I Advocate: Eric Andrews-Katz

...Rosehedge/Multifaith Works
I've worked with many organizations over the years, but for me, Rosehedge/Multifaith Works is the little engine that does. At several locations around Seattle, it provides housing and daily assistance to people with HIV or AIDS who also struggle with mental illness, substance dependency, or dementia. It's a Seattle organization and focuses on the immediate community; that's very important to me. I know that when I help out with Rosehedge/Multifaith Works, I will be able to see the difference created within my city. It takes excellent care of the Seattle inhabitants who desperately need the help but who often get overlooked by society. Rosehedge.org

...Caravaggio. I am amazed by the way the artist Michelangelo Caravaggio manipulates light and shadow, making his subjects stand out as if they were a 16th-century photograph in oil paints. He created great controversy by always giving his subjects, even the holiest of public figures, the grit of truth and reality. (Above, The Cardsharps, 1595) Caravaggio-Foundation.org

...forgotten LGBT literature. Many young LGBT folks may have heard of Breakfast at Tiffany's because of its film version, but they don't know gay author Truman Capote's many other short stories, like "Miriam" with its creepy little girl, or that Tennessee Williams wrote short stories as well as plays, including "One Arm," about a boxer turned hustler. People should discover the murderous plots in the novels of lesbian legend Patricia Highsmith (pictured above) (The Price of Salt, Strangers on a Train, the five Ripley books). There are many others, and they should not be forgotten. They are our legacy, and they have many stories to tell. LambdaLiterary.org

...actress and singer Audra McDonald. The first time I noticed Audra McDonald was when I listened to the song "Your Daddy's Son" on the Ragtime album. The pure beauty and power of her voice stopped me in my tracks. She emoted so well that I felt every bit of the love, pain, and fear of her character's journey from that one song. Not only is she one of today's greatest talents, she is also a huge advocate for the LGBT community. AudraMcDonald.net

...the Broadway stage. I was taken to my first Broadway show when I was 8, and I was a show tune queen by intermission. There's nothing like the experience of live theater. Whether it's a musical or a "straight" play, there's something about being part of a captivated audience watching an incredible performance that can transform you. Theater is fun. It's reflective. It's escapism. It's social commentary. It's pure magic. Broadway.com

...prosecco. I am by no means a connoisseur but I know what I like, and I very much enjoy prosecco. The Italian prosecco white grapes give this dry or extra-dry sparkling wine an enticing bouquet with a fruity and nutty taste. By itself, with strawberries, or mixed in a mimosa, this Italian sparkling wine is versatile enough for any occasion.