Long Island Pride 2012 - Pride Guide by Jeff Main

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PRI DE SATURDAY,JUNE9,2012 BROUGHTTO YOUBY THELONG I SLANDGLBTSERVI CESNETWORK WWW. LI GLBTNETWORK. ORG |631. 665. 2300 |516. 323. 0011

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A MESSAGE FROM DAVID KILMNICK CEO OF THE LONG ISLAND GLBT SERVICES NETWORK Dear Friends, Welcome to Long Island Pride 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a new day, a new route, a new beginning! In 1991, it took a court order to allow us the right to organize the first Long Island Pride Parade. A few weeks ago, President Obama announced his support for Marriage Equality. In the 22 years since that first triumphant march down Main Street Huntington, the progress that our community has made is truly revolutionary. Just in the last year, we have all achieved so much more to be proud of. Same-sex couples from throughout Long Island and New York are getting ready to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. Students will return to school this fall with new protections against bullying to help ensure that they can learn in a safe and supportive environment. Service members are returning home from tours of duty and openly embracing their partners without fear of discharge. Indeed, that march down Main Street that took a court order to start 22 years ago takes on a whole new meaning in 2012. When the Long Island GLBT Services Network was asked to take over the organizing of The Long Island Pride Parade and Festival last year, we knew that we had a great responsibility to the community. Like the many programs and services that LIGALY, The Center, SAGE-LI, EEGO, and Equality Long Island provide for tens of thousands of GLBT Long Islanders, we needed to ensure that Pride was a day where our community would come together to celebrate our victories and feel more connected to one another. I am confident that we have met that responsibility this year, and that when the festivities end, each of you will return home with great memories and a renewed sense of pride and solidarity. So please join us in the celebration with an all-star line up of entertainment, great food and beverages, and a fun filled day of activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is a Pride like Long Island has never seen before! On behalf of the many staff and volunteers who made Long Island Pride 2012 possible, thank you for joining us and we look forward to many more years of Pride to come. In solidarity,

David Kilmnick, PhD, MSW Chief Executive Officer Long Island GLBT Services Network

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CONTENTS

WORKING TOGETHER

Table of Contents

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 5

FOR A COMMON GOAL Investing in a Shared Future.

2012 Grand Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 PrideFest Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15 eth To g e c re n e f if aD g kin Ma

Maps and Directions to Huntington . . . 20-21 Proud to be Me Editorial Series Blake Klapak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Lambert Liu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

TD Bank is proud to support the people, projects and activities that make life better for us all.

Louis Lisi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 GenĂŠa Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Calendar of June Pride Events . . . . . . . . . . 27 Pride Over the Years: Photo Collage . . . . . 28 The History of Long Island Pride . . . . . . . . 33 2012 Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Support Long Island Pride . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Volunteer Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

TD Bank, N.A.

8053-CR Generic Ad_5x8_cmyk.indd 3

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11/12/2009 10:13:03 AM

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DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

We Love A Parade!

Donaldsons is a proud sponsor of the LI GLBT Network

Donaldsons Volkswagen Subaru 5700 Sunrise Highway NY 11782 www.donaldsonssubaru.com www.donaldsonsvw.com 888.255.6712 PAGE 6 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

ASK ABOUT OUR VIP PARTNERS PROGRAM FOR LI GLBT NETWORK

Supporting the LGBT Community for more than 25 years 800.750.8828 - barefootwine.com

2012 GRAND Supporting the MARSHAL

LGBTQ Community SANDY FAISON for more than 25 Years Sandy Faison, a.k.a. “The Mayor” was a

member of the Long Join Island Pride Parade Us on Twitter & Facebook! for 16 years, first as a committee member, California and Argentine Table Wine, Charmat Method California and Argentine Sparkling Wine: Secondary Fermentation Before Bottling, ©2012 Barefoot Cellars, Modesto, CA. All rights reserved. then a member of the board of directors. In 2006, Sandy became the executive director and provided oversight for every aspect of the planning and execution of the Long Island Pride Parade.

We’re bringing a little bit of camp to this year’s Parade with the High Heel Race to kick-off the festivities. You can bring your favorite pair, or borrow a pair of ours. If you do bring your own special pair, we only ask that the heel be at least 2.5” in height to quality. The winner will earn exclusive bragging rights and a special prize. Get ready! The competition is fierce.

Her hard work and dedication to the Long Island Pride Parade and the GLBT community of Long Island culminated in the 2011 event, after which she announced her retirement. During her 16 years Sandy was proud to have received awards from Auntie M’s Helping Hands, Outlook, and others. She’s especially happy now to add the title of Grand Marshal to her list of accolades. Sandy currently resides with her partner of 17 years in Levittown. She is a proud mother of six children and grandmother to 16 grandchildren. We would like to applaud Sandy for her many years of tireless efforts devoted to the Long Island Pride Parade and the broader GLBT community of Long Island.

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 7

Congratulations to The Long Island GLBT Services Network and Dr. David Kilmnick, CEO For all your efforts to enhance the quality of life for everyone N.C. Legislator Judi Bosworth

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JOIN US IN THE

VIP LOUNGE A true VIP experience awaits you at the 2012 PrideFest Celebration! Share in the Pride celebration in the VIP Lounge. The lounge will provide an amazing experience for enjoying all of the incredible entertainment that PrideFest has to offer. Amenities include a dance floor, comfortable seating, shade from the sun, complimentary beverages, and comes with exclusive stage-front access – the absolute best place to enjoy all of the entertainment! Share in the fun and excitement and join us in the comfort of our VIP Lounge. Contact Michael Serrano at 516.323.0011 for details or purchase your exclusive passes at www.lipride.org.

We pride ourselves on finding top talent.

We We pride ourselves on finding top talent. We pride ourselves on finding top talent. pride ourselves on finding top talent.

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PRIDEFEST ENTERTAINMENT

FRENCHIE DAVIS

When the notoriously crabby American Idol judge, Simon Cowell, predicts someone could win the competition, then you know you’ve found a special talent. That’s just what the music empire giant had to say about Frenchie Davis during her time on American Idol. Broadway baby, Dance Diva and reality TV favorite, Frenchie Davis’s star is shining brighter than ever. In late March 2012, Frenchie released her debut single and video (directed by Brian FriedmanBritney Spears and X Factor) called “Love’s Got A Hold On Me,” which is the debut single from her upcoming EP titled “Frenchie” which will be released in early summer 2012. Television once again came calling for Frenchie as she was chosen to compete on the NBC hit television show “The Voice.” Beating out scores of singers for a coveted spot, Frenchie wowed audiences with her take on “I Kissed A Girl and I Like It” as Christina Aguilera turned her chair and cemented Frenchie’s place on “Team Cristina” and TV history. Show stopping performances of “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It),” “Like A Prayer,” and “When Love Takes Over” turned Frenchie into an audience and judges favorite, not to mention a press magnet. Music superstar Blake Shelton exclaimed “You’re the most powerful singer in this competition!” and Maroon Five front man, Adam Levine summed it up with “There’s just something so beautiful about you!” Audiences responded by making Frenchie a top finalist on “The Voice,” a trending topic on Twitter and a top ten selling artist on Itunes. Christina Aguilera summed it up by telling Frenchie, “You always make me proud.”

Frenchie’s chart topping musical history also includes several Billboard Dance Chart toppers including “Give Me Tonight” and DJ/ re-mixer Tony Moran’s “You Are.” Frenchie is in the process of selecting material for her new album, with plans to include a mix of Broadway, classic hits, dance and some original material. After a successful 4 year run in Broadway’s “Rent,” Frenchie continued on with national tours of “Dreamgirls” and 30th Anniversary of “Ain’t Misbeavin’,” costarring with her Idol alum, Ruben Studdard. Frenchie Davis was born in Los Angeles, California and studied musical theatre at Washington D.C.’s Howard University. She has appeared in European productions of “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Other stand out shows include “Sing, Mahalia, Sing’ and the Clinton satire musical, “Monica”. She recently starred as the “Fairy Godmother” in “Cinderella” at the Berkeley Playhouse. With a bright future ahead, Frenchie keeps herself grounded, saying “I like the fact that I’ve been able to do what I love and still enjoy my life. I can tell you, I have crossed paths and met so many people who are way richer than I am, way more famous, but they don’t enjoy their lives more than I do.”

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//LINEUP ENTERTAINMENT

O TH

F IDE

Born in the ghetto of West Philadelphia, Sir Honey Davenport (James Clark) had early dreams of breaking out and creating art that could change the world. In pursuit of such dreams, Honey moved to New York in 2003. Honey spent years touring the country and performing in some of the most popular stage musicals such as Hairspray and Dreamgirls.

2 PM

Sir Honey Davenport Alias Lucas Prata

LIGALY’s LGBT Winner

SIR HONEY DAVENPORT

After meeting and working alongside New York City drag diva and recording artist Peppermint Gummybear on her Hardcore Glamour world tour (USA, Germany, Ireland, London, and Australia), Sir Honey Davenport decided to put on a little bit of make-up and mascara and rock out to the beat of his own drum. Since, Sir Honey Davenport has become New York City’s newest and hottest night life celebrity. His mission is to continually inspire everyone to be as expressive, accepting and as fabulous as humanly possible!

LI Gay Men’s Chorus Ryan Cassata Erinn Furey Veronica Never the Bride La Bouche Reina Frenchie Davis DJ Dominica 8 PM

LUCAS PRATA

Lucas Prata is no stranger to the radio airwaves and TV sets across the world. Since his last run on world-wide radio Lucas has been working hard on new music getting ready for another album to be released. The untitled third album goes back to Lucas’s roots in commercial Dance Music. He has linked up with teams of producers based out of Europe as well as some of the ones that he has worked with in the past to capture that clean European pop sound that he has been craving to make for his diehard fans. His electrifying shows have put him on top of his genre for the last seven years here in the U.S. His hit song, “And She Said...” was the #1 U.S. Billboard Airplay single for four straight weeks. Since, Lucas is kept busy with his own label, Yo Pal! Entertainment, a reality show about his pop success, and a new album.

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LA BOUCHE The language of music transcends political, religious and cultural boundaries. It is with this spirit that Lane McCray burst onto the international music scene in the mid and late 1990s with the late diva Melanie Thornton. Having met in Frankfurt, Germany by a chance encounter, this powerhouse duo became known as La Bouche (French for “the mouth”) and conquered the dance music scene with landmark success, producing chart toping singles, peaking at number one in seven countries. The successful dynamic duo conquered the charts of the 1990s. With more than 10-million records sold under BMG and the meticulously watchful eye of legendary music mogul Frank Farian, La Bouche earned numerous awards, including

the German Grammy, the Echo, for Dance Song of the Year in 1995. La Bouche’s song, “Be My Lover,” went to number 1 on the U.S. Hot Dance Club Play chart in 1995 and climbed to number 6 on the Hot 100 in early 1996. It was then re-released in the UK and reached a new peak of number 25. It went on to win the ASCAP award for the “Most Played Song in America”, and sold 6 million copies worldwide. “Sweet Dreams” also went to number 13 in the U.S. “Fallin’ in Love”, a cover of the 1975 Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds song, and “I Love To Love” were also hit singles taken from the album.

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NEVER THE BRIDE

When a rock ‘n roll band is fronted by the electrifying voice of Nikki Lamborn,when its songs are composed by the gifted Catherine Feeney, when its musicians are world class... it’s called Never The Bride.

Nikki Lamborn: Lead Singer

Described as the love child of Robert Plant and Tina Turner, Nikki struck out at only 15, a singing waitress and a hairdresser, she went to the bright lights of London to follow her dream of making a name for herself in music.

Catherine Feeney: Keyboards, Guitar, Vocals

Composer, keyboardist, and guitarist Catherine Feeney also headed for the bright lights and found Nikki on the stage of a London pub; when these two met, Never the Bride was born. Never The Bride have performed live and recorded with some of the biggest names in music including Alice Cooper, Peter Frampton, Elton John, Chaka Khan, Robert Plant, Paul Rodgers, The Pretenders, and The Who, all of whom were left breathless by their talent. On one occasion at The Royal Albert Hall in London, Roger Daltrey held up Nikki’s hand and shouted out, “Nikki Lamborn has the best female rock voice since Janis Joplin.” All around the world Nikki and Catherine have stunned the rich

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and famous: The Kennedys, British Rock Symphony Orchestra, a private performance with Cher, Robert Plant as they performed their own arrangement of his song “Going To California.” Nikki and Catherine produced Dame Shirley Bassey’s “Get The Party Started” album. The album broke world records with the longevity of her chart career, reaching Number 6 in the UK charts. A world class act, Never The Bride has a primal power and a vital passion that raises not only the roof, but the soul.

REINA

Reina’s live performance on the nationally syndicated morning show, Live with Regis and Kelly, proved that the young powerhouse diva is ready to take dance music to a whole new level. With the release of her new single, Just Let Go, she may just be, as Regis Philbin labeled her, this generation’s Donna Summer. A true musical prodigy, Reina (which means “Queen” in Spanish) found her calling at a young age. She first gained notoriety as a backup singer for Rhythm & Blues diva Deborah Cox and dance music artist Corina. In 1998, Reina released her debut single, “Find Another Woman,” produced by Grammy Award winner Hex Hector, on the Groovilicious/Strictly Rhythm label. The song became an instant dance classic, climbing to #2 on Billboard’s Hot Dance chart and achieving a “Best Dance Song” nomination at Miami’s Winter Music Conference. Her next single, “Anything for Love,” followed soon after, and similarly landed on the Billboard charts.

ALIAS Alias is launching his new musical journey at Long Island Pride. This exciting dance music artist is bringing new energy to the stage, after a musical rebirth as an out artist and performer. A Long Island native, Alias started his music career at the age of 16 as a studio artist. He stepped into the spotlights on the stages of The Apollo, Star Search, and American Idol. His singles like “Run to Me,” “Always Have Tomorrow” and “You Are the Only One” are just some of his hits played on the Long Island radio station, Party 105. His music inspires audiences everywhere to dance, enjoy life, and have a good time. But let’s set that all aside for the rebirth of the artist now known as Alias, out and proud and bringing his love of the beat back to Long Island to celebrate Pride.

VERONICA

Bronx-born singer, songwriter, actress and director, Veronica is beautiful, intelligent, incredibly sexy and abundantly skilled. Veronica is one of the first Latinas to break in the R&B/Urban scene with her second album, “Rise,” which included songs written by Veronica and produced by Jellybean Benitez (Madonna and Whitney Houston), D-Moet (Foxy Brown and Kurupt), Rich “Younglord” Frierson (Bad Boy Entertainment) and Dave “Jam” Hall (Mariah Carey, Madonna and Mary J. Blige). Veronica’s hits include “Let Me Go... Release Me,” “Someone To Hold,” “No One But You,” “The Way He Makes Me Feel,” and the dance floor anthem “Relentless.” Currently Veronica is in the studio writing her third album “Afterlife.” While Veronica is not in the studio, she gives back to the community by vocal coaching children at the Boys and Girls Club.

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THE WINNER OF THE LIGALY’S GOT BIG TALENT (LGBT) COMPETITION! Every year, youth between the ages of 13-21 come to Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) to audition for the biggest youth GLBT talent show on Long Island. This year was no different! After three weeks of competing against the vey best talent Long Island has to offer, LIGALY’s Got Big Talent (LGBT) has come to an end. After rounds of auditions from a ton of talented, amazing youth, eleven contestants were selected to compete for the grand prize, bragging rights, and the chance to perform at this year’s Pridefest. Be sure to cheer on the 2012 winner when they take the stage!

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You Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Live Here Without It! LI Pulse Magazine is a proud supporter of the Long Island Pride Parade and Festival For retailer, advertising or subscription info visit lipulse.com or call 631.289.4315.

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ERINN FUREY AND THE FREE CANDY BAND

After Idol, Erinn used her talents and music to make connections with yound and disadvantaged people and help them discover themselves. Being bullied in school and overcoming hardships faced as a youngster helped

RYAN CASSATA

Finishing as a semifinalist on American Idol would fulfill bucket-list goals for many young talents, but for Erinn Furey, who made the top 30 in 2005, it kickstarted something else all together.

Ryan Cassata is a transgender singer-songwriter and motivational speaker from Long Island, NY who - all by the age of 18 - successfully cut two records, booked and went on several tours, played the world’s biggest gay music festival, won the Harvey Milk Memorial Award and appeared on national and international TV several times.

steer her current career choices, allowing her to dedicate herself to the Long Island community where she was raised. She also performs all over the tri-state area with her band, The Free Candy Band, and is in talks with several major labels for the release of her upcoming album.

Ryan plays guitar, piano, harmonica, and sings. At the young age of 14, Ryan began to gig across Long Island. Now only 2.5 years later he has made over 200 performances and has already completed a Florida tour, and two New England tours, titled “The Love Around The World Tour.” Cassata performed at the world’s biggest gay music festival, Pridefest Milwaukee, with other great musicians like Salt N’ Pepa, Chris Crocker & LeAnne Rimes.

LONG ISLAND GAY MEN’S CHORUS ////////////////////////////////////////////// The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus is about entertaining audiences with highquality male choral performances, and affirming the contributions of Long Island’s gay community. The Chorus embraces challenging, contemporary music, and performances

A L S O

of an ambitious, traditional repertoire alongside music from various world cultures. The programming focuses on a wide variety of choral music from all time periods, and presenting styles that educate, challenge, and enlighten both our audiences and our singing membership.

The Chorus affirms, by example and through song, the worth and dignity of a cross-section of the diverse population that is reflective of Long Island and our nation as a whole, incorporating music that positively represents the gay community and openly supports issues related to human equality and justice.

A P P E A R I N G

MISS STACY

DJ DOMINICA AND DJ MIMI DJ Dominica and DJ Mimi are both crowd-pleasers: with a wide range of music for audiences of all ages and an eagerness to honor audience requests, they are sure to keep Long Islanders dancing at Pridefest.

Miss Stacy is a pioneer, a trendsetter, a vibrant personality. Her online radio show, The Miss Stacy Show LIVE, debuted worldwide in 2007 and had been consistent in being one of the top-rated primetime Sunday night Web radio shows. Within a short time, her supporters were able to find her not only on the air Sunday nights, but also hosting the hottest club parties in New York City and beyond, at the trendiest events, in the funniest videos online. In November 2009, she made her debut on FM radio on Long Island on the new Party FM. The combination of her sense of humor, can’t-help-but-love character and unforgettable face turns on all different audiences and undoubtedly makes her one of New York’s youngest, most promising and talented women.

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Susan Cirrone Branch Manager Securitas Security Services USA, Inc. 500 Bi County Blvd, Suite 110 Farmingdale, NY 11735 Tel 631-773-6009 Cell 516-652-3279 Direct 516-501-9703 email susan.cirrone@securitasinc.com

PRIDE 2012: Fun for the whole family Thank you to National Grid for supporting children and family activities at Pridefest on Saturday, June 9th.

2012 Mainstage Season May 29 - June 24

American Premiere!

My Brilliant Divorce

Previews sponsored by

By Geraldine Aron

July 3 - July 29 20 Year Revival!

Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lives By Joe Pintauro

Based on the book by Peter Matthiessen

August 7 - September 2 World Premiere!

Big Maybelle:

Soul of the Blues

Previews sponsored by

By Paul Levine

BAY STREET

THEATRE

Long Wharf, Sag Harbor, NY

631-725-9500 www.baystreet.org

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All programming subject to change.

Reform Judaism Embraces Everyone

All are welcome!

Reform Jewish Voice of New York State, Union for Reform Judaism 633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017 212.650.4272 Web site: rjvny.org Email: Info@rjvnys.org

Photos courtesy of istock.com

Temple Beth-El of Great Neck 5 Old Mill Road Great Neck, NY 11023 516.487.0900 Web site: tbegreatneck.org Email: delkashash@ tbegreatneck.org

Temple Sinai of Roslyn 425 Roslyn Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 516.621.6800 Web site: templesinairoslyn.com Email: templesinaiofrh@aol.com

Temple Avodah 3050 Oceanside Road Oceanside, NY 11572 516.766.6809 Web site: avodah.org Email: office@avodah.org

The Community Synagogue 160 Middle Neck Rd Port Washington, NY 11050-1267 516.883.3144 Web site: commsyn.org Email: office@commsyn.org

Temple Am Echadâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; The South Shore Reform Congregation 1 Saperstein Plz Lynbrook, NY 11563-2428 516.593.4004 Web site: am-echad.org Email: templeamechad@ gmail.com

For names and contact information about other welcoming congregations in your neighborhood, please call Shelley Schweitzer at the Union for Reform Judaism, 212.452.6745.

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The Law Office of Amy E. Bedell, P.C. proudly represents LGBT individuals, families and businesses in the following areas: GEnErAL & COmmErCiAL LiTiGATiOn mATrimOniAL & FAmiLy LAw FAmiLy & DivOrCE mEDiATiOn SECOnD PArEnT ADOPTiOnS COnTrACT DiSPuTES ESTATE PLAnninG rEAL ESTATE

Law Office Of amy e. BedeLL, P.c. 127 South Country road :: Bellport, new york 11713 Tel.: (631) 286-1626 :: Fax: (631) 891-4181 E-mail: abedell@bedell-law.com :: website: www.bedell-law.com PAGE 18 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

LIAAC, the Long Island Association for AIDS Care, Inc. is a non-profit agency delivering comprehensive services to all Long Islanders infected and affected by HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. Robert Nicoletti, Chief Human Resouces Officer 60 Adams Avenue • Hauppauge, New York 11788 Email: rnicoletti@liaac.org Phone: 631-385-2451 • Fax: 631-656-7235 www.liaac.org

Long Island Association for Aids Care, Inc. Since 1986

PRIDE WORD SEARCH Y

Can you find the following words? PRIDE HUNTINGTON LONGISLAND JUNE EQUALITY

GAY LESBIAN BISEXUAL TRANSGENDER

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PRIDE CROSSWORD

ACROSS 2 5

The town where Long Island Pride is held every year. In 2011, this state became the first to require public schools to teach the historical accomplishments of gays and lesbians. 6 The first state to legalize gay marriage. 7 This gay comic series stars Rylie Roberts, Josh Jones, Eric Toni, and Vivian Pornelli. 9 Pride often celebrates the riots at ____. 10 This colorful symbol is associated with Pride. 12 Kye Allums is the first openly transgender athlete to play this NCAA division sport.

DOWN

View the film on Thursday, June 21st at 7:00pm at The Center at Garden City Mardi Gras, drag balls and politics–where else could these elements come together but in New Orleans? Interweaving archival footage and contemporary interviews, The Sons of Tennessee Williams charts the evolution of the gay Mardi Gras krewe scene over the decades, illuminating the ways in which its emergence was a seminal factor in the cause of gay liberation in the South. the long island

glbt

community center

The Center at Garden City 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110 Garden City, NY 11530 516.323.0011

This is the first state to outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. 3 The first picketing for gay rights took place on July 4, 1965, in front of Independence Hall in ____. 4 The National Museum of LGBT History is located here. 6 This planet is a symbol used by the transgender community. 8 The most widely used colors for bisexual pride are pink, blue, and ____. 11 Dustin Lance Black won an Academy Award award for this documentary about an openly gay Long Islander turned politician.

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Long Island Pride is held in Huntington, a town in Suffolk County, Long Island. Long Island Pride 2012 will begin rain or shine with the High Heel Race at 12:30pm. The Parade begins at 1pm, and PrideFest runs from 2pm until 8pm in Heckscher Park. NG

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KNOW WHERE TO GO

DIRECTIONS

PARKING

THINGS TO DO

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Huntington Village is located forty miles from Midtown Manhattan with service from Pennsylvania Station on the Long Island Rail Road.

There are 3 available municipal parking lots in the Village of Huntington.

After the High Heel Race, Parade, and Festival, check out the town! Huntington Village is full of fabulous restaurants, shops, and bars with plenty of options for everyone.

FROM SUFFOLK COUNTY VIA ROUTE 110 • Long Island Expressway to Exit 49 (Route 110 north) • Proceed north on Route 110 for 6 to 8 miles FROM MANHATTAN • Long Island Expressway to Exit 37 (Willis Ave) • Go North (left) approx. 1 1/2 miles to 25A • Make a right on 25A and head East (Northern Blvd) • After approximately 10-12 miles 25A makes a left hand turn and continues into Cold Spring Harbor • The next town will be Huntington

The first lot is south of 25A (Main Street/Northern Blvd) between Green and New Streets. From the east, travel on 25A past the store. Make your first left and the lot will be on your right. From the west on 25A, make a right on New Street and the lot will be on the right. The second lot is located on 25A (Main street) just east of the intersection of 25A and New York Avenue. This lot is on the south side of the street. The third lot is located off of Gerard Street across from the main Post office.

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In celebration for Pride, the Heckscher Museum of Art is offering half-off admission all day on Saturday, June 9. Visit Heckscher Park for the Festival and take advantage of this special discount while there. The Museum will be open from 11am through 5pm, and is located at 2 Prime Avenue in Huntington, New York.

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Visit one of the information booths in Heckscher Park during PrideFest 2012 to learn where food vendors and community and business group booths are located, or to purchase official Pride merchandise. LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 21

PAGE 22 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG THE OFFICIAL WOMEN’S EVENT Saturday, June 23, 4 PM – 11 PM NEW LOCATION: Hudson River Park, Pier 57 15th St @ West Side Hwy. DJs Missy B & Trini, and DJ Whitney Day

RAPTURE ON THE RIVER

For continuous updates check www.nycpride.org

PRIDE STARTS HERE! Saturday, June 16 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM East River Park (Visit nycpride.org for directions)

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editorial

PROUD TO BE ME Blake Klapak Student Leader & Advocate

“

“ L

Hearing from a fellow student that I had made a positive impact was incredible.

ike many others, I have faced struggles my entire life with my gender identity and my sexual orientation. When I was younger, I was traveling along a path of self-injury, depression, failing grades in school, and thoughts of suicide – all before the middle of fifth grade. When I was thirteen, I was caught kissing a girl, and I got into huge trouble. I don’t know who, but someone, somewhere was talking with me about what had happened and they told me about Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY). It was at LIGALY that I first heard of the term “transgender.” For the first time in my entire life, someone was introducing me to a word that explained my many -- what I previously believed to be irrational -- feelings. Once I had the words, I was able to begin the journey away from depression and suicidal thoughts, because I knew I had the support of the GLBT community and that I belonged somewhere. Over the years, LIGALY taught me morals, ethics, scholarly knowledge, safe

sex, self-acceptance, and the acceptance of others different than me. I became more and more empowered to be proud of who I was and more inspired to become an advocate for others, to help those who shared in my experiences to also love and accept themselves and to challenge those who oppose equality and acceptance. While I am incredibly proud of myself, my identity as a trans man, and how far I have come, I am still at a challenging stage in my life right now. I am fighting to find my way. It is in my heart and in my blood to be an activist, but sometimes my own insecurities get in the way. I recently received an e-mail from a student in the Gay Straight Alliance at my college. As President of the club, this isn’t something uncommon, but the message truly touched me and reminded me that despite my insecurities, I must always be proud of who I am. I won’t disclose too much, but the message thanked me for being who I am, and educating and empowering so many other students. Hearing from a fellow student that I had made a positive impact was incredible.

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 23

editorial

PROUD TO BE ME Lambert Liu Health Counselor

“

Affirmation begins with communication. I am proud of who I am and how I live my life so other people who are gay-identified can be comfortable beginning their own journeys.

CA Technologies a proud supporter of Long Island GLBT Services Network and Long Island Pride

he first time I came out as gay, it was during seventh grade. I told my best friend, Joey. His response was simply, “I know.” I was lucky to have supportive friends from an early age. It helped me to embrace my identity, to come out to the world, and to find pride in being a part of the GLBT community. Bolstered by the support of my friends, I try to offer that same chance for growth to other young men of color who have sex with men. I am fortunate to work as the Health Counselor for LIGALY’s HIV Prevention Program; through this work, I am able to engage with youth across Long Island and coordinate much-needed services. I take pride in my identity because it helps me to connect with others; and, like all parts of my identity, helps me to more fully engage in the work.

PAGE 24 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

Pride is about how we find our place in our community. Unlike culture, which is passed down from parents to children, the GLBT community’s traditions have to be shared in a more horizontal way, from person to person. In order to find our place, we have to reach out, and in doing so, we are able to bond through shared experiences and to build families of choice. I use my pride to educate the community about sex and sexuality as well as GLBT issues. Affirmation begins with communication. I am proud of who I am and how I live my life so other people who are gay-identified can be comfortable beginning their own journeys. To me, Pride is the perfect embodiment of these ideals. I can celebrate my identity on June 9th and inspire others to do the same by being out and visible, meeting new people, and talking with them.

editorial

PROUD TO BE ME

Louis Lisi Retired

and I recall that theologian John McNeill, author of The Church and the Homosexual, as well as fellow GLBT community members, helped me get there.

I’m thankful to SAGE-LI (Senior Advocacy for GLBT Elders – Long Island) and Dignity, the gay Catholic organization, for helping me accept myself, find community, and embrace myself for who I am. It took time and bravery to live my life more honestly,

One of the first people I came out to was my wife. When interviewed for a 2009 Newsday article, I told the reporter that I introduced her to the real me, and not the phony that I was pretending to be. We remained Making the decision to come married until she out to my family was the most passed away, and I liberating thing I have done. know that the truth

“

about who I was brought us closer. I’m 85 now, and I have much to be proud about. I’m proud of being a gay man. I’m proud of my five children and eight grandchildren. I’m proud that they can know the real me; making the decision to come out was the most liberating thing I have done. Now that all of my family knows, I don’t have to live in terror that they may find out.

editorial

“

wasn’t always openly proud of my identity as a gay man. I waited until I was 67 to come out, and through that experience, I found courage within me that I didn’t know I had. It took a great deal of support from many people in my life during that time, including my wife of forty years.

These days, I look forward to Monday Mingles at The Center at

Bay Shore. I feel a sense of community and closeness through our life experiences, both different and shared, that was missing. My favorite quote is “Keep active and continue doing all the things you love to do while you still can.” It always brings a smile to my face. It was given to me by a 92 year old neighbor in a wheelchair who has since died and I miss her often, but the words are incredibly inspiring, especially this June. The Pride celebration reminds me that being active, being out, and being proud of me is the most important thing.

PROUD TO BE ME

P Genéa Thomas Youth Coordinator

“

Someone came up to me, saying, “You are the reason I feel safe about coming out on campus.”

eople often assume that I’m a lesbian, and that’s okay for me. It’s who I am, and I’m proud of my identity. In many ways, every day is a day for me to be proud of who I am, but the Pride Parade and Festival is my favorite time of the year. It’s the day I can feel most comfortable to just be me. Pride is a time where I can surround myself with like-minded people who are equally enthusiastic, out, and proud, as well as allies who show their support for my community. As the Youth Coordinator for The Center at Garden City, I am fortunate that I get to experience that feeling all year round

when I’m supervising youth interns, social events, and the Pride Empowerment Project. But Pride is more than that. It’s a chance for me to bring the youth I work closely with to a special GLBT event, especially young people who have never been to Pride before. I can help them connect with the greater Long Island community, and introduce them to the same sense of pride and belonging I feel.

my proudest moments in life was when I was invited back to my college to speak on a panel about coming out as GLBT. I was the only person of color on the panel. After the discussion, someone came up to me, thanking me for my contribution and saying, “You are the reason I feel safe about coming out on campus.” Being able to help and connect with someone through a shared identity was powerful for me.

As a female-bodied, lesbian person of color, I’m what I endearingly refer to myself as a “triple minority,” so I’m comfortable speaking about bridging my experiences and identities. One of

This June, I’ll be marching down Main Street again, and I’m calling everyone to join me in being proud, either in the Parade or cheering on the sidelines. Don’t be afraid. Let your hair down. Join the fun.

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 25

Does it seem as if your tax and accounting needs are not being met? Do you wait weeks for a response to your email or voicemail? Does it feel as if other clients’ needs are taking priority over yours? Are you reluctant to share your relationship with your accountant, even though doing so may cost you tax deductions and may hurt your future tax planning? If you answered yes to any of these questions, call us! You deserve an accountant who cares for your needs. One call can’t hurt.

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Thank you for your hard work

and congratulations on your continued success !! Happy 22nd Anniversary – LI Pride! PAGE 26 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 27

PAGE 28 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

The New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church The New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church welcomes all God’s children, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. We want members of LGBT communities to know that we do not share our denomination’s belief that “homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching” and we are deeply sorry for the harm that this belief has caused. We are working within the UMC to change its prejudiced policies.

We invite you to join us! Asbury United Methodist Church Yonkers, NY  asburycrestwood.net

First United Methodist Church Amityville, NY  amityunitedmethodistchurch.org

Christ Church United Methodist New York, NY  christchurchnyc.org

Memorial United Methodist Church White Plains, NY  memorial4all.org

Church of St. Paul St. Andrew United MethodistNew York, NY  stpaulandstandrew.org

New Day United Methodist Church Bronx, NY  newdaybronx.org

Church of the Village United Methodist New York, NY  churchofthevillage.org

Park Slope United Methodist Church Brooklyn, NY  parkslopeumc.org

Clinton Avenue United Methodist Church Kingston, NY  nyac.com/churches/detail/2021

United Methodist Church of Mt. Kisco Mt. Kisco, NY  mountkiscochurch.org

First & Summerfield United Methodist Church New Haven, CT  www.fsumc.org

United Methodist Church of the Tarrytowns Tarrytown, NY  umctarrytowns.org

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 29

Celebrating Long Island Pride

Services Include: • HIV Medical Care & Treatment

• Nutrition Services

• Hepatitis C Treatment

• Health Education

• Women’s Health

• Support Groups

• On-Site Pharmacy

• Legal Services

• Social Work

• Client Advisory Board

• Mental Health Services For More Information, Call (516) 562-4280

PAGE 30 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

Federal Credit Union You’ll love banking here.

Exceptional Value. Extraordinary Service. The Network has partnered with Bethpage Federal Credit Union on a new Affinity Program that provides great benefits exclusively for Network supporters. As part of the Affinity Program, these are the following opportunities available to you:

Direct Deposit When you do full direct deposit to a Bethpage checking account, we will give you $50** and make a donation of $50 to the Long Island GLBT Services Network in your name! You can also get co-branded checks!

Bethpage VISA Credit Card - New & Improved with more options! Bethpage offers 3 card types to choose from: • Low Interest Rate: as low as 8.15% APR*** • CU Rewards: Cash Back • CU Rewards: Points - Redeem for travel, hotel stays, cruises and more!

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You can also choose to get a co-branded VISA card! * This promotion is open to all members with a Bethpage checking account who refer a friend to open a Bethpage Bonus Checking account. This offer may be withdrawn without prior notice. Share Account with $5 minimum balance is required before a checking account can be opened. “Refer a Friend” promotional payments will be deposited only after a member referral opens a checking account. Members are limited to 10 referrals, for a total payout of $250. ** Promotional funds deposited into new checking account is considered interest and will be reported on IRS form 1099-INT. Taxes are the responsibility of the member. Offer may be withdrawn without prior notice. ***APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rates and terms accurate as of 4/1/2012. The rate is variable and may change. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Other rates and terms available. All offers of credit are subject to credit approval; applicants may be offered rates at higher rates and other terms.

More than 60 Branches and Shared Service Centers across Long Island Over 350 Surcharge-Free ATMs including Walgreens, 7-Eleven†, King Kullen and Costco† locations Free Online, Mobile and Telephone Banking Free Mobile Check Deposit †

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LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 31 FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA

If anyone is brave and true to themselves, it’s my gay fans. The amount of confidence and fearlessness it takes to do what maybe is not what your parents expect you to do or what society may think is different— to be brave and be different and be to yourself—is just so beautiful. — Beyonce

I just wish more of my fellow queers would come out sometimes. It’s nice out here, you know? — Elton John

If you are not personally free to be yourself in that most important of all human activities… the expression of love… then life itself loses its meaning. — Harvey Milk

BOARD AND STAFF Bruce Castellano

Jason Rein

Tom Maligno, Esq.

Trent Preszler

Linda Fazio, PhD

Catherine LaPorte

John Ottino

Dr. George Santiago, Jr.

David Kilmnick, PhD, MSW Chief Executive Officer Robert Balzarano, LMSW Director of Mental Health Services

Ruth Davis Receptionist

Michael C. Brady Director of Development

Eliscia DiStefano Executive Assistant

Michael Chiappone, LMSW Director of Prevention and Youth Services

Keri Divanian Program Assistant

Matthew Cotty Safe Schools Coordinator

PAGE

Lyndon Cudlitz Youth Services Program 32Coordinator | LONG ISLAND PRIDE

James Fallarino Public Affairs Director Lambert Liu, LMSW Health Counselor

2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

Robert Vitelli, MA Chief Operating Officer

Jeffrey Main Communications and Social Media Coordinator

Chris Scarpati Development Officer for Individual and Planned Giving

Irene Tsikitas, MSW Director of Adult and Senior Services

Paul Moccio HIV Prevention Program Coordinator

Michael Serrano Development Officer for Database: Management and Special Events

Patricia Valdez Program and Administrative Assistant

Kerrie O’Neill, LMSW Director of Programs Eli Reyes Director of HIV Prevention

Karen Taylor Director of Jewish Outreach Genéa Thomas Youth Services Program Coordinator

Craig Wiley Director of Community Initiatives and Pride Organizer

THE HISTORY June 9th is an important date in Long Island GLBT history! It was on June 9th, 1991 that Long Island held its first Pride Parade. David Kilmnick, one of the founders of the original parade committee (originally called the Long Island Lesbian and Gay Pride Freedom Committee) remembers the challenges he and co-founders Leah Gustavson, Cara Wilson and Steve Henaghan faced when they approached the Town of Huntington to grant a permit to hold the first Pride Parade. “They turned us down on the grounds that only ‘traditional’ parades were allowed in Huntington,” David recalls. The committee approached the ACLU to represent their challenge. The matter was heard in a federal court on May 28, 1991. After deliberations, Judge Leonard D. Wexler ruled in favor of the committee. The first Long Island Pride Parade was held just 12 days later. “It was an exhilarating day,” David recalls. Over 500 people proudly marched in the first parade, cheered on by thousands who lined the streets. The parade ended with a rally in the Huntington Town Hall’s parking lot. “It was definitely the beginning of something great.” Indeed, the year after the first Long Island Pride Parade, Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) was founded. Now, nearly 20 years later, the Long Island GLBT Services Network includes LIGALY, SAGE-Long Island, the East End Gay Organization, and the Long Island GLBT Community Centers in Suffolk and Nassau counties. And this year, the Network is producing the Long Island Pride Parade and Festival. “To have the parade join forces with the Network is like coming full circle,” David says. “To do so on the very date of the first Long Island Pride Parade makes this year’s celebration very special.” Here’s to another 20 years of Pride!

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PAGE 34 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

Happy 22nd Anniversary! Out Loud and Proud Long Island.

A Welcoming Place for the GLBT Community. All faiths welcomed & affirmed. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Shelter Rock 48 Shelter Rock Rd Manhasset, NY 11030 interweave@uucsr.org LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 35

PAGE 36 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 37

2012 SPONSORS

SUPPORT LONG ISLAND PRIDE Keep Long Island Pride going all year long, and help ensure that each yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GLBT celebration is better than the last. We appreciate your support!

Visit www.liglbtnetwork.org/donate or scan the QR code!

PAGE 38 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG

TRICIA CURRAN “I volunteer because the LI Pride Parade is an event that raises awareness and brings us closer to making equality for the LGBT community a reality. I am proud to be a part of that.”

JEANNE BEZKO “I’m volunteering for LI Pride because I want to be a part of celebrating Pride activities. Working with the Parade Committee is a great way to give back to my community.”

CAIT BJELLQUIST “I volunteer for Long Island Pride as a way to meet new people and get more involved in the community.”

LORI ROWE “I volunteer for Pride because it’s an important event that exhibits the strength, unity, and growing support systems within the gay community and its allies.”

LEAH TEPLIN “I’m helping out with the Pride Parade because I think it’s important not just for those who are a part of the gay community to celebrate themselves, but to invite everyone else to celebrate with them.”

UNIQUE WILSON “As a Noble member of the illustrious Kappa Psi Kappa Fraternity Inc., I’m volunteering for Long Island Pride to provide service to our LGBT community and encourage an improved equality in our society.”

HOLLY DAWSON “Pride allows all of Long Island to celebrate together, and I feel privileged to be involved in making this event a success. I volunteer to help create a GLBT event for everyone to enjoy!”

These are just a few of our many dedicated volunteers. We would like to express our deepest thanks to all of the hardworking individuals who have helped in making Pride 2012 great!

LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG | PAGE 39

PAGE 40 | LONG ISLAND PRIDE 2012 | WWW.LIPRIDE.ORG