Discover Your City
Dubbed “the ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” Emmy and Grammy Award nominee Michael Feinstein will celebrate the musical legacy of George and Ira Gershwin on Friday, July 11, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
The era of American popular song that we now call “The Great American Songbook” took place primarily in the earlier part of the 20th century.
In explaining the longevity of this kind of music, the singer said, “Anything that still resonates with the heart or gives emotion will last.”
Feinstein, 57, says this work “still appeals to people because of the combination of clever turns of phrase, extraordinary craft in lyrics, and the expression of many emotions in the human condition in ways that were clever and transformative. These songs have not diminished in their power or resonance because they were crafted in a way that still retains that inspiration. They do not grow old because the essential bonds of these songs can be reinterpreted and reinvented and sound fresh and new.”
When speaking with Feinstein, it is quickly clear from his astute comments that he knows what he’s talking about.
Take, for example, the list of singers who have influenced him. “My favorite singer is Fred Astaire -- which surprises some people,” he said. “But he was also the favorite of the Gershwins, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, and Harold Arlen, and you could go down the list of songwriters who adored his work.”
Moreover, he said, “Rosemary Clooney was my favorite person, certainly, and my favorite female singer, too.” Others he admires include Peggy Lee, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby (“especially his early recordings, which are sensational”) and of course, Frank Sinatra.
Yet there are several, too, that might surprise the casual listener. “I’m also influenced by Martha Raye, Gogi Grant and Fats Waller -- I love Fats Waller’s singing -- and I love early records of Kaye Ballard, who had this sort of emotional intensity that rivals Judy Garland,” Feinstein said. “There are so many incredible voices. Some may be obscure references, I suppose, to most people but these were all big stars and important voices of their time, and I am a product of all that I listened to.”
He reserves particular admiration for the composers.
“I think my greatest joys have been the opportunities I’ve had to meet and work with the creators of the songs I love -- to have met and have approval from Jule Styne, Jerry Herman, Sammy Fain, Harry Warren and Leonard Bernstein and of course, Ira Gershwin -- it’s a long list of people that I was lucky enough to meet. My drive was always to please the creators of the songs.”
This Columbus, Ohio, native says his first memories of performing involved playing the piano by ear as early as age 5.
“I used to put together little shows for our relatives when we had family gatherings,” he said, chuckling. “I’d do a little show at the fireplace -- that was my little stage.”
When doing these shows, he naturally played the songs of the day -- most of them the treasured classics that he plays now.
“It was the music when I was growinup,” he explains. “The Great American Songbook was music that was every place from television variety shows and radio stations to music in elevators.”
After graduating from high school, Feinstein worked in local piano bars before moving to Los Angeles when he was 20. In 1977, he was introduced to Ira Gershwin himself by the widow of pianist Oscar Levant. Gershwin hired Feinstein to catalog his extensive collection of phonograph records and quickly became his friend and mentor. He assisted Gershwin for six years.
“One of the things that was wonderful about Ira was he was a born teacher,” recalls Feinstein. “He liked to educate and teach me about his world of music and lyrics, and share thoughts and memories about music that came alive under his tutelage.”
Feinstein said that upon meeting a person, Gershwin was at first reserved. “He became very warm when he got to know you better.” Feinstein said that crossing a certain point where he was truly Gershwin’s friend -- “where we shared a confidence with each other -- was the most joyful experience.”
Feinstein’s show at the Kauffman Center, called The Gershwins and Me, will reflect what he learned during his time with the composer.
“It’s an off-shoot of the book I wrote several years ago to try and chronicle and preserve all the anecdotes, stories, and history that was shared with me by Ira Gershwin and a number of his contemporaries who lived to ripe old ages and made it possible for me to meet and know in my very early 20s,” he said.
Feinstein says he thinks the anecdotes he will share will be entertaining to people who know and love Gershwin and to those less familiar with him.
“There’s also a great deal of humor and audience interaction, but it also is a show that I think will appeal to people who may not know anything about the Gershwins, in that it’s sort of a primer for the uninitiated. … I’m mindful that there may be people who have never heard these songs before -- or any of the music I do -- so I try to present it in its best light in hopes of regaining new fans for that material.”
Feinstein said that first and foremost, he wanted his audience to be entertained. Secondly, he said, “I hope they’ll have an appreciation for the legacy of the Gershwins, which certainly contains a unique and special spark that still galvanizes people to this day. ‘Our Love Is Here to Stay’ is a marvelous song -- it certainly means a lot to me, and I love the philosophy of it. It’ll be particularly special to sing it.”
One reason is that it was the last song that George and Ira Gershwin wrote together, on July 11, 1937. That is the day that George Gershwin died, so performing the song on that particular date will have special resonance, he said.
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is at 1601 Broadway, in Kansas City, Mo. Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. show may be purchased at Kauffman Center, by calling 816-994-7222, or at the box office.
 
Do you need to come out to your doctor?
Healthcare is a hot topic for many Americans. No matter your stance on it, most of us can agree that it’s not easy for everyone to access affordable medical care. If you’re in the LGBTQ+ community, you might face another obstacle – discrimination.
It can be hard to believe you would be discriminated against or even turned away based on your sexual identity, but it does happen like so many other injustices in this world. If you already have a healthcare provider you like and trust, you might be worried about coming out to them.
Will they treat you differently? Will your care be compromised?
Let’s cover some of the common barriers people within the community can face in the healthcare industry, why your doctor should know if you’re LGBTQ+, and what to look for in a provider that won’t discriminate.
What Challenges Do LGBTQ+ People Face in Healthcare?
There are a variety of underserved populations in healthcare, including minorities and those in traditionally underserved or poverty-stricken communities. Those in the LGBTQ+ population are often underserved because of discrimination. Think it doesn’t exist? Consider some of these staggering statistics from a 2017 national survey:
- 8% of respondents said a healthcare provider refused to see them because of their sexual orientation.
- 6% said a doctor refused to provide them with care.
- 9% said a healthcare provider used abusive or harsh language while treating them.
- 7% said they received unwanted physical contact from their healthcare provider.
It should come as no surprise, then, that fewer LGBTQ+ are getting the healthcare they deserve. These statistics are more than numbers. They are people. They are stories. If someone you know had a negative experience with their doctor and told you about it, you’d be less likely to go. Maybe you even had a bad experience yourself, and have never trusted the medical industry again.
Several things need to be done to serve the LGBTQ+ community better, including:
- Federal initiatives
- Smart devices that make it easier to access public health care
- Education on inclusivity within the medical field
Unfortunately, it will take time for this kind of reform and restructuring to happen within the healthcare industry. In the meantime, what can you do to get the care you deserve, whether it's from your current doctor or someone new?
Why You Should Talk to Your Doctor
Building up a trusting relationship with a healthcare provider can take some time. Maybe you’ve been working with your doctor for years, and you trust their medical knowledge and like their personality.
However, maybe they don’t know your gender identity or sexual orientation. Maybe you’ve thought about telling them in the past but have been worried about discrimination.
While it’s always a risk, it’s important to come out to your doctor for medical purposes, if nothing else. Certain health issues affect higher proportions of the LGBTQ+ community, including:
- STIs
- Mental health issues
- Sexual assault
HIV is still a problem among members of the community, too. According to a 2010 study by the CDC, 63% of new HIV infections impacted men who had sex with other men.
From a mental health standpoint, telling your doctor can be both freeing and can get you the help you need. It’s not uncommon for those in the community to experience extra stress, anxiety, and depression due to discrimination and constant worry. Because LGBTQ+ people are also at a greater risk of sexual violence, finding the right mental health treatment for the aftermath is crucial. Medical attention is needed to document evidence and identify any injuries or long-term risks, as well as to set up a mental health treatment plan that will help you process what happened.Finding the Right Healthcare Provider
Whether you’ve experienced discrimination from your doctor or you want a clean slate in a place that will give you the care you deserve, there are a few things to look for in an LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare environment.
- First, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Shop around, and set up consultations with providers you’re interested in. Ask them about their experience with the LGBTQ+ community. You’ll get a lot of information from that answer, and can probably trust your “gut” with whether they’re comfortable or not.
- You should also do your research. Seek both online and offline resources for LGBTQ+-friendly physicians in your area. Read reviews, look for doctors who offer a safe and inclusive practice for everyone, and consider asking your friends about their personal experiences and where they go. Thankfully, despite the obstacles you might face in finding a doctor, it’s not impossible. Even if you live in a rural area or far away from a doctor who is willing to give you proper care, nowadays, it’s easier than ever to connect with the right provider.
- If you can’t find someone nearby, consider choosing telehealth services for your general well-being and for regular checkups. While they can’t cover everything, it can help to have a physician in your corner who you trust, even if they’re hundreds of miles away. Don’t let discrimination in the healthcare industry get you down. With a little bit of time, research, and doctor-shopping, you can find a provider who will give you care without judgment.
Charcoal grilled hamburgers are the best.
The weather is warming up, and that means it’s grilling time. It's time to invite friends over and fire up the grill. If you are new to grilling, it's best to start with the basics, and a charcoal grill is a perfect place to start.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, it's important to learn about the type of charcoal grill you have. Ensure everything is in working order and familiarize yourself with the air vents on the grill because these help you control the heat. If you are looking to buy one, you will need to consider which size is best for your needs. We recommend buying one with an ash container for easy cleanup. Charcoal grills come in different shapes and sizes, and the price range starts at around $100 and can go up from there.
Once you have your grill set up, you will need a couple of things.
- Charcoal
- Chimney starter (optional)
- Grilling tongs
- Pumice stone for cleaning the grill grate
- Heat resistant gloves
Choose Your Charcoal
Charcoal briquettes are the classic choice
Photo by Amin Hasani on UnsplashCharcoal grills, of course, use charcoal as fuel, and there are two types of charcoal you can use. Charcoal briquettes are the most affordable option. You can find them in any supermarket in a big bag. They create consistent heat and burn for an extended time. While they are inexpensive, they don't add much smoky flavor and the slow burn creates a lot of ash.
Hardwood charcoal is the more expensive option, but worth it if you love the smoky taste of grilled food. This type of charcoal burns quickly and leaves little ash for easy clean-up. If you want the best of both worlds, you can use both charcoals together.
Before you get started, you will want to make sure you have enough charcoal. The amount of charcoal needed depends on how much you are planning to cook and for how long. A rough estimate is if you are cooking hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken for a group, 4.5 to 5 pounds of charcoal is best. If you are cooking for 2-3 people, then 2.5 pounds of charcoal should be enough. And, if you are grilling a long-cooking cut of meat or using your grill as a smoker with lower heat but for an extended time then 2 pounds of charcoal is fine.
Light the Grill
Waiting for the grill to heat up is hard when you are hungry.
Photo by Erwan Hesry on UnsplashThere are a few ways to get your grill fired up. The most traditional way is to arrange the charcoal in a small pile on the grill and spray some lighter fluid on the charcoal. Always read the instructions on the bottle for the exact amount of fluid to use. Using too much lighter fluid can affect the flavor of your food. Give the charcoal a minute to absorb the fluid, then light the charcoal with a utility lighter. Once the charcoal is lit, resist the temptation to add more lighter fluid, it's dangerous, and it will be difficult to control the flame.
If you prefer not to use lighter fluid, you can use a chimney starter. Chimney starters are available at any hardware store, and if you grill frequently, they are a great investment. Using a chimney starter is the fastest way to get your charcoal piping hot. Some starters have a place to add either newspaper or fire starter cubes. Follow the instructions, add the charcoal to the starter, and light from there. Once hot, pour onto the grill. Use heat-resistant gloves for safety.
For tech lovers, there is also an electric charcoal starter. Just place the charcoal on the grill and touch the electric starter to the charcoal until it lights.
Another option to light the charcoal is a strike-able fire starter. They are like a large match that you can place in the middle of the charcoal to get the coals going.
However, you get your charcoal started, you will need to wait for your grill to heat up before you start cooking. It can take around 15- 20 minutes to get hot enough to cook your food. Most charcoal grills have a built-in thermometer to help you know when it reaches grilling temperature which is anywhere between 350 to 450 F. While your grill is heating up, you can prepare the grill grate.
Prepare the Grill Grate
Oil up the grill grate to keep juices meats from sticking.
Photo by Andrik Langfield on UnsplashYou should always start with a clean grill. While you don't need to deep clean the entire grill after each use, you should clean the grill grate before and after each use. Use a pumice stone made for grills to clean your grill grates. There are wire brushes on the market for this, too, but there have been cases of metal bristles breaking off and getting stuck on the grill and then sticking to food, so stick with a pumice cleaner.
Once the grate is clean, brush some oil on the grate to keep food from sticking. Save your olive oil for your salad. Instead, use a high heat oil like vegetable or canola.
Arrange Coals for Effective Cooking
Sear some steaks for the perfect grill marks.
Photo by Paul Hermann on UnsplashOnce the charcoal has heated up, you can use your grilling tongs to arrange the coals. Charcoal placement is key to coking with charcoal. As a general rule, you will want to have two cooking areas on your grill—one for direct heat to sear and one for indirect heat for foods that require longer cooking time. Searing is good for steaks, while indirect heat is better for meat on the bone and roasts.
Another option is to use grilling planks on the charcoal grill. Grilling planks are pieces of wood like cedar or alder that you can cook food on rather than placing the food straight on the grill. Soaking the planks in water for an hour prior to grilling ensures they won't burn. Then, place meats, fish, or vegetables on the plank for a smoky dish.
Cleaning Up the Grill After Use
Properly caring for a charcoal grill extends its life.
Photo by Taylor Grote on UnsplashWhen your last burger has been flipped, and it's time to turn off the grill, just close the vents and put the lid on the grill. Without air to fuel the fire, it will gradually burn out. This can take up to 48 hours for it to completely cool and be safe enough to remove the coal and ashes.
If you are in a hurry you can use your tongs and pull out each charcoal brisket and place it in a metal bucket filled with water. Scoop the hot ash into a metal container to let it cool. Never pour water onto a charcoal grill as it can damage the grill and leave a sludge that you will have to clean later. Plus, water directly on hot coals creates dangerous steam that can burn anyone near the grill.
When your charcoal grill is cooled and cleaned, it's ready to be stored for next time. While charcoal grills are sturdy and can be left outside, if you live in a colder climate you will want to ensure it is protected from the elements to extend the life of the grill.
Tips and Tricks for Charcoal Grills
- Resist the temptation to flip your food too much
- Control the heat by using the vents and lid
- Keep the heat around 350° F for most foods or 450° F for searing
- Add a handful of wood chips like hickory or mesquite to the coals for more flavor
Get Creative with Grilled Food
Did you know you can grill more foods than just your standard hamburgers, hot dogs, and steaks? Try your hand at grilling different foods like:
- Pineapple rings
- Zucchini slices
- Pizza
- Eggplant slices
- Cabbage steaks
Best Campgrounds for Lesbians
Lesbians and queer women assemble! We have put together a list of some of the best women-only and LGBTQ+ friendly campgrounds in the U.S. Trying to find safe and fun places to travel to and stay at shouldn't be a hassle, so we've done most of the work for you. All you have to do is select one of these incredible destinations and get to packing. Enjoy our list of the best lesbian campgrounds around!
Windover Women's Resort, Owendale, MI
Go canoeing
Photo by Michael Niessl on UnsplashFounded in the 1980s, Windover Women's Resort was created to provide all women with a safe outdoor camping experience. Located in Owendale, Michigan, the resort offers many amenities and activities to women over the age of 18. With an in-ground heated swimming pool, clubhouse, camp store, and multi sports-court, you will never be bored during your stay here.
Windover Women's Resort
Sugarloaf Women's Village, Sugarloaf Key, FL
Florida Camping
Photo by Jorge Vasconez on UnsplashIn 1976 Barbara Deming and her partner Jane Verlaine moved to the Florida Keys, where they created the oasis now known as Sugarloaf Women's Village. The lush acreage on Sugarloaf Key boasts four houses, two guest cottages, and a campground for RV and tent campers. Women are welcome to camp here for a few days up to several weeks, or they may submit an application for residency if they wish to stay for an extended period of time. Though only lesbians are permitted to live full-time here, any woman is welcome to camp or visit. Sugarloaf fosters a sense of community among the women who stay there and is an idyllic escape for anyone wishing to spend time in the Keys.
Sugarloaf Women's Village
The Woods Camping Resort, Lehighton, PA
Pocono Mountain camping
Photo by photo nic on UnsplashNestled in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, The Woods is a membership-only LGBTQ+ camping resort for the 18+ crowd. Book one of their campsites for tent camping or RV camping, or get cozy in one of their on-site cabins. The Woods offers many amenities, whether you stay for the weekend or the month. Hang in the clubhouse with friends, join in group activities on the lake, or check out the dance club when the sun goes down. The Woods is a great place to escape with friends or lovers or to meet new people.
The Woods Camping Resort
El Morro, Ramah, NM
Camping in New Mexico
Photo by Julia Karnavusha on UnsplashHigh in the mountains of New Mexico beneath a sacred mesa, El Morro is home to an RV park, campground, cabins, and highly rated cafe. Visit this campground to experience the healing energy of the land and connect to the past. Explore lava flows, prehistoric ruins, Native American arts and crafts, and red rock mesas. Bike, hike, paddle, eat, or just relax and soak in the splendors of nature. A popular destination for rock climbing, caving, and viewing wildlife, there are countless pastimes to keep you busy during your stay here. While not LGBTQ+ exclusive, El Morro is dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for everyone, specifically members of the LGBTQ+ community.
El Morro
Coastal Acres Campground, Provincetown, MA
Visiting Cape Cod
Photo by Abel Y Costa on UnsplashIf you are looking for the best in nature and in LGBTQ+ nightlife, check out Coastal Acres Campground in Provincetown, Maine. P-town has long been a popular LGBTQ+ destination, with rainbow-flag-lined streets, many queer-owned businesses, and plenty of themed nights and weekends. Within walking or biking distance to downtown Provincetown, Coastal Acres Campground offers tent and RV camping for the whole family, including your four-legged friends. Enjoy the beaches of Cape Cod and the culture of P-town during your stay here and take advantage of all of the campground amenities while you are at it.