[2008] Metro Star Magazine, November 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 11

[2008] Metro Star Magazine, November 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 11

Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics

The Metro Star’s first issue began in August of 2008. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004), The Ozark’s Star (2004), and The Star (2005).

This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit.

This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission.

Star Media, Ltd;

https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19

Star Media, Ltd

November 01, 2008

Greg Steele
James Nimmo
Joey D.
Victor Gorin
Rex Wockner
Susan A. Muscari
Vernon Britt
Romeo San Vicente
Andrew Collins
Donald Pile
Ronald Blake
Ray Williams
Jack Fertig
Devre Jackson

The Metro Magazine, September 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 9
https://history.okeq.org/items/show/201

The Metro Star Magazine, December 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 12
https://history.okeq.org/items/show/199

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Southwest Missouri
West Arkansas
Southeast Kansas
Eastern Oklahoma
The United States of America (50 states)

WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY"
By Metro Star Staff
U.S. Senator Barack Obama
State SenatorAndrew Rice Corp. Commissionerfim Roth Ron Marlett Chad Hawkins
"A_merica, this is our moment.
This is our time. Our time to
turn the page of the policies of
the past."
Blade on Sept. 10.
"Michelte and I have been
blessed with many openly gay
and lesbian friends and cotleagues
whom we have been
close to for many years," the
Democratic presidential candidate
said. "xghile that fact has
made the issues facing the
.....Cont. see OBAMA pg-6
Andrew Rice, currently a
State Senator District 46, is
running against incumbent
Republican James Inhofe for
U.S. Senate
Anarew born April
23, 1973, attended Casady
College in 1996 with a
bachdor’s degree in Religious
Studies, then went on to
receive his Masters in Theological
Studies from Harvard
Divinity School in 1999.
From 1996 to 1999, he studied
drug addiction problems
and treatment in urban India.
During graduate school he
produced a documentary
.....Cont. see RICE pg-6
ROCKNORTH NEW
PLACE, SAME MISSION
By Vicor Gorin
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ For over 10 years Red Rock
North provided free HIV testing and counseling at their former
OKC location on the N.\V. 39th Street Strip. It came to be a
haven where those questioning their HIV status, those affected
by HIV, and those needing to learn more about it could seek
help in a non-judgmenta! place. Now located inside the Red
Rock Behavioral Health Services Headquarters at 4400 N.
Lincoln Boulevard, they still provide those services in the same
way, their mission unchanged. The testing clinic is located
on the 2nd floor, and the testing is free and confidential on a
walk-in basis from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday thru Thursday,
9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Fridays. Testing is free & available for those
over 13 years old.
Other services are provided as well, including mental health
and substance abuse assistance & counseling focused mainly on
the GLBT community and/or those who are HIV infected or
affected. Red Rock is a nonprofit agency, worldng in partnership
with the Oklahoma State Health Department, that also
...........Continued see RED ROCK pg-11
Jim Roth-incumbent
Democrat Oldahoma
Corporation Commissioner
running against Republican
Dana Murphy.
When Jim Roth was elected
to represent thd citizens 0f
Oklahoma Countys D~stnct
1 in 2002, it was a milestone
not only to the GLBT
community but also for
Oklahoma County residents
who longed for positive
change.
Needless to say, they got it.
A welcome change during
his first term was that he
got 8 bridges built in his
district, while his predecessor
only got one. He
i spearheaded expanding a
policy of nondiscrimination
for Oklahoma County
employees that included
sexual orientation and the
handicapped. Jim not only
won widespread respect for
himself, but unprecedented
respect for the office itself.
This was dearly shown
....Cont. see ROTH pg-6
Democrat Ron Marlett is running
against incumbent Republican
Sally Kern of State House
District 84.
opp~rt~fiity to run against a
state representarive with mo~
nation~ (and even som~ ifite>
nati0nal) fiotoriety. Sal!~
the ineumbefit for
,vas already we!! lmo~ for her
agenda as a self-described "warrior
for Judeo-Christian values".
She crusaded against the book
"King and King" being in the
Children’s Section of Oklahoma
Public libraries, referring to it
as "obscene" and claiming that
Oklahoma libraries were attempting
to "sexualize your children."
SWnen minimum wage
was $5.15 an hour she opposed
raising it, wanting a study of
how people on this income level
budget their money. During
hearings on immigration, she
asked a wimess who stated that
she was Puerto Rican if she was
an American. But ,#chat finally
prompted Ron Marlett to run
was hearing the infamous
....Cont. see MARLETT pg-6
"I think any crime committed
against a person because of
their sexual orientation that is
not considered a hate crime,
is unacceptable. A hate crimes
glii ~tis~be~a~to i~t~de
sexual orient,+ion/’ Tulsa
~emScrat Chad Hawldns for
state Re~+++ntatig+ Di++ric~
~9 against[ Repiiblidm~ i~eumr
b+nt Weld0fi Wat+ofi!
Chad Hawldns, born in Tulsa,
a graduate ofJenks High
School, Tulsa Community
College and Northeastern
State University. "I believe
in this country, I believe in
the State of Oklahoma and I
believe in the City ofTulsa.
Unfortunately, poor leadership
and lack of or simple
disregard for foresight and
planning has lead to a rotting
infrastructure, substandard
education, and a dependence
on foreign energy sources due
to a failed national energy
policy."
For more info. visit:
Hawkins4tulsa.com
NOVEMBER 1, 2008
Dana Orwig
Dana Orwig is running against
Republican Jason Nelson, who
worked as a fund-raiser in
2001, raising $6 million dollars
Dana Orwig is running f’or
the second time to represent
the constituents of State
House District 87. She ran
unsuccessfully in 2006 against
Republican incumbent Trebor
Worthen, who is not running
for the position again. Now not
having to run against an incumbent,
with a better campaign
and strategy and voters more
hungry for change, she is very
optimistic about this upcoming
election.
She has lived in the District
for more than 28 years, with
her husband Steve, who is a
physician Oklahoma City’s VA
hospital. They have 2 daughters,
along with 2 son in-laws
and 2 lively grandsons. She has
been ordained as a deacon in
the Episcopalian Church, and
has served in ways ranging from
....Cont. see ORWIG pg-6
Latino Night at Local ~ gays m
Club Successful Law
~Marl~t.
"I’m Ron Marlett and I’m
running for State House
District 84 because I want
a chance to bring about
change that really matters
for my fellow Oklahomans:
good jobs, affordable
healthcare, a quality
educational system and
real freedom and equality."
I NEED YOUR HELP TO
WIN THIS ELECTION,
WE CAN MAKE ~T HAPPEN!
need money and volunteers!
Ron Mar~ett
RO. Box 854
Bethany, OK 73008
(405) 640-2069
www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com
www.metrostarnews.com ~t~oSTAR 3
LATINO NIGHT AT
OKC’s ANGLES
Sabados maravillosas otre veces!
By Victor Gorin
When Latino night debuted at Angles September
28, it was a time of anxious anticipation.
~fhere had been numerous attempts to
bring business up at Angles since Nick Post
had acquired it last year. During the last few
),ears Angles had gone from being packed on
the weekends to virtually empty, and there
had been many ideas and brainstorms to
bring back the crowds they had before. One
of these was Latino Night, featuring Spanish
music where GLBT Latinos & their friends
could celebrate their culture and be themselves,
something that had been successful at
the late Club Rox ( inside the late Hollywood
Hotel) and at Sisters (a former Lesbian dub
now the location of Phoenix Rising). This
was a party with no place to go that Latino
partiers were dying to celebrate.
Spearheading this effort was DJ Juan Adame,
who with his friends spearheaded the idea.
The first night was trepidation personified,
but they distributed flyers, talked it up, texted
& emaited everybody they knew and hoped
for the best. Needless to say Angles was
overvchelmed ~vith a huge crowd of partiers,
gay and lesbian Latinos, some Asians, some
Caucasians, and some straight people who
know a good time when it’s happening, many
coming from Tulsa and other places to fiesta
with the locals.
It needed to happen because as DJ Juan puts
it, "We could go to straight Latino clubs
where we guys could not dance together. At
gay clubs we could occasionally hear Latino
music, but we knew we needed a place of our
own where we could dance together, enjoy
our music and culture as Latinos."
Gender Advocacy Team, and other community
leaders for a special evening remembering
individuals who have died as victims ofantitransgender
hatred or prejudice. The event
will be at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center
on Thursday, November 20th, 2008, at 7:00
PM. ~ne Equality Center is located at 621
E. 4th Street, on the corner of 4th Street &
Kenosha in Downtown Tulsa, Oldahoma.
He wants to thank those who helped him
make it happen. "The Gay Latino community
is growing, and the people helping me
have been wonderful, bringing music, giving
me ideas, being together and supporting
each other as one, and I want to thank these
people who helped me put this together."
For the community, it fills a need. As Latina
Yogi Doroteo puts it,"It means a lot for our
community, it gives the gay Latino community
a place to go, to meet other Latinos. It also
helps the community as a whole get to l~aaow
us better, and that is needed."
P~6~n a suc~es~ Latifi6 nigh~ Will h~n ev~
ery other Saturday at Angle.s for those seeking
tiempos buenos ( good times). It obviously
was long overdue. ( November Schedule is
Saturdays 8 & 11)
Transgender Day o£Remembrance
Observance
On November 20th at
Dennis R. Neill
Equality Center
"Sometimes, as a cornmunity, we forget the
struggles of people who are not as visible as
others. Yet, I am proud of our organization’s
commitment to the full inclusion of the
transgender community. This June saw a
very successful "Gender Avengers" production
celebrating the "T" ofLGBT Pride. We
have very dedicated transgender volunteers,
program participants and committee leaders.
The full participation of all members of
our community is essential to fulfilling our
mission." said OkEq Board President Toby
Jenkins.
Zoey Sloane, a member of the Pride Marketing
Team and the Gender Advocacy Team,
noted that, "Discrimination and violence
towards gay and lesbian people, as well as
towards transgender people, is usually because
of a real or perceived gender or gender-role
variance. A guy is targeted because he’s "too
feminine," or a girl is targeted because she’s
"too butch." It really has much more to do
with gender issues than sexual orientation.
Hopefully, that realization will cause more
people tobe commi~t~ ~ th~ ~!! i~[~ ......
~i0~; ~f’e~ ~nd ~fiality 6f ~ebpl~ who af~.....
transgender."
According to the website http://gender.
org/remember/day/, the Transgender Day of
Remembrance serves the purpose of raising
public awareness of hate crimes against
transgendered people. It publicly mourns and
honors the lives of our brothers and sisters
who might otherwise be forgotten, and it allows
the expression of love and respect for real
people here in our communities in the face of
local and national ignorance, indifference and
hatred.
TULSA, OK (PR) __ Please join the
members and friends of Oklahomans for
Equality(OkEq), the members of the OkEq
CC United
Metropolitan Community Church
Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM
1623 N, Maplewood Tulsa, OK
www,mcctu sa,o g
4 ~et;oSTAR November 2008
wv,~N.metrostarnews.com ~et~’~STAR 5
GLBT community more personal, the fundamental
reasons I have for supporting equality
are greater than any individual.... We need to
end the divisive politics of George W. Bush
and pursue policies that treat all of us, regardless
of identity or background, with dignity,
equality and respect."
Obama vowed, "If elected, I would call on
Congress to enact legislation that would
repeal DOMA and ensure that the over 1,100
federal legal rights and benefits currendy
provided on the basis of marital status are
extended to same-sex couples in civil unions
and other legally recognized unions."
For more information visit:
w~wa~.BarrackObama.com
entitled Ashes, which focused on the AIDS
epidemic there.
Back home again, he won election to the
Oklahoma State Senate in 2006, representing
approximately 71,000 people in central Oldahoma
City. He has served on the Committees
of Business and Labor, Health and Human
Resources (co-chair), and Public Safety and
Homeland Security. He led a successful effort
to make it easier for lo~ governments
to donate abandoned properties for use by
Habit for Humanity" for lo~v income housing.
He also authored legislation to create
a State Veteraffs Health Insurance Program
to provide coverage to uninsured Oklalaoma
veterans.
Unlike Senator Inhofe, who coined the phrase
God Guns and Gays and has also stated that
he’s proud that his family history has no
homosexuality, Andrew Rice supports equalitty
for all Oklahomans and will take those
values to Washington. He is supported by the
~eace and justice community and organized
bor, as opposed to Inhofe who has a 0%
rating from the AFL-CIO, has opposed most
minimum wage increases, and is ~vell known
as a ruatter of record that he is no friend of
working people. Andre~v also doesn’t share
Inhofe’s view that global warming is a hoax.
~ae choice could not be more clear. Let’s elect
Andrew Rice to be our voice in Washington.
by his re-election in 2006 when his opponent,
David Mehlhaff ran his campaign almost
totally on the premise of bigotry, rarely if
ever bringing up Mr. Roth’s job performance.
When the constituents could see first hand
the benefits of competent compassion, they
recognized what was important and voted Jim
back in handily with 63.4% supporting him.
His abilities and dedication were recognized
by Republicans and Democrats from many
walks of life, including Governor Henry, who
appointed him June 1, 2007 to serve Oklahoma
Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode’s
unexpired term when she resigned to take
a job in the private sector. Although many
constituents don’t give it much thought, the
Commission touches our lives as we get gas
for our cars or flip a light switch, as,vell as
many other blessings ~ve take for granted. He
has proven himself again in the time he has
already served on the Commission that he is
beholden to the people and not special interests,
and has the courage to stand up for ~vhat
is rig~ht even if he has to stand alone.
As Jim puts it:
"I’m standing for over 3 million Oklahomans
who want a brighter tomorrow. I’m mindful
that it takes an oath, a responsibility and the
ethics to serve 100% of this state. It’s been my
honor to take the oath to do it, and I hope
for the opportunity to continue to serve."
Sunday school teacher to prison ministry.
She has been a teacher in both public and private
schools, and truly understands firsthand
issues of education.
She also understands and is committed to the
needs of working Oklalaonaans. Endorsed by
the AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, she is
committed to helping Oklal~oma’s small businesses
stay competitive and supporting the
companies already here.
VC-hen asked if she supports the "gay agenda",
this is her answer.
"I have friends and family members who
are gay. I also have supporters how are gay.
My position is that our government should
protect the civil rights of all its citizens."
recording (the one that made youmbe) of
Sally Kern speaking at a Republican meeting,
where she stated that gays were a bigger threat
than terrorism or Islam, and compared them
to cancer.
Ron Marlett heard the comments about the
GLBT community, and decided that he had
to run, to offer the Oklahomans of District
84 something better. Currently a social
worker with Community Pathways Unlimited
( an agency working with disabled and elderly
people in Oklahoma nursing homes) he said
in an interview with the Metro Star that he
could not let Ms. Kern go unchallenged.
Mr. Marlett earned an excellent score when
he responded to a survey from the Oklahoma
Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, and
has been an outspoken advocate for equality ....
for all Oklalaomans. He grew up in a union
household, supports workers’ rights and won
the endorsement of the Oklahoma State AFLCIO,
in contrast to the voting record and
statements of his opponent. He faces a tough
race in a very conservative district.
His main point? " I think the biggest difference
between me and my opponent is that
I will fight for everyone’s freedom. She has
already made it clear in her own words that
not all religions or lifestyles are equal. IfI am
elected to represent District 84 1 hope this
will send a message not only to our state to
also to our nation that our freedoms and
equality are important."
Directory ofLoca_[ Animal Shelters
Tulsa Shelter 918-669-6299
Broken Arroxv 918-259-8311
OKC 405 297 3104
Muskogee 918 686 7297
Stillwater 405 372 0334
Coweta 918-486 2137
Siloam Sprfngs 479 524 6535
Claremore 918 341 1260
Sand Springs 918 246 2543
Jenks 918 299 6311
Owasso 918-272-4965
Sapulpa 918 227 2722
Norman 405 321 6725
Collinsville 918 371 1000
Courtesy ofw,a~v.labrescue.net
6 ~/et~"oSTAR November 2008
Wockner News Service
Connecticut Supremes
legalize same-sex marriage
Three down, 47 to go. Connecticut’s Supreme
Court legalized same-sex marriage Oct. 10,
following in the footsteps of California and
Massachusetts.
In a 4-3 decision, the justices said denying
same-sex couples equal access to marriage
violated the state constitution’s guarantee of
equal protection under the law.
"Interpreting our state constitutional provisions
in accordance with firmly established
equal protection principles leads inevitably to
the conclusion that gay" people are entitled to
marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise
would require us to apply one set of
constitutional principles to gay, persons and
another to all others."
The ruling is expected to take effect around
Nov. 7. Attorney General Richard Blumenthai
said he ~vould not challenge the decision
in any way:
Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she didn’t like the ruling
but has no plans to oppose it.
"The Supreme Court has spoken," she said. "I
do not believe their voice reflects the majority
of the people of Connecticut. However,
I am also firmly convinced that attempts to
reverse this decision -- either legislatively or
by amending the state constitution -- will not
meet with success."
The case was brought in 2004 in New Haven
Superior Court on behalf of eight gay and
lesbian Connecticut couples who had been
denied marriage licenses, q-he couples now
have been together for between 10 and 32
years and are raising a total of 14 children.
Tne court’s 85-page decision can be read
online at tinyurl.com/conndec.
Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium,
Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and
Spain -- and will become legal in Norway in
January.
Jay Leno supports samesex
marriage
TV talk show host Jay Leno expressed unequivocal
support for same-sex marriage on
his Oct. 1 broadcast.
During a chat with out talk show host Ellen
DeGeneres, Leno said: "I come from Massachusetts,
and they’ve had it in Massachusetts
for a !ong time. And it’s.fine. Tile world
doesn’t collapse.
"You know, I must admit, I go to West Hollywood
-- people know that’s the gay area. The
nicest area, the cleanest area, the safest area.
I mean, I dofft get it. I mean, if two people
warn to have something together --
the economy is falling apart, I don’t care what
you do!"~
DeGeneres said to Leno, "They are trying to
... stop gay people from marrying, like somehow
Portia and I staying at home watching
Dancing With the Stars is affecting anybody."
Etheridge, Michaels to
marry
Singer Melissa Etheridge, 47, and actress
Tammy Lynn Michaels, 33, are getting married,
Etheridge told tile TV show Extra on
Oct. 1.
"Yes, we have four children and we’re trying
to find the right time," Etheridge said.
California’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex
marriage in June.
On Nov. 4, voters will decide whether to
amend the state constitution to undo the
ruling.
Polls have shown support for same-sex marriage
as high as 55 percent and as low as 42
percent. They have clocked opposition to
same-sex marriage as high as 47 ~percent and
as low as 38 percent. Seven to l0 percent of
voters have polled as undecided on Prop 8.
FLORIDA State
Amendments Seem
Likely to Lose
Posted by Daily Queer News October 20,
An effort to rewrite the Florida Constitution
to prohibit gay marriage is falling short of
the numbers needed for victory in the Nov. 4
election, a Sun Sentinel and Florida Times-
Union poll shows.
Tne poll of 600 likely voters shows support
for Amendment 2 at 53 percent, less than the
60 percent approval rate required to change
the constitution.
~ae gay-marriage question is one of six
statewide referendums on this year’s lengthy
ballot. The poll found uncertainty high on all
of the rest, which range from tax breaks for
homeowners who install hurricane protection
to elimination of racist language from the
state constitution.
Backers of the gay-marriage ban say the poll
should be a wake-up call to conservatives to
vote. Opponents say the poll shows they have
made progress in explaining that the proposal
could jeopardize domestic partnership benefits
that many governments and companies
offer straight and gay employees.
California protects gay
seniors
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill
Sept. 28 to help prevent anti-gay bias in
senior-care facilities and nursing homes.
The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, requires
licensed health care professionals who have
constant interaction with seniors to attend a
training program on preventing discrimination
based on sexual orientation and gender
identity.
"Some members of the (GLBT) community
living in nursing homes have been denied
their most basic rights, including the simple
choice to spend time with a loved one,
because of their sexual orientation or gender
identity," said Equality California Executive
Director Geoff Kors. "We appreciate
the support of Gov. Schwarzenegger and the
Legislature for approving this measure, which
¯;viii prractively create a culture of respect and
understanding for all seniors living in care
facilities."
EQCA said basic rights such as the choice to
live in the same nursing home with a partner
and the right too hospital visitation are routinely
denied to older same-sex couples.
Connecticut residents
support same-sex marriage
decision
A Hartford Courant/University of Connecticut
poll has found that 53 percent of state
residents support the Oct. 10 state Supreme
Court decision that legalized same-sex marriage,
and 42 percent don’t like it.
Among Democrats, 72 percent support it
while, among Republicans, 69 percent oppose
it.
The poll of 502 adult residents had a margin
of error of 4.4 percentage points.
In a 4-3 decision, the Connecticut justices
said denying same-sex couples equal access
to marriage violated the state consn" tun"on’s
guarantee of equal protection under the law.
"Interpreting our state constitutional provisions
in accordance with firmly established
equal protection principles leads inevitably to
the conclusion that gay people are entided to
marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise
would require us to apply one set of
constitutional principles to gay persons and
another to all others."
The ruling is expected to take effect around
Nov. 7.
Same-sex marriage also is legal in California,
Massachusetts, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands,
South Africa and Spain -- and will
become legal in Norway in January.
There is no residency requirement to get married
in the three U.S. states or Canada.
Gays protest at Louisville
McDonald’s
Gay activists and others protested outside a
downtown Louisville McDonaM’s on Oct. 10
after an employee called a gro.~p ofgay customers
’faggots"and a sup~isor said the incidwnt was
no"big deal" and refused to refiand the customers’
money. Fairness carnpaign photo
Gay activists and others protested outside a
downtown Louisville McDonald’s on Oct.
10 after an employee called a group ofgay
customers "_faggots" and a supervisor said the
incident was no "big deal" and refused to
refund ~e customers’ money.
"For any business to treat its gay customers
this way is beyond the pale," said protester
Becca O’Neill from the University of
Louisville’s Lambda Law Caucus.
q-he demonstrators carried signs reading,
"Discrimination Don’t Belong in a Happy
Meal," "Homophobia Served Here" and
"NOT Lovin’ It."
"We have a law against anti-gay discrimination
in Louisville, but we want people to
know that these incidents still happen and
that bttsinesses that take part in this kind of
illegal discrimination will be held accountable,"
said Jeff: Rodgers, co-coordinator of the
Fairness Campaign.
Ryan Marlatt, Teddy Eggers and three friends
had stopped for lunch at the East Market
Street McDonald’s on July 26. As they waited
for their food, an employee referred to them
as "faggots" to another employee. Marlatt and
Eggers asked to speak with a manager, who
then refused to refund the group’s purchase.
Marlatt said he attempted several times in
the following weeks to contact the general
manager of the restaurant and the corporate
offices, but got no response.
The group seeks an apology, a refund of $28
and disciplinary action against tile employees
involved.
w~,~w.rnetrostarnews.com }&~troSTAR 7
LGBT Entrepreneurs
Keep Going as Financial
Titans Struggle
Despite this past year’s economic slowdmvn,
the recent credit crunch and plummeting
stock prices on Wall Street, LGBT small
business owners, like many of their straight
counterparts, are successfully riding out the
storm.
Top economists and business leaders have
declared the current financial morass an "economic
apocalypse," yet recent congressional
action on the $700 billion bailout bill points
the way to what many hope is a brighter
economic future.
"This bill’s success shows that Americ£s la,vmakers
understand the importance of a strong
economy--and particularly that the tightening
credit crisis was risking the ability of small
businesses to make payroll, stock shelves
and keep up with day-to-day expenses," says
Chance Mitchell, co-founder and CEO of the
National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
"In short, without this package, small businesses
which make up the engine that run the
United States economy seriously risked coming
to an abrupt halt," Mitchell adds.
The biggest threat to small businesses from
U.S. financial woes is the tightening of credit
markets. Credit is a lifeline for small businesses
looking to grow and maintain operations,
and in some places, it’s getting harder
to find. Many banks are boosting credit score
thresholds and tightening credit all around.
"Small business owners, whether or not they
use credit to run or expand their own businesses,
know that access to credit and a fully
functioning financial market are important
to them and to their customers, suppliers and
vendors," says Todd Stottlemyer, president
and CEO of the National Federation of Independent
Business.
For LGBT small businesses, the focus is on
making do in this unpredictable economy.
Ask Izzy Schechner, a member of Plexus, the
LGBT chamber for Cleveland, Ohio. He
owns D&I Restaurant Group, a corporate catering
company that’s closer than most small
businesses to the banldng crisis--one of the
cafeterias D&I runs is for a commercial bank.
"A lot ofmy customers in the cafeteria are
either cutting back their orders drastically or
bringing food from home," says Schechner.
"That has impacted our business by about 25
or 30 percent."
In addition to dropping customer orders,
Schechner has stopped cashing his own
paycheck while making some painf~ cuts to
his business.
"For the first time we’ve been going to discount
wholesalers like Sam’s Club and Costco
to get the same products we norm_ally have
delivered. We’ve had to lay offa few people
and we’ve stopped giving vacation pay this
year for the first time ever," he says. Marci
Bair, a financial planner and employee benefits
consultant in San Diego, has only gotten
busier.
"~lhe majority ofmy clients are small business
owners coming in for advice on how to cut
costs and [,,estructure their employee benefits,"
sa~ys Bair. We primarily look at ~il the aspects
or the business where we can cut costs; a significant
cost is in the health insurance area."
Bair, who belongs to the her local LGBT
chamber, the Greater San Diego Business
Association, says that business owners for the
most part want to keep as many options open
for their employees as possible.
"Now is not the time for employees to be
without insurance," she says. "Some owners
are going for a ~igher deduct!ble plan, while
others want to hang in there with their current
plans" in anticipation of better times.
And making sure to do business in the community
is key to bringing those better times
back, says Sam McClure, executive director of
Twin Cities Quorum, the LGBT chanaber of
commerce for Minneapolis and St. Paul.
"We’re seeing relationships among LGBT
businesses grow e~’en tighter since this economic
crisis started," says McClure. "We’re
talking about how important it is to do
business in your community again, even more
than usual, and that’s something that we
haven’t really talked about since the late 80s."
McClure also points to individual measures
businesses can take, and that her chamber has
consistently pushed,,, such as maintaining a
high credit ratin,g. ’ Planning strategically, . for
growth is cruc,al now, because I dont th~nk
businesses are going to have,as much flexibility
as in the past, she says. ’ So being part of
.the community has taken on a higher level of
importance.
Bair too is doing her part for the LGBT coinmunity
and members of the LGBT chamber.
She’s helping LGBT couples and individuals
maneuver through complicated financial and
health care decisions as they face layoffs and
office c!osures.
8chechner says that he feels supported by fellow
LGBT entrepreneurs as wellas he maneuvers
through this difficult economy.
"It’s comforting to have a sounding board
from our chanlber of commerce, just to
bounce ideas off of and to help with cost-saving
strategies, networking, and to help utilize
our resources to the max," he says.
McClure suggests LGBT entrepreneurs practice
an economics of conscience.
"Whenever we earn or spend a dollar inside
of our community we are flexing our considerable
economic muscle. I would say to every
gay and gay-friendly business owner, choose
thoughtfully where you buy your next cup of
coffee, where you have your next lunch meeting,
where you invest your retirement funds,
where you go for happy hour.
"Every choice is a new opportunity to drive
our economic power for change."
(Source NGLCC http://v~ccw.nglcc.org/BIZ/
index )
8 P#~÷t~oSTAR November 2008
How to Protect Your Loved Ones
When the State Will Not
Life planning helps same-sex couples protect
each other.
By Attorney Susan A. Muscari
I~hoto: 7~dsa AttornG Susan A. 3d.,~scari
Same-sex couples face several challenges when it comes to
the legal and tax system, especially in the state of Oklahoma
where same-gender marriages are not recognized. If one partner
dies, the remaining partner may find themselves in a legal
battle against the deceased~ family - unless a legally binding
plan has been put into effect.
Ira homosexual couple was married in a state that recognized
it as legal, and then moved or returned to Oldahoma,
Oklahoma still does not recognize that marriage. For same-sex
couples, the tax burden is much larger than that ofheterosexua~
married couple.
However, while all residents must abide by Otdahoma’s laws,
there are ways to navigate them to ensure the assets and real
estate of you and your partner are titled to enable fewer tax
penalties. Tixere are also preparations partners can make to
ensure each person’s wishes are fotlmved in the situation of a
catastrophic illness, temporary incapacitation, or the event of
death.
~xere are five essential documents that same-sex couples
should create t~ protect themselves and their partners.
Prepare an Advanced Medical Directive
Setup Durable Power ofAttorney
Create a Revocable Living Trust
Prepare a Last Will and Testament
Setup an Authorization to Disclose Medical Records
First, an Advanced Medical Directive allows same-sex partners
to name each other as healthcare proxy, permitting a partner
to speak with physicians on the other’s behalf. It is often hard
on both the individual’s family and partner in times of distress
and tensions can arise resulting in conflicting opinions in
terms of care. The medical directive ensures there is no confusion
as to who will be making the decisions on behalf of an
individual if they are unable to do so for themselves.
Along that same line, instituting a Durable Power ofAttorney
provides same-sex couples the right to make personal and
financial decisions on behalfofa partner if they ever become
disabled.
By ~vorking with a team of an
estate planning attorney and
a CPA, same-sex couples can
esfablish finite directives and
asset protections through a Revocable
Living Trust, allmving
couples to pass assets to their
partner.
Though the state of Oklahoma
may not recognize or respect
same-sex marriages, samegender
trusts are recognized
by the state and have not been
successfully challenged. A trust,
with very careful planning,
can also help same-sex couples
avoid several tax consequences.
There am two ways for domestic
partners to set up a trttst;
one option for couples is to set
up separate trusts and designate
each other as the beneficiaries.
This is the best option for
couples Who may have competing
interests such as a child
from a previous relationship.
Separate trusts can provide for
the child as well as the partner
in a worse-case scenario situation.
The second option is to create
a joint trust in which the assets
of both indMduals are combined
into one trust. While
this is the ideal for long-term
couples, it is imperative to enter
into this arrangement xvith
the understanding that there
will likely be tax consequences.
Ti~e best advice for couples who decided to go the course of a
shared trust is to let the assets remain in the trust. As long as
the assets stay where they are, the surviving partner can avoid
extreme tax consequences that same-sex couples often fall
under.
Lastly, with an authorization to disclose medical records and
a Last Will and Testament in place, same-sex couples can
institute a No Contest Clause, effectively establishing partners
as personal representatives of each other. It also protects the
remaining partner from anyone who may contest their rights
as a representative and beneficiary.
The crt~x of the matter is that there are ways to plan for domestic
partners, but do not count on Oklahoma and its laws
to provide that protection. Same-sex partners deserve the same
protection that their heterosexual counterparts receive, but it
takes careful life planning aa~d the right documents in place to
do so.
For a personal consultation on your specific needs, you may
contact Susan at (918) 770-3423 or visit:
,aw~w.muscarilaw.com.
Palin Indicates Support for Federal
Marriage Amendment
Nearly 60 percent ofAmericans oppose writing discrimination
into U.S. Constitution
WASHINGTON, DC (PR-HRC) __ Alaska Gov. Sarah
Palin, the GOP nominee for vice-president, has indicated in
an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that
she would support an amendment to the U.S. Constitution
excluding gay and lesbian couples from marriage. The
so-called Federal Marriage Amendment has faced bipartisan
opposition in both houses of Congress, both of which have
voted the FMA down twice.
Sarah Pahn ~s out of step w~th the majomy ofAmericans,
nearly 60 percent ofwhom are opposed to writing discrimination
into the U.S. Constitution," said Human Rights Campaign
President Joe Solmonese. "Her view stands in stark
contrast to the ideals that make America great: freedom,
opportunity, and eq~,ality. These are the tenets upon which
our nation was built.
An August 2008 poll from TIME Magazine shows that 58
percent ofAmericans believe that the U.S. Constitution
should not be amended to define marriage as being between
one man and one woman.
The Human Rights Cam,paign PAC, the political action
committee of the nations largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender civil rights organization, previously released an
online video in response to comments made by Patin in which
she stated that she believes homosexuality is a choice. The
video released by HRC PAC is narrated by Michael Cole,
senior manager of HRC’s media center, who flew to Alaska
with a video production crew to talk with Wasilla’s LGBT
community.
View the video at http:/ha~-,v.youtube.com/hrcmedia.
www.metrostarnews.com ~I®t~~STAR 9
Palin tries to walk center line on
gays
News analysis by Rex Woc¼aer
Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is strongly
against same-sex marriage and has a history of speaking
against gay rights, but in the current campaign she’s attempting
to strike a middle ground.
"I am not going tO judge Americans and tile decisions that
they make in their adult personal relationships," she recently
told CBS News. "t have one ofmy absolute best friends for
the last 30 years who happens to be gay, and I love her dearly
-- and she is not my ’gay friend,’ she is one of my best friends,
who happens to have made a choice that isn’t a choice that I
have made, but I’m not going to judge people."
Palin, however, was judged for that comment by gay activists,
who took exception to her saying that being gay is a "choice."
There also has been Internet chatter that no one can identify
who Palin’s lifelong lesbian pal is.
Patin likewise attempted to appear tolerant during the Oct. 2
vice presidential debate.
"If there~ any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I
would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing
their partners, choosing relationships that they deem
best for themselves -- you know, I am tolerant and I have a
vmT diverse i]amily and group of friends and even within that
group you would see some who may not agree with me on
this issue, some very dear friends who don’t agree ~vith me on
this issue," she said. "But in that tolerance also, no one would
ever propose, not in a McCain-Paliri administration, to do
anything to prohibit, say, visitations in a hospital or contracts
being signed, negotiated bet~veen parties."
But then she stated unequivocally: "I will tell Americans
straight up that I don’t support defining marriage as anything
but between one man and one woman, and I think through
nuances we can go round and round about what that actually
means. But I’m being as straight up ~vith Americans as I can
in my nonsupport for anything but a traditional definition of
marriage."
Because Democratic candidates Barack Obama and Joe Biden
also claim to oppose same-sex marriage, because Palin was
trying to sound tolerant, and because debate host Gwen Ifill
was anything but aggressive in her questioning, some debate
viewers xvere lei~ with the impression that there is no difference
between the two teams on issues of gay equality.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Obama and Biden
support giving same-sex couples all the rights of marriage
-- everything but the word -- and oppose attempts to ban
same-sex marriage in the states where it is legal.
John McCain and Palin, on the other hand, support statewide
bans on same-sex marriage, do not speak in support of civil
unions, and, in the final analysis, seemingly would go only so
far as letting gay people visit a sick partner in the hospital and
allowing them to sign private contracts to attempt to protect
their relationship legally.
That’s a far cry from the Democratic position in favor of
granting gay" couples all marriage rights under a different label.
"Do I support granting same-sex benefits?" Biden asked during
the debate with Palin. "Absolutely positive!): Look, in an
Obama-Biden administration, there will be absolutely no distinction
from a constitutional standpoint or a legal standpoint
between a same-sex and a heterosexual couple."
Rea Carey; lesbian, gay; bisexual
and transgender rights leader,
demands higher standard from
national candidates
WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Rea Carey, executive director
of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund,
responds to the vice presidential debate between Republican
Gov. Sarah Palin and Democratic Sen. Joseph Biden.Statemerit
by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay’and Lesbian ~ask Force Action Fund
Press releasephoto: Rea Care),, Executive Director National Gay
and Lesbian Ta~-k Force Action Fund
"I found myself reacting as ifI had heard fingernails on a
chalkboard when Gov. Sarah Palin talked about her tolerance.
I’m sorry, but tolerance with a smile does not equal support
for our lives nor does it honor the validity of our relationships
and families. Much of the country has moved well beyond
the condescension and dismissiveness of’tolerance.’ We have
higher expectations than patronizing statements of tolerance
by anyone seeking to lead this nation. We also have higher
expectations for those political leaders, such as Sen. Joseph
Biden, who have been our allies on so many issues to finally,
and unequivocally, stand up for our full equality.
"I look fotward to a day xvhen the leadership of our country
can set an example and dearly state that it is time for the rejection
of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans to
end. Too many elected officials have not even met the low bar
of calling for complete legal equality for all Americans.
"We live in difficult times. Families sit at their kitchen tables
dealing with the challenges of our day, -- keeping their jobs,
putting fuel in their tanks and food on the table, and obtaining
good and affordable health care. Our families -- LGBT
families -- are dealing with the exact same concerns, only
without the legal protections that are so critical to our welfare.
What I wanted to hear in the debate, and did not, is a belief
that protections and opportunities, like marriage, should exist
so that our families have the ability to both thrive and to contribute
to society on equal footing with our straight friends
and neighbors."
¯he Fruit Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree ?
or
A Tragedy Waiting for an Ending
By James Nimmo
O~HOMA CITY, OK __ I attended the last of two
debates between Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth and
the GOP opponent Dana Murphy. Held at Oldahoma City
University" in the School of Law Building there were about
! 50 people listening including GOP Rep, Sally Kern and her
husband.
I think if you’re reading this you know that Ms. Kern carried
a loaded hand gun twice into the Oklahoma Capitol Building
and that every waking moment of her life is devoted to thinking
about how gay men and lesbians conduct their private
lives and how she can break up the action.
I think her husband, Rev. Steve Kern, chief minister at Olivet
Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, is also devoted to the
s,ame voyeurism consuming his wi~. I believe this because
I ve attended in the early spring five services preached by Rev.
Kern and he never failed to mention the clinical, pseudo-scientific
word "homosexuality" in those sermons and the great
evils spurting there from. He even said that men having sex
with other men look like dogs. I swear I’m not making this
up! Imagine saying this in front of 60- and 70-year old white
hetem men and women steeped in the blood of their G-sus!
At the conclusion of the debate I went up to Ms. Kern and
reminded her that it’s also illegal to carry a gun onto a college
campus. She replied that I was ~velcome to call a securityguard
and have her purse searched. I declined the invitation
saying I wanted to make sure she knew the law.
Fearing that his Biblica! help-meet made from a rib ~vas losing
the thread of the discussion, Rev. Kern asked me why I was
so hung tip on Sally’s gun toting. I asked Rev: Kern why were
he and Sa!ly~ so hung up on "homosexuality"? Is it because the
fruit hasnt fallen far from the tree?
Oh, but Rev. Kern said they’re only interested in morality
and that I should attend their church and see what it’s like. I
reminded him I’d been to their church five times and I had all
the X-tian morality I could stomach.
Let me tell you I was the unidentified man escorted from
the Bethany City Hall two weeks ago when I stood up at a
political forum and asked on behalfof public safety ifSally
Kern was carrying her gun in a "no weapons" area such as the
auditorium we were sitting in.
Shouldn’t it bother you to know that there are people on the
public payroll who have no intention of obeying the law when
it applies to their idea that they are ABOVE earthly law and
prefer the higher law of the Triune heavenly father-son-holy
spirit?
An interview with Jesse Kern, one of the sons of the hetero-
Kerns, appeared in the Tulsa World ( http:,//tinyurl.com/
39kpsq ) earlier this year when his mothers You Tube speech
( http:lltinyurl.comlyq91ak ) was burning on the internet like
the purifying fires of hell. Jesse said he was not gay and had
given his sexuality to his god.
That’s funny. I didn’t know God needed a sex buddy.
I’m no psychiatrist, I’m purely an observer but doesn’t something
he-re smell a bit musty, like it’s been in the closet too
long?
Let me see: a grown man raised in a fervently fundie church
doffs that background, ( http://tinyurl.com/66axyu ) joins a
new-age kind of commune, and devotes his sex life to the god
of his imagination.
At the same time his parents are on a 24-7 rampage for morality,
looking for semen stains between every sheet, and partner
their politics to organizations associated with some unsavory
characters. ( http:l/gossip-boy.comlKern_Campaign.html )
It seems to me that Sally Kern and her family are a tragedy
waiting for an ending.
10 ~÷t~°oST,~R November 2008
Ten years. ousands victimized.
Not action.
Thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
people have been victims of hate-motivated violence
since Matthew Shepard’s death, and still there is no
federal hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and
gender identity
WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Sunday; Oct. 12, marked the
10-year anniversary of the brutal death of Matthew Shepard,
and many states and the federal government have yet to enact
hate crimes protections covering both sexual orientation and
gender identity. This, despite the fact that thousands of lesbian,
gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people have been
the targets of hate-based violence in the decade since Shepard’s
murder, according to statistics from the National Coalition of
Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP).
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund
provides referrals for assistance for housing, food and other
medical issues.
Despite the change in location, many of their former clients
from the N.W. 39th Street area have come to the new place,
as well as others from that area. Although not as ideal as the
other location, Mike Maus, a longtime counselor for Red
Rock, states that it has worked out. He also feels that because
he is well known as a openly gay man who is HIV positive,
this helps clients feel comfortable and OK with seeking testing
"Ten years ago, the shocking murder of Matthew Shepard
sent a national clarion call for stronger federal la~vs to combat
crimes motivated by hate. Since then, lesbian, gay, bisexual
and transgender people have continued to fall victim to hatestoked
violence in shocking numbers. Despite this epidemic
ofanti-LGBT violence, the federal government has refused to
enact a hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and gender
identity. This shameful failure of national xvill and resolve
must end in 2009 with a new president and a new Congress.
"Today, we remember mad mourn Matthew Shepard. We also
remember other young people whose voices fell silent this past
yeai: "We mourn Ashley Sweeney of Detroit, Mich., shot to
death in February 2008; we mourn Lawrence King of Oxnard;
Calif., shot to death in his middle-school classroom in February
2008; we mourn Simmie Williams Jr. ofFt~ Lauderdale,
Fla., shot to death in February 2008; and we mourn Angle
Zapata of Greeley, Colo., beaten to death with a fire extinguisher
in July 2008. We remember and mourn all victims of
hate violence, but especially these and other young gendernonconforming
people, who died in the hope of freedom to
live their lives as they wished."
Assessment of progress during the past 10 years
Currently, 31 states and D.C. have hate crimes laws that
track or make illegal crimes motivated by sexual orientation
mad/or gender identity and expression. However, by the time
of Matthew Shepard’s death in 1998, 23 of these 31 states had
already passed their laws. Since his death 10 years ago, only
eight states have added hate crimes protections (Colorado,
Hawaii, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee
and Texas). In 19 states, there are no hate crime laws
protecting anyone in the LGBT community.
On the federal level, champions in both the House and Senate
have continued to prioritize passage of legislation that would
expand and sn-engthen federal hate crimes legislation. In the
110th Congress, both chambers with bipartisan majorities
passed the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate
Crimes Prevention Act as a free-standing bill in the House and
an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization
Act in the Senate. This is the first time both chambers have
considered a bill that included both gender identity and sexual
orientation. However, strategic and procedural problems
prevented Congress from sending a bill to President George
Bush, who promised to veto the bill if it did reach that point.
Epidemic of anti-LGBT violence
LGBT people are disproportionately affected by hate violence.
Reports produced by the National Gay and Lesbian Task
Photo provided by aJ~iend ofthe victim shows Universi{y ofWyominggay
college student Matthew Shepard who was beaten and
Ie’.fifior dead in a W~ominy’.gpastute near Laramie, I~210.,~y on Oct.
7, 1998. In the 10 years since, more than 30 states havepassed
laws addtessing bias-related crimes against gays, but gay,rights
advocates point to a series offrustrations including thefailure of
federal hate-crime legislation. (AP)
Forc~ (i984=1993) and the National Coalition ofAnti-Violence
Programs (1994-2007) have documented more than
35,000 anti-LGBT crimes over the last two decades. It is
important to note that these statistics are based on reports
from only a handful of local LGBT crime victim assistance
agencies. Indusion of transgender people in hate crimes laws
is especially important because violence against transgender
people is widespread, largely underreported, and disproportionately
greater than the number of transgender people in
society. The total number of victims reporting anti-LGBTQ
violence to NCAX¢~ in 2007 was 2,430, which represents a 24
percent increase over the total number of victims reported in
2006.
~-he Task Force has led the movement-wide effort to secure an
effective and full governmental response to hate crimes against
LGBT people, beginning with the launch of its groundbreaking
anti-violence project in 1982. Task Force organizing,
coalition building and lobbying resulted in the 1990 passage
of the Hate Crimes Statistics Act, sponsored by U.S. Rep.
John Conyers.
Ouotable Ouotes
"But our country’s journey toward equality is not
finished. It’s been five years since Lawrence v. Texas. It’s
been 39 years since Stonewall. And we still have more
work to do before we achieve equality for gay, lesbian,
bisexual, and transgender Americans.
Election Day offers an opportunity to take another
crucial step toward equality. Millions have joined this
movement for change. People are hoping again -- believinggaain
-- that we can come together to create, a
stronger, fairer nation. And on November 4 we 1! have a
chance to put that hope into action."
Michelle Obama
Photo: Red Rock Counselor ~adike Maus by Victor Gorin
As Mike puts it, ’~We are stil! testing as many people as we
were before, and we will continue to have a presence in the
gay community, keeping on with outreach programs, passing
out condoms inthe barsl and educating When possible, particularly
at special events such as Pride and World AIDS Day."
"We are here to help people determine their HIV status, and
develop a plan to deal with that status. Treatment is available
for all people with HIV in the United States, regardless of
xvhether you have a job, money or insurance. We want to get
the word out that we’re here to help."
Red Rock HIV testing 877-339 3330
Mike Maus--(405)425-0473
Red Rock Behavioral Health Services (405) 424 7711
Oklahoma STD Hotline 800 535 2437
Oklahoma City-County Health Department STD Clinic
(405) 427-8651
Positively Living Support Group-Every Tuesday at Red Rock
5:30 p.m. for those infected or affected by HIV.
Tuesday Night Supper Club---Social dinners at varied restaurants
every other Tuesday for those likewise dealing with HIV.
For more information Chuck Longacre (405) 425-0448.
Direct Cremation From $595
TION
MORTUARY SERVICE,~
Traditional Funeral Services at Affordable Prices
(405) 230- 1310 or !-800-913-1310
Pre-Need Plan
CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
2415-C North Walnut Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
www.rnetrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 11
@Club 209, Tulsa
@Angles, Oklahoma City
@ Finishline, Oklahoma City
@ The Ledo, Oklahoma City
@Club Majestic, Tulsa
@ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa
@ The Copa, Oklahoma City
@ The Lab Rescue, Tulsa
By Greg Steele
xk~/rith all the
outing of gay
penguins, sheep,
dogs and other
species, is there a
possibility there
are gay turkeys?
How would you
know if you
were eating one
of our own? I
mean the poor
critters are just
herded into the
slaughter pen,
humanely killed,
I presume,
plucked and whisked off to Walmart. I for one wil! be
asking the Walmart meat lady ifmy turkey was gay! I
refuse to bake, fry, barbecue or boil a family member.
We assume that all turkeys are hetero, and it’s OK to
bake or fry ect., a homophobic hetero turkey, but what
ifyour turkey was hetero and gay friendly?
This outing of animals and now fowl is just not
right. It raises so many questions and creates so many
problems and it’s Thanksgiving for God’s sake. W~here
are r~e Fowl Rights people when you need them!
Have a Great Holiday!
12 ~VI÷troSTAR November 2008
Artists Cindy Swanson and Sharyl
Landis e ibit at the Dennis R.
Neill Equality Center
Mosaic "Just Balother Day"
TULSA, OK (PR) The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center
art gallery will host its monthly First Thursday meet-the-artist
reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, November 6, 2008, for the
opening of it’s new exhibit featuring artists Cindy Swanson
and Sharyl Landis,
Swanson will be displaying many of her mosaic works of art.
Drawn to the art form by her attraction to the colored glass,
Cindy has qtudie.dthe medium i~ Italy under the guidance of
two master tlqosalsts.
Landis will be featuring her mixed-media art at the show,
which She describes as "fascinating and full ofwhimsy’!. Shawl
loves using her hands to transform objects into unique designs
through the blending of colors, shapes, and textures.
Since 1997, beading has been Sharyl’s primary form of expression,
though in recent years she has expanded into hand dyed
textiles and using beadwork as a 3-D addition to her paintings
and textiles.
The exhibit will remain up through the month of November,
and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The
Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St.,
in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at
okeq.org.
~Pnis monthly event is hosted by Oldahoman’s for Equality
(OkEq). OkEq seel~ equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
&:Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families {lx~bugh
advocac~ education, programs, alliances, and the Operation of
the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center.
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www.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 13
Mitcham is sad he was
only out gay at Olympics
Gold-medal diver Matthew Mitcham told
the Sydney Morning Herald on Oct. 8 that
he is sad he was the only out gay man at the
Beijing Olympics.
"I was actually very surprised I was the only
out male at the Olympic Games," he said.
"It’s a little bit sad. I think, because statistically
there should be a lot more but, you know
what, it’s each to one’s own. I’m not going
to pressure awbody else to come out of the
closet because it’s their own choice. But I’m
proud to be there, proud to be that one that
lots of other people can look up to."
Some 10,500 athletes took part in the games.
Mitcham’s gold-medal dive received the highest
score in Olympic diving history.
kish trans laws need
updating
Ireland needs to fix its laws on transgender
issues, the Irish Human Rights Commission
said Oct. 1.
Among other things, post-op transsexuals
should be able to get a new birth certificate
aa~d get married to someone of the opposite
sex, the commission said.
The group recommended the government
move on the matter with urgency; pointing
out that the current laws rtm afoul of
decisions by the European Court of Human
Rights.
Norwegian church will
not marry gays when law
takes effect
Norway will become the seventh nation to
grant same-sex couples access to full marriage
in January, but the dominant Church of
Norway will not marry gays, the state church’s
bishops said Oct. 8.
Pastors will be permitted to offer prayers for
gay couples who get married but may not
bless them, the bishops said.
Same-sex marriage also is allmved in Belgium,
Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain
and, in the U.S., California, Connecticut and
Massachusetts.
Head ofBritish army
addresses gay conference
The head of Britain’s army, Gen. Richard
Dannatt, chief of the general staff, made history
by addressing a gay conference in London
Oct. 9, The Sunday Telegraph reported.
In remarks to the Fourth Joint Conference
on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual
Matters, Dannatt said that respecting GLBT
officers and soldiers is "a command responsibility"
that is mandatory- to ensure "operational
effectiveness."
"We have made real progress in our understanding
of equality and diversity in the military
context, and there is a desire to achieve
more yet," he said. "Respect for others is not
an optional extra, it is a command responsibility
and an essential part of leadership,
teamwork and operational effectiveness."
Britaiffs arrned forces lifted their gay ban in
2000 on orders from the European Court of
Human Rights.
Iraqi gay leader
assassinated
The Baghdad head of the international group
Iraqi LGBT was assassinated in late Seprember,
activists in London reported.
Bashar, 27, was gunned down in a barbershop.
"Militias burst in and sprayed his body with
bullets at point-blank range," said leading
British gay activist Peter Tatchell. "~e exact
identity of the gunmen is unclear, but he
was probably murdered by the Islamist death
squads who are targeting lesbian and gay
Iraqis for ’sexual cleansing.’"
Bashar was the local coordinator of foreignfunded
"safe houses" for gays and lesbians
living in Iraq.
"His efforts saved the lives of dozens of
people," Tatchell said. "Bashar xvas a ldnd,
generous and extremely brave young man -- a
true hero who put his life on the line to save
the lives of others."
Dutch men on trial for
deliberate HIV
transmission
Three men from Groningen, Netherlands, are
on trial for ddiberately infecting at least 12
other men with HIV, several news agencies
reported.
Hans Jurgens, 39, Peter Mulder, 50, and
Wim Deld~er, 49, allegedly advertised gay
sex parties online, lured participants to their
location, then drugged them, raped them and
injected them with HIV-positive blood.
Prosecutors want the trio to be jailed for
between eight and 15 years.
Wockner News Service
Larry K ng quizzes Ahmadinejad on gays in 1ran
U.S. TVinte,wiewer Lar~y King quizzed Iranian PresidentMahmoud Ahmadinejad on his nation’s
treatment ofgays Sept. 23. Screen-capture photo
U.S. TV interviewer Larry King quizzed
Iranian President Malamoud Ahmadinejad on
his nation’s treatment of gays Sept. 23.
q]aere have been persistent, though unconfirmed,
reports for years that Iran hangs men
for the crime of engaging in gay sex.
King said: "People (are) protesting that they
don’t have the same rights as other people.
Homosexuals -- you said last yea,; you denied
there were homosexuals (in Iran). There’s
homosexuals everywhere."
Ahmadinejad replied: "I said it’s not the way
it is here (in the U.S.). In Iran this is considered
a very -- obviously most people dislike it.
And we have actually a law regarding it and
the law is enforced. It is a law that was passed.
It was legislated. And it is an act that is
against human principles. A lot of things can
the private realm of people. ~ais is at
the (level of) nor-private, public morality. In
their own house, nobody ever interferes with
people."
Last year, during a speech at Columbia University
in New York City, Ahmadinejad also
was asked about the nation’s treatment of gay
people.
He responded: "We in Iran ... don’t have
hamjensbaz (a derogatory term for homosexuals)
like you have in your country. In our
country; there is no such a thing. In Iran,
such a thing does not -- in Iran, in Iran,
absolutely such a thing does not exist as a
phenomenon. I don’t know who told you
otherwise."
Iran is known to have executed several teens
and men accused of engaging in sodomy,
happen. It can cause psychological problems, although in nearly all the cases that have been
social problems that affect the whole society, publicized in recent years the individuals were
Remember that God’s rules are to improve
human life. In our religion, this act is forbidden
and the Parliament has legislated about it.
Not now, 70 years ago. This is something that
happened 70 years ago, before the Islamic
R~public became --"
King interjected, "So what happens to gay
people?"
Ahmadinejad replied: "Well, of course,
nobody has held protests. You are -- are you
concerned for 70 million Iranian people or a
few homosexuals? Let’s assume in Iran -- let’s
assume in the United States that 200 million
people drive cars and a million violators are
rounded up and they just basically violate
driving laws. Should we be worried for the
199 million people whose safety we must be
concerned about or the one million violators?
The law is the law and it’s law. And it must be
enforced. Ofcourse, we do pay attention that
in Iran nobody interferes in the private lives
of individuals. We have nothing to do with
accused of other crimes as well, such as rape.
The International Gay and Lesbian Human
Rights Commission has said it suspecrs that
other charges often are tacked onto sodomy
cases to prevent the public outrage that wood
accompany executions carried out solely for
the crime of consensual adult gay sex. The
group also has said it believes executions
solely for gay sex are taking place out of the
public eye.
"Our suspicions (are) that their current practice
really is to rid society of lesbians and gay
men," the organization said last year.
Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, has
said it cannot fully document any executions
in Iran in recent years carried out solely for
the crime of consensual adult gay sex.
14 ~et~oSTAR November 2008
Re Roc Horror Show- Next in
"Lyric at the Plaza" Series
With art: Frank ’iV’ Furter (Monte WheekO prepares to give
Brad (Brad!o, Beah~) andJanet (Heather Hawkins) a wild
n~ht to remembe~ (_Photo by ~ndy Mutz)
O~HOMA CITY, OK (PR) __ Lyric ~eatre, Oklahoma’s
premiere professiona! theatre company, concludes the 2007-
2008 "Lyric at the Plaza" season with the big, bad, rock-n-roll
musical, The Rocky Horror Show. From October 9th through
November 1st, Lyric will present the live version of the spectacular
cult classic film about the madcap adventures of Brad
Majors and his fiancd Janet Weiss, who approach the spooky
Frankenstein place to find help for a flat tire. In the house,
though, they encounter the maniacal Dr. Frank ’N’ Furter,
the rippling Rocky, the vivacious Magenta, and experience the
boldest, naughtiest party of their lives. Lyri& production of
Tne Rocky Horror Show will be directed and choreographed
by Nick Demos and will be his final show at the helm of Lyric
~qeatre.
The Rocky Horror Show was first created by writer/actor
Richard O’Brien as a stage musical in 1973. The cinematic
version starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon followed t~vo
years later and went on to become one of the most famous
and ardently followed cult films of all time. This popularity
has kept the live musical in almost continuous production at
theatres around the ~vorld ever since. Oklahoma audiences
are encouraged to get into the intended spirit of the show
by dressing up and participating in all of the talk-back and
extracurricular activities that make Rocky Horror such a wild
theatrical experience. Audience participation packages will be
available for purchase at the theatre.
Like all Lyric productions, The Rocky Horror Show features
a blend of talent both from New York and from Oklahoma.
Monte ~qaeeler (Off-Broadway: The IT Girl, Streakiri!) stars
as Frank ’N’ Furter, Bradley Beahen (assistant director- Enter
Laughing, the Musical) performs as Brad, and Oklahoma
native Heather Hawkins (Broadway: Avenue Q) gets down
and dirty as Janet. The role of Rocky himself is played by Nick
Adams, best known for performing opposite Mario Lopez in
the Broadway revival ofA Chorus Line.
Local talent letting loose for Rocky Horror indudes Renee
Anderson as Magenta, Brian Hamilton as Rift Raft, Stephen
Hilton as the Narrator, and Michael Todd as Eddie/Dr.
Scott. They and a whole host of actors playing Phantoms and
Transylvanians will lead the raunchy celebration that includes
timeless numbers including "S~veet Transvestite", "Touch-A,
Touch-A, Touch Me", and the rousing "Time Warp."
Tickets for The Rocky Horror Show are $40. Senior discounts
(ages 65+), Group discounts (10+), and College Student
discounts (week ofshow with ID) are also available.
Performances are October 9th through November 1st: Thursdays
at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 6:00pm &
10:00pm. However, t_he Friday, October 31 st performance
and the late Saturday, November 1st performance will both
begin at midnight instead of the times previously listed. For
tickets: w~wc.lyrictheatreokc.com, (405) 524-9312, or in
person at 1727 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City, OK.
Lyric’s production ofThe Rocky Horror Show is sponsored
by the Oklahoman, King’s Limo & Private Jet, the Copa, and
Angles. Annual support is provided by Mlied Arts and the
Oklahoma Arts Council.
In Oklahoma City, the renovation and opening of Plaza ~eatre
as an intimate live performance venfie has enabled Lyric
to expand its programming to include even more entertainment
options for adventuresome theatergoers. Get ready for
a night of frolics and fun at The Rocky Horror Show! (rated
R for strong language, sexually explicit scenes, and mature
themes)
Carrie Underwood Oct 29, 2008 at BOK
Center
Carrie Underwood’s Carnival Ride Tour October 29th, 2008
7:30 pm
Prices: $55, $45, $35
Tickets on sale Friday, Sept 12 @ 10am
Checotah, Okla. native and two-time Academy of Country
Music Top Female Vocalist, Carrie Underwood, is scheduled
to stop at the BOK Center on October 29, 2008, for a live
performance from her Carnival Ride Tour. With a recordbreaking
start to her career, Carrie Underwood has been
,,the top-sellin,g artist,, to come from Fox’s hit television, show,
American Idol, and has taken the country mus,c world by
storm.
Eagles Nov 11, 2008 at BOK Center By
popular demand the Eagles will return for a
second show!!!!
Ticket prices: $187, $87, and $52 The Eagles coming back to
play a second date at the BOK Center is a huge accomplishment
for the city and attests to the level of excitement and
enthusiasm for both the band and the new BOK Center. We
need to show the band a gratitude of thanks for ~eturning
for a second date in the form of another sell-out said John
Bolton, General Manager.
Due to overwhelming d,,e,mand, the Eagles have a,dded a second
Tulsa date to their Long Road Out of Eden world tour.
The Eagles will perform live on Tuesda); November 1 lth at
the BOK Center and the band - Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe
~Valsh and Timothy B. Schmit - will be perfo,r,ming curre,,nt
!~its from Long Road ,,Out of Eden including How Long and
Busy Being Fabulous as well as their classic songs.
The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide,
earning five #1 U.S. singles and four Grammy Awards.
Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling albu,,m of
all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units. The bands Hotel
California and Tneir Greatest Hits Volume 2 have sold more
than 16 and 1 ! million albums respectively. The Eagles were
inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
Celine Dion Nov 13, 2008 at BOK Center
Tickets On Sale Now! Time: 8:00pm Doors: 7:00pm
Ticket Prices: $167.00, $127.00, $77.00. $49.50
BUY EXCLUSIX.~ GOLD HOT SEATS
Tulsa is one of 45 cites and the only city in Oldahoma on
this tour. Throughout her career, Celine has been honored
with over 1000 Awards, including Grammys, Oscars, Golden
Globes, World Music, Juno and Felix Awards. She is the biggest-
selling female artist of all time.
Celtic Thunder Nov 19, 2008 at BOK Center
Show time: 8:00pm Ticket Prices: $37.50, $47.50, $57.50,
additional surcharges may apply
CELTIC THUNDER, a brand-new show created and produced
by Sharon Browne, will make its debut in the U.S. with
a public television special airing on local stations nationwide
in March 2008.
Filmed in Dublin the special features five male vocalists (ranging
from !4 to 40 - Damian McGinty, Keith Harkin, Ryan
Kelly, Paul Byrom, and George Donaldson) perfor,,m,ing an
eclectic mix of songs, ranging from the traditional Mountains
ofMourne" and "Come By the Hills" to international
hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado," as well as
original compositions by CELTIC THUNDER’s legendary
musical director and composer Phil Coulter.
November At ~lhe P.A.C Tulsa
Nov 1, Janis Ian John H. Williams Theatre
Nov 5, FREE Brown Bag It: Rossitza Jekova-Goza, violin
tCathleen Westby Pavilion
Nov 6-23 FREE Pictures From Lookout Mountain PAC
Gallery
Nov 7-9, 13-15 Master Class Liddy Doenges Theatre
Nov 7, Liz Carrol John H. Williams Theatre
Nov 8, Missa Solennelle and Stabat Mater Chapman Music
Hall
Nov 12, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre John H. Williams
Theatre
Nov 12, FREE Brown Bag It: Randy xY~imer, guitar
Kathleen Xgestby Pavilion
Nov 13, Ivory and Gold Trio John H. Williams Theatre
Nov 15, Tt~e Magical Music of Disney Chapman Music Hall
Nov 15, Essence of India: Bharata Natyam John H. Williams
Theatre
Nov 18, Akoka (Messiaen I~ASMIX): David Krakauer, Matt
Haimovitz and Friends John H. Williams Theatre
Nov 18-23, Available by Subscription The Rat Pack
Chapman Music Hall
Nov 19, Krakauer/Haimovitz Cabaret Charles E. Norman
Theatre
Nov 19, FREE Brown Bag It: Anam Cronan, Celtic flute
and harp Kathleen Westby Pavilion
Nov 20-23, Moonlight and Magnolias Liddy Doenges Theatre
Nov 21-22, Not Currently On Sale (TU Forensics) Charles
E. Norman ~eatre
Nov 23, American Chamber Players John H. Williams
Theatre
~#ww.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 15
Chardonnay
The Chardonnay grape variely is a classic
white wine grape grown all over the world.
The original fame of Chardonnay comes fi’oru
its success in the region of Frande. \Vhite Burgundy
must be made from the Chardonnay
grape unless the label indicates it was made
from a much less well ka~own grape, Aligot&
he winter holidays are on their way. And
though I may talk more about the following
types of wines in my next few columns,
we felt they needed an introduction for this
season of sharing food & wine with family &
fi’iends. We’re covering Chardonnay, which
is the most popular ~vhite wine and pairs
well with chicken, vegetable dishes &: turkey
breasts. Pinot Noii; whichpairs well with
hams, breaded stuNng & dark meat turkey.
Sparkling ,,vine/Cava, which pairs well with
raw ftuits & nuts. Port which pairs well
with Chocolate cakes, sweet potato pies &
pumpkin cheesecakes. ~he following is a brief
description of the grapes and wines priced
around $15.
The Burgundy region, located in the central
part of eastern France, is the home of some
of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
wines in the world. The Chablis area is a sub
region of Burgundy that makes wonderful
Chardonnay based wines from a chalkT soil.
~l]~e wines ftom the vineyard ’Le Montrachet’
and from the adjoining vineyards of Chassagne
Montrachet and Puligny Montrachet are
prized around the world for their fine quality.
Chardonnay takes oak well, and many higher
priced versions of this grape are tTpically
fermented and/or aged in oak barrels. When
Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels, it may
pick up vanilla overtones in its aromas and
flavor. Chardonnay also ages well in the bottle,
though it will not age as long as many red
wines. It likes slightly cooler climates (warm
days/cool nights) and develops less aciditT
than Sauvignon Blanc. Some producers put
their Chardonnay (or some of it) through
malolactic fermentation which reduces crispness
and brings out a rich, buttery taste. This
usually shortens the life of the wine as far as
aging is concerned.
Chardonnay is planted at hundreds of
~ Withr
This months recipe courtesy of:
Rent, Nevada
P~CIPE: MEXICAN CEVICHE
~ Ib batibut fillet or sea bass fillet or red
snapper fillet ~ or use a mixture of fish
and ~hrimp)
%6 limes (Enough Juice to cover fish)
~ cup diced fresh t6mato
! green pepper, sweer, chopped
4 tablespoons chopped parsley or
chopped cilantro
l/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon oregano
2l’alapefi° peppers, chopped (or more ro
suit your taste)
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 medium onion, findy chopped
2 tablespoons fi’esh cil£ntro, Chopped
1 clash %b~co sauce
lettuce leaf (to line serving bowls)
avocado {optional)
black olives, sliced (for garnish) (optional’,
Directions:
Dice the fish tapproximately 1A inch, dice
ifusing shrimp. Marinate fish in dae lime
juice in the fridge overnight (this step
cooks the fish). Pour of~most of the lime
iuice. Add remaining ingredients except
lettuce, avocado and olive. [!oss xvell and
arrange in individual serving bowls that
are lined with lettuce leaves. Then garnish
with sliced avocMo and sliced black
olives.
wineries throughout the world including
h:aly, New Zealand Spain, South Africa,
Ausn-alia, Chile and Argentina. In the U S,
\Vashington State and California’s Russian
River and Carneros areas~produce some of the
best domestic versions of this wine.
problem starts with
duce a
and shape
Pinot Noir
Pinot noir grapes are grown around the
world, mostly in the cooler regions, but
grape is chiefl?
region of France. It is widely
to produce some of the fines~
~vorld.
Pinot noir has
pellation famous
Pinot Noir produces
age veiT wel! in good
flavors as they age, often
20 years after the vintage.
~urgundy~
can
Wonderful Pinot Noirs come
the world. It’s grown in many
is known by’ different names in different
countries: Some locations and names
Algeria; Argentina, Australia, Austria
Blauburgunder or Spatburgunder), Brazil,
Canada, Czechoslovakia, England, France,
Germany (Sp~tburgunder), Greece, Hun
Italy (P!not Nero or Blauburgunder),
New Zealand, Switzerland (Clevner, labeled
"D01e" when blended with Gamay Noir),
emerge
ness,
ted in s
" includin ~: cherry; plum,
strawberry. Complex flavors
revealing chocolate, earthitrut~
es. Only Pinot Noir,
td Meunier grapes are permitwines
from the Champagne
Cava
used in Spain for sparlding
using the same method
in France’s Champagne disfamous
region fi)r spar-
;. While a good Cava will rarely be
with top Champagne, it wii! still be
quite pleasant. Additionally, Cava is inexpensive
enough to be an evmTday drink between
special occasion splurges on Champagne.
Cava is the name of a type of white or pink
sparlding wine, produced mainly in the
Pened~s region in Catalonia, Spain, 40 kin to
the south west of Barcelona. Its name is
U~{i{dd States, and Yugoslavia (Burgundac). . .........Continued see 3~NE page-20
Pinot is a diNcult grape to work with It’s >~ .........
hard to get a consistent, great P~not and {he ~’: :.....
h6ine
November 2008
More gay- characters on TV this
year ..Woclmer News Service
Tile number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’
scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared
with last year, says the Gay & Lesbian Mliance Against
Defamation.
GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted
series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television
schedule, up from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006
and 1.1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23.
Shawn PyJ~om plays openly gay Andrew Mi,’hael Urieplays openly gay Marc
l~n De Kam]) on the ABCseries Despwate St. flames on t,SeABCs~’ies Ugly
Housewives. GlAADphow Bert); HRCphoto
The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing
in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and Tile CW. It
found 16 GLBT characters, compared ,vith seven last season.
"This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have
come in deve!oping ~omplex, multilayered lesbian, gay;
bisexua! a~d tran~gender characters," said GLAAD President
Nell G: Giuliano.
ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five,
NBC has three, The CW has one, and CBS has none.
The nunaber of non-contract, recurring GLBT characters also
has risen this year -- from 13 to t9.
"Ti~egrowing number of recurring characters is another example
of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive,"
Giuliano said: "As the networks gradually add characters from
all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming,
more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and
neighbors reflected on tile smal! screen."
On mainstreara cable networks, the number GLBT series
regular characters h~s dropped to 32 from last year’s high of
40.
~ae gay networks here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT
characters this year.
For fut! details, visit http://~wcw.glaad.orgleyelontv/20081.
OKC Civic Center Music Hall
November Events
Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John
Partick Shanley
Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur
Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Mackie
Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented
by the Oklahoma City Philaharmonic
Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE
CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Nov. 8 CARMINA BURANA presented by the Oklahoma
City Philharmonic
Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LI’V~
Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at tile Sands!
Nov. 23 OLIVERI presented by Broadway Tonight
Nov. 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET
Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy
by Phil Olson
www.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 17
More gay characters on TV this
y-ear ..Wockner News Service
The number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’
scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared
with last yeal; says the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against
Defamation.
GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted
series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television
schedule, tip from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006
and !. 1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23.
ldm De I&mp on theABCseries Des~am &: flames on theABCseries Ug&
Housewives. GLAADphoto Bet~. HRCphoto
The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing
in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and The CW. It
found !6 GLBT characters, compared with seven last season.
"This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have
come in developing complex, multi!ayered lesbian, gay,
bisexual and tran.s.....g.. ender characters, ’ sa~" d GLAAD Pres"ident
Nell G: Giuliano.
ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five,
NBC has three, ~ae CW has one, and CBS has none.
The number of non,contract, recurring GLBT characters also
ha~ risen this year -- from 13 to 19.
"Thegro~ving number of recurring characters is another exanapie
of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive,"
Giuliano said. "As the network~s gradually add characters from
all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming,
more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and
neighbors reflected on the small screen."
On mainstream cable networks, the number GLBT series
regular characters has dropped to 32 from last year’s high of
40.
~ae gay net-works here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT
characters this year.
For ful! details, visit http://w~v.glaad.org/eye/ontv/2008/.
OKC Civic Cen er Music Hail
November Events
Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John
Partick Shanley
Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur
Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Maclde
Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented
by the Oldahoma City Philaharmonic
Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE
CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Nov. 8 CARMINA BURMNA presented by the Oklahoma
City Philharmonic
Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LIVE
Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at the Sands!
Nov. 23 OLI’\@Pd presented by Broadway Tonight
Nov; 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET
Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy
by Phil Olson
w"etw.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 17
by Donald Pile and Ray Williams
RENO, NEVADA
Biggest Little City in the /brld"
Photo: Downtown Reno Nevada
First off, we have to say that in all of our
travels, Reno is one of the friendliest places
we have been. We stayed for four nights and
met dozens of gay men and lesbians. Reno
is like I.as Vegas was 20 or 30 years ago, a
small, friendly town that is extremely easy to
navigate. During the week there are not a lot
of people there, and most things are within
walking distance. Sometimes they do have
"special" weekends, so if you are not into
major crowds then go during the week. They
day we left they were having a motorcycle
convention with several thousands coming in
so we were glad be on our way out oftown.
Being a tourist town, everyone is extremely
friendly and hdpful. Tne downtown area is
very safe and well lit but of course one always
has to be on guard at all times.
Thl-here are no gay accommodations in
Reno, but the Sands Regency Casino Hotel,
which is located right downtown, welcomes
everybody, qlle hotel hosts several gay events,
and they have great rates. We were there in
the middle of the week and got a mini-suite
for just $39, which is unbelievably inexpensive.
It also has the largest outdoor swimming
pool in Reno. Several other gay men
were staying at the hotel, and we all partied
pool side. They have several nice restaurants
and snack shops. The hotel often has lastminute
room specials on its Web site, voww.
sandsregency.com. Actually, wherever you
are traveling, it is a great idea to check out
the hotel/motel website as they do often have
special, last minute rates.
Six gay bars are listed in Reno. Tne
downtown bar is a complete dump and dirty,
and we do mean a "dump and dirty"! %vo on
the east side of town are not open when their
hours say they are, and the one on the west
side of town opens and closes when
it wants to, so omit those four bars
from your list. Isn’t it amazing that
some gay bars don’t seem to have the
common business acumen to be open
when they post their business hours
right on their front door? One bar
was to open at 2 PM and we and the
beer delivery man were waiting for it
to open. Nae delivery man said that
it was always late opening by an hour
or two. We liked Carl’s Pub, 3310 S.
Virginia St., which is about 30 blocks
south of downtown. It is an extremely
friendly bar. Everyone ~omes up and
introduces themselves and makes you
.feel very welcome. They are always
having "special theme nights" and
something is always happening. The
other bar in Reno is the Patio Bar. It
is clean, and the bartenders and patrons are
friendly. We (as well as a few other patrons)
had some issues with drink prices as the
bartenders charged different patrons different
prices for the same drinks. We confronted the
bartenders and owners about this problem
and they didfft want to talk about it. Apparently
they charge locals one price and
travelers another higher price, so we left and
didn’t return. For those wanting a bathhouse,
Steve’s Baths, 1030 x~ Second St., is open 24
hours a day.
All the casino/hotels have great food
specials all day long. Inexpensive breakfast,
lunch and dinner buffets can be found at
most all of the casinos. Luckily we found one
of the finest Mexican restaurants in the country.
Beto’s, a family-owned restaurant which is
right across the street from the Patio Bar, and
they make the finest homemade meals from
scratch. Do not miss dining there. It is very
inexpensive, and the food is outstanding.
There are so many things t0 do and see in
Reno. You really should stay right downtown
so you can walk the strip and see all the sights
and sounds. Reno has a lot of art galleries and
museums. The Fleischmann Planetarium and
the Nevada Historical Society Museum are
dose to one another at 16th Street and North
Virginia Street. The National Automobile
Museum is at 10 S. Lake St., and the Nevada
Museum ofArt is at 160 W. Liberty St.
One day, hop in your auto and take a driving
trip down to Carson City, the state capital
which is just a 35-minute drive to the south,
and it makes a great short day visit. It is a
very old city, and the architecture is remarkable.
Actually, you could spend the entire day
there. Places of interest include the Capitol
building and other government buildings.
Virginia Cit); in the mountains, is a must
on your return trip to Reno. It was an old
mining town, and you can take tours visiting
mines, schoolhouses and homes from the late
1800’S. It is located right in the mountains.
Be sure and take your camera.
Lake Tahoe is a short drive from Reno
and is a "must see and do" thing to do when
visiting Ren6. Lake Tahoe is best knmvn for
its beautiful blue and clear water (99% pure)
,and is surrounded by mountains which rise
more than 4,000 feet above the shore. The
lake is 22 miles long, 12 miles wide; about
one-third lies in Nevada, the rest in California.
The water drains from Lake Tahoe
through the Truckee River which is one of a
few rivers that run inland to the desert rather
than towards the ocean. Pyranaid Lake, the
remnant of ancient oceans which used to
cover Nevada’s desert is the final destination
of the Truckee River. Lake Tahoe is the third
deepest lake in North America as it has all
average depth of 989 feet but the deepest
point is about 1,645 feet. The surface ~vater
(12 feet) can warm to 68 F in summer, allowing
swimming, while depths below 700
feet remain a constant 39 E Perhaps this is
why Lake Tahoe is comfortable through the
summer despite its proximity to the desert.
Annual snowfall averages 40 feet, with snow
pack averaging 20 feet which explains why
downhill and cross-country skiing are very
popular in the winter. Summer activities
include hiking, white water rafting, beach
picnics and other water activities. There are
many ski and summer resorts as well as state
park locations to choose from. Hevation at
the lake is 6,229 feet
Tney, of course, have gaming everywhere,
even in the small towns and villages in Nevada.
By the way, we just love how they have
changed the name from gambling to gaming.
Guess they want u~to forget that we are losing
our money and think instead that we are
participating in a game, to make it more fun!
Uuless your winning money then LOSING
money is Not fun! Between the inexpensive
hotels, food and entertainment, Reno is a
very good choice for a wonderful traveling
experience.
Before going to Reno, check out
renodean.com for a complete listing of things
to see and do there for the gay traveler. Dean
is a ~vonderfu! guy, and he is more than glad
to help you with suggestions. Another good
website to check out is http:/lwww.visitrenotahoe.
com/. You can have them send you a
free booklet with a listing of everything to see
and do there.
Always remember to have fun when traveling,
meet new people and talk to everyone!
EUR£KA SPRINGS
Fall Diversity Weekend 10/31 - 11/02 2008
EVENTS SCHEDULE:
FRIDAY 10/31/08
Eureka Springs Limousine will provide rides
for the weekend with wristbandfor $20.
Mixer at Marquee’s at 7 - 9 PM.
Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A with Costume
Contest at Henri’s 9 PM.
Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM.
Costume Contest at Tiki Torch 9 PM.
Costume Contest at Eureka Live 9 PM.
Diversity Band at Chelsea’s 9 PM.
Miranda Ray at the Lumberyard 10 PM.
After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM
-3AM
SATURDAY 11/01/08
"Name that Tune" with Sandy at Smokehouse
Cafe 8 - 11:30 AM.
Diversity Bikers "Show N’ Shine" and "Hall
N’ Back" Poker Run, Halloween Theme.
Planner’s Hill Parking Lot 10 AM.
Walking Tour starting at Basin Park. 10 AM.
PDA (Public Display ofA_ffection) Basin Park
12 Noon.
Matinee’ Diversity Drag Show with Caribou
Barbie at Tiki Torch 2 PM with encore at 10
PM.
Rocky Horror Picture Show Part/at the Gem
(Basement of the Aud). Doors open at 6:30
PM.
Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A at Henri’s 9
PM.
Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM.
Kiss Tribute Band (Male Illusionist) at the
Lumberyard 7 PM.
Drag Show with Alexis LaRue at the Lumberyard
8 PM.
Miranda Ray and the Backwoods Divas at
Eureka Live 10 PM.
After Hours Breakfast at New Delhi Deli
from 9 PM to 3 AM.
After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM
-3AM
For more informations visit Diversity Pride
Events www.diversitypride.cora or www.
eurekapride.com
18 November 2008

derived from the Catalan word for cellar.
There are a small number of areas in Spain
outside Catalonia that also produce Cava.
Cava is produced in varying levels of dryness
of the wine which are: brut nature, brut (extra
dry), seco (dry), semiseco (medium) and
dulce (sweet).
Under Spanish Denominaci6n de Origen
laws, Cava can be produced in six wine
regions and must be made according to the
Traditional Method with second fermentation
in the bottle and uses a selection of the grapes
macabeo, parellada, xarelolo, Chardonnay,
Pinot noir, and Subirat.
Port
Tawny ports are wines made from red grapes
that are aged in wooden barrels, exposing
them to gradual oxidation and evaporation.
As a restflt, they gradually mellow to a
golden-brown color. The exposure to wood
imparts "nutty" flavors to the wine, which
is blended to match the house style. Ta.wn~
ports are sweet or medium dry and typicany
drunk as a dessert wine.
When a Port is described as Tawny, without
an indication of age, it is a basic blend of
wood aged port that has spent at least seven
years in barrels. Above this is Tawny with an
indication of age which represents a blend
of sev,e,ral vintages, with the averse years "in
wood stated on the label. TiLe omcial categories
are 10, 20, 30 and over 40 years. For
each category, the average age of the various
vintage is at least that of the given category. It
is also possible to produce an aged white t~ort
in the manner of a tawny, with a number of
shippers now marketing 10 year old White
Ports.
And as always, I say go to your favorite wine
shop, ask questions and purchase a bottle or
two. Share some food & wine with friends and
check this out for yourself.
qSis writer also bar tends a~d hosts wine & food
events known in town as the
bitter glrl
E-Mail- KylesBnB@aol.com
by Jack Fertig November 2008
"Keep it p~atonic, Aquarius!"
Venus is in Sagittarius, wanting to play,
but she’s triggering an opposition between
Saturn and Uranus. Harness that
wild, fun energy to balance responsibility
and inspiration.
ARIES (March 20 -Apri~ 19): Let your
eye and ear wander to new artistic perspectives.
Challenge yourself to appreciate
things you’d normally avoid. The
stimulation will help you to understand
your place in the world better, to mend
old friendships and make new ones.
TAURUS (April 20 -May 20): Too
much self-criticism is blocking the
creative edge you need to realize your
goals. Sexual adventure - yes, something
entirely new! - will help you over
that hump. The stars suggest exploring
domination fantasies. If you have a better
idea, follow your own dreams.
GEMIN! (May 21 - June 20): Your political
skills and foresight are especially
sharp now. Look at any conflict, not as
a logical argument, but as a dramatic
scene to be resolved. The best answers
will c0me way0~ of left field.
GANGER (June 21 = July 22): New
approaches at work are worth trying, if
only experimentally. Whether they work
or not, your adaptability and thoughtful
acceptance of criticism is what really
counts. Bite your tongue and challenge
your brain: Ambitious rivals may prove
more helpful than well-meaning friends.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December
20): Being playful, charming,
outspoken, and fun certainly has its
place, but it also makes you the target
of annoyed persons at home and at
work. That offers a creative challenge to
focus and grow; but find a place to have
your fun, too!
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January
19): Don’t get caught up in debates.
Just listen to new ideas and arguments
against them. If they contradict deeply
held beliefs, accept the challenge quietly,
and see where you have room to
grow. Allow yourself an impulse buy for
your home.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February
18): A friend who wants "benefits" risks
spoiling a good thing. Keep it platonic.
Discuss the possibilities so your pal can
realize what a disaster it would be in the
long run. In the end, it should be good
for a laugh.
PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Too
much fun at work can make your partner
feel neglected. What really counts
in your career? What satisfactions does
it offer that you don’t find in love? Reevaluate
your priorities, and be frank
with your baby about them.
LEO (July 23 o August 22): Your
naturally playful eroticism can get a little
out of hand, leading to rude surprises.
Have a very deep heart-to-heart with
your partner about sex, but also about
whatever philosophical or religious differences
you may have.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 22):
Take your partner Or roommate windowshopping
for some exotic house decor.
No need to buy; just browsing will help
clarify domestic problems. A new approach
to housework is also helpful,
and remaining problems might be best
resolved in the bedroom.
LIB~ (September 23 - October 22):
Life is stressful lately. Find a good friend
and let it all out, even if it seems like
a long, rambling, nonsensical torrent.
That’s what good friends are for. Playful
competition in some intellectually
stimulating game also offers a sense of
balance.
SCORPIO (October 23 - November
21): Any efforts to deal with finances
now can cause more frustration than
they would alleviate. Find cheap ways
to enjoy the company of your friends.
Spiritual lessons from childhood will
help you deal with competition at work.
METROPOLITAN
COMMUNITY CHURCHES
Rev Steve T. Urie
Spidt0fChdst MCC
2902 E 20~ S~eet
J0plin, M0~04
417-52~8480
W0mhip Saturdays at 10:00AM
C0mmuni#! Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM
MCC 0fthe Living Spring
17 Elk S~t
Eureka Slxings, AR 72632
47~253-9337
W0~hip Sundays at 6:00 PM
Have a GOd filled and BleSSed Day!
www.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 21
out calls
5)
K~NG0~
MASSAGE
Great T0uch
Man to Man
Fult Bo~{y Massage
2 hands or 4 hands
available
Now Hiring Male & Female
Keller Williams Realty
Chuck Breckenridge
Whether buying or selling
I’ll work hard for you.
(2437}
Oklahoma’s HIV!STD Hotiine
PROTECT YOURSELF
PROTECT YOUR
Community for
People ~iving
A 50I c (3) Non Peofit Organization
Our House, Too offers a variety of
NWArkansas GLBT
Community- Center
"Linldng Together as One"
For more information:
888-391-9222
WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG
IN MEMORIAM
MATTHEWARON VH-IITE
Tulsa a~ {9!8) 812.7~
activities for people who are HIV+ and
or living with AIDS to help combat the
social isolation that many of our
people live through each and everyday.
We provide a Toiletry and Household
Pantry for those who are HIV+
and or living with AIDS who cannot
afford to purchase these items for
themselves. We invite anyone who
would like to volunteer or provide financial
assistance to please contact
us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-nlail
ourhousetoo9865@sbcglobal.net
Matthew passed from dais life at the OU
Medical Center at 5:30 a.m. September
12 after losing a battle with cancer. He
was known to his many fi’iends as a happy
caring person, truly shown by his many
years workingas a nurse her~ in Oklahoma
where his good nature touched
countless lives.
Born March 10, 1966 in Grenta, Virginia,
he left home at age t6 as his family could
not accept him as agay man, and he traveled
the kountry before settling in Oklahoma,
working as a jack of all trades. His
funeral service was held at Epworth United
Methodist Church October 20. He leaves
behind a legacy of many fi’iends.
[] ~
WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM
22 November 2008
HABANA INN
2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY
Oklahoma Cit); OK
405-528-2221
wv~,v.habanainn.com
Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you.
OUR HOUSE, TOO
~=l=]
Tulsa, OK 74127
~
KELLY KIRBY, CPA
4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424
Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466
Certified Public Accountant
OKC MORTUARY
2415-C N. WALNUT AVE.
Oklahoma City, OK
800-913-1310
ANGLES
2117 NV¢" 39th St.
Oklahoma City, OK
;m~w.anglesclub.com
BAMBOO LOUNGE
7204 E. PINE
Tulsa, OK
918-836-8700
v~ww.bambooloungetulsa.com
CLUB 209
209 N. BOULDER
Tulsa, OK
918-584-9944
CLUB MAJESTIC
124 N. BOSTON
Tulsa, OK
918-584-9494
w~v.clubmajestictulsa.com
FINISHLINE
2200 ~-~W 39TH EXPI~SSWAY
Oldahoma City, OK
405-525-0730
www.habanainn.com
THE COPA
2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY
Oldahoma City, OK
405-525-0730
wvw.habanainn.com
THE LEDO
2200 ~,PvV 39TH EXPRESS\VAY
Oklahoma City, OK
405-525-0730
ww~v.habanainn.com
HOPE TESTING CLINIC
3540 E. 31st
Tulsa, OK
800-535-2437
Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline
SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC
2902 E. 20TH STREET,
Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480
Service Saturday 9:30 AM
MCC of the LIVING SPRING
17 Elk Street
Eureka Springs, AR 72632
479-253-9337
Worship Sundays 6pro
MCC UNITED
1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK
918-838-1715
v~wamcctulsa.org
OPENAI~MS YOUTH PROJECT
2015 -B S. L~ewood
Tulsa, OK 74112
918-838-7104
www. openarmsproject.org
KING OF MASSAGE
In or Out Calls
Oklahoma City, OK
405-314-3898
JUDY G. PHOTO’S
Tulsa, OK
judygphotos@sbcglobal.net
918-743-8636
CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE
3627 NV$ EXPRESS\rAY
Oldahoma City, OK 73112
405-840-2106
www.c2 lgoldcasde.com
CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE
Keller Williams Realty
Tulsa, OK
918-706-1887
GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa
New and Historic Homes for Sale
and Rent For Info:
www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com
21 EAST TOWNHOMES
21ST & MAIN
Tulsa, OK
918-582-4673 or 918-607-1177
www.21East.us
GUSHER’S RESTAURANT
2200 NV¢- 39TH EXPRESSWAY
Oklahoma City, OK
405-525-0730
Located inside Habana Inn
TOM & JERRYS
1501 N.W. 23RD
Oklahoma City, OK
405-524-9100
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www.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 23
We believe tha~ hornosexua~i~ is no~ a
g÷netic trait but a chosen ~ifes~y~e.
We oppose the portraya~ of hornosexua~ or
promiscuous behavior ~n a positive ~igh~ ~n
We oppose ~he erosion of our military
read~ness ~h~o~gh openly practicing
homosexuals serving ~n ~he m~ary
We oppose ~he ~romo~on o~ homosex~a~,
~h~ e~m~na~on o~ ~aws aga~ns~ sodomy,
~nd ~he granting o~ m~nor~y pro~ec~on or
~pec~a~ s~a~s ~o any person based upon
sex~a~ preference or ~es~e choice.
"We support the ful~ inclusion of a~l
families, including same-sex coupbs, in
~he ~ife of our nation,and support equa~
responsibility, benefits, and protections.
We wi~ enact a comprehensive bipartisan
employment non-discrimination act. We
oppose the Defense of Marriage Ac~ and
a~! a~ernpts to use ~his issue to divide
(Page 52, 2008 DNC P~afforrn)
+ +.oksPonewal+.org
Taken from current platforms of the Republican and Democratic parties of Oklahoma.

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