Lesbiatopia

Movie Review: Paranormal Activity

2009-10-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

HORROR MOVIE REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

HAPPY HALLOWEEN my fellow Lesbiatopians (and allies & friends of Lesbiatopians)! And HAPPY SAMHAIN to my fellow Wiccan Lesbiatopians! I figure since a lot of Lesbians have a tendency towards paganism beliefs as much as vegetarianism and Doc Martens I thought the spiritual shout-out would be appropriate.

To celebrate this glorious and much misunderstood holiday I thought it would be loads of fun to kick off my favorite day of the year by dipping my toes into the bloody pool of HORROR MOVIE REVIEWING.

Yes, girls and ghouls, consider this my official, on-line debut of the creepy, spooky, scary, heebie-jeebie world of horror films. My favorite genre of movies. Well, that and porn, but I will get to that at another time. I realize not everyone is a fan. For those of you who pretty much abhor horror films, please skip to the next blog. Just for the record, I have done a horror movie review once, years ago for a local paper who asked me to do that, it came out pretty decent so I thought, "what the hell?, I'll do it again..." So here goes...

"PARANORMAL ACTIVITY"

Directed by Oren Peli

No one can deny this little mockumentary horror movie that could. This over hyped film with it's 7 day shoot and $15,000 budget with no name actors (that use their real names in the film) and first time director with no formal training has thrown the country into an insomnia frenzy.

I went to see this a couple of weeks ago with two friends of mine. Their very different reactions to the film was probably the most entertaining part for me. One practically cackled with laughter through most of the film, the other I believed would have missed half of the movie if I weren't there to constantly nudge her to open her eyes, covering her face with her jacket. That's when she stopped holding the popcorn for us and held up her apparel like a shield. Of course, afterwards, the one who covered her eyes claimed the movie was only "20% scary", although she admitted to not be able to sleep for three days. The other one who had the attack of the giggles, apparently had some issues sleeping that night as well. It is a well known fact that laughter is a common coping mechanism when people watch scary movies. It helps them deal. As for myself, fortunetly when I turned off my light at night when I went to bed, I probably thought about it all for a few seconds until my head hit the pillow, then I slept like a rock. I must confess though, I did make sure my blanket covered my feet...

I didn't know much about "Paranormal Activity" when I went to see it, and it wasn't exactly on my "must see" list for the Fall. It's been 10 years since we've ALL been gipped by the hype of a low budget, "is it real? is it real??", home movie style fright flick where the camera work makes you a bit dizzy. Yes, it IS the new Blair Witch Project. And yes, I was one of the many idiots who thought the Blair Witch Project was real, until I saw the actors on MTV. I even bought a book about it, and was even planning a trip to Burkittsville, Maryland. I'm glad I didn't go. The "scariest" things I probably would have encountered would have been a bunch of local teenagers playing pranks on tourists, and bumping into campers having unprotected sex and smoking pot in the woods. So they got me with that one, but I wasn't gonna fall for it THIS time, no sir.

Except for a brief special appearance by a paranormal expert, the movie is basically a cast of two, three if you include the "demon spirit". It follows the couple's few weeks adventure in trying to figure out all the "WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?" noises and strange goings-on in their abode. Armed only with their home video camera, we get in inside glimpse of the spirit's constant shenanigans against the freaked out couple. Things escalate overall affecting the couple's relationship and way of life in general.

The suspense, the waiting for something to happen, the it's too quiet kind of feeling then wham, bam, a door slams is what gets you. Also knowing that these types of experiences really do happen to people, that it's not impossible, also creeps people out. I have personally experienced paranormal activity myself. I'm a believer.

It was a little funny, too. The smart-ass male character Micah Sloat mostly brings the comic relief to the film while it's mostly the female in the film, Katie Featherston dealing with the brunt of the spiritual harrasment. Well, kinda.

Apparently, there are some alternate endings floating around on-line. I read about them, but I have yet to see them. I'm sure they will be included in the special features section of the DVD which will probably be out by Christmas. I'm sure it will include that and most likely some type of commentary by some famous psychics or ghost hunters or something ...

Props to the Director Oren Peli for not giving up on his little film that was actually released two years ago. I wish I could create something like this and make mega bucks out of it.

I've also heard rumors of, of course, a sequel. Paranormal Activity 2. Just like with Blair Witch Project 2. They gotta get greedy about it and fuck it up.

I have to share quick a couple of lines from other (mixed) reviews I read about it I thought were really good (from two different sources):

"...half the time I was hoping that it would kill the couple and move to a house with better actors..."

"Will this movie make you afraid to go to sleep , or put you to sleep?"

Classic.

Love it or hate it, everybody knows this will become a cult classic, and the actors will probably end up signing autographs at horror movie festivals.

Lesbian Book Review: "When Women Were Warriors" by Catherine Wilson

2009-09-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

LESBIAN BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"When Women Were Warriors"
Book 1
The Warrior's Path

by Catherine Wilson

Women warriors kick ass. And besides, what is hotter than that? Be it the modern day ones, back in the day ones, all of them. The Amazons, the Suffragettes, all the Charlie's Angels, whatever. Myself being a "Vagina Warrior"/ "Warrior For Choice", I should know.

It took me a few chapters to get into this because the first thing is that these fantasy like in that time period pieces usually aren't my type of genre, however, I am pretty much open to all categories of books, so it's all good . Second, I was still in the high of the last book I had read which was pretty life changing for me. Of course, neither of these factors are certainly no fault of the author. They are my own issues which I have no problem admitting.

In spite of all of that, I did enjoy "Book 1", and look forward to the next two. Without giving anything away, I would like to point out of few things that really got my attention in a good way...

I really liked a lot of the characters in this book. Actually, most of them reminded me of my own friends. Strong, independent women. My favorite aspect of the book was the relationship between the main character, Tamra (a warriors's companion, basically meaning personal assistant who eventually turns into a warrior apprentice), and her warrior, Maara. It's like a Xena's Gabrielle narrating the story.

It's a coming of age tale of Tamra's journey from a young girl from an almost royal like family who is placed into the world of women warriors and on the way learns about herself, including her sexuality, her strengths, and loyalties.

At first both reluctant, but then Tamra connects with Maara, the dark, intriguing, warrior with the mysterious past in which an unbreakable bond is formed.

The story telling in the book is pretty cool. I don't think we do enough of that anymore. I consider it a lost art form.

I have to admit, the love scenes in the book were a little too "PC" for me and not enough "Bow chicka bow, bow". Again, those are my own perverted issues. With the novel's particular language those type of love scenes would have been completely inappropriate.

I would also like to put out there certain things in the book that I thought were highlights of it which I noticed were complained about in other's reviews of it, such as:

--- "There's no men in it/ not enough men". : Oh freakin' waah wahh wahh, HELLO, this is why it is found under lesbian books. Excuse my french, but fuck the men. They are in enough books. That's all I have to say about that.

--- "Too much drama and not enough fighting/war" : Which would probably be the case if women ruled the world. Now, is that really a bad thing?

When people are so used to bam, smash, thank you ma'am action in their media, something like this I guess would be a little too mild for them, so it's considered the equivalent of a "chick flick" in book form.

Warriors come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. It's done with a sword...or a pen, a keyboard, or one's voice.

Forget the haters, Catherine. You stay on your warriors path.

Coming Out Day Project from OURsceneTV

2009-09-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

OURsceneTV.com is producing a new video program, OURstories, a collection of coming out stories submitted by the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) public, to commemorate National Coming Out Day on October 11, the internationally-observed day for LGBT visibility.

Using social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, as well as its newsletter and website, OURsceneTV has invited its viewers, friends and anyone interested in participating to submit short videos in which the participants will share their own personal coming out experiences. The videos will be complied and presented on the OURsceneTV.com website.

The OURstories' call to action states, "Visibility is one of our most powerful tools for fighting discrimination and ignorance. No two stories are alike, but all are life-changing and important. Whether your coming out story is painful, poignant or just a little peculiar, we want to hear from you. And if you're not out, but ready to take that step, we want to hear from you, too."

OURsceneTV Executive Producer Margaret Pergler said, "Coming out and living openly as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans person is an act of true bravery. We're asking our viewers and friends to tell us their own coming out stories in the most compelling way possible - in their own words. This isn't a contest, but a collection of the emotional, sometimes amusing, but always inspirational stories of finding ourselves and sharing that truth."

Participants can learn more about the OURstories program, get suggestions on how to record their stories, and upload their videos at: http://www.ourscenetv.com/comingoutproject/index.html

About National Coming Out Day – National Coming Out Day is celebrated each year on October 11 to commemorate the 1987 Lesbian and Gay March on Washington and the first unfurling of the AIDS Quilt on the National Mall.

About OURsceneTV.com – OURsceneTV.com is an online television network featuring all original entertainment news, lifestyle and cultural programming catering to LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) audiences. It is dedicated to creating dynamic content that truly reflects the diversity and uncompromised perspectives of the LGBT community. Visit www.ourscenetv.com.

Trendy Lesbian Bowling, Hollywood-Style

2009-09-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

It's always funny to click on a random video on the internet only to find out that a bunch of your friends are in it having a blast (as they always seem to do)! Thus is the case when a friend sent me to OursceneTV to check out the latest happenings in the lesbian circuit. Every 3rd Tuesday of the month some fabulous LA lesbians put on "Bender Tuesdays" at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley in Hollywood. What's more fun than drinks, dancing and bowling? I can't think of much!

Check out the video!

To quote OURsceneTV:

Nothing says party like dance tracks, cheap drinks, cute girls and rental shoes.

Los Angeles' Bender Tuesdays' lesbian bowling night at Hollywood & Highland's Lucky Strike is part sports night, part dance party and all for the ladies. In a town known for star sightings and skinny jeans, the coolest gay girls know where to go to let their hair down and get their game on. And what girl doesn't love a sport that lets her to sip a cold one while she plays?

Not only does Bender Tuesdays brings the ladies together each month for some hot competition and $5 cosmos, it's got LA's hottest DJ's and clears the decks for dancing and mingling. This is definitely not your mama's league night – it's the hottest lesbian party in LA!

Photo of the Week: Ellen Page & Drew Barrymore Hotness

2009-09-13T19:05:00.001-07:00

as seen in Marie Claire, October 2009. Meow.

Book Review: "Vincent Van Gogh" by Marc Edo Tralbaut

2009-08-31T14:14:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"VINCENT VAN GOGH"

by Marc Edo Tralbaut

Years ago I was inspired to make a mold of my ear and slap it on a piece of cardboard with a splash of red paint. Thus was my first tribute to Vincent Van Gogh. The overall reaction I recieved was, needless to say, less than enthusiastic and understanding. "That's disgusting!", "What the hell is that?", "What's wrong with you?" This heartwarming response to my sincere gesture to one of my all time favorite art heroes made me truly realize two things: 1- Vincent was right all along, people just don't understand. 2- Everybody's a critic.

Almost a decade ago there was a little used book shop on the main street in town that lasted about eight months. My then girlfriend happened to walk in one day, and stumbled across a huge, studio book on Van Gogh. This book, it turns out, worth over forty bucks, she practically stole it for a mere twelve dollars, and gave it as a gift, to me. Since then, it's been moved around a lot, mostly sitting around my art studio collecting quite a distinct moldy, dusty, basementy, type of scent. For some reason lately, I was moved enough, which I haven't been since MY "ear" incident, to dive once again into the world of Vincent. I knew this time, he would be in my life for good, and there would be no turning back...

This book has to be the most comprehensive book ever written on Van Gogh, and from what I understand Marc Edo Tralbaut is supposed to be the biggest authority on the artist. It was first published in 1969, at a time when certain people in Vincent's life were still alive. Of course, they were all about 100 years old when interviewed by Tralbaut, even still, it's amazing to hear first hand accounts of their stories regarding their interaction with the actual legend.

That combined with a preface written by Van Gogh's own nephew, name sake, and President of the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation makes this a truly unique literary masterpiece that can never be duplicated in any way.

This treasure also contains many other jewels for the hard-core Van Gogh fanatic. Of course, one being a large, studio book it contains tons of great pictures of his work, photographs, sketches, and plenty more illustrating his upbringing and travels. I'm not kidding when I say this book is big. It can probably be registered as a lethal weapon in most states.

Especially from an artist's perspective, as part of the illustrated segment of the book, I found it particularly delightful that they included real photographs of places where Van Gogh placed his easel to paint certain works of art. They position them side by side so you can see the actual locations.

Another plus is all throughout the book, you can read Vincent's own words through his letters to his brother Theo, whom apparently he used as a living journal. You gain a true appreciation of Van Gogh's sister-in-law, Johanna Van Gogh-Bonger and Vincent's nephew for saving and preserving all the correspondence that guides us into who the artist was.

The book takes you on a journey from his childhood to his inevitable final act, and all the beauty he created in between. For two weeks while absorbing his entire life, I dreaded reading the last chapter, knowing what was coming, and experienced my own mourning when I was done.

Many eye opening myth busters are also included, such as about the whole ear thing, about his three kinds of "crazy", among others. He apparently really was one of the most missunderstood of our time.

I've been so touched by this book I've decided to do my first solo art exhibit in almost five years. I'm calling it "Starry Nights In Allentown: A Tribute To Vincent Van Gogh", in which I am creating modern day, urban interpretations of his paintings. This is set for the end of February of 2010.

This "mad man" genius I have accepted as my Guardian Angel. This book has changed my life. Artistically and personally. I've always felt a connection but now more than ever doing my own independent study has really opened up a whole new world for me. It was more than just reading a book, it was a destination.

BONUS BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"THE ESSENTIAL VINCENT VAN GOGH"

by Ingrid Schaffner

Go to your local museum or certain galleries and you'll most likely find at least one of the "Essential" books on some artist. Apparently this series was created some time ago featuring a number of famous artists for people to get their favorite artist in a nut shell.

One of my fellow Book Sluts, (book club friend), lent it to me during our last meeting, seeing that I was still on the high of my Vincent book.

In one night, this book immediately followed my above Van Gogh big book experience so of course it felt like cliff notes for that one. I thought to myself, "Oh, how cute, it's like a 'mini-me' of the one I just read." After lugging the above noted book all over the place, this one was like carrying a little feather around.

For all art fans out there, who would like to know more about your favorites artists but don't necessarily need or want an entire 101 course on them, this series is for you.

What I liked about this particular one on Van Gogh was that it actually includes a few pictures of his work my big book doesn't, which at first I found hard to believe. I've already used it for one of my own pieces.

As I go through more "Essential" books from the series, I'll get into more of it's features that come with each book.

This series is also a good way to know which artist you really relate or connect to, personally or artistically, which can help you decide if you would like to study a particular one further.

You never know. One of these little, portable, books can definitely lead to bigger, and better things later on.

(SIDENOTE: A little announcement. I'll be guest blogging on other sites now as well as being a "regular" here. I'll post which ones they are on my staff profile at Lesbiatopia.)

Top Chef Las Vegas: The Lesbians Du Jour

2009-08-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are foodies like myself, you're probably big fans of Top Chef and have been watching it for years. I mean, one look at Padma Lakshmi, the Top Chef host, and you'll be wiping the corners of your mouth like a diabetic at a candy store.

One of the other great things about Top Chef is their open inclusion of members of hte LGBT community. There has been some sort of gay or lesbian contestant almost every season since the show aired 6 seasons ago. We like that. We like it a lot. This season, Season 6, is no exception to the rule.

Season six of the number 1 food show on cable returned on Wednesday, August 19th at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Top Chef: Las Vegas will pit 17 hopeful chefs from across the country battling it out in the kitchen for $100,000 to invest in their culinary career. Delectable host Padma Lakshmi is back once again alongside the no-holds-barred head judge Tom Colicchio. Food & Wine magazine's Gail Simmons and food critic Toby Young will once again round out the panel of judges this year.

This year, two lesbians will be gracing the screen.

Out lesbian contestant Preeti Mistry, 33, hails from San Francisco, where she works as the Executive Chef for Bon Appétit Management Company at Google headquarters. Google has a reputation for serving insanely amazing food to their employees, so hopes are high Mistry will concoct some culinary masterpieces. Mistry was also educated at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in London. Now don't get too excited and start swooning over this one, – she’s been with her partner for thirteen years.

Ashley Merriman, 32, may not lay claim to the same kind of international culinary background as Mistry, but she's worked on both coasts at classy restaurants and learned her craft at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. Ironically enough, Merriman originates from Center Sandwich, New Hampshire – no really, that’s an actual place. Merriman loves to cook “robust” food and thinks a meal isn’t complete unless you’ve been “beat in the face by a stick of butter.” Plus, she is friggin adorable. How could not love that charmingly warm smile of hers?

Stay tuned for more updates on the fates of the "Lesbian's Du Jour" of Top Chef: Las Vegas.

Your Friendly, Gayborhood Clinic: The Allentown Women's Center

2009-08-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

Your Friendly, Gayborhood Clinic:

The Allentown Women's Center

by Cynthia Rodriguez

It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. It was the beginning of 2005 and the worst of it was that the former "King George the Second" was beginning his second term of office. I had just completed my latest activist adventure "celebrating" this momentous occasion by last minute organizing a rally in front of our town's City Hall for myself and like minded individuals to express our discontent over the matter.

As soon as I was done with that, I knew I needed to move on with another cause to keep my mind off my political depression. I happened to be perusing through the local paper the day after and a particular article caught my eye. The local abortion clinic getting a hard time from the local anti-choice protesters. From the looks of things, it seemed like an on-going thing.

I decided right then and there to "cold-call" the Director, Jennifer Boulanger, which I knew just from reading that article, and see if she'd let me organize an art event as a response to the "anti's" in the community. For a second, I thought to myself, "This is probably gonna sound crazy. She doesn't even know me". However, I didn't let that stop me.

So I called and fortunetly she was there at the moment. I introduced myself over the phone that I was an artist, activist, etc, etc, etc. We clicked immediately. I explained to her what I was interested in doing and she was ALL FOR IT. At one point I exclaimed "Why don't I know you?! and why don't you know ME?!" We promptly set up an appointment to meet and I was on my way.

Thus began a voyage into a whole new world. The best of times being when I stepped foot at the clinic the day of our meeting and started my journey with The Allentown Women's Center...

The following is an interview with the Director, Jennifer Boulanger:

1- How would you describe the clinic's relationship with the gay community?

"I would describe the Allentown Women's Center's relationship with the GLBTQI community as one that is friendly and developing over time. We provide gynecological care to the lesbian and bisexual community and we are in the process of expanding our health care services to include the transgender and intersex communities. We employ GLBTQI individuals and many of our volunteers are also part of the GLBTQI community.

We consider ourselves to be allies with the GLBTQI community as we are both groups that experience oppression in our society and are continuously fighting for basic human rights. We strongly believe in reproductive justice for all human beings, and in order to obtain true reproductive justice, our basic human rights must be met. This includes the right to determine one’s sexuality, the right to determine if and when you will marry, if and when you will have children, and if and when you will have sexual pleasure. Reproductive rights and GLBTQI rights are inherently interconnected - if either groups rights are violated, it will have an impact on the other.

Recently, the National Gay and Lesbian task force has identified Reproductive Justice as an LGBT issue - see http://www.thetaskforce.org/blog/20090601-tfstaff-tiller "

2- How would you describe the clinic's relationship with the gay
community in the past? Has it changed? If yes, how has it changed?

"Our relationship with the GLBTQI community has grown over the years. I think having GLBTQI employees has been a big part of that. It is important for our clinic to reflect who we are reaching out to in our community – this is a basic component of cultural competency.

We participate in more GLBTQI events more than ever before; in the next few years it is our goal to expand health service provision to treat transgender people and increase and expand our knowledge of treating intersex individuals. We want all people needing gynecological services to feel like they can receive healthcare in a confidential, non-judgmental environment.

It is a tragedy when someone feels like they cannot seek health care services for fear of being judged or ridiculed. We want to help break down the barriers for those in the GLBTQI community seeking health care services."

3- What has the Allentown Women's Center done to establish
communications and a connection to the local gay community?

"AWC has participated in many local GLBTQI events, such as the annual Pride in the Park festival in Allentown. We are members of the Pennsylvania Diversity Network and have sponsored their events, and we have collaborated with the Muhlenberg College Gay-Straight Alliance on various projects. Facebook has been a great way to network with individuals in the gay community and keep each other posted on events and issues on a local and national level.

I look up to the local GLBTQI leaders, like Liz Bradbury*, who have worked so hard and faced incredible obstacles in fighting for equal rights, but who has been instrumental in making positive changes in our community. "

4- What are your feelings on same-sex marriage?

"I believe in equal rights for all human beings, which includes the right to choose if, when, and who you will marry. When marriage rights are violated, it opens the door for other human rights violations. It is simply unacceptable."

5- What are your feelings on GLBTQI parents adopting children?

"I have seen some GLBTQI parents provide a better, more stable home life to children than some straight parents. I believe that GLBTQI couples are entitled to the same rights as straight couples in deciding whether or not to have a family."

6- What are your feelings on hate crimes/gay bashing?

"In a civil society, there is no place for any form of discrimination or hate crimes. Hate crimes should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I believe that there needs to be stronger federal legislation against harassment, intimidation, threats, and violence for both the GLBTQI community, as well as the abortion provider community."

7- Do you think your personal views reflect the clinic's views in general?

"I wrote this speaking for the Allentown Women’s Center, but as the clinic’s director, it reflects my own personal views as well. Seeing things from a human rights framework puts everything in perspective. It is a challenge, a fight, and it is a lot of work. But we need to recognize everyone’s struggles and work together in order to move forward and make change."

8- Do you think local businesses can improve their relations with the
gay community? Any suggestions on how they can do that?

"There are so many opportunities for businesses to network within the GLBTQI community and improve their relations. Go to and sponsor GLBTQI events. Hire GLBTQI individuals. Advertise in GLBTQI publications. The expense is minimal, but the benefits are invaluable."

9- What do think of healthcare and it's treatment of the GLBTQI community?

"I think that there is still a lot of misinformation and stigma within the health care community which contributes to a set of unique barriers that GLBTQI individuals face when seeking health care services. There may be a certain level of fear or intimidation in seeking services as they may have at one time been subjected to derogatory comments, being treated like a deviant, neglect, attempts to change their sexual orientation, hostility towards a same-sex partner, undue roughness in a physical exam, or even denial of care.

Health care providers need more education, cultural competency / sensitivity training and work towards creating safe, respectful, patient-centered health care environments that do not discriminate against anyone based on sexual orientation or gender identity."

10- Any additional comments?

"I had an interesting moment in the clinic the other day when I was speaking with a group of staff members. I realized that I, the straight girl, was the minority in the room! It is just an example of how common (and normal) it is to be a member of the GLBTQI community. To not work with this community would jeopardize the success of any business.

Thank you for the opportunity to talk about this, and to work with you!"

In closing, I have to mention I truly love this place, and I am proud to be a part of such a progressive, and friendly GLBTQI workplace. Any business of any kind can learn a great deal from this. Imagine if everyone's place of employment was this gay friendly?

On a side note, being that this is LESBIATOPIA, I'd like to say, yes, I know my boss is hot. How many people can say that about their boss? Being that she was recently featured on our much loved Rachel Maddow show, among other things, she is a celebrity in her own right. Because of that I nominate her to be on Lesbiatopia's "Red Head List"...

(*Liz Bradbury is a local activist and author whose book was the first lesbian book review I did at Lesbiatopia.)

Check out: www.allentownwomenscenter.com

The Big Gay Sketch Show Loves Paula Abdul

2009-08-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

Lesbiatopia's favorite funny gal, Nicol Paone, is at it again in LOGO's newest American Idol skit, bidding Paula Abdul farewell as she has recently announced she will be leaving American Idol.

Paone's impression of Kara Dioguardi is spot on.

Watch Gay Video & Lesbian Movies

Lesbian Book Review: "What Goes Around Comes Back Around" by C.D Kirven

2009-08-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"WHAT GOES AROUND COMES BACK AROUND"
by C.D Kirven

Ghetto fab. This is one of those books I would describe as such. Where I come from, that's not necessarily a bad thing, although I know a lot of people would take that the wrong way or who would not see that in the most positive light. This book lured me in and wouldn't let me go.

I don't come across many books at all that delve into the Black GLBTQI community, so this was very refreshing. It may not be for everyone, not so much because of any race or nationality issues, but because it specifically revolves around "Generation X",(which I'm a part of), and hip-hop culture, (which I pretty much grew up around).

The book has been compared to the famous, E. Lynn Harris's (R.I.P, who just passed last month), "Invisible Life". I've heard much about it. Unfortunetly, I have not had the pleasure of experiencing any of his work, however, I plan on working on that.

First, I'd like to mention that this is a product of OUTSKIRTS PRESS. One of those self-publishing companies. I wanted to mention that because I feel that people who do that definitely deserve serious props for putting themselves out there like that and doing it on their own. I just find that very impressive. I feel it shows great initiative and self-discipline. I believe I read somewhere that Mr. Harris's debut novel (the one mentioned above) was also self-published, and at one point was selling them from the trunk of his car.

Another thing I'd like to reveal is that if you look up C.D Kirven, she is quite the multi-media artist. She is an author, artist, activist, and film maker. Gotta love those cross-over, multi-talented artists. She also has a cool line of accessories. That C.D, she's a smart one. Yep, I'll definitely be getting one of her t-shirts...

So, bringing it back to C.D Kirven's debut novel, it is one of those coming of age, coming out stories about our main character, Kingsley. We follow her and her friends from her delinquent like teen years in the hood, into adulthood. Along the way of her trials and tribulations, she learns, and re-learns the hard way, the old saying she remembers, I believe, from her Grandmother, "what goes around, comes back around".

Along her path to self-discovery, we meet some gaudy characters that cross her path, some that are there for the moment, the season, or who are consistent throughout the whole book. Pretty much the only ones who stuck to me where Kingsley herself, and her homegirl Tanya. Being that I can relate to her background, I can say, anyone else who can relate has a "Tanya" in their life.

Witnessing all these people, places, and things in Kingsley's life that lead her to breaking out of her cocoon to do and live and love the way she wants is a learning and inspiring experience. She is a superb example for anyone craving to escape the "DL" (down low) life style, and those just struggling to get out of "living a lie".

Kirven touches on some serious, timely issues such as Aids, among others, which I give her credit for, not putting it in a preachy manner, but just a story telling, "that's just the way it is" way.

I feel you C.D Kirven. I understand. They don't say "karma's a bitch" for nothin'. Any offense, large and small, will always end up biting you in the ass. Perhaps that would explain the constant aching in my posterior area...

(on a side note: Shout out to a slammin' website for readers called "Sistahs on the Shelf" which features a good interview with the author)

"Sins Of Our 'Fathers'"

2009-08-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

"SINS OF OUR 'FATHERS'"

by Cynthia Rodriguez

It has been recently brought to my attention, quite a disturbing revelation that I never, truly realized the magnitude of it. The rest of the world pretty much hates us. In "us" I mean the U.S.A. Not that I really take it personally, being that a lot of what is said doesn't reflect on me on a personal level. Although I can understand where much of that comes from, nonetheless, it kind of bothers me a little bit.

Why is that? Well, in spite of some people joking around, calling me a Communist and such, (which, for the record, I am not. Not that there is anything wrong with that), I really DO love this country, at least the IDEA of it. The ideals of which is was built on, anyway. I don't like a lot of what we've become. Much of what we say and do as a whole, I think is wrong on many levels. Of course, I have my own opinions on all the issues we are currently dealing with. That is not the purpose of this rant, though.

The purpose of this is just to simply say to the REST of the world, which, surprise, surprise does not only consist of the United States, is: Please don't hate me. Contrary to popular belief, we are not ALL complete assholes. For example, we may have gotten all this whole outpouring of sympathy and support from all over when our 9-1-1 happened, but I also know there were plenty of people from all over who felt we got "what was coming to us". Even people from our own country, (not that they would ever admit any of this in public). I just think the whole thing is sad, all the way around.

I was finally made aware of all this from currently corresponding with a new friend from another country, just a little north from here. I don't think I've ever noticed how so consuming our own culture is to the rest of the world, our culture and habits (good and bad). I can also see we have developed quite of few, nasty, little stereotypes. I mean like, wow, some of them are pretty bad. How did all this happen? Why such a bad rep? How did our lovely "land of the free, home of the brave", and blah, blah, blah become known as the land of such shit heads to everyone else? I feel we are ALL to blame.

I know I cannot speak for everyone else but I really feel like we have become very self-centered, "Queen-Bee", and bully-like in thinking it's ALWAYS all about US. It is not. There ARE other places out there, and all other kinds of people and just because they are not just like us, doesn't make them any less human, or make US any better.

On the flip side of that I can't help but think, gimmee a break, there is NO country, government or people without flaws. Nobody's perfect. Everyone gets their own kind of "brainwashing" to a certain extent, and everyone is a product of their own environment, not just us United Staters, United Stateans, USA'ers, or whatever less pleasant terms of endearment people have for us. We shouldn't be so quick to judge others, when we can't even do that for ourselves. I think in some cases we may be more similiar to them, and vice versa than they'd like to be.

Another thing I've gotten out of all this is realizing how much I really SUCK at Geography. It's so bad, it's pretty shameful. I swear at my next book club I am so getting several maps, an atlas, and a new globe.

This is part of why I am an activist. I may not be the most worldy person, being that have not been to many places in my lifetime, but I feel like I deal with some pretty universal topics such as human rights, and homelessness & poverty. Trying to do my part to make my country a better place for all. I believe that is what being a true patriot is all about. I feel if we all do that, we may get a little better reputation with all our neighbors around the world.

Hmmm, on second thought, next time I try to date a woman from another country maybe I'll fake some accent and tell her I'm from some obscure, little country she's never heard of...

Book Review: "Say It Like Obama" by Shel Leanne

2009-08-03T04:17:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"SAY IT LIKE OBAMA"

by Shel Leanne

I never realized what an excellent orator President Obama was, not until I read the book, "Say it Like Obama". My primary goal for acquiring this book was the simple purpose of improving my public speaking skills. Being quite the activist and advocate on numerous causes, I thought it would come in handy to learn from one of the best speakers today. I want to make it clear, my mission was not to attempt to copy or imitate him in any way, not that, that would be possible, anyway. I just thought it would be good to take some tips from someone who knows the true art of public speech.

Over the years, for the most part, I've gotten quite comfortable speaking to an audience. I've learned to treat it as if I were talking one-on-one to someone. The book actually mentions that several times.

Shel Leanne, who is a leaderhip expert, and has a very cool website, by the way, does an amazing job at presenting, breaking down, and analyzing exactly how to do it using as examples, Obama's famous speeches. She also uses other great speakers as examples like MLK, and JFK. I believe it always helps the learning process of anything by using specific examples. She illustrates how his dynamic use of techniques such as alliteration, rhetorical questions, non-rhetorical questions, among MANY other expert methods, including the use of body language can win over an audience. Even the efficient use of props and certain backgrounds are covered. And of course, CONFIDENCE is always key.

This is definitely one of those text-book type, "edumucational" kind of books I have not read in a long time. It's the type I'll be going over again and that you'll find on my shelf filled with different colored hi-lighted paragraphs, notes scribbled in pencil all throughout, and sticky notes. Yes, it's THAT type of book.

The secondary gain I got from this book was from reading some of Obama's speeches in full, was a true appreciation of him like I've never had before. I was very inspired. It makes we want to read more of his stuff. It actually made me feel, dare I say it? Proud to be an American. I haven't felt that way for a LONG time. All these years of Bush (and not the type I like), got me so jaded. The ONLY thing I miss from old Georgie Porgie was how much I made fun of him through my art. Oh well, I guess there are still a few Republicans left to make fun of, which brings me to my next point...

Opponents of Obama and the Democratic party may not become big fans of this book, because of the fact that they would have to bear through alot of his talk in order for Leanne to make her point. I don't think they'd be able to stomach through all the speeches just to learn about certain speaking skills. Too bad, so sad for them, because they can use it.

I feel that this can come in real handy for all GLBTQI community leaders in helping them along with talking to our often A.D.D like audience who are often times too busy dancing to re-mixes to pay attention to anything. I also find it helpful for my writing as well, since I've been told pretty often the way I write is basically the same as how I talk to people.

I believe the bottom line is, not being so formal, making the audience feel comfortable, making them feel like you are a part of them. I always felt that was very important. Just be yourself, and not try to be anything you're not. In the end, that's all you can do. Especially in a public position, trying to "fake it", the truth will come out sooner or later.

Double review: Film and Bar, Coyote Ugly

2009-07-21T05:04:00.000-07:00

Alot of "firsts" this week. This is my first bar review. I figured while I was at it, to throw in a review of the movie that was based on the bar.

MOVIE REVIEW

"COYOTE UGLY"

by Cynthia Rodriguez

If you haven't seen this movie yet, you should really have your Lesbionic license revoked. I mean, seriously, beautiful women, singing and dancing on a bar, what more can you ask for? When this film first came out, quite a few critics were pretty harsh on it. C'mon now, lighten up. It wasn't meant to be Oscar material, it's an eye candy movie, and it needs to be rated as such. I've seen much worse when it comes to eye candy movies, and this is one of the better ones. It's a feel good, light and fluffy, romantic/musical like comedy meant to be watched 137 times, until you know all the words and dances by heart. Yes, needless to say, it's one of my favorites, and it's absolutely mandatory for all Lesbians.

It is the story of Violet Sanford, a young, beautiful, aspiring, struggling songwriter from New Jersey, adorably played by the doe-eyed Piper Perabo, (first time I fell in love with the actress), trying to make it in the "big, bad city" of New York. Throw in a few life obstacles, Kevin (played by Adam Garcia), a cute boyfriend from Australia, who is also a struggling, well, we don't really get to know too much about him, but who cares? It's all about the girls. You also have a lovable, teddy bear of a Dad played by John Goodman, and a gorgeous supporting cast of "Coyotes", which includes Tyra Banks, and Violet's "day" job working at the hottest night spot in NYC, Coyote Ugly. All those ingredients add up to a very fun film you won't mind watching again, and again.

The movie is based on the real-life bar in NYC by the same name. A former Coyote named Elizabeth Gilbert apparently wrote an article called, "The Muse of the Coyote Ugly Saloon" in some magazine, and someone decided to make a film out of it. Works for me. I have not seen the DVD yet. It supposed to have some tasty special features, so I definitely plan on checking that out.

It definitely gives you an appreciation on bartending. I used to bartend. It was one of the most fun jobs I've ever had in my life. Good times. Of course, they take it to a whole new level with their "flairtending", the art of manipulation of bar tools, bottles, glasses, etc. In other words, doing alot of cool tricks with the shot glasses and such. I would also like to mention that Rachel, "the New York bitch", played by Bridget Moynahan is my favorite Coyote. Everyone has a favorite Coyote.

So is it cliche-ish? Yes. But, so what. Some of the most fun movies to watch never go anywhere near any kinds of awards. You don't hear anyone saying they can watch "No Country for Old Men" a hundred times.

BAR REVIEW

(THE ORIGINAL)COYOTE UGLY, NYC

by Cynthia Rodriguez

It took me almost a decade to get there but I finally did it. I went to Coyote Ugly in New York City. Now THAT was a fun evening. I did some research first. It has become quite the franchise. I wanted to experience the original one. The one the movie was based on. I read the reviews on it. I thought to myself, "keep your expectations low, and your acceptance high", that way I wouldn't be dissapointed. I pretty much do that with everything. It worked.

I can't tell you about the other locations, just this one. It can't be rated as a night club, or "regular" bar. It's a dive. A good dive. If you like dives, then you'll love it.

Being a first timer, I realize I probably had "SUCKER" written all over my forehead. They WILL take advantage of that, which is of course, part of the charm. I walked in there with my "RORCROTCH TEST" t-shirt which was my solo art show involving painted crotch blots. Without explanation of this, the first Coyote that caught my eye seemed to know what it meant and promptly proceeded to lift her leg up and slam her cowgirl boot on the bar and said, "So, what do you see?", as she pointed to her happy place. Completely catching me off guard, I didn't utter a word. What I was actually thinking was, "my head, right there." Of course, I didn't SAY that, but I was THINKING it. I didn't want to be rude. Besides, the bouncer guy looked kind of scary.

Yes, to me it was just like the movie, except alot smaller, and only two Coyotes were on duty. The one did the twirly stuff with the shot glasses, which are HUGE. They are more like, double, triple shots, which I didn't realize until I had hit the "porcelain alter" later that evening. The other danced on the bar. This was very entertaining. They were both fun, and nice to talk to. It's definitely a SALOON. Meaning country/western type atmosphere. But again, being what it is, I can deal with that.

I immediately became drinking buddies to a native saloon goer who was apparently a regular, and was smart enough to stick to the $2. cans of beer. He filled me in on all behind the scenes, as he called it, "seedy scene".

It IS one of the cheapest places in town to drink as long as you stick to the cheap stuff. Once you hit their liquor shelf and start buying and chugging down shots with the ladies, do body shots, and any other delightfully shameful activity, then you're pretty much screwed. I spent an obscene amount of moolah there that night. Not that I regret it, I'm just stating a fact. And surely, I got the t-shirt. No good tourist leaves without the shirt.

I was probably the only Lesbian there that night, and maybe one out of two or three women, other than the employees. They did inform me that, not surprisingly, they are quite popular among Lesbians. Duh.

Your best bet to get home or wherever you're going after Coyote Ugly is to take a cab. I would not recommend stumbling around the subway. That is, of course, only if you do Coyote Ugly right, and by those standards, I definitely did.

Art Review: Francis Bacon at the Met, NYC

2009-07-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

This is my first art review...

ART REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

FRANCIS BACON AT THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART, NYC
A Centenary Retrospective May 20, 2009–August 16, 2009

I have discovered a new kindred spirit. Francis Bacon. The painter, that is. Not SIR Francis Bacon, the philosopher/politician/scientist. I used to confuse the two. I was never really a fan of Bacon. Now I'm hooked. I learned of his latest exhibit during my New York City stay last week through an art magazine I happened to pick up at the hotel. "Gallery & Studio: The World of the Working Artist". "Monster Master" by Ed McCormack, who was one of the original writers for "Interview", Andy Warhol's magazine.

Francis Bacon, 1909-1992, was a European figurative painter. His artwork was known (and at times notorious) for being controversial, bold, homoerotic, violent and nightmarish. Like alot of artists he had it rough growing up, in a very conservative household, in extremely conservative times and an abusive father. Also being gay did not help his situation either, especially in a time and place when and where homosexuality was illegal. At one point, he even worked as a "gentlemen's escort" to get by.

When I go to experience a major exhibit, I usually prefer to go alone. That way I know I can take my time, read EVERYTHING, and just stroll around with my little audio tour head phones. It takes me HOURS to go through one of these, and I love every minute of it. In this particular one I happened to be wearing my "QUEER." t-shirt. I thought of how lucky I was to be able to do that, because I know he couldn't.

I felt a serious connection with the artist in several ways. Many people see his art as twisted and morbid. I say there is nothing wrong with that, it's reality. I understood where he was coming from with his themes of mortality, death, and anti-religious tones in his work. His "deforming and reforming" portraits of individuals.

I always get such a kick out of the audio tours. I believe people really miss out on alot of little things when they don't take advantage of those. Most of the time you can hear some interview, and having the actual artist's voice in your ear while looking around can truly add a whole new dimension to the experience. It's like having their ghost walk around with you.

I found myself laughing out loud a bit at some parts of the audio tour. One painting of a dog on the sidewalk gazing at some gutter, the artist says that he was inpired for that piece by a pile of dog shit he saw one time on the curb. "That's what it's all about..." he said. Deep. Another part mentions how he had created some famous triptych "while he was drunk". Duh. What artist hasn't or doesn't do that?

The exhibit is of course divided into certain sections, earlier work, later work, portraits, abstracts, and so on. My favorite pieces were all the "crucifix" ones involving hanging slabs of beef you would find at the butcher shop and the twisted portraits of the pope with his signature open, gaping, mouths. I love the fact that he was able to get away with this stuff at that time. Apparently, he was pretty obsessed with collecting tons of photos, particularly dark themes, such as crime scenes, butcher shops, and Nazi propaganda.

My other favorite part of the show was the room where they had on display covering one entire wall, a life-size photograph of his studio. I did a double take when I saw it because I had felt like I just stepped back into my own art studio. It was amazing. It was such a wreck. Stuff all over the place, paint and other supplies, papers, cardboard, all kinds of junk. I had never seen another space that looked like mine. I wasn't alone. All the constant shit I get about my little dungeon didn't seem to matter, anymore. There are some great interview videos out there with the artist, in which he states, "...it's a dump. No one else would want it, but I can work here...", "...chaos for me breeds images...". He UNDERSTOOD. He got it. Being self-taught, when asked if he went to art school, he says, "No, thank God. I would've been taught techniques I don't want to know." It's interesting how they had in that same room little "artifacts" from his studio under glass, some that were probably just crap laying around. Of course, people always seem to have the need to analyze every little thing. Sometimes, though, a Snickers candy bar wrapper is just that. It's like, "Ooh, maybe this was some type of commentary on society". No. Sometimes the artist just gets hungry. The end.

In order to appreciate this type of exhibit, you need to drop all pre-conceived notions on what art is supposed to be, and open yourself up to the possibility that not all art is meant to be "pretty". Some of the best art ever created is very dark.

Hotel Review: Carlton Arms, NYC

2009-07-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

This is my first ever hotel review. I've never been moved enough to write one, until now...

HOTEL REVIEW

YE OLDE CARLTON ARMS HOTEL, NYC

by Cynthia Rodriguez

The ultimate artist's hotel. A mural museum. I first heard about the Carlton Arms about five years ago from an artist friend of mine. I promptly looked it up online, and had wanted to go there ever since. This hotel has a heavy duty history, and goes way back. I mean I'm talking about the prohibition era. Then I believe it became a prostitute and drug addict den for a while. They REALLY turned all that around, though, when they decided to transform it into the artsy fartsy mecca it is today. The "baby chelsea", as it's been nicknamed, among other things.

I made arrangements months ago to stay there for a week for my summer vacay to visit the hometown. As soon as I stepped foot in the Carlton Arms, I immediately got hit with art A.D.D. There is just SO much to look it. It's an exhibit in itself. Half of the pictures I took were of the hotel itself. I've never experienced a hotel like this before, and I've done my share of hotels and motels. Okay that probably didn't sound too good, but you get my point.

On the practical level, their best asset is of course, the price. I stayed there a Monday through Friday for under $500. It's a great, pretty safe neighborhood. Right next to Baruch College, surrounded by a nice assortment places to grub, bars, and shops.

But, like the saying goes, "you get what you pay for", such as room service or a television. Which is good that you don't pay for either of those things because of the fact you don't get them, or a telephone, (but with cell phones today, who needs a phone in their room anymore, anyway?) Yes, it's bare bones service. Once you get your keys, and the little dollar store looking padlock for your door (for when you're away from your room), you are pretty much on your own. It's also "no smoking", (like most places in New York City now a days), which for a big smoker like me is kind of a pain in the ass, but I dealt with it.

It's a little on the ghetto side, some have called it more of a hostel than hotel. Okay, so the sink (which was located in the bedroom) didn't work when I first got there, and maintenance had to go into my room twice to fix it. When you need an extra roll of toilet paper or more towels, you just go to the lobby and get them yourself. I also did that when the light bulb went out on my little night stand table lamp. They also have at least one cat running around, I guess they are the mascots of Carlton Arms. Regardless, I still consider it a hotel.

More on the plus side, they had internet access available in the lobby that came in handy a few times a day. Most of the time the floor I was at was surprisingly quiet. Sometimes I wondered if I was the only one on "Floor B". The staff was friendly, (you can tell most of them have been there for a long time), and VERY helpful, especially with my little tourist adventures when I would ask for directions as in which train to take where. I had one of those old New York fire escapes outside my window which was pretty neat. I just wanted to stand out there and sing something from "Rent". The roof top is restricted to guests, as most are, but I'd love to go up there maybe with someone who works there could escort me next time, to check it out.

Apparently, the hotel runs a gallery in Brooklyn called "Art break". I was told they had an entire exhibit dedicated to President Obama. Tentatively, they will be putting together another one for his one year anniversary in office. I'm hoping they will allow an outsider like me to participate. A hotel that runs an art gallery, one that includes political themes too, no less. How cool is that?

The bottom line is that perhaps as far as the standard hotel ratings go, they would probably get like a two, two and half, maybe. It's not for the weak. It is not for everyone. However, this is a special place, and I know only certain people can truly appreciate it's character and artsy charm. That is why in THAT context, I absolutely give it five stars. I definitely plan on going back, hopefully with some like minded people who will hold it as dear as I do.

Lesbian Book Review: "Made For You" by Geneva St. James

2009-07-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"MADE FOR YOU"

by Geneva St. James

Wow. This lady knows her lezzies. More specifically, lesbian relationships. Another gem from ALPHA WORLD PRESS brings to you, "MADE FOR YOU". It may be one woman's roller coaster ride of a journey after being dumped by her girlfriend, but I think it represents alot of the borderline psycho shit that women tend to do in that situation.

This light, comical, and fun read could have been sad and depressing. St. James managed to turn that around and transforms our sometimes abnormally too emotional, romantic faux pas into one hilarious expose on the lesbian scene, and the way we relate to each other. I feel sometimes our community gets a little too smug and think we are so much more "advanced" in some areas, more so than the straight world. This book blows up that theory. You walk away from it thinking, "Damn, that's so true, and a little embarrassing."

Our main character, Julie Bell, the dumpee, you can't help but go through a variety of emotions with her, and AT her. At some parts you think, "What a bitch", or "She's crazy", "She's really funny", "She's so right/wrong" and other times it's, "Awww, I feel bad for her", or "How pathetic", "Damn, she reminds me of so and so", or "Damn, she reminds me of ME". I never had such up and down emotions for the main character in a book before.

The rest of the colorful cast of characters will inevitably remind you of at least ONE lesbian in your life. For me, I found the most likeable character was Julie's best friend, Sarah, always attempting (not successfully), to talk Julie into her senses. A bit gullible and a pushover, but such a sweetheart.

I found myself laughing out loud plenty throughout the book. Mainly because Geneva has an uncanny knack for nailing our own stereotypes. Very educational in it's own way, if anything, you can learn certain things NEVER to do in a lesbian relationship.

Double review: Book and Film

2009-07-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

This is my first "double review". I thought it would be fun to review both the movie, and the book it was based on. This is also my first movie review, not just at Lesbiatopia, but in general.

BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"QUEEN BEES & WANNABES"

by Rosalind Wiseman

I wish this book had been around when I was a teen. It would have saved me a whole lot of heartache, and confusion. "Queen Bees..." was originally intended for parents of teen girls but has become a marvelous instruction manual through "Girl World" that is just as relevant for adult women. Rosalind breaks it down for us in an entertaining, amusing fashion, the hierachies, the cliques, roles and games we play on ourselves and each other, and how all types of relationships we have/had as teens help mold our connections with everything else as adults.

This lady KNOWS teenagers. You can tell she knows what she is talking about. The book is based on her wonderful "Empower Program" (look it up), in which she goes into schools and educates and advocates a no violence policy by enlightening these youngsters on their own psyche. Alot of the book is actual feedback from the teens on subjects discussed in their classes regarding the agenda.

I was compelled to read this after seeing one of my favorite movies "Mean Girls" for about the 50th time. For me, the bottom line is, people don't really change too much after high school. The biggest, most obvious indicator of this is the work place. You have your "Queen Bees" and the others wherever you go. You can't go through this book, and not say out loud to yourself quite a few times, "Omg, that was ME!", "That's STILL me!", "I do that!", etc. The sad fact is that women can be real bitches to each other. No matter what your background, nationality, sexual orientation, whatever. Of course, the fact that I used the word "bitch" probably defeats the entire purpose of the book. At least I'm aware of that. Well, you know what I mean, I think.

Another significant issue is a girl's issues with her significant other, or others. Naturally, relationships, the good, the bad and the ugly, with family, friends, and boyfriends/girlfriends will shape future relationships. Sometimes it just comes down to breaking that cycle of abuse. I feel that most women never really learn to do that, especially with themselves.

I recommend this book to ALL women, whether you have children or not.

I HIGHLY recommend this book to ALL parents of teenage girls, or will become one someday.

I consider this book a bible for parents of girls. It can save you alot of the hassle of deciphering what's going on in their universe. You'll need it.

This is part of the reason why I chose to remain "child-free", so good luck with that.

MOVIE REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"MEAN GIRLS"

The first time I saw "Mean Girls", I thought it was going to be another brainless teen film. Boy, was I wrong. This isn't your typical teen movie. No one is going to White Castle or getting half-baked. It is probably the most intelligent teeny bopper film I can remember watching. It has become one of my favorites. Also, I think it's the smartest movie starring a significant amount of SNL cast members. However, the wit and wisdom do not take away from it's ability to make you LOL (laugh out loud), partly because you know it's true. Brilliant as always, Tina Fey's film adaption of Rosalind Wiseman's book, "Queen Bees & Wannabes" stays true to it's serious messages.

My favorite movie with Lindsay Lohan, who I feel was at the peak of her cuteness, and that sort of innocence about her, is perfect as Cady Heron, a formerly home schooled teen from Africa, who is thrown into a different type of jungle. Public High School. She quickly learns that her excellent book smarts are no match for a different kind of education that most of us are unfortunetly all too aware of. The modern day social science of "Girl World".

There is a hilarious, maybe a tad exaggerated representation of all the different cliques, from the jocks, to the nerds, to the burnouts. Even still, I believe you can identify with one group more than the other when you see it.

The DVD's special features are priceless. I love how it continuously refers to the book the way it does to show it is true to it's origins. You don't see that too often in special features on DVD's, which is interesting being that alot of the material in films ARE from books.

So if you haven't seen "Mean Girls" yet, ya' gotta check it out. I guarantee you'll find a little bit of your high school self in it, as well as the person you are today.

The Adventures of a Community Curator

2009-07-12T03:11:00.000-07:00

THE ADVENTURES OF A COMMUNITY CURATOR

by Cynthia Rodriguez

" I agree that contemporary art may not be simple to understand, but if it is presented in the right way people can enjoy a lot. "
~David Elliott

Artists are a pain in the ass. I should know, I AM one (both). When you are a curator for distinguished places such as the Guggenheim or the Whitney, you get paid big bucks, have a big budget to work with, and all the prestige and respect in the world.

When you're a political, community curator like me, there's no pay involved, and you have a small budget to work with (usually your own). It's a thankless (until people praise you at the opening reception for a "great job"), stressful job.

The literal definition of curator is "someone who has care of or superintendence of something such as an exhibit". The actual definition is true. All of a sudden, you become guidance counselor, babysitter, and whip cracking task master, among other titles. Preparing for the art opening itself is nerve wrecking enough, much less being "master of ceremonies" throughout the evening.

Everybody's issues come out of the wood work when I work with them on a show. Suddenly, I get to know more about these artist's lives than I would really like to know. I mean, it's not that I don't care, but c'mon. Do I really need to constantly hear about your dysfunctional relationships, three part time jobs, your physical ailments, mental issues, substance abuse issues, your nomadic existence, your philosophy on life and your dying cat?

All the while, I'm just thinking, "Okay, so...are you working on your piece?"

Deadlines. In general, I don't believe that artists grasp the idea of deadlines. They seem almost phobic of the word. Submitting their information, dropping off and picking up artwork seem to be a foreign concept. Some actually get extreme anxiety from it all. I attempt to explain it's supposed to be fun, a creative outlet, sharing their talents with the world, and a way to express how the individual feels about a particular political subject.

I feel that working at an art gallery for seven years taught me everything I need to know to run a gallery and put some decent shows together. I believe that would be considered an "apprenticeship". Something that really doesn't exist anymore. I began as a volunteer, then a member, then a resident, then Assistant Director. People go to school and become art majors to learn the things I did. I feel very blessed and lucky to have had the hands-on education I did. I may not have an art degree, and I know I am considered to be one of the "self-taught" artists. I may not be Mary Boone, but I believe I can hold my own.

The few solo art shows I've done is when I concentrate on my light, fluffy, fun side. The "softer side of Sears" so to speak. They are very personal and allow me to share with the audience certain facets of me they probably wouldn't see otherwise.

When I do any genuine curating is when I do the group shows. When it's myself and certain other local artists in the neighborhood. When this happens, I ONLY stick to political themes, basically anything I feel that is relevant to the community, and the times.

Over the years I've curated art exhibits dealing with issues such as women's empowerment, domestic violence, the sensation of the media, the pro-choice movement, gay issues, and the homelessness and mortgage crisis. To me, an endeavour like a group art exhibit is not worth doing if it's not not dealing with an important topic.

It's better than just sitting around, bitching and moaning about certain issues, and putting it out there for the world to see, and help create an awareness about them, and hopefully contribute to changing the world in your own creative way.

" The educator and the public need to have an opportunity to discuss why certain art is important. "
~David Elliott

Free & Discount LGBTQ youth films at Outfest Los Angeles

2009-07-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

is proud to be a Community Collaborator with

Hope to see you there!

FREE MOVIE!

Straightlaced - How Gender's Got Us All Tied Up

Sunday July 12 | 12:00 pm | Free!

Fairfax Cinemas
7907 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90048

Academy Award-winning director Debra Chasnoff crafted this powerful documentary about the lives of teens and young adults as seen through the gender lens. Approaching society's ideas and ideals of gender through clothes, sexuality, sports, dance, safety, consumerism and emotion, the film addresses the complexities of conceptions of masculinity and femininity for Generation Z. STRAIGHTLACED is a striking and diverse film for all ages, genders and sexualities.

IN COLLABORATION WITH:
LifeWorks Mentoring

DISCOUNT TICKETS FOR LIFEWORKS MEMBERS & SUPPORTERS!

Off and Running

Sunday July 12 | 5:00 pm | $13 regular price,
$12 with code "LifeWorks"

Fairfax Cinemas
7907 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90048

Avery, a model student and track star, appears to be an average American girl, but when the search for her birth mother causes rifts in her seemingly comfortable sense of identity, she is forced to confront long-suppressed tensions. With the help of her adoptive lesbian moms, Avery must examine what it means to be an African American girl raised white and Jewish while discovering insights about her mysterious birth mother. An inspiring portrait of a modern family founded on love.

IN COLLABORATION WITH:
LifeWorks Mentoring

To purchase tickets: 213.480.7065 or www.outfest.org/fest2009

Outfest is a leading showcase for diverse, international lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) film and video. Outfest produces the oldest and largest continuous film festival in Los Angeles, the only LGBT weekly screening series in the country as well as the only LGBT people of color film festival. Since 1982, Outfest has presented more than 4,000 film and video titles for audiences of well over half a million people. Outfest 2009 features 160 films and videos from 20 countries and runs from July 9th - July 19th.

Free & discount LGBTQ youth films at Outfest - this Sunday 7/12!!

"Queer." You've been recruited.

2009-07-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

"QUEER."

you've been recruited.

by Cynthia Rodriguez

This year so far has been a good gay year in certain ways. In an enlightening way, almost in a spiritual way, in the gay sense. No, I am not becoming a Scientologist. I already went through my L. Ron Hubbard phase back in the day. I guess it's a new level of gayness, if that makes sense at all.

It all began towards the end of last year, when I participated in a local rally for the whole "FIGHT PROP8" ordeal. Then later that year I went to see "MILK" with a group of people, and acquired a new hero. Then this year at the same theatre went with the same group of people again to see "Execution of Justice", a play that followed the trial of Harvey Milk's killer after his assasination. Watched the premiere of "Prayers for Bobby" on Lifetime television. Attended the annual, local, Oscar party for the 4th year in a row (as you know, that is the "gay super bowl"), and won a "Milk" movie poster, which is at my art studio.

In the spring of this year I curated a month-long, group, political art show in Philadelphia called "QUEER."

It consisted of several mediums of art dealing with a range of issues from sexual identity to hate crimes. Included in the exhibit was a temporary installation piece I created just for the duration of the show. It was my version of a replica of the Matthew Shephard crime scene.

I'm glad I did this show when I did. After all these years of being out and about in the scene, I guess I was ready to put something like this together. It was the accumulation of familiarity in the gay movement, and of being "in the life". Relationships, clubbing, drag shows, performances, benefits, a diverse, endless amount of experiences relating to this matter. Not saying that I'm a "gay authority" so to speak, but honestly, yes, I feel that I am by now.

Like any other political theme I've dealt with in exhibits, it never fails to be an eye-opening glimpse into how far I've come regarding the subject, and how much work is left to be done, in the activist's sense, and in a personal way.

Outfest 2009 Feature Film: Make the Yuletide Gay

2009-07-03T16:43:00.001-07:00

Original article cross-posted from Examiner.com.

OutFest 2009 the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is the oldest continuous film festival in Los Angeles, featuring 182 films and videos from 25 countries in 7 different venues over 11 days starting July 9th and ending July 19th. Outfest will dazzle Los Angeles with 87 separate public programs – 6 galas, 68 features, 10 short film programs and 13 panels and special events.

On Thursday, July 9, Outfest will launch with the presentation of the 13th Annual Outfest Achievement Award preceding the Opening Night Gala film LA MISSION starring Benjamin Bratt.

There are many incredible movies, both short features and full-length that will be presented at this years festival. I will be featuring several must-see film picks for this year's festival, starting with Guest House Films'/Rob Williams' fourth film in just under three years, the delightfully sexy romp Make the Yuletide Gay.

Make the Yuletide Gay stars openly-gay Canadian star Adamo Ruggiero (Degrassi: The Next Generation) at the Regency Fairfax Theatre on 7/14 & 7/18. The film recently had it's sold-out World Premiere in Toronto, and practically sold out its U.S. Premiere at FilmOut San Diego.

Make the Yuletide Gay takes place at college where homo heartthrob Gunn lives out loud with his boyfriend Nathan (Adamo Ruggiero). But in the eyes of his wacky parents, Gunn is Olaf Gunnunderson, a devoted son who is 100% straight. So when Nathan shows up for a surprise holiday visit, Gunn's worlds collide in an explosion of tinsel, eggnog and shocking revelations!

Fab magazine called it "a potential homo holiday classic," while the festival said that "audiences were laughing so hard throughout the film they drowned out some of the best lines of dialogue!" No matter how you look at it, Make the Yuletide Gay has been getting rave reviews across the board; the first screening on the 14th has already sold out . The film has also already won four Audience Awards from FilmOut San Diego and Seoul LGBT Film Festival. It will also be screening in Philadelphia, North Carolina and some other cities as well. If you're interested in seeing Make the Yuletide Gay, you can get your tickets here. Follow Outfest on Twitter.

Lesbian Hairstyles Around the World: Montreal

2009-06-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

At Lesbiatopia, we love to talk about sexy lesbian hairstyles. Lesbians are known for wearing their hair in all sorts of fun, funky and trendy hairstyles. This week, a guest has written and vlogged a fabulous video about the lesbian hair scene in Montreal, Canada. Lesbiatopia would like to welcome the very lesbian-friendly and fabulous Daniel Baylis. Daniel writes a gay-themed blog for the Montreal tourism board.

In Montréal you can get a "Lesbian Haircut" for $15. The brains (and clippers) behind the “lesbian haircut” is JJ Levine. Back in 2006, JJ was simply doing what she enjoyed - cutting hair for friends at a bike-repair shop (that her then girlfriend owned). She began to be approached by strangers looking for a trim, so she grabbed a piece of plywood and a sharpie, and she wrote these words:

LESBIAN HAIRCUTS!!!!
(FOR ANYONE)
$15

Little did she know that 3 years later, her little lesbian haircutting gig would be infamous among all the cool queers in Montréal; attracting gay and hetero, young and old, Montréalers and visitors.

Interview: Jenn Alva of Girl in a Coma

2009-06-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

From time to time, we here at Lesbiatopia are fortunate enough to be able to speak with some really amazing gay women about what they do and how their sexuality factors into that. Blackheart recording artists Girl in a Coma, an all-girl trio, allowed our own Sinnerviewer, to sit down and speak with bass player Jenn Alva about their new record, touring, being a lesbian and even about her encounter with Kate Moennig (Shane from "The L Word").
.
Shannon: Tell me about your new CD, Trio B.C., and also what your favorite tracks are and why.

Jenn: Trio B.C. is our new album and the name comes from (band mates) Nina and Phanie’s (pronounced FAWN-ee) grandfather. They found some old photos of him and he was in this band called Trio B.C. so that’s where the name came from. As for the favorites on the album, I mean, I think I like them all, honestly.

Shannon: Come on… what’s your favorite?

Jenn: I think my favorite ones to play are “Static Mind” and “Trail” for sure.

Shannon: Because it’s a musical challenge?

Jenn: Well, “Static Mind”, yeah. The bass line’s kind of everywhere. “In the Day” is like that, too. “Trail” is like a very flowy bass and there’s this power part and playing it live on stage is just great. Even though it’s probably the one song that I need work on, we still play it and it will get better. This is the beginning of the tour so…

Shannon: Yeah, you guys just got started, right?

Jenn: Yeah.

Shannon: You all were hand-picked by Joan Jett to be on her Blackheart Records label. How does it feel to have the respect of the greatest female musician in the history of the entire planet?

Jenn: (laughs) It’s like one of those things that you can’t really grasp. Even if you tried to. You always think that you know how you’re going to react if something like that happens but when it happens, your brain just goes blank and all of a sudden, it’s like, “Oh, we’ve got to do better. We wanna make her proud. We wanna make the label proud. We gotta go!” It’s very fast-paced.

Recently, we played with Joan there in Houston and she wasn’t feeling well. She had a little tummy ache or something. We went on to play and she was watching us from the side of the stage. When we finished, she was like, “You know, I wasn’t feeling very good but now I am. I’m ready to play. You guys gave me that jolt that I needed.”

I know exactly what she was talking about because whenever we play with other bands that go on before us, I watch them and I go, “Oh I want to play now! I can’t wait to play!” So when she does things like that, it’s incredible.

One time, at the Knitting Factory, in L.A., she was there. She had seen us at the beginning of the tour and this was near the end. We had definitely improved since the last time she had seen us. We got off stage and she was there crying. She was like, “Oh, you know how I get emotional, girls. You girls really made me proud.” When things like that happen with her, everything really slows down in my head and I’m like, “Oh my God. That’s Joan Jett. And she’s really proud of us!”

Shannon: She really has a way of making the room feel in awe. I remember the first time I met her – her manager, Kenny Laguna, saw me waiting outside of a bar door hoping for an autograph. He smuggled me in and let me watch her do sound check because he knew there was no way I was getting in the bar to watch the show later that night. It was the greatest thrill of my life. After she finished, he called her over to my table and I thought I would vomit. She sat in a booth with me! My mind just went blank… I actually told her that she was my biggest fan.

Jenn: (laughs)

Shannon: Here was my idol whom I knew every fact of her life from birth until the day before. She asked me what my favorite song of hers was and I just froze! I couldn’t even think of “I Love Rock-n-Roll” – I barely managed to say a word. But she was so gracious and cool. She and Kenny were then, and the few times I have met them since, literally the most kind and gracious people I have ever encountered. I don’t even know them but I want to make them proud so I can’t even imagine how you must feel.

Jenn: The same thing happened to me when I met Gary Day, the old bass player for Morrissey. I met him and I was like, “Uhhhh, I play bass, too.” (laughs) That was all I said and I just went blank and walked away. I felt so stupid.

Shannon: Speaking of Morrissey, he was yet another big name who hand picked you to finish his tour with him. There seems to be a trend here that some very big players in the music business really respect your music. It must be a great feeling to be so early into your music career and you’ve already gotten attention from the likes of Joan Jett, Cyndi Lauper and Morrissey.

Jenn: It’s amazing! Each one of these people is our role model. Phanie and I have been best friends since we were kiddos and even back then, we would listen to all of this music. It’s incredible and totally blows our minds.

The Morrissey thing came at the perfect time. We always wanted to meet him but then we thought, “No, we don’t want to meet him because what if he’s a jerk? It would ruin everything that we had based our whole lives around.

Shannon: Yes, that was my fear with Joan Jett. If she would’ve been mean when I met her, it would have crushed my spirit into dust.

Jenn: Right! And you never know… people have bad days. Sometimes, they have big heads. You just don’t know how they are going to be when you meet them.

Shannon: But you didn’t have that experience with him?

Jenn: No! Not at all. We got asked at the last minute to do the final leg of his tour. We literally dropped everything that we were doing. We were so lucky that it was Morrissey first because it was like touring boot camp. With Morrissey, we knew already how he was. We heard all of these rumors, we knew all the stories. We stayed in our dressing room until it was time to play. We just really wanted to do a good job. I think it paid off because he would come to our dressing room to visit us and talk to us. But we would never bug him. We totally stayed out of his way. We also made great friends with his staff.

When we got the tour with Tegan & Sara, we did the same thing except that they wouldn’t have it. Not to say that Morrissey is not down to earth or anything, but Tegan & Sara definitely are. They were like, “What are you doing? Come out of your dressing room and hang out whenever you want.” They were very, very cool girls but I’m so glad we started out like that with Morrissey – so that we know not to run around all over the place yelling, “Yeah! PARTY!”.

Shannon: I guess different artists like to run things differently and all have different expectations. It’s so nice that you girls are trying to be sensitive to the expectations of the headliners that you end up touring with.

Jenn: It’s because we appreciate (being able to tour with them) so much. They’re sharing their fan base with us.

Shannon: I caught your show that you did with Tegan & Sara here in Atlanta last year. It seemed to me that you had a very similar fan base. I don’t know if it was that you both have a large lesbian following or that your music is compatible – I’m not really sure but it seemed that the people at the show were into all of it.

Jenn: That tour worked out so well for us. Not just making great friends with Tegan & Sara but also connecting with their fans. They have awesome fans!

Shannon: Girl in a Coma does a lot of touring. What are Jenn Alva’s tips for surviving the road?
Jenn: There’s a lot! It all starts off with making sure you get a good tour booked. A good route! You don’t want to drive more than about 7 hours. It will wear you out!
Packing right. Having enough merchandise. Being organized. I think a lot of bands, when they go on tour, they thinks it’s all only fun. But it’s a business, too.

Motel 6 is great. We don’t like to waste money on anything that’s more than around $60. We’re lucky that there are only 4 of us on the road right now so it makes it easy to have 2 to a room.

Another tip is food. We’re all vegetarians so what we tend to do is go to the grocery store and buy peanut butter and jelly, which we don’t have to refrigerate, and a loaf of bread. We buy lots of soups that we can keep under the seats so that when we are hungry, we stop at a gas station and warm it up.

Lastly, being professional and calling these venues in advance. We let them know that we are on our way and get in our load-in times. When we play, we do a good show.

Shannon: What about getting along with your band mates? Tips?

Jenn: The girls and I have the advantage of being like sisters from growing up together. We never get mad at each other for more than, like, 2 minutes and then, we’ll be laughing the next minute.

Shannon: I read about your being assaulted by the off-duty cop and I know that you can’t really talk about that due to pending litigation but it made me wonder what other interesting stories from the road you might have. Care to share?

Jenn: Every night is usually really interesting. We had an intense drive through a blizzard in Kansas. I told Phanie, “We gotta cancel, dude.” But she hates to cancel so we kept going. When we got to the freeway, the were closing it down and she was like, “Look on the map and see if there’s an alternate route.” And I go, “Dude, they’re closing the freeway for a reason.”

Shannon: Like the alternate routes will be clearer than the freeway?

Jenn: Yeah, right. So we drove and drove and it was okay for a little while but then, BOOM, the blizzard came and we had to drive like 5 miles per hour. Just before we got to a motel, this SUV came out of the fog just spinning around and around and it hit our rental van. It was pretty crazy.

As for wild times, we had a good time with our touring band, Miss Derringer. They’ve been like the first band that we’ve toured with where we’ve fallen in love with each other. We had a day off recently and went to New Orleans. We all went to Bourbon Street and just spent the time bonding. That was fun.

Shannon: I bet it’s kind of nice sometimes to be around people other than the people that you’re used to traveling with.

Jenn: Yes, definitely! It’s kind of like dating somebody. You learn something from everybody that you date. Being in a band is like a marriage, you know? So when we get to stray off with another band for conversation, its great!

Shannon: My daughter wanted me to ask you this: what would you be doing if you weren’t in the band?

Jenn: I would try to do something in art.

Shannon: I read that you were into painting….

Jenn: Yeah. I think if I would have pressed on and stuck with it more, I would have been at a whole other level by now. Ever since we got in this band, it’s totally taken over our lives. Everything is band, band, band. If I did have a chance to paint, it would be with acrylics and I think I would paint icons. I painted Bjork, Elvis Presley, Morrissey. I’ve done portraits of friends, but it’s not anything great. I definitely enjoy it and hope to do something later on. Right now, we are giving the band 100% of our attention and focus. It’ll go down sometime. Nina wants to go to school, I mean, we all want to do our own thing at some point.

Shannon: Social networking sites. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace. Are they a helpful way for you to connect with your fans or do you find them to be a pain in the ass to keep up with?

Jenn: I think Twitter is awesome. I don’t do it. Phanie does all of it. My job is to make some video blogs. I enjoy filming and editing. All of those ways to connect with fans are a help. Especially nowadays. You are really obliged to do it because of the age we live in. You have to keep up with the times and we appreciate having those tools. Girl in a Coma loves using those sites to connect with our fans.

Shannon: Some bands like U2 use their fame to promote social causes. Is there anything that Girl in a Coma is collectively passionate about or do you girls mostly just stick with music?

Jenn: I think we need to educate ourselves more. We are, and have been for years, vegetarians. We are very passionate about that. We’re going to have a lot to talk about soon when this court case is over with (the off duty officer assault). We’ve become a lot more political and more involved than we were since we’ve had more experiences. Phanie and I are lesbians. When we were promoting “Both Before I’m Gone” (1st album), we were doing a lot of gay magazine interviews. I sort of felt like I wanted to focus more on the music. Not the fact that we were girls, Latinas, lesbians… not any of that. This time around, we’re sort of realizing that this is our community and we have a lot to say, actually. For example, I think that kids in school should be educated about gays because “homosexuality” is such an ugly word still and it shouldn’t be.

Shannon: Yeah, there was a little 11 year old boy here in Atlanta that hung himself a few months ago because his classmates were calling him “gay”. There is really something wrong in the world when a kid would rather kill himself than be called “gay”. He was just a baby.

Jenn: Yeah, a baby! It just doesn’t make any sense and I don’t understand why so many people don’t understand that. Gay and lesbian people are paying taxes and contributing members of society and wanting committed relationships. Why are they not being treated equally? It’s the year 2009. It’s just ridiculous to even say this out loud.

Shannon: Yes, basic civil rights that everyone should have.

Jenn: The U.S. is far behind other countries. Those other places, it’s not a big deal at all.

Shannon: Well, the younger people have a better mindset. A lot of them are starting to say, “Who cares?” so change is coming.

Jenn: I hope so. I don’t think it’s going to happen anytime soon, of course.

Shannon: We have 6 states now and most of them happened this year.

Jenn: That is true!

Shannon: Would you like to share anything about your coming out experience?

Jenn: Yes, I could share about that. A lot of people want to know how it was for me coming from a Mexican culture family. Was it even more difficult? The answer is no because most Mexican families have a passion to be close to their families no matter what. When I came out to my family, it wasn’t a big deal.

Shannon: How old were you?

Jenn: I was 19. This is how it happened – I had a dream when I was 18. I was talking to my grandmother who had passed away when I was 16 and I just adored her. In my dream, she said, “I think you should tell your mom. She’s going to love you anyway.” So then I decided that I would tell her on my birthday. My birthday came around and I didn’t do it. But 2 days later, I was moping around the house and I was lying beside my mom. She already knew – sometimes parents just know. She was like, “Do you have something to tell me?” and I was like, “Yeah, I do”. And to soften the blow, I said I was Bi even though I knew that I wasn’t. She said, “Okay, well I’m going to love you anyway.”

She treated me a little bit weird for a while, but in a funny way. Like she would say, “Oh, change the channel. I don’t like this Ellen!”. Then, my first girlfriend came around and she was a sweetheart. My mom fell in love with her and became a lot more comfortable with it. Now, all she does is watch Ellen. Every day at 4 o'clock.

Shannon: (laughs) Ellen is a good representative.

Jenn: Absolutely.

Shannon: You were friends with Phanie in high school…

Jenn: Yeah, but she didn’t come out until a couple of years ago. It was funny.

Shannon: So it didn’t affect your friendship because you had come out so much earlier than she did but she never told you until recently?

Jenn: No. I told her when I was about 16. I was lying on the floor and she was on her bed and I was like, “Dude, I have something to tell you. I think I like girls. I like our friend Rosalie a lot.” She was quiet for a long time. She didn’t say anything. I was like, “Are we now not going to be friends or what?” and she was like, “No, no, no! It’s just Wow. Okay.”

Phanie didn’t ever seem to like anybody. She said she was asexual for a while. When she finally came out, it weirded me out. Even being a lesbian, it still weirded me out because I’ve known her for so long. And I’m not saying it wasn’t obvious, I’m just sayin’ that she has been such a weird person anyway. So when she did, I was cool with it.

Then, recently, problems started coming as a result. Not bad, but funny problems. Fighting over girls. That’s all. I’m glad that she came out and she’s happy. But I’m still like, “Stay away from the girls that I see”.

(laughs)

Shannon: Are you both attracted to the same types of girls?

Jenn: Very much so! You’ll see both of our heads turn when a certain type of woman walks by.

Shannon: Which is?

Jenn: It’s a Mexican girl or of Latin descent. Big eyes, long hair. But I love girls. All kinds of girls!

Shannon: Like Carmen from “The L Word”?

Jenn: Oh, definitely! She’s hot. I don’t like “The L Word” that much, though.

Shannon: Those writers frustrated the shit out of me. They made what could have been a really amazing show into a sort of joke that we were all willing to put up with because it was the only thing on TV that had lesbians.

Jenn: I met the girl that played Shane, I don’t know her real name and I hardly care.

Shannon: Kate Moennig?

Jenn: Yeah. I never liked her character anyway. My friends adored her but I never saw what they saw. One night, we were at a club doing a Tegan & Sara after party and she was there. Phanie said to me, “Go tell her something.” And I said, “Okay. I will.”

I walked over to her and I said, “Hi!” and she was like, “Hey.” She sounded like she was in a bad mood and I have no idea what her problem was but I said, “I have an idea for your show” but before I could finish she snapped, “The show is OVER!” and I was like, “Whatever.” And I walked away but I was going to tell her “How about my band comes on the show and then you and I get in a fight and I’ll beat the shit out of you.”

(laughs)

Jenn: Just to be silly, you know? Joke around with her. But she stopped it before I could really say anything.

Shannon: Like you said earlier, sometimes people have bad nights. Maybe that was one of hers. She missed a good one, though.

Jenn: Yeah.

Shannon: What’s your favorite thing about the gay community?

Jenn: It’s nice to be around people who have similarities with yourself. I love my gay guys. I love talking to them because they make me feel more feminine. Just having that connection to someone else right away that makes you a family. Every once in a while, you get a bad one. But I don’t think that we should be fighting with each other. We’re really all in the same boat and we need to take care of each other.

We really need to stick together and not be negative towards each other because it really doesn’t get you anywhere. Just understanding that everybody has different views and opinions helps. If we can just respect one another, homosexual, straight… whatever, if we can just get to that point, then that’s good enough, I think.

Shannon: Last question (and I ask everyone I interview this question). Girl crushes – we all have them…

Jenn: Yes, I have sooo many.

Shannon: Well, besides me, who?

(laughs)

Jenn: Okay, well, besides you, let me see… Eva Longoria. I love her. Jessica Alba, I used to but not so much anymore. Who else? Besides Eva? I saw her on TV the other day and I was like, “There she is!” Let me see, Megan Fox. Oh! There is an actress that is staring in a new Ethan Hawke movie called “The Hottest State”. I think her name is Catalina Sandino. I am in love with this girl! Oh my God. She’s got an accent. She is sooo beautiful.

Shannon: Thank you so much, Jenn! I hope your tour goes well and I hope people flock to the shows and but your new CD, Trio B.C.

Jenn: Thanks!

Luscious Lesbian Drama is Back! Gimme Sugar Miami

2009-06-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

If you remember correctly, I had my 2.5 seconds of fame on the premier episode of Gimme Sugar filmed at the notoriously famous Truckstop night at HERE lounge, put on by the fabulous Linda and Michelle of FUSE EVENTS. I've met Linda Fusco, personally, and I don't think she sleeps - this woman is THE premier lesbian party-promoter of LA and boy does she know hot to throw a party.

Luckily for us lesbians who love our drama (and we know there's plenty of it to go around), LOGO is premiering its hot original series this summer, featuring television’s only on-air show with lesbians and bisexual women. The ladies of Gimme Sugar hit Miami this to explore the lesbian club scene in the heat of Florida. Hot, sweaty, lesbians who will be dancing, fighting and f*cking? Count me in!

The return of “Gimme Sugar" with "Gimme Sugar: Miami," premieres Monday, June 22, 2009 at 10:00 PM ET/PT and full episodes will also be available to watch online. Go home and set your TIVO now... stat!

You can check out clips from the show here. The girls will also be chatting live with fans after each show premiere on the show's facebook page.
Here's a preview of the show:

More Gay & Lesbian Video At LogoOnline.com

"Traditional Marriage"

2009-06-03T19:29:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 7:8

"Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: it is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am"

Why doesn't the church push this?

Why don't pastors refuse to marry people if the apostle Paul teaches that singles and widows should stay single?

Another example of picking and choosing by fundamental evangelicals...