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Joshua Stucky

Dear Archdiocese…When A Rule is Wrong, ALTER It!

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There is no doubt that when a person signs a contract of employment, they have standards to live by. There is also no doubt, that a standard, like public opinion, can change over time. As we evolve, rules must be ALTERed….or we would still be hunting witches in Salem.

Archbishop Alter High School in Kettering, Ohio has a tough path ahead. They are, in reality, placed as the fulcrum in a battle between ‘the Goliath’ and David. In this case, it is the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati that plays the larger role, using contractual words to fire a beloved and highly respected teacher. This teacher was great for Alter for 22 years, and then suddenly, was not. It is in the ‘was not’ that things get uncomfortable. The diocese, like many Catholic institutions, views homosexuals, especially those in legal same-sex relationships,  as a fireable offense. And, word of the firing, based on this guideline, has now reached national and international publications. The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati has a mess on its hands.

‘For those looking at the contract as the answer, they are right, it says what it says.’ says Jack Omer, a vocal opponent of the decision and 1998 Alter grad. ‘Now it’s up to the community to come together as one voice to make the dioceses see, it’s the policy that’s wrong.’ he isn’t alone. A letter to the diocese has already garnered 11,000 signatures.  There is a Change.org petition you can sign online if you’d to help fight for the right for this teacher to teach.

Brad and Nikki Lawson, whose children attend Alter stated,  ‘As parents, we are deeply disappointed that a great teacher is leaving Alter. This action is not in line with how we are raising our children to treat everyone with love and respect. We don’t know the details but we support Alter and we do not believe this was Alter’s decision.’

Many agree. And Alter may be put into a position they did not choose, nor want. For many businesses in the area, it will become hard to support the school, and for Alumni, it will be difficult to defend Alter’s ‘unchosen’ stance.

‘Being gay, or female, or black, or tall is all genetics. I don’t understand why the Catholic Church wants to judge anyone on something genetic. It really makes no sense.’ Omer continues. ‘I think making decisions like this is dangerous. Where does it end? The church should know to stay out of people’s personal lives.’

One area priest, who has asked to remain anonymous, would only state, ‘I believe Jesus would invite all kinds of people, and definitely those being persecuted to his table. That’s what Christianity is all about. The diocese has the right to make rules, but no one has the right to make people feel bad for being the person they were created to be.’

It has definitely left folks with strong feelings. Petitions are scattered on Facebook with hopes of changing minds at the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

‘We are very sad that people outside the community can make decisions that so profoundly impact the school and students. That should change.’ The Lawsons added.

A letter popped up on Twitter from an Alter senior Molly Goheen pointing out this great teacher that she learned so much from. Within the letter are quotes from the Bible, which many view as the ultimate book of learning. She points out Romans 2.11 “For God Does Not Show favoritism,” making not one child of God superior to another. Yes, well….

Like so many decisions based in black and white religious views, the results are mostly painful. A good teacher loses a job. A revered high school’s reputation takes a hit. Christianity, and organized religion, again lose followers. And for what? For what?

There isn’t one of us who doesn’t understand it. Yep, it’s a rule. Yep, they have the right….but as Omer put it ‘Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should!’

In a divided, highly political time in our history, sometimes the best decisions come through kindness…which in turn, will lead to honor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERCY ME! The RubiGirls to the RESCUE!

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Dayton has quite a few heroes…Charles Kettering, The Wright Brothers, Erma Bombeck, Jane Reece…and of course, The RubiGirls! The ever-present, charity driven drag troupe have finally emerged in this time of quarantine to help us all laugh, love and raise some funds for our friends! This time the GIRLS, led by a quarter of qualified Queens, Fonda Peters, India Summer, Minnie Skirt and Dana Sintell, set their sights on people on the front line in this health crisis, and the folks making those amazing carry-out dinners in the area.

‘I received an email, ‘ says India Summer.”Where are the RubiGirls? There have been plenty of other queens posting all kinds of fun and frolic on Facebook, but NO RUBI???” That’s when we knew, it was time for us to make ourselves heard again. To spread the word that we are here to help.’

‘A show was what we needed to do, but social distancing presented a real problem.’ says the 7-foot tall Minnie Skirt. ‘How do we make this work?’

Enter the talents and touches of Tender Mercy. Chris Dimmick, Lauren Gay, Dave Kittredge and Branden Fugate had an idea. ‘Let’s do an actual production…a show…a virtual drag show that people can see online!’ Said Dimmick, The GIRLS were unsure as they are used to the idea of live, full theater, with a responsive audience. BUT, Dimmick held his position….’We can do this!’

‘I was curious!’ said the quintessential  Fonda Peters. ‘ Like a real TV show? Really….I asked them to explain!’ And explain they did.

Dimmick and Gay dug in and told the RubiGirls, ‘Start making videos, pre-produced, spliced and diced….until you have a show we can run! We will help with some video and sound of our own. We can do this!’

But Sintell balked…as she often does. ‘No, no, no…I initially squirmed. We need our fans three feet in front of us. They are our lifeblood. And besides, many of the live and virtual drag shows have been hideous and boring. The online shows have been greatly panned.  I wasn’t convinced….UNTIL….’

India Summer opened the eyes of all when she interjected. ‘What about all of the Girls make their own movie but we host the show live.  A bit of both. only a few girls, 6 feet apart, telling the RubiGirls story, but raising money for our friend in Dayton.’

Dimmick, Gay, Kittredge and Fugate smiled and said…’We got this Girls! We can do this! And it will be FABULOUS!’

And it definitely will. This Friday, April 24th starting at 7pm, the Girls have an unbelievable collection of old and new Rubi productions to share. The 75 minute show will feature Sintell and Peters as the Hostesses, with Skirt and Summer to assist. There will be virtual bar tours, spectacular RubiGirl numbers, and cocktail recipes, including the popular RubiSlipper. ‘The RubiSlipper has been a huge hit.’ says Dimmick. ‘The RubiGirls agreed to a 50% share of all the RubiSlippers we sold to go to charity. You won’t believe the amount of money we raised in just 3 days open (before the stay-at-home order). People love the drink, but even mores0, the RubiGirls!’ The Tender Mercy team will be on hand to tell their story to subscribers as well.

Minnie Skirt added, ‘We have seen the videos. WOW, WOW, WOW! Tara Misu and Magestik nailed their videos! And the opening is just amazing! Actually, everything you see is top notch!’

Fonda Peters chimed in, ‘I think this is the start of a new version of the RubiGirls. This show is really over-the-top entertaining. You will get to see the Girls all over Dayton celebrating the city and showing that life goes on! We are quarantined, but we are still able to take care of each other. That’s an important message right now.’

‘I’m impressed.’ Says Lauren Gay.’These RubiGirls are hard-workers. They really are bringing our community together this Friday! Something we can all share in!

Fugate interjected, ‘They like to drink, too.”

Dana Sintell wrapped up the conversation for us with ‘In this day and age, anyone can make a short film. Tik-Tok, IMovie, IPhone Films…etc. But again, the Girls take it to a new level. It’s about something bigger than the film. It’s about people. It’s about Dayton! We try to always keep Rubi on a level of MORE….More LOVE, More GIVING and More ENTERTAINING!.’

They have again achieved it.

For tickets, go to Tendermercy.com. Next click Mercy Mart. Then, Click on RubiGirl packages. Pick one! Look for your code which will be sent Friday for the BIG SHOW! Sit back and ENJOY!

 

Giving a ‘Schitt!’ What are you Watching Part 2!

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First of all, thank you all for your feedback to the first installment of ‘What are you Watching!’ I have never received so many comments, ideas and criticisms…and I love them ALL! A few shout-outs to Kent (Time Team), Jan (West Wing Reruns), Kathy (Little Fires Everywhere) and the plethora of other suggestions for what to watch. I am checking out all I can! It’s been a week, and the way we are consuming tv, I know you are all on to something NEW! Here are my ‘few’ to ponder!

‘Making the Cut’ It’s Not THAT Runway Show.

I have always been a fan of Tim Gunn’s. He’s real, he’s direct, and he’s not afraid to show emotion. This may be his vehicle more than the perpetually peppy Heidi Klum. ‘Making the Cut’ took a different approach to fashion and its next big star. This time there are 12 established designers from everywhere in the world. (2 from Ohio!) The money is also a change…$1,000,000 to the big winner. What I find to be the best change, the locales! We have visited Paris for some incredible venues highlighting the designers’ fashion shows, and about to hit TOKYO! I have a group of friends who got me into ‘MTC’ and I’m glad they did. These designs, no sewing experience necessary, are more…well MORE! You see, these designers do multiple looks, more than one singular design…like a true fashion show! That helps us understand their vision. Unlike the stalwart ‘Project Runway,’ many people might hit the road after each presentation. Interestingly on ‘MTC’ people get to make the case for why they should stay! ‘MTC’ isn’t perfect, by any means. It wants us to like Heidi a lot….and relies heavily on cute little homestyle videos her, along with Gunn, doing cutesy local activities. UGH! At its core, it’s truly entertaining. It means well, even though you wouldn’t believe that when you experience the vicious and ruthless reviews of judge, Naomi Campbell. (I’m scared of her!)

‘Making the Cut’ score – 8.6/10. Fashion fanatics will love it!

 

‘Self-Made’ Oh, What Could Have Been!

As a former 4th grade teacher, and one who loved teaching the story of Madam C.J.Walker, I couldn’t wait for this one. You combine one of America’s most-beloved actresses, Octavia Spencer, with up-and-running Tiffany Haddish and add many other familiar faces and you just knew it was going to work. (Best laid plans) Self-made is giving you one of America’s most important African-American female success stories…actually just one of America’s most important success stories, period! You settle in for this mini-series hoping it will provide you with all the ingredients…comedy, drama and inspiration. It’s not long before you begin to realize that artistic liberties were taken in making this show that really diminish the story. It appears Seussical! Silly at times. Haddish almost seems in on the joke in a few scenes.  When the story is on track and Spencer is on the screen, it’s real, clean and highly watchable. As someone who owns hair salons, I wanted the ‘meat’ to the story, but it wraps itself in Disneyfied delusions and (I Understand what they tried to do here) hip-hop 1900’s music? ‘Self-Made’ more describes the writers and directors here, as they took an important story and made it about…well, themselves! By the end of the series, you really aren’t sure you even like those we should absolutely admire.

‘Self-Made’ score – 7/10. Thank God for Octavia!

 

‘Invisible Man’ You’ll See Right Through it.

 Ever watch those films you don’t hate, you don’t like, you don’t love….you get the point! I like Elisabeth Moss, and at times, I think in this film she saves its failures. She can’t, however, save a plot that is fraught with holes! ‘Invisible Man’ doesn’t take time enough to let us care about the characters. It’s rushing to scare us, intrigue us and confuse us….well, at least they confused us. Moss and her co-stars have some thrilling moments…the dinner scene is sure to be a talked about classic…the fight scene with Aldis Hodge and the ‘Man’…..and even the bloody nose of Storm Reid….give you some ‘wows’….but it’s flat. Just flat! I had read about the ending and heard I would be astounded….but I saw the ending coming in the first hour (which pissed off my co-watcher)! I’ve been online today reading through reviews of this film, they’ve been brutal. IT’s NOT that BAD….it’s just not so good. It’s a story we all know, and we all want to buy into. Wait a few weeks, and even the buying part will be easier to swallow!

 

‘Invisible Man’ score – 7/10. Boooooo, no really,  booooooo!

 

‘Schitt’s Creek’ Farewell Friends!

 In 2015, I wrote a review about some crazy show I had tuned into with the incredible Catherine O’Hara! Looking back at that review, I mentioned it felt like ‘The Beverly Hillbillies’ in reverse. I stand by that! In the 5 years that would follow, millions of people would start to give a Schitt about this now iconic show. I literally had floodgates watching the end of the show…not so much the episode, but the farewell that followed. We have all been indoors, cooped up, cranky and antsy. There was something about waiting on ‘Schitt’ to show up on the screen, and the world would be rited for a bit. And now, you’re taking that away from us, too??? After listening to the cast and crew, I get it. Leave while it’s still beloved and fresh. Don’t wear it out. What made ‘Schitt’ special was the characters. You came to love them all….(David, Alexis, Moira, Stevie)….and even the not-so-main characters, held our hearts…(Jocelyn, Ted, Gwen, Ronnie)…because they became our ‘pretend’ family! ‘Schitt’s Creek’ could have taken the easy way out in their final episode, and I won’t spill any beans about it, but they held up their heads and gave you the ‘right’ kind of ending. It was fair, open and heartfelt. Not often, do I say, someone hurry and make a movie…but someone hurry and make a movie. 

‘Schitt’s Creek’ score – 9.7/10. Where everyone fits in!

 

Alright…see ya next week. Keep in touch with me! You help me with my material…and I need all the help I can get!!

 

What Are You Watching?

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Stuck. Stranded. Isolated. Alone.
We are running out of words used to describe our new lives. All of us, trying to keep our brains active, our hearts full and our imaginations intact. Guess where we are turning….television. And in record numbers. There is no way to even convey the amount of time Americans are spending watching tv. And good for us! Or is it? We will let the experts debate what all of this is doing to us as a society. My plan, is to share with you some ideas on what is worth your while cognitively! And what’s really just out there to keep you thoughtlessly entertained. Please, I mean this, let me now what you are watching. I want to share with our readers your insights, opinions and recommendations.  Write to me!!!

 

‘TIGER KING’ A Low-Hanging Fruit.
So, in the world of streaming, some things are just meant to be chewed up, swallowed and onward we march! No real thought necessary. ‘Tiger King’ has become a phenomenon. It’s over-the-top, ridiculous and mesmerizing. It bothers you that you can’t get enough, and yet, there is something redeeming in knowing your life really is so much better than most. The cast of characters keep us waiting to see how much deeper this s*itshow can get. The stupefying Joe Exotic; the reactionary activist (and possible murderess) Carole Baskin; the duel gay-for-pay husbands; the under-the-radar schietster Bhagavan Antle; the adorable new husband Dillon…..ok, ok…enough! They are Really, Really are ludicrous! BUT they are REAL!

This ‘story’ of lies, deception, probable murder, the exotic animal industry and male bravado has to be seen to be believed (and even then it seems fictitious!) Focused mainly on a zoo in Oklahoma, a too-big-for-his-britches zookeeper takes on the world of animal rights only to end up accused on murder-for-hire. (Yep, that’s my synopsis.) I know 90% of the tv watching population has already seen this documentary-drama, so I don’t feel a need to get to the meat nor potatoes in the show. I am however, feeling a sense of responsibility to remind people, we must be concerned about the animals in this series. Scraping off the awfulness and hatred this show exposes leaves us forgetting the underlying story…zoo animal lives are at stake. Take a minute, read about how we can support the cats, and make sure the ‘dogs’ remain under investigation or jailed! ***I have heard they are making a movie of this movie….which can only mean one thing….there is more money to be made!

‘Tiger King’ score – 7.5/10. Anytime a show can get this much attention, there has to be meat to it.

‘OZARK’ Third times a charm!
‘Ozark’ is really intoxicating! This season, I think it’s best yet, has some of the best twists, turns and cliffhangers in this series’ life. Casino shenanigans, a hard to stomach cougar-style relationship and triple dose of doubling crossing await you this year in the Byrde family drama. The writers bring us a fresh batch of Tennessee troubles yet they never put us through character assassination! You cannot help but fall in love with the performance given by Julia Garner (Ruth). Her foul-mouthed, take-no-prisoners attitude is truly a highlight this time around. Matched with the creepy, yet sympathetic performance of Tom Pelphrey (Ben), the couple are magic….albeit dark! Laura Linney and Justin Bateman do what they do so well, make us believe that this could happen to any upwardly mobile suburban family (working with a Mexican Cartel.) Season three really gives the kids a chance to show their wares as well. Skylar Gaertner who plays the stoic, yet seemingly disturbed Jonah, gives a haunting performance throughout the season. Perhaps my favorite performance this season goes to the quirky and comical Marylouise Burke (Sue.) Burke’s psychologist to the craziness that is ‘Ozark’, is spot-on. She relieves the show’s mounting tensions with her squeaky, endearing therapeutic advice. If you are new to this exciting, borderline-frightening thriller, start now! It’s smart, savvy and so well acted!

‘OZARK’ score – 10/10. Heart-pounding drama!

 

‘CRIP CAMP’ Heart-warming and Empowering.
From the opening scenes, home movies that drive the film, ‘Crip Camp’ gives us all a glimpse into the Disabled Rights Movement. Thanks to Jonathan McNeal at the Neon Movies, word around town has spread about this uplifting documentary. The movie takes us to Camp Jened, a camp in the Catskills that served young people with disabilities for 25 years. You see first-hand how bringing this population together without the forces of the outside world, allows for honesty, tears and the beginnings of a revolution. We get to follow the real-life heroes from Camp Jened’s start, to the growing movement of the 1970’s, to updates from today. The film thrusts us into how changes begin. More importantly, it takes us through how changes ebb, flow and eventually become rightfully resolved. What really makes this movie even more important is it never tries to manipulate us, or reduce its importance to some silly one sided message. It has guts and its rawness is there for the world to see. You cannot help but cheer on the people who inspired this film, but even more-so, you can’t help cheering on its broad, strong underlying message….PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF!

‘CRIP CAMP’ score 9/10. Hope is alive and well!

See ya next time with 3 more to watch….or maybe not watch!!

Our Animal Friends are Trying to Tell Us Something…Perk Up Your Ears!

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I know that optimists can make the world nuts at times like this. We deserve to be frustrated. We are allowed to feel defeated. We are entitled to this helpless feeling. BUT what if our pets, our furry and finned friends were trying to tell us something? Are we listening? Get ready for an Ah-Ha kind of moment, brought to you by….the animals!

 

Like many Daytonians, I am an animal lover. I have had dogs all my life, played with multiple barn cats in my youth, raised a couple rabbits and still have a Koi pond for good luck. And that’s what inspired this article. The Koi, at least to start.

Fish are jumping back to life!

I was feeling a bit overwhelmed yesterday realizing the world is now isolated. Direct socialization is unattainable. Hugs are a major no-no. As I was enjoying the one warm day we’ve had in a while, I wondered by my Koi pond, looked down and was awe-struck. They were moving, frolicking in a fountain, enjoying the day! “So what?” You may ask. The ‘What’ is the fact these koi have not moved since late October 2019. No playing, socializing, fun or food. Five and a half months they have laid still in the bottom of the pond. Nothing going on. They survive with only a notion that someday, they will return to life as usual. They will rise from the depth, disoriented and unsure, to find their world is ‘right’ again.

WOW! BOOM! Just like that, I thought to myself, I’m going to survive this.
We are all in this pond of sorts…in a suspended animation, awaiting our Spring, our chance to snap back to life. We are like those Koi…within feet of each other, but miles apart. Maybe they are trying to tell me something.

Walk them dogs…its therapy, and its healthy!

And if the fish are talking, my dogs, Uncle Arthur and Gladys Cravitz, are barking out advice! “Let’s play. Let’s snuggle. Let’s walk, Let’s drink lotsa water! Let’s do absolutely nothing!” And, most importantly, “Let’s have a blast making a mess. What the hell else do we have to do right now?”

And then the rabbits chime in…”Hop to it! Look cute at all costs. Remember it’s ok to be silent!”

Lessons from the felines!

And, of course the cats call out…”Being alone ain’t so bad. Live in this moment. Determination will get you places.”
Wow….I get it!

Look, they are simple lessons in difficult times. They are tiny goals we have likely needed reminded of for some time. And there are many, many more lessons animals can provide.
Take a minute, or an hour, a day…or however long it takes to be still (like those Koi). Then, when it’s time, you too will resurface, and the world will be RIGHT!

And the Oscar goes to….A White Man.

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The Year of the Woman. The Decade of Color. The Wave of Change. Ummmm….well…not to be a JOKER, but what gives in Hollywood? By now you have heard the outcry of ‘White Male Oscar Party!’ The New York Times has an excellent article all about it. What does it really mean? And as the debate rages about the Relevance of the Academy Awards today, (check into NPR), it leaves us all a little perplexed. If our movies reflect our society, is something wrong with the movies? Society? Perception? Probably the latter…we have been down this road many, many times before.


Think about this….in acting categories alone, there have been 1200 to 1500 nominations since the awards got their start….and, wait for it, to date, less than 80 winners have been of color.

And then the dreadful Greta Gerwig snub for ‘Little Women.’ The movie garnered 6 nominations…but no director, because evidently, it just happened on its own.

Before I press forward, let me state, I’m not a film critic, I did take film appreciation. I’m not an acting expert, I’ve been in plenty of plays. I’m not one to see every film, I do love Netflix. What I am is the very person that Hollywood wants to reach! The average movie-goer hoping to be entertained and even educated from time to time.

This time, Hollywood needs the education. We are in a precarious time in this country. Women are at a true crossroads, politically and socially. People of color are under-represented and their voices lost in others’ misleading tweets.

So who do we look to? The Movies! To celebrate the underdogs. To make more movies about those people who need to be seen, heard and understood. And then, when those films are made, we need Hollywood to buoy them, praise them and bring them accolades that prove ‘all types of us matter.’ If not Hollywood. WHO?

Which brings us to our very own Julia Reichert! Let’s hear it for the GIRL! I know we are all giddy with excitement thinking that one of our own can take home an OSCAR and she’s a woman….W O M A N! (Shout out to Steve Bognar, who we love too, but this is about her right now!) And if ever there was a lady who girls can look up to and see their potential, it’s Julia!

What does all of this mean…the outrage, the disappointment, the white male party on Sunday, February 9th….I think it means this….

Pray that Hollywood picks the BEST of what they have deemed the best. Let’s hope they see, hear and understand what the world is saying! (And secretly, root for Cynthia Erivo in HARRIET…much like the lady she portrayed, maybe she can show the world that we are all part of the party!!)

 

The Oscars will air LIVE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 9 8e|5p on ABC and will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide…where there are a multitude of races, genders, and sexual preferences!

$2,000,000 in Donations Later, the RubiGirls Remain Humble

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Saturday, November 30th, the RubiGirls take the stage for their 23rd Annual ‘The Show Must Go On!’ The show, which was originally titled ‘To Care is To Cure,’ has become, for many, a Holiday Tradition.

‘What better way to give than to be entertained, laugh a lot and know your donations are helping people right here in the Miami Valley.’ says RubiFan, Brad Justice. ‘It’s exciting to be part of the energy at the show! Who doesn’t love Dana, Fonda and all the other Crazies!’

This year’s event takes place at the Brightside Event Space. Doors open at 7pm and the show kicks off at 8pm. The theme this year is ‘The RubiGirls in GAY as HELL!’

‘We had a record-breaking sell-out.’ says Brent Johnson, aka India Summer. Within 10 days we sold 90% of our tickets. ‘It’s humbling to know that people love our mission and see beyond the frivolity to the philanthropy!’

Speaking of Philanthropy, the RubiGirls were just awarded the Association of Fundraising Professionals Philanthropy Award. ‘It’s really a big deal.’ Says Tim Farquhar, Rubi’s Fonda Peters. We have worked really hard! We were never looking to receive awards or accolades, but just to keep our eyes on helping people.’ And help they have.

On the 30th, the RubiGirls will take in their 2,000,000th dollar. Driven by their mission, the RubiGirls have branched out from HIV/AIDS only donations, to helping all kinds of people across the Dayton Area…and beyond.

‘So many people know our history. Thirty-Five years in the making, we were here during the HIV crisis, through the fight for marriage equality and now, our hope is to change the atmosphere of intolerance and injustice in the US.’ Josh Stucky stated. Stucky is the sole RubiGirl to be with the group all 35 years. Farquhar took a brief break in the 90’s.

‘I feel like for Tim and me, we’ve seen the best of Rubi and the harder times. The harder times were those years when we wanted people to take us seriously as we asked for money in women’s clothing! I believe it was the persistence and the laughter that made it possible to help so many folks!’ he adds.

Many people have worried that the RubiGirls would fade away as the years past. ‘Heck no!’ says Jacob Sams, aka Jackie O. ‘The elder Girls have taught us all about fund-raising, philanthropy and the gift that Rubi really is to the community!’ O is one of the newer, younger RubiGirls, hell-bent on seeing it through for another generation. ‘There are always going to be people who need and we want to provide!’

This year’s show looks to be another hoot! New choreography, more parody and even a little classic Rubi will complete the line-up. ‘We are keeping it fresh, but we realize there are staples to these shows!’ says Alex Everett, Rubi’s Minnie Skirt.

The RubiGirls never seem to lose sight of their vision. Through dedication, cooperation and eyelashes these Daytonians have become models for performance groups across the country.  ‘A Different Way to Make A Difference,’ is their battle-cry, and they certainly live by it!

The RubiGirls are a non-profit 501c3. To donate to the RubiGirls simply go to their Facebook Page or therubigirls.com. Merchandise is also available through their Website!  You can also reach the RubiGirls by email at [email protected].

Dayton’s First Her/History Awards Shine Brightly!

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Dayton is known for flight, code-breaking machines, cash registers & the initial fight for LGBT Marriage. Wait, what? Surprised? We all are.

An African-American lesbian couple from Dayton, Ohio sued for a whopping $100,000,000 in the 1970’s for the right to marry. They didn’t win, but the wheels were put in motion!

The richness of Dayton’s stories was celebrated in high fashion at the first ever Greater Dayton LGBTQ Her/History Awards on October 24th at the Brightside. Awards were given in multiple categories ranging from the ‘Fight for Gay Rights’ to ‘AIDS Activism.’

‘I had heard that San Francisco was recording their LGBT history so it would not be lost over time.’ Says Sue Elam, one of the founders of the awards. ‘ I thought, Dayton has a rich LGBT history, and we need to do the same.’

‘As Sue was working towards her vision, I was thinking along the same lines.’ Says Jerry Mallicoat. ‘We were complete strangers walking towards an protest downtown and struck up a conversation. It was meant to be. And what sealed the deal was the fact we shared a birthday!’ Mallicoat and Elam are both well-respected LGBT activists and advocates in the Dayton area. ‘We were on a path and we could see how taking time to interview Daytonians about their LGBT experiences and successes should be shared.’ Mallicoat goes on to say, ‘People were willing to share with us, and what we learned was so exciting and surprising. Dayton has a strong, active and connected gay community.’

A committee was formed to move forward with some kind of recognition of those in Dayton who have made a difference for the LGBT community. Melissa Rodriguez and Jordan Ailes were part of that committee. ‘It became such a family. We all worked together to make this happen.’ Says Rodriguez.  ‘We knew we could make something special out of this where people could network, meet and expand their lives through the Her/History awards.’Ailes added.And it worked.

All Awards need a catchy name…think Emmy or Oscar….for the Dayton LGBTQ+ community, it’s the RUBI Award, fondly named for Dayton’s Own RubiGirls. ‘We wanted a name that would encompass charity, bravery and community service. The RubiGirls epitomize that!’ says Jim McKinnon, archivist and committee member.

‘What I had envisioned,’ Elam shares, ‘was a series of markers on buildings around the city where important LGBT events took place. I had mentioned it to Mayor Whaley and she actually came back with the idea of a celebratory dinner. A place where we could acknowledge our accomplishments. It was genius!’

‘I knew we needed time, and when we settled on this idea, it was to close to June, which is Pride Month. I remembered that October is LGBTQ+ history month and thought maybe we could pull it off!’ Says Mallicoat. ‘It was risky, but as a group, more of a family, the committee was ready to see it though.’
The awards show shocked even the committee members. ‘So much love was in that room. All of us were exhausted, but together you could feel the appreciation and love from all attendees. Such a community.’ Rodriguez stated.

‘What struck me was the struggles of many in that room. Their stories were bought to light and people, especially young people, got to understand what the LGBTQ community has seen and been through. It was amazing!’
And it was sold-out….which also shocked the committee!

Recipients included the Neon Movies, Mary Wiseman, Dr. Robert L. Brandt Jr., Amanda Kayne, Larry and Clara Rezash, the Gatlyn-Dame Group, Mayor Nan Whaley among many others.

Stories were shared about losing friends to HIV, protests in and around Dayton, humble beginnings of organizations like Artemis and personal struggles for acceptance. Some of the stories caught the audience by surprise. ‘For me, it was emotional to relive some of those moments. There is still pain to deal with regarding religion, bigotry and suppression.’ Mallicoat said.

‘The stories told struck a chord. One of the audience members, Shane Juhl, an ally of the community, stopped me afterward to tell me he had no idea of the struggles and achievements of the Dayton area LGBTQ community. Having said that, it means a lot knowing he is there for us as a community! He gets why it’s so important.’

The Dayton LGBTQ community has much planned for the coming year with a Veterans recognition program in November as well as a health summit being planned.  The awards will be annual and Rodriguez assures, ‘We will knock it out of the ballpark next year. People loved this year, but they ain’t seen nothing yet!’ Ailes chimed in, ‘There are many more stories to tell. Military, businesses and others who will be elevated by sharing their journeys at the event. One participant put it like this, “Being in the room, all of us sharing a history, you felt like you belonged there. It was magical and I cannot wait to hear more.” ‘

If you are interested in getting involved with the committee contact [email protected]. And keep your ears open, as Sue Elam is looking into a LGBT Dayton History podcast.

Here’s the full list of this year’s recipients:

DAYTON=Love. It’s why we love Dayton!

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Anger. Fear. Disappointment. Concern. Care. Kindness. Revenge.
GRIEF. GRIEF. GRIEF.
It’s a rough word….its not one we do well. How do we grieve? Do we tell the world we are strong and we will survive? (We will.) Do we rise up and make our political voices heard? (We will.) Do we raise money and raise awareness? (We will!)

Do we hug our neighbors, hold their hands and cry together….WE MUST!

Dayton has had her share, no, MORE than her share of tribulations of late. Tornados, KKK…and now a mindless, stupid shooting. You can feel the tightness of the community, being stretched to the limit. Will we break? (We won’t.) It’s in us to move forward, together. WE ARE A FAMILY. Think about that…we are a FAMILY! A family made of all colors, all genders, all religions, all views & all LOVES! Dayton=Love! And despite the attempts of many, LOVE CONTINUES TO WIN IN OUR CITY!

Know these names…THEY ARE OUR FAMILY…Lois L. Oglesby, Saeed Saleh, Derrick R. Fudge, Logan Turner, Megan Betts, Nicholas P. Cumer, Thomas J. McNichols, Beatrice N. Warren-Curtis & Monica E. Brickhouse.

They were enjoying OUR CITY. OUR VIBE, OUR LOVE. As we move forward together, we must continue where they cannot. We have to take the time to grieve, not immediately push these feelings aside. They are in us for a reason. To make us move forward together. To remind us of them…those in our family, now gone.

Today we see a world where what we believed to be true, isn’t. We see a trust that is broken. We see a time when what was clear is now murky. The only cure is grieving…..GRIEF makes us resilient. It creates a strength unlike any other we will know. It makes us lean into our brothers and sisters for support. It takes us to a place of seeing we cannot succeed alone as well as we can with our FAMILY!

We cannot bring them back. We can’t. Hardest lesson to accept. We cannot erase what has happened to us…our FAMILY. We cannot reason with irrational. But, we can do the one thing we have the power to do today, tomorrow and for our days ahead….we can LIVE our LIVES in hopes of making the FUTURE of this FAMILY, of our Beloved DAYTON better…..and brighter. God Bless all of them and their loved ones. Never, never forget, but together let’s move forward! WE ARE DAYTON…..and DAYTON=LOVE!

8 ‘Girls,’ One Crown….Miss Rubicon Returns.

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Dayton’s Beloved RubiGirls

There’s a different kind of ‘Game of Thrones’ happening this weekend at Masque. For the first time since 1996, the RubiGirls will pick a Queen in the Miss Rubicon, 2019 drag pageant. The event, Sunday May 19th, will be a pageant unlike any other in Dayton. This pageant focuses squarely on camp and crazy! Categories range from ‘Parade of Nations’ to ‘Gem City Evening Gown.
‘Our theme this year is UNITED. It’s fitting considering the environment many our facing.’ Says Francine Du Bois, Miss Rubicon 1990. ‘The contestants start in a parade of national costumes, move into state costumes, do their chosen talents, and end the show in Gem City Evening Wear! Knowing the RubiGirls, I assure you the costumes will be over the top…and possibly ridiculous.’

Miss Rubicon 1991, India Summer will be on hand.

The Pageant got its start in 1989 on Rubicon Street when the emerging RubiGirls were in their mid-twenties. ‘We hadn’t raised a dime at that time…it was all about fun and madness.’ says contestant Fonda Peters. ‘Here we are in 2019, about to celebrate helping groups around the area, state and country with $2,000,000 in total donations. It’s such a landmark!’

‘I see it this way, the RubiGirls have remained inspirational through all kinds of trying times. For many of us, it has been 35 years of performing.’ says Anita Beer, Miss Rubicon 1993. ‘We have remained committed to helping folks off all walks of life.’

The pageant kicks off at 1:30pm, doors open at 1:00pm. The crowning will take place around 4 at the after party ‘tea dance.’ The pageant cost $25 for the show and the tea dance. Tickets for just tea dance are $10.

‘Tea Dances’ are growing in popularity across the country, and Dayton needs one.’ says Penni Sillin, Miss Rubicon 1995. ‘We are hoping it takes off so it can be more consistent in the community. They are a great way to make Sunday a true Funday!’

Pia and Fonda looking for fun this weekend!

The pageant has drawn 8 contestants in hopes of winning the crown. ‘8 is really perfect. And with the 5 judges in place, it will be a fair, fun and unforgettable night.’ Says India Summer, Miss Rubicon 1991. ‘All of the living Rubicon Queens* will be there. And even more exciting, many of the past performers are returning to say hello! (*Miss Rubicon, 1992, Esther Price passed away a few years ago.) I can guarantee she’ll be watching from upstairs, rooting these girls on. She loved a good pageant!’

Jackie O has a real chance of taking the crown.

‘We are so hopeful that we bring in a crowd as we are using our funds to sponsor AIDS/LifeCycle. https://www.aidslifecycle.org. 2 of the RubiGirls, Annie Biotix and Pussy Galore are riding in the California event. They need our support.’ says Lupe Valezz, the reigning Miss Rubicon.

The RubiGirls are also hopeful that the pageant remains a mainstay of the Dayton Drag scene.
‘We have expanded to so many events around the area like trivia, bingo and brunches, it is fun to do something more geared to drag. That’s how this whole thing got started, and it needs to be celebrated.’ Dana Sintell, the first Miss Rubicon chimes in. ‘ I think anytime you have a group of friends, showing off to the crowds and putting their best face forward….it’s got to be a blast!’

Interested in a little Dayton Drag fun? Go to rubigirls.com for tickets.