Queer Compos- Presented an Open Letter Ersburg, Maryland, Was Selected Mr

Home , Lambda Legal, Not Too Far Away, Unbearably White, War Memorial Plaza

January 4, 2019 | Volume XVI, Issue 17

Pugh announced the formation of a long-awaited Mayoral LGBTQ Commission. A Look Back at 2018 The commission by Rodney Burger munity opened an office in Baltimore on is to be made up We did it. We survived 2018. It was not January 10th. Dr. Durryle Brooks was an- of 15 members. easy as our community continues to be at- nounced as the new head of the Center for Applications were tacked. As we face 2019, we can take pride Black Equity – Baltimore, a nonprofit group being accepted until in the fact that our LGBTQ community is that aims to foster the local black LGBTQ February 23rd. strong, but that the fight community. He replaced Carlton The February 16th is far from over. Let’s take If you’re reading R. Smith who was elected chair- issue honored Black a look back at 2018 as it man of the Ryan White Planning History Month with was reported in the pages this, you Council, which focuses on provid- interviews with two 20 of Baltimore OUTloud. survived the year ing medical care and support ser- icons in the Baltimore vices for people with HIV in Bal- LGBTQ Community: 18 JANUARY – In January that was. Find timore. Rev. Merrick Moses 2018 it was reported On January 14th during the enor- and Shawnna Alexan- crowned Jennifer Vrana Ms. KSGRA 2018 that the US Conference out how mous Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend der. and Jed Ryan Mr. KSGRA 2018. of Catholic Bishops we did it! in DC, Gerard Turned from Gaith- On February 24th the Keystone Gay On February 20th local queer compos- presented an open letter ersburg, Maryland, was selected Mr. Rodeo Association held their royalty com- er Peter Dayton held a release party for his urging parents to reject Mid-Atlantic Leather 2018. petition at Harrisburg’s 704 Lounge and new CD at the Cork Factory. gender transitioning for children calling On January 20th we found many in —continued on page 4 the increasing acceptance of transgender our community commemorating the one- people “terrible.” Lynda Dee, president year anniversary of of AIDS Action Baltimore, warned the the large Woman’s community that: “All things AIDS, nationally March in DC in 2017. and internationally, are in danger from Baltimore joined with the Trump administration, from PACHA to numerous commu- Making PrEP funding and other services right here nities around the Gentlewomen in Baltimore.” world with a rally for Chelsea Manning- whistleblower of US women’s rights at POWERFUL FILMS war crimes in Iraq- announced on January War Memorial Plaza 14th that she was going to run to oppose followed by a march by BILL REDMOND-PALMER premacy Film Fest in 2019. They imagine two-term Maryland Sen. Benjamin Cardin. Dr. Durryle through the heart of Should she be elected she would become Brooks new the city. All self-identified black femmes and those the black femme as a global protagonist, the first transgender US senator. head of the Also, on January 20th who love them are invited to attend a spe- and universal archetype. Center for cial film screening from 5 to 8 pm on Sun- “The Black Femme Supremacy Film Divine Light, a faith-based non-profit Black Equity at a reception at the Bal- out-patient treatment and recovery pro- timore Eagle, which was day, January 20th at the Creative Alliance Fest is for black femme filmmakers who gram geared towards the LGBTQ com- attended by Baltimore Mayor Catherine (3134 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore). “Taste —continued on page 3 Pugh, Brother Help Thyself presented Test” will be an evening of short films $75,000 in grants to 34 non-profit groups created by and for black in the Baltimore / Washington area. femmes. The evening is a precursor, an appetizer if FEBRUARY you will, to the – The front page of the Jihan HafIz’s February 2nd issue of Baltimore OUTloud main event: Fists Up! Fight carried an interview with GLCCB board the opening of Back! looks president Jabari Lyles, who addressed submissions at the women to the second leading the the issue over closed board meetings fight against and the behind-scenes evaluation of new annual Black racist police Chelsea Manning announces senatorial bit members. Baltimore Mayor Catherine Femme Su- brutality Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

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

Associate Editor & Director of Marketing & Production Mary Taylor [email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

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

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

Contributing Writers OUT in Asbury Park, NJ Rai Guerra-Nelson • Christy Girlington

Graphics Ramon Montiel

Web Editor Adam Romanic Computer Solutions for Less

Photographers Corey Brent Eric Randolph

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

Founders Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 410-802-1310 Baltimoreoutloud.com

Additional Information Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: [email protected]. All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff.

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local Ride for the Feast RESIDENCES RESERVED: 50% Gentlewomen Making POWERFUL FILMS Open House, RISK OF RESERVING: 0% January 12th —continued from page 1 are routinely ignored or systemically shut out Moveable Feast helps feed people with by larger film festivals,” said festival organizer critical illnesses across Maryland. On Nia Hampton. “It started out as a way for me Saturday, January 12th, from 11 am to 1 to share the space I held at Waller Gallery pm, Moveable Feast will host a New Rider during my first solo show, ‘Drapetomania: Open House at their offices at 901 North The Strong Urge to Escape’ and grew into Milton Avenue, Baltimore. something that allows black femme identify- Moveable Feast’s annual “Ride for the ing people to truly see themselves as film- Feast” fundraising event takes place this makers, despite how hard that career path coming May 11th and 12th. Hundreds of With construction starting soon on the Grand Expansion of actually is.” cyclists ride 140 miles over two days, from Roland Park Place, 50% of new residences are already spoken Hampton’s experiences with other film Ocean City to Baltimore. New riders are festivals left her feeling that there wasn’t a always welcome. The for. And when all it takes to reserve yours is a fully-refundable place for voices like hers. “I spent most of my open house introduc- deposit, the only question left is, what are you waiting for? early 20s traveling throughout South Amer- es new riders to the ica and connecting with really determined event and allows them Make the intelligent choice. Call today: 443.338.6212 Afro-Latino feminists and artists who weren’t to learn more about waiting to be given permission to make their Moveable Feast and films or screen them. When I’d come home, its work. Tours of our I’d spend weekends volunteering at varying facility will be provid- READY FOR MOVE-IN 443.338.6212 ed as well as chances FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org to speak with veteran riders. Discounts will be available to new riders who register for the Ride at this event. Returning riders who Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging bring a friend can also receive a discount. In addition, the group’s community di- etitian, Isabel Betancourt, will offer a con- densed version of the exercise class she offers to all riders this year. Be sure to dress in comfortable clothes. The event is free and light refresh- film festivals and seeing how each one had ments will be served. For more info visit its own culture. Non-black film festivals were the Facebook event page at Bit.ly/2EZ6iNl, just unbearably white, black film festivals or contact Moveable Feast events manag- weren’t queer enough, and gay film festivals er Carin Prescott at [email protected] seemed to have a blind spot when it came or 410-327-3420 x33. t to lesbian- and bisexual-focused films. The Black Femme Supremacy Film Fest is an answer to all of those problems.” Tickets purchased in advance are $7 Networking Happy for Creative Alliance members, $10 for Boosting empowerment and breaking the bonds non-members. Tickets are available at Bit. Hour with MD of homophobia, racism, and stigma in same ly/2s0BXFL. Tickets are an additional $3 if purchased at the door. LGBT Chamber of gender-loving (SGL) men in Baltimore City Two of the featured films are Metamor- • NETWORKING phosis (2018), by director Natalie J. Harris, in Commerce Every 1st Wednesday which a “queer and inexperienced girl seeks guidance after a game of ‘Never Have I Ever’”; Join the Maryland LGBT Chamber of Com- • HIV EDUCATION and Fists Up! Fight Back! (2015), by director merce for its monthly Out Networking Hap- Every Last Wednesday Jihan HafIz (2015), with the tagline, “Nothing py Hour event on Thursday, January 17th • SOCIAL EVENTS in this world can prepare you to bury a child.” from 5:30 to 7 pm This month’s event will The festival is still looking for vendors and be held at Trinacria Cafe (111 West Cen- Monthly sponsors. Send vendor and sponsorship in- tre Street, Baltimore). Mix and mingle with • ART CREATION PROJECT quiries to [email protected]. Follow the LGBT professionals and allies, enjoy good festival on Instagram @bfsfilmfest and like conversation, great networking opportuni- [email protected] • 410-837-5573 them on Facebook at @blackfemmesuprem- ties, and a little bit of drag! FB: New Horizons Baltimore • aidsactionbaltimore.org acyfilmfest. The event is free for Chamber mem- For more info about the January 20th bers, and $15 for non-members and at the HIV Prevention Advocacy for SGL Men's Health supported by event, visit their Bit.ly/2R0D6f7. t —continued on page 4 ViiV Healthcare's ACCELERATE! Program

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

Select Chase Brexton Health Care patients deemed most in need may be eligible for digital breast cancer screenings through a mobile mammography van to be located at the Chase Brexton Mount Vernon Center on September 28th. The screenings are provided in partnership with Lackawan- na Mobile X-Ray and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and mammograms are capable of finding it up to three years before it can be felt. The Center for Disease Control recommends mammograms every two years for women age 50 and older who are at average risk for breast cancer. The staff of Chase Brexton encour- ages their patients to remember that early detection saves lives! Any patient who feels they may quality should contact their Chase Brexton provider or call 410-837- 2050 for more info. t news // local NEWS 2018 year in review

Local news Tickets are $30 and cover your seat and a brunch buffet; $20 bottomless drinks —continued from page 3 will be available from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, and A Look Back at 2018 will include mimosas, rum punch, sangria, door. Tickets are available at Bit.ly/2CF- screwdrivers, and Natty Bohs’. There will —continued from page 1 der individuals from serving in the military. FrmX. For more info visit the Facebook also be $20 buckets of Babes Rose. The On February 26th, in a ten-to-three On March 28th the Maryland LGBT event page at Bit.ly/2CGuwcN. t full bar will be available to purchase any decision, the full Second Circuit Court of Chamber of Commerce hosted their first drinks not included in the bottomless spe- Appeals ruled that discrimination of the ba- LGBT Business Expo. cial. An 18% gratuity, calculated on the sis of sexual orientation violates the Civil Also in March, Jabari M. Lyles resigned cost of the ticket, will be added to all par- Rights Act of 1964. from the board of directors of the GLCCB. Friday Night ties on the day of the event. Also, in February the Trump adminis- Jabari was on the board for three years Note that the first two shows sold out, tration continued to dismantle all Obama- and held the positions of acting executive Drag Brunch so do purchase tickets in advance, avail- era policies supporting LGBT health care, director and president. able at Bit.ly/2Qd07WU. If you and your including LGBT-friendly regulations that Attention all non-morning people! Are nor- friends purchase tickets separately, but banned discrimination in Medicare and APRIL mal brunches a little too early for you on would like to be seated together, please Medicaid. The new Baltimore Queer Book Club was the weekends, but you still love brunch email a list with everyone’s names to Additionally, on February 26th af- launch April 1st at the GLCCB. food and drink specials? Then the Friday [email protected] so organizers can ter nearly two years of efforts, the man- On April 6th Nate Sweeney left as Night Drag Brunch may be just what you’ve plan accordingly. Tickets are non-refund- agement of Chase Brexton Health Care head of the LGBT Health Resource Center been looking for! On Friday, January 18th, able. reached a collective bargaining agreement at Chase Brexton Health Care after four The Point in Fells (1738 Thames Street, For more info visit the Facebook event with employees. years of work building many of the center’s Baltimore), will present another installment page at Bit.ly/2QfNgDL. t innovative programs from the ground up. MARCH The 12th annual Cobalt Awards honor- On March 9th the Baltimore Men’s Chorus ing individuals and organizations for work presented a cabaret event at the Spotlight- in the LGBTQ community was held at the ers Theatre. University of Baltimore on April 19th. Club Winter Blues Happy On March 11th the Baltimore Flamin- Bunns, a longtime Baltimore nightclub gos, the first international gay rugby team catering to the black LGBTQ community Hour With JPride in Maryland hosted a “Rugby 101” event at prevailed in a hearing brought about by 800 Bayard Street. the University of Maryland regarding their Baltimore Also, on March 11th the Center for Stu- liquor license. With its excellent record of dent Diversity and the Office of Student good community service, the owners of the of this popular event. JPride Baltimore, Baltimore’s Jewish Activities at Towson University hosted a bar prevailed against the school on April Doors will open at 6:30 pm, and the LGBTQ social and service organization, “Queer Brunch,” featuring entertainment 19th. show will begin at 7:30 pm Be sure to ar- will be hosting a Winter Blues Happy Hour by Shaunda April 21st brought “Show Your Colors,” rive early to get first dibs on the buffet. The on Thursday, January 17th, from 5:30 to Leer, Sapphire the third annual woman’s night out fund- show will not be held up for anyone who 7:30 pm at Topside of Mount Vernon, a Blue, Bambi Ga- raising event benefiting Baltimore Pride, at is late, so you are encouraged to please rooftop restaurant and garden bar, on the lore, and many Flavor. arrive on time. 15th floor of Hotel Revival (612 Cathedral other local per- On April 27th singer, songwriter, danc- The event will be hosted by resident Street, Baltimore). formers. er, choreographer, and YouTube personal- drag queen Robyn Ya’Men. “The perform- Hang out for schmoozing, mixing, and Award-win- ity Todrick Hall brought his Forbidden tour ers will be ready to turn the party for you, mingling, board games, and some fancy ning actress and to the Baltimore Soundstage. so be prepared to have a good time!” say drinks. For more info, visit the Facebook producer La- Love was in the air on April 22nd as organizers, adding, “Be sure to bring cash event page at Bit.ly/2SubtrI. t verne Cox spoke the 7th annual LGBTQ Wedding Expo was to tip these very hard-working queens.” – news compiled by at Towson Uni- held at the BWI Airport Marriott, and the The event is 18-plus. Bill Redmond-Palmer versity on March GLCCB hosted a conversation with the 13th. candidates for governor of Maryland on Also, on Gay comedian April 28th. March 13th the US district Michael Furr court in Maryland ruled a appears at MAY Law Office of female-to-male transgen- Windup Space On May 4th the LGBTQ Youth Prom “Plan- der student, Max Brennan, ets Align” was held at the Lord Baltimore David M. Lutz, P.A. could use the restrooms Hotel. and locker rooms that align with his gender Hundreds of walkers and runners filled identity. the Baltimore Zoo on May 6th for Chase •Auto Accidents •Workers’ Compensation Gay comedian Michael Furr filmed his Brexton Health Care’s fourth annual AIDS •Personal Injury •DUI/DWI first standup special on March 15th at the Walk & Run, presented by Quest Diagnos- Windup Space in Baltimore. On March tics. •Criminal Defense •Traffic Court 20th FreeState Justice held an advocacy PFLAG Howard County hosted their Se Habla Español day in Annapolis, where volunteers spoke third annual fundraiser “Queens and Cock- to dozens of legislators to protect LGBTQ tails” at Kahler Hall on May 10th. Moveable 1901 Fleet Street Baltimore, MD 21231 youth in Maryland. Feast held their annual Ride for the Feast Phone: 410-558-3700 (English) • 410-299-2898 (Español) On March 23rd President Trump signed fundraiser on May 12th and 13th. E-mail: [email protected] • lawlutz.com a memorandum that bans some transgen- On May 15th Maryland Governor Lar-

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com 2018 year in review

ry Hogan signed a bill outlawing so-called stown Pride came next on July 14th with a made history when it lifted the health-in- the Baltimore area. The Baltimore Trans- conversion therapy in Maryland. record crowd of 3,000 in attendance. surance exclusion which had denied cov- gender Alliance held a fundraiser at the LGBT Elders Day was celebrated on Sgt. Kevin Bailey, the LGBTQ commu- erage for gender-confirmation surgery. Back-Yard Bar on November 3rd. May 16th at the Single Carrot Theatre. The nity liaison for the Baltimore Police Depart- Leading the way for this policy change was Scorpius Red from Baltimore was second annual Baltimore Drag Awards were ment spoke on July 12th at Chase Brexton. Rev. Merrick Moses. The LGBT Health Re- sashed Mr. Maryland Leather 2019 on No- held on May 26th at the Creative Alliance. Andrew Howard was designated by source Center at Chase Brexton welcomed vember 3rd at the Windup Space. The con- County Executive Allan H. Kittleman as a new director, Sam McClure. Julie “Jew- test was held as part of a full weekend of JUNE the first LGBTQ liaison in Howard County. el” Vanderlee was selected Mid-Atlantic events celebrating COMMAND, MC’s 30th The popular Jazz Brunch with FreeS- A benefit for the Trevor Project – a na- Leather Woman 2019 and Amy D. Phillips anniversary. tate Justice was held on June 2nd to cele- tional group providing crisis intervention was selected Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman November 6th was election day and brate the victories and contributions of the and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ Bootblack 2019 over the weekend of Au- Maryland reelected Republican Governor LGBTQ community in Maryland. youth was held July 29th at Ziascoz Bar & gust 24th and 25th in Baltimore. Larry Hogan and Democratic Maryland On June 4th the US Supreme Court Lounge. Sen. Ben Cardin. found that a Colorado bakery does have SEPTEMBER For the fifth year in a row the predom- the right to refuse to make a On September 1st Baltimore’s King and inantly LGBTQ led group B & Dee’s Balti- cake for a same-sex wedding Queen of Pride 2019 was held at the Motor more Love hosted a Thanksgiving event due to religious objections to House. Justin Sane was selected King of open to all of Baltimore’s homeless popu- same-sex marriage. On June Pride. He is the first trans male to hold this lation on November 17th under the Jones 5th the fifth annual HIV Long- title. Bambi Galore was crowned Queen of Falls Expressway. On November 23rd the term Survivor Awareness Day Pride. She is the first non-binary queen. US Department of Justice asked the US was held at Baltimore’s War The Human Rights Campaign released a Supreme Court to review preliminary fed- Memorial Assembly Hall. comprehensive report stating the Brett Ka- eral district court rulings that have kept the Although many Pride vanaugh’s nomination to the US Supreme Trump administration from implementing its events were held in Baltimore Court poses a threat to LGBTQ people. plan to prevent transgender people from in June the main event the Many LGBTQ folks dined out in Balti- serving in the military. Edward “Eddie” J. Baltimore Pride Parade and more on the evening of September 20th Holl, Jr., a founding member of the Balti- block party was held on June during the 25th annual Dining Out for Life, more Gay Alliance and its successor orga- 16th and the popular festival a benefit for Moveable Feast. On Septem- nization the GLCCB passed away in Balti- in Druid Hill Park on June 17th. ber 22nd the 40th Chase Brexton Charm more on November 28th at the age of 72. This year’s parade grand mar- FIST Leather Ball was held at the Renaissance Baltimore shals were Davon Fleming from Club celebrates Harborplace Hotel and raised $240,000. DECEMBER TV’s The Voice and Baltimore’s FIST Leather 25 years The Baltimore Book Festival was held A large list of World AIDS Day events took Queen of Comedy Shawnna Alexander. Club (Females Investigat- at the Inner Harbor on September 29th place in Maryland on or around December In a change this year the Baltimore Pride ing Sexual Terrain) celebrated 25 years on and 30th and featured bisexual memoirist 1st. It was the 31st annual observance. Parade started at Charles and 33rd Street July 29th at the Clifton Pleasure Club. Anthony Moll. Vice President Pence did not mention and ended at North Avenue. LGBTQ people in his World AIDS Day On June 23rd Frederick Pride was held AUGUST OCTOBER speech at the White House. in the town’s Carroll Creek Linear Park. On August 6th Gov. Tom Wolf of Pennsyl- Baltimore celebrated The New Wave Singers, Mary- June 22nd to 24th brought the second an- vania signed an executive order forming Black LGBTQ Pride with land’s premier LGBT mixed nual Keystone State Charity Rodeo to Dill- the Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ the theme “Healing and chorus, present their “Sounds sburg, Pennsylvania. Affairs. celebrating ourselves.” of the Season” concert on De- The June 26th pri- In Maryland Events were held on cember 1st and 2nd. the LGBT Cham- October 5th to 7th in On December 8th Hook- mary election saw 15 Jabari M. Lyles openly LGBT candi- leaves the ber of Commerce downtown Baltimore. er & Boys presented the 20th dates on the ballot. GLCCB and hosted an “out A new Lutheran annual “12 Days of Christmas” Sharon Brackett be- heads to City networking din- faith group, #Imag- variety show at the Maritime Hall came one of two trans ner cruise” on ineAChurch was Conference Center and raised woman to be elected August 8th at formed in Baltimore $16,000 for local charities. to an official office in Baltimore’s Inner and welcomed LGBT The Baltimore Men’s Chorus a contested election Harbor. people. presented their annual winter in Maryland when she Joy Balti- Long-time com- concert: “Stories of the Season was elected in Balti- more, which munity leader Ja- on December 15th. more’s District 46 Dem- serves homeless bari Lyles discussed Yes, 2018 was a busy year ocratic Central Commit- youth, honored his new role as the filled with ups and downs. The tee. Laura Hart was also elected to a seat unsung heroes on August 10th at the Eu- LGBTQ Affairs Liaison in the Bal- Hooker & Boys writers of Baltimore OUT- on the Democratic Central Committee for bie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cul- timore City Mayor’s Office. Caite Debevec, presented the loud are proud to bring tural Center. Thirty individuals and groups director of the Baltimore Men’s Chorus, 20th annual you the news and stories St. Mary’s County in southern Maryland. ‘12 Days of On June 27th the first LGBT PrideN ight were presented awards including Ali announced the launch of the Baltimore Christmas’ of the LGBTQ community was held at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Moody of AIDS Action Baltimore, Baltimore Women’s Chorale. in the Mid-Atlantic area. King of Pride Chris Jay, manager of Club Thank you for being faithful readers for 16 JULY Bunns Stacy Williams, and Derrick Chase NOVEMBER years. We are all in this together and will The first ever Westminster Pride was held of Stand-Up Baltimore. November is Transgender Awareness continue the fight for equality. Have a safe July 7th in Westminster, Maryland. Hager- The Baltimore City Board of Estimates Month and many events were scheduled in and happy 2019! t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t12 5 Days of Christmas December 8, 2018. Maritime Conference Center beyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker metabolic activity and “hijacks” their ener- College. gy in order to multiply. Inhibiting metabolic Key findings of the research include: French activity leads to the death of the host cells, • Many transgender Southerners report and with them, the HIV. (Seattle Gay News experiencing barriers in accessing basic scientists – Mike Andrew at http://www.sgn.org/sgn- services and being treated with respect news46_52/page2.cfm) and dignity. Factors including race, age, succeed in and living in a rural community increase the likelihood that transgender Southern- destroying HIV- ers will experience hostility or other signif- Lambda Legal, icant barriers. infected cells holidays without jobs simply because • When transgender Southerners re- others sue of their HIV status. ... These decisions port having access to strong networks of Paris – French scientists have an- should be based on science, not stigma. … peer support, they feel empowered to seek nounced what they describe as “a poten- Pentagon on HIV Lambda Legal is suing to stop these sep- health care. tial major breakthrough” in HIV treatment arations and will keep fighting until Pres- – the ability to destroy human cells infected policies ident Trump understands that there’s not with HIV. The scientists at Institut Pas- a job in the world a person living with HIV teur in Paris revealed on December 22nd Washington, DC – Lambda Legal and cannot safely perform, including the job that they had discovered a way to elimi- OutServe-SLDN, with partner law firm Win- of soldier.” (Dallas Voice at Dallasvoice. nate HIV infections by destroying the cells ston & Strawn, filed a lawsuit on Wednes- com/lambda-legal-outserve-file-suit-chal- that contain the virus. After successful lab day, December 19th, on behalf of two lenging-pentagons-discriminatory-poli- tests, the next step will be assessing the HIV-positive members of the United States cy-on-hiv) Air Force that were given discharge orders just days before the holiday season, according to a Lambda Legal press release Southern trans health? Here’s the data ... sent out the same day. Lambda Legal and Two groups OutServe-SLDN filed the lawsuit, Roe and • The report also includes recommend- Voe v. Mattis, in the US District Court for publish report ed practices for Southern health care pro- the Eastern District of Virginia. The case viders seeking to offer transgender-friend- was filed anonymously to protect the plain- on trans health ly services, from the design of intake tiffs’ medical privacy, according to a Wash- paperwork to clinical practices during ex- ington Post exclusive. This is the third law- in the South ams. CSE will host a free webinar to share suit Lambda Legal and OutServe-SLDN the findings on January 30th at 6 pm. Reg- have filed challenging military policies that Asheville, North Carolina – The Cam- istration information is available at South- Paris’s Pasteur Institute – HIV breakthrough? discriminate against people living with HIV. paign for Southern Equality (CSE) and ernequality.org. (Q Notes Online – Lainey The other two are Harrison v. Mattis and Western North Carolina Community Health Millen at Goqnotes.com/62038/new-re- Deese and Doe v. Mattis. Services (WNCCHS) have published a report-shows-needs-hope-for-trans-health) potential of using this technique on living According to the press release, the port on transgender health in the South. organisms, they said. plaintiffs received notification just days “The Report of the 2018 Southern Trans Antiretroviral drugs now being used before Thanksgiving that “their discharge Health Focus Group Project” (available are able to beat back HIV so that the vi- appeals [had been denied] despite compli- at Southernequality.org) documents the Virginia trans rus no longer reproduces, but they are ance with fitness assessments and medical findings of a community-based research still unable to completely remove the virus treatment, as well as strong support from project through which diverse transgen- inmate may from the human host. Even when HIV is commanding officers …. the plaintiffs were der Southerners across six states shared brought down to undetectable levels, a found ‘unfit for continued military service.’” accounts of their experiences related to get chance to small amount of the virus remains latent The lawsuit challenges deployment poli- health issues and accessing health care. within certain so-called “reservoir” cells. cies at the Pentagon that prevent service Upwards of 500,000 transgender peo- change her The virus remaining in the CD4 lympho- members living with HIV from deploying ple live in the South. Nationally, data shows cyte immune cells will be inactive as long outside the US without a waiver. The suit that approximately 25 percent of this group name as the patient stays on antiretrovirals, but alleges that the policies have “restricted do not seek health care at all because of if the patient stops taking the meds, the the opportunities of service members with a fear of discrimination. “From cities to ru- Richmond, Virginia – According to news virus can reactivate. Therefore, eliminat- HIV” for years and are now “being used to ral towns across the South, our research stories carried by Gayrv.com and Richmond. ing these hidden reservoirs of virus has justify separating service members solely team spoke with trans and non-binary peo- com transgender woman and Virginia prison become a key target among scientists who based on HIV status.” In February, Trump ple who were eager to tell us about their inmate Bree Anna Leonard may get her re- wish to find a cure for HIV. issued a policy that requires the military to experiences accessing health care and quest for a legally recognized name change Theoretically, this French technique discharge any service member who can- who were fired up about making change granted. Currently incarcerated and serving a could perhaps eradicate HIV from the body not be posted overseas for more than 12 in their local communities,” say the study’s 17-year sentence at the Federal Correctional altogether. An Institut Pasteur spokes- months. sponsors. “The stories we heard suggest Complex in Petersburg, Virginia, Leonard – person explained, “Thanks to metabolic Scott Schoettes, HIV Project direc- that the change they seek is urgent.” whose pre-transgender name was Brian Al- activity inhibitors, the researchers have tor at Lambda Legal and legal counsel in “This report is a call to action,” said Dr. len – was previously denied a legally-recog- managed to destroy these infected cells, the case, said that it is “disgusting that Austin H. Johnson, principal investiga- nized name change by a Circuit Court judge. or ‘reservoirs,’ ex vivo [in a controlled lab the Trump administration is sending some tor for the Southern Trans Health Focus The Virginia Supreme Court ruled on De- experiment].” HIV targets cells with high men and women in uniform home for the Group Project and sociologist at Kenyon —continued on page 8

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com DEAR HIV, WE DIDN’T GIVE UP.

XOXO, SCIENCE

There is no cure, but science is still in the Learn about an HIV-1 battle against HIV. Today’s HIV treatments treatment option at may help you get to undetectable. That means the amount of virus is so low it can’t TM be measured in lab tests. Ask your healthcare XOXOSCIENCE.COM provider about HIV and treatment options.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 beyond the beltway

—continued from page 6 cember 20th to send the case of Bree Anna and even young teens. I think everyone Leonard / Brian Allen Leonard, who wants agrees that there is a line when the power Vietnam Ohio governor to legally change her name permanently to dynamic in sexual relationships becomes Bree Anna Leonard, back to Petersburg Cir- so far out of whack that it is hard to tell company issues new order cuit Judge W. Allen Sharrett. The Supreme if the whole thing is truly consensual, or Court ruled the judge made an error when he rather exploitative. But isn’t where to draw launches gay- barring LGBT refused the request for a name change. From that line always the problem? the website Richmond.com: “This is very typ- Jarvis continues, “I was reading a inclusive ad bias ical of the Supreme Court,” said Carl Tobias, Hollywood Reporter article about Woody a professor at the University of Richmond Allen’s sexual relationship with a 16-year- campaign Columbus, Ohio – On December 19th, School of Law. “They really are strict about old girl back in the ’70s when he was 41. Ohio Republican Governor John Kasich following the procedures in the statutes as The young woman was dining out at the Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest issued Executive Order 2018-12K, prohib- the General Assembly sets them out. I think same upscale restaurant as Allen. She jewelry retailers have launched a pro-LGBT iting discrimination in state employment that’s really what the justices were concerned was an aspiring model, dining out with a ad campaign. A same-sex couple feature on the basis of sexual orientation, gender about.” Tobias further explained that the kick- male acquaintance. When she came back in a video for the “True Love” campaign for identity or expression, and other protected back to the lower court doesn’t necessarily from the bathroom, she dropped a note Phu Nhuan Jewelry (PNJ), in collaboration bases such as race, color, religion, age, mean that Leonard is going to win. with her phone number on Woody Allen’s with advertising agency, Mirum Vietnam. and disability. Leonard has been diagnosed with gender table. Now, she still resists revising her In a video for the campaign, opens This executive order builds on a pre- dysphoria and is transitioning from a male to own history to fit the norms of the times. with the text “Based on true stories,” and vious order issued by Governor Kasich, female identity. The Supreme Court re-con- She initiated contact. She was a voluntary showcases couples wearing wedding and which had only protected LGB state em- firmed the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ records, and eager participant. And the relationship engagement rings. Around two-thirds of the ployees. “Equality Ohio applauds Gov- which detail the diagnosis and subsequent actually lasted eight years, until she was way through, it shows a male couple setting ernor Kasich for his recognition of our treatment. In a letter to the court, Leonard 24 years old. Any past relationship will up a tent on a camping trip. They then stop shared humanity with common-sense pro- requested the name change, indicating the have some bitterness to it, but she still tections,” the group said. James Knapp, positive impact and high level of psycholog- described it generally as formative and chair of TransOhio, said: “This is truly an ical benefits. She also stressed it would not positive. important and historic day–not just for the interfere with her incarceration or any condi- Jarvis goes on, “And then the Holly- transgender community–but for the entire tions of her sentence. (Q Notes Online – Da- wood Reporter article throws in a line in state. Today, our governor stood up and vid Aaron Moore at Goqnotes.com/61980) parentheses, ‘Most experts would contend said that workplace discrimination will not that such an uneven power dynamic is in- be tolerated in Ohio. We are proud to have herently exploitative.’” Jarvis responds, “I been a part of this work, and we’re thrilled When does get it, here is a non-famous 16-year-old that state employees will be able to enter girl and a famous, rich, 41-year-old man. 2019 as their authentic selves without fear power dynamic Clearly, the power dynamic is not equal. of unlawful termination.” But inherently exploitative?” (The Dai- Vietnamese jewelry ad features gay lovers Equality Ohio calls on the gover- raise sexual ly Bell – Joe Jarvis at Thedailybell.com/ nor-elect and state legislature to extend all-articles/news-analysis/theres-no-such- protections to all LGBTQ Ohioans state- consent issues? thing-as-equality-in-sexual-relationships) to look at a rainbow before holding hands in wide in employment, housing, and pub- [Editor’s note: A Baltimore OUTloud staff- front of a campfire. The video also includes lic accommodations in 2019. (Equality Northern Florida – Joe Jarvis writes er asks, “Wouldn’t that mean that any bil- a range of body-shapes and sizes, and Ohio – Grant Stancliff at Equalityohio.org/ in the Daily Bell, “A great man once said, lionaire can only date other billionaires?”] ends with the line “The true beauty of love.” gov-kasich-issues-new-executive-order- t everything is about sex. Except sex. Sex Comments below the video in Vietnamese to-protect-all-lgbtq-state-employees) is about power.” Fittingly, Kevin Spacey’s Woody Allen’s are overwhelmingly positive, with many [Editor’s note: Good that Kasich has character Frank Underwood repeats this postcard praising the inclusion of a same-sex couple. decided to protect trans employees after quote – attributed to different historical fig- to his Though criticized for having an au- eight years in office but the new executive ures – in the show House of Cards. Now teenage beau thoritarian government, Vietnam is widely order merely restores protections that had Spacey is one of the exiled Hollywood considered one of the more progressive been in place under his predecessor, Dem- #MeToo of- countries in Southeast Asia with regards to ocratic Gov. Ted Strickland.] fenders. And LGBT rights. There are no laws forbidding rightfully homosexuality, and the government passed so. If the a landmark law in 2015 which legally recog- These news notes have been compiled, accounts of nizes trans people. However, there remain with permission, from the online version his behavior numerous socio-cultural obstacles facing of various newspapers and other web are accurate, the country’s LGBT community. Many peo- sites. We thank these publications for ple in Vietnam still consider LGBT rights as Kevin Spac- allowing us to bring you their news sto- a social stigma or as “Western values.” This ey is a pretty ries. Usually the reports have been sig- remains particularly true in Vietnam’s con- big creep. He nificantly edited and you can read the seems to have servative rural areas. There are also few an- full story by going to the web site men- made a num- ti-discrimination laws in Vietnam to protect tioned following the item. Comments ber of clearly LGBT people in the workplace. (Gay Star are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker News – at Gaystarnews.com/article/viet- unwanted sex- and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride ual advances nams-largest-jewelry-company-launch-lgb- Media. on young men ti-inclusive-ad-campaign)

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness ANDRE SHAKTI

The In Although tone is often lost in the written and word, you’ll have to trust that I’m answering you a bit ironically, as I myself have been known to behave as a modern day Dr. Doolit- Out tle. My household currently boasts five dogs, Andre Shakti two cats, three snakes, a tarantula, and a sugar glider. I’ve always preferred the com- Sex, pany of animals to people, and I spent my Intimacy and A Dog in the teenage years volunteering at animal shel- Relationship Coaching ters and railing against vivisection. Even so! Bed is Worth... Just as I strive to exhibit and maintain healthy for Every Body boundaries with the human beings in my life, I insist on doing the same with my animals. • ArchitecturAlly-stunning Dear Andre, All of the dogs in our home are crate-trained, wedding venue • I’m a woman in my late 20s and I’ve been and while there are certain extenuating cir- • Culturally Competent • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding dating a new partner for a few months now. cumstances where they are permitted on the • Accessible Everything is going great, except for one beds (fireworks displays and occasional solo CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, small issue: She refuses to kick her dog out TV marathons among them), they have des- And eLOPeMenTS • • Emotionally Intuitive of bed when we have sex. I love animals and ignated places to sleep that are not with us. • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS have several cats myself, but I like to think As – IMHO – it should be. that I have healthy boundaries when it comes Now, there are many possible explana- SinCe 2013 • to their proximity to me when I’m either tions for your new girlfriend’s attachment to Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at Cell: 856-906-0526 masturbating or having partnered sex. her dog in her bed. Perhaps she was single ChaseCourtWeddingVenue (text or call) Snuggling in bed is fine, but as soon for a long period of time before 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com as things get sexy, they get delegated she met you and her dog 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD IAmPoly.net/Coaching to the floor. If they’re quiet and un- brought her lonely heart Owned and Operated by David Egan, for More Information obtrusive, they stay; if they cause a some much-needed com- wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud. ruckus or repeatedly try to get back panionship, so much so that on the bed, they get kicked out of the she’s become reliant on its con- room entirely. My new girlfriend’s stant presence. Perhaps her dog dog is small, sure, but so is her is indeed an emotional support or bed. When I suggest putting the service animal and needs to be dog out of the room, my girlfriend by her side in the event it has pouts about “how cute she is” to perform a life-saving task and tries to guilt me for wanting or alert someone nearby to a her to go. It’s getting ridiculous, and I’m start- medical emergency. ing to avoid sleeping over her house for this Perhaps this is the very first animal she’s exact reason. Am I being unreasonable? ever had, and she thinks that the only way to Carla M. be an ethical, compassionate pet owner is to make every single area of her life accessible Carla, to it. Perhaps her and this dog are in an illicit You’re not being unreasonable. romantic relationship with one another and Look, I get it. Younger generations aren’t are hoping to seduce you together into an in- reproducing at the same rates as past gener- terspecies non-monogamous triad. ations (thanks, economy!), and as we strug- I’m sorry, but even if one or more of those gle to find more affordable outlets for our ma- are true, there is no sane reason to keep your ternal and paternal instincts, pet ownership dog on the bed while you’re fucking. Espe- has skyrocketed. Not only are more people cially if it visibly creeps your partner(s) out owning pets, but more people are treating and results in you having much less sex. their pets very literally as children. We’re So what do you do? Sit your beau down feeding them more expensive food, buying and tell her how you feel with total clarity Sat, January 5, 2019 them trendy clothes, taking them to salon and confidence. Don’t apologize for wanting appointments, and prioritizing their training, some space between you and her dog when Ladies Night socialization, health and comfort more than you’re craving intimacy, and don’t feel the ever. Plus, with more than 25% of the Amer- need to defend yourself for needing this very With DJ Rosie Hicks ican adult population suffering from some understandable boundary. If the result of your Come Join our Ladies Night the 1st Saturday of the Month type of mental health disorder (according honesty is your girlfriend balking and clutch- Fridays Jan. 4th and Jan. 11th to the American Psychological Association ing her precious tighter, I recommend saving – Tinyurl.com/y6u3swty), emotional support yourself further frustration and finding a new Fierce Leather Fridays animals are so popular that airlines have had partner who loves animals … but not so much A Night to let loose with great music and drink specials. Let down your hair, to work species-specific bans into their regula- that they become blind to them sabotaging and bring out those dance shoes and dance the night away with us! tions (emotional support peacocks, anyone?). their interpersonal relationships. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 quality of life // Health and Wellness quality of life // Health and Wellness

able in your new behavior pattern and it no longer feels like an effort, try to de- shoots, of people coming to the aid of those crease your problem behavior, or increase scorned, of practicing civil conversations your new, wanted behavior, some more. If Ask and caring for other human beings. Open Wide the 25% change is still difficult after one My question is: Has this atmosphere af- month, don’t try to increase your behavior Dr. J fected you and your relationships? Do you ask Dr Eva change any further until you are comfort- Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. treat your partner in a different way? Is that Dr Eva Hersh able with the initial 25% change. It’s fine if reciprocated? If not, how have you kept that takes several months. Remember that yourself insulated from this negativity? If when you are making changes for your so, why have you changed your behavior? Simple, health, the goal is to make changes that Civility and 2019 Conflicts evoke anger and hurt. Al- will last for the long term. Improving your though it may seem like some people seek Healthy health can’t be done with a quick or short- This is the time of the year when we have to them, it just does not sit well with the hu- term change. Lasting changes in behavior start getting used to seeing a new year date, man psyche because we associate conflict Changes for are achieved by making gradual changes making resolutions, and perhaps, maintain- with violence and the fight-or-flight instinct which become an permanent part of daily ing a sense of hope that with the winter sol- gets triggered. If you 2019 life. stice behind us, spring will have been around • Decreasing or stopping drug or al- show up soon. Eastern people who are rude Dear Readers, cohol use requires support. Managing thought holds that we to one another, it Lots of people make new year’s reso- addiction is not a solo, do-it-yourself proj- now go within ourselves, affects you even if lutions. When a person can’t stick with the ect. You may be able to keep from using to re-evaluate, ponder, you are not involved changes they planned – which is what usu- on your own for a while, but to stop using and ready ourselves to in the conflict. It is ally happens - they may feel like a dou- for the long term and achieve sobriety you the emergence of new when the rational ble failure. Not only are they continuing will need education about the disease of discoveries, new growth, mind overtakes the the behavior they meant to change, they addiction and support for recovery. Please and rejuvenation. emotional that we also have been unable to keep their com- seek help. Alcoholics Anonymous and Nar- Almost universally, can be civil and mitment. Considering this, my first thought cotics Anonymous are not the only way, we’ve been seeing a de- still deal with the disagreement. But was that maybe we should swear off the but they are good places to start because cline in civility, in treating “the this dynamic does not work well in a lot of whole idea of New Year’s resolutions. But they are free and are available in most other” as less than us and to feel embold- people. It takes recognizing the destructive on second thought, it would be a shame communities. ened to make our opinion known in less effect rude behavior causes, and wanting not to make good use of the motivation for than gracious ways. I don’t want to sound to react in a more productive way. Taking positive change that many people feel at Here are a few easy resolutions that totally negative because I also see green a deep breath or counting to ten before re- the start of a new will make you feel sponding is a simple solution but it helps year. good! to slow down the interaction and our blood Here are some • Spend at pressure. suggestions to least 20 min- friends or family members you love but I personally do not believe in new year’s help you choose utes outdoors in never see? Get back in touch. Increase resolutions because I think one can resolve 2018 new year’s the sun on most the activities you enjoy. Whenever possi- to change any time of the year. But if they resolutions that days. This works ble, at work, at school, and at home, spend work for you, go for it! It will take all of us, you’ll be able to best when the more time with the people you enjoy and in relationships, in friendships, in families, keep. sun is brightest, less time with those who bring you down. at work, and even in those momentary ex- • Successful between 10 am Mood has profound effects on the func- changes, to be civil, to express thanks or behavior change and 2 pm. Spend- tion of both brain and body. Mood is also gratitude for this tide to turn. In intimate and is gradual, not fast. ing more time in self-reinforcing: people who frequently close relationships, you can’t delete the For most people, the sun will im- feel cheerful, happy or content get into the ugly words you may have used. No doubt a reasonable change is no more than 25% prove your sense of well being, help habit of being in a good mood. People who that anger provokes the brain to hurl those at a time. This means, don’t try to change relieve depression, and increase your vita- often feel annoyed, angry, dissatisfied, low words we wouldn’t use otherwise, but we your behavior all at once. Don’t even try min D level. or negative tend to become habitually irri- do have the capability to monitor what we to cut down by half. Instead, try cutting • Twenty minutes of brisk walking, out- table or depressed. Most likely you know say and do. down by one quarter (25%). For example, doors or indoors, on three or more days some examples of both kinds of people. I ask this question: What is more im- instead of trying to quit smoking overnight, a week will improve depression, feelings • No one knows better than you do portant to you, that you hit the partner decrease the amount you smoke by one sluggish, irritability, and constipation. If what puts you in a positive or a negative back and hurt him/her as you feel he/she quarter (25%). If you now smoke a pack (20 you can walk for longer or more often, mood. As much as possible, keep yourself has clobbered you, or that you preserve cigarettes) a day, decrease from 20 to 15 that’s even better. positive for your own sake and also for the the relationship you want while repairing cigarettes a day. If you now eat meat with • Promote your own positive mood. It people around you. Your emotions affect the wound? The latter will give any of us a every meal and want to cut back, start with is worthwhile and in your best interest to their moods as well. feeling of control over ourselves and good 1 meatless meal every day, or even one seek out the things and people that make Wishing you greater health and happi- feelings. Or you act impulsively and regret meatless meal every other day if that is you feel good, positive, cheerful and en- ness for the new year. t your own behavior. what’s manageable for you. If you want to ergetic. Pay attention to the way different Eva Hersh, MD, is a family physician I am hopeful that in a new year, we will start exercising, start by exercising once or activities, people, and places make you and fellow of the American Academy of all make positive and productive choices, twice a week, not every day. Continue with feel. If the TV annoys you, turn it off or go Family Physicians. Please send your ques- cherish good friends and love our partners this small first-step change for at least one to another room. Is there music you love tions and comments – on any medical top- and families. Civility rocks, people! t month before trying for greater change. but never listen to? Find your headphones ic – to her at publisher@baltimoreoutloud. • After a month, if you feel comfort- and listen to it regularly. What about the com 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 410-581-2322. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org

Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 410-235-5354. boltonstreet.org Baltimore MD 21203 410-233-5555. ifcmd.org Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore 1316 Park Avenue 405 West Monument Street. Baltimore MD 21217 Baltimore MD 21201 410-523-1542. browndowntown.org 410-669-6222 mccbaltimore.org Chevrei Tzedk Congregation Chevrei Tzedek Congregation 3101 Fallstaff Road Memorial Episcopal Church 3101 Fallstaﬀ Road, Baltimore MD 21209 1407 Bolton Street Baltimore, MD 21209 443-992-7485. chevreitzedek.org Baltimore MD 21217 410-669-0220 [email protected] Congregation Beit Tikvah memorialepiscopal.org www.chevreitzedek.org 5802 Roland Avenue (443) 992-7485 Baltimore MD 21210 New Light MCC 410-464-9402. beittikvah.org 40 W. Church Street RABBI RORY KATZ Hagerstown MD 21740 Emmanuel Episcopal Church 301-797-5698 JTS Gladstein Fellow 811 Cathedral Street newlightmcc.com Baltimore, MD 21201 An informal, Welcoming, Participatory, Conservative Jewish Community 410-685-1130. emmanueldowntown.org The Church of the Advent 1301 South Charles Street First and Franklin Street. Baltimore, MD 21230 Presbyterian Church 410-539-7804 210 W. Madison Street advent-baltimore.org 䄀䰀䰀䄀刀䔀圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 Baltimore MD 21201-4693 410-728-5545. firstfranklin.org Veritas United Church 䴀愀猀猀匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 of Christ 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀㔀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀 First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 匀甀渀搀愀礀㤀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㨀㐀㔀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀瀀⸀洀 1 West Hamilton Street. Hagerstown, MD 21740 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀椀猀愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀愀琀㐀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀㔀瀀⸀洀⸀ Baltimore MD 21201 240- 310-6891 410-685-2330. firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀倀愀爀椀猀栀 Grace United Methodist Church 䐀攀愀挀漀渀䘀爀攀搀倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀㠀㄀匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀刀漀愀搀 5407 North Charles Street 匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 Baltimore, MD 21210 倀愀爀椀猀栀䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀 410-433-6650. graceunitedmethodist.org 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀

Worship Sunday, 11a.m. Christian Education Classes Sunday, 9:45 a.m. The Source for the lgbtq community browndowntown.org To advertise in our Spiritual directory 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 please call 410-802-1310 410.523.1542 BaltimoreOutloud.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // out on film

spent many of my summers ects that he believed in artistically.” Conjuring Montgomery Clift there.” Throughout his time Adams believed that this film will al- working in Ocean City, Adams low audiences to explore a different era By Frankie Kujawa drawn to theatre, and co- worked at notable locales such as Fager’s where taboo relationships Screen legend Montgom- Famed closeted incidentally, my marketing Island, Shenanigans, and weren’t capitalized in the ery Clift, upon watching the classes kind of reminded the Rip Tide Pool Bar. He media. “I think audiences rough-cut screening of the gay star is me of that. I was always added, “It’s such a great are going to take away movie that would catapult recreated by raised where the mentality community there.” that there once was a his film career, once said, “I was, ‘Follow your dreams Adams then left Ocean time-period where every- watched myself in Red River actor Gavin but always have a back- City for California in spring thing wasn’t publicized, (1948) and knew I was going up plan.’ Eventually, your 2012. A chance meeting and everything wasn’t to be famous, so I decided I Adams in the backup plan becomes your with Reisman led to Adams shared. There was a would get drunk anonymously full-time plan and you put working behind the scenes time when things were one last time.” upcoming film your dreams on the back on Reisman’s play Blank private, and relation- Substance abuse would burner. But, I never let go where he assumed stage ships happened, and de- be one of the causes leading As Long as of theatre and always held manager duties and read Gavin cisions were made not to the actor’s ultimate demise, on to it.” with the actors. Eventually Adams with other people’s in- but Clift’s prediction of fame I’m Famous. After graduating col- landing the role of Clift in As tentions taken into con- was accurate. In Bruce Reis- lege, the 2008 economic Long as I’m Famous, Adams sideration.” man’s As Long as I’m Famous Gavin talks crash left Adams with diffi- thoroughly researched the screen legend Adams’s electrifying (2019), Montgomery Clift is with Baltimore culty starting his marketing in preparation for the role. performance in the role portrayed by the beguilingly career. “I was then present- “In one of his first films, Red River, of Clift is set to captivate audiences of talented actor Gavin Adams. OUTloud about ed with an opportunity to Clift played this very macho, defiant reb- the film. On preparing this role, the actor Adams, who has local ties to go to Milan where I worked el. Around the same time, in post-produc- added, “Though I initially had some in- Maryland, recently chatted his path from briefly in fashion.” While tion, Clift had also done The Search which securities about playing a character with with Baltimore OUTloud over in Italy, Adams modeled earned him his first Academy Award-nomi- Montgomery Clift’s preferences and how lunch regarding his upcoming Ocean City to for Beatrice International nation. In that film, he plays an officer in the role, his ties to Maryland, and Models Agency. “They also military and it was a completely different “The tragedy of it all the one role that Montgomery Hollywood had the actors academy – demeanor from this rugged character he is that Clift could play Clift was unable to play. a small acting school that played in Red River. So, I think, the critics The postwar 1940s were the American offered free admission if you were model- really enjoyed seeing that range and that just about any role, but entertainment industry’s “Golden Age,” Ad- ling. The acting classes helped so much presentation as an actor. He was already ams notes, and provokes intense nostalgia and gave me such a stronger foundation. such a fine actor from his time on Broad- ultimately the one role today, even in people born much later. Set Eventually, though, I found that I didn’t way. He was established by the age of 20. he was unable to play in 1948 New York City, As Long As I’m Fa- have as much success in modelling, and Clift did not want to go into film, but Hol- mous goes behind the curtain to explore I came back home and continued to bar- lywood offered him a substantial amount was that of himself.” the private lives of entertainment industry tend.” It was during this time that Adams of money, and he did.” Adams adds, “As friends and lovers. Told through the eyes lived in Ocean City, Maryland, where he his career grew, Clift remained selective in he lived his life, I was inspired by the way of the then-unknown writer-director-actor worked in the food service industry. “My what films he chose. He gave up roles in he acted, because he often had to portray Sidney Lumet, the story highlights many mom had purchased a vacation house movies like Sunset Boulevard and A Street something that was foreign or perhaps un- relationships, including Sid’s romantic in Ocean City when I was younger, and I Car Named Desire for other proj- comfortable for him. And he did it so well chemistry with then-screen star Clift. – with such vigor, passion, and reverence “The film, to me, is about that it was inspirational to me. I was hon- the hardest decision a man has ored to play him. Many of the studios tried to make in his life,” Adams con- to cover up the off-set lives of these ac- tinued. “Whether he decides to tors by creating these forced matches and pursue love or his passion. And couplings, such as pairing Elizabeth Taylor that’s why the title, As Long as with Monty. It was really a shame that for I’m Famous, is about deciding many performers their only safe place was ‘This is what I have to do to in their work. That constant tightrope that be famous.’ We all have loves Clift had to walk must have been exhaust- throughout our life, but maybe ing. The tragedy of it all is that Clift could we only get one true love. And play just about any role, but ultimately the I think that writing and directing one role he was unable to play was that of was that for Sid. Unfortunately, himself.” t Monty was a casualty of that.” For more info on the upcoming film, For Adams, the road to play- visit Broadwoodmedia.com or Instagram ing Clift began in his native Phil- @broadwood_media. adelphia. While attending St. Gavin Joseph’s University and major- Adams ing in marketing with a minor in (right) in As pharmaceuticals, acting seemed Long As I’m like the furthest thing at the time Famous for Adams. “I had always been facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // music The New Year Brings

French Off The Cuff 2018 19 SEASON Enigmatic those who like to learn about the history and story behind to BSO French a symphony. “The Off the By Brynn Devereaux Cuff concerts are perfect 2019 has begun, and the Bal- symphony for those who want to dive timore Symphony Orchestra a little deeper into the back- (BSO) is keeping January excit- by Messian ground of the piece. Music ing with the premiere of Turan- Director Marin Alsop uses OFFOFF THETHE CUFF:CUFF: galîla-symphonie, a larger than featured at BSO this format to take audienc- life symphony by French comes with her on a musical poser Olivier Messiaen. Under journey and explore differ- TURANGALTURANGALÎÎLA LA the direction of music director ent aspects of the piece,” Marin Alsop, the BSO will mesmerize audi- says McBride Robles. “For this Off the Cuff ences with a full performance of the sympho- program, Marin selects excerpts from the SYMPHONIE ny on January 10th and 13th and dive deeper Turangalîla-symphonie and takes questions SYMPHONIE into the piece during their Off the Cuff perfor- from the audience following the performance. mances on January 11th and 12th. Marin has such a wealth of knowledge, and CONCERTCONCERT && AFTER PARTYAFTERPARTY “The Turangalîla-symphonie truly stands her Off the Cuff concerts are highly engaging alone among pieces of 20th-century classical and entertaining. Our Off the Cuff concert at music,” says BSO general manager Tonya the Meyerhoff on January 12 is followed by McBride Robles. “Its composer, Olivier Mes- an after-party with live music, food and drink siaen, drew on a wide-ranging number of in- specials – it offers another fun element to the fluences in creating this work – he incorporat- concert-going experience.” ed everything from medieval legends to birdcalls to love and spirituality in this work. The result is a composition that is fascinating and enigmatic, requiring over 100 musicians and two soloists to perform. One of the featured solo instru- ments is called an ondes Martenot, a 20th-century electronic in- It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the sym- strument that creates eerie, alien-like sounds phony or a long-time BSO fan, Turangalî- when played. This voicing adds another layer la-symphonie will be a concert to remember. of texture to what is already a rich and var- “The sheer size and scope of the Turangalî- SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 7 PM • TICKETS FROM $25 ied web of sound created by the orchestra. la-symphonie is incredible and the way that As a performer, it’s a fascinating, and often, a it makes use of different combinations of in- A very rare performance! Marin Alsop leads over 100 musicians in Messiaen’s once-in-a-lifetime experience.” struments is striking,” says McBride Robles. mind-blowing Turangalîla-symphonie, featuring the eerie keyboard instrument This is certainly a new experience for “Whether you are new to the BSO or are ondes Martenot and world-renowned pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. many music fans in Baltimore. “This is the a regular patron, these performances will first time the Baltimore Symphony has ever demonstrate just what a symphony orchestra This 90-minute Off The Cuff concert offers insight into this rare masterwork, performed the Turangalîla-symphonie, and is truly capable of in terms of the unique and followed by a Q&A session with Marin Alsop, an after-party in the lobby with quite possibly the first time it’s ever been per- mesmerizing sounds that it can produce. live jazz by Ultrafaux and food and drink specials! formed in Baltimore,” says McBride Robles. Turangalîla-symphonie will be performed OFFICIAL INTERNET “A complete performance of the Turangalî- at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall on MADE POSSIBLE BY: PROVIDER OF THE BSO: MEDIA PARTNERS: la-symphonie is about 80 minutes in length. Thursday, January 10th at 8 pm and at the It’s an opportunity to sit back and enjoy an Music Center at Strathmore on Sunday, Janu- uninterrupted period of transcendent music in ary 13th at 3pm. The Off the Cuff Performanc- a way that you’ve almost certainly never ex- es will be on Friday, January 11th at 8:15 pm perienced a symphony orchestra before.” at the Strathmore and Saturday, January 12th JOSEPH MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL This unique symphony will not only be at 7 pm at the Meyerhoff. For ticket informa- 410.783.8000 • BSOMUSIC.ORG offered in a classical concert, but in the Off tion, visit BSOMusic.org or call the box office the Cuff format – a concert experience for at 410-783-8000. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // qmusic

are sure to strike a chord with listeners from Control” is a sorry-not-sorry anthem. Oh, What a (Queer) Year all walks of life. 9) Like fellow queer label-mate Perfume 5) The devastating Rifles & Rosa- Genius (aka Mike Hadreas), Car Seat Head- By Gregg Shapiro It’s an honest indication of what follows on ry Beads (In the Black / 30 Tigers) by rest (aka Will Toledo) makes some of the When it comes to LGBTQ music, the pres- songs that incorporate updated retro new lesbian singer/ most memorable songwriter Mary and indispens- ent, as well as the past and future, are fe- wave sensibilities (“Cry!”), outrageous funk Will male. Since the very early days of popular (“Jeannie Becomes a Mom,” “Talk”), 21st Gauthier, a prod- Toledo able music of the queer music, the women have been the ones century 60s revival (“Bikini,” “Money,” “Soul uct of Gauthier’s of Car 2010s. In one of to take the lead. While that definitely holds No. 5,” “Animal”) and perfect pop (“Getting association with Seat the most arrest- true for 2018, male artists are definitely mak- to Me”). Darden Smith’s Headrest ing and ambitious ing certain that they are being heard. 3) From the personal lesbian mom tune non-profit organi- musical moves 1) Nostalgia Kills (Pinko), Jill Sobule’s “The Mother” to the queer empowerment zation “Songwrit- made in 2018, first album in four years is another master- anthem “The Joke,” Brandi Carlile created ingWith:Soldiers,” Car Seat Head- piece and one that deserves the largest her most far-reaching set of songs on By the in which soldiers rest released the audience possible. Living up to its title, the Way, I Forgive You (Low Country Sound / are teamed up with double disc set record is a reminder that the past is always Elektra). The country-tinged “Every Time I professional song- Twin Fantasy with us and it’s up to us what we do with it, as Hear that Song” (from which the album gets writers, is unlike (Matador). The you can hear on “The Island of Lost Things,” its title), the stomp of “Hold Out Your Hand,” anything you’ve first disc, Face to “Forbidden Thoughts of Youth” and “Almost the heartbreaking political statement of “Ful- heard before. Two Face, is a 2016 Great.” “I Don’t Want to Wake Up” is both ton County Jane Doe,” the addiction sto- of the songs, in- re-recording of familiar and new, and if you aren’t crying ry-song “Sugartooth,” the back-to-back for- cluding the devas- Car Seat Head- (and dancing with abandon) by the end of “I giveness theme of “Most of All” and “Harder tating “The War After the War” were written rest’s original 10-song 2011 self-released Put My Headphones On” you might want to To Forgive,” and the astounding album clos- by military wives whose soldier husbands debut Twin Fantasy and the second disc, check your pulse. er “Party of One” all contributed to making returned from the battlefield wounded. Mirror to Mirror, is the original 2011 record- 2) Almost everything you need to know this Carlile’s best album to date. Gauthier, who has a long history of bring- ing of the album. about queer singer/songwriter Caroline 4) You’d never guess from listening to ing listeners to tears (check out 2010’s The 10) Not Too Far Away (BMG), Joan Ar- Rose can be heard on “More of the Same,” Historian (Matador) by out singer/songwrit- Foundling), takes that ability to a whole new matrading’s first studio album of all original the opening track on Loner (New West). er Lucy Dacus that it is only her second al- level with Rifles & Rosary Beads. songs in five years is sure to please the ears There is humor, sensitivity, insight and an bum. In her early 20s, Dacus is one of those 6) Transangelic Exodus (Bella Union), of all Armatrading fans. Easily her best stu- Op-1 keyboard; the combo is intoxicating. wise beyond her years artists whose songs described by Ezra Furman as “a queer out- dio effort since Lovers Speak, Not Too Far law saga,” is a dizzying, exhilarating and Away arrived after Armatrading announced a unforgettable experience, that will leave you serious curtailing of her concert tour sched- reeling in the best possible way. Opener ule. Perhaps with more time on her hands, A MUST SEE SEASON! “Suck the Blood from My Wound” morphs Armatrading was able to better assess what from pure pop exuberance to static rage in worked and what didn’t and the resulting al- under five minutes. “Driving Down ToLA” bum, bursting with love and affection, is a sounds like a lost experimental Rufus Wain- marvelous combination of her 70s and 80s wright number and if “No Place” doesn’t songwriting technique. Let Me Entertain You! make your heart race you should check your 11) Remember the way that UK bands pulse. “The Great Unknown” (with what we such as Gang of Four and the Au Pairs found

® can only hope is a sampled scream) has an- a way to effortlessly mix the politics of danc- them written all over it and “Maraschino Red ing, railing against an assortment of societal Dress $8.99 at Goodwill” is one of the most ills, giving us something to think about while remarkable songs you will hear this year. we worked up a sweat on the dance-floor. 7) The always brilliant lesbian sing- Produced by the brilliant Edwyn Collins, er/songwriter and bassist extraordinaire The Official Body (Fat Cat) by queer band Meshell Ndegeocello put out the cleverly Shopping picks up where the others left off, titled Ventriloquism (All Points/Believe) on with tracks such as “Control Yourself,” “The which she reimagined 11 songs, originally Hype,” “Asking For A Friend,” “Shave Your released between 1982 and 1994, in her Head,” “Suddenly Gone,” “My Dad’s A Danc- own distinctive style, and the results were er,” and “New Values.” awe-inspiring. 12) LGBTQ parents in search of family 8) Lush (Matador), the suitably named music that can be enjoyed by one and all full-length debut by Snail Mail (aka teen sen- need look no further than Songs for the sation Lindsey Jordan), plays like a reverent Rainbow Family (Leather / Western) by The tribute to the 90s, the decade in which the Diesel Tykes (led by prolific gay musician performer was born. That’s the 90s through Scott Free), featuring a marvelous assort- a queer, 21st century lens. “Pristine” asks ment of guest musicians including lesbian Order On-Line at the age-old question, “Don’t you like me for family musician Laura Doherty (the vegan TobysDinnerTheatre.com me?” and you can dance to it “anyways.” tune “Adopt a Cow”), lesbian duo Congress 410-730-8311 “Heat Wave” is as warm as the summer sun of Starlings (“The Out Song”), trans artist and centerpiece “Stick” reaches a crescen- Elias Krell (the powerful “Dress Me in Yel- do that stays with you. The dreamy “Golden low”), and soulful gay singer JC Brooks (the 5900 Symphony Woods Road • Columbia, MD 21044 • Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. Dream” will get your kicks moving and “Full tropical “Pride and Joy”). t

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

jokes, even when she didn’t quite understand. Chi Chi Ray Colby walked over and publically took her time cooing over a well- known baby in the crowd. But, it was the Parenting older sibling at our table that held every- OUTloud one’s attention. She was a trans girl, later identified as being 15 years old. She had Rev. Kelly Crenshaw drag closet. The girl was thrilled and posed long blue hair and matching fingernails. for several pictures for her family. She wore a skin-tight dress and dramatic And, I sat there in tears. To see a young makeup. trans person embraced so completely by a And, the enthusiasm from that child! room full of Drag Show She had money for ev- strangers made ery single performer. my heart ex- for encouraging a teenager in her dreams. as Lifeline She sang along to the plode with joy. Thank you for affirming her beauty, her songs she knew. She So many of our courage, her creativity, and her love of smiled. She laughed. young people performing. May she always know the love I went to a drag show yesterday. So now, She thoroughly en- are bullied and and acceptance of complete strangers. I know you’re asking how that’s possibly joyed herself on a level criticized for And, to the rest of you. Head to Hager- newsworthy. People go to drag shows all that no one else in that who they are. stown Hopes this summer and enjoy one the time. And, I freely ad- room experi- This child was of the best teenaged drag performers of all mit I’m one of those who enced. embraced. time. You won’t regret it. t goes fairly often. I love Teen has the All of the So, to the Rev. Kelly Crenshaw is the mom of 16 a good drag show. But, drag queens drag queens adopted kids, two biological kids, guardian yesterday’s show was brunch stopped for of yesterday’s of one baby girl and foster mom of dozens. different. just a few sec- show – Nicole Some are lesbian, some gay, some straight, It started in the usual of her life onds longer James, Chi and some bisexual. Kelly founded a K-12 way. I arranged to meet several friends at when they got to her. Chi Ray Colby, day school where kids could have a safe, a drag brunch in Hagerstown. Good food, Many had a compliment Sasha Renee, bully-free environment for learning. She is good friends, a couple of drinks. You know, or encouraging word to Araya Sparxx, co-owner of a counselling agency that works the usual. The restaurant arranged the say. But, it was toward Chasity Vain, with children and their families. seating so that many of us were at long the end of the program and Ashley tables. Our table had our group of four and when things took a more Bannks – all then a family group of six. I’m not sure of interesting turn. I can say is, the exact make-up of the group, but my Araya Sparxx took “Thank you!” the opportunity to recog- Thank you “She sang along to the nize Nicole James for her work with the Miss Gay It’s a drag youthquake! Drag superstar songs she knew. She Maryland pageant. Nicole talked about Desmond Napoles (aka Desmond is Amazing), how much she enjoyed mentoring the con- has appeared with Ru Paul and went totally smiled. She laughed. testants and then having them mentor and viral performing at 2015’s New York City facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud She thoroughly enjoyed assist her through her recent pageant ex- Pride march. perience. They both mentioned how it’s herself on a level that the mentoring process that bonds them. They talked about how the drag queen no one else in that community is a family. room experienced.” It was then that Araya walked over to the trans girl at our table and asked her name and age. The child was over the guess is grandma, an aunt, mom, and two moon with excitement. Everyone was so adolescent kids. accepting. The applause was overwhelm- We all enjoyed a great buffet brunch ing. And then, I’m not quite sure how it and waited anxiously for the show to be- happened, but the girl was asked if she gin. We were near the entrance for the wanted to perform. The DJ put on a ran- drag queens, so we were able to watch dom song and this child started to perform much of the interaction with the rest of the like she’d been doing it all her life. crowd. Araya Sparxx was the hostess for The crowd went wild. After it was all most of the event, only replaced when she over, she was asked if she wanted to per- was preparing to perform. She did a great form at Hagerstown Hopes this year. If job of engaging the crowd, but it was her you aren’t familiar with Hopes, it’s Hag- interactions with the children that got my erstown’s Pride festival. The girl and her 240-420-2180 attention, of course. mom quickly agreed. Later, as the per- She recognized the children in the formers were walking on stage for their fi- crowd, including the two at our table. The nal moment, Araya passed the girl a huge youngest, around 11, played along with the “diamond” ring to get her started with her

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 out in the valley

wanted to know how they could have a Happy New Year from beard like mine, which I attribute to good genes and the aforementioned research in beard care. A beard is one of the most Hagerstown Hopes Brian’s obvious and outward expressions of masculinity, which means that what these guys by Brian George Hose wonderful support from the community be- Brain were really asking was, How do I look like Hagerstown Hopes has a lot to be thankful cause 2019 is going to be a big year for Brian George Hose an alpha male? for and we want to thank the community Hagerstown Hopes. We’ve worked out the It wasn’t just straight guys, though. Our for supporting us all year, but especially details with the health department and will community tends to prize masculinity, and for helping us break a fundraising record at be offering free HIV testing at our Hub very Year of the the longer and shinier my beard became, the recent Snow Ball & Silent Auction host- soon. Privacy and confidentiality are im- the more attention I received from poten- ed by The Lodge. The holiday show, fea- portant, and we’re happy to announce that Beard tial suitors. The attention often came with turing 20-plus performers, has long been we’ve developed a system to help ensure assumptions about my personality, tem- the pet project of Nicole James, reigning the anonymity of those seeking testing. A lot happened in 2018, but for me it was perament, and preferences. Some were Miss Gay Maryland America, and has be- Scheduling will be handled by the health the year of the beard. I’ve had a beard of correct; others weren’t. As an introverted come a staple in our local community. This department and members of the board and varying length for years, but dress codes wallflower, I generally liked the attention year, the community showed up for some committees will not be involved in testing and social norms generally kept it in because with attention came power. great entertainment and to support Hager- to help ensure your privacy. check. Every few weeks (or months) I’d go By summer, I had been dubbed The Vi- stown Hopes, the beneficiary of the night. We’re also happy to announce that to a barber and tidy up so I would look like king by a new group of friends. Suddenly In just three short hours, the community we are working with the library to create a a respectable young man. Then my bar- I was getting respect and admiration, not raised over ten thousand dollars, which I’m book club and discussion group that rec- ber closed towards the end of 2017 and because I was a different person told is a new record. This says a lot about ognizes and celebrates all aspects of the because I was working in but because I had acquired a our community – in addition to being gen- diversity of our community. The library was a more relaxed environ- decent amount of face fuzz. erous, we have a community that cares, awarded a grant and generously reached ment, I decided to con- I began to realize the power that supports us and our work to make life out to us, asking us to be involved, and we duct my own social of appearances and the way better for LGBTQ persons in Hagerstown look forward to providing you with updates experiment and not others respond to the way and the surrounding areas. and information in the near future. trim my hair or beard we look. It’s something I still The evening included a silent auction Several of our members recently at- for a year. Here’s struggle with because I think with donations ranging from collectible tended a GSA meeting at a local high what happened. appearances are superficial Lennox glass to a flat screen TV. Harry school. We were delighted to learn that our At first I thought and trivial, but in reality they Brubaker arranged youth want all I had to do to grow can (and do) matter. What’s a for a visit from to be active, my beard was to con- Viking to do? Santa, who posed contributing tinue to not shave. This Now that my year of the for pictures to sup- members worked for a while, but beard is drawing to a close, port our upcom- of our com- after achieving a certain I’m wondering what’s in store ing and newly-an- munity, so length I learned that for me and my beard. My so- nounced LGBTQ we’re work- beards demand special cial experiment taught me a Prom, which will ing with them attention. Beards have lot about myself and helped be held this spring to create the a different texture than me to love myself in new for LGBTQ youth first annual the hair on your head ways. You see, beards are in Hagerstown and LGBTQ prom. It’s a party and therefore require also divisive and not everyone the surrounding ar- We’ve been and specialized products and eas. Our new Pride attending to was a fan (and they weren’t you’re care. I could have a beard the details of afraid to say so). pins were available, invited! that looks like mental illness But what I love about my beard featuring the rain- our youth pro- on my face, or I could have a nice, is that it’s me. I love that somehow I bow and trans flags gram, which healthy beard. I chose the latter was blessed with genes that result in a in support of our Trans Group, and a 50/50 will begin soon, and we will incorporate and educated myself on the proper full, red beard that reminds me that I have raffle rounded out the evening. teaching life skills while helping our youth care of my ever-growing beard. the spirit of a Viking even when I feel like We also had the honor of recogniz- plan the prom of their dreams. Cold water is preferred for washing and a lost lamb. And, in learning to care for ing several individuals for their outstand- Again, we’d like to thank everyone for though beards should always be rinsed in ing commitment to the community. Mark supporting us and helping us bring services the shower, shampooing should occur on Fadely, co-chair of events, received the and resources to our community. None of an as-needed basis to help retain the natu- “At first I thought all I Hero of Hopes Award; Tim Luipersbeck this would be possible without the support ral oils that give beards color and a softer, had to do to grow my (aka DJ Sidekick) received the Outstand- of the community, and we’re so grateful for more manageable texture. Beard shampoo ing LGBTQ Citizen Award, and Nicole your help in making what seemed impos- and conditioner are essential, and a little beard was to continue James (aka Jim Tyner) was the recipient sible a new reality for Hagerstown and the aloe vera and conditioner can work mira- to not shave.” of the Lifetime Achievement Award. These surrounding areas. cles for even the most damaged beard. individuals are some of the many unsung As always, please like and follow us Once I had figured out the proper care heroes in our community who have volun- on Facebook to stay up to date on our up- and maintenance of my beard, I realized my beard, I began to learn how to care for teered their time and talents in service to coming events and new services. Or visit that it doubled as an icebreaker. Men start- myself. I learned that others’ opinions of others. Thank you for all you’ve done and Hagerstownhopesmd.org to see our calen- ed talking to me – all men. Straight guys me don’t matter, but my own opinion does. continue to do, and for being the amazing, dar of events, list of local resources, or to began stopping me on the street to com- That’s a lesson from me to you. Happy dedicated people you are! make a donation. Happy New Year! t pliment my beard and ask for tips. They New Year! t We’re especially grateful to have such

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

speak, merely sobbing into the phone. “What is going on? Are you okay?” Asher’s I needed the pronoun talk, again. A con- World versation from a week prior. About gender Asher Kennedy and how it is an invented concept. They were agender, which then seemed as foreign a concept as sleeping. They did. Calmly laid out how many gender identities there To My Best were. I should have let them finish, it was in- formative. Instead I blurted out that I wanted Friend to be a boy. It was cloudy, my room was quiet and Christmas Eve 2014. It is winter break, the dark. I remember fidgeting at my pyjamas perks of working in a college town, and the while forcing my knees to remain steady. lack of structure has turned my life into cha- “If you’re a boy, then you’re a boy.” I os. It had been chaotic beforehand, ever looked at my chest, it could not be that easy. since finishing college in 2013, my life had “Dude, if you’re a boy, then you’re a boy. been falling apart around me. Never It’s your body.” been a big fan of alcohol, I learned I broke down. I in my freshman year that cheap beer was sobbing. If my will never taste good, especially not upstairs neighbors at coming back up walking back to the time are reading, your dorm; but post-college me tried I know I woke your hard. I am going to be blunt: I was baby, and I am truly awful to everyone in my life. Snap- sorry. ping at loved ones does a fantastic If someone had job of helping one rationalize that told me even 24 hours they are alone, and since most of prior that coming out my conversations devolved quickly was as simple as de- into me daydreaming about suicide, ciding I was a boy, I friends were not pouring out of the would have scoffed woodwork to spend time with me. with the indifference Six months of that cycle left of someone who had me with a pantry empty of support Kathy & the been trying to do just people. I had been to the emergency room author that for my entire existence. I twice that fall for attempting suicide, and my wonder if it was the right com- self-destructive tendencies were the only bination of sleep deprivation part of me thriving. Christmas Eve was a cat- and depression that wore down my defiance, alyst, or an epiphany. I picked up the phone but I know it was the calm, understanding voice of the friend I called. “Since most of my I am writing my first column of the year. I am planning the first queer prom in western conversations devolved Maryland. I am finalising my name change quickly into me and setting my consultation for top surgery. When I answer the phone, no one misgen- daydreaming about ders me. I still feel a sense of bewildered pride when I’m greeted with a “buddy” or a suicide, friends were “sir.” I have not struggled with a continued not pouring out of the low since that winter. I guess I turned four last week. Monday I woodwork to spend will be watching my best friend blow out can- dles on their birthday. Happy birthday to the time with me.” cranky soul who picked up the phone and was able to take a lifetime of suffering and at seven in the morning and I dialled the only help articulate it into one sentence that set person I could think to call in that moment. me free. My wish for you is the gift you gave It was not a friendly salutation. We all me. Great strength and peace surrounded have the tough friend. The one who both by people who understand you when you helps with anything and acts as Clint-East- cannot; and love you when you are feeling wood-y as possible during. Mornings are lost and broken. I love you Kathy, even if you a no go, and yet I was breaking the cardi- will never be a morning person. t nal rule. I was poking the bear. I could not BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 TheThe Quality of life dressed, I couldn’t tell you, but I remember that it was appropriate to the situation. He Getting the was clean, neat, and presented well. How wedding professionals dress for DrinkerDrinkeryy Wedding meeting with you and for working at your wedding is important. Most of the time TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! You Want you’re looking for neat and professional. David Egan During your wedding, you want most of 205 West Read Street “Corner of Read and Park” them blending into the background. For 205 West Read Street “Corner of Read and Park” that, wedding pros tend to favor black. Picking Great But all of the enthusiasm and listen- 410-225-3100410-225-3100 •• ATMATM AvailableAvailable ing and sartorial splendor doesn’t mean a Wedding Pros thing if they don’t have the technical skills to do the job. I like to see them in their work environment and see the tools of the A confession: I’m crazy about getting good trade, either in person or in photographs customer service. It always has a strong of them in action. How does their space influence on my buying decisions. and their equipment look? Clean and well I stopped by a Mazda dealership kept? Professional? While that doesn’t tell a while back while I was out and about, the whole story, it tells a lot. ’cause I’m a Miata guy and the new one I also like to know how many years the is outstanding. I made a point of checking company and the individual have been in what time I started looking at the cars out the business. How well are they grounded on the lot, taking bets with myself on how in the business? Do they have experience long it would take a salesperson to come and relationships that will serve you? out and talk with me. You know what? No- I had the sense that Ralph knew his body ever came out. That impressed me business. While our conversation didn’t – in a good way – so I decided to go inside take us deep into his professional compe- and see the Miata in the showroom. The tence, I’d be really surprised if he failed on closest salesperson, Ralph, and I started a that point. conversation after a couple of minutes. He By the way, every provider in the wed- was easy, helpful, and enthusiastic. While ding industry – venues, caterers, DJs, it was clearly Ralph’s business to sell cars, bands, photographers, there was absolutely and cake bakers, no pressure, and no to name a few – BS. should have lia- That’s exactly the bility insurance. kind of customer ser- That’s the kind vice I like. If I buy a of insurance new car, you can be that protects sure that I’m going you and your back to see Ralph. guests should The wedding world someone be has lots of people in it injured or if 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. who are just like Ralph, something and lots who aren’t. is broken or Ralph listened to damaged. BEST PRICES IN TOWN me. He heard what was important to me. Consider the lack of liability insurance We communicated well and easily. He told to be a deal killer. If they’re not serious me about his son’s Miata, a year older than about protecting you, their guests, and mine, and pulled out his phone to show me themselves, walk away. pictures of the car when I expressed inter- You’re getting by now that I liked Ralph, est in the source and quality of the car’s and would have confidence working with new paint job. He knew and could speak him on buying a new car. the language of the trade. I felt comfort- The best wedding professionals are able in his presence. just like Ralph. They’ll listen to you, un- Whether you’re buying a car or a wed- derstand what you do and don’t want, ding, that last part – feeling comfortable and give you good, informed, professional ComeCome CheckCheck OurOur – is how you want to leave that first meet- guidance. t ing, along with the sense that the profes- David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- sional is technically competent, and re- ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- spects and values the client-professional ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. BackBack BarBar relationship. com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue If you asked me how Ralph was on Instagram and Facebook.

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

• Serving Brunch on Sundays! • Now open for lunch at 12 p.m. on Saturdays • Penguin Pils now available BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY from 11am – 3pm in 16oz cans! With$ 15 Bottomless Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, Sangria and EVO Craft Drafts Introducing Lumen Our new beer brewed speci cally OFF THE VINE WEDNESDAYS for Light City! ½ Off Select Bottles of Wine All Day Late Night Happy Hour on TAP THAT THURSDAYS – All Taps Half Off SERVES BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, Tuesday, Wednesday, COFFEE AND DRINKS! HAPPY HOUR: Wed. – Sat. from 3pm – 7pm and Thursday Evenings! Hours Tues. -Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. OUR TERRACE IS OPEN! Get house draft beer for $3.75 Sat. 10 a.m. –to 9 p.m. from 11 p.m. to close Sun. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 800 KEY HIGHWAY 10 Art Museum Drive BALTIMORE, MD 21230 1106 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 410-752-1000 Baltimore, MD 21201 410-889-3399 www.encantadabaltimore.com 410-547-6925 • thebrewersart.com gertrudesbaltimore.com Sparkling Swine Sundays $20 Sparkling Wine & Charcuterie Flight Magnificent Mondays Happy Hour at the Bar AllAll Night 410-802-1310 Taster Tuesdays [email protected] $2 for 6 oz. Tasting Pours of Any Draft Wine Wednesdays All Wine by the Glass ½ off, Select $20 Bottles of Wine Thirsty Dog Thursdays On the Patio. Get a Frosty Paws Treat for Your Pooch with the Purchase of any EVO Craft Beer Draft or Tito’s Birroteca Baltimore 1520 Clipper Road. Baltimore, MD 21211 443-708-1935 • www.bmorebirroteca.com www.bmorebirroteca.com/baltimore-events

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Quality of life // your money

medication. Medicare Basics Other Plans – Medicare Advantage plans ly an option and Medigap (supplemental) policies offer By Woody Derricks ty while others that allows additional options to the standard plans. My clients often report Medicare as the most with group cov- you to com- These plans can combine the coverage of- confusing aspect of their retirement finan- erage through bine Parts fered through Medicare and/or provide you cial picture. With all of the options available their employer A and B as with additional coverage to fill in some of the through Medicare, just deciding on which might be able well as the gaps in Medicare (deductibles, co-pays, and coverage to elect can get someone’s head to delay apply- option to additional services). to spin. ing. include Part Resources – You may want to start by Understanding the basics can help you What are D. contacting your State Health Insurance As- feel more comfortable as you sort through the essentials What sistance Program (SHIP). SHIP offers free the decision process. In this article, I’ll cov- on coverage are the assistance to help individuals and couples er some of the main aspects of Medicare as options? costs? sort through their Medicare options. You can well as providing some resources where you Part A – Part find your local office here: Hiptacenter.org. can learn more. Medicare Part A A – While You can also find additional information When can you sign up? Most people covers hospital there is an annual deductible and at the Medicare website: Medicare.gov/your- will become eligible for Medicare at age 65 stays, some of the care you receive while in some other potential costs, Medicare Part A medicare-costs/index.html and can sign up as early as three months pri- the hospital, and, in some cases, can cover is free for anyone who has worked (or who UnitedHealthcare has a site with a PDF or to their 65th birthday and as late as three a portion of skilled nursing and hospice care. has a spouse who has worked) for 10 years book and some videos that help explain the months after. If you apply prior to the month Part B – Medicare Part B covers some of (40 quarters). Those who have not worked basics: Medicaremadeclear.com. t This column is for informational purposes in which you turn 65, coverage should begin what Part A doesn’t and includes some pre- for 40 quarters may pay a pre- And, you the first day of your birthday month. Other- ventative and medically necessary services. mium in order to get Part A cov- know, it only, and is not meant as specific advice to wise, your coverage should begin the month Those can include doctor’s visits, blood tests, erage. kinda did any individual. Partnership Wealth Manage- after you apply. surgeries, and items such as wheelchairs. Part B – The pre- If you miss this initial seven-month win- Part D – Medicare Part D provides pre- miums for Medicare dow, you may have your benefit start date scription drug coverage. Part D has a list of Part B are based on delayed and/or face additional costs. prescription medications that are covered your annual income. Some people may qualify for Medicare and tiered pricing for those medications. In 2019, the premi- earlier due to a health condition or disabili- Part C – Medicare Part C is essential- ums will be according to the chart. As you might expect, you’d also have a deductible and some benefits Certified Public Accountants for which you’d have co-insurance. Part D – Medi- care Part D’s costs 2018 TAX SEASON IS will vary based on the plan you purchase, AROUNDAROUND THETHE CORNERCORNER the medications you need, and where you go to get your medi- ment offers financial planning and wealth cations. This area can be extremely complex management services, with a long history of Don’tDon’t Panic,Panic, wewe cancan helphelp youyou withwith and confusing. Make sure to fully evaluate working with the LGBT community. Reach your coverage options before you apply and them at Partnershipwm.com or call 410-732- youryour 20182018 ReturnReturn .. CALLCALL USUS TODAY!TODAY! understand your benefits before getting your 2633. Services for Business Services Tax Services Individuals -Small Business Accounting -Tax Preparation -Estate Planning -Online Payroll -Tax Planning -Elder Care -QuickBooks Services -Tax Problems A Quick Guide to Medicare Costs -Payroll - Bank Financing New Business Formation 2017 Modified Adjusted Gross Income ... Premium

Making a Difference for Businesses & Individuals Up to $85K single / $170K married $135.50 Above $85K to $107K single / $170K to $214K married $189.60 With client focus as the base of every service, Bridges & Associates, CPA’s Above $107K to $133.5K single / $214K to $267K married $270.90 of Baltimore, MD offers area businesses and individuals specialized CPA Above $133.5K to $160K single / $267K to $320K married $352.20 services tailored to the industry, business entity and targeted needs. Above $160K to $500K single / $320K to $750K married $433.40 Above $500K single / $750K married $460.50 835 Hollins St. Baltimore, MD, 21201 • 410-908-8134 [email protected] • bridgescpas.com Figures from Medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/part-b-costs/part-b-costs.html

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Special Offer! Buyer and Seller clients who sign a listing or buyer agency agreement before January 31, 2019 will receive a FREE HMS Home Warranty** at closing! Contact Wayne for details: [email protected] **Basic HMS Home Warranty. Not valid with short sales or foreclosures.

www.charmcityrealestate.com 410-467-8950 (direct)

THE BEST REAL ESTATE DEALS IN A LGBTQ NEWSPAPER 410-802-1310 [email protected]

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 Quality of life // your money

of it. There are so many things to do Taking care tions to the groups in your community The More you when you’re running a business. of business that try to make the place you live better. Know About It’s easy to delude ourselves that – Do not 7) Put time for yourself on your we need to do all of them. By disturb calendar. It’s so important to take the doing all of them, we become so time to recharge and refresh yourself; Business exhausted and frazzled, and have Richard Finger & Lauren Lynch a healthy work-life balance and your no time or inclination to do much business’s success demand time out. else. Let someone else do some of All work and no play is a recipe for the tasks for a change. Delegation mental and physical disaster. So if It’s a New Year: is the key to a healthy-work life bal- you have trouble freeing up time to ance. do the things you enjoy, write time Reflectand 2) Promote your business reg- regularly into your schedule to focus ularly and consistently. Too often on yourself, and stick to that commit- Resolve the task of promoting business slips ment. If you won’t invest in yourself, to the bottom of the to-do list, as it who will? may not always feel of top importance. 8) Set realistic goals. Goal The end of the year is a good time to re- If you want to attract new customers, setting is a valuable habit if the flect on your business’s progress over the you have to make business promotion goals lead to success rather than past 12 months and a good a priority. One of your top new distress. Resolve that the goals time to plan business goals Ten golden year’s resolutions should be you set will be achievable, rather for the New Year. It’s a great surround yourself by good mar- than unrealistic pipe dreams that time to ask and answer ques- rules keting professionals, or take are so far out of reach they only lead to tions, such as, do you want the time to develop a marketing new directions or adjust old frustration. increased success in the coming year, or plan on your own. The key will be to ac- goals. Most companies only do this once 9) Don’t just make do; get a new more chances to enjoy success you may tually follow through on the plan. a year, or once a quarter. Do not make one. Is there a piece of equipment in your have achieved? These top New Year’s res- 3) Make business planning a week- this mistake. Set time aside each week to olutions are designed to help you do both: ly event. Planning is vital if you want a review, adjust, and look forward. Not only strike a better work-life balance and in- healthy, growing business. Business plan- will this help you avoid costly mistakes “It’s a great time to ask crease business success in the New Year. ning lets you take stock of what worked and stay on track, but you will feel more and answer questions.” 1) Learn to delegate, and do more and what didn’t work, and helps you set focused, and thusly, more relaxed. 4) Learn something new. What you choose to learn may be directly related Hearts and Ears Inc. or completely unrelated to your business. office that is interfering with your success LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center Learning something new will add to your or something that you lack that is making skills and add a new dimension of inter- your working life harder? Whether it is an est to your life – another important part of old fax machine that is a pain to use or the Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, achieving a healthy work-life balance and need for a new employee to lighten your increasing your business success. De- workload, stop putting off what you need. Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and pending on how you chose to learn, you The irritation of making do just is not worth Questioning, and Gender Non-Conforming individuals may meet new and interesting people, it. who may become customers, colleagues, 10) Drop what is not working and with behavioral health issues and concerns. or friends. move on. All ideas are not going to be su- 5) Join a new business organization per, as sales methods are not going to work or networking group. There is nothing 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 • 410-523-1694 for everyone, etc. If a technique, product, like talking to other business people for or business relationship is not working for [email protected] • heartsandears.org sparking new ideas, refining old ones, you, stop using it. Do not invest a lot of and making contacts. Whether it’s a group energy into trying to make the unworkable specifically focused on networking, or an workable. Move on. Something better will organization dedicated to a particular type turn up. of business, in-person or over the internet, Achieving a health work-life balance is making the effort to be part of a group will like maintaining a good relationship; you revitalize you and your business. have to keep working on it. But if you apply 6) Give back to your community. these top New Year’s resolutions through- There are all kinds of worthy organizations out the year, you will not only feel better dd you business to our distribution locAtions that will make a difference in your commu- but you will have more energy to put into A ! nity. Those who give get. Nothing will seed your business and make it the success you and grow goodwill for you and your busi- deserve. t Call Baltimore OUTloud ness better than giving back to the community. So make one of your top New Year’s for more details: resolutions to find a cause that matters to you and give what you can. Make this the 410-802-1310 year that you serve on a committee, be a mentor, volunteer, or make regular dona- facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com ATTORNEY FINANCIAL Lee Carpenter, Esq. Your LGBT Estate Planning Attorney Be part of our

Wills & Trusts Professional Powers of Attorney Woody Derricks, CFP® [email protected] Service • Advance Medical Directives • Probate & Trust Administration Directory. For • Prenuptial Agreements 2809 Boston Street • Suite 509 more information Baltimore, MD 21224 • Contact Mary at 500 E. Pratt Street, Suite 900, Baltimore (410) 732-2633 partnershipwm.com 410-802-1310 facebook.com/partnershipwm (410) 332-8626 • [email protected] COUNSELING SALON Phil Pecoraro Dr. Janan Broadbent LCSW-C, DCSW Specializing in Relationships FOR RENT Therapy and LGBTQ Concerns AFFORDABLE BOOTH Psychotherapy “The greatest stock market you located in TO A BARBER, can invest is yourself. Finding this Mt. Vernon BRAIDER, truth is better than finding a gold 1 E. Chase (The Belvedere) OR NAIL TECH mine.” – Byron Katie Office: 410-327-6892 Pam's Comfort Zone Cell: 410-370-6724 To Schedule an appointment 2800 Greenmount Ave. Visit drjanan.org Waverly Area philippecoraro.com Or call 410-825-5577 For more info: 410-814-8649

Bar 704 ASBURY PARK, NEW JERSEY 704 N 3rd Street Georgies Bar Harrisburg, PA 812 5th Avenue 717-234-4228 Asbury Park NJ 07712 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 732-988-1220 Station North Arts Cafe Gallery The Brownstone Lounge Club 1722 1816 North Charles Street 412 Forester Street Paradise 1722 North Charles Street 410-625-6440 • stationnortharts.com Harrisburg, PA 17102 10 Asbury Avenue 410-727-7431 • club1722.com SteamPunk Alley 717-234-7009 Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-988-6663 Club Bunns 227 W. Chase Street • 410-539-4806 REHOBOTH BEACH, DELAWARE 608 W. Lexington Street • 410-234-2866 The Rowan Tree Blue Moon The Asbury Drinkery 1633 South Charles Street 35 Baltimore Avenue 210 5th Avenue 203-207 W, Read Street • 410-225-3100 410-468-0550 • therowantree.net Rehoboth Beach, DE Asbury Park, NJ 07712 302-227-6515 • bluemoonrehoboth.com Hotel Tides The Eagle MARYLAND 408 7th Avenue 2022 North Charles Street The Lodge Lounge & Dance Club The Purple Parrot Asbury Park, NJ 07712 410-200-9858 • thebaltimoreeagle.com 21614 National Pike 247 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 • 302-226-1139 732-897-7744 The Gallery Boonsboro, MD 21713 1735 Maryland Avenue • 410-539-6965 301-591-4434 Rigby’s Bar & Grill 404 Rehoboth Avenue Grand Central HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA Rehoboth Beach, DE 1001-1003 North Charles Street Stallions 302-227-6080 • rigbysbarandgrill.com 410-752-7133 • centralstationpub.com 706 N 3rd Street Iguana Grill Leon’s Harrisburg, PA 717-232-3060 • stallionsclub.com 52 Baltimore Avenue 870 Park Avenue • 410-539-4993 Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Mixer’s 302-227-0948 • iguanagrill.com 6037 Belair Road • 410-599-1952

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 leather

get-togethers in local bars that cost little to Grindon Avenue) in Baltimore. February, but for the leather communi- nothing to attend and others are weekends January also brings one of the biggest ty it is over the Memorial Day Weekend. away that will provide you with memories events in the leather year: Mid-Atlantic The 41st IML (International Mr. Leather) is that will last a lifetime. You have the power Leather Weekend at the Hyatt Regency scheduled for May 23rd to 27th in Chica- Leather to really have a happy new year. Here are Capitol Hill in Washington on January 18th go. Yes, it is crowded. Yes, it can be ex- Line just a few events coming up in 2019. to 20th. Don’t miss it! All the details can pensive. And yes, you will make memories Rodney Burger January can be cold and dreary. Don’t be found at Leatherweekend.com. Who that will last a lifetime! Find all hibernate. Come out and celebrate. On Fri- will be Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leath- day, January 4th embrace your inner pup- er 2019? Don’t wait to py (or just come out and see what puppy read my article about Happy play is all about) at Baltimore Pup Night it. Come join me there! sponsored by Let’s Go Play and the Cap- There will also be a bar ital Pups & Handlers at Flavor (15 East night at the DC Eagle on New Centre Street) from 9 pm to 2 am. There is Thursday, January 17th even a doggy dinner before the event from presented by a group 7 to 9. Look for “LGP FLAVORful Doggy of MAL titleholders and Dinner” on Facebook. upstairs at the DC Ea- Leather Year What if 2019 was the best year of your gle you can join Mr. & life? When I interview leather titleholders, I Ms. DC Eagle 2019, Mr. Here we go again. Another year ends and always hear that: “It has been the best year Maryland Leather 2019, another one begins. I hope you made of my life!” Ever think about running for a and Mid-Atlantic Leather some good memories in 2018. I often leather contest? On Sunday, January 13th Woman 2019 for a dance lament those friends I see on social media starting at 6 pm Let’s Go Play is presenting party. Hope to see you in who are complaining that they’re bored, a workshop hosted by Northeast Handler DC in a few weeks. feeling down, not making friends, and just 2017 Damien Basile and Ms. Baltimore February brings the not having much fun. I know it’s simplis- Eagle 1992 Glenda Rider entitled “Heavy 48th annual Scarlet’s tic, but my solution is easy: Get off the is the Head that Wears the Crown.” Come Bake Sale. Picture artistic computer and get out of the house! Every hear their stories and get some tips about cakes designed by leath- year your friends in the leather community becoming a leather titleholder. The semi- er folks and you get the produce countless events. Some are just nar is at the Clifton Pleasure Club (2803 idea. Scarlet’s Bake Sale will take place on Sun- day, February 10th at the DC Eagle and will benefit Brother Help Thyself. Cocktails start at 3 pm and the live auction starts at 4. On Sunday, February 24th starting at 2 pm the New Mr. Mid- Jersey Leather Family will the details at Iml. Atlantic present the 13th annual chili cookoff at com. If you think 41 years is a Leather Georgies in Asbury Park, New Jersey. This 2018 long time, come join the Ship- Gerard year’s fundraiser benefits HIV services at Mates leather club on Satur- Turner – the Center in Asbury Park. Those long run- day, May 4th as they toast 45 Who will ning events are always great, but a new years of fun and community be Mr. event is fun too. On March 1st and 2nd the service. Everyone is invited Mid-Atlantic first MX Virginia Leather Contest will be to Max’s Taphouse in Balti- Leather held at Fallout (117 North 18th Street) in more for a party that was 45 2019? Richmond, Virginia. This is an all-inclusive years in the making. leather contest for anyone regardless of These are just a few of the leather gender or sexual identity. events to start off your new year. You will April 11th to 14th brings the ninth annu- also want to check out all the leather clubs’ al Bears, Bikers & Mayhem weekend to the bar nights and special events at the DC Ea- Eisenhower Hotel & Conference Center in gle and Bike Stop in Philadelphia. Mixer’s Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This year’s en- Bar in Baltimore is hosting Fierce Leather tertainment includes Hans, who was hilar- Friday’s every second and fourth Friday of ious on “America’s Got Talent.” Also pop- the month and our area leather clubs are ular in April is CLAW (Cleveland Leather everywhere having fun events. Check out Awareness Weekend), which will bring lots their websites and Facebook pages for de- of leather folks to downtown Cleveland on tails and keep reading Baltimore OUTloud. April 25th to 28th. CLAW will include over This is the 350th Leather Line. Time flies 101 skills and education sessions, a large when you’re having fun. I hope you have a vendor mart, and even a party at the Rock happy new leather year! t and Roll Hall of Fame. The football Super Bowl may be in

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com 870 Park Ave. Baltimore 410-539-4993

410-539-4850 227227 W.W. ChaseChase StSt

Let'sLet's notnot forgetforget toto comecome outout andand visitvisit Baltimore'sBaltimore's BestBest Bartenders!Bartenders!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 T:9.875” T:9.6”

The Fosters available on Xfi nity Stream app Dreams refl ected. On X1, it’s pride all year, only with Xfi nity.℠ There’s power in seeing yourself on screen, and that’s why Xfi nity created a fi rst-of-its-kind community endorsed LGBTQ Film & TV Collection. With Xfi nity On Demand, you have access to thousands of TV shows and movies at home and on-the-go. Simply say, “LGBTQ” into the X1 Voice Remote to easily immerse yourself in an awesome, diverse collection of content that refl ects all of you. Simple. Easy. Awesome.

Find yourself at xfi nity.com/LGBTQ DIV031-Q4-NED-A10-V1

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD January 4, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com

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

233 N. MICHIGAN AVE. SUITE 2900, CHICAGO, IL 60601, P:312.297.9600 60601, IL CHICAGO, SUITE 2900, AVE. MICHIGAN 233 N. ACCOUNT MANAGER BURRELL MECHANICAL BURRELL