AN INDEPENDENT VOICE FOR THE LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES November 28, 2014 | Volume XII, Issue 15

T he AIDS Quilt on display in World AIDS Day 2014 Washington, D.C. By Bill Redmond-Palmer and remember those who have passed The 2014 U.S. theme for World AIDS on, and to celebrate achievements, Day on December 1 is “Focus, Partner, such as increased access to treatment Achieve: An AIDS-free Generation.” The and prevention services. World AIDS Campaign’s Global Steering Every 9.5 minutes, someone in the Committee’s theme is “Getting to Zero,” for U.S. is diagnosed with HIV. Maryland the annual observances from 2011 to 2015. and the Baltimore-Towson area have The theme is about reducing new HIV in- some of the highest rates of HIV fections, discrimi- infections in the country, currently nation, and AIDS- Remembering, ranking fifth in the nation for HIV related deaths to infections. Infection rates contin- zero through in- Recommiting ue to increase, and it is estimated creased advanc- that at least 1,200 more people are es and equal access to HIV prevention, infected each year. Currently, more than testing, treatment, and care. 12,000 Baltimore City residents live with World AIDS Day provides powerful op- HIV. In spite of the fact that some people portunities to raise awareness, to honor —continued on page 3

New Wave Singers Usher in the Holidays online, at the door, or in advance from any New Wave member. By Steve Charing Anyone 17 or under will be admitted for New Wave Singers of Baltimore will open free, and New Wave Singers is extending its 2014-2015 season with performances a special invitation to LGBT youth and their of its holiday concert, “’Twas the Night.” In families, friends and allies to join us for this addition to Clement Clark Moore’s choral musical celebration of our community. version of the classic poem, “’Twas the Other concerts in New Wave’s sea- Night Before Christmas,” the concert will son include its annual Cabaret, “Saturday include selections by composers Morten Night Sizzle” on March 14 and the spring Lauridsen, John Rutter, Enya, and others. concert “Our American Songbook” on June An added highlight will be selections pre- 6 and 7. Details and updates on all perfor- sented by small ensembles of New Wave mances can be found on the website New- Singers’ members, offering a variety of wavesingers.org. popular Christmas favorites for all ages. Founded in 1985, the New Wave Sing- The performance on Saturday, Decem- ers of Baltimore is Maryland’s only LGBT ber 6 at 7 p.m. will take place at St. Mark’s and straight chorus. Led by director Adam Evangelical Lutheran Church, (1900 St. Koch, this auditioned ensemble of 35 to 40 Paul Street) in Baltimore. An encore “Ugly members has as its mission to make mu- Sweater Edition,” encouraging audience sic that matters by performing songs of members to wear their favorite Christmas hope, diversity, inclusion, and humor. “We sweaters, will be presented at 7 p.m. on celebrate humanity in its infinite variations Tuesday, December 9 at Govans Presby- and challenge our communities to embrace terian Church, (5828 York Road) in Balti- equality, harmony, and understanding,” said N ew Wave Singers perform more. Tickets are $20 and are available —continued on page 3 ‘We Must Have a New Approach’

news // LOCAL

The Battle Against LGBT Homelessness parenting youth, ages 18 to 24, that pro- vides supportive case management, educa- By Bonnie Lane friends behind.” tional and job coaching to support job skills Meet Francis Soane who is now 27. Fran- Francis overcame all his obstacles. He and income growth for homeless or unsta- cis had a rough childhood. His grandma is housed in his own place. A Coppin State bly housed youth and their children. Resi- passed away when he was five years old. graduate, he currently teaches modern dential services are available for 12 young He grew up in the beginning with his mom dance and hip-hop for the Baltimore De- parents and their children for a period of up – a bartender – who bounced him around partment of Recreation and Parks. “Don’t to 24 months. Eligibility: Homeless individu- all over from place to place. Francis dealt give up before something great happens,” als 18 to 24, low income women and their with watching his mom and her men drink- he suggests to other homeless youth. family members. Capacity: 12 units. ing and fighting a lot. In the bar she worked Meet F.T. Burden, president of AIRS • Restoration Gardens is a 43-unit apart- in he found a love for music. Music was his (AIDS Interfaith Residential Services). Ac- ment complex in Southern Park Heights for refuge to escape everyday problems. Mom cording to Mr. Burden, there are at least young adults. The facility includes a fully died when he was 12. 1,000 homeless youth here in Baltimore computer-networked building with enhanced At that point, Francis on any given night and at least 30% are support and community services, with strong found himself in the fos- LGBTQ. Burden himself was never home- ties to employment and educational opportu- ter-care system. He was less. He did, along with his partner, take in nities. Eligibility: Homeless youth age 18 to staying with family yet a gay homeless boy before he came to work 24, low-income individuals with or without a still separated from a lot in this field. The boy he took in graduated disability. Capacity: 43 units. of other immediate fam- from Northwestern University with • Youth Space provides rent- ily members. Feelings of an MBA. al assistance and scattered site loss and separation from “Housing is the most critical housing throughout Baltimore much of his world were component of getting youth on City for homeless youth ages 18 overwhelming him. Francis Soane the right track,” says Burden who to 24 with supportive case man- About two years credit: Bonnie Lane oversees five different programs agement with the goal of strength- later, he got his first job that help homeless youth. Cur- ening self-sufficiency. During the at Charlestown Retirement Community rently, about 110 homeless youth first 18 months, youth receive in Arbutus. “My aunt wanted me to work are housed in these programs. transitional program services and wanted me to pay her for gas. I used One common misconception about which provide life skills, educa- to walk a long ways and catch the shuttle these programs is that they are F. T. Burden tion, and workforce development instead.” He was adopted by his aunt and only for LGBTQ people or AIDS pa- credit: Bonnie Lane services. If successful, they move uncle. Francis graduated from high school tients. The fact is that both straight into permanent housing. Eligibili- in Catonsville. During the transition from and gay youth utilize these programs. ty: Homeless youth ages 18-24, low-income there to college, he stayed between his sis- AIRS has developed a range of pro- individuals with a disability and their family ter’s and godmother’s while attending Cop- grams under the City Steps banner that ad- members. pin State. dress the needs of homeless and unstably • Next Steps is a partnership with the In July 2007 at age 19, Francis was di- housed youth. City Steps works towards Maryland Department of Human Resources agnosed with HIV. When asked his initial re- decreasing the number of homeless youth “Ready by 21 program” to implement an action, he replied, “I was frozen. I was like, on the street. It’s a consortium of residential independent living program that serves 30 okay now what do I have to do? People’s and unstably housed youth ages 18-24 that youth ages 18 to 21 from Baltimore City and reaction to me was very sorrow-filled. I includes case management, emergency County on the cusp of aging-out of foster didn’t want that.” services, life skills, and targeted workforce care. Services include housing, education, He added, “It’s life. It’s hard to learn the development assistance. It is the largest workforce support, healthcare, financial lit- hard way. Sometimes, I went to my appoint- provider of supportive transitional housing eracy, and mentoring. Eligibility: 18 months ments and sometimes I forgot.” of its kind in Maryland with a goal of ending from 21st birthday, GED/or high school di- His lifestyle also wasn’t acceptable to youth homeless by 2020. ploma, referred by DSS Youth Transition- everyone because he is gay. “Being gay The programs under City Steps are: ing Out Division. This project will expand to and homeless is probably the hardest bar- • Carriage House Transitional Living serve 60 youth in early 2015. rier in this city to face. It’s a cold world, but Program for Youth – which provides sup- Even with these five incredible pro- your heart still beats. There’s still time and portive case management, independent grams, we have a long way to go at end- hope to get into a better place.” living skills training, educational and job ing youth homeless in Baltimore.. There still In the midst of his struggle, at age 24, coaching to support job skills and income are at least 1,000 sleeping on the street, in Francis found City Steps. Later he became growth for homeless youth, and is the only abandoned buildings, park benches, under a resident at Restoration Gardens, a $6 mil- such program in the state of Maryland. bridges, in doorways, wherever they can lion, 43-unit housing project for homeless Residential services are available for seven find. No one should be without a home, es- youth ages 18 to 24 in Northwest Baltimore. single young men and women, age 18 to pecially the youth! “In the beginning, I was, like, I want my own 21, with a history of homelessness and a November is National Homeless Youth place so I can do what I want, not to further readiness to take advantage of support ser- Awareness Month. For more information myself. I learned to prioritize financially, vices for up to 21 months. Eligibility: Home- about AIRS, please see this video: Youtu. health-wise, and career-wise. less youth age 18 to 21, low-income indi- be/NzBzRCnr_Y. t “I blossomed more there and opened up viduals with or without a disability. Capacity: Bonnie Lane is a formerly homeless socially. When I got my voucher for my own seven units. woman turned advocate, who was one of the house, I was so excited – tinged with a bit • The Geraldine Young Family Life Cen- founders of Word on the Street, Baltimore’s of sadness to be leaving so many awesome ter – a transitional living program serving paper created by homeless and allies.

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL

Wo rld AIDS Day 2014 source and Involvement fair. The fair will offer free HIV/STI counseling and testing – continued from page 1 include information on HIV/AIDS, linkage at 1111 North Charles Street. For more in- to services, and ways to get involved. formation contact Emily Stiles at 410-837- From 4 to 6 p.m., Celebration of Com- 2050 x1459. living with HIV are living longer with treat- munity will host a reading of the “Book of Registration for the 2015 Ride for the ment, new information is continually dis- Life,” a compilation of names of people Feast, to be held on May 2 and 3, 2015, covered about the great harm those same lost to HIV/AIDS collected over more than goes live on December 1. The annual bike treatments do to those they are designed 18 years, music, and remembrances of ride from Ocean City to Baltimore to help, making World AIDS Day as rele- people who have passed in the past benefits Moveable Feast. Register vant today as ever. year, at the Mt. Vernon Place United at Rideforthefeast.org. Addition- The events planned for December 1 in Methodist Church (10 East Mt. Vernon ally, there will be a Ride for the Baltimore City include something to suit Place), across from the Washington Feast kick-off party that night, at a variety of schedules and interests. All Monument. Anyone wishing to read The Crown (1910 North Charles of these events are free and open to the names from the book, and share Street), from 6 to 11 p.m. public. names of their own may do so. For more information on Sisters Together and Reaching, the Short biographies of individuals events planned in Baltimore Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute, the who have passed since Decem- City and Baltimore County on Center for AIDS Research, Colgate Bright ber 1, 2013 to be shared during the Saturday, November 29 and Smiles, Bright Futures, and the Baltimore program are requested. To submit Sun- day, November 30; events City Day at the Market invite the public to biographies, or for more information planned for December 1 in Anne Arundel World AIDS Day Test-a-thon at the North- contact 443-421-9090, celebrationofcom- and Baltimore Counties; as well as for in- east Market (2101 East Monument Street) [email protected], or search for “Cel- formation on free HIV testing in Baltimore, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information ebration of Community” on Facebook. At Harford and Howard Counties, please read contact James Wilson at 410-276-8969. 6 p.m., there will be a Celebration of Com- the extended online version of this story at Join B’more Aware of HIV to help at- munity World AIDS Day Service and Vigil Baltimoreoutloud.com. t tempt to break the Guinness World Record to honor both those living and those who Bill Redmond-Palmer is a long time for the “largest living red ribbon,” at Mor- have died with HIV/AIDS. community organizer and advocate for gan State University from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sisters Together and Reaching and HIV/AIDS and sexual and gender minority The event includes a Get SMART Health the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of related issues. Fair and free HIV testing. You must arrive Public Health will host a showing of the by 11 a.m. to be part of the Living Red Rib- documentary Deepsouth and a panel dis- bon. Search for “B’More Aware of HIV” on cussion in Sheldon Hall (615 North Wolfe Facebook or call 410-327-3420 x11 for Street, room W1214) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. more information on the event’s schedule, For more information contact James Wil- speakers, and parking. son at 410-276-8969. Between noon and 3:30 p.m. on the The Tau Eta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi first floor of the SMC Campus Center (621 Beta Sorority will present “Sex Ed: Youth, West Lombard Street), the University of Sex, and HIV” beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Maryland will host a World AIDS Day Re- the American Brewery Building (1701 North Gay Street, 2nd floor). The program features a theatrical performance by Ra- dience Pittman, free confidential HIV test- ing, radio personalities from the 92Q street New Wave Singers team, light refreshments, and even service – continued from page 1 learning hour credits for students attend- ing with appropriate documentation. For more information, contact La’Shelle Tatum president Lili Fox Velez in a statement. at [email protected]. New Wave is a (501)(c)(3) organiza- The Center for AIDS Research, Gen- tion supported in eration Tomorrow, the JHU AIDS Educa- part by the Mary- tion and Training Center, Source and other land State Arts partners are hosting “HIV is Part of Our Council, and is Story” at Atwater’s Cafe (855 North Wolfe also a member of Street, at the corner of Ashland and Wolfe) the Gay and Les- from 6 to 8 p.m., with free HIV testing on- bian Association site. RSVP at Tinyurl.com/partofourstory. (GALA), a con- If you know someone who wants to share sortium of more a two-minute story related to HIV, email than 170 choral [email protected]. For groups around the more information contact Ayesha McAd- U.S. and Canada ams-Mahmoud at [email protected]. D r. Lili Fox Vélez, “working for a Monday, December 1 through Friday, president of New Wave world where all December 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Chase Singers voices are free.” t Brexton Health Services of Mt. Vernon will

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 news // local

low-income transgender Marylanders, who MD Medicaid to participated – an increase from the 111 students in Maryland did not have ac- in many cases have no access to medically who were trained in 2013-14. cess to important school resources, such necessary health care other than through Expand Coverage for “This was an excellent session – have as having a curriculum that is inclusive the Medicaid program,” said Jer Welter, more of them!” one participant said, while of LGBT people, history, and events, and managing attorney of FreeState Legal. t Trans Health others called it “a wonderful opportunity to were not protected by comprehensive anti- better understand and promote tolerance bullying/harassment school policies.” and equality” and helpful in “recognizing The findings indicate that the vast ma- Earlier this month, Maryland’s Medic- jority of LGBT students in Maryland regu- aid Coverage Policy Advisory Committee that non-action is a choice.” Through the workshop, participants larly heard anti-LGBT remarks. As many as recommended that Maryland’s Medicaid Salisbury U to Offer 8 in 10 regularly heard other students in coverage be updated to provide transgen- develop an understanding of the experi- ences of LGBT people; identify sources of their school make negative remarks about der-inclusive health coverage for all par- Safe Spaces Training how someone expressed their gender, ticipants in Maryland’s Medical Assistance unwelcoming behaviors; learn LGBT-inclu- sive terminology; learn to dispel negative such as comments about someone not act- (Medicaid) program. The Medical Assis- ing “feminine” or “masculine” enough. tance program is the primary source of Statewide stereotypes; develop strategies to create more welcoming environments; and for- Most LGBT students in Maryland had health insurance coverage for low-income been victimized at school with the major- adults, families, and children in the State. mulate effective responses to many of the issues and scenarios that LGBT people ity having experienced verbal harassment The updated coverage will provide cover- (e.g., called names or threatened) with age for medically necessary comprehen- experience in their workplace, school or community. nearly 7 in 10 based on their sexual ori- sive services for gender transition. entation and nearly half based on the way This development follows the State’s MCCR provides services, information and support to agencies, businesses, or- they expressed their gender. decision in July 2014, as part of a settle- Thirty-five percent experienced cyber- ment with FreeState Legal, to similarly up- ganizations and individuals in Maryland re- garding issues of equal access and oppor- bullying. The majority of these incidents date the health benefits coverage for state were not reported to adult authorities. employees and their beneficiaries. tunity. SU’s Safe Spaces workshop is one of 13 to be offered through its Community Many LGBT students in Maryland did Over the past months, Equality Mary- not have access to in-school resources land and FreeState Legal have advocated Outreach and Education program. Others explore topics including conflict resolution, and supports. For example, only 14% at- for this change and will work to ensure that O n the Salisbury tended a school with a comprehensive an- the regulations promulgated to implement University campus diversity, disabilities, religion, sexual ha- rassment, discrimination, and more. ti-bullying/harassment policy that included the Committee’s recommendation are con- specific protections based on sexual orien- sistent with recognized standards of care SU faculty and staff may attend a free By Steve Charing Safe Spaces workshop hosted by the Uni- tation and gender identity/expression. for transgender patients. Salisbury University’s (SU) Safe Spaces Many did not have LGBT-inclusive cur- Equality Maryland is the state’s LGBT versity’s Office of Institutional Equity 10 Workshop is now being offered statewide a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, November 18, in ricular resources: only 27% were taught civil rights organization; FreeState Legal is through a partnership with the Maryland positive representations of LGBT people, a legal advocacy organization that seeks Blackwell Library Room 142. To register, Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR). It’s a visit Salisbury.edu/equity/programs/rsvp/. history, and events, and only 55% could to improve the lives of low-income LGBT free program that aims to make all environ- access information about LGBT topics on Marylanders through direct legal services To request the Safe Spaces Workshop ments welcoming of LGBT individuals through MCCR, contact Tara Taylor, Edu- school Internet. and policy advocacy. “LGBTQI people frequently find them- Recommendations stemming from the “With this year’s passage of the Fair- cation and Outreach director at 410-767- selves excluded and uncomfortable in a 6459 or [email protected]. t report include: implementing comprehen- ness for All Marylanders Act, which pro- variety of settings,” said Dr. Diane Illig, sive school anti-bullying/harassment poli- hibits discrimination against transgender Safe Spaces training coordinator and chair cies, supporting Gay-Straight Alliances, Marylanders, we continue the work to en- of SU’s Sociology Department who has providing professional development for sure transgender Marylanders are treated taught courses on gender, sexuality, and Maryland LGBT High school staff on LGBT student issues, and fairly in other areas such as insurance cov- family at SU for 14 years. “Our program increasing student access to LGBT-inclu- erage,” Carrie Evans, executive director of explores how to create more welcoming sive curricular resources. Equality Maryland, said in a statement. environments at work, school, and in the School Students “These actions can move us toward a “Removal of these outdated Medicaid community. We teach participants how to future in which all students in Maryland will regulations is particularly important for promote ‘safe spaces’ of respect, accep- Unsafe have the opportunity to learn and succeed tance, and support for all.” The program in school, regardless of sexual orientation, has been offered, in various formats, to By Steve Charing gender identity, or gender expression,” the faculty, staff and students at SU since the GLSEN issued a school climate “state report said. late 1990s. snapshot” for Maryland on November 13 Since the MCCR partnership began as part of a nationwide survey that found in July, the training team has expanded that many LGBT students in secondary its efforts, conducting workshops twice schools experience harassment and bully- for MCCR, as well as the Maryland De- ing. As a result of these activities, LGBT partment of Human Resources, Maryland students often miss school out of their fear Department of Housing and Community for safety, which hurts them academically. Development, Maryland Department of “Findings from the ‘GLSEN 2013 Na- Labor, Licensing and Regulation, and Ce- tional School Climate Survey’ demonstrate cil County Department of Social Services. that Maryland schools were not safe for The workshop also has been offered three most LGBT secondary school students,” Pressure pays off credit: Steve Charing times on campus. In total, some 170 have said the report. “In addition, many LGBT 4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local

A total of 147 respondents were attend- ing schools in Maryland. The majority of Modern the Maryland sample was White/European Atelier American (69%), 11% African-American / black, 10% Hispanic / Latino, 8% multi- racial, and 2% Asian / Pacific Islander. The gender composition was 45% cis- gender female, 30% cisgender male, 11% Kiss me I’m perfect transgender, 11% genderqueer, and 3% some other gender (e.g., genderfluid). Most (82%) attended public schools. populations as well as people living with The school community makeup was 68% HIV/AIDS; and as an employer, Baltimore unique jewelry and art suburban, 16% rural/small town, and 16% maintains an LGBT inclusive workforce. urban. The results reported for Maryland The basic categories scored were: have a margin of error of +/-8. non-discrimination laws based on sexual For more information on this report, orientation and gender identity; relation- currently accepting custom visit Glsen.org/research. To learn more ship recognition; municipality as employer about a GLSEN chapter in Maryland, visit regarding non-discrimination and em- and personalized orders. Glsen.org/chapters. t ployee benefits; municipal services; law enforcement, which includes having an contact us for more information LGBT police liaison and the reporting of hate crimes statistics to the FBI; and the www.4dirtyhands.com Baltimore Receives city’s elected officials’ relationship with the LGBT community. also find us on Perfect Score in Other cities in Maryland and their (717) 417-0718 scores were: College Park (86), Annapo- (if we hear it over the hammers) HRC Study lis (73), Gaithersburg (64), Rockville (63) and Frederick (61). Gaithersburg made its By Steve Charing debut on this year’s report, and the other The Human Rights Campaign recently re- Maryland cities indicated improvement leased the findings of a study that showed over last year. Maryland’s average score that Baltimore was among 39 cities that re- of 75 this year – an improvement from 68 ceived the highest marks when it comes to the previous year – was well above the na- equality for its LGBT population. Titled the tional state average of 59. Municipal Equality Index (MEI), the survey, “It’s wonderful seeing Baltimore lead- rates 353 municipalities drawn from every ing the pack in HRC’s latest Municipal- state in the nation on the basis of how in- ity Equality Index,” said Joel Tinsely-Hall, clusive their laws and policies are concern- executive director of the GLCCB. “We’ve ing LGBT people. certainly made progress in both the local This year, the cities rated are: the 50 and state legislative halls, but there is still state capitals, the 200 largest cities in the a lot of work to be done in changing hearts, United States, the four largest cities or mu- minds and attitudes. True equality is a right nicipalities in each state, the city home to for everyone, and we are excited to aid in the state’s largest public university (includ- continuing the fight for fairness and dignity ing undergraduate and graduate enroll- for all in our LGBTQ rainbow.” The full report can be found at Bit. ment) and 75 cities and municipalities that t have high proportions of same-sex cou- ly/11OzA9Y. ples. Last year Baltimore received a per- fect score as did 24 other municipalities. Cities are rated on a scale of 0-100, based on the city’s laws, policies, benefits, services and relationships between the city’s leaders and the LGBT community. There are 100 standard points and 20 bo- nus points (bonus points are awarded for items which apply to some but not all cit- ies). Baltimore received a maximum score of 100 that was comprised of an initial score of 89 plus 16 bonus points. These bonus points came from having openly elected or appointed LGBT leaders; city supports for LGBT youth, elderly and homeless

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 news // local Pride 2015 Launched with Community Town Hall

By Steve Charing He introduced the new volunteer Pride Hearts & Ears, a Baltimore-based non-profit coordinator Paul Liller to a diverse audience for sexual and gender minorities with mental- of nearly 30 who represented a wide range health issues, graciously opened up their of community and service organizations as Park Avenue office on November 21 to host a well as other interested individuals. Liller had town hall meeting to discuss Baltimore Pride served as the Pride entertainment coordina- 2015. They did so in an effort to bring other tor in 2007 and the Center’s development di- organizations into the planning and execu- rector in 2008-2009. tion of Pride, to improve its operation, and to Liller went over the various committees make it more inclusive. required for the execution of Pride from Pa- Representatives of the Gay, Lesbian, Bi- rade and Events to Security and Trash em- sexual and Transgender Community Center phasizing that volunteers are needed for of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB), each. “The biggest thing is getting people the organization that has run the annual excited to get involved,” said Liller. event since 1977, was on hand to offer a sta- Tinsley-Hall acknowledged the focus of tus report on Pride 2014 and a what needs Pride has changed over the years and asked, to be done for Pride 2015 to be successful. “The party is great, the entertainment is great, Pride 2015 is being billed as the 40th an- but where is the advocacy, education, and niversary of the event as much smaller such awareness parts of Pride?” occurrences took place in 1975 and 1976 Kelly Neel, who preceded Tinsley-Hall as with about 15 folks – prior to the Center’s in- executive director and was on hand at the L eading the town hall from left: Jessica Blum, Director, Hearts & Ears; Omar Ellis, ception. Executive Director Joel Tinsley-Hall, meeting, stated that Pride should be run by Operations Manager, Hearts & Ears; Joel Tinsley-Hall, Executive Director, GLCCB; Paul who had been on the job for six weeks, stated a separate entity altogether as is the case in Liller, Volunteer Pride Coordinator credit: Steve Charing that in 2014 Pride made a profit of $64,000 other cities. from revenues of $178,000 and hoped that at Other pertinent questions have not been some point Pride profits would go back into settled yet. Another venue is again under se- ger Streets, where it was located for at least ships is the top priority” and that “community future Prides and also some amount could be rious consideration. In 2014, the GLCCB had a decade, to the roomier Artscape footprint. involvement is needed.” Added Smith, “The donated back to the community. moved the block party from Charles and Ea- Many in the community were angered by model of Pride must change to foster rela- the move. Said Rik Newton-Treadway, the tionships.” There was general agreement that Pride’s Lady Lisa Stage’s principal advocate, Pride and the GLCCB needs to mend fences “Last year’s situation offended every bar own- and that would include, according to Newton- er, every gay bar owner, in town.” Treadway, “a more working [GLCCB] board.” Nonetheless, Tinsley-Hall stressed that More details will emerge through a se- the new location “will not be congested” and ries of pre-Pride monthly events. The first will consult with Baltimore City officials re- of which, as announced by Liller, will be an garding the required permits. That will also “Ugly Sweater” holiday event to take place in include the contentious issue of open drink- December. The date and location have not ing which, too, is a city decision. been finalized. The date is also up in the air. One concern Tinsley-Hall stressed that “plans are not raised was that Baltimore Pride, which histori- etched in stone; there will be flexibility.” His cally takes place during the third weekend in goal is to include diversity and have a trans- June, conflicts with the Philadelphia Trans- inclusive space at Pride. Health Conference. Other considerations in- Liller invited the community to attend clude avoiding similar conflicts with D.C. and open Pride planning meetings each first other nearby area Pride celebrations. Wednesday of the month at the GLCCB’s Another matter discussed was opposition offices at the Waxter Center (1000 Cathe- to charging an admission fee to increase rev- dral Street, 3rd floor) to discuss the current enues. The feeling of most of the attendees progress and to attract volunteers. The first was that there should not be a mandatory meeting is scheduled for December 3 at 6 charge but perhaps an optional one could be p.m. He will outline the roles and responsi- considered. The cost of sponsorships was bilities of various Pride 2015 needs including debated as some businesses could not or the entertainment, parade, and sponsorship would not pay the $1,000 price tag – the low- sub-committees. est in the sponsorship range. Newton-Tread- Community members interested in volun- way, a former bar owner, was among those teering for a Pride 2015 sub-committee are who complained the cost was too high. highly encouraged to attend. For more infor- Carlton Smith, President of Baltimore mation, contact Liller at info@baltimorepride. Black Pride, urged the GLCCB to contact the org or Tinsley-Hall at [email protected]. Baltimore Health Department to help secure An edited video of the town hall’s pro- additional revenue citing funding it receives ceedings will be posted on both the Hearts from the federal Centers for Disease Control. & Ears (Heartsandears.org) and GLCCB’s Liller emphasized that “building relation- (Glccb.org) websites. t 6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com passings news // national M. SCOTT BOWLING november 19, 2014 had arranged several fundraisers, secured Gay Ad Too Sexy for Miami commitment for items for [last Sunday’s] Miami Local10 News reported November and never replaced by the City of Miami. M. Scott Bowling, a longtime LGBT advo- Silent Auction – all from his bed. Prior to 18 that Squirt.org’s “Non-Stop Hookups” “We always work very closely with our cate who was the board chair of the politi- entering in-patient hospice care, Scott vol- bus advertisement campaign had stirred ad reps and locations when it comes to cal arm of Equality Maryland, died at the unteered at the polls during early voting.” up the local community in Miami, Florida. creative approval,” says Attila Szatmari, age of 43 in the Hospice of the Chesa- His efforts earned him the initial M. The ad, a promotion for the Squirt gay digital business director at PTP. “Our peake in Annapolis on November 19 after Scott Bowling Courage Award. The award dating site, shows two shirtless men em- creative was approved, and we just want battling several difficult life-limiting illness- was presented at the hospice on Novem- bracing along with the site’s tag- to have the same treat- es, including Crohn’s disease. ber 11 by Carrie Evans, executive direc- line, “Hot ’n horny hookups,” and ment as any straight sexy Bowling cre- tor of Equality Maryland along with several the campaign slogan, “Non-Stop ad would have. Lots of ated a blog, It- members of the staff and board as well as Hookups.” The ads were placed straight-themed ads are as gutsbetter.org, former Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen. near popular gay clubs and estab- sexy as ours: look at Step to raise aware- The video of the presentation was lishments in Miami, including Eros up revolution, Tom Ford, ness of those shown at Equality Maryland’s Signature Lounge, Magnum Lounge, The Michael Kors, Guess, Vik- who suffer from Brunch, which honored Governor Martin Dugout, Club Azucar and Club tor & Rolf and Calvin Klein the disease and O’Malley as well as honoring Bowling. He Aqua Miami. The ad’s creative ads. If these ads can be on need small bow- was able to watch that part of the program content went through the usual streets across America, we el transplants on Face Time that included a musical per- rigorous approval process. don’t understand why two and to chronicle formance by Troy Koger and remarks by The report says a mother men embracing cannot.” the struggles Bowling’s husband David Miller. complained to the City of Miami When Squirt.org asked sufferers face Bowling and Miller married in Washing- about the ad. Soon after the ad when the updated creative physically, men- ton, D.C., in July 2010 . went live, Pink Triangle Press (PTP), the would go live, its ad distributor replied that tally, and finan- “Anybody that knows Scott knows he operator of Squirt.org, was informed about the case had become “too political” for the cially. lived with chronic illness most of his life the complaint and asked to provide up- City of Miami to touch. Bowling and absolutely refused to be defined by dated creative without the tagline “Hot ’n PTP has started a petition against the was born and M . Scott Bowling that illness,” Miller told the Capital Gazette. Horny Hookups” and the words “Non-Stop City of Miami on change.org to have the raised in Prince On her Facebook page, Evans posted, Hookups.” PTP provided an updated ver- ad reinstated and invites everybody to ex- George’s Coun- “Tonight I lost a dear friend. I am trying to sion and the new creative was approved. press their opinion about the matter via so- ty and according to Equality Maryland’s remember that I have only lost his physi- Meanwhile, the ad was vandalized, stolen cial media under #adequality. t website he was an attorney with the De- cal presence because I can never lose the partment of Defense, and served as presi- presence he has in my heart. Scott leaves dent of the Metro Maryland Ostomy Asso- me a better person than he found me. He ciation in Silver Spring. has left me with the lessons of how to fully In 2006, Bowling was the first openly live your life – every single minute; and gay candidate to run for the State Demo- what it means to love the life you have cratic Central Committee in Anne Arundel and the people in it and to keep on fighting County. In 2009 he sought a seat as a even when, and especially when, you want Republican on the Annapolis City Coun- to stop. My dear Scott, may we always re- cil representing Ward 3. He narrowly lost member all that you gave us.” that election in which he alleged that it was Miller told Baltimore OUTloud that the tainted by homophobia citing an anony- Celebration of Life for Scott Bowling will mous and illegal flier circulated around the be hosted by Evolve Chesapeake and ward targeting African-Americans. Bowl- held on November 29 starting at 10 a.m. ing stated that the flier contained specific at First Presbyterian Church (171 Duke of references to his being “homosexual.” It Gloucester Street, Annapolis). warned that electing such a person would From 10 to 10:45 a.m. Scott’s family be dangerous to children. will greet guests, with the service begin- “I am disappointed that in 2009 there ning at 10:45 a.m. and continuing to 12:30 are factions within Annapolis that insist on p.m. engaging and bringing this type of racist A luncheon will follow at Annapolis Elks and hate-filled activity into our city elec- Lodge 2 (Pythian Drive, in Edgewater) tions,” Bowling told Baltimore OUTloud at starting at 1:00 p.m. the time. He filed complaints to the U.S. At- In lieu of flowers, Scott suggested that torney General’s Office as well as a Mary- donations in his memory could be made to: land Attorney’s General’s office, alleging • Equality Maryland (1201 South Sharp violation of the Voting Rights Act. Street, suite 109 Baltimore, Maryland Bowling had also been appointed to 21230) or and served on several public boards and • Metro Maryland Ostomy Association commissions. (12320 Parklawn Drive #241, Rockville, While suffering with his health, Bowl- Maryland 20852) or ing, Equality Maryland’s website stated, • Evolve Chesapeake (PO Box 6159 An- continued to be an active member of the napolis, Maryland 21401). t leadership team at Equality Maryland. “He – Steve Charing

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 b eyond the beltway

in 1992 and again in 1998-1999, Feinberg encounter with a 15-year-old boy in 2013 Trans activist worked with Buffalo United for Choice and in Eugene, Oregon, police said. His ex- its Rainbow Peacekeepers, organizing boyfriend, Kiah Loy Lawson, 25, was also and author community self-defense for local LGBTQ arrested and charged, according to USA bars, clubs, and the local women’s health Today. Leslie Feinberg clinic. Bean is highly regarded among many in Feinberg was born into a working-class the gay rights activist community and with dies at 65 Jewish family on September 1, 1949, in the Democratic Party, Oregon Live reports. Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Buffa- He helped to form the Human Rights Cam- Syracuse, N.Y. – Transgender activist lo, New York. She left her biological family paign and the Gay and Lesbian Victory and author Leslie Feinberg died November because they would not accept her gender Fund. However, it didn’t take long for some 15 at her home in Syracuse, New York, at identity. Although she and Pratt registered to turn on him. Prominent activist Dan Sav- the age of 65. According to her spouse, as domestic partners in 2004, joined in a age published a strongly-worded response Minnie Bruce Pratt, she had suffered for civil union in 2006, and married in 2011, Candice Rose Milligan to Bean’s arrest. “Suffice it to say,” Sav- decades from multiple tick-borne infections Feinberg resisted the idea that govern- age writes, “fucking minors is wrong. It’s including Lyme disease, babeisiosis, and ment authorities should decide who was or orientation and gender identity to the state a crime and if Bean and Lawson are guilty protomyxzoa rheumatica. Pratt describes was not her family. She “stressed that state hate-crime law. of the crime they’ve been charged with... Feinberg as “an anti-racist white, working- authorities had no right to assign who were “We’re providing support to Candice I hope they both go away for a long, long class, secular Jewish, transgender, les- or were not her loved ones,” Pratt wrote, and the Toledo transgender community,” time.” bian, female, revolutionary communist” “but rather that she would define her cho- said Shane Morgan, chair of TransOhio. Bean was forced to defend himself who “was the first theorist to advance a sen family, citing Marx who said that the “We will continue to support Candice dur- earlier this year after his co-accused, Marxist concept of exchange value of love is – love.” (Seattle ing her recovery.” Gloria McCauley, execu- Lawson, revealed Bean secretly filmed ‘transgender lib- Gay News – Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) tive director of the Buckeye Region Anti- their sexual encounters. However, his eration.’” Accord- Violence Organization, said, “Sadly, we lawyer Kristin Winemiller has lambasted ing to Pratt, her know that hate crime violence in its many claims he abused a teenage boy. “Over last words were, forms are intended to instill the message the course of several months in 2013-2014 “Remember me Transgender of hate and fear throughout the entire Terry was the victim of an extortion ring as a revolutionary community. Hate crimes largely go under- led by several men known to law enforce- communist.” activist brutally reported, or not reported at all, and people ment. This current arrest is connected to Feinberg are left with restoring their sense of safety the ongoing investigation of that case in was best known attacked in and security on their own.” (Gay People’s which Mr. Bean has fully cooperated. No through her Chronicle – Anthony Glassman at Gaypeo- allegations against Terry Bean should be groundbreaking Toledo pleschronicle.com) taken at face value. We look forward to 1993 novel Stone the opportunity to clear his name.” Bean Butch Blues, in Toledo, Ohio – A young woman’s trip was released on bail for 10 per cent of his which she dealt to the vape shop went horribly awry on No- $50,000 bond. (Daily Mail Online – Mia with the complexi- vember 3 as she was attacked and robbed Gay activist & De Graaf at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/ ties of gender and identity. She wrote a by a trio of men. Candice Rose Milligan, news/article-2844861/Gay-rights-activist- second novel, Drag King Dreams, and 33, who is a transgender activist, was walk- HRC founder 66-raised-500-000-Obama-s-election- three non-fiction books – Transgender ing to NiceCloud Vapor Lounge at 10th and campaign-indicted-sexually-abusing- Warriors: Making History; Trans Liberation: Madison just before 3 p.m. in the afternoon charged with 15-year-old-boy-boyfriend-hotel.html) Beyond Pink or Blue; and her most recent when the three men began shouting anti- [Editor’s Note: Savage’s comments are re- work Rainbow Solidarity in Defense of transgender statements at her. They then having sex with actionary, self-serving (he has been photo- Cuba. She was also a journalist and editor, attacked her and beat her viciously; break- graphed with Bean), and highly troubling. If writing regular features for Workers World ing her jaw and requiring her to have her 15-year-old the acts charged did occur, we are assum- newspaper. Her monumental essay on the jaw wired shut and have two surgeries. Ac- ing they were consensual as force has not links between socialism and LGBT libera- cording to police, she was punched in the Portland, Oregon – Terry Bean, a real been alleged. In such cases, actual con- tion, “Lavender and Red,” ran as a 120- face, then when she fell to the ground, the estate developer, co-founder of several sent by the alleged “victim” is of no conse- part series in the paper. In her later years, trio punched and kicked her before taking gay organizations, and a member of the quence to the state no matter how mature she blogged about her health issues in her cell phone and running away. Democratic National Committee, was ar- the youth may be. So, Dan, how does “It ‘Casualty of an Undeclared War.’ She was Witnesses gave police descriptions of rested November 19 on felony charges in- a member of the National Writers Union the attackers, and police arrested Chris- volving sex with a 15-year-old youth. Bean, (UAW Local 1981), and of Pride at Work, topher Temple and charged him with rob- 66, co-founded two of the biggest national the AFL-CIO’s LGBT constituency group. bery. He had told people that he had been campaign groups and raised more than T hese news notes have been compiled, She was a key organizer of the December there when the attack happened. He was $500,000 for President Obama’s 2012 with permission, from the online version 1974 March Against Racism in Boston, em- arraigned the day after the attack and is re-election bid. He was arrested at his of various newspapers and other web barked on a national tour about the AIDS in Lucas County Jail on a $25,000 bond. home in southwest Portland and indicted sites. We thank these publications for epidemic in the midst of the Reagan years, Ohio’s hate-crime law only covers race, with two counts of third-degree sodomy allowing us to bring you their news sto- ries. Usually the reports have been sig- and was also one of the organizers of the religion, national origin, and color but the and one count of third-degree sex abuse. nificantly edited and you can read the 1988 mobilization in Atlanta that prevented Justice Department could be brought in Bean’s lawyers insist he is the victim of an full story by going to the web site men- the Ku Klux Klan from marching down Mar- under the Shepard-Byrd Hate Crime Law. “extortion ring,” which they claim involves tioned following the item. tin Luther King, Jr. Avenue on MLK Day. Ford also called for House Bill 300 to be several men “known to law enforcement.” When anti-abortion groups invaded Buffalo passed immediately. It would add sexual The alleged incident involved a sexual

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

lenger, Steve Long, and over ten times as many votes as Libertarian Nathan Eb- North Carolina erly. In District 13, Nickie Antonio sailed to victory over challenger Maria Anderson, LGBT historic trouncing her 71.81 percent to 28.19 per- cent. In a message sent to supporters, An- sites may tonio said, “Thank you for your vote and a win of 72 percent of the vote! I am hon- be national ored to be returned for a third term to the Ohio House of Representatives for House landmarks District 13 to bring the voice of the people to the Statehouse and constituent services Charlotte, N.C. – Two historic sites in T erry Bean and Kiah Loy Lawson and resources to our community. We are North Carolina with connections to LGBT all in this together!” history are currently under consideration Get Better” for a youth to be told that his The Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, for federal historic landmark status. Last desire for intimacy with men is a crime, which is committed to getting qualified Billy Gilman, early in his career year, the National Park Service called for that he has no power to consent, that he LGBT candidates elected, kept track of the suggestions on places of historic impor- is a victim needing the intrusive protection rest of the candidates in the nation. There Some folks quickly applauded Herndon tance to the LGBT community. That list of the state. Based upon decades of expe- were many victories to report, although not for being so brave. Others said maybe he has grown to 400, including the home rience with government responses to ho- all LGBT candidates won. Sean Patrick wasn’t so brave after all. I mean, he was al- where Sinister Wisdom, the nation’s old- mosexuality, shouldn’t we expect that the Maloney was reelected to Congress from ready a star. He already had his hit songs. est lesbian literary journal, was founded in outcome of this state intervention will be New York. Kyrsten Sinema was also re- And there are already any number of Charlotte as well as the childhood Durham traumatizing for all? ] elected in Arizona. J David Cicilline, Mark other performers – singers, actors, etc. – home of Pauli Murray, a women’s rights ac- Pocan, Jared Polis and Mark Takano re- who have come out. We already know you tivist and lawyer. tained their seats in Congress in Rhode Is- aren’t automatically killing your career by Sinister Wisdom was founded in 1976 land, Wisconsin, Colorado and California, coming out. by Harriet Ellenberger (Desmoines) and Election mixed respectively. Maura Healey in Massachu- Except that Ty Herndon is a country- Catherine Nicholson in a home on Plaza setts became the first out state attorney western singer. That’s a little different. Midwood’s Country Club Drive. Ellenberg- in Ohio and general in the country. John McCrostie Sure, Chely Wright came out a few years er and Nicholson were also both active in nabbed his seat in the Idaho House of ago, you might point out, and she’s a coun- the Charlotte Women’s Center in Dilworth, elsewhere with Representatives, Democrat Coy Flow- try-western singer. True. But how often where work on the journal was also often ers took the second West Virginia House have you seen her name at the top of the performed. some victories of Delegates seat, and Kathy Webb took charts since she came out? Pauli Murray became the first black a Little Rock, Arkansas city director seat. LGBT fans of country-western music woman ordained as an Episcopalian Columbus, Ohio – Disappointing those (Gay People’s Chronicle – Anthony Glass- and, Chely Wright, Ty Herndon and Billy priest. According to the Park Service, Mur- hoping for a changeover in the Ohio state man at Gaypeopleschronicle.com) Gilman are hoping that they see a resur- ray served on the 1961 Presidential Com- administration, Republicans with a track gence in their careers. Some LGBT fans mission on the Status of Women and was record of opposing LGBT issues held onto plan on buying their music in a show of a co-founder in 1966 of the National Orga- every statewide office in the November 4 support if nothing else. And hopefully, nization for Women. Murray, according to election. However, three LGBT candidates Country stars non-LGBT fans of C&W will keep buying the Park Service, “described themself as in Ohio were their music because it is just good music, having an ‘inverted sex instinct’ and identi- successful Ty Herndon and and the sexual orientation of the singers fied as male in the context of her relation- t in their cam- doesn’t make a damn bit of difference. ships. (Q-Notes Online – Matt Comer at paigns. Billy Gilman Said fan Tammye Nash, “I’m LGBT and I Q-notes.com) In Akron, am a C&W music fan. So I am gonna buy Sandra Kurt come out Ty Herndon’s new album for both reasons was returned – to show support and because I like his to her at-large Dallas, Texas – Ty Herndon came out new song, ‘Lies I Told Myself.’” seat on the as a gay man this week. Billy Gilman came Nash continues, “So here’s to you, Ty county coun- out a few hours later, citing Herndon as his Herndon. You may not have been the first cil by edging inspiration. performer to come out, or even the first out Repub- professional C&W singer. But I still think it took some courage. It always does, no licans Bill Ty Herndon Roemer, Debbie Walsh and Gary Hagen. matter who you are. I can’t say there won’t She was exceeded in the voting by fellow be some folks who condemn you for being Democrats Ilene Shapiro and John Dono- gay, including some in our own tribe who frio, but the top three vote-getters went to might say you’re just looking for publicity. council. At the state legislative level, out But count me among those who applaud gay Republican Tim Brown, a former Wood you for being honest, who applaud you County council-member, was returned to as a good entertainer, and who welcome his seat representing District 3 in the Ohio you into the light.” (Dallas Voice – Tammye Nash, managing editor, at Dallasvoice. I ssue House of Representatives. He took over number 1 double the votes of his Democratic chal- com)

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 OUT with CCBC

these new pronouns make them challeng- writing, even in literary and formal con- In Praise of They ing to keep track of, and it is difficult to texts.” gain widespread acceptance of a newly in- In the end, however, using a non-binary troduced word. So, while I respect others’ pronoun is a matter of respect. Regardless By Aubrey Livi between sex and gender. The Merriam- pronouns and refer to them in their pre- of how masculine or feminine an individual Are you a man or a woman? This is a ques- Webster dictionary defines sex as “either ferred way, I myself opt for the less-foreign chooses to outwardly present themselves, tion we are asked frequently, upon getting of the two major forms of individuals that singular “they.” a driver’s license or when applying for a occur in many species and that are distin- This is, inevitably, when the job or a school, signing up for a dating guished respectively as male or female” prosaic grammaticaster steps in website, and more. Most of you probably and gender as “the behavioral, cultural, and denounces the singular “they” find that question entirely inoffensive and or psychological traits typically associated as not only incorrect but insolent. quite easy to answer. You know what’s with one sex.” To put it more simply: sex is In my experience, the grammar in your pants, and that’s how you define biological and gender is socio-behavioral. defense is a cover used largely your gender. But for a growing subset of There are many genders that fall out- by those who like to think of them- the population, it can be quite offensive side of the binary: agender or genderless; selves as tolerant but who in reality and potentially risky to answer. What could androgyne, or both male and female; or, are unwilling to step outside of their be offensive or risky about such a benign the way I self-identify, genderfluid, which comfort zones to accept a concept question? It’s problematic because it as- is continuously shifting between male, fe- as alien as non-conforming gender sumes the gender of the interviewee exists male, both, and neither. With these non- roles, or even a lack of gender al- within the black-and-white binary of male binary genders come gender-neutral pro- together. In actuality, the singular and female, when this world consists of nouns, such as “ze,” “hir,” “ey,” and “ve.” “they” has seen widespread and shades of grey. In fact, much like sexuality, Facebook recently added over 50 gender common use since the formation of gender is a spectrum. and pronoun options. Countries such as Middle English in the 1300s. Many Right about now is when most people Nepal, India, Germany, Pakistan, Austra- of the literary greats used it freely, start to get confused. How can gender be lia, and New Zealand all allow citizens to such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, fluid? A person either has a penis or a va- select a third or non-gender option in of- Jane Austen, Lewis Carroll, Walt gina, and that’s that. To begin with, that ficial documentation. A petition on White- Whitman, George Elliot, and Oscar statement is inaccurate; some individuals house.gov to add such an option to U.S. Wilde to name only a few. Even many dif- abiding by and using their preferred gender are intersex and have ambiguous genitalia. identifications has garnered over 85,000 ferent versions of the Bible employ the sin- pronouns demonstrates an acknowledge- But aside from that, there is a difference signatures. The extent and variation of gular “they,” including the most well known ment of and respect for their personal iden- version, the King James. tity and sense of self. When you choose to It wasn’t until the late 1700s that gram- ignore someone’s preferences and refer to marians began advocating the gender- them in the way that feels most comfortable neutral “he” as a replacement. Since the to you, you send a loud and clear message feminist movement began in the 1900s that their identity, sense of self, and safety the generic “he” has been designated as is less important than your conception of sexist, and has largely fallen out of fash- grammatical correctness. We don’t expect ion. The remaining options are the cumber- you to get it right every time; we understand some “she or he,” the awkward “s/he,” or that it can be a slow process of adjustment finally, the classic, elegant singular “they.” as you familiarize yourself with the concept The Merriam-Webster dictionary currently and put it into practice. We do, however, ex- gives a secondary definition of “they” as pect you to demonstrate respect for us by at synonymous with “he” and states that “(t)he least making an effort. We recognize when use of they, their, them, and themselves as you are trying to understand and abide by pronouns of indefinite gender and indefinite our self-identifications, and, trust me, it number is well established in speech and means the world to us. t

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com OUT with CCBC Slain College Student’s Mother, Judy Shepard, Speaks at CCBC Byd An rew Alfonsi nized the complicated dilemma as a “catch On the morning of October 6, 1999, Judy 22” that is so common with such areas. “It’s and Dennis Shepard awoke to a phone call an echo chamber, they see no diversity. no parent should ever have to receive. The gay community in those areas is not Their 21-year-old son, Matthew, was robbed as out as they should be because they are by two local teens, beaten into a coma, tied fearful, but things don’t change until they to a fence and left to die in hypothermic tem- come out.” peratures for over 12 hours in Laramie, Wy- The executive director of the Human oming. Matt was a student at the university. Rights Campaign stated in a news arti- He was also gay. cle days after Matt’s passing that “I hope Almost overnight, Shepard and his fam- (Matt’s death), will bring about a better and ily were thrust into the public spotlight. Matt deeper understanding of hate-crime laws.’’ died six days later; to say Thanks to Ms. Shepard, the tragedy spurred an in- that hope is now a reality. tense public response is As well as touring an understatement. Matt’s the country, promoting passing, which the politi- tolerance and aware- cal director of the National ness, Shepard has been Gay and Lesbian Task an integral advocate of Force described as “a cru- LGBT laws. In 2009, 11 cifixion” prompted not just years after Matt’s death, vigils and media frenzy the Matthew Shepard in the small rural town of act was passed, expand- Laramie, but spearheaded ing hate-crime law to in- a national rallying cry for clude crimes motivated stronger hate-crime laws. by “gender, gender iden- Seventeen years after tity, or disability.” Shepard her son’s murder, Judy Judy Shepard attributed the success of Shepard appeared at both the act to “lots and lots Dundalk and Essex cam- of people…organizations puses this past Thursday to speak: about and lawyers working towards the same her son and the importance of tolerance. goal.” She believes awareness in particular At the end of her speech, which re- is the path to acceptance, saying people ceived a full standing ovation, the same coming out is “the only way things are go- student said, “You can hear about this stuff, ing to change.” She also spoke about her but it makes it so much more powerful when mission to stop the stereotypes that plague you can actually see it.” the LGBT community. ”If they knew their Ms. Shepard remains steadfast in her best friend was gay, or their parent or uncle activism for LGBT rights. “We’ve made a lot or whatever... the stereotypes aren’t the of forward steps, socially a lot more than definition of the gay community. That’s the 15 years ago, but there’s still so much left underlying motive in every appearance I to do.” t make.” Shepard highlighted the flawed nature of current gay rights policy in the U.S. One Baltimore OUTloud is proud to be the media sponsor of the 2014-2015 CCBC student who attended the speech Community Book Connection at the noted, “I didn’t even know that being gay Community College of Baltimore could get you fired from work. For those on County. The project fosters bonds be- the fence, this is a good opportunity to see tween the college, its students and the the struggles of the gay community.” community through activities centered Shepard gave insight into her personal on its annual book selection. For this account of her son’s death, as well as the year, the common text is The Laramie effort to raise awareness to the struggle for Project and the Tectonic Theatre equal gender rights in America. She em- Project. Throughout this year, faculty, phasized that especially in under-populated staff and students will be sharing their parts of the country, showing the gay com- experiences and insights as they en- munity in a positive light is fundamental counter the text itself, the history that to make progress. “I think urban America informs it, and the legacy of Matthew pretty much gets it… but rural America, un- Shepard. der-populated areas don’t.” Shepard recog-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 journeys A MisfireSaved and Changed Josh Deese’s Life By Steve Charing an effort to get me to quit the team, to the website – TrevorSpace – a social net- his beautiful face again. My eager excite- At a recent meeting of the Howard County rest of my peers, who threw insults, as well working site, where LGBTQ youth from all ment turned to worry and deep concern. chapter of PFLAG, a handsome young man as punches.” around the world could talk to each other.” For the next few weeks that we talked, he named Josh Deese, who was celebrating Josh was constantly taunted, books He created a TrevorSpace account and wasn’t the same anymore. He wasn’t smil- his 21st birthday, introduced a short film were slammed out of his hands in the hall- began speaking to some of the first gay ing anymore. His voice was monotone. His named Trevor. The movie described how a way, and he was shoved into lockers. All guys who he ever had interacted with. “It eyes looked sad and empty.” gay youth named Trevor had been bullied the usual epithets were hurled at him. was refreshing to see so much diversity After exchanging goodnight kisses to the point of suicide but then recovered After staying after class one day to on the coming out spectrum. People on through the webcam, Josh never heard to live, hopefully, a better life. speak with his English teacher, he decided this site made me feel accepted, safe and from Kyle again. The friend who had in- Among the audience at this screen- to take a shortcut home and noticed three happy.” troduced them on TrevorSpace messaged ing were a couple dozen members of the guys following him. He tried to move faster Through this site he made some Josh. He asked if Josh was OK and asked chapter’s Rainbow Youth and Allies group, but it was too late. friends. “I even found a boyfriend: a beau- him if he heard about Kyle. The friend at- ages 14 to 22. The normally restive youths “A swift yank from a strap of my back- tiful boy named Kyle. He tached a newspaper sat riveted in stone silence throughout pack and a stinging smack to the face was from Missouri. His article from the inter- both the film and Josh Deese’s powerful knocked me to the ground. No one was parents were Baptist net that indicated Kyle post-film discussion that described a simi- there to help me. The three guys punched, preachers. His beautiful had hung himself. lar path he himself traveled and how it ulti- kicked, and slammed me. I recognized blond hair, radiant blue “This beautiful boy mately led him to be a compelling spokes- one of them – a boy on my wrestling team; eyes, and gorgeous felt so upset and hated man for The Trevor Project – the nation’s someone I trusted and confided in. ‘Deese,’ white smile had taken and depraved by his leading LGBTQ youth suicide prevention he said, calling me by my last name, ‘I’m me aback. I was in love. parents, that he felt and crisis intervention organization. Most sorry man, but we’re doing you a favor,’ he We were in love.” the only way out was young people who turn 21 go out partying concluded, as he kicked me square in the After a month of to take his life. I lost to celebrate; Josh decided to help educate gut. I got up, bloodied and bruised, and chatting on Skype, Josh it – I cried uncontrolla- the community. limped my way back home. and Kyle began dating. They talked about bly and felt hopeless. I didn’t know what to Josh’s life has been anything but easy. “My parents were furious. My father their dreams of being together. “Kyle sud- do,” Josh recalls. Openly gay, he grew up in a small town wanted blood. My mother just wanted the denly went missing,” Josh says. Over three “The next few days went by like a blur. in South Florida called Clewiston, with all violence to end. My nose was fractured, weeks later Kyle’s sister contacted Josh to I didn’t care about anything. I just wanted of its Southern charm hovering over the my jaw bone suffered injury, and I had a tell him that their father found out about to be happy. My parents didn’t understand town’s sugar cane, orange groves, and al- busted lip – a hearty reward for the boy Josh and discovered gay porn on Kyle’s me, I didn’t have any friends, and the first ligators. “Clewiston is every Southern boy’s who just wanted a friend.” laptop. They were forbidden to speak to love of my life was gone. I had nothing else dream – if he were straight,” says Josh. Josh had begun looking for resources one another and Kyle was sent to a gay- to live for. So I planned, and I waited.” His parents were of modest means liv- for LGBTQ youth on Google. He found reversion clinic. Since Josh’s father was a police offi- ing in a two-bedroom mobile home where The Trevor Project, which has a website “Three months later, I received a mes- cer, there were many guns in his house. he shared a twin-size bed with his little full of resources and tips. “They had a 24- sage on Facebook. It was Kyle – he was One evening when he was alone, Josh brother. He was always treated differently hour lifeline that LGBTQ youth could call if back. I remember quickly rushing through went to his parents’ room and took his fa- beginning with elementary school. Josh things ever got too tough and an awesome my computer to get to Skype, so I could see ther’s service pistol back to his bedroom. watched CNN in the 2nd grade, read news- “I sat on the bed, holding the gun, and began to cry. This is what my life had be- papers, and followed the 2004 presidential Josh Deese election hoping to impress his teachers. come: one of sadness, and sorrow, and His friends traveled a different road, and fear. I put the gun to my right temple, the differences between Josh and them counted to three, closed my eyes, and were beginning to widen. squeezed the trigger. My eyes still closed, I “In middle school, I was treated differ- thought, ‘Is this death? I didn’t feel a thing.’ ently because I was the kid who everyone I opened my eyes, and saw that I was still thought was gay,” Josh recalls. “The teas- in my room. No pain. No blood. No bang. es and insults turned to slight shoves and I was alive. It appeared that the gun was slaps. Eventually, it got worse. The school loaded, but the firing pin didn’t strike the administration never did anything to those bullet properly – crazy odds.” responsible. I remember crying to my fa- He put the gun down and began to cry ther in 8th grade asking ‘Why? Why don’t again. “There had to be a better way to those kids get in trouble?’” He looked at solve this… a safer, more peaceful reso- me and ultimately said, ‘Well, that’s just lution. I began to think and that’s when it how the world works. They’re at the top, hit me – The Trevor Project. I called the and we’re not.’ Then he said something lifeline and was relieved to find a warm, that really stuck: ‘But you can be… you caring voice on the other end of the line. can be. And one day, you will be.’” His name was Adam who was a counselor As the only openly gay student in high for The Trevor Project. I told him about ev- school, he was known as “Josh, the fag- erything that had happened in my life and got.” “Not “a faggot,” but the faggot,” he why I felt the way I did. He was supportive, emphasizes. School life was filled with iso- caring, and accepting. He assured me that lation and fear. “From the members of my my life was full of value and meaning. He wrestling team, who hazed me intensely in made me feel special and significant.” 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com journeys e’ve got a master’s degree Josh continued to call the lifeline for W the next few months and began his road to in exceptional senior living. recovery. “It was around this time where I was approached by a friend I had met on TrevorSpace, who told me that The Trevor How To Keep Your Curiosity Piqued. Project was looking for LGBTQ youth who had leadership potential to join a special The secret to getting the most out of a senior living youth council. I applied and was accepted.” community is to choose the one where you never stop He persuaded his parents to allow learning. Fortunately, Roland Park Place offers a premier him to fly to Los Angeles to attend his first continuing care experience close to Johns Hopkins University Trevor Project training. “I spent the week- end meeting with a group of LGBTQ high and a number of other esteemed college campuses. school and college students who had also At Roland Park Place we feature a wide range of intellectually stimulating events and been admitted to The Trevor Project Youth cultural offerings. Lecturers regularly speak on a broad range of topics. Weekly poetry Advisory Council. We shared experiences readings, musical recitals, fi tness classes, creative arts; that’s only the beginning of and stories with each other, gave each oth- er advice, and allowed each other to grow.” what awaits you. There’s also the putting green, raised garden beds, swimming pool, Josh learned LGBTQ 101, the basics of singing club and much more. sex and gender, suicide prevention and cri- “One month later, I’d be on a plane to Wash- And because your neighbors are erudite and outgoing, you’ll have plenty of company sis intervention strategies, as well as more ington, D.C., starting my new journey as a with whom to discuss it all. Now that you’ve reached this level in life, you deserve to background information on The Trevor freshman at the University of Maryland, to pur- Project’s programs and services. He was sue my passion for politics and public service.” have the kind of enriched life experience offered at Roland Park Place. able to take all of the information that he Josh found the past two years in the D.C. had learned back home to Florida and did area to be both rewarding and challenging. Why not explore it right now? His work with The Trevor Project allows him Call (410) 243-5700 or visit RolandParkPlace.org “My eyes still closed, I to speak at events and fundraisers, meeting thought, ‘Is this death? Members of Congress, sharing his story and 830 W. 40th St. Baltimore, MD 21211 explaining the importance of legislation that (410) 243-5700 rolandparkplace.org The educated choice. I didn’t feel a thing.’ I would benefit and increase LGBTQ educa- opened my eyes, and saw tion and life-affirming services to LGBTQ youth everywhere. RPPJ6274 Masters Degree Ad_4.86x4.65_BO.indd 1 10/10/14 12:18 PM that I was still in my “I’ve had the privilege of being invited room. No pain. No blood. to the White House and working with Pres- ident Obama’s staff to discuss important No bang. I was alive.” initiatives and programs for LGBTQ peo- ple. I was also humbled last year to win what he was taught to do: educate. the Washington Blade’s Best of Gay D.C. “I started with my parents. Now, they Award for Most Committed Activist. I’ve had never disagreed with me, they just even met an amazing guy that I’ve grown didn’t understand – and who would, in a very fond of.” small town where no one talks about sexu- Unfortunately for Josh, last semester ality and gender? I explained the basics he lost his co-signer for his student loans of LGBTQ 101 and it all began to fall into and was unable to pay for school, thus, place. My parents understood and were full forcing him to withdraw from the University of questions, which I happily answered.” of Maryland. The financial worries have Josh is proud and grateful for his fam- contributed to his anxiety. ily’s support along his journey. His success “I’ve been stuck working full-time in or- with his parents led him to take that experience der to pay my living expenses, but am cur- to school. “People started to understand. Peo- rently facing eviction. I’m unable to have ple started to accept me. This was the first time a social life or see any of my friends be- where I had finally met some actual friends, in cause I’m not in school.” the flesh, who wanted to actively participate in “As I said, happiness, or the lack there- my life. What my Youth Advisory Council advi- of, has been the focus of my life. I continue sor told me was true, ‘Education trumps igno- to clutch closely, my father’s words to me. rance.’ This is when I began my journey as an ‘But you can be… you can be. And one activist for LGBTQ rights, suicide prevention, day, you will be.’ I think of this in my mind and mental health awareness.” every night before I go to bed, thinking of a Josh found his final two years of high way out. Someone once said, ‘Some men school to be amazing. He had friends, boy- aren’t meant to be happy. They are meant friends, and many fun experiences. to be great.’ I intend to challenge this and At his graduation, Josh presented his last prove it wrong. I know it’s possible. I don’t act of defiance by “doing the Cat Daddy” next know how… but I’ll prove it wrong.” to his principal, and walked off a proud gradu- Hopefully, he will. Josh deserves hap- ate of Clewiston High School’s Class of 2012. piness. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Thinking OUTloud

paign Metropoli- in Maryland’s is imperative to acknowledge that homeless tan Equality Index high schools LGBTQ youth are sleeping outside in boxes that reflects myriad when it comes or on grates just to survive. The National achievements on to bullying Coalition for the Homeless (Nationalhome- OUT various levels to help and related is- less.org/factsheets/lgbtq.html) reports that Spoken bring our commu- sues. In the 20 percent of homeless youth are LGBT. Steve Charing nity to at least on par report (Glsen. (Some organizations’ estimates are even with the rest of the org/research) higher – up to 40 percent.) citizenry. I am also GLSEN’s sur- While homeless youth typically experi- elated that my state vey revealed ence severe family conflict as the primary was wise enough a staggering reason for their homelessness, LGBT youth Thanksgiving to allow same-sex high percent- are twice as likely to experience sexual couples like ours to age of second- abuse before the age of 12. LGBT youth, Turkeys to marry and finally be ary school stu- once homeless, are at higher risk for vic- able to receive the benefits that marriage dents in Maryland who have heard taunts, timization, mental health problems, and un- affords. I am also happy that the state end- name-calling and/or experienced various safe sexual practices. Over 58 percent of Carve Up ed discrimination against my transgender forms of bullying that are LGBT-oriented. LGBT homeless youth have been sexually friends this year by asserting that all of our Just as disappointing is the fact that victimized compared to 33.4 percent of het- Thanksgiving offers a great opportunity to citizens should not be subject to discrimi- only 14 percent attended a school with a erosexual homeless youth. LGBT youth are reflect on our blessings and bring those nation. comprehensive anti-bullying / harassment roughly 7.4 times more likely to experience not as fortunate into the forefront of our Thus, with the rainbow flags flying high policy. We have been led to believe the acts of sexual violence than heterosexual thoughts. To be sure, from a personal and proud, this Thanksgiving brought into state has such policies in place and per- homeless youth. standpoint I feel I’m blessed. Regarding focus other areas of concern that afflict our haps the students aren’t aware of them. To the issue of suicide, homeless youth the accomplishments within our LGBT communities. I don’t want to sound dour But with so many of the students reporting who are LGBT commit suicide at higher community to which I’ve dedicated a good but there is a set of realities or turkeys that such incidents you have to wonder. rates (62 percent) than heterosexual home- portion of my life, there have been bless- should also noted. Recently, I represented PFLAG-How- less youth (29 percent). Transgender youth ings aplenty, which make me feel proud Around the same time HRC’s pat-on- ard County at a county parks and recre- are even far more vulnerable. and fulfilled. the-back to Baltimore came out, GLSEN ation teen opportunities fair and heard These statistics are as chilling as the I’m proud that Baltimore achieved a presented some disturbing news that indi- mixed results from the students. One stu- weather and illustrates that parents and perfect score in the Human Rights Cam- cates we’re not making sufficient progress dent said that her gay friend at her high families who continue to reject their chil- school is doing fine with being openly gay dren based on sexual orientation and gen- and has not experienced any problems with der identity either throw their kids out on the respect to bullying. Yet, another student streets or make their environment so inhos- from the same high school, if you can be- pitable that the kids need to run away. lieve it, mentioned her gay friend has been Foster care is not a solution at this point hospitalized due to the stress he received because of the discrimination homeless from being bullied by other students. LGBT youth experience, and these situa- Clearly, anti-bullying policies must be tions promote a homophobic atmosphere tightened and enforced, and students, facul- leading many youth to run away believing ty and staff alike must be educated on these they are safer on the streets. policies. While it is true that today’s youth LGBT organizations must seriously di- are increasingly supportive of equal rights rect their efforts to preventing homeless- for LGBT people, there is still evidence that ness among LGBTQ youth and dealing with it is not universal and bullying of all forms those who are. It’s not as sexy a cause as needs to be eradicated. No longer should marriage equality where tons of money had a report emanating from GLSEN state that been raised. But this crisis needs to be met Maryland schools are unsafe for LGBT stu- if those organization still aspire to remain dents. relevant. Too many teens have taken their lives as This little reminder only scratches the a last resort because of kids who have the surface. We still need to face the epidemic need to raise their own self-esteem at the of HIV/AIDS as folks are mistakenly assum- expense of others. According to the Trevor ing that unsafe sex practices are OK now. Project, an organization dedicated to ending They aren’t. suicide by LGBTQ youth, suicide is the 2nd We have a developing crisis in the rapid leading cause of death among young peo- growth in the aging population whereby se- ple ages 10 to 24. LGB youth are four times niors are experiencing discrimination in as- more likely (and questioning youth three sisted living and nursing care facilities. The times) to attempt suicide than their straight discrimination among those entities are driv- peers. And about 25 percent of young trans- ing LGBT seniors back into the closet and 21+ 9:00 p.m. gender individuals have attempted suicide. preventing their partner’s access to them. 1001 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21201 Another turkey that needs carving is the There are other such turkeys that need rate of homelessness among LGBTQ youth. carving, but this list should fill you up for www.CentralStationPub.com As the frigid, cold winter dawns upon us, it now. t

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud Quality of Life

ter. The places available for people to go many faces to it. For some, this occurs of- and learn about AIDS (preventative and ten and for others it can be fleeting. What coping methods, testing, etc.) should be do these situations look like? It can be the just as plentiful as there are places to par- Moving relationship you dreamed of only to find out Bi- ty on Saturday nights. This is a pandemic later that the person was nothing like you Lines and it deserves our full attention. People Forward expected. Or the job position you wanted Nicole Bettis are living in fear. They are afraid to get Ava Barron-Shasho but didn’t get only to find it was eliminated tested, worrying that somehow if they find a year later. This list is endless and it is out that they are HIV positive their lives are just a matter of “training” to see the evi- AIDS over. They are afraid to reveal their status- What is dence to these situations in your life. es to their partners, families, and friends Then there is the type of gratitude that Actuality because of the stigma associated with the Gratitude? reminds us of averted disasters. For some disease. “He will leave me if he finds out this is the gratitude for protection. Maybe Everyone has their own opinion about that I’m positive...” People are even afraid Gratitude, thankfulness, gratefulness, or it’s that collusion you just barely avoid- people living with AIDS, just like they have to ask their partners to use protection, feel- appreciation is a feeling or attitude in ac- ed on your way to work. How about that their own opinions about almost every- ing like it somehow violates a certain level knowledgment of a benefit that one has speeding ticket that turned into a warning thing else. Unfortunately, most people’s of trust that a couple is supposed to have. received or will receive. instead. Or the time you felt a lump and viewpoints about this specific syndrome As a result of this fear, more and more I’d like to acknowledge four different feared the worst until the test came back usually derive from some sort of misin- people are not getting tested and are hav- views of gratitude. and you were given two thumbs up. I know formation, prejudice, ing unprotected sex. First is the “What are you grateful it’s easy to be grateful the moment it hap- or stereotype. People Notice anything? Noth- for?” When I ask people this they usually have a tendency to ing can help to subside list things and abilities. The answers usu- “Then there is the type of hear something and these fears and stop ally include: partner, family, friends, home, gratitude that reminds us readily accept it as a this continuous cycle job, health, car, and pets. They are usually fact (especially if it’s except education and pretty straightforward. For some it’s the of averted disasters. For something negative), evaluation. seat on the bus after a long day’s work. I some this is the gratitude instead of researching People need to often ask people to dig a little deeper and the issue in question know that AIDS is not a they usually come up with situations like for protection. How about for themselves. I guess dirty word. They need having “freedom to be who they are on the the time you felt a lump we are just funny that to know that, although inside” or having enough food to eat. way. I guess that we it is a major life chang- The second view of gratitude includes and feared the worst until think it’s okay to per- er, it’s not a death the little unexpected things that pop up in the test came back and you petuate certain misrep- sentence and knowing our daily lives. This can include finding a resentations because their status could, not great sale, getting that good parking spot, were given two thumbs they don’t affect us only save their lives meeting someone new, or enjoying a fun up?” personally. “It’s not me, I don’t have it so, but it could save the lives of their loved time with a friend. While these occurrences who cares right?” Wrong. Whether we like ones. People should feel confident about may seem “simple,” they can have a big to believe it or not, AIDS impacts all of us, asking their partners to use protection, re- impact on our day. Often after one of these pened, but what about a week, a month, or in a very real and substantial way. alizing that using protection has absolutely occurs the average person goes about their a year later? Have you gone back to say Let’s start by clearing something up, nothing to do with not trusting one another, day without any thought to the benefit one thanks, or is it out of sight out of mind? AIDS is not, I repeat not a gay disease. and everything to do with loving each oth- just received. We are too busy worrying We don’t often think of how grateful we are It is a human ailment. People from all er. Together we can turn this thing around. about the next task on our list or the next for our spine and all it does for us until our walks of life and all different kinds of back- We can heal families and mend hearts. We problem to tackle. back goes out and we are flat grounds can contract it. Christians are just can take the focus away from people dying Yet to just stay in on the floor in pain. as susceptible as atheists; the rich are from AIDS and shift it onto people learning the moment and let We often think, “That could just as susceptible as the poor. A person how to prevent contracting it or living and the air of gratitude have been far worse,” or “Now doesn’t have to be promiscuous or “nasty” thriving with it. We are our only hope. t linger can be heav- I have a new understanding to get it; she/he doesn’t even have to be enly. Fine food for people with chronic back sexually active. Patients have acquired Like Us On connoisseurs will pain.” While you may not think it from blood transfusions, IV drug users tell you the value about these situations on a can transmit it to each other, and infected of this is immense. daily basis, when they cross mothers can even pass AIDS to their chil- Facebook! I am not a lover of your mind there’s a, “Whew! dren during childbirth. It is a colorblind, fine food and I will That could have been disas- gender-general, and age-fluid illness. It’s take a dollar bar trous.” about as non-discriminatory as anything of chocolate over So when do you close gets! It could happen to any of us. For this the expensive stuff anytime, however I do your eyes and give a whisper of thanks for reason (as well as many others), people enjoy watching people indulge themselves something? Another day of sobriety? Of living with this condition and the issue of with fancy chocolate or a vintage wine or for the health of a family member? Or how AIDS as a whole, should be treated with brandy. I watch as they savor each swallow about when you look in the mirror and can much more respect and consideration then or bite as if it’s liquid gold. They appreciate see the reflection of a survivor staring back I have observed in the past. what it tastes like long after it’s gone. at you? In my opinion, there should be much Then there is gratitude for unanswered Say a few words of appreciation. You t more free education surrounding this mat- prayers. This type of gratitude can have will feel good inside... really. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 quality of life quality of life

you don’t get an immediate response to your honest with myself, honest enough to accept text, what is your first thought? You are being my flaws, my weaknesses, in order to know ignored? The receiver is deliberately trying to Fit what I am truly willing to do. But once I came to Ask put you off? Or do you think positively and go for terms with me the strangest thing happened. on with your business, thinking he/she will re- A weight was lifted and it became clear for the Dr. J spond when convenient? Optimism brings not Life first time what I actually needed to do for my Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. only a relationship boost, but it is also good Joshua H. Buchbinder nutrition, my workout routine and my life. for your physical health. Another amazing thing happened, I So let’s give thanks for all those who wasn’t upset, all the perceived problems I came before us and fought for the freedoms was experiencing were uniquely my own Remembering we enjoy. True to You and were fixable. Fixable doesn’t mean easy Let’s give thanks for the mother who and it definitely doesn’t mean quick. But it with Thanks brought us into this world, and for the father First, I want to apologize to the readers of does make the manageable and it puts them who made that possible. Baltimore Outloud for disappearing. I went in perspective. For instance, I was able to With World AIDS Day coming right after Let’s give thanks for the sisters and through some pretty major life changes re- accept if I want to be leaner then I need to Thanksgiving, it is important to remember brothers with whom we got along and cently – new job, new company, new state. change the way I train and lower my caloric that today, 35 million people all over the learned to share, and also for those with I’m still in fitness, but it’s a whole new ad- intake and change the content of what I eat. I globe, 3.2 million of them children, are liv- whom we fought and had many arguments, venture. Hopefully, I get a little slack for not also realized I needed to change my lifestyle ing with HIV/AIDS. You may be one of those teaching us how to fend for ourselves. contributing recently. Second, thank you for people, or you may be related to one, or Let’s give thanks for the teachers we having me back! Without any further delay, “The holidays are upon know of one or several. You may also know loved, and the ones we would rather not re- let’s talk about fitness! those who left this world in the years past. member, learning there are people who are The holidays are upon us and there’s us and there’s always I certainly do. While there have been huge different. always an excuse. I’m not going to sugar- advances in dealing with this virus, compas- Let’s give thanks to those who thank you coat this (there’s plenty sugar going around) an excuse. I’m not sion for those whose lives are affected by it when you open a door for them, when you – just stop it! There’s no real excuse to eat going to sugarcoat this should be the order of the day, regardless of pick up the glove they dropped, or help with junk and not be active – there will always be how they may have contracted it. And, we you load stuff into your car. birthdays, weekends, 4th of July, Christmas, (there’s plenty sugar need to remember those who are no lon- Let’s give thanks to all those who create New Year’s, so my advice is super simple – ger here, with thanks for having been in our music, paintings, movies and other works of be realistic and realize if you really want to going around) – just lives, enriching it with their presence. art so we can feed our aesthetic needs. be healthy, vital, strong, fit, sexy, lose 20lbs, stop it! There’s no real None of us is immortal. Knowing this does Let’s give thanks to those who pick our add muscle, whatever it is, if it’s something not make it easy to deal with loss, especially fruits and vegetables, tend to our farms and you really want then you will make some sac- excuse to eat junk and when such loss comes too soon in the lifes- dairies, and work in our factories to produce rifices and forgo the pumpkin pie or mashed pan. So it is all the more important to focus on food for our survival. potatoes. I’m also going to say something not be active.” the people around us, to treasure our relation- Let’s thank all the baristas at Starbucks most fitness professionals aren’t willing to ships, and to be kind and gentle in dealing who toil tirelessly to supply us with what we say, if you’re not willing to make those sacri- and my career because the stress was really with friends and family. To remember Maya didn’t know existed some years back and fices, it’s okay! What did he say?? killing me. So I changed companies, added Angelou’s wise words: ”I’ve learned that peo- now we can’t live without. That’s right, it’s okay to eat junk, but just more cardiovascular training, and lowered ple will forget what you said, people will forget Most importantly, let’s thank all of our be honest with yourself, and if you’re work- my carbohydrate intake – and guess what? I what you did, but people will never forget how friends and family who love us, at times tol- ing with a trainer be honest with them. You lost ten pounds in two-and-a-half weeks! you made them feel.” We now have research erate us, at times are tolerated by us, but don’t really want to lose weight. You think And I didn’t starve myself or spend hours that points to what makes good relationships who enrich our lives. you do, you like the idea of it, but you’re not on the treadmill. I just made some little thrive. Kindness and generosity that prompt And finally, on a personal level, let’s willing to do everything necessary to do it. If changes (not necessarily easy changes) us to seek a positive interpretation of what we thank the nameless gentleman who walked that’s the case, exercise to be healthy or be that had a big impact. As well, my relation- perceive, affect how we feel and how others me to my car in the pouring rain, as I did not stronger – but don’t lie to yourself. All this ships have been better, I find myself smiling perceive us so they can respond in kind. If have an umbrella! t self-deception allows you to blame every- more naturally and I’m excited to get up each one but yourself. I firmly believe we are all day for this adventure. Fitness isn’t all about in charge of our own lives and destiny and weights, kettlebells, and spin bikes – it’s the sooner we accept our own actions as no about living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle one’s fault but our own the sooner we are that leads you to being the best version of able to understand what we truly want out of yourself. Sometimes it’s about sacrifice, will- our bodies and our lives. power, and tough conversations. The tough- Maybe some of you can’t get with this est ones are always with ourselves. The idea – the fitness purist who believes he sooner you have that honest, tough conver- is only having kale shakes and skinless sation with yourself the sooner you will be chicken breast. Look, if you’re not willing to on your own path of becoming the person change your lifestyle outside of getting to the you’ve always wanted to be. t gym a couple times a week I’m okay with it Joshua Buchbinder, M.S., is the fit- and if you are too, then more power to you! ness manager at 24 Hour Fitness – Fair- And maybe, this is your true beginning, fax, Virginia. You can reach him at getting honest with yourself, honest enough fmclub819@24hourfit or 410-967-9699 for to say this is me and I’m okay with that per- information on training, membership, or son. I know it took me a long time to get really healthy lifestyles.

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

the inside of the cheek. Results are avail- 30 were HIV-infected and more than 70 per- substance use, and risky sexual behavior. able in 20 minutes. Many test centers of- cent of those infected were unaware. In Bal- How can we help these youth? The LGBT fer free testing with pre-test and post-test timore, the HIV rate in young black MSM is community needs to understand that the is- counseling, and assistance to find an HIV- now up to 50%. sue is not one of education. If we approach Open Wide knowledgeable physician if the test is posi- What accounts for this? these young people by reminding them that tive. You can find a test site near you by go- Low perception of risk – Improved HIV is fatal they will tune us out: they know ask Dr Eva ing online to this site: Gettested.cdc.gov and treatment for HIV has helped many people that, and they dislike being patronized. The Dr Eva Hersh entering the zip code of the home or work with HIV infection live longer and healthier problem is deeper and more difficult, and if location near which you want to be tested. If lives. Some think that younger MSM, who you want total privacy, you can use a mail- did not witness the horror of the early years World AIDS order home HIV test. In this case you mail of the AIDS epidemic, may view HIV as less “HIV care is one of the test card in for results, so it is not as fast. dangerous and therefore disregard preven- the fastest changing Day – Why Do You can find a reliable test to buy on-line tion practices. by searching for “FDA-approved HIV home Denial – Adolescents in general have branches of medicine. We Need To Be test kits.” a feeling of invulnerability and are prone to ignore risks of all sorts. Gay youth are com- There is no vaccine Who should get tested for HIV? ing out and becoming sexually active at a and no cure, however, Reminded? • Anyone who has had more than one sex younger age than in the past, during the age Dear Readers, partner in the last year and has not had an when all adolescents believe they are im- effective medication World Aids Day is December 1. HIV care HIV test in the past year. mune to dangers of all kinds. is available which can is one of the fastest changing branches of • Anyone who has had more than two Feeling of inevitability – Many urban medicine: there is always more to learn. If sex partners in the last 6 months and has youth have seen parents, siblings, or other bring even people who you would like more detailed information not had an HIV test in the past six months. relatives die of AIDS due to IV drug use and or information on topics not covered here, • Anyone who has ever had sex but has associated noncompliance with medical are seriously ill with please email me at dr.eva@baltimoreout- never been tested. care. Some of these youth say they feel the AIDS back to good loud and I will be glad to provide more detail To reduce your risk of HIV infection: same is bound to happen to them. in future columns. • Use condoms correctly and use them Alcohol and illegal drug use – Alcohol, health.” Basics – HIV stands for “Human Immu- every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral methamphetamine (commonly known as nodeficiency Virus.” HIV is a virus which at- sex; “meth,” “tina,” or “crystal meth”), and other tacks the body’s immune system, the body’s • Decrease your number of sex part- “party drug” use is common among some we want to help we’ll have to make a com- defense against infections and cancers. ners, and young MSM. Alcohol and drug use, espe- mitment. What’s needed is to help them find AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV in- • Never share drug injection equipment. cially methamphetamine use, increase risky ways to see a future. They need reasons why fection. There is no vaccine and no cure for Where is HIV epidemic in the U.S. to- sexual behavior. it’s worthwhile for them to make the effort to HIV. However, effective medication is avail- day? – HIV risk and the reasons for it are Feelings of rejection and isolation save their own lives and those of their peers. t able which can bring people with HIV, even different in different social groups. World- – Bullying, harassment, family disapprov- A worthwhile challenge. people who are seriously ill with AIDS, back wide, the greatest number of people become al, religious group rejection, social isola- Read more at Aidsinfo.nih.gov/educa- to good health. infected through heterosexual sex, which is tion, and violence are often experienced tion or Cdc.gov/msmhealth/HIV.htm. HIV is transmitted through infected body thought to be vaginal in most cases. by young MSM and other sexual minority Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physi- fluids, including semen, rectal fluids, vagi- In the U.S., men who have sex with men youth. These experiences can cause poor cian. Send your comments and questions nal fluids, and blood. HIV is not transmitted (MSM) remain the group at highest risk. Re- self-esteem and feelings of shame and can to her by email at editor@baltimoreoutloud. through saliva, tears, urine, or bowel move- ceptive anal sex is the most common route lead to emotional distress, suicide attempts, com or [email protected] ments. More than 90% of people infected of infection in this group. The greatest rate with HIV became infected by having sex of infection in men who have sex with men is without a condom. Receptive (bottom) anal in the youngest group, age 13 to 24. sex without a condom is the riskiest type of HIV affects gay and bisexual men more sex. Unprotected vaginal sex, for the wom- than any other group in the U.S. Gay and an, is the next most risky. bisexual men make up about 2% of the Needle exchange programs have de- overall population, but account for approxi- creased the numbers of people who be- mately two-thirds of all new HIV infections come infected through sharing IV drug use each year. Data in the Center for Disease equipment, but some people are still becom- Control’s (CDC’s) 2013 National HIV Pre- ing infected in that way. vention Progress Report show that there It usually takes five years or longer from was a 12% increase in new HIV infections the time of infection until an infected person among all gay and bisexual men between feels seriously sick. During that whole time 2008 and 2010, and a 22% increase among they can be infecting other people. They are young gay and bisexual men aged 13-24. especially likely to infect others if they are Gay and bisexual men account for over half not aware they are infected. Once people of the 1.1 million people living with HIV in know they are infected, they are more likely the U.S. A 2011 study in 20 U.S. cities found to take precautions to avoid infecting others, that one in six (18%) gay or bisexual men such as using condoms and not sharing IV had HIV. Of the infected men, one in three drug equipment. (33%) did not know they had HIV. In a study You can get a test for HIV from a saliva of 21 major U.S. cities in 2008, 21 percent sample taken with a cotton swab rolled on of black MSM between the ages of 18 and

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 faith

As Christians, beginning November 30, much of life. “It is truly a humbling 2014, we enter into a season of Advent. According to Dennis Bratcher, “We A The etymological meaning of Advent is have become so enamored by super size, experience to read back “coming” or “arrival.” It is a season of cel- super stars, and high definition that we through the Old Testament Spiritual ebrating the birth of Jesus the Christ our tend to view life through a lens that so View Lord and Savior. It is a season of great ex- magnifies what we expect out of the world and see how frail and Rev. Victoria Burson pectation and anticipation of Christ’s return that we tend not to see potential in small imperfect all the ‘heroes’ and the truth about God and the revelation things. But as the prophet Zechariah re- of God in Christ. The focus is primary on minds us (Zech 4:10), we should not ‘de- actually are. Abraham, the A Season of the past and the future. spise the day of small coward who cannot believe Like-manner, this is a things,’ because God does season of spiritual forti- some of his best work with the promise. Joseph, the Advent & tude. A time when we go small beginnings and im- immature and arrogant deeper into ourselves (self- possible situations. teen. Moses, the impatient Discovery actualizing) and discover It is truly a humbling who we are in Christ and experience to read back murderer who cannot wait The holiday season is here. I love the holi- how we are made perfect through the Old Testament for God.” day season. It is a time where families (in- in him. To be made perfect and see how frail and im- cluding families of choice) come together is a metaphor for signify- perfect all the “heroes” and celebrate their love for one another, ing maturity; being able to actually are. Abraham, the tell amazing stories, eat a lot of food, and ‘Stand up in God’ in the coward who cannot be- could not quite go far enough. And finally, indulge in a drink of wine or two. For many midst of pain and hurt and lieve the promise. Jacob, a very young Jewish girl from a small vil- of us, this has been a season of transfor- for some disappointment. the cheat who struggles lage in a remote corner of a great empire.’ mation and discovery -- truth-seeking. In This season signifies the lighting of with everybody. Joseph, the immature and The Word of God reminds us in that thinking about seasons and the vicissitudes four candles four weeks before Christmas, arrogant teen. Moses, the impatient mur- God is able to do exceedingly more than that accompany the various textures of life I signifying hope, love, joy, and peace. The derer who cannot wait for God. Gideon, the we can ask or imagine. If God did it for the realized that “Seasons are not quantitative center candle is white, representing Christ. cowardly Baal-worshipper. Samson, the people of old, then, the same God is ca- experiences, but, they are qualitative expe- Jesus is at the center of our being. womanizing drunk. David, the power abus- pable of doing it for you. riences that provoke change.” Change is We live in a world in which bigger, bet- ing adulterer. Solomon, the unwise wise Let Christ’s love for you guide you in inevitable, growth is optional. ter, and best define our expectations for man. Hezekiah, the reforming king who this season of Advent and discovery. t

gr u await- ing new

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 What is STRIBILD? • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. What should I tell my healthcare STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used as If you also have HBV and stop taking provider before taking STRIBILD? a complete single-tablet regimen to treat HIV-1 in STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never worse. Do not stop taking STRIBILD without • All your health problems. Be sure to tell taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines fi rst talking to your healthcare provider, as they your healthcare provider if you have or had before. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day will need to monitor your health. STRIBILD is any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including with food. STRIBILD is a complete single- not approved for the treatment of HBV. hepatitis virus infection. tablet regimen and should not be used with Who should not take STRIBILD? • All the medicines you take, including other HIV-1 medicines. prescription and nonprescription medicines, STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection Do not take STRIBILD if you: vitamins, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and may affect the way other medicines work, and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must • Take a medicine that contains: other medicines may affect how STRIBILD I started my keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare alfuzosin, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, works. Keep a list of all your medicines and provider if you have questions about how to methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, show it to your healthcare provider and personal revolution reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafi l when used pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines ® Always practice safer sex and use condoms for lung problems (Revatio ), triazolam, oral while taking STRIBILD without fi rst talking to lower the chance of sexual contact with midazolam, rifampin or the herb St. John’s wort. with your healthcare provider. body fl uids. Never reuse or share needles or • For a list of brand names for these • If you take hormone-based birth control Talk to your healthcare provider other items that have body fl uids on them. medicines, please see the Brief Summary (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc). on the following pages. about starting treatment. • If you take antacids. Take antacids at least IMPORTANT SAFETY • Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepsera®). INFORMATION • If you are pregnant or plan to become STRIBILD is a complete HIV-1 What is the most important information What are the other possible side pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can treatment in once a day. I should know about STRIBILD? effects of STRIBILD? harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare 1 pill, provider if you become pregnant while STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: Serious side effects of STRIBILD may taking STRIBILD. • Build-up of an acid in your blood also include: • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or Ask if it’s right for you. (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical • New or worse kidney problems, including plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis kidney failure. Your healthcare provider HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in include feeling very weak or tired, unusual should do regular blood and urine tests to breast milk. Also, some medicines (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, check your kidneys before and during in STRIBILD can pass into breast stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, treatment with STRIBILD. If you develop milk, and it is not known if this can feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, kidney problems, your healthcare provider harm the baby. feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD. irregular heartbeat. You are encouraged to report • Bone problems, including bone pain or negative side effects of • Serious liver problems. The liver may bones getting soft or thin, which may lead prescription drugs to the FDA. become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty to fractures. Your healthcare provider may Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems do tests to check your bones. include your skin or the white part of your eyes or call 1-800-FDA-1088. turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” • Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines. urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), Please see Brief Summary of full loss of appetite for several days or longer, • Changes in your immune system. Your Prescribing Information with important nausea, and/or stomach pain. immune system may get stronger and begin warnings on the following pages. • You may be more likely to get lactic to fi ght infections. Tell your healthcare provider acidosis or serious liver problems if you are if you have any new symptoms after you start female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD. taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some The most common side effects of STRIBILD cases, these serious conditions have led to include nausea and diarrhea. Tell your healthcare death. Call your healthcare provider right away provider if you have any side effects that bother if you have any symptoms of these conditions. you or don’t go away.

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston Ad Page 1 Ad Page 2 Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud What is STRIBILD? • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. What should I tell my healthcare STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used as If you also have HBV and stop taking provider before taking STRIBILD? a complete single-tablet regimen to treat HIV-1 in STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never worse. Do not stop taking STRIBILD without • All your health problems. Be sure to tell taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines fi rst talking to your healthcare provider, as they your healthcare provider if you have or had before. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day will need to monitor your health. STRIBILD is any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including with food. STRIBILD is a complete single- not approved for the treatment of HBV. hepatitis virus infection. tablet regimen and should not be used with Who should not take STRIBILD? • All the medicines you take, including other HIV-1 medicines. prescription and nonprescription medicines, STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection Do not take STRIBILD if you: vitamins, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and may affect the way other medicines work, and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must • Take a medicine that contains: other medicines may affect how STRIBILD I started my keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare alfuzosin, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, works. Keep a list of all your medicines and provider if you have questions about how to methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, show it to your healthcare provider and personal revolution reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafi l when used pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines ® Always practice safer sex and use condoms for lung problems (Revatio ), triazolam, oral while taking STRIBILD without fi rst talking to lower the chance of sexual contact with midazolam, rifampin or the herb St. John’s wort. with your healthcare provider. body fl uids. Never reuse or share needles or • For a list of brand names for these • If you take hormone-based birth control Talk to your healthcare provider other items that have body fl uids on them. medicines, please see the Brief Summary (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc). on the following pages. about starting treatment. • If you take antacids. Take antacids at least IMPORTANT SAFETY • Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepsera®). INFORMATION • If you are pregnant or plan to become STRIBILD is a complete HIV-1 What is the most important information What are the other possible side pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can treatment in once a day. I should know about STRIBILD? effects of STRIBILD? harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare 1 pill, provider if you become pregnant while STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: Serious side effects of STRIBILD may taking STRIBILD. • Build-up of an acid in your blood also include: • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or Ask if it’s right for you. (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical • New or worse kidney problems, including plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis kidney failure. Your healthcare provider HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in include feeling very weak or tired, unusual should do regular blood and urine tests to breast milk. Also, some medicines (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, check your kidneys before and during in STRIBILD can pass into breast stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, treatment with STRIBILD. If you develop milk, and it is not known if this can feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, kidney problems, your healthcare provider harm the baby. feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD. irregular heartbeat. You are encouraged to report • Bone problems, including bone pain or negative side effects of • Serious liver problems. The liver may bones getting soft or thin, which may lead prescription drugs to the FDA. become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty to fractures. Your healthcare provider may Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems do tests to check your bones. include your skin or the white part of your eyes or call 1-800-FDA-1088. turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” • Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines. urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), Please see Brief Summary of full loss of appetite for several days or longer, • Changes in your immune system. Your Prescribing Information with important nausea, and/or stomach pain. immune system may get stronger and begin warnings on the following pages. • You may be more likely to get lactic to fi ght infections. Tell your healthcare provider acidosis or serious liver problems if you are if you have any new symptoms after you start female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD. taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some The most common side effects of STRIBILD cases, these serious conditions have led to include nausea and diarrhea. Tell your healthcare death. Call your healthcare provider right away provider if you have any side effects that bother if you have any symptoms of these conditions. you or don’t go away.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston Ad Page 1 Ad Page 2 Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Patient Information • Do not run out of STRIBILD. Re ll your prescription or talk to your The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: - estazolam healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone ® STRIBILD® (STRY-bild) • Nausea - ethosuximide (Zarontin ) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/tenofovir • Do not stop taking STRIBILD without  rst talking to your healthcare provider • Diarrhea - ecainide (Tambocor®) disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets • If you stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to check Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers - urazepam Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check you or that does not go away. - uticasone (Flovent®, Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus®, your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information. • These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD information, ask your healthcare provider. - itraconazole (Sporanox®) What is STRIBILD? Who should not take STRIBILD? • Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You - ketoconazole (Nizoral®) may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. ® • STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults - lidocaine (Xylocaine ) Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD is a complete What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? - mexiletine ® regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines. • adefovir (Hepsera ) - oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) ® Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral ) - perphenazine ® ® • If you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses. • cisapride (Propulsid , Propulsid Quicksolv ) - phenobarbital (Luminal®) infection • Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate - phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become - propafenone (Rythmol®) items that can have blood or body uids on them. Do not have sex without Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and pregnant while taking STRIBILD. ® protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) - quinidine (Neudexta ) - There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines ® condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) - rifabutin (Mycobutin ) secretions, or blood. during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information ® • oral midazolam about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider - rifapentine (Priftin ) about how you can take part in this registry. - risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? • pimozide (Orap®) ® ® ® ® ® • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed - salmeterol (Serevent ) or salmeterol when taken in combination with • rifampin (Rifadin , Rifamate , Rifater , Rimactane ) if you take STRIBILD. uticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) STRIBILD can cause serious side effects, including: ® • sildena l (Revatio ), when used for treating lung problems ® ® ® ® 1. Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis - You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of - sildena l (Viagra ), tadala l (Cialis ) or vardena l (Levitra , Staxyn ), can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) passing HIV-1 to your baby. for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). If you get dizzy or faint (low blood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that ® - Two of the medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast • triazolam (Halcion ) longer than 4 hours, call your healthcare provider or get medical help can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because milk. It is not known if the other medicines in STRIBILD can pass into • the herb St. John’s wort right away. the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. your breast milk. - tadala l (Adcirca®), for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, - Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. including: - telithromycin (Ketek®) following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including ® ® ® • feel very weak or tired • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla , Complera , Viread , prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal - thioridazine ® Truvada ) supplements: ® • have unusual (not normal) muscle pain - voriconazole (Vfend ) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir • STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) • have trouble breathing (Atripla®, Combivir®, Complera®, Emtriva®, Epivir® or Epivir-HBV®, may affect how STRIBILD works. ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® - zolpidem (Ambien , Edlular , Intermezzo , Zolpimist ) • have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting Epzicom , Kaletra , Norvir , Trizivir , Truvada ) • Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old. medicines: Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show • feel cold, especially in your arms and legs it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. • feel dizzy or lightheaded - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) Do not start any new medicines while you are taking STRIBILD without  rst What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? talking with your healthcare provider. • have a fast or irregular heartbeat - Antacid medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children. 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: take STRIBILD take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your • See “What is the most important information I should know about - Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection, or high This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your STRIBILD?” blood pressure STRIBILD. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare - amiodarone (Cordarone®, Pacerone®) information about STRIBILD that is written for health professionals, or any of the following symptoms of liver problems: provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you - atorvastatin (Lipitor®, Caduet®) call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.STRIBILD.com. • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell - bepridil hydrochloride (Vascor®, Bepadin®) Issued: October 2013 • dark “tea-colored” urine you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems. - bosentan (Tracleer®) • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to - buspirone • loss of appetite for several days or longer fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones. - carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®) • nausea • Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine. - clarithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) • stomach pain These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and - clonazepam (Klonopin®) neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause - clorazepate (Gen-xene®, Tranxene®) if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known. - colchicine (Colcrys®) STRIBILD for a long time. • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can - medicines that contain dexamethasone COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, the STRIBILD Logo, 3. Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may - diazepam (Valium®) is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse ( are-up) if you stop get stronger and begin to  ght infections that have been hidden in your are the property of their respective owners. ® taking STRIBILD. A “ are-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start - digoxin (Lanoxin ) in a worse way than before. having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine. - disopyramide (Norpace®) © 2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. STBC0122 10/14

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston BS Page 1 BS Page 2 Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Patient Information • Do not run out of STRIBILD. Re ll your prescription or talk to your The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: - estazolam healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone ® STRIBILD® (STRY-bild) • Nausea - ethosuximide (Zarontin ) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/tenofovir • Do not stop taking STRIBILD without  rst talking to your healthcare provider • Diarrhea - ecainide (Tambocor®) disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets • If you stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to check Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers - urazepam Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check you or that does not go away. - uticasone (Flovent®, Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus®, your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information. • These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD information, ask your healthcare provider. - itraconazole (Sporanox®) What is STRIBILD? Who should not take STRIBILD? • Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You - ketoconazole (Nizoral®) may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. ® • STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults - lidocaine (Xylocaine ) Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD is a complete What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? - mexiletine ® regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines. • adefovir (Hepsera ) - oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) ® Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral ) - perphenazine ® ® • If you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses. • cisapride (Propulsid , Propulsid Quicksolv ) - phenobarbital (Luminal®) infection • Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate - phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become - propafenone (Rythmol®) items that can have blood or body uids on them. Do not have sex without Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and pregnant while taking STRIBILD. ® protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) - quinidine (Neudexta ) - There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines ® condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) - rifabutin (Mycobutin ) secretions, or blood. during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information ® • oral midazolam about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider - rifapentine (Priftin ) about how you can take part in this registry. - risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? • pimozide (Orap®) ® ® ® ® ® • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed - salmeterol (Serevent ) or salmeterol when taken in combination with • rifampin (Rifadin , Rifamate , Rifater , Rimactane ) if you take STRIBILD. uticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) STRIBILD can cause serious side effects, including: ® • sildena l (Revatio ), when used for treating lung problems ® ® ® ® 1. Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis - You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of - sildena l (Viagra ), tadala l (Cialis ) or vardena l (Levitra , Staxyn ), can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) passing HIV-1 to your baby. for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). If you get dizzy or faint (low blood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that ® - Two of the medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast • triazolam (Halcion ) longer than 4 hours, call your healthcare provider or get medical help can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because milk. It is not known if the other medicines in STRIBILD can pass into • the herb St. John’s wort right away. the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. your breast milk. - tadala l (Adcirca®), for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, - Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. including: - telithromycin (Ketek®) following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including ® ® ® • feel very weak or tired • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla , Complera , Viread , prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal - thioridazine ® Truvada ) supplements: ® • have unusual (not normal) muscle pain - voriconazole (Vfend ) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir • STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) • have trouble breathing (Atripla®, Combivir®, Complera®, Emtriva®, Epivir® or Epivir-HBV®, may affect how STRIBILD works. ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® - zolpidem (Ambien , Edlular , Intermezzo , Zolpimist ) • have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting Epzicom , Kaletra , Norvir , Trizivir , Truvada ) • Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old. medicines: Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show • feel cold, especially in your arms and legs it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. • feel dizzy or lightheaded - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) Do not start any new medicines while you are taking STRIBILD without  rst What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? talking with your healthcare provider. • have a fast or irregular heartbeat - Antacid medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children. 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: take STRIBILD take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your • See “What is the most important information I should know about - Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection, or high This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your STRIBILD?” blood pressure STRIBILD. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare - amiodarone (Cordarone®, Pacerone®) information about STRIBILD that is written for health professionals, or any of the following symptoms of liver problems: provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you - atorvastatin (Lipitor®, Caduet®) call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.STRIBILD.com. • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell - bepridil hydrochloride (Vascor®, Bepadin®) Issued: October 2013 • dark “tea-colored” urine you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems. - bosentan (Tracleer®) • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to - buspirone • loss of appetite for several days or longer fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones. - carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®) • nausea • Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine. - clarithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) • stomach pain These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and - clonazepam (Klonopin®) neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause - clorazepate (Gen-xene®, Tranxene®) if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known. - colchicine (Colcrys®) STRIBILD for a long time. • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can - medicines that contain dexamethasone COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, the STRIBILD Logo, 3. Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may - diazepam (Valium®) is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse ( are-up) if you stop get stronger and begin to  ght infections that have been hidden in your are the property of their respective owners. ® taking STRIBILD. A “ are-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start - digoxin (Lanoxin ) in a worse way than before. having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine. - disopyramide (Norpace®) © 2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. STBC0122 10/14

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston PALIO Date: 10.21.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_E_Winston_BaltOUTloud_ .indd Winston BS Page 1 BS Page 2 Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Trim: 9.875” x 9.6” Baltimore OUT Loud Lively Arts // personalitiesBetWEEN the Covers

AN INTERVIEW WITH FIRST COMES LOVE’S B. PROUD bara? This is Edie Windsor. I would love to be a part of your project. You are doing reading the stories or watching the videos great work.” I nearly dropped the phone. and weeping….straight people. I have giv- I physically started to shake. My heart en lectures where I have been approached was pounding. We had a brief conversa- Proud’s Pride afterwards by parents of LGBTQ individu- tion but she was so busy that we couldn’t By Gregg Shapiro message would best reach the public. als who have told me that before my talk, make a date for a photo shoot until mid- LGBT people have much to be proud of GS: How did it evolve into the book they really had no idea the extent of the March, two months later. The scene at the and few people appreciate that more than First Comes Love? discrimination that their child faced. Even coffee shop after I hung up was literally lesbian photographer B. Proud. Her stun- BP: As I mentioned, it was my goal our best allies have still learned some- like that scene from the film “When Harry ning coffee-table book First Comes Love from the outset I hoped to bring together thing from reading these stories. This is Met Sally.” I started screaming, “Yes! Yes! (Soleil Book, 2014), a collection of photos a strong enough collection of images and our real story, the one below the surface, Yes!” and pounding on the table. People and corresponding essays, celebrates the stories to make a book. Once I had a good and is one that needs to be told. Chang- just stared at me. Knowing that my partner enduring relationships of 60 same-gender representative sample of what I was doing, ing the marriage laws does couples who have been together between I made several “print-on-demand” books not change minds. It takes 10 and nearly 60 years. The cross-section through a service called Blurb in order to more than that. People D iego and Jon-Ivan, of subjects, ranges from familiar faces show both my subjects and potential pub- may not like the idea of us, as portrayed in First Comes Love such as the Prop 8 plaintiffs and the wid- lishers. These were 12”x12” square and but when they get to know ow Edie Windsor, Houston Mayor Annise very expensive to make on an individual us, we have the opportu- Parker and her spouse Kathy, as well as basis, but people responded to them quite nity to make a difference. the late Barbara Gittings and her widow well and wanted to buy them even before it GS: Edie Windsor is Kay Lahusen, to couples many readers will was a finished book/project. So I knew that one of the book’s subjects be meeting for the first time, all of whom I had a good thing. I also have a very good and also wrote the fore- will make lasting impressions. First Comes friend who designed those first books so word for the book. How did Love is the perfect gift for ev- they looked great and Edie come to be involved? eryone, coupled or single, on very professional, even BP: Edie is an amaz- your winter holidays list. If you if the printing wasn’t as ing woman and a real icon are in NYC on December 19, good as offset. in the community. I began Bureau of General Services GS: Who do you trying to reach her back Queer Division, located in hope to reach with the in 2012, well before the The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & book? briefs were heard in the Transgender Community Cen- BP: I guess you Supreme Court. I was told ter, 208 West 13th Street, is could say that I’m that I needed to go through hosting a book launch for First preaching to the choir her lawyer, so I wrote to her Comes Love. when it comes to the several times. And then I Gregg Shapiro: First LGBTQ community. wrote to Edie herself several Comes Love has a history as They already under- times and sent her lots of in- a traveling exhibition of pho- stand the premise of formation about what I was tos, stories and video. What the project, but this doing. As it turns out, two of is the genesis of that aspect book and the exhibi- the couples are actually long of the project? tions give me the op- time friends of hers. They B. Proud: From the very beginning, I portunity to really celebrate our long-term both put in a good word for envisioned the project as a series of pho- couples. Each and every one of them has me, but Edie was so busy tographs accompanied by stories. The thanked me for doing this work and I’m and then so exhausted from whole Proposition 8 thing had me very honored to be their voice. the Supreme Court ordeal angry and I was determined to do what I I’m also hoping that as we win the that she declined to partici- could. I basically knew where I wanted this right to marry across the country, the book pate. I waited a while and to go from the start. stands as a testament to the youth of our then I made one final effort. I decided to interview the couples on community that they too can have long I called her only to find her video with a two-fold purpose in mind: to and loving relationships. Having the physi- answering machine full. So have information to write their stories and cal book will allow young couples who are right before the winter holidays, I sent one was teaching a class and not available, I to have footage for films of various lengths coming out to their un-accepting parents last package with a final pitch and just left it ran outside to call my best friend. I just had for various purposes. To date, only a trailer a resource to help further explain who we up to the universe. to tell someone. is complete but a longer length film is be- are and that they too can have long and It was my birthday in January of 2014. Lucky for me, our shoot went on as ing considered. devoted relationships. I had pretty much lost hope on Edie and I scheduled and I showed up at her New I originally wanted the photographs in My real hope, however, is to reach the was a little grumpy that day about getting York apartment with my crew on the des- the exhibition to be presented very large, general public, particularly those who have older. I was out and about doing errands ignated date. We spent a lovely and amaz- as if you were meeting these people face a difficult time accepting us. The best ven- with my dog, Soleil, in tow and decided to ing afternoon with her. She told us stories to face. ue for the exhibitions of this project is not in treat myself to a decadent coffee drink. So and showed us photographs. We made Or in the case of a book, I wanted them art galleries, but rather more public forums I stopped in at a local shop. While I was a portrait. I interviewed her on tape. And to fill a vertical page. I intended this project like community centers, libraries, airports, waiting, my cell phone rang and it was an she agreed to do the foreword. We drank from the very beginning to be educational government buildings and schools. unknown California number. I almost didn’t champagne. It was a great experience. t in nature. I was envisioning how it would On numerous occasions at the exhibi- answer. At the last minute, I picked up Read the complete interview at Balti- be viewed best by the public and how my tions of this work, I have witnessed people and the voice on the other end said, “Bar- moreoutloud.com

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // IMUSIC Making the Yuletide Gay By Gregg Shapiro previously named Robinson on “Please Come For his first holiday album, A Michael Fein- Home for Christmas.” stein Christmas (Concord), Great American Human Nature isn’t the only vocal group Songbook specialist Michael Feinstein doesn’t to feature an out gay member. A cappella fa- stray too far from his roots. Accompanies by vorite Pentatonix boasts openly queer Mitch acclaimed jazz pianist Alan Broadbent, Fein- Grassi among its ranks. For the quintet’s first stein’s renditions of Christmas classics are full-length holiday album That’s Christmas to sources of endless joy. The arrangements Me (RCA), they give their vocal muscles a allow both Feinstein and Broadbent to shine workout and throw in a few delightful surprises. like the lights on a Christmas tree. Sure, we A cover of “Let It Go” from Frozen is a pretty know these songs, including “The Christmas inspired choice. The group also earn points for Song,” “There’s No Place Like Home for the including an original tune – the cheerful title Holidays,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christ- track – which is a nice addition to the holiday mas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “What songbook. Pentatonix spark “Hark! The Herald are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” by heart, but Angels Sing” into a hand-clapping, foot-stomp- Feinstein touches our hearts with these simple ing gospel experience and take “Silent Night” and pleasing renditions. Leave it to a nice, to church. Jewish gay boy to refresh these timeworn Gays love their divas and this year the hot- classics in the way that Feinstein has. test diva around, Idina Menzel, releases her Gay smooth jazz sax man Dave Koz’s an- first Christmas albumHoliday Wishes (Warner nual holiday music tour, billed as Dave Koz & Brothers). She makes sure we hear her on Friends, is hitting the road and coming to a “Do You Hear What I Hear” and out-Mariahs town near you this holiday season. Some of Mariah Carey on her blazing rendition of “All Koz’s friends, musicians and singers, join him I Want For Christmas Is You.” Menzel raises on his latest holiday recording The 25th of De- the standard on the holiday standard “What cember (Concord). In fact, a cover of the Bea- are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” adds her tles standard “All You Need is Love,” features own touch with the original “December Prayer” Stevie Wonder, Gloria Estefan, Richard Marx, (co-written with Walter Afanasief and Charlie Heather Headley, and Mr. Christmas himself, Midnight), tips her fur-lined hat to her Disney Johnny Mathis. Mathis can also be heard on clan with a cover of “When You Wish Upon a “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” In- Star,” and adds her name to the list of artists dia Arie is joined by Trombone Shorty on “I’ve who have interpreted Joni Mitchell’s modern Got My Love to Keep Me Warm.” And it’s a Christmas classic “River.” battle of the nice Jewish boys on “Let it Snow! Frumpy TV talent show diva Susan Boyle’s Let it Snow! Let it Snow,” with Koz going toe- new album Hope (SYCO/Columbia) isn’t exact- to-toe (or is that horn to horn?) with Kenny G. ly a holiday album. However, religious-oriented The Classic Christmas Album (Colum- numbers such as “Abide With Me,” “Oh Happy bia/Legacy), by the aforementioned Johnny Day,” “You Raise Me Up,” “Will the Circle Be Mathis, consists of selections from Mathis’s Unbroken” and “I Can Only Imagine” (originally considerable cache of Christmas albums, dat- performed by Christian rockers MercyMe) cer- ing as far back as 1958’s mega-bestselling tainly give the album a specific bent. The real Merry Christmas. It also features Mathis’s duet holiday gift here is Boyle’s reading of Pink with Bette Midler on the “Winter Wonderland Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here.” Not. Kidding. / Let It Snow!” medley, as well as two previ- Hipster gays love their divas, too, and they ously unreleased numbers, “Ol’ Kris Kringle” have four to choose from when it comes to and “Give Me Your Love for Christmas,” both The Living Sisters. Growing from a trio (Inara from 1961. George, Eleni Mandell and Becky Stark) to a Australian vocal group Human Nature will quartet with the addition of Alex Lilly (of Obi be familiar to anyone who watches PBS and Best), The Living Sisters present Harmony Is has seen its Motown show featuring Smokey Real (Vanguard), the best holiday album of Robinson. The foursome, featuring gay mem- 2014. What makes it so? First, The Living Sis- ber Toby Allen, gets festive on the Christmas ters’s harmonies are pure perfection. With the Album (HN Entertainment). With the excep- exception of the gals’ interpretations of “Jingle tion of a pair of a cappella numbers, includ- Bells” (which must be heard!) and “Little Drum- ing “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” mer Boy,” The Living Sisters Harmony is Real and the bonus track “Mary’s Boy Child,” Hu- is a stellar set of new songs for the season, man Nature is backed up by a band on holiday as lovely and lively as the Sisters themselves. favorites such as “Christmas (Baby Please Mandell’s “Kadoka, South Dakota,” “Baby Come Home),” “Winter Wonderland” and “This Wants a Basketball for Christmas,” “Hanuk- Christmas.” The guys are joined by HLN an- kah” and “Neon Chinese Christmas Eve” are chor Robin Meade (!) on “Sleigh Ride” and the especially brilliant. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 Give the Gift of LIVE Theatre this Holiday! L ively Arts // OUT on Screen Horrible Bosses 2 Improves on the Original

b y Chuck Duncan don’t expect Rex to be willing to play along It doesn’t seem like it’s been three years because of his own deep-seated hatred for since the original Horrible Bosses hit the his father who values money over blood. big screen, but it has. In my original re- The guys, of course, prove themselves as view, I enjoyed the cast but hated the script inept at kidnapping as they were at mur- which forwent logic for stupid jokes. The der, so Rex has to take the reins on his film certainly was popular enough, though, own kidnapping. But the question lingers to earn the sequel Power to the workers! treatment and here we are with Horrible Bosses 2. Most of the original cast has re- turned – minus Colin Farrell – even if they had to figure out a way to shoehorn Kevin Spacey into the plot (since his character went to jail in the first one). New around the situation: are Kurt, Nick, and additions to the cast, Chris Pine and Chris- Dale still being played by the Hansons? toph Waltz, add some weight to the film I enjoyed the whole caper aspect of and new director and writer Sean Anders this film with the kidnapping and all of the NOW (and his co-writers) have come up with a double-crosses. You sometimes need a PLAYING plot that is silly but at least follows some scorecard to keep track of who’s screw- logical throughline. ing who, but at least the story keeps you In Horrible Bosses 2, Nick (Jason on your toes. The returning cast all fit into Bateman), Kurt (Jason Sudeikis), and their roles comfortably, adding little twists Dale (Charlie Day) have moved on from for Jennifer Aniston’s sex addict dentist their regular day jobs to invent a gizmo, and Spacey’s jailbird. Waltz doesn’t have THE ADDAMS FAMILY ...... 2/6/15 - 4/19/15 the inappropriately named Shower Buddy a lot to do but he brings some good mus- 1776 - THE MUSICAL ...... 4/23/15 - 7/5/15 (“It’s like having a buddy in the shower”), tache-twirling villainy to his role. Pine is a contraption that works like a car-wash the standout, playing the gamut of emo- INTO THE WOODS ...... 7/9/15 - 9/6/15 wand, dispensing shampoo and soap au- tions from sleazy corporate douchebag to RAGTIME...... 9/11/15 - 11/15/15 tomatically while the shower runs. Looking emotionally damaged child. His character IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE ...... 11/20/15 - 1/10/16 for investors, they appear on a local morn- really becomes the center around which ing TV show (featuring a pretty hilarious the rest of the story revolves and Pine’s demonstration) and next thing they know performance, along with the much better Subscriptions • Single Tickets • Gift Certificates they’re getting a call from a giant catalog script, makes Horrible Bosses 2 a better retailer. The owner’s son, Rex Hanson film on many levels. 2015 SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGE (Pine), oversteps his bounds by making an What also helps this time around is that $165 for 4 Tickets - Dinner and Show offer, so dad (Waltz) steps in and makes you actually feel some sympathy for Nick, Coupon book includes one FREE adult admission. Good for the first two weeks the guys a real offer. They take it, manu- Kurt, and Dale, who are doing what they of the five 2015 shows...plus many more money saving coupons. facture and deliver the product only to find can to make an honest living but get totally out the deal has been canceled with their screwed in the process. This time out, it Holiday Gift Certificates Children's Gift Certificates loan coming due, setting up the perfect is a singular David vs Goliath story. A film storm of a takeover and the fight to save can be much more successful when you Valid 1/2/15 until 3/3/2015 Custom Gift Certificates the business. can actually root for the main characters, Group Tickets It’s this plot twist that makes Horrible something you had a hard time doing in the Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, dates and times are subject to change. Bosses 2 much more interesting than the first film. I still didn’t laugh as much as I first one because now Nick, Kurt and Dale had hoped to, but I did find myself enjoying TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA find themselves the title characters, be- the film more than the original (and the out- cause of their failures at business, battling takes during the credits are worth staying 5900 Symphony Woods Road • 410-730-8311 a ruthless businessman who is even more for). At least it wasn’t a total retread of the TobysDinnerTheatre.com horrible than their three previous bosses. first film like The Hangover Part II was of They figure the only way to get back at its original. But, let’s not feel the need to RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY! Hanson is to kidnap his son… except they stretch this out to a trilogy. t

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // BetWEEN the Covers

Family,” a story that deals with the hor- Lincoln Avenue Brings Chicago Alive rific experience of family abuse and ends tragically. Following the story By Megan Sandwick tracks his engaging life with tales such as amused by his candor. I felt as helpless and confused To me the sign of a great read is the abil- when he had a sighting -- and eventual In “Marilyn, My as the child in the story and had ity to be absorbed in the story while also lunch with -- a porn star in the area where Mother, Myself,” his the same question as the adult. letting your imagination soar. Gregg Sha- he worked. The humorous, authentic ban- mother’s obsession Including such an important re- piro’s, Lincoln Avenue: Chicago Stories ter with friends and telling of going to Por- with Marilyn Monroe al-life topic is relevant and an (Squares and Rebels) does exactly this as nonymous in this story is an example of the as an attempt to con- important discussion even when he genuinely opens his life up with a sea- author sharing his genuine life. nect with her gay son it may make us feel uncomfort- soned, honest perspective. Throughout the collection my mind was was the right blend of able. Lincoln Avenue is a collection of stories allowed to wander back to my own younger humor and a genuine As a native of Chicago my- that introduces you to growing up in Chi- years and recall similar life situations as look at their compli- self, each of the stories features cago in the 1970s and 80s. Through his he so vividly describes experiences and cated relationship. I recognizable landmarks loca- witty and descriptive storytelling it is easy exchanges with friends and boyfriends. chuckled as I pictured tions, bars, parks, food, smells, to connect with the lives of Shapiro and From the first story, “Your Father’s Car,” I his mother’s obses- and characteristics unique to his friends as he tells of coming of age as connected with the descriptive images and sive knickknack pur- the region. The landscapes de- a gay man. The combination of stories is choices of words he used during each sto- chases during every scribed in specific detail -- from a mix of funny life experiences combined ry. Following along the journey of the night vacation, and her parks to homes to sleazy hotels with relatable real-life issues told with a I could hear the music, see the smoke, going out of her way -- bring the book to life. The im- sincere frankness. His group of friends is taste the Perrier, and the hot guy from the to look for “special” agery allowed me to picture what a cast of characters that reminded me of end of the night. items, while also ap- I have experienced in Chicago people I know and could hang out with. Each story is a refreshing and honest preciating the honesty with which he ad- and what I imagined it must have looked They are supportive, loyal, encouraging, walk through Shapiro’s and his friends’ mits the irony in the fact that he is not even like in the years he is describing. This also and are also each other’s twisted comedic lives. The openness of real-life topics such a Marilyn Monroe fan. Each story is crafted made me think of my hometown and think relief when needed. as coming out to your family, bringing a with honest perspectives and explanations of comparisons to similar locations and ex- As a book of short stories, Lincoln Av- boyfriend home for the holidays, chal- of life situations that give you a chance for periences. enue is light and easy reading that can lenging family dynamics, harassment, and personal reflection. I recommend Lincoln Avenue: Chicago be picked up and read anywhere -- ideal abuse allowed me to draw back to person- Shapiro is not afraid to share life’s raw Stories as a chance to read life stories and for holiday travel! The collection of stories al life experiences and be comforted and experiences. My heart hurt reading “Like let your mind wander. t

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 Best One Night Stand in Town! BROADWAY | OPERA | COMEDY | DANCE | POP | FAMILY

Once pronounced by Bob Dylan as America’s “greatest living poet,” acclaimed singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson’s career spans over 4 decades of hits. DEC 26 7:30pm DEC 27 2:00pm, 7:30pm DECEMBER 4 7:30pm DECEMBER 12 8:00pm DEC 28 1:00pm JANUARY 14 8:00pm

MAY 2 2:00pm 7:30pm JANUARY 17 8:00pm JANUARY 22 8:00pm MARCH 6 8:00pm MAY 3 3:00pm

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Glenn Allen Sims. Photo by Andrew Eccles. Tickets Make a Great Gift -Buy Them Today!

For more info and complete listings, visit (410) 547-SEAT WWW.MODELL-LYRIC.COM Box Office (M-F 10am-4pm) 110 W. Mt. Royal Ave, Baltimore

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life Holiday Ideas to Warm the Home

By Santa’s Elves reattach to keep it all together. chanical equipment. The process of hand Some of the best memories growing up as a Remember the red and green paper The mining the salt assures purity without ex- kid was when the family got together and had chains. Simple strips of paper linked to- Essentials plosive or mechanical pollutants. a holiday crafting party. We would all sit at gether will keep kids busy for hours. Another The salt has many beneficial uses, rang- the table and make paper chains, ornaments favorite for the kids are white paper snow- of Living Naturally ing from culinary seasoning to aromathera- for the tree, string popcorn (of flakes. Fold, cut, and Michael Lausterer py spa products. The salt is a good replace- course you always ate more glitter – how easy can ment for traditional table salt and contains than you strung), cut-out it be? One more for the a higher mineral content as well as being snowflakes and snowmen. kids is to take a pine Relaxing with purer in quality. Therapeutically, Himala- Something as simple as a cone, spread peanut yan pink salt is used to relax and detoxify glass ball can be turned into butter on it, and roll it the body, assist with relief from skin rashes a winter wonderland that can in bird seed. They get a Himalayan and psoriasis, stimulate the circulatory sys- hang on the tree or put on kick watching the birds tem, alleviate flu and fever symptoms, and garland around a door. Mate- out the window. Salt soothe tired-sore muscles. The salt is very rials and tools are easy to get For the adults easy Many people find relaxation after a stressful beneficial to the body when used externally your hands on, you can find ways to warm your day in the form of a mineral salt soak to help as a salt bath or an exfoliating scrub, espe- clear glass ornaments at any home or light Santa’s rejuvenate the mind, detoxify the skin, and cially combined with essential oils to pro- craft store, a hot glue gun, or way to your door in- bring balance to the body. Dead Sea salts mote healing, relaxation, detoxification, and if the kids are doing it, a glue stick will work clude taking any clear glass or even mason are still popular, but pink Himalayan salt stimulation. just as well. Craft glue is another easy way jars (the latter are great for outside – they products have become increasing popular Himalayan pink salt typically has a pro- to attach things, too. Handy items include red are a little heavier) and fill then about one- among those in the natural products crowd. file of over 84 minerals and trace elements velvet ribbon, gold string, white scrapbook quarter way with rock salt. Place a votive Not only is pink Himalayan salt good for such as iron, potassium, copper, and mag- paper, snowflake die cutter, decorative-edged candle down into the salt and use them to lamps throughout the home to scissors, and gold glitter. light up a table, your mantle, or the path to ionize and reduce microbes, the Remove the metal top of the ornament your door. You can rub gold- or silver-leaf ground salt is excellent mixed and using your decorative-edged scissors, paper to the glass to give it some more color. with essential oils and used as a trim sides of velvet ribbon to create a deco- Using garland to place them around – makes therapeutic regimen. rative edge. Attach two strips of velvet rib- a beautiful display. Add your own touches Himalayan pink salt was bon to ornament with hot glue, creating a with artificial berries, poinsettias, bows, or formed from ancient marine fos- cross design. You can take two small bows whatever goes with your theme. Then if it sil deposits during the Juras- made with the red velvet ribbon and place snows you have your rock salt! sic era and are over 250 million one at the bottom where the ribbon meets. Here’s an easy centerpiece that will look years old. The salt is obtained The other will get used later. Punch out lots like you spent hours and and tons of money from the sea beds of the fossil- of the snowflakes shapes or whatever cutter on it…. but we know! Everything for this one ized marine remains and was you choose and take a few of them, and with can be found at the local dollar store. Use typically used by earlier humans your crafting glue sandwich a piece of gold a holiday oval tray and place a grapevine as a means to preserve fish, string between two snowflakes. These will wreath in the center. Yes it will hang over a lit- meats, and other proteins during be suspended within the snow globe. Using tle. Place a pedestal-based candle-holder on the winter season. The salt was a rolled-up piece of paper, fill the bottom of the tray, in the center of the grapevine wreath. a highly sought commodity used for trading nesium. Because of its rich-mineral content, the snow globe with glitter and some more of Add several sprigs of evergreen and pine and bartering of other goods or services be- regular usage in food seasoning provides the snowflakes. Suspend three snowflakes cones inside the wreath, around the base of fore the inception of currency. essential mineral components not found in within the ornament, attaching them to the the candle holder. Add the candle with some Himalayan pink salt is generally mined table salt. The benefits of ingesting the salt inside top rim with a bit of hot glue. Add a berries, glitter, or small colorful balls and in the mountainous regions of Pakistan are excellent and include balancing body pH bow to the metal ornament top and reat- you’ll have a centerpiece to make you feel where it is extracted by hand without the and electrolytes, assist with nutrient absorp- tach. Add some hot glue to the top when you proud – and your guests warm and cozy. t harmful uses of explosives and heavy me- tion and purge toxins from the body. t TYRE’S REPAIR AUTO Quality Workmanship 410.252.8001 24/7 Towing 410-583-8888 Voted Baltimore’s Best Auto Repair – City Paper 2000 Next to Timonium Business Park Lightrail Stop 1955 GreeNSPriNG Drive

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 LIVELY ARTS // Rhyme or Reason Twelve (12)

You tick like a time bomb Body shield, fireworks let off in men’s pants from the mere site of you His nuclear waves swayed within his switch Melting men pockets than ditched Alley ways displayed premiers of TV-MA Denying the label gay You cried wolf in sheep’s clothing Toffee in color Slimmed muscular structure Skeletal cheek bones, over stuffed with gratitude Perfect Morning Proud to be the one that NO Man would ever forget Yet there was NO Man that could resist Interrupted The doctor specifies No sex for 12 days You drank the liquid and popped a pill Gazing out of the window at the sun rising over my big ole’ acorn tree Exiting the phone rings, (shrugged) “what the hell I’m cured” I feel the rays treading, softly across my forehead John Doe is calling Wrapped in covers, nestled in dreams This time I’ma make them pay for it Watching the dew drops dry into the leaves Fendi, Gucci, Prada With my feet hanging off the edge of the mattress I’m gonna look good Birds chirping, “giving life with no parole for the ugly hoes” It’s almost time… Leaving the clinic awaiting the 13’s arrival Five months, three weeks, and two days ago my life changed Pulled up a tinted out big body Benz with peanut butter interior But every morning, I find out all over again, for the very first time Your skin matches my leather, “Can I take you to dinner?” After leaving the safety and comfort of my night-time fantasies Like Medusa his manhood evolved to stone Where I am happy, and healthy, and free… A pool of gonorrhea filled his briefs I awaken to my real life nightmare First thought I’ma just make him put the condom on POSITIVE Dined and dashed to his quilt That’s what the test results read Raw unprotected good ole groupie love is what he felt And now that’s all I see when I look in the mirror 12 days after it was 12 different dudes Brushing my teeth Fuck it their funeral!!! Searching for that artificial smile, to hide the pain in my face 12 months later it was his funeral his mother went to In my body, in my soul POSITIVE – Shanae Brooks, a.k.a. Story It’s hurts when I say it; like chewing on broken glass Feeling the jagged pieces dig into my gums – grinding harder Hurting myself so maybe It won’t hurt so badly when the ignorance comes It even aches when it’s reeling around inside my head Where no one else can hear Permanent, Pain, Pills… POSITIVE Admitting it to only me is still too much to bear Washing the tears and rinsing the sleep from my face I am POSITIVE, That even though I have to search for the means to keep going Every single day… I must.

*Dedicated to my friends and family living with AIDS/HIV. I love you and I will forever stand by you. – Nicole Bettis

30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 31 dining out

this article to list the various sushi, teriyaki, sashimi, and tempura selections, but we have sampled many from each, always col- orful and full of flavor. For this article, I will Finger’s focus on the Chicken Teriyaki lunch special Food ($10.95) that I had eaten on my most recent visit. The lunch specials are served Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and all come with a bowl of miso soup. On a Sushi King cold blustery day, as we had yesterday, the 6490 Dobbin Road hot bowl of miso soup was just right. Served Columbia, Maryland with chunks of tofu and seaweed, the broth Sushikingmd.com is not too salty, as is often the case with 410-997-1269 miso soup. The chicken teriyaki is served on a hot by Richard Finger plate, always sizzling. Unlike some Japa- I have had at least 50 business lunches nese restaurants, the chicken is served as at Sushi King in the past two years, but a whole breast, marinated in teriyaki sauce, I have never written a review about them as opposed to it being served sliced. For until now. Sushi King is located in the me, I prefer this style, as the chicken main- same retail park as the local Maryland tains its juices and flavors, which are some- Motor Vehicle office. I am always amazed at the large lunchtime crowd eating there “It would take me during the week. Sushi King markets it- self as a “cozy, casual, and friendly” res- more than the space in taurant, and I will quite agree. There are this article to list the tables throughout the dining room, seats along the sushi bar, and two private din- various sushi, teriyaki, ing rooms. I have eaten in the open din- ing room, but have mostly eaten in one of sashimi, and tempura the private dining rooms, as this is where selections, but we have we have our weekly Site Leadership get- togethers, where very important business sampled many from is discussed. Well… not always important, but discussion is had for sure. each, always colorful We are never disappointed with the and full of flavor.” friendly service we receive on each visit. The wait staff is continuously refilling our water glasses and tea cups throughout the times lost when sliced. Along with the chick- meal. Sushi King offers many appetizers en, there is a small selection of steamed on their menu from Cucumbersu ($3.50), to bean sprouts, broccoli pieces, and sliced more elaborate selections such as Takaso carrots. Once I have completely cleaned my (octopus with vinegar sauce, $9), and Tuna plate, I like to take the bowl of white rice Sashimi ($18 for 9 pieces). We usually or- and dump it into the hot plate, letting the der a couple of orders of Edamame ($4.50), rice soak up the teriyaki. Other than chicken always prepared fresh. teriyaki, other lunch specials include Beef It would take me more than the space in Teriyaki ($14.50 ), and Salmon Teriyaki ($12.95). If teriyaki isn’t on your mind, there is always Shrimp and Vegetable Assort- ment Tempura ($11.95), Sashimi ($15.95), a regular ($12.95) or deluxe ($14.95) sushi assortment, and other choices. If you happen to be in the Columbia area and want to experience a wonderful Japanese meal for a great value, please consider sampling Sushi King. The restau- rant is a family-run business. Their unique style and friendly warmth give the custom- er an appreciation of the Japanese cuisine. We have been frequenting the establish- ment for a number of years, and each time walk away satisfied, and ready to tackle the work in front of us for the remaining ...but you can call it Chicken Teriyaki hours of the day. t

32 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 33 yo ur money

existing drugs already on the market. Let’s The More you say that one of their drugs has been approved by the FDA to treat bipolar disorder; however, Know About the company aspires to use this same drug to treat depression. In order for the company to Business be successful in their strategy to further grow Richard Finger the drug brand for new treatment areas, they will require employees that have expertise in many research and development (R&D) ar- eas. Now let’s say this company has had in Culture Kills recent years, experienced a series of chang- es, resulting in layoffs and new organizational Strategy structures year after year in the R&D function. The culture this creates within the remaining employees in R&D is one of insecurity. When I had been on a business trip this week when employees are feeling insecure in their jobs, one of the senior employees had asked me they will seek new opportunities, which mean if I had heard the expression, “Culture kills that some of the critical personnel required to strategy.” To be honest, I had not, but the realize this business strategy may leave the concept left a profound impact on me, and organization. This is just one example of cul- has caused me to reflect on its meaning. I ture killing strategy, laid out in simplistic terms. have written numerous articles on the topic In this scenario, there are likely many other of organizational culture in the recent past, cultural dynamics at play that could interfere but I think these three words have succinctly with executing this company’s strategy. described what I had been attempting to say In today’s marketplace, companies need in many more words. I have thought of a few to be continuously innovative, which neces- examples where this quote could be applied. sitates some degree of flexibility for employ- Let’s take for example, a pharmaceutical ees to be creative in pondering new ideas or company that is looking to grow their busi- creations. In a company culture where every ness by finding new treatments for one of its minute is to be accounted for and every cent is analyzed greatly, the ability for a company to evolve and grow will be inhibited with these controls in place. In this continuous “return on investment” culture, a company’s strategy of innovation will be stifled, and that next great idea will go unheard and undeveloped. This example could be applied to some botched mergers and acquisitions, where differing cultures collide. If the acquiring company’s culture is “do more with less,” and the com- pany that is being acquired has thrived on its continuous innovation, this has the potential to lead to an unsuccessful takeover. Often times, at the time when companies are dig- ging into the details of a possible merger or acquisition, there is not enough attention paid to the respective company cultures, and an assessment of compatibility. With these examples in mind, it is a very good idea to take a pause, and refer back to the company mission statement, values, and strategy. Think about the culture within your organization and consider whether or not the right culture exists to achieve the company’s goals now and in the future. Measuring culture is not as easy as mea- suring for profit and loss, but there are tried and true methods that are in use today, such as employee engagement surveys, focus groups, and direct conversations with em- ployees. Most successful companies are very good at building the right environment with their staff to ensure that ”strategy includes culture.” t 34 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com REal estate

charmcityrealestate. No Turkey this Holiday Season com. By WAyne CURTiS of the scope of the work that was done, Don’t buy a turkey this holiday season – a and what stage the work is in. If there’s real estate turkey, that is! What you serve been a lot of recent updating, and no per- for a family feast is your business, but if mits pulled, you know you need to double you’re going to be hosting your clan in a down and find out who did it, if it’s up to new home, you want to make sure you code, and if the workers were licensed. If aren’t serving turkey while living in one! the seller balks at providing that informa- Most of the growing body of real estate tion, listen to the “gobble, gobble” of the regulation and legal turkey, and run away! case law has to do Buy a home war- with the flaws that ranty – Home war- exist in every home, ranties are insurance whether brand new policies that cover construction or previ- unexpected repairs ously owned. so that if something You see it on TV: faulty slips through renovation shows the inspection pro- are full of the un- cess and then breaks, pleasant surprises you are only respon- the new buyers find sible for a small de- when they rip out a ductible. wall, widen a door- One last caution: all way, or modernize an homes – even new old house. Buying a renovated home can ones – have issues. The best thing a buyer mean you’re going to discover hidden tur- can do is make sure that they are not rely- keys, disguised by new materials. ing on the seller or the seller’s disclosures So, how does a buyer – especially a for their security. Getting the names of the first-time buyer – keep from making a big licensed contractors who did the renova- mistake and buying a house that turns out tions, or the full details on the new home to be a big, expensive turkey? warranty, are vital steps you should not Use a realtor – We are experienced, skip! and know many of the warning signs when That way you have someone you can something isn’t right. We can advise you hold accountable in the weeks and months on the proper course to take, the right in- after the purchase for things that go wrong spections to have, and on an effective ne- which shouldn’t. gotiation strategy to follow that will yield The Home Warranty is the next line of the best results to safeguard you and your defense for turkeys that no one could see financial health. coming. Protect yourself, and you’ll sleep Use the internet to its full poten- easier through the year… and enjoy having tial – Most jurisdictions in Maryland have a turkey on the table! t computerized and opened their housing Wayne Curtis has been a licensed real department databases to internet search. estate agent in Maryland and a top pro- In Baltimore City, at least, you can call up ducer since 1998. The National Associa- each address and see what building per- tion of Realtors named him a Homeowner- mits have been issued recently, get an idea ship Hero in 2012. Contact him at wayne@

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 35 raised in nearby York, Penn- Leather Contest in Chicago felt that he was so embraced by the Maryland sylvania. His father was the in May. He even volunteered leather community that he wanted to play sexton of a country church and and helped the Leather Ar- the biggest part that he could play. He joined he lived in the parsonage. “It chives build their first website. COMMAND, MC, and when he met Mr. Mary- Leather was in the middle of nowhere Greg and his friends contin- land Leather 2014 David Pfau and saw his Line and the closest neighbor was ued to go to Leather / Levi great work in the community, he knew what Rodney Burger over half a mile away,” Greg re- Weekends at Hillside and he should do – he ran for the Mr. Maryland called. As a teen he would help soon discovered the leather Leather title. “I just jumped in the deep end of his father by mowing the grass clubs. He and his friends felt the pool.” Greg add, “The other contestants Meet Mr. MD in the cemetery. He joked that that their group had just as were really good. I was shocked when I won!” “the job took 14 hours and by much brotherhood as the Greg is very excited about using his expe- the time he was finished, it was clubs. The only thing the clubs rience with non-profit events and fundraisers Leather 2015 time to mow it again!” had that they didn’t have was during his title year. I asked him why he felt In 1997 Greg was invited a back patch for their leather the leather community needed titleholders. In this issue I had planned to introduce you by some friends to go to Hill- vest. They designed a patch Greg said that a leather titleholder is like the to our area’s newest leather titleholder, Mr. side Campground in New Mil- and formed their own little Pied Piper of the community. He can play his D.C. Eagle 2015. This very popular and oldest ford, Pennsylvania, for Country club. They called their group pipe and gathered the community together. leather contest was scheduled for Saturday, Western Weekend. He had a G regory King – “Cumalot.” Their club has no Greg said that within moments of being November 22 at the new location of the D.C. blast and the group returned Mr. Maryland Leather 2015 meetings and no bi-laws. At sashed Mr. Maryland Leather 2015 he had Eagle at 3701 Benning Road NE, as part of the for the next edition of that first the club was just kind of a gathered over 30 business cards from people bar’s anniversary weekend. Unfortunately the event. The group had so much fun that they joke, but now Cumalot host big parties at Hill- in the community who were eager to help him new home of Washington’s famous leather bar wanted to visit one more time. No additional side Campgrounds and has over 40 members with events. Although he already has several is not quite ready to open and the Mr. D.C. Ea- Country Western Weekends were scheduled spread all over the country. events in mind, he would like to work with the gle 2015 Contest has been postponed. Thank – but there was a Leather / Levi Weekend Greg continued to explore his leather side older folks in the Maryland leather commu- goodness I was able to pick up my phone and on the calendar. Greg and his friends were a and on February 23, 2008 Greg and his part- nity to gather and preserve the community’s quickly schedule an interview with Mr. Mary- little apprehensive about going camping with ner Charles King produced the first Mr. Club history. He would like to produce educational land Leather 2015 Greg King and I only had to “the scary leather people.” They went anyway XS Leather Contest at the now closed bar in events during which the older members of the drive as far as his home in Owings Mills, Mary- and Greg soon realized that “the scary leather York. One of the judges that night was Mr. leather community could share their stories land, to sit down with him for a few hours. Hav- people were his people!” He had discovered Maryland Leather 2008 Kris DeBlase and I with the younger generation. Back in Penn- ing just been sashed on November 1, Greg is the leather culture. The following January he had the pleasure of driving Kris’s boyfriend sylvania he worked with LGBT youth to help our area’s newest leather titleholder. attended Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend in David up to Club XS to attend his first leather them overcome discrimination. He is now con- Our new Mr. Maryland was actually born and Washington followed by the International Mr. contest. Years later David Pfau would be se- cerned about the older LGBT folks who may lected Mr. Maryland Leather 2014 and at the find themselves having to go back into the end of his year would pass the sash to Greg closet as they enter their golden years. King, Mr. Maryland Leather 2015. It is a small On a less serious note, Greg added that world. he has always been turned on by men with DADDY CHRISTMAS 2014 I asked Greg how he ended up living in the beards, leather, and tattoos and enjoys all Baltimore area. Greg smiled and said that he the kinks in the leather community. He never DEC. 6, 2014 9pm to 1 am THE LOFT and Charles often visited Baltimore and had thought that he would be a leather titleholder – many friends in the area. Greg owns a busi- but now he is. He is very excited about being The 2nd Floor of The Grand Central ness in Gettysburg and when Charles found Mr. Maryland Leather 2015 and is ready to get himself working in Anne Arundel County, they to work. I really enjoyed getting to know our moved to an apartment in Owings Mills, which new Mr. Maryland Leather and I invite you to is somewhat equidistant to their respective come meet him at The Loft at Grand Central on workplaces. Greg quickly added that “when December 6 as he plays one of the Santas for he lived in Pennsylvania he found the leather the ShipMates’ Daddy Christmas event. I will culture, but when he moved to Maryland he be there too and I will be happy to introduce discovered the leather community.” In fact he you to our area’s newest leather titleholder. t

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36 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 37 MISS TRAILER PARK 2014 NOVEMBER 21, 2014 THE LODGE BOONSBORO, MD Photos by Tom Koch of RAB2

38 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 39 40 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 28, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com