You'll Love Lucy

March 15, 2019 | Volume XVI, Issue 21

the last time you reached out to someone Celebrating LGBT Health Awareness Week you haven’t seen in a while? Or picked up the phone for a chat versus a text? I may By Sam McClure We each approach it differently, too. gym. So, I have arranged several of my be able to make someone think I’m doing LGBT Health Resource Center For example, after my physical last year, regular appointments and errands to be okay via text, but it’s not as easy to edit the of Chase Brexton Health Care I sent a text to my future wife saying my within walking distance of my apartment. sound of my voice on a phone call. There Our center is among those preparing to blood work came back normal. She asked This incentivizes me to move and walk is a small group of people for whom I will celebrate LGBT Health Awareness Week me several additional questions and I re- more often, and my exercise is more always pick up the phone. You from March 27th to 31st. In addition to alized that when she gets blood are in that small circle for some- thinking broadly about health equity for our work, she reads through one, and they might need to hear community, we should also be each individual lab from you. thinking about our own individu- March 27th report and under- While we’re working to care al health and well-being. stands each num- for ourselves and our loved Health and well-being are to 31st ber. She will teach ones, we must be cognizant of different to every person. For me, a big me this, I’m sure. For me, barriers to care and disparities. realization lately has been that “self-care” I was just so proud that I organic and incorporates into my I wrote about this in my last column and it is less an indulgence as it is a discipline. went to the doctor and prioritized getting life easily. bears repeating. A recent poll conducted It requires routines, checklists, time, and the tests done, that when someone told During LGBT Health Awareness Week, by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foun- attention. It also changes depending on me the results were normal, I didn’t give it we should also be thinking about how we dation, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School one’s circumstances and will change over another thought. look out for each other. I’m learning so of Public Health determined that one in and over as we move through different I know exercise is important for my much lately about the health crises that five LGBTQ adults has avoided seeking stages of our lives. health and I don’t particularly enjoy the can arise out of social isolation. When is —continued on page 4

by Gregg Shapiro rightfully so. You’d never guess listening The breathtaking Historian (Matador) by to Historian that it is only Dacus’s second out singer / songwriter Lucy Dacus was album. In her early 20s, Dacus is one of present near the top of several “best al- those wise beyond her years bums of 2018” lists, and artists whose songs are sure The You’ll Love to strike a chord with listeners Baltimore from all walks of life. Her tal- No shrinking ents weren’t limited to her own Uprising violet – album, as she collaborated with y Lucy queer singer / songwriter Ju- in 2015 Luc Dacus lien Baker and Phoebe Bridg- inspired one Kaine in which he declared you You are not alone in that sentiment. ers, forming the trio Boygenius a “new favorite” of his? Not that Kaine’s endorsement should and releasing an acclaimed of rising Lucy Dacus: [Laughs] it wasn’t have an effect, but would you say that six-song eponymous EP in that surprising to me because he you were in any way political before or late 2018. I had the pleasure alt-rock star is a childhood figure in my life. He since that praise? of speaking with Lucy about Lucy Dacus’s just Tweeted at me an hour ago Yes. I feel like it’s impossible to not her music and being a queer because he came up in anoth- be political, whether you know you are Southerner. hit songs er interview and I was telling the or aren’t. I went to a government and in- Gregg Shapiro: You’ve story about how he used to make ternational studies focused high school. probably been asked about this us quiche after sleepovers because I was Everyone was very politically-minded, or question countless times before, but friends with his daughter. He affirmed that intentionally opting out, but always within would you mind saying something he is still a good quiche maker, at least a the context of awareness. I don’t think I about how you felt when you first quiche buyer. The public perception of who should be celebrated for my activism, just heard about the September 2016 he is is pretty accurate in my experience, because I think it’s par for the course as interview with VP-candidate Tim as well. I wish he was our vice president. —continued on page 18 Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

Executive Editor Jim Becker [email protected] [email protected]

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Contributing Writers for Baltimore OUTloud Andre Shakti • Bill Redmond-Palmer Brynn Devereau • Charles Dudley, MPT Chuck Duncan • David Egan David Placher • Dr. Eva Hersh MD Elyse Buchbinder • Frankie Kujawa Gregg Shapiro • Jabari Lyles Janan Broadbent, Ph. D. • Jeffrey Clagett Josh Buchbinder • Lauren Lynch • Lee Carpenter Linda A. Dominguez, Esq. • Mark S. King Mark Segal • Michael Ritmiller Rabbi Jan Dodi • Richard Finger • Rodney Burger Sage Piper • Steve Charing • Woody Derrick

Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY Asher Kennedy • Brian George Hose Rev. Kelly Crenshaw • Rev. Robert Apgar-Taylor Zed Sykes

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2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local

City Schools a heterosexual cisgender paradigm. Implementation of these policies would Consider be extremely helpful in the current environment where the Trump administration has Groundbreaking actively worked to turn back protections for transgender students. Trans Policies A 2017 national survey conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) which works to support By Bill Redmond-Palmer LGBTQ issues in schools found that 42% Baltimore City Schools are considering a set of transgender and gender nonconforming of policies regarding transgender and gen- students had been prevented from using der nonconforming students according to their preferred name or pronoun. the Baltimore Sun, In addition, it which if enacted found that about would put them far 45% of LGBTQ ahead of most other students felt un- school systems in safe at school be- the state, by more cause of their gen- fully protecting the der expression, rights and dignity of and that more those students. Only Frederick County cur- than a third had missed at least one day of rently has a specific, progressive policy sup- school during the previous month because porting those students in a similar manner. they felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Nearly These policies, currently under con- a fifth of these students reported that they sideration by the city school board would felt they had to change schools because of allow transgender students to use the these negative experiences. names, pronouns and bathrooms that align The full school board is scheduled to with their gender identity. The policy also discuss the policy this month, with a vote outlines a specific grievance reporting and coming on a future date. t investigation process. Schools would be directed to use the name and pronoun that reflects their identity, regardless of whether or not the child has changed their legal name. Students would also have access to facilities that correspond with their gender identity and those who are uncomfortable with using a gender-segregat- ed facility would be provided a “safe non-stig- matizing alternative,” however students could not be required to use a private restroom. The prospective policy does not specifically address issues that may be unique to gender-specific schools. It also does not cov- er issues related to how LGBT students are treated in schools, or things such as health education, which is currently only taught from Law Office of David M. Lutz, P.A.

•Auto Accidents •Workers’ Compensation •Personal Injury •DUI/DWI •Criminal Defense •Traffic Court Se Habla Español

1901 Fleet Street Baltimore, MD 21231 Phone: 410-558-3700 (English) • 410-299-2898 (Español) E-mail: [email protected] • lawlutz.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

Select Chase Brexton Health Care patients deemed most in need may be eligible for digital breast cancer screenings through a mobile mammography van to be located at the Chase Brexton Mount Vernon Center on September 28th. The screenings are provided in partnership with Lackawan- na Mobile X-Ray and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and mammograms are capable of finding it up to three years before it can be felt. The Center for Disease Control recommends mammograms every two years for women age 50 and older who are at average risk for breast cancer. The staff of Chase Brexton encour- ages their patients to remember that early detection saves lives! Any patient who feels they may quality should contact their Chase Brexton provider or call 410-837- 2050 for more info. t news // local

icebreakers? Are you, on occasion, able (1710 Dulaney Valley Road, Lutherville). Celebrating B’More Men’s to make yourself available during school The show will feature a mix of gen- hours? If you answered “yes” to at least der-swapped vocals, “songs we’d nev- Chorus two of those questions, you may be an ide- er sing,” and of course a few standards. LGBT Health al candidate to conduct LGBTQ safe space During the show they will hold a silent Spring Mixer presentations. auction and raffle, with opportunities to bid Awareness Week As part of their mission to ensure all on and win a variety of prizes. This is their Have you sung on stage, or just in the Maryland schools are safe and welcom- biggest fundraiser of the year, so come out —continued from page 1 shower? As the Baltimore Men’s Chorus ing for all students, regardless of sexual and be generous! kicks off its 35th anniversary season, any- orientation, gender identity or gender ex- Tickets are $20 each and are available medical care for fear of discrimination. Not one interested in learning more about the pression, GLSEN Maryland is looking for at Bit.ly/2HoOOuh. For more info visit their only does this keep some people away group is invited to join chorus members for community members to fill vital roles as Facebook event page at Bit.ly/2VRYGAE. from needed health care, studies show refreshments and fun at the group’s “Spring volunteer facilitators. it can create lifelong stress, leading to To participate, attend the planned vol- chronic health problems like heart disease unteer training on Saturday, March 30th, and depression. from 10 am to 4:30 pm in the Zamoiski Recently, our Center took steps to help Alumni Center at the Friends School of Jewish Tradition in address this health equity crisis with a day- Baltimore (5114 North Charles Street, Bal- long educational symposium, “Trans Care timore). You will learn how to present ac- Relation to Gender Through the Lifespan.” Approximately 75 curate, engaging presentations on creating medical professionals from around the re- safer, more affirming schools for LGBTQ Pronouns: gion joined us for training and information youth. After you complete this training, to help them deliver welcoming care to all you will be enabled to give 60- to 90-min- March 26th who need it. Welcome Mixer.” The mixer will be held ute presentations to schools on behalf of During LGBT Health Awareness Week at their new home for weekly rehearsal, GLSEN Maryland. Ever wondered what Jewish tradition has and throughout the year, our dedicated Memorial Episcopal Church (1407 Bolton To participate, register today at Bit. to say about gender, sexuality, and iden- staff at the LGBT Health Resource Center Street, Baltimore) on Monday, March 25th ly/2u3FsMB. Additional details will be pro- tity? Charm City Tribe invites you to learn, from 7 to 9 pm. For more info visit their vided when you register. Lunch will be pro- consider, and explore at “She, He, They, Sam Facebook event page at Bit.ly/2J4N77H. t vided. Youth, persons of color, disabled, XYZ: How We Think About Me” on Tues- McClure and gender-expansive persons are strong- day, March 26th from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. It’s ly encouraged to participate. a night of “learning, conversation, and sto- For more info visit the Facebook event rytelling.” The event will be held at 2640 page at Bit.ly/2TypN7c. t Saint Paul Street, Baltimore. March Lunch Patrol: The evening will include a talk by Rab- Social Worker Appreciation Edition Spring Showcase:

Join B and Dee’s Baltimore Love at 1 pm ‘Broadway Our Way’ on Sunday, March 31st for March’s “Social Worker Appreciation” edition of Lunch Pa- The New Wave Singers of Baltimore, a trol, to help distribute brown bag lunches to LGBT chorus, invites you to join them for the area homeless. This month the group their upcoming spring showcase – Broad- will honor the hard work and dedication of way Our Way! – featuring their interpreta- social workers. The brown bag lunches are tion of Broadway tunes. It all takes place bi Ariana Katz of Hinenu, as well as an delivered on foot and by vehicle. People on Saturday, March 30th from 7 to 10 pm at interactive experience and discussion fa- of all ages are encouraged to participate. the Towson Unitarian-Universalist Church cilitated by J. Little and Missy Smith from Volunteers meet up at the Avenue Market QueerCore. want to help you live your healthiest, hap- (1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, Baltimore) QueerCore “gives life to the stories be- piest life. Reach out to us at Resourcecen- and then are sent to different areas. For hind Smith’s ‘coming out’ songs and seeks ter.lgbt or 410-837-2050 extension 1049, more info, visit their Facebook event page to inspire others to share their experienc- and tell us how we can help you. t at Bit.ly/2O0pDPH. es.” Sam McClure is the executive direc- The event is free to attend, but they do tor of the LGBT Health Resource Center. request advance registration at Bit.ly/2H- For more info on LGBT Health Awareness plWlo. For more info, visit their Facebook Week, visit Tinyurl.com/LGBTHealthA- Safe Schools event page at Bit.ly/2F5ZCvN, or email warenessWeek. Jake Max, the Charm City Tribe program Volunteer Training manager at [email protected]. If you require any accommodations in Are you interested in deepening your ad- order to participate in this program, orga- vocacy for LGBTQ youth in Maryland’s nizers will do their best to honor those re- schools? Do you have a penchant for col- quests. t baltimoreoutloud.com orful PowerPoint slides, chart paper, and 4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker therapy plus the stem cell transplant were tor said this week he believes the work for holding each other. used primarily to treat the patient’s cancer, inclusion will continue in the Dallas area. Hawthorn says, “Being gay, it’s not as not his HIV. Current HIV therapies are very “Most of the Methodist leaders I know are in easy to dance as a couple in public togeth- Patient in effective, allowing people with the virus to shock,” said the Rev. Eric Folkerth, head er as it is for a straight couple. I wanted to live long and healthy lives. But this new pastor at the Woods UMC in Grand Prairie, express how special that moment is for a London has been case is significant because it could help re- formerly pastor of Northaven UMC in Dal- couple. When it’s just the two of you in the searchers who are looking for new ways to las. “They believed there was a legitimate privacy of your own four walls.” ‘cured’ of HIV tackle HIV and achieve a real cure. How- chance for a positive change at this gener- Country music is not particularly di- ever, the treatment is not appropriate as al conference and instead the [Traditional verse when it comes to LGBT people. Typ- Seattle – A second HIV patient has a standard HIV treatment because of the Plan] was passed.” ically, the conservative themes of country been “cured” of the virus, but doctors warn toxicity of chemotherapy, which in this The Traditional Plan still faces an uphill music have pushed LGBT musicians out of that the treatment – chemotherapy plus case was required to treat the lymphoma. battle to become church law, as many be- the genre. However, this is slowly changing. stem cell transplants – is not a practical (Seattle Gay News – Mike Andrew at Sgn. lieve it is not in line with the church’s con- “I keep dreaming of the day when we have method for dealing with HIV infections. org/sgnnews47_10/page3.cfm) stitution. “It should be said that it is almost a gay country music icon,” country singer The British patient, who has not been iden- certainly to be struck down by the Judicial and LGBT ally Kacey Musgraves said last tified, was diagnosed with HIV in 2003 and Council,” Folkerth said. “But we cannot year. Gay country musicians such as Che- advanced Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of look past the fact that roughly 55 percent ly Wright and Ty Herndon have come out in cancer, in 2012. He had chemotherapy Methodists of delegates voted in favor of [it], and that recent years, paving the way for musicians to treat the cancer and, in addition, stem is incredibly shocking and depressing to like Hawthorn. (Gay Star News – Rafaella cells were implanted into the patient from a adopt anti- me.” The delegates approved the motion Gunz at Gaystarnews.com/article/country- by a vote of 405-395. Also, the delegates singer-cameron-hawthorne-comes-out-in- LGBTQ rules at voted on legislation to allow churches to new-music-video/#gs.0vx4fd) disaffiliate from the UMC and retain their conference property. That petition passed. (Dallas Voice – Nick Totin at Dallasvoice.com/umc- Saint Louis – The United Methodist upholds-ban-on-lgbtq-inclusion) More than Church has voted to continue its prohibi- tion on LGBTQ weddings and ministers 11 million during a special meeting of the general conference in St. Louis last month. The Country singer Americans say delegation of more than 800 clergy and donor resistant to HIV, leading to both his laity from multiple countries voted 438 to comes out via they are LGBT cancer and HIV going into remission. He 384 to approve the “Traditional Plan.” The has now been in remission from HIV for 18 TP faced hours of delay as opponents of his new music Los Angeles – Some 11.3 million months and is no longer taking HIV drugs. the plan made moves to stall the voting American adults self-identify as LGBT – However, doctors working on the case say process or make the proposal unable to be video about 4.5% of the adult population – ac- it is too early to say the patient is cured voted on. Another plan that aimed to be in- cording to a new study by the Williams of HIV. And they warn that the approach clusive of the LGBTQ community was de- Nashville – In discussing the inspira- Institute at the UCLA School if Law. The is not practical for treating most people feated on multiple accounts during general tion for his new video, country singer Cam- institute found that Washington, DC, has with HIV but may one day lead to a cure. conference proceedings. The “One Church eron Hawthorn says, “I remember always the highest percentage of self-identified Researchers from University College Lon- thinking how special it was to dance free- LGBT people at 9.8%, and North Dakota don (UCL), Imperial College London, and ly with my boyfriend in the living room of had the lowest, at 2.7%. LGBT people are Cambridge and Oxford universities were our apartment.” The video for “Dancing in also economically disadvantaged, com- all involved in the case. the Living Room” features sweet, roman- pared to the whole US population. LGBT This is the second time a patient treat- tic vignettes and highlights the intimacy people are more likely to have household ed this way has ended up in remission of dancing with one’s partner at home. In incomes below $24,000, and to lack ac- from HIV. Ten years ago, another patient in the video, there is a diversity of couples. cess to a sufficient nutrition, the analysis Berlin received a bone-marrow transplant Some include a lesbian couple moving in found. Although LGBT people come from from a donor with natural immunity to the together and an elderly couple dancing in all ethnic groups, people of color represent virus. Timothy Brown, said to be the first their kitchen. And of course, Hawthorne a slightly higher percentage than they do person to “beat” HIV, was given two trans- dancing with his own partner. “I’ve got you in the general population for reasons that plants and total radiation therapy for leu- Methodists vote for the ‘Traditional Plan’ in my arms and I’m right at home,” Haw- require more research, according to Kerith kemia, a much more aggressive treatment thorne sings over the image of two men Conron, research director at the Williams than was used in the British case. Both pa- Plan” would have allowed churches to Institute. The study results are based on tients received stem cells from people who decide individually on celebrating same- previously released data from the Gallup have a genetic mutation that makes them sex marriages and the inclusion of open- Daily Tracking survey, but the Williams In- resistant to HIV. ly-LGBTQ people in ministry. This plan stitute made a deeper analysis of the num- “By achieving remission in a second was supported by a majority of bishops. bers to get a more detailed demographic patient using a similar approach, we have Council of Bishops President Kenneth H. picture of the adult LGBT population. shown that the Berlin patient was not an Carter said that bishops will have a heavy Of Americans who self-identify as anomaly and that it really was the treat- task of outreach ahead. “We are going to LGBT, only 23% are age 50 or older, com- ment approaches that eliminated HIV in do a lot of outreach to progressives to say, pared with 47% of the general adult pop- these two people,” said lead study author ‘We see you,’” Carter said. ulation. On the other hand, 56% of LGBT Prof. Ravindra Gupta, from UCL. Chemo- A Dallas / Fort Worth-area UMC pas- Cameron Hawthorn comes out at home —continued on page 8 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including: BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including: } Worsening of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have } Those in the “Most Important Information About both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if BIKTARVY” section. you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY } Changes in your immune system. Your immune system without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections. Tell your will need to check your health regularly for several months. healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. ABOUT BIKTARVY } Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. It can either be used in they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose } Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.HIV-1 is the virus symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual that causes AIDS. muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. that contains: } Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. } dofetilide Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these } rifampin symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, } any other medicines to treat HIV-1 dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY } The most common side eects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). Tell your healthcare provider if you: These are not all the possible side eects of BIKTARVY. } Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any hepatitis infection. new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. } Have any other health problems. You are encouraged to report negative side eects of } Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare or call 1-800-FDA-1088. KEEP provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your } Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY. breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines PUSHING. you take: Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food. } Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter GET MORE INFORMATION Because HIV doesn’t change who you are. medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider } This is only a brief summary of important information about and pharmacist. BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat } BIKTARVY and other medicines may aect each other. Ask } HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take } If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. To learn more, BIKTARVY with all your other medicines. for program information. visit BIKTARVY.com.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP PUSHING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important MyDailyCharge.com Version date: December 2018 © 2019 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0103 02/19 warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_9-875x9-6_BaltimoreOUTloud_KeepPushing2_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 3/4/19 12:15 PM IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_9-875x9-6_BaltimoreOUTloud_KeepPushing2_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 3/4/19 12:15 PM beyond the beltway

—continued from page 5 day we are happy to welcome transgender young people to the Capitol as ‘Honorary Pages’ in celebration of @TransTexas adults are under age 35 compared with Day of Advocacy. #txlege. (Dallas Voice 28% of the general population. Conron – David Taffet at Dallasvoice.com/honor- said that this is because younger people ary-trans-pages-at-the-texas-capitol) are more likely to publicly self-identify as LGBT than their elders. “Younger people are more likely to actually live as LGBT and to identify that way because they are West Virginia Virginia legislator Eric Porterfield Rami Malek – Member of a ‘special group’ growing up in a time when it’s more ac- statements were not reflective of Repub- ceptable to acknowledge those feelings delegate draws lican values. He cut his political teeth on Although a major commercial success all and to act on them,” he explained. denying women’s reproductive rights when over the globe Bohemian Rhapsody is like- In 2011, the Williams Institute esti- fire for anti-gay he and his wife led a boycott of a Mercer ly to secure only a small-scale release in mated the US LGBT population at 3.5% County abortion provider. In response China – unlike Oscar-winners Moonlight based on other survey data. Conron said slurs to calls for his resignation, Porterfield and Call Me By Your Name, which failed the apparent one-percentage-point in- has doubled down on his comments and to be released there at all. However, the crease in the LGBT population from 2011 Charleston, West Virginia – Eric Por- credited his detractors with helping his live-action film Beauty and the Beast, with was likely the result of more people feel- terfield, Republican member of West Vir- re-election efforts back in his district. (Q its brief “gay moment,” was given a signif- ing comfortable responding to questions ginia’s House of Delegates representing Notes Online – Jeff Byers at Goqnotes. icant release in 2017, earning a reported about their sexual orientation. Many cur- the state’s 27th District, has come under com/62450/homophobic-west-virginia-re- $85 million. rent surveys estimate the LGBT population fire from Democrats and some members publican-asked-to-step-down) at well below the conventional estimate of Bohemian Rhapsody has already of his own party. Calls for his resignation 10% that is derived from what Williams attracted considerable criticism for per- followed, after Porterfield made a string of Institute calls an “oversimplification” of Al- ceived “straightwashing” in its originally homophobic statements in the media and fred Kinsey’s pioneering sexology studies released form, with suggestions that it the House of Delegates itself. Gov. Cuomo some 70 years ago. However, in surveys glossed over Mercury’s real-life hedonist During an interview with WVVA, Porter- that are more anonymous and private, persona. However, LGBT activist Gary field was asked what his reaction would be launches about 10% of respondents say they have Nunn argued in the Guardian that the film to his son or daughter coming out to him some level of same-sex attraction, even if was “inspiring” and a “job well done.” (Phil- as gay or lesbian. Porterfield responded by WorldPride they stop short of identifying themselves adelphia Gay News – Larry Nichols at Epgn. saying he would see “if they could swim.” as gay, lesbian, or bisexual, Conron said. com/news/international/14362-internation- He wouldn’t come out and directly say he Ambassadors (Seattle Gay News – Mike Andrew at Sgn. al-news-march-8-14-2019) would drown his children and calls for him org/sgnnews47_10/page1.cfm) to clarify have gone unanswered. He also competition mentioned by name a woman he claimed was harassing him and went on to reveal New York City – Gov. Andrew M. Cuo- Honorary trans the woman’s work place. mo has launched the WorldPride 2019 Am- China to remove Prior to the interview, Porterfield was bassadors competition, ahead of the World- pages come asked to resign after using a gay slur in Pride and Stonewall 50 commemorations LGBT scenes committee, as he advocated for the over- planned for June. WorldPride, the largest to the Texas turn of local non-discrimination ordinanc- international LGBT Pride celebration, is from Bohemian es which include protections for LGBTQ coming to New York City in 2019, marking Capitol individuals, when those are not included the first time it has been held in the US. Rhapsody in state or federal law. He has previous- “From the Stonewall rebellion to the Austin, Texas – The Texas legislature ly referred to the LGBTQ community as recent passage of GENDA [Gender Ex- has been dominated by Republicans for a Beijing – The Freddie Mercury and a “terrorist group” and a modern Ku Klux pression Non-Discrimination Act], New long time. The last time that a Democrat Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody will Klan. West Virginia GOP Chair Melody York has been at the forefront of the won statewide office was in 1994. The last have all overt LGBT scenes removed for Potter denounced Porterfield saying his LGBTQ rights movement,” Gov. Cuomo Democratic presidential candidate to win its release in China, it has been reported. said.LGBTQ New Yorkers from across the the state was Jimmy Carter in 1976. De- At least a minute will be cut from the film state are encouraged to submit a video of spite this recent history, there are small in order to secure permission for it to be no more than three minutes in length de- signs of change. screened in Chinese cinemas, including These news notes have been compiled, scribing why they are proud of their mu- The newly formed Texas LGBT Caucus scenes where Mercury (played by Rami with permission, from the online version nicipality and state, and what in their town celebrated Trans Day of Advocacy at the Malek) kisses other male characters. of various newspapers and other web and region they would want to show off to Texas Capitol by welcoming trans youth as Scenes of drug use will also be removed. sites. We thank these publications for LGBTQ visitors. Those selected as World- honorary pages. This is just one example allowing us to bring you their news sto- China’s reluctance to allow LGBT- Pride Ambassadors will be featured in se- of the importance that the caucus can play ries. Usually the reports have been sig- themed films to reach cinema audienc- lect “I Love NY” WorldPride promotions. in fighting for LGBTQ rights despite its in- nificantly edited and you can read the es was underlined when a domestic TV More info is available online. Deadline for ability to pass legislation. full story by going to the web site men- streaming service, Mango TV, was re- video submissions is March 31st. t (Q From its Twitter account @txlgbtq- tioned following the item. Comments ported to have censored Malek’s accep- Notes Online – Lainey Millen at Goqnotes. caucus the caucus wrote, “We believe in are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker tance speech for his Best Actor Oscar on com/62495/new-york-gov-cuomo-launch- increasing LGBTQ representation at the and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride February 24th, replacing the phrase “gay es-worldpride-2019-ambassadors-compe- Texas Capitol in any way that we can! To- Media. man” with “special group” in its subtitles. tition)

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com BEBE PARTPART OFOF OUROUR ANNIVERSARY/TRAVELANNIVERSARY/TRAVEL ISSUE!ISSUE! GET PREPPED ON PrEP A Town Hall Meeting on THREE ISSUES THAT WILL RUN MAY 10thth,, MAYMAY 2424thth and HIV PREVENTION & PRE EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS: JUNE 7thth (OUR(OUR PRIDEPRIDE ISSUE)ISSUE) Please join us and learn about the latest exciting news on HIV Prevention & PrEP with an update on PrEP data, guest speakers and free testing provided by Total Health Care.

DATE: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. LOCATION: The Waxter Center FOR MORE DETAILS... MARY TAYLOR 1000 Cathedral Street at Eager Street MARY TAYLOR Baltimore, MD 21201 [email protected]@baltimoreoutloud.com Food and refreshments will be provided 410-802-1310410-802-1310 Please RSVP to [email protected] Hosted by AIDS Action Baltimore Sponsored by: Chase Brexton Health Care, Center for Black Equity-Baltimore, GLCCB, Johns Hopkins Center for AIDS Research, REACH Initiative & Total Health Care Supported by funding from Gilead Sciences, Inc. and IMPACT a Baltimore City Health Department Campaign

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter The Center Gets a New Look

Two weeks ago, we announced our of color through the medium of light new name, The PRIDE Center of hit home as accurate representation Maryland. We highlighted our choice of the Center’s ongoing charge to be to rebrand in a continual effort to re- a catalyst of change and betterment flect the beauty of our community’s for the sexual and gender minori- diversity and our commitment to pro- ties of Maryland. This logo choice is viding a safe space for all Maryland also deliberate in reflecting our three residents who are sexual and gender tiered mission to unite, empower and minorities. We are excited to unveil advocate for sexual and gender mi- the Center’s new logo (see below) norities as a resource, as a haven As we embrace this new logo and we strive forward into a new era for designed by Dora Carroll of Urban and as a repository of our history. name, we invite you to visit to the PRIDE. The Center welcomes YOU. Think Media. The overlapping circles Pride Center of Maryland today as

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

GLCCB Calendar of Events The Mankind Project 6:45pm •Wednesday, March 27 Trans Baltimore 7:00pm Vogue Night with STAR TRACK 6:30pm •Friday, March 15 SCA 7:00 pm The Mankind Project 6:45pm Young & the Restless YA Group 6:00pm •Thursday, March 21 SCA 7:00pm HER Story (off site) 7:00pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00pm •Thursday, March 28 Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm Youth Against Oppression 4:30pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00pm •Saturday, March 16 Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance 6:30pm Helping Hands Clothing Closet 3:00pm Queer Families Potluck 11:00am •Friday, March 22 Community Advisory Council Meeting 6:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm Pay-What-You-Can Chair Massages 12:00pm •Friday, March 29 •Sunday, March 17 Breaking Bread Project 6:00-8:00pm Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm Narcotics Anonymous 11:00am Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm •Saturday, March 30 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30pm •Saturday, March 23 Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm Coming Out Support Group 5:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm •Sunday, March 31 •Monday, March 18 •Sunday, March 24 Narcotics Anonymous 11:00am Center Closed Narcotics Anonymous 11:00am Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30pm •Tuesday, March 19 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30pm •Monday, April 1 Free & Confidential Testing 2:00pm •Tuesday, March 26 Elder Coffee Hour 12:00pm0 Yoga & Heels 5:00pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00pm Teen Art Group 5:30pm Yoga & Heels 5:00pm Basic ASL Class ($100 registration fee) 6:00pm Teen Art Group 5:30pm SILhouette 7:30-9:30pm Basic ASL Class ($100 registration fee) 6:00pm •Wednesday, March 20 New Volunteer Orientation 6:30pm Baltimore Pride Committee Meeting 6:00pm Meet 4 A Cause Dance & Fitness 7:00pm

An Evening to Benefit Baltimore PRIDE and The GLCCB

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 thinking outloud quality of life // Health and Wellness

attended the Women’s March and proudly sion. And it will affect any relationship. sports a “Need to Impeach” sticker on her The dictionary defines passion as: a book bag. strong or extravagant fondness, enthusiasm, Her video project, “Diving into Murky My Fabulous Ask or desire for anything; and obsession as: the Water: Greg Louganis & AIDS, a Clear Tri- domination of one’s thoughts or feelings by a umphant Voice for Acceptance,” was just Disease Dr. J persistent idea, image, desire, etc. By Mark S. King posted on YouTube and it gives me all the Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. With those definitions, the main issue feels. Yes, it is clearly the work of a jour- seems to be the word “domination.” And yet, nalist-in-training, but the writing is crisp at times, it may be hard to differentiate when and Ella’s storytelling is engaging. the simple desire ends, and domination of A Teenage Girl Mostly, it is tremendously heartwarm- Passion or thoughts or feelings begins. There are those ing to know that there is a very young who collect stamps, baseball cards, knick- Made a Film... woman in a small town who values what Obsession? knacks, souvenirs, and what not. That could Greg Louganis did (and continues to do) reach a level that might be called “hoarding.” to combat HIV stigma. It is a testament to When Ella Johnson made a video docu- What is that dividing line between passion I have a friend whose house is so full of such Greg’s courage and a reassuring measure mentary about Greg Louganis for her Na- and obsession? In the news was the break- stuff, and valuable stuff at that, that you have of teenage ideals. tional History Day project, she knew most ing and entering of a man, a stalker, of Tay- to question if he is a hoarder. What do you I spoke to Ella via Skype as part of her of her fellow students would be shocked. lor Swift’s apartment and this for the third do if your partner is such a person? project and had to keep reminding myself Ella is a high school freshman in White- time. He was arrested and of course, this is Then there is the fan who absolute- I was speaking to a teenager (in fact, this hall, a very small town of the west coast of a crime. But there are those who are so pas- ly positively has to see the new episode of is the first time in 30 years of writing that I Michigan. It’s not a bastion of progressive sionate about a hobby, an activity or an item felt the need to ask for someone’s parents thinking. that it may be hard not to label it an obses- Ella was right. Her classmates were to give me permission to post a story). We not exactly enthralled by her choice of top- were not able to reach Greg Louganis for ic. But she’s used to it. his participation, and I feared that Greg “My video was met with the usual ‘stu- might not ever know about Ella’s efforts. pid liberal’ comments,” Ella told me, “but That just changed, when Greg Lougan- Wow! Brought tears to me eyes. Hon- my teachers were very impressed.” Ella is responded to my email linking to Ella’s ored and humbled by this tribute. Blessed has a thick skin for a 15-year-old. She has video. His note read: and humbled by Ella Johnson’s work. I am truly touched! “Game of Thrones,” the ballgame, or some Namaste, other TV show. What if you do not share that Greg Louganis intense wish? COMING IN JUNE When I shared Greg’s response in an Any relationship requires accommoda- email to Ella, I could swear I heard teen- tion if it will survive and become stronger and age squeals coming from the direction joyful. At what point does one draw the line of Michigan. “Knowing he was moved by and say it is interfering in connecting with this,” Ella wrote back, “is the greatest re- one another? ward that could’ve possibly come out of This is a matter that may vary from one this whole process.” person to another. What you may be tolerant Judging for the National History Day of, I may have a problem with. Does the time projects begins next week, but those re- your partner spends on the hobby bother sults seem superfluous at this point. Ella you? Do you feel you are competing for time Johnson has her prize, and that is the sat- together as opposed to time spent separate- isfaction of lifting up a worthy cause and ly? Then take a good look at how confident using her young, bold voice to create so- and trusting you are in the relationship. On Three Sizes, Great Rates! cial change. t the other hand, you may both be quite com- That wins all the trophies. fortable with parallel and individual pursuits and appreciate the extent of space you ac- cord each other. Reserve your Bottom line is this: Even identical twins raised in the same family have differing likes and dislikes, let alone partners whose upbringing may have been along totally un- Space NOW! like paths. So, there will be separate ways, preferences, and goals. The key is to ap- For more details... preciate the richness such diversity brings and to work out compromises without being Mary Taylor judgmental. If you look down on your loved one’s behavior, ask yourself why your choic- [email protected] es should be considered more worthy. In any human connection, it is empathy and com- 410-802-1310 Ella Johnson – filmmaker and passion that lead us to stronger, healthier high school freshman places. t

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness

two doses are necessary. About want their one in 20 children who receive children vac- two doses do not become im- cinated more mune. The non-immune chil- than ever. Open Wide dren are also protected by They see vaccination: if all the oth- = around them ask Dr Eva er children are immune that vaccinated Dr Eva Hersh and will not develop children are stay- measles, they will not ing healthy and un- transmit measles to Not a nice equality – vaccinated children Two Measles those who are not im- Measles afoot in the are sick. Emergen- mune. This overall pro- world’s richest country, cy supplies of vac- Epidemics tection of a group by im- as well as one of its cine are coming from the munization is called “herd poorest, with over 1,000 World Health Organization (WHO), but There is currently a measles epidemic in immunity,” meaning that if deaths in Madagascar even if both doses of vaccine are available the United States, and another, much larger most members of a group of free, the barriers of poor or no roads, lack one in Madagascar. In the US, there have people become immune, even cause autism. Because so many of refrigeration, lack of transportation, and been about 660 cases this year, mostly those who are not immune parents have chosen not to vaccinate an inadequate communication network will in young children in Washington state, Il- are protected. Herd immunity their children against measles, there is now continue to make it difficult or impossible for linois, Texas, and New York. may lead some parents a recurrence of this serious and sometimes many children to be vaccinated. No deaths from measles have Measles to think, “I don’t have to have my deadly, but completely preventable, child- I would like to see a meeting of Mal- been reported in the US so far child vaccinated because if all the hood illness in the richest country in the agasy parents whose children have died this year. Measles can develop vaccination other children are vaccinated, my world. because they were not vaccinated to pre- into pneumonia and can lead to child won’t be exposed to measles Madagascar is a large island off the vent measles and US parents who refuse to brain damage (from swelling of has saved 20 and won’t get the disease.” Unfor- west coast of Africa, famous for its lemurs have their children vaccinated. If the Mala- the brain) and blindness. tunately, this would only be true if and many other animals and plants that gasy parents described their child’s illness Measles is transmitted by million lives the parents of no more than one are not found anywhere else in the world. and death, do you think the US parents tiny droplets of fluid in the air. – so why child in every group of 30 children Madagascar is one of the poorest countries would then be willing to get their children Droplets are produced when decided not to have their child vac- in the world. Many families survive on less the vaccination that is so easily available t a person who is infected with epidemics cinated. When immunization rates than $2 a day. In Madagascar, the first dose here? measles sneezes or coughs. drop below 85%, herd immunity of MMR vaccine is available for free. Until The droplets are then breathed now in is no longer as effective and out- very recently, there was a charge of $15 for in by another person, who be- breaks start to occur, like the one the second dose. In part because so many comes infected. Measles is the one of the we are seeing now in the US. families cannot afford $15, most children ANDRE SHAKTI most infectious disease known poorest Why do parents refuse to have who have had the first dose have not re- to man. It is more infectious their children vaccinated for mea- ceived the second dose. Only about 58% than the flu (influenza), tubercu- countries... sles when the vaccine is available of Malagasy children have been vaccinated losis, or plague. Measles drop- free (at the Health Department for even once. This is not because Malagasy lets can stay suspended in the and one of uninsured children), is effective parents don’t want their children to be vac- air, still able to cause infection, and has few and minor side ef- cinated or are refusing vaccination. Many for two hours after an infected the richest? fects? This started with a fraudu- parents walk miles carrying their child to try person coughs or sneezes and lent paper published in 1998 by a to get the child vaccinated. They often are Sex, after the infected person has left the room. “researcher” who claimed to have found a unsuccessful. The clinic may have run out A person walking through the room within connection between the measles mumps of vaccine, or the clinic has closed down, Intimacy and two hours has a 90% chance of becoming and rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism. or the vaccine, which must be refrigerated, Relationship Coaching infected. Many other researchers then looked for a has spoiled due to the frequent interrup- for Every Body According to the World Health Organi- connection between vaccination and au- tions of electricity. zation (WHO), the measles vaccine has tism but could not find any. Years later, the In Madagascar, the current outbreak prevented 20 MILLION deaths since the author of the 1998 article admitted that the started in October 2018. There have been year 2000. Measles was eliminated in the data in his article was faked. He lost his li- over 66,000 cases of measles since then. United States in 2000. After 2000, there cense to practice More than 1,000 • Culturally Competent were no more domestically transmitted cas- medicine be- people – mostly • Accessible es of measles until 2017. The few cases of cause of his un- children under measles that did occur happened because ethical behavior, five years old • Emotionally Intuitive a person who became infected in another but the damage – have died of country brought the infection to the US. was already measles in the This changed in 2017, when domestically done. Today, past six months. transmitted measles reappeared because many people still Now that par- Cell: 856-906-0526 of a drop-in vaccination rates. refer to that one ents have seen (text or call) The measles vaccine is one of the most article as the ba- their own chil- effective vaccines. It protects 97% of chil- sis for holding on dren and their IAmPoly.net/Coaching dren who receive two doses, usually given to the false be- neighbors’ chil- for More Information at ages 15 months and 24 months. One lief that the MMR Measles? – No thanks, I’d prefer you-sles. But with vaccination dren dying from dose does not produce lasting immunity; vaccine can really none of us needs to get sick! measles, they BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Thinking OUTloud // LETTERS Methodists Against Orthodoxy Interracial Love: Bad Advice? Dear Baltimore OUTloud Community, whose aim was to create potential paths or To the Editor: cialization, no matter how many partners As a pastor here in Baltimore, I am “plans” for moving forward as a church. On When advice columnist Andre Shakti of color you boast. Racist ideologies don’t grateful for the opportunity to share some the conference’s last day, by a vote of 438 (“Interracial Agonistes,” Baltimore OUT- just permeate how we see others; they’re background to the recent headlines about to 384, delegates approved what is known loud, March 1st, 2019) burns her hand on wrapped up in our understanding of who the United Methodist Church, and some as the Traditional Plan, which affirms the the stove, I bet she treats the injury with we are. They bolster our egos and shape words about the welcome of all. existing language and stances, and adds scalding water from the tea kettle. When a our personal narratives.” The Methodist movement began in En- stricter accountability standards. This plan dog bites her right arm, she sticks her left Such absolute pronouncements give gland in the 18th century and has been now goes to the Judicial Council, which is in the lion’s cage at the zoo. Just saying, little credit to cultural fluidity. Look at New a part of the American landscape since the “Supreme Court” of the United Meth- because when Shakti says she wants to York University historian Martha Hodes’ colonial times. There have been multiple odist Church, who will rule on the constitu- fight racism, her answer is to dig in deep to work on interracial relations between white iterations of the Methodist movement, in- tionality of the plan. racist stereotyping. women and black men, which she docu- cluding churches bearing both Methodist For many within the Methodist Church, Reducing a person to a racial epithet ments were commonplace and met with and Wesleyan titles. The United Method- the General Conference decisions brought is as good a definition of racism as any. tolerance in the South before the Civil War. ist Church was officially formed in 1968 disappointment, grief, and pain. As a local Yet that’s just what she does to her hap- It was the rise of Jim Crow afterwards that and includes churches in the US and church pastor, I have heard the sense of less correspondent – a white man dating a led to the deadly, concocted hysteria about throughout the globe. Our church polity, exclusion and rejection this decision has black man. or governing process, includes a General brought upon those who are within the Shakti tells him, “You Conference, which is typically held every LGBTQ community or identify as their al- will always be ‘that white four years and serves as the chief legis- lies. I deeply mourn the hurt it has caused. guy’ simply by virtue of lative body of the denomination. We hold Grace United Methodist is a Reconciling being white and male. No to a Book of Discipline, which outlines our congregation, which matter how progressive or laws and doctrines, as well as our admin- means well-intentioned we are as istrative procedures. The theological that white people, we’ve been tenor of the Methodist movement groomed to look down has often been characterized upon communities of color as a “generous orthodoxy,” since birth.” Does that describe by which we affirm the credit: Harlin foundational tenets of the reality for all time? Are Malstone Christian faith while also white folks growing up offering a wide tent for with Barack Obama the first president they black men and boys being “sexual preda- theological diversity and ever knew just the same as those raised in tors” of white female purity. contextual practices. The 1950s Montgomery? When my Catholic father grew up in United Methodist Church Does it make any sense to talk about 1930s Brooklyn, a Jewish boy wandering affirms the sacred worth of “communities of color”? What’s the “com- into his neighborhood ran a big risk of get- all persons, believing each of our munity of color” surrounding, say, mem- ting beaten up – a Jewish friend of his was us is made in the image of God. con- bers of the black misleadership class such strung up on a tree and nearly strangled. The most recent General Con- gregation as Colin Powell, whose lies to the UN led You can bet that Jewish boys dished it out ference held last month was a special, or affirms its wel- to a US invasion killing a million Iraqis? in turn. By the time I was growing up a gen- called, General Conference, whose delib- come of all persons and offers an explicit Or Obama’s attorney general, Eric Holder, eration later, whether you were Christian erations focused upon the church’s stances welcome to the LGBTQ community. Every- who dutifully protected Wall Street fraud- or Jewish was as irrelevant as your hair pertaining to homosexuality. Currently, the one is welcome here, with all of who you sters who keep places like Baltimore poor being wavy or straight. Book of Discipline states that “homosexu- are. There are several Reconciling congre- I’m not calling for a melting pot where ality is incompatible with Christian teach- gations within the Baltimore area, seeking “It’s precisely by all our rainbow variety fades to gray, but ing” and prohibits same-sex weddings from the full inclusion of our LGBTQ brothers it’s precisely by mingling and engaging – being held in United Methodist churches or and sisters in the life of the church. Fur- mingling and and maybe dating or falling in love – that being officiated by United Methodist cler- thermore, the message of welcome and engaging – and maybe we have a chance to bridge differences. gy, as well as prohibiting the ordination of love is not limited to Reconciling church- Opponents of getting along understand practicing homosexual persons. In recent es. Following General Conference, many dating or falling in this even if Shakti does not. In 2014, Is- decades, many churches across the de- United Methodist congregations across raeli right-wingers firebombed a Jerusalem nomination have articulated the discrimina- the United States have proclaimed that love – that we have school that avowedly co-educates Israeli tion within and harm done by this position, “all means all,” that God loves everyone, a chance to bridge Jews and Palestinian Arabs. “There’s no named their pastoral desire and call to be and that the church is to be a place where co-existing with cancer,” they scrawled on in ministry to and with all people, and the people feel safe, accepted, supported, and differences.” a wall. The arsonists got it right, in a way: dream of a church where LGBTQ persons loved. We want you to hear from us that it’s by ordinary human contact, especial- participate fully in the church’s life. Meth- you are loved by God and welcome in our and jobless? When labor unions made ly among the young, that prevents false odists are not of one mind around issues churches. their biggest gains a century ago, they broad-brush demonizations (or idealiza- of human sexuality, and alongside those Rev. Amy P. McCullough were always fighting back against bosses tions) from taking root. Shakti’s prescribed calling for change to our Book of Disciple Lead Pastor who appealed to racial “solidarities” to di- medicine – fetishizing and mystifying hu- are those who believe in upholding our cur- Grace United Methodist Church vide and conquer workers. man variety – is the wrong one. t rent position. Amid intense debate around Shakti goes on, “You can’t snap your George Williard the topic, a commission was formed, fingers and erase that kind of insidious so- Baltimore

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Chevrei Tzedek Congregation Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church 3101 Fallstaﬀ Road, 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. Baltimore, MD 21209 Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 410-581-2322. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org [email protected] www.chevreitzedek.org Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD (443) 992-7485 Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 410-235-5354. boltonstreet.org Baltimore MD 21203 RABBI RORY KATZ 410-233-5555. ifcmd.org JTS Gladstein Fellow Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore An informal, Welcoming, Participatory, Conservative Jewish Community 1316 Park Avenue 405 West Monument Street. Baltimore MD 21217 Baltimore MD 21201 410-523-1542. browndowntown.org 410-669-6222 mccbaltimore.org Chevrei Tzedek Congregation 3101 Fallstaff Road Memorial Episcopal Church 䄀䰀䰀䄀刀䔀圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 Baltimore MD 21209 1407 Bolton Street 䴀愀猀猀匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 443-992-7485. chevreitzedek.org Baltimore MD 21217 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀㔀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀 410-669-0220 Congregation Beit Tikvah memorialepiscopal.org 匀甀渀搀愀礀㤀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㨀㐀㔀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀瀀⸀洀 5802 Roland Avenue 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀椀猀愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀愀琀㐀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀㔀瀀⸀洀⸀ Baltimore MD 21210 New Light MCC 410-464-9402. beittikvah.org 40 W. Church Street 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀倀愀爀椀猀栀 Hagerstown MD 21740 Emmanuel Episcopal Church 301-797-5698 䐀攀愀挀漀渀䘀爀攀搀倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀㠀㄀匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀刀漀愀搀 811 Cathedral Street newlightmcc.com 倀愀爀椀猀栀䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 Baltimore, MD 21201 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ 410-685-1130. emmanueldowntown.org The Church of the Advent 1301 South Charles Street First and Franklin Street. Baltimore, MD 21230 Presbyterian Church 410-539-7804 210 W. Madison Street advent-baltimore.org Baltimore MD 21201-4693 410-728-5545. firstfranklin.org Veritas United Church of Christ First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 1 West Hamilton Street. Hagerstown, MD 21740 Baltimore MD 21201 240- 310-6891 410-685-2330. firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com

Grace United Methodist Church 5407 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21210 410-433-6650. graceunitedmethodist.org

Worship Sunday, 11a.m. Christian Education Classes Sunday, 9:45 a.m. browndowntown.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 410.523.1542

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on stage Dinner with Friends at Ben Rimalower’s Throwing Everyman Theatre Out His Muscials CDs play are recognizably fallible) but fumbling so much.” By Frankie Kujawa forwards with great love. By Frankie Kujawa As the writer and di- Everyman Theatre’s Beth Hylton is one of What message do you think audienc- Theatrical director, writer, actor, ... but fingering rector of Countess and the Baltimore theater community’s indomi- es will leave with? and playwright Ben Rimalower Friends, Rimalower’s cre- table powerhouse actresses. The DC-based I think everyone will leave seeking great- understands the importance of them lovingly ative drive has helped pro- member of the Everyman resi- er connection and com- hard work. As the author and star pel the Bravo powerhouse dent company recently chatted Intimate munication with the peo- of Off-Off-Broadway’s long-run- in public before Luann De Lesseps’s caba- with Baltimore OUTloud regard- ple who fill up their lives. ning, critically acclaimed, smash tossing them in ret show into a blossoming ing her upcoming role in Donald relationships And probably anxious to hit solo plays Bad with Money and multi-city success. “Direct- Margulies’ Dinner with Friends make some good meals homage to all things Patti LuPone the trash ing [Countess and Friends] – the tale of a fabulous dinner at under the and savor them with Patti Issues, Rimalower’s talent is a somewhat evolving the home of food writers Gabe loved ones. know no bounds. As writer and continuing job. We’re on and Karen which abruptly comes macroscope As an actress, what director of Real Housewives of New York star tour, so we have to re-stage it for different to a halt when Beth drops the was it like working on Luann De Lesseps’ cabaret show Countess venues. Everything from playing cabaret bomb that husband Tom wants out of their such an emotional roller coaster such as and Friends, Rimalower has helped propel rooms to the Chicago Theatre with 3,000 12-year marriage. Both couples suddenly this performance? What were some of the reality star’s act into a record-breaking seats! It’s fun putting in new songs and num- find themselves grappling with questions of the challenges? cabaret act throughout the country. The ev- loyalty, individuality, and commitment. The best thing about being an actor is er-creative Rimalower has also began writing Frankie Kujawa: What can audiences working opposite other actors who inspire a weekly column on BroadwayWorld.com en- expect from this upcoming performance me to deepen the work, and to reach higher titled “Throwing Out My CDs” in which the he of Dinner with Friends? upwards from within a place revisits former musical cast albums and cri- Beth Hylton: of groundedness and truth. tiques them. Rimalower recently chatted with The characters in I cannot say enough good Baltimore OUTloud on his work with Count- the play are so well words about my fellow ac- ess Luann and catching up with his good written, so rich and tors in this play. I do indeed friend Patti LuPone. layered. The play take a ride on this play, but “My column is about six weeks in now has a lot to say about I can lock eyes with Megan on BroadwayWorld.com,” began Rimalower. marriage, relation- [Anderson], Danny [Gav- “It’s a weekly column where I am declutter- ships, and friendship: igan] and Scott [McLean] ing Marie Kondo-style, and before I throw out we hope the audi- and give over and go kind my cast albums I’m going through them mu- ence will leave think- of effortlessly. It’s a super sical by musical.” The writer’s columns have ing and talking about intimate play, and Vinny already covered classic recordings such as their own lives. The [Lancisi, director] helped Evita, The Wiz, Into the Woods, The Rink, Ben play is also a lot about us craft a lot of honesty; and most recently Falsettos. Rimalower the things that connect now the job is to share His reminiscent walk down Broadway’s and pals us, and how we care that with the audience. I memory lane is an interesting read filled with for the ones we love. look forward to the jour- nostalgia which with many can identify. “I’m And food: the play is ney of this play, and how reviewing these albums, but not in the sense bers and stuff for Luann and different guest underlined with it will grow right up to the of a critical review. I’m reminiscing what I liked stars. All of that involves some writing tweaks the gift of food Beth final performance. about them and what made them favorites of and writing as the show evolves. Luann is do- – how we use Hylton In your opinion, mine.” Rimalower has been overwhelmed by ing a lot of stuff that also becomes memes food to love why do you think a per- the responses his articles have garnered from for the Housewives fans. So, we’re always and nurture ourselves formance such as this is rel- readers. “I’m honored people are taking to it updating the show.” and others. evant in today’s world? Rimalower still finds time to perform his You play Karen ... In today’s world of social media, of craft- two solo plays, Bad with Money and Patti Is- Oh I love Karen so much! Karen is a ing “optics” and quick sound bites, of polit- sues. “I have a double bill coming up in Los caretaker: caring for her family, her friends, ical strife and rage, an intimate play about Angeles at the end of the month at Casita tending to her recipes even with such love connection and love and care-taking to me Del Campo’s Cavern Club Theatre.” Though and attention to detail. She is carving out a could not be more relevant. To take the time the writer is currently working on his memoir, safe space for the ones she loves: when her to sit for a little under two hours and bear he enjoys performing his two current plays. friend Beth’s happiness and safety is threat- witness to people grappling with the big life “I love doing the two solo plays that I have ened (she is going through a messy divorce), questions that underpin our most intimate and will continue to perform them because I Karen instinctively circles the wagons before relationships seems even more essential love them so much. I think definitely, in the not thinking through some of the consequences now than when it was written 20 years ago. I too distant future, I will write a new one. Also, to her own life and marriage. That impulsivity hope the audiences feel so as well. t my shows are very introspective – funny, but coming from such a strong place of love is For more info and tickets visit Everyman- introspective and dramatic. I think I want to one I find very relatable, very human. She is theatre.org. write something like a comedy show and do making mistakes (all of the characters in this something more in an entertainment style and

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on stage Poppy Champlin’s ‘Queer A Bronx Tale at National New York’s After his tour with Rodg- Queens of Qomedy’ Back Theatre ers and Hammerstein’s Cin- performing. I have some By Brynn Devereaux grittiest burough derella, Beverly is excited Comedic new songs that we’re For one week only, the hit to be a part of A Bronx Tale. to B’more going to share.” musical A Bronx Tale will gets its moment “I’ve gotten to work with peo- make its debut March 26th By Frankie Kujawa Unholy Trinity Champlin went on to ple I’ve wanted to work with to 31st at The National on the national Charm City is always buzzing explain about her recent for so long. Alan Menken, descends on Theatre in Washington DC. when the delightfully funny Pop- health scare which she Robert De Niro, Sergio Tru- Based on the one-man show stage py Champlin is in town. Back in bravely faced with hu- jillo – all of these wonderful Magooby’s Joke by Chazz Palminteri and the Baltimore to perform “The Queer mor. “I just went through people. I remember walking movie featuring Palminteri and Robert De Queens of Qomedy” at Magoo- a recent cancer scare in the first day of rehearsal and thinking House Niro, A Bronx Tale is described as being by’s Joke House on Sunday, – breast cancer. It was ‘It’s ok. They’re just people. Don’t freak Jersey Boys meets West Side Story. From March 31st, Poppy brings with her two ad- very small, and I had a out,’” laughs Beverly. “Everyone was so the way actor Antonio Beverly tells it, there ditional comedians that will be sure to have lumpectomy. I made a ton of jokes about it, nice and supportive.” couldn’t be a more accurate description of audiences in stitches. Poppy recently chat- and I’ve performed some of them already. As a performer, Beverly hopes people re- the production. ted with Baltimore OUTloud to tell audienc- Hopefully, people won’t be scared by it. ally enjoy and connect with the performance. “The story is about love. It follows this es about the performance, a health scare, Comedy is medicine and sometimes it’s the “I think it’s one of those shows that touch on Italian American boy fighting with his love and the healing touch found in comedy. best medicine for what people are going so many subjects while keeping the authen- for streets, but then he falls in love with this “This is the fourth or fifth time our ticity of the show. They don’t sugarcoat any- African-American girl, Jane. She changes Queer Queens of Qomedy have come back thing. It was the main thing they were trying his way of thinking. In the midst, he’s being to Baltimore,” Champlin noted. “Baltimore to do from screen to stage – if you can keep Beth told by each party to follow his heart,” says the authenticity you will always be able to seems to love us, and I love that we keep Hylton Beverly, who plays Jane’s brother, Tyrone. coming back. Proceeds from this perfor- grasp the audience,” says Beverly. “Every “I stir the pot because I was beaten up by mance will be going towards the GLCCB. show I try to make it as fresh as I can by fo- this boy and his gang. [The show] is about My queens for this performance include cusing on something that I never really focus empowerment – not settling on just one the entertaining Karen Williams. She’s a on – choreography, blocking, delivery. I try to thing. We can do whatever we want to do if lesbian icon in the community. She’s also connect to the audience in a different way. we set our mind to it.” an African-American activist, mother, and My favorite part is the bows just because of The story may be about the mafia in the grandmother. She’s been through it all and the choreography. You’ll see how different Bronx year ago, but Beverly relates to his has a lot of opinions about everything.” the choreography is for Italian-Americans character in a few ways. “I connect with Ty- Champlin added, “I also have a new (slides and turns) vs. African-Americans rone on so many levels. We’re the opposite, queen who I’ve used once before. Her (step). When we get to the bows, we all do but I get him. When I was in character de- name is Kathy Arnold, and she’s from the same thing. It’s a stirring pot of choreog- velo pment for Tyrone, I took my past and Brooklyn. She’s new and fresh. I would raphy. You get to see the audience and con- related it to him. I’m from West Baltimore,” even underline the term ‘fresh’ because nect with them. It’s the only time I’m myself.” says Beverly. “My parents were very pro- she’s definitely coming up through the Beverly is excited to be so close to tective of me, but I could see the boys at ranks. She’s playing a lot of clubs through home and where he truly found himself. school and the kids on the block. Tyrone New York right now. It’s very much a boy’s “I’m looking forward to going on tour. [The- is a brother, but he’s a friend. He started circuit, but she’s been killing it with her ater] was a way for me to come out growing these things because he wanted to walk material. It’s definitely hard to be new and up. I went to high school in Columbia and the streets and not be bothered. I commend fresh these days. I, of course, will also be through in their lives.” was auditioning for my first musical in Co- With a career spanning over three de- him for that. He’s the only one in the show lumbia. It was so much for me, that when I cades, Champlin went on to explain where who said, ‘No, I will not be afraid.’ It result- got it I was so rejoiced. I was driving home she finds her source of inspiration. “I be- ed in him being beat up. You can see how and said, ‘Well I got in, and I’m also gay!’ lieve that a comic’s mind just picks it up. intense it is. Sometimes, I get choked up. They said, ‘Well, we know,’” says Beverly. < Ben Rimalower We pick it up off the TV or in conversations You get so deep in because you mix reality “Being a black gay man really was found with friends that sparks an idea to take off and what’s on stage. You can easily go into from the love of the arts and support that I less serious.” and write a bit or joke about it. My mind, it with everything in the news or your past.” just kept going from there. There’s so much In terms of his favorite Patti, Patti LuPone, it seems at times, almost comes off car- love in the arts and musical theater, dance, Rimalower stays in contact with his Broadway toony. Comedy, sometimes, just comes to anything – there’s so much love. It helps a legend friend. “Patti is great! I was just in Lon- people naturally and organically from life.” lot of gay and trans people really come to don and saw her in Company and she was Champlin added that while meeting terms with their identity and their love of incredible. Patti and I are text buddies, so I with her doctor one of those organically show at Magooby’s later this month. “I will their craft. It’s a great time.” always send her stuff online. Whether it’s fab- funny moments occurred. “The doctor was still be having [radiation] when I’m at the A Bronx Tale will be performed at The Na- ulous funny things about her, or amazing old doing the biopsy and said, ‘You’re going to show. So that will be interesting because tional Theatre March 26th – March 31st. The pictures of her, or a bitchy meme. I live for feel a little prick.’ I turned and said to him, they said by the third week you get tired, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday shows the Instagram account @dublin_zoetrope. I ‘I haven’t felt one of those in 25 years.’” and that will be my third week.” Champlin will play at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 8 have sent her several of those posts. They’re Champlin laughed. “Making jokes during it added with a chuckle. “I now may have an pm, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 pm, t hilarious!” was not a good idea, but I did.” Champlin excuse to hire a driver.” t and Sunday evening at 7:30 pm. For ticket Read Ben Rimalower’s “Throwing Out My went on to explain that she will be in her For more info visit Magoobysjoke- information, visit TheNationalDC.com or call CDs,” at Broadwayworld.com third week of radiation when she holds the house.com. the box office at 800-514-3849. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // personalities

between the major-label reissue of No was really scared to come back to a place Burden and your new album Historian. I didn’t recognize. To a place that seemed Were all ten songs on Historian written riddled with fear and violence and injus- You’ll Love specifically for the album or were any tice. But then also, I wanted to get back as of them holdovers from the No Burden soon as possible because I felt this need to sessions? be present; the awareness of everyone’s y We tried to put “Pillar of Truth” on power together, the impact that people Luc No Burden and it just didn’t work. I think can have just by showing up. Putting your it finally has a home here (on Historian). physical body in a place where it can be —continued from page 1 occasionally. There is this pervasive cul- “Nonbeliever” was actually three different seen as forceful unit. That song is about ture that’s tied to Christianity. Whether you songs that I have protesting in gen- an American these days. It is something were raised Christian or not, you’re aware been writing for the eral. It’s about me that’s important to me. I’ve been struggling of some of the morality that people impose past five years. I being told it’s too to maintain that while touring so much. on sexuality that, at this point, I can call kind of picked the dangerous, that I The way we try to keep active is to try to false. But it’s really confusing when you parts that spoke shouldn’t do it. But raise money for organizations while we are are growing up. And it’s difficult to grow to each other and it’s respecting peo- on the road. I think we’re going to do one out of it into an interim period where you made a new song. ple who don’t come organization for our upcoming record re- still believe in the systemic falsehood that There is some real- out and protest, lease US tour, but I haven’t picked it yet. you’re doing something wrong, but know ly old material, but too. I don’t want to I recently interviewed H.C. McEn- that it’s what’s true about you. I think a lot that doesn’t make be judgmental. One tire (formerly of Mount Moriah) and of people have experienced that middle it less relevant. I of the lines is “Take Sarah Shook, both of whom are, like time when they believed that something think what’s nice care of you and you, queer Southern women. Have you about them is not right. I think that’s really about the record is yours.” Do what is found community among queer South- sad. I feel like the earlier you can get past that it’s a pretty co- right for you. Other erners, especially among creative peo- that and know that it’s okay to be queer in hesive thought, but people have more ple? If so, what does that mean to you? whatever form, that’s really wonderful. All it’s a thought I’ve to lose than me. I have met a lot of queer Southern organizations that are providing resources been ruminating But me and mine, folks that are really encouraging and have and camaraderie to LGBT youth are doing on for a really long we have a long way allowed me to accept who I am. There is … the Lord’s work [laughs]. time. That’s probably why it matters to me to go before we get home. There’s a lot of something that’s against you in the South Well said. A couple of years passed so much, is that it feels really close to who work to be done before this country feels I am and who I have been for a while. like a place I actually want to live in again. How would you describe your song- The string arrangement on “Body to NOW ON STAGE writing process? Flame” is gorgeous. Then it erupts into Words always come first. I don’t real- this loud, electric moment. ly see myself as a musician. I see myself The string arrangements are done by as more of a writer. Usually words come Jacob Blizard who is our guitarist. He also when I’m walking, when I’m alone, when does the horn arrangements. He played I’m with other people, when I’m at some- Wurlitzer and bass and almost all the gui- body else’s show, when I’m out to eat. It’s tars on the record. He’s a bit of a genius. I really unpredictable. It’s usually when I’m like what the string arrangements are able taking walks alone. I basically listen to my to do in that song because they mirror the thoughts and try to stay in that space of lyricism really well I think. There’s this mo- creativity for as long as I can. It’s almost ment where I sing “laughing aloud at the like lucid dreaming. You become aware of spinning stars” and the strings do this twin- the dream and then you hope that it lasts kly, spinning line. That song is about not as long as it can. When I start writing, I’m knowing how close you are to somebody. crossing my fingers that that wave is going Not knowing what they mean, or should to keep crashing for a while because that’s mean, to you. The beginning part is sweet when my best work comes out. and timid and then it bursts into this des- I love the call and response on the perate, grasping, maybe a little anxious, chorus of “Yours & Mine.” loud section. I think it’s the spectrum of Thank you. There’ve been a couple how that feeling feels to me. of miscommunications already about that The chorus of “Next of Kin” includes song. I didn’t write it after the Women’s the lines “I am at peace with my death. March. I actually wrote it after the Balti- / I can go back to bed.” As someone more Uprising was happening in the spring so young, what inspired that line of of 2015. That was maybe the first political- thought? ly grounded upheaval that I felt like I need I think I’ve often dwelt upon the root 410-730-8311 to be a physical part of. I was still a teen- cause of all the things that I hate in the TobysDinnerTheatre.com ager, hardly out of high school. Baltimore world [laughs]. I feel like so many things is pretty close to Richmond. I was actually that suck are leading back to the same in Europe at the time. Getting on the plane sicknesses. I think the fear of death is one Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. • Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia, MD and coming home was really conflicting. I of the most predominant causes of greed

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // between the covers LGBTQ Book Club Debuts at the Towson Library By Brynn Devereaux they categorize the LGBTQ community as of every month from 7 to 8 pm at the Tow- Bride (May). Harlow says that future books Haruki Murakami once wrote, “If you only an underrepresented group. I didn’t see a son Library (320 York Road Towson). Har- will be chosen based on the group’s inter- read the books that everyone else is read- lot of library outreach to the community, so low has chosen the first three books: Time ests. No prior sign up is required, and while ing, you can only think what everyone else I wanted to help fill that gap both personal- Was by Ian McDonald (March), Speak No attendees are encouraged to have a library is thinking.” If you’ve ever ly and for the system.” Evil by Uzodinma Iweala (April), and To- card, it is not required. been to a branch of the Bal- Right now, the Towson morrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and For more information, visit bcpl.info or timore County Public Library Meet, greet, Library has a LGBTQ meet- the Fight for Trans Equality by Sarah Mc- call the Towson Library at 410-887-6100. t (BCPL), you’ll know they en- up for teens where they can courage readers to explore read, discuss have a safe and inviting different authors and per- space to meet people. Har- spectives not always seen low hopes the book club will on bestseller lists or celebrity book clubs. achieve similar success for adults. “I hope Their yearly Reading Challenges, events, people will get a sense of community,” and programs promote diversity and in- says Harlow. “I hope they find a safe space clusion, and the Towson Library continues to share their stories and connect with sto- this with their new LGBTQ book ries. Being part of the LGBTQ communi- club beginning ty, you have March 26th. to search for “BCPL as a content. It isn’t system has a something that goal to cultivate is always read- a connected, ily available. I’m inclusive com- hoping that peo- munity,” says ple will be able Rhiannon Har- to connect with low, a Towson other people and branch librarian the stories we’re and organizer discussing.” of the club. “If The book you look at the club will be on ALA website, the last Tuesday

and hatred, violence, fear, injustice. I think I don’t see myself as equal because that a lot of people are afraid of that. People would feel like too much of a compliment to don’t often talk about it and when they do, myself or something. It feels unreal, really it’s usually in the wake of a death right in amazing, and I don’t take it for granted. front of you, when you are in the midst of Finally, as someone in her early 20s, sorrow. Some people do talk about death. who has been out of high school for only I’m not the first to do that [laughs]. I realize a few years, I was wondering what you that one of my goals is to be at peace with thought about the tragic events at Mar- that so I can move on and do other things jorie Stoneman Douglas High School in and let other things take up my mind. It’s Florida and the way that the students also comforting to remind myself that ev- took the President and others to task. erything’s going to pass, good or bad, be- I think it’s amazing and I think we are cause it takes the weight off of so much in witnessing history. The only thing that my life. It helps me focus on what I feel are hurts so much is that I wish none of us had the most important things to accomplish in to witness this history. There’s so much my life. resilience and victory and strength in how Matador Records has an impressive the students are reacting, which is real- roster of LGBTQ artists including Car ly beautiful. But that beauty has come at Seat Headrest, Julien Baker and Per- such a cost. It’s good to focus on what’s fume Genius. What does it mean to you good about it. But what’s bad about it is to be a part of such a musical family? so egregiously stupid. It could have been It’s unbelievable, really [laughs]. I’m preventable and it is. What I’m hoping is still shocked when I think about it. It’s that we’re witnessing a huge changing of amazing. They have so many artists that the tide. I think a lot of people feel that way. I’ve been fans of for a long time. I still oc- I think the students are the right people to casionally feel like the little kid on the label. be leading the charge. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Hagerstown Hopes Continues Outreach Work, Plans Prom and Drag Bingo by Brian George Hose members of the board and committees will Hagerstown Hopes has been on a roll late- have been trained in administering Narcan, ly! Following our contribution to Shepherd a drug that can stop and even reverse the from Greasebingo.everbrite.com Proceeds University’s 2019 V-Day celebration (Let’s effects of an otherwise fatal overdose. The benefit Hagerstown Hopes and For Otis Talk About Sex and Gender), board member training was provided by Washington Goes Sake Rescue. Asher Kennedy recently represented Hager- Purple, a campaign centered in Washington Follow us on Facebook or visit us at stown Hopes at Shepherd University’s sec- County to educate the community and youth Hagerstownhopesmd.org to stay in the loop! ond annual Diversity and Inclusion Confer- about the dangers of heroin and opioids. We hope to see you soon! t ence. Kennedy presented “The Grey Area: Once trained, our members will receive Nar- Transgender Life and Liberty in America,” can to be used if we should encounter a per- a presentation highlighting the experienc- son experiencing an overdose. We sponsor es of transgender persons in America from a number of public events, including Hager- pre-American to modern times, along with stown Pride (July 13), and we think it’s only the social and political issues affecting those responsible to be prepared to help anyone in the community. in our community while we await emergency The conference was free and open to services. both Shepherd students and the general pub- Our youth outreach is also making lic. Those attending received a handout of strides. We will be hosting an LGBTQ prom information about for youth in Hag- the transgender, erstown and the non-binary, and surrounding areas gender-expan- on April 20. We’re sive community, in the process of along with a list of coordinating with helpful resources. school officials Kennedy and fel- and the youth in low board mem- our community ber Brian George to make this an Hose created a inclusive event power point presentation expanding on the everyone will enjoy. We’ve also been work- contents of the handout, and community out- ing with the City of Hagerstown in creating reach committee member Bleighne Jordan the inaugural Hagerstown Youth Advisory shared tips on how to be supportive to trans- Council. We’re looking for nine local youths gender, non-binary, and gender-expansive to work with the City to inform their agenda individuals, as well as anecdotes from their and help address the needs of young people life that helped attendees better understand in the area. Check out our Facebook posts the struggles that have faced those in the for more information! transgender community in the past as well We’ve been working hard, so it’s time to as the present. Kennedy did a fine job repre- have a little fun! Join us March 31 for Drag senting Hopes and the transgender commu- Bingo, in partnership with For Otis Sake nity, and we thank Shepherd University for Rescue, Inc., a local nonprofit providing nec- inviting us to participate in the Diversity and essary services to vulnerable animals. The Inclusion conference and for the opportunity theme is Grease and we will have perfor- to further our work. mances by Stephanie Micheals, ChiChi Ray We are fortunate that we have received Colby, Araya Sparxx, Chasity Vain, Nicole such tremendous support from our local James, Butch Kelly, and Ashley Bannks at community that has allowed us to do the the Break Away II Warehouse Venue! Our work we care about. Now that we have es- last Drag Bingo sold out quickly, so get your tablished a presence in the local communi- tickets now before it’s too late! The event is ty, we’re taking steps to better care for our open to those 21 and older, and a ticket in- larger community. As we all know, the US is cludes a lunch buffet. There will also be a experiencing an unprecedented heroin and cash bar, tip jars, raffles, a 50/50, and spe- opioid epidemic. By the time you read this, cial bingo games! Tickets can be purchased

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 out in the valley

for wanting good things for myself and, not leave me with 50 pounds of stress because I didn’t get them, I felt like that each night that I futilely attempt to shake meant I didn’t deserve them. I also felt like off while brushing my teeth before bed. I the few people I had told about this oppor- am planning the first queer prom for the Brian’s tunity would somehow be disappointed in same area that I mistakenly believed was me. Better to live the lunar life alone. Asher’s too conservative to show me the open- Brain A few days have passed and I’m still World arms love I have found. Monday was my Brian George Hose here, writing from the moon. I’m doing Asher Kennedy two-year HRT-aversary, and I am starting better, but it still stings to think about that another attempt to add muscle mass. In- moment. I’m writing about it because I’ve stead of belittling my past fitness hiccups, I Writing From learned a few things that I think we should Mid-March remember that I see more of my negatives all remember when life doesn’t go our way. than anyone else, and even if I am (likely) the Moon Dreams don’t die unless we let them. Musings not an Adonis when I hit the beach at the My path has changed, but the destination end of the upcoming summer, at least it remains the same. It may be a more diffi- Six months ago, a hometown friend posted will be my last summer in a binder because A few days ago, I died. Well, not really, but cult journey, and that’s good because when that the local LGBTQ group has a couple of I also found it in me to momentarily-over- I felt like I did. I found out that the oppor- I reach my destination nobody will be able vacancies on its board of directors. A year come my fear of doctors, and scheduled tunity everyone assured me I would have to say I didn’t earn it. If you let obstacles prior, this friend had encouraged me to my consult with a top surgeon. was no longer possible. And, because this stop you, you might not want it as much as work with him at said group. He was trying There was no secret mantra that led opportunity was no longer possible, nei- you think you do. to get a trans support group started, and m e to control my own des- ther was the incredible life I was so sure The world doesn’t end, it just feels like the occasional rant appar- tiny more than just au- I’d have as a result of it. Years of work it does. Okay, that’s stolen from Mean Girls ently made me someone topiloting myself down went into earning this opportunity, and its worth contacting, some- the easy path. I have presence played a significant role in every ... But I’ll how. I was six months zero clue what con- decision I’ve made in my life over the bet- be back on hormone replacement vinced me to apply ter part of the last decade. This opportunity therapy (HRT) and was not six months ago. I can would be the catalyst, the thing that would feeling as “masculine” as tell you that applying make everything that so far has been im- other transmen appeared for jobs was a little possible, possible. My perfect life hinged on Instagram; and obvious- bit easier than it had upon this opportunity, one that was avail- ly I was not good enough. been previously; able to me in the past and I was assured Instead of articulating that succeeding at that made would be available again. Ever since the as I just did, I dragged my a phone interview that led to month five opportunity slipped through my fingers feet answering messages, and when I did of columns tangible. I still want to throw at the last minute several years ago, I’ve answer him, I was purposefully vague. Not up every time the countdown to having my worked tirelessly to earn it again. I wanted ashamed of who I was, but ashamed of thoughts go live starts again, and when I it more than anything. my ability to represent a group of people spoke at my alma mater recently, I had a When I learned this opportunity was no that I compared myself to in every fashion. longer available, I felt as if I had blinked If I got back the hours of scrolling while “I was at a point in my and, in that millisecond, been transported wishing I had his pecs, his abs, and their to the moon. Everything was different now. biceps, I might have enough hours in the transition where I could The path I had been following, the one that gym to see those results. led to my perfect life on the horizon, be- In the ten minutes between me arriving leave the house and gan to crumble and suddenly everything I to pick up my wife from work and her walk- still feel as masculine thought was secure was gone, floating off ing outside, I typed a short essay on why into space and leaving me behind, alone. I should represent my queer compatriots outside as inside. But The empty feeling came quickly, and and submitted it. My wife was shocked, I my first thought was that I had died. The had followed through with something she outside-Asher wore nausea swelling in my stomach assured had long since tired of hearing me debate headphones inside me I was indeed still alive, and my brain the Musical, but it’s 100% true. Don’t for- with myself about. I was at a point in my clarified that I was alive, it was my dream get it. Give yourself time and, when you’re transition where I could leave the house Target when alone.” that died. At the time, I remember thinking, ready, dust yourself off and map a new and still feel as masculine outside as in- “Isn’t that the same?” path for yourself. Keep moving. side. But outside-Asher wore headphones dozen awkward pauses, but I survived. I We’ve all had moments like this. We’ve Let people be nice to you. It’s easy inside Target when alone, and spent the still prefer headphones-in-Target, and it all experienced something that has turned to dismiss cliches and well-wishes when whole time wondering who could tell he is still entirely wrapped around the fear of our world upside down and back to front. we’re low, so if you don’t take their words, was trans. He relinquished hope of chang- not passing. But now when I speak about For whatever reason, we don’t get what take their message: I care about you. Be- ing jobs, leaving a stressful one for one what it was like to go from fighting your we want (or need), and it shakes us to our cause that’s what you need. that would quash his late-night anxiety, be- loved ones for the right to kill yourself to core. And, the more we want it, the more it Set a limit. Don’t get stuck in misery. cause said job was in a very trans affirm- able to laugh at my own embarrassments hurts us if / when we don’t get it. It works I’m allowing myself one week on the moon ing area of an equally conservative region. and own my bumpier-than-some transition like this because the things we want are a before returning and facing life full-on. Af- He openly denied compliments, because with pride; I do so with the support of a reflection of who we are, so when the big ter all, I have work to do and a new path to they went against his internal voice. community that I never knew existed, and things don’t work in our favor, we can’t help make. Let’s keep moving. t Six months later I sit, writing this, my the only thing that was stopping me from but take it personally. fifth month here at OUTloud and three seeing that was me. t I know I did. I felt stupid and ashamed hours before heading to a job that does

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

This, to me, seemed to be much more than ADHD. Eventually, we discovered there was an underlying anxiety that often caused his Parenting behaviors. He was nervous about many OUTloud things. This nervousness made him act Rev. Kelly Crenshaw out. Later, we realized that he was suffer- ing from Reactive Attachment Disorder. This diagnosis made sense as his behaviors intensified. It’s hard to correctly diagnose a child. There is Hope Mental health professionals have to make Many of my children have mental health educated guesses about the root cause of diagnoses. In fact, many children who go a set of behaviors and symptoms. Many of through the foster care system have men- the symptoms overlap from one diagnosis tal health diagnoses, too. to another. And, while they attempt to get I remember when I was first starting it right, medications are used to control the off as a foster parent. Every kid in my behaviors and symptoms. It isn’t an exact home had a diagnosis. I science. It often ends up to be a began to notice a trend. guessing game. Depending on their age, Help for This is a sad reality for our the kids all had the same kids. Many times, they go through diagnosis. The teens mental illness years of ineffective treatment had Oppositional Defiant while providers focus on one diag- Disorder. The little ones in kids nosis or another. And often, as in all had Attention Deficit the case of a RAD diagnosis, the Hyperactivity Disorder. In our county, the wrong treatment can intensify the symp- same psychiatrist examined them all. I be- toms. It can make it worse. gan to doubt the diagnoses and worked After parenting for almost 25 years, I with our medical and mental health provid- have found that the best approach is to keep trying. No approach is going to Aspiring to cure a mental health disorder, but it good certainly can make it manageable. No health upstairs and pill is going to fix the brain, but it can down lessen the symptoms. And then, Men- tal Health providers can keep looking to see what might be a better approach for your child. Many of my kids have learned facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud baltimoreoutloud.com to work with their mental health issues. They learned techniques to help manage anger and frustration. They learned how to keep their anxiety from controlling their lives. And, it can be a rough journey. But, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned throughout this journey of raising kids with mental health issues is that I can’t expect it to be cured or go away. Just as I wouldn’t expect someone to grow a new arm or have a chronic disease go away, I can’t expect that mental health will go away. It is a new normal; one that can cause lots of stress along the way. And, my kids are still there. The wonderful people that I ers to look a little deeper to find out the know and love still exist behind the diag- true cause of the behaviors. noses. One of our sons, for example, was ab- Just as I would continue to love my solutely uncontrollable as a little boy. He child with cancer or diabetes or paralysis, 240-420-2180 would rage for hours about nothing. He I have to look beyond the behaviors and would attack people for no reason. He love the child. Don’t give up. Keep trying to broke toys on purpose and used his toy find a solution that works for your child and bin as a toilet on more than one occasion. your family. There is hope. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 The dining out The gredients from the sea. From their Clams Casino, with the bacon balancing the briny clams, to their Shrimp Oreganati (shrimp in a warm garlic butter sauce), you can en- Drinkery joy a variety of the ocean’s best comfort Drinkery Munch food. On This We shared the Seafood Tetrazzini for TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! the next course. The bounty of shrimp Michael Ritmiller and crab meat bathed in a lobster brandy 205205 WestWest ReadRead StreetStreet “Corner“Corner ofof ReadRead andand Park”Park” cream sauce was heavenly. The well-bal- anced flavors weren’t overly rich. Instead, 410-225-3100410-225-3100 •• ATMATM AvailableAvailable Ciao Bella they accentuated the sweetness of the 236 South High Street, shellfish. The fresh linguini swirling in the Baltimore decadent creaminess was like having des- 410-685-7733 sert at the same time. As filling as this dish Therealciaobella.com is on its own, I was craving more boozy sauces. Baltimore’s Little Italy has seen dramat- The land animals were equally great. ic changes since the 80s. The area once Chicken Marsala in that sweet, savory flourished with Italian restaurants block af- marsala wine sauce with just the right con- ter block. You could easily find dishes from sistency, more syrupy than watered down the old country that are not always the eas- like so many places that fail on this dish. iest to produce at home. Over the years, The Veal Franchese’s pairing of sweet too many of these great places from the sherry with a tinge of lemon equally sat- Rat Pack era have isfied. I suggest closed. Sever- asking for your al of the survi- side pasta to be vors still churn served with the out the basics, same sauce, but not with the although Tony’s same flare and marinara is still flavor I grew up a win. with. Fortunate- If you some- ly, there are still how still have a few that carry room after on the tradition of downing the the old ways. generous por- Ciao Bel- tions, cap the la, operated by meal with a hit brother and sister of espresso team Tony and Main courses and a canno- Lisa Gambino, continues to as toothsome li. No matter how little or how much satisfy with each visit. And no. as desserts! you try, Ciao Bella retains that taste Don’t expect to see secret meet- of Baltimore’s Little Italy from an era ings of the five families. Do ex- faded out by all the new development 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. pect witty banter and a good cocktail from from this century. t Lisa, along with great food. BEST PRICES IN TOWN The appetizers are focused on fresh in- Hearts and Ears Inc. LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 quality of life // Health and Wellness

you may not want still miserable? How responsi- to hear this, but ble am I for my ex’s healing pro- The In you should con- cess while we’re cohabitating? and sider ending your Sincerely, cohabitation with Madison W. Out Matt, even if it’s just temporary. If Andre Shakti Dear Madison, I were you – and Whew! Well if that isn’t com- if it’s financial- plicated, I don’t know what is! ly accessible to You say you’re young. I’m you – I’d sublet Love Triangle not sure how young, exactly, my room out for but kudos to you a few months and Dear Andre, for being able to Beware live elsewhere to I’m a young bisexual monoga- create and sus- give both of you mish girl and I live with an ex-boy- tain a healthy, sharp edges some breathing friend who is also monogamish and happy living en- room and time to bisexual. We’ll call him “Matt.” Matt vironment with credit: Aaron A. Alvarez heal. It certainly and I are wonderful friends, and have a com- someone you were once part- doesn’t mean that fortable, amicable living situation. Here’s the nered with. That demonstrates could be (although keep in mind that I don’t you have to stop problem: For the past six months, Matt and a level of emotional maturity and intelligence have any information on why Jesse initiat- seeing one another or supporting one anoth- I have both been dating the same guy. We’ll on both of your parts that most people – let ed those break-ups, so I’ll be hypothesizing er once you’re no longer sharing a space, but call this guy “Jesse.” Jesse recently decided alone former couples – never achieve. slightly more than usual!). it will release you from much of your sense to end things with the two of us, and Matt is I hear the battle between empathy and First, keep in mind that connections be- of obligation for his healing process, and will way more upset about his break-up with Jes- annoyance that’s waging war within you right tween folks who were assigned the same work to ensure that you’re able to remain in se than I am. I’m trying to be supportive of his now. You obviously are skilled at asserting gender at birth are often more emotionally each other’s lives in a healthy and meaningful grief but I’m also trying to move on from this and maintaining boundaries, and it sounds intense than folks who were assigned dif- way in the future. period of my life, and Matt has been having like you don’t understand why Matt’s bound- ferent genders at birth, which in turn Lastly, don’t fall into an trouble with how swiftly I’m ready to let go of aries might be slipping and complicating your can make the ending of those rela- emotional labor trap. I want Jesse and resume dating other people. How plans to move forward with your dating life. I tionships more challenging. There you to cement the phrase do I take steps to start dating again when he’s think I may have some ideas as to why that are multiple camps of thought on “there is nothing wrong why this is the case, but in my with me for moving on” opinion it’s because we have so in your mind and play many shared experiences built it on loop until you truly RESIDENCES RESERVED: 70% in from the get-go. When you believe and embrace it. date someone who already has Your lingering guilt about a context for so much of your life, starting to date new peo- RISK OF RESERVING: 0% it forges a bond that can feel more ple while Matt continues complex and powerful in a way that to grieve is partially a result is difficult to articulate. This may be why of your socialization as feminine. Matt is having a harder time healing from his Folks of feminine experience are often trained break-up with Jesse than you are (and, it also to elevate, nurture, care for, and serve the could have nothing to do with this). whims of masculine folks so that they may In addition, it’s clear that you, Matt and never be uncomfortable and always feel em- Jesse were in a non-monogamous triad of powered to reach their full potential. Mean- sorts. Even if you and Matt no longer inter- while, our full potential gets deprioritized. acted intimately with each other, you became These socialization strategies are being metamours to one another by virtue of your triggered by your witnessing of Matt’s pain. With construction starting soon on the Grand Expansion of shared romantic partner. Whatever title or You may care about him deeply as a friend, role you want to assign to Matt, the fact of but you are no longer responsible for him or Roland Park Place, 70% of new residences are already spoken the matter is that your multifaceted bond may his emotions (real talk: you never were), and for. And when all it takes to reserve yours is a fully-refundable have had a significance to him that wasn’t right now the guilt you are experiencing is sti- deposit, the only question left is, what are you waiting for? shared by you. So when Jesse broke up with fling your own healing process. the both of you, Matt didn’t just lose his boy- Matt needs to seek out other sources of Make the intelligent choice. Call today: 443.338.6212 friend; he also lost his triad dynamic, which support that aren’t you – if he hasn’t already may have begun to feel like a family. – and interrogate the efficacy of his current Finally, perhaps a lack of past relationship coping and self care strategies. Perhaps he experience is partly to blame. If you have had needs to get connected with a LGBTQ savvy READY FOR MOVE-IN 443.338.6212 significantly more experience with non-mo- therapist who’s also fluent in alternative rela- FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org nogamy – or even just significantly more relationship structures. It doesn’t sound like Matt tionship experience in general – than Matt, it is consciously trying to shame you or place a would make sense as to why he’s taking the monopoly on your time or attention, but that’s Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging break-up harder than you are. what he’s doing. You need to free yourself be- In terms of looking to the future, I know fore you get stuck. t

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of life // your money He’s performed at The White House, Buckingham Palace, the Hollywood Bowl, and Carnegie Hall... nism to “buzz” people in? Is there a place The More you in the office where employees can gather in the event of an active shooter? What are Know About some actions employees can take in the presents the dashing, dazzling event of an active shooter, i.e., simply us- Business ing a nearby door jam if handy. How will Richard Finger employees contact the authorities? Obviously, a well-thought out plan is Michael one action of many possible to prepare JAT LIVE Workplace for a workplace-violence event, but there THE are still others that should be considered. GORDON Feinstein Safety What are the policies in place that could be helpful? Perhaps a visitor policy with a goal Preparing for workplace safety has been of safely securing the premises? A work- top of mind for many employers. While in place violence prevention policy, a weap- the past the focus had been on Occupa- ons policy (depending on Maryland state Join us tional Health & Safety (OSHA) i.e., provid- law) banning weapons from the workplace ing a work environment free from safety and imposing discipline for violations, and Monday, April 8, 2019 | 7:30pm and health hazards that could cause phys- a domestic violence policy. ical harm, nowadays there is increased Another preventive measure is institut- Enjoy an evening of entertainment emphasis on workplace violence. ing pre-employment background checks. It to benefit financial assistance for How do we define workplace violence? is vital to check if job candidates may have This definition will be organization-specific, had a reported history of engaging in vio- JCC children, teens and families. but for the sake of this article, I will define lent or threatening behavior and/or crimi- For tickets visit: jcc.org/jlive it as deliberately causing physical injury to nal convictions. Performing a pre-employ- another person, such as shooting, hitting, ment background check also protects the Tickets available at jcc.org/jlive Jewish Community Center and other forms of physical abuse, as well employer from a potential negligent hiring of Greater Baltimore as threats of violence (including emails, lawsuit. texts, social media posts). This means it Employers should encourage all em- includes behavior that takes place on the ployees to immediately report any suspi- employer’s premises and also outside the cious behavior. Just like the airport, the “If workplace if it affects working conditions. you see something, say something” rule To address this challenge, companies applies here. Any observed or reported should first conduct a needs-assessment violence, harassment, or threats should across its organization to ensure that it be reported to security and/or authorities. Certified Public Accountants has the proper policies, practices, and pro- Employees should be informed that some- cedures in place to increase awareness, times even jokes, verbal or in written form recognition, and reporting of violence or (texts, Facebook postings) could be per- Don’t Panic ceived as actual threats. Of course, we can helP you anyone that reports suspicious activities should with your 2018 return be protected by no-retaliation CALL US TODAY! clauses. The idea is to create an en- Services for Business Services Tax Services vironment where Individuals -Small Business Accounting -Tax Preparation all employees feel -Estate Planning -Online Payroll -Tax Planning comfortable to re- -Elder Care -QuickBooks Services -Tax Problems port things that -Payroll - Bank Financing look odd or wrong. New Business Formation It is most un- fortunate we are Making a Difference for Businesses & Individuals potential acts of violence as well as Don’t let living in a time where preparing the employer’s ability to respond. I this be your for potential workplace violence With client focus as the base of every service, Bridges & Associates, CPA’s have heard some police precincts workplace! events are no longer a rare excep- of Baltimore, MD offers area businesses and individuals specialized CPA will perform a free workplace as- tion. Almost weekly, in some city in services tailored to the industry, business entity and targeted needs. sessment and provide recommen- America, we learn of these events. dations accordingly. But some of the things The best advice I can give is to complete they would look at is points of entry and the workplace assessment as soon as 835 Hollins St. Baltimore, MD, 21201 • 410-908-8134 egress. Does the door to your business possible, and move quickly to take action [email protected] • bridgescpas.com always remain open, or is there a mecha- where there are gaps found. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 your money // reAL ESTATE Does Social Media Prepare

St.Paul@Chase. This COMMERCIAL/Federal 1br/1ba condo with Hill. 2,100+ sf office/ You to Buy a Home? 18th floor views is a retail above grade, top beautiful renovation! quality renovation. Your By Wayne Curtis City living at it’s best. business needs a home! For many years the general public had solid search’ they are qualified to take charge of Yours for $129,900! Offered at $769,000! confidence in the idea that real estate – es- the transaction themselves. pecially owning your own home – was the Many realtors, myself included, have run www.charmcityrealestate.com best investment that an individual or family into millennial buyers who were so confident 410-467-8950 (direct) could make. The housing mar- that their reading and explo- ket crash and resulting Great ration on the internet had pre- Recession after 2008 put a Millennials are pared them to purchase, that dent in that public confidence. when the real estate profes- AVAILABLE FOR RENT! I last wrote on this subject in finding out the sional hired as their fiduciary 2015, after a Gallup poll had agent gave them a piece of Charles St. – 2nd Floor confirmed that real estate was answer is, ‘No!’ advice that contradicted what still considered the most reliable form of long- they had found, they disregarded or deval- term investment, but down from past surveys. ued that professional advice. Stunningly, Newly renovated, 2BR/1BA, all new The prolonged economic recovery has only 30% of these buyers visited their de- appliances, includes heat & water. reassured most home owners that their in- sired neighborhood at various times of day vestment was a wise one, if only for one before buying into it. Walking distance to MICA, UB, Light simple fact: home ownership has been the What kind of advice were they most likely Rail, Penn Station & Baltimore Eagle. largest source of individual wealth in Amer- to disregard? ican history. We are living in a time when 1) Information regarding their chosen $795/mo plus security deposit. retirement pension plans are in jeopardy location, particularly baffling given the in- 866-474-7000 or extinct, and retirement savings for most formation above that they hadn’t spent time people is a wishful dream. Built-up equity in their new neighborhood and the universal in a principal residence remains the largest real estate mantra: “location, location, loca- source of personal wealth most people will tion.” ever accumulate. 2) They underestimated the expense In a recent article in Forbes magazine, of ongoing maintenance and didn’t bud- David Greene wrote, “Appreciation, or the get for it. I don’t remember a transaction rising of home prices over time, is how the where this wasn’t brought up by both realtor majority of wealth is built in real estate. This and home inspector. I guess they just weren’t is the ‘home run’ you hear of when people open to the information. make a large windfall of money. While prices 3) They either bought a house too fluctuate, over the long run real estate values small or too large for their needs and have always gone up, always, and there is budget, given the expense of utilities and no reason to think that is going to change.” insurance. With this background, I was surprised This seems to feed into a larger problem to read an article recently from CNBC that affecting the population in general, where we quoted a new Bankrate.com survey. The have not adjusted to the idea that information headline was a kick in the pants: “Most mil- on social media should be treated with suspi- lennial homeowners have buyer’s remorse, cion unless verified. Fortunately for those of a new survey shows.” The article, by Diana us in the field, it gives us the opportunity to add Olick, reported that “Nearly two-thirds, or 63 a new compelling reason to use an experienced percent, of millennial homeowners real estate professional: we know our surveyed by Bankrate.com said they Rub here to market, we know the “rules of the had regrets about buying. That is find road,” and we are hap- more than any other age group and dream py to be a resource nearly double the regret rate of baby house? for that important boomers.” verification of Why is this true? The culprit appears all the “stuff” to be social media. you turn up in There is so much information on your online social media – inaccurate, opinionated, research. or written on a national scale for an in- Use us! t dustry that is structured and regulated state-by-state – and much of it is put out there by people with a certain perspective they want to promote. This toxic soup is contradictory and confusing but leads millennials to believe that after doing their ‘re- 28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 15, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com leather

forming leather contests, the inaugural 150 parking spaces. On Friday, March rather just party with leather folks in one MX Virginia Leather Contest was held at 22nd from 7:30 to 9:30 pm Mr. DC Eagle bar: COMMAND MC has a bar night in Fallout in Richmond over the weekend 2019 Christopher Booth will host a class on Baltimore on Saturday, April 6th at Leon’s of March 1st and 2nd. Congratulations “Basic Bondage: Beginner Rope & Knots,” starting at 9 pm; ONYX Mid-Atlantic pres- Leather to Blue who was selected MX Virginia presented by Loki Sorensen. This class ents “Leather & Lace” at the Green Lantern Leather 2019. The contest was emceed by will include demons and opportunities for in DC on Friday, March 29th starting at 10 Line Hooker & Boys member boy Jake and Ms. attendees to practice. On March 29th at 9 pm; and get ready to welcome spring with Rodney Burger DC Eagle 2019 Alyssa Durnien. pm Ms. DC Eagle Alyssa Durnien will host the DC Boys of Leather on March 23rd as In fact, I missed the MX Virginia Leath- another of her popular bar nights. These they present “Spring is Hung” at the DC er Contest because my fellow ShipMates are just two of the many events at the DC Eagle. The DC Boys of Leather invite you And and I had a bar night at the DC Eagle on Eagle. Come out and support DC’s historic to wear your pastel gear, undies, or best March 2nd. I love the DC Eagle. It has that leather bar. bunny suit and receive three free Jell-O gritty industrial look of a throwback leather Congratulations also go out to two shots. Sounds like a good thing to me! bar. Recently several friends forwarded to more new leather titleholders in our area. ‏These are just a few of the leather Another Thing events coming up soon in the Mid-Atlantic me a real-estate ad listing the building for All my best to Mr. Philadelphia Leather sale. Many jumped on the bandwagon and 2019 Jason Boyask and Ms. Philadelphia area. We are fortunate to have so many I always enjoy writing my interviews with reported another LGBT bar down the drain. Leather 2019 Sara Withoutanh who were leather events going on here. Come out folks in the leather community. It is also I am happy to report that according to a re- selected to represent the City of Brotherly and join in the fun. I’m sure that as soon as cent article in the Washington Blade, the Love on February 16th at the Bike Stop. this goes to print, I will hear about another fun to share my experiences at contests t and leather club’s weekend events. (Next DC Eagle’s owners plan to sell the build- The ShipMates of Baltimore will be thing! up is the Bay State Marauders’ 16th an- ing and lease it back from the new owners. heading to Pennsylvania on Saturday, April niversary weekend in Provincetown at the The bar has no plans to go out of business 6th for a joint bar night with the Pennsmen end of March.) Every now and then I feel and thanks to new LGBT-friendly owners at the Brownstone of a neighboring shopping center, can offer in Harrisburg. You the need to play catch-up and inform you of recent leather news and details about over are also invited to additional leather events help Maryland’s first that just got announced. In leather club toast 45 the busy Mid-Atlantic leath- years on May 4th at er community, it is just one Max’s Taphouse in thing after another! Baltimore. Go to: Looking for something “ShipMates Club of new? There is a new leather Baltimore 45th an- contest and event scheduled niversary” on Face- for Saturday, March 30th in book for details. Baltimore at the Baltimore Bar hopping is TH always a fun thing- MAY THE 45 BE WITH YOU Playhouse (3010 Washington th Boulevard). “Twisting Culture” but are you ready The ShipMates of Baltimore invite you to celebrate their 45 for this? On April Anniversary along with entertainment provided by Shawnna is presenting the Northeast Alexander. Person of Leather Contest. 27th get ready for another Capitol Bus This preliminary to the Inter- Tickets are $60 per person which includes 1 hour open bar national Person of Leather Crawl. The party will and heavy hor d'oeuvres . You can purchase a ticket at contest held in Las Vegas is start at 5 pm at the https://bmoreshipmates45th.eventbrite.com DC Eagle. You will “open to everyone regardless of gender, race, age, or any be transported to the You don’t want to miss out on this event. Contact your local other -isms.” Although the Bike Stop in Phila- ShipMate or e-mail [email protected] for more contest is planned as a fast delphia and on to information. and fun event lasting around the Eagle New York Location: Max’s Taphouse 90 minutes, a whole day of ac- City before returning to the DC Eagle. 737 South Broadway tivities is scheduled. Starting Baltimore, MD 21231 Tickets are $50 on- at 11 am there will be a social hour with snacks followed by an line or $80 the day Time and Date: Saturday May 4th from 6pm – 9pm afternoon of kink-related class- of the event (if not es. The contest is scheduled to sold out.) Proceeds run from 4 to 5:30 pm followed benefit the Carter Sponsorship Generously Provided by: by a catered dinner. In the eve- / Johnson Leather ning there will be a play party. Library and the Bil- For details and to make reser- ly Thompson, Jr., vations, visit “Twisting Culture” Memorial Fund via on Facebook or FetLife. (Tickets Brother Help Thy- may be purchased at the door, self. Look for Cap- but attendees must sign up in ad- itol Bus Crawl on MX Virginia Facebook. vance.) Leather Speaking of gender-noncon- If you would

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CLIENT COMCAST FILE NAME: CMCIN18016M20_9.875x9.6_BaltimoreOUTLoud_v02.indd APPROVAL JOB NUMBER CMCIN18016M20 DESCRIPTION: DIV031-Q4-NED-A10-V1 BILL TO NUMBER CMCIN18016 COLORS: CMYK PROOFREADER GRAPHIC ARTIST Johnny Villalobos NOTES: NONE STUDIO DIRECTOR DATE 9-26-2018 11:55 AM FONTS: XFINITY Standard TT (Italic, Bold Italic, Light, Bold, Regular) TRAFFIC REVISION 2 IMAGES: 41668_GettyImages-852949206_Clutch.jpg (CMYK; 493 ppi; 60.76%), PAGE 1 CMCIN18016_Tablet_v01.psd (CMYK; 975 ppi; 7.38%), Comcast_S_4C_GRAY.eps PRODUCTION PUB Baltimore OUTLoud (9.38%), Pride_2018_CMYK.ai (29.79%) ART DIRECTOR BLEED None COPYWRITER TRIM 9.875” x 9.6” LIVE 9.375” x 9.1” ASSOC CREATIVE DIR SCALE 100% CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINTOUT 100%

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