It has been utterly too hot to blog.  Actually, I've spent the past three days staffing an exhibit my organization has had at a local conference so I've been tucked in the basement of the William Penn Hotel starved for sunshine, companionship and affordable food.  I have, however, had a laptop and wirless card but the lack of fresh air rendered me unable to string together a coherent thought.  Tomorrow is my last day. 

Here's something interesting ...

Those extremely cool CodePink women (and some men, too) will show up at the Dixie Chicks concert this Saturday, July 22, 2006 to support Marnie, Emily and Natalie.  

Who is CODEPINK?  

Just another reason I can't wait for the concert!!!!!!!! 

Last night for the first time,  we visited one of our new favorite North Side eateries - Roxolana's Garden on Western Avenue -- just a block away from True actually.  The food was very good and the pastries were out of the world. 

We read about this restaurant earlier in the year in the Post-Gazette and had never made time to try it out.   Oh, what we've been missing all these months.  Right in our own back yard.

First, I have to say that the owner's children are two of the nicest, most well-mannered young people I have met in a long time.  In a time honored family business tradition, Ivan and Roxolana were pressed into service at the restaurant and both handled it with grace and aplomb.  Roxolana was our server and she was delightful, being very blunt when she didn't have an answer for our questions.  I liked that.  :-)  When we left, Ivan was taking a break on the front stoop, but still took the time to wish us a good evening. 

That's the kind of good customer service that brings people back to a restaurant.  There is many a grown adult server and manager in Pittsburgh that could learn a thing or two from Irene and her children.

We tried potato pancakes as an appetizer and they were delicious. I had asparagus strudel that was light and tasty, filled with mushroom and nicely cooked asparagus.  Ledcat went right for the good stuff and ordered pyrohi (piergoie) which were out of this world  - they have four flavors including cherry!

Then we sampled a few cookies for dessert.  Oh my!  The kolachi was delish and we tried some cinnamon roll cookies ... this is a great place to stop for a cup of coffee, cappucino or expresso and sample a homemade treat.  They also serve breakfast beginning at 6 AM which is a welcome addition to the North Side as breakfast in a non-smoking environment is hard to come by.  There's a nice patio.

The menu features a range of traditional (non-Ukraianian) lunch items including burgers and sandwiches.  Roxolana's has a bit of everything and is a great addition to the North Side. 

Is Roxolana's gay friendly? Ledcat and I try very hard to patronize small businesses as frequently as possible, both LGBTQ and non-gay.  A lot of our support comes from small business owners who recognize that our community is a viable market and come to know us as individual gay customers, rather than the "GAY" community.  We don't usually ask our restauranteurs about the attitudes toward homosexuality, but look for indicators of their openness and beliefs.  When we reviewed Cambod-ican Kitchen, they laminated it and posted in their restaurant as well as putting a link on their website. We go there all the time and have dragged all sorts of friends and family along with us to spend their money in this obviously LGBTQ friendly restaurant.

The North Side is teeming with middle and upper middle class homosexuals so I'd assume an astute business owner would welcome this crowd even if they don't drape their front door with rainbow flags.  I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt.

Last night, we caught the pre-opening night of a new multimedia art exhibit examining the juxtaposition of strength and vulnerability through nudity.  It is called "Industrially Nude" and its curated by our friend (and all around very cool chic) Stephanie down at The Headquarters on Carson Street.  The Headquarters gallery apparently is how the mighty whites at the South Side Works are trying to engage young people.  That in itself is a juxtaposition for another post ...

The show was very cool.  Some of the art was simply lovely, others rather disturbing in that way that makes you really think for a moment (or perhaps longer).  One of our local favorites, Vanessa German of 3rive, submitted pieces featuring local members of a queer art collective sharing their unique thoughts on vulnerability.   Those photos were especially moving to me because I've met those people.  They weren't disembodied representations of abstract ideals or unknown models stepping into a pose.  Rather than a concept laid on top of a model, the fusion of strength and vulnerability practically jumped off the photograph.  At least to me.  I had that immediate reaction of "damn, s/he looks good" combined with awe that they have the confidence to put themselves out there.  And I don't just mean posing nude b/c its all wrapped up in the amazing activism and artistry of these women and men. 

After viewing Vanessa's pieces, I went back to look at the others with fresh eyes.  I wish I had written down the artist of these lush lyrical paintings which would look awesome in our living room (but not so much in our bank account).

(I hate reviewing art shows b/c I have not a whit of artistic sensibility so I cannot comment on line, color, form, shadow, pungency or whatever else I'm supposed to mention.  I'm just going with my gut reaction and using some of my favorite words).

So the show was good and you can catch it (opening night is tonight).

But the best part was a performance by our definite favorite spoken word burlesque group 3rive (pronounced thrive).  I cannot find a website or myspace for them unfortunately.

3rive: (thrive): v., n. politically passionate spoken word performance burlesque inspired by the force of movement, language and the fierce desire to ignite and inspite empowerment and change.

They do these amazing pieces about personal empowerment, politics and anything you can imagine.  Its a lush, jaw dropping show because you just don't see women reveling in their sexuality while they call out political oppression.   I've seen them three times and I'll keep going b/c they inspire me.  And that, I suspect, is what they set out to do. 

3rive will be performing at Homo A Go Go in Washington, opening for Amy Ray.  Woo hoo!

Now for some random observations -- the crowd was mixed, but I was suprised at how many frat boys and clackers were there.  I was disappointed when they made disparaging comments about the show, the nudity and the homos in attendance -- who on earth invited these people?  Was it the free Ritz crackers and Pabst Blue Ribbon?  They just sort of appeared.   But the most offensive thing to me was the clackers who laughed along when their Duke-wanna be male friends made demeaning comments about women's bodies.  I thought briefly about using their pointy toed fake Mahnolas to beat some self-respect into the women, but then realized that if awesome photos of Colelea and Becca Cooper couldn't reach them it was doubtful that a raging middle aged dyke could do so.

I was also very annoyed by a snippy lesbian who objected when I wanted to simply put my drink down at her table.  Or rather the unused portion of the table where she was standing.  She gave me a once over sneer that infuriated Ledcat.  Then I saw her do it to another woman.  What the fuck is that about?  Its an art gallery -- people will bump into you, you mingle, you talk, you discuss the art, you even occasionally exchange an air kiss.  People can be so annoying.  Whatever.

Industrially Nude Art Reception

The Headquarters 2629 E. Carson Street

Friday July 14   8 PM

Free Admission!

OK, this lady I don't get.  Helen Gricks of Ross, a self-described Republican and Evangelical Christian, writes to the Post-Gazette about  her decision not to attend the upcoming Dixie Chicks concert in Pittsburgh. 

 My son and I would like nothing more than to go to the upcoming concert, especially with so many great seats still available. However, I don't want to go to a political rally, and I'm afraid that it will turn into one. I don't agree with their politics, but I do like the music. That's why people are buying the CD but not concert tickets.

To catch you up, the Chicks are coming to Pittsburgh at the end of the month (we have tickets!) and ticket sales have been reportedly slow.  

What's interesting about Helen's perspective is that she basically wants the Chicks to perform for her, to entertain her but not bother her with those pesky politics of theirs.  I'm guessing Helen hasn't really LISTENED to the new album (or bothered to read the liner notes) or she might note a striking parallel with the second stanza to "Not Ready to Make Nice"

I made by bed, and I sleep like a baby,
With no regrets and I don't mind saying,
It's a sad sad story
That a mother will teach her daughter
that she ought to hate a perfect stranger.
And how in the world
Can the words that I said
Send somebody so over the edge
That they'd write me a letter
Saying that I better shut up and sing

Or my life will be over

It seems to be that Helen wants the same thing --- shut up and sing for crying out loud.  Yes, Helen wants the Chicks to crawl back into the nice comfortable "girl-singer" mode so they can entertain the men without creating all that stupid thinking and whatnot.  More precisely, Helen wants them to shut and sing so SHE can remain in her little delusional land where Jesus and W have got her back. 

If some right-wing loonie hypocrite like Toby Keith comes to town, wraps himself up in the flag he won't enlist to defend, and sings about killing Saddam Hussein ... will you object to him being "political" Helen? 

But wait ... here's the really interesting part .... guess who is an old college buddy of Helen?   That would be US Representative Melissa Hart.  And the right-wing apologist herself, Ruth Ann Dailey,  wrote a fawning column about Grick and her home-schooling buddies hanging out with Melissa ("Missy"). 

If I do decide to go, I will wear a T-shirt that says: "I love Jesus, W and The Chicks!"

Well, guess what Helen?  Unlike your buddy Malicious Hart, the Dixie Chicks want you to have the freedom to wear that T-shirt.  They believe that the Constitution of the United States protects your freedom to dissent and that the First Amendment in particular gives you the the liberty to wear whatever political T-shirt you want, even if its unpopular. 

The Dixie Chicks respect your right to love Jesus and W along with them.   Too bad you can't afford them the same respect. 

I'm not ready to make nice,
I'm not ready to back down,
I'm still mad as hell
And I don't have time
To go round and round and round
It's too late to make it right
I probably wouldn't if I could
Cause I'm mad as hell
Can't bring myself to do what it is
You think I should

There's a lot happening in the Queer 'burgh  -- gay political groups, queer art collectives, a lesbian chorus, comedy shows, art shows, movies, dinners, fundraisers ... the list goes on and on of all the cool groups and organizations making a difference for you and your family.

Often overlooked is the contribution of your average homo who takes it upon her or himself to do something proactive to build the kind of community in which s/he desires to live.  Both of these people, Bob and Sheila, are friends of mine who I believe put their money where their mouths are for the greater good of the entire community.  And they set examples for the rest of us who have a tendency to mouth off, but take no action.

Sheila thinks there isn't enough cool stuff for lesbians or, perhaps more precisely, that lesbians have trouble connecting with women with similar interests.  There are email list for biking lesbians, hiking lesbians, even kayaking lesbians.  Sheila liked to dance, go out to dinner, travel and hang out. So Sheila started her own group, Lesbos of Pittsburgh. 

This group is for lesbians only who are tired of staying at home. We want women from Ohio, West Virginia, and all around Pennsylvania. Do you like to go dance,go to comedy clubs,eat nice dinners,travel and go to gay events? Lets get together. Most activities will take place in the Pittsburgh area. There are lots of things to do and see here.

I've known Sheila for several years and she is one of the most straightforward people in my life.  She goes to all the events, including many fundraisers.  She tries all sorts of new activities from potlucks to mini golf to art shows.  And I really admire her for stepping up to create a sense of community for women who walk in her shoes.  I'm on several other local LGBT email lists and only one comes close to creating a sense of community (Pittsburgh Potluck Womyn for those of you who are curious).

Bob is an old friend of Ledcat's and a relatively new friend of mine.  He's interested in politics (like most of us), but he's made it a personal priority to help elect gay-positive candidates.  Unlike most of us, Bob puts his time and money where his mouth is.  He writes countless letters to the editor and letters to elected officials and letters to all the rest of us telling us that we should be writing, too.   He's even dedicated a portion of his website to promoting the candidates he think will best serve the needs of the LGBTQ community in his districts. 

Interestingly, both Sheila and Bob live outside of Pittsburgh, outside of Allegheny County even.  But they both still identify with our city and want good things for the entire LGBTQ community.  They aren't just focused on their neighborhood, card club or small group of likeminded friends  -- they put themselves out here for all of us. 

That's cool.    Wish more of us could pull that off. 

Looking for something to do on Sunday?  Head out to South Park for a tea dance featuring the reunion of the Shari Richards Band for this one time event only.  (Fusing Steely Dan with the Pointer Sisters according to one organizer).

A tea dance?  Apparently its a long standing gay tradition of afternoon parties featuring dancing, socializing and fun.  You bring your own refreshments and beverages, pay admission to cover the cost of the facility and entertainment and have a good time.  They've held these events at local firehalls because there are no "good" lesbian bars around Pittsburgh.

I heard about this via an email list and it took me a few days of digging to get some answers on what exactly a tea dance was, who the organizers were and who was welcome (they used a vague reference to "our community" in the original emails).  I've since ascertained that it does mean our entire community, but I'm just guessing that the event skews a bit older (based on the music). 

Tickets are $10.00 and available at the door.  Doors open at 1 PM.  Entertainment begins at 2 PM

Location is the South Park Museum Building at the South Park Fairgrounds.  Big clock on building so you cannot miss it.

If you check it out, let me know how it goes.

The Sanctuary People of Color Center

Kicks off

?Black Pride, Everyday?

A one year initial campaign to mobilize and engage the community increasing visibility, to register 1200 new African American LGBTQ voters in Greater Pittsburgh,

and to increase health education and awareness.

Join us at the following events!

Monday, July 24, 2006

Town Hall Meeting 3

7:00-10:00pm

Andy Warhol Museum

117 Sandusky Street

Northshore Pittsburgh, PA

Come hear about the Center?s future plans.  Mix&Mingle. Hear the Dreams of Hope Performance Troupe. Watch Isaac Julien?s Film ?Looking for Langston?, pick up your Black Paper, buy a PrideT Shirt, Register to Vote, more?.

FREE Admission.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

An Inaugural Event!

The Herman McClain Lectures

In Memory of the Late Herman McClain

with Special Guests

Bishop Yvette Flunder and Shirley Miller

Pastors&Founders, City of Refuge UCC

National Gospel Recording Artists

San Francisco, California

7:00 pm

at

Community House

120 Parkhurst at Sandusky Streets

Northside Pittsburgh

Directly across from AGH Emergency Room

Special Music Guests:

Missy, RCC Women?s Choir

FREE Admission.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Coming Out of the Closet;  A Fashion Opera

featuring former clothing designs of

Leon Sheffey & Deryck Tines

$15.00

includes Live Music performed by The Howie Alexander Trio, guest DJ,

wine&spirits, grub&dancing

8:00pm-1:00am

Botanicals Designs

4765 Liberty Avenue, Bloomfield

412.621-3233

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Meet us for a day of fitness at the gym!

at the

New Homewood YMCA

7140 Bennett Street, Homewood

11:00am-4:00pm

Free health screenings&testings, Free hot dogs&watermelon, healthy lifestyle organizations, vendors, speakers. Participate in the Unity Basketball Tournament.

Bring the family! Bring your friends! Come alone!

FREE Admission.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

?Fire? in the Park!

Good ole foot-stomping, hand-clapping, soul-stirring gospel music,

  dancing and singing in Schenley Park.

Featuring the newly organized Community Gospel Choir, Missy,

The RCC Women?s Choir, Nikki Daniel, Dreams of Hope, and others.

Veterans Pavillion

6:30pm. FREE!

For more information, tickets, to volunteer, to sing&shout

http://www.sanctuarycenter.bravehost.com or 412.391-7472 or

pghblackpride@hotmail.com

A new multimedia exhibit at CMU explores women's empowerment through the clothing we wear.  Its called Trappings:  Stories of Women, Power and Clothing and its the work of two artists (one local, one not so much) - Renee Piechocki and Tiffany Ludwig, who collaborate under the sobriquet Two Girls Working.

This public art piece grew out of the ultimate old-school icon of American woman -- the Tupperware party format .... the artists worked with a host who invited friends, thus ensuring a wide range of women sharing their power stories.

Among the 50 or so interviewed locally:

Jan Gallaway, a member of the Pittsburgh Puffins recreational hockey team, feels powerful in her uniform -- and also when she takes off her helmet to reveal the 40-something mom underneath to the shocked boys at the ice rink.

Cecile Springer, retired head of her own consulting firm, feels it wearing a gold pin that was a gift from her late mother-in-law, the well-known union activist Maida Springer-Kemp.

Heather Arnet, executive director of The Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest Pennsylvania, feels it in the purple cape she bought with her own earnings at age 16. The cut reminds her of the purple sash worn by suffragists like her great-grandmother, not to mention Wonder Woman, her childhood heroine.

Teen-ager Dana Jacobs of Philadelphia, interviewed at YouthWorks Inc., feels it in slacks and a sweater because in them, "I'm ready for anything, you know, for job interviews and if you go in a store, ain't nobody going to watch you."

Rebecca Newlin, posing with a hammer, feels it in her Habitat for Humanity T-shirt because "women can put up a drywall and that's what really gives me a lot of motivation."

And Valerie Archier feels it in the blue suit her mother bought her for job interviews because "it totally transforms me when I put it on."

I'm not sure if I feel powerful in any clothing.  Probably something I wear to work, but I'm usually pretty self-conscious and disengage from feeling any connection with the clothes I wear.  Ask Ledcat who shakes her head in dismay as I whirl around the house bemoaning all the negative aspects of my assorted items of clothing.  Wow ... I really cannot think of something that makes me feel powerful.  Now that's something to chew upon.

Where: Miller Gallery, Purnell Center, Carnegie Mellon University When: 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday, or by appointment. Information: 412-268-3618.