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Triangle Community Center

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Free to Members and Subscribers

MANY HEARTS • • •

Vol.9, No.2
February 1998

ONE COMMUNITY

th
rec CELEBRATES 7TH YEAR
The Triangle Community Center (TCC) of East Nowalk is marking its 7th
anniversary this year. TCC operates entirely with unpaid volunteers, and this year
is honorinj$ 11 people who have contributed to the many activites and programs
TCC provides all 22 towns and cities in Fairfield County. In addition, the 3
congressmen representing Fairfield County have sent special citations and letters,
and letters have been received from towns and cities across Fairfield County
saluting TCC. The 11, volunteers being recognized by TCC are Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ron Dreyer, Victoria Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Thomas
Mariconda, Justine Michaud, Scott M. Robbins, and Elaine and Lester Sharlach.
Scott M. Robbins of Shelton, who has directed 2 major shows, "WhoopDee-Doo" in January 1997, and "Pageant" in January 1998, was recognized for his
efforts in putting together the shows and directing them. TCC noted that Mr.
Robbins' efforts and his 2 plays have focused TCC as never before, bringing
together large numbers of members for the major undertaking these shows
represent. "Whoop-Dee-Doo" raised $17,000 for TCC, for Bread & Roses - the
AIDS residence serving Fairfield County, and Mid-Faifield AIDS Project and
Stamford Cares. Proceeds from "Pageant," which ran during January 1998 are still
being tallied .
Also recognized was Ron Dreyer of Stamford, who has brought his talents of
singing, dancing and acting to the show produced by Mr. Robbins, and also
organized a major jazz brunch for TCC in 1995. In the most recent production of
"Pageant'' Mr. Dreyer played the role of Miss West Coast, and, to promote
"Pageant"' appeared on The Exchange with David Smith on Cablevision 12 in
lower Fairtield and southwestern New Haven Counties.
Also recognized was Justine Michaud of Stratford, the founding president ofTCC
when it opened in January 1991, who continues to assist and volunteer for TCC
projects. Ms. Michaud also worked to help enact state laws in Connecticut that
protect gay and lesbian citizens. Connecticut is one of just 11 states nationwide to
have a gay rights law protecting gay and lesbian citizens from discrimination in
employment and housing.
In a letter to TCC, U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, R-4th district, said that, "Over
the past several years, TCC has taken tremendous strides in promoting understanding for gays and lesbians throughout the community. Your organizatoin has given
countless individuals the support and information they need."
U.S. Rep. James Maloney, D-Sth district, sent a "Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the Triangle Community Center for achievement." In an
accompanying letter Rep. Maloney said, "I would like to commend the group's
efforts to provide social and financial support to the gay and lesbian community
of Fairfield County. As with any group which is denied its civil rights .... the gay
community needs and deserves a su,rport center to assist with the problems which
result from such discrmination .....
U.S. Rep. Rose DeLauro, R-3rd district, said, "The general welfare of all
Americans is diminished when any one group is discriminated against. TCC
promotes social activism and provides a place for gays and lesbians to gather as a
community." Similar letters of support were received from Stamford Mayor
Daniel Malloy, Danbury Mayor Gene Enrico, Newtown First Selectman Herbert
C. Rosenthal, and Fairfield First Selectman Kenneth Flato.
-Michael Collins

February 1998

Pagel

T NEWS & VIEWS
WrcCNEWs
Two THUMBS UP foR "PAGEANT"

GAY MEN'S GROUP

-Juan Raven, Reviewer

The Gay Men's Group got off to a great start in January
discussing Geography ofthe Heart by Fenton Johnson. The
next meeting will be on March 8 at 7 PM in Ridgefield. We
will be discussing Young Man from Provinces: A Gay Life
Before Stonewall by Alan Helms . For more information email GayBookCT@aol.com or call (203) 431-0559.

The talk around town about the Triangle Community Center's production of
"Pageant'' is that tickets for the final performances will be hard to get and especially
after this weekend's nearly full houses. I saw the show both Friday and Saturday nights.
As I listened to the audience discuss the show afterward comments like "great!',
"fantastic!' and "wow!" were common and this reviewer was quite in agreement.
A solid show was presented and the TCC deserves a great deal of credit for staging this
smart send up ofthe beauty pageant. The dance numbers were well choreographed and
the cast seemed very comfortable in their roles and hee~! Each contestant must
compete in the area's of talent, evening gown, beauty crisis call and swimsuit and what
style and presentation we were treated to! Though the book is slightly stacked against
several contestants, there is a tremendous element of surprise as the Judges are picked
at random each evening. Saturday evening's crowd seemed more in tune with the sly
humor of Miss West Coast's wacky dance and the plain Miss Great Plains. Miss Texas
and Miss Bible Belt are real shoo-ins for the title of Miss Glamouresse, but Miss Deep
South has a show stopping number that brought the house down both nights and
edged them out to win Friday night! Unfortunately; Miss Industrial Northeast, who
gets great attention from the audience during her talent number (playing the accordion
while skating around the stage looking frightened) gets the disappointing boot before
the Queen is crowned. It was clear that she would have given the others a good "skate"
for the crown ifshe stayed in. The reigning Miss Glamouresse 1997 is Miss Tawny Joe
Johnson. She is an absolute hoot as she explains and demonstrates to the judges how
to use the scorecards while assisting the master of ceremonies, Frankie Cavalier.
Frankie Cavalier's character too is a great satire on the "master of ceremonies" that we
all know and love! His energy and enthusiasm well played and enjoyed.
The lighting and stage design was sharp but simple and oooh, that spaceship really was
"outa this world" (as well as Frankie's getup!!) So I hope you all bopped down to the
Norwalk Community Technical College and caught this show because it shouldn't
have been missed. The show benefits TCC and Bread and Roses the AIDS hospice in
Georgetown.

ANNIVERSARY SPLINTERS
Volunteering my time atTCC has been very rewarding. It has been both an honor
and a pleasure working with people who strive for the success of the Center. We
recently celebrated our seventh anniversary and I had such a blast at the paty. It
was great to be in a room filled with so many lesbian and gay people all in one
place. And, I felt wonderfully safe and at home at our Center.
The following people were recognized for their volunteerism and passionate
support of the progarns, events and operations for our Center: Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ronald Dreyer, Victoria T. Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Justine
Michaud, Scott Robbins and Elaine and Lester Sharlach. Also, on behalf of the
board we would like to thank Christine Bisceglie for all her time and energy
serving on the board. We'll miss her "frankness" and "bottom-line" approach to all
those important issues .
I think it is quite remarkable that the Triangle Community Center has been so
successful based on the fact that it is completely run by volunteers. As successful
as the Center is we are still faced with a lot of work. We are in particular need of
people with grant writing and business skills Anyone who cares to help lighten
the load is welcome. We work hard and we have fun doing it! In the words of our
president Don Buxton, "take what you are passionate about and find a way to
apply it creatively, at the center."
So I am asking all of you who read this to bring your PAS SI ON to TCC! Share
it! Work it girl! Work it to the fullest! We are the best that we can be, but why
not join us and try to make us better. Just give us a call - at the sound of the tone
leave your name, phone number, and the best time to reach you. It's that simple I
PASSION+ VOLUNTEERISM =TCC
-Denyse Burke

'

February 1998

TCC FEB F RIENDRAISER
TCC's February Friendraiser will be held on Saturday,
February 14, from 5-8 pm at the home of Peter McKnight
and Joe Letendre.
Directions to Peter and Joe's, 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield,
CT:
From I-95 coming from New Haven: Exit 22, North
Benson Rd. Makearightatendoframp. Go 1.5 miles and
make a right onto Reid St. ***
From I-95 coming from Stamford: Exit 22, Round Hill
Rd. Go straight at end of ramp (through stop sign) and
make a left at the light onto North Benson Rd. Go 1.5
miles and make a right onto Reid St. ***
From Merritt Pkway coming from New Haven: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn right at end of ramp .
Go about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)* **
From Merritt Pkway coming from Stamford: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn left at end of ramp
and then right onto Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Go
about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)***
***At bottom of hill, make a right onto Robin Lane. We
are the 3rd house on right, # 89, white with black shudders,
1 car detached garage. Park on street and come in back door.
Iflost, 203/330-9595.
And remember - this Friendraiser is DONATIONSONLY. The amount is up to you .

IMPERIAL COURT SHARES RICHES
The Imperial Court of Connecticut recently donated over
$900 to TCC, raised during their Masquerade Ball held in
October at the Brook Cafe. This generous donation was
presented to the Center and will be earmarked for use by
TCC's Board of Directors.
Huge thanks to our local "royalty" from The Fairfield
Barony of the Imperial Court for including TCC in their
fund raising efforts . Thanks, also, to The Brook for their
part in hosting this event and all those who attended to
support the Court.

Pagel

PEOPLE OF COLOR GROUP
From early on I had always been looking for love, or just a special brother to
hang with. Sex was just always easier to find. I didn't wonder about the places
I went to meet men. The movie theaters on forty-second street, tee rooms,
park cruise grounds at night, Christopher Street, bars, bookstores, and the
"straight'' porno theat.ers in my neighborhood were the only places I knew to
meet men. One of these times I'd get up close and personal wit:h someone fine,
it would happen. I would be recognized for the bright, decent, talented man
that I am. This never really happened. And I was not to blame.
It was not until years later that I realized what the problem had been in those
earlier years. I had not been unlucky at finding the "right man." I had not been
cursed by God. These places I had been going seeking affection (settling for
sex) were negative environments (yet they have become our traditional gay
meeting places). Dark place hidden away from the full light of day. Places
where we drank and got high to make it easier to talk to each other. Filthy
places where any intimacy that occurred was shared with the stench of urine,
poppers and industrial cleansers in our nostrils. In order to dismiss my painful
observation of how little I had in common with whoever I found, I had to
check my mind at the door. In order to reconcile myself with the fact that this
groping, was not serving my loneliness, I had to check my heart at the door.
It was not until years later that I discovered the black gay community. An
extended family ofbrothers loving brothers who valued my contributions and
embraced me: body, mind and soul. I found the black gay community at
discussion groups and other events held by organizations in New York City
for African-American, Caribbean, Latino, Native American and Asian gay &
bisexual men (Adodi; Gay Men of African Descent. Aya institute; Other
Countries; and the Men of Color Discussion Group sponsored by Gay Men's
Health Crisis). It was here that I became proud of my whole selfincluding my
gay self. Listening to these beautiful men share their issues gave me pause and
strength to reflect then share what my issues were. I have found myself many
times in those circles of men. I have found many firiends there. I have met
lovers there. Most importantly, I found the "right'' man there. I am that
"right'' man. I'm the man I always dreamed I would meet and fall in love with!!
• I have only been living in Connecticut since last April. I'm disappointed by
what often passes for black gay "life" up here. I'd like to re-create here what
gave me such a strong foundation in NYC. I would like for us to be a loving,
supportive, "fierce" family for each other. Some of us have been so damaged
by our families that the word "'family'' is no longer powerful or meaningful.
I have redefined that word for myself. Family to me means people from whom
I don't need protection. I would very much like to see such an extended family
of gay, lesbian, bisexual, & transgender people of color to come together twice
per month at the G Mosaic group meeting. We will be meeting on the 1st and
3rd Friday of every month From 7:30-9:30 PM. Stop in to vibe with us after
dinner and before you hit the clubs ( or before your quiet
"wind-down-from-the-work-week-night'') .
My name is Nasheed Abdul-Wakil. I will be facilitating this group on behalf
of the Norwalk Health Department and the Triangle Community Center. I
promise you this will be an easy, painless way to meet new friends and to find
yourself. They say that sunlight is the best disinfectant. Let's make G Mosaic
a new traditional gay meeting place. And let's bring loving each other out into
the light. You may leave a message for me at the Norwalk Health Department
at: (203) 854-7726. Just ask for Nasheed. All calls will be treated with strict
confidentiality.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
Sometime between selling their Castle and fixing up their new digs Jay Kobrin
and Gordon Micunis quietly celebrated their fortieth anniversary. That's 40th
not fourteenth . In the late 50's, when many of us were mere toddlers if we had
been born at all, the two of them met at Yale - only a few years after Larry
Kramer tried to commit suicide there. Little did the person who assigned
Gordon as upperclass adviser to freshman Jay, Theater Design major, realize
that he did such a great job as ayenta. Forty years later they're not just an item,
they're a fixture. H appy Anniversay to them for their achievement. May they
have many more years together.
-Marianne Seggerman

f RIENDRAISER
To volunteer to host a Friendraiser or get information on holding one, please
call Bryan DuBac (203) 335-8765 .
February 1998

4'

CYBER NEWS

AIDS FOUNDATION JOINS WEB
AIDS Healthcare Foundation's (AHF's) ability to communicate
cutting-edge information about AIDS and its own programs and
services took an exponential leap forward in late December with the
launch ofits Web site, that has been in development since April of
last year. The site can be accessed at: http://www.aidshealth.org.
"(It) is a great vehicle to find information on all of the different
aspects of AIDS Healthcare Foundation," said AHF President
Michael Weinstein.
With its 20 locations (Healthcare Centers, Houses and Thrift Stores)
and nine major programs and divisions, the AIDS Healthcare
Foundation site includes pages on AHF advocacy (government local, state and federal areas); AHF fundraising and giving opportunities; AHF education/information; volunteerism/special events;
and AHF media and public relations information.
CRUISER 6.0 'CoMES Our'
In San Francisco - the crossroads where high-tech meets High
Camp - Digital Queers has fired the latest salvo in the hotlycontested browser wars with the introduction of Cruiser 6.0. The
new browser will immediately appeal to at least 10% of the
worldwide browser market, threatening to steal critical market
share from both Netscape and Microsoft.
Different from conventional "straight'' browsers, Cruiser 6.0 is
"orientation-focused." Its design makes it easy for even the
uninitiated to legally plug-and-pfay in most states. As users gain
more exposure to the browser, internal intelligence makes the
system easier to understand and navigate; after a certain point, the
only user issue is one of improving Cruiser 6.0. The browser is
powered by the new Java enhancement: Percolator(TM) . Percolator requires no plug-ins for optimal performance. Aside from
these enhancements, Cruiser 6.0 resembles other browsers in
virtually every way and like other browsers, Cruiser 6. 0 is platform"
independent, working as easily on Mac as it does on Win. And
sometimes both at the same time.
Cruiser 6.0 may be downloaded from the Digital Queer's Web site
at www.DQ.org. Cruiser 6.0 is the virtual Web browser created
by queers for queers. Digital Queers (DQ) is a national non-profit
organization that focuses on the strategic application of technology
to improve organizations and services that promote the legal and
social rights oflesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. For
more information on the organization and its activities, visit the
World Wide Web site at www.dq.org.
SIGNORILE IN CYBERSPACE
Gay Wired Announces the New Web Site ofMichelangelo Signorile
at: http ://www.gaywired.com/signorile/
There are lots of different areas, including an open forum where
you can speak your mind on different issues, and even a site where
you can let Signorile have a piece of your mind.

MORE ON SEX PANIC
On Tuesday February 10th at 7:30, the Center Forum will be
devoted to a discussion of the issu~ raised by an informal (but

• • themselves Sex.Panic. The name is
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-Marianne egg~an
Page3

T NEWS & VIEWS
CONNECTICUT CALENDAR

f EBRUARY 1998
Saturday, Feb. 7 --Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or Snow
shoeing.
Sunday, Feb. 8 - The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Film Festival presents a
benefit screening of Lilies, voted the number one gay movie of 1997
in the PopcornQ poll. A bishop is forced to watch a re-enactment of
his past, when he broke up a love affair between two teenaged boys.
2:30 PM, at Cinestudio, on the campus of Trinity College, Hartford.
Sunday, Feb. 8 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if
no snow.
Tursday, Feb. 10 - TCC Forum - Sex Panic - 7:30 PM
Fri. -Sun., February 13-15 - Maxies 6th Annual Weekend of Love, Maxies
Cafe, Waterbury. All proceeds to benefit the Waterbury Aids Client
Services. Three nights of live entertainment, complimentar/ buffet,
and drawings; plus an auction on Sunday. Tickets are $6.00 per night,
$12.00 for all three nights. More info to follow.
Saturday, Feb. 14 - TCC Friendraiser- 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield CT - 5to 8 PM
Saturday, Feb.14--Conn. Women Outdoors-Valentines Day hike. 5 or6 easy
miles.
Saturday, Feb. 14 -- Valentines Day "Amici" - A Gay & Lesbian Social Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998 - Prime TimeGrill at the Comfort Inn, Old
Saybrook, CT - DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn - Dinner
Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Fri. - Sun., Feb. 20 - 22 - Out Write '98 - The 7th national lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgendered writers' conference at the Sheraton
Boston Hotel & Towers, Boston, MA.
Fri. -Sun., February 20-22 - Brothers Together presents Dating, Sex, and
Relationships, a weekend workshop for gay and bisexual men, at
Cedar Hill Retreat Center, in Duxbury, MA. Call 617-375-9447 for
more information.
Saturday, Feb. 21 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Potluck and Game night at
Marilyn's in Windsor. Dinner starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM.
Fri. -Sun., February 27-March 1 - Creating Intimacy In Our Lives: Learning
From The Struggle, aweekend workshop for gay and bisexual men at
Deer Hill Conference Center, Wappingers Falls, NY. Led by Ken Page
and New Haven's Joe FitzGerald. Forfull information, call Joe FitzGerald
at 203-789-0560.
Saturday, Feb. 28 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking
if no snow.

MARCH

1998

Fri. - Sun., March 6 - 8 - Hundreds of great guys are expected at the
Paramount Resort Hotel. This "HOT" vacation break from the cold and
snow will offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music, dance, AND,
a chance for romance!
Saturday, March 14 - Sober Spring Gay and Lesbian Dance - 8 PM to1 AM
- Jennings School, Fairfield, CT - $5.00 Cover.
Saturday, March 14 - Gay Bingo to benefit the Hartford Gay and Lesbian
Health Collective, at Project 100/Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender
Community Center, 1841 Broad Street, Hartford. Doors Open at 7:00
pm - Games begin promptly at 7:30 pm. Admission $10 - Includes
Games package. Over $500 in prizes! Call 278-4163 for more
information.
Friday-Saturday, March 20-21 - Children From The Shadows presents its
fifth annual conference for GLBT youth and professionals who work
with them, University of Hartford, West Hartford, 9:45 AM to 4:00 PM
both days.
Saturday, March 28 - The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven, 8:00 PM.
Sunday, March 29- The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen
Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven 2:00 PM.
February 1998

!!!!!!lcoNNECTICUT NEWS
CONNECTICUT WOMEN OUTDOORS
Feb 7, Sat - Cross Country Skiing or Snow shoeing if you prefer, up
and down Mt. Everett in the Berkshires. Beautiful views of Mt.
Greylock and the Catskills. Call Sam 860-650-5359.
Feb 8, Sun - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Feb 14, Sat - Valentines Day hike. 5 or 6 easy miles. We'll make sure
you still have energy for your sweetheart after the hike. Call Carol 203237-6288 or Kathy 203-630-2576.
Feb 21, Sat - Potluck and Game night at Marilyn's in Windsor. Dim1er
starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM. Bring a dish to share and your favorite
board game. Call 860-688-7637.
Feb 28 Sat - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Women Outdoors provides a forum for women to explore the
outdoors together, develop outdoor and leadership skills, and promote environmental awareness. Membership in Women Outdoors
links you to this growing and vital network. For information on
joining Connecticut Women Outdoors contact Carol at: 203-2356933.
'

LET'S DANCE!
SOBER SPRING - GAY AND LESBIAN DANCE!
SATURDAY,MARCH14-8PM-1AM-JENNINGSSCHOOL
- FAIRFIELD, CT
$5.00 COVER CHARGE - BRING YOUR OWN REFRESHMENTS- NO ALCOHOL PLEASE!
Need more info? Call Liz 333-8981 or Bob 336-8216 or Christine
847-8476
Directions: From 1-95 North - Exit 22, Round Hill. Left at end of
ramp onto Round Hill. Turn right onto Barlow Road by Fairfield
University. Left at the light onto North Benson Road. At light, bear
right and continue across Black Rock Turnpike and take right onto
Fairest. Left at next corner onto Fairland. Take a left and turn onto
Palm Drive.
From 1-95 South - Exit 24, Black Rock Turnpike. Right at end of
ramp. At light, take left onto Kings Highway. Bear to right as the road
splits. At the fourth light, take a right onto Burroughs Road. At the
stop sign, take a left onto Farland Rd. Take first right onto Palm Dr
just before school crossing sign.
From Merritt Parkway (North) - Take exit 44, Fairfield University.
Turn onto Black Rock Turnpike south (Route 58 south). At third
light, take left onto Fairfield Woods Rd. Continue straight through
the stop sign. At light, take a right after the library. The middle school
is on your right, Jennings School is on your left.
From Merritt Parkway (South) - Take exit 46. At end of ramp bear
right at light onto Route 59 for approx 2.5 miles. At the light (Grand
Central on left, Mobil on right), take a right onto Fairfield Woods Rd.
Continue through one light and one stop sign. At next light take left
(library in front). Middle school is on your right, Jennings School is
on your left.

Deadline for the March Newsletter will be Saturday 14 February. We cannot guarantee that
material received after that date will be included
in March News&Views.

Page4

SINGLES HEAD FOR THE HILLS
Hundreds of great guys are expected at the Paramount Resort Hotel (Parksville, NY, 2 Hrs. to
NYC) on the weekend of March 6-8, 1998. This
"HOT" vacation break from the cold and snow will
offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music,
dance, AND, a chance for romance! Headline entertainment for the weekend will include ''Those
Funny Gay Males", Jaffe Cohen and Danny
McWilliams (who promise us that they, too, are
single and looking!) . Fabulous song stylist Jeanne
MacDonald shows why she is winner of the 1997
Cabaret Hotline "Critic's Choice Award".
What's more, the weekend will include a demonstration and readings by'internationally known gay
psychic Daniel Logan, a "Videofest '98" (featuring
the best in gay themed films), antique and shopping
tours, indoor pool and sauna, late night disco and
salsa, cocktail parties, and a multitude ofindoor and
outdoor activities.
Rates for the weekend are $249 per person double
occupancy (plus tax & tip), with shares arranged. A
special feature offered by the Paramount Resort
Hotel is luxury bus and van service from select
locations. Transportation rates from NYC, Albany,
and Westchester are $35 per person. "Mei;i in the
Mountains", the first ever gay men's singles weekend at a major New York resort, is being offered by
Stonewall Productions, an experienced gay events
producer. For more information about the weekend or to make reservations call: 1 800 922-3498.

VALENTINES DAY "AM1c1"
A Gay & Lesbian Social - Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998
-PrimeTimeGrillattheComfortlnn, Old Saybrook,
CT
DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn Dinner Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Prime Rib or Baked Stuffed Chicken or Baked
Stuffed Shrimp or Pasta Primavera (Includes Salad,
Oven Roasted Potato, Vegetable, Dessert, Coffee
or Tea)
Hotel Package for 2 $99 + tax (includes Dinner/
dance hotel accommodations & all you can eat
breakfast) Dinner/Dance for 2 $48 tax included Dance Only $10 ea. includes tax
H otel Reservations by Feb. 1, 1998 - Dinner Reservations by Feb 12, 1998 - A Pride Entertainment
Party Production - Email at RLPEPP

OUT WRITE '98
The 7th national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgendered writers' conference will be held February 20 -22, Friday through Sunday at the Sheraton
Boston H otel & Towers, Boston, MA. Over two
thousand queer writers, activists, booksellers, and
artists descend on Boston to meet and discuss the
issues facing the gay community. There will be
caucuses, panels, conversations, roundtables, exhibits and even a film series.
The 1998 feature artists include: Sarah Shulman,
Thomas Glave, Carmen Vasquez, Donna
Minkowitz, Blanche McCrary Boyd, Robert E.
Penn, Cecilia Tan, Jackie Woodson, Mark Doty,
Rafael Campo, Urvashi Vaid, Leslea Newman,
Michael Branski, Michael Lowenthal, Kenny Fries,
Chris Bram, Mariana Romo-Carmona and many
more.
For more information call (617) 262-6969.

February 1998

fJf!Jlt STATE BY STATE NEWS
co - GAY GROUP PLEDGES $700,000
The Gill Foundation, a Colorado Springs gay and lesbian organization, has pledged
$700,000 to an array of nonprofit groups, positioning it as a major funder of community
programs. The grants will go toward non-gay and lesbian-related issues in the local
community, the foundation said. The purpose: to help a wide variety of people and shatter
stereotypes that gays and lesbians care only about issues related to them.
The Gill Foundation was established in 1994 by software entrepreneur Tim Gill in reaction
to the passage ofAmendment 2, which would have banned civil rights protection on the basis
ofsexual preference. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately struck it down. Gill's Denver-based
Quark Inc. has landed him on the Forbes Fortune 500 list of multimillionaires. He has given more
than $4 million of his own money primarily to support gay and lesbian causes.

FL - ELDERLY GAYS

GAIN SUPPORT

Community organizations say they think there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of people
of gay and lesbian seniors in condominiums and senior centers. This year, the first extensive
program offering them support groups, education sessions and social activities will come to
Palm Beach County through Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service in Boca Raton. A 20member task force is meeting to plan what kind ofservices should be financed through a large
endowment from Shirley H. Gould, of Boca Raton. Gould gave the donation in memory
of her son, who was gay. The family service declined to give the amount.
Isolation, generally a problem among the elderly, hits gay seniors especially hard when they
lose longtime companions. Sometimes the couples have spent a lifetime masquerading as
siblings or friends. The surviving partners are not comfortable in bereavement groups
common in condo communities. Plus, there usually are no children in these relationships.
''Like all older people, they [gay elderly) often are still grounded in the tradition and societal rules of
their time," Rabbi Greg Cantor said. ''It can be more difficult for them to accept themselves."

GA - SUPREME COURT REJECTS APPEAL
A woman who lost a promised job as a lawyer in the Georgia attorney general's office, after
the state attorney general learned that she was planning a marriage ceremony with her lesbian
partner, failed to persuade the Supreme Court to hear her appeal.
The case had been closely watched for several years as a potential vehicle for a new Supreme
Court decision on gay rights. The same Georgia attorney general, Michael Bowers, a
Republican who recently resigned to run for governor, was also a party in the court's 1986
decision, Bowers vs . Hardwick, which rejected a constitutional right to privacy for sex
between consenting adults of the same sex. Bowers withdrew his job offer to Robin Shahar
on the ground that "inaction on my part would constitute tacit approval of this purported
marriage and jeopardize the proper functioning of this office."
Ms. Shahar, who had worked as a summer law clerk in the attorney general's office, brought
a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Atlanta. She contended that the withdrawal of the job offer
violated her constitutional rights to equal protection and to "intimate and expressive
association" as protected by the First Amendment.
She lost in district court, then won a temporary victory from a three-judge appellate panel.
That ruling was then overturned last June by an 8-4 vote of the full 11th U .S. Circuit Court
of Appeals in Atlanta. The majority there said the attorney general's concerns about
"perceived public hostility'' toward same-sex marriages were reasonable and formed a
sufficient basis for his actions.

HA - DOMESTIC-PARTNER

LAw A BusT

When Hawaii became the first state in the country to extend broad rights to domestic
partners in July, the news was trumpeted as a breakthrough for gays and lesbians. Hawaii's
benefits package was the most sweeping ever passed, covering 60 items from medical
insurance to survivorship rights. Unlike efforts in mainland cities, the law applies statewide.
Even non-Hawaii residents are eligible, although benefits take effect only when they are in
the islands.
The state health department braced for a possible onslaught of applicants, estimating that
as many as 20,000 to 30,000 people might sign up. But the new law has turned out to be
a bust. As of Dec. 10, just 296 couples had signed up as "reciprocal beneficiaries," as they
are formally known. Twenty-five are from out of state. Although more than 5,000 people

Page5

T NEWS 6 YIEWS
have obtained applications, that's as far as most have been willing to go.
The law has been mired in uncertainty since it took effect. Several employers
challenged it in court, and a recent decision in the case gutted its boldest
provision: health coverage for the partners of private employees.
The few pioneers who have taken advantage of the law now enjoy
important rights such as hospital visitation, guardianship, joint property
ownership and inheritance. They have been frustrated, however, in
obtaining practical benefits like auto insurance, which the law was
supposed to facilitate. A reciprocal beneficiary relationship can be terminated by one partner without the consent-or even knowledge-of the
other, Rudy notes. Unlike divorce proceedings, the law has no procedures
to ensure that both sides are treated fairly in disposing of property upon
dissolution.

IA - UA OFFERS NEW CIASSES
Issues of sexual orientation are headed to the classroom at the University
oflowa, but don't expect the course work to include components that have
sparked controversy in other parts of the country. The program that will
begin in September, believed to be the first in the state, will focus on the
history of human sexuality: heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality
and cross-gender issues. Iowa's program may also touch on issues such as
sadomasochism and gender identity, Eliason said.
The new certificate program is more than a minor but less than a major,
and allows students to specialize in an area. Students at Iowa who
participate in the curriculum will be required to take four core courses:
Introduction to Sexuality Studies; Sexuality Studies Seminar; Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Identities; and Race, Class and Gender in
Sexual Communities. They will also need to take several elective classes to
complete the 18 semester hours of approved courses required for the certificate.

NC - h's ABOUT HousEs
As gay life here has emerged from the closet, gays have become a soughtafter market. And gay real-estate brokers are using their familiarity with
the gay community to win clients who want an agent who understands
their needs. John Yetter is one of York's top brokers. In 1997, he sold 80
houses with a total value of more than $12 million. He estimated about
10 percent of the sales came from gay buyers. Yetter's success in the gay
community hasn't been lost on his competitors. Brokers at other mainstream firms in the Triangle, for the first time, are seeking gay and lesbian
home buyers in what is a sign of the times - and an indication of fierce
competition among agents in the Triangle's real-estate market.
Brokers and their agents have discovered the Triangle's growing gay
population, according to Front Page publisher Jim Baxter. And Baxter
said he gets calls every week from gays planning to move here. "It used to
be that the gay population migrated to the big cities, and now they're
moving back," Baxter said. "It's gotten to the point where it's a good
market." He said the calls particularly began coming in after the Triangle
was ranked as the best place to live in America in 1994 by Money
Magazine.

NH - GAYS PROTECTED
A new law that grew out of years of contentious debate is expected to
generate only a trickle of action. Starting Jan. 1, New Hampshire's civil
rights law will protect homosexuals in jobs, housing and public places like
restaurants and hotels. The revised civil rights law adds sexual orientation
to existing classifications of age, gender, race, color, ethnic background,
physical or mental disability, marital status, religious or political beliefs.
The law bars discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. It does not protect illegal acts.
New Hampshire is among 11 states that have enacted similar laws. Maine
voters will decide on Feb. 10 whether to keep their gay rights law. The law
was enacted in June and signed by the governor, but opponents collected
signatures to force the referendum ..

February 1998

NY - GMHC FOR REPORTING HIV CASES
The Gay Men's Health Crisis, the nation's leading AIDS service
agency, is reversing its position and calling for New York doctors to
report HIV-positive people to state health departments. The same
practice is used for infectious diseases like syphilis and tuberculosis.
Every state requires doctors to report AIDS cases to public health
officials. But officials in New York and California and many other
states have not required similar reports about patients who have the
AIDS virus but do not have full-blown AIDS. But in a policy
statement, the group said clinical advances and the need for the most
up-to-date information on HIV infection demanded new approaches,
and that system of tracking people with AIDS is no longer an effective
measure of the extent of the epidemic. While the group said that
assuring strong privacy safeguards is as important as ever, it said that
the large numbers of people who are infected but who do not have fullblown AIDS make accurate tracking of HIV cases essential. The
statement does not explicitly oppose reporting names, but instead
urges that coded identification systems be examined. The official
statement by the organization, the most politically and economically
connected group in the world of nonprofit AIDS service, signifies the
collapse of a long-standing consensus by AIDS and civil rights groups
against HIV reporting.
UT - GAY-PROTECTION LAw REPEALED
The Salt Lake City Council repealed a month-old city law Tuesday
night that protected gay city employees from discrimination based on
their sexual orientation. Despite packed council chambers, hundreds
ofphone calls and a few anonymous pleas from gay city employees, the
council voted to scrap the fledgling law.
•
Last month, a different council approved the measure, which prohibited discrimination "against an otherwise qualified employee or applicant based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual
orientation or disability." The four councilmen say they intend to
approve a more generic law that protects all city employees equally,
without separating out classes for prote_ction.
"We will not confuse the repeal of this ordinance with an effort to craft
a better one," said Kyle Tre_adway. "We see this as blatant, meanspirited grandstanding. We can't give up. The fight goes on." When
the crowd rose to its feet in a standing ovation, Councilman Jolley
yelled for police sentries to clear the room. The crowd turned on Jolley,
chanting "shame, shame, shame." He backed down.

VT - COUPLES APPEAL

MARRIAGE
Three same-sex couples suing the state for the legal right to marry have
taken their case to the Vermont Supreme Court. The Middlebury
lawyers for the three couples filed a notice of their intention to appeal.
The lawyers met with Attorney General William Sorrell in a
meeting Sorrell described as cordial. Sorrell's office is opposing the gay
marriage suit, in part on the argument the Legislature did not intend
to recognize same-sex unions when it created the laws surrounding
marriage.
The couples' notice of appeal does not contain the specific grounds for
petitioning the high court, but to one of the suit's plaintiffs, Lois
Farnham of Milton, Vermont's prohibition of gay marriages is the
kind of civil rights issue the nation has seen before. A key part of the
government's argument is that state marriage laws are based on sound
reasoning. If the laws do have this so-called "rational basis," it's easier
for the state to fend off a discrimination claim by a group such as
homosexuals, which has not been deemed a protected class. Last
month, Superior Court Judge Linda Levitt ruled against the couples,
agreeing with a "rational basis" offered by the state-that marriage
between a man and woman furthers the link between procreation and
child rearing.

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T NEWS§ VIEWS
-

NATIONAL NEWS

AIDS DEATHS DROP
AIDS deaths in California dropped an astonishing 60 percent in the
first six months of 1997 - the strongest evidence to date that available
new drugs may be saving thousands oflives. That compares with a 23
percent drop in death rates noted by the federal Centers for Disease
Control, which measured AIDS deaths nationwide between 1995 and
1996. The difference between the new state figures and the older
federal data strongly suggests that the trend toward fewer deaths is
accelerating. The drop-off in death rates coincides with the widespread
use of the newest anti-viral drugs, called protease inhibitors, which are
taken in combination with older AIDS drugs.
Dr. Steve Morin, director of public policy research at UCSF's AIDS
Research Institute, said the availability of the new AIDS drugs varies
dramatically from state to state. "California and New York probably
have the best programs in the country," said Morin. "The worst states
are those with the poorest Medicaid programs," like North Carolina,
Mississippi and Florida.
Amid all the optimism, however, researchers caution that the lifesaving
effects of the protease drugs may not last. There is also a fear that the
good news will diminish the discipline required to maintain the safe sex
practices that helped curtail the spread of the epidemic 15 years ago.
UCSF researcher Coates noted that the drop in death rates coincides
with a time dubbed "the honeymoon period" for protease drugs - a
time before scientists began to note that the virus seemed to be
returning in some patients taking the drugs.

AIDS PATIENT: TREATMENT MIGHT SAVE LIFE
Lawyers for an AIDS patient who is suing the federal government for
the right to take an experimental drug filed a suit claiming that "use of
this drug may prevent the plaintiff's death and may be a springboard
to an AIDS treatment that keeps people from dying." The motion
would allow Cowan to take a goat-derived "neutralizing antibody" that
Tulsan Dr. Gary Davis has developed as a possible tool in the fight
against AIDS. Cowan's attorneys claim that "if (Cowan) does not
receive the antibody it is certain that (he) will die as a result of his
AIDS." In a Dec. 31 hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Bernhardt
asserted that Davis has yet to follow FDA procedures and thus should
be prohibited from testing the substance on a human subject, even a
dying patient who testified that he is willing to face any possible side
effects.
Specifically, Cowan's attorney claims that the legislative history and
judicial interpretation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act
indicate that it should not apply to Cowan's case. This is because the
act regulates the marketing of medical devices, not the practice of
medicine, he claims. Cowan's attorney claims that Davis "is not
attempting to promote, market, advertise or sell the goat neutralizing
antibody for commercial gain. Instead he is merely trying to treat and
heal (Cowan's) terminal condition."

DRESSED TO EXCESS
Ask Janet - not her real name - and she'll tell you there are three
things wrong with life in San Diego if you're a transsexual. "We need
employment protection, we need homeless shelters that will accept
trans gendered people, and we need a repeal of the cross-dressing law."
But for Janet, who says cities like San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Minneapolis, "and all of Europe" have enacted laws to protect transsexuals in
employment and housing, the chief target is a local edict - unique to
San Diego - that singles out cross-dressers. Municipal Code 56.19,
which became law in 1966, prohibits people from "appearing in a

February 1998

public place, or in a place open to public view, in apparel customarily worn
by the opposite sex, with the intent to deceive another person for the
purpose of committing an illegal act." Janet was one of the transsexual
people involved in a recent conference held in Hillcrest's Craftsman Hall
organized by local gay activist Mark Gabrish Conlan.
"I sit before you a criminal," Janet told the San Diego Human Relations
Commission (a body established "to reduce bigotry and prejudice in San
Diego") last May 14. "I can leave this building and be arrested because of
the cut of my clothing. My birth sex is male. This is my voice. This is who
I am. I have characteristics of both genders: more female than male." She
claimed that municipalcode 56.19, though purportedly aimed at transvestite prostitutes, has only been used against male-to-female transvestites of
color. She told the commission that between 1994 and 1996, 27 arrests
were made citing this law. Twenty-two ofthose arrested were Latino, four
African-American, and one Filipino. She claimed police use the law to
harass transsexuals, knowing most cases will never make it to court.
Barbara Warden, fifth district city councilwoman, says she couldn't
believe the cross-dressing law when she first heard ofit. "I really thought
it was a joke. I didn't think it was a real ordinance. I met with San Diego
Police Chief Sanders a week or so later. I thought perhaps [he would tell
me] it was a tool they needed. But it has only been used about 30 times
since 1992. It's a very infrequently used law. I said to Chief Sanders I felt
it was not necessary to have it on the books. It has an interesting vagueness
about it that allows it to be used or abused." Warden thinks most city
councilmembers would have been surprised to discover 56.19 on the
books. Councilmembers Kehoe, Mathis, and Stallings are likely to
support a repeal ofthe law-as long as ChiefSanders agrees. And Sanders,
according to his assistant Victoria Gilner, won't fight a repeal of the law.
In March, Warden is expected to introduce the proposal to the Public
Safety and Neighborhood Service Committee, which she chairs. •

ADVERTISING IN GAY PRESS GROWS
Advertising in gay publications is soaring with an increasing number of
huge companies pitching cars, travel, computers, investments, drugs,
clothing and more. New advertisers in 1997 included IBM, United
Airlines and American Express. Readers of gay newspapers in 10 major
markets have an average individual income of $47,090, according to
Simmons Market Research Bureau. That figure is more than twice the US
per capita income of$18,135 based on Census Bureau figures . Simmons
also found that 94 percent of the more than 735,000 readers studied are
likely to buy a product or service advertised in a gay publication.
"We've been a longtime supporter of the gay community. They in turn are
very supportive ofus," said Miller Brewing spokeswoman Gina Shaffer,
whose company has placed Miller Lite ads in national magazines such as
the Advocate and Out Magazine.
"To reach people you have to reach them in a wide variety of publications
and advertising mediums," said Mark Smith, a spokesman for cigarette
maker Brown & Williamson, which advertises its Lucky Strike brand in
the gay press.
The company's biggest competitor, Philip Morris, also pitches its topselling Marlboro brand, as well as Benson & Hedges and Parliament, in
the gay press. They are among scores of prominent brands from all types
of businesses -including Nike, Blockbuster, HBO, MasterCard, Gucci,
State Farm insurance and Harley-Davidson -on the pages of the nation's
175 gay publications.

NAVY RETREATS ON DISCHARGE
In a last minute surprise, the Navy agreed to delay Senior ChiefTimothy
McV eigh's discharge after McV eigh sued the Secretary of Defense Cohen
and the Secretary of the Navy Dalton, in an attempt to stop his imminent
discharge from the Navy. McVeigh's discharge is based on evidence that

Page 7

T NEWS & VIEWS
privacy experts say the Navy illegally obtained from America Online
(AOL), the nation's largest Internet provider. Online advocates vow
that the fight against the Navy and AOL has only just begun.
Lawyers for McVeigh made a motion for a Temporary Restraining
Order (TRO) against the Defense Department and the Navy in the US
District Court for the District of Columbia. The TRO would prohibit
the Navy from discharging McVeigh pending a full investigation of the
Navy's and AOL's feared violations of the federal Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), and the Navy's repeated and consistent
violations of the President's anti-gay "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.
McVeigh's motion is based on the contention that the Navy solicited and
obtained personal information from America Online without a warrant,
court order, or McVeigh's consent - one of which is required under
federal law and AOL's own Terms of Service.
Online advocates warn of a much larger battle looming, with potentially
serious consequences for the Administration, the Navy, and America
Online. "This lawsuit is the opening salvo of a multi-front war on the US
Navy- the Administration had better get ready for more suits, congressional investigations, and online campaigns," said Aravosis. "AOL had
also better watch out. If the Navy gets away with a cover up, AOL may
be the only one left to blame."
LATINO CAPTURES BILLY
Since arriving in the U.S.,Billy, "The World's First Out-And-Proud Gay
Doll," has been quite a hit with American men. Between his duties with
charity work and socializing, it's amazing he's had time to find a
boyfriend! Billy met Carlos in Miami back in May, when Billy was in
town for his coming out party at a Miami nightspot and Carlos was there
for the weekend. When the two realized that they both lived in New
York, they decided to exchange numbers and meet up again when they
got back home.

Since then, their love affair has blossomed and they've been almost
inseparable, although they still maintain separate residences in Manhattan. One thing is certain: Billy and Carlos are now officially a couple.
They are presently on vacation together in Miami and will fly directly to
San Francisco on August 2nd, where "Vacation Billy'' (with brown
hair!) and "Vacation Carlos," along with New York Carlos, will be
introduced for the first time at The International Gift Fair.
Now that Carlos is formally "on the market'' he will have additional
duties working for Totem International. Both Carlos and Billy will be
extremely busy this fall, but they will get a break for an end-of-the year
vacation. The gay dynamic duo are planning Christmas in Puerto Rico
with Carlos' friends and family, and New Year's Eve in Amsterdam with
Billy's folks. For further information regarding Carlos, Billy and Totem
International's products, please contact Claire O'Connor at 212-2455784.

lmper-ial Court
Valentine~~
~xtr-avaaanza!
The Fairfield Barony of The Imperial Court of Connecticut is hosting a fund raising event on Saturday,
February 14, 1998 at 9:30pm. The event will be held
at the Brook Cafe in Westport. Proceeds will benefit
the Triangle Community Center. Admission is 85
cover at the door.
The event will include performances by Imperial
Court members and a 50/50 rafile. It will also be a
voting party for Fairfield County. Details will be
explained at the event and voting ballots will be
accepted from 11pm to lam.
The Imperial Court is a non-profit organization and
all members are volunteers. The purpose of the
court is to help bl fund raising for the community at
large. Its members are given titles that are similar
to that of a royal court system based upon their fund
raising work.
The Court system is open to all members of the
community to participate in. For additional information about the Valentine's Extravaganza and The
Imperial Court please call 1-800-845-0085 ext. 5333.

~Niq~TOwl

9

Office Services

We're working even
when you're not!
David Dey

, office has come out with a stamp.
~uestiQn fol' Februa:ry-Whatwas the .subject
ofRosa Boµheur's mostfamouspainting? Bonhew:,
a nineteenth century French painter, had a .relationship late,fu her career wit:H a iµuch younger
wom;m.
February 1998

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Call 977-5096 to speak to a Care Coordinator today.
We're here to help - because we care.
Page8

T NEWS & VIEWS
WORLDWIDE NEWS
BRITAIN - GAY BATHHOUSES OPEN
Gay bathhouses, where homosexual males can meet new partners, are
booming in Britain as the fear of AIDS recedes in a newly self-confident
community. The bathhouses began in San Francisco in the sexually
liberated 1970s, but a decade later the establishments were closed by
health officials because they were blamed for spreading HIV. In Britain,
there has been a spate of openings of well-equipped, expensive all-male
health clubs and spas, the biggest involving a million dollar investment
to recreate the hedonistic atmosphere of the baths in Ancient Rome.
Health experts fear that a premature "post-AIDS euphoria" is making
young people complacent about protecting themselves from HIV by
using condoms. The figures for sexually transmitted diseases, which fell
sharply during the earJy 1990s when "safer sex'' became the norm for
casual relationships, have risen by 17 per cent in men and 13 per cent in
women in a year.
There are now 11 saunas for gays in London, more than in San
Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Amsterdam and Sydney combined,
according to international guides for homosexual travelers. Brighton
and Manchester also have a thriving bathhouse scene. The London
Tourist Board is promoting the capital as a welcoming holiday destination for wealthy American ·gays.

BRITAIN - LONDON WANTS MORE GAYS
The London Tourist Board said it has launched a special "pink"
telephone information hotline as part of a major campaign to attract
more gay and lesbian tourists to the British capital. The $98,000
campaign will begin in the United States, targeting gay urban professionals aged between 30 and 50 in cities such as New York. It will
promote London as a cosmopolitan destination with a wide range of
cultural and entertainment activities of interest to gays.
"We know that London is probably commercially the largest gay scene
in Europe and the value of the gay tourism market to the city is estimated
at nearly one billion pounds ($1.48 billion)," said LTB official Helen
Jones. She said London wanted to build on its reputation as a gayfriendly city .which already attracts huge numbers of gay and lesbian
tourists.

extinguishers positioned under the colonnades. The police spokesman
said Ormando had burns on 90 percent of his body.
The protest was staged a week after a 66-year-old volunteer usher for
Pope John Paul was found murdered in his Rome apartment in the latest
of a series of gay-related killings in the Italian capital. Nineteen gay men
have been murdered in their homes since 1990. No arrests have so far
been made. Gay groups believe at least some of the deaths may have been
caused by a serial killer and have called on the government to launch a
national campaign to combat what they call anti-gay attitudes and
homophobia in Italy.

NETHERLANDS - DUTCH SWEETHEARTS WED
Childhood sweethearts Irma van Praag and Anna Kreuger have become
the Netherlands' first lesbian couple to wed. The women, both 38,
married under new Dutch laws effective from Jan. 1 which extend full
marriage rights apart from joint adoption to same-sex couples. Officially
known as a "Registration of Partnership," the new legislation offers
same-sex couples all the rights enjoyed by straight couples, barring joint
adoption. Dutch members of parliament have already voted by a
comfortable majority to remove this last barrier and gay rights campaigners are optimistic it could be on the statute books before long.
Three male couples have already married under the new act. At least 100
gay weddings are planned in the Netherlands this year, according to
Dutch magazine Gay Krant.

VENEZUELA - GAYS BANNED IN MILITARY
Venezuela plans to sign up 40,000 new troops in 1998, but homosexuals
are formally barred from the military and women remain locked out for
now. Venezuela currently requires all 18-year-olds to do a compulsory
military stint. Homosexuality however currently is grounds for deferring one's draft call-up indefinitely.
General Ortega compared Venezuela's case to that of the United States,
which with its "Don't ask, don't tell" policy allows gays in the military
as long as they do not make their sexual orientation public. "In
Venezuela we have a society that is quite different from U.S. society,"
Ortega said. "I see it as pretty far off for the armed forces here to make
that kind of decision" publicly.

CAYMANS - GAY BAN
A leading US gay rights group said that it would press the British
government to intercede in the Cayman Islands' refusal to allow a ship
chartered by gay vacationers to dock. The government of the Caymans,
a tourist-dependent British territory in the western Caribbean, issued a
statement that said it "regrets any inconvenience" the decision had
caused, but it stopped short of an apology. Human Rights Campaign,
a Washington D.C.-based gay and lesbian rights organization said the
statement did not explain what it called a "discriminatory act'' and
warned of a possible tourism boycott.
The Caymans minister of tourism, commerce and transport, Thomas
Jefferson, sent a letter last month to Norwegian Cruise Line in Miami
saying his government had decided not to allow the cruise ship Leeward
to stop at Grand Cayman on Feb 1. Atlantis Events Inc., a gay tour
operator in West Hollywood, Calif., chartered the vessel for 900 men
and a few women with stops in the Caymans, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
"Careful research and prior experience has led us to conclude that we
cannot count on the group to hold the standards ofappropriate behavior
expected of visitors to the Cayman Islands, so we regrettably cannot
offer our hospitality," Jefferson wrote.

P-FLAG

SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS AT

TCC

"Big" Monthly Meeting: Every 1st Wednesday, 7:45
Spouses and Ex Spouses group: Every 3rd Thurs. 7:30

Dont forget to check out the TtJC web page:
h ://members.aol.com.tcccenter/index.html

Triangle community centery
NOrwalk, CT

• •••• -w.y.-.,.,,..,o.-c-..v · If · · ·
ScMftl lie lenl..... ~ -1111v .............,. c....dlwl
La,t updal, 03/22197

ITALY - GAY MAN SETS HIMSELF ON FIRE
A Sicilian man, opposed to the Vatican's ban on homosexual relations,
set himself on fire in St Peter's Square and attempted to rush towards the
basilica's entrance, police said. Alfredo Ormando, 39, from Palermo
doused himself with petrol and set himself alight as he stood near the
Bernini colonnades around the square and steps leading to the St Peter's
basilica. Ormando, his body ablaze, then began to run towards the main
portals of the 16th century basilica but fell unconscious before reaching
the entrance, Italian news agencies said. He is in serious condition in the
hospital. Police in the square doused the flames with one of the fire

February 1998

On tlur P"&e:

■ \\'elcomc t.o lhe Trbtngle Community Center

• Who Are We? • Groups dud Meet at the Center• ('onmRmiry EvtW • Rf'lourcc Room• Monthly Ntw~lctter •

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Phone or fax (203) 8'3-0600 or e-mail

ii TCCerur@aol

com.

ltl
.---

Page9

T ~EWS & VIEWS
OTHER AREA GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Bare & Gay (B&G) gay nudists
Bisexually Curious Support Group Bpt
Chiltern Mountain Club
Connecticut Kids and Families
Connecticut Freedom to Marry Coalition
40-Up Club.(Social Grp.-call Dale before 10pm)
Gay Fathers Group
Gay Mens Association of Danbury
GEMS (Mature GLBT)
Guideline (gay/lesbian phone info)
Hartford Community Center
Married Men's Bisexual Suppt Grp Htfd
Metropolitan Community Church
The Loft, White Plains NY,
Triangle Bowling League
Triangle Kids
Western Connecticut Gay Men's Group

(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(860)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(914)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)

330-9595
264-5605
899-0270
256-8414
791-9553
261-4019
866-7051
778-7016
688-1881
366-3734
724 5542
262-1555
389-6750
948-4922
931-8789
25 5-6229
323-6278
773-9947

We're glad to list your non-profit gay/!esbian/bi/tg group free of charge.
Call (203) 964-1133. Please keep us informed of changes.

THE GAY GOURMET

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH RASPBERRIES

4

SKINLESS, BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST
HALVES

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
P.O.BOX 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855
Tel/Fax: (203) 853-0600
e-mail TCCenter@aol.com
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DON BUXTON ............................... President
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Vice-President
BARB SCHADE ........................ ...... Treasurer
LEN HOREY ........................ ..... .. .... Corresponding Secretary
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Acting Recording Sec'y
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DON BUXTON ........................................ ... (203) 762-9964
DENYSE BURKE ................ ....................... (203) 367-391 I
DAVID CARROLL .... .. .......................... ..... (203) 838-188 I
JOHN DEL VECCHIO ................. ............... (203) 334-3822
LEN HOREY ............................ ........... ........ (203) 925-0366
BARB SCHADE .... ..................... ............ ..... (203) 259-8 I 7 I
MICHELE STONE ...................................... (203) 964-1133
JOHN WALLACE ....... ................................ (203) 261-7349
STANDING COMMITTEES
AIDS Liaison
Tom M
Board Development ,
Vacant
Communications
John D
-Public Relations
Mike C
Finance
John W
Fundraising/Sp Events
Michael P
Membership
Denyse B
-Member Database
Marianne S
Operations
Cindy M
(and to schedule events at the Center)
Program
Dave C
-Resource Room
.Walter D
--Center Forums
Marianne S
Volunteer
Vacant

374-6934
334-3822
375-3567
261-7349
866-6993
367-391 I
222-8294
595-9799
838-1881
374-6934
222-8294

COURSE GROUND PEPPER TO TASTE

3 TBSP BUTTER
1/4 TSP RASPBERRY
1 CUP CHICKEN

VINEGAR

STOCK

3 TBSP RASPBERRY BRANDY
1/2 PINT RASPBERRIES
POUND CHICKEN BREASTS UNTIL THIN.
SEASON WITH PEPPER. IN LARGE FRYING
PAN MELT HALF THE BUTTER OVER
MEDIUM HEAT. ADD THE CHICKEN
BREASTS AND COOK

3

MINUTES EACH

wARM. ADD
AND BOIL 2

9{,'EWS & 'V1'EWS
Is published monthly by
Triangle Community Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855.
NEWS & VIEWS encourages its readers to submit materials of interest
to our community, including short articles, letters to the editor, etc. We
cannot respond to, or publish, anonymous letters. We reserve the right
to edit or condense as appropriate to meet space requirements. Authors
will be contacted if major revisions are necessary. Please submit to :
NEWS&VIEWS
Michele Stone: Editor & Advertising. Manager. John Delvecchio: Asst Editor
P.O. Box 8185
Phone: 203-334-3822
Stamford, CT 06905
Mike Collins: Publicity
Phone/Fax 964-1133
Phone: 203-375-3567
e-mail: NewsViews2@aol.com

SIDE. REMOVE AND KEEP

FOR ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT MICHELE STONE:

VINEGAR TO THE PAN

Ads must be camera-ready. If your ad is not camera ready or you
need help with its layout or design, contact Michele Stone
BEFORE submission. Inserts and special sizes upon prior
agreement All ads are placed on a space available basis.

MINUTES. ADD THE STOCK AND BRANDY,

BOIL ABOUT

5

MINUTES. ADD REMAINING

BUTTER AND THE RASPBERRIES. STIR AND
POUR OVER CHICKEN.

February 1998

The publication of the name of any person or organization in articles or ads in NEWS & VIEWS is
not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such
organizations.
The appearance of advertisements in NEWS & VIEWS does not imply nor constitute endorsement
by TCC,lnc. The views expressed in this NEWS & VIEWS are not necessarily those ofTCC, Inc.
Copyright 1997 by Triangle Community Center, Inc. All rights resetved. This work, or any parts
thereof, may not be used or reproduced in any manner without written pennission.

Page 10

Property of the Center

T NEWS & VIEWS

Q1lassifi£o

I

-

First Church

Congregational

House share. Two professional women seek
same. Basement room with private bath. Near
town, railroad, beach. Available March 1.
$450 plus 1/3 utilities. No smoking or pets.
Call (203) 227-6400.

An Open And Affinning Church
148 BEACH ROAD
FAIRFIELD, CT

DO YOU SING?
JOIN IN A GREAT CHOIR WITH PROFl!SSIONAL
SECTION LIEADIRS AND fo't;N, TALENTED
WEU.'OMING MIEMBEU. SUNDAY ANTHEMS
RANGI FROM THE IJTH CENT\IRY TO THE PRESENT.
SUNDAY Slli:RVICIS ARE AT 10:• AM
CHOIR REHEARSALS AR£ THlJRSDAH

AT1:ltPMANDSUNDAYSATt:15AM
CHILDCARE IS PROVIDED AT THE t:15 REHEARSAL

CALL HEATHER A. HAMILTON
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
(203) 259-8.196

St. Paul's Episcopal Church
60 East Avenue, Norwalk
(Across from the Green)

An inclusive, welcoming, affirming community
Solemn Eucharist• Sundays at 10:15 AM

Come, experience splendid music and
traditional liturgy, the smell of incense
and the sight of flickering candles, in the
lovely architectural setting of a13th Century
English Gothic Church.
JOIN US FOR OUR CHRISTMAS EVE
•
SEVICE AT 10:30 PM
Office: (203) 847-2806
February 1998

NEWS SOURCES
Advertising in Gay Press Grows
Los Angeles Times, January 13, 1998
AIDS Healthcare Foundation Joins WWW
Business Wire, January 16, 1998
AIDS Patient: Treatment Might Save Life
Tulsa World, January 7, 1998
AIDS Deaths Drop
San Francisco Chronicle, January 9, 1998
Britain Opens Gay Bathhouses
The (London) Times, January 17, 1998
Council Repeals Gay-Protection Law
Salt Lake Tribune, January 14, 1998
Cruiser 6.0 'Comes Out'
PRNewswire, January 5, 1998 ,
Dressed to Excess
San Diego Reader, January 15, 1998
Dutch Sweethearts First To Wed
Reuters, January 14, 1998
Gay Ban of Caymans
Boston Globe, January 10, 1998
Gay Man Sets Himself on Fire
Reuters, January 13, 1998

GMHC to Call for Reporting HIV Cases
New York Times, January 13, 1998
London Wants More Gays
Reuters, January 15, 1998
TCC Celebrates 7th Year
Norwalk Hour, January 12, 1998
Venezuela - Gays Banned in Military
Agence France-Presse 11th January, 1998.
CO - Gay Group Pledges $700,000
Colorado Springs Gazette, January 9, 1998
GA - Supreme Court Rejects Appeal
NewYorkTimes,January 13, 1998
HA- Domestic-Partner Law a Bust
Los Angeles Times, December 23, 1997
IA - UA Offers New Classes
Sioux City Journal, December 30, 1997
FL - Elderly Gays Gain Support
Sun-Sentinel, January 3, 1998
NC - It's About Houses
News & Observer, January 10, 1998
VT - Couples Appeal Marriage
Burlington Free Press

Restaurant
L'Abbee
"Excellent" ... New York Times
Fine Dining in a friendly and relaxed
atmosphere with a menu that truly
expresses the Art of the kitchen
by Chef Kimberly Robbins.

utifully prese
lawlessly serv
Your Hosts: Paul L' Ahhee
Bill Johnson
: 62 Main Street
• New Canaan, CT

(203) 972-6181
Page II

KIM 1220 (203) 937-5669
BARB CERINO (203) 922-0082

NICHOLAS LANG, Ph.D., N.C.C.
Providing Affordable
Counseling & Psychotherapy Services
Specializing in Sexual Orientation
Loss, Relationships, & HIV-related Issues

Specializing in decorative
painting and wallpapering

Fully Insured

Interior/Exterior

'iKStep/Janie's Living Rooni, Inc.

Prasanting quality dances for woman who do not hka
the bar scene ... Come and meeJ new friends.

March Dance
Sat. March 7, 8 pm $10
Ramada Inn, Stratford, CT
I-95 North, Exit 30

For more information call: (203) 377-2119

Massage Uonnection
• Specializing in professional Swedish
massage

New Haven Office
200 Orchard St.
(203) 789-0560, Ext. 4

Wilton Office
387 Danbury Rd.
(203) 847-1094

PAUL D. SCHNEIDER
Attorney at Law
PO Box 451
Southport, CT 06490-0451
203/255-5520
Adoption
Child Custody Divorce
Partnership Agreements

Our Families Matter

THRESHOLDMORTGAGE COMPANY
PATRICK WINTERS
LOAN OFFICER
THRESHOLD MORTGAGE

• By appointment only - Day or evening
• Student discounts available
• Home visits available

1-800-611-6041
Office located in the New Haven area

~ MEMBER OF THE
~ INTERNALTIONAL
JI MASSAGE ASSO-

l ,..

. . . . . CIATION

February 1998

COMPANY
THRESHOLD COMMON

59 W1L TON

ROAD

WESTPORT, CT

06880

(203) 454-0525
TOLL FREE (800) 562-5577
FAX (203) 454-0069
HOME (203) 256-5951
EMAIL pkw@thresholdmtg .com
OFFICE

• Specializing in resid1mtial home mortgages in Fairfield County
• Capabhi or handling all loan scenario's from a$60,000 condo in
Stamford to a$1,000,000 home in Greenwich
• Consistent top producing loan omcer for over ten years with a
wealth or knowledg11 and experi11nce

In 1.9.95, fhresho/tlHortgage was titetl as the top protlucin!fmot1!fa!fe
companJharing closet!orer J/?5,000, 000 in loans in fairlie/tl r:ountJ
Page 12

T ~EWS & VIEWS
Horticultural Botanist
Gardener & House I Pet Sitter

~

(203) 256-4565
(800) 628-7209
FAX: (203) 256-1759
jnemis@aol.com

Donald J. Comes

JOANN ATTWOOD NEMIS

(203) 866-2823

VICE PRESIDENT / INVESTMENTS

JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT, INC.

30 '.Ilerney Street

MEMBERS NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE AND OTHER PRINCIPAL EXCHANGES

Norwalk, CT 06851

2150 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD , CT 06430

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Specializing in:

Weddings • Comittment Cefebiations
and "Coming-Out" PaHies

KURT SPERLING,L.C.S.W.

76 Lake Avenue • Danbury, CT 06810

Tel: 730-1400 • Fax: 798-9611

Joan W. Duncan, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
188 Scribner Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
Tel/Fax(203)854-4805

225 MAIN

STREET,

LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

LEADING
HOMES.

1B

THE BUYERS REAL EsTATE COMPANY

MICHAEL T. PAVLICIN

REALTOR"

772 KINGS HIGHWAY WEST

ExCWSIVE BUYER AGENT

BROKER

SOUTHPORT, CONNECTICUT 06490
F AX/255-3705 HOM E/866-6993

Specializing in Women & Couples

203/255-2278

leadhome3@aol.com

VICTORIA

T.

FERRARA

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Laura L. Gates, MSW, LCSW

(203) 227-9585

Individuals, Couples, and Families

White Plains. NY
(203) 386-1725

February 1998

Stratford. CT
(203) 386-1725

WESTPORT, CT
ADMIITED .IN CT AND NY

Page 13

~If

un,vi1ii\(l~il liil'llill [llf111·~11111'![1\lllmll 1111 •

TNEWS&VIE~

Property of the Center

M 001 111 373

Support our advertisers!
Say you saw it in News & Views!

-~~---------=,-----~

~-----------------=----"----~

.

Michelle C. Loris, Psy.D . .

' .

.

t ,.'

, Li0'

Individual, Couple and Group Therapy

Street. Stamford.
lephone: 203~348·98

(203) 255-2767
By Appointment

Ct. Lie. MFT

2 Night Package

$249°

0

-

~QUITAB_!:E • Bryan Costello
.1/Qmh,Jr of too (;/obnl

per person double occupancy

.I.D.Gl.wl.a.i: Accommodations, Meals,
Tax and Tip Nol lncJuded

Fur More lnformat1tH1 & Rese1v;.ilwns C..tU

1-800-922-3498

\

MICHAEL

J.

\

TAYLOR, LMT

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE • CT,

440

'

MAIN STREET • RIDGEFIELI),

NY LICENSED

(iro,,p

212 • 382• 5176

Investments
Pensions
Insurance

Parties, Enlertalnmanl & Activities
,Wuwd EnterJatoment I.D.C.lu.d.u:
"Those Funny Gay Males"
Jalla Cohen & Danny McWllllams
Singer ic Jeanne MacDonald

II

Tflt1 abwe-lllJltU.d individuals art1 registered represenllJJire• uf EQ Financial
Consulk:IIIS, Im:, (212 641-73()()), o brourldt!akr olld invntmenl ad'linr, and Ql:Mts
o/Tlu Equitable l.ift1 A.,surance Sacuty ofche Unikd SJaus (NY, NY 10104). Tiu
abo,e-name,I tirdividual abo off,rs tradiliotuJJ attd vorlable Insurance attd anttu/Jus
of EquiJabu, and l>/ over fifty tlllltr companies lhrt1M1h EquiSource.
AGE-97-581 Exp.(6/98)

CALL FOR SINGERS
St. Paul's Episcopal Church,
Norwalk
Splendid Repertoire of Traditional Music
Welcoming and Inclusive Congregation
For additional information or auditions call:
Bill Voetberg, Music Director, (203) 847-7250

CT 06877 • 203-431-8278

Terry Barrett
Handywoman Home Repair
Careful and Competent
No Job Too Small

(203) 846-4569

Jane

wAttorney-at-Law
Griffith, JD, MBA

Tax Strategy & Preparation • Real Estate
Estate Planning & Wills • Business Consulting
270AldenAvenue, New Haven, CI'06515-2114

Fax 205 / 587-9899

Voice 205 I 58~8614

WHERE ARE WE? The Triangle Community Center Inc. is located at 25 Van Zant Street in Norwalk.
From 1-95, take Exit 16 and go south (from Stamford, turn right; from New Haven, turn left). Continue
south under the railroad bridge and turn right on Van Zant St. (Route 136). 25 Van Zant is a large
condominium office building on the right. TCC is in Suite 7-C on the ground floor, Tel. (203) 853-0600.
February 1998

Page 15

T NEWS & VIEWS
Maria C. Castillo, MSW, LCSW
Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy
Recovery from Abuse

Bilingual

(203) 261-3492
Monroe.CT

(203) 336-2708
Bridgeport, CT

AIDIS
FAX (203)744•1139

Three detades of GAY travel expertise

U"i:J1I\

MID-FAIRFIELD AIDS PROJECT

Serving the needs of the HIV/AIDS community
with all HIV related services including: Care
Management, Housing, Medical Advocacy,
Vocational Rehabilitation, Financial Assistance,
Counseling, and much much more.

CALL US AND WE WILL HELP!

_111E_4_6_~-ill-;.,,,VFt-in_R_~-~---Do-nb_ury_._CT_06_8_11-*

(203)778•9399

MFAP

~RSVP

Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project
. 16 River Street
Norwalk, Connecticut 06850
Phone: (203) 855-9535
Fax: (203) 855-1531
Internet: http://www.mfap.com
E-Mail: infor@mfap.com

Diane Hyatt, MSW, CISW
JOANNE M. MARINO, C.C.M.H.C., N.C.C.
PSYCHOTHERAPIST

T Solution-oriented short or longer tenn
psychotherapy for Adults and Adolescents,
specializing in, but not limited to:

49 Coolidge Avenue

21 STRICKLAND RD., COS COB, CONN . 06807 (203) 869-0216

JOSEPH H. SWEENEY, CPA

T Depression
"I' Anxiety
"I' Post-Traumatic Stress
T Cowiseling for Partners & Family
1653 Capitol Avenue "I' Specialized Psychotherapy Groups
Bridgeport. CT 06606 "I' Case Consultation
(203) 332-0136
T Clinical Supervision

Stamford, CT 06906
(203) 964-184 7

ATTORNEY-AT LAW

1305 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD
203/256-3839

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Tax Planning, Preparation & Appeals;
Estates & Trusts, Probate Matters,
Real Estate Law; Elder Law; and

JOHANNA RAYMAN

Small Business Formations and Assistance

M.S. W, L.C.S.W

Support our advertisers! Say
you saw it in News & Views!
February 1998

225 MAIN STREET, LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

Page 14

Calendar

February, 1998

Sun

Mon

I
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

2
Women's Rap 7:30

8

9

Tues
3
Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7:30

5
Men's Rap 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

IO

II

AA 9-10 am
Women's Rap 7:30
OutSpoken 4-6
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am
G & L Film Festival,
Hartford, 2:30

TCC Board 7:30
Sex Panic Forum 7:30

BiRapGrp7:30

17

15

16

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

22
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

23

24

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Thu

Wed
4
P-FLAG7:45

Fri
6
Bowling 9:00
Circle Lanes
G Moasic 7:30

Sat
7
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

13

14

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

Friendraiser, 5-8 pm
Imperial Court, Brook,
9:30 pm
Women Outdoors Hike
II am

18

19

20

21

P-FLAG7:45

Men's Rap 7:30
P-FLAG Spouses & ExSpouses 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
G Mosaic 7:30

Women Outdoors Potlud
5:00

25

26

27

28

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's)7:00

Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

I

2

3

4

5

6

7

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7 :30

P-FLAG7 :45

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Men in Mts. Weekend

Men in Mts . Weekend

8

9

IO

II

14

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

13

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
GROUPS MEETING AT OR SPONSORED svTCC
A.A. - Don 762-9964
Bi Rap Group - Peter 838-2806;Robin 358-8391
35+ Womens Pot Luck - Judy 227-7162
Free Association of Fairfield County - John 268-8858 x304
Gay Men's Rap Group - Dave 838-1881; John 261-7349
Gmosaic (People of Color) - not currently active call TCC 853-0600
Lesbian Literature Reading Group - Christine, 847-8476
Out & About (20's & 30's) - Jen 736-6417 or Dan 838-2367
Outspoken (Youth)- Barb 259-8171; Dan 227-1755;
Doug 838-2367
•
P-FLAG (Parents, Faroilies and Friends of Lesbians & Gays) Joan 544-8724; Lester 322-5380; Belinda 855-1203
P-FLAG Spouses & Ex Spouses Group - Joan 544-8724
Triangle Bowling League (Circle Lanes, Fairfield) - Lisa 3333113; Roseann 931-8789
Women's Rap Group - Chandra 228-8652; Linda 866-4598;
Michele 438-4465
All meetings are held at the Center and in the evening unless
otherwise noted . A $3 donation per person is appreciated with
your participation in activities to help support the Center.

February 1998

T

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

MEMBERSHIP FORM

MEMBERSHIP LISTS ARE CONFIDENTIAL
NAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
CnY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE _ _ __

ZIP----

PHONE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

CONTRIBUTING MEMBER
CONTRIBUTING HOUSEHOLD
SUPPORTING MEMBER
SPONSORING MEMBER
SusTAINING/Bus1NEss MEMBER
SPECIAL MEMBER (Yourn/SENIOR)

$35
$60
$125
$250
$500
$20

PLEASE MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

P.O. Box 4062
06855 ATTN: MEMBERSHIP
(203) 853-0600

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
EAST NORWALK, CT

Page 16



Triangle Community Center

~e-w~a v,e-w~
Free to Members and Subscribers

MANY HEARTS • • •

Vol.9, No.2
February 1998

ONE COMMUNITY

th
rec CELEBRATES 7TH YEAR
The Triangle Community Center (TCC) of East Nowalk is marking its 7th
anniversary this year. TCC operates entirely with unpaid volunteers, and this year
is honorinj$ 11 people who have contributed to the many activites and programs
TCC provides all 22 towns and cities in Fairfield County. In addition, the 3
congressmen representing Fairfield County have sent special citations and letters,
and letters have been received from towns and cities across Fairfield County
saluting TCC. The 11, volunteers being recognized by TCC are Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ron Dreyer, Victoria Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Thomas
Mariconda, Justine Michaud, Scott M. Robbins, and Elaine and Lester Sharlach.
Scott M. Robbins of Shelton, who has directed 2 major shows, "WhoopDee-Doo" in January 1997, and "Pageant" in January 1998, was recognized for his
efforts in putting together the shows and directing them. TCC noted that Mr.
Robbins' efforts and his 2 plays have focused TCC as never before, bringing
together large numbers of members for the major undertaking these shows
represent. "Whoop-Dee-Doo" raised $17,000 for TCC, for Bread & Roses - the
AIDS residence serving Fairfield County, and Mid-Faifield AIDS Project and
Stamford Cares. Proceeds from "Pageant," which ran during January 1998 are still
being tallied .
Also recognized was Ron Dreyer of Stamford, who has brought his talents of
singing, dancing and acting to the show produced by Mr. Robbins, and also
organized a major jazz brunch for TCC in 1995. In the most recent production of
"Pageant'' Mr. Dreyer played the role of Miss West Coast, and, to promote
"Pageant"' appeared on The Exchange with David Smith on Cablevision 12 in
lower Fairtield and southwestern New Haven Counties.
Also recognized was Justine Michaud of Stratford, the founding president ofTCC
when it opened in January 1991, who continues to assist and volunteer for TCC
projects. Ms. Michaud also worked to help enact state laws in Connecticut that
protect gay and lesbian citizens. Connecticut is one of just 11 states nationwide to
have a gay rights law protecting gay and lesbian citizens from discrimination in
employment and housing.
In a letter to TCC, U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, R-4th district, said that, "Over
the past several years, TCC has taken tremendous strides in promoting understanding for gays and lesbians throughout the community. Your organizatoin has given
countless individuals the support and information they need."
U.S. Rep. James Maloney, D-Sth district, sent a "Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the Triangle Community Center for achievement." In an
accompanying letter Rep. Maloney said, "I would like to commend the group's
efforts to provide social and financial support to the gay and lesbian community
of Fairfield County. As with any group which is denied its civil rights .... the gay
community needs and deserves a su,rport center to assist with the problems which
result from such discrmination .....
U.S. Rep. Rose DeLauro, R-3rd district, said, "The general welfare of all
Americans is diminished when any one group is discriminated against. TCC
promotes social activism and provides a place for gays and lesbians to gather as a
community." Similar letters of support were received from Stamford Mayor
Daniel Malloy, Danbury Mayor Gene Enrico, Newtown First Selectman Herbert
C. Rosenthal, and Fairfield First Selectman Kenneth Flato.
-Michael Collins

February 1998

Pagel

T NEWS & VIEWS
WrcCNEWs
Two THUMBS UP foR "PAGEANT"

GAY MEN'S GROUP

-Juan Raven, Reviewer

The Gay Men's Group got off to a great start in January
discussing Geography ofthe Heart by Fenton Johnson. The
next meeting will be on March 8 at 7 PM in Ridgefield. We
will be discussing Young Man from Provinces: A Gay Life
Before Stonewall by Alan Helms . For more information email GayBookCT@aol.com or call (203) 431-0559.

The talk around town about the Triangle Community Center's production of
"Pageant'' is that tickets for the final performances will be hard to get and especially
after this weekend's nearly full houses. I saw the show both Friday and Saturday nights.
As I listened to the audience discuss the show afterward comments like "great!',
"fantastic!' and "wow!" were common and this reviewer was quite in agreement.
A solid show was presented and the TCC deserves a great deal of credit for staging this
smart send up ofthe beauty pageant. The dance numbers were well choreographed and
the cast seemed very comfortable in their roles and hee~! Each contestant must
compete in the area's of talent, evening gown, beauty crisis call and swimsuit and what
style and presentation we were treated to! Though the book is slightly stacked against
several contestants, there is a tremendous element of surprise as the Judges are picked
at random each evening. Saturday evening's crowd seemed more in tune with the sly
humor of Miss West Coast's wacky dance and the plain Miss Great Plains. Miss Texas
and Miss Bible Belt are real shoo-ins for the title of Miss Glamouresse, but Miss Deep
South has a show stopping number that brought the house down both nights and
edged them out to win Friday night! Unfortunately; Miss Industrial Northeast, who
gets great attention from the audience during her talent number (playing the accordion
while skating around the stage looking frightened) gets the disappointing boot before
the Queen is crowned. It was clear that she would have given the others a good "skate"
for the crown ifshe stayed in. The reigning Miss Glamouresse 1997 is Miss Tawny Joe
Johnson. She is an absolute hoot as she explains and demonstrates to the judges how
to use the scorecards while assisting the master of ceremonies, Frankie Cavalier.
Frankie Cavalier's character too is a great satire on the "master of ceremonies" that we
all know and love! His energy and enthusiasm well played and enjoyed.
The lighting and stage design was sharp but simple and oooh, that spaceship really was
"outa this world" (as well as Frankie's getup!!) So I hope you all bopped down to the
Norwalk Community Technical College and caught this show because it shouldn't
have been missed. The show benefits TCC and Bread and Roses the AIDS hospice in
Georgetown.

ANNIVERSARY SPLINTERS
Volunteering my time atTCC has been very rewarding. It has been both an honor
and a pleasure working with people who strive for the success of the Center. We
recently celebrated our seventh anniversary and I had such a blast at the paty. It
was great to be in a room filled with so many lesbian and gay people all in one
place. And, I felt wonderfully safe and at home at our Center.
The following people were recognized for their volunteerism and passionate
support of the progarns, events and operations for our Center: Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ronald Dreyer, Victoria T. Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Justine
Michaud, Scott Robbins and Elaine and Lester Sharlach. Also, on behalf of the
board we would like to thank Christine Bisceglie for all her time and energy
serving on the board. We'll miss her "frankness" and "bottom-line" approach to all
those important issues .
I think it is quite remarkable that the Triangle Community Center has been so
successful based on the fact that it is completely run by volunteers. As successful
as the Center is we are still faced with a lot of work. We are in particular need of
people with grant writing and business skills Anyone who cares to help lighten
the load is welcome. We work hard and we have fun doing it! In the words of our
president Don Buxton, "take what you are passionate about and find a way to
apply it creatively, at the center."
So I am asking all of you who read this to bring your PAS SI ON to TCC! Share
it! Work it girl! Work it to the fullest! We are the best that we can be, but why
not join us and try to make us better. Just give us a call - at the sound of the tone
leave your name, phone number, and the best time to reach you. It's that simple I
PASSION+ VOLUNTEERISM =TCC
-Denyse Burke

'

February 1998

TCC FEB F RIENDRAISER
TCC's February Friendraiser will be held on Saturday,
February 14, from 5-8 pm at the home of Peter McKnight
and Joe Letendre.
Directions to Peter and Joe's, 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield,
CT:
From I-95 coming from New Haven: Exit 22, North
Benson Rd. Makearightatendoframp. Go 1.5 miles and
make a right onto Reid St. ***
From I-95 coming from Stamford: Exit 22, Round Hill
Rd. Go straight at end of ramp (through stop sign) and
make a left at the light onto North Benson Rd. Go 1.5
miles and make a right onto Reid St. ***
From Merritt Pkway coming from New Haven: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn right at end of ramp .
Go about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)* **
From Merritt Pkway coming from Stamford: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn left at end of ramp
and then right onto Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Go
about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)***
***At bottom of hill, make a right onto Robin Lane. We
are the 3rd house on right, # 89, white with black shudders,
1 car detached garage. Park on street and come in back door.
Iflost, 203/330-9595.
And remember - this Friendraiser is DONATIONSONLY. The amount is up to you .

IMPERIAL COURT SHARES RICHES
The Imperial Court of Connecticut recently donated over
$900 to TCC, raised during their Masquerade Ball held in
October at the Brook Cafe. This generous donation was
presented to the Center and will be earmarked for use by
TCC's Board of Directors.
Huge thanks to our local "royalty" from The Fairfield
Barony of the Imperial Court for including TCC in their
fund raising efforts . Thanks, also, to The Brook for their
part in hosting this event and all those who attended to
support the Court.

Pagel

PEOPLE OF COLOR GROUP
From early on I had always been looking for love, or just a special brother to
hang with. Sex was just always easier to find. I didn't wonder about the places
I went to meet men. The movie theaters on forty-second street, tee rooms,
park cruise grounds at night, Christopher Street, bars, bookstores, and the
"straight'' porno theat.ers in my neighborhood were the only places I knew to
meet men. One of these times I'd get up close and personal wit:h someone fine,
it would happen. I would be recognized for the bright, decent, talented man
that I am. This never really happened. And I was not to blame.
It was not until years later that I realized what the problem had been in those
earlier years. I had not been unlucky at finding the "right man." I had not been
cursed by God. These places I had been going seeking affection (settling for
sex) were negative environments (yet they have become our traditional gay
meeting places). Dark place hidden away from the full light of day. Places
where we drank and got high to make it easier to talk to each other. Filthy
places where any intimacy that occurred was shared with the stench of urine,
poppers and industrial cleansers in our nostrils. In order to dismiss my painful
observation of how little I had in common with whoever I found, I had to
check my mind at the door. In order to reconcile myself with the fact that this
groping, was not serving my loneliness, I had to check my heart at the door.
It was not until years later that I discovered the black gay community. An
extended family ofbrothers loving brothers who valued my contributions and
embraced me: body, mind and soul. I found the black gay community at
discussion groups and other events held by organizations in New York City
for African-American, Caribbean, Latino, Native American and Asian gay &
bisexual men (Adodi; Gay Men of African Descent. Aya institute; Other
Countries; and the Men of Color Discussion Group sponsored by Gay Men's
Health Crisis). It was here that I became proud of my whole selfincluding my
gay self. Listening to these beautiful men share their issues gave me pause and
strength to reflect then share what my issues were. I have found myself many
times in those circles of men. I have found many firiends there. I have met
lovers there. Most importantly, I found the "right'' man there. I am that
"right'' man. I'm the man I always dreamed I would meet and fall in love with!!
• I have only been living in Connecticut since last April. I'm disappointed by
what often passes for black gay "life" up here. I'd like to re-create here what
gave me such a strong foundation in NYC. I would like for us to be a loving,
supportive, "fierce" family for each other. Some of us have been so damaged
by our families that the word "'family'' is no longer powerful or meaningful.
I have redefined that word for myself. Family to me means people from whom
I don't need protection. I would very much like to see such an extended family
of gay, lesbian, bisexual, & transgender people of color to come together twice
per month at the G Mosaic group meeting. We will be meeting on the 1st and
3rd Friday of every month From 7:30-9:30 PM. Stop in to vibe with us after
dinner and before you hit the clubs ( or before your quiet
"wind-down-from-the-work-week-night'') .
My name is Nasheed Abdul-Wakil. I will be facilitating this group on behalf
of the Norwalk Health Department and the Triangle Community Center. I
promise you this will be an easy, painless way to meet new friends and to find
yourself. They say that sunlight is the best disinfectant. Let's make G Mosaic
a new traditional gay meeting place. And let's bring loving each other out into
the light. You may leave a message for me at the Norwalk Health Department
at: (203) 854-7726. Just ask for Nasheed. All calls will be treated with strict
confidentiality.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
Sometime between selling their Castle and fixing up their new digs Jay Kobrin
and Gordon Micunis quietly celebrated their fortieth anniversary. That's 40th
not fourteenth . In the late 50's, when many of us were mere toddlers if we had
been born at all, the two of them met at Yale - only a few years after Larry
Kramer tried to commit suicide there. Little did the person who assigned
Gordon as upperclass adviser to freshman Jay, Theater Design major, realize
that he did such a great job as ayenta. Forty years later they're not just an item,
they're a fixture. H appy Anniversay to them for their achievement. May they
have many more years together.
-Marianne Seggerman

f RIENDRAISER
To volunteer to host a Friendraiser or get information on holding one, please
call Bryan DuBac (203) 335-8765 .
February 1998

4'

CYBER NEWS

AIDS FOUNDATION JOINS WEB
AIDS Healthcare Foundation's (AHF's) ability to communicate
cutting-edge information about AIDS and its own programs and
services took an exponential leap forward in late December with the
launch ofits Web site, that has been in development since April of
last year. The site can be accessed at: http://www.aidshealth.org.
"(It) is a great vehicle to find information on all of the different
aspects of AIDS Healthcare Foundation," said AHF President
Michael Weinstein.
With its 20 locations (Healthcare Centers, Houses and Thrift Stores)
and nine major programs and divisions, the AIDS Healthcare
Foundation site includes pages on AHF advocacy (government local, state and federal areas); AHF fundraising and giving opportunities; AHF education/information; volunteerism/special events;
and AHF media and public relations information.
CRUISER 6.0 'CoMES Our'
In San Francisco - the crossroads where high-tech meets High
Camp - Digital Queers has fired the latest salvo in the hotlycontested browser wars with the introduction of Cruiser 6.0. The
new browser will immediately appeal to at least 10% of the
worldwide browser market, threatening to steal critical market
share from both Netscape and Microsoft.
Different from conventional "straight'' browsers, Cruiser 6.0 is
"orientation-focused." Its design makes it easy for even the
uninitiated to legally plug-and-pfay in most states. As users gain
more exposure to the browser, internal intelligence makes the
system easier to understand and navigate; after a certain point, the
only user issue is one of improving Cruiser 6.0. The browser is
powered by the new Java enhancement: Percolator(TM) . Percolator requires no plug-ins for optimal performance. Aside from
these enhancements, Cruiser 6.0 resembles other browsers in
virtually every way and like other browsers, Cruiser 6. 0 is platform"
independent, working as easily on Mac as it does on Win. And
sometimes both at the same time.
Cruiser 6.0 may be downloaded from the Digital Queer's Web site
at www.DQ.org. Cruiser 6.0 is the virtual Web browser created
by queers for queers. Digital Queers (DQ) is a national non-profit
organization that focuses on the strategic application of technology
to improve organizations and services that promote the legal and
social rights oflesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. For
more information on the organization and its activities, visit the
World Wide Web site at www.dq.org.
SIGNORILE IN CYBERSPACE
Gay Wired Announces the New Web Site ofMichelangelo Signorile
at: http ://www.gaywired.com/signorile/
There are lots of different areas, including an open forum where
you can speak your mind on different issues, and even a site where
you can let Signorile have a piece of your mind.

MORE ON SEX PANIC
On Tuesday February 10th at 7:30, the Center Forum will be
devoted to a discussion of the issu~ raised by an informal (but

• • themselves Sex.Panic. The name is
•
• • at others (gays and
ole argument
• • gaymale
remost for
have sex

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way of

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in San Diego.

-Marianne egg~an
Page3

T NEWS & VIEWS
CONNECTICUT CALENDAR

f EBRUARY 1998
Saturday, Feb. 7 --Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or Snow
shoeing.
Sunday, Feb. 8 - The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Film Festival presents a
benefit screening of Lilies, voted the number one gay movie of 1997
in the PopcornQ poll. A bishop is forced to watch a re-enactment of
his past, when he broke up a love affair between two teenaged boys.
2:30 PM, at Cinestudio, on the campus of Trinity College, Hartford.
Sunday, Feb. 8 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if
no snow.
Tursday, Feb. 10 - TCC Forum - Sex Panic - 7:30 PM
Fri. -Sun., February 13-15 - Maxies 6th Annual Weekend of Love, Maxies
Cafe, Waterbury. All proceeds to benefit the Waterbury Aids Client
Services. Three nights of live entertainment, complimentar/ buffet,
and drawings; plus an auction on Sunday. Tickets are $6.00 per night,
$12.00 for all three nights. More info to follow.
Saturday, Feb. 14 - TCC Friendraiser- 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield CT - 5to 8 PM
Saturday, Feb.14--Conn. Women Outdoors-Valentines Day hike. 5 or6 easy
miles.
Saturday, Feb. 14 -- Valentines Day "Amici" - A Gay & Lesbian Social Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998 - Prime TimeGrill at the Comfort Inn, Old
Saybrook, CT - DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn - Dinner
Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Fri. - Sun., Feb. 20 - 22 - Out Write '98 - The 7th national lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgendered writers' conference at the Sheraton
Boston Hotel & Towers, Boston, MA.
Fri. -Sun., February 20-22 - Brothers Together presents Dating, Sex, and
Relationships, a weekend workshop for gay and bisexual men, at
Cedar Hill Retreat Center, in Duxbury, MA. Call 617-375-9447 for
more information.
Saturday, Feb. 21 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Potluck and Game night at
Marilyn's in Windsor. Dinner starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM.
Fri. -Sun., February 27-March 1 - Creating Intimacy In Our Lives: Learning
From The Struggle, aweekend workshop for gay and bisexual men at
Deer Hill Conference Center, Wappingers Falls, NY. Led by Ken Page
and New Haven's Joe FitzGerald. Forfull information, call Joe FitzGerald
at 203-789-0560.
Saturday, Feb. 28 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking
if no snow.

MARCH

1998

Fri. - Sun., March 6 - 8 - Hundreds of great guys are expected at the
Paramount Resort Hotel. This "HOT" vacation break from the cold and
snow will offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music, dance, AND,
a chance for romance!
Saturday, March 14 - Sober Spring Gay and Lesbian Dance - 8 PM to1 AM
- Jennings School, Fairfield, CT - $5.00 Cover.
Saturday, March 14 - Gay Bingo to benefit the Hartford Gay and Lesbian
Health Collective, at Project 100/Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender
Community Center, 1841 Broad Street, Hartford. Doors Open at 7:00
pm - Games begin promptly at 7:30 pm. Admission $10 - Includes
Games package. Over $500 in prizes! Call 278-4163 for more
information.
Friday-Saturday, March 20-21 - Children From The Shadows presents its
fifth annual conference for GLBT youth and professionals who work
with them, University of Hartford, West Hartford, 9:45 AM to 4:00 PM
both days.
Saturday, March 28 - The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven, 8:00 PM.
Sunday, March 29- The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen
Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven 2:00 PM.
February 1998

!!!!!!lcoNNECTICUT NEWS
CONNECTICUT WOMEN OUTDOORS
Feb 7, Sat - Cross Country Skiing or Snow shoeing if you prefer, up
and down Mt. Everett in the Berkshires. Beautiful views of Mt.
Greylock and the Catskills. Call Sam 860-650-5359.
Feb 8, Sun - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Feb 14, Sat - Valentines Day hike. 5 or 6 easy miles. We'll make sure
you still have energy for your sweetheart after the hike. Call Carol 203237-6288 or Kathy 203-630-2576.
Feb 21, Sat - Potluck and Game night at Marilyn's in Windsor. Dim1er
starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM. Bring a dish to share and your favorite
board game. Call 860-688-7637.
Feb 28 Sat - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Women Outdoors provides a forum for women to explore the
outdoors together, develop outdoor and leadership skills, and promote environmental awareness. Membership in Women Outdoors
links you to this growing and vital network. For information on
joining Connecticut Women Outdoors contact Carol at: 203-2356933.
'

LET'S DANCE!
SOBER SPRING - GAY AND LESBIAN DANCE!
SATURDAY,MARCH14-8PM-1AM-JENNINGSSCHOOL
- FAIRFIELD, CT
$5.00 COVER CHARGE - BRING YOUR OWN REFRESHMENTS- NO ALCOHOL PLEASE!
Need more info? Call Liz 333-8981 or Bob 336-8216 or Christine
847-8476
Directions: From 1-95 North - Exit 22, Round Hill. Left at end of
ramp onto Round Hill. Turn right onto Barlow Road by Fairfield
University. Left at the light onto North Benson Road. At light, bear
right and continue across Black Rock Turnpike and take right onto
Fairest. Left at next corner onto Fairland. Take a left and turn onto
Palm Drive.
From 1-95 South - Exit 24, Black Rock Turnpike. Right at end of
ramp. At light, take left onto Kings Highway. Bear to right as the road
splits. At the fourth light, take a right onto Burroughs Road. At the
stop sign, take a left onto Farland Rd. Take first right onto Palm Dr
just before school crossing sign.
From Merritt Parkway (North) - Take exit 44, Fairfield University.
Turn onto Black Rock Turnpike south (Route 58 south). At third
light, take left onto Fairfield Woods Rd. Continue straight through
the stop sign. At light, take a right after the library. The middle school
is on your right, Jennings School is on your left.
From Merritt Parkway (South) - Take exit 46. At end of ramp bear
right at light onto Route 59 for approx 2.5 miles. At the light (Grand
Central on left, Mobil on right), take a right onto Fairfield Woods Rd.
Continue through one light and one stop sign. At next light take left
(library in front). Middle school is on your right, Jennings School is
on your left.

Deadline for the March Newsletter will be Saturday 14 February. We cannot guarantee that
material received after that date will be included
in March News&Views.

Page4

SINGLES HEAD FOR THE HILLS
Hundreds of great guys are expected at the Paramount Resort Hotel (Parksville, NY, 2 Hrs. to
NYC) on the weekend of March 6-8, 1998. This
"HOT" vacation break from the cold and snow will
offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music,
dance, AND, a chance for romance! Headline entertainment for the weekend will include ''Those
Funny Gay Males", Jaffe Cohen and Danny
McWilliams (who promise us that they, too, are
single and looking!) . Fabulous song stylist Jeanne
MacDonald shows why she is winner of the 1997
Cabaret Hotline "Critic's Choice Award".
What's more, the weekend will include a demonstration and readings by'internationally known gay
psychic Daniel Logan, a "Videofest '98" (featuring
the best in gay themed films), antique and shopping
tours, indoor pool and sauna, late night disco and
salsa, cocktail parties, and a multitude ofindoor and
outdoor activities.
Rates for the weekend are $249 per person double
occupancy (plus tax & tip), with shares arranged. A
special feature offered by the Paramount Resort
Hotel is luxury bus and van service from select
locations. Transportation rates from NYC, Albany,
and Westchester are $35 per person. "Mei;i in the
Mountains", the first ever gay men's singles weekend at a major New York resort, is being offered by
Stonewall Productions, an experienced gay events
producer. For more information about the weekend or to make reservations call: 1 800 922-3498.

VALENTINES DAY "AM1c1"
A Gay & Lesbian Social - Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998
-PrimeTimeGrillattheComfortlnn, Old Saybrook,
CT
DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn Dinner Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Prime Rib or Baked Stuffed Chicken or Baked
Stuffed Shrimp or Pasta Primavera (Includes Salad,
Oven Roasted Potato, Vegetable, Dessert, Coffee
or Tea)
Hotel Package for 2 $99 + tax (includes Dinner/
dance hotel accommodations & all you can eat
breakfast) Dinner/Dance for 2 $48 tax included Dance Only $10 ea. includes tax
H otel Reservations by Feb. 1, 1998 - Dinner Reservations by Feb 12, 1998 - A Pride Entertainment
Party Production - Email at RLPEPP

OUT WRITE '98
The 7th national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgendered writers' conference will be held February 20 -22, Friday through Sunday at the Sheraton
Boston H otel & Towers, Boston, MA. Over two
thousand queer writers, activists, booksellers, and
artists descend on Boston to meet and discuss the
issues facing the gay community. There will be
caucuses, panels, conversations, roundtables, exhibits and even a film series.
The 1998 feature artists include: Sarah Shulman,
Thomas Glave, Carmen Vasquez, Donna
Minkowitz, Blanche McCrary Boyd, Robert E.
Penn, Cecilia Tan, Jackie Woodson, Mark Doty,
Rafael Campo, Urvashi Vaid, Leslea Newman,
Michael Branski, Michael Lowenthal, Kenny Fries,
Chris Bram, Mariana Romo-Carmona and many
more.
For more information call (617) 262-6969.

February 1998

fJf!Jlt STATE BY STATE NEWS
co - GAY GROUP PLEDGES $700,000
The Gill Foundation, a Colorado Springs gay and lesbian organization, has pledged
$700,000 to an array of nonprofit groups, positioning it as a major funder of community
programs. The grants will go toward non-gay and lesbian-related issues in the local
community, the foundation said. The purpose: to help a wide variety of people and shatter
stereotypes that gays and lesbians care only about issues related to them.
The Gill Foundation was established in 1994 by software entrepreneur Tim Gill in reaction
to the passage ofAmendment 2, which would have banned civil rights protection on the basis
ofsexual preference. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately struck it down. Gill's Denver-based
Quark Inc. has landed him on the Forbes Fortune 500 list of multimillionaires. He has given more
than $4 million of his own money primarily to support gay and lesbian causes.

FL - ELDERLY GAYS

GAIN SUPPORT

Community organizations say they think there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of people
of gay and lesbian seniors in condominiums and senior centers. This year, the first extensive
program offering them support groups, education sessions and social activities will come to
Palm Beach County through Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service in Boca Raton. A 20member task force is meeting to plan what kind ofservices should be financed through a large
endowment from Shirley H. Gould, of Boca Raton. Gould gave the donation in memory
of her son, who was gay. The family service declined to give the amount.
Isolation, generally a problem among the elderly, hits gay seniors especially hard when they
lose longtime companions. Sometimes the couples have spent a lifetime masquerading as
siblings or friends. The surviving partners are not comfortable in bereavement groups
common in condo communities. Plus, there usually are no children in these relationships.
''Like all older people, they [gay elderly) often are still grounded in the tradition and societal rules of
their time," Rabbi Greg Cantor said. ''It can be more difficult for them to accept themselves."

GA - SUPREME COURT REJECTS APPEAL
A woman who lost a promised job as a lawyer in the Georgia attorney general's office, after
the state attorney general learned that she was planning a marriage ceremony with her lesbian
partner, failed to persuade the Supreme Court to hear her appeal.
The case had been closely watched for several years as a potential vehicle for a new Supreme
Court decision on gay rights. The same Georgia attorney general, Michael Bowers, a
Republican who recently resigned to run for governor, was also a party in the court's 1986
decision, Bowers vs . Hardwick, which rejected a constitutional right to privacy for sex
between consenting adults of the same sex. Bowers withdrew his job offer to Robin Shahar
on the ground that "inaction on my part would constitute tacit approval of this purported
marriage and jeopardize the proper functioning of this office."
Ms. Shahar, who had worked as a summer law clerk in the attorney general's office, brought
a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Atlanta. She contended that the withdrawal of the job offer
violated her constitutional rights to equal protection and to "intimate and expressive
association" as protected by the First Amendment.
She lost in district court, then won a temporary victory from a three-judge appellate panel.
That ruling was then overturned last June by an 8-4 vote of the full 11th U .S. Circuit Court
of Appeals in Atlanta. The majority there said the attorney general's concerns about
"perceived public hostility'' toward same-sex marriages were reasonable and formed a
sufficient basis for his actions.

HA - DOMESTIC-PARTNER

LAw A BusT

When Hawaii became the first state in the country to extend broad rights to domestic
partners in July, the news was trumpeted as a breakthrough for gays and lesbians. Hawaii's
benefits package was the most sweeping ever passed, covering 60 items from medical
insurance to survivorship rights. Unlike efforts in mainland cities, the law applies statewide.
Even non-Hawaii residents are eligible, although benefits take effect only when they are in
the islands.
The state health department braced for a possible onslaught of applicants, estimating that
as many as 20,000 to 30,000 people might sign up. But the new law has turned out to be
a bust. As of Dec. 10, just 296 couples had signed up as "reciprocal beneficiaries," as they
are formally known. Twenty-five are from out of state. Although more than 5,000 people

Page5

T NEWS 6 YIEWS
have obtained applications, that's as far as most have been willing to go.
The law has been mired in uncertainty since it took effect. Several employers
challenged it in court, and a recent decision in the case gutted its boldest
provision: health coverage for the partners of private employees.
The few pioneers who have taken advantage of the law now enjoy
important rights such as hospital visitation, guardianship, joint property
ownership and inheritance. They have been frustrated, however, in
obtaining practical benefits like auto insurance, which the law was
supposed to facilitate. A reciprocal beneficiary relationship can be terminated by one partner without the consent-or even knowledge-of the
other, Rudy notes. Unlike divorce proceedings, the law has no procedures
to ensure that both sides are treated fairly in disposing of property upon
dissolution.

IA - UA OFFERS NEW CIASSES
Issues of sexual orientation are headed to the classroom at the University
oflowa, but don't expect the course work to include components that have
sparked controversy in other parts of the country. The program that will
begin in September, believed to be the first in the state, will focus on the
history of human sexuality: heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality
and cross-gender issues. Iowa's program may also touch on issues such as
sadomasochism and gender identity, Eliason said.
The new certificate program is more than a minor but less than a major,
and allows students to specialize in an area. Students at Iowa who
participate in the curriculum will be required to take four core courses:
Introduction to Sexuality Studies; Sexuality Studies Seminar; Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Identities; and Race, Class and Gender in
Sexual Communities. They will also need to take several elective classes to
complete the 18 semester hours of approved courses required for the certificate.

NC - h's ABOUT HousEs
As gay life here has emerged from the closet, gays have become a soughtafter market. And gay real-estate brokers are using their familiarity with
the gay community to win clients who want an agent who understands
their needs. John Yetter is one of York's top brokers. In 1997, he sold 80
houses with a total value of more than $12 million. He estimated about
10 percent of the sales came from gay buyers. Yetter's success in the gay
community hasn't been lost on his competitors. Brokers at other mainstream firms in the Triangle, for the first time, are seeking gay and lesbian
home buyers in what is a sign of the times - and an indication of fierce
competition among agents in the Triangle's real-estate market.
Brokers and their agents have discovered the Triangle's growing gay
population, according to Front Page publisher Jim Baxter. And Baxter
said he gets calls every week from gays planning to move here. "It used to
be that the gay population migrated to the big cities, and now they're
moving back," Baxter said. "It's gotten to the point where it's a good
market." He said the calls particularly began coming in after the Triangle
was ranked as the best place to live in America in 1994 by Money
Magazine.

NH - GAYS PROTECTED
A new law that grew out of years of contentious debate is expected to
generate only a trickle of action. Starting Jan. 1, New Hampshire's civil
rights law will protect homosexuals in jobs, housing and public places like
restaurants and hotels. The revised civil rights law adds sexual orientation
to existing classifications of age, gender, race, color, ethnic background,
physical or mental disability, marital status, religious or political beliefs.
The law bars discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. It does not protect illegal acts.
New Hampshire is among 11 states that have enacted similar laws. Maine
voters will decide on Feb. 10 whether to keep their gay rights law. The law
was enacted in June and signed by the governor, but opponents collected
signatures to force the referendum ..

February 1998

NY - GMHC FOR REPORTING HIV CASES
The Gay Men's Health Crisis, the nation's leading AIDS service
agency, is reversing its position and calling for New York doctors to
report HIV-positive people to state health departments. The same
practice is used for infectious diseases like syphilis and tuberculosis.
Every state requires doctors to report AIDS cases to public health
officials. But officials in New York and California and many other
states have not required similar reports about patients who have the
AIDS virus but do not have full-blown AIDS. But in a policy
statement, the group said clinical advances and the need for the most
up-to-date information on HIV infection demanded new approaches,
and that system of tracking people with AIDS is no longer an effective
measure of the extent of the epidemic. While the group said that
assuring strong privacy safeguards is as important as ever, it said that
the large numbers of people who are infected but who do not have fullblown AIDS make accurate tracking of HIV cases essential. The
statement does not explicitly oppose reporting names, but instead
urges that coded identification systems be examined. The official
statement by the organization, the most politically and economically
connected group in the world of nonprofit AIDS service, signifies the
collapse of a long-standing consensus by AIDS and civil rights groups
against HIV reporting.
UT - GAY-PROTECTION LAw REPEALED
The Salt Lake City Council repealed a month-old city law Tuesday
night that protected gay city employees from discrimination based on
their sexual orientation. Despite packed council chambers, hundreds
ofphone calls and a few anonymous pleas from gay city employees, the
council voted to scrap the fledgling law.
•
Last month, a different council approved the measure, which prohibited discrimination "against an otherwise qualified employee or applicant based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual
orientation or disability." The four councilmen say they intend to
approve a more generic law that protects all city employees equally,
without separating out classes for prote_ction.
"We will not confuse the repeal of this ordinance with an effort to craft
a better one," said Kyle Tre_adway. "We see this as blatant, meanspirited grandstanding. We can't give up. The fight goes on." When
the crowd rose to its feet in a standing ovation, Councilman Jolley
yelled for police sentries to clear the room. The crowd turned on Jolley,
chanting "shame, shame, shame." He backed down.

VT - COUPLES APPEAL

MARRIAGE
Three same-sex couples suing the state for the legal right to marry have
taken their case to the Vermont Supreme Court. The Middlebury
lawyers for the three couples filed a notice of their intention to appeal.
The lawyers met with Attorney General William Sorrell in a
meeting Sorrell described as cordial. Sorrell's office is opposing the gay
marriage suit, in part on the argument the Legislature did not intend
to recognize same-sex unions when it created the laws surrounding
marriage.
The couples' notice of appeal does not contain the specific grounds for
petitioning the high court, but to one of the suit's plaintiffs, Lois
Farnham of Milton, Vermont's prohibition of gay marriages is the
kind of civil rights issue the nation has seen before. A key part of the
government's argument is that state marriage laws are based on sound
reasoning. If the laws do have this so-called "rational basis," it's easier
for the state to fend off a discrimination claim by a group such as
homosexuals, which has not been deemed a protected class. Last
month, Superior Court Judge Linda Levitt ruled against the couples,
agreeing with a "rational basis" offered by the state-that marriage
between a man and woman furthers the link between procreation and
child rearing.

Page6

T NEWS§ VIEWS
-

NATIONAL NEWS

AIDS DEATHS DROP
AIDS deaths in California dropped an astonishing 60 percent in the
first six months of 1997 - the strongest evidence to date that available
new drugs may be saving thousands oflives. That compares with a 23
percent drop in death rates noted by the federal Centers for Disease
Control, which measured AIDS deaths nationwide between 1995 and
1996. The difference between the new state figures and the older
federal data strongly suggests that the trend toward fewer deaths is
accelerating. The drop-off in death rates coincides with the widespread
use of the newest anti-viral drugs, called protease inhibitors, which are
taken in combination with older AIDS drugs.
Dr. Steve Morin, director of public policy research at UCSF's AIDS
Research Institute, said the availability of the new AIDS drugs varies
dramatically from state to state. "California and New York probably
have the best programs in the country," said Morin. "The worst states
are those with the poorest Medicaid programs," like North Carolina,
Mississippi and Florida.
Amid all the optimism, however, researchers caution that the lifesaving
effects of the protease drugs may not last. There is also a fear that the
good news will diminish the discipline required to maintain the safe sex
practices that helped curtail the spread of the epidemic 15 years ago.
UCSF researcher Coates noted that the drop in death rates coincides
with a time dubbed "the honeymoon period" for protease drugs - a
time before scientists began to note that the virus seemed to be
returning in some patients taking the drugs.

AIDS PATIENT: TREATMENT MIGHT SAVE LIFE
Lawyers for an AIDS patient who is suing the federal government for
the right to take an experimental drug filed a suit claiming that "use of
this drug may prevent the plaintiff's death and may be a springboard
to an AIDS treatment that keeps people from dying." The motion
would allow Cowan to take a goat-derived "neutralizing antibody" that
Tulsan Dr. Gary Davis has developed as a possible tool in the fight
against AIDS. Cowan's attorneys claim that "if (Cowan) does not
receive the antibody it is certain that (he) will die as a result of his
AIDS." In a Dec. 31 hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Bernhardt
asserted that Davis has yet to follow FDA procedures and thus should
be prohibited from testing the substance on a human subject, even a
dying patient who testified that he is willing to face any possible side
effects.
Specifically, Cowan's attorney claims that the legislative history and
judicial interpretation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act
indicate that it should not apply to Cowan's case. This is because the
act regulates the marketing of medical devices, not the practice of
medicine, he claims. Cowan's attorney claims that Davis "is not
attempting to promote, market, advertise or sell the goat neutralizing
antibody for commercial gain. Instead he is merely trying to treat and
heal (Cowan's) terminal condition."

DRESSED TO EXCESS
Ask Janet - not her real name - and she'll tell you there are three
things wrong with life in San Diego if you're a transsexual. "We need
employment protection, we need homeless shelters that will accept
trans gendered people, and we need a repeal of the cross-dressing law."
But for Janet, who says cities like San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Minneapolis, "and all of Europe" have enacted laws to protect transsexuals in
employment and housing, the chief target is a local edict - unique to
San Diego - that singles out cross-dressers. Municipal Code 56.19,
which became law in 1966, prohibits people from "appearing in a

February 1998

public place, or in a place open to public view, in apparel customarily worn
by the opposite sex, with the intent to deceive another person for the
purpose of committing an illegal act." Janet was one of the transsexual
people involved in a recent conference held in Hillcrest's Craftsman Hall
organized by local gay activist Mark Gabrish Conlan.
"I sit before you a criminal," Janet told the San Diego Human Relations
Commission (a body established "to reduce bigotry and prejudice in San
Diego") last May 14. "I can leave this building and be arrested because of
the cut of my clothing. My birth sex is male. This is my voice. This is who
I am. I have characteristics of both genders: more female than male." She
claimed that municipalcode 56.19, though purportedly aimed at transvestite prostitutes, has only been used against male-to-female transvestites of
color. She told the commission that between 1994 and 1996, 27 arrests
were made citing this law. Twenty-two ofthose arrested were Latino, four
African-American, and one Filipino. She claimed police use the law to
harass transsexuals, knowing most cases will never make it to court.
Barbara Warden, fifth district city councilwoman, says she couldn't
believe the cross-dressing law when she first heard ofit. "I really thought
it was a joke. I didn't think it was a real ordinance. I met with San Diego
Police Chief Sanders a week or so later. I thought perhaps [he would tell
me] it was a tool they needed. But it has only been used about 30 times
since 1992. It's a very infrequently used law. I said to Chief Sanders I felt
it was not necessary to have it on the books. It has an interesting vagueness
about it that allows it to be used or abused." Warden thinks most city
councilmembers would have been surprised to discover 56.19 on the
books. Councilmembers Kehoe, Mathis, and Stallings are likely to
support a repeal ofthe law-as long as ChiefSanders agrees. And Sanders,
according to his assistant Victoria Gilner, won't fight a repeal of the law.
In March, Warden is expected to introduce the proposal to the Public
Safety and Neighborhood Service Committee, which she chairs. •

ADVERTISING IN GAY PRESS GROWS
Advertising in gay publications is soaring with an increasing number of
huge companies pitching cars, travel, computers, investments, drugs,
clothing and more. New advertisers in 1997 included IBM, United
Airlines and American Express. Readers of gay newspapers in 10 major
markets have an average individual income of $47,090, according to
Simmons Market Research Bureau. That figure is more than twice the US
per capita income of$18,135 based on Census Bureau figures . Simmons
also found that 94 percent of the more than 735,000 readers studied are
likely to buy a product or service advertised in a gay publication.
"We've been a longtime supporter of the gay community. They in turn are
very supportive ofus," said Miller Brewing spokeswoman Gina Shaffer,
whose company has placed Miller Lite ads in national magazines such as
the Advocate and Out Magazine.
"To reach people you have to reach them in a wide variety of publications
and advertising mediums," said Mark Smith, a spokesman for cigarette
maker Brown & Williamson, which advertises its Lucky Strike brand in
the gay press.
The company's biggest competitor, Philip Morris, also pitches its topselling Marlboro brand, as well as Benson & Hedges and Parliament, in
the gay press. They are among scores of prominent brands from all types
of businesses -including Nike, Blockbuster, HBO, MasterCard, Gucci,
State Farm insurance and Harley-Davidson -on the pages of the nation's
175 gay publications.

NAVY RETREATS ON DISCHARGE
In a last minute surprise, the Navy agreed to delay Senior ChiefTimothy
McV eigh's discharge after McV eigh sued the Secretary of Defense Cohen
and the Secretary of the Navy Dalton, in an attempt to stop his imminent
discharge from the Navy. McVeigh's discharge is based on evidence that

Page 7

T NEWS & VIEWS
privacy experts say the Navy illegally obtained from America Online
(AOL), the nation's largest Internet provider. Online advocates vow
that the fight against the Navy and AOL has only just begun.
Lawyers for McVeigh made a motion for a Temporary Restraining
Order (TRO) against the Defense Department and the Navy in the US
District Court for the District of Columbia. The TRO would prohibit
the Navy from discharging McVeigh pending a full investigation of the
Navy's and AOL's feared violations of the federal Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), and the Navy's repeated and consistent
violations of the President's anti-gay "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.
McVeigh's motion is based on the contention that the Navy solicited and
obtained personal information from America Online without a warrant,
court order, or McVeigh's consent - one of which is required under
federal law and AOL's own Terms of Service.
Online advocates warn of a much larger battle looming, with potentially
serious consequences for the Administration, the Navy, and America
Online. "This lawsuit is the opening salvo of a multi-front war on the US
Navy- the Administration had better get ready for more suits, congressional investigations, and online campaigns," said Aravosis. "AOL had
also better watch out. If the Navy gets away with a cover up, AOL may
be the only one left to blame."
LATINO CAPTURES BILLY
Since arriving in the U.S.,Billy, "The World's First Out-And-Proud Gay
Doll," has been quite a hit with American men. Between his duties with
charity work and socializing, it's amazing he's had time to find a
boyfriend! Billy met Carlos in Miami back in May, when Billy was in
town for his coming out party at a Miami nightspot and Carlos was there
for the weekend. When the two realized that they both lived in New
York, they decided to exchange numbers and meet up again when they
got back home.

Since then, their love affair has blossomed and they've been almost
inseparable, although they still maintain separate residences in Manhattan. One thing is certain: Billy and Carlos are now officially a couple.
They are presently on vacation together in Miami and will fly directly to
San Francisco on August 2nd, where "Vacation Billy'' (with brown
hair!) and "Vacation Carlos," along with New York Carlos, will be
introduced for the first time at The International Gift Fair.
Now that Carlos is formally "on the market'' he will have additional
duties working for Totem International. Both Carlos and Billy will be
extremely busy this fall, but they will get a break for an end-of-the year
vacation. The gay dynamic duo are planning Christmas in Puerto Rico
with Carlos' friends and family, and New Year's Eve in Amsterdam with
Billy's folks. For further information regarding Carlos, Billy and Totem
International's products, please contact Claire O'Connor at 212-2455784.

lmper-ial Court
Valentine~~
~xtr-avaaanza!
The Fairfield Barony of The Imperial Court of Connecticut is hosting a fund raising event on Saturday,
February 14, 1998 at 9:30pm. The event will be held
at the Brook Cafe in Westport. Proceeds will benefit
the Triangle Community Center. Admission is 85
cover at the door.
The event will include performances by Imperial
Court members and a 50/50 rafile. It will also be a
voting party for Fairfield County. Details will be
explained at the event and voting ballots will be
accepted from 11pm to lam.
The Imperial Court is a non-profit organization and
all members are volunteers. The purpose of the
court is to help bl fund raising for the community at
large. Its members are given titles that are similar
to that of a royal court system based upon their fund
raising work.
The Court system is open to all members of the
community to participate in. For additional information about the Valentine's Extravaganza and The
Imperial Court please call 1-800-845-0085 ext. 5333.

~Niq~TOwl

9

Office Services

We're working even
when you're not!
David Dey

, office has come out with a stamp.
~uestiQn fol' Februa:ry-Whatwas the .subject
ofRosa Boµheur's mostfamouspainting? Bonhew:,
a nineteenth century French painter, had a .relationship late,fu her career wit:H a iµuch younger
wom;m.
February 1998

Desktop Publishing
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Presentations
Proposals
Book Production
Mass Mailings & Faxing
Electronic File Transfer
MAC & IBM Formats

Owner and Operator
51 Schuyler Avenue, Unit 9D

Stamford, CT 06902

~swertpJanuary- Bugs Bunny- and the.post

OvERNiGln SERviu iN:

Phone/Fax: (203) 359-1469

EMail: NightOwlOS@AOL.COM

CONFUSED? SCARED?
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If you have HIV/AIDS, you don't need to feel like you
are alone. Stamford CARESgives you the support
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HIV Gare Network. Complete confidentiality assured.
Serving Stamford, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan.
Call 977-5096 to speak to a Care Coordinator today.
We're here to help - because we care.
Page8

T NEWS & VIEWS
WORLDWIDE NEWS
BRITAIN - GAY BATHHOUSES OPEN
Gay bathhouses, where homosexual males can meet new partners, are
booming in Britain as the fear of AIDS recedes in a newly self-confident
community. The bathhouses began in San Francisco in the sexually
liberated 1970s, but a decade later the establishments were closed by
health officials because they were blamed for spreading HIV. In Britain,
there has been a spate of openings of well-equipped, expensive all-male
health clubs and spas, the biggest involving a million dollar investment
to recreate the hedonistic atmosphere of the baths in Ancient Rome.
Health experts fear that a premature "post-AIDS euphoria" is making
young people complacent about protecting themselves from HIV by
using condoms. The figures for sexually transmitted diseases, which fell
sharply during the earJy 1990s when "safer sex'' became the norm for
casual relationships, have risen by 17 per cent in men and 13 per cent in
women in a year.
There are now 11 saunas for gays in London, more than in San
Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Amsterdam and Sydney combined,
according to international guides for homosexual travelers. Brighton
and Manchester also have a thriving bathhouse scene. The London
Tourist Board is promoting the capital as a welcoming holiday destination for wealthy American ·gays.

BRITAIN - LONDON WANTS MORE GAYS
The London Tourist Board said it has launched a special "pink"
telephone information hotline as part of a major campaign to attract
more gay and lesbian tourists to the British capital. The $98,000
campaign will begin in the United States, targeting gay urban professionals aged between 30 and 50 in cities such as New York. It will
promote London as a cosmopolitan destination with a wide range of
cultural and entertainment activities of interest to gays.
"We know that London is probably commercially the largest gay scene
in Europe and the value of the gay tourism market to the city is estimated
at nearly one billion pounds ($1.48 billion)," said LTB official Helen
Jones. She said London wanted to build on its reputation as a gayfriendly city .which already attracts huge numbers of gay and lesbian
tourists.

extinguishers positioned under the colonnades. The police spokesman
said Ormando had burns on 90 percent of his body.
The protest was staged a week after a 66-year-old volunteer usher for
Pope John Paul was found murdered in his Rome apartment in the latest
of a series of gay-related killings in the Italian capital. Nineteen gay men
have been murdered in their homes since 1990. No arrests have so far
been made. Gay groups believe at least some of the deaths may have been
caused by a serial killer and have called on the government to launch a
national campaign to combat what they call anti-gay attitudes and
homophobia in Italy.

NETHERLANDS - DUTCH SWEETHEARTS WED
Childhood sweethearts Irma van Praag and Anna Kreuger have become
the Netherlands' first lesbian couple to wed. The women, both 38,
married under new Dutch laws effective from Jan. 1 which extend full
marriage rights apart from joint adoption to same-sex couples. Officially
known as a "Registration of Partnership," the new legislation offers
same-sex couples all the rights enjoyed by straight couples, barring joint
adoption. Dutch members of parliament have already voted by a
comfortable majority to remove this last barrier and gay rights campaigners are optimistic it could be on the statute books before long.
Three male couples have already married under the new act. At least 100
gay weddings are planned in the Netherlands this year, according to
Dutch magazine Gay Krant.

VENEZUELA - GAYS BANNED IN MILITARY
Venezuela plans to sign up 40,000 new troops in 1998, but homosexuals
are formally barred from the military and women remain locked out for
now. Venezuela currently requires all 18-year-olds to do a compulsory
military stint. Homosexuality however currently is grounds for deferring one's draft call-up indefinitely.
General Ortega compared Venezuela's case to that of the United States,
which with its "Don't ask, don't tell" policy allows gays in the military
as long as they do not make their sexual orientation public. "In
Venezuela we have a society that is quite different from U.S. society,"
Ortega said. "I see it as pretty far off for the armed forces here to make
that kind of decision" publicly.

CAYMANS - GAY BAN
A leading US gay rights group said that it would press the British
government to intercede in the Cayman Islands' refusal to allow a ship
chartered by gay vacationers to dock. The government of the Caymans,
a tourist-dependent British territory in the western Caribbean, issued a
statement that said it "regrets any inconvenience" the decision had
caused, but it stopped short of an apology. Human Rights Campaign,
a Washington D.C.-based gay and lesbian rights organization said the
statement did not explain what it called a "discriminatory act'' and
warned of a possible tourism boycott.
The Caymans minister of tourism, commerce and transport, Thomas
Jefferson, sent a letter last month to Norwegian Cruise Line in Miami
saying his government had decided not to allow the cruise ship Leeward
to stop at Grand Cayman on Feb 1. Atlantis Events Inc., a gay tour
operator in West Hollywood, Calif., chartered the vessel for 900 men
and a few women with stops in the Caymans, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
"Careful research and prior experience has led us to conclude that we
cannot count on the group to hold the standards ofappropriate behavior
expected of visitors to the Cayman Islands, so we regrettably cannot
offer our hospitality," Jefferson wrote.

P-FLAG

SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS AT

TCC

"Big" Monthly Meeting: Every 1st Wednesday, 7:45
Spouses and Ex Spouses group: Every 3rd Thurs. 7:30

Dont forget to check out the TtJC web page:
h ://members.aol.com.tcccenter/index.html

Triangle community centery
NOrwalk, CT

• •••• -w.y.-.,.,,..,o.-c-..v · If · · ·
ScMftl lie lenl..... ~ -1111v .............,. c....dlwl
La,t updal, 03/22197

ITALY - GAY MAN SETS HIMSELF ON FIRE
A Sicilian man, opposed to the Vatican's ban on homosexual relations,
set himself on fire in St Peter's Square and attempted to rush towards the
basilica's entrance, police said. Alfredo Ormando, 39, from Palermo
doused himself with petrol and set himself alight as he stood near the
Bernini colonnades around the square and steps leading to the St Peter's
basilica. Ormando, his body ablaze, then began to run towards the main
portals of the 16th century basilica but fell unconscious before reaching
the entrance, Italian news agencies said. He is in serious condition in the
hospital. Police in the square doused the flames with one of the fire

February 1998

On tlur P"&e:

■ \\'elcomc t.o lhe Trbtngle Community Center

• Who Are We? • Groups dud Meet at the Center• ('onmRmiry EvtW • Rf'lourcc Room• Monthly Ntw~lctter •

H2~.!2.fi.!ld_JJ§ • ~t£..Ofil!P.&.1.Mmm.t.r.
On otlur pl'IJa:

mllc,aterCal,■..,lll1cc tfnnf Vff'!'I-Wllat's Happenly?
= ~ I Z ) PolltJul AcU.. ■ 1,1t.r,,et Link•
Phone or fax (203) 8'3-0600 or e-mail

ii TCCerur@aol

com.

ltl
.---

Page9

T ~EWS & VIEWS
OTHER AREA GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Bare & Gay (B&G) gay nudists
Bisexually Curious Support Group Bpt
Chiltern Mountain Club
Connecticut Kids and Families
Connecticut Freedom to Marry Coalition
40-Up Club.(Social Grp.-call Dale before 10pm)
Gay Fathers Group
Gay Mens Association of Danbury
GEMS (Mature GLBT)
Guideline (gay/lesbian phone info)
Hartford Community Center
Married Men's Bisexual Suppt Grp Htfd
Metropolitan Community Church
The Loft, White Plains NY,
Triangle Bowling League
Triangle Kids
Western Connecticut Gay Men's Group

(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(860)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(914)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)

330-9595
264-5605
899-0270
256-8414
791-9553
261-4019
866-7051
778-7016
688-1881
366-3734
724 5542
262-1555
389-6750
948-4922
931-8789
25 5-6229
323-6278
773-9947

We're glad to list your non-profit gay/!esbian/bi/tg group free of charge.
Call (203) 964-1133. Please keep us informed of changes.

THE GAY GOURMET

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH RASPBERRIES

4

SKINLESS, BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST
HALVES

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
P.O.BOX 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855
Tel/Fax: (203) 853-0600
e-mail TCCenter@aol.com
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DON BUXTON ............................... President
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Vice-President
BARB SCHADE ........................ ...... Treasurer
LEN HOREY ........................ ..... .. .... Corresponding Secretary
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Acting Recording Sec'y
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DON BUXTON ........................................ ... (203) 762-9964
DENYSE BURKE ................ ....................... (203) 367-391 I
DAVID CARROLL .... .. .......................... ..... (203) 838-188 I
JOHN DEL VECCHIO ................. ............... (203) 334-3822
LEN HOREY ............................ ........... ........ (203) 925-0366
BARB SCHADE .... ..................... ............ ..... (203) 259-8 I 7 I
MICHELE STONE ...................................... (203) 964-1133
JOHN WALLACE ....... ................................ (203) 261-7349
STANDING COMMITTEES
AIDS Liaison
Tom M
Board Development ,
Vacant
Communications
John D
-Public Relations
Mike C
Finance
John W
Fundraising/Sp Events
Michael P
Membership
Denyse B
-Member Database
Marianne S
Operations
Cindy M
(and to schedule events at the Center)
Program
Dave C
-Resource Room
.Walter D
--Center Forums
Marianne S
Volunteer
Vacant

374-6934
334-3822
375-3567
261-7349
866-6993
367-391 I
222-8294
595-9799
838-1881
374-6934
222-8294

COURSE GROUND PEPPER TO TASTE

3 TBSP BUTTER
1/4 TSP RASPBERRY
1 CUP CHICKEN

VINEGAR

STOCK

3 TBSP RASPBERRY BRANDY
1/2 PINT RASPBERRIES
POUND CHICKEN BREASTS UNTIL THIN.
SEASON WITH PEPPER. IN LARGE FRYING
PAN MELT HALF THE BUTTER OVER
MEDIUM HEAT. ADD THE CHICKEN
BREASTS AND COOK

3

MINUTES EACH

wARM. ADD
AND BOIL 2

9{,'EWS & 'V1'EWS
Is published monthly by
Triangle Community Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855.
NEWS & VIEWS encourages its readers to submit materials of interest
to our community, including short articles, letters to the editor, etc. We
cannot respond to, or publish, anonymous letters. We reserve the right
to edit or condense as appropriate to meet space requirements. Authors
will be contacted if major revisions are necessary. Please submit to :
NEWS&VIEWS
Michele Stone: Editor & Advertising. Manager. John Delvecchio: Asst Editor
P.O. Box 8185
Phone: 203-334-3822
Stamford, CT 06905
Mike Collins: Publicity
Phone/Fax 964-1133
Phone: 203-375-3567
e-mail: NewsViews2@aol.com

SIDE. REMOVE AND KEEP

FOR ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT MICHELE STONE:

VINEGAR TO THE PAN

Ads must be camera-ready. If your ad is not camera ready or you
need help with its layout or design, contact Michele Stone
BEFORE submission. Inserts and special sizes upon prior
agreement All ads are placed on a space available basis.

MINUTES. ADD THE STOCK AND BRANDY,

BOIL ABOUT

5

MINUTES. ADD REMAINING

BUTTER AND THE RASPBERRIES. STIR AND
POUR OVER CHICKEN.

February 1998

The publication of the name of any person or organization in articles or ads in NEWS & VIEWS is
not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such
organizations.
The appearance of advertisements in NEWS & VIEWS does not imply nor constitute endorsement
by TCC,lnc. The views expressed in this NEWS & VIEWS are not necessarily those ofTCC, Inc.
Copyright 1997 by Triangle Community Center, Inc. All rights resetved. This work, or any parts
thereof, may not be used or reproduced in any manner without written pennission.

Page 10

Property of the Center

T NEWS & VIEWS

Q1lassifi£o

I

-

First Church

Congregational

House share. Two professional women seek
same. Basement room with private bath. Near
town, railroad, beach. Available March 1.
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Call (203) 227-6400.

An Open And Affinning Church
148 BEACH ROAD
FAIRFIELD, CT

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SUNDAY Slli:RVICIS ARE AT 10:• AM
CHOIR REHEARSALS AR£ THlJRSDAH

AT1:ltPMANDSUNDAYSATt:15AM
CHILDCARE IS PROVIDED AT THE t:15 REHEARSAL

CALL HEATHER A. HAMILTON
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
(203) 259-8.196

St. Paul's Episcopal Church
60 East Avenue, Norwalk
(Across from the Green)

An inclusive, welcoming, affirming community
Solemn Eucharist• Sundays at 10:15 AM

Come, experience splendid music and
traditional liturgy, the smell of incense
and the sight of flickering candles, in the
lovely architectural setting of a13th Century
English Gothic Church.
JOIN US FOR OUR CHRISTMAS EVE
•
SEVICE AT 10:30 PM
Office: (203) 847-2806
February 1998

NEWS SOURCES
Advertising in Gay Press Grows
Los Angeles Times, January 13, 1998
AIDS Healthcare Foundation Joins WWW
Business Wire, January 16, 1998
AIDS Patient: Treatment Might Save Life
Tulsa World, January 7, 1998
AIDS Deaths Drop
San Francisco Chronicle, January 9, 1998
Britain Opens Gay Bathhouses
The (London) Times, January 17, 1998
Council Repeals Gay-Protection Law
Salt Lake Tribune, January 14, 1998
Cruiser 6.0 'Comes Out'
PRNewswire, January 5, 1998 ,
Dressed to Excess
San Diego Reader, January 15, 1998
Dutch Sweethearts First To Wed
Reuters, January 14, 1998
Gay Ban of Caymans
Boston Globe, January 10, 1998
Gay Man Sets Himself on Fire
Reuters, January 13, 1998

GMHC to Call for Reporting HIV Cases
New York Times, January 13, 1998
London Wants More Gays
Reuters, January 15, 1998
TCC Celebrates 7th Year
Norwalk Hour, January 12, 1998
Venezuela - Gays Banned in Military
Agence France-Presse 11th January, 1998.
CO - Gay Group Pledges $700,000
Colorado Springs Gazette, January 9, 1998
GA - Supreme Court Rejects Appeal
NewYorkTimes,January 13, 1998
HA- Domestic-Partner Law a Bust
Los Angeles Times, December 23, 1997
IA - UA Offers New Classes
Sioux City Journal, December 30, 1997
FL - Elderly Gays Gain Support
Sun-Sentinel, January 3, 1998
NC - It's About Houses
News & Observer, January 10, 1998
VT - Couples Appeal Marriage
Burlington Free Press

Restaurant
L'Abbee
"Excellent" ... New York Times
Fine Dining in a friendly and relaxed
atmosphere with a menu that truly
expresses the Art of the kitchen
by Chef Kimberly Robbins.

utifully prese
lawlessly serv
Your Hosts: Paul L' Ahhee
Bill Johnson
: 62 Main Street
• New Canaan, CT

(203) 972-6181
Page II

KIM 1220 (203) 937-5669
BARB CERINO (203) 922-0082

NICHOLAS LANG, Ph.D., N.C.C.
Providing Affordable
Counseling & Psychotherapy Services
Specializing in Sexual Orientation
Loss, Relationships, & HIV-related Issues

Specializing in decorative
painting and wallpapering

Fully Insured

Interior/Exterior

'iKStep/Janie's Living Rooni, Inc.

Prasanting quality dances for woman who do not hka
the bar scene ... Come and meeJ new friends.

March Dance
Sat. March 7, 8 pm $10
Ramada Inn, Stratford, CT
I-95 North, Exit 30

For more information call: (203) 377-2119

Massage Uonnection
• Specializing in professional Swedish
massage

New Haven Office
200 Orchard St.
(203) 789-0560, Ext. 4

Wilton Office
387 Danbury Rd.
(203) 847-1094

PAUL D. SCHNEIDER
Attorney at Law
PO Box 451
Southport, CT 06490-0451
203/255-5520
Adoption
Child Custody Divorce
Partnership Agreements

Our Families Matter

THRESHOLDMORTGAGE COMPANY
PATRICK WINTERS
LOAN OFFICER
THRESHOLD MORTGAGE

• By appointment only - Day or evening
• Student discounts available
• Home visits available

1-800-611-6041
Office located in the New Haven area

~ MEMBER OF THE
~ INTERNALTIONAL
JI MASSAGE ASSO-

l ,..

. . . . . CIATION

February 1998

COMPANY
THRESHOLD COMMON

59 W1L TON

ROAD

WESTPORT, CT

06880

(203) 454-0525
TOLL FREE (800) 562-5577
FAX (203) 454-0069
HOME (203) 256-5951
EMAIL pkw@thresholdmtg .com
OFFICE

• Specializing in resid1mtial home mortgages in Fairfield County
• Capabhi or handling all loan scenario's from a$60,000 condo in
Stamford to a$1,000,000 home in Greenwich
• Consistent top producing loan omcer for over ten years with a
wealth or knowledg11 and experi11nce

In 1.9.95, fhresho/tlHortgage was titetl as the top protlucin!fmot1!fa!fe
companJharing closet!orer J/?5,000, 000 in loans in fairlie/tl r:ountJ
Page 12

T ~EWS & VIEWS
Horticultural Botanist
Gardener & House I Pet Sitter

~

(203) 256-4565
(800) 628-7209
FAX: (203) 256-1759
jnemis@aol.com

Donald J. Comes

JOANN ATTWOOD NEMIS

(203) 866-2823

VICE PRESIDENT / INVESTMENTS

JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT, INC.

30 '.Ilerney Street

MEMBERS NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE AND OTHER PRINCIPAL EXCHANGES

Norwalk, CT 06851

2150 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD , CT 06430

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Specializing in:

Weddings • Comittment Cefebiations
and "Coming-Out" PaHies

KURT SPERLING,L.C.S.W.

76 Lake Avenue • Danbury, CT 06810

Tel: 730-1400 • Fax: 798-9611

Joan W. Duncan, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
188 Scribner Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
Tel/Fax(203)854-4805

225 MAIN

STREET,

LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

LEADING
HOMES.

1B

THE BUYERS REAL EsTATE COMPANY

MICHAEL T. PAVLICIN

REALTOR"

772 KINGS HIGHWAY WEST

ExCWSIVE BUYER AGENT

BROKER

SOUTHPORT, CONNECTICUT 06490
F AX/255-3705 HOM E/866-6993

Specializing in Women & Couples

203/255-2278

leadhome3@aol.com

VICTORIA

T.

FERRARA

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Laura L. Gates, MSW, LCSW

(203) 227-9585

Individuals, Couples, and Families

White Plains. NY
(203) 386-1725

February 1998

Stratford. CT
(203) 386-1725

WESTPORT, CT
ADMIITED .IN CT AND NY

Page 13

~If

un,vi1ii\(l~il liil'llill [llf111·~11111'![1\lllmll 1111 •

TNEWS&VIE~

Property of the Center

M 001 111 373

Support our advertisers!
Say you saw it in News & Views!

-~~---------=,-----~

~-----------------=----"----~

.

Michelle C. Loris, Psy.D . .

' .

.

t ,.'

, Li0'

Individual, Couple and Group Therapy

Street. Stamford.
lephone: 203~348·98

(203) 255-2767
By Appointment

Ct. Lie. MFT

2 Night Package

$249°

0

-

~QUITAB_!:E • Bryan Costello
.1/Qmh,Jr of too (;/obnl

per person double occupancy

.I.D.Gl.wl.a.i: Accommodations, Meals,
Tax and Tip Nol lncJuded

Fur More lnformat1tH1 & Rese1v;.ilwns C..tU

1-800-922-3498

\

MICHAEL

J.

\

TAYLOR, LMT

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE • CT,

440

'

MAIN STREET • RIDGEFIELI),

NY LICENSED

(iro,,p

212 • 382• 5176

Investments
Pensions
Insurance

Parties, Enlertalnmanl & Activities
,Wuwd EnterJatoment I.D.C.lu.d.u:
"Those Funny Gay Males"
Jalla Cohen & Danny McWllllams
Singer ic Jeanne MacDonald

II

Tflt1 abwe-lllJltU.d individuals art1 registered represenllJJire• uf EQ Financial
Consulk:IIIS, Im:, (212 641-73()()), o brourldt!akr olld invntmenl ad'linr, and Ql:Mts
o/Tlu Equitable l.ift1 A.,surance Sacuty ofche Unikd SJaus (NY, NY 10104). Tiu
abo,e-name,I tirdividual abo off,rs tradiliotuJJ attd vorlable Insurance attd anttu/Jus
of EquiJabu, and l>/ over fifty tlllltr companies lhrt1M1h EquiSource.
AGE-97-581 Exp.(6/98)

CALL FOR SINGERS
St. Paul's Episcopal Church,
Norwalk
Splendid Repertoire of Traditional Music
Welcoming and Inclusive Congregation
For additional information or auditions call:
Bill Voetberg, Music Director, (203) 847-7250

CT 06877 • 203-431-8278

Terry Barrett
Handywoman Home Repair
Careful and Competent
No Job Too Small

(203) 846-4569

Jane

wAttorney-at-Law
Griffith, JD, MBA

Tax Strategy & Preparation • Real Estate
Estate Planning & Wills • Business Consulting
270AldenAvenue, New Haven, CI'06515-2114

Fax 205 / 587-9899

Voice 205 I 58~8614

WHERE ARE WE? The Triangle Community Center Inc. is located at 25 Van Zant Street in Norwalk.
From 1-95, take Exit 16 and go south (from Stamford, turn right; from New Haven, turn left). Continue
south under the railroad bridge and turn right on Van Zant St. (Route 136). 25 Van Zant is a large
condominium office building on the right. TCC is in Suite 7-C on the ground floor, Tel. (203) 853-0600.
February 1998

Page 15

T NEWS & VIEWS
Maria C. Castillo, MSW, LCSW
Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy
Recovery from Abuse

Bilingual

(203) 261-3492
Monroe.CT

(203) 336-2708
Bridgeport, CT

AIDIS
FAX (203)744•1139

Three detades of GAY travel expertise

U"i:J1I\

MID-FAIRFIELD AIDS PROJECT

Serving the needs of the HIV/AIDS community
with all HIV related services including: Care
Management, Housing, Medical Advocacy,
Vocational Rehabilitation, Financial Assistance,
Counseling, and much much more.

CALL US AND WE WILL HELP!

_111E_4_6_~-ill-;.,,,VFt-in_R_~-~---Do-nb_ury_._CT_06_8_11-*

(203)778•9399

MFAP

~RSVP

Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project
. 16 River Street
Norwalk, Connecticut 06850
Phone: (203) 855-9535
Fax: (203) 855-1531
Internet: http://www.mfap.com
E-Mail: infor@mfap.com

Diane Hyatt, MSW, CISW
JOANNE M. MARINO, C.C.M.H.C., N.C.C.
PSYCHOTHERAPIST

T Solution-oriented short or longer tenn
psychotherapy for Adults and Adolescents,
specializing in, but not limited to:

49 Coolidge Avenue

21 STRICKLAND RD., COS COB, CONN . 06807 (203) 869-0216

JOSEPH H. SWEENEY, CPA

T Depression
"I' Anxiety
"I' Post-Traumatic Stress
T Cowiseling for Partners & Family
1653 Capitol Avenue "I' Specialized Psychotherapy Groups
Bridgeport. CT 06606 "I' Case Consultation
(203) 332-0136
T Clinical Supervision

Stamford, CT 06906
(203) 964-184 7

ATTORNEY-AT LAW

1305 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD
203/256-3839

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Tax Planning, Preparation & Appeals;
Estates & Trusts, Probate Matters,
Real Estate Law; Elder Law; and

JOHANNA RAYMAN

Small Business Formations and Assistance

M.S. W, L.C.S.W

Support our advertisers! Say
you saw it in News & Views!
February 1998

225 MAIN STREET, LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

Page 14

Calendar

February, 1998

Sun

Mon

I
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

2
Women's Rap 7:30

8

9

Tues
3
Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7:30

5
Men's Rap 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

IO

II

AA 9-10 am
Women's Rap 7:30
OutSpoken 4-6
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am
G & L Film Festival,
Hartford, 2:30

TCC Board 7:30
Sex Panic Forum 7:30

BiRapGrp7:30

17

15

16

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

22
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

23

24

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Thu

Wed
4
P-FLAG7:45

Fri
6
Bowling 9:00
Circle Lanes
G Moasic 7:30

Sat
7
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

13

14

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

Friendraiser, 5-8 pm
Imperial Court, Brook,
9:30 pm
Women Outdoors Hike
II am

18

19

20

21

P-FLAG7:45

Men's Rap 7:30
P-FLAG Spouses & ExSpouses 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
G Mosaic 7:30

Women Outdoors Potlud
5:00

25

26

27

28

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's)7:00

Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

I

2

3

4

5

6

7

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7 :30

P-FLAG7 :45

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Men in Mts. Weekend

Men in Mts . Weekend

8

9

IO

II

14

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

13

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
GROUPS MEETING AT OR SPONSORED svTCC
A.A. - Don 762-9964
Bi Rap Group - Peter 838-2806;Robin 358-8391
35+ Womens Pot Luck - Judy 227-7162
Free Association of Fairfield County - John 268-8858 x304
Gay Men's Rap Group - Dave 838-1881; John 261-7349
Gmosaic (People of Color) - not currently active call TCC 853-0600
Lesbian Literature Reading Group - Christine, 847-8476
Out & About (20's & 30's) - Jen 736-6417 or Dan 838-2367
Outspoken (Youth)- Barb 259-8171; Dan 227-1755;
Doug 838-2367
•
P-FLAG (Parents, Faroilies and Friends of Lesbians & Gays) Joan 544-8724; Lester 322-5380; Belinda 855-1203
P-FLAG Spouses & Ex Spouses Group - Joan 544-8724
Triangle Bowling League (Circle Lanes, Fairfield) - Lisa 3333113; Roseann 931-8789
Women's Rap Group - Chandra 228-8652; Linda 866-4598;
Michele 438-4465
All meetings are held at the Center and in the evening unless
otherwise noted . A $3 donation per person is appreciated with
your participation in activities to help support the Center.

February 1998

T

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

MEMBERSHIP FORM

MEMBERSHIP LISTS ARE CONFIDENTIAL
NAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
CnY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE _ _ __

ZIP----

PHONE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

CONTRIBUTING MEMBER
CONTRIBUTING HOUSEHOLD
SUPPORTING MEMBER
SPONSORING MEMBER
SusTAINING/Bus1NEss MEMBER
SPECIAL MEMBER (Yourn/SENIOR)

$35
$60
$125
$250
$500
$20

PLEASE MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

P.O. Box 4062
06855 ATTN: MEMBERSHIP
(203) 853-0600

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
EAST NORWALK, CT

Page 16



Triangle Community Center

~e-w~a v,e-w~
Free to Members and Subscribers

MANY HEARTS • • •

Vol.9, No.2
February 1998

ONE COMMUNITY

th
rec CELEBRATES 7TH YEAR
The Triangle Community Center (TCC) of East Nowalk is marking its 7th
anniversary this year. TCC operates entirely with unpaid volunteers, and this year
is honorinj$ 11 people who have contributed to the many activites and programs
TCC provides all 22 towns and cities in Fairfield County. In addition, the 3
congressmen representing Fairfield County have sent special citations and letters,
and letters have been received from towns and cities across Fairfield County
saluting TCC. The 11, volunteers being recognized by TCC are Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ron Dreyer, Victoria Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Thomas
Mariconda, Justine Michaud, Scott M. Robbins, and Elaine and Lester Sharlach.
Scott M. Robbins of Shelton, who has directed 2 major shows, "WhoopDee-Doo" in January 1997, and "Pageant" in January 1998, was recognized for his
efforts in putting together the shows and directing them. TCC noted that Mr.
Robbins' efforts and his 2 plays have focused TCC as never before, bringing
together large numbers of members for the major undertaking these shows
represent. "Whoop-Dee-Doo" raised $17,000 for TCC, for Bread & Roses - the
AIDS residence serving Fairfield County, and Mid-Faifield AIDS Project and
Stamford Cares. Proceeds from "Pageant," which ran during January 1998 are still
being tallied .
Also recognized was Ron Dreyer of Stamford, who has brought his talents of
singing, dancing and acting to the show produced by Mr. Robbins, and also
organized a major jazz brunch for TCC in 1995. In the most recent production of
"Pageant'' Mr. Dreyer played the role of Miss West Coast, and, to promote
"Pageant"' appeared on The Exchange with David Smith on Cablevision 12 in
lower Fairtield and southwestern New Haven Counties.
Also recognized was Justine Michaud of Stratford, the founding president ofTCC
when it opened in January 1991, who continues to assist and volunteer for TCC
projects. Ms. Michaud also worked to help enact state laws in Connecticut that
protect gay and lesbian citizens. Connecticut is one of just 11 states nationwide to
have a gay rights law protecting gay and lesbian citizens from discrimination in
employment and housing.
In a letter to TCC, U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, R-4th district, said that, "Over
the past several years, TCC has taken tremendous strides in promoting understanding for gays and lesbians throughout the community. Your organizatoin has given
countless individuals the support and information they need."
U.S. Rep. James Maloney, D-Sth district, sent a "Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the Triangle Community Center for achievement." In an
accompanying letter Rep. Maloney said, "I would like to commend the group's
efforts to provide social and financial support to the gay and lesbian community
of Fairfield County. As with any group which is denied its civil rights .... the gay
community needs and deserves a su,rport center to assist with the problems which
result from such discrmination .....
U.S. Rep. Rose DeLauro, R-3rd district, said, "The general welfare of all
Americans is diminished when any one group is discriminated against. TCC
promotes social activism and provides a place for gays and lesbians to gather as a
community." Similar letters of support were received from Stamford Mayor
Daniel Malloy, Danbury Mayor Gene Enrico, Newtown First Selectman Herbert
C. Rosenthal, and Fairfield First Selectman Kenneth Flato.
-Michael Collins

February 1998

Pagel

T NEWS & VIEWS
WrcCNEWs
Two THUMBS UP foR "PAGEANT"

GAY MEN'S GROUP

-Juan Raven, Reviewer

The Gay Men's Group got off to a great start in January
discussing Geography ofthe Heart by Fenton Johnson. The
next meeting will be on March 8 at 7 PM in Ridgefield. We
will be discussing Young Man from Provinces: A Gay Life
Before Stonewall by Alan Helms . For more information email GayBookCT@aol.com or call (203) 431-0559.

The talk around town about the Triangle Community Center's production of
"Pageant'' is that tickets for the final performances will be hard to get and especially
after this weekend's nearly full houses. I saw the show both Friday and Saturday nights.
As I listened to the audience discuss the show afterward comments like "great!',
"fantastic!' and "wow!" were common and this reviewer was quite in agreement.
A solid show was presented and the TCC deserves a great deal of credit for staging this
smart send up ofthe beauty pageant. The dance numbers were well choreographed and
the cast seemed very comfortable in their roles and hee~! Each contestant must
compete in the area's of talent, evening gown, beauty crisis call and swimsuit and what
style and presentation we were treated to! Though the book is slightly stacked against
several contestants, there is a tremendous element of surprise as the Judges are picked
at random each evening. Saturday evening's crowd seemed more in tune with the sly
humor of Miss West Coast's wacky dance and the plain Miss Great Plains. Miss Texas
and Miss Bible Belt are real shoo-ins for the title of Miss Glamouresse, but Miss Deep
South has a show stopping number that brought the house down both nights and
edged them out to win Friday night! Unfortunately; Miss Industrial Northeast, who
gets great attention from the audience during her talent number (playing the accordion
while skating around the stage looking frightened) gets the disappointing boot before
the Queen is crowned. It was clear that she would have given the others a good "skate"
for the crown ifshe stayed in. The reigning Miss Glamouresse 1997 is Miss Tawny Joe
Johnson. She is an absolute hoot as she explains and demonstrates to the judges how
to use the scorecards while assisting the master of ceremonies, Frankie Cavalier.
Frankie Cavalier's character too is a great satire on the "master of ceremonies" that we
all know and love! His energy and enthusiasm well played and enjoyed.
The lighting and stage design was sharp but simple and oooh, that spaceship really was
"outa this world" (as well as Frankie's getup!!) So I hope you all bopped down to the
Norwalk Community Technical College and caught this show because it shouldn't
have been missed. The show benefits TCC and Bread and Roses the AIDS hospice in
Georgetown.

ANNIVERSARY SPLINTERS
Volunteering my time atTCC has been very rewarding. It has been both an honor
and a pleasure working with people who strive for the success of the Center. We
recently celebrated our seventh anniversary and I had such a blast at the paty. It
was great to be in a room filled with so many lesbian and gay people all in one
place. And, I felt wonderfully safe and at home at our Center.
The following people were recognized for their volunteerism and passionate
support of the progarns, events and operations for our Center: Russ Bain, David
Dey, Ronald Dreyer, Victoria T. Ferrara, Jane W. Griffith, Noel Houlihan, Justine
Michaud, Scott Robbins and Elaine and Lester Sharlach. Also, on behalf of the
board we would like to thank Christine Bisceglie for all her time and energy
serving on the board. We'll miss her "frankness" and "bottom-line" approach to all
those important issues .
I think it is quite remarkable that the Triangle Community Center has been so
successful based on the fact that it is completely run by volunteers. As successful
as the Center is we are still faced with a lot of work. We are in particular need of
people with grant writing and business skills Anyone who cares to help lighten
the load is welcome. We work hard and we have fun doing it! In the words of our
president Don Buxton, "take what you are passionate about and find a way to
apply it creatively, at the center."
So I am asking all of you who read this to bring your PAS SI ON to TCC! Share
it! Work it girl! Work it to the fullest! We are the best that we can be, but why
not join us and try to make us better. Just give us a call - at the sound of the tone
leave your name, phone number, and the best time to reach you. It's that simple I
PASSION+ VOLUNTEERISM =TCC
-Denyse Burke

'

February 1998

TCC FEB F RIENDRAISER
TCC's February Friendraiser will be held on Saturday,
February 14, from 5-8 pm at the home of Peter McKnight
and Joe Letendre.
Directions to Peter and Joe's, 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield,
CT:
From I-95 coming from New Haven: Exit 22, North
Benson Rd. Makearightatendoframp. Go 1.5 miles and
make a right onto Reid St. ***
From I-95 coming from Stamford: Exit 22, Round Hill
Rd. Go straight at end of ramp (through stop sign) and
make a left at the light onto North Benson Rd. Go 1.5
miles and make a right onto Reid St. ***
From Merritt Pkway coming from New Haven: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn right at end of ramp .
Go about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)* **
From Merritt Pkway coming from Stamford: Exit 44,
Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Turn left at end of ramp
and then right onto Black Rock Turnpike (Rt. 59) . Go
about a mile or so and start counting lights. At the 4th
light, make a right onto Rt. 135. After the 2nd light, make
your 2nd left onto Reid St. (Road curves so you won't be
able to see it until you're on top of it, so look for
Margemere on the right to cue yourself)***
***At bottom of hill, make a right onto Robin Lane. We
are the 3rd house on right, # 89, white with black shudders,
1 car detached garage. Park on street and come in back door.
Iflost, 203/330-9595.
And remember - this Friendraiser is DONATIONSONLY. The amount is up to you .

IMPERIAL COURT SHARES RICHES
The Imperial Court of Connecticut recently donated over
$900 to TCC, raised during their Masquerade Ball held in
October at the Brook Cafe. This generous donation was
presented to the Center and will be earmarked for use by
TCC's Board of Directors.
Huge thanks to our local "royalty" from The Fairfield
Barony of the Imperial Court for including TCC in their
fund raising efforts . Thanks, also, to The Brook for their
part in hosting this event and all those who attended to
support the Court.

Pagel

PEOPLE OF COLOR GROUP
From early on I had always been looking for love, or just a special brother to
hang with. Sex was just always easier to find. I didn't wonder about the places
I went to meet men. The movie theaters on forty-second street, tee rooms,
park cruise grounds at night, Christopher Street, bars, bookstores, and the
"straight'' porno theat.ers in my neighborhood were the only places I knew to
meet men. One of these times I'd get up close and personal wit:h someone fine,
it would happen. I would be recognized for the bright, decent, talented man
that I am. This never really happened. And I was not to blame.
It was not until years later that I realized what the problem had been in those
earlier years. I had not been unlucky at finding the "right man." I had not been
cursed by God. These places I had been going seeking affection (settling for
sex) were negative environments (yet they have become our traditional gay
meeting places). Dark place hidden away from the full light of day. Places
where we drank and got high to make it easier to talk to each other. Filthy
places where any intimacy that occurred was shared with the stench of urine,
poppers and industrial cleansers in our nostrils. In order to dismiss my painful
observation of how little I had in common with whoever I found, I had to
check my mind at the door. In order to reconcile myself with the fact that this
groping, was not serving my loneliness, I had to check my heart at the door.
It was not until years later that I discovered the black gay community. An
extended family ofbrothers loving brothers who valued my contributions and
embraced me: body, mind and soul. I found the black gay community at
discussion groups and other events held by organizations in New York City
for African-American, Caribbean, Latino, Native American and Asian gay &
bisexual men (Adodi; Gay Men of African Descent. Aya institute; Other
Countries; and the Men of Color Discussion Group sponsored by Gay Men's
Health Crisis). It was here that I became proud of my whole selfincluding my
gay self. Listening to these beautiful men share their issues gave me pause and
strength to reflect then share what my issues were. I have found myself many
times in those circles of men. I have found many firiends there. I have met
lovers there. Most importantly, I found the "right'' man there. I am that
"right'' man. I'm the man I always dreamed I would meet and fall in love with!!
• I have only been living in Connecticut since last April. I'm disappointed by
what often passes for black gay "life" up here. I'd like to re-create here what
gave me such a strong foundation in NYC. I would like for us to be a loving,
supportive, "fierce" family for each other. Some of us have been so damaged
by our families that the word "'family'' is no longer powerful or meaningful.
I have redefined that word for myself. Family to me means people from whom
I don't need protection. I would very much like to see such an extended family
of gay, lesbian, bisexual, & transgender people of color to come together twice
per month at the G Mosaic group meeting. We will be meeting on the 1st and
3rd Friday of every month From 7:30-9:30 PM. Stop in to vibe with us after
dinner and before you hit the clubs ( or before your quiet
"wind-down-from-the-work-week-night'') .
My name is Nasheed Abdul-Wakil. I will be facilitating this group on behalf
of the Norwalk Health Department and the Triangle Community Center. I
promise you this will be an easy, painless way to meet new friends and to find
yourself. They say that sunlight is the best disinfectant. Let's make G Mosaic
a new traditional gay meeting place. And let's bring loving each other out into
the light. You may leave a message for me at the Norwalk Health Department
at: (203) 854-7726. Just ask for Nasheed. All calls will be treated with strict
confidentiality.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
Sometime between selling their Castle and fixing up their new digs Jay Kobrin
and Gordon Micunis quietly celebrated their fortieth anniversary. That's 40th
not fourteenth . In the late 50's, when many of us were mere toddlers if we had
been born at all, the two of them met at Yale - only a few years after Larry
Kramer tried to commit suicide there. Little did the person who assigned
Gordon as upperclass adviser to freshman Jay, Theater Design major, realize
that he did such a great job as ayenta. Forty years later they're not just an item,
they're a fixture. H appy Anniversay to them for their achievement. May they
have many more years together.
-Marianne Seggerman

f RIENDRAISER
To volunteer to host a Friendraiser or get information on holding one, please
call Bryan DuBac (203) 335-8765 .
February 1998

4'

CYBER NEWS

AIDS FOUNDATION JOINS WEB
AIDS Healthcare Foundation's (AHF's) ability to communicate
cutting-edge information about AIDS and its own programs and
services took an exponential leap forward in late December with the
launch ofits Web site, that has been in development since April of
last year. The site can be accessed at: http://www.aidshealth.org.
"(It) is a great vehicle to find information on all of the different
aspects of AIDS Healthcare Foundation," said AHF President
Michael Weinstein.
With its 20 locations (Healthcare Centers, Houses and Thrift Stores)
and nine major programs and divisions, the AIDS Healthcare
Foundation site includes pages on AHF advocacy (government local, state and federal areas); AHF fundraising and giving opportunities; AHF education/information; volunteerism/special events;
and AHF media and public relations information.
CRUISER 6.0 'CoMES Our'
In San Francisco - the crossroads where high-tech meets High
Camp - Digital Queers has fired the latest salvo in the hotlycontested browser wars with the introduction of Cruiser 6.0. The
new browser will immediately appeal to at least 10% of the
worldwide browser market, threatening to steal critical market
share from both Netscape and Microsoft.
Different from conventional "straight'' browsers, Cruiser 6.0 is
"orientation-focused." Its design makes it easy for even the
uninitiated to legally plug-and-pfay in most states. As users gain
more exposure to the browser, internal intelligence makes the
system easier to understand and navigate; after a certain point, the
only user issue is one of improving Cruiser 6.0. The browser is
powered by the new Java enhancement: Percolator(TM) . Percolator requires no plug-ins for optimal performance. Aside from
these enhancements, Cruiser 6.0 resembles other browsers in
virtually every way and like other browsers, Cruiser 6. 0 is platform"
independent, working as easily on Mac as it does on Win. And
sometimes both at the same time.
Cruiser 6.0 may be downloaded from the Digital Queer's Web site
at www.DQ.org. Cruiser 6.0 is the virtual Web browser created
by queers for queers. Digital Queers (DQ) is a national non-profit
organization that focuses on the strategic application of technology
to improve organizations and services that promote the legal and
social rights oflesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. For
more information on the organization and its activities, visit the
World Wide Web site at www.dq.org.
SIGNORILE IN CYBERSPACE
Gay Wired Announces the New Web Site ofMichelangelo Signorile
at: http ://www.gaywired.com/signorile/
There are lots of different areas, including an open forum where
you can speak your mind on different issues, and even a site where
you can let Signorile have a piece of your mind.

MORE ON SEX PANIC
On Tuesday February 10th at 7:30, the Center Forum will be
devoted to a discussion of the issu~ raised by an informal (but

• • themselves Sex.Panic. The name is
•
• • at others (gays and
ole argument
• • gaymale
remost for
have sex

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epi

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way of

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ttendees at a

in San Diego.

-Marianne egg~an
Page3

T NEWS & VIEWS
CONNECTICUT CALENDAR

f EBRUARY 1998
Saturday, Feb. 7 --Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or Snow
shoeing.
Sunday, Feb. 8 - The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Film Festival presents a
benefit screening of Lilies, voted the number one gay movie of 1997
in the PopcornQ poll. A bishop is forced to watch a re-enactment of
his past, when he broke up a love affair between two teenaged boys.
2:30 PM, at Cinestudio, on the campus of Trinity College, Hartford.
Sunday, Feb. 8 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if
no snow.
Tursday, Feb. 10 - TCC Forum - Sex Panic - 7:30 PM
Fri. -Sun., February 13-15 - Maxies 6th Annual Weekend of Love, Maxies
Cafe, Waterbury. All proceeds to benefit the Waterbury Aids Client
Services. Three nights of live entertainment, complimentar/ buffet,
and drawings; plus an auction on Sunday. Tickets are $6.00 per night,
$12.00 for all three nights. More info to follow.
Saturday, Feb. 14 - TCC Friendraiser- 89 Robin Lane, Fairfield CT - 5to 8 PM
Saturday, Feb.14--Conn. Women Outdoors-Valentines Day hike. 5 or6 easy
miles.
Saturday, Feb. 14 -- Valentines Day "Amici" - A Gay & Lesbian Social Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998 - Prime TimeGrill at the Comfort Inn, Old
Saybrook, CT - DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn - Dinner
Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Fri. - Sun., Feb. 20 - 22 - Out Write '98 - The 7th national lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgendered writers' conference at the Sheraton
Boston Hotel & Towers, Boston, MA.
Fri. -Sun., February 20-22 - Brothers Together presents Dating, Sex, and
Relationships, a weekend workshop for gay and bisexual men, at
Cedar Hill Retreat Center, in Duxbury, MA. Call 617-375-9447 for
more information.
Saturday, Feb. 21 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Potluck and Game night at
Marilyn's in Windsor. Dinner starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM.
Fri. -Sun., February 27-March 1 - Creating Intimacy In Our Lives: Learning
From The Struggle, aweekend workshop for gay and bisexual men at
Deer Hill Conference Center, Wappingers Falls, NY. Led by Ken Page
and New Haven's Joe FitzGerald. Forfull information, call Joe FitzGerald
at 203-789-0560.
Saturday, Feb. 28 -- Conn. Women Outdoors - Cross Country Skiing or hiking
if no snow.

MARCH

1998

Fri. - Sun., March 6 - 8 - Hundreds of great guys are expected at the
Paramount Resort Hotel. This "HOT" vacation break from the cold and
snow will offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music, dance, AND,
a chance for romance!
Saturday, March 14 - Sober Spring Gay and Lesbian Dance - 8 PM to1 AM
- Jennings School, Fairfield, CT - $5.00 Cover.
Saturday, March 14 - Gay Bingo to benefit the Hartford Gay and Lesbian
Health Collective, at Project 100/Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender
Community Center, 1841 Broad Street, Hartford. Doors Open at 7:00
pm - Games begin promptly at 7:30 pm. Admission $10 - Includes
Games package. Over $500 in prizes! Call 278-4163 for more
information.
Friday-Saturday, March 20-21 - Children From The Shadows presents its
fifth annual conference for GLBT youth and professionals who work
with them, University of Hartford, West Hartford, 9:45 AM to 4:00 PM
both days.
Saturday, March 28 - The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven, 8:00 PM.
Sunday, March 29- The Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus presents Gentlemen
Prefer Hollywood, a tribute to the golden age of the Hollywood
musical. Shubert Theater, New Haven 2:00 PM.
February 1998

!!!!!!lcoNNECTICUT NEWS
CONNECTICUT WOMEN OUTDOORS
Feb 7, Sat - Cross Country Skiing or Snow shoeing if you prefer, up
and down Mt. Everett in the Berkshires. Beautiful views of Mt.
Greylock and the Catskills. Call Sam 860-650-5359.
Feb 8, Sun - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Feb 14, Sat - Valentines Day hike. 5 or 6 easy miles. We'll make sure
you still have energy for your sweetheart after the hike. Call Carol 203237-6288 or Kathy 203-630-2576.
Feb 21, Sat - Potluck and Game night at Marilyn's in Windsor. Dim1er
starts at 5 PM games at 7 PM. Bring a dish to share and your favorite
board game. Call 860-688-7637.
Feb 28 Sat - Cross Country Skiing or hiking if no snow at Northwest
Park in Windsor. Back to Marilyn's for pizza and hot cider. Call 860685-7637 for directions. Starts at 11 AM. Chip in for pizza.
Women Outdoors provides a forum for women to explore the
outdoors together, develop outdoor and leadership skills, and promote environmental awareness. Membership in Women Outdoors
links you to this growing and vital network. For information on
joining Connecticut Women Outdoors contact Carol at: 203-2356933.
'

LET'S DANCE!
SOBER SPRING - GAY AND LESBIAN DANCE!
SATURDAY,MARCH14-8PM-1AM-JENNINGSSCHOOL
- FAIRFIELD, CT
$5.00 COVER CHARGE - BRING YOUR OWN REFRESHMENTS- NO ALCOHOL PLEASE!
Need more info? Call Liz 333-8981 or Bob 336-8216 or Christine
847-8476
Directions: From 1-95 North - Exit 22, Round Hill. Left at end of
ramp onto Round Hill. Turn right onto Barlow Road by Fairfield
University. Left at the light onto North Benson Road. At light, bear
right and continue across Black Rock Turnpike and take right onto
Fairest. Left at next corner onto Fairland. Take a left and turn onto
Palm Drive.
From 1-95 South - Exit 24, Black Rock Turnpike. Right at end of
ramp. At light, take left onto Kings Highway. Bear to right as the road
splits. At the fourth light, take a right onto Burroughs Road. At the
stop sign, take a left onto Farland Rd. Take first right onto Palm Dr
just before school crossing sign.
From Merritt Parkway (North) - Take exit 44, Fairfield University.
Turn onto Black Rock Turnpike south (Route 58 south). At third
light, take left onto Fairfield Woods Rd. Continue straight through
the stop sign. At light, take a right after the library. The middle school
is on your right, Jennings School is on your left.
From Merritt Parkway (South) - Take exit 46. At end of ramp bear
right at light onto Route 59 for approx 2.5 miles. At the light (Grand
Central on left, Mobil on right), take a right onto Fairfield Woods Rd.
Continue through one light and one stop sign. At next light take left
(library in front). Middle school is on your right, Jennings School is
on your left.

Deadline for the March Newsletter will be Saturday 14 February. We cannot guarantee that
material received after that date will be included
in March News&Views.

Page4

SINGLES HEAD FOR THE HILLS
Hundreds of great guys are expected at the Paramount Resort Hotel (Parksville, NY, 2 Hrs. to
NYC) on the weekend of March 6-8, 1998. This
"HOT" vacation break from the cold and snow will
offer an exciting weekend of fun, food, music,
dance, AND, a chance for romance! Headline entertainment for the weekend will include ''Those
Funny Gay Males", Jaffe Cohen and Danny
McWilliams (who promise us that they, too, are
single and looking!) . Fabulous song stylist Jeanne
MacDonald shows why she is winner of the 1997
Cabaret Hotline "Critic's Choice Award".
What's more, the weekend will include a demonstration and readings by'internationally known gay
psychic Daniel Logan, a "Videofest '98" (featuring
the best in gay themed films), antique and shopping
tours, indoor pool and sauna, late night disco and
salsa, cocktail parties, and a multitude ofindoor and
outdoor activities.
Rates for the weekend are $249 per person double
occupancy (plus tax & tip), with shares arranged. A
special feature offered by the Paramount Resort
Hotel is luxury bus and van service from select
locations. Transportation rates from NYC, Albany,
and Westchester are $35 per person. "Mei;i in the
Mountains", the first ever gay men's singles weekend at a major New York resort, is being offered by
Stonewall Productions, an experienced gay events
producer. For more information about the weekend or to make reservations call: 1 800 922-3498.

VALENTINES DAY "AM1c1"
A Gay & Lesbian Social - Saturday, Feb. 14, 1998
-PrimeTimeGrillattheComfortlnn, Old Saybrook,
CT
DJ & Karaoke Dance Party with Rosa & Lynn Dinner Reservations for 7 and 8pm
Prime Rib or Baked Stuffed Chicken or Baked
Stuffed Shrimp or Pasta Primavera (Includes Salad,
Oven Roasted Potato, Vegetable, Dessert, Coffee
or Tea)
Hotel Package for 2 $99 + tax (includes Dinner/
dance hotel accommodations & all you can eat
breakfast) Dinner/Dance for 2 $48 tax included Dance Only $10 ea. includes tax
H otel Reservations by Feb. 1, 1998 - Dinner Reservations by Feb 12, 1998 - A Pride Entertainment
Party Production - Email at RLPEPP

OUT WRITE '98
The 7th national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgendered writers' conference will be held February 20 -22, Friday through Sunday at the Sheraton
Boston H otel & Towers, Boston, MA. Over two
thousand queer writers, activists, booksellers, and
artists descend on Boston to meet and discuss the
issues facing the gay community. There will be
caucuses, panels, conversations, roundtables, exhibits and even a film series.
The 1998 feature artists include: Sarah Shulman,
Thomas Glave, Carmen Vasquez, Donna
Minkowitz, Blanche McCrary Boyd, Robert E.
Penn, Cecilia Tan, Jackie Woodson, Mark Doty,
Rafael Campo, Urvashi Vaid, Leslea Newman,
Michael Branski, Michael Lowenthal, Kenny Fries,
Chris Bram, Mariana Romo-Carmona and many
more.
For more information call (617) 262-6969.

February 1998

fJf!Jlt STATE BY STATE NEWS
co - GAY GROUP PLEDGES $700,000
The Gill Foundation, a Colorado Springs gay and lesbian organization, has pledged
$700,000 to an array of nonprofit groups, positioning it as a major funder of community
programs. The grants will go toward non-gay and lesbian-related issues in the local
community, the foundation said. The purpose: to help a wide variety of people and shatter
stereotypes that gays and lesbians care only about issues related to them.
The Gill Foundation was established in 1994 by software entrepreneur Tim Gill in reaction
to the passage ofAmendment 2, which would have banned civil rights protection on the basis
ofsexual preference. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately struck it down. Gill's Denver-based
Quark Inc. has landed him on the Forbes Fortune 500 list of multimillionaires. He has given more
than $4 million of his own money primarily to support gay and lesbian causes.

FL - ELDERLY GAYS

GAIN SUPPORT

Community organizations say they think there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of people
of gay and lesbian seniors in condominiums and senior centers. This year, the first extensive
program offering them support groups, education sessions and social activities will come to
Palm Beach County through Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service in Boca Raton. A 20member task force is meeting to plan what kind ofservices should be financed through a large
endowment from Shirley H. Gould, of Boca Raton. Gould gave the donation in memory
of her son, who was gay. The family service declined to give the amount.
Isolation, generally a problem among the elderly, hits gay seniors especially hard when they
lose longtime companions. Sometimes the couples have spent a lifetime masquerading as
siblings or friends. The surviving partners are not comfortable in bereavement groups
common in condo communities. Plus, there usually are no children in these relationships.
''Like all older people, they [gay elderly) often are still grounded in the tradition and societal rules of
their time," Rabbi Greg Cantor said. ''It can be more difficult for them to accept themselves."

GA - SUPREME COURT REJECTS APPEAL
A woman who lost a promised job as a lawyer in the Georgia attorney general's office, after
the state attorney general learned that she was planning a marriage ceremony with her lesbian
partner, failed to persuade the Supreme Court to hear her appeal.
The case had been closely watched for several years as a potential vehicle for a new Supreme
Court decision on gay rights. The same Georgia attorney general, Michael Bowers, a
Republican who recently resigned to run for governor, was also a party in the court's 1986
decision, Bowers vs . Hardwick, which rejected a constitutional right to privacy for sex
between consenting adults of the same sex. Bowers withdrew his job offer to Robin Shahar
on the ground that "inaction on my part would constitute tacit approval of this purported
marriage and jeopardize the proper functioning of this office."
Ms. Shahar, who had worked as a summer law clerk in the attorney general's office, brought
a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Atlanta. She contended that the withdrawal of the job offer
violated her constitutional rights to equal protection and to "intimate and expressive
association" as protected by the First Amendment.
She lost in district court, then won a temporary victory from a three-judge appellate panel.
That ruling was then overturned last June by an 8-4 vote of the full 11th U .S. Circuit Court
of Appeals in Atlanta. The majority there said the attorney general's concerns about
"perceived public hostility'' toward same-sex marriages were reasonable and formed a
sufficient basis for his actions.

HA - DOMESTIC-PARTNER

LAw A BusT

When Hawaii became the first state in the country to extend broad rights to domestic
partners in July, the news was trumpeted as a breakthrough for gays and lesbians. Hawaii's
benefits package was the most sweeping ever passed, covering 60 items from medical
insurance to survivorship rights. Unlike efforts in mainland cities, the law applies statewide.
Even non-Hawaii residents are eligible, although benefits take effect only when they are in
the islands.
The state health department braced for a possible onslaught of applicants, estimating that
as many as 20,000 to 30,000 people might sign up. But the new law has turned out to be
a bust. As of Dec. 10, just 296 couples had signed up as "reciprocal beneficiaries," as they
are formally known. Twenty-five are from out of state. Although more than 5,000 people

Page5

T NEWS 6 YIEWS
have obtained applications, that's as far as most have been willing to go.
The law has been mired in uncertainty since it took effect. Several employers
challenged it in court, and a recent decision in the case gutted its boldest
provision: health coverage for the partners of private employees.
The few pioneers who have taken advantage of the law now enjoy
important rights such as hospital visitation, guardianship, joint property
ownership and inheritance. They have been frustrated, however, in
obtaining practical benefits like auto insurance, which the law was
supposed to facilitate. A reciprocal beneficiary relationship can be terminated by one partner without the consent-or even knowledge-of the
other, Rudy notes. Unlike divorce proceedings, the law has no procedures
to ensure that both sides are treated fairly in disposing of property upon
dissolution.

IA - UA OFFERS NEW CIASSES
Issues of sexual orientation are headed to the classroom at the University
oflowa, but don't expect the course work to include components that have
sparked controversy in other parts of the country. The program that will
begin in September, believed to be the first in the state, will focus on the
history of human sexuality: heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality
and cross-gender issues. Iowa's program may also touch on issues such as
sadomasochism and gender identity, Eliason said.
The new certificate program is more than a minor but less than a major,
and allows students to specialize in an area. Students at Iowa who
participate in the curriculum will be required to take four core courses:
Introduction to Sexuality Studies; Sexuality Studies Seminar; Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Identities; and Race, Class and Gender in
Sexual Communities. They will also need to take several elective classes to
complete the 18 semester hours of approved courses required for the certificate.

NC - h's ABOUT HousEs
As gay life here has emerged from the closet, gays have become a soughtafter market. And gay real-estate brokers are using their familiarity with
the gay community to win clients who want an agent who understands
their needs. John Yetter is one of York's top brokers. In 1997, he sold 80
houses with a total value of more than $12 million. He estimated about
10 percent of the sales came from gay buyers. Yetter's success in the gay
community hasn't been lost on his competitors. Brokers at other mainstream firms in the Triangle, for the first time, are seeking gay and lesbian
home buyers in what is a sign of the times - and an indication of fierce
competition among agents in the Triangle's real-estate market.
Brokers and their agents have discovered the Triangle's growing gay
population, according to Front Page publisher Jim Baxter. And Baxter
said he gets calls every week from gays planning to move here. "It used to
be that the gay population migrated to the big cities, and now they're
moving back," Baxter said. "It's gotten to the point where it's a good
market." He said the calls particularly began coming in after the Triangle
was ranked as the best place to live in America in 1994 by Money
Magazine.

NH - GAYS PROTECTED
A new law that grew out of years of contentious debate is expected to
generate only a trickle of action. Starting Jan. 1, New Hampshire's civil
rights law will protect homosexuals in jobs, housing and public places like
restaurants and hotels. The revised civil rights law adds sexual orientation
to existing classifications of age, gender, race, color, ethnic background,
physical or mental disability, marital status, religious or political beliefs.
The law bars discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. It does not protect illegal acts.
New Hampshire is among 11 states that have enacted similar laws. Maine
voters will decide on Feb. 10 whether to keep their gay rights law. The law
was enacted in June and signed by the governor, but opponents collected
signatures to force the referendum ..

February 1998

NY - GMHC FOR REPORTING HIV CASES
The Gay Men's Health Crisis, the nation's leading AIDS service
agency, is reversing its position and calling for New York doctors to
report HIV-positive people to state health departments. The same
practice is used for infectious diseases like syphilis and tuberculosis.
Every state requires doctors to report AIDS cases to public health
officials. But officials in New York and California and many other
states have not required similar reports about patients who have the
AIDS virus but do not have full-blown AIDS. But in a policy
statement, the group said clinical advances and the need for the most
up-to-date information on HIV infection demanded new approaches,
and that system of tracking people with AIDS is no longer an effective
measure of the extent of the epidemic. While the group said that
assuring strong privacy safeguards is as important as ever, it said that
the large numbers of people who are infected but who do not have fullblown AIDS make accurate tracking of HIV cases essential. The
statement does not explicitly oppose reporting names, but instead
urges that coded identification systems be examined. The official
statement by the organization, the most politically and economically
connected group in the world of nonprofit AIDS service, signifies the
collapse of a long-standing consensus by AIDS and civil rights groups
against HIV reporting.
UT - GAY-PROTECTION LAw REPEALED
The Salt Lake City Council repealed a month-old city law Tuesday
night that protected gay city employees from discrimination based on
their sexual orientation. Despite packed council chambers, hundreds
ofphone calls and a few anonymous pleas from gay city employees, the
council voted to scrap the fledgling law.
•
Last month, a different council approved the measure, which prohibited discrimination "against an otherwise qualified employee or applicant based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual
orientation or disability." The four councilmen say they intend to
approve a more generic law that protects all city employees equally,
without separating out classes for prote_ction.
"We will not confuse the repeal of this ordinance with an effort to craft
a better one," said Kyle Tre_adway. "We see this as blatant, meanspirited grandstanding. We can't give up. The fight goes on." When
the crowd rose to its feet in a standing ovation, Councilman Jolley
yelled for police sentries to clear the room. The crowd turned on Jolley,
chanting "shame, shame, shame." He backed down.

VT - COUPLES APPEAL

MARRIAGE
Three same-sex couples suing the state for the legal right to marry have
taken their case to the Vermont Supreme Court. The Middlebury
lawyers for the three couples filed a notice of their intention to appeal.
The lawyers met with Attorney General William Sorrell in a
meeting Sorrell described as cordial. Sorrell's office is opposing the gay
marriage suit, in part on the argument the Legislature did not intend
to recognize same-sex unions when it created the laws surrounding
marriage.
The couples' notice of appeal does not contain the specific grounds for
petitioning the high court, but to one of the suit's plaintiffs, Lois
Farnham of Milton, Vermont's prohibition of gay marriages is the
kind of civil rights issue the nation has seen before. A key part of the
government's argument is that state marriage laws are based on sound
reasoning. If the laws do have this so-called "rational basis," it's easier
for the state to fend off a discrimination claim by a group such as
homosexuals, which has not been deemed a protected class. Last
month, Superior Court Judge Linda Levitt ruled against the couples,
agreeing with a "rational basis" offered by the state-that marriage
between a man and woman furthers the link between procreation and
child rearing.

Page6

T NEWS§ VIEWS
-

NATIONAL NEWS

AIDS DEATHS DROP
AIDS deaths in California dropped an astonishing 60 percent in the
first six months of 1997 - the strongest evidence to date that available
new drugs may be saving thousands oflives. That compares with a 23
percent drop in death rates noted by the federal Centers for Disease
Control, which measured AIDS deaths nationwide between 1995 and
1996. The difference between the new state figures and the older
federal data strongly suggests that the trend toward fewer deaths is
accelerating. The drop-off in death rates coincides with the widespread
use of the newest anti-viral drugs, called protease inhibitors, which are
taken in combination with older AIDS drugs.
Dr. Steve Morin, director of public policy research at UCSF's AIDS
Research Institute, said the availability of the new AIDS drugs varies
dramatically from state to state. "California and New York probably
have the best programs in the country," said Morin. "The worst states
are those with the poorest Medicaid programs," like North Carolina,
Mississippi and Florida.
Amid all the optimism, however, researchers caution that the lifesaving
effects of the protease drugs may not last. There is also a fear that the
good news will diminish the discipline required to maintain the safe sex
practices that helped curtail the spread of the epidemic 15 years ago.
UCSF researcher Coates noted that the drop in death rates coincides
with a time dubbed "the honeymoon period" for protease drugs - a
time before scientists began to note that the virus seemed to be
returning in some patients taking the drugs.

AIDS PATIENT: TREATMENT MIGHT SAVE LIFE
Lawyers for an AIDS patient who is suing the federal government for
the right to take an experimental drug filed a suit claiming that "use of
this drug may prevent the plaintiff's death and may be a springboard
to an AIDS treatment that keeps people from dying." The motion
would allow Cowan to take a goat-derived "neutralizing antibody" that
Tulsan Dr. Gary Davis has developed as a possible tool in the fight
against AIDS. Cowan's attorneys claim that "if (Cowan) does not
receive the antibody it is certain that (he) will die as a result of his
AIDS." In a Dec. 31 hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Bernhardt
asserted that Davis has yet to follow FDA procedures and thus should
be prohibited from testing the substance on a human subject, even a
dying patient who testified that he is willing to face any possible side
effects.
Specifically, Cowan's attorney claims that the legislative history and
judicial interpretation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act
indicate that it should not apply to Cowan's case. This is because the
act regulates the marketing of medical devices, not the practice of
medicine, he claims. Cowan's attorney claims that Davis "is not
attempting to promote, market, advertise or sell the goat neutralizing
antibody for commercial gain. Instead he is merely trying to treat and
heal (Cowan's) terminal condition."

DRESSED TO EXCESS
Ask Janet - not her real name - and she'll tell you there are three
things wrong with life in San Diego if you're a transsexual. "We need
employment protection, we need homeless shelters that will accept
trans gendered people, and we need a repeal of the cross-dressing law."
But for Janet, who says cities like San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Minneapolis, "and all of Europe" have enacted laws to protect transsexuals in
employment and housing, the chief target is a local edict - unique to
San Diego - that singles out cross-dressers. Municipal Code 56.19,
which became law in 1966, prohibits people from "appearing in a

February 1998

public place, or in a place open to public view, in apparel customarily worn
by the opposite sex, with the intent to deceive another person for the
purpose of committing an illegal act." Janet was one of the transsexual
people involved in a recent conference held in Hillcrest's Craftsman Hall
organized by local gay activist Mark Gabrish Conlan.
"I sit before you a criminal," Janet told the San Diego Human Relations
Commission (a body established "to reduce bigotry and prejudice in San
Diego") last May 14. "I can leave this building and be arrested because of
the cut of my clothing. My birth sex is male. This is my voice. This is who
I am. I have characteristics of both genders: more female than male." She
claimed that municipalcode 56.19, though purportedly aimed at transvestite prostitutes, has only been used against male-to-female transvestites of
color. She told the commission that between 1994 and 1996, 27 arrests
were made citing this law. Twenty-two ofthose arrested were Latino, four
African-American, and one Filipino. She claimed police use the law to
harass transsexuals, knowing most cases will never make it to court.
Barbara Warden, fifth district city councilwoman, says she couldn't
believe the cross-dressing law when she first heard ofit. "I really thought
it was a joke. I didn't think it was a real ordinance. I met with San Diego
Police Chief Sanders a week or so later. I thought perhaps [he would tell
me] it was a tool they needed. But it has only been used about 30 times
since 1992. It's a very infrequently used law. I said to Chief Sanders I felt
it was not necessary to have it on the books. It has an interesting vagueness
about it that allows it to be used or abused." Warden thinks most city
councilmembers would have been surprised to discover 56.19 on the
books. Councilmembers Kehoe, Mathis, and Stallings are likely to
support a repeal ofthe law-as long as ChiefSanders agrees. And Sanders,
according to his assistant Victoria Gilner, won't fight a repeal of the law.
In March, Warden is expected to introduce the proposal to the Public
Safety and Neighborhood Service Committee, which she chairs. •

ADVERTISING IN GAY PRESS GROWS
Advertising in gay publications is soaring with an increasing number of
huge companies pitching cars, travel, computers, investments, drugs,
clothing and more. New advertisers in 1997 included IBM, United
Airlines and American Express. Readers of gay newspapers in 10 major
markets have an average individual income of $47,090, according to
Simmons Market Research Bureau. That figure is more than twice the US
per capita income of$18,135 based on Census Bureau figures . Simmons
also found that 94 percent of the more than 735,000 readers studied are
likely to buy a product or service advertised in a gay publication.
"We've been a longtime supporter of the gay community. They in turn are
very supportive ofus," said Miller Brewing spokeswoman Gina Shaffer,
whose company has placed Miller Lite ads in national magazines such as
the Advocate and Out Magazine.
"To reach people you have to reach them in a wide variety of publications
and advertising mediums," said Mark Smith, a spokesman for cigarette
maker Brown & Williamson, which advertises its Lucky Strike brand in
the gay press.
The company's biggest competitor, Philip Morris, also pitches its topselling Marlboro brand, as well as Benson & Hedges and Parliament, in
the gay press. They are among scores of prominent brands from all types
of businesses -including Nike, Blockbuster, HBO, MasterCard, Gucci,
State Farm insurance and Harley-Davidson -on the pages of the nation's
175 gay publications.

NAVY RETREATS ON DISCHARGE
In a last minute surprise, the Navy agreed to delay Senior ChiefTimothy
McV eigh's discharge after McV eigh sued the Secretary of Defense Cohen
and the Secretary of the Navy Dalton, in an attempt to stop his imminent
discharge from the Navy. McVeigh's discharge is based on evidence that

Page 7

T NEWS & VIEWS
privacy experts say the Navy illegally obtained from America Online
(AOL), the nation's largest Internet provider. Online advocates vow
that the fight against the Navy and AOL has only just begun.
Lawyers for McVeigh made a motion for a Temporary Restraining
Order (TRO) against the Defense Department and the Navy in the US
District Court for the District of Columbia. The TRO would prohibit
the Navy from discharging McVeigh pending a full investigation of the
Navy's and AOL's feared violations of the federal Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), and the Navy's repeated and consistent
violations of the President's anti-gay "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.
McVeigh's motion is based on the contention that the Navy solicited and
obtained personal information from America Online without a warrant,
court order, or McVeigh's consent - one of which is required under
federal law and AOL's own Terms of Service.
Online advocates warn of a much larger battle looming, with potentially
serious consequences for the Administration, the Navy, and America
Online. "This lawsuit is the opening salvo of a multi-front war on the US
Navy- the Administration had better get ready for more suits, congressional investigations, and online campaigns," said Aravosis. "AOL had
also better watch out. If the Navy gets away with a cover up, AOL may
be the only one left to blame."
LATINO CAPTURES BILLY
Since arriving in the U.S.,Billy, "The World's First Out-And-Proud Gay
Doll," has been quite a hit with American men. Between his duties with
charity work and socializing, it's amazing he's had time to find a
boyfriend! Billy met Carlos in Miami back in May, when Billy was in
town for his coming out party at a Miami nightspot and Carlos was there
for the weekend. When the two realized that they both lived in New
York, they decided to exchange numbers and meet up again when they
got back home.

Since then, their love affair has blossomed and they've been almost
inseparable, although they still maintain separate residences in Manhattan. One thing is certain: Billy and Carlos are now officially a couple.
They are presently on vacation together in Miami and will fly directly to
San Francisco on August 2nd, where "Vacation Billy'' (with brown
hair!) and "Vacation Carlos," along with New York Carlos, will be
introduced for the first time at The International Gift Fair.
Now that Carlos is formally "on the market'' he will have additional
duties working for Totem International. Both Carlos and Billy will be
extremely busy this fall, but they will get a break for an end-of-the year
vacation. The gay dynamic duo are planning Christmas in Puerto Rico
with Carlos' friends and family, and New Year's Eve in Amsterdam with
Billy's folks. For further information regarding Carlos, Billy and Totem
International's products, please contact Claire O'Connor at 212-2455784.

lmper-ial Court
Valentine~~
~xtr-avaaanza!
The Fairfield Barony of The Imperial Court of Connecticut is hosting a fund raising event on Saturday,
February 14, 1998 at 9:30pm. The event will be held
at the Brook Cafe in Westport. Proceeds will benefit
the Triangle Community Center. Admission is 85
cover at the door.
The event will include performances by Imperial
Court members and a 50/50 rafile. It will also be a
voting party for Fairfield County. Details will be
explained at the event and voting ballots will be
accepted from 11pm to lam.
The Imperial Court is a non-profit organization and
all members are volunteers. The purpose of the
court is to help bl fund raising for the community at
large. Its members are given titles that are similar
to that of a royal court system based upon their fund
raising work.
The Court system is open to all members of the
community to participate in. For additional information about the Valentine's Extravaganza and The
Imperial Court please call 1-800-845-0085 ext. 5333.

~Niq~TOwl

9

Office Services

We're working even
when you're not!
David Dey

, office has come out with a stamp.
~uestiQn fol' Februa:ry-Whatwas the .subject
ofRosa Boµheur's mostfamouspainting? Bonhew:,
a nineteenth century French painter, had a .relationship late,fu her career wit:H a iµuch younger
wom;m.
February 1998

Desktop Publishing
Word Processing
Graphics & Charts
Presentations
Proposals
Book Production
Mass Mailings & Faxing
Electronic File Transfer
MAC & IBM Formats

Owner and Operator
51 Schuyler Avenue, Unit 9D

Stamford, CT 06902

~swertpJanuary- Bugs Bunny- and the.post

OvERNiGln SERviu iN:

Phone/Fax: (203) 359-1469

EMail: NightOwlOS@AOL.COM

CONFUSED? SCARED?
NOWHERE TO TURN?
If you have HIV/AIDS, you don't need to feel like you
are alone. Stamford CARESgives you the support
and attention you require. We are your direct link to
HIV Gare Network. Complete confidentiality assured.
Serving Stamford, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan.
Call 977-5096 to speak to a Care Coordinator today.
We're here to help - because we care.
Page8

T NEWS & VIEWS
WORLDWIDE NEWS
BRITAIN - GAY BATHHOUSES OPEN
Gay bathhouses, where homosexual males can meet new partners, are
booming in Britain as the fear of AIDS recedes in a newly self-confident
community. The bathhouses began in San Francisco in the sexually
liberated 1970s, but a decade later the establishments were closed by
health officials because they were blamed for spreading HIV. In Britain,
there has been a spate of openings of well-equipped, expensive all-male
health clubs and spas, the biggest involving a million dollar investment
to recreate the hedonistic atmosphere of the baths in Ancient Rome.
Health experts fear that a premature "post-AIDS euphoria" is making
young people complacent about protecting themselves from HIV by
using condoms. The figures for sexually transmitted diseases, which fell
sharply during the earJy 1990s when "safer sex'' became the norm for
casual relationships, have risen by 17 per cent in men and 13 per cent in
women in a year.
There are now 11 saunas for gays in London, more than in San
Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Amsterdam and Sydney combined,
according to international guides for homosexual travelers. Brighton
and Manchester also have a thriving bathhouse scene. The London
Tourist Board is promoting the capital as a welcoming holiday destination for wealthy American ·gays.

BRITAIN - LONDON WANTS MORE GAYS
The London Tourist Board said it has launched a special "pink"
telephone information hotline as part of a major campaign to attract
more gay and lesbian tourists to the British capital. The $98,000
campaign will begin in the United States, targeting gay urban professionals aged between 30 and 50 in cities such as New York. It will
promote London as a cosmopolitan destination with a wide range of
cultural and entertainment activities of interest to gays.
"We know that London is probably commercially the largest gay scene
in Europe and the value of the gay tourism market to the city is estimated
at nearly one billion pounds ($1.48 billion)," said LTB official Helen
Jones. She said London wanted to build on its reputation as a gayfriendly city .which already attracts huge numbers of gay and lesbian
tourists.

extinguishers positioned under the colonnades. The police spokesman
said Ormando had burns on 90 percent of his body.
The protest was staged a week after a 66-year-old volunteer usher for
Pope John Paul was found murdered in his Rome apartment in the latest
of a series of gay-related killings in the Italian capital. Nineteen gay men
have been murdered in their homes since 1990. No arrests have so far
been made. Gay groups believe at least some of the deaths may have been
caused by a serial killer and have called on the government to launch a
national campaign to combat what they call anti-gay attitudes and
homophobia in Italy.

NETHERLANDS - DUTCH SWEETHEARTS WED
Childhood sweethearts Irma van Praag and Anna Kreuger have become
the Netherlands' first lesbian couple to wed. The women, both 38,
married under new Dutch laws effective from Jan. 1 which extend full
marriage rights apart from joint adoption to same-sex couples. Officially
known as a "Registration of Partnership," the new legislation offers
same-sex couples all the rights enjoyed by straight couples, barring joint
adoption. Dutch members of parliament have already voted by a
comfortable majority to remove this last barrier and gay rights campaigners are optimistic it could be on the statute books before long.
Three male couples have already married under the new act. At least 100
gay weddings are planned in the Netherlands this year, according to
Dutch magazine Gay Krant.

VENEZUELA - GAYS BANNED IN MILITARY
Venezuela plans to sign up 40,000 new troops in 1998, but homosexuals
are formally barred from the military and women remain locked out for
now. Venezuela currently requires all 18-year-olds to do a compulsory
military stint. Homosexuality however currently is grounds for deferring one's draft call-up indefinitely.
General Ortega compared Venezuela's case to that of the United States,
which with its "Don't ask, don't tell" policy allows gays in the military
as long as they do not make their sexual orientation public. "In
Venezuela we have a society that is quite different from U.S. society,"
Ortega said. "I see it as pretty far off for the armed forces here to make
that kind of decision" publicly.

CAYMANS - GAY BAN
A leading US gay rights group said that it would press the British
government to intercede in the Cayman Islands' refusal to allow a ship
chartered by gay vacationers to dock. The government of the Caymans,
a tourist-dependent British territory in the western Caribbean, issued a
statement that said it "regrets any inconvenience" the decision had
caused, but it stopped short of an apology. Human Rights Campaign,
a Washington D.C.-based gay and lesbian rights organization said the
statement did not explain what it called a "discriminatory act'' and
warned of a possible tourism boycott.
The Caymans minister of tourism, commerce and transport, Thomas
Jefferson, sent a letter last month to Norwegian Cruise Line in Miami
saying his government had decided not to allow the cruise ship Leeward
to stop at Grand Cayman on Feb 1. Atlantis Events Inc., a gay tour
operator in West Hollywood, Calif., chartered the vessel for 900 men
and a few women with stops in the Caymans, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
"Careful research and prior experience has led us to conclude that we
cannot count on the group to hold the standards ofappropriate behavior
expected of visitors to the Cayman Islands, so we regrettably cannot
offer our hospitality," Jefferson wrote.

P-FLAG

SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS AT

TCC

"Big" Monthly Meeting: Every 1st Wednesday, 7:45
Spouses and Ex Spouses group: Every 3rd Thurs. 7:30

Dont forget to check out the TtJC web page:
h ://members.aol.com.tcccenter/index.html

Triangle community centery
NOrwalk, CT

• •••• -w.y.-.,.,,..,o.-c-..v · If · · ·
ScMftl lie lenl..... ~ -1111v .............,. c....dlwl
La,t updal, 03/22197

ITALY - GAY MAN SETS HIMSELF ON FIRE
A Sicilian man, opposed to the Vatican's ban on homosexual relations,
set himself on fire in St Peter's Square and attempted to rush towards the
basilica's entrance, police said. Alfredo Ormando, 39, from Palermo
doused himself with petrol and set himself alight as he stood near the
Bernini colonnades around the square and steps leading to the St Peter's
basilica. Ormando, his body ablaze, then began to run towards the main
portals of the 16th century basilica but fell unconscious before reaching
the entrance, Italian news agencies said. He is in serious condition in the
hospital. Police in the square doused the flames with one of the fire

February 1998

On tlur P"&e:

■ \\'elcomc t.o lhe Trbtngle Community Center

• Who Are We? • Groups dud Meet at the Center• ('onmRmiry EvtW • Rf'lourcc Room• Monthly Ntw~lctter •

H2~.!2.fi.!ld_JJ§ • ~t£..Ofil!P.&.1.Mmm.t.r.
On otlur pl'IJa:

mllc,aterCal,■..,lll1cc tfnnf Vff'!'I-Wllat's Happenly?
= ~ I Z ) PolltJul AcU.. ■ 1,1t.r,,et Link•
Phone or fax (203) 8'3-0600 or e-mail

ii TCCerur@aol

com.

ltl
.---

Page9

T ~EWS & VIEWS
OTHER AREA GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Bare & Gay (B&G) gay nudists
Bisexually Curious Support Group Bpt
Chiltern Mountain Club
Connecticut Kids and Families
Connecticut Freedom to Marry Coalition
40-Up Club.(Social Grp.-call Dale before 10pm)
Gay Fathers Group
Gay Mens Association of Danbury
GEMS (Mature GLBT)
Guideline (gay/lesbian phone info)
Hartford Community Center
Married Men's Bisexual Suppt Grp Htfd
Metropolitan Community Church
The Loft, White Plains NY,
Triangle Bowling League
Triangle Kids
Western Connecticut Gay Men's Group

(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(860)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(914)
(203)
(203)
(203)
(203)

330-9595
264-5605
899-0270
256-8414
791-9553
261-4019
866-7051
778-7016
688-1881
366-3734
724 5542
262-1555
389-6750
948-4922
931-8789
25 5-6229
323-6278
773-9947

We're glad to list your non-profit gay/!esbian/bi/tg group free of charge.
Call (203) 964-1133. Please keep us informed of changes.

THE GAY GOURMET

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH RASPBERRIES

4

SKINLESS, BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST
HALVES

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
P.O.BOX 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855
Tel/Fax: (203) 853-0600
e-mail TCCenter@aol.com
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DON BUXTON ............................... President
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Vice-President
BARB SCHADE ........................ ...... Treasurer
LEN HOREY ........................ ..... .. .... Corresponding Secretary
DA VE CARROLL ........................ ... Acting Recording Sec'y
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DON BUXTON ........................................ ... (203) 762-9964
DENYSE BURKE ................ ....................... (203) 367-391 I
DAVID CARROLL .... .. .......................... ..... (203) 838-188 I
JOHN DEL VECCHIO ................. ............... (203) 334-3822
LEN HOREY ............................ ........... ........ (203) 925-0366
BARB SCHADE .... ..................... ............ ..... (203) 259-8 I 7 I
MICHELE STONE ...................................... (203) 964-1133
JOHN WALLACE ....... ................................ (203) 261-7349
STANDING COMMITTEES
AIDS Liaison
Tom M
Board Development ,
Vacant
Communications
John D
-Public Relations
Mike C
Finance
John W
Fundraising/Sp Events
Michael P
Membership
Denyse B
-Member Database
Marianne S
Operations
Cindy M
(and to schedule events at the Center)
Program
Dave C
-Resource Room
.Walter D
--Center Forums
Marianne S
Volunteer
Vacant

374-6934
334-3822
375-3567
261-7349
866-6993
367-391 I
222-8294
595-9799
838-1881
374-6934
222-8294

COURSE GROUND PEPPER TO TASTE

3 TBSP BUTTER
1/4 TSP RASPBERRY
1 CUP CHICKEN

VINEGAR

STOCK

3 TBSP RASPBERRY BRANDY
1/2 PINT RASPBERRIES
POUND CHICKEN BREASTS UNTIL THIN.
SEASON WITH PEPPER. IN LARGE FRYING
PAN MELT HALF THE BUTTER OVER
MEDIUM HEAT. ADD THE CHICKEN
BREASTS AND COOK

3

MINUTES EACH

wARM. ADD
AND BOIL 2

9{,'EWS & 'V1'EWS
Is published monthly by
Triangle Community Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 4062, East Norwalk, CT 06855.
NEWS & VIEWS encourages its readers to submit materials of interest
to our community, including short articles, letters to the editor, etc. We
cannot respond to, or publish, anonymous letters. We reserve the right
to edit or condense as appropriate to meet space requirements. Authors
will be contacted if major revisions are necessary. Please submit to :
NEWS&VIEWS
Michele Stone: Editor & Advertising. Manager. John Delvecchio: Asst Editor
P.O. Box 8185
Phone: 203-334-3822
Stamford, CT 06905
Mike Collins: Publicity
Phone/Fax 964-1133
Phone: 203-375-3567
e-mail: NewsViews2@aol.com

SIDE. REMOVE AND KEEP

FOR ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT MICHELE STONE:

VINEGAR TO THE PAN

Ads must be camera-ready. If your ad is not camera ready or you
need help with its layout or design, contact Michele Stone
BEFORE submission. Inserts and special sizes upon prior
agreement All ads are placed on a space available basis.

MINUTES. ADD THE STOCK AND BRANDY,

BOIL ABOUT

5

MINUTES. ADD REMAINING

BUTTER AND THE RASPBERRIES. STIR AND
POUR OVER CHICKEN.

February 1998

The publication of the name of any person or organization in articles or ads in NEWS & VIEWS is
not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such
organizations.
The appearance of advertisements in NEWS & VIEWS does not imply nor constitute endorsement
by TCC,lnc. The views expressed in this NEWS & VIEWS are not necessarily those ofTCC, Inc.
Copyright 1997 by Triangle Community Center, Inc. All rights resetved. This work, or any parts
thereof, may not be used or reproduced in any manner without written pennission.

Page 10

Property of the Center

T NEWS & VIEWS

Q1lassifi£o

I

-

First Church

Congregational

House share. Two professional women seek
same. Basement room with private bath. Near
town, railroad, beach. Available March 1.
$450 plus 1/3 utilities. No smoking or pets.
Call (203) 227-6400.

An Open And Affinning Church
148 BEACH ROAD
FAIRFIELD, CT

DO YOU SING?
JOIN IN A GREAT CHOIR WITH PROFl!SSIONAL
SECTION LIEADIRS AND fo't;N, TALENTED
WEU.'OMING MIEMBEU. SUNDAY ANTHEMS
RANGI FROM THE IJTH CENT\IRY TO THE PRESENT.
SUNDAY Slli:RVICIS ARE AT 10:• AM
CHOIR REHEARSALS AR£ THlJRSDAH

AT1:ltPMANDSUNDAYSATt:15AM
CHILDCARE IS PROVIDED AT THE t:15 REHEARSAL

CALL HEATHER A. HAMILTON
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
(203) 259-8.196

St. Paul's Episcopal Church
60 East Avenue, Norwalk
(Across from the Green)

An inclusive, welcoming, affirming community
Solemn Eucharist• Sundays at 10:15 AM

Come, experience splendid music and
traditional liturgy, the smell of incense
and the sight of flickering candles, in the
lovely architectural setting of a13th Century
English Gothic Church.
JOIN US FOR OUR CHRISTMAS EVE
•
SEVICE AT 10:30 PM
Office: (203) 847-2806
February 1998

NEWS SOURCES
Advertising in Gay Press Grows
Los Angeles Times, January 13, 1998
AIDS Healthcare Foundation Joins WWW
Business Wire, January 16, 1998
AIDS Patient: Treatment Might Save Life
Tulsa World, January 7, 1998
AIDS Deaths Drop
San Francisco Chronicle, January 9, 1998
Britain Opens Gay Bathhouses
The (London) Times, January 17, 1998
Council Repeals Gay-Protection Law
Salt Lake Tribune, January 14, 1998
Cruiser 6.0 'Comes Out'
PRNewswire, January 5, 1998 ,
Dressed to Excess
San Diego Reader, January 15, 1998
Dutch Sweethearts First To Wed
Reuters, January 14, 1998
Gay Ban of Caymans
Boston Globe, January 10, 1998
Gay Man Sets Himself on Fire
Reuters, January 13, 1998

GMHC to Call for Reporting HIV Cases
New York Times, January 13, 1998
London Wants More Gays
Reuters, January 15, 1998
TCC Celebrates 7th Year
Norwalk Hour, January 12, 1998
Venezuela - Gays Banned in Military
Agence France-Presse 11th January, 1998.
CO - Gay Group Pledges $700,000
Colorado Springs Gazette, January 9, 1998
GA - Supreme Court Rejects Appeal
NewYorkTimes,January 13, 1998
HA- Domestic-Partner Law a Bust
Los Angeles Times, December 23, 1997
IA - UA Offers New Classes
Sioux City Journal, December 30, 1997
FL - Elderly Gays Gain Support
Sun-Sentinel, January 3, 1998
NC - It's About Houses
News & Observer, January 10, 1998
VT - Couples Appeal Marriage
Burlington Free Press

Restaurant
L'Abbee
"Excellent" ... New York Times
Fine Dining in a friendly and relaxed
atmosphere with a menu that truly
expresses the Art of the kitchen
by Chef Kimberly Robbins.

utifully prese
lawlessly serv
Your Hosts: Paul L' Ahhee
Bill Johnson
: 62 Main Street
• New Canaan, CT

(203) 972-6181
Page II

KIM 1220 (203) 937-5669
BARB CERINO (203) 922-0082

NICHOLAS LANG, Ph.D., N.C.C.
Providing Affordable
Counseling & Psychotherapy Services
Specializing in Sexual Orientation
Loss, Relationships, & HIV-related Issues

Specializing in decorative
painting and wallpapering

Fully Insured

Interior/Exterior

'iKStep/Janie's Living Rooni, Inc.

Prasanting quality dances for woman who do not hka
the bar scene ... Come and meeJ new friends.

March Dance
Sat. March 7, 8 pm $10
Ramada Inn, Stratford, CT
I-95 North, Exit 30

For more information call: (203) 377-2119

Massage Uonnection
• Specializing in professional Swedish
massage

New Haven Office
200 Orchard St.
(203) 789-0560, Ext. 4

Wilton Office
387 Danbury Rd.
(203) 847-1094

PAUL D. SCHNEIDER
Attorney at Law
PO Box 451
Southport, CT 06490-0451
203/255-5520
Adoption
Child Custody Divorce
Partnership Agreements

Our Families Matter

THRESHOLDMORTGAGE COMPANY
PATRICK WINTERS
LOAN OFFICER
THRESHOLD MORTGAGE

• By appointment only - Day or evening
• Student discounts available
• Home visits available

1-800-611-6041
Office located in the New Haven area

~ MEMBER OF THE
~ INTERNALTIONAL
JI MASSAGE ASSO-

l ,..

. . . . . CIATION

February 1998

COMPANY
THRESHOLD COMMON

59 W1L TON

ROAD

WESTPORT, CT

06880

(203) 454-0525
TOLL FREE (800) 562-5577
FAX (203) 454-0069
HOME (203) 256-5951
EMAIL pkw@thresholdmtg .com
OFFICE

• Specializing in resid1mtial home mortgages in Fairfield County
• Capabhi or handling all loan scenario's from a$60,000 condo in
Stamford to a$1,000,000 home in Greenwich
• Consistent top producing loan omcer for over ten years with a
wealth or knowledg11 and experi11nce

In 1.9.95, fhresho/tlHortgage was titetl as the top protlucin!fmot1!fa!fe
companJharing closet!orer J/?5,000, 000 in loans in fairlie/tl r:ountJ
Page 12

T ~EWS & VIEWS
Horticultural Botanist
Gardener & House I Pet Sitter

~

(203) 256-4565
(800) 628-7209
FAX: (203) 256-1759
jnemis@aol.com

Donald J. Comes

JOANN ATTWOOD NEMIS

(203) 866-2823

VICE PRESIDENT / INVESTMENTS

JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT, INC.

30 '.Ilerney Street

MEMBERS NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE AND OTHER PRINCIPAL EXCHANGES

Norwalk, CT 06851

2150 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD , CT 06430

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Specializing in:

Weddings • Comittment Cefebiations
and "Coming-Out" PaHies

KURT SPERLING,L.C.S.W.

76 Lake Avenue • Danbury, CT 06810

Tel: 730-1400 • Fax: 798-9611

Joan W. Duncan, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
188 Scribner Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
Tel/Fax(203)854-4805

225 MAIN

STREET,

LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

LEADING
HOMES.

1B

THE BUYERS REAL EsTATE COMPANY

MICHAEL T. PAVLICIN

REALTOR"

772 KINGS HIGHWAY WEST

ExCWSIVE BUYER AGENT

BROKER

SOUTHPORT, CONNECTICUT 06490
F AX/255-3705 HOM E/866-6993

Specializing in Women & Couples

203/255-2278

leadhome3@aol.com

VICTORIA

T.

FERRARA

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Laura L. Gates, MSW, LCSW

(203) 227-9585

Individuals, Couples, and Families

White Plains. NY
(203) 386-1725

February 1998

Stratford. CT
(203) 386-1725

WESTPORT, CT
ADMIITED .IN CT AND NY

Page 13

~If

un,vi1ii\(l~il liil'llill [llf111·~11111'![1\lllmll 1111 •

TNEWS&VIE~

Property of the Center

M 001 111 373

Support our advertisers!
Say you saw it in News & Views!

-~~---------=,-----~

~-----------------=----"----~

.

Michelle C. Loris, Psy.D . .

' .

.

t ,.'

, Li0'

Individual, Couple and Group Therapy

Street. Stamford.
lephone: 203~348·98

(203) 255-2767
By Appointment

Ct. Lie. MFT

2 Night Package

$249°

0

-

~QUITAB_!:E • Bryan Costello
.1/Qmh,Jr of too (;/obnl

per person double occupancy

.I.D.Gl.wl.a.i: Accommodations, Meals,
Tax and Tip Nol lncJuded

Fur More lnformat1tH1 & Rese1v;.ilwns C..tU

1-800-922-3498

\

MICHAEL

J.

\

TAYLOR, LMT

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE • CT,

440

'

MAIN STREET • RIDGEFIELI),

NY LICENSED

(iro,,p

212 • 382• 5176

Investments
Pensions
Insurance

Parties, Enlertalnmanl & Activities
,Wuwd EnterJatoment I.D.C.lu.d.u:
"Those Funny Gay Males"
Jalla Cohen & Danny McWllllams
Singer ic Jeanne MacDonald

II

Tflt1 abwe-lllJltU.d individuals art1 registered represenllJJire• uf EQ Financial
Consulk:IIIS, Im:, (212 641-73()()), o brourldt!akr olld invntmenl ad'linr, and Ql:Mts
o/Tlu Equitable l.ift1 A.,surance Sacuty ofche Unikd SJaus (NY, NY 10104). Tiu
abo,e-name,I tirdividual abo off,rs tradiliotuJJ attd vorlable Insurance attd anttu/Jus
of EquiJabu, and l>/ over fifty tlllltr companies lhrt1M1h EquiSource.
AGE-97-581 Exp.(6/98)

CALL FOR SINGERS
St. Paul's Episcopal Church,
Norwalk
Splendid Repertoire of Traditional Music
Welcoming and Inclusive Congregation
For additional information or auditions call:
Bill Voetberg, Music Director, (203) 847-7250

CT 06877 • 203-431-8278

Terry Barrett
Handywoman Home Repair
Careful and Competent
No Job Too Small

(203) 846-4569

Jane

wAttorney-at-Law
Griffith, JD, MBA

Tax Strategy & Preparation • Real Estate
Estate Planning & Wills • Business Consulting
270AldenAvenue, New Haven, CI'06515-2114

Fax 205 / 587-9899

Voice 205 I 58~8614

WHERE ARE WE? The Triangle Community Center Inc. is located at 25 Van Zant Street in Norwalk.
From 1-95, take Exit 16 and go south (from Stamford, turn right; from New Haven, turn left). Continue
south under the railroad bridge and turn right on Van Zant St. (Route 136). 25 Van Zant is a large
condominium office building on the right. TCC is in Suite 7-C on the ground floor, Tel. (203) 853-0600.
February 1998

Page 15

T NEWS & VIEWS
Maria C. Castillo, MSW, LCSW
Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy
Recovery from Abuse

Bilingual

(203) 261-3492
Monroe.CT

(203) 336-2708
Bridgeport, CT

AIDIS
FAX (203)744•1139

Three detades of GAY travel expertise

U"i:J1I\

MID-FAIRFIELD AIDS PROJECT

Serving the needs of the HIV/AIDS community
with all HIV related services including: Care
Management, Housing, Medical Advocacy,
Vocational Rehabilitation, Financial Assistance,
Counseling, and much much more.

CALL US AND WE WILL HELP!

_111E_4_6_~-ill-;.,,,VFt-in_R_~-~---Do-nb_ury_._CT_06_8_11-*

(203)778•9399

MFAP

~RSVP

Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project
. 16 River Street
Norwalk, Connecticut 06850
Phone: (203) 855-9535
Fax: (203) 855-1531
Internet: http://www.mfap.com
E-Mail: infor@mfap.com

Diane Hyatt, MSW, CISW
JOANNE M. MARINO, C.C.M.H.C., N.C.C.
PSYCHOTHERAPIST

T Solution-oriented short or longer tenn
psychotherapy for Adults and Adolescents,
specializing in, but not limited to:

49 Coolidge Avenue

21 STRICKLAND RD., COS COB, CONN . 06807 (203) 869-0216

JOSEPH H. SWEENEY, CPA

T Depression
"I' Anxiety
"I' Post-Traumatic Stress
T Cowiseling for Partners & Family
1653 Capitol Avenue "I' Specialized Psychotherapy Groups
Bridgeport. CT 06606 "I' Case Consultation
(203) 332-0136
T Clinical Supervision

Stamford, CT 06906
(203) 964-184 7

ATTORNEY-AT LAW

1305 POST ROAD, FAIRFIELD
203/256-3839

SAUGATUCK COUNSELING CENTER

Individual, Couple, Family & Group Therapy

Tax Planning, Preparation & Appeals;
Estates & Trusts, Probate Matters,
Real Estate Law; Elder Law; and

JOHANNA RAYMAN

Small Business Formations and Assistance

M.S. W, L.C.S.W

Support our advertisers! Say
you saw it in News & Views!
February 1998

225 MAIN STREET, LLl • WESTPORT, CT 06880 • 203.454.1549

Page 14

Calendar

February, 1998

Sun

Mon

I
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

2
Women's Rap 7:30

8

9

Tues
3
Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7:30

5
Men's Rap 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

IO

II

AA 9-10 am
Women's Rap 7:30
OutSpoken 4-6
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am
G & L Film Festival,
Hartford, 2:30

TCC Board 7:30
Sex Panic Forum 7:30

BiRapGrp7:30

17

15

16

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

22
AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

23

24

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Thu

Wed
4
P-FLAG7:45

Fri
6
Bowling 9:00
Circle Lanes
G Moasic 7:30

Sat
7
Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

13

14

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

Friendraiser, 5-8 pm
Imperial Court, Brook,
9:30 pm
Women Outdoors Hike
II am

18

19

20

21

P-FLAG7:45

Men's Rap 7:30
P-FLAG Spouses & ExSpouses 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
G Mosaic 7:30

Women Outdoors Potlud
5:00

25

26

27

28

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's)7:00

Women Outdoors Skiing
II am

I

2

3

4

5

6

7

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

Women's Rap 7:30

Lesbian Lit 7:30
Fund Raising 7 :30

P-FLAG7 :45

Men's Rap 7:30

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Men in Mts. Weekend

Men in Mts . Weekend

8

9

IO

II

14

Women's Rap 7:30

TCC Board 7:30

Bi Rap Grp 7:30

12
Men's Rap 7:30

13

AA 9-10 am
OutSpoken 4-6

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
GROUPS MEETING AT OR SPONSORED svTCC
A.A. - Don 762-9964
Bi Rap Group - Peter 838-2806;Robin 358-8391
35+ Womens Pot Luck - Judy 227-7162
Free Association of Fairfield County - John 268-8858 x304
Gay Men's Rap Group - Dave 838-1881; John 261-7349
Gmosaic (People of Color) - not currently active call TCC 853-0600
Lesbian Literature Reading Group - Christine, 847-8476
Out & About (20's & 30's) - Jen 736-6417 or Dan 838-2367
Outspoken (Youth)- Barb 259-8171; Dan 227-1755;
Doug 838-2367
•
P-FLAG (Parents, Faroilies and Friends of Lesbians & Gays) Joan 544-8724; Lester 322-5380; Belinda 855-1203
P-FLAG Spouses & Ex Spouses Group - Joan 544-8724
Triangle Bowling League (Circle Lanes, Fairfield) - Lisa 3333113; Roseann 931-8789
Women's Rap Group - Chandra 228-8652; Linda 866-4598;
Michele 438-4465
All meetings are held at the Center and in the evening unless
otherwise noted . A $3 donation per person is appreciated with
your participation in activities to help support the Center.

February 1998

T

Bowling 9:30
Circle Lanes
Out & About (20's &
30's) 7:00

MEMBERSHIP FORM

MEMBERSHIP LISTS ARE CONFIDENTIAL
NAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
CnY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE _ _ __

ZIP----

PHONE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

CONTRIBUTING MEMBER
CONTRIBUTING HOUSEHOLD
SUPPORTING MEMBER
SPONSORING MEMBER
SusTAINING/Bus1NEss MEMBER
SPECIAL MEMBER (Yourn/SENIOR)

$35
$60
$125
$250
$500
$20

PLEASE MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

P.O. Box 4062
06855 ATTN: MEMBERSHIP
(203) 853-0600

TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.
EAST NORWALK, CT

Page 16