I receive emails regularly asking for advice on manners, courtesy and the like. I’ve been holding onto a few so I can give that snobby Miss Manners a run for her money—Milwaukee style! Let’s see if I can set these readers straight. Well, as straight as a big-boned drag queen can.
Dear Ruthie,
Having a gay son, my husband and I are all for same-sex marriage. Apparently, our son is too because he’s tied the knot legally twice (followed by quick divorces). He’s been engaged four times, and he just announced that his new partner proposed and that they are going to get married.
We want our son to be happy, and we hope this is truly Mr. Right, but we’re running out of money (and patience). What are our financial responsibilities when it comes to contributing to yet another wedding for our son?
Tired of the Registry,
Broke Mom
Dear Mommy Money Bags,
Tell your son that the bank is closed, sugar! Paying for one wedding is lovely; paying for a second and third is just dumb. Your son is a big boy, and if he wants another stroll down the aisle, he can foot the bill.
Offer all the love and support you can muster, purchase a memorable wedding gift, help with planning or organizing... and keep your Gucci pocketbook zipped.
Dear Ruthie,
I fly a lot for work. You know how people ask if you’ll switch seats with them, so they can all sit together? How rude is it to say “no?” My company pays extra so I don’t have to sit in the middle seat, I have back troubles, so I need an aisle seat, and I just hate moving to another seat when I’m settled in. Am I being a dick for not switching seats with those who ask?
Thanks,
Unfriendly Flyer
Dear Flyer,
I’m all in favor of random acts of kindness but if you really can’t move your sweet keester to another seat, then there is nothing wrong with staying put. Don’t be a dick about it, though. Simply reply with a “Sorry, but I really can’t move seats.” If it makes you feel better, explain that you need an aisle seat, or note that you’d truly rather not move.
Keep in mind, however, that it never hurts to send a little love out into the universe. Helping a family with young kids sit together, a newlywed couple kickoff their honeymoon or a senior citizen get to her seat easier adds up on karma’s nice list pretty damn fast.
Ruthie’s Social Calendar
Nov. 15—Milwaukee Firefighter Calendar Release Party at Merriment Social (240 E. Pittsburgh Ave.): The team at Ignite the Spirit Fund gathered up the 12 hottest Cream City firemen for this local-calendar release party. The 6:30 p.m. night involves a $30 ticket charge that includes a few free cocktails and appetizers. The $50 package includes a free calendar. (Additional calendars are available for purchase.) Meet the models, bid on auction items and try you luck at the raffle. See ignitethespiritmke.org for tickets and more.
Nov. 15—Opening Night Mothers and Sons at Plymouth Church (2717 E. Hampshire Ave.): Director Mark Bucher and his Boulevard Theater stage this reading of an LGBTQ favorite. Written by trailblazer Terrence McNally, the delightful play explores generational differences and expectations when an older lady drops in on her late son’s partner. Laughter, tears and inspiration ensue during the heartfelt reading that runs through Nov. 25. See brownpapertickets.com and reserve your spot today.
Nov. 16—Opening Reception “Trans-lucent” at Union Art Gallery (2200 E. Kenwood, Blvd.): Celebrate the opening of this exciting exhibit, showcasing transgender and non-binary themes as interpreted by students, community members and national artists. Take in the 7 p.m. artist panel that’s free and open to the public. Can’t make it to the reception? The exhibition is open until Dec. 13.
Nov. 16—Fetish Friday at Club Icon (6305 120th Ave., Kenosha): Grab your gear and get your kink on as Mr. Wisconsin Leather hosts a nasty night of piggy fun. Explore your dark side, enjoy drink specials and mingle with likeminded guys during the 9:30 p.m. party.
Nov. 17—A Night of Cabaret at Marcus Center for the Performing Arts (929 N. Water St.): One of the oldest LGBTQ+ organizations in the city, Milwaukee Metropolitan Community Church, hosts this 6-9 p.m. evening of food, cocktails, drag queens and auctions. Tickets start at $30, and they can be ordered via milmcc.org.
Nov. 17—Thoughtful Gay Men Meetup at Milwaukee LGBT Community Center (1110 N. Market St.): This free support group is open to men of all ages who are looking for meaningful conversation, new connections and a thought-provoking exploration of today’s gay male experience. The 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. discussion group meets once per month. Swing by mkelgbt.org to learn how you can get involved.
Nov. 17—ABC (Anything But Clothes) Party at This Is It! (418 E. Wells St.): Don’t miss another installment of the infamous SWELL parties, with this 9 p.m. bash. Come dressed in your most-creative outfit made of anything but clothes. Special appearances by “Camp Wannakiki” stars Vajay J. Snappinturtle and Sylvia Nyxx, awards for best looks, Skyy vodka specials and more turn this Cathedral Square hot spot on its head. (Be sure to check out the rainbow crosswalk outside the bar, too!)
Ask Ruthie a question and share your events at dearruthie@shepex.com. Follow her on Instagram @ruthiekeester and Facebook at Dear Ruthie. Listen to Ruthie every Friday on Energy 106.9 at 10:05 a.m.
