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Out Singer Attempts to Rally Gay Troops Story on page 18

November 09, 2007 VOLUME V, NUMBER 14 5th Annual Equality Maryland Jazz Brunch By Kedrick Keys

Equality Maryland hosted its 5th Annual Jazz Brunch with silent auction on October 28 at the Sheraton Baltimore City Center Hotel. Congressman John Lewis, a champion of the civil rights movement, delivered the keynote address. Congressman Lewis, who represents most of Atlanta as the representative of Georgia’s 5th District, risked his life and liberty in the cause of equality during the March on Washington in 1963 and the Selma-to-Montgomery Marches in 1965. Four decades later, Congressman Lewis is still blazing the trails for equality for all people. Congressman Lewis caught a red eye flight from Los Angeles in order to attend the Jazz Brunch honoring Victor Basile. Congressman Lewis was a 2007 Matthew Shepard Foundation HONORS recipient in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 27 hosted by Alison Sweeney and Peter Paige. The award honored those committed to erasing hate. Other HONORS recipients included U.S. Senators Edward Kennedy and Gordon Smith; U.S. Representatives Tammy Baldwin and Christopher Shays; U.S. Representative See Equality Maryland Jazz Brunch on page 4 Transgender Pastor Obama Campaign Showcases Antigay Retains Parish Gospel Singer, Alienates Gays By Bob Roehr Drew Phoenix, a transgender man, can remain pastor of St. John’s of Baltimore City United Methodist Church the United Methodist Church’s high court Senator Barack Obama’s presidential campaign announced Tuesday, Oct. 30. No law in the church’s has stirred great discontent within the GLBT community Book of Discipline prohibits transgender clergy. by giving a forum to an award-winning gospel singer Therefore, Phoenix cannot be removed from ministry and minister known for his antigay rhetoric. The series without “administrative or judicial” action. Phoenix of gaffs has continued to echo within that community, transitioned from female to male with surgery and though the mainstream press has been slow to report hormone treatments about 16 months ago. or understand its significance. The controversy stemmed from a request for a The growing firestorm kicked off on October name change by Phoenix court documents outlined, 20 when Earl Ofari Hutchinson wrote online in The “During the 2007 clergy session of the Baltimore- Huffington Post, “Barack Obama ripped a page straight Washington Annual Conference, a change of name from the Bush campaign playbook with his announced for a clergyperson was reported in response to Minute upcoming three date barnstorm tour through South Question 91. Minute Question 91 states, “What other Carolina with notorious gay basher, gospel singer personal notations should be made? (Include such Donnie McClurkin,” See Transgender Pastor on page 13 See Antigay Gospel Singer on page 10 2  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com

Mike Chase Publisher [email protected] Steet TalkBy Nate Sweeney Jim Becker Steet Talk Editor [email protected] GOBBLE GOBBLE! Alexander St. John Society Editor Baltimore OUTloud wants to know [email protected] what you are most thankful Steve Charing Senior Political Correspondent Bill at Port In The Storm: I’m most thankful for for this year? my lover Joe. I’ve had a rough year and my baby Kedrick Keys has stood by me through everything. Staff Writer

Contributing Writers Chuck Duncan, Meredith Moise, Rodney Burger, Ben Ryland, Gregg Shapiro, Nate Sweeney, Bob Roehr, Eva Hersh, MD, Jeffrey Clagett, P S Lorio, Rickie Green, Doug Ireland

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Jay Loane Classified Advertising Erica at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful for my Bonnie at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful that Jenny at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful for health because I just spent a day in the ER. I can say that “I’m Thankful”. my children. Everything about them is special. Photographers Skip Koritzer Harry Lowinger

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Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers’ comments and unsolic- ited materials are welcomed and may be sent John at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful for Tony Bradley at Port In The Storm: True friends who Sandie at Port In The Storm: That I still have a to: [email protected]. All sub- the truck driver. are true friends. job & that Port runs bar tabs. missions must include the writers name and the author’s daytime phone number. ������������� Pride Media offices are clothing optional and are lo- cated at 1003 N. Charles Street in downtown Baltimore. Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person should not be considered an expression of their sexual orientation. All materials appearing in this newspaper are the prop- erty of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced with- out the written permission of the editor. Pride Media does not assume any responsiblity of advertisers or the actions of its readers.

Copyrighted 2007 - All Rights Reserved ride pmedia Jim Becker - Chairman of the Board Lee Mooney - Vice President Pam & Lori at Port In The Storm: We’re Rose at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful for my Charles at Port In The Storm: I’m thankful for thankful for each other and our kids. children. the friends and life I have. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  3 AIRS to Host World Equality Maryland Town AIDS Day Service

Hall Meeting AIDS Interfaith Residential Services (AIRS), Providence By Kedrick Keys State University last week to opening Baptist Church, and Central up satellite office location at Hearts and Presbyterian Church will host Equality Maryland (EQMD) held its Ears to the post-decision rally to the Jazz an interfaith service at Central Town Hall Meeting on Monday, Nov.5 at brunch to the two candidate forums in Presbyterian Church, 7308 York First and Franklin Presbyterian Church September at Unite Here to the massive road, on Saturday, Dec. 1. Ministry in Baltimore to discuss the future work EQMD PAC did on Fred Mason’s exhibit tables will be on display of the state’s largest lgbt civil rights campaign to our work electing pro-LGBT from 1:30-3 pm with a service to group, including their goals of securing candidates to the General Assembly from follow from 3 pm-5 pm. This will be an important service bridging congregations from all races for the purpose of HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. Learn what these forward-thinking churches are doing to advance their HIV/AIDS ministries. Hear powerful stories of transformation from invited guest speakers who are living with HIV/ AIDS. This interfaith service is designed to inspire and uplift the spirits and to effect positive social change in our community. For more information, please contact AIR’s Tony Johnson, Faith in Action Volunteer Coordinator, at 410-576- 5070 x35. Lynda Dee Attorney At Law marriage protections for all Maryland Baltimore to house parties to the PAC Serving the Gay Community Since 1981 families, gaining healthcare benefits fundraisers to the numerous speaking for the partners of state employees, engagements staff holds at universities, and ending discrimination on the basis high schools, churches, synagogues, • Criminal of gender identity and expression. This etc.,” Furmansky told Outloud. was the first Town Hall meeting held in “Equality Maryland has a standing • Traffic Baltimore since February of 2006. legislative committee which consists of • DWI Executive Director Dan Furmansky LGBT legislators, straight legislators, and Director of Policy and Planning policy professionals, lobbyists, allied • MVA Hearings Carrie Evans discussed what the 2008 organizational partners ranging from legislative session will entail, how they Chase Brexton and Whitman Walker to • Estate Planning plan to move forward with The Religious Progressive Maryland and HRC, as well • Wills Freedom and Marriage Protection as staff and board of Equality Maryland. Act, and how EQMD members will be The legislative committee makes • Powers of Attorney an integral part of this process. There recommendations to the organization’s were approximately thirty community Board of Directors. EQMD will • Personal Injury members in attendance. Concerns advocate for marriage equality as we • Automobile Accidents ranged from EQMD having a greater have done for the last four years and presence in Baltimore to focusing on are excited to really begin this dialogue • Worker’s Compensation other lgbt legislation other than marriage proactively in the General Assembly to focusing more on lgbt youth and and know we will be successful, with • Domestic Partnership Transgender People of Color. the understanding that almost no bills • Agreements “I understand people saying that pass the first time around. At the same we should do more in Baltimore but time, the organization is wholeheartedly • Family Law and Divorce appreciate when it’s mentioned with the committed to making as many gains as things we have done in Baltimore, which possible for same-sex couples and their 201 N. Charles Street, Suite 2300 • Baltimore, MD • 21201 ranges from the Maryland Black Family families and will proactively advocate in Offi ce: 410-332-1170 • Fax: 410-837-0288 Alliance press conference at Morgan ways that will accomplish this goal.” [email protected] • www.lyndadeelaw.com 4  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Equality Maryland Jazz Brunch

Continued from page 1 her plan to introduce the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection John Lewis; singer Cyndi Lauper and Act in the upcoming state legislative her openly gay sister Elen Lauper; and session; Maryland Attorney General Terry DeCrescenzo of GLASS Youth Douglas Gansler, and tributes from and Family Services. Presenters for past and present HRC administrators the 2007Matthew Shepard Foundation Elizabeth Birch, Tim McFeeley, and HONORS included comedienne Lily Joe Solmonese. Equality Maryland is Tomlin; singer Lisa Marie Presley; and the state’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and actors Judith Light; T.R. Knight; Jennifer transgender advocacy organization. Beals; and Chad Allen. The Jazz Brunch, Maryland’s largest lgbt event, honored legendary lgbt rights leader Victor J. Basile, who received the Pioneer for Equality Award. Basile served as the first Executive Director of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lgbt civil rights organization, and co-founded the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund to help openly gay and lesbian candidates win elective office. More recently, he has served as the Executive Director of Moveable Feast, a Baltimore nonprofit serving the HIV/AIDS community. Also in attendance at the Jazz Brunch were Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon, who offered introductory remarks; State Senator Gwendolyn Britt, who announced Photos By Skip Koritzer

LET DARCY MASSOF BEYOUR ADVOCATE

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�� �������� �� ���������� �� ������������������������� �� ������������ �� ���������������� �� ���������������������������������� �� ������������������������������������ �� ������������������������������ Free Initial Consultation baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  5 African American Leaders Launch Mayor Dixon Making Historical Leaps in Baltimore City Government “Maryland Black Family Alliance” By Kedrick Keys President. During the welcoming remarks at Prominent Maryland African- On Tuesday, Nov. 6, Mayor Sheila Equality Maryland’s Jazz Brunch on Oct. American straight allies who are elected Dixon became the first female elected as 28, honoring Vic Basile, the first executive officials, ministers, and community Mayor. With a decisive vote, Mayor Dixon director of the Human Rights Campaign, activists, as well as student and national won her bid overwhelmingly as predicted. Dixon announced plans to create the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Mayor Dixon succeeded Martin O’Malley first ever full-time office dedicated to (lgbt) advocacy groups were announced on January 17, 2007, after O’Malley’s lgbt issues. This office would work along on Thursday, Oct. 25, the formation successful run as Governor. Mayor side the existing Mayor’s Task Force for of the Maryland Black Family Alliance Dixon won the 4th district council seat LGBT Issues. Anthony McCarthy, Dixon’s (MBFA). State Senator Gwendolyn Britt, in 1987 where she served for 12 years. Director of Policy and Communications, State Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk, In 1999, she became the first African- is the highest ranking, openly gay, State Delegate Craig Rice, Rev. Larry American women elected as City Council Baltimore City Official. Brumfield, Bonnita Spikes, anti-death penalty advocate and mother of a transgender son, Alexander Robinson, It's Executive Director of the National Black Your Justice Coalition, Vanessa Bowling, Co- President of Morgan State’s Rainbow Soul, and Elbridge James, Director of Choice. MBFA. Leaders met at Morgan State University’s Student Union. The Maryland Black Family Alliance seeks to foster dialogue within the African American community on principles of fairness and support for all black families. They will promote a clear distinction between what civil marriage means legally and what to support their lgbt family members and neighbors. Ending the current exclusion of same-sex couples from civil marriage would provide especially significant They're protections to lgbt people of color. Your Without legal recognition, African American same-sex couples are denied Why Rights. many basic rights and protections under the law, including: the right to visit each HP&K? Because gay marriage is not yet legally recognized in Maryland, other if one is hospitalized, the right tax laws, probate laws and many other laws can present particular problems faced by to make medical decisions for a loved same-sex couples, but there are also some advantages and opportunities made possible one, the right to automatically inherit by not being legally married! property shared and paid for together with a spouse, the right to cover loved Being the only top 10 law firm in Maryland that specifically concentrates in Same-Sex ones under employee family insurance Law, our attorneys are familiar with all aspects of planning for same sex couples. plans-especially when working for the state government, the right not to be Our concentration focuses on issues directly affecting your life, and your rights: hit with a tax penalty when employer Healthcare Proxy • Power of Attorney • Joint Purchase & Savings Agreements Elbridge James domestic partners benefits are treated Estate Planning • Adoption • Second Parent Adoption • Child Custody as taxable income. For more information Guardianship • Advance Health Care Directive • Wills • Divorce spiritual marriage means from a contact Elbridge James, MBFA, 301- Domestic Partnership Agreements • Corporate Law religious perspective. Most importantly, 213-9657, [email protected], the Maryland Black Family Alliance will Lea Gilmore, MBFA, 443-824-0272, Proudly supporting and serving the LGBT community since 1988. promote the general welfare of all black [email protected] or Meredith families by encouraging the principles of Curtis, ACLU-MD, 410-889-8555, legal fairness to empower straight allies [email protected]. hpklegal.com 410.938.8800 Thanksgiving Worship at Govans Presbyterian Church

The Interfaith Fairness Coalition of Maryland will sponsor a Worship service of HODES, PESSIN & KATZ, P.A. Thanksgiving on Monday, Nov. 12, at Govans Presbyterian Church, 5826 York Road. Attorneys At Law The service will begin at 7:30 pm with a reception to follow. For more information, Big firm talent, small firm appeal. please contact Carol at 410-435-0392. Towson Columbia Bel Air Bethesda Cambridge 6  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Who Are the People in Your Gayborhood? By Nate Sweeney

Relationship status? Involved.

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Best part about your job? My customers. I love them.

Worst part about your job? We carry a fine selection of imported All the responsibilities. & domestic beer, wine & liquor. What was the best Halloween costume you saw this year? Monday - Saturday Mine. I was a cop. 9 am til 6 pm. Favorite movie? Closed Sunday Titanic. Nate Charles Local Delivery Best drink you mix? Available. Cosmo. Yell or pout? Yell. Favorite drink to have someone Bolton Hill’s Independent Pharmacy make for you? Burt or Ernie? 1535 Park Avenue (410) 225-0800 Cosmo. Ernie. Favorite item on the Thanksgiving Favorite cologne? Day table? Burberry Touch. Stuffing and gravy. Sci-Fi invention from the future that Favorite vacation you’ve ever been you want for today? on? Flying cars. If you can believe it, it was Ocean City. Favorite Website? There is a new one called If you had a million dollars to give blackgayspace.com I Like. to a charity, which would it be? There are so many. Probably the Thunderdome! Two shall enter, Katrina victims because we still one shall leave: Al Pacino vs. have so much to do down there. Robert DeNiro? Al Pacino. What is your motto for life? Live and let live. Favorite place to buy clothes ? Nordstrom. Dream car? A Lamborghini. Favorite Comedian? I would probably have to go with What is your best feature? Chris Tucker. Probably my smile. What would you carry out of your Last good book you read? house if it was on fire? E. Lynn Harris’s autobiography, The people inside. What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.

Cake or frosting? Cake. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  7

fifth annual equality maryland jazz brunch and silent auction Thank You! Thanks to everyone involved for making the 5th Annual Equality Maryland Jazz Brunch such a stunning success! The Jazz Brunch was a sell-out (and then some) and our terrific line-up of speakers included Congressman John Lewis, Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon, Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot, State Senator Gwendolyn Britt, and Pioneer For Equality Award recipient Victor J. Basile. Our gratitude goes out to everyone who attended the event and to all our generous sponsors, table captains, silent auction donors, and committee members!

sponsors table captains PRIMARY SPONSOR ALLIES Jeffrey Z. Slavin & Douglas Miller Scott Allocco & Douglas Clark Mickey Allison & Kelly Long Linda Amendt & Diane Gubernot Brian Armstrong & Ernie England SPONSOR TerriLee and Martha Bell Lina Ayers Sandy Schmidt & Rita Kranidis Tim Bernazikowski Victor J. Basile Charles Blackburn & Glen Dehn Paul Bittner Shirley Brandman & Howard Shapiro HOSTS Davis Bradley Steve Charing & Bob Ford Scott Davenport & Tim Fisher Jeff Burch & Lou Ghitman Paul Fowler & Frank McNeil Cary Chavis Gita Deane & Lisa Polyak Jay Jenkins Ciekot & Elliott, LLC Gretta Estey Bill Magruder & Azam Khan Ken Cohen & Bing Bingham Mark Scurti & Michael Myers Nancy Corporon, REALTOR Equality Montgomery County Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. Terry Dalsemer & Gail Owen Saul Ewing Ronald J. Taylor, M.D. Diebert for U.S. Congress Free State Legal Services Project University of Maryland Medical Center The Dirty Baker's Dozen (Mt. Washington) Sharon Gorenstein, Ph.D. & Mary Washington, Ph.D. Michele Zavos Tim Drabic & Donn Schroeder AMY Grace & Karen Blood Mara Drummond & Sarah Zietlow Candace Groudine Lawrence Esser & Thomas Frank Toth CHAMPIONS Steve Haddad Bob & Myrna Bernstein John Farley & Dennis Wilson TJ Hindman Gary Colangelo & Gerald Duvall Marilyn & Howard Furmansky The Hippo Stiles Tuttle Colwill Michael Gervais & Ken Bryan Constellation Energy Group Coleen A. Hanna & Wayne L. Whitaker Elbridge & Debra James Ellen W. Halle Katie Harris & Sylvia Lohr Jon A. Kaplan & Joel Pearson Dr. Payam Hariri & Joe Coates Michael Harrison Kirk Designs, Inc. Blake Humphreys & Paul Larsen Jeff Hill & Barry Goodman Jeffrey Knox & Hector Manzano Lawrence Jacobs & Steven Snapp Delegate Sheila Hixson Tim McCoy & Brian Harvey Jeffrey Knox & Hector Manzano Monty & Steve Howard Kathy McGuire & Whitney Conneally Mark Paul Lehman & Kurt Davis Jon A. Kaplan & Joel Pearson John McKee Daniel Kinsella & Gregory Wood Mary Ann Miller & Lou Ann Brubaker Moveable Feast Partnership Wealth Management Jamie & Paul Langlie National Association of Social Workers, Joseph Smelkinson Foundation Fred D. Mason III & Phillip J. Lovett Maryland Chapter Carol Stern & Miriam Eisenstein Miles & Stockbridge Dr. Douglas E. Stouffer & Mr. Anthony Carota Delegate Karen S. Montgomery National Black Justice Coalition Dominic Vecchiollo & Lee Carpenter Shaw-Jelveh Design Gary Oldenburg Hugh Silcox & Steve Pestoff Lisa Orenstein & Rebecca Carle MEDIA SPONSORS Valerie Strickroth & Teri Dean Jae Patton & Pat Mikos Baltimore OUTloud Chris Taylor & Thom Shipley Vernon Rey CAMP Rehoboth Dave Toth & Ken Bohon Jeremy Rosendale Gay Life David Vignolo & William Mitchell Sandy Schmidt & Rita Kranidis James Walker & Lee Rubin Mark Scurti & Michael Myers Valerie Strickroth & Teri Dean Dave Toth & Ken Bohon jazz brunch committee Sally Wall & Pat Montley Jon A. Kaplan, Chair • Paul Bittner • Lisa Kershner, Esq. • Jeffrey Knox • Karen Moore, Esq. William Wernick & Dan Gilbert Lisa Orenstein • Dominic Vecchiollo • Mark Walden, M.D. Scott Wilkins & Zhan Caplan

Save these dates for future Equality Maryland events FEBRUARY 11, 2008 – Lobby Day, Annapolis • JUNE 1, 2008 – Night Out for Equality Gala, Montgomery County Visit www.EqualityMaryland.org for more information! 8  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Dining Out in Charm City

A N E V E R Y D A Y C O A S T A L B I S T R O W H E R E C H E F S C O M E T O E A T

Jack’s Bistro exudes infectious good humor and free-spiritedness, which extend w Our “ from the merry frontbar right back to the pass-through kitchen. ho P ay - Cit y Paper S rid ryd e e Eve Stelzenmuller’s dishes are more wildly imaginative than any other chef’s in W Baltimore. - The Sun An element sorely lacking in the local restaurant scene has finally come to town. No, two elements: fun and....chutzpah. ” - Baltimore Magazine

“Come as a Stranger,Leave as a Friend!” Tuesday thru Sunday 5pm–2am • Kitchen is open 5pm–1am Open Daily for Lunch 300 W. 30th St. • Baltimore, MD and Dinner (410) 235-0171 ���������������������������������������������� baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  9 Coalition, National Stonewall Democrats, and the Task Force. Also participating in Call for Urgent Response from NIH, CDC and LGBT the meeting were the National Coalition for LGBT Health, the National Black Community to Devastating Impact on Black Gay Men Gay Men’s Advocacy Coalition and the National Policy Advisor for the National Leaders of the lgbt equality and the concern of the leaders about the gay men in the United States. Black Gay Men’s Advocacy Coalition. civil rights movement issued an urgent epidemic’s continued impact, especially Other LGBT leadership organizations The National Coalition For Lesbian, statement in Washington, DC, regarding Gay, Bisexual And Transgender Health continuing signs of the unabated impact is committed to improving the health of the HIV epidemic across the United and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual States. The leaders are calling for a and transgender individuals and renewed effort to address the HIV communities through public education, epidemic and its devastating impact, coalition building and advocacy that especially in black gay communities. focus on research, policy, education and in Charm City The gathering was convened by the training. National Black Gay Men’s Advocacy The National Black Gay Men’s Coalition and the National Coalition for Advocacy Coalition is committed to LGBT Health. improving the health and well-being of When the AIDS crisis began, the Black Gay Men through advocacy that is lgbt community came together with great focused on research, policy, education force, but with the advent of effective and training. treatments, the epidemic has largely For more information contact fallen off the agenda for the leading lgbt A. Cornelius Baker, National Policy civil rights groups. Advisor, National Black Gay Men’s A 2005 study from the US Centers Advocacy Coalition at 202.489.7490 or for Disease Control and Prevention by emailing acorneliusbaker@hotmail. (CDC) in five major cities showed that among black gay men. Of 129 participating in the meeting and their com. Or Darrel Cummings, Executive 46% of black gay men had acquired HIV interventions developed to address HIV representatives were: Arcus Foundation, Committee, National Coalition for LGBT and that 67% of them were unaware in African Americans, only one has been Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Health at 323.993.7605 or by emailing of their HIV status. Surveillance data designed or adapted for black gay men. Defamation, Gay and Lesbian Medical [email protected]. released by the New York City Health Additionally, very little research has Association, Lambda Legal, Log Cabin Department in September 2007 and been conducted to determine the actual Republicans, National Black Justice other recent reports has heightened costs of high rates of HIV among black 10  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Antigay Gospel Singer, Alienates Gays

Continued from page 1 need to be cured, and who has declared the audience. “God delivered me from ‘war’ on me and my people, but you’re homosexuality. God is the only way.” “McClurkin [is] black, he’s popular, going to put the guy on stage with you As John Aravosis wrote the next and gospel plays big with blacks in South anyway in order to make a few bucks. morning, “In the end, Obama let his Carolina, especially among evangelical, Nice. I wonder what Obama would say ‘best’ and ‘favorite’ artist slam gays to and many of them openly and even if Hillary invited [Nazi/racist] David Duke thousands of African Americans, in his more of the quietly loathe gays.” to speak at an event but then said, not name, and neither he nor his hand- The candidate and the singer to worry, she really loves black people— chosen white gay preacher said anything reportedly met at a September fund kisses!” in response.” raiser for Obama hosted by Oprah The Human Rights Campaign was Winfrey at her California mansion. more diplomatic, but not mollified. It POLITICAL INEPTITUDE H. Alexander Robinson, CEO of expressed appreciation of the gesture by Chicago political consultant Michael the National Black Justice Coalition the campaign, but also disappointment Bauer, who has personal ties to Obama, (NBJC), said on October 23, “For Sen. that it had not done more. President Joe was appalled by the ineptitude of the Obama to align himself with publicly Solmonese said, “There is no gospel in campaign staff. He said a principle Donnie McClurkin antigay individuals is both hurtful and Donnie McClurkin’s message for gay[s]. responsibility of the staff is to make sure disappointing. Rev. Donnie McClurkin That’s a message that certainly doesn’t that such mistakes do not happen and Donnie McClurkin once state that he was at ‘war’ with the belong on any presidential candidate’s draw the candidate and media off the stage.” message of the day. The Grammy award winning gospel The Obama campaign belatedly But there have been repeated singer and minister could in many ways tried to “balance” the situation by adding incidents of such gaffs, both broadly serve as a poster boy for the ex-gay an openly gay minister to the program. and specifically with the gay community, movement. McClurkin has written in his Rev. Andy Sidden is pastor of Garden such as earlier this year in making a autobiography that he was raped as a of Grace United Church of Christ, in weak response to then Chairman of the child by relatives and lived a homosexual Columbia, South Carolina. It is a former Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Peter Pace’s lifestyle until he prayed the gay away at parish of the Metropolitan Community characterization of gays as “immoral.” the age of 28. He now calls homosexuality Church. The campaign rejected He blames it on the staff more than a “curse” and preaches against it at his possible black ministers suggested by the candidate, but acknowledges that Long Island Pentecostal megachurch. the NCBJ. Obama must shoulder the ultimate He also sang at the Republican National That created a new set of problems— responsibility. Bauer’s principle question Convention in 2004. Sidden is white. Pam Spaulding, writing is, who is going to be held accountable? But it appears that the born again on her blog pamshouseblend.com, said, Who is going to be fired for the political pastor has not forsaken the down low. “It boggles the mind that the Obama ineptitude. On October 25, New York-based writer campaign would select a white pastor Bauer made the comparison with Clay Cane posted [claycane.blogspot. com] an interview with an anonymous Earl Ofari Hutchinson to deal with a situation that is awash in George Bush and the President’s black homophobia. Politics 101…Barack loyalty to people like Alberto Gonzalez male who claimed an ongoing sexual LGBT community, stating, ‘The gloves Obama is clearly showing he doesn’t and Donald Rumsfeld who were kept on relationship with McClurkin from are off and if there’s going to be a war, understand the need of the religious despite continued screw ups. “Barack is 2001 through 2004 as the singer was achieving musical success and founding there’s going to be a war…I’m not in the black community to see one of their own supposed to be different,” said Bauer, his church. It is ripe with salacious yet mood to play with those who are trying deliver that message.” “but nobody is getting fired, nobody is matter of fact details, but the tone is one to kill our children.’” “The last thing a crowd of black folks being held accountable.” of pity more than condemnation. The Coalition was one of many who have a problem with homosexuality Academician Ken Sherrill, the groups within the gay community needs is: 1) to be ‘told’ by the Obama godfather of gay political science, said, who called upon Obama to distance campaign that a message about “Obama may have been caught by his behavior in this case is a classic themselves from the antigay rhetoric. tolerance must be delivered from a white surprise with expressions of outrage example of the politics of the past,” voice of faith, and 2) to have their beliefs came from LGBT leaders. The critical Sherrill said. “I think it’s an example of OBAMA’S RESPONSE confirmed that being gay is ‘a white man’s point, I fear, is that he didn’t know to the not-ready-for-prime-time aspect of The campaign issued a statement perversion.’ Coming from a white pastor handle the dispute. For better or worse, Obama’s candidacy.” from Obama saying, “I strongly believe under these circumstances, can only be he didn’t triangulate and he didn’t The latest Los Angeles Times/ that African Americans and the LGBT seen as paternalistic and patronizing; mediate. He didn’t show those qualities Bloomberg poll shows that Obama “has community must stand together in the the shields of defensiveness will go up, of leadership and he didn’t show lost strength in such groups as those with fight for equal rights. And so I strongly the message will be ignored.” decisiveness.” higher education and the affluent, which disagree with Rev. McClurkin’s views The campaign’s born-again 25-year- “Obama’s campaign promised to were the mainstays of his candidacy.” and will continue to fight for these rights old director of religious affairs, Joshua break with the politics of the past, but This latest misstep is not going to help. as President of the United States to DuBois, held an October 25 conference ensure that America is a country that call with leaders of the South Carolina spreads tolerance instead of division.” Gay and Lesbian Pride Movement to try Send your thoughts, The singer remained on the program. to defuse the situation. It didn’t work; opinions, ideas, The campaign posted the statement 15-20 members ended up staging a vigil Got on the GLBT segment of the website, but outside the event on Sunday night. or whatever is on your not among the general news releases. Rather than let the matter die down, Something mind to: The response prompted blogger McClurkin stoked the flames further John Aravosis to write on Americablog. in the closing segment of the concert. publisher@ com, “That’s nice Senator. You strongly “Don’t call me a bigot or antigay when I to Say? baltimoreoutloud.com disagree with the bigot who thinks I have suffered the same feelings” he told baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  11 he said. “Most of them are good people and are not doing alcohol, drugs or racing vehicles” like the members of youth gangs, he added. (Philadelphia Gay News - ������������������ Larry Nichols at epgn.com) ���������������������� Wash. State rep. resigns in gay hustler expose Olympia, WA - Conservative Republican Washington state Rep. Richard Curtis is resigning from office a day after a sex scandal erupted that linked him to a gay prostitute. In the legislature These news notes have been compiled, with permission, from the on line Curtis voted against two major version of various newspapers and other web sites. We thank these publications lgbt rights bills. Both passed for allowing us to bring you their news stories. Usually the reports have been and were signed into law. significantly edited and you can read the full story by going to the web site mentioned Republican leaders will choose following the item. Comments are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker and not of a successor for Curtis to serve Baltimore Outloud or Pride Media. in the Legislature until the 2008 Hundreds stage protest at California sex gulag election. Coalinga, CA - Civil detainees at California’s Coalinga State Hospital are in In a statement saying he their second month of a strike, protesting the conditions at the understaffed facility was “sorry” and apologizing to and “treatment” protocols that make anyone he has “hurt” Curtis said it all-but impossible for them to gain he is leaving politics. “While I their freedom. Coalinga houses more believe we’ve done some good Rep. Richard Curtis and Cody Castagna than 600 men who have completed and helped a lot of people during prison sentences for sex crimes, the time I served in the Legislature, events that have recently come to light have hurt but who remain incarcerated under a lot of people. I sincerely apologize for any pain my actions may have caused.” California’s civil-commitment law. For days rumors had spread that Curtis was being blackmailed by a hustler. According to organizers, about Curtis on Monday denied he was gay and said he never had sex with a male. three-quarters of those incarcerated in Tuesday, though, Seattle police unsealed a search warrant showing Curtis went to the Coalinga facility are participating police alleging he was being blackmailed by a man he had picked up for sex. The in some way with the strike, which warrant said that Curtis met the man at a Spokane adult video store, brought him to began August 6. Strikers are refusing his hotel room, had sex, fell asleep, and woke up with his wallet missing. The next day California’s Coalinga State Hospital to take part in the facility’s activities the man contacted him and demanded $1000.00 for the return of the wallet. Curtis and treatment programs, and are displaying “protest tags” carrying slogans such as gave him $200.00 but when the man demanded $800.00 more, Curtis contacted “When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty.” On September 2, over a the ploce and identified Cody Castagna as the alleged blackmailer. According to dozen Coalinga detainees ratcheted up the protest by undertaking a hunger strike, the police Castagna claimed that Curtis offered him $1,000 in exchange for sex, vowing to refuse food until conditions are improved. While strike organizers report and gave him his wallet as collateral because he did not have the $1000.00. When that as many as one-half of the guards, termed “custody police,” are sympathetic, Curtis failed to pay up the following day, Castagna admits to threatening to expose there has been harassment and opposition -- sometimes violent -- to the strike. Curtis to his wife. What Castagna did not know was Curtis had contacted police The Coalinga facility was completed in 2005 at a cost of $388 million, and following the first call by Castagna and a police officer was in the room when the was designed to house the rapidly-growing population of persons convicted of second call came in. (365Gay.com) illegal sex who have completed their prison sentences but remain incarcerated as Boston black outreach forum draws mostly whites “Sexual Violent Predators” whether or not any violence was involved in their crime. Boston, MA - At the start of a town hall meeting at Boston’s Club Café to Estimates from two detainees suggest that a majority of Coalinga’s population were discuss the relationship between the marriage movement and the black community, incarcerated for non-violent, same-sex crimes. An extension of a court-determined state Sen. Dianne Wilkerson wasted no time in pointing out the elephant in the prison sentence would not be legal, so state officials maintain that facilities like room: While the town hall meeting featured a panel of black speakers and a Coalinga provide “treatment” that does not constitute further “punishment.” This legal black moderator, the 25-person crowd in the audience was overwhelmingly white. fiction was upheld in a 1997 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Kansas v. Hendricks. Wilkerson said the fact that so few people of color turned out for the event shows Writing for the 5 to 4 majority, Justice Clarence Thomas ruled that indefinite civil how much work the marriage equality movement must do going forward to reach confinement is not punishment. Those seeking updates on the strike and conditions out to communities of color. She referred to remarks made earlier in the evening at Coalinga can e-mail [email protected] or browse sexgulag.org (The Guide by MassEquality board president David Wilson, who is black, that there had long - French Wall at guidemag.org) been a perception by many in the community that the marriage movement was a Cambodian PM disowns lesbian daughter white movement. Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Cambodia’s prime minister, Hun Sen, announced “I just want you to know that I think that it is not unusual that the audience during a speech at a university graduation ceremony Oct. 30 that he disowned his makeup is what it is precisely because of what David has said. And so no one adopted daughter because she is a lesbian, but should take this as a sign of discouragement as much as affirmation of the work he urged the country not to discriminate against that we have to do,” said Wilkerson. She added that while marriage equality is an gays. “My adopted daughter now has a wife,” he important topic, it is not the most pressing issue facing the black community in said. “I’m quite disappointed.” Boston. Sen said he plans to file a civil court case so The town hall meeting is part of a newly launched effort by MassEquality and that she cannot claim any inheritance from his the National Black Justice Coalition to increase and improve outreach to the black family. “We are concerned that she might one community on the issue of same-sex marriage. The organizations sponsored a day cause us trouble and try to stake her claim similar forum in Worcester Oct. 30, and on Nov. 12 they will host a training session for a share of our assets,” he said. The prime for community members to learn how to use a publication called “Jumping the minister and his wife have five children, three Broom: A Black Perspective on Same-Gender Marriage” as an outreach tool in the sons and two daughters. They adopted their black community. (Bay Windows - Ethan Jacobs at baywindows.com). third daughter when she was 18 days old. Sen, meanwhile, told the graduating class at the National Institute of Education that it is wrong to discriminate against homosexuals. “I’d like to take this opportunity to appeal to parents Hun Sen, Cambodia’s prime minister and society not to discriminate against them,” 12  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com

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Stephen B. Mastella, D.M.D and Sherry Honar, D.D.S. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  13 FULL SERVICE SALON Transgender Alec-Edwards Salon Pastor Continued from page 1 F U L L S E R V I C E S A L O N matters as change in pension credit, Hair Care • Skin Care • Massage corrections or additions to matters reported in the ‘Business of the Annual Conference’ form in previous years, and legal name changes of clergy members (410) 279-7218 and diaconal ministers). One of the clergy members asked if the name http://alecedwardssalon.googlepages.com Visa/Mastercard accepted change indicated a gender change and the Bishop indicated that it did. The clergyperson for whom a change of name was reported is an elder in good standing in the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference.” The courts decision was based on the following facts, “A clergyperson who remained in good standing in the annual conference is required to be continued under appointment. A clergyperson’s good standing cannot be terminated without administrative or judicial action having occurred and all fair process being accorded. All clergy name changes regardless of the reasons for the name change are to be placed under Minute Question # 91. The Judicial Council does not reach the question of whether gender change is a chargeable offense or violates minimum standards established by the General Conference.”

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If you Answer NO to any of these, call ROLAND SMITH Certified Estate Planning Professional at Maryland Estate Planning 410-760-6098 14  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com LGBT Marriage – What “Sexual Orientation Only” About Our Other Issues? Enda Is Bad Strategy By Deacon Meredith Moise By Susan Christian elected Speaker of the House and Representative Barney Frank, the I support marriage for same sex couples. It makes my blood boil that law abiding, The other day, I received an email powerful and openly-gay champion of tax paying citizens are not granted full and equal rights in terms of marriage. The from a good friend who is very smart, civil rights legislation—that intentionally marriage issue in our community has been the central focus of many state and progressive and lesbian. She wrote excludes protection for gender identity national groups in recent years. We have waged our struggle here in Maryland to that she doesn’t spend too much time and expression would be a devastating extend equal marriage rights to same sex couples. We have spent so much time reading about political issues, gay or not, blow to on-going efforts to advance and money trying to move the legislature to do the right thing on this issue. Now and that my partner—who is her best comprehensive civil rights legislation. It that the Maryland Court of Appeals has ruled against extending equal marriage friend—had explained my opposition to has, in fact, already begun to have that rights to our community, where do we go from here? The state wide lgbt civil rights a “sexual orientation only” Employment negative affect: word has reached the group has proclaimed that it will forge ahead with the battle in the legislature. Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA): National Center for Lesbian Rights that a Sponsors have been lined up to move a marriage bill through the General “I didn’t understand it, I thought it Florida legislator preparing to introduce Assembly. “Full steam ahead!” is the cry. totally jeopardized the attempt to protect an anti-discrimination ordinance which Now I wonder at this important crossroad, have we spent too much time gay and lesbian workers . . . and I don’t included gender identity and expression begging the heterosexuals in Annapolis to give us full marriage rights? At what understand why it got so polarized if removed these provisions after learning cost? When I look around me, particularly on the streets of Baltimore City, I it doesn’t jeopardize the passage of that House Democratic leadership had see so many lgbt folks struggling for the basics. I don’t hear the community at ENDA .” weakened ENDA and stripped the bill of large talking about mobilizing on marriage. I hear many of my friends, neighbors There is no one “ENDA”—there gender identity/expression protections, and colleagues lament about the lack of descent housing options for homeless is the original version of the bill which reasoning that “If it’s good enough for transgender individuals. I hear about skyrocketing HIV rates among Black gay includes protection for gender identity Barney Frank, it’s good enough for men. I see seasoned activists sounding the alarm on homeless gay youth, and expression, and there is a stripped- me.” roaming the streets of Baltimore selling sex for food and shelter. I don’t hear the down version which excludes gender The physician’s guiding principle rank and file rattling the sabers on marriage. identity/expression as well as other is to first do no harm. This must also I will admit that this may be battle fatigue. But I will also say that the suffering provisions important for the protection of become a guiding principal for our we endure in our community goes far beyond the lack of marriage rights. In some lesbian and gay workers. An ENDA which political leaders and legislators. As quarters, the marriage issue has been presented as the cure for all of our ills. fails to provide protection for gender demonstrated by the statistics above, in However, the folks who advocate that position are largely middle to upper class identity and expression not only fails to the last decade a significant degree of white men who have a lot at stake in the marriage battle. They would like to protect transgender workers, it does not the authority that had previously been protect their valuable assets as well as receive the social and moral approval of fully protect individuals who are lesbian exercised solely at the federal level the traditional heterosexual power brokers in this society. I don’t blame them. But or gay. At this stage, Presentation of a has come to be shared by legislators I must raise the issue of a small number of gay folks moving our struggle toward non-inclusive ENDA is bad civil rights at the state and local level. Any new a “marriage- only” focus. strategy that will do grievous harm to federal legislation must take account of I believe that we must have a comprehensive agenda to improve the quality state and local legislative efforts that this changed landscape and build upon of life for everyday LGBT people across the state. Marriage is a piece of the have been producing significant and the progress made by the states and agenda but it is not the whole enchilada. I would like to see folks raise their comprehensive results. localities. voices on gay youth issues, transgender health and protection issues as well as Over the last 15 years, 13 states During her historic keynote address HIV among Black gay men and women. I applaud those who continue to voice and the District of Columbia have at the 1976 Democratic Convention in their concerns about these issues in the hallowed halls of our statehouse. And I passed laws that protect people against New York , the great Congresswoman urge those who have been singularly focused on marriage to broaden their view various forms of discrimination based Barbara Jordan noted that previously of gay life in Maryland. It’s more than just marriage. It is about our well being as upon both sexual orientation and unimaginable social change had led a people. It’s about a Black lesbian teenager kicked out of her house because gender identity/expression. Eight states to her, an African-American woman, she came out to her parents. It’s about a transgender man being accosted in a currently ban discrimination based addressing the Convention. The restaurant because of his gender identity and expression. It’s about young gay upon sexual orientation only. So, 13 of Congresswoman reminded those men feeling safe to be out in their communities in rural parts of the state. Winning the 21, or 62 %, of states that prohibit listening that: marriage will not necessarily solve their problems but a comprehensive public sexual orientation discrimination also “We are a party of innovation. We do education program about our community is a healthy first step. prohibit gender identity/expression not reject our traditions, but we are willing The civil rights movement of the 60s was not about Black folks sitting next discrimination. Additionally, nearly 100 to adapt to changing circumstances, to white folks at lunch counters. It was not about Black folks being able to sit municipalities in the 30 states without when change we must. We are willing to next to neither white folks nor even Black men marrying white women. It was nondiscrimination laws have their own suffer the discomfort of change in order about people standing up for their dignity as human beings. The aforementioned local nondiscrimination ordinances. to achieve a better future … instances were ways in which movement leaders chose to express this ideal. But According to the Transgender Law and And now we must look to the future. at no point was it the end all or be all of the movement. The movement was about Policy Institute, 92 of these municipalities Let us heed the voice of the people and the full recognition of the human rights of citizens traditionally denigrated by the prohibit discrimination based upon recognize their common sense. If we do white supremacy present on American landscape. Dr. King and others realized gender identity and expression. (The not, we not only blaspheme our political that this was a movement about people reclaiming their humanity. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is heritage, we ignore the common ties Conversely, I plead with you, the reader, to think about the totality of gay currently compiling an in-depth analysis that bind all Americans.” liberation. Is marriage the bellwether of our humanity? Is marriage the key piece to that will be provided to our elected In response to the possibility of an full recognition of our humanity? I believe that the marriage issue is a part but not officials and communities.) ENDA that fails to protect people based the whole. Our complete affirmation in this society will hinge not on marriage but in In the face of this ongoing progress, upon gender identity and expression, our willingness to advocate for own health and well being. From an end to religious introduction of federal legislation—by over 300 national, state and local lgbt based homophobia to the end of the AIDS epidemic, we must struggle on, keeping the consistently-progressive Democrat organizations formed a coalition to fight our eyes on the prize: the recognition of who are....people who deserve life and who is San Francisco’s Representative for a fully-inclusive ENDA. Alice is one liberty by virtue of simply being who we are...... human beings. as well as the first woman to be See Edna, Bad Strategy on page 34 baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  15 The Two ‘Gay Marylands’ �������������� ���������������� ������������������������������

“gay ghettos.” They shrug off clubs and the party aspects, not to celebrate bars and seek alternative social outlets, gay history and the sacrifices previous usually with a small circle of tight-knit generations made to help in the struggle friends. They get involved in the political for equality. process and host and attend house Among those in this segment of Gay parties to raise and contribute money Maryland, one can find a good bit of racial for candidates and causes. and financial diversity. There is a higher The other Gay Maryland—the proportion of African-Americans and overwhelmingly vast majority—consists lesbians in this group than in the other of those thousands of folks who cram the Gay Maryland. Some are financially Former Human Rights Campaign streets during the Baltimore Pride block secure or at least comfortable; others of a rally at Lawyers Mall and meetings Executive Director Elizabeth Birch, in party or the parade in DC. They are are just trying to get by. Few, though, with legislators. “Can you imagine what addressing the 700 or so who attended typically younger, and a good number own a Lexus or a vacation home or fill impact we would have if thousands the recent Equality Maryland Jazz of them frequent clubs and bars. Most their closets with designer clothes. attended,” he asked rhetorically. Brunch fundraiser, unearthed a curious are single and looking, but there are These two Gay Marylands aren’t The “thousands” would have to paradox. While offering a testimonial couples as well. They are predominantly divided cleanly, however. There are come from the second gay Maryland, to the venerable gay rights advocate urbanites with some living in suburban young folks, singles, African-Americans, but how? Victor Basile, who received the Pioneer and rural areas. lesbians and people of modest means Dan Furmansky, the executive for Equality award, Birch shared an This category of gays and lesbians in the first group. And I know of white, director of Equality Maryland recognizes anecdote disclosing how she used are more apt to be politically apathetic. older, professional, financially well-off this challenge and would be extremely to make wealthy gay men feel guilty Much of this could be traced to their and coupled folks who fit the second happy if this segment of Gay Maryland when pressing them for donations. She increases its participation. reminded them of their Armani suits, “Equality Maryland is holding town third houses and other luxuries. halls across the state and also holding To the many professionals, Maryland Political Newsgroup low-dollar amount fundraisers like the elected officials, business owners and Speaking of politics, there is a terrific, moderated newsgroup that focuses recent social-centric Equality Beats,” otherwise well-healed members of the on political issues that concern the lgbt community in Maryland. The pertinent Furmansky told me. “We plan to reach lgbt community and allies who were links to this group to subscribe and post messages, etc. are shown below: out to this section of the lgbt community present at this upscale event, her story Post message: [email protected] by having a greater presence at the garnered chuckles. They knew all too Subscribe: [email protected] bars and partnering with bar owners to well what Birch was saying and that it Unsubscribe: [email protected] find creative ways to get their patrons made sense. List owner: [email protected] involved in the movement with the To others in the community who understanding that not everyone will be cannot afford such affairs, much less motivated to put down their drink and own Armani suits, had they been domestic situation. Single people are group, so there are exceptions. head to Annapolis.” present, they would be like, “Huh?” not directly affected by the same-sex As a result of observations in my That’s a daunting task given the That’s because there are actually marriage debate and are likely to tune nearly three decades of covering the degree of apathy that exists. But even two Gay Marylands—to paraphrase out. For various reasons, they do not and lgbt community, the tendency is that the these folks would benefit mightily if the Democratic candidate John Edwards’ cannot contemplate same-sex marriage first Gay Maryland is politically aware two Gay Marylands would merge into “Two Americas.” There is one gay as a possibility for themselves. and active; the other is indifferent and one so that we can travel the road to Maryland where mostly coupled men There is also a good deal of inactive. equality together. and women share a passion for equality bitterness among these folks. They are Jon Kaplan, who chaired the Jazz Steve Charing’s OUTspoken blog is and take action to try to make it happen. disgusted with government and their Brunch, pointed out at the Brunch that at www.SteveCharing.blogspot.com. They are the targets of gay-related leaders, so it is not a stretch to conclude hundreds normally attend Lobby Day, fundraisers because these folks believe that this cynicism contributes to their the Equality Maryland organized-event in the movement and have the financial indifference. Others are disinterested in Annapolis in February that consists means to participate. As a result, they based on the norms of the younger attend these functions and often write generation who see political matters as substantial checks to do so. an annoyance and an intrusion upon Send your thoughts, Not to generalize, but a significant their lives. Got opinions, ideas, number of gays and lesbians in this I personally know a large number group are older and are settled with of people in this group, and they could or whatever is on your partners, many raising children. As such, care less about politics and trying to Something mind to: they are seeking to gain rights to protect advance the cause. Many are clueless their assets and secure their future. as to what is going on. Furthermore, publisher@ They reside in suburban locales or in they don’t want to be bothered by it. to Say? baltimoreoutloud.com tony areas of the cities, as well as the They seem to attend Pride events for 16  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Anal Sex After Prostate Surgery ���������������������� ��������������������� Dear Dr. Eva, removed do you have to wait to receive ������ Hi. How long after having your anal sex? Prostate surgery doesn’t prostate removed do you have to wait involve the anus or rectum. Once the will be different and may take time to 1. The older a man is when he to receive anal sex? And the doctor said surgery is fully healed and you are not get used to. The prostate gland makes starts treatment for prostate cancer, he did not cut the nerves that create having any pain with bowel movements, most of the fluid that comes out of the the likelier he is to have problems with erections. How long will it take to have you can go back to having sex in your penis when a man ejaculates (comes). sexual function. erections again? Can you have orgasms usual way. You should start gradually, If most of your prostate was removed, 2. Men who had no problems with without semen? If I can’t have erections and use plenty of lube. Anal sex does expect little or no fluid. Sperm, which is sexual function before treatment are less will Viagra work? not cause prostate cancer, and having made in the testicles, is only a small part likely to have problems after treatment. Thank You. anal sex will not make the cancer come of ejaculate. 3. The more advanced the prostate Greg back. If I can’t have erections will Viagra cancer is, the likelier the man is to have Dear Greg, How long will it take to have work? This depends on why you sexual problems after treatment. This I hope you asked your surgeon erections again? The nerves that make can’t have erections. Viagra opens is because more advanced cancers these questions. The surgeon knows the penis erect are very close to the up the blood vessels inside the penis require more aggressive treatment, what tissues were damaged by the prostate gland. Even if the surgeon is so more blood flows into the penis, causing more damage to the structures cancer and what structures were as careful as possible, some of these making the erection firmer. If you have involved in sexual function. affected by the surgery, so the surgeon nerve fibers may have been cut or any problems with blood vessels, for 4. Hormone treatments for prostate is the best person to talk to about your injured during your surgery. Depending example if you are a smoker, or have cancer, like injectable Lupron, cause own particular situation. My answers on how much damage occurred, you diabetes or high blood pressure, Viagra sexual dysfunction because they block are general, and might not be correct might recover partly or completely. and similar drugs may help you to get an testosterone effects. in your case. I am assuming that you Nerves are one of the slowest growing erection. If nerve damage is the reason 5. A man who has an understanding only had surgery, not radiation therapy. tissues in the body, and they are very you cannot get an erection, Viagra won’t partner is more likely to recover sexual (Radiation has different effects on sexual slow to recover from injury. It could be make a difference. function than a man with no partner, or a function than surgery.) a year after surgery or longer before There is a good book on this topic, man whose partner is not sympathetic. As scary as it is to be diagnosed with your recovery is complete. Even after called A Gay Man’s Guide to Prostate prostate cancer, going back to having the surgery that’s called “nerve sparing,” Cancer, published in 2005 and is Dr. Eva Hersh is Acting Chief Medical sex after treatment can be almost as most men will not have erections as firm available from Haworth Medical Press. Officer at Chase Brexton Health Services. scary as the cancer itself. You don’t as they did before surgery. The authors, Drs. Gerald Perlman and Send your comments and questions to her know whether sex will be painful, or Can you have orgasms without Jack Drescher, list some personal traits by email at publisher@ baltimoreoutloud. BREX General w columbia 5/11/07 6:04 PM Page 1 com, or by surface mail to Eva Hersh MD, whether it will even be possible. semen? Yes, it’s possible to have that help predict a man’s sexual function Chase Brexton Health Services, 1001 How long after having your prostate orgasms without semen. This sensation after surgery: Cathedral St., Baltimore, MD 21201

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KEEP THE FAITH

Affi rmation Integrity/Baltimore Open Door MCC Group for gay and lesbian Mormons 4 E. University Pkwy. PO Box 127 PO Box 77504 Baltimore MD 21218 Boyds MD 20841-0127 Washington DC 20013 410-669-4919 301-601-9112 703-370-6269 www.opendoormcc.com www.affi rmation.org Interfaith Fairness Coalition of MD PO Box 13132 St. Bernadette Parish Archdiocese Ministry to Gay Baltimore MD 21203 Roman Catholic and Lesbian Catholics 410-233-5555 801 Stevenson Rd. 320 Cathedral St. www.ifcmd.org Severn MD 21144 Baltimore MD 21201 410-969-2783 410-547-5486 Lutherans Concerned – MD www.stbernadette.org [email protected] PO Box 1411 www.archbalt.org/gaylesbianministry Baltimore MD 21203 St. John’s of Baltimore City United [email protected] Methodist Church Congregation Beit Tikvah www.lcna.org St. Paul and 27th Sts. 5802 Roland Avenue Baltimore MD 21218 Baltimore MD 21210 MCC of Baltimore 410-366-7733 410-464-9400 401 W. Monument St. www.beittikvah.org Baltimore MD 21201 St. Sebastian Catholic Church 410-669-6222 1728 Eastern Ave. First and Franklin www.mccbaltimore.org Fells Point St. Presbyterian Church 443-691-9800 210 W. Madison St. MCC of the Chesapeake Baltimore MD 21201-4693 PO Box 6159 Soulforce DC 410-728-5545 Annapolis, MD 21401 555 Rocky Run Rd. Grace United Methodist Church www.fi rstfranklin.org 410-353-5534 Fredericksburg VA 22406 www.mccchesapeake.org 540-752-2917 The United Methodist Church in Baltimore City Welcomes You GALAH [email protected] Gay and Lesbian Atheists and Humanists MCC New Covenant Reconciling and welcoming congregations PO Box 34635 14301 Laurel Bowie Rd. Sufi Order Baltimore where you will be warmly welcomed are: Washington DC 20043 Laurel, MD 20708; 410-323-6883 202-265-6265 newcovenantmcc.org. www.sufi order.org www.GALAH.org Bethesda Church 6300 Harford Road MCC of Northern Virginia (NOVA) Unitarian Universalist Church of www.bethmethumc.com Govans Presbyterian Church 10383 Democracy Lane Annapolis 5828 York Rd. Fairfax VA 22030 333 Dubois Rd. Faith Community Church 5315 Harford Road Baltimore MD 21212 703-691-0930 Annapolis MD 21401 410-435-9188 www.mccnova.com 410-266-8044 www.faithcommunityumc.org 5407 N Charles St (at Northern Parkway) Grace Church Merciful Grace MCC Unity Fellowship Church Grace Church The United Methodist Church www.mccbaltimore.org/harford 114 W. Read St. www.graceunitedmethodist.org 5407 N. Charles St.. Baltimore MD 21201 www.graceunitedmethodist.org New Light MCC 410-244-0884 Mt Vernon Place Church (at the Monument) 40 W. Church St. www.ufcb.org [email protected] Holy Redeemer MCC Hagerstown MD 21740 4907 Niagara Rd. 301-797-5698 LIST YOUR ORGANIZATION St John’s Church (Baltimore City) 2640 St Paul St. Suite 102 www.newlightmcc.com Send name, address, phone, website www.stjohnsbaltimore.org College Park MD 20740 and contact person (not to be printed) to: 301-982-5775 www.holy-redeemer-mcc.org [email protected] 18  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com with the second album? I will plan a proper tour with this release. On the first album, I was so busy writing and recording the second Fight Song album, I couldn’t break out of the studio. This time, I’m taking a much needed Out Singer Matthew Duffy Attempts to Rally Gay Troops breather from the studio and hitting the

By Max Jimenez revolutionary artist, not afraid to shake our potential. We need things up on the playground. to use our collective Matthew Duffy’s debut album, Now he returns with The Healing strength as gay men Here I Come, created waves in clubs Machine. In it, Duffy becomes something and women instead three years ago, helping to usher in the of an activist, taking on global issues of working separately electro sound that has since taken over like hate crimes, the war and the on vital issues. Also, I the world’s dance floors. Led by the environment. The first single, #1 Enemy think many in the gay Billboard hit Electric Shock, and then - currently playing in heavy rotation on community are selling Little Bird, Duffy was able to combine LOGO-TV’s The Click List – is just the themselves short by old school flava house with electro first of several tracks on the album to being destructive with madness and strong pop melodies. The address those Duffy holds responsible drugs and unsafe sex. seductive album established Duffy as a for the state of the world. It’s where the So would you say young artist points his finger of blame that we are our own #1 that is surprising fans. enemy? I would. Nice lead in Why did you title your to my new single, by the sophomore album The Healing way. Machine It’s a powerful I was inspired by Cat Steven’s song, Matthew. And song, “The Wind”, which I cover on the video is sparking a the album. There is a line in it that lot of interest too! says, “I let my music take me where The video for the my heart wants to go.” Music for me is song is about injustice my healing machine. and standing up for who In this second album, you tackle you are and what you some hefty issues. believe in. It’s also about The world is spinning so fast and I’m struggling with your own finding that as we develop more modes self and those who want of communication, we are becoming to disparage you. more disconnected. In this new album, When I watched I explore ways we can get back to it, I saw a story of connecting with each other. In the end, redemption and that “one love will road. the only way we can grow and ultimately set us free”. How do you feel The Healing heal is through each other. Exactly! And that one love is Machine compares to Here I Come? Would you say the world is yourself. In the end, you must rely on The new album shows my musical screwed up? yourself to be strong and powerful. growth. It’s a lot more aggressive Definitely. We’re stuck in a war What is the significance of the then Here I Come. I utilize a real rock we can’t get out of. Healthcare is a kiss on the forehead? foundation on some tracks and some joke and we’re heading towards The man represents a prophet or a experimental and untraditional synths a recession. Don’t even get me life force that cleanses my character of and percussion elements as well. I started on gay rights. hatred and shame. definitely approached the album and We’ve made some He is gorgeous! each song as a story that I share both important strides with gay His name is Blake Towsley. He’s sonically and lyrically. marriage but we have an actor we discovered in Los Angeles. I was a big fan of your first album, also experienced Unfortunately, he is straight. but the message in the new album is some major Your first album, Here I Come, was exponentially more powerful. s e t b a c k s a critical and commercial success. My goal with Here I Come was to recently. How will you repeat that with The challenge my fans to think of the reality Y e s , Healing Machine? we lived in at the time. In The Healing especially Machine, I am asking people to look at with the I learned so much and continue themselves and reflect how they are i n c r e a s e to learn from my first record. On the directly affecting today’s reality. in hate business side, I developed an incredible crimes. It’s understanding of the music machine and For more information on Matthew s h a m e f u l . how each part - licensing, production, Duffy, visit his website at www. But you know, distribution - plays in getting your music matthewduffy.com. I think we as heard and your art seen. From my fans, a community are I really learned so much about how life partly to blame. surprises you and how lucky I am to be How so? making music for people. We underestimate Will you do anything differently baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  19

NOW PLAYING THRU NOVEMBER 18! Hippodrome Theatre France-Merrick Performing Arts Center 410.547.SEAT • BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • Box Office (M-Sat 10a-5p) Groups 20+ call 410.837.0110

Tickets subject to additional service charges and handling fees. Due to the nature of live entertainment; times, dates and performers are subject to change. No exchanges or refunds. 20  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com ���������������������� ��������������� ����������� Lions for Lambs ( R ) Cast: Tom Cruise; Meryl Streep; Robert politics because of the less than solid Redford; Derek Luke; Michael Peña; reputations so many of our leaders Andrew Garfield have today. Malley tries to get Todd to Director: Robert Redford focus on how important getting involved is by recounting a story of two former The story begins after two students, Arian and Ernest. In the third determined students at a West Coast story, a senator calls a reporter who University, Arian (Luke) and Ernest had been supportive of his campaign to (Peña), follow the inspiration of their deliver an exclusive story about a new idealistic professor, Dr. Malley (Redford), military movement in Afghanistan. What and attempt to do something important he doesn’t bargain for is the reporters and Ernest ultimately did as a result of that will put anything on the air without with their lives. But when the two make questions about why it’s taken so long Malley’s admonitions, may not be the verification, and “fair and balanced” the bold decision to join the battle in to form a new plan and a new strategy, right thing to do. The scenes with the news organizations that are anything Afghanistan, Malley is both moved especially when she realizes what senator and the journalist may also upset but, it really gives you food for thought. and distraught. Now, as Arian and he’s giving her is nothing more than some people as the filmmakers really With this being an election year and 12- Ernest fight for survival in the field, they propaganda to rally the country behind don’t try to hide the fact that they believe months of hard campaigning ahead of become the string that binds together his plan and his potential presidential people in politics are nothing more than us, it really is a time that we all need to two disparate stories on opposite sides aspirations. snake oil salesmen who can talk the talk realize that we can’t believe everything of America. In California, an anguished It should come as no surprise that and sucker in a gullible public who are we hear and we do have the ability to Dr. Malley attempts to reach a privileged Lions for Lambs leans in a certain tired of bad news concerning the war. make a difference in our country and the but disaffected student (Garfield) who is direction considering the talent involved, The journalist knows she’s being sold a world. the very opposite of Arian and Ernest. and it will be another of those films story, but she also knows that her once I enjoyed the film, and at a brisk Meanwhile, in Washington D.C. the that is basically preaching to the choir prestigious news organization is now 88 minutes it manages to get its point charismatic Presidential hopeful, while getting lambasted for its political part of a money-making conglomerate across without pummeling us to death. Senator Jasper Irving (Cruise), is about leanings. I appreciated the general and she has to deal with listening to The cast is impeccable, and Tom to give a bombshell story to a probing message that in order to make a her heart or fulfilling her duties to her Cruise really stands out as the shady TV journalist (Streep) that may affect difference in a world that we’re unhappy employer. In the end, the film should senator, bringing back memories of Arian and Ernest’s fates. As arguments, with, we all have to get out there and so raise a lot of questions as to how we his Oscar-nominated performance in memories and bullets fly, the three something whether it’s going to rallies are fed news and how much of it we can Magnolia. Streep works her magic once stories are woven ever more tightly or licking envelopes. The film also believe or take with a grain of salt. In this again, and I just found it fascinating together, revealing how each of these implies that joining the military, as Arian day and age of 24-hour news channels watching her facial expressions and Americans has a profound impact. body language. I also enjoyed Lions for Lambs is three the dialog between Redford and short films tied together by all the Garfield, although some may nagging questions a lot of us have find it comes off sounding more about the “war on terror.” The main stagey than an authentic chat part of the story is about Arian between a college professor and and Ernest, as they are preparing his student. Luke and Peña also to take a location in Afghanistan give nice performances in their before the enemy gets there. As flashback scenes as students, their helicopter is attacked from the and it’s grueling to watch them ground, Ernest falls out and Arian fight to survive on top of a snow- jumps in the hopes of saving his covered mountain surrounded by friend while the enemy advances the enemy. “Lions for Lambs” around them. The second story may not be a perfect film, or even focuses on Todd Hayes, a student a subtle film, but it is a film with of Dr. Malley who turns in great noble intentions that people who work but doesn’t bother to attend think our political system is terribly classes. Malley summons Todd broken need to see. Maybe it will to his office for an early morning inspire someone to step up and meeting to find out what happened do something to make a change. to the spark of promise the young Rated R for some war man had shown when he first came violence and language. to the college. Malley believes For more of Chuck’s reviews, Todd can do so much more to log on to www.myspace.com/ make a difference in the world, but nowshowingtv. Todd doesn’t want to get involved in anything that remotely resembles baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  21 violence erupts. The same gang members and drug dealers protected by �������� the wall turn on their own with horrific results. The lesbian couple did not get By Ben Ryland much sympathy and are ostracized by Baltimore’s Alternative Clothing Boutique the other ladies. The design team of the show have Check created a workable atmospheric setting out for the show. The Women of Brewster The cast of actresses are the what’s ensemble of the year both in their new in Place at Arena Stage characterizations and vocal abilities. Fell’s Standouts include Harriett D. Foy and Point! The world premiere engagement, Suzzanne Douglas as the couple, Set in 1975 in ‘the projects’ of an The Women of Brewster Place, Marva Hicks as the loose women out for unnamed American city the show is (postponed from last season) is currently a good time and Tijuana T. Ricks who almost sung-through (a third whammy) playing at DC’s Arena Stage. Based also possess great comic timing when by a generously talented cast of women. on the popular novel and TV movie dealing with all her kids. The first act is a straight forward linear which starred Oprah - when she was a Plot points are telegraphed way storyline after all the ‘types’ of women successful actor in films and not on the ahead of the story and by now all this are introduced to the audience. The evening news. This live musical version has been seen before. ‘Brewster Place’ earth mother still waiting for her long NOW is directed by Molly Smith with music, cannot become the symbol for class departed loser son to return, the small OPEN! lyrics and book by Tim Acito. Don’t worry struggles in the weak hands of its stage child of her unwed niece who comes to a if you haven’t heard of him; if this is his creators. Instead it now plays like an Wed-Sunday 1-9pm tragic end by her renegade fathers hand and by best effort at composing you won’t see ‘afterschool special’ of tolerance in the appointment even before the first act has concluded. his name in credits again anyway. Acito past tense. A young radical wanting to change was a former dancer and has no musical Men’s & the projects and the world. A slut who references in his bio. A double whammy Arena Stage – 1101 Sixth Street – Women’s keeps coming back to the neighborhood of scary for me- seeing the show on Washington, D.C. sizes whenever her luck turns sour and Greek Halloween night plus discovering his Now until December 9th. xs to 3X chorus of busybodies gossiping as a credentials before the curtain even went Tickets: www.arenastage.org. living. up. Located in Historic Fells Point The simplistic lyrics 1724 Aliceanna St trivialize the story even if Baltimore, MD 21231 • 410.342.0617 they progresses the plot. myspace.com/PowerXchange Additionally the melodies, while attempting to mimic spirituals, come through as sing-songy and repetitious. The rare musical highlights are mostly duets in a show dominated by group numbers. The introspective solos are as common as yesterday’s fish and just as fresh. Unfortunately the final song gives us no real drama to end the first half. The second act for Presents the most part totally turns around becoming more a farce. A socially active Live teacher, Lorraine, moves into the building with her female lover, Tee, who takes no guff from anyone. Laugh She demands much of her partner who merely wants to love her and not make Love waves. Theirs are the most touching elements The Walters Art Museum of the story but they don’t Centre Street Entrance show up as a couple until the second act. Saturday, December 01, 2007. 8:00 p.m. As the tenets struggle Adults $15. Children 12 and under free. to build up their community, For advance tickets, see any member or call 410-558-4692 with a block party to help tear down a wall the city built to keep them hidden, www.newwavesingers.org 22  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com

Photos By Skip Koritzer Halloween at the Eagle Craig’s B-Day at the Quest Drinkery Photos ByJim B. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  23 24  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com ��������������� ���������������� ������������������� What’s a classic? Ask 20 people what they consider hit medley San Francisco (You’ve Got to be a classic tune and chances are Me) / In Hollywood and their certifiably you’ll get 19 or 20 different answers. classic Y.M.C.A., and so is Edwin Is it because the term “classic” is Starr’s disco phase, represented by bandied about too freely these days Contact. The 70s came to a close with and thereby has lost its impact when Lipps Inc.’s Funkytown, but disco kept referring to something timeless or that on going well into the 80s in the form of has the potential to be considered a Broadway baby turned diva Stephanie masterpiece? Mills’ and her 1984 cut The Medicine Take the compilation Classic Disco: Song, as well as Flashdance soundtrack Number 1’s (Hip-O/UMe) as a case in selections Maniac by Michael Sembello point. Because of the access that the and Irene Cara’s Oscar winning theme Universal Music Group has to the various song Flashdance…What A Feeling. record labels under its massive and, well, Most people would agree that there are universal umbrella a collection such as more than a few classics on this disc. this is actually capable of representing Prior to its original release on Sire an array of artists and “classic” selections Records in 1988, the newly reissued from disco’s heyday. Trouble-Maker by Holy Cow (Noble Rot), was preceded Roberta Kelly and I Found Love (Now in 1986 by the 12 inch single How Can That I Found You) by Love & Kisses, the Labouring Man Find Time for Self Casablanca Records tracks from 1976 Culture? produced by Bob Casale and and 1977, respectively, certainly qualify featuring Mark Mothersbaugh, both of as classics, as does I Need A Man Devo. Of course, Martini Ranch was by Grace Jones from her pre-Warm no slouch themselves, featuring actor Leatherette period (1977) on Island Bill Paxton as one half of the duo. … Records. The soundtrack to Thank God Labouring Man… was later included on It’s Friday, a movie that followed quickly the full-length Holy Cow album which in the disco footsteps of Saturday Night promptly went out of print. Those few Fever, and contained the Oscar-winning but fortunate who owned the album on song Last Dance, is also given its props vinyl or CD were treated to a set of 10 with the inclusion of Love & Kisses’ title songs that could be easily identified as track and the Pattie Brooks track After late-eighties synth-powered new wave, Dark. The (mostly) out and fabulous audible in songs such as Reach, Fat- Village People, another Casablanca act, Burning Formula, Richard Cory, and are included here with their introductory the album’s most memorable tracks, Hot Dog and, of course, …Laboring Man… Holy Cow also featured an amazing (and occasionally odd) array of guest artists ranging from Cindy Wilson of the B52’s, Mark Isham, and the aforementioned Mothersbaugh, as well as Hollywood types such as Judge Reinhold and Bud Cort (really!), qualifying this disc as a classic in a category of its own. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  25 Walk Like A Man Moves Baltimore Audience By Vanessa Millhouse with Meredith Moise

After traveling the country, Walk Like A Man (The Play) has finally made a stop in Baltimore at The Center for the Arts at Towson University. To the audience’s delight, Laurinda D. Browns’ book Walk Like A Man came to life, bringing down the house. This funny, insightful, diverse, yet thought provoking piece of work astoundingly explores the journey of lesbians and our quest to maintain balance in our relationships while reserving the right to manifest our truest essence. From an older lesbian finding love and losing love coupled with the “Don’t ask ..Don’t tell” policy, the messages on stage produced an emotional response that hit home for many of us. Rarely do we hear the exemplifies Ms. Brown’s extraordinary stories of lesbians who have partners gift in telling our story. Walk Like A serving in the military and experiencing Man was able to focus on the many the “ultimate sacrafice”. The dom vs. facets of the “dominant” lesbian. From dom “friendship” encouraged many the way she looks, communicates, of us to laugh but also take a serious expresses intimacy, as well as choosing look at how we feel about such to be out. This play definitely challenges courtships. Many times two women who the stereotypes placed upon lesbians by outwardly appear masculine and being mainstream society, in conjuction with partners is viewed as being taboo in forcing lesbians themselves to question the rowan tree

baltimore’s foremost diverse lounge  Private Game Room  Never a dull moment and hosts a variety of theme parties and charitable events each month (simply visit our website).  OFF STREET PARKING with advance notice  Our lounge is also available for private affairs and commitment ceremonies the lgbt community. This play forces their personal views regarding labels. us to also look at domestic violence, In her newest work, Strapped, Laurinda  Karaoke... one of the best in Baltimore and childhood sexual abuse. These D. Brown will surely continue to be the two stories rendered gut wrenching catalyst for encourgagin dialogue inhe every Saturday Evening reactions from attendees which is sure lesbian and lgbt community as a whole 1633 S. CHARLES STREET – FEDERAL HILL – BALTIMORE to open the door for serious converstatio regarding issues around self acceptance 410-468-0550 concerning these topics. and healing. Perhaps a series is in the Walk Like A Man is a breath of making. WWW.THEROWANTREE.NET fresh air. Gaining insight into the life of THE ROWAN TREE IS MANAGED BY RZR RON ZIMMERMAN REALTOR & ASSOC. a lesbain without a high sexual overtone 26  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com ���������������� ��������� ��������������

Often when I am attending an event D’Marje’ as she deals with some recent in another city, I am asked what the Gay medical issues. It was a sea of leather Community is like in Baltimore. I never and sequins (sometimes on the same have to think about my answer as I person) as both Tyson’s Place and The quickly reply, “It is the best; we all support Phoenix hosted benefit shows and silent each other!” Never was my answer more auctions. Organized by Mid-Atlantic true then on the evening of Saturday, Community Bootblack Eric Crouse November 3rd as both the Leather (with lots of help from COMMAND,M. Community and Drag Community C.) and emceed (at the Tyson’s Place turned out in force to raise money for location) by Rich Geisendaffer (who has one of Baltimore’s beloved performers been both Mr. Baltimore Eagle and Miss Leon’s-talk about bringing the leather and drag communities together!), it was the feel good evening of the year. I had the honor of producing the Mr. & Miss Baltimore Eagle Contest in 2005 & 2006. When it came to selecting entertainment, I had two dream performers in mind: Lauren Mitchell (Miss Gay Maryland America 1997) and D’Marje’! I only had to ask once and they were both there with bells on. D’Marje’ hit the Eagle stage in a Catwomen outfit and when she cracked her whip she brought down the house. There are those who think the

then ever with U.S. Daddy Eric Siglin and U.S. boy Earl Coffman coming to Baltimore to serve as Santa and his elf. There will also be a meet and greet with a “Ripped Genes” calendar model, a big silent auction of kinky and unique gifts, and raffle tickets are already being sold leather folks and the drag queens are to win a large red wagon full of cheer the fringe of the Gay Community-but as well as cash prizes. See you at the as was proven once again on Nov. 3rd, Baltimore Eagle on the first Saturday of when it comes to raising funds for a December! good cause they are not the fringe they Of course the second Saturday of are the fabric. December brings Baltimore’s other big The Bucks, MC have also been holiday event-” The Twelve Days of hard at work on their big benefit: “Santa Christmas” benefit show at the Hippo. Saturday”. This is the 34th annual Last year’s event had a pajama theme, and will be held starting at noon on but there will be no flannel in sight this November 24th at The Raven Resort, year as Hooker & Boys Productions 385 Bridge Street in New Hope, Pa. invite everyone to “Dress to the 9’s, Back in Baltimore, the ShipMates Baby!” The 9th annual “Twelve Days have also been working hard getting of Christmas” will benefit Brother ready for their big holiday fundraiser: Help Thyself, Hearts & Ears, and The “Daddy Christmas 2007”. You will want to Leather Archives & Museum. Plan to be at the Baltimore Eagle on December be at the Hippo at 2pm on Dec. 8th. It 1st from 9pm-1:30am as the ShipMates will be an incredible show and in the kick off the holiday season with a benefit spirit of Baltimore will bring the Leather for Chase Brexton Health Services. Community and Drag Community This year’s event is going to be bigger together for a fun afternoon. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  27 28  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Halloween Blue Parrot

Grand Central Photos By Skip Koritzer baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  29

�������������������� � The Broadway Musical ��������� �����

ON SALE NOW! December 11-23 • Hippodrome Theatre 410.547.SEAT • BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • Box Office (M-Sat 10a-5p) • Groups 20+ call 410.837.0110

����������� Not recommended for children under the age of 13. Music and Lyrics by ROBERT LOPEZ & JEFF MARX Book by JEFF WHITTY Based on an Original Concept by ROBERT LOPEZ & JEFF MARX Directed by JASON MOORE. Original Broadway Cast Recording Available on Masterworks Broadway. ‘Avenue Q’ has not been authorized or approved in any manner by The Jim Henson Company or Sesame Workshop, which have no responsibility for its content.

Tickets subject to additional service charges and handling fees. Due to the nature of live entertainment; times, dates and performers are subject to change. No exchanges or refunds. 30  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com • Take Visual and Written Notes If you view lots of homes in the Tips for Buyers: How to Tour a same day it is easy to get them mixed up, so be prepared to take notes, with a pen and notebook and a camera. Note Home like a Professional the most remarkable features – both positive and negative – and attach your Making appointments to view houses and houses can also be a foolproof way and get a snapshot of the home within notes and pictures to the listing sheet that are on the market can be great fun. to waste a perfectly good weekend, a matter of minutes, while those who for future reference. If you are not just window-shopping but especially if you are not sure exactly are not so skilled can spend an hour • Look Beyond the Obvious are seriously looking for property, the what to look for or how to maximize the and walk away more confused than Many buyers fall in love with a chance to tour a home can be critical brief window of opportunity that a real they were before the visit. For example, home and later find out that it has some to your financial decisions and have an estate showing provides. when Realtors “preview” homes – their dark and disturbing secrets. Examine impact on your personal living situation An educated and alert buyer can lingo for viewing homes that are on the fundamental features of the home that for years to come. But touring condos walk through a typical house or condo market before showing them to their can have costly ramifications first, such clients – they often complete the whole as the condition of the roof, the paint job, tour of an average sized home in less and the age of the heating and cooling than 10 minutes. If a seasoned real systems. Every Gray Hair = estate broker wants to scout for houses Study the ceilings for telltale signs or condos on behalf of a client, he or she of stains or of a recent patch job, for One House Sold! might visit a dozen different properties instance, because those could indicate in a single afternoon – and most of that a leaky roof or plumbing system, Experience does count… time is spent in the car, driving from one and check for moisture and mold in especially in today’s marketplace. location to the next. basements. Before venturing out to see listings, • Enlist an Expert for Second Hi, I am Brian Hannon. first organize your strategy by following Showings these simple guidelines: Once you narrow down the prospects Let my 25 years of experience work for you! • Prioritize by Price and and book follow-up appointments, it is office 410 235 4100 | cell 410 925 9330 Amenities time to request the help of an expert to First decide exactly what your price give the property professional scrutiny. range is, and stick to it. Otherwise you’ll Bring along a friend who understands spend time looking at the wrong houses. construction or hire a contractor to And touring homes above their pay accompany you as you tour the home. grade often inspires buyers to spend Don’t ask them to inspect the Hannon.EightPage,bw.1.indd 1 11/6/07 2:17:15 PM much more money than they can really house. You can hire a licensed building afford. inspector to do a thorough examination List the amenities that are deal after you make an offer. But do have breakers. If you absolutely require a them give it a good once-over to detect basement or a garage, don’t waste time anything fairly obvious that you might looking at listings that don’t have these have missed. features. If proximity to work or schools One of the most common mistakes is critical, don’t wander outside those buyers make is that they forget to geographical parameters. prepare to make a serious offer. Line • Put Your Realtor to Work up your mortgage ahead of time and If you’re working with a real estate get pre-qualified for financing, review agent whose job it is to help you a standard purchase offer contract find a home to buy, never accept an with your Realtor or attorney so you appointment to view a home that they understand it, and be ready to make an have not already previewed. You will offer without delay. Otherwise the next only risk wasting both their time and buyer through the door might buy your yours. dream home, even though you’ve spent Ask your Realtor to notify you after months of weekends and evenings he or she has located and already toured searching for it. at least three properties that match your criteria. Let them first share any For quality real estate help from insights they got from seeing the homes those who specialize in service to in person, and if you are still interested, the lgbtT community, visit www. make the appointments. GayRealEstate.com or www. Don’t be surprised if your agent GayMortgageLoans.com. Or call toll mistakenly shows you a property that free at 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). doesn’t fit your particular criteria. But remind them that you only want to view homes that meet your specifications. If they continue to show you houses that don’t match your priorities, you either need to develop more realistic search parameters or find a new Realtor who pays closer attention. baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  31 What Should We Do With Our Investments? By Woody Derricks When I create portfolios for couples, I utilize the most appropriate investment One of the first questions that many options available to each client in his/her prospective clients ask me is: What investment accounts. Where you are should we do with our investments? I limited in investment selection (401k’s), usually reply with: That depends. Of a couple may pick the best investments course this is exactly what they don’t in each of their plans. For example, want to hear! Everyone wants an one of you may invest in stocks in your immediate answer to their questions, retirement plan at work and the other yet this is a very complex issue for may utilize bonds. As a result, we may unmarried couples. have client with a very aggressive What’s Your Objective: Think 401k portfolio and the other with a very about your own portfolio. Considering conservative mix. your investments, what rate of return This may be the best idea for your do you want? 100%, duh! Well, if that’s overall portfolio, but not if you two your reply, I suggest you focus on a separate. One of you may have been “reasonable” return. The next question receiving an 8-10% return while the to ask yourself is: What rate of return other was receiving a 4-6% return. do you need? There is a difference The partner receiving the 4-6% return between these questions. One speaks may feel a bit slighted. For this reason,

to investment performance, the other to many gay and lesbian couples opt for goal achievement. If you want to actively individual portfolios. trade your account, you may want to Age Differences: Quite frequently focus your investment objectives on one partner may be 5, 10, 15 years or your response to the first question. more older than the other. As a result, If you are concerned more about the older partner may have accumulated retiring comfortably than actively more wealth which could throw off the managing your portfolio, then you may balance between the two of you. In this want to focus on your response on the case, depending on the size of the age second question. You see it is possible gap and disparity in assets, this might to obtain your desired investment return be acceptable. The reasoning is that the yet still miss achieving your goals. You older partner might retire sooner and will want to make sure that you are not need the additional wealth. just attempting to receive the best return If this balance were reversed, you on your money, but keeping your focus would have a serious concern. If the on achieving your goals. younger partner has the majority of the Balancing Act: Should one partner savings in his/her retirement accounts, have more money than the other? this money might not be accessible when Should one invest more aggressively? the older client is ready to retire. As a When creating an asset allocation I result of this, you want to make sure that ask my clients if they want to create a you create the proper balance for both portfolio for the both of them as a couple partners. The objective is to make sure or create an asset allocation for each - that the older can retire on time while with their goals as a couple in mind. See Our Investments on page 32 32  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com Talking about money is rarely easy, but Our Investments taking this step will simplify life going �������������� forward and help you to achieve your goals. Continued from page 31 Your DC connection, licensed in MD, DC and VA. Hablo Español. not putting the younger in a situation in Woody Derricks, LPL Financial which he/she has no assets of his/her Advisor may be contacted at 410-732- Robert Lizardi, GRI, REALTOR own. If you separate, the younger client 2633. 202-327-1577 Cell may walk away without anything saved 202-625-5337 Direct while the older enjoys retirement. This article is for informational I recommend that everyone spend purposes only and is not intended to 202-333-6100 Office www.cbmove.com/robert.lizardi an hour or two at least annually to provide specific advice to any individual. discuss their finances. Talk about where Consult your legal, tax, and/or financial Coldwell Banker you are and where you would like to advisor to determine what is appropriate 2828 Pennsylvania Ave. NW be. Make sure that both of you are on for your situation. Securities offered Four Seasons Plaza the same page and that you protect through Linsco/Private Ledger, Member Washington, DC 20007 yourselves in the event you separate. FINRA/SIPC 400047 ��������������������������� Adorable 3BR, 2-1/2 BA Cape Cod in Old Dundalk. Within last 2 yrs., new siding, replacement windows, boiler, hot water heater. Roof 7 yrs old. Fenced bkyard w/2-car garage. 1yr. hm. warranty.

Pictures on line MLS# BC6548281 David Ostrowski Pat Stokely (Cell) 443.421.4736 (Cell) 443.413.0042 www.DaveMovesMD.com [email protected] office: 410.931.6300 • fax: 410.931.2853

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Pasadena - $379,000 3 Bedroom • 3 Bath • Gormet Kitchen Original Northwood - $219,000 • 3 Bedroom • New Kitchen • Clubroom DAVE KNIGHT Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Roland Park Cross Keys Village Of Cross Keys, 38 Village Square Baltimore, MD 21210 443-980-1666 (cell) • 410-235-4100 (office) [email protected] (email) cbmove.com/david.knight (website) baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  33

REDUCED AGAIN! OPEN SUNDAYS 1-3 pm cabin in the woods! $3k to close! 4670 • Ilchester Road Ellicott City Great custom contemporary w/unique post & beam construction nestled on a wonderfully SEXY LOFT CONDO at wooded 1.73 acre landscape. Dramatic architecture feat 9+ft,cath & vaulted ceilings Taxes = $1115/yr. for 9 years! w/tongue & groove cedar paneling, exposed beams & skylights, wide-plank hdwd flring,3rd lvl mbr suite w/loft,stone fp in fam rm,wood stove in rec rm & more!

first time buyers dream home! 100% financing 2156 CEDAR BARN WAY WINDSOR MILL 1714 Park Avenue home 210 – BOLTON HILL on the Park Avenue parks ! an EXCITING in town condominium at BEST SELLING BoltonPark nestled Largest 2 bedroom, 3 bath unit on the market. in one of Baltimore’s PREMIER close-in enclaves – Owner transferred and This home shows like a model. New laminate must offer this UNIQUE and SUN FLOODED living environment - Just over flooring on main level. New wall-to-wall throughout 800 sq. ft on 2 levels – 2 bed. 1.5 baths bamboo floors, large windows 2nd floor and lower level. Spacious recreation with park vistas, central air and DRAMA +++ Deeded parking Fitness center room on lower level could be third bedroom. Full and those …oh so LOW historic taxes of $1115 a year ! offered at $274,900 bath and separate laundry room/storage room on lower level. Country kitchen with new rear slider to BoltonPark condos start at $189k to $419k private yard. Shows like a model! www.boltonparkcondos.com also available for review by private appointment ��������� Inquires to Long & Foster’s ������������������������������� Consistent TOP CITY AGENT ��������������������� ��������������������������������� David Martz – GRI �������������������� 410.669.0001 direct • 410.675.5500 main • [email protected] ������������������� ��������������� Proudly serving Baltimore for 14 years! ������������������������ LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE, Inc.

Best deal in Ednor Gardens! 1108 E. 36th St. Priced to reflect the need for some redecorating but in good shape. Replacement windows, updated kitchen and furnace and much more! Stone Mill House in Make money! $199,900!

Penn Station - 1711 Saint Paul Street Hampden - $280,000 Steps away from Penn Station  3 spacious bedrooms with a This handsome, three story Edwardian townhouse has been beautifully European feel restored. Perfect for the person who wants to live and/or work there!  Woodburning fireplaces for Office use allowed. $2450/month. those cool fall evenings  Rockland Ridge Potential for off-street parking 6817 Newstead Lane - Off Falls Rd Corridor  Solid stone construction with Almost new executive end of group with approximately 4000 sq. double thick walls feet! Quality construction and loaded with amenities.  Wood floors throughout add to Incredibly convenient location. $3200/month. Also for sale! the authenticity  Large fenced lot plus a Greenberry Woods storage shed 1923 Greenberry Road  Intimate stone patio for Immaculate 3 bedroom 2.5 bath condo townhouse in popular and outdoor enjoyment convenient community. Sunken living room, fireplace, finished lower level and much more! $1950/month or $2100/month furnished. Also for sale!  A very unique & enchanting home!

ALL OF THESE PROPERTIES ARE IN EXCEPTIONAL CONDITION. CALL TODAY! Jeff Tessmer, Jim Mikula Brian Hannon 701 Broadway~Fells Point 410-235-4100 - Office 410-925-9330 - Cell Direct 410-522-6330 [email protected] Office 410-675-5500 34  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com biological males as “queers.” Moreover, there is for each of us a relationship Enda, Bad Strategy between our sexual orientation and the Continued from page 14 ways that we feel compelled to express ourselves and our gender identities. of these organizations. Lambda Legal So, while a sexual orientation only and NCLR, the lawyers who together ENDA would prevent me from being 1 VILLAGE SQUARE, SUITE 131 have won every significant legal victory fired (or not hired) because my partner BALTIMORE, MD 21210 lesbians and gay men have achieved, are is another woman, I could still be denied leaders in this coalition. After analyzing a job as a lawyer because I never OFFICE: 410-323-6000 x114 the “sexual-orientation only” ENDA wear make-up, always wear “mannish” CELL: 410-960-8005 currently being considered, both legal business suits and am (apparently) a organizations concluded that the bill is little butch. In San Francisco , maybe FAX: 410-323-0016 bad legislation. Their in-depth analyses this is not such an issue—but what if I have been distributed to legislators and lived in Tallahassee ? Leitner Winstead are posted on their websites. Please At this stage in our history, read them. anti-discrimination legislation that Being transgender is not the same intentionally excludes protection based as being lesbian or gay. This fact, upon gender identity and expression is coupled with the reality that a portion bad civil rights strategy that undermines of the diverse transgender community progress on the ground and is not worth identifies as heterosexual rather than the moral compromise and divisiveness queer, begs the question of why we that it brings. should consider ourselves to be one community and postpone our rights to Susan Christian is a board member protect people who are not lesbian or of the Transgender Law Center (www. gay. I believe that we are one community transgenderlawcenter.org) and is because the majority of lesbian, gay, currently the Political Action Committee bisexual and transgender people have Chair of Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic consciously come together to work Club (www.alicebtoklas.org) in San as one community. The reality is that Francisco. the larger society views all of us who deviate from the heterosexual norm where biological females partner with ����������������������������������������������������

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������������������������� Baltimore’s Independently Gay owned and 235 S. Robinson Street • Baltimore Gay Managed Agency for Over (30) Years Two Bedrooms, Two Full Bath Rehab Property. Home has many Amenities. Including Hardwood Floors Throughout, Open Staircase, Granite and Stainless Steel, Finished R R Basement with Berber Carpet Z and Much More!! RON ZIMMERMAN REALTOR® Call for an Appointment Today!! & ASSOCIATES Offered at 279,900. Established - 1977 Peter Klebenow 410-752-1050 RE/MAX First Choice www.rzr.baltimore.com • [email protected] 511-C Eastern Blvd. Steve Jackson / Ron Zimmerman Baltimore, MD. 21221 office: 410-391-6900 Domestic and Professional Partners for Over cell: 410-963-4926 26 Years fax: 410-391-8004 [email protected] For information on our firm and currently offered homes visit our website or join our 100% free buyer email service baltimoreoutloud.com November 09, 2007 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD  35 36  BALTIMORE OUTLOUD November 09, 2007 baltimoreoutloud.com