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Kate Opalewski

Kate Opalewski is BTL's features editor and has been since 2015. She has covered a variety of topics ranging from art, politics and community outreach. Recently, she was honored by the Detroit Police Department LGBT Advisory Board for her work for the local LGBTQIA community.

Critters In Couture

Our canine companions are taking over the world of fashion. Stylish clothes, creative costumes, functional travel gear and accessories are flying off retailer shelves helping pet owners to keep their furry friends in fashion throughout the year. We [...]

Henry Ford Health System Recognized For Equality Efforts

DETROIT – As a leader in LGBT healthcare equality, Henry Ford Health System's six facilities is one of five Michigan health organization among the 464 healthcare facilities recognized nationwide by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation in its [...]

Out Artist, JGN To Appear During Fine Art Show

Mixed-media artist Dan Neil Barnes is back in town to share his contemporary work with art lovers in Michigan at the Orchard Lake Fine Art Show, where 140 juried, professional artists have been invited to sell their original and handmade [...]

Ferndale Mayor's Reelection May Be Challenged

BTL file photo of Craig Covey and Dave Coulter in January 2011 when they switched jobs. Coulter became Mayor of Ferndale and Covey went on to serve as an Oakland County Commissioner. FERNDALE – When City of Ferndale Mayor Dave Coulter heard he may [...]

Local Agency Seeks LGBT Foster Parents

While transitioning out of foster care is difficult for any young person regardless of sexual orientation, LGBTQ youth may face special difficulties and hardships. This is according to the report "Economic Well-Being of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual [...]

Manila Luzon Dishes On 'Drag Race' & Upcoming Pride Performance

Manila Luzon is always looking for an opportunity to wear her designer shooz. The Asian Glamasaurus will pack up her "Fooey Vuitton" luggage full of wigs and fabulous heels to pump her way to the Sixth Annual Kalamazoo Pride event at Arcadia Creek [...]

Detroit Softball League Hits Homerun For Community

The way the world thinks about LGBT professional athletes is changing. Although high-profile athletes are making headline news for publicly coming out – like the recent announcement made by NBA basketball player Jason Collins – it's just as [...]

Whole Foods Comes Out In Detroit

Tiana Oldford getting ready for Whole Foods Detroit opening June 5. BTL Photos Andrew Potter DETROIT – When Whole Foods Market opens in the Midtown Detroit area June 5, the team intends to put the community first. They've asked a lot of questions [...]

Antiques Offer Upscale Quality At Bargain Prices

It's really exciting to see a piece of repurposed furniture transform into something new and beautiful. Many homeowners are intimidated by the idea of restoring their old pieces to their former glory and they sell them or donate them. Some are [...]

A Second Chance To 'Shine'

{ITAL This article was originally published in April, 2013 Rayya Ellias will be appearing at Barnes & Noble in Royal Oak on Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. for her book, Harley Loco's release.} Author Rayya Elias says one of her favorite sayings is "the [...]

Tying The Knot Despite The Law

Todd (left) and Dan (right) following their wedding ceremony ten years ago. Photo courtesy of the couple Many same-sex couples in Michigan aren't waiting for the Supreme Court to decide on Prop 8 and DOMA in order to have a wedding. Julia Josling, [...]

Expo To Offer Lots Of Options

Great company, food, drinks and fabulous vacation getaways are part of this year's BTL Same-Sex Wedding Expo. Attendees will also have a chance to participate in two workshops, hear great music and meet 40 terrific vendors! LIVONIA – The process [...]