arts; Tiffani Faison of
Sweets Cheeks; the Old Creamery and their goodies; Faison's Giant Nutter
Butter; Barbara White with Chef Deborah Snow of the Blue Heron
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MINUTES AFTER I ARRIVED in Boston, I was standing at a
corner in the North End, also known as Little Italy, unsure which
way to turn. A few construction guys were lined up next to the
crosswalk, eating sandwiches on their break. One of them called
out, "Did you just get here? Where are you from?"
I ignored them because I live in New York, where being oblivious
to the existence of other people is a carefully cultivated skill. One
of them sauntered over. Aware that my obliviousness tactic was no
match for a huge guy with an even bigger Boston accent, I relented
and told him I was looking for my hotel, and some lunch. Turned
out, my hotel was far but my lunch was close. He pointed across
the street. "Go see Maria for pizza. And a cannoli. Promise me you
will have a cannoli:'
I'd heard Mike's Pastry was the place to go for cannoli, but a
promise is a promise and now I was headed to Maria's. Maria
herself filled my cannoli with chocolate cream (vanilla cream and
the traditional sweetened ricotta are also on offer). Every cannoli
she sells is filled right when it's ordered, not a minute before.
I ended up back at Maria's a couple of days later, on a food
tour with Jim Becker from Food Tours of Boston. A tour with
him or one of his colleagues is a must, not only for a fascinating
history of Boston's oldest neighborhood, but also for the stopoffs
in salumerie the size of closets, and the stories you'll hear from the
people who work there.
After you fill up on Italian delights, become one of the million
people who visit Boston's Museum of Fine Arts annually. When I
visited the MFA, I saw an exhibit paying homage to the goddess
Aphrodite, with works of art on loan from Rome and Naples. If
you're after something a little different, take a five~minute walk
over to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, known for show~
casing and nurturing young artists.
Satiated with culture, I felt the need for actual food. I walked
a short 10 minutes through the lawns of the Back Bay Fens to
Sweet Cheeks Q which bills itself as "the American South north
of the Mason Dixon:' It's a newish restaurant owned by Top Chef
finalist (and out lesbian) Tiffani Faison. She told me that she de~
cided to go with a barbeque restaurant because her mother's side
of the family is from the South, and barbeque was the one thing
she missed the most when she first moved to Boston. Some of the
sides on Faison's menu, like the must~have mac n' cheese, are in~
spired by her morn's home cooking. And Sweet Cheeks is a stone's
throw from Fenway Park. Is there a better combination than base~
ball and barbeque?
While you're in Boston, be sure to take off your shoes and walk
through the grass on Boston Common, and on a sunny day check
out the South Boston Waterfront and Seaport District. Temazcal
Cantina is right on the water, offering great views and potent
margaritas, which you can order from an iPad menu.
After gorging on Boston, grab a car and head a couple of hours
west to Northampton, where the lesbian~centric version of your
trip really begins. Downtown Northampton is perfect for a self~
guided walking tour of the local shops and the outstanding Smith
College Museum of Art, where you'll find everything from medi~
eval to modern. Stop in at Northampton's Pride & Joy in Thornes
Marketplace to pick up items for your rainbow clothing collection,
or get a mug like I did. Mine says, "Northampton: Where the
coffee is strong, and so are the women:'
For dinner, hop in the car and head 10 miles out of town to the
Blue Heron Restaurant in Sunderland, owned by lesbian couple
Deborah Snow (the chef) and Barbara White. The Blue Heron's
building was once the Old Town Hall, which the couple restored
after saving it from demolition. The menu features sustainably
raised, fresh, local and organic ingredients. The pan~seared sea
scallops with apple cider reduction and mascarpone, served on a
bed of lentils du puy and cooked with bacon, is one of their sig~
nature dishes and was featured in Bon Apetit magazine. Fun fact:
Jane Lynch had her wedding there and the restaurant closed for
the event.
Also just out of town is the Old Creamery Grocery and Deli
in Cummington, a small country store and cafe run by Alice
Cozzolino and her partner, Amy Pulley. In addition to the hand~
made artisanal products and homemade cakes, you can order the
Spicy Maddow, a sandwich that includes chipotle honey mustard
and pickled jalapeiios and was invented for its namesake, our
favorite political pundit, Rachel Maddow. Maddow happens to be
the Old Creamery's neighbor and a regular customer.
Weeks after my trip to Massachusetts, I saw Maddow at a
book signing in New York. I knew I'd only have a second to talk
to her, so I said, in one fast breath, "I went to the Old Creamery
in Northampton and tried your sandwich!" She looked up at me,
grinned, and said, "Spicy, huh?" I'd say. ■
The Charles Street Inn, Boston is a gayowned luxury bed-and-breakfast in Beacon
Hill. Some of the plush Victorian guest rooms
with fireplaces are named after 19th century
female authors and feminists.
Hotel Northampton in downtown
Northampton is a Colonial Revival landmark
with a grand entrance and lobby and large,
period-style rooms.
November 2012
I 69
A LESBIAN MAKES HER EARTHLY AND
SPIRITUAL HOME ON OUR NAMESAKE ISLAND.
BY ALISON TERRY-EVANS
I DON'T DREAM ABOUT living a healthy, carefree life in an
international lesbian community on an idyllic Greek island. I don't
dream about it-because I'm already there. My stone cottage, its
garden abundant with fruit trees and flowers, is in the small seaside
village of Skala Eressos on the island of Lesbos. This is the place
where Sappho was born, 2,500 years ago, and became a hugely
influential poet and musician (Plato called her the 10th muse). This
is the place where Sappho was a priestess of Aphrodite and openly
had loving relationships with women.
The word "lesbian" is derived from "Lesbos" because Sappho
wrote love poems to women here. During the time Sappho lived
in the village of Skala Eressos, it thrived-economically,
politically
and culturally, it was important to Greek civilization. Today, you
can see evidence of the past throughout the village, as the remains
of ancient buildings have been incorporated into more recent
constructions. In a field near the beach, broken pillars mark
the place where the temple to Aphrodite was excavated, and then
covered again when funds for its upkeep were no longer available.
Its typical Greek charms aside, Skala Eressos has much more to
offer than you would generally expect from a remote island village.
I can join yoga, chanting and meditation groups, and my physical
and psychological health needs can be met by a variety of alterna~
tive practitioners. I can take an art or a singing class, or dance with
women into the early hours of the morning at one of the bars on
the sea. During the women's festivals in May, June and September,
lesbian entertainers from other parts of Europe bring music, dance
and theater to the village. In the summer months, popular films are
projected on the front whitewashed wall of the open~air cinema, its
comfortable chairs and cafe tables surrounded by the bright reds
and pinks of the creeping bougainvillea. In September, during the
International Women's Festival, the cinema becomes a venue for
lesbian films and entertainment. Did I mention lesbians? While
an international community of women lives here year~round, the
summer brings more lesbians from all over the world. They've been
coming since the 1970s, so the local Greek community is at least
accustomed to them. I've met many interesting women here who are
a constant reminder of the power and energy we have in the world.
The village of Skala Eressos lies on the far western side ofLesbos,
the third~largest of the Greek islands. A number of charter flights
have been cancelled this year due to European economic pressures,
so it's becoming somewhat harder for Europeans to get here. Fewer
women came this year, and fewer visitors overall. Most women come
to Skala Eressos on vacation, so there are always new faces, but
others stay all summer. Many who are here for the first time talk
about returning. Some have been known to simply abandon their
flights home-charmed
by the place, or by someone special or both.
70
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At 10:30 each summer morning, 20 or so women throw themselves into the clear blue Aegean Sea. Each at her own pace, but as
a group, they swim 400 meters to Sappho Rock, a volcanic formation rising out of the sea. I paddle along in one of the safety kayaks,
keeping an eye on the swimmers. Over the summer, something like
700 women from 30 countries will swim to Sappho Rock and back,
automatically becoming part of the Skala Women's Rock Group.
Newcomers are easily absorbed into the casual atmosphere of the
swim, and socialize before and after they take the plunge.
While sea and sun and the lesbian community are a big draw for
me, the beauty and traditional culture of the island keep me here
as well. I appreciate the fact that it's a place where I can prepare
food from ingredients gathered or grown locally. I take advantage
of crops both cultivated and wild by sun-drying apricots, tomatoes,
figs,grapes and plums. I make jams and sauces, chutneys and liqueurs.
Bartering is a way of life here. I barter for the liquid gold of olive
oil-the olive trees are on my friends' land. I gather pine nuts,
walnuts, almonds, capers, wild asparagus, sour cherries, oregano,
thyme and sage. A local shepherd supplies the milk I make cheese
from. I eat honey from local hives, and fresh fish from the sea.
Every season is pleasurably unique. With spring, carpets of
brightly colored wildflowers spread across the verdant landscape,
and the air is full with the fragrance of orange blossoms. Summer
means the activity of living goes outdoors, under constant blue
skies; the turquoise sea is calm beside the stark beauty of the dry volcanic landscape. Autumn is busy with
the olive harvest, and lively with the tinkling of bells
on the greening hills as the sheep and goats become
more active during the cooler days. Winter is a time
of wildly beautiful seas and the smell of wood fires, a
time to visit the thermal baths.
Tzeli Hadjidimitriou is a native of Lesbos. This
makes her a Lesbian as well as a lesbian. As a professional photographer and the author of six books about
the island, including the indispensable A Girl'sGuide
to Lesbos,she has extensive knowledge of the cultural,
political and architectural history of the island.
Spending time with her, I'm always caught
up in her passionate enthusiasm for the
place. Friends and I have been guests on her
boat and she has taken us along the coastline to magical secluded coves, all the time
regaling us with history and myth drawn
from sites along the way. For the most part,
the women here live simple, creative lives.
We have jewelry makers, painters, writers
(including a writer of lesbian pulp fiction),
photographers, filmmakers and carpenters,
as well as women who own restaurants, bars
and small hotels.
Women are making a positive impact here
as they restore and rejuvenate buildings and
the land. Many have been very hands-on in
the construction of their homes. After helping stonemasons build the basic structure
of their house, which is set in a small olive
grove, Mercia and Julia did the rest. They learned how to install
windows and doors, lay wooden and tile floors and put in electricity and plumbing. They now have a comfortable home nestled into
the hills, with an open view of the sea. Doreen is helping us dispose
of plastic water bottles by collecting thousands of them to build a
hothouse for her winter vegetables. Penny and Neen's vineyard and
orchard is growing on land surrounding the stone house they built
and maintain with a solar system.
Somewhat more directly than other countries, Greece is being
challenged with economic uncertainty. The families and individuals
running the small hotels, restaurants and stores in Skala Eressos are
feeling the pinch from the debt crisis as the government imposes
more taxes on many items, including utilities, food and liquor. In
addition, to obtain and maintain the licenses they need to operate
legally, these local establishments must now comply with everincreasing bureaucratic regulations. This has created irritation at
the very least, and in some cases economic and psychological defeat.
These costs need to be passed on to the consumer, but with tourism
down by 25 percent all over Greece, the tourist is often in a position
to negotiate for lower costs. Perhaps this will actually attract more
tourists, and it'll all even out.
One of the attractions of Lesbos is the fact that it's never been a
heavily touristy island. It offers the visitor a chance to experience
a more traditional Greek lifestyle, eat locally produced food and
enjoy the small villages with their village squares,
cafes and tavernas. Lesbos is appealing as a place
where lesbians can experience sites of historical
and contemporary interest, as well as a place of
physical and spiritual beauty. There is so much to
learn-about
the landscape, the ancient thermal
baths, Sappho's place in cultural history and the
magic of this island, which has captured the hearts
of so many women.
My suggestion is to make the pilgrimage to Lesbos
and experience it for yourself. But be prepared for
the tears that leaving Lesbos so often brings. ■
November 2012
I 71
REVIEWSMusic Watch
CherryGirl
The ballsy, beautifulbisexualis back. By Dave Steinfeld
Neneh Cherry is one of the few musicians
who achieved pop stardom and then took
the road less traveled.
Born into a multiracial family-her
mother was a Swedish artist, her father
a drummer from Sierra Leone, her stepfather the legendary jazz trumpeter Don
Cherry-Neneh
was exposed to music at
an early age. She joined the seminal female
punk band the Slits while still in her teens.
After a short stint with them, she moved on
to various post-punk combos, notably the
band Rip Rig + Panic. Finally, at the end of
the '80s, Cherry took the solo plunge and
released her first album, Raw Like Sushi.
Whether it was her talent, the timing or
a combination of both, Raw Like Sushi was
a smash-one of the most notable debuts
of 1989 and both a critical and a commercial success. Cherry combined pop, hip-hop
and soul on the disc, presenting herself as an
721
curve
independent, hard-to-define woman for the
impending decade. "Buffalo Stance" became
an international top-five hit, and other
tracks on the album, including "Inna City
Mama" and "Kisses on the Wind;' were
also popular.
At this point, many musicians would
have milked the Sushi formula to death.
Not Neneh Cherry. Both her slim musical
output and the music itself made it clear
that Cherry's first commitment was to nurturing her artistic muse, not producing hit
singles. She released two more solo albums,
Homebrew and Man, during the first half
of the '90s. Each made less of a commercial
splash than the last and, on Man especially,
she largely abandoned the sound that had
made her a success. That third disc even
included a tune called "Beastiality" -clearly
sending a signal that she would not tailor her
music to commercial radio programmers!
Looking back on that period of her life,
Cherry explains, "I wasn't really into the
whole 'Neneh Cherry pop star' thing. It
started to drive me crazy, and it really began
to limit my choices as a musician. When
you have radio pluggers, lawyers and marketing people actually trying to make you
change direction, then things gotsta change.
So I walked:'
She adds, "We had fun with [the commercial success] until the fame got tiresome
and I backed off. But the things it brought
to my family and our friends were huge.
[My husband Cameron and I] did good
things, and we gave our children the world.
We lived wherever we wanted, we collaborated with the gods of music and never
really let the bullshit get to us. [But] then
the music business changed. Fame became
more important than the content or the
creativity, and we backed off to try things a
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different way. No disrespect to pop stars
or the folks who are behind them, but
keep them the fuck away from me!"
Cherry hasn't released a lot of new
music since 1996, but she has always
been busy, both making music and outside the studio (believe it or not, she is
now a grandmother!). Now she's back.
In June, she released a new collaborative
album with the Thing, a Scandinavian
jazz trio made up of sax player Mats
Gustafsson, bassist Ingebrigt Haker
Flaten and drummer Paal NilssenLove. The result-appropriately
titled
The Cherry Thing-is basically a freejazz outing. Fans expecting a return to
the Raw Like Sushi sound are advised to
look elsewhere.
Though Cherry herself wrote the
album's opening track, "Cashback;'
most of the songs on The Cherry Thing
are covers. The band has chosen to
interpret material by an eclectic mix
of musicians-mainly
jazz legends
like Ornette Coleman and (of course)
Don Cherry and more punk-oriented
artists like Suicide and the Stooges.
"Jazz, punk, it's all the same to us;'
says Cherry. "We aren't the kind of
people who draw a line between all
the so-called genres of music. My dad
taught me that all music is jazz, punk
[and so on, and] the Thing are huge
fans of my dad's work and attitude. So
do the math!" Discussing her unusual
upbringing, Cherry says, "When I was
very young, my parents were touring
a lot, so my brother [singer Eagle- Eye
Cherry] and I had the time of our lives
on the road. Every day was an adventure. My dad played music 24/7 and
my mum cooked and made art 24/7. I
was blessed.
"Then, in my teens, all I wanted was
a 'normal' family life;' she continues. "I
hated our weird way of life. All I wanted
was a TV and girlie wallpaper in my
bedroom. But it didn't last long and I
ended up going on tour with my dad's
friends, the Slits! Some normal life,
eh:"' Looking back, Cherry doesn't regret
her decision. When I ask her about the
late Slits leader Ari Up she says, ''Ari
taught me a hell of a lot. It was Ari that
pushed me out into the world of new possibilities, really. I was 14 [or] 15 and had just
moved with her to London. We were squatting in Battersea [and] she encouraged me to
sing, to play bass, to have opinions and to be
proud of my roots. God, I miss Ari:'
As for the other women who have influenced
her artistically, Cherry cites Aretha Franklin,
Patti Smith, Grace Jones and Frida Kahlo. On
a more personal note, she also includes her
mother, Moki, her late mother-in-law, and
her three daughters. "My family made me
who I am;' she states. "Great, great women. I
love being a woman! We rule!" ■
HunterValentine
Marinaandthe
CollideandConquer Diamonds
(Megaforce
Records) ElectraHeart
(ElektraRecords)
WhileHunterValentine
hasretaineda faithAt first blush,Marina
ful followingsince
andthe Diamonds'
theirdebutalbum,
sophomore
effort
thisis theirbreakout
seemsto betaking
album-it's theband's theWelshingenuein a
bestworkto date.
newmusicaldirection,
LeadsingerKiyomi
butunderthesnappy
McCloskey's
raspy,
beatsandsynthesizdemanding
vocalshave ersElectraHearthas
neversounded
better
thesameblazingly
thanhereon Collide
confrontational
andConquer.
Fansof
soul-just in a more
TheRealL Wordwill
polishedpoppackrecognize
"Liar,Liar"
age.That'sbecause
and"LittleCurse"but
MarinaDiamandis
is
thebestthealbum
notinterested
in being
hasto offerhasyet
nice,ladylike,reserved
to come."Priscilla"is
or restrained
andthat
anupbeatlittleditty
emotional
fearlessthatcallsto mindSave nessresultsin music
Ferris-I dareyouto
thatis thematically
try notto pogoalong
raw,unapologetic
and
to its chorus."The
oftenquitefunny.Plus,
GreatCanadian
Love
it doesn'thurtthat
Song"claimsto be"just shehasthe kindof
anotherlovesong"but mercurialvoicethat
it revealsuntapped
youcanfeeldancing
potentialin McCloskey'supanddownyour
voiceand"ThePulse" spinelikea pleasant
recallstherawness
auralchill.Onanalbum
thathasmadetheband with universally
strong
poppunkfavorites.
It's tracks,"Bubblegum
a littlebitJoanJett,a
Bitch,""Homewrecker"
littlebit Garbage
andall and"Primadonna"
still
HunterValentine.
manageto standout.
NellyFurtado
KakiKing
TheSpirit
Glow
(VelourRecordings)
Indestructible
(lnterscope
Records)
Asa lyricssnob,I
NellyFurtadohasnever havelittlepatienceor
beenafraidto reinvent interestin instrumental
albums;blameit onthe
herself.Herdebut
attention
albumWhoa,Nellywas goldfish-like
spanof mygeneration.
pureindiepopbut by
herthirdalbum,Loose, Whichis whywhenI
foundmyselfriveted
Furtadohadmadea
byKakiKing'slatest
distinctshifttoward
albumGlow-which
dancefloorfriendly
tracksandshefollowed boastsnarya
syllable-I wasblown
it witha Spanishawayandwithgood
language
albumMi
reason:it's brilliant.
Plan.Nowwith The
King,anoutlesbian,is
SpiritIndestructible
Furtadoseemsto have knownfor herskillson
sethersightsonall of theguitar,butthereis
a lot morethanclever
the above,withworld
finger
workat play
musicinfusedbeats
here.Shehasa talent
aswellas a varietyof
thattranscends
techtracksthatcallback
nique,a giftfor giving
to bothherindiegirl
the instrument
a voice,
rootsandhip-hop
andsheknowshow
infusedfollowup.
Withso manyauditory to useit to tell a sonic
ingredients,
TheSpirit storyin sucha way
thatit rendersvocals
Indestructible
should
bea muddledmessbut andlyricsirrelevant
insteadit offerssome- andmoodreplaces
newharmony.
Album
thingfor all herfans.
opener
"Great
Round
"Enemy"hasa very
Burn"is a fast-paced,
StevieNicksvibeand
"BigHoops"is a catchy urgentandorchestral
slowburnsureto have trackandthealbum's
closer"MarcheSlav"is
clubbersgrindingon
languidandhaunting.
the dancefloor.
November 2012
I 73
REVIEWSIn The Stacks
Thrills,Pills&Chills
Poet-performer Cheryl B's posthumously published memoir. By Stephanie Schroeder
I mostly knew Cheryl Burke by reputation: a street-smart writer
and performer who went by the moniker Cheryl B the Motor
Oil Queen. The "motor oil queen" part was ironic. It was based on
the content of one of her most famous spoken word poems and
describes a sexual encounter where a dude uses motor oil as lube
to fuck a girl up the ass.
This story was classic Cheryl B-unsentimental,
tough and
impenetrable. This rock-star glam-slam poet was, at first, a serious
alcoholic: A brilliant writer and performer, she was pissing away
her talent on huge amounts of tequila and cocaine. Cheryl got sober
in 2001 and never looked back. Her legendary poem "Reasons to
Stop" details the day she decided to give up drugs and booze. When
she died two years ago, from complications related to Hodgkin's
lymphoma, Cheryl B was only 38 years young and
had been sober for almost a decade.
The co-founder and co-host, most
recently, of the New York City monthly
reading series Sideshow: The Queer
Literary Carnival, which presented "serious literature for ridiculous times;' Cheryl
had earlier created and produced PVC:
The Poetry vs. Comedy Variety Show, a
live slam between comics and poets. She
had also founded and curated the multigenre series Atomic, an extremely popular
Brooklyn reading event.
Cheryl B was also a playwright. Among
her other plays, she wrote The Donut Hole,
which ran in New York City for long enough
to raise her profile beyond literary badass to
true star status. The Donut Hole was a work
that touched many lives. "She had a for-real,
unique, fresh and original voice;' said one colleague who was also
a fan. "Cheryl was able to find the humor in really painful situations without in any way dismissing the reality of it all:' The play is
about teenagers who work in a donut shop in Nowheresville, and
also discover sex and sexual power.
A few years ago, in a Lower East Side bookstore, I watched
Cheryl read for about an hour from When I Knew Everyone on
Avenue A, the memoir she was working on at the time. I was
blown away. Her story was extremely powerful.
When I heard that her memoir was being published as a novel,
My Awesome Place: The Autobiography of Cheryl B, I couldn't wait
to get my hands on it. There's plenty in it for everyone, particularly
those of us who have never fit in. Cheryl was the fat kid everyone
made fun 0£ the shunned ugly duckling, and the too-smart-for-herown-good girl in a family of violent, unself-aware and selfish people.
This is her father's reaction when she was accepted at New York
74
I curve
University: "He lifted up his dinner plate and
hit me on the head. 'You want to go to college:'
Look at you, you're 21, as fat as a house!' " In
Manhattan, between her junior and senior years at N.Y.U, Cheryl
"rented a walk-in closet of an upscale apartment in an exclusive
building in the West Village:' As a young adult, she struggled
to find her place in the world and her voice as a writer. While at
N.Y.U she met her new best friend, a flamboyant gay man, started
partying hard, and dating women (and men). A famous quote of
Cheryl's, which she used to describe her sexuality, is repeated in
the book: 'Tm 85% lesbian, 15% bisexual, 100% Queer Dyke:'
My Awesome Place was pieced together-from
Cheryl's last
manuscript and her earlier drafts, as well as essays and emailsby the three other women in her writing group. The foreword, by
her literary executor, Sarah Schulman (who also edited the book),
and the afterword, by her girlfriend Kelli Dunham, are both
extremely informative and so heartrending; only a sphinx could
be unmoved. The press release from Topside Signature accurately
describes the narrative as inhabiting "a liminal space between fiction and memoir, track[ing] her struggle to translate her working
class New Jersey roots and define herself as an artist against the
backdrop of an unforgiving city, a series of disastrous girlfriends
and boyfriends, and an intense, intimate relationship with drugs
and alcohol:'
Finally coming out the other side, Cheryl B stayed sober, went
on to create superb work, and continued to inspire and encour~
age other writers and artists. She shared the last part of her life
with comic Kelli Dunham, the first girlfriend Cheryl really
trusted. It's been said in and among Cheryl's community, and the
N.Y.C. artistic, literary and queer communities, that Dunham's
love transformed Cheryl from a self~loathing, secretive figure who
was always willing to give help but never able to ask for it, into
an open, welcoming-even
happy-woman
who learned how to
reach out and embrace the community that came her way. Now,
that community is giving Cheryl's words a life beyond her own.
(topsidepress.com)■
A TASTEOF THE GOOD LIFE
In two new books, lesbians find themselves
through food, family and farming.
licking theSpoon:A Memoirof Food,
FamilyandIdentity,ByCandaceWalsh
Walshis a writer
(SealPress):Candace
andmagazine
editorwho'scompiled
severalcollections
for SealPress,including
DearJohn,I LoveJane:WomenWrite
AboutLeavingMenfor Women.
Licking
theSpoon:
A Memoirof Food,Familyand
Identity,is herfirst solowork,a hybridof
food-based,
familymemoirandcontemporarylesbiancomingoutstory.Inthefirst
chapter,"HowCubaMarriedCrete,"she
writes,"I decidedto writeaboutmylifelong
loveaffairwithfood,andonceI sat down,I
realizedthat I neededto talk aboutmyown
ingredients:
myfamily-my grandmothers
andgrandfather,
mymotherandfather,
whogavememygenesandmadethe
mealsthatshapedmytastes-one wayor
another."
WeseeWalshlearningto cookin
herfamilykitchenandthe kitchensof her
grandmothers,
howidentityis hiddenand
revealed
throughfood,andalsothe devastationto herfamilycausedbygenerations
of grief,abuseandaddiction.
Unfortunately,
so muchdetailin the
book'searlychaptersalsogivesrise
to a notableoverabundance
of family
members,
includinggreat-grandmothers,
grandfathers
anduncles,untilthey're
virtuallyindistinguishable
to the reader.
Yet,in otherpartsof the book,thereare
inferences
to peopleneverintroduced
by name,suchas hersiblings,anodd
oversight.
AlthoughWalshdescribesher
bulimicbehavior
throughout
theyears,sheneverrecountsa
recoveryprocess.
Thereaderis
leftwonderingif herrecentforays
intojuicingandeatingrawfoods
havehelpedhealher-or areyetanother
symptomof disordered
eating.Someof
theseissuescouldhavebeenclearedup
in the editingprocess,but ultimatelythey
do notdetractmuchfromthestory.At its
heart,LickingtheSpoonis a lovestory
writtenbyWalshfor herwife Laura,whom
shefoundafterso manyyearsof failed
heterosexual
relationships,
andfor thefood
andthefamilyrecipesthat helpednurture
heralongtheway.Engaging
in its narrative
andassatisfyingasthe recipesfor Ropa
ViejaandChickenFricassee
included,
this
is trulya memoirfromthe heart.
GettingSomewhere,
BethNeff
(VikingJuvenile):BethNeffspentmany
yearsowningandrunninganorganic
farmin Michigan.
Sosheknowshowto
authentically
describethe environment
of herfirst novel,GettingSomewhere.
Havingraisedseveralteenagers,
Neffalso
lendscredibilityto the notionthatcity kids
mightthrivein sucha place-especially
if they'vebeensentenced
therebythe
juvenilejusticesystem,in lieuof a harsher
sentencein a correctional
facility.It's
theselife experiences
that informthe
premiseof GettingSomewhere,
which
explores12weeksin the livesof Sarah,
Lauren,CassieandJenna,fourteenaged
girlswho'veexperienced
homelessness,
sexualabuseandcrime.Astheygetused
to the lovingguidanceanddedicated
workethicof thefarm'slesbianowners,
all fourteensmustgrapplewith issuesof
identity,recovery,
self-worth,safetyand
betrayal.Neffcreatescharacters
readers
will careabout,andletsthestoryunfold
sweetly,likean heirloomtomatoripening
underthewarmsummersun.Andher
descriptions
of farming,with its bountyof
vegetables,
andof the land,with its rivers,
treesandfields,maymakereaderswant
to dig in the dirt.If thissoundstoo pastoral,
restassuredthe novelhasalsogotgrit,
andNeffdoesn'tshyawayfromtough
issueslikeeatingdisorders,
druguseand
cutting.Nordoessheportraysmalltown
lifeas excessively
idyllic,or makeher
lesbiancharacters
overlyaltruistic.But
thetensionreallymountswhenonegirl,
battlingherowninnerdemons,attempts
to sabotage
the entireexperience.
Asthe
bookwindstowardsits satisfyingand
believable
conclusion,
readerswill hope
thatsomewhere
in the realworld,wayward
younggirlsmaybegivena chanceto
experience
the recoveryprocessdepicted
in thisthoughtfully
craftedfirst novel.
[RachelPepper]
November 2012
I 75
REVIEWSSapphic Screen
ComingOut On Camera
Josefine Tengblad uses Kiss Me to tell her true lesbian love story. By Emelina Minero
Rapace. She recently started LeBox, her
own production company. As a producer
and an actor in the Swedish film Kiss
Me, Tengblad was interested in bringing
her own experiences to the screen. If you
enjoyed the plot of Imagine Me & You
(2005), you will like this story line-about
a "straight" girl with a fiance who falls for
Kiss Me goes beyond
a lovely lesbian-but
cliches, miningTengblad's real~life romance
for emotional resonance.
Swedish thespian Josefine Tengblad knows
all about the magic of make~believe. She
has acted in the theater since the age of
6, and has worked for the production
company responsible for Wallanderand the
Millennium Trilogy films starring Noomi
you have to read something that I wrote:
So she gave me the treatment [for Kiss Me],
which was 20 pages about this woman fall~
ing in love with her stepsister. When I read
it, something happened. I was like, 'This is
what I'm going through. This is too much.
This is strange. Why is this happening?' It
just felt cosmic. The second time we met,
we were like, 'We have to do this. We just
have to do this movie:
Howcloselydid youworkwith Alexandraon
the script?
KissMe closelyreflectsyour life. Was that We worked so closely on every scene.
something
youwantedto do,goingintoyour This was so much about talking about my
firstfilm?
process. I wanted it to be how I experienced
I met [screenwriter and director] Alexandra
it. We didn't want to make the gay theme
[~Therese Keining] and I just knew that
the only focus. We just wanted to tell a
I wanted to work with her. I didn't know
story about love and not do any political
on what, but I knew that I wanted to work
thing or try to change the world. We just
with her. I told her that I had met this wanted to tell this story about a person
woman, and she said, 'This is weird, but
falling in love with another person.
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KissMe.Howdidyougetyourfilmfinanced?
Nobody wanted to do it, and it was because
of the theme. The financers wanted to make
it a comedy. They wanted to make Mia a lot
more upper~class. They also wanted (Frida
If I hadn't done
this film? I think
I'd still be with
my ex-husband,
because I don't
think I would have
had that strength.
and Mia] to be younger, like 16 years old. I
was like, 'No, this is crazy: So I had to start
my own company, which is quite tough. But
in the end, it was the best thing I could ever
do, because we then got full control and we
could do whatever we wanted. That was so
important. It was really tough, and maybe
20 times or 30 times me and Alexandra
just sat down and said, 'Is this the moment
when we are going to give upr Are we going
to stop nowr'
How did you stay motivated?How did you
keepgoing?
I think my absolute biggest motivation was
that for me it was like pushing myself off a
cliff, because I knew that if I did this movie
it was going to change my life.
Howso?
I was married to a man when I started
doing it. And when the film was over, I had
left him, and I was with a woman that I
had fallen in love with.
Is it surrealto watchthe finishedfilm,which
reflectsthe pastfiveyearsof yourlife?
It is. I hadn't seen it for one and a half
years. When I saw it yesterday, I was just
so moved. I've now been with my girlfriend
for a year. When I saw it, I could smell it. I
could feel it. And my whole body was like,
Oh my god, what would have happened
if I hadn't made this journey? If I hadn't
done this film? I think I'd still be with my
ex~husband, because I don't think I would
have had that strength.
How has Kiss Me been receivedby the
public?
It's huge in the gay community. It's been
fantastic. And now I'm like this gaywhat do you call itr-icon. It's very weird,
but it's fun. It's just wonderful. And I
want to use that power to make my next
film. It has to be a gay film. I really feel
that, because I think it's important. Why
shouldn't wer ■
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November 2012
I 77
REVIEWSTech Girl
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Five gadgets to whet your whistle. By Rachel Shatto
0
Budget Barista
Don't blow your hard-earned cash on lattes.
Instead, turn your kitchen into your own
personal coffee shop with the Circolo coffee
maker. This fabulous multitasker can make
everything from a foamy espresso to tea,
hot chocolate and even a regular cup of
joe-plus,
if you want any of the above
iced, in less than a minute it can convert
from a hot to cold drink dispenser. Step
aside, Starbucks. ($150, dolce-gusto.us)
@ A New Spin
Mixing cocktails has never been easier
than with the Revolving Liquor Dispenser.
This liquored-up Lazy Susan can support
up to four full-sized bottles of your favorite spirits. It also features four fountain
style spigots-two that allow for measured
pours and two for a continuous pour. Talk
about letting the good times flow. ($40,
homewetbar.com)
0
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The Vacuum Brewer uses vapor pressure
to brew the cleanest, crispest cup of coffee
you've ever had. Here's how it works: Put the
grounds in the top chamber and the water
in the lower chamber, bring the water to a
boil and as you do so the vacuum pressure
will draw the water into the upper chamber
where the coffee brews. Remove it from the
heat and gravity will pull the freshly brewed
coffee into the lower chamber-all for your
coffee drinking pleasure. Yay, science! ($80,
thinkgeek.com)
Give a low-tech gadget a high-tech look
with the Robot Tea Infuser. This stainless
steel infuser features adjustable arms to
allow it to fit in any cup. Plus, it's so cute,
how could you not want a little robo-buddy
with your cuppar ($12, kikkerland.com)
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Ask any wine aficionado and they will tell
you temperature matters! If the vino is too
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but if it's too warm the alcohol can dominate your palate. So take the guesswork out
of serving your favorite glass of cabernet or
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I 79
STARS
Fabulous Fall This November is full of feisty, flirtatious and influential femmes.
By Charlene Lichtenstein
Scorpio{Oct.24-Nov.22)
You make a sterling first impression this November.
So if you ever needed to ask someone for a favor or
to expand your circle of gal pals, this is the time to
do so. Tap into your connections and see where they
can help you. Practice your elevator speech and take
yourself to the heights.
Sagittarius{Nov.23-Dec.22)
There is too much drama going on behind the scenes
for you to try to keep up. It is a tidal wave of secret
yearnings, plotting and planning. So forget about all
of it. Go and do your own thing and let things myste~
riously unfold, to your ultimate advantage.
Scorpio{Oct.24-Nov.22)
Morethan a few S&Mtypes
comefrom the Scorpiocamp.
Don'tbe surprisedif sheasks
youto play"slave"to her
"master"duringloveplay.
If nippleclamps,zippered
masksandleatherstraps
are not yourthing,search
the zodiacfor a solid earth
sign (Taurus,Capricornor
Virgo)who won't trussyou
beforeshecooksandeats
you.However,
don't knockit
if you haven'ttried it. A clever
loverwho cancatchher eye
andholdher attentionwill
be rewardedwith a life of
intensity,sexualpassionand
excitement.Considerthe fun
you'll havein a lifetimerole in
"TheTamingof the Shrewd."
Capricorn{Dec.23-Jan. 20)
Certain influential girlfriends help you make impor~
tant contacts you need to launch some of your new
projects. Ask them for their help and you will get it.
Thankfully, you now have the ambition and drive to
make any remote contact a strong connection. Actions
that you take now will carry you forward over the next
few months. Plan accordingly.
Aquarius{Jan.21-Feb.19)
They love you around the office. Is that because you
know the ins and outs of the corporate politics? Or is
it because you have a secret and powerful admirer? All
is possibly true. But even if it isn't, let your colleagues
believe it to be so. Aqueerians have their eye on the
corner office.
Gemini{May22-June 21}
Life around the office has suddenly become much
more interesting this November. Maybe it's because
one of your colleagues has taken a special interest in
your progress. It could lead to advancement. Or it
could lead to complications. It all depends on whether
you can work the system as easily as you work over
your colleague.
Cancer{June22-July 23)
There has never been a better time to get into the
party scene and light up the room with your presence.
You are creative, fresh and antsy for action. A good
combination! Get out and about and see who you can
impress. Not only can you fill up your dance card for
the looming holiday season, you might also snag the
belle of the ball. Ring~a~ding!
Leo{July24-Aug.23)
Plan to do a bunch of home entertaining this month.
Proud Lionesses are not only able to showcase their
beautiful surroundings, they can also show off their
beautiful selves. An exercise regime and a brand new
healthier diet will pay off and give you extra grr.
up. Someone may just connect you to an exotic, sultry
lady who steals your heart and whisks you away. Not
a bad way to spend November! For those Guppies
who are involved in a relationship, find ways to spice
things up. Maybe that involves travel but more often it
involves silicon and whipped cream.
Virgo{Aug.24-Sept.23)
You are all sweetness and cream this November. Turn
on the charm, say the words you need to say and you
will have the ladies eating out of your hand. Who
knows where your compelling conversation will take
your It might possibly open doors to the most exclu~
sive parties of the year. Or possibly catapult you into
the epicenter of the glitterati.
Aries{March21-April 20)
The secret to your success is to balance all the intricate
and messy details of your various affairs, whether
Charlene
Lichtenstein
is
business
or pleasure. Hot and steamy doesn't even
theauthorofHerScopes:
begin
to
describe the water temperature you will
A Guideto Astrology
bob
in
should
you confuse one with the other. Focus,
for Lesbians
(Simon&
lambda Ram, and set your sights on cornering the best
Schuster)
(tinyurl.com/HerScopes).
Nowavailableasan ebook.
of everything in lust or career.
Libra{Sept.24-0ct. 23)
Libras take a jaundiced look at their surroundings
and see an immediate need for home improvement.
Luckily you have an extra bit of cash on hand to
help fund the perfect pink palace. But it is not just
the accoutrements that make a house a home. It also
needs some female warmth. Invite the grrls over for
a get together. ■
so I curve
Pisces{Feb.20-March 20)
If you are in the meet market, ask gal pals to fix you
Taurus{April21-May 21}
You have itchy hooves this month Sapphic Bull. So
why not scratch them in some faraway locale with a
certain you~know~whor Relationships could use some
love and attention and, if you are on the prowl, new
partnerships can be formed.
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Features
56
NOVEMBER
2012
The Return of the Rock Star
Hunter Valentine's lead singer and guitarist
Kiyomi McCloskey rocks hard and burns
up the small screen as part of the cast of
The Real L Word. By Kim Hoffman
32
Asking and Telling
What is life really like for lesbians in the military
after the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell?
By Adam L. Brink/ow
36
Frenchie Takes Over
The big-voiced alum of The Voice and
American Idol is finally hitting her stride.
By Jillian Eugenios
42
Well Suited
Androgynous women have their fashion
prayers answered with this hot line of clothing
by sisters Vee and A Lee. By Merryn Johns
TheDelicious
Issue
Meet the women making our lives yummy,
cake by cake, dish by dish, song by song.
40
Living Out Loud
Beverly McClellan rocked our socks on
The Voice and continues to enchant her
lesbian fans. By Sarah Toce
48
The Life of the Party
Karen Portaleo creates works of art with
cake batter and icing. By Emelina Minero
52
Reaching for the Stars
Top Chef Ashley Merriman continues to
make a name for herself in Manhattan's
Waverley Inn. By Constance Parten
page page page
38
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Sweet Home/Made
A food-centric lesbian couple build a
culinary business while helping build their
community. By Stephanie Schroeder
70
A Life on Lesbos
On our namesake Greek island lesbians
are loving and living in harmony with
history and nature. By Alison Terry-Evans
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NOVEMBER
2012
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IN EVERY ISSUE
6
8
10
12
19
20
22
29
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Our monthly profile of lesbian couples
who live, love and work together.
Letters
Editor's Letter
Contributors
24
Out in Front
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Politics
The war on women has become a political
hot button but this very real battle wages on
in our lives. By VictoriaA. Brownworth
Lipstick & Dipstick
Scene
-
Stars
Awesome activist cupcakes straight
out of Seattle; let cinephile Jenni
Olson match some of your favorite
lesbian movies with delectable
dishes and drinks.
74
•
.
.
Music: Bisexual soul goddess Neneh
Health
78
Books: The late, legendary writer Cheryl B
has left behind a lasting literary legacy.
76
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Cherry is back with a brilliant new album.
Curvatures
Queer women also struggle with
eating disorders but help is at hand.
Laugh Track
Jessica Kirson loves chicken, so who better
to bite back at the bigots at Chik-Fil-A than
this hungry comic.
72
13
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This Is What a Lesbian Looks Like
Lesbofile
The Two of Us
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Film: The incredibly true story of a Swedish
<f)
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filmmaker who discovered she was a lesbian
through the process of making a movie.
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technologically-savvy beverage tools.
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ADVISORS
I want to make s__,_
what's mine is you s
Do you and your partner know who will inherit your money and assets? When it comes to
your financial legacy or estate, it's never too early to take action. That's a very good reason to
have a conversation with one of our ADPA-certih.ed Financial Advisors soon. We understand
the issues domestic partners face, and we can help you make sure that the assets you've built
as a family stay in your family. Learn more at wellsfargoadvisors.com/adpa.
Together we'll go far
Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor'M and ADPA'Mare service marks of the College for Financial Planning®.
© 2012 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. Member SIPC. All rights reserved. CAR# 0512-1252A
e
Head of the Pack
e
Longtime curve columnist and author Sassafras
Lowrey talks gender politics and queer teens in our
chat about her fantastic new book, Roving Pack.
Read our interview with the award-winning writer on
curvemag.com.
e
e
Viva Vero
You've seen her on stage with Hunter Valentine,
on The Real L Word and even in the pages
of curve as a former "This Is What a Lesbian
Looks Like" subject, now get to know Vero
Sanchez in our interview with the beautiful
bassist on curvemag.com.
e
Project Runway's first out lesbian
and the talent behind the gender
defiant clothing line Original
Tomboy, Alicia Hardesty, sat down
to tell us all about emerging lesbian fashion
trends, life on reality TV and which reality star
she doesn't want you to compare her to.
Almost Famous
All-lesbian Canadian rock band Perpetual Detour
reflect on their rock star dreams and wonder if they
might be just about to come true with their debut
album What if it Was You?
The Original Tomboy
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Must Stream TV
There's nothing funny about being unemployed,
but when the socially relevant web series
Falling Upwards-which stars out
lesbian Michelle Bonilla-follows
four friends on a quest for landing
the right profession, it's sure to
create a chuckle.
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(f)
Hunter Valentine's rockin' drummer
and lesbian reality TV star Laura
Petracca opens up about the frenzied
world of touring, baring herself on
camera and her lighthearted, unabashed
wild side on curvemag.com.
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41
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LETTERS
From Curve's
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Mental Health Help
NEW WORKOUT
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MOMS·TO·BE
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PACKAGE
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WEALTHYAND WISE,
STARTINGNOW!
As a lesbian who has struggled with bipolar
disorder for the past 10 years I was very
thankful to read the two articles in your
October Issue [22#8]. Congratulations to Ellen
Forney ["The Mind's Eye"] and Stephanie
Schroeder ["Done With Crazy"] who haven't
let the disease beat them but who have instead
become successful and able to help others who
suffer from these disorders. While diseases
such as breast cancer have a high profile, very
little positive media coverage is given to the
epidemic of mood disorders and this silence
makes the sufferer's life so much harder.
Thank you for contributing to ending the
silence. -MaryBeth D., Paterson NJ.
Even More Lip
Awesome October
I was dazzled by your October Issue [22#8].
Everything about it was stunning, from the
in~depth story on Kelli Carpenter ["The
Trip of a Lifetime"] to the gorgeous fashion
spread ["Board Room Games"]. I particularly
love Stella and Lucy! They have the right
attitude and are so charming and funny.
-Arty femme, via email.
I would like to request an interview with
the beautiful Australian actress who plays
Lexy Price on Lip Service [Anna Skellern].
God she really does it for me. That accent
just makes me melt! -M. Sanchez, North
Hollywood
Editor'sNote:Request received!
Marriage Equality British Style
We have set up a petition addressed to
[Prime Minister] David Cameron calling for
the legalization of same~sex marriage in the
U.K. Show your support for our cause at
change.org/ petitions/ mrs~mrs~campaign.
We are not just a label and are more than our
stereotypes. We need everyone who believes
in justice and equality to stand up and fight.
We will not just lie down and be walked all
over. It really is time to make a change. Stamp
out discrimination-make us one equal nation.
-Stella and Lucy, London UK.
I lovemesomeSuze!
-Karen Mazzarella
I loveher!Sheis the onefinancialexpert
I actuallytrust... -Val Schaeffer
Can'twait to readit! :) -Gay Girl
Revolution
Honestlyshescaresme -Julie Smith
Loveit, she'son my passlist. If the
chanceshouldariseI wouldgeta pass
to bewith her.Smartis soosexxxyyyy
-Micha Nett
Goodchoiceandgreatrolemodel!
-Laurie Jacobson
Loveseeinga businesswoman
thereneedmore!awesome-Jennifer Sha
Chan
Sheis amazing!!-Fran Alsbrook
Shekills,loveSUZE-Letitia Rae
Smartis a newsexy!-Worama Nil
I wouldnot bewhereI amtoday
withouther!thanksSuze.loveher!!
-Lisa D Gilmore
Thisis great!Lesbiansneedmore
rolemodelslike Suzewhoarenotjust
knownfor a realityshows,political
agendas,art, movies,etc.
-Monalisa Lopez
WhatYouSaidAboutcurvemag.com
"Watch:StellaandLucyGoOffice
LesbianChic":Absolutelylovethese
girls:) photoshootis AMAZING!!!
you
bothlookSTUNNING!!!
XXX -Melita
HoneyHudson
When you wine and
dine a girl, what's your
modus operandi?
51%
A home-cooked
mealandher
favoritefilm
37%
A fancy,exclusiverestaurant
andromanticstroll
9%
A loud,darkbarwith tapas
andtango
3%
A rideto the burgerjoint
on ourskateboards
According
to a curvemag.com
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LOVEELLEN.SHE IS A TRUEAMERICANORIGINAL... BRIGHT,
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I
curve
THE BEST-SELLING
LESBIAN
MAGAZINE
REMEMBER
INTERVIEWING
Hunter Valentine three years
ago in a West Village cafe called 'sNice-an appropriate location, because the girls were just that. I also found
them to be articulate, driven and determined to fulfill their
destiny as rock legends. I wasn't afraid to ask them how they
were going to do it. "Work, work, work;' said front woman
Kiyomi McCloskey. "You have to be tough. You have to be
able to get back up, over and over:' Yes, I liked these girls who
had left their home, Canada, and quit their day jobs to take a
shot at stardom. And rather than being a liability, as so many
lead singers in rock bands turn out to be, McCloskey was a
visionary. ''As a 17 -year-old, I had a fundamental belief that
the music we were playing would take us
around the world:' And, she added (music
to any lesbian's ears), "We will never hide
who we are:'
I decided to check them out playing live
in Brooklyn, supporting another excellent LGBT band, The Cliks. As I watched
McCloskey-the
incarnation of a leatherclad rock star, a lesbian who could possibly
fill Joan Jett's pioneering shoes-I said a
silent prayer to the fame goddess. If anyone deserved to make it, she did.
Fast-forward and here we are with
Kiyomi McCloskey gracing the cover of
our Delicious issue. Apparently, my prayer
was answered: She is getting major exposure
on The RealL Word, and Hunter Valentine
got even more attention with the release of
its third album, Collideand Conquer,earlier
this fall.
We have loads of other tasty things in
this issue: heavenly lesbian chef Ashley
Merriman's triumphant relocation to an A-List restaurant;
the soulful and scrumptious Neneh Cherry's latest album;
the delectable vocalists Frenchie Davis, Beverly McClellan
and AG leading the lesbian entertainment revolution; mouthwatering cakes and cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth; simple
and sophisticated food and wine pairings; indulgent travel
destinations for culinary enthusiasts; and perhaps most delicious yet-original and elegant androgynous fashion from A
and Vee Lee.
I found myself frequently drooling while getting this issue
together. What else can I say now but Happy Thanksgiving
and Bon Appetit!
THINGS
THAT
MAKE
~
~~,_.
Merryn
Editor-i
merryn@curvemag.com
s I curve
NOVEMBER
2012
I
VOLUME 22 NUMBER 9
Publisher Silke Bader
Founding Publisher Frances Stevens
EDITORIAL
Editor in Chief Merryn Johns
Managing Editor Rachel Shatto
Associate Editor Jillian Eugenios
Book Review Editor Rachel Pepper
Contributing Editors Victoria A. Brownworth, Gina Daggett,
Sheryl Kay, Stephanie Schroeder, Constance Parten
Copy Editor Katherine Wright
Editorial Assistants Adam Brinklow, Kim Hoffman
OPERATIONS
Director of Operations Laura McConnell
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Art Director Stefanie Liang
Production Artist Kelly Nuti
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Kathy Beige, Kelsy Chauvin, Lyndsey D'Arcangelo, Maria De La 0,
Jill Goldstein, Lisa Gunther, Melany Joy Beck, Kristin Flickinger,
Gillian Kendall, Charlene Lichtenstein, Karen Loftus, Sassafras
Lowrey, Jess McAvoy, Ariel Messman-Rucker, Emelina Minero,
Constance Parten, Laurie K. Schenden, Stephanie Schroeder,
Janelle Sorenson, Allison Steinberg, Stella & Lucy, Dave Steinfeld,
Edie Stull, Yana Tallon-Hicks, Sarah Toce, Tina Vasquez, Jocelyn Voo
CONTRIBUTING
ILLUSTRATORS
& PHOTOGRAPHERS
Erica Beckman, Meagan Cignoli, JD Disalvatore, Sophia Hantzes,
Syd London, Cheryl Mazak, Maggie Parker, Constance Parten,
Leslie Van Stelten
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CONTRIBUTORS
Editorial assistant Kim Hoffmanis a writer who, in her
spare time, is hard at work on the next great American
lesbian TV screenplay. Prior to lending her talents to
curve she has contributed to BuzzFeed, Wetpaint and
MV Remix. In 2009 Hoffman self-published her first
novel, Sun Block. Follow her on Twitter @the_hoff and
check out her exclusive interview with lesbian rock star
and curve cover girl, Kiyomi McCloskey, on music, love
and reality TV fame on page 56.
KathrynLounsbery
is a Los Angeles-based musician and
comic best known as one-half of the musical comedy
duo That's What She Said. Her piano skills afford her
a fascinating existence that includes solo musical comedy
stand-up, musical theater direction, solo piano gigs at
awkward events (maybe her favorite), and composing
and producing tracks for websites, commercials and web
series. Most recently she was seen microwaving a burrito
in her underwear prior to serenading a young couple on
the most important day of their lives. Her interview with
comic Jessica Kirson is on page 28.
,o I curve
Constance
Partenis an award-winning journalist who has
worked in the national media for more years than she
cares to admit. A native of Austin, Texas, and a graduate
of Texas A&M University, she most recently worked as a
senior digital producer at NBC News. She also is a graduate of The French Culinary Institute in New York. When
she's not eating or cooking (or thinking about eating and
cooking) you can find her pursuing her other passions of
photography or travel. She writes about a culinary excursion through the Stockholm archipelago on page 66.
AlisonTerry-Evans
is an Australian at home in many places
in the world including the U.S., Greece and the UK. At
the moment she is living on the Greek island of Lesbos
while she writes and takes photographs for her book
Feeding Body and Soul: On A Greek Island. She is passionate about living a creative life that includes travel, cooking,
food growing and gathering, sea kayaking and photography. On Lesbos she leads cooking participation groups
where women from all over the world learn how to cook
Greek food. Her feature on Lesbos is on page 70. ■
to CURVE Magazine
Seattle Sweet Treat
Cupcake Royale's Jody Hall is building community one cupcake at a time.
J
ody Hall, 40, got her start working for "this tiny
entrepreneurial
company" you may have heard
of called Starbucks. Back in 1989, it had only 55
stores, and over the course of her 11 years there,
she did everything from working on charitable giving to
a partnership with Lilith Fair, all of which helped guide
her when she started her own business, the Seattle bakery
Cupcake Royale. Cupcakes, though, were a secondary part
of Hall's mission of"creatingjoyous experiences and com~
munity connection:' While today gourmet cupcakes are a
trendy treat, at the time, an all~cupcake bakery was seen as
a bizarre venture. "My friends thought it was crazy, 'You're
going to spend all your Starbucks stock options opening a
cupcake place:''"
But Hall wanted to bring back the model of coffee shop
society, where cafes were central gathering places. "It's in our
DNA to be social, in the real sense;' she explains, and she
wanted to provide a location for real~time connections in
our hyperlinked world. She'd been observing the success of
Top Pot Doughnuts and was on the lookout for a sweet
treat to sell when she saw Isaac Mizrahi interviewing
Magnolia Bakery fan Maggie Gyllenhaal on a TV show,
and knew the single serving, baked~from~scratch treats fit
with her mission. Less than a year after getting laid off from
her marketing job at REI, Hall opened Cupcake Royale's
first shop in December 2003. Flavors range from bestseller
salted caramel to Hall's personal favorite, Dance Party, a
vanilla/vanilla cupcake.
Hall's instincts were right and the company has continued
to expand. They recently launched their sixth location, near
the famed Pike Place Market, and expanded to offer its own
ice cream line. Ethical practices and social action are part
of their mission, whether using locally sourced flours and
fruits (including pumpkin and huckleberry), to fundraising
efforts."Last year, there was some tragic stuff going on. Tyler
Clementi had jumped from the George Washington Bridge
after being bullied for being gay; it literally broke my heart;'
recalls Hall. In 2011, Cupcake Royale launched rainbow~
adorned "The Gay" cupcake, with $1 from each sale going
toward Dan Savage's It Gets Better Foundation, enabling
Hall to present the charity with a $10,000 check. In 2012,
through cupcake sales and a matching donation, they gave
$15,000 toward marriage equality, an effort near and dear to
Hall. The bakery's offerings include wedding cupcakes (for
all sexual orientations), such as those made for lesbian singer
Brandi Carlile's nuptials.
Hall, an out lesbian, knows the importance of shared
values with her staff. "We
will hire people for values
over skills, because you can't
train that. It's in your heart or it's not. Part of our values are
around being an active part of our community and that has
to do with having a voice around marriage equality;' Hall
says when asked if she's ever concerned about alienating
potential customers. Quite the opposite; she reports that
even in the tony Bellevue neighborhood, kids who love rain~
bows come in begging their parents to buy them "the gay"
cupcake. "When they say,'We'll take two gay cupcakes, and
two lattes; I know they had a conversation about these issues
that night;' says Hall. While seeing the smiles on custom~
ers' faces is a highlight of her job, for Hall, cupcakes are
more than just a sweet treat; they're a vehicle for engaging
with the world. "Using the business as a platform for social
betterment has been super rewarding. It's allowed us to
have a bigger amplified microphone to talk about issues
we think our community cares deeply about:' That's delish!
(cupcakeroyale.com) [RachelKramerBussell
November 2012
I 13
CURVATURES
Silver Screen Sommelier
Make the most of movie night with tasty treats and tantalizing tipples. By Jenni Olson
For many lesbians, a home~cooked candle~lit dinner, wine and snuggling on the couch in front of the latest
lesbian movie is the perfect idea of a romantic date. Who better to ask for screening suggestions than Sapphic~
cinephile, Jenni Olson:' Here are her top seven suggestions for dinner, drinks and a movie-at home.
JOE+BELLE
Pair this super-fun Israeli dark comedy
with a Middle Eastern platter eaten with
your fingers-think olives, vine leaves,
hummus, pita bread and falafel washed
down with a spicy Syrah.
ELENA UNDONE
Oysters are known to be
among the greatest culinary
aphrodisiacs. This super
steamy romantic drama
about star-crossed lovers is
the perfect accompaniment.
Then toast your ladylove
with a chilled glass of your
favorite sparkling wine.
CHUTNEY POPCORN
You could choose any number of
spicy Indian dishes to go with this
classic South Asian lesbian family
romance. Tandoori chicken or saag
paneer? Naan or roti? Just don't
forget the chutney-and an icy
cold Kingfisher beer-or two.
14
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+
+
LOVING ANNABELLE
A student at an all-girl boarding
school falls in love with her
teacher and the teacher returns
her affections! For this tantalizing
May-November romance we suggest
mixed baby greens dressed in aged
balsamic vinegar, apple pie topped
with vintage cheddar and how about
a cherry Martini for a nightcap?
MANGO KISS
Francisco lesbian romance
acknowledges the long-standing
lesbian fascination with that
luscious fruit. Get her taste buds
tingling with chips and mango
salsa and keep things tropical
with a mango margarita!
DESERT HEARTS
In this classic Southwestern period piece an uptight
female professor waiting for her Reno divorce is
seduced by a feisty local femme. Loosen up your
lady with finger-licking fajitas and a few cold and
butchy Buds.
GIRL SEEKS GIRL
It's been called the
Spanish L Word and this
sexy and hilarious web
series is like a tapas
meal of hot lesbians.
Order in some lip-smacking
bites such as empanadas,
croquettes, pinchitos and
paella. Mix up a jug of
Sangria for a muy caliente
finish.
I
CURVATURES
the rundown
Former ArmyColonel
TammySmithhas been promoted to Brigadier
Generalless
than a year after the repeal of Don'tAsk,Don'tTell,making her the first general
officer to come out while serving her country. Smith was honored at a private
NationalCemetery.
Her stars were
ceremony at the Women'sMemorialat Arlington
presented by her wife, TraceyHepner.On life since the repeal Smith says, "The
support we've received has been amazing ... ! wasn't surprised that people were
so accepting, but in some cases it has been even celebratory. It's like nothing has
really changed for us, and yet everything has changed:' ... MaryKayHenryhas been called "the most powerful lesbian in the
International
Union,which
country" by SeattleGayNewsfor her role as the first woman president of the ServiceEmployees
at the Democratic
National
represents more than 2 million workers. Henry, a native of Detroit, spoke against MittRomney
saying"Even though Mitt Romney and I both call Detroithome, it seems like he learned a very different set of
Convention
Innin Lyndonville,
Vt.
values;' and called him out on his business practices and record of failing workers ... TheWildflower
has settled a lawsuit brought by lesbian couple KateandMingLinsley.The resort refused to permit their wedding reception
after the innkeepers said they did not host'gay receptions:' As part of the settlement, the resort will pay $10,000 to the
VermontHumanRightsCampaign
and $20,000 to a charitable trust to be disbursed by the couple. The Inn also agreed to no
longer host wedding receptions ... 83~year old lesbian EdieWindsorof NewYorkand her lawyers have filed a petition to ask
There are now three cases that could
the SupremeCourtto review her case challenging the DefenseOfMarriageAct(DOMA}.
challenge DOMA that the Supreme Court must decide if they will hear. Windsor sued the government in 2012 after her
partner of over 40 years died and she was forced to pay over $363,000 in federalestatetaxesbecause the federal government
didn't recognize their marriage ... ZachWahls,a 21~year~old year old gay rights activist and child oflesbian mothers, spoke
NationalConvention
praising President BarackObama's
support of same~sex marriage. He also criticized
at the Democratic
MittRomney
for his opposition to the issue, and in turn to
his family. "Governor Romney says he's against same~sex
marriage because every child deserves a mother and a father;'
Hot Tee of the Month
said Wahls. "I think every child deserves a family as loving
and committed as mine:' Wahls is an EagleScoutand the
a national organization pres~
founder of Scoutsof Equality,
suring BoyScoutsof Americato end homophobic policies ...
CharlieRogers,
the Nebraska
lesbian who reported to Lincoln
police that three masked men broke into her home, stripped
her, tied her down and carved homophobic slurs into her
body before trying to set her and her house on fire, has
been arrested. Rogers has been charged with lying to police
after an investigation including forensic pathology reports
conducted by the FBIdetermined that the injuries were self
Lowrey]
inflicted. [Sassafras
in the
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TodaySara Gilbertis out loud and
proud but rememberwhen she was
in the closet and code for baby dykes
in the know? Closet Case doesl and
celebratesone of our favoriteformerly
secret lezzieswith theiradorable
DarleneConnertees and tanks,
($30,otherwild.com)
I
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OUTINFRONT
Latina
Leaders
Lesbianfeminism,
CentralAmericanstyle.
By Sheryl Kay
Viva la Feminista
For EmmaAuroraChaconAlvarado,activism
is truly in her blood. Born to dedicated communists in Costa Rica, Chacon learned the
chants of dissenters before she learned nursery
rhymes. But even though her parents were
politically progressive, and well-schooled in
civil disobedience, her mom's reaction when
Chacon came out to her was traditional.
"I believe for her, and for many others,
it's a cultural thing;' says Chacon. "It wasn't
easy, and it takes time to make changes:' And
so Chacon made peaceful revolution a part
of her life. As far back as 1989, Chacon has
been an active member of both the LGBT
community and the women's community
in Costa Rica, first joining Las Entendidas
(Those Who Understand, an early lesbianfeminist group), then continuing her political
activism by supporting many other organizations, including Las Humanas, the Provincial
Party New Feminist League, the Autonomous
Women's Forum and the Central American
Alliance for Sexual Diversity.
She's run seminars and workshops on
human rights, women's health, the history
of the LGBT civil rights movement, gender
equality, strategic planning and the fight against
HIV/AIDS.
"It is a passion that runs through my veins,
almost like a drug;' she says."I just can't think
of my life without being politically active:'
Most recently, Chacon teamed up with
Mesa de Dia.logo, an LGBT political action
committee dedicated to advocacy and lobbying the Costa Rican government. She also
helped found the lesbian-feminist Colectiva
lrreversibLes, which runs programs on capacity building for lesbians and documents the
historical development of lesbian rights in
Costa Rica.
Having worked on several projects that
brought her into contact with women in other
outlaws in vitro fertilization.
Interestingly, though, it's not against the
law to be gay, she says, but the police do
enforce oppression.
"They will continually hassle you, hassle
the gay bar owners, until you disappear from
view;' she said.
Since her first altercation, back in 2000,
Salas has joined many Costa Rican LGBT
and feminist groups, and was a founder of
Beso Diverso (Diverse Kiss), a group that
helps to organize rallies at bars, restaurants
and other establishments known to discriminate against the queer community by
Professor With Pride
throwing out same-sex couples who show
Don't let the smile fool you. Yes, Margarita public affection. (During these protests,
SalasGuzmancan light up a room with her
Salas and her associates show up and kiss.)
intellect, her wit and her warmth, but the
She also recently helped coordinate Marcha
34-year-old is a true warrior, dedicated to
de los Invisibles (March of the Invisibles), a
making life better for the LG BT community
rally in June where several thousand people
in Costa Rica, and beyond.
demanded equal protection in Costa Rica on
issues such as gay rights and the establishA social psychologist by profession, Salas
first got involved with activism about a
ment of a secular state.
decade ago, after she'd been thrown out of
Given her very real public prominence
bars for showing a small amount of public
in a place where she has no legal protection
affection for other women.
from constant harassment, some might won"Costa Rican culture is very nonconfrontader why Salas, an international speaker and
tional;' notes Salas, "but when it comes to being
a professor at the University of Costa Rica,
would take such risks. "I believe visibility is
gay, you just can't be obvious:'
The government, she says, is based on a the greatest security you can have;' she says.
Catholic charter and priests are actually on
"The more visible you are, the higher the
the payroll of the state, so a tolerance for
price they pay if they kill you. If I don't come
home, they make me a martyr-and
they
legislation that supports Catholic doctrine
don't want to do that:'
runs deep. Costa Rica is the only country in
And we sure don't want that either! ■
the Western Hemisphere, for example, that
countries, Chacon says that keeping a global
perspective is the best way for lesbians to face
their challenges and overcome them. Even if
there are some cultural differences, lesbians
will always have a great deal in common. 'J\ll
lesbians live in very similar situations, regardless of which country we live in;' she says.
"One way or another, we all live the same
joys, the same sorrows, the same hopes and
the same despairs. And because we do have
so many similarities, there is so much we can
learn from each other, which will help us in
our fight for civil rights :•
November 2012
I 19
LESBOFILE
On Display This month'scelesbiansare baringall.
By Jocelyn Voo
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With the Olympic torch
already faded, we wanted
to give a nod to LGBT
athletes representing their
countries in the Gamesand in particular athletes
who used the spotlight as a way to celebrate,
not turn away from, their orientation. Lori
Lindsey, a member of the U.S. Women's
national soccer team and an alternate in the
2012 Olympics, has done just that by confirming that she's gay.
Like with most out figures in the public
eye, Lindsey's sexual orientation has been
known amongst her close circles, but undisclosed to the larger public. Lightning round
of facts: She's been out since age 20, her
mom is a lesbian and Lindsey's single. Dig
blondes in knee socks? We suggest you consider that ESPN channel package after all.
Walkonthe Bi Side
So, what's it like being a lesbian on a popular reality TV show? It means you should
watch what you say about lesbians.
20
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Romi Klinger knows this
firsthand. In an interview
with Dr. Drew, the Real L
Word star admitted that
though she's been seeing
women for the past seven
years, she's gone back to men
for the time being. Viewers of the show
have latched onto this revelation, sending her hate mail calling her a "traitor"
and "slut:'
While it may look like Klinger pulled an
Anne Heche, perhaps the whole hating on
bisexuals thing has gotten out of hand with
postal mudslinging. Can't we all get along?
BowDownto the Ladies
Benchpresses and deadlifts?
A cakewalk compared to
what mothers go through,
says fitness phenomenon
Jillian Michaels.
"Women who go
through that are
soldiers;' Michaels
told Larry King in
an interview, rhapsodizing how her partner,
Heidi, went through 27 hours of labor to
have their son Phoenix. ''After seeing what
she went through those 10 months, the labor
and everything-I bow down:'
Moms, you heard it here.
PrimetimePolicing
Singer/ dancer/ pioneer of the big booty
JLo has been all over the media map, and
most recently added TV show producer to
the list with her new series for ABC Family
that documents a lesbian couple raising a
family. However, it looks like One Million
Moms, the conservative organization that
has the purported goal of mobilizing parents to "stop the exploitation of children"
by the media, has finally heard of this and
is up in arms about it.
Wait. You're telling us that there's
a show starring a 7 -year-old pageant queen who self-named herself
Honey Boo Boo and pulled ratings
equivalent of Bill Clinton's DNC
speech-and
this is what they have
a beef with? ■
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She Said
Friend or Faux? What to do when someone gets too close to your girl.
By Lipstick and Dipstick
Dear Lipstick & Dipstick: My girlfriend and I have been in a
relationship for a few years. We have a mutual lesbian friend
who invites us out as a couple constantly but is very attentive
to my girlfriend and can be passive-aggressive at times toward
me. I have had friends try to come between me and past
girlfriends and this feels similar. Something isn't right. I catch
her watching my girlfriend, she buys her gifts and has said
things to me like, "We have to put up with you to hang out with
her." Am I just crazy-jealous, or do I have a legitimate reason to
feel threatened?-Between
a Rock and My Girl's BFF
Dipstick:
Is the girl hot? If not, don't worry
about it. If she is, then just consider this
a relationship test. Even if she weren't trying to worm her way to the core of the
apple of your eye, it could happen anytime,
anywhere. Temptation is around every corner. It could be the cute lifeguard where
she swims her morning laps, or the hottie
behind the steam table serving up rice and
beans. It's just important that the two of you
talk about what's happening. Let her know
fun flirtation is OK, but keep the words of
comic Vickie Shaw in mind: "It doesn't matter
where you get your appetite, as long as you
eat at home:'
Lipstick:Something's rotten in Denmark
Dykemark! What is it with some lesbians? I once knew a woman-we called her
Roadhouse Robin-who
was a chronic
relationship destroyer. She went from one
woman to the next, stealing lezzie ladies,
leaving a dog-haired trail of destruction in
her wake. Most lesbians who've been out for
many years, and grown through numerous
relationships, have found themselves in
this pre-dyk-ament, yours truly included. I
think it comes down to three things: communication (like Dip says), boundaries and
22
I curve
medicine. Not traditional meds-the ethereal kind. Preventive "medicine;' disguised
as the work you do to keep a relationship
healthy, so it doesn't rot from the inside
out. That problem that keeps popping up
for you and your lover If you're not getting
to its source and healing it, it will further
decay and leave a gaping entry wound for
the Roadhouse Robins to steal in through.
Another good idea: Gently sever ties with
people you don't trust.
DearLipstick& Dipstick:
I thinkI'm a lesbian
andI'vereallygota crushonmyfriend.I can't
stopthinkingabouther.I'm nearly21, have
hadboyfriends,
but I couldnevergetserious
aboutthem,no matterhowgreattheywere.
Myfriendhasbeenoutforthreeyears.She's
notin a relationship,
soshe'savailable.
We've
beenfriendssincewewereinschooltogether.
She'smybestfriend,butI wantmore!I'm not
worriedaboutwhatpeoplethink.If theycan't
acceptme for who I am, they'renot worth
knowing.I'm worriedthat if I tell her how I
feel,I'll loseherasa friend.WhatshouldI do?
-Ready to RockHerWorld
Lipstick:If I had a Loonie for every time I
got this question, I could board up my advice
booth and retire.
Dipstick:What? The last thing we need,
Lip, is more loonies approaching us.
ex:
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ci
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Lipstick:
I'm talking about our dollar coin,
you silly Yank. That's what we call it up
here in Canadaland.
Dipstick:Why is everything so weird up
there:' And why do we lesbians always
imagine a worst,case scenario:' What
about the best one:1 The one where you
confess your feelings and your friend tells
you she feels the same way. The two of you
fall onto her dorm bed in a pile of giggles
and kisses, only to come up for take,out
Chinese and episodes of The Real L Word.
When you finally pull yourselves together
and out of each other's arms, you realize all
"It doesn't matter
where you get your
appetite,as longas
you eat at home."
the things that made her a great friend are
the same things that make her a fantastic
girlfriend. When you tell your friends and
your family, they'll throw their hands up
in glee, happy that you two have finally
figured out what they knew all along, that
the two of you were meant to be together.
Lipstick:Dip's got it wrong. Instead of
confessing, just let it happen organically,
with a big fat bottle of wine and some
smooth moves. Turn up the sexy tunesMaxwell works every time-and turn up
the heat ( candles!). You'll know pretty
quickly if the feeling is mutual. If it isn't, I
doubt it'll destroy your friendship. In fact,
I'll bet she's flattered. Life's too short to sit
on the sidelines, Rocker Girl, so get into
the game.
DearLipstick& Dipstick:I am in a wee bit
of a pickle.I am in my late 20s and have
beenseeinga woman,Jessica,who is 1O
yearsmysenior.We'veneveractuallydated.
WhenI met her a year ago, she and her
partnerhad separated-but her marriage
wasn'ttechnicallyover{sheand her partnerhavea 2-year-oldson,sotheystilllived
together).Throughout
the year,I've dated
otherpeople,butneverseriously,
because
of
Jessica.
I'vebeenholding
outforher,butafter
a year,I decided,to hellwith it!-and told
herso.It was hardbecauseI was breaking
my ownheart,too.At the sametime,I met
Chloeat a party.Shewasfun,hilariousand
closerto myownage.TwodaysafterI met
Chloe,Jessicatoldmethat her relationship
wasoverandherwifewasmovingout.I was
ecstatic,butthenI'd heardthisbefore.Chloe
and I textedand saw eachothera couple
of times but nothinghappenedbecauseI
was still unsureaboutJessica.Lastweek,
Chloeand I reallyconnected.
We went out
on somedates,laughedandtalkeduntil5
a.m.Wehaveso muchin common,
andshe
doesn'tappearto be nearlyas encumbered
as Jessica.It was goinggreatuntil I saw
Jessica.Herwife reallyhadmovedout.I'm
notsurewhatto do!Jessicaisa risk,butI've
put in so muchtime,loveand energywith
her-I feellikeI needto exploreit, nowthat
she'savailable.But I reallylike Chloe!I'm
confusedand hopeyou guyscan give me
someobjective
advice.-Tornin Two
Lipstick:Is Jessica really available:' You
may find she's far from it, emotionally. My
objective advice, T.I.T.: Stay on track with
Chloe. There's less baggage and no poten,
tially jealous ex in the wings.
Dipstick:Duh. The answer is easy. Date
them both! There's no reason you should
have to pick one or the other. Just make
sure both ladies know you're not exclusive.
Eventually, the superior one will rise to
the top. It's called dating, ladies. We could
all benefit from doing more of it.
Lipstick:I dated two women at once ...
once. I soon found out Woman No.1 was
Jack Wagon crazy when I spotted her hid,
ing in the bushes outside the bar where I
was having a drink with Woman No. 2.
Note to self: Lesbians have a reallyhard
time sharing, so if you decide to double
down, T.I.T., hide your bunnies before
you head out. ■
ADVICE Health
Hunger Games Are you, or is someone you love, struggling with an eating disorder?
Specialist Bridget Whitlow says help and recovery are at hand. By Emelina Minero
From emotional eating to anorexia, binge
eating to bulimia, eating disorders (EDs)
are some of the most mysterious and mis~
understood medical conditions of recent
times. Although many lesbians assume
that EDs are a problem for heterosexual
women, lesbian actor Portia de Rossi
wrote a book on the subject. Her 2010
memoir, Unbearable Lightness: A Story of
Loss and Gain, details her struggle with
anorexia nervosa, revealing that EDs
can become a potentially life~threatening
affliction regardless of sexuality. In the
San Francisco Bay Area, therapist, active
community member, loving mother and
wife, and out lesbian Bridget Whitlow
specializes in helping people recover
from eating disorders. Whitlow has an
unbridled passion for her community,
has worked with the San Diego chap~
ter of the International Association of
Eating Disorders Professionals, and is cur~
rently the president of Eating Disorders
Recovery Support, Inc. (EDRS, Inc.), a
Bay Area nonprofit. Whitlow also acts as
the social media committee member of the
Academy for Eating Disorders; volunteers
with the American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention, the Spectrum LGBT Center,
Art for AIDS, and Pets Are Wonderful
Support; and has her own private practice.
Clearly, Whitlow is nothing if not com~
mitted to helping others, and took time
out to reach out to curve readers and
offer her expertise.
Whatmotivates
youto giveso muchof your
timeandenergyto thecauseof eatingdisordersrecovery?
The largest motivator for me is that despite
the notable prevalence of eating disorders
in all genders and ethnicities, and the fact
that they have the highest mortality rate
out of all psychiatric diagnoses, eating
disorders still remain largely misunder~
stood-both
in society as a whole and in
the healthcare community. There is a tre~
mendous need for increased education.
Being able to contribute to this, working
24
I curve
alongside other passionate people in this
field, is incredibly rewarding.
Whyis it so importantto spreadawareness
andeducation
abouteatingdisorders?
Because eating disorders remain largely mis~
understood. Many harmful myths continue
to be held as truth, even among healthcare
professionals. With more education on how
to identify, intervene appropriately and prop~
erly treat eating disorders, people can recover
and get on with their lives.
Whatare the mostimportantthingspeople
needto understand
aboutthenatureofeating
disorders?
One, eating disorders are not a choice. While
we do not know the exact cause of these
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disorders, research indicates that there is
a large genetic component-there
is a 50
to 80 percent heritability risk. Two, eat~
ing disorders impact all genders, sexual
orientations and ethnicities. And three, full
recovery is absolutely possible!
Howcansomeone
besupportive
ofa lovedone
whois struggling
withan eatingdisorder?
The number one thing that people can
do is express their concern to their loved
one and help them seek out treatment,
consistently and relentlessly. As with any
sensitive issue, scaring, blaming and using
threatening words is not helpful. Talking
one~on~one, and using a calm and lov~
ing approach, will yield the most positive
results. Resources and support are avail~
able for friends and family, and they can
be very helpful in figuring out how to best
support your loved one. The National
Eating Disorders Association has a help~
line, 800.931.2237, and locally, all of us at
EDRS, Inc. also welcome calls to provide
further ideas and support at 415.827.0283
or 707.778.7849.
Whatare someof the stepsthat someone
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CJ
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~ca
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<{
LL
~
struggling
withaneatingdisorder
cantake
to gethelp?
The first steps to getting help include
reaching out to someone you trust,
telling them what is going on and ask~
ing for support to get additional help.
Undeniably, eating disorders thrive in
isolation, and letting someone in-some~
one who knows you and will be with you
for the long haul-is incredibly valuable.
The next imperative step is to look for a
healthcare provider who specializes in
the treatment of eating disorders and
who can assess your treatment needs. It
is critical that whomever you work with
is connected to other specialists and can
assist in forming a treatment team.
At EDRS, Inc., part of our mission
is to provide treatment scholarships to
California residents who might other~
wise lack the funds to pursue treatment.
If you know anyone who might benefit
from this resource, or if you would like
to make a tax~deductible contribu~
tion to this fund, please visit edrs.net.
(bridgetwhitlow.com)
■
Eatingdisordersare
not a choice.While
we do not know the
exact cause of these
disorders,research
indicatesthat there
is a largegenetic
component-there
is a 50 to 80 percent
heritabilityrisk.
November 2012
I 25
THETWOOFUS
T.L. and Jasmine
Feminist and queer cultural studies professors and activists, Jasmine Rault and TL Cowan,
on love and life in the Big Apple. By Stephanie Schroeder
How they met
Jasmine:We met over a pack of cigarettes at an academic dance
party. That is, the dance party was taking place during the
Canadian Women's Studies Association conference in Ottawa,
Canada, in case that first bit sounded glamorous.
T.L.:I was very social and vocal and Jasmine was not. We liked
that.
On sharing their beliefs
T.L.:I am a performance artist, and Jasmine gets roped into those
performances sometimes. We both do "binge activism" -we try to
make it out to as many demos as we can-i.e. Occupy/Decolonize
Wall Street stuff, May Day immigrant worker rights, stop-andfrisk, etc.
Jasmine:We tend to think, really, that our academic work and
T.L:s performance work are all part of our activism. Maybe what
best makes sense of what we try to do is bell hooks' idea of feminism as transformational politics. We think together a lot about
the ways that our teaching is part of our politics; for example, this
year we are developing courses on queer creative resistance, queer
of color critique and trans-feminist cultural studies.
On changing the world together
Jasmine:
We have a collaborative research project on feminist and
queer digital archives and speculative, politicized computing. We
started out with an idea for trying to make an online database and
gossip rag for radical/ grassroots feminist and queer artists activists and audiences, then we got a grant to think about this project
and build something.
& Queer Cultural Studies:• We also co-edited a special section
of Topia: Canadian Journal of Cultural Studies, which we called
Feminist Mediations-with
our colleague Kate Eichhorn-and
we have co-organized some [conferences] and talks.
T.L.:And we collaborate on activist stuff-or
rather, we tend to
do that all together. We both believe in non-corporate queer
politics and economic justice for queers and trans folks-and
everyone-and
have been turned off by the "Pride Inc:' celebrations of recent years.
How they get over obstacles
Jasmine:We tend to sit together on a couch, with a computer in
each lap, and sort of write back and forth to each other. T.L. helps
me get over my massive writer's blocks, and I help T.L. focus. As
you can imagine, these styles can conflict, but we tend to be pretty
patient with the process even if sometimes we get frustrated by it
and with each other.
T.L.:Also, when we get really frustrated, our pattern tends to be
that Jasmine comes up with a clear idea or finds a quote that she
likes and I go off to develop some kind of "visual aid" -preferably
with sparkles-for the whole thing. And when it comes to writing
together, having two computers going on the same document is
really the trick. Otherwise, one person is just watching the other
person type, which is very, very boring. And we prefer not to bore
each other! ■
T.L.:However, the more we think about the project, the more we run
into the political problems of digital archives and computational
logics and now we're theorizing ourselves in circles. But that's kind
of what we do together. Also, this process was part of our "project
plan": Read. Think. Write a bit. Read more. Think more. Get
paralyzed by ideas and not be able to write. You know, deep stuff.
Why they work well together
Jasmine:We have to juggle our time between the individual
projects that we have on the go, our teaching, and this project;
however, you could say that we're always collaborating because
we're always thinking together, though not always directly on this
one "officially shared" project. We also write and present research
papers on this topic and we often present our individual projects
together on panels with themes such as "Feminist Epistemologies
26
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LAUGH
TRACK
Fed Up
How one hungry comic bites back at the bigots. By Kathryn Lounsbery
Energetic and passionate, Jessica Kirson is one of the most outspoken comics around. Her comedy, whether she's doing live stand-up
or Street Talk video episodes, often returns to the subject of food,
especially chicken, so who better than this out-and-proud lesbian
to give the anti-gay marriage fast-food chain Chick-fil-A a taste
of marriage equality? Kirson's Chick-fil-A video, which went viral,
takes a shot at the "family-owned" company by presenting her own
family of queer supporters. Kirson performs the whole family,
demonstrating her ability to slip effortlessly from one character
to the next and make a statement while she's at it. If you haven't
already laughed out loud at Jessy K, try to catch the Jewish Jersey
girl live, especially at one of Poppy Champlin's Queer Queen of
Qomedy gigs.
In French,
thewordforchicken
ispouletIn Spanish
it'spolio.Whyisour
English
wordforchicken
sofunny?
I really don't know. But I love it. I love the word and I love chicken.
Some people say that words with the letters "C'' and "K" are funny.
Now I want chicken.
Yourvideoresponse
totheChick-fil-A
protest
againstmarriage
equality
washilarious.
Yourabilityto gofromcharacter
to character
is Oscarworthy.Howplanned
out,if at all,wasthatvideo?
Ha, thank you so much. It was not planned at all. They usually
are not planned. My comedy is always better when I don't plan too
much. The more passionate I feel about something, the funnier it is.
Inthevideo,
you'redriving
whilefilming.
Areyoua drive-thru
kindofgal?
Whichrestaurants
areyourgo-toplaces,
andwhatdoyouorder?
I know-so many people commented on me filming and driving.
I was in bumper-to-bumper traffic. I am not a drive-thru kind of
person. The only drive-thru I do is Starbucks, normally. I love
diners. I'm Jewish, so that is a given. I love going out for sushi,
Greek, Mexican, really anything. I usually order chicken or fish. I
eat Greek salads constantly.
A friendofminewhodoesa lotofcommuting
hasa largeplasticsmock
sheputsoverherentirebodywheneatinginthecar.
That's actually a great idea. I thought of doing it with a burka, but
then I wouldn't be allowed to laugh, dance, drive, etc., so a plastic
bag would work. My grandmother used to wear a gold metallic bib.
Picturethis:It's 2 a.m.You've
justhada killershow.You'realonein a
swankhotelroomwithan extensive
late-night
diningmenu.Whatthree
thingsdoyouorder?
Onion soup, chicken Caesar salad and some hope.
It's 2 a.m.You'vejust hada killershow.You'rewith yourpersonal
physician,
BruceJennerandRickiLakein a swankhotelroomwithan
extensive
late-nightdiningmenu.Whatthreethingsdoyouorder?
Nachos, key lime pie and a gun.
I recently
cutmyhandreaching
intoa jar of peanutbutterduringa late2s
I curve
nightrampage(hunger,
be notproud).Haveyousufferedanyinjuries
whileeating?OrdidI totallyjustembarrass
myself?
Yes,thatis a twopartquestion.
You did not embarrass yoursel£ I get it. I once burnt my arm because
I had to get a piece of popcorn from a burning hot pot.
You're
Jewish.Doyouobserve
a Kosher
diet?
No, not at all. Last night I ate a live pig. I am not religious.
You'veperformed
in comedy
clubsaround
theworld.Whatclubhasthe
bestfood?
I would have to say the Comedy Cellar in New York City. They
have amazing Middle Eastern food.
Doesit distract
youwhenanaudience
iseating?
Sometimes it distracts me. Like when they just focus on the food
and don't even look up. Go to a restaurant, not a show. I can always
tell when audience members have smoked pot, because they are
completely focused on the food.
Haveyouevereatenduringa set?
I've never eaten during a set, but I have thought about food during a set many times. In the middle of doing one of my jokes I can
think of a whole meal. It's amazing.
Cakeorpie?
Oh boy, this is a hard one. I think I have to say cake. But I really
love pie too. vessicakirson.com)■
SCENE
Sunshine Girls Plenty of sunshine, an impromptu moped race
and the best sunsets. It must be Key West Womenfest.
Next time you're looking for something fun to do Labor
Day Weekend, think no further than Key West, Fla.
and the Business Guild's Annual Womenfest! With
multiple events scheduled throughout the week and
throughout the island, many of the events were held at
Pearl's Key West, including Speed Dating, fundraisers
for Womankind and the ASPCA, Pearl's Pink Happy
Hour and Pearl's Pool Party and Bikini Contest. Each
event was hosted by curve's funny lady, Christine
O'Leary, who was a source of non-stop humor all week
long, from her morning recaps of the night before to her
nightly hosted events!
Live music at Pearl's came courtesy of DJ Rae-Rae and
Beverly McClellan of The Voice while Jennifer Corday and
the Cougars made their home at Cowboy Bill's Honky
Tonk, and Sister Funk played at Hog's Breath Saloon.
These ladies kept the days and nights rockin' !
Fury and Sunset Watersports offered women-only
excursions complete with live performances by Corday
and Sister Funk while Erin Foley, Sandra Valls and
Chantal Carerre put on a great show full of laughs at the
Curiously Strong Comedy show. Start planning your trip
now for September 3-8, 2013 and don't wait too long to
get your tickets to the main events as this year's events sold
out thanks to the record number of women in attendance.
(womenfest.com) [RobinPerron]
November 2012
I 29
POLITICS
The War on Women
Why it's not just an election issue-it's personal.
By Victoria A. Brownworth
In the early afternoon of September 4,
2002, right before I was raped in my nextdoor neighbor's yard, I was in the alley
that runs alongside my house, bringing the
trash cans up from the sidewalk.
It was a beautiful day on my quiet, treelined block, made quieter by the fact that
the children who'd filled the street with
their noisy games all summer had gone
back to school just that morning.
Suddenly, a man appeared. The tone
of his voice when he asked, "Hey, pretty
lady, need some helpt was one I had heard
before. We're all familiar with that voice
men use with women-low
and full of
sexual implication.
I smiled and thanked him, said I was
fine, and turned my back-to indicate that
the conversation was over, and that I was
not afraid, all the while wondering how
quickly I could get up my front steps and
lock my door behind me.
He was close. Too close.
Then he was behind me, his arms locked
around mine. He wasn't much taller than I
am (5 foot 9) but he was incredibly strong
as he shoved me farther down the alley
and into the neighbor's yard. He punched
me repeatedly. He bit me hard around my
nipples-a
circle of bites that would be
there for months. He slapped me-my
arms, my shoulders, my thighs. He leaned
his weight on me. He was thin, but his
weight felt suffocating. He held his penis
against my mouth, rubbed it on my breasts
(he had torn off my dress with his teeth
and hands), shoved it into me everywhere.
It was incredibly violent. For weeks, I had
the bites on my breasts, bruises the size
of platters on my thighs and arms, a huge
bruise on my lower back, because there
had been a rock beneath me. My arms had
been pinned behind me throughout the
attack, so my arms, wrists and hands were
scraped and bruised. One fingernail was
torn off.
30
I curve
My rapist was, like over half of all rapists,
a serial attacker. While I was being interrogated at the SVU (Special Victims Unit), I
discovered that the man who raped mehis way of pinning his victims' arms down
so they couldn't move was very specifichad assaulted several other women in my
immediate neighborhood. Like me, they'd
thought they were safe in broad daylight.
But women are never safe from rape.
One in three women will be raped in
her lifetime, some by men they know,
some by strangers. Some women, like
me, will be raped more than once. Others
will be attacked but escape. We are all
under threat. According to FBI statistics,
100,000 rapes were reported in the U.S. in
2002. And year in, year out, that's a pretty
constant number. Rape crisis agencies assert,
however, that fewer than half of all rape
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victims file a report. My first experience of
rape, when I was 17, was so awful that it
made me not want to file a report in 2002.
But I did, because the rape crisis counselor
I spoke to shamed me into it. "You'll be
as guilty as the rapist if you don't call the
police;' he said, "because the next woman
he rapes will be on you:'
When I went through the grueling process
again, at the SVU (Special Victims Unit,
where victims are treated as anything but
special), I learned that nothing had really
changed. The first thing I was told by the
male detective who interviewed me was
that if I was lying I would be prosecuted.
As the 10,year anniversary of my brutal
rape approached, the topic itsel£ which rarely
gets any attention despite the huge numbers
of victims, was in the news. In advance
of the Republican National Convention,
Todd Akin, a Republican congressman
from Missouri who was running for the
U.S. Senate, "misspoke" when he claimed
that pregnancy in the case of "legitimate
rape" is very rare because the woman's body
is capable of "shut[ ting] that whole thing
down:' In doing so, he reminded women,
me among them, of something that many
men forget-rape
is a terrible crime that
can destroy the life of the victim.
Mine was what Akin (R, Mo.) would
call "legitimate;' or what Republican Vice
Presidential candidate Paul Ryan (R,Wis.)
would call "forcible" rape. The police called
it aggravated sexual assault with the intent
to kill; my attacker threatened to kill me
throughout, and during the attack I cer,
tainly thought I would die. The bruises
around my neck were proof that he was
strong enough to choke me to death if he'd
chosen to.
The discourse about rape got politi,
cized by the conventions soon after Akins
comments about what was "legitimate" and
Ryan's comment that it was just another
form of conception. The politicizing was
done on both sides and was all about abor,
tion-whether
a woman should be able to
get an abortion if she becomes pregnant
from being raped.
But that discussion ignored the fact that
the majority of women who seek an abor,
tion haven't been raped. Their unwanted
pregnancies are the result of having consen,
sual sex with a loving partner.
My loving partner is female, so I am never
going to end up pregnant by her. I could very
well, however, have become pregnant from
being raped. But an unwanted pregnancy is
an unwanted pregnancy, whether it's from
forms. It's about crimes perpetrated by men
against women. The war on women isn't
just about a stranger pinning you down in a
neighbor's yard. It's about women being able
to fight back and say no: no to rape, no to
sex they don't want, no to babies they can't
have-for whatever reason.
The war on women is personal because
every woman will want to be able to make
her own choices-to try to grab back some
The war on women is personal
becauseeverywoman willwant to
be able to make her own choicesto try to grab back some measure
of autonomyafter somethingterrible
has happenedto her.
being raped or from having sex with some,
one you love. If you don't want a child, it will
ruin your life, no matter who the father is,
and do grievous harm to the child as well.
Men who dismiss a woman's right to
control her body don't understand the
concept of choice, which refers to many
things. Akin and Ryan are Republicans,
but it's not just one party that forgets
who owns a woman's body. Rep. Bart
Stupak (D,Mich.), along with a coterie of
other Democrats, got abortion protection
removed from the Affordable Care Act.
The Democratic senator from my state,
Bob Casey, a staunch pro,life candidate,
sided with Stupak's amendment.
The war on women is real. It isn't just
about election,year politics and which
party gets into the White House or gains
control of Congress. Even though many
Republicans are pro,choice, just as many
Democrats are pro,life, the presumption
remains that Republicans are conducting a
war on women and Democrats are not.
Except this isn't about parties or plat,
measure of autonomy after something ter,
rible has happened to her-whether
that
terrible thing is being raped or getting
pregnant when she never wanted to be.
All this will be true the day before, the
day of and the day after the election. Which
means all women must take a vigilant inter,
est in maintaining control over their bodies.
Why? Because the people in power are
still men. And if one in three of us is being
raped-by a stranger, by someone we know,
by a member of our family-someone
is
doing the raping. He might very well look
like a nice man, someone who wants to help
you with your heavy trash cans, someone
who voted for the same party you did, or he
might even be the person you voted for.
The war on women won't end with one
or another candidate attaining or retaining
a place in the White House. It will only
end when all men, regardless of party, rec,
ognize that rape is pandemic, that men are
the perpetrators, and that women should
not be forced to have sex or to have babies
against their will. Ever. ■
November 2012
I 31
Lesbian vets reflect
on their service in
the closet and in a
post-Don't Ask,
Don't Tell world.
Hf ADAML. HRINKLOW
KA Y B RH ~"KI'Sparents were both career
Navy vets, so her own service seemed a given. Terra Lathrop felt
aimless in college and joined the Navy for a sense of purpose and to
have an adventure. Eva Belanger saw a high school friend in an Air
Force uniform and felt inspired to sign up hersel£ These women
were just like many other volunteers for the armed services, eager to
wear a uniform and be part of a team. They were just like everyone
else-except for one thing.
"I didn't figure it out until I was already in;' says Borkoski. "By
then I'd signed the paperwork promising that I wouldn't be gay:'
"I didn't realize how strict the policy was;' says Lathrop. "I had to
learn to re~closet myself all over again:'
"When I first enlisted, it wasn't something I realized;' says
Belanger. "I was two years in before I started to wonder. But losing
my career was just not something I was willing to risk:'
All three of these women are veterans, all three served in Iraq
32
I curve
under the shadow of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and all three came
home to face a different challenge: finally being honest about who
they are after careers of secrecy.
For Borkoski, the realization that she was gay couldn't have
come at a worse time. She was following in the footsteps of her
mother and father, both Navy vets who served until retirement. At
first, the agreement regarding her sexual orientation seemed like
just one more piece of paper. It wasn't until later that she realized
she'd become contractually obligated to be someone she wasn't. "It's
difficult anyway to be figuring yourself out;' she says, "but then to
have that looming over your head [makes it harder]:•
Serving with a secret took its toll. "You have people that are
always asking you, 'What did you do this weekend:" Since all my
weekends were wrapped up with a girlfriend, I couldn't tell them.
It was difficult to always be telling half~truths:' In an environment
where you're trained to trust the people you work with implicitly, to
be forced to keep them at arm's length creates a tremendous strain.
This while Borkoski served as a bomb disposal tech in Iraq at a time
when she estimates there were a hundred bomb-related calls every
day across the country.
Eventually Borkoski came out to a few team members. They kept
her secret, but there was always an element of risk on both sides of
that decision. "I chose never to verbally tell anyone because I didn't
want my friends to have to lie;' says fellow Navy vet Terra Lathrop.
After years of serving together, Lathrop's other Naval search-andrescue divers couldn't help but realize that there were things she
wasn't telling them, but the truth had to remain unspoken.
"Pretty much anywhere I went I was the only female diver;' she
says. "I was constantly surrounded by dominant males, so I had
to walk this fine line of being able to hold my own, but not seem
too strong and confident, because that would make me seem like a
dykey female:•
For years, Lathrop was part of a team, but in some ways she
had to be a woman apart. That proved difficult even for someone
who jumps out of helicopters to retrieve half-drowned people
for a living. "You're always lying," she says, "and there's guilt that
goes with that. You feel ashamed. A lot of what the military is
about is integrity. You're constantly talking about what it means
to be honorable, but there's a glass ceiling to that, because you're
constantly lying. You feel like, I'm so proud of my service, but my
service isn't proud of me:•
It was particularly hard for Lathrop to lie about her sexuality after
having been open about it in her civilian life. She knew about Don't
Ask, Don't Tell when she signed up but didn't realize how far it
went: Even speculation that she was gay could be enough to out her
in the eyes of the Navy."Someone just perceiving what they thought
they knew was enough;' Lathrop says. "Perception is everything:'
A 2003 pamphlet from the Servicemembers Legal Defense
Network, a nonprofit that provided legal counsel to American
soldiers in danger of discharge under Don't Ask, Don't Tell,
elaborates on the many dangers of being outed: ''As the law has
come to be implemented, there is no privacy for service members. If
a military commander finds out that a service member has confided
their sexual orientation to anyone-even parents, a psychologist or
chaplain-the service member will likely face discharge:' It goes on
to warn that once outed it was "virtually impossible" for a soldier
to deny it or defend themselves against the charge. Don't Ask,
Don't Tell was so strict that it even included provisions against gay
marriage even though not a single state allowed it at the time the
legislation was written.
Lathrop says the cautionary tales about how easy it was to be
outed were true: A woman she supervised in basic training wrote
a letter to their commanding officer speculating that Lathrop was
a lesbian (Lathrop insists it was a lucky guess). The CO buried the
complaint but cautioned Lathrop that unfounded rumor, once put
into writing, could end her career.
Lathrop and Borkoski had a lot of hurdles, but Air Force vet
Eva Belanger had it even worse. Even when she realized she was a
lesbian, Belanger couldn't accept it. "I thought I could make myself
not gay;' she says, "and I worked at it for years:• Belanger couldn't
reconcile her Christian faith with her emerging sexuality. Everything
in her life-from her upbringing to her religion to her career in the
military-told
her that this was something she couldn't be. "I had
grown up Christian and I was and am very strong in my faith;' she
says. "Those things made it very difficult for me to come out. You
consider just not wanting to be around because it's so painful and
you don't know where to fit in:'
Belanger had to go all the way to Iraq for a breakthrough. There
she experienced sectarian warfare and daily mortar attacks. At one
point a falling bomb blew her clear across a room. Faced with the
constant threat of death, Belanger had to take a hard look at her
faith, her life and herself. "Being blown up a couple times, you start
to think about what really matters;• she says.
So what's scarier, going to war or coming out? "For me, coming
out was scarier;' Belanger says, noting that she'd been trained for war
and had a vast infrastructure to support her in it, but had nothing
to rely on when she came out except the hope of goodwill. The first
person she told was a fellow officer, who not only accepted her but
helped her reconcile her religious conflicts. "She told me, 'God loves
you just the way you are: She was completely accepting and loving;'
Belanger says.
By the time President Obama dissolved the ban on open service,
Belanger had already left the Air Force. "I wanted to be me;' she
says. "I felt that the higher I was going in rank, and with where we
were with Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the secrecy, having secrets, it's just
painful. I didn't want to do that any more:' Would she have stayed if
she'd known the ban would be repealed? Maybe, she says. "But that
wasn't in the cards at that time:•
Lathrop eventually had her fill of secrecy too. Though proud of
her service, she wanted out of the Navy and out of the culture of
secrecy. Her superiors, excited to think how far their only female
rescue diver might go, all but begged her to stay. "My chief was like,
November 2012
I 33
What are you doing, you have the perfect career, why would you
leave? And I said, Because I could never have a family. I can't
even be in a relationship because I can't get email with their
name on it:'
Some dangled the pending repeal as an incentive to stay (like
almost everyone she served with, Lathrop's immediate superiors put two and two together about her sexuality long ago), but
Lathrop didn't buy it. "You don't get a whole lot of current news
in Iraq;' she says. "I had heard that the repeal was on the table,
but when I came back it hadn't been voted on yet. I honestly
never thought that it would get repealed, I didn't:'
Borkoski alone experienced the transition to a post-Don't
Ask, Don't Tell military. "I led a relatively open military life, [but] it
was great when I could finally come out to my guys;' she says. "The
very first week people came up to me and asked, Hey, how is your
girlfriend? Everyone was kind of breathing a sigh of relief that they
could actually [acknowledge it J:'Borkoski eventually transitioned
from active duty to reserves. But although all three of these women
had more or less returned to civilian life by 2012, their service was
still not quite finished.
This year the White House put out a call for videos about
"unsung heroes" in the gay community for Pride month. Lathrop,
Belanger and Borkoski all appeared in Just Like You, a video produced by the Military Acceptance Project (MAP, a nonprofit
aimed at promoting diversity in the armed services) highlighting
the careers of gay service members. In July, all three joined the rest
of the MAP crew at a special function at the White House honoring their accomplishments. When gay service members were able
to walk the halls of power openly after spending their careers in
the shadows, it was a big day.
"Watching the emotion on the faces of each of those featured
in our video as it was played during the ceremony" was a profound
moment for John "Jasper" Kump of MAP. "These are people who
34
I curve
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SC~ARIERr/
t,ttlNt,
Ttt WAR
ttR
have protected my freedom
for years while not being free
themselves:'
MAP is the creation of
Kristen Kavanaugh, a lesbian
ex-Marine who wanted to do
more for gay and lesbian soldiers. MAP started as a class
project while Kavanaugh was
attending the University of
Southern California. "We were
drawn together by our collective desire to make life better for all service members and veterans;'
she says. "MAP's focus is creating cultural change-within
the
military and [society] as a whole:' Kavanaugh says that while the
repeal of the ban is a huge leap forward, it doesn't solve all the
problems facing gay service members; culture dash and regulations such as the standing Defense of Marriage Act hinder their
efforts toward full acceptance. She hopes that MAP can be part of
a wider reform.
Borkoski is still a reservist. She worked as a stuntwoman for two
years after quitting active duty, but now wants a quieter life and
thinks about starting a family. Family is the reason that Lathrop left
the Navy too. She wants to finish college and settle down herself.
Belanger is putting the lessons she learned on the long, hard road
to accepting her sexuality and coping with the challenges of Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder to good use as a counselor for other
veterans. She's finally comfortable and happy with who she is.
Despite what Just Like You says, these women were not, in fact,
just like any other soldiers. They all had many extra miles to go. But
now that they are secure in the knowledge that future recruits can
serve openly, they really can afford to feel just like everyone else.
Finally. ■
.dol&e
1va
taste
the
NOWHERE IN THE RECENT
EXPLOSION OF A-LIST
LESBIANTALENT HAS IT BEEN
MOREPRONOUNCEDTHANIN
THE MUSIC SCENE. THIS MONTH
WE CELEBRATETHREE RISING
STARSWHOSE HOT LOOKS,
HUGE VOICES AND CELEBRITY
SMARTSARE TAKING THEM
ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP.
r,enchie
tal<esover
THE ALUM OF
AMERICAN /DOLAND
THE VOICE IS OUT,
ON HER OWN,AND
SHOWING FANS WHO
SHE REALLY IS.
BY JILLIAN EUGENICS
FrenchieDavis, whose power vocals are hitting a dance floor near you,
wasn't always so certain that a recording career was in the cards.
Years after she performed on American Idol in 2003, Davis was in
West Hollywood, Calif., singing classic diva covers at a gay club,
one of her favorite places to perform. That night, the casting director
for NBC's talent show The Voice happened to be in the audience
and asked her to audition. Davis wasn't sure. She'd been burned on
American Idol after telling producers that topless photos of her, taken
when she was 19, were out there somewhere in the ether. Though the
photos never surfaced, the risk-averse producers didn't want to take
a chance that they might. They asked her to leave.
Notone to let something like that kill her dreams, Davis
hit the Broadway stage, performing in Rent and the
Grammy-nominated revival of Ain't Misbehavin'. By the
time the casting director for The Voice approached her,
she was already established on Broadway and loving her
career on the stage.
"I decided to be brave and take a chance, and I'm really
glad I did;' Davis says about agreeing to audition. She
found herself performing on The Voice three months later,
and watching the sign beneath Christina Aguilera's chair
glow "I want you:'
Now, Davis is out with the single "Love's Got a Hold on
Me;' from her forthcoming album Just Frenchie, where fans
will hear her performing her own songs instead of covers.
She sees this as a way to reintroduce herself in her own
way, not through the medium of reality TV. "I decided to
make Just Frenchie because the world has gotten to know
me through performing on Broadway and being on Idol
and being on The Voice. For the first time, it's me doing my
own music. It's just Frenchie:'
Her album is also an ode to all the artists in her life who
made her love singing and the art of performing. Aguilera
can count herself as one of them. Davis says she loved the
concept of the coaching on The Voice, as opposed to the
judging (and, sometimes, the humiliation) of Idol."It's not
just a whole panel of people critiquing and judging you;'
she says, "but it's fellow artists saying, 'Hey, I think you
have something, but, based on my experience and exper36
Icurve
tise, this is what I think you can
add to it to make it better:,,
Davis was one of the finalists on The Voice, and her cover
of "When Love Takes Over"
hit No. 3 on the iTunes dance
chart. She gives Aguilera a lot
of credit for pushing her to
explore dance pop.
"To have all the songs I did on the show chart on the
dance charts-it
was like an eye-opening thing for me.
I realized maybe I don't have to do R&B, maybe I can
do this dance thing. It felt like a perfect fit because of
the following I've had in the LGBT community and how
much the people love dance music:'
"I feel like the gay community has been right there with
me from day one;' she says. "From the very early days of
my career, when I was a college student in D.C., performing at local gay clubs to make extra money for schooleven from those days, I feel like the gay community has
been by my side throughout this whole entire journey:'
After Davis came out publicly as bisexual, earlier this
year, she said hadn't planned on it, but she hadn't planned
on staying in either. She said she was put in a situation
where she was asked a question and she just answered
honestly. "The journey to self-love and self-acceptance is
too long and too hard to get to the end of it and then
have to give ambiguous answers about who you are;' she
said. "I just don't want to have to do that:'
Perhaps someone anticipated Frenchie Davis's coming
out, and gave her a little nudge. When she auditioned for
The Voice with "I Kissed a Girl" by Katy Perry, she had
to laugh. ''A lot of people don't know that for The Voice
audition, the production team picks your song for you;'
she said. "I just thought, OK, God's hilarious, and clearly
there is going to be a coming out in my future, because I
couldn't write this:' (frenchiedavis.org) ■
November 2012 I 37
the artist
AG CAUGHT OUR EYE WITH HER GENDER
BENDING MUSIC VIDEO AND HELD OUR
ATTENTION WITH HER SOULFUL VOICE
AND STUNNING PAINTINGS.
BY RACHEL SHATTO
Whatwasthe inspiration
for youramazingmusicvideofor "I
WannaBeYourMan"?
What I wanted to do was to have a real-time transformation-and I kind of wanted to confuse people, people that
haven't really been exposed to transgender culture at all. A
good way to do that is by covering probably the most wellknown rock band of all time. It will expose me to a lot of
people that wouldn't necessarily go searching for exposure
to transgender culture. That was me trying to do my duty.
Doyouhopeto bea spokesperson
forthetranscommunity?
It's not necessarily the transgender community-it's [about]
gender fluidity. That's what I believe in. I believe in human
rights in general. Anybody can love and marry and be whoever they choose to be and choose to be with. The first video
was covering that end, gay/ transgender culture, but in my
next video I'm going to be focusing more on all kinds of
different people. I don't want it to be just about one thing,
because I want it to be about so many different things so
that people can get what they want out of it, even if it's just
somebody who really loves Beatles songs and really loves
my rendition-that's
cool with me. If it's somebody who
really loves acoustic music, great; if it's somebody who
thinks it's so awesome that a girl is singing about another
girl, and it's Beatles songs- I want to be for everybody. At
the same time, if I do see an opportunity to represent, I will,
which is what I did.
TheBeatlesare so well loved.Wasthe ideaof doinga cover
intimidating?
I have sort of a voracious appetite for challenge. I've always
believed that nobody should be covering the Beatles, they're
the founding fathers of modern pop music. To try and do
their songs justice is really hard, near impossible, and I've
heard a lot of really, really bad Beatles covers.
I'm with a publisher ... that just happens to own the rights
to these six songs. They wanted me to do what's called
"inspired versions:' I really got into it, there are opportunities
here to do stuff I always wanted to do. It was a huge challenge.
I looked at my producer and said, We shouldn't be doing this,
it's going to be really hard and we're either going to totally nail
it or we're going to totally fuck it up and it'll be horrifying. I
think we nailed it-thank God.
Haveyoueverfelt any pressureas a musicianto stayin the
closet?
When the Rescues first got signed to Universal it was pretty
incredible. I finally had the opportunity to be an out musician in the mainstream, which is what I've always wanted to
do. They never wanted me to change, never asked me to not
say anything or not be out. You hear all these stories about
people having to be in the closet and I never had to be, and
it's pretty incredible.
I've always been out, but there was a period right before
we got signed when I started wearing a wig and wearing
heels, and then I realized, wait, this isn't right, this is not
who I am and I need to stop. I think everybody goes through
that struggle if they want to be in the mainstream, which I
do. Not because I want to be Lady Gaga but because I want
as many people as possible to hear my music and be moved
by it, straight or gay.
You'realsoa visualartist.Whendidyoustartpainting?
I've been painting my whole life but I didn't start doing it on
a professional level until a couple of years ago. It was just an
extension of my music, I wanted to reinvent my lyrics and
make them more visual. It was really, incredibly cathartic
for me, because I got to the point where I was really bored
with having just music as my only form of artistic expression, and painting renewed [my passion]. I've always had an
immense love for lyrics, so I love the fact that now they can
be seen as well as sung. I just did a piece, a Beatles one, that
says "Love is all you need:' I want to do art for the people,
I've never wanted it to be art for the critics. ■
LezzieLightnilgRound
Whatis yourguiltiestpleasure?
Sci-fifantasy.I'm readingGameofThrones
rightnow.I'm kindofobsessed.
Doyouhaveanyotherhiddentalents?
I'mstarting
to direct.I directed[the"IWannaBeYourMan"video],andI'm
directing
a couplemorefora coupleoffriendsof mine-Garrison
Starand
MaiaSharp-comingupreallysoon.
If youweren'ta musicianwhatwouldyoube?
A photographer,
a painterora director-something
intheentertainment
world.
Doyouhavea celebritycrush?
OhmyGod... I haveto sayKristen
Stewart.
She'ssinglenow,youknow...
I'm not,unfortunately
forme.
November 2012
I 39
Is a musicalcollaboration
with either
Raitt or Etheridge
comingup in the
new life in L.A. She's in the middle of a well-publicized tour-and
nearfuture?
the venues are a far cry from the humble South Florida clubs she
I'd be honored to collaborate with
played for 20 years before she got her "big break" on the small
them, no doubt. There are a number
of artists I would be so lucky to work
screen. Four independent albums are out there with her name on
with ... Since I didn't get to meet my
them plus one album as part of a double act with Tammy Gorden,
idol, Etta James, I would love to col,
recorded before Fear Nothing, her large-scale debut album, which
laborate with Dolly Parton. She
was also one of the voices on the
was released last November. McClellan has officially traded in her
mountain, shining on me since The
Barbie Hot Wheels for the real deal as she carefully consumes the
Porter Wagoner Show.
celebrity that comes along with her newfound fame.
South Floridawas your home turf
beforeTheVoicewhiskedyouawayto
NBC'sTheVoiceintroduced
youto millionsof viewerswho Hollywood.
WhatdoyoumissabouttheSouthern
sceneversus
wouldbecomededicatedfans.Did that experience
change thevibein L.A.?
yourlifeprofessionally?
I am really lucky to have such a loyal fan base and solid
friends in South Florida, but I found my stars in L.A. I
Completely. I am really honored to have had the exposure
have a real special kinship for L.A., after everything I've
from The Voice.I wanted for my music to be heard outside
been through. L.A. has become home to me.
of South Florida, and I give all the credit to NBC for that.
Before the show, I could only have dreamed of opening
Isit truethatyouleftfora lunchbreak,whenyouwerea dental
up for B.B. King! Thanks to NBC, this became a reality. assistant,
andneverreturned?
Basically, The Voiceset the bar and showed me how far I
Yes, and I would do it again.
could go. I'm on continual tour now, playing my own music.
Doyoureallyplay1Odifferentinstruments?
Anddoyouhavea
I'm living my dreams.
favoriteortwothatyouplaymoreregularly
thantheothers?
Howdidtheshow'spopularity
changeyourlifepersonally? I know how to [play 10 instruments], yes. I've picked up
so many instruments throughout the years ... ! can't help
I don't really know what privacy is anymore, but it's a small
price to pay for living my dream. I was very much in control
myself but to experiment with new sounds. When it comes
of my life before the show-very free. I live to a schedule
to instrumentation, "I can't" isn't in my vocabulary. Violin
now, constantly on the road, playing to audiences that want
and flute, however, I am not really good at! Piano and guitar
to hear my music. What could be more amazing than that:'
are my go,to instruments, any day.
Howimportantwas it for youto be an out contestanton FearNothing
is yourfirstwell-publicized
CD,butit is actually
TheVoice
thefifthinyourcareerprogression.
Howdoesit compare
tothe
otheralbumsyou'vereleased?
I never thought about it. I have always been very aware
of who I am and have never tried to disguise myself. My
Versus me and my friends playing all the instruments:' On
experience on the show was no different. I thank NBC for
Fear Nothing, I had Etta James' musicians and David Z's
valuing all of us as individuals in that way.
magic ear and skill.
Thejudgesandmediaalikedrewcomparisons
betweenyour Youwerenominated
for a 2012GLAAD
MediaAward.Doyou
soundandthat of EttaJames,JanisJoplin,BonnieRaittand welcome
theattention
fromtheLGBT
community?
MelissaEtheridge,
to namea few.Wouldyouagreethatthose I am honored by the nomination and humbled by the
assessments
werefair?
attention I've received from the community for simply
It is an honor to be compared to any of them. If I have being myself.
that sauce in my voice-like any of [those) artists-I am
If youcouldsenda message
totheLGBT
youth,ortotheadults
grateful, but I'm still me at the end of the day.
whoarecomingoutlaterin life,whatmightthatbe?
Howdidthecomparisons
to thosemega-stars
makeyoufeel? I hope that it's to embrace their individualities. Labels
It didn't really change my perspective. It is nice to hear-to
simply don't matter. We're all human.
be compared to such great talents is a huge complimentOutside
of FearNothing,
wherecanfansfindyourwork?Are
but I have my own feeling about myself that nothing really thereanyotherprojects
intheworks?
My previous two albums, recorded with Chris Monteleone
touches. I'm still that kid that sang to her hairbrush in front
at SoundBox Records, can be found on iT unes. As for the
of a mirror. That spirit hasn't gone away, but I guess I don't
future: more traveling and writing. (beverlymcclellan.com)
need a hairbrush anymore.
■
Nearly one year later, McClellan has comfortably settled into her
40
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Makeup/ Hair/ Style:
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42
I curve
STREET SMART
Checkered,
blackandgray
shirt; Blackandtan vest;
Tanandbrownpants
NOWHERE IS THE MALE-FEMALE gender binary
more limiting than in fashion-as
any woman who
has found herself furtively scouring the men's or boys'
department to acquire masculine clothing will agree.
Sisters A and Vee Lee recognized that there was a gap
in the market for androgynous women, knew it was
keenly felt, and decided to do something about it. They
started a clothing line called VEEA, a blending of the
sisters' names. A Lee, who identifies as an androgynous
lesbian, is the founder and Vee Lee is the head designer
and co~founder. It's not that the Lees are opposed to
feminine fashion. Rather, they are concerned that the
absence of masculine attire for women forces them to
conform to an externally imposed ideal; androgynous
women are denied the opportunity to truly explore the
idea of fashion as self~expression. "VEEA encourages
you to stay true to yoursel£ You shouldn't have to be
anybody else to be accepted;' says A Lee.
To make their dream a reality, the Lees launched a
27 ~day campaign on Kickstarter. Clearly, they were not
the only not~so~feminine women to have envisaged a
closet full of edgy and epicene garments-the
campaign
exceeded its target by over 100 percent. A Lee says that
the lesbian demographic in particular was "extremely
supportive" of the project. "I don't think we would have
made it without their support and help. Thank you!"
For too long, lesbians have stood accused of promoting
an anti~fashion bias, but this is changing-in much the
same way as the lesbian demographic itself is evolving
and diversifying. "I think [fashion] really comes down
to individuality," says Lee. "We may belong to a group
because we share the same interests or experiences, but
we all have characteristics that make us unique. VEEA
is about celebrating these very differences that set us
apart from the rest of the world:'
Inspired by the aesthetics of Asian cinema, in par~
ticular the films of Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar~Wai
and anime master Hayao Miyazaki, VEEA fashions are
the epitome of cool, and may even tempt the occasional
femme into their classy, clean~cut men's wear, because it
was designed to fit women.
THE AESTHETIC
Simplicityof form meetssolid
colorsandtonesjuxtaposed
with checks,stripesand
. blocksof contrastingcolor
whichcreatea flatteringline.
THE MOTTO
"Youshouldn'thaveto be
anvbody
elseto beaccepted."
"We spend a lot of time on the designs and the
quality of the construction;' says Lee. "We believe that
only the best design and construction is good enough.
It's a long process, but it's worth it:'
The Lees try to be as conscious as they can of
the ethical issues that concern the fashion industry,
from the environmentally destructive production of
textiles to unfair labor practices. "We grew up not
having much and learned to work around very strict
resource constraints. Our mother was a seamstress
who worked very hard for very little. Growing up
under these conditions has helped us tremendously.
We think long~term and don't make decisions based
on short~term benefits. We think about cultivating
relationships, and about what we can do to make life
better for the people we come into contact with.
"From the start to the finish, we're constantly
thinking of how to eliminate as much scrap as possible.
And with the scraps, we think of ways to incorporate
them into the details of other designs:'
The debut collection comes out this fall, just in time
to spruce up your wardrobe with some very elegant
queer couture. To paraphrase Mark Twain: Clothes
make the (wo)man. (androgynouifashion.com) ■
i1i
w
>
November 2012
I 47
aren Portaleo's cakes are more than sweet treats-they are breathtaking,
intricate works of art. The granddaughter of a pastry chef, Portaleo grew up in
bakeries and in artists' studios: She has two painters in her family, her mother
and her sister. She herself has enjoyed a diverse artistic career, designing
jewelry, creating sets and props for the advertising industry and sculpting in clay. Portaleo
now sculpts in cake batter and icing, and
she has elevated the domestic enterprise
of cake decorating to an art form. She won
the Food Network's Halloween Wars, is the
lead decorator of lesbian-owned Highland
Bakery in Atlanta, and has made cakes for
celebrities such as Jane Lynch, Elton John
and Demi Moore-all of this without any
culinary training.
Youseemto bringart intoeveryaspectof yourlife.Whatis it
thatmakesyousopassionate
aboutit?
Everything. It's so much a part of how I live that it's hard
to parse it out as a separate act in my life. It's a compulsion.
It's like eating-or falling in love. It's necessary. I have busy
hands. I just moved, and while organizing my new home
and studio, I've had to confront what I can only describe as
a serious case of art supply hoarding. Every scrap, pencil,
or feather has potential, and I cannot part with it. I may
need help.
Doyoumakecakeswiththeintention
ofconveying
a message,
or evokinga specificemotion?
Usually, I am trying to represent those things for my client,
to help them tell a story of some kind. This is what I think
is unique about cake decorating, among other work in the
culinary world: Cakes are the storytellers, the centerpieces
that express something about why everyone has gathered.
I can tell that story visually, as well as with the flavors
inside the cake.
Whatdoyoulovebestaboutworkingwithyourclients?
I love being a part of their celebrations, helping them tell
part of their story to their guests. I've also been doing
this long enough now to have gone through a series of
wonderful events in some couples' lives, from first dates
to baby showers!
YouwontheFoodNetwork's
Halloween
Wars.Whatis it about
youandHalloween?
I like playing on the edges of scary. Not actual real~life
scary, but the monster~under~the~bed, whistling through
the graveyard, dancing skeleton in a top hat kind of scary.
I grew up in the punk rock days, and we pushed the enve~
lope in every which way. I think Tim Burton is a master
of this imagery. There's a dark twist and a broken~tooth
smile to his imagery that I love. Halloween is like a national
holiday for freaks like me!
You'vemadea lot of cakesof voluptuous
women.Do you
makea conscious
effortto promotebodypositivity
through
thosecakes?
Absolutely! But it's also my idea of true beauty. Of course,
as a woman, I've struggled with my personal place on the
body spectrum, but in my art I have always gravitated
toward the voluptuous curves that speak to me of
sensuality and pleasure.
Whichcakesonyourmust-make
listhaveyounotyetmade?
There is a list, and they will all be in my book! I am in the
early stages of making a book that will include my cakes,
as well as some illustrations, some stories, and a little bit
of instruction. (karenportaleo.com)■
November 2012
I 49
Hotter
new lesbian chef is heating up
Hell's Kitchen, the Fox TV reality
series that features the world's grumpiest
chef, Gordon Ramsay-and he's just one
of the show's many challenges. Christina
Wilson not only made it into the final-round
cook-off in Las Vegas but won it to come
out on top of season 10. During the season,
Wilson was reunited with her girlfriend, after
five weeks of separation, in what was the
first obvious display of lesbian affection in
the show's history. This curve reader, who
says we gave her the inspiration to be out
and proud, recently took time to tell us
more about her rise through the ranks.
so I curve
ThanHe
Out chef
Christina Wilson
can take the heat,
both in and out
of the kitchen.
By Constance
Parten
Wherewere youon September
10,whentheshowrevealed
that
youwerethewinner?
Monday night, I was alongside Justin [Antiorio, the other
finalist] at Fox's Fall Junket party in Los Angeles. We had
a grueling press day and actually had a private screening
of the finale, which I watched alone and Justin watched
with his mother and stepfather. My mother and my girlfriend, Sara, were aware of the results, but unfortunately
I was unable to tell anyone else. The show's success is
slightly based on the surprise factor, so it's important that
no one reveal the outcome. Although I wasn't able to be
with friends and family, that didn't stop them from having
viewing parties-I was able to step away minutes before
the show started to give a big thank-you to my hometown,
where my mother had organized one. I was sent a video of
the room's reaction to me coming through the door [as the
winner] and it was priceless! I wish I could've been there.
Whenareyouheading
backto Vegasto takeonyournewrole
at Gordon
Ramsay's
Steakat ParisLasVegas?Willyourgirlfriendbegoingwithyou?
I will be headed to Las Vegas tomorrow morning [Sept.
12], not even two full days after the finale aired. Chef
Ramsay is a successful businessman, and it's time for me
to get back down to business. I will take on the head chef
position, working under one of chef's best, Kevin Hee, who
is the current executive chef there. Unfortunately, Sara will
not be with me to see all of this come to life. She has her
own PR firm and has obligations to her clients. I will be
bringing the most loyal and loving female in my life, my
fancy domestic shorthair, who is always in her tuxedo. Her
name is Oodie. I picked her on the second day of her life,
and we have been inseparable since. It will be nice to have
her to come home to, for sure.
You'reoriginally
fromJerseyandhavelivedin SouthPhillyfor
a numberof years.Areyoulookingforwardto somedesert
living?
I am proud to say I was raised in Phillipsburg, and have
lived in Philadelphia or the surrounding suburbs for almost
15 years. I am definitely looking forward to the move-the
first big move I've made in my life-and I know it's the right
choice to make professionally. I will miss my East Coast
family for sure, but it's time to put my head down and push
forward, so I can accomplish all I desire in this life.
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It seemsthat morelesbians
are openabouttheirsexualityin
therestaurant
industry,
andin kitchens
in particular.
Whathas
yourexperience
been?
It's my life. It's who I am. I think I've been lucky in that I
get along with most people right away, and I take my craft
seriously, so it's my work that makes me respected in a
kitchen, not my sexuality. I have the thinking that if you
liked me and worked well with me before you knew I was
gay, and then changed your tune once you found out, that
makes you the asshole, not me!
RealityTVhasapparently
takenyouralreadysuccessful
career
to a newlevel.Wasit a calculated
riskto goonHell'sKitchen?
It was definitely a risk to go onto HK. I left a really great job
[at Mercato] that was chosen as one of the 10 Best BYO Bs
in the Country by Travel & Leisure magazine during my
tenure. But the truth is, I pretty much maxed out at that job.
I hit a plateau and there was no more room for real growth.
Then along came this opportunity to essentially interview
for a position under highly decorated chef Ramsay, and
with a $250,000 salary. I was nervous about the cameras
and the microphones. I knew I was allowing myself to be
vulnerable to a country full of critics. And they really don't
hesitate to tell you what they think. I do my best not to read
the negative online comments, and luckily I am able to duck
almost all of them. But people can be really hurtful, and it
wasn't something I was necessarily prepared for. At the end
of the day, it was a job that I wanted, so I went for it.
Whatadvicewouldyougivetoyoungwomenwhowanttoenter
theculinary
field?
It's traditionally a man's profession, but that is rapidly chang~
ing. Don't lose focus or determination. Eat out as often as
possible and keep ahead of food trends. Make New York's
and Chicago's restaurant scenes your playground. Don't
take constructive criticism personally. It's meant to help you.
Don't listen to any other form of criticism. It's meant to hold
you down.
What'snextforyou,bothshort-term
andlong-term?
Next, I spend a year working with chef Ramsay's team in
Las Vegas. After my contract is up, I will see what oppor~
tunities are presented to me. For now, I just want to get
back into my chef's whites, doing what I love to do. Ten
years from now? Of course, I hope to open my own sea~
sonal restaurant back in the state I love, New Jersey. Once
my body can't hold up to the 15~hour days, I'd love to go
back to school and get a master's in nutrition. I want to
work with kids and young adults and teach them how to
cook and make healthier food choices. Obesity is plaguing
our country and destroying our youth. I'd love to make
eating healthy and working out fun again! ■
PEetite
ats
Carla
Hall's
Alchemy
cookies
are bitesized
magic.
Two-timeTopChetcontestantandco-hostof
TheChew,CarlaHall,is alsoan outspoken
supporterof same-sexmarriage.Sherecently
participatedin BroadwaySingsfor Prideand
hasevenvowedto boycottChick-fil-Ain
solidaritywith the LGBTcommunity.So,we
areexcitedto returnthe favorby supporting
all herendeavorsincludingAlchemyby Carla
Hall-and it doesn'thurtthat hergourmet,
hand-made
treatsareoh-so-yummy.
Alchemyfeaturestwo linesof snacks:the
sweetcollectionandthe savorycollection,
whichmeansthat afteryearsof watchingHall
cook,you'llfinallybe ableto getyourhands
andtastebudson hercooking.All the cookies
andbitesare madewith European-style
butter,
organicsugarandflours,couverturechocolate,
artisancheeses,freshnutsandseasonalfruits.
WhileAlchemy'scookiesaresmallin stature
theyarehugein flavor.
Hersweetcollectionincludesdelectable
nibbleslike her mini MexicanChocolate
Chip
cookies,whicharesoft,chocolatyanddelicious,
andevenhavea hint of cinnamon.TheAlmond
GingerCherryShortbreadis butteryandtangy,
andthe Oatmealwith WhiteChocolate
& Dried
Cranberries
cookiesarea crisp,tastysweet
treat.Howeverthe standoutin the sweet
collectionhasto bethe BlackForrestCrinkle.
Thesebrowniebitesare handglazedandpacka
doublepunchof cocoaandcherry.Yum!
Forthoselookingfor a gourmetsnackon
the savoryside,Hall'sCheddarPecanbites
are madewith sharpcheddarandare highly
addictive.TheHarissaSpicedNutsarea mix
of pecans,walnutsandalmondsglazedin
brownsugarand harissawhich are a both
sweetand savorywith just a hint of heat.
But it's the GoatCheeseCranberrybitesthat
take the cake.Thesmoothnutty flavor of the
goat cheeseis offset by the tangysweetness
of cranberries,andthe combinationof
theseflavorsis downrightalchemic.
(alchemybycarlahall.com)
[RachelShatto]
November 2012
I 51
Ashley Merriman brings her own aspirations
to a New York institution. By Constance Parten
W
hen lesbian Top Chefalum Ashley Merriman seized
the reins at VanityFair editor Graydon Carter's The
Waverly Inn in New York's West Village last year, she
already knew it was going to be a good fit. The cozy dining
hotspot with its trademark red banquettes is a noted
celebrity haunt with a constellation of stars from fashion,
film, music and media meeting there to see and be seen. On
one night you might see Top Chefs Padma Lakshmi and
author Salman Rushdie dining next to Tony Award nom~
inee Justin Vivian Bond; on another, Victoria Beckham
and Marc Jacobs chatting about a new fashion venture.
Such a famous celebrity haunt might seem a surprising
venue for Merriman's cuisine, which she describes as
approachable and thoughtful. After all, the well~respected
chef gained quite a following at Manhattan's Butter and
The Darby, where she worked as the chef de cuisine under
executive chef Alex Guarnaschelli.
"I was pretty hesitant [when I interviewed for The
Waverly Inn], because I had been working hard on my
own business plan and was starting the process of raising
money to open my own restaurant;' Merriman says. "Once
I interviewed, however, I knew that it would be a good fit
and that it was a huge opportunity:'
While the Waverly Inn might not afford Merriman
the opportunity to showcase her dishes in the way that
her own restaurant would, she has enjoyed the challenge
of making the menu her own without changing it much.
"There are things on the menu here that have been
here since day one and won't ever come off-it's my job to
make them as good as they can be and make sure that the
other food we cook here makes sense with the restaurant;'
Merriman says.
She has introduced four or five specials each night
that allow her to express herself, but her biggest focusand her greatest passion right now, in addition to the
food-is the staff.
"The way I approach management is that I think it's
my job to make the cooks who work for me better than
they were the day before;' she says. "Ideally, there are a few
cooks who will end up better than me-that's my goal. I
approach every day like that. And I want to create habits
of excellence in all of my cooks, in everything we do.
52
I curve
"I guess that's how my management style could best
be described-creating
habits of excellence, just trying to
bring out the best in every cook who works for me. I'm
literally nothing without the people who show up and
work for me every day, and I treat them as such:'
Merriman's style certainly instills loyalty in her
staff. Take, for example, her sous chef, Quinton, whom
Merriman nurtured as an intern seven years ago while
she was working as a sous chef in Seattle.
"The other sous chef and head chef thought I was wast~
ing my time on trying to teach him and make him better.
I just saw something in him-tenacity, really-that made
me want to push him and make him better:'
Today, Quinton sports a tattoo of Ashley's initials on
his arm next to a large butterfly, symbolizing his transition
and honoring the woman who helped him achieve it.
"I think I helped Quinton develop a style where he tries
to get the most out of himself every day, where he pushes
himself to be better than he was yesterday, where he learns
something new-and
that's part of the way he manages
the cooks who work for us now;' Merriman says.
And Merriman applies this philosophy to herself as
well, always pushing to be better, to reach the next level.
''I'd really love to have my own restaurant at some point,
but I'm really happy where I am right now;' she says. "I
hope in 20 years I can say the same thing-that
I'm really
happy where I am now:' ■
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Home, Sweet
with a Silicon Valley start~up and, when the tech bubble
burst, responded to a Help Wanted sign at a French place
in her neighborhood. "I thought, 'While I'm figuring out
what the hell I'm gonna do when I grow up, why don't I
apply for this parMime job: I loved to cook:'
Twenty years later, she is still cooking. Along the way,
Byrne had her own place, November Cafe. "It struggled
and struggled, from day one. I had some great custom~
ers, including Williams~Sonoma and their corporate staff.
Chuck Williams would eat soup at my bar for lunch most
days, which was awesome. But I was never able to pay the
bills on time. I came back to New York and I struggled and
struggled and worked hard and scraped together a teeny bit
of money, but not much:'
This is where Swenson comes in: "It was at a funny
time in my life;' she says. "Monica wanted to open a wine
bar and I was like, 'I know nothing about that: "But, says
Byrne, "she loved me and wanted to help make my dreams
come true. I had big dreams and she was at a crossroads,
and she was willing to support me making them happen:'
Actually, Swenson-who
has a background in theater
and worked as a professional stage manager for many
years-had been having a similar dream. She had always
wanted to have a partner who she could own a business
with. "I didn't know what, but it was something I had always
thought about, and the time was right:'
To support their wine bar and cafe, Byrne became an
accidental caterer. "I did a wedding about eight years ago,
and the person I did the wedding for liked to write online
a lot. He gave me a referral to another person who also
blogged a lot, and I catered her wedding, and she wrote
about it ... and as a result, I became a wedding caterer:'
For the most part it's weddings but the duo also caters
corporate events and cocktail parties. "We do some small
lunches, dinner parties at people's houses ... and we have
a wonderful architect firm that we do their Christmas
party every year and out of which we've created great stra~
tegic relationships to do other work, some of it volunteer
work, with the [New York City Gay and Lesbian] Anti~
Violence Project. We now produce AVP's annual gala,
the Courage Awards. And we've produced the Red Hook
Pride Festival:'
Byrne and Swenson are cultivating an appetite for activ~
ism and formed the Red Hook LGBTQ Alliance. "We
contacted Red Hook Initiative, that serves kids who live
in the neighborhood-primarily
kids who grow up in the
Red Hook Houses, our [public housing] project, which is
half the population of Red Hook;' says Byrne. "They have
an LGBTQ teen group, so we contacted them to see if they
would like to participate, and they came on board. Within
six weeks we put together this organization and created this
amazing event. It was really phenomenal, and it is the start
of a lot of other work we could do:' (homemadebklyn.com)
■
Home/Made
Monica Byrne and Leisah Swenson pair their
food with queer activism. By Stephanie Schroeder
M
onica Byrne, co-owner and chef at Home/Made and
head honcho at Roquette Catering in Brooklyn,
N.Y., is an accidental chef. But she's making the most of
her good fortune in being able to finally follow her passion,
with delicious results. "I loved food but I was doing floral
design, which led to doing tabletop and photo styling. I
went to culinary school because I thought it would be fun,
and I wanted to learn how to make things taste the way I
could make them look:'
Along with her life partner, Leisah Swenson, Byrne is
living out her business and culinary dreams in Red Hook,
Brooklyn, east of Liberty Island in Upper New York Bay.
Trained at the French Culinary Institute, to get a foun~
dation and learn the basics, Byrne grew up in Manhattan's
T ribeca, "at a time when there were no grocery stores, only a
couple of cool restaurants, and the farmers' market at Union
Square:' As to what her culinary inspiration is based on,
she says, "For the most part, what I cook comes from what
I have done with my mother and what she and I have done
together, replicating things that we liked when we ate out.
A huge amount of what I cook today is a result of trial
and error and experimentation-things
that I had at other
places and loved and admired:'
Before she opened Home/Made, Byrne lived in San
Francisco,"when the economy was really bad and there was
no work in the design industry:' She says she got involved
November 2012
I 53
d
Uncor e
Canadak
E
rica Watson, who has advanced
certification in wines and spiritsan industry that is constantly
evolving-earned
her stripes at Colio Estate
Wines, where she sold wine, conducted
tastings and made wine and food pairings.
Here she opens up about her country's vino,
and serves up six personal favorites.
Yougrewupin Canada's
wineregion.I didn'tknowit hadone!
I grew up on the Niagara Peninsula, which is the largest vi~
ticulture area in Canada, and it is absolutely gorgeous. The
Beamsville Bench sub~appellation-where
I'm from-is
a small ribbon of land bordered to the north
by the south shore of Lake Ontario, and to the
south by the Niagara Escarpment [think cliff, as
in Niagara Falls]. It has quite a unique climate,
which enables it to produce some truly excellent
cool~climate wines. We can have extremely cold,
damp winters with a lot of snow, then incredibly
hot, humid, sunny summers, which allows for
perfect ripening conditions for wine grapes. The
area's proximity to Lake Ontario, with its warm~
ing effect on the air temperature, keeps these two
climate extremes in check, and the slopes of the
Niagara Escarpment afford growers maximum
exposure to the sun.
As wine~producing regions go, Niagara is
fairly small, with about 11,000 acres of vines,
but that doesn't mean the region doesn't make
an impact. On the world stage, Ontario is most
definitely best known for ice wine. Canada is
the only country that can consistently produce
ice wine year after year, and it is always highly
sought after. We also produce some incredible
Rieslings, Gewurztraminers, Chardonnays and
Sauvignon Blancs for white wines, and Pinot
Noirs, Gamays and Cabernet Francs for reds,
and many others. Unfortunately, though, most
of the world hasn't discovered this yet, because
very little Ontario wine is exported for sale.
I'veheardthatthewineindustry
canbehomophobic
andsexist.Areyououtat work?
54
I curve
A Canadian comes out as
a lesbian, and a sommelier.
By Merryn Johns
Yes, I am. I have been extremely lucky in that my sexual
orientation hasn't made any difference in regard to how
others at my workplace treat me. I have been well~accepted
by all my colleagues and have never felt the need to hide
who I am.
Morefemalechefsare enteringthe culinaryarts,but what
aboutwinemaking?
Willtherebemorefemalewineexperts?
Much of the wine industry is still dominated by the Old
Boys' Club mindset, but with wineries coming out with
labels and brands like Strut, Girls' Night Out, and Little
Black Dress, among others, there is a definite push toward
female~targeted marketing on the consumer side. On the
production side, I do believe more and more women are
starting to really make their mark in the avenues of wine
making, tasting, reviewing and writing. Women like Jancis
Robinson, Heidi Barrett, Mary Ewing~Mulligan and Helen
Turley, just to name a few, are helping to pave the way
for other women to come into their own as notable con~
tributors to wine culture. I do believe, at least in New
World wine~making regions, the gender bias is starting
to fade somewhat.
Anyadviceforlesbians
longing
to learnmoreaboutwine?
Read everything and anything you can find about wine.
There are hundreds of good books about wine and wine cul~
ture out there, aimed at everyone from the complete novice
to the seasoned professional. Educate yoursel£ and allow
Six Sippers
0
2005(2003iflcan
spoilmyself)Fontanafredda
Barolo,Piedmont,
Italy:
Thisverydry,medium-fullbodiedredoffersaromasof
spice,rosesandlicorice.It
hasfirm tanninstypicalof the
variety,well-balanced
acidity
andflavorsof riperaspberry,
aniseandleather.ThisBarolo
is a bit fruitierthansome
olderexamplesbut goesdown
deliciouslyandisn't too harsh,
leavinga mediumfinish.
Pairing:Ossobucco,roastbeef,
wild gameor a tomato-based
beefstew.Becertainit is a dish
with enoughproteinandbody
to matchthe tanninof the wine.
yourself to experiment with trying wines you've never
approached before. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in
the idea that good wines have to be the most expensive ones
on the she1£ or that good wines only come from the Old
World [France, Spain, Italy, etc.]. There are innumerable
wines out there, from all over the world, that are very reason~
ably priced and very good. That's probably the best way to
start. But overall, let your taste buds be your guide. You can
have all the knowledge and formal education in the world
about wine, but what truly matters is what you enjoy. ■
Erica's Top Half Dozen and Their Perfect Food Match
from a few yearsin the
bottle,makingit a lovely,
flavorfulwine.
Pairing:SteakOscarwith
grilledasparagus,roastbeef
with scallopedpotatoesand
greenvegetables,herbed
porkloin with roastedroot
vegetables.
8
2008 ColioEstateCEV
GamayNoir,VQALake
ErieNorthShore,Harrow,
Ontario,Canada:Lightin
bodyandeasy-drinking,
this
Gamayintroducesitself with
aromasof darkcherries,wild
strawberriesanda touchof
spice.Thepalateis pleasantly
fruity, continuingthe dark
f} 2007 KatnookEstate
cherryintroductionand
Founder's
BlockCabernet
bringingflavorsof raspberry
Sauvignon,
Coonawarra,
andpomegranate.
Moderate
SouthAustralia:Full-bodied acidityandlight tannins
and very pleasing,with a
balanceout the bodyof this
classicCabernetnose-full
wine andgiveit a very nice,
of rich dark berries,cedar
refreshingfinish.
anda hint of vanilla.It follows
Pairing:Roastturkey,grilled
throughwith flavorsof plums,
chicken,mildto medium
blackberries,mint andeucalyp- cheeses,or serveit very
tus. Thetanninsarefirm but
slightlychilledandenjoyit on
not austere,havingbenefited
its own.
8
2010/2011CrushFirst
White,VQAOntario,Winona,
Ontario,Canada:Thisis a
greatsummerwhiteto enjoy
out onthe patiowith friends.A
blendof PinotGrigio,Sauvignon
Blanc,Riesling,Gewurztraminer
andChardonnay,
it bringsboth
floralandfruit qualitiesto the
bouquet,with notesof rose,
gooseberry
andelderflower.
Thepalateis easyandrefreshing,bringingforwardcitrus,
juicy pearanda bit of orange
blossom.
Pairing:Barbecued
chicken,
grilledwhitefish,summer
salads,sandwichesor other
lightfare.
0
LegendsEstates2007
Chardonnay
Reserve,VQA
Ontario,Beamsville,
Ontario,
Canada:Thisis a fairly big,
medium-bodied
white,bringing
aromasof smoke,buttered
toastanda hint of apricots.
An excellentmineralqualityis
supportedby additionalflavors
of hazelnut,vanillaandripe
pear,with a beautifullongand
lingeringfinish.A solidcoreof
aciditygivesthis wine a lively
yet elegantfeel andensures
that it will last on the wine rack
for a few moreyearsto come.
Pairing:Spicychickengumbo
with Andouillesausage,
creamychickencornchowder,
barbecuedporkchopswith
cornon the cobanda spinach
andradicchiosalad.
0
GilbertChonClosde la
ChapelleMuscadetSevreet-MaineSur Lie,Loire,
France2009: Notshort on
complexity:Aromasof white
peach,citrus, perfumeand
seasalt leadthe way to a
refreshingpalateof lemon,
lime,apricot,fines herbes
and mineralnotes(iodine).
Havingbeenleft on the lees
(encouragingcomplexity),
this wine hasa zestyquality
backedup by fine acidity,
leavinga long,deliciously
mouthwateringfinish.
Pairing:Shellfish,steamed
musselsin a white wine
andSauceFinesHerbes,
bouillabaisse,
coldroastpork
or vegetariancabbagerolls.
November 2012
I 55
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THE
RETURN
HE
BYKIMHOFFMAN
~Thursday
night, and K,yomiMcCloskey is on your TV
She emerges on stage, a guitar slung in front of her and gripping
a bottle of Jack Daniel's. "Cheers!" she salutes the crowd, her voice
soaked with raspy rock 'n' roll seduction. And then, with a ferocious
growl, she introduces her band. "We're Hunter Valentine-who's
ready to party?" They're on tour, and their lives are being filmed
for The Real L Word, where there's no contest as to who the new
bad girl will be. But if you think lesbian reality television perfectly
captures McCloskey's life, think again.
With her jet-black hair and pouty lips, her body clad head-to-toe
in leather, Hunter Valentine's front woman may not look like someone you'd bring home to meet mom- this Canadian is a serious
dose of wild child Sapphic eye candy-but
behind those designer
shades is a woman who is trying to pull off a risky tightrope act,
balancing being a rock star with being an adult-which
means
managing both her band and her relationships, and knowing when
to walk away. On the third season of The Real L Word we watched
McCloskey survive breakups (both professional and amorous),
rock the stage, hit the road on tour and even find a new love,
but that was just the beginning.
November 2012
I 57
lene Chaiken, the creator of The Real L Word, went
bi~coastal this season and brought in a handful ofladies from
the East Coast to add more texture to the show. If you've
been keeping up with the guilty pleasure of TRLW, you
know that McCloskey isn't exactly chucking TVs into the
hotel swimming pool or diving into spontaneous threesomes
at Dinah Shore, despite the image she projected in the first
few episodes."Half the things I say on the show-I'm joking;'
McCloskey says in her own defense.
Her queer~rock dreams have hurtled into the living rooms
of a post-L Word world where reality is painted onto a seem~
ingly black~and~white canvas, where the characters all seem
to fit a certain stereotype, some remnant of Shane, Jenny, or
Alice. But McCloskey-who has been called everything from
the real~life Shane to the East Coast Whitney Mixter-isn't
trying to be anyone but hersel£ When we first spoke, early
in the season, she said, "I think that I'm being painted as a
pretty bad guy. But maybe there'll be a turnaround by the
end of the season:' After all, it's entertainment, and she isn't
short on that.
So, who is the real Kiyomir
She's a rock star cut from the same cloth as her hero, Joan
Jett-whom
she cites as a major influence."JoanJett has that
upper lip snarl to her, and she has that rock 'n' roll attitude;'
McCloskey says. Though their sounds are on different ends
of the rock spectrum, there is a gutsy raucousness in both
their voices. They are wild bellowers who tell it like it is. And
ss I curve
that kind of unapologetic authenticity can easily come off
as cockiness. But to assume that McCloskey is all ego is to
misunderstand her completely. As to her bad~girl (read hard~
partying and one~night womanizing) behavior, McCloskey
has this to say: "Some people might look a little deeper and
realize that I was actually doing some self~exploration:'
McCloskey adds, "I think people read me as being this
super~tough guy. But you can't judge this leather~bound book
by her cover. And I'm sort of the opposite of that. I feel things
deeply-that's why I'm a songwriter. If a situation doesn't get
resolved in my head, it will stay with me for weeks:' I ask her
if she's a romantic, and her response is a resounding yes. 'T ve
felt that way since I was a teenager;' she says. And as many
of us know, romantics don't just reach up their sleeve and
produce frilly cliches. Sometimes they shoot to thrill-being
realists and dreamers all in one. And that's McCloskey. She's
not as jaded and as impossible to impress as we think, when
it comes to love. After all, her Twitter handle is Kiyomance.
Speaking of her love life, we all watched along as the
selfprofessed commit~o~phobe fell head over heels for her
gorgeous pink~haired cast mate, Lauren Russell, in Palm
Springs while at Dinah Shore. But for McCloskey and
Russell what happened in the desert didn't stay there, and in
the season finale the duo made it official.
So, what's happened since the credits have rolled on
The Real L Wordr McCloskey confesses that she and
Russell are still going strong; in fact, they've recently made
plans to U ~ Haul it to the Big Apple "I learned that it is
possible to love someone unconditionally;' says McCloskey
of her Dinah~born romance. "She has changed my whole
world:' She thinks it'll be funny for them, 10 years from
now, to watch their budding relationship as it was docu~
mented on camera.
McCloskey says she's come a long, long way from who
she was in episode one, when she acquired her heartbreaker
reputation. "The first few episodes really set the tone for what
people thought my personality was. I really watched myself
transform on camera, coming out of a not~so~good situation,
where I was unhappy, to a situation where I was happy:' She
was enlightened by what she observed.
McCloskey has finally found some peace and happiness in
her relationship with Hunter Valentine, as well. She formed
HV in 2004, while she was still living in Toronto with her
best friend, the drummer Laura Petracca. According to
McCloskey, Petracca knows her better than anyone else. The
two met shortly after McCloskey had come out, at 16, and was
sneaking into Toronto's gay bars. "I was a little bit of a punk;'
McCloskey jokes. "I snuck into this bar, one of the older
bars in Toronto called Crews and Tangos, and my friends and
I were wearing these '80s cycling glasses, and Laura took one
look at us and was like, 'I wanna talk to those girls: She walks
up to us with all her bravado, and we start chatting, and my
friend is like, 'You should hear Kiyomi play music, she's really
good: And Laura was like, 'Oh yeahr Sure she is:"
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talked about music for the rest of the night, but
their connection was nearly lost in the following months,
despite McCloskey's attempts to track Petracca downwhich included trying to reunite with her at the restaurant
where she worked, only to discover that she'd just left for a
three~month sabbatical. Several months later, they ran into
each other one night by chance, at the same bar. "I was like,
'I need you now!'" McCloskey recalls with gusto. "She came
over to my house, we jammed, it worked out really well, and
we started playing shows as a two~piece. The rest is history:'
The duo became a trio with the addition of bassist
Adrienne Lloyd, and by 2005 the Hunter Valentine EP
was released. The idea of Hunter Valentine began as a sexy,
gender~neutral, James Dean~like figure who, McCloskey
says, "encompassed this rock 'n' roll heartbreaker who carried
that rock 'n' roll attitude:' Two years later, after the success of
The Impatient Romantic, their first full~length album, Hunter
Valentine began to tour with other like~minded musicians,
including the Cliks, Dragonette and the all~girl rock group
Sick of Sarah, who are now their close friends. By the time
2010 rolled in, they were prepared to release their third
album, an epilogue to the years of touring and partying,
the highs and lows of relationships, the hard~won wisdom
of growing up. Appropriately, it was called Lessons From the
Late Night.
After six years, McCloskey and Petracca parted ways
with Lloyd and began to reconstruct the rock~hard bones of
Hunter Valentine, adding bassist Vero Sanchez. "We were
about to go on tour with Sick of Sarah and Vanity Theft, for
the Lady Killer Tour, and we really needed a bass player. I go
to Metropolitan all the time on Wednesdays, which is the big
girl~night in Brooklyn, and Vero is a bartender there, and is
like that one bartender you can kind of tell all your problems
to;' says McCloskey.
60
I
curve
Sanchez, the laid~back and sensible voice of reason in
the group-who,
in the season finale of TRLW noted, "It's
hard to be a Valentine" -spoke about wanting to pick up
the bass again. So, McCloskey put her through bass boot
camp and taught her all the HV songs. She's been with
them ever since. "Laura and I both have very strong person~
alities. Extroverts. She's more of an extrovert than I am, as
you can see with her getting naked in the middle of the street.
But Vero really balances out the band and keeps everybody
grounded;' McCloskey says, recalling how predictable-if
over the top-their
dynamic can be at times. "That was like
a regular Hunter Valentine moment [when Laura got naked
in a TRL W episode that involved some good old~fashioned
day~drinking]. We were like, 'Oh my God: But at the same
time, not that shocked:'
Incidents like that are spinoff~worthy reminders that
Hunter Valentine is a band of take~it~or~leave~itladies, each
powered by a strapping personality. They can embrace one
another's behaviors, but, like any group of girls, sometimes
they find themselves in the eye of a hurricane, their forces
clashing. TV audiences got a front row seat for exactly what
that can look like in the band's short~lived collaboration with
its now former keyboardist, Somer Bingham. According to
McCloskey, she hasn't seen much of Bingham lately. With a
heavy sigh, she dispenses a few words of almighty girl~band
wisdom. "There is no doubt in my mind that Somer will do
big things with her career and music. When you're in a band
together, you cycle up-no
I'm just kidding;' she laughs,
offering up that lightness we've seen many a time."It's hard to
be in a band, in general;' she continues. "You have to navigate
everyone's different personalities. I always say, I would take
hanging out with a crazy person over a boring person any day
of the week. And we're all crazy in our own little ways-you
just need to learn to have this ultimate respect for your band
mates and you have to learn how to pick and choose your
battles;' says McCloskey, knowing well that the patience to
do so only comes with time.
And time has certainly brought Hunter Valentine the
much~deserved recognition they set out to achieve. After all,
it is all about the music, and that's something they can agree
on, putting their differences behind them the minute they
reach the stage and plug in to the night.
"When the good times are rolling, it's the best thing ever.
And when you finally get out of the van, after a 12~hour drive
and numerous fights, you get to play on stage with your close
friends to a roomful of people who have been waiting to hear
your music. There's nothing really more rewarding than that,
at the end of the day;' says McCloskey.
The group is standing tall, still touring like mad, and
remaining grounded in the post~release high of their first
album as a foursome, Collide and Conquer, which dropped
in October. It's all about perspective. "Out of all of our
records, for this one we really sat down in the studio every
day and hammered out songs piece by piece. There's ballads
on there, there's harder rock songs, there's straight up pop
songs;' says McCloskey.
"I THINKPEOPLE
README
ASBEINGTHISSUPERTOUGHGUY BUTI'M
SORTOF THEOPPOSITE
OF THATI FEELTHINGS
DEEPLYTHAT'SWHY I'M
A SONGWRITER."
Collideand Conquersteps away from previous HV albums,
playing on new themes. Collaboration was at an all,time
high, everyone's opinions and ideas reaching the proverbial
drawing board. "You're working with a bunch of musicians,
which means you're working with a bunch of egos, and so
you don't really want to be negative about anyone's ideas
when they first come to the table;' she explains.
On the album, you'll find a song about a Vegas girl working
on the Strip, as well as their homage to the "It Gets Better"
campaign-a queer youth anthem sure to please young fans,
many of whom reach out to McCloskey daily and want to
know what it takes to be just like her.
She's playing it smart, too-making
sure to focus only
on the positive, instead of Googling around for negative
comments about her and the show, which she knows all too
well are out there. Truly, there's no time for drama as Hunter
Valentine keeps showing up for gig after gig. Since she's
hardly ever alone, McCloskey has learned how important it
is to take a long walk after the sound check and leave some
time just for herself. But after the band has been touring for
months on end, getting off the road and returning home can
also be daunting-they're
like rock warriors returning from
a battle zone. "There's this weird culture shock when you get
off of a tour, where you don't really feel like a human being
because you've been doing the same thing for a number of
months, so you don't know how to relate to your friends right
away. You sit in your house for a couple of hours and you feel
so strange, and you call your band mates and you're like, 'Let's
hang out. Help me!'" she says, with a catch in her voice.
This may surprise some TRLW viewers, who only saw
the rocky side of Hunter Valentine. McCloskey explains that
many of the scenes that showcased the friendship between
her band mates were left out of the final cut. "I wish they
could have shown more of my dynamic with Laura, because
it's a very complex one:'
With the season behind her now, she's ready to take
on anything. She's even doing some acting-most recently,
taking the lead in the short film Hector, a project that
Michele Abbott, co,creator of The L Word, is involved in.
McCloskey is playing Hector, and she's buzzing to explore
this new terrain.
She's also exploring new territory with Hunter Valentineliterally.The focus remains on always expanding their audience.
It isn't unusual for McCloskey to get on a plane to go cross,
country, or drive up to Canada for the night, zigzagging across
the U.S. and back again. Since grinding it out on the road is
what they do best, the band has their eye on some untouched
frontiers-possibly Japan and Australia next.
While the world is always ready for Hunter Valentine, the
question is, is McCloskey's new relationship actually ready
to withstand all the touring:' Some say you can't have the
career and the relationship, but power lesbians know better.
According to McCloskey, her partner just has to be on board
with a musician's come,and,go situation. In this case, she says
she's found that in Russell, who has her own career as the
founder and designer of Lyon Fine Jewelry-just check out
her Equality bracelet, which represents the fight gor gay mar,
riage rights. "Being a musician can affect your relationship,
because it takes a lot of time and dedication, if you're really
going to do it. I really need somebody to be equally as driven
and passionate about what they do. I think it's important in
a relationship for your partner to inspire you, and for you
to inspire your partner;' says McCloskey, pausing to consider
one final "must": "I kind of like a little bit of a bad ass:'
Lately, all the pieces of her life are coming together for
McCloskey, not only as a musician but as an individual. Her
tightrope act has gotten easier to perform. And as for that
wild,child label she's got-well, let's just say, she doesn't give
a damn about her bad reputation. ■
November 2012
I 61
THE MIDWESTERN CULINARY CAPITAL OFFERS SO MUCH MORE
THAN DEEP-DISH PIZZA. BY KELSY CHAUVIN
IT IS A DELICIOUS CITY, Chicago: Just ask anyone which
food the Windy City is most celebrated for and they'll come up
with deep~dish pizza and hot dogs. Never mind that the pizza
came from Italy and hot dogs from Coney Island-it is the mighty
appetite of Chicagoans that brought them both to the next level of
decadence. And this town has many more scrumptious dishes to
tempt the willing traveler.
One of the top culinary destinations of late belongs to TopChef
season four winner (and cutie pie) Stephanie Izard. Open since
2010, GirlandtheGoat(girlandthegoat.com) is part of a vibrant res~
taurant scene situated in and among the converted warehouses of
the West Loop. Izard's lovely, preserved~industrial vibe creates a
luscious space where diners come to be dazzled by her innovative
fare. Like most of today's top restaurants, the Goat uses simple,
fresh, seasonal ingredients, and magically transforms them into
many~flavored explosions-think
roasted cauliflower with pickled
peppers, pine nuts and mint, or Squash Blossom Rangoon: crab,
chive yogurt and almonds. Although getting a table may take a spell,
sipping on the Goat's outstanding cocktails will inspire patience.
If serious barbeque appeals, drift a bit northward to Barn&
62
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Company(barnandcompany.com) in Lakeview. The theme here is
"slow and low;' and the flavor~packed pulled pork, the smoky ribs
with a sauce sampler, and the crisp~yet~juicy chicken all showcase
that succulent style. Features include an outdoor patio and daily
fire~pit specials.
Of course, you can't leave Chicago without some deep~dish. Local
chains such as LouMalnati'sor Giordano's
will satisfy, but an evening
at Lincoln Park's ChicagoPizzaandOvenGrinder(chicagopizzaan~
dovengrinder.com) will have you proclaiming, "It is a far, far better
thing that I do:' The place often has a line out the door, and for good
reason: Its famous Pizza Pot Pie has no rival. Visualize if you will a
dough~lined bowl filled with cheese, sauce and other toppings, and
capped with a baked~dough blanket-which then somersaults onto
your plate as a stuffed pizza that the server cuts into wedges. This
place is legendary.
Speaking of classics, take your appetite to breakfast at Lou
Mitchell's(loumitchellsrestaurant.com), a restaurant and bakery
in the Loop. The cure for any hangover is waiting for you at this
1923 Chi~town institution; consider the sour cream and tomato
"fluffy jumbo omelette;' served in a frying pan half~filled with
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The famous Chicago theater sign (clockwise from left); architectural
wonders of the Lake Michigan waterfront; Chef Stephanie Izard and
signature dish wood oven-roasted pig face; hot dog Chicago-style
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crispy hash browns. (Don't forget the homemade biscuit.)
Boystown has long been a conveniently named gaybor,
hood not far from downtown. It's a great area to stroll,
shop and of course dine like the locals do. But in recent
years, Andersonville has emerged as the premier queer
stomping ground, thanks to its many gay,owned and
,operated establishments. After you shop at Women&
ChildrenFirst(womenandchildrenfirst.com)
and the non,
(howardbrown.
profit secondhand shop TheBrownElephant
org), wet your whistle at one of many lesbian,friendly
cafes and lounges along North Clark Street, like Parlour
(parlouronclark.com). Farther down on Clark is T's Bar&
Restaurant
(tsbarchicago.com), where you can enjoy a meal
on the outdoor patio. You can get a great burger, or try
something with more flair-maybe the pretzel,encrusted
chicken or pumpkin seed pesto over fusilli.
bakery,restaurant
Drop by gay,owned A Tasteof Heaven
(atasteofheavenchicago.com) for a yummy brunch or light
dinner, or just to grab a fresh,baked cupcake. The gay
Mary's(hamburgermarys.com/
restaurant chain Hamburger
chicago), across Clark Street, has fun events at Mary's Attic
and the sports,bar,style Mary's Rec Room, with satisfying
pub fare to boot.
It is joyful and fulfilling just to sample what's cooking in
Chicago-especially if you remember to pace yoursel£ ■
November 2012
I 63
YOU'LL BE SATED, SCANDALIZED
AND SOMEWHAT STUNNED BY
SIN CITY. BY GILLIAN KENDALL
l'VE ALWAYS WANTED to join the Sisters of Perpetual
Indulgence. Founded in San Francisco, the Sisters comprise street
theater/ social awareness/ activist groups of drag nuns who often
sport bearish beards with their habits and pray to the Blessed Virgin
in deep, throaty voices. In their black-and-white gowns and rhinestone rosaries, they clown around with onlookers at Pride marches,
protest anything homo-oppressive and generally promote safe,
not-so-innocent fun that's of the sexiest, most self-indulgent kind.
Unfortunately for me, the Sisters are mostly male, and they don't
have a chapter where I live. But last week, I felt like an honorary (or
dishonorary!) member of the troupe during my time in Las Vegas.
My first visit to Sin City, to research all things queer, left me more
than satisfied: I was sated, scandalized and somewhat stunned by
the onslaught of food, drink, drag and other forms of, yes, perpetual
indulgence that combine, clash and kaleidoscopically converge in
the four-mile-long area known as the Strip.
For the first time in my life, I was picked up from the airport in
a stretch limo. From then on, Presidential Limo supplied the ride
every time I left the hotel-or actually, every time I left"THEhotel
at Mandalay Bay;' as it's called and capitalized. That contrived spelling encourages pronunciation with the emphasis on the definite
article, as if it's the onlyhotel in Las Vegas, instead of one of dozens
that collectively offer 150,000 rooms. THEhotel is at THEend of
THEStrip-get
it?
Still, despite its gimmicky moniker, THEhotel does offer THE
best view of the Strip from its Alain Ducasse-inspired miX Lounge
on the 64th floor, and my spacious suite was tres luxe, if a little less
than restful, due to the late-night revelry from the streets, cocktail
bars, pools, casinos and partying sisters six floors below.
But no one comes to Vegas to get a good night's rest, and anyway, most nights I was out late. For instance, I spent a few cheery
hours at the Chandelier Bar at the Cosmopolitan, where the "mixologists" unveil trays of lavender, sea green and pale orange drinks
like intoxicating works of art. True to its name, the Chandelier
Bar is not just lit but surrounded by interwoven strings of crystals,
which are draped like blingy cobwebs. The bar is a perfect place
for a romantic marriage proposal, or a romantic quickie (if you can
find a dark corner).
My companions and I had ample opportunities to, uh, network
at the many parties (pool, cocktail, cocktail-in-pool, etc.) organized
by MGM Resorts' Fabulous Las Vegas, an annual weekend event
aimed at the gayest of revellers. Even beyond the massive MGM
complex, the Strip's endless parties, shows, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and, oh yes, casinos, all wanted us badly-now. And beyond
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the Strip lies the rest of Las Vegas, including the old, neon,lit
Fremont Street area (pedestrians,only ). You'll find the overwhelming
entertainment choices listed in the free gay print magz: Night Beat
or QVegas (with a female editor!), or you can download Q Vegas,
the new, free, all,gay iPhone app, for up,to,the,nanosecond party
news and more.
One show not to miss is Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas at the
Imperial Palace, a two,hour, ooh,la,la extravaganza of impressive
impersonations, catty celebrity gossip and a little bit of real heart.
A person can get worn out with all the late nights, long after,
noons and early mornings-not
to mention endless libations and
clever conversation-so it was with relief that I scheduled a morning
at the Caesars Palace Qua Spa. An amazing deep massage started
the relaxation routine, which I completed with long silent soaks in
pools of various thrilling temperatures, until I was rehydrated and
ready for more of everything va,va,va,Vegas.
Serendipity 3, a wildly popular pink,and,white eatery at Caesars,
resembles an idealized ice cream parlor from the '50s. It's only on
closer inspection that one observes the rows of top,shelf liquor
behind the soda fountain, and notes the 2012 prices for the indul,
gent brunch items (Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is a big seller, though
too sweet for this sugar addict). If deep,fried Oreos sound a little
intense, go for the Tex,Mex,y eggs or an omelet. No matter what
you want to eat, go early, before everyone else has shaken off their
hangovers, or be prepared to wait for a table.
Just as Las Vegas is called "Vegas" by its residents, they never
refer to Cirque du Soleil by anything other than its first syllable.
There are currently three Cirque shows playing in Vegas, and a local
man who learned that I was seeing Zumanity said, "Oh, you' re going
to the porn one!"
Well no, not really. The "adult" show didn't seem pornographic
to this polyamorous bi,dyke, but, strangely, a couple of gay male
friends were actually offended, though I think less by the displays of
nudity (no shirts on the women, big deal) than by the lack of overt
male sex acts. I myself-and, no doubt, the many straight men in
the audience-relished
the sight of two young women cavorting
inside a large fishbowl, and I liked the panorama of reason,
ably diverse sexuality throughout the show. One caveat: The two
fat characters were also the only ones who were totally comic and
asexual. I kept hoping for a scene that would reveal the two large,
middle,aged women's beauty and sensuality, but there was none.
The best and most purely beautiful hours I spent in Vegas were in
a front row center seat for the k.d lang show at the graceful, brand,
new Smith Center for the Performing Arts. To my amazement, the
theater was not sold out, but the locals seemed enthusiastic, espe,
cially when k.d., who has performed in spectacular venues worldwide,
praised the new art deco-style theater, saying how lovely it was
and how very grateful she was to be there. For myself, I will never
again wash my right hand: k.d. high,fived me in passing during
the rock,out version of"Miss Chatelaine:•
Thanks to a marketing catchphrase, it used to be that "What
happens in Vegas stays in Vegas:• Now, apparently, what happens
in Vegas goes viral, especially weddings at the Viva Las Vegas
Wedding Chapel, where not only can a marriage be performed
by Elvis in a vintage pink Cadillac, or a goth union be witnessed
by vampires popping out of coffins, but the event can be streamed
live on the Internet for thousands of your closest cyber friends.
Ironically enough, the business is owned by a gay couple, who can't
legally marry in their own state; nevertheless, a small percentage of
their 400 to 500 celebrations a month are same,sex unions.
After too much fun, I was delighted to board my boring AirTran
flight to the relative serenity of Atlanta Hartfield Airport: I slept
all the way. I enjoyed what happened in Las Vegas, and I'd go back
next year for Gay Days, or Shedonism at Rumor Boutique Hotel,
or another Cirque show. But my first attempt to rock glitzy Sin
City had been altogether overwhelming. Anybody want to join me
at a nunnery:' ■
Almost everyone
has a favorite part of
Vegas-something that
keeps them coming
back. Maybe it's the glitz
of the Strip, or the thrill
of the roulette wheel.
For me, it's Rumor, a
queer-friendly boutique
hotel that serves as
my personal retreat
in Sin City. Unlike the
labyrinthine mega-hotels
Vegas is known for,
Rumor, just off the Strip,
is a sophisticated place
with an easy-to-navigate
floor plan. The hotel
has no casino to speak
of, giving it a relaxed
atmosphere, but should
you fancy a flutter, hop
across the street to the
Hard Rock Hotel, known
for its great casino and
world-class events. For a
small fee, Rumor guests
can also head to the Hard
Rock's remarkable gym
and spa facilities.
Rumor is elegant.
Each of its 149 suites
(every room is a suite)
has gorgeous blackand-white decor, silver
lighting and violet, red
and aqua accents. The
beds are deluxe, with
fluffy comforters and tons
of pillows, and there are
mirrors. Lots of mirrors. If
you enjoy a good
soak, like I do, make
sure to request a room
with a soaking tub-big
enough for you and your
lovely lady.
And because you
are, after all, in Sin City,
Rumor is a wee bit
naughty. The artwork in
the rooms hints at the
hotel's reputation as a
swingers' destination,
as do the sofas facing
the five-person shower
in the "Wet Room" (one
of Rumor's four megasuites). Yeah, I said
"mega-suites." These
enormous themed suites
are great for birthday
parties, bachelorette
parties and any kind of
one-on-one naughtiness.
What else? Rumor plays
host to queer events,
including Shedonism, the
official women's event
for Las Vegas Pride, and
Gay Spring Break. For
lesbian ethical eaters,
Addiction Restaurant
can accommodate a
vegetarian, gluten-free
diet. And for pet-loving
lesbians, Third Thursday
Yappy Hours cater to
four-legged friends
and their owners.
(rumorvegas.com)
[KristinFlickinger]
November 2012
I 65
Outdoor hot tub (clockwise);
Sandhamn signage; beer and
shrimp; fresh chanterelles
OUTDOOR FUN AND FINE FOOD ON
STOCKHOLM'S ARCH I PELAGO.
BYCONSTANCEPARTEN
IF YOU'VE BEEN PINING FOR a beautiful European
getaway that includes fresh and innovative cuisine, cutting~edge
culture and a pristine and breathtaking natural setting-and
doesn't require learning another language-Stockholm
and its
surrounding cluster of islands could be just the thing.
Summer in Stockholm is a relaxed time to visit, and August is
often the warmest month of the year. It's also when crayfish are in
season. This national delicacy is celebrated everywhere with feasts at
which the diners wear party hats! In addition to the Mediterranean
weather and the festive shellfish dinners, there's also Stockholm
Pride-one of the largest Pride festivals in Europe (boasting some
very stylish queer girls). And since almost everyone in Scandinavia's
Capital City speaks English, you won't feel excluded if your Swedish
is a little rusty. Once you're done with the eating, the partying
and Pride, though, you'll definitely want to stick around for other
adventures. There's plenty more to do, see and eat-regardless of
your venturesome proclivities.
and incomparable views of the Royal Palace and the Gamla Stan
or Old Town. The Grand Hotel (grandhotel.se) is also a dining
hub: For a world~class Swedish smorgasbord, there's Veranda res~
taurant; in addition, there are Mathias Dahlgren's two restaurants,
which between them have earned three Michelin stars. When you
stay, don't skip the Nordic Spa & Fitness club-the Swedes do this
so well! Going from the ladies' sauna to the ice~cold plunge pool
(it's designed to resemble a woodland pond both in appearance and
temperature) is an addictive and exhilarating experience.
If the Grand is a bit out of reach financially, a more affordable
but still stylish option is the Clarion Hotel Sign (clarionsign.com),
conveniently located near public transportation and the city center.
The hotel's full~service spa is a great place to unwind after a busy
day of sightseeing, and the outdoor patio, just steps away, is perfect
for a glass of champagne and a light snack while you're still wearing
your spa robe. Then get a good night's rest in your spacious roomwhich of course features modern Scandinavian design-because
you'll need to be ready for your next foray into Baltic culture.
zw
BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BEST
The Grand Hotel is five~star luxury, with Old World decor and
service. It's been a destination of choice for Europe's elite since
1874. Whenever the legendary Greta Garbo visited her home city,
she invariably chose to stay at the Grand, with its waterfront location
66
I curve
ART IN THE ARCHIPELAGO
There are countless cultural wonders in the city of Stockholm, from
the brilliant Fotografiska (The Swedish Museum of Photography),
open since 2010, to the Nordiska Museet (Nordic Museum), open
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smce 1873 and featuring the history of Sweden from the 16th
century onward. The new Sprit Museum (spritmuseum.se), an
unusual and entertaining experience, is dedicated to the history of
alcohol consumption in Sweden, and is also a monument to Absolut
vodka. Among its offerings, Sprit Museum houses many works of
art that Absolut has commissioned to advertise and commemorate
its exceedingly gay-friendly liquor. By all means, take the tasting
tour. You'll never do a shot of vodka the same way again.
Because you are in Scandinavia, culture doesn't stop in the city
but continues all the way to the Arctic Circle. Don't worry-you
outdoor showers and an incinerating toilet. All the structures are
in harmony with the surrounding environment, but for that little
touch of glam, the tents feature designer beds, tasteful furnishings
and compact wood-burning stoves. The large outdoor hot tub,
which overlooks the Baltic Sea, is heated by a wood fire. Soaking in
it at sunset, as the sea birds arc overhead on their way to roost, is an
unforgettable and very romantic experience.
Accommodating two to 21 people, Island Lodge is just the spot
for an idyllic wedding, a family gathering or an extraordinary anniversary celebration. Bonde and Berglund offer a host of customized
experiences, everything from berry picking to beverages on their
private dock. Local chefs can be engaged to provide daily meals during your stay. Berglund and Bonde both speak fluent English, will
answer any questions through their website, and are eager to make
your visit the experience of a lifetime.
SAND DUNES AND SALTYAIR
won't have to go that far to enjoy Artipelag. It'sjust a 20-minute drive
(or a one-hour boat ride) from the heart of Stockholm (artipelag.se).
This new international cultural center, which is the brainchild of
the family behind the Baby Bjorn brand, brings together architectural innovation, art exhibitions, cultural activities, music, design
and good food in a woodsy waterfront environment.
Situated on a 54-acre island and nestled among pine trees,
with magnificent views of the water, the building was designed
by the late Swedish-American architect Johan Nyren. View the
art and architecture, walk the nature trails around the island, then
enjoy a romantic dinner at Baggen Restaurant (be sure to make a
reservation), taking in a beautiful sunset over the archipelago.
GO ISLAND HOPPING
If you're ready to explore the 60-kilometer-wide oasis of islands and
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islets that is the archipelago, consider a lunch cruise aboard the SS
Stockholm, from Stockholm to the picturesque town of Vaxholm.
Not only will you get a lovely view of the islands, the lunch offers
a variety of classic Swedish fare, including local salmon, fish roe,
dilled potatoes and shrimp salad. Vegetarian and vegan options are
available upon request.
To truly experience the tranquility of the archipelago, there is
a place that's perfect for groups or couples seeking total seclusion:
Island Lodge (islandlodge.se). This rustic, sustainable and yet luxurious accommodation is a short boat ride from Vaxholm and was
designed by two very smart Scandinavians. Torkild Berglund, from
Norway, and Kristina Bonde, a Swede who has spent time in South
Africa, both of whom understand glamping (glamorous camping)
at its absolute finest. This private, uninhabited and undeveloped
island has seven geodesic dome tents, a tented lodge and kitchen,
For a well-populated experience, head to Sandhamn ( sandhamn.
com), a quaint old fishing village on a small island on the outer edge
of the archipelago. Sweden's answer to Martha's Vineyard, it has
just 100 permanent residents, but don't expect Sandhamn to be
quiet and sleepy, especially in the summer. It is a favorite destination of pleasure boaters and sun seekers, who gather at the town's
marina, its restaurants, bars, cafes and sandy beaches to celebrate
the short sweet season.
Surprisingly, Sandhamn doesn't feel crowded, even at the peak
of the tourist season. One reason is that the island doesn't allow
motorized vehicles, so the only way to explore the quaint shops and
laneways-or the island's beaches (warning: the water is a bracing
68 degrees at most)-is by foot or on a bicycle.
When it comes to accommodations, try Seglarhotell, the largest
of a handful of hotels in Sandhamn. Situated on the marina, it is at
the center of everything. While the average double room is small,
the furnishings are comfortable and the food at the restaurant is
outstanding. The smoked shrimp with garlic aioli should not be
missed and, paired with an ice-cold local beer, the meal is a Swedish
culinary gem.
As you wend your way through the islands on your return trip to
Stockholm, courtesy of Cinderella Boats, you'll notice some lovely
vacation homes, no doubt owned by Sweden's elite; but you'll also
see tents pitched on the hills, people hiking and sightseeing, fishing
and boating around the shore. All this outdoor recreation is not
financed through Parks and Recreation permits or seasonal fees, but
is available because of a basic Swedish law known as allemansratt,
literally "all-mans-right;' which allows everyone to roam and camp
freely, as long as they keep an agreeable distance (150 meters) from
a landowner's primary dwelling. Martha's Vineyard it's not, so raise
your glass of aquavit and say ska.Ito the ever-tolerant and generous
Swedes, who will give you a summer vacation to savor.
HOW TO GETTHERE
Gay-friendly SAS flies direct from New York to Stockholm (flysas.
com). For the Vaxholm cruise, a brunch or dinner cruise, a boat to
Artipelag, or the Cinderella Boats, Stromma Kanalbolaget offers
reliable, clean, efficient and affordable service (stromma.se). To begin
creating your itinerary go to visitstockholm.com/ gay-lesbian. ■
November 2012
I 67
A VISIT LACED WITH ITALIAN PASTRIES,
SOUTHERN BAR BEQUE AND THE SPICY
MADDOW. BY JILLIAN EUGENICS
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The Blue Heron (from left); Boston Museum of Fine Arts; Tiffani Faison of
Sweets Cheeks; the Old Creamery and their goodies; Faison's Giant Nutter
Butter; Barbara White with Chef Deborah Snow of the Blue Heron
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MINUTES AFTER I ARRIVED in Boston, I was standing at a
corner in the North End, also known as Little Italy, unsure which
way to turn. A few construction guys were lined up next to the
crosswalk, eating sandwiches on their break. One of them called
out, "Did you just get here? Where are you from?"
I ignored them because I live in New York, where being oblivious
to the existence of other people is a carefully cultivated skill. One
of them sauntered over. Aware that my obliviousness tactic was no
match for a huge guy with an even bigger Boston accent, I relented
and told him I was looking for my hotel, and some lunch. Turned
out, my hotel was far but my lunch was close. He pointed across
the street. "Go see Maria for pizza. And a cannoli. Promise me you
will have a cannoli:'
I'd heard Mike's Pastry was the place to go for cannoli, but a
promise is a promise and now I was headed to Maria's. Maria
herself filled my cannoli with chocolate cream (vanilla cream and
the traditional sweetened ricotta are also on offer). Every cannoli
she sells is filled right when it's ordered, not a minute before.
I ended up back at Maria's a couple of days later, on a food
tour with Jim Becker from Food Tours of Boston. A tour with
him or one of his colleagues is a must, not only for a fascinating
history of Boston's oldest neighborhood, but also for the stopoffs
in salumerie the size of closets, and the stories you'll hear from the
people who work there.
After you fill up on Italian delights, become one of the million
people who visit Boston's Museum of Fine Arts annually. When I
visited the MFA, I saw an exhibit paying homage to the goddess
Aphrodite, with works of art on loan from Rome and Naples. If
you're after something a little different, take a five~minute walk
over to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, known for show~
casing and nurturing young artists.
Satiated with culture, I felt the need for actual food. I walked
a short 10 minutes through the lawns of the Back Bay Fens to
Sweet Cheeks Q which bills itself as "the American South north
of the Mason Dixon:' It's a newish restaurant owned by Top Chef
finalist (and out lesbian) Tiffani Faison. She told me that she de~
cided to go with a barbeque restaurant because her mother's side
of the family is from the South, and barbeque was the one thing
she missed the most when she first moved to Boston. Some of the
sides on Faison's menu, like the must~have mac n' cheese, are in~
spired by her morn's home cooking. And Sweet Cheeks is a stone's
throw from Fenway Park. Is there a better combination than base~
ball and barbeque?
While you're in Boston, be sure to take off your shoes and walk
through the grass on Boston Common, and on a sunny day check
out the South Boston Waterfront and Seaport District. Temazcal
Cantina is right on the water, offering great views and potent
margaritas, which you can order from an iPad menu.
After gorging on Boston, grab a car and head a couple of hours
west to Northampton, where the lesbian~centric version of your
trip really begins. Downtown Northampton is perfect for a self~
guided walking tour of the local shops and the outstanding Smith
College Museum of Art, where you'll find everything from medi~
eval to modern. Stop in at Northampton's Pride & Joy in Thornes
Marketplace to pick up items for your rainbow clothing collection,
or get a mug like I did. Mine says, "Northampton: Where the
coffee is strong, and so are the women:'
For dinner, hop in the car and head 10 miles out of town to the
Blue Heron Restaurant in Sunderland, owned by lesbian couple
Deborah Snow (the chef) and Barbara White. The Blue Heron's
building was once the Old Town Hall, which the couple restored
after saving it from demolition. The menu features sustainably
raised, fresh, local and organic ingredients. The pan~seared sea
scallops with apple cider reduction and mascarpone, served on a
bed of lentils du puy and cooked with bacon, is one of their sig~
nature dishes and was featured in Bon Apetit magazine. Fun fact:
Jane Lynch had her wedding there and the restaurant closed for
the event.
Also just out of town is the Old Creamery Grocery and Deli
in Cummington, a small country store and cafe run by Alice
Cozzolino and her partner, Amy Pulley. In addition to the hand~
made artisanal products and homemade cakes, you can order the
Spicy Maddow, a sandwich that includes chipotle honey mustard
and pickled jalapeiios and was invented for its namesake, our
favorite political pundit, Rachel Maddow. Maddow happens to be
the Old Creamery's neighbor and a regular customer.
Weeks after my trip to Massachusetts, I saw Maddow at a
book signing in New York. I knew I'd only have a second to talk
to her, so I said, in one fast breath, "I went to the Old Creamery
in Northampton and tried your sandwich!" She looked up at me,
grinned, and said, "Spicy, huh?" I'd say. ■
The Charles Street Inn, Boston is a gayowned luxury bed-and-breakfast in Beacon
Hill. Some of the plush Victorian guest rooms
with fireplaces are named after 19th century
female authors and feminists.
Hotel Northampton in downtown
Northampton is a Colonial Revival landmark
with a grand entrance and lobby and large,
period-style rooms.
November 2012
I 69
A LESBIAN MAKES HER EARTHLY AND
SPIRITUAL HOME ON OUR NAMESAKE ISLAND.
BY ALISON TERRY-EVANS
I DON'T DREAM ABOUT living a healthy, carefree life in an
international lesbian community on an idyllic Greek island. I don't
dream about it-because I'm already there. My stone cottage, its
garden abundant with fruit trees and flowers, is in the small seaside
village of Skala Eressos on the island of Lesbos. This is the place
where Sappho was born, 2,500 years ago, and became a hugely
influential poet and musician (Plato called her the 10th muse). This
is the place where Sappho was a priestess of Aphrodite and openly
had loving relationships with women.
The word "lesbian" is derived from "Lesbos" because Sappho
wrote love poems to women here. During the time Sappho lived
in the village of Skala Eressos, it thrived-economically,
politically
and culturally, it was important to Greek civilization. Today, you
can see evidence of the past throughout the village, as the remains
of ancient buildings have been incorporated into more recent
constructions. In a field near the beach, broken pillars mark
the place where the temple to Aphrodite was excavated, and then
covered again when funds for its upkeep were no longer available.
Its typical Greek charms aside, Skala Eressos has much more to
offer than you would generally expect from a remote island village.
I can join yoga, chanting and meditation groups, and my physical
and psychological health needs can be met by a variety of alterna~
tive practitioners. I can take an art or a singing class, or dance with
women into the early hours of the morning at one of the bars on
the sea. During the women's festivals in May, June and September,
lesbian entertainers from other parts of Europe bring music, dance
and theater to the village. In the summer months, popular films are
projected on the front whitewashed wall of the open~air cinema, its
comfortable chairs and cafe tables surrounded by the bright reds
and pinks of the creeping bougainvillea. In September, during the
International Women's Festival, the cinema becomes a venue for
lesbian films and entertainment. Did I mention lesbians? While
an international community of women lives here year~round, the
summer brings more lesbians from all over the world. They've been
coming since the 1970s, so the local Greek community is at least
accustomed to them. I've met many interesting women here who are
a constant reminder of the power and energy we have in the world.
The village of Skala Eressos lies on the far western side ofLesbos,
the third~largest of the Greek islands. A number of charter flights
have been cancelled this year due to European economic pressures,
so it's becoming somewhat harder for Europeans to get here. Fewer
women came this year, and fewer visitors overall. Most women come
to Skala Eressos on vacation, so there are always new faces, but
others stay all summer. Many who are here for the first time talk
about returning. Some have been known to simply abandon their
flights home-charmed
by the place, or by someone special or both.
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At 10:30 each summer morning, 20 or so women throw themselves into the clear blue Aegean Sea. Each at her own pace, but as
a group, they swim 400 meters to Sappho Rock, a volcanic formation rising out of the sea. I paddle along in one of the safety kayaks,
keeping an eye on the swimmers. Over the summer, something like
700 women from 30 countries will swim to Sappho Rock and back,
automatically becoming part of the Skala Women's Rock Group.
Newcomers are easily absorbed into the casual atmosphere of the
swim, and socialize before and after they take the plunge.
While sea and sun and the lesbian community are a big draw for
me, the beauty and traditional culture of the island keep me here
as well. I appreciate the fact that it's a place where I can prepare
food from ingredients gathered or grown locally. I take advantage
of crops both cultivated and wild by sun-drying apricots, tomatoes,
figs,grapes and plums. I make jams and sauces, chutneys and liqueurs.
Bartering is a way of life here. I barter for the liquid gold of olive
oil-the olive trees are on my friends' land. I gather pine nuts,
walnuts, almonds, capers, wild asparagus, sour cherries, oregano,
thyme and sage. A local shepherd supplies the milk I make cheese
from. I eat honey from local hives, and fresh fish from the sea.
Every season is pleasurably unique. With spring, carpets of
brightly colored wildflowers spread across the verdant landscape,
and the air is full with the fragrance of orange blossoms. Summer
means the activity of living goes outdoors, under constant blue
skies; the turquoise sea is calm beside the stark beauty of the dry volcanic landscape. Autumn is busy with
the olive harvest, and lively with the tinkling of bells
on the greening hills as the sheep and goats become
more active during the cooler days. Winter is a time
of wildly beautiful seas and the smell of wood fires, a
time to visit the thermal baths.
Tzeli Hadjidimitriou is a native of Lesbos. This
makes her a Lesbian as well as a lesbian. As a professional photographer and the author of six books about
the island, including the indispensable A Girl'sGuide
to Lesbos,she has extensive knowledge of the cultural,
political and architectural history of the island.
Spending time with her, I'm always caught
up in her passionate enthusiasm for the
place. Friends and I have been guests on her
boat and she has taken us along the coastline to magical secluded coves, all the time
regaling us with history and myth drawn
from sites along the way. For the most part,
the women here live simple, creative lives.
We have jewelry makers, painters, writers
(including a writer of lesbian pulp fiction),
photographers, filmmakers and carpenters,
as well as women who own restaurants, bars
and small hotels.
Women are making a positive impact here
as they restore and rejuvenate buildings and
the land. Many have been very hands-on in
the construction of their homes. After helping stonemasons build the basic structure
of their house, which is set in a small olive
grove, Mercia and Julia did the rest. They learned how to install
windows and doors, lay wooden and tile floors and put in electricity and plumbing. They now have a comfortable home nestled into
the hills, with an open view of the sea. Doreen is helping us dispose
of plastic water bottles by collecting thousands of them to build a
hothouse for her winter vegetables. Penny and Neen's vineyard and
orchard is growing on land surrounding the stone house they built
and maintain with a solar system.
Somewhat more directly than other countries, Greece is being
challenged with economic uncertainty. The families and individuals
running the small hotels, restaurants and stores in Skala Eressos are
feeling the pinch from the debt crisis as the government imposes
more taxes on many items, including utilities, food and liquor. In
addition, to obtain and maintain the licenses they need to operate
legally, these local establishments must now comply with everincreasing bureaucratic regulations. This has created irritation at
the very least, and in some cases economic and psychological defeat.
These costs need to be passed on to the consumer, but with tourism
down by 25 percent all over Greece, the tourist is often in a position
to negotiate for lower costs. Perhaps this will actually attract more
tourists, and it'll all even out.
One of the attractions of Lesbos is the fact that it's never been a
heavily touristy island. It offers the visitor a chance to experience
a more traditional Greek lifestyle, eat locally produced food and
enjoy the small villages with their village squares,
cafes and tavernas. Lesbos is appealing as a place
where lesbians can experience sites of historical
and contemporary interest, as well as a place of
physical and spiritual beauty. There is so much to
learn-about
the landscape, the ancient thermal
baths, Sappho's place in cultural history and the
magic of this island, which has captured the hearts
of so many women.
My suggestion is to make the pilgrimage to Lesbos
and experience it for yourself. But be prepared for
the tears that leaving Lesbos so often brings. ■
November 2012
I 71
REVIEWSMusic Watch
CherryGirl
The ballsy, beautifulbisexualis back. By Dave Steinfeld
Neneh Cherry is one of the few musicians
who achieved pop stardom and then took
the road less traveled.
Born into a multiracial family-her
mother was a Swedish artist, her father
a drummer from Sierra Leone, her stepfather the legendary jazz trumpeter Don
Cherry-Neneh
was exposed to music at
an early age. She joined the seminal female
punk band the Slits while still in her teens.
After a short stint with them, she moved on
to various post-punk combos, notably the
band Rip Rig + Panic. Finally, at the end of
the '80s, Cherry took the solo plunge and
released her first album, Raw Like Sushi.
Whether it was her talent, the timing or
a combination of both, Raw Like Sushi was
a smash-one of the most notable debuts
of 1989 and both a critical and a commercial success. Cherry combined pop, hip-hop
and soul on the disc, presenting herself as an
721
curve
independent, hard-to-define woman for the
impending decade. "Buffalo Stance" became
an international top-five hit, and other
tracks on the album, including "Inna City
Mama" and "Kisses on the Wind;' were
also popular.
At this point, many musicians would
have milked the Sushi formula to death.
Not Neneh Cherry. Both her slim musical
output and the music itself made it clear
that Cherry's first commitment was to nurturing her artistic muse, not producing hit
singles. She released two more solo albums,
Homebrew and Man, during the first half
of the '90s. Each made less of a commercial
splash than the last and, on Man especially,
she largely abandoned the sound that had
made her a success. That third disc even
included a tune called "Beastiality" -clearly
sending a signal that she would not tailor her
music to commercial radio programmers!
Looking back on that period of her life,
Cherry explains, "I wasn't really into the
whole 'Neneh Cherry pop star' thing. It
started to drive me crazy, and it really began
to limit my choices as a musician. When
you have radio pluggers, lawyers and marketing people actually trying to make you
change direction, then things gotsta change.
So I walked:'
She adds, "We had fun with [the commercial success] until the fame got tiresome
and I backed off. But the things it brought
to my family and our friends were huge.
[My husband Cameron and I] did good
things, and we gave our children the world.
We lived wherever we wanted, we collaborated with the gods of music and never
really let the bullshit get to us. [But] then
the music business changed. Fame became
more important than the content or the
creativity, and we backed off to try things a
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different way. No disrespect to pop stars
or the folks who are behind them, but
keep them the fuck away from me!"
Cherry hasn't released a lot of new
music since 1996, but she has always
been busy, both making music and outside the studio (believe it or not, she is
now a grandmother!). Now she's back.
In June, she released a new collaborative
album with the Thing, a Scandinavian
jazz trio made up of sax player Mats
Gustafsson, bassist Ingebrigt Haker
Flaten and drummer Paal NilssenLove. The result-appropriately
titled
The Cherry Thing-is basically a freejazz outing. Fans expecting a return to
the Raw Like Sushi sound are advised to
look elsewhere.
Though Cherry herself wrote the
album's opening track, "Cashback;'
most of the songs on The Cherry Thing
are covers. The band has chosen to
interpret material by an eclectic mix
of musicians-mainly
jazz legends
like Ornette Coleman and (of course)
Don Cherry and more punk-oriented
artists like Suicide and the Stooges.
"Jazz, punk, it's all the same to us;'
says Cherry. "We aren't the kind of
people who draw a line between all
the so-called genres of music. My dad
taught me that all music is jazz, punk
[and so on, and] the Thing are huge
fans of my dad's work and attitude. So
do the math!" Discussing her unusual
upbringing, Cherry says, "When I was
very young, my parents were touring
a lot, so my brother [singer Eagle- Eye
Cherry] and I had the time of our lives
on the road. Every day was an adventure. My dad played music 24/7 and
my mum cooked and made art 24/7. I
was blessed.
"Then, in my teens, all I wanted was
a 'normal' family life;' she continues. "I
hated our weird way of life. All I wanted
was a TV and girlie wallpaper in my
bedroom. But it didn't last long and I
ended up going on tour with my dad's
friends, the Slits! Some normal life,
eh:"' Looking back, Cherry doesn't regret
her decision. When I ask her about the
late Slits leader Ari Up she says, ''Ari
taught me a hell of a lot. It was Ari that
pushed me out into the world of new possibilities, really. I was 14 [or] 15 and had just
moved with her to London. We were squatting in Battersea [and] she encouraged me to
sing, to play bass, to have opinions and to be
proud of my roots. God, I miss Ari:'
As for the other women who have influenced
her artistically, Cherry cites Aretha Franklin,
Patti Smith, Grace Jones and Frida Kahlo. On
a more personal note, she also includes her
mother, Moki, her late mother-in-law, and
her three daughters. "My family made me
who I am;' she states. "Great, great women. I
love being a woman! We rule!" ■
HunterValentine
Marinaandthe
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manageto standout.
NellyFurtado
KakiKing
TheSpirit
Glow
(VelourRecordings)
Indestructible
(lnterscope
Records)
Asa lyricssnob,I
NellyFurtadohasnever havelittlepatienceor
beenafraidto reinvent interestin instrumental
albums;blameit onthe
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foundmyselfriveted
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the dancefloor.
November 2012
I 73
REVIEWSIn The Stacks
Thrills,Pills&Chills
Poet-performer Cheryl B's posthumously published memoir. By Stephanie Schroeder
I mostly knew Cheryl Burke by reputation: a street-smart writer
and performer who went by the moniker Cheryl B the Motor
Oil Queen. The "motor oil queen" part was ironic. It was based on
the content of one of her most famous spoken word poems and
describes a sexual encounter where a dude uses motor oil as lube
to fuck a girl up the ass.
This story was classic Cheryl B-unsentimental,
tough and
impenetrable. This rock-star glam-slam poet was, at first, a serious
alcoholic: A brilliant writer and performer, she was pissing away
her talent on huge amounts of tequila and cocaine. Cheryl got sober
in 2001 and never looked back. Her legendary poem "Reasons to
Stop" details the day she decided to give up drugs and booze. When
she died two years ago, from complications related to Hodgkin's
lymphoma, Cheryl B was only 38 years young and
had been sober for almost a decade.
The co-founder and co-host, most
recently, of the New York City monthly
reading series Sideshow: The Queer
Literary Carnival, which presented "serious literature for ridiculous times;' Cheryl
had earlier created and produced PVC:
The Poetry vs. Comedy Variety Show, a
live slam between comics and poets. She
had also founded and curated the multigenre series Atomic, an extremely popular
Brooklyn reading event.
Cheryl B was also a playwright. Among
her other plays, she wrote The Donut Hole,
which ran in New York City for long enough
to raise her profile beyond literary badass to
true star status. The Donut Hole was a work
that touched many lives. "She had a for-real,
unique, fresh and original voice;' said one colleague who was also
a fan. "Cheryl was able to find the humor in really painful situations without in any way dismissing the reality of it all:' The play is
about teenagers who work in a donut shop in Nowheresville, and
also discover sex and sexual power.
A few years ago, in a Lower East Side bookstore, I watched
Cheryl read for about an hour from When I Knew Everyone on
Avenue A, the memoir she was working on at the time. I was
blown away. Her story was extremely powerful.
When I heard that her memoir was being published as a novel,
My Awesome Place: The Autobiography of Cheryl B, I couldn't wait
to get my hands on it. There's plenty in it for everyone, particularly
those of us who have never fit in. Cheryl was the fat kid everyone
made fun 0£ the shunned ugly duckling, and the too-smart-for-herown-good girl in a family of violent, unself-aware and selfish people.
This is her father's reaction when she was accepted at New York
74
I curve
University: "He lifted up his dinner plate and
hit me on the head. 'You want to go to college:'
Look at you, you're 21, as fat as a house!' " In
Manhattan, between her junior and senior years at N.Y.U, Cheryl
"rented a walk-in closet of an upscale apartment in an exclusive
building in the West Village:' As a young adult, she struggled
to find her place in the world and her voice as a writer. While at
N.Y.U she met her new best friend, a flamboyant gay man, started
partying hard, and dating women (and men). A famous quote of
Cheryl's, which she used to describe her sexuality, is repeated in
the book: 'Tm 85% lesbian, 15% bisexual, 100% Queer Dyke:'
My Awesome Place was pieced together-from
Cheryl's last
manuscript and her earlier drafts, as well as essays and emailsby the three other women in her writing group. The foreword, by
her literary executor, Sarah Schulman (who also edited the book),
and the afterword, by her girlfriend Kelli Dunham, are both
extremely informative and so heartrending; only a sphinx could
be unmoved. The press release from Topside Signature accurately
describes the narrative as inhabiting "a liminal space between fiction and memoir, track[ing] her struggle to translate her working
class New Jersey roots and define herself as an artist against the
backdrop of an unforgiving city, a series of disastrous girlfriends
and boyfriends, and an intense, intimate relationship with drugs
and alcohol:'
Finally coming out the other side, Cheryl B stayed sober, went
on to create superb work, and continued to inspire and encour~
age other writers and artists. She shared the last part of her life
with comic Kelli Dunham, the first girlfriend Cheryl really
trusted. It's been said in and among Cheryl's community, and the
N.Y.C. artistic, literary and queer communities, that Dunham's
love transformed Cheryl from a self~loathing, secretive figure who
was always willing to give help but never able to ask for it, into
an open, welcoming-even
happy-woman
who learned how to
reach out and embrace the community that came her way. Now,
that community is giving Cheryl's words a life beyond her own.
(topsidepress.com)■
A TASTEOF THE GOOD LIFE
In two new books, lesbians find themselves
through food, family and farming.
licking theSpoon:A Memoirof Food,
FamilyandIdentity,ByCandaceWalsh
Walshis a writer
(SealPress):Candace
andmagazine
editorwho'scompiled
severalcollections
for SealPress,including
DearJohn,I LoveJane:WomenWrite
AboutLeavingMenfor Women.
Licking
theSpoon:
A Memoirof Food,Familyand
Identity,is herfirst solowork,a hybridof
food-based,
familymemoirandcontemporarylesbiancomingoutstory.Inthefirst
chapter,"HowCubaMarriedCrete,"she
writes,"I decidedto writeaboutmylifelong
loveaffairwithfood,andonceI sat down,I
realizedthat I neededto talk aboutmyown
ingredients:
myfamily-my grandmothers
andgrandfather,
mymotherandfather,
whogavememygenesandmadethe
mealsthatshapedmytastes-one wayor
another."
WeseeWalshlearningto cookin
herfamilykitchenandthe kitchensof her
grandmothers,
howidentityis hiddenand
revealed
throughfood,andalsothe devastationto herfamilycausedbygenerations
of grief,abuseandaddiction.
Unfortunately,
so muchdetailin the
book'searlychaptersalsogivesrise
to a notableoverabundance
of family
members,
includinggreat-grandmothers,
grandfathers
anduncles,untilthey're
virtuallyindistinguishable
to the reader.
Yet,in otherpartsof the book,thereare
inferences
to peopleneverintroduced
by name,suchas hersiblings,anodd
oversight.
AlthoughWalshdescribesher
bulimicbehavior
throughout
theyears,sheneverrecountsa
recoveryprocess.
Thereaderis
leftwonderingif herrecentforays
intojuicingandeatingrawfoods
havehelpedhealher-or areyetanother
symptomof disordered
eating.Someof
theseissuescouldhavebeenclearedup
in the editingprocess,but ultimatelythey
do notdetractmuchfromthestory.At its
heart,LickingtheSpoonis a lovestory
writtenbyWalshfor herwife Laura,whom
shefoundafterso manyyearsof failed
heterosexual
relationships,
andfor thefood
andthefamilyrecipesthat helpednurture
heralongtheway.Engaging
in its narrative
andassatisfyingasthe recipesfor Ropa
ViejaandChickenFricassee
included,
this
is trulya memoirfromthe heart.
GettingSomewhere,
BethNeff
(VikingJuvenile):BethNeffspentmany
yearsowningandrunninganorganic
farmin Michigan.
Sosheknowshowto
authentically
describethe environment
of herfirst novel,GettingSomewhere.
Havingraisedseveralteenagers,
Neffalso
lendscredibilityto the notionthatcity kids
mightthrivein sucha place-especially
if they'vebeensentenced
therebythe
juvenilejusticesystem,in lieuof a harsher
sentencein a correctional
facility.It's
theselife experiences
that informthe
premiseof GettingSomewhere,
which
explores12weeksin the livesof Sarah,
Lauren,CassieandJenna,fourteenaged
girlswho'veexperienced
homelessness,
sexualabuseandcrime.Astheygetused
to the lovingguidanceanddedicated
workethicof thefarm'slesbianowners,
all fourteensmustgrapplewith issuesof
identity,recovery,
self-worth,safetyand
betrayal.Neffcreatescharacters
readers
will careabout,andletsthestoryunfold
sweetly,likean heirloomtomatoripening
underthewarmsummersun.Andher
descriptions
of farming,with its bountyof
vegetables,
andof the land,with its rivers,
treesandfields,maymakereaderswant
to dig in the dirt.If thissoundstoo pastoral,
restassuredthe novelhasalsogotgrit,
andNeffdoesn'tshyawayfromtough
issueslikeeatingdisorders,
druguseand
cutting.Nordoessheportraysmalltown
lifeas excessively
idyllic,or makeher
lesbiancharacters
overlyaltruistic.But
thetensionreallymountswhenonegirl,
battlingherowninnerdemons,attempts
to sabotage
the entireexperience.
Asthe
bookwindstowardsits satisfyingand
believable
conclusion,
readerswill hope
thatsomewhere
in the realworld,wayward
younggirlsmaybegivena chanceto
experience
the recoveryprocessdepicted
in thisthoughtfully
craftedfirst novel.
[RachelPepper]
November 2012
I 75
REVIEWSSapphic Screen
ComingOut On Camera
Josefine Tengblad uses Kiss Me to tell her true lesbian love story. By Emelina Minero
Rapace. She recently started LeBox, her
own production company. As a producer
and an actor in the Swedish film Kiss
Me, Tengblad was interested in bringing
her own experiences to the screen. If you
enjoyed the plot of Imagine Me & You
(2005), you will like this story line-about
a "straight" girl with a fiance who falls for
Kiss Me goes beyond
a lovely lesbian-but
cliches, miningTengblad's real~life romance
for emotional resonance.
Swedish thespian Josefine Tengblad knows
all about the magic of make~believe. She
has acted in the theater since the age of
6, and has worked for the production
company responsible for Wallanderand the
Millennium Trilogy films starring Noomi
you have to read something that I wrote:
So she gave me the treatment [for Kiss Me],
which was 20 pages about this woman fall~
ing in love with her stepsister. When I read
it, something happened. I was like, 'This is
what I'm going through. This is too much.
This is strange. Why is this happening?' It
just felt cosmic. The second time we met,
we were like, 'We have to do this. We just
have to do this movie:
Howcloselydid youworkwith Alexandraon
the script?
KissMe closelyreflectsyour life. Was that We worked so closely on every scene.
something
youwantedto do,goingintoyour This was so much about talking about my
firstfilm?
process. I wanted it to be how I experienced
I met [screenwriter and director] Alexandra
it. We didn't want to make the gay theme
[~Therese Keining] and I just knew that
the only focus. We just wanted to tell a
I wanted to work with her. I didn't know
story about love and not do any political
on what, but I knew that I wanted to work
thing or try to change the world. We just
with her. I told her that I had met this wanted to tell this story about a person
woman, and she said, 'This is weird, but
falling in love with another person.
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Youhad a hard time findingproducersfor
KissMe.Howdidyougetyourfilmfinanced?
Nobody wanted to do it, and it was because
of the theme. The financers wanted to make
it a comedy. They wanted to make Mia a lot
more upper~class. They also wanted (Frida
If I hadn't done
this film? I think
I'd still be with
my ex-husband,
because I don't
think I would have
had that strength.
and Mia] to be younger, like 16 years old. I
was like, 'No, this is crazy: So I had to start
my own company, which is quite tough. But
in the end, it was the best thing I could ever
do, because we then got full control and we
could do whatever we wanted. That was so
important. It was really tough, and maybe
20 times or 30 times me and Alexandra
just sat down and said, 'Is this the moment
when we are going to give upr Are we going
to stop nowr'
How did you stay motivated?How did you
keepgoing?
I think my absolute biggest motivation was
that for me it was like pushing myself off a
cliff, because I knew that if I did this movie
it was going to change my life.
Howso?
I was married to a man when I started
doing it. And when the film was over, I had
left him, and I was with a woman that I
had fallen in love with.
Is it surrealto watchthe finishedfilm,which
reflectsthe pastfiveyearsof yourlife?
It is. I hadn't seen it for one and a half
years. When I saw it yesterday, I was just
so moved. I've now been with my girlfriend
for a year. When I saw it, I could smell it. I
could feel it. And my whole body was like,
Oh my god, what would have happened
if I hadn't made this journey? If I hadn't
done this film? I think I'd still be with my
ex~husband, because I don't think I would
have had that strength.
How has Kiss Me been receivedby the
public?
It's huge in the gay community. It's been
fantastic. And now I'm like this gaywhat do you call itr-icon. It's very weird,
but it's fun. It's just wonderful. And I
want to use that power to make my next
film. It has to be a gay film. I really feel
that, because I think it's important. Why
shouldn't wer ■
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November 2012
I 77
REVIEWSTech Girl
0
HighTechTipple
Five gadgets to whet your whistle. By Rachel Shatto
0
Budget Barista
Don't blow your hard-earned cash on lattes.
Instead, turn your kitchen into your own
personal coffee shop with the Circolo coffee
maker. This fabulous multitasker can make
everything from a foamy espresso to tea,
hot chocolate and even a regular cup of
joe-plus,
if you want any of the above
iced, in less than a minute it can convert
from a hot to cold drink dispenser. Step
aside, Starbucks. ($150, dolce-gusto.us)
@ A New Spin
Mixing cocktails has never been easier
than with the Revolving Liquor Dispenser.
This liquored-up Lazy Susan can support
up to four full-sized bottles of your favorite spirits. It also features four fountain
style spigots-two that allow for measured
pours and two for a continuous pour. Talk
about letting the good times flow. ($40,
homewetbar.com)
0
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I curve
@ Buzz Cauldron
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The Vacuum Brewer uses vapor pressure
to brew the cleanest, crispest cup of coffee
you've ever had. Here's how it works: Put the
grounds in the top chamber and the water
in the lower chamber, bring the water to a
boil and as you do so the vacuum pressure
will draw the water into the upper chamber
where the coffee brews. Remove it from the
heat and gravity will pull the freshly brewed
coffee into the lower chamber-all for your
coffee drinking pleasure. Yay, science! ($80,
thinkgeek.com)
Give a low-tech gadget a high-tech look
with the Robot Tea Infuser. This stainless
steel infuser features adjustable arms to
allow it to fit in any cup. Plus, it's so cute,
how could you not want a little robo-buddy
with your cuppar ($12, kikkerland.com)
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Sommelier Solution
Ask any wine aficionado and they will tell
you temperature matters! If the vino is too
cold it can mask the complexity of flavor,
but if it's too warm the alcohol can dominate your palate. So take the guesswork out
of serving your favorite glass of cabernet or
sauvignon blanc with the Menu A/S Wine
Thermometer cuff. ($30, yliving.com)
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I 79
STARS
Fabulous Fall This November is full of feisty, flirtatious and influential femmes.
By Charlene Lichtenstein
Scorpio{Oct.24-Nov.22)
You make a sterling first impression this November.
So if you ever needed to ask someone for a favor or
to expand your circle of gal pals, this is the time to
do so. Tap into your connections and see where they
can help you. Practice your elevator speech and take
yourself to the heights.
Sagittarius{Nov.23-Dec.22)
There is too much drama going on behind the scenes
for you to try to keep up. It is a tidal wave of secret
yearnings, plotting and planning. So forget about all
of it. Go and do your own thing and let things myste~
riously unfold, to your ultimate advantage.
Scorpio{Oct.24-Nov.22)
Morethan a few S&Mtypes
comefrom the Scorpiocamp.
Don'tbe surprisedif sheasks
youto play"slave"to her
"master"duringloveplay.
If nippleclamps,zippered
masksandleatherstraps
are not yourthing,search
the zodiacfor a solid earth
sign (Taurus,Capricornor
Virgo)who won't trussyou
beforeshecooksandeats
you.However,
don't knockit
if you haven'ttried it. A clever
loverwho cancatchher eye
andholdher attentionwill
be rewardedwith a life of
intensity,sexualpassionand
excitement.Considerthe fun
you'll havein a lifetimerole in
"TheTamingof the Shrewd."
Capricorn{Dec.23-Jan. 20)
Certain influential girlfriends help you make impor~
tant contacts you need to launch some of your new
projects. Ask them for their help and you will get it.
Thankfully, you now have the ambition and drive to
make any remote contact a strong connection. Actions
that you take now will carry you forward over the next
few months. Plan accordingly.
Aquarius{Jan.21-Feb.19)
They love you around the office. Is that because you
know the ins and outs of the corporate politics? Or is
it because you have a secret and powerful admirer? All
is possibly true. But even if it isn't, let your colleagues
believe it to be so. Aqueerians have their eye on the
corner office.
Gemini{May22-June 21}
Life around the office has suddenly become much
more interesting this November. Maybe it's because
one of your colleagues has taken a special interest in
your progress. It could lead to advancement. Or it
could lead to complications. It all depends on whether
you can work the system as easily as you work over
your colleague.
Cancer{June22-July 23)
There has never been a better time to get into the
party scene and light up the room with your presence.
You are creative, fresh and antsy for action. A good
combination! Get out and about and see who you can
impress. Not only can you fill up your dance card for
the looming holiday season, you might also snag the
belle of the ball. Ring~a~ding!
Leo{July24-Aug.23)
Plan to do a bunch of home entertaining this month.
Proud Lionesses are not only able to showcase their
beautiful surroundings, they can also show off their
beautiful selves. An exercise regime and a brand new
healthier diet will pay off and give you extra grr.
up. Someone may just connect you to an exotic, sultry
lady who steals your heart and whisks you away. Not
a bad way to spend November! For those Guppies
who are involved in a relationship, find ways to spice
things up. Maybe that involves travel but more often it
involves silicon and whipped cream.
Virgo{Aug.24-Sept.23)
You are all sweetness and cream this November. Turn
on the charm, say the words you need to say and you
will have the ladies eating out of your hand. Who
knows where your compelling conversation will take
your It might possibly open doors to the most exclu~
sive parties of the year. Or possibly catapult you into
the epicenter of the glitterati.
Aries{March21-April 20)
The secret to your success is to balance all the intricate
and messy details of your various affairs, whether
Charlene
Lichtenstein
is
business
or pleasure. Hot and steamy doesn't even
theauthorofHerScopes:
begin
to
describe the water temperature you will
A Guideto Astrology
bob
in
should
you confuse one with the other. Focus,
for Lesbians
(Simon&
lambda Ram, and set your sights on cornering the best
Schuster)
(tinyurl.com/HerScopes).
Nowavailableasan ebook.
of everything in lust or career.
Libra{Sept.24-0ct. 23)
Libras take a jaundiced look at their surroundings
and see an immediate need for home improvement.
Luckily you have an extra bit of cash on hand to
help fund the perfect pink palace. But it is not just
the accoutrements that make a house a home. It also
needs some female warmth. Invite the grrls over for
a get together. ■
so I curve
Pisces{Feb.20-March 20)
If you are in the meet market, ask gal pals to fix you
Taurus{April21-May 21}
You have itchy hooves this month Sapphic Bull. So
why not scratch them in some faraway locale with a
certain you~know~whor Relationships could use some
love and attention and, if you are on the prowl, new
partnerships can be formed.
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