Queer Voices

We speak with Chris Bacon about the recent Supreme Court decision allowing businesses to discriminate against LGBT people. Can you imagine a world where businesses are legally allowed to discriminate based on sexual orientation? The Supreme Court's recent ruling permitting such discrimination has sent ripples through the global LGBTQ community and beyond. We invite you to sit down with us as we unpack this ruling with Houston attorney Chris Bacon, providing a comprehensive analysis of the 303 Creative LLC versus Elenis case. Guest:  Chris Baconhttps://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/21-476_c185.pdfOur exploration into the 303 Creative case opens up a Pandora's box of potential consequences. With the skilled guidance of our guest Mr. Bacon, we navigate the choppy legal waters to understand the precedents set by West Virginia v. Barnett, discerning its differences with the current case. Discover how this ruling could serve as an open invitation for litigants to refuse goods and services to LGBTQ Americans, posing a stark challenge to the principle of equality. As we delve into these contentious issues, we also weave through Mr. Ingles' personal journey of self-discovery, his decision to pen his life story, and his unique perspective on the significance of the Little House and Prairie Books for the LGBTQIA Plus community.We speak with Lee Ingalls author of "Ingalls on the Prairie: The Gene and Fern Ingalls Story".  R. Lee Ingalls is part of the famous family Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about in her series of beloved books. Lee describes himself as more of a story teller rather than an author. He often says Laura Ingalls was part of the fabric of America as it was populating and moving westward. Her life and experience didn’t differ much from most living at that time, but the remarkable act was she documented the journey. That is what Lee is doing with his new work. He is continuing the legacy Laura began by telling the life experiences of his parents.Guest: Lee Ingallshttps://ingallsontheprairie.com/about-the-author-r-lee-ingalls/Moving from the courts to the theater, we offer a tantalizing glimpse into Charles Busch's new play, Ibsen's Ghost. Unravel the intricacies of the story, the production process, and the creative symbiosis between Charles and the director, Carl. Lastly, we venture onto the global stage, examining the implications of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ equality and rights. We discuss the impact of discriminatory statements from world leaders, celebrate victories like the legal recognition of lesbian mothers, and mourn setbacks like the ban on queer student groups. Join us for a rollercoaster ride through the complex and often challenging world of LGBTQ rights and representation.Guest: Charles Buschhttps://www.charlesbusch.com/

Get ready for a powerful episode as we navigate through the resonating impact of The Laramie Project, a play that touches on the harrowing murder of Matthew Shepard, and the significant legislation that it inspired. We are joined by the play's director at Theatre Suburbia, Judy Reeves who offers us an intriguing insight into this dramatic piece. Judy details how the play uniquely employs ten actors to portray over 65 roles, and how it is not solely focused on the murder, but on the ripple effect it caused within the community of Laramie, leading to the creation of the Hate Crimes Prevention Act.Guest: Judy Reeveshttps://web.theatresuburbia.org/season/63/show/laramie-projectThis episode also welcomes the talented Charles Busch, a celebrated playwright, actor, novelist, director, portrait artist, and cabaret entertainer, who shares details of his upcoming memoir, Leading Lady. We examine the specific aspects of Judy Reeves' play, The Laramie Project, set to stage at Theatre Suburbia from September 15 through October 14. We also reflect on the invaluable role of platforms like KPFT in amplifying voices that often go unheard, and the continuous call for support from our listeners.Guest: Charles Buschhttps://www.amazon.com/Leading-Lady-Memoir-Most-Unusual/dp/1637744145We wrap up our episode with a heartwarming conversation with the acclaimed actor, Bryan Batt, known for his Broadway productions. Bryan offers a sneak peek into his role in the forthcoming show, Pay the Writer, as well as his experience filming during the pandemic and the film's upcoming release in New York City. We also share personal anecdotes about the late comedian Joan Rivers, a theater history enthusiast and the value of humor in navigating adversity. Brian offers some pearls of wisdom for the younger members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we discuss the significance of queer voices in the play Pay the Writer. Prepare to swim in a sea of theater, history, and community.Guest: Bryan Batthttps://paythewriterplay.com

Have you ever wondered what it takes to make history and inspire a community? Join us for a fascinating conversation with Harrison Guy, the first Black male grand marshal in the history of Houston's Pride celebrations. We dive into Guy's passion for the arts, his transformative journey to Rwanda, and how it influenced his artistic language and the creation of the Urban Souls Dance Company. We also venture into his newest production, Black Butterfly, which tells powerful stories from the LGBTQ community, based loosely on his own experiences.Guest: Harrison Homer-Guyhttp://urbansouls.orgImagine being on the forefront of organizing events that embody Pride, art, and culture. That's exactly what our guest, Michael Greco, has done. From his role as a Grand Marshal in the Houston Gay Pride Parade to his upcoming Black Butterfly production and the Art of Black Pride exhibition, Greco is a force to be reckoned with. We also explore the humorous and yet profound Stages Repertory Theatre productions, 'The Legend of George McBride' and 'Drag Wonderettes' that challenge identity and gender norms, adding a refreshing take on classic narratives.Guest: Michael Grecohttps://stageshouston.comOur journey does not stop there. We delve into the beautiful and evocative world of poetry, with works by Essex Hemphill, Pat Parker, and Aaron Shurin. Exploring themes of love, identity, and oppression, we see how these poets use their craft not only as a therapeutic tool but also as a powerful advocacy platform for LGBTQ rights. From National Poetry Month to Tokyo Rainbow Pride's return post-COVID, we traverse the significant narratives and challenges faced by the queer community worldwide. So, buckle up and join us as we amplify these inspiring and vital queer voices in our community.

Embark on an enchanted journey with us as we spotlight the glitz, glamour, and behind-the-scenes of the wedding planning industry with the innovative Shaun Gray of Shaun Gray Events. Passionate about celebrating love in all its diversity, Sean peels back the curtain on his trailblazing approach, leveraging social media to redefine what a 'dream wedding' can look like. Discover how he is shattering the traditional mold and using platforms like TikTok to spotlight love stories that color outside the lines. Guest: Shaun Grayhttps://www.shaungrayevents.comThis episode also illuminates the vibrant world of Houston-based artist, Max Xandaux. With a creative spirit that knows no bounds, Max offers an intimate glimpse into her new EP, Candy Lady, interweaving personal narratives and her unshakeable connection to Star Wars. Hear the tale of her journey as a trans individual, and be inspired as she courageously blazes her path in the music industry. Guest: Max Xandauxhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN-dFmugDIz0Y80ad2_2RbAFinally, we're not shying away from the hard-hitting issues. We're taking a magnifying glass to the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights and gender-affirming care, analyzing recent legal developments and their rippling effects on the community. Join us as we welcome two new voices to our team, Wendy Taylor and Joel Tatum, ready to inject fresh perspectives into these critical conversations. Don't miss this captivating episode of Queer Voices, your gateway to the beautiful tapestry of diversity, creativity, and equality.

Cameron Samuels 2023 Trendsetter Grand Marshal -- Queer Podcasters -- Actor/Writer Brett CullumWe speak with with Cameron Samuels, 2023 trendsetter Grand Marshal. For Cameron Samuels, the courageous teen who battled Katy Independent School District in a 2021 dispute involving the district’s homophobic internet search filters and book bans, being recognized with the Human Rights Campaign’s Trailblazer Award in April was a moment of resolution.Guest: Cameron Samuelshttps://www.outsmartmagazine.com/2023/06/trailblazing-teenager/Then we speak with fellow queer podcasters who are doing the work in the community. They include Tiffany Scales, Wendy Taylor and Joel Tatum.  Joel and Wendy produce "That Little Gay Talkshow" and Tiffany performs in the community.  They may be joining the Queer Voices collective.Guests: Tiffany Scales, Wendy Taylor and Joel Tatumhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/that-lil-gay-talk-show/id1445946892Finally, we speak with Brett Cullum, actor and writer for "Broadway World" and will be covering the Houston Theater scene. Brett Cullum has been part of the Houston and Memphis Theatre scenes for several decades now. He's been seen on community theatre and professional stages in several cities including Playhouse 1960, Theatre Suburbia, Stages, the Alley Theatre, Theatre Memphis, Circuit Playhouse, and Playhouse on the Square. Brett has been a movie critic and blogger as well for DVD Verdict.com where he published over 1,000 reviews of feature films. He has been a reviewer for Broadway World for the last five years! Guest: Brett Cullumhttps://www.broadwayworld.com/houston/contact-local.cfm

JD Doyle historian/author -- Legacy Community Health's Mint Julep -- Normal Anomaly We speak with Houston activist/historian and now author of the book, "1981: My Gay American Road Trip, A Slice of Our Pre-AIDS Culture". 1981. Rich with promise and possibility, the post-Stonewall era saw queer Americans standing up for themselves and each other like never before. With the rise of gay newspapers, bars, clubs, and businesses in cities all over the US, it was a time of hedonism, activism, pride, and community. A scene ripe for exploration and documentation, and journalist JD Doyle hit the road to do just that, traveling through 27 states to create a playful, intimate, profusely illustrated, one-of-a-kind record of gay life, love, lust, and liberation in the heady days before the devastating crisis that would change everything.Guest: JD Doylehttps://www.amazon.com/1981-My-Gay-American-Road-Trip/dp/1943444412/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37O5EHNZ3JFI9&keywords=jd+doyle+1981&qid=1689977274&sprefix=jd+doyle%2Caps%2C111&sr=8-1Then, we speak with Bella Villarreal, Development Manager, about Legacy Community Health's Mint Julep, a fundraiser for Legacy's HIV/AIDS programs in its 21st year. This year's event will HONOR: Linda Cantu, JD Doyle and Doug Boyd aka Kimberly Anne O’Neil.The Mint Julep CO-CHAIRS include: Tony Bravo, Cyndy Garza Roberts and Ray Purser. The event is held  July 16th, 2023 at the White Oak Music Hall.Guest: Bella Villarreal https://www.legacycommunityhealth.org/development/mintjulep/Finally, we speak James Drake, lead research coordinator for the Normal Anomaly, 2023 Honorary Grand Marshal. The Normal Anomaly Initiative began in 2016 in Houston as a blog to tell the stories of people at the margins. Throughout the span of 3 years, the Founder, Ian L. Haddock, had the organization working with Huffington Post, Unites States Conference on HIV/ AIDS (USCHA) and Prime Video. As the platform grew, the Founder had amassed a team of nontraditional activists that began to expand the trajectory in which the group was going.Guest: James Drakehttps://www.normalanomaly.org

2023 Grand Marshal interviews --Male -- Non Binary -- Female First, we speak with Jeffrey Campbell, the 2023 male grand marshal.  Jeffrey Campbell, a native of Cuero, TX, is a graduate of Texas State University. Currently working as the Chief Executive Officer of Allies in Hope, formerly AIDS Foundation Houston, Jeffrey has spent over two decades working in the field of HIV prevention while also being heavily involved in LGBTQ advocacy in Houston and around the nation.Over the years, Jeffrey has been a trail blazer in regards to engaging and educating the African American community on topics of HIV prevention, care and LGBTQ+ awareness. This work includes serving as the Minister of Health and Wholeness for The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, an international organization for affirming and inclusive ministers and churches. Campbell’s primary role while in this volunteer position was to provide HIV education to affirming and inclusive pastors equipping them to better serve their congregations and communities. In addition, Campbell also created discussions for leaders and participants around the topic of mental health and the African American LGBTQ+ community.Guest: Jeffrey Campbellhttps://pridehouston365.org/grand-marshal-nominees/Then, we speak with Ethan Michelle Ganz, the 2023 non binary grand marshal. Ethan Michelle Ganz is a trans nonbinary individual who fights for justice and equity.  They use all pronouns interchangeably.  He has worked, volunteered, or advocated with a number of organizations including Pure Justice, Texas Advocates for Justice, the Rothko Chapel, Transgender Education Network of Texas, Equality Texas, ActOuthtx, Houston Climate Movement, Stop TX Dot I45, and is a co-founder of the Montrose Residents Coalition.  She is also a speaker who has spoken at events like “Let’s Talk About Love Houston,” which was held at the We Serve Theater, and “We Have Always Been Here,” which was held at the Center for the Healing of Racism.  In 2022, he was awarded the “Democracy Champion Award,” from Pure Justice and the “Policy Chat Speakers Award,” from the Texas Advocates for Justice. Guest: Ethan Michelle Ganzhttps://pridehouston365.org/grand-marshal-nominees/And finally, we speak with Margarita Perez Frinsco. Margarita Pérez Frinsco is a relationship-centered leader with a passion for transformational philanthropy. As Senior Director of Advancement for the University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering, she has nearly 15 years of experience in philanthropy, serving in a range of organizations from corporate to nonprofit and most recently higher education. Margarita is focused on building institutional resources to help advance the philanthropic goals of alumni, industry partners, and community organizations. She recently led the philanthropic efforts of the College of Technology during the immensely successful UH-System $1 billion “Here We Go” campaign.Guest: Margarita Perez Frinscohttps://pridehouston365.org/grand-marshal-nominees/

Harris County Attorney's Office LGBT issues -- Gay artist Gray Foy -- Andrew  Edmonson Honorary Grand MarshalWe speak with Roxanne Werner, director of communications Harris County Attorney, about the challenges facing LGBT residents of Harris County coming from the Texas legislature.  As the Harris County Attorney, Christian D. Menefee is the chief civil lawyer for the largest county in Texas. He manages an office of 250+ attorneys and staff who represent the county, its 60 elected officials, and its 18,000+ employees in all civil matters and lawsuits. Elected at 32 years old, he is the youngest person and the first African-American to serve as Harris County Attorney.Guest: Roxanne Wernerhttps://cao.harriscountytx.gov/Then we speak with Kirsten Marples, curator of the Menil Drawing Institute, about the work gay Texas artist Gray Fox.  Between the 1940s and 1970s, American artist Gray Foy (1922–2012) created a body of extraordinarily meticulous drawings, most often rendered in graphite on paper. This exhibition celebrates two recent gifts that have made the Menil Collection the foremost repository of Foy’s work. Intrigued by Surrealism and Magic Realism as a young artist, Foy characterized his artistic method as “hyper-realism.” His exacting technique—which required intense concentration and even months to complete a single drawing—rewards sustained looking. The exhibition spans the entirety of Foy’s career, from his early Surrealist compositions to his later inventive botanical and geological renderings. Also included are a selection of the artist’s commercial illustrations, which will be displayed publicly for the first time. Hyperreal: Gray Foy is curated by Kirsten Marples, Curatorial Associate, Menil Drawing Institute.Guest: Kirsten Marpleshttps://www.menil.org/exhibitions/367-hyperreal-gray-foyFinally, we speak with Andrew Edmonson about his being named as the 2023 Honorary Grand Marshal.  Andrew Edmonson has fought for the civil rights of LBGTQ Texans, against anti-gay violence, and championed the rights of people living with HIV. He's reported for OutSmart Magazine and the Houston Chronicle, covering key issues impacting the LGBTQ community.Guest: Andrew Edmonsonhttps://www.outsmartmagazine.com/2023/06/pride-houston-365-announces-2023-grand-marshals/

LGBT Chamber of Commerce -- Januari Fox Lege Recap -- HIV StudyWe speak with Jack Berger, Director of Programming and Events, LGBT Chamber of Commerce, about the upcoming event Pride in Business Luncheon. Held during Pride Month, the Pride In Business Celebration is a unique opportunity to celebrate the important role of LGBTQ+ and Allied businesses in the Greater Houston economy. The event underscores how the LGBTQ+ & Allied business community works with the broader business community to realize a better city and region.The Pride In Business Celebration is the only event in Houston focused on the LGBTQ+ business community during Pride Month. The event will be held: Friday, June 23, 2023  |  11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m Hyatt Regency Houston Downtown Guest: Jack Bergerhttps://www.houstonlgbtchamber.comThen we speak with Januari Fox, Prism Health North Texas Director of Policy & Advocacy about the good and bad of the recent Texas legislative session. We discuss HIV policy and LGBT issues.  The Policy, Advocacy, and Community Engagement (or PACE) department within Prism Health North Texas is committed to pursuing policy priorities, which include issues related to the health and rights of our LGBTQIA+ community in North Texas and beyond.Guest: Januari Foxhttps://www.phntx.org/pace/Finally, we speak with Paige Padgett Wermuth, PhD, MPH, Assistant Professor Research, UT Health Houston about a field study being conducted in Houston regarding the rise of HIV in the LGBT community. Paige Padgett Wermuth, PhD, MPH works with qualitative research methods,ethnography, sexual health, sexually transmitted infections, folk models, sexual gender minorities (MSM and transgender health), and high-risk for HIV populations (injection drug use, sex workers, heterosexuals, and MSM). I also work with social media, Facebook, online and smart phone dating applications, and text messaging for sexual health research. She is currently the co-investigator for Houston’s National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS) and have been involved with the project for twelve years.Guest: Paige Padgett Wermuth, PhD, MPHhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35457380/

"Tinderbox" stage reading -- Dallas Southern Pride -- Woodlands Pride Andrew Edmonson talks with Brad Dalton about the stage reading of a new play called "Tinder Box" at Spring Street Studios in Houston.  The play is about the deadly fire at the "UpStairs Lounge" in New Orleans 50 years ago. The reading will take place Sunday June 18th at 3pm.Guest: Brad Daltonhttps://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/arts/tinderbox-up-stairs-lounge-fire-book-author-interview-1125133/Then, we catch up with Ahmad Goree and Dallas Southern Pride.  We discuss the history and the importance of the this event. Dallas Southern Pride (DSP) is the official annual celebration for Black Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, and Queer (LGBTQ) individuals to come together and celebrate who and what we are. It all begin in 1997 when a small gathering of Black LGBTQ individuals came together to party and hang out with one another. As the years continued, the community demanded a more formalized celebratory weekend with a host hotel, organized parties/events, and shows to provide a safe space for this community gathering.Guest: Ahmad Goreehttps://dallassouthernpride.com/Finally, we catch upon with Woodlands Pride. The Woodlands Pride is excited to present its inaugural summit, Talking with Pride, on June 10th, 2023. During the Summit, you will hear from various speakers and panels discussing mental health, small business, advocacy, and more pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community. Guest: Jason Rochahttps://secure.givelively.org/event/thewoodlandspride/the-woodlands-pride-talking-with-pride-summit-2023

"August Osage County" @ MATCH -- Pride 365 -- Mayoral Candidate Gilbert GarciaWe speak with Deborah Hope and Ron Jones about Dirt Dogs Production of "August: Osage County". When the large Weston family unexpectedly reunites after patriarch Dad up and disappears, their Oklahoman family homestead explodes in a maelstrom of repressed truths and unsettling secrets. A vanished father, a pill-popping mother, and three sisters harboring shady little secrets becomes a mixture of brutal honesty and hurtful truth as old wounds reopen and new ones form. Winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for best play that same year, August: Osage County examines how people function within dysfunction. The play starts May 26th and runs through June 10th.Guest: Brad Daltonhttps://matchouston.org/events/2023/august-osage-countyThen, we speak with the president of Pride 365, Kendra Walker and what's in store for 2023. The 45th Annual Official Houston Pride Parade® will take place downtown at Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby Street, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, in Houston, TX. This is Houston’s Premiere Event of the Pride Season attended by hundreds of thousands each Summer. Parade is FREE as always for everyone and we encourage everyone to register. Parade Hours: 7pm-11pmGuest: Kendra Walkerhttps://pridehouston365.org/Finally, we talk with Houston Mayoral candidate Gilbert Garcia about his race and his plans for the city of Houston.  Gilbert Garcia is going to “shake up” City Hall and bring all Houstonians together. With his proven success managing turnarounds such as his tenure as Chairman of METRO, where he instituted many reforms and was awarded Transit Agency of the Year in 2015, or as Managing Partner of his investment firm, where he grew the assets under management from $200 million to over $22 billion (as of April 14, 2023), Gilbert knows how to get the job done and will seek input from those who have historically been voiceless.Guest: Gilbert Garciahttps://www.garciaforhouston.com/

Alexandra Billings — Pet PatrolDeborah Moncrief Bell speaks with Alexandra Billings is a transgender TV actor who rose to prominence in 2014 as one of the supporting stars of the Golden Globe-winning comedy "Transparent" (Amazon 2014- ). A native of Southern California, Billings was surrounded by stage and screen performers throughout childhood. Her father was the musical director at a famed opera house in Los Angeles, and as a child Billings would follow her dad to work and help out backstage. It was while working at the opera house that she was first exposed to such high-profile stars as Yul Brynner and Carol Burnett, which only heightened her growing interest in the theater. By the early 1980s, Billings relocated to Chicago and started appearing in beauty pageants. She quickly found that she had a knack for performing in front of a live audience, and started winning beauty contests throughout the Midwest and Florida. Also around this time, Billings began appearing in plays in various theaters throughout Chicago, in addition to performing her autobiographical show to sold out audiences throughout the country. By the early 2000s Billings' stage career was thriving, and it wasn't long before Hollywood came calling. After a couple supporting roles on TV series, Billings made history by becoming the first transgender woman to play a transgender character on TV. That role came on the 1995 made-for-TV movie, "Romy and Michelle: In the Beginning." From there, Billings landed numerous guest spots on TV shows like "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC, 2005- ) and the short-lived "Eli Stone" (ABC, 2008-09), before landing the part of the trans woman Davina on the first season of Amazon's "Transparent." The show was an immediate success, and won the Golden Globe for Best TV Comedy. Amazon renewed "Transparent" for a second season in late 2014, with Billings already slated to reprise her role as Davina. Guest: Alexandra BillingsThen, we speak with folks from Pet Patrol.The nation's first Pet Patrol for PWAs was launched in Houston in August 1987. Founder Tori Williams realized that pets are important to improving the lifestyle of PWAs, helping them avoid depression. And it is important to take away the concern that their pets will be cared for if the person has to go into the hospital, or cannot afford food and vet expenses. That this organization has surrived all these years, even after the AIDS crisis years, is a testament to the idea and its execution by a team of volunteers. The organization received its 501c3 incorporation in August 1989.Guest: Nicki Thorne-Thomsen

Harrison Homer-Guy (First Black Grand Marshal Houston Pride) -- Stages LGBT plays -- Naughty poetry reading Aaron Coleman Aaron Coleman speaks with Harrison Homer-Guy about his life and two events he has coming up for Black Pride.  Guy was born in La Marque, Texas, in 1976. He has two sisters and two brothers, and his young mother’s parents adopted and raised Guy and his older sister. “They were incredible parents,” Guy says. “I wouldn’t change a thing.” Guy attended La Marque public schools from kindergarten through his senior year. “School, for me, was about creative things. I was involved in numerous performance activities—theater, choir, marching band,” he recalls. He played the trumpet and tuba in the band, and admits that he would love to join Houston’s Pride Band. “But I’m so busy as it is.” Guest: Harrison Homer-Guyhttps://www.outsmartmagazine.com/2019/06/pride-houstons-2019-male-grand-marshal-harrison-guy/Deborah Moncrief Bell talks with Michael Greco, associate artistic director, about two plays taking place at Stages Theater.  The first is "The Legend of Georgia McBride", Casey is desperate to be the best Elvis impersonator, complete with his flashy sequin jumpsuit. But just like that, his audiences lose interest and his act is replaced by the new drag show in town. With rent overdue and a baby on the way, “The King” takes the plunge and transforms into an all-out queen with the help of his new friends who teach Casey what it’s like to walk in someone else’s heels. But how will he reveal his newfound love of drag to his wife? With snappy zingers and dance-worthy numbers, this wildly entertaining story challenges our perceptions of identity and classic gender roles with extraordinary humor and depth.The second play is "Drag Wonderettes". You know and love The Marvelous Wonderettes—now it’s time for a new twist! Re-imagined as a high drag performance, you’ll hear the same 50s and 60s songs like “Stupid Cupid,” “Lollipop,” and “It’s My Party,” and get a whole new view of how friendship can be truly marvelous. These queens are bringing a whole new level of fabulous to the stage!Guest: Michael Grecohttps://stageshouston.comFinally we have some naughty poetry.  Aaron Coleman and Deborah Moncrief Bell read some selections.  Be sure to check out these poems.Guest: Aaron Colemanhttp://www.outsmartmagazine.com/2011/07/return-to-love/

Trans film "Joyland" at Museum of Fine Art -- March on Washington 30th anniversary Part 2We speak with Saim Sadiq,  director of the film "Joyland". (Pakistan, 2023, 126 minutes, in Punjabi and Urdu with English subtitles, Digital) Brown Auditorium Theater. Named Best International Feature at the 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards, Joyland is set in Pakistan’s patriarchal society where Haider, the youngest son in a traditional family, secretly becomes a back-up dancer in a Bollywood-style burlesque. The film is playing May 5-7th at the Museum of Fine Arts.Guest: Saim Sadiq https://www.mfah.org/calendar/joylandThen, we continue our interview about the 30th anniversary March on Washington with Part 2. Deborah speaks with Derek Livingston, Jaime Rodriguez, Nadine Smith and Paul Phillips about this monumental event.Guests:  Derek Livingston, Jaime Rodriguez, Nadine Smith and Paul Phillipshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_on_Washington_for_Lesbian,_Gay_and_Bi_Equal_Rights_and_Liberation

Amanda Edwards for Houston mayor -- March on Washington 1993 retrospect -- Sherlock Holmes at Alley TheaterWe speak with former city council person and now candidate for mayor, Amanda Edwards. Amanda Edwards is a native Houstonian and a former At-Large City Council Member. Her hands-on, results-oriented servant leadership is focused on empowering residents and obtaining results. Amanda is an accomplished attorney with extensive municipal finance experience, a grassroots public servant, and an effective community advocate. Amanda is also the founder of a community non-profit that empowers various groups ranging from seniors to women. ​Guest: Amanda Edwardshttps://www.edwardsforhouston.com/Then, Deborah Moncrief Bell has a roundtable discussion regarding the 1993 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation and its 30th anniversary.  Deborah speaks with Derek Livingston, Jaime Rodriguez, Nadine Smith and Paul Phillips about this monumental event.Guests:  Derek Livingston, Jaime Rodriguez, Nadine Smith and Paul Phillipshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_on_Washington_for_Lesbian,_Gay_and_Bi_Equal_Rights_and_LiberationFinally, we speak with actors from the show "Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Jersey Lily". Joining the program are Todd Waite and Christopher Salazar.  The wit of Oscar Wilde meets the cunning of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. In this comic sleuthing caper, Wilde’s muse, actress Lillie Langtry (a.k.a the Jersey Lily) presents Holmes with what seems like an open and shut case. The play is running April 14-May 7th at the Alley Theater in Downtown Houston.Guests: Todd Waite and Christopher Salazarhttps://www.alleytheatre.org/plays/sherlock-holmes-jersey-lily/

Pride 2023 Update -- Robert Gallegos for Houston mayor -- Montrose Blvd. ProjectWe speak with representatives from Pride 365 about the 2023 Pride events and what will be different this year.  Historically, Pride Houston is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit that has organized the official Houston LGBT Pride Celebration® every year in Montrose or downtown Houston. As of 2022, no longer will we only celebrate in June. Introducing Pride Houston 365. We will continue to strive to promote equality and inclusion through celebration and plan for numerous LGBTQIA+ events all year long to support our community. Why rebrand? Full transparency coupled with a goal of celebrating Houston’s LGBTQIA+ community year-round, raising critical funds for youth scholarships, and offering ongoing health and wellness education takes time. And it equals a 365 days-a-year commitment.Guest: Lavender Leehttps://pridehouston365.orgThen, we speak with Houston's lone LGBT city Councilmember Robert Gallegos who is announced he is running for Houston mayor.  Robert Gallegos is a native Houstonian. He was elected in 2013 to the Houston City Council, representing District I – an area that encompasses downtown, EaDo, Clinton Park, parts of northeast Houston, the greater East End and the Houston Ship Channel, as well as communities along I-45 south from downtown to Hobby Airport. Robert was born at Parkview Hospital on 75th and Harrisburg and was raised in Magnolia Park. He is the son of immigrants, working class parents, and proud labor union family.Before being elected, Robert spent over 30 years volunteering and working in the community he now represents on city council. He was the founder and first president of the Eastwood/Lawndale Super Neighborhood Council and served as president of his neighborhood’s civic club (Houston Country Club Place) for over 15 years.Guest: Robert Gallegoshttps://voterobertgallegos.comFinally, we speak with Nelson Vergel and Robert Snellgrove about the project to rebuild Montrose Boulevard with the possibility of adding historical markers to commemorate the LGBT community. The project spans a roughly 2-mile section from Allen Parkway south to I-69. It will involve a full roadway and drainage reconstruction with hard construction costs estimated at $52 million, Gauge Engineering Principal Mohammed Ali said.Improvements will focus on improving mobility for all roadway users by widening sidewalks, making intersection crossings safer, replacing traffic signals and improving lighting.Guests: Nelson Vergel and Robert Snellgrovehttps://montrosehtx.org/

John Whitmire for Houston mayor -- Creating Change 50th anniversary -- Diana's Foundation 75th anniversaryWe speak with John Whitmire about his campaign to become Houston's next mayor.  We discuss the challenges facing the city as well as the possibility of a HERO ordinance 2.0 and about leaving the Texas Senate to take on this task.Guest: John Whitmirehttps://www.johnwhitmire.com/Then, Andrew Edmonson speaks with Cathy Renna about the 50th anniversary of the Creating Change conference,  the conference took place in February in San Francisco. The National LGBTQ Task Force educates federal policymakers about the need for non-discrimination protections that ensure the whole person is able to advocate for themselves when discriminated against, wherever that discrimination takes place. They work with a wide range of progressive partner organizations across the country both at the state and federal level.Guest: Cathy Renna, Director of Communications, National Gay & Lesbian Task Forcehttps://www.thetaskforce.orgFinally, we talk about a very special 70th anniversary of the country's longest run LGBT organization, the Diana Foundation.  Founded in 1953, The Diana Foundation is focused on assisting and supporting the needs of the gay community by distributing funds to organizations that are dedicated to providing services that enhance the lives of deserving individuals in our diverse community.Guest: Howard Huffstutler, President https://thedianafoundation.org

"Simply Sondheim" Pride Chorus -- HIV Advocacy Day Januari Fox -- New AFH CEOWe speak Dr. David York and David Gebo about the upcoming Pride Chorus Houston concert "Simply Sondheim".  Pride Chorus Houston (PCH) was originally founded as the Montrose Singers in November of 1979. Led by founding director Andy Mills, the Houston-based men’s chorus met with early successes marked by lavish productions at the Tower Theatre, performing with as many as 80 singing members. The Montrose Singers became the Gay Men’s Chorus of Houston (GMCH) and later expanded to include the Bayou City Women’s Chorus (BCWC) under the umbrella of Bayou City Performing Arts (BCPA).  They now perform as Pride Chorus Houston, a unified LGBTQ+ chorus where everyone has a safe place to make music and share a message of unity and peace. "Simply Sondheim" will take place April 1st at Resurrection MCC.Guests: Dr. David York and David Gebohttps://www.pridechorus.org/events/simply-sondheimThen we speak with Januari Fox about the upcoming HIV Advocacy Day in Austin.  Since the 81st Legislative Session, groups have organized a statewide lobby day known as HIV Advocacy Day. The Texas HIV Advocacy Day is a day to meet with state policymakers to discuss some of the most important issues to the HIV community, including HIV treatment and prevention, HIV education, reproductive justice, HIV criminalization, and funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). The date will be Monday March 27th.Guest: Januari Foxhttps://www.phntx.org/event/hiv-advocacy-day-at-capitol-2023/Finally we speak with the new CEO of AIDS Foundation Houston, Jeffrey Campbell. We discuss the history of the organization and the future of what's ahead.  Utilizing the skills of leadership, public speaking and program management, Jeffrey has spent almost two decades working to end the HIV epidemic. His work spans from the non-profit sector to public health with both woven into the fabric of the Black church. Jeffrey has also integrated this work with LGBTQ advocacy work with a significant focus on dismantling the stigma that targets Black queer people in the Black community.Guest: Jeffrey Campbellhttps://www.afhouston.org

Avenue 360 "Pets in the Park" -- Book of Mary -- Stages Theater " The Bride"We speak with Dr. Charlene Flash, President CEO of Avenue 360 talks about the organization and the upcoming Pets in the Park event. Avenue 360 Health and Wellness, a 501 (c)3 organization, is a Federally Qualified Health Center with seven clinics in the Houston region providing primary, behavioral health, and dental care to medically underserved communities. Previously, the organization was known as Houston Area Community Services (HACS), founded in 1998 to treat those living with AIDS. Several years ago, HACS partnered with Bering Omega (Omega House), which provided hospice care to people living with HIV/AIDS, to form Avenue 360. The mission of Avenue 360 is to provide high quality and caring services to promote healthy people and communities.   Pet Pics in the Park, hosted by Chris Christopher Properties. With Honorary Chair Ed Holmstrom, this special event will be held on March 25th from 10 am – 2 pm, and photos with your pet will be taken by Houston’s #1 Pet Photographer, Jill Garrett. Proceeds from the event will go towards Omega House hospice services, where compassionate hospice care is provided to men and women with HIV/AIDS.  Guest: Dr. Charlene Flash/Christopher Cerdahttps://petpicsinthepark.orgThen, we speak with Mary Hooper about her autobiographical show, "Book of Mary". The Book of Mary (It Costs a Lot to Be Real), is an autobiographical one-woman show, written by and starring Houston’s own Mary Hooper, and directed by Ted Swindley, founder of Houston’s STAGES theatre and author of the popular musical, Always…Patsy Cline. It’s a raucous ride: from her Beaumont beginnings as a shy child of deaf parents, her timely escape to the gay neighborhood of Montrose in the 70s and 80s, to her adventures onstage in Houston’s way off Broadway theatre scene. Both funny and poignant, The Book of Mary is a love letter to the diva in us all.Guest: Mary Hooperhttps://matchouston.org/events/2023/book-maryFinally, we speak with Denise Fennel about "The Bride" currently in production at Stages Theater. Beloved fan-favorite known for her role as Sister in Late Nite Catechism, Denise Fennell returns to Stages for an all-new, hysterical comedy showcase. With less than two hours until her wedding, a bride of a certain age begins to question the meaning of love, life, and the ritual of marriage. Drawing inspiration from her own life and the advice of the audience, The Bride will lead to the decision of a lifetime: Will she or won’t she?Guest: Denise Fennelhttps://stageshouston.com/event/denise-fennells-the-bride-or-does-this-dress-make-me-look-married/

Q Patrol Houston -- Bringin' in the Green -- "Cowboy Bob" at the Alley TheatreWe speak with Jon Garrison who is researching anti LGBT violence in the 90's and how the community responded with local protection groups such as Q Patrol here in Houston.  Our own Glenn Holt, past president of Q Patrol, interviews Jon about his work.Guest: Jon Garrisonhttps://www.houstonlgbthistory.org/misc-q-patrol.htmlThen we have a discussion with the Montrose Center's fundraiser "31st annual Bringin' In the Green" which is taking place in Montrose on March 10th.  Don't miss one of LGBTQ Houston's favorite and longest running events!  With an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction of luxury items, you don't want to miss this St. Patrick's Day / Mardi Gras party!Ticket sales and sponsorships benefit rapid rehousing services for local LGBTQ youth who are experiencing homelessness. Services include in-depth case management and assistance with rent, furniture and utilities for safe, stable housing. Guest: Hunny Phillipshttps://secure.givelively.org/event/the-montrose-center/bringin-in-the-green-2023?fbclid=IwAR0RZyHD_TbTDEfZgj-OQuEKdaxRyM81th4EOXcgtGKTKvLQL1T-Sl4Y72UAnd finally, we speak with set designer for Alley Theater production of "Cowboy Bob" about the show and the work that went into the show.  You wouldn’t look twice at Peggy Jo. She’s a good daughter, always tips, plays by the rules – but when she dons a fake mustache, sunglasses, and ten-gallon hat, she becomes “Cowboy Bob”- the slickest bank robber Texas has ever known. Inspired by actual events, this world-premiere musical tells the story of one of the FBI’s most unusual suspects through the eyes of a chain-restaurant waitress desperate to buck her flavorless life and awaken to all that’s possible. With a genre-bending score that shifts from country to punk to folk and indie rock, Cowboy Bob – co-authored by Galveston’s own Molly Beach Murphy – is a defiant rejection of the status quo, inviting audiences to take life by the reins, join the heist, and let it ride. "Cowboy Bob" is playing from March 3-26thGuest: Digglehttps://www.alleytheatre.org/plays/cowboy-bob-2/