January 16, 2009 | Volume VII, Issue 2
IN THIS ISSUE
Local News...... starts on P 03
Gayborhood...... P 07
Open letters to the President...... P 10, 11
Photos...... P 28, 29 Stonewall Democrats Setting Up Shop in Baltimore By Steve Charing A cold, rainy January 7 night didn’t deter nearly 30 people from attending the first organizational meeting of the Baltimore chapter of the Stonewall Democrats. Co-founders Luke Clippinger and Daniel Ewald are in the process of establishing the chapter to join the 90 that already exist throughout the country. Those attending the meeting downtown were racially diverse with a wide variety of backgrounds and ages. There were folks from Baltimore City as well as from Baltimore, Harford and Howard counties. “Given the bad weather, we were very pleasantly surprised to see that many people show up for this meeting,” said Luke Clippinger one of the co-founders of the Baltimore group. Clippinger vowed to bring in people from Anne Arundel and Carroll counties by fostering a grassroots movement throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. Stonewall Democrats is America’s only grassroots Daniel Ewald (l.) and Luke Clippinger Democratic lgbt organization. Its main objectives include educating the lgbt community about the differences between presence (already on Facebook) and developing events. the political parties, mobilizing the lgbt community to get out to While the national Stonewall Democrats focuses on federal vote on Election Day for fair-minded Democrats, and standing up issues and working with members of Congress, the Baltimore to Republicans when they attack lgbt rights and families. It had chapter will direct its attention to state and local matters. “We been founded by openly gay Rep. Barney Frank (MA) over 20 will try to primarily affect the City Council and various county years ago. councils in the area regarding issues that are important to the The fledgling group in Baltimore, however, will concentrate lgbt community,” said Daniel Ewald, who is also an officer in the their efforts on local issues and candidates. “There already is a Baltimore County Young Democrats. Stonewall chapter in the D.C. suburbs that will eventually cover The Baltimore chapter plans to work with the Maryland Photo: Tom Reeves Southern Maryland,” said Daniel Ewald, another co-founder. Democratic Central Committee on advancing lgbt causes and “Having a chapter in Baltimore will provide convenience to local devising electoral strategies. Clippinger noted that Equality residents and attract more members from this area.” Maryland must be bipartisan in advocating lgbt initiatives because of the nature of the organization, but the chapter will work with the algemesi One of the principal goals of the Baltimore chapter is to help A RARE, UNTOUCHED SPANISH GEM elect lgbt and allied candidates to offices. Luke Clippinger, who organization on policy and other matters. The next meeting is scheduled for March 4 when the group By Frank LaTerreur was one of three Marylanders who helped draft the platform at Special to Outloud the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, explained, will focus on a temporary board, review of the by-laws generated “We will provide actual training for people on what it takes to run by the committee, and planning of an initial event. Once the by- laws and other administrative requirements are approved by the This is the first in a series of travel articles for office, how to be good candidates, and how to raise money.” by internationally known travel writer Frank Moreover, the chapter plans to educate elected officials national organization, the Baltimore chapter will be officially a part of the Stonewall Democrats. LaTerreur. OUTloud is pleased to present on lgbt issues, design a grassroots effort to attract the lgbt the series in the hope of encouraging travel community, and persuade more people to become involved in For more info about the Baltimore Stonewall Democrats, e-mail [email protected]. to out-of-the-way spots, sometimes off the politics. The grassroots strategy includes media outreach, web beat tracks of visits to the usual big tourist cities. LaTerreur’s philosophy is simple, he Equality Maryland Outlines 2009 Legislative Agenda believes that “it´s still possible to get away from home - from MTV, from internet, from “We’re in a good place legislatively” core of Maryland’s largest civil rights name brands - and to enjoy ¨difference, By Steve Charing organization’s efforts during the next few the uniqueness of other cultures, not yet months. completely devoured by the world-wide Although the 2009 Maryland General The Gender Identity and Expression plastic mess that is US-driven, corporate Assembly will be intensely focused Anti-Discrimination Act will be at the controlled, and boring, whether in Tokyo, on a widening budget deficit amidst a forefront of the lobbying group’s priorities. Paris or New York City. Just leave your weakening economy, Equality Maryland The bill, which failed to emerge from the American druthers at home, and look plans to advance a legislative agenda to Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee for what you are not used to! You will be achieve social and economic justice for last year by one vote, is designed to add surprised with what you find!” New Equality Maryland Executive Director Kate the lgbt community. Several carryover gender identity to state laws that already -- full story continues on page 16 Runyon addressing PFLAG initiatives from last year will form the --continued on page 26 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com OUTspoken Publisher Mike Chase [email protected] Executive Editor Jim Becker Leadership Needed for Change [email protected] But can there ever be a leader of the LGBT Community? Sales Mary Taylor, Director By Steve Charing [email protected] Senior Political Anaylst Senior Political Correspondent Steve Charing As Barack Obama possesses the kind of charismatic qualities Leather Editor ascends the Capitol that can persuade, inspire and unite a Rodney Burger steps to be sworn in diverse, fragmented and divided lgbt Writers as the nation’s 44th community. For example, we have seen Joe Jeffrey Clagett Solomnese, the head of the Human Rights president, he will have Chuck Duncan a menu of problems Campaign—the nation’s largest lgbt political Rickie Green not seen by any other advocacy organization—attempt to lead the Eva Hersh MD president in history. lgbt community during legislative battles Doug Ireland Two foreign wars, in Congress, the Proposition 8 debacle, P.S. Lorio an economy on the brink of collapse, and the controversial selection of Pastor Jim Lucio environmental crises, the Mideast sitting on Rick Warren by Mr. Obama to deliver the Meredith Moise Ben Ryland a powder keg, sniping from members of his Inauguration’s invocation. Nate Sweeney Being the face of this large organization own party, scandals all over the place—the MIA - Alexander St. John list goes on and on. provides Mr. Solomnese with a platform to But Mr. Obama, more than any other be such a leader. The problem is that the Graphics Hannah-Love Shibley, Director president in memory, has the potential to HRC (and by extension Mr. Solomnese) is [email protected] meet these challenges and threats with viewed by many lgbt activists as nothing of the “leaders” spent a month-long vacation during the prime time of the campaign. Other Carol Baker a good chance of success. Why? For more than a fundraising machine with Bryan Sullivan starters he has the intelligence and vision pricey, glittery, star-studded dinners with horror stories continue to surface about Photographers required to steer the ship. He also has a few legislative triumphs to boast. That the execution of the “No to Prop 8” effort. Clearly, the leadership failures contributed Skip Koritzer mindset that emphasizes collaboration over subverts his leadership potential. Harry Lowinger confrontation, which is the first step in uniting Mr. Solomnese and HRC do excellent significantly to the outcome. a divided country. But most importantly he work, and it is unfair to ignore their efforts Ineptitude and incompetence have National Advertising to secure rights for gays and lesbians. impaired our ability to progress. The fallout Rivendell Media is a leader. 908-232-2021 Congress and the American people have from the Prop 8 mess exposed deep been slow to come around to our cause, so fissures within the gay population. Daunting Web Services “No individual has success has been elusive. I don’t believe as it might be, is there such a person with Drew Saine [email protected] any individual and any lgbt organization majestic communication skills who can yet to emerge who would have been able to produce key successfully inspire, unify and lead our Distribution/Circulation legislative victories given the political and community? We would need a leader who Jay Loane possesses the kind of social climate over the past three decades. can: [email protected] charismatic qualities There have been missteps to be sure. Help heal the ugly sore of racism that Mr. Solomnese’s unwise, highly publicized exists among gays and lesbians—on all Baltimore OUTloud that can persuade, letter to Mr. Obama asking him to withdraw sides. P.O. Box 3640 the selection of Rick Warren is a good Bridge the gender divide. Baltimore, MD 21214 inspire and unite a Lead young and old alike. 410-244-6780 example. He should have clearly known that www.baltimoreoutloud.com the President-elect would not reverse his Recognize that fundraising is imperative diverse, fragmented decision based on the demands of a leader but the community also includes people of a gay rights organization. That lack of who cannot afford lavish events. Additional Information and divided lgbt Gain the confidence of Congress, state Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride political sagacity set Mr. Solomnese up for Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers’ comments legislatures and other elected officials, community.” immediate failure and raises the question, and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent who then can ever be our leader? including our President, and work with them to: [email protected]. | Pride Media offices to achieve equality. To effect change there must be That question remains unanswered are located at 1120 N. Charles Street, 4R, Baltimore, 21201. Engage in productive dialogue with leadership. Of course, Mr. Obama can after California’s passage of Prop 8. The | All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property clergy of all religions and denominations. of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without draw on his near-mandate in the November immediate knee-jerk reaction by lgbt Embrace our transgendered friends and the written permission of the editor. election to press his case. But he also has activists was to blame the voters, mainly work hard to secure them the protections the ability to go beyond simply pointing to African-Americans, for the failure to stop they deserve. the election numbers. the referendum’s passage. Those are the job requirements at a He inspires millions of people. His The blame game went on for weeks minimum. Now we need applicants. Is our storybook and historic rise to the presidency before there were reports that the individuals Barack Obama out there? was accomplished through his no- and organizations leading the fight against Prop 8 were incompetent or missing in Steve Charing’s OUTspoken blog is at nonsense stewardship of his campaign and www.SteveCharing.blogspot.com. his extraordinary ability to communicate. action. Once again, it proves that if all you If change does come, you can credit Mr. do is raise money and don’t know how to Obama for inspiring the masses using his properly spend it, you are destined to fail— innate ability to lift people up and mobilizing both in the results and in the perception of them to join in a movement. the folks you are trying to help. ©2008 - All Rights Reserved Imagine if we had such a leader in the The grossly inadequate outreach to Chairman of the Board Jim Becker lgbt community. people of color and seniors during the President Jim Williams No individual has yet to emerge who marketing phase stands out. Moreover, one Vice President Lee Mooney baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q News
reached the merits of Jane Doe’s challenge to the referendum petition. State’s highest court issues opinion in Following release of the opinion Natalie Chin, staff attorney at Lambda Legal was quoted in The Gazette as saying that “[t]he transgender referendum case referendum process is drastic, and the Court Annapolis - On November 13, 2007, the general election ballot was insufficient of voters necessary to achieve the requisite of Appeals has said repeatedly the rules Montgomery County Council unanimously and that the Montgomery County Board of 5% of registered voters. Had the County must be strictly complied with. What the passed an act adding gender identity to Elections over-counted purported signature Board used all 552,281 registered voters, Court of Appeals did is say the referendum the county’s civil rights law in order to entries in violation of detailed statutes that which includes both “active” and “inactive” process cannot be taken lightly, and if address discrimination against transgender safeguard the referendum process. The voters, as opposed to only the 500,012 you’re going to change a duly-enacted law individuals. A group calling itself Citizens for Court agreed. “active” voters, it would have determined you have to strictly comply with the law. Responsible Government (CRG) sought to In the opinion written by Judge Lynne that 27,615 petition signatures, not 25,001, In September, Dan Furmansky, then collect enough signatures on a referendum Bataglia, the court ruled that the challenge were needed to achieve the 5% benchmark.” Executive Director of Equality Maryland, petition to block the law from going into effect. to the referendum petition was timely and She concluded, “[b]ecause we hold that said, “[t]his long overdue, crucial law is all In September 2008, a divided Maryland the county erred in excluding “inactive” Jane Doe’s judicial review action was not about assuring that unchecked bias is not Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court, voters from the pool of registered voters time-barred, that “inactive” voters should allowed to inhibit our neighbors’ abilities issued a one paragraph order blocking the when calculating the number of signatures have been included in the total number to make a living or rent a home, and as a referendum. On December 19th, the Court needed to place the referendum on the of registered voters and finally that the Montgomery County resident, I breathe a published a 38 page majority opinion giving ballet. The Court also held that the County 10,876 challenged signatures were invalid sigh of relief that this campaign to roll back its reasons for invalidating the referendum Board and the Circuit Court were wrong in as a matter of law, the reversal of summary antidiscrimination protections is now over. effort. counting signatures that did not comply with judgment entered on behalf of the County While we were ready to make our case to the Lambda Legal, together with counsel the strict requirements of the referendum Board and entry of summary judgment on voters of Montgomery County, it is far better retained by Equality Maryland, represented law. behalf of Jane Doe was mandated by this that our transgender brothers and sisters concerned Montgomery County registered Writing for the majority, Judge Bataglia Court on September 9, 2008”. be spared the rhetoric that the referendum voters who opposed CRG’s referendum. said, “[i]n the present case Montgomery The three dissenting judges said proponents have subjected them to over the Lambda Legal and Equality Maryland argued County’s 52,269 “inactive” voters were that Jane Doe filed her challenge to the past year.” that the number of signatures needed to put excluded from the total number of registered referendum too late. In an 11 page dissent, The case is Doe et al. v. Montgomery the referendum petition on the November voters, thus greatly diminishing the number they argued that the Court should not have County Board of Elections
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Ted Blankenship (right) and his partner Tom Kazmierczak New Development Directors at EM and the Feast Equality Maryland (EM), announced last development and finance efforts at the New week the civil rights organization has hired Organizing Institute, a progressive non- Kevin Walling as Director of Development. profit dedicated to expanding the base of Walling will be responsible for spearheading highly trained online organizers, new media all of EM’s fundraising efforts and will also directors and technology enabled field staff. take part in shaping the organization’s Previously he served as the Director of communications and marketing strategies. Special Projects at the Archdiocese for the Moveable Feast also recently promoted Military Services, USA. Ted Blankenship to head its development Before beginning a career in fundraising, efforts. Blankenship has been at non- Walling worked in the office of U.S. Senator profit HIV/AIDS meals delivery agency for Thomas Carper (DE) and on the 2004 over three years. For the past two years reelection campaign of Delaware Governor he headed the 140-mile bike ride, “Ride for Ruth Ann Minner. the Feast.” The annual Rehoboth Beach to “I’m delighted to join such a dedicated Baltimore event is a major fundraising and team working to advance lgbt equality public awareness event for the non-profit. and rights for ourselves and our families. Before joining Moveable Feast he was I’m looking forward to meeting with our managing the box office for the now defunct members and discussing our work and goals Baltimore Opera Company. Blankenship across the state, and I invite our supporters moved to Baltimore from Philly after college. to contact me at kevin@equalitymaryland. He loves the city and shares his life with Tom org if they have any questions or advice,” Kazmierczak, life partners for 20 years. Walling said. “I am honored to be working at Moveable As development director, Walling will Feast at a critical time in the organization’s join an organization in transition. He joins growth. With our move to our new home newly hired Executive Director Kate Runyon, we have the capacity to feed even more after the departure of Dan Furmansky in people in need of our services. Moveable December. Feast has many dedicated and wonderful “As I become acquainted with our supporters and it is a privilege to work with organization and with the lgbt movement them, Blankenship said. in Maryland, I realize how lucky I am to This year Moveable Feast will celebrate have such a gifted and dedicated team to 20 years of community service, providing support our efforts,” Runyon said. “With his Blankenship with a solid platform to kick off fundraising prowess and passion for our his development efforts. cause, Kevin will be an amazing addition to Walling also has a solid background in an already amazing staff, and I can’t wait to organizational development and a history work with him to make Maryland a leader in of fundraising success, according to an EM lgbt equality.” press release. Most recently, he has led baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q News A Call for Action Community Groups, Elected Officials Unite for Financial Reform and Economic Recovery as Congress Prepares to Take Action and the General Assembly Prepares to Convene The Baltimore Economic Recovery Coalition and sustainable loan modification with (BERC) issued a press release January 9 homeowners paying a reasonable amount calling on federal and state governments during the moratorium period.” take immediate and aggressive action Investing in new jobs and infrastructure “The store is in response to the financial crisis and development is critical for neighborhoods deepening recession. BERC is a progressive in Baltimore. ACORN leader Swanzetta simply genius” coalition with an aggressive agenda for Gardner from West Baltimore said, “Our Style Magazine human equality. neighborhoods are ground zero for the “We need significant increases economic crisis. We need the federal dogma is where you’ll find Pucci in funding for enforcement of existing government to provide the money to make protections and more authority for financial the long awaited repairs to our schools, for your pooch and every accessory service regulation at the state level,” says roads, and bridges. In return this will create you can imagine. Over 200 fabrics Robin McKinney of the Maryland CASH jobs in those communities hardest hit. It’s Campaign. a win-win situation.” ACORN was also for pet beds, a fantastic selection of “A failure to provide adequate consumer represented at the event by Malita Savage, collars and leads, designer crates, regulatory protections is the overwhelming whose home contracting business has cause of the crisis, and the result has been suffered severely from the recession, and furniture and more! a foreclosure crisis that has destroyed Lia Tut, a victim of predatory lending who is wealth in our community,” said Josh Silver in the process of losing her home due to the • designer beds and crates of the National Community Reinvestment mortgage crisis. • self-serve baths Coalition. “Obama’s job creation plan could “In the third quarter of 2008, Baltimore renovate dozens of City schools, by hiring • gourmet treats City represented over 11% of all Maryland local contractors to replace boilers, install foreclosures, and the neighborhoods most air-conditioning, and repair leaky roofs,” • natural foods impacted are among the most economically said Bebe Verdery, Director of the ACLU • pet apparel disadvantaged,” according to Robert Strupp, of Maryland’s Education Reform Project. Public Policy Director of the Community Law “These critical renovations will protect the • gift registry Center. “To address the ongoing foreclosure health and safety of students and staff and crisis, legislation should include a mandatory address our city’s need to modernize our • toys and gifts foreclosure freeze and mandate ‘good faith’ schools.” • collars and leads attempts to achieve affordable, meaningful • professional grooming PFLAG-Howard County Announces 3rd Annual The Shops at Brewer’s Hill Scholarship in Canton • Conkling & Boston Sts. Columbia, MD – PFLAG-Columbia/Howard “Our PFLAG-Columbia/Howard County • 410.276.3410 • dogmaforpets.com County is offering a $1,000 scholarship Scholarship will show the young people • Monday–Friday 10am–8pm • Saturday to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered in our state how much we value their (GLBT) or straight allies who are currently commitment to equality for all,” says chapter 9am–6pm • Sunday 11am–5pm attending or planning to attend a post- chairperson Colette Roberts. “Many of secondary educational institution during these students are faced with discrimination the 2009-2010 academic year. The chapter, and harassment in their schools and often for the first time, has expanded scholarship within their own families. We believe these eligibility to include residents throughout students and their straight allies help foster Home Delivery: the state of Maryland. a positive image of the GLBT people in our Deadline for the applications is May society.” It’s FREE 1, 2009 with the notification to the winner Details about the scholarship are at to be mailed out the last week of May. The http://www.pflagmd.org/Scholarship.html. Sign up today at scholarship will be awarded during the BaltimoreOUTloud.com chapter’s general meeting on June 9. q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Dr. Eva
for Most against requiring this documentation, In the USA, African Americans make Top HIV Rates of HIV infection are increasing because the time required to document up 15% of the population, but 50% of all Stories of among people without risk factors for discourages professionals from testing. people living with HIV. infection. Many people are diagnosed only Half of new HIV cases are (still) HIV Is Becoming a Disease of 2008 after the disease has progressed to AIDS. occurring in men who have sex with men Middle Age The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) (MSM) nationally, a disproportionately high Nationally, the largest age group with By Dr. Eva Hersh now recommends testing everyone age 13 number of new HIV cases occur in African- HIV is the group from age 40 to 49. Thirty- Note to readers: CD4 and up, except in geographic areas where American MSM, mainly between age 13 three percent of all people living with AIDS cells, also called T- the rate of infection is extremely low. and 29. In Baltimore, over 50% of African- in the USA are in their 40s. cells, are the type of white blood cells that The bottom line is: You need to get American MSM are infected with HIV. HIV Is a Neighborhood Disease the HIV virus destroys. Normal CD4 counts tested, and encourage others to get Heterosexual Sex is the Fastest In Baltimore, zip codes where 30% of are over 600. In a person with HIV, a tested. How often a person should be Increasing Way HIV is Transmitted the city population lives account for 50% CD4 count under 500 is a sign of immune tested depends on how risky their behavior Women become infected through of HIV infections. Seven percent of people damage. AIDS is defined by a CD4 count is. The most common risky behavior is sex heterosexual sex much more easily than living in 21201 have HIV. The zip code of 200 or below. without condoms. men do. That is why, in Africa, HIV occurs with the highest HIV rate is 21217: 12% of We’re Number 2! Maryland doctors have been slow most often in women in the childbearing people living in 21217 are infected. Baltimore City has the second highest to put this recommendation into action. years. We are likely to see this pattern in Pendulum Swings Back to Earlier rate of HIV of any city in the USA, after This may be due to the fact that, although the US within a few years. In Maryland HIV Treatment Miami. This year we beat Washington DC, written consent for HIV testing is no now, women make up 40% of those living New treatment guidelines recommend which is #3. The HIV rate in Baltimore longer required, Maryland law still requires with HIV. These are most often African starting HIV treatment (also called HAART is three times higher than the national specific pre- and post-test counseling to American women. This group will increase. or antiretrovirals) for all patients with CD4 average. be done and documented for every patient HIV Is Becoming an African counts below 350, and offering treatment tested for HIV. The CDC recommends American Disease CDC Recommends HIV Screening -- continued on page 30 baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q Gayborhood Who are the people in your gayborhood?
What was the last homemade gift that you gave? Christmas cards this year
Ever feel an earthquake? Last night Relationship status? Most romantic date ever? Single Last night Workplace? What is your favorite memory of a Cult grandparent? Best part of your job? I was in Japan with my grandpa, and we We have the sickest clothes around. I get were shopping at a place called Jusco to to be in an enviorment that is astehically get a lunchbox. I wanted a black one, but INVITE YOU AND pleasing and colorful for 8 hours a day my grandpa told me that my food would A GUEST TO A not taste as good in a black lunchbox, so SPECIAL ADVANCE Worst part of your job? I got a white one instead. We have really cool stuff but some SCREENING OF people don’t get the style Thunderdome! Two shall enter, one shall leave: Jay Leno vs David Favorite restaurant in Baltimore? Letterman? Minato I’ve gotta go with Letterman on that one Favorite local nonprofit First pet’s name? Be one of the first Our Daily Bread Charlie. He was a hermit crab to stop by Saratoga Coffee, located at If you had 20 million dollars to spend Coffee or tea? 222 E. Saratoga Street, on art, what would you buy? Coffee on Friday, January 16th That’s not enough. Sea monsters or space aliens? for your chance to Favorite phrase? Space aliens receive a pass, “That aint gangsta” good for two, to an Egg rolls or Crab Rangoon? advance screening. Movie you can recite as you watch? Egg rolls Trainspotting When will the recession be over? No purchase necessary. And the best line from it? The 4th of July Supplies limited. First-come, “Some people hate the English, I don’t. first-served. One pass per Best drink you make? person. Seating is limited. They’re just wankers. We on the other A serious cappuccino. I used to work at Employees of all promotional hand were colonized by wankers.” partners are not eligible. Donnas Who’s singing voice would you steal Rated PG-13 for brief Favorite drink to drink? strong language. to replace your own? Airborne Ronnie Spector OPENS IN THEATERS JANUARY 30 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com
Guest Starring American Idol winner ON SALE TAYLOR HICKS FEBRUARY 3-15 HIPPODROME THEATRE NOW! February 3-8!! BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • 410.547.SEAT • Hippodrome Theatre Box Office (Mon-Sat 10a-5p) Groups (15+) call 866.577.7469 • To learn more visit myspace.com/BaltimoreHippodrome Due to the nature of live entertainment; times, dates and performers are subject to change without notice. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. No refunds or exchanges. Tickets subject to service charges and handling fees. baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q Beyond the Beltway
Compiled by Jim Becker Philadelphia, PA - Four members of the 1 press release said WBC was targeting Westboro Baptist Church, the Topeka, Central as a stop on its protest tour because Study shows Philly lgbt activists Kansas based organization headed the school “continue[s] with the parents’ job parents’ support helps by Fred Phelps, scheduled a day of of lying to these children” and that the WBC was “going to tell them a little truth because protests throughout Philadelphia Jan. 5 gay children confront hate-monger soon they will be grown snakes and will A new study church centered around the funeral of a local each be personally responsible for their San Francisco, CA - doctor killed in Iraq. According to a own behavior.” Gloria Casarez, the mayor’s published this month in the journal press release issued by the WBC, the director of lgbt affairs, postured that the Pediatrics shows how important the organization decided to make the trip WBC may have chosen Central because of supportive reactions of parents can be to Philadelphia to protest the funeral the school’s long-standing and active gay- to the health of their lgbt children. The of Maj. John Pryor, a University of straight alliance. study, conducted by San Francisco Pennsylvania surgeon who was killed By the time the WBC members State University researcher Caitlin Ryan Christmas Day in Iraq. WBC, which —— one woman and three children and her colleagues, shows that when operates the Web site GodHatesFags. —— arrived at Central around 7 a.m. parents are unsupportive of their children com, travels the country demonstrating Monday, a crowd of Central students, and display what Ryan calls rejecting at the funerals of men and women killed alumni, teachers and administrators, behaviors it has a significant negative in the war to bring attention to their belief students from other high schools and impact on their health. (Bay Windows - that God is killing soldiers to express his local LGBT leaders had begun to amass. Ethan Jacobs at baywindows.com) dissatisfaction of the American societal By the end of the nearly 90-minute These news notes have been compiled, protest, about 200 counterprotesters with permission, from the online version of acceptance of homosexuality. various newspapers and other websites. We Before demonstrating outside Pryor’s had gathered, armed with posters and thank these publications for allowing us to funeral at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and signs. The school principal stood with bring you their news stories. Usually the reports Paul in Center City, WBC members gathered the student organized counter protesters have been significantly edited and you can read outside of Central High School, where they as a show of support. (Philadelphia the full story by going to the website following the item. were met with a strong resistance from Gay News - Jen Colletta at epgn.com) counter protesters. The organization’s Jan. 10 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com The Edge Thinking OUTloud
An Open Letter to President Barack Obama On the occasion of his inauguration, 20 January 2009
Dear President Barack Obama, Development (USAID) to train LGBTI is our best hope to safeguard jobs, homes, Congratulations on the occasion of your human rights defenders and support savings, public services, welfare provision, inauguration. LGBTI organisations, especially in poorer the environment and to bridge the chasm On this special day, the hopes of developing countries. of inequality between the global north and billions of people across our precious Press for the worldwide south. planet are vested in your presidency. decriminalisation of same-sex acts. Take action to save the lives of the They look to you to show practical and Seek the universal abolition of capital 1.5 billion people on our planet who are moral leadership in resolving the great punishment, including the execution of malnourished and without safe, clean challenges that face humanity. LGBTI people. Give a lead by ending the drinking water (of which about 150 million You have a historic opportunity death penalty in the US. are LGBTI). What is the point of securing to give new expression to the United Withdraw diplomatic, economic and LGBTI equality if LGBTI people are left to State’s founding ideals of liberty, justice military support from tyrannical regimes die of starvation and disease? and equality, by defending human rights like Saudi Arabia that persistently deny Lobby for a UN Convention Against - including the human rights of LGBTI freedom to their own people and oppress War and Poverty, whereby the nations PETA people, in the US and worldwide. their own citizens, on grounds such as of the world, including the US, agree to There are many new policies you can gender, sexual orientation, transgender cut their annual military expenditure by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment initiate, at relatively little cost, which will identity, race, nationality, religion or belief, 10% and to divert the $100,000 million of Animals) is extremely good at getting greatly extend the realm of justice and language and so on. saved into a ‘Marshall Plan 2’ for the Hollywood cuties to pose nude to promote freedom and rebuild the moral stature of Recognise and support the total eradication of hunger, malnutrition, animal rights. Of course you don’t have to be a movie star to help PETA spread their animal the US across the globe: International Criminal Court, to bring to dirty drinking water, poor sanitation and right agenda. Last fall activist Christina Dang Propose a new UN International justice the perpetrators of war crimes preventable illnesses by the year 2025. protested the nasty animal people at Ringling Human Rights Convention, enforceable and crimes against humanity, including Act now to halt the single greatest Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus before it worldwide and including protection against homophobic tyrants. threat to the future of humanity: climate arrived in Charlottesville, VA. Before she bared discrimination based on sexual orientation, End the US use of detention without chaos. It is more of a danger than terrorism it all while confined to a wire cage Dang said, “I’ll gladly bare my skin if it will help expose transgender identity and HIV status. trial, torture and extraordinary rendition, and war, and threatens the survival of all Ringling’s abusive treatment of animals. The Instruct the State Department to and close down Guantanamo Bay. species and all races, nationalities, faiths best way to stop this abuse is for people to compile a Global Index of LGBTI Rights Withdraw from Iraq and renounce and sexualities. LGBTI freedom means boycott Ringling and other circuses that use and raise abuses of these rights in the UN the US policy of selective and unilateral nothing if we don’t have a planet where animals.” and with offending states, such as Saudi military intervention to overthrow foreign we can enjoy it. Preserving our fragile But our favorite “in your face” PETA ad is the one featuring basketball star Ron Artest. Arabia, Pakistan, Uganda, Iran, Nigeria, dictatorships, like the Saddam Hussein biosphere is the precondition for life, Yemen, Jamaica, Cameroon, Lithuania, regime, in favour of a policy supporting liberty and the pursuit of happiness - for Afghanistan, Belarus and Iraq. democratic and humanitarian civil society every human being, regardless of sexual Make US aid to homophobic organisations within those countries, in orientation. countries conditional on serious progress order to empower the victims of oppression Destiny awaits you, Mr President. The towards their repeal of anti-gay and anti- to liberate themselves. hopes of humanity are in your hands. May transgender laws. Cease propping up corrupt, pro- you rise to greatness as a progressive and Show the way by eliminating such western, and often homophobic, human unifying leader who shapes a freer and discriminatory laws in the US, including rights abusers, such as the Ugandan and fairer future - not just for the American repealing the ban on same-sex marriage Nigerian regimes. people but for the people of the whole and ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’, and enacting Devise a new, more just international world. laws to protect LGBTI people against economic framework, where the common discrimination in employment, housing, good, environmental protection and global —Peter Tatchell, education, advertising and the provision of equity take priority over private privilege, LGBTI human rights campaigner and goods and services. corporate greed and national self-interest. spokesperson for OutRage! - London, UK | Use the network and resources A fairer, sustainable, regulated and [email protected] British Pop Star Has of the US Agency for International accountable international economic system Lesbian Dreams
Maybe it the pot calling the kettle pink, after god knows OUTloud has had its share of badly Hot Baltic Sex Fest phrased headlines. But the London Mirror has Lots of major cities have “erotic festivals.” There have even been a few in a prize winner. Recently the British tab ran a Charm City. But this year the go-to festival is in Riga (that’s right – an erotic piece online about pop singer Lily Allen - the festival in the tiny eastern European democracy Latvia. headline: “Not a Fan of Bad Sex.” Thanks for Scheduled for February 13-14, “Erots 2009” is the only erotic festival in clearing that up for us, we thought she dug bad sex. the Baltics. Europe’s hottest porn actors, fetish mavens and Latex wrapped A regular for British paparazzi and gossip boys will provide ample eye candy to satisfy even the most outrageous tastes hounds, the 23-year-old knows how to play and warm up the most vanilla players. Let Us Know What’s to a hungry public. Last year Allen reportedly Performers from 13 countries (Latvia, Estonia, Hungary, Germany, told Sofeminine, “I have been having a lot of Austria, Jamaica, Great Britain, Israel, Poland, Belgium, Sweden, Belarus On Your Mind. lesbian dreams lately. I think I might be gay! and Russia.) are scheduled, along with a huge toy and video marketplace. Comment, complain, gripe, Don’t tell my boyfriend. I have guy dreams No plans for Valentine’s Day? It’s not too late to get your tickets and catch and girl dreams, but the girl dreams are much a flight to Riga – pretty sure you won’t regret it. For additional information: grudge, or gossip: editor@ dirtier.” www.erots.lv baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 11 Thinking OUTloud
An Open Letter to the President-Elect Let’s Hope He’s Listening
Dear President-Elect Obama, Too often in the public debates around moral issues, you indicated that you believed that religious marriage it would seem that the only religious perspective is a belonged to religions to decide, but that no one should be conservative one. In your experience, however, you have denied civil rights. Marriage equality is about equal rights. heard the voices of thousands of religious leaders who Living in a time of rapid social change calls us to hold progressive views on such issues as reproductive recognize the diversity of God’s creation and to honor the choice, sexuality education, and equality for lgbt many ways that people live and love. America is the most Americans. Our hope is that you will make sexual and religiously diverse nation in the world. No single religious reproductive justice a priority of your administration – as voice can speak for all traditions on issues of marriage a matter of sound public policy, and as an expression of and sexuality, nor should government take sides on your faith. religious differences. Rather, religious groups must have The Religious Institute on Sexual Morality, Justice, the freedom to decide for themselves who is eligible for and Healing is a national, multifaith organization dedicated marriage in their own tradition, and clergy should be free to promoting sexual health, education and justice in to solemnize marriages without state interference. faith communities and society. Our network of almost America also is a nation of diverse families. Civil 4500 clergy, theologians and religious leaders supports rights protections and the legal benefits of marriage reproductive choice, access to sexual and reproductive strengthen families, enabling them to build stable, health care, comprehensive sexuality education, and the empowering and respectful relationships. Yet current law elimination of all forms of discrimination based on sexual excludes married same-sex couples from 1,138 federal orientation, gender and gender identity. benefits, including Social Security benefits, veterans’ Specifically, we call for the following commitments to benefits and tax benefits. Civil rights protections and be included in your administration: marriage benefits are particularly vital to the well-being of 1. An end to more than 10 years of federal support millions of American children being raised by same-sex for ineffective, abstinence-only-until-marriage programs, couples. I hope that you and the Democratic Congress will and a renewed commitment to comprehensive, age- move to revoke the DOMA legislation. appropriate sexuality education throughout the life span. Our positions on these issues are grounded not only 2. Full access to affordable, high-quality sexual and in social and scientific research, but also in the experience reproductive health services, including contraception, of individuals and communities who are frequently emergency contraception, abortion, prenatal care, overlooked or marginalized in our society. Our positions adoption, HIV/STI prevention and treatment, and safe and uphold a consistent Biblical mandate, expressed in other proven assisted reproductive technologies. We also urge sacred texts as well, to love, do justice, seek equality, and support for a global HIV/AIDS program free of abstinence- act with compassion. Most important, they reflect a faithful only restrictions. affirmation of sexuality as a divine blessing, an embodied 3. Full equality – including marriage and adoption capacity for expressing love and generating life, for rights for same-sex couples and a fully inclusive building relationships of mutual respect, and for promoting Employment Non-Discrimination Act – for lesbian, gay, the well-being of people and society. bisexual and transgender persons and their families. We stand ready to be of help. We look forward to Following the recent defeats at the polls, this is more working with you to achieve the dreams of equality for all. important than ever. I loved that you mentioned gay and Yes, we can. straight people in your acceptance speech. I also pray Sincerely, that you are more open to marriage equality than your last statements in the campaign indicated. Earlier on —Rev. Debra W. Haffner
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It’s a Flying Car, but Not Much Else By Ben Ryland In 1964 Ian Fleming, creator of “Bond, James Bond,” wrote a book for his young son, Casper. That book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was musicalized by the Disney composing team into a popular children’s film. Using all of his stylistic Bond writing touches he created 98CK@DFI<GI
Gods and Jockstraps By Defekto
Have you ever seen a man so overtly that you don’t typically see in photographs masculine that you felt you could almost of men like this. It’s the dappled lighting, smell his musky manscent from across a the sidelong glances, the casual repose of busy street? Or men with backs so wide his models that humanize these seemingly that they have to walk into rooms sideways? unapproachable men and make them a I’m talking, men so hulking that their clothes little bit more like us. “When a man just constantly tear away to tatters leaving them leans back and closes his eyes, it just in only a well-worn jockstrap. These are quiets everything. I love the vulnerability the hulking, hairy and heavily tattooed men that it creates” says Alago “I call it ‘The that Michael Alago photographs and calls Dreaming’”. “Rough Gods”. Don’t get the wrong impression, Michael is not a starry-eyed little dreamer, he has reached God-like proportions himself in “I want to get it all... the music industry. During his twenty year career in the corporate music world, Alago the sly smile, the has worked with a wildly diverse group of artists including PIL, Michael Feinstein and full raging hard-on... Nina Simone. But with the internet forcing everything.” monumental changes on the music industry and corporate powers dictating what the next big thing should be, Michael took these Michael Alago is a passionate man. not so subtle cues and opted out in order to Over the phone he talks fast, as if he is focus primarily on his photography. fearful that his phone will die at any moment. During those years, while he was busy In person he is much the same, sometimes producing music and discovering bands taking a deep breath before letting what’s like Metallica and White Zombie, Michael on his mind come tumbling out. “Things was also taking photographs--lots and lots can move really fast in my head, “ he of steamy, sexy Polaroids of naked men. “I Photo: Jim Lucio says “When I see a man on the street and always Polaroided the people I picked up think, ‘He’s a Rough God’. I’ll get a million or had one-night stands with. I wanted a Michael Alago: From Metallica to Musclebound He-Men thoughts and it becomes sensory overload.” remembrance of the evening.” he says with But Alago does know what he wants and a laugh. Alago has taken 1,000s of these definitely knows what he likes. “I don’t shoot “Trick Polaroids”, as he calls them. Back time to compose his shots to ensure that be available in late 2009. people I’m not attracted to. I want to look when Polaroid film was actually available, everything stays “sexy and inviting” and Michael Alago will be in Baltimore on at them and have an erotic feeling about he would shoot an astounding number of not just a notch on his camera strap. Either Saturday, January 15th exhibiting recent them.” I don’t press him on what happens images, sometimes up to one or two hundred way he does it, I eagerly await the day I digital work and will also be Polaroiding after the shooting stops, but he does hint shots per “trick”. “I will exhaust myself of a can see his whole amazing collection of one of his Rough Gods live at the opening that the “erotic feeling” he mentions, does model and not want to shoot them again” he “Trick Polaroids” on one big gallery wall and reception. Alago happily confirms that periodically come into further play. says. “That may sound selfish, but during experience them the way he wants them Timothy, an epic RG if there ever was one, Alago’s photography is not exactly what that sitting I want to get it all...the sly smile, to be seen, “A Polaroid is precious. I want will be on hand for the show opening. “He’ll you would expect to see on, say, a calendar the full raging hard-on...everything.” people to walk right up to the original and be here in his red jockstrap.” I love red. for Men of The Eagle. All the Daddy-fetish What started out as a loose get involved with the photo.” And while “Brutal Truth + Beauty” runs from accouterments like military boots, buzz cuts, documentation for his scrapbook of Polaroid film has become scarce to nearly January 15th through March 14 at the S.C. facial hair and the de rigueur jockstrap are conquests has become a more artistic and impossible to find, Rough Gods continue Lord Gallery located at 3000 Chestnut Ave. there, but he goes beyond fetishizing them controlled body of work. “The way I shoot to find their way to him whether by way of #341, in The Mill Center. The opening and surprisingly, lust is actually replaced by Polaroids has changed.” Since those snap referrals or on the streets of New York City. reception is on Saturday, January 15h from something closely resembling love. and shoot early days, Alago takes more Rough Gods, the book, is available now and 6-9pm. Jockstraps encouraged, but not There is a romantic quality to his work a second book of Alago’s wonder men will required. 14 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Church Directory
Beth El Congregation
An open, progressive USCJ synagogue.
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We don’t debate, or Grace United Methodist Church simply tolerate; We A Welcoming Congregation With Open celebrate your An active, welcoming, progressive parish sexuality and Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors in the heart of Mt. Vernon! spirituality!
Join us for worship, fellowship, study, Sundays: pursuit of justice and resistance 8:30 a.m., Eucharist (spoken) 10:30 a.m., Morning Prayer (organ & choir) of oppression Sundays We also welcome you to participate in our fine Beautiful music, soaring architecture, insightful preaching, active outreach. 9 AM Traditional Celebration worship and music program, directed by Bruce Catch the spirit of Emmanuel! 10 AM Hospitality Time - Community Eicher and including cherub choir, children’s 11 AM Praise Celebration & Family Service “Alleluia” choir, youth choir, chancel choir, hand bell choir, organ and other instruments. CATHEDRAL & READ STREETS Metropolitan Community Mt. Vernon Historic District We welcome you to worship each Sunday at 410.685.1130 • www.emmanueldowntown.org Church of Baltimore 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM 401 West Monument St. - Baltimore Grace Church 5407 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21210 410-NOW-MCCb at Northern Parkway www.mccbaltimore.org 410-433-6650 • www.graceunitedmethodist.org mccbaltimore.aol.com
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Our Weekend Mass Schedule: Sunday Meetings - 10:30 a.m. SATURDAY 5:30 p.m ~ Church SUNDAY COMMITMENT CEREMONIES 9:00 a.m.,10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m ~ Church Contact Ann McDonald, Pastoral Associate & WEDDINGS 410-969-2785 Home Delivery: It’s FREE 306 W. Franklin St. Ste.102 4UFWFOTPO3PBEt4FWFSO .% Sign up today at BaltimoreOUTloud.com 410-581-2322 XXXTUCFSOBEFUUFPSH www.BaltimoreEthicalSociety.org baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 15 On the Screen My Favorite Movies By Chuck Duncan It’s time for my annual best and worst list, of Superbad that probably could have done and looking over the movies I actually saw better with more of the kids and less of the this year I’m finding it difficult to actually title character, and Stop-Loss, a gripping compose a list of movies that I really liked. drama about soldiers returning from Iraq There are many “good” movies I still haven’t and then being forced to go back, featured seen – like the Golden Globe winning Ryan Philippe’s best work to date. Slumdog Millionaire - so my list is a bit more So what did the back half of 2008 bring skewed than a normal best and worst list us? Well, let’s start with the good... you might see in a mainstream publication. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Looking over my list, I’ve also noticed that was hands down the best movie I saw in there are many films, particularly from the 2008. Epic in length – some people say first half of 2008, that I have almost no it’s too long – with an engrossing story, memory of seeing! Talk about a good movie great actors, sumptuous visuals and a year. Until Iron Man arrived in May, that first final moment that continues to haunt me Coogan, Catherine Keener, David Arquette, had some great music but suffered from a half of the year was pretty dreadful. to this day. In my opinion, David Fincher’s Amy Poehler and the cast of teens carry lack of focus in the story). There was the ridiculous horror movie masterpiece (and he’s had a few other the film admirably as they make us laugh The bad: Speed Racer (bright colors One Missed Call in which the filmmakers greats like Fight Club and Zodiac). at and feel sorry for the teacher while also and a lot of action may keep the kids made no attempt at having the story make Milk - the second best movie of the year. teaching us a lesson on tolerance without enthralled, but it lacks everything from sense or be scary; comedies like Over Her Sean Penn gives an amazing performance even realizing it! character depth to a coherent story to keep Dead Body and Baby Mama which took TV as Harvey Milk and James Franco is also Doubt was a successful translation from adults entertained); The Strangers (pointless stars we know and love (Eva Longhoria, wonderful as his lover. You believe these stage to screen with amazing performances “horror” film that makes no sense story-wise Tina Fey and Amy Poehler) and proved they two men do love each other because of from Meryl Streep, Amy Adams and Philip and never lets us get to know the characters should stay on TV unless they get better the chemistry between Penn and Franco. Seymore Hoffman that left you actually enough to care if they’re tortured and killed); material; the Harold and Kumar sequel The period settings are perfect and the last thinking how quick we are to make judgment The Happening (a decent premise about which was probably the least funny comedy images will leave your heart in your throat. without knowing all the facts and being nature revolting against man is completely I’ve ever seen, save for Neil Patrick Harris’ The Dark Knight and Iron Man - fan stubborn enough to hold onto those ideas undone by some of the worst performances return as Neil Patrick Harris; the ‘historical’ boys are still debating which is the better no matter what evidence is presented to by a group of A-list actors ever committed epic 10,000 B.C. which had a few visually superhero movie but they are both quite us. to film); Journey to the Center of the Earth stunning moments but suffered from a script different in style and tone so it’s almost Valkyrie was also a surprise because 3D (commits the unpardonable sin of being that borrowed too heavily from other films like comparing apples and oranges. The of its troubled production history, but boring and not taking advantage of the and a really badly rendered CGI sabre- Dark Knight is, naturally, dark and brooding director Bryan Singer and star Tom Cruise 3D effects – throw stuff at the audience to tooth tiger that looked like a cartoon; and with a great story that gets under the skin managed to give us a gripping thriller that, keep them entertained!); Hell Ride (straight the crime drama Street Kings that had so of the characters to see what makes them even though you know the outcome of the man’s biker fantasy that treats women only many double-crosses and plot twists that tick. It also featured Heath Ledger’s (now plot to kill Hitler, manages to keep you on as objects with terrible performances by by the time it was all over you really had award winning) last full film appearance (his the edge of your seat. Surrounding Cruise non A-list actors); The Day the Earth Stood no idea what was going on; and the family last film was completed with other actors with A-list British actors like Tom Wilkinson, Still (Keanu Reeves is good as a stiff alien, fable Penelope that had a good story and playing the same role and has yet to be Bill Nighy and Terrence Stamp didn’t hurt! but reworking the classic story to address performances but failed to make an impact released) as the Joker, one of the screen’s These were the “best” films of 2008 with modern concerns only managed to dumb with its bizarre fantasy world. There were a greatest villains that we will sadly never get some other good films like The Chronicles it all down and ultimately make no sense few good films in the first half of 2008 too. to see again (at least not in this current run of Narnia: Prince Caspian (better than the whatsoever when the title event was moved Of course, one of the most eagerly of Batman films). Iron Man was more bright first film); You Don’t Mess with the Zohan to the end of the movie). anticipated films of the year was the monster and colorful, and while still getting to know (typical Adam Sandler comedy); Get There were a lot more movies released in movie Cloverfield which combined the “you who Tony Stark is, manages to be funny Smart (a remake of a classic TV series 2008 but most of them were forgettable. are there” style of filmmaking with state of and action-packed as well. that didn’t totally blow); Wanted (a terrific Will 2009 be a memorable film year? Some the art effects (and managed to make many Sex and the City - if you were a fan comic book action film with Angelina Jolie); titles that give hope for a better year include moviegoers across the country lose their of the series, then you loved the movie. It Hancock (Will Smith’s superhero film that Defiance with Clive Owen, horror remakes popcorn during and after the film due to the was great to see the girls back together on had problems but was still entertaining); My Bloody Valentine 3D and Friday the shaky, hand-held camera work). Welcome the big screen, and they managed to really Mamma Mia! (pleasant film adaptation of the 13th, Taken, Coraline, Duplicity (Clive Owen Home, Roscoe Jenkins was a raucously wrap up each character’s story into what Broadway hit with some truly awful vocals and Julia Roberts); Monsters vs Aliens 3D, funny family comedy – if seen with a large was a better series finale than the actual from Pierce Brosnan); The X-Files: I Want The Wolfman (Benicio Del Toro); X-Men audience – co-starring Baltimore’s own series finale. My hope is they don’t ruin it all To Believe (a terrific continuation of the X- Origins: Wolverine; Star Trek; Wild Child; Mo’Nique. by making a sequel! Files TV series that was unjustly maligned); Angels and Demons (sequel to The DaVinci Leatherheads was an unjustly Tropic Thunder was probably the Death Race (mindless action with the sexy Code), Bruno (Sasha Baron Cohen’s follow- overlooked comedy about the origins of pro funniest movie of the year with standout Jason Statham, given a bit of class by co- up to Borat); The Brothers Bloom; Drag Me football starring George Clooney and Renee performances from Robert Downey, Jr. star Joan Allen); Eagle Eye (totally ludicrous to Hell; and Pixar’s Up. May these and the Zellwegger. The film had all the period detail and Jack Black and assured direction from thriller but staged very well); Religulous (Bill other 2009 releases give us a reason to go down to perfection and the style of a 30s star Ben Stiller. Tom Cruise’s “surprise” Maher does Michael Moore in his take on back to the movies! screwball comedy, but for some reason no appearance as a slimy, fat, balding world religions); Body of Lies (Leo DiCaprio For more reviews and movie release one went to see it. Semi-Pro, the Will Ferrell- Hollywood studio head was the icing on the and Ridley Scott team up to tackle current information, be sure to check out Chuck’s starring basketball comedy, had its share of cake. events in the Middle East); W. (a surprisingly MySpace page at www.myspace.com/ funny moments but I think we’re finally tired Hamlet 2 was a consistently funny and sympathetic portrayal of George W. Bush nowshowingtv. of Farrell’s overgrown buffoon characters. touching film about a failed actor trying to from Oliver Stone, with a great performance Owen Wilson’s “Drillbit Taylor” was actually achieve some measure of success through from Josh Brolin); and Cadillac Records (a a pleasant surprise, almost a junior version his high school drama club students. Steve look at the history of Chess Records that 16 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com and with amazing skill, the adults and teens building the base, with the strongest among them carefully and tightly wrapped with broad red bands of cloth to keep them stationery. Up this base, climb young men and adolescents - all barefoot - with feet on hips, shoulders, heads and hands, and grasping with their own hands the buttocks, flanks, the shoulders and the ears or hair of those already forming the tower. Younger ALGEMESI and younger, smaller and smaller boys (and in the red-and-green version, girls) scamper A RARE, UNTOUCHED up toward the top, where a tiny boy or girl perches precariously - in some versions SPANISH GEM literally a baby, in others a child of eight or so. By Frank LaTerreur As they do so, the entire tower Special to Outloud telescopes upward with each layer stretching upright, standing on the shoulders of the one below it, until finally the great Man Mountain is constructed, with the Christ figure boy or girl on top, hands outstretched, sometimes blowing kisses, and all standing upright. It takes away one´s breath - and also that of the participants. The crowd often gasps at a particularly high tower with a particularly tiny child, but there is always strong applause. The entire procedure is clearly rather dangerous, especially for the child at the top. Most children love it, some are clearly afraid, and a few of the babies register clear rage by screaming their heads off. In the U.S. this would certainly be called child abuse, but of course the U.S. has so culturally impoverished its young that children could not be coaxed into such behavior in any case. As the tower comes down, the bodies slide and slither down one another´s forms, sometimes falling a few feet, until the small lad or girl who had been atop the structure, runs proudly and gulping into the arms of a comrade, or (in the case of the tiny tots) jumps up to be hugged by mama or papa. Photo: Tom Reeves One is struck always by the intense emotion and obvious delight of the human The Communitat Valencia, along the town´s fantastic fiestas, it´s possible to go little station in this town, one assumes it tower performers, and also those in other southeast Mediterranean coast of Spain, has down for just a day. But Alegemesi is really is a mistake - there cannot be a renowned dances in this very genuine celebration literally several hundred towns and villages worth an overnight if possible. There are no festival today in this town! The train is empty, of local tradition and pride. For the most that are each unique and beautiful, with a luxury hotels or international chains here, almost no-one gets off at Algemesi, and part they do not play to the crowd, but to thousand years or more of history, and a but there are four or five of the old fashioned even the streets leading from the station to and for themselves and their comrades. mix of cultures and languages. One that we pensions - cheap lodging with the feel of the the Plaza Mayor are almost empty until one (The socialists literally call one another like especially is Algemesi. Each time we´ve 1960s in the USA. Any of those listed by the gets nearly to the cathedral. Yet once there, comrade, while the traditionalists shout out come, we´ve met local people who were Valencian national tourist office are clean the fiesta is riveting and all encompassing. “amic” or friend.) As the empty train station warm and friendly, which is not exactly the but not fancy - and they go for about $40 The plaza is packed, the reviewing stands testified, they certainly do not do this as a norm in Spain - a country cut off from the rest to $50 a night. opposite the church are full, and the tourist spectacle - almost the opposite of La of Europe by the Pyrenees. Though Spain The best times to go to Algemesi two balconies of the bright yellow “casa Tomatina, the tomato war we witnessed one is now governed by Socialists, who have are at holidays and fiestas. Among these consistorial” which doubles as town hall, are week before in Buñol (another Valencian legalized gay marriage, and has a thriving are Semana Santa (Holy Week before lined with the dignitaries - clerics including village), which draws 40,000 screaming, gay and lesbian community - especially in Easter), the bull run in late September, and at least one Bishop, military heroes, and writhing, shirtless Europeans of every Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid, and at of course the huge annual fiesta that is its officials from the town, the communitat and nationality. Algemesi is a home grown the gay beach of Sitges (my next article!) claim to fame - the Muixeranga (Human from the Spanish central government. fiesta, for its own sake - art for art, tradition - its social life is conservative, still heavily Towers) of Sept. 8-9. Arriving about ll a.m., we found for tradition, fiesta for fiesta. Catholic, and usually closed to outsiders. This dramatic ceremony leaves one everything going on at once. The At the beginning of each parade, the Algemesi is another world from the big breathless, with the moving, living, climbing, muixeranga were already being painstakingly muixeranga light long candles and parade cities, and although staunchly Catholic, it´s falling, jumping, parading, pulsating human constructed and de-constructed - two sets up and down, alternately rising and falling traditions are those of a friendly village. towers - the ¨muixeranga¨ - gesticulating of them, one socialist including women and to the ground in a gentle dance, and dipping Though only 45 minutes away from Valencia before the church, saluting the rather girls, in green and red checkered pajamas, the lit torches to the pavement before the by train (for a fare of about $4 roundtrip,) grim “festers” officials at the town hall, and (this one started only in the 1980s) and the town hall and the church. Local people told it might as well be on another planet. It is then marching up and down the narrow other, more traditional one in blue and red, me this represented the planting of the crops small enough, that one can walk around streets, often piled high as a four story until last year all men and boys, but now - and the muixeranga towers symbolized the entire town in a few minutes. There are building. There are parades each morning including a very few girls. They are sort the building of a farming community from trains about every thirty minutes from early and evening for two days. of competing, as they build different types the ground up. morning until around ll p.m. For many of the Yet when one gets off the train at the of structures - incredibly choreographed, Something that immediately strikes the baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 17 outsider is the cacophy of sounds, and the an artichoke, which the girls open and close both feet off the ground at once. There are figures, whose realistic eyes seem to be swirl of competing colors, all at once. One at climactic moments. The lines they hold a dozen variants of the dance - some in staring straight at every participant. These sometimes hears three or four different sets are also supposed to represent the cloth of twos, some solos, and some in the whole figures are paraded through the square, and of music, singing and instrumental, as that weavers. group. One impressive ritual is at the very then guard the cathedral doors throughout many different styles of traditional dance Another variant dance performance, end of the final parade, when these Torneos the performances. are performed simultaneously in a very all male, is a fiercely staged mock battle, seem to insult, to challenge and then to I have almost forgotten the morality small space. Yet, somehow, this doesn´t in which men wearing salute the statue of the plays going on in the side streets - from jar or jumble the sound - all the different feathered headdresses Virgin Mary as it is brought Adam and Eve and the snake in the garden, styles somehow fit together -from stringed that look remotely like out of the cathedral. to Abraham ordered to sacrifice Isaac - and instruments and a symphonic orchestra those of American One by one, each man the groups of Bible figures that parade along (which comes out of the church where it has Indians, circle each other dances lasciviously and with all the others - I think I recognized performed a concert), a boy-choir and an menacingly with long provocatively before the Pontius Pilate, and certainly the wise men adult choir singing traditional chants and bats. Then they engage Virgin - one is reminded and the shepherd´s at Jesus´ birth, as well church music, several brass bands with each other - hitting bat of a passage in the Old as Moses, but no-one seemed to know what loud trombones and tubas, and the many to bat, and also using flat Testament where men is represented by the fierce, veiled men in sets of serious and precise drummers, metal objects they have kicked up their heels white masks, covered in white chalk, who accompanied by dulcimers and other reed held behind their backs before the altar. They frighten the children by scowling silently at instruments which keep the medieval tone like castanets - slamming seem to attack the them along the parade route. Then there of the festival always present. the metal objects at image of the virgin with are a dozen boys in loose black gowns who The drummers are especially worth one another. Some their sticks and swords - wave branches of olive trees or carry a watching - they are all deeply focussed are grimacing and finally hurling their sticks great branch with a huge cluster of luscious on their drums, varying the cadence and look furious, while a amazingly high into the green grapes. rhythm with the type of dance. They range few of the younger air, and catching them, Finally, the image of the Virgin, covered in age and shape from sweet drummer boys men and teens laugh Photo: Tom Reeves then kneeling and pointing with garlands of flowers and draped with and girls of barely 10, through tall, proud and loudly throughout the their sticks humbly at the necklaces, studded with sparkling ring - trim adolescent drummers, to the late middle performance. At its most ground. At the moment of donated by the women of Algemesi - and age drum majors, often rotund and portly. furious, this battle looks the last such dancer, loud also the Holy Child, with a slightly cross- Several different drummer groups wear dangerous - when a bat bombs of fireworks go off eyed look on its pale yellow face - all this different outfits - one stunning ensemble misses a bat and hits from the church tower. All is borne on a huge table, carried on the look like Greek dancers, with red stockings a leg, or a flat spade of this, by the way, is backs of twenty strong men - and one quite and white, billowing yet masculine dresses smashes into a hand or accompanied by young hefty woman. Evidently, the organizers which swirl and show the legs of the fetching face. I was told this dance boy acolytes who hold feel moved to include at least one woman boys who wear them. Another group, about represents the builders quivers of sticks at the in every spectacle. Slowly the Virgin and half in their teens and half who are about and carpenters of ready for the dancers. Child and the heavy slab high atop which eight, look like the drummer boys of the various neighborhoods, I was told by a they sit, move out of the Cathedral, winding American Revolution. competing for the best local woman, a music through the streets of the town - and back There are many forms of performance - land on which to build. teacher, that this ritual is again into the Cathedral, accompanied the spectator can barely keep up. A group Most unusual - and pre-Christian, dating to by massive fireworks. A line of men and of tiny boys and girls, wearing cowboy unique to Algemesi - are 300 or 400 BC, and that women wearing what appear to be white hats and white, soft costumes with leather the Torneos - a band of only when the clerics and red ermine robes is on each side of vests and bells, represents, I was told, a dozen men, wearing demanded it, was it this huge exhibit, and behind it are bishops Photo: Tom Reeves the shepherd tradition. They, too, perform wire masks and very high somehow ¨baptized¨ into and clergy in golden robes, and altar boys amazingly intricate dance steps, in unison, plumed white hats, as the Christian festival, - include one strikingly handsome, tall youth creating circles or long lines, parading back well as cotton tights and “It might as which is the official in a long white surplice, who has played and forth in front of both church and city billowing white dresses. reason for the whole a major role throughout the mass and the hall. A bevy of beautiful early teen girls, Each brandishes an well be another Algemesi fiesta - the parade, attending to various religious rites clad all in white, with hoopla-hoops of green incredibly thin, long festival of The Mother to make sure they are correctly performed. and red, which they twirl and pass over their whittled stick, which they planet.” of God of Health, which Yet, the Muixeranga is not the only time one heads and bodies, as they dance and prance point at one another or at itself (with all its dances can experience the magic and mystery of in a circle - clearly they are supposed to be the crowd or the church or the officials, and and forms, including the muixeranga) have Algemesi. On my most recent visit, I went virgins! Another pack of older young women which literally shimmer and wobble they are a documented history at least to 1700. down early on Christmas Eve, and came with bells on their arms and wrists, trail so thin. They also carry swords and wear Tradition says it goes back to the time of back Christmas Day. It seemed as though long, decorated lines of yarn attached to a shields. Their dance steps are amazingly Jaime I, who delivered a charter of rights we were there at least a week, so full of pole which they dance around - the pole is agile, almost feminine, as they literally kick (¨furs¨) to Valencia’s in 1238, and, who sights and events was our stay. capped by what I´m told represents a vulva - their heels, point their toes, and often raise with his queen, is portrayed by gigantic doll --continued on page 30
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2009: A Year of Introspection? By Marty Hoegg OUTloud Intern
It’s incredible to think about everything that has happened over the past year. I could sit here and list all the wonderful, tragic, endearing, new, exciting events that have come to pass, but I feel that to list all of them would be an injustice to their authenticity. I’ve learned so much about myself this past year. So much that it’s slightly JOIN THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN & SHOWTIME FOR THE BALTIMORE PREMIERE PARTY unnerving to find that perhaps I am just now discovering my true self. Better late then SUNDAY JANUARY 18 never I guess, but I think that this emergence The hippo of self-discovery is refreshing. And I cannot 1 West Eager St Baltimore MD 21201 wait to see what new ideas, emotions, and Must be 21 years old for entry | Doors: 6:30pm | Screening: 8:30pm events unfold in this upcoming year. Suggested donation $10 | RSVP: www.hrc.org/lword Resolutions? Someone asked me Featuring DJ Rosie and a special performance by ET what I want to do in the New Year, what SUNDAYS 9PM PT Gilded Lily Burlesque, compliments of The Hippo my goals are, and I honestly respond that I simply want to be a better person. Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the Order now: call 1-800-SHOWTIME or go to SHO.com. ©2008 Showtime Networks Inc. All rights reserved. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of world,” and 2009 is going to be a big year Showtime Networks Inc. “The L Word®”: ©2008 Showtime Networks Inc. All rights reserved. for change. That change has to start with you. Rather than vow a resolution of weight loss or social capability; why not go internal as in-depth as doing a full being makeover. this year? I recommend making time for you. This means creating and inspiring I find that if I can take at least 30 yourself to be the best person that you can minutes a day to just be alone and have be. As a college student I’m learning to take peace then I can indulge in the day’s events myself more seriously. Do you know that and enjoy being completely engaged in my only 2 per cent of the world’s population life. It helps to find a mental outlet. Dancing hold a college degree? That’s frightening. is my way of de-stressing. For you it may be thE bLuE parrot Education is important if you wish to create reading, going to the gym or painting. Figure Bar & tavern a better you and a better world. Do you need out what makes you content and then make a college degree to be educated? No. But it time to do it. SUNDAY NITE definitely helps. Though it’s not enough to No you’re not going to become a just show up to classes, take the tests and recluse, but you’ll find that you can fully $2.50 DOM BOTTLES. turn in your final. appreciate your social encounters when Enlighten yourself. One thing I’m MONDAY NITE KARAOKE you know exactly who you are and what doing to direct myself is reading all of the you like. It’s a great confidence booster. influential speeches given from the late With this newfound confidence, who knows TUESDAY NITE PUCKERS 2 BUX 1800’s to the new millennium. This includes where you’ll go or who you’ll meet. You’ll everything from Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s find it’s easier to become involved with “The Destructive Male,” to Elie Wiesel’s “The others and take action in your community WEDNESDAY NITE BOMBS AWAY 4.50 Perils of Indifference,” both of which I highly when you have resolved to be a healthier, recommend you should internalize and utilize FROM 9- 12 well-rounded person. to inspire difference. By understanding the All of this internal work is great but you THURSDAY NITE beautiful words of those who have already have to take it somewhere. Show it off! Get demanded change it becomes even more involved in campus or community activities. LADIES NITE 2 FOR 1 eloquent when those words are reinforced Go to the club and approach that guy whose FRIDAY NITE by a fresh perspective. been throwing flirtatious glances all night or The resolution cliché of losing weight is maybe you’ve found a hottie in your Chem. DOLLAR DRAFT 6 - 9 way outdated. Let’s discuss being a healthy class and you want to ask him out for coffee. SATURDAY NITE person. It’s not just crazy cranberry diets Go for it. and rigorous gym workouts. Being healthy This internal work means nothing if you ABSOLUTE HAPPY HOUR ALL NITE is a full body, mind and heart necessity. don’t apply it to the world you live in. Get out Unfortunately they all have to be in sync. 2 FOR 1 $4.50 there and be change. This is not easy. Marty Hoegg is a junior at Stevenson It starts with making choices that benefit University in Baltimore County your mental and physical health. This can 5860 Belair Road * 410.254.3785 * blueparrotbar.com be as simple as taking time for yourself or baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 25
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Visit your Community at FederalHillOnline.net, your free Community Interactive Website 26 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com year. EQ MD AGENDA When asked if Equality Maryland may try to secure civil unions in the short-term -- continued from cover given that there is broader consensus among the legislators for that and Governor prohibit discrimination in employment, O’Malley has signaled that he would sign housing, public accommodations and the measure into law, Runyon said the credit based on factors, such as sexual organization would rather wait for a marriage orientation. bill to succeed. Kate Runyon, the new Executive Noting that civil unions fail to offer the Director of Equality Maryland, noted during same protections as full marriage, Runyon a presentation at the January 13 general explained, “The political climate in Maryland meeting of PFLAG-Columbia/Howard is favorable for passage in a few years. With County that protections for transgendered patience and by lining up the right people people had won the support of Governor we will achieve full equal marriage.” Martin O’Malley when he was Mayor of Another bill that will be pushed by Baltimore. “So why not support it at the state Equality Maryland deals with removing the level as well,” Runyon asked. His leadership costly inheritance tax on same-sex partners. would be crucial in getting the measure out The measure would add same-sex partners of committee and onto the floor for a debate to those already exempted from paying and vote. inheritance taxes. Unless remedied, the tax To underscore the priority Equality liability upon the death of a partner could be Maryland is placing on the transgender bill, very costly. “This is an area that we need the organization is scheduling a separate more equality very quickly as well,” said transgender rights Lobby Day session to Runyon in front of 50 people attending the take place in Annapolis on February 16. PFLAG meeting. The regularly scheduled Lobby Day will be A new bill will be introduced that held on February 2 with Equality Maryland addresses the legal rights of co-parents. focusing on people of faith. To amplify that This “first-of-a kind” measure would allow theme, Bishop Gene Robinson, the openly a partner without a legal or biological gay bishop of the Episcopal diocese of New relationship to a child to petition a court for Hampshire, will be the primary speaker at custody and visitation rights for the child the rally. “He will be speaking about the they have parented if the partners broke importance of LGBT people of faith, being up. families of faith, and standing up for equality Displaying a Midwestern folksy style and justice,” said Runyon. aided by humorous anecdotes , Kate Besides Bishop Robinson, Kate Runyon explained the best techniques to be Runyon, who had worked on a wide range of used when lobbying legislators and how to lgbt issues in Michigan before she replaced win them over. She emphasized the need Dan Furmansky as the executive director of to be collegial and respectful as opposed Equality Maryland, will speak at the rally, to showing anger and being aggressive. which begins at 4:30 p.m. at Lawyers Mall. “We should be gentle but firm and with a Lisa Polyak and Gita Deane, the two lead presence.” plaintiffs in the unsuccessful lawsuit to end She also suggested that children of the ban on same-sex marriage in Maryland, partners be brought to the lobbying sessions will also address the crowd, as will several with the legislators because they can make elected officials. a powerful impression. “Why can’t my Equality Maryland is scaling back Mommy marry my Mommy?” expectations regarding passage of the More information about Lobby Day Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage and the legislative session is at www. Protection Act during the upcoming session. equalitymaryland.org. According to Runyon, the goal is to work with people to increase sponsorship this
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I was sure he is aware that as the owner of and fundraisers in the future as Mr. Maryland COMMAND’s home bar, as the person with Leather 2009 benefiting COMMAND’s a large number of ads in the Mr. Maryland Green Baker Fund.) Leather 2009 program, and as a person with I had to ask why someone who has a close personal relationship with several been so active in the leather community of the Maryland judges (one judge was the for so long would want to add another title. emcee for Rik’s big “12 Days of Christmas” Rik said that he felt a calling; a need to Benefit, another judge was the president of step back up. “There is nothing wrong with one of the organizations benefiting from “12 someone who has been around for awhile Days”, etc.) he had to be aware that there to step up to the plate. We need to teach our are those in the community who somehow traditions. If we fail to teach our traditions, feel that the contest was “fixed” or at the they will be lost.” very least unfair. Of course no interview with Mr. Newton- “There will always be rumors,” he Treadway would be complete without a Cher answered. “I was a big supporter of question. I had to ask: There are those in COMMAND long before Club Phoenix the leather community who do not believe became their home bar and knowing the that drag performances belong in leather judges may not have worked in my favor; contests. These folks become even more it only made them tougher on me.” In fact, upset when a leather titleholder, especially he added that he didn’t even know who the a current leather titleholder performs in judges were going to be when he put in his drag. How do you respond to these folks? Rik Newton-Treadway: New Mr. Maryland Leather 2009 application. He had called one of his long “The entertainment in any show is up time leather titleholder friends prior to the to the producer. Some contests have no By Rodney Burger was deeply touched by the large number of contest to get some advice and was told, to entertainment between categories and leather folk who offered to help him. Here his surprise, that he would not help because can be boring. People thought that I would On a cold January he was a judge! not perform as Cher at “12 Days”, but it is evening I stopped by again was this strong brotherhood that he had discovered so many years ago. Not only “There is always going to be someone part of the tradition. When I was Maryland the still beautifully who says a contest is fixed.” Rik added, “My Drummer 1999 I took some grief from the decorated for Christmas would Rik become Maryland Mr. Drummer 1999, but he would go on to produce not resume speaks for itself.” He laughed as he Drummer organization for performing Cher home of Rik Newton- recalled that he had presented each judge at a COMMAND event, but I explained to Treadway. As we sat in just several Maryland contests, but also the International LeatherSIR/Leatherboy with 35 letters of reference! “I thought of it the Drummer folks that I had already made the glow of a revolving as a job interview,” he explained. that commitment prior to the contest. One Christmas tree, I asked Contest (as the Drummer Contest became to be known) in Dallas in 2007. When “12 Days of Christmas” rolled must be about his word. The “12 Days” event a few questions of our new Mr. Maryland around it was billed as: a “Mr. Maryland started ten years ago when I was Maryland Leather. As a producer, I wanted to know what Rik thought the biggest problem was in Leather 2009 Fundraising Event.” I Mr. Drummer 1999, now I am Mr. Maryland I wanted to start at the very beginning. questioned Rik about sticking this label Leather 2009. I will continue to promote Rik smiled as he recalled his first introduction regards to finding contestants. “People are afraid,” he said. “The public and the media on an event that had already been highly mentorship and community involvement. to the leather community at age 15 after a successful for years and was well in the As I listened, I began to realize that youth meeting at the GLCCB. He and a few put so much pressure on titleholders. They want to criticize and make comments about works long before the Mr. Maryland Leather much like the beautiful revolving Christmas friends wandered into Baltimore’s premier 2009 Contest. Rik explained that since that tree in Rik Newton-Treadway’s living room, leather bar, The Gallery and the magic everything you do.” This has not stopped Rik. On May 1-3 Rik will produce the Mid- now was his title, why not add the additional the life of our new Mr. Maryland Leather began. “I knew that I was kinky and there PR (He does plan to do additional bar nights 2009 has now come full circle. were all these hot men in leather, I just Atlantic LeatherSIR/Leatherboy 2009, Mid- thought wow!” Atlantic Community Bootblack 2009, and the Although some of his friends turned first ever Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2009 around and left in fear, Rik knew that he had Contest at the Hippo in Baltimore. (There found a home. “It was like a big family and will be no Maryland LeatherSIR/Leatherboy Walter and Jack (the owners of the Gallery) Contest this year.) looked out for me. The ShipMates were “It is all about tradition,” Rik says. He there and other leather clubs from the area.” is very excited to have the Mid-Atlantic Although Rik did not join any clubs at that LeatherSIR/Leatherboy Contest return time (until he became an associate member to Baltimore and plans to present a first- of the ShipMates in 1999), he supported class event that will bring back those the bar nights and events as much as he strong traditions of Drummer. I asked if could. there were potential conflicts of interest in I asked about his first leather title: having the current Mr. Maryland Leather Maryland Mr. Drummer 1999. Rik recalled produce a competing contest. “I don’t think the he was working as a bar back at the so because it is a different circuit”, he said. Baltimore Eagle at that time and Kei Fenton “The producers of the Mr. Maryland Leather (Mr. Baltimore Drummer 1998) asked him to Contest haven’t said anything and they run for the first Maryland Mr. Drummer title. were aware of the Mid-Atlantic Contest prior Although he had attended many contest to my running. I also had to ask about the and provided support to leather titleholders current Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR, Andy Liu. (Tony Hash, Mr. Maryland Leather 1993 “Yes, he is my boyfriend,” Rik added, “but was a mentor,) Rik said that he never really producing this year’s Mid-Atlantic Contest thought about running for a leather title. was a labor of love before our relationship He recalled how word spread throughout developed.” the bar that he was planning to run and he I then asked the big question. It was the elephant in the room. I inform Rik that 28 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com S O H P P A S
LEON’S
GRAND CENTRAL baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 29 E E L R G O PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKIP A M E I T
L 1722 A B
THE GALLERY 30 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com and Kaposi sarcoma. This illustrates that embarrassing. One is a photography shop run by a DR. EVA protection against cancer is one of the The true star of the show is the flying photographer who was born and raised normal functions of a healthy immune in Algemesi. His aesthetic is naively and -- continued from page 6 car of course and the effect is not just system. exciting but exhilarating for the audience. innocently homoerotic, full of boys and adolescents, but he also does family I could spend several paragraphs on to patients with CD4’s over 350. With the Coming Next Time: New HIV Medications photos, architecture and nature. He has lower toxicity of current HIV medications, ‘how-they-did-it’ like the Sun critic has but documented the Muixeranga itself better current thinking is that the benefits of Dr. Eva Hersh is Chief Medical Officer at most theatre patrons, including myself; than any other. Yet he´s not known outside early treatment in preserving the immune Chase Brexton Health Services. Send your wish to believe in theatrical stage magic this town, has no book, and has not system are greater than the risks of HIV comments and questions to her by email especially when there are no wires exhibited his work outside his shop. His medicines. at publisher@ baltimoreoutloud.com, or holding the rest of the show together. inviting windows show all of his varied Treat All HIV/Hepatitis B/C Co- by surface mail to Eva Hersh MD, Chase art, but feature a drummer boy from the infected Patients Early Brexton Health Services, 1001 Cathedral Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – at the fiesta, as well as several babies and shots The International AIDS Society-USA St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 North Eutaw St. of boys playing affectionately together. Of recommends that people infected with both Currently playing until Sunday, January 18. the drummer boy, which I praised, he said, HIV and Hepatitis B or C should be started “He´s been my model for years, and I know on HIV medications soon after diagnosis, ON THE STAGE him well.” The photographer is in his late regardless of CD4 count. HIV positive 20s or early 30s, with dark black curls and -- continued from page 12 ALGEMISI people with chronic hepatitis develop AIDS -- continued from page 17 a beard. The shop is called Visaes, and the sooner. Without treatment, co-infected artist is V. Santos. My partner and I felt we people are also more likely to transmit HIV Sweets’ and ‘Hushabye Mountain.’ You had gone back to an earlier, more innocent to others. will get sick of the title tune reprised We almost cancelled this trip, not really time, when a man like this and his art could Early Treatment for HIV Patients over 55 in voice and endlessly repeated in knowing what to expect. For one thing it´s be so easily integrated into small town life. colder in the hills of Algemesi than in the The International AIDS Society-USA background arrangements. There is a second, mirror image shop, recommends earlier HIV treatment for city of Valencia along the beach. I was run by a young woman, with the windows Steve Wilson as Potts is bland but those who are over 55, or who have kidney worried that the place we´d stay would featuring young girls and women, just two disease, heart disease, or increased risk it seems to work for him and much of not be warm enough. (It almost wasn´t, streets away. There are fascinating herb for heart disease. They also recommend the cast. Vocally most are standouts but we finally managed to crank up the old shops, shops with paintings and sculpture, early treatment in people with HIV viral including Truly Scrumptious (Kelly fashioned heater in our room.) Christmas and book shops of all kinds, from historic counts over 100,000 and those whose CD4 McCormick) and the touring child actors. is an intensely intimate and family affair to children´s. And every one of the narrow, counts are falling by more than 100 a year. The standout performance, if brief, is in Spain generally, so we knew that many ancient streets is lined with other shops As HIV Patients Live Longer, Other given by Oliver Wadsworth as the child restaurants, cafés and other places would of curiosities of every kind, crafts and gift Effects Are Seen catcher and nice comic relief is offered be closed, or at least closed to outsiders. We items made by local artisans. It is a wonder were rewarded by the fact that several of our In HIV positive patients over age by Dirk Lombard and Scott Cote as the that this town, which even at the Fiesta 50, cancer is the commonest cause of favorite little unique shops were open on lacks many tourists, can sustain them all. Baron’s bumbling henchmen. As for death. Cancers of the lung, liver and colon Christmas Eve. Not sure about whether or At this season, we saw not one person we are now seen more often than the HIV the Baron and Baroness villains they where we could eat, we also had excellent thought was from out of town - all, whom we associated cancers such as lymphoma are too silly for words; to the point of help in finding just the places to go. saw in streets and shops, and later at the baltimoreoutloud.com | January 16, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 31 cathedral, were clearly local folk. and showers were down the hall, shared unusual service. He pointed out that the Perhaps our favorite shop is the by all the rooms. Again, a throwback to an language of chants and rituals went back antiquarian Brocant. There one can peruse earlier time, young men in their 20s and 30s and forth from Latin to Valencian, but never numerous ancient vases, from Italy but cruised the halls and shower areas, smiling Spanish. He also explained that there were also from Roman Spain. There are 17th and beckoning like they used to do at the layers of meaning and time in the service. and 18th century chests and loveseats, plus YMCA in the U.S. of yesteryear. The opening hymn was a profane paintings of many eras, as well as coins and After a rest, and after watching song, in a kind of mock praise of a pagan rare books. The feature that draws us back the Spanish King (Juan Carlos) give a goddess Sibyll. (I thought of Carmina again and again are the nude boy figurines spirited Christmas message (on every TV Burana, the profane mass sung by naughty made of various materials, from wooden to channel) to defend the Spanish Republic he priests in Germany during the middle Ages.) stone. One set is a whole band of naked had helped form thirty years ago, we went Branches beat the ground during this hymn, youth, each with a different instrument. back down to the Plaça Mayor, lined by to drive away the earlier gods. The haunting, I´ve bought two figures thus far - both white the Cathedral and the Consistory, the town oriental melody was sung by an extraordinary ceramic winged angels playfully cavorting, hall, and other buildings with balconies soprano from the high altar. At the end of delicate and perfectly formed. The one I overlooking it. This is where we watched the service was an equally ancient Roman bought this time is precariously perched, the Muixeranga spectacles. hymn, a form of Benedictus that was sung standing on his head. Like everything here, The man at Brocant told us the whole as altar boys and priests recessed with they are not expensive. town would come out to the grand midnight the reserved sacrament to a side chapel Overseeing all this is a handsome, mass, with special songs and an orchestra altar. The Valencian hymns were beautiful. friendly man in his forties, who is active and choir. He is a sort of major domo of this Even traditional Christian hymns which I in town affairs and enjoys telling stories ceremony, having once sung himself in the knew had a different flavor when sung in of local history and tradition, and a very choir. Now his seventeen year old son is the the local language - “Santa nit, placid nit, lovely young woman, who attended the organist. els pastors han sentit” (Silent Night). The Erasmus academy in Paris. She pointed We arrived about ll:15 a.m. and were sermon, also in Valencian, stressed the out that French comes easy to those who surprised that the Plaça was empty! No- unity of all humanity, and tolerance and speak Valencian – and everyone here one was in sight. The huge, ornate church justice for all peoples of the earth. Not a bad speaks Valencian! One almost hears no doors were open, but inside were only a message! Spanish – even the supermarket signs are scattering of older people. True, there was At the end, several worshippers in Valencian, and everyone shouted, ¨Bon an elaborate Christmas scene of villages came over to shake our hands – most un- Nadal,¨ rather than Feliz Navidad. and revellers in miniature at one end of the Valencian! – And several asked if we were Since we were hungry, and had been plaza, and the church itself was festooned French – one lady said, “You sing the told that most restaurants were closed, she with a gigantic red banner. Inside, the altars Valencian words well, which are like ancient offered to walk with us a few streets away were covered with flowers and candles. All French. Our friend Teresa also came over to the ¨best, least expensive¨ wine and beer was in readiness, but no-one was there to kiss us each on both cheeks and to tell us café with bocadillos that would be open. It yet! As we walked along the narrow streets how welcome we were. “Please come back! was packed and festive, filled with the nice leading to the Plaça, we heard loud parties It is rare for us to have appreciative foreign smell of cooking. The bar was lined with going on behind shuttered doors, and visitors.” men and their sons or grandsons – ranging children laughing. Everyone was inside. As we walked back to the Ostal, the from age 10 on up. As always here, the men Again, we wondered if we´d find what we city was teeming with life. Every corner had played with the ears and hair of the boys, came for. a bar or club, with people spilling out onto and the boys giggled appreciatively. The At about a quarter till midnight, four the streets with their drinks. We counted boys were obviously quite proud to be young men climbed up to the bell tower and at least five swinging discos, noting the included at the bar. hand-pulled the gigantic bells to summon the smoke and light shows inside. Some bars At our friend´s request, the bartender people. And they came – flocking from every were for elderly men, others for middle aged opened an extra table for us, and we had street into the square, families with children, couples, many for young people in their 20s plentiful bocadillos – mine was a local young couples, and lots of the elderly, many and 30s, and several for teens. At 3 a.m. on ham with figs and cheese, and my partner with canes, and even in wheelchairs. Within Christmas Day Algemesi rocked! (a vegetarian) had eggs and cheese. We a few minutes, the great Cathedral (parts On Christmas morning, we had been finished with excellent local flan and café of which date from the 8th century, much is told by our friends that the only place open con leche, as well as good local red wine. from the 13th, and the final edifice from the for Almuerza (the brunch they serve at Our friend, Teresa, chatted about her 15th) was jam packed. The many altars and around noon) was a cavernous social club, decision to come back and live here, rather statues of the saints were brightly lit, and with murals on the walls and deep mahogany than pursue her career in a city. “Algemesi is the altar boys scurried about lighting more tables, where we´d had lunch with young a very special place, for special people,” she candles and making things ready. friends we met during the Muixeranga. For said. “Eccentrics, actually!” We also saw Six or eight priests in brilliantly colored nine Euros, we both had delicious eggs and evidence of sexual alternatives – lesbian robes (one was extremely old with a shock garlic potatoes, plus “cacos” nuts and café graffiti on the ancient walls of houses, and of snow white hair), were accompanied by con leche, plus juice. Again, the place was a poster asking help in finding a pictured a dozen altar boys, including a handsome packed, and the people overwhelmingly feminine person, who had gone missing. dark youth of about fifteen, who bore the friendly – smiling and shouting “Bon Nadal” She was obviously a drag queen. When censor, and exulted in his labor - constantly all round. I told Teresa about our work for a gay swinging the incense vessel back and forth, Even when not in its several fiestas, magazine, she made a point of saying she and bowing to the priests and congregation. the tiny Valencian town of Algemesi is found ¨homosexual culture¨ intriguing. We felt like insiders, since we recognized fantastic! We will come back again and The long, winding park is always full of this boy from earlier festivals. again. youth – whose eyes and smiles are quite We sat at the back, just opposite the inviting. Each time, we´ve chatted with orchestra. This consisted of a boy of about teenagers who came up to us and spoke 12, a girl of 10, three teenage boys with first. Among these are many Moroccans stringed instruments, and a dozen or so and other Arabs, but also Valencian youth. adult women and men with clarinets, flutes Along the park and elsewhere are youth and violins. The young organist had to stand clubs and arcades that are full of these behind the very ancient, small wooden kids, whole packs of them lounging about organ, with another young man beside him Home Delivery: It’s FREE on street corners. Our hotel – Ostal, as to pump in the air for the chords. Sign up today at BaltimoreOUTloud.com it´s called – was very sparse, with a kind Our friend, the tall erudite antique shop of back yard with cabins in it. The toilets owner, came over to us and explained the 32 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 16, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com