MAY 3, 1996 GAY PEOPLE'S CHRONICLE

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Cleveland Couples Together celebrates 10th anniversary

In May of 1986, four gay couples, who were in monogamous relationships, established a social group for themselves and other gay and lesbian couples who were in similar relationships. They called the group Monotones. Since those intimate gatherings in 1986, and into the tenth anniversary celebration of 1996, the group, in its ever changing style, is now known as Cleveland Couples Together. Men and women are now equally represented among the thirtythree couples in the group.

CCT is purely a social group. The social calendar of the group is as diverse as the interests of the mem-

bership. Monthly events are potlucks, restaurant night (to celebrate anniversaries), and birthday celebration night. Members and guests can pick and choose from a variety of things throughout the year. Some of these have included Indians and Browns games, Cleveland Museum of Art tours, Cleveland Ballet performances, camping in the summer and fall, theater trips and more.

Plans for events are made monthly, when members meet at Snickers Eatery to conduct business meetings.

Cleveland Couples Together has consistently supported the gay and lesbian community through financial donations, as well as through hosting the Fall Hayride for the past eight years, and by being physically present at such events as Pride, Dancin' in the Streets, the We are Family Picnic, and Moonlight Bowling. Members of CCT have also been guest speakers at PRYSM youth group meetings, and at the Akron University gay and

व

lesbian student group.

Cleveland Couples Together has come a long way, and made some differences, since its conception ten years ago. On June 1, 1996, CCT will be hosting a 10th Anniversary Party for all present and past members. If you were a part of the history of the group, please join in the celebration. You can get all the details by calling CCT at 216-734-7980.

While HRC takes on national lions, we work locally

by Linda Malicki

Hey, wasn't that a party! The Human Rights Campaign North Coast Dinner held at the Marriott Society Center Hotel a few weeks back was absolutely terrific. Greg, Georgiann, and all the volunteers who worked so hard to put that show on are to be commended for a job well done. I know how much work these things take and I was very proud to be a Participant in such a wellorganized and successful

event.

Also to be commended are the 500-plus who attended the dinner. They obviously have realized how important the Human Rights Campaign is on a

national level. Elizabeth

working on human rights at a local level. I am so thankful that they are there, not only as a resource for the Cleveland Lesbian-Gay Center, but also as a powerful voice for all queer people.

It is important to remember however, that the struggle for human rights not only takes place in the halls of Congress, but also in the halls of local high schools; that meaningful, educational dialogue doesn't only happen

LESBIAN GAY Community Service Center

Birch, the executive director, is a brilliant and creative leader who in a little more than a year has recharged the organization and effectively taken on the 104th Congress.

HRC has fought our battles in the halls of Congress throughout the years. Last year in particular, HRC played an enormous role in keeping back the tide of mean-spiritedness that threatened to inflict mortal wounds on human rights in this country. As someone

OF GREATER CLEVELAND

when sitting across from Bill Clinton, but happens daily in kitchens and living rooms across our city; that laws can only effect successful change when the populace is in agreement. This is the kind of work we do at the Center. Grassroots level social change. Please remember all of you who supported HRC at this wonderful event, to support us too. We need to stand together locally and nationally to create a safe and affirming culture in this country.

For information on becoming a volunteer or a member of the Lesbian-Gay Community Service Center please call 216-522-1999.▷

Linda Malicki is executive director of the Cleveland Lesbian-Gay Center.

In Memoriam Of Our Founder, Cecil Ray deLoach (1952-1991)

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