September 1, 2017 | Volume XV, Issue 9

Pride 2018 King and Queen Inaugurated Queen Bleu and King Jay By Bill Redmond-Palmer have a love for my city and er the races – monarchs of Royalty doesn't get more prideful than this! community, and I hope be- As US and different Pride 2018 The pageants to select Baltimore's new coming Queen of Pride will genres of King and Queen of Pride 2018 took place be the gateway to make that prez riles, our commu- August 4th at the Nest at the Baltimore Ea- happen." nity together; gle. Jewel-studded, 24k-gold diadems now "I've been performing will queer to be a gate- grace (at least metaphorically) the heads in burlesque for about five way where Utkarsh of Chris Jay – King of Pride for Baltimore years and this is my first drag Baltimoreans we can all Rajawat Pride 2018 – and Sapphire Bleu, the new pageant," said King Jay. "I turn to come togeth- (Berowne), Queen. The new regents spoke to Balti- wanted to bring something er instead of Flynne more OUTloud about their coming reign. to the stage that people had monarchy? tearing each Harne "I began performing in 2012, including not seen before, drawing other apart." serving as Miss Gay Baltimore America in on my burlesque experience, to just see "I just want kings 2015, and had just returned to drag after what would happen. I didn't know if people to have more visibili- some time off," said Queen Bleu. "While would like it because it was different, but it ty," said Jay. "I want to I was gone I noticed that the community seems to have worked!" have fun and do some is divided. I felt like it was time for some- "The most important thing I want to service for my commu- one to step up and work to bring it back achieve as Queen," said Bleu, "is to nity here in Baltimore." together. I'm no messiah, but I work to bring togeth- "I've served our —continued on page 5

By Frankie Kujawa Ella Fitzgerald once Anthony Blake Clark Brings said, “Music is the uni- versal language … it brings people closer to- Conductor and composer gether.” No one is more a New Song to Baltimore Anthony Blake fluent in that language Clark tapped to things so I wouldn’t limit my- Fresh energy was three and I would stand in than Baltimore Choral Arts head Baltimore self or feel limited to small- front of the TV and conduct the Society’s newly named mu- Choral Arts town Texas. It was a great and vision score.” sical director Anthony Blake place to grow up, and is great Clark thought for a while Clark. A conductor and com- to go back and visit.” at Baltimore that he would be a concert pia- poser who’s led choral and Clark’s exuberance and Choral Arts nist and then thought he would orchestral ensembles in the in a small passion for music is obvious eventually go to New York City US and Europe, Clark is the farming within the first few minutes of chatting with to compose full-time. “It was in college that third musical director in Bal- town. Most him. As long as he could remember he al- I realized that this conducting thing may timore Choral Arts’ 51-year of the peo- ways was connected with music. “It went work for me.” He went on to describe the history. The Texan-native re- ple around in cycles for me,” Clark explained. “I don’t realization of his ability to understand mu- cently chatted with Baltimore town sup- really remember this, but my parents told sic on a different level. “I understood larg- OUTloud about his passion for ported the farming in- me that one time when I was sick, they er musical concepts that are required. You music, his new position, and his dustry. I stuck out like a sore thumb.” bought me the old Cecil B. DeMille film, have to think in large-scale constructs and vision for infusing Baltimore communities Clark laughed before adding, “But I had The Ten Commandments. It has the Elmer have some sort of leadership dynamic to with music. great teachers and it was a great place to Bernstein score. I apparently would break convince people the way you want a piece “I grew up in a very small Texas town,” grow up. I had great parents, and teach- apart pant hangers and I would use that performed. I found that I really had a pas- Clark began. “I was the ‘token piano boy’ ers, who thrusted me to go out and do big as a baton and conduct,” Clark laughed. “I —continued on page 31 if you have hiv, Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

Executive Editor Jim Becker [email protected] we have your back. [email protected] Associate Editor & Director of Marketing & Production Mary Taylor [email protected]

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Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY insurance, medicine, & more Laura Anderson • Debbie Anne • Rev. Kelly Crenshaw Rev. Dr. Robert Apgar-Taylor • Brian George Hose E. A. Perper •Elizabeth Thompson  Contributing Writers OUT in Asbury Park, NJ PrEP & PEP prescriptions for partners Rai Guerra-Nelson • Christy Girlington Graphics Ramon Montiel

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

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2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL GLSEN Statewide Youth Summit at Towson University, Sept. 23rd

A fundraiser at Chipotle and a statewide All gay-straight alliance members, youth summit are on the agenda for the LGBTQ youth leaders, and high school ● Elder Law newly renamed GLSEN Maryland (Gay, aged youth and allies across the state are ● Estate Planning Lesbian, Straight Education Network – invited to the summit. Maryland). GLSEN Maryland will expand Guest speakers, educational work- ● Family Law its programs and outreach to serve all 24 shops, food, networking, and fun will make ● Guardianship counties and school districts in the state. up the day. LGBTQ community leaders ● Mediation On Tuesday, Septem- ber 5th from 3 to 8 pm, ● Medicaid Planning & Qualification the Back to Safe Schools ● Personal Injury Chipotle Fundraiser will support GLSEN Maryland. ● Probate Make dinner a selfless act ● Veteran's Benefits by digging in at the Chipo- ● LGBTQIA Matters tle Mexican Grill at 6314 York Road in Baltimore. Call ERA Law Group Today See the even flyer at Bit. (410) 919-1790, or visit us at ly/2vCbkGz. Bring the fly- er, show it on your smartphone, or tell the and organizers will share their stories, 1997 Annapolis Exchange Pkwy, cashier you’re supporting the cause to and workshops on LGBTQ history, activ- Suite 300, Annapolis, MD 21401 make sure that 50 percent of the proceeds ism, religion, bisexuality, gender identity, will be donated to GLSEN Maryland. You strengthening a GSA, voguing and more Valerie E. Anias, Esq. must choose the pay-in-store option. Pur- are on tap. Dinner will be served on cam- chases of gift cards during the fundraiser pus, followed by a dance. [email protected] don’t count towards donated sales, but Parking is free in the Union Garage purchases made with an existing gift card on the Towson University Campus. To use will count. public transit, use MTA’s Trip Planner at On Saturday, September 23rd from 11 https://mta.maryland.gov. Towson Uni- am to 9 pm GLSEN Maryland will host Re- versity is accessible by the CityLink RED sist: Youth Summit 2017, a free, day-long Line. GLSEN Maryland will also be offer- leadership and advocacy conference for ing free buses to and from the event from LGBTQ youth and allies in Maryland. It’s select parts of the state. More info will be set for the University Union at Towson Uni- available soon at Bit.ly/2xG6b1x. versity (281 University Avenue, Towson). For tickets, visit Resistsummit. The Youth Summit is GLSEN Maryland’s eventbrite.com. For more info, it’s chap- largest event. [email protected]. t

Community Cares Boosting empowerment and breaking the bonds Earle of homophobia, racism, and stigma in same Fowlkes, Throws Inaugural gender-loving (SGL) men in Baltimore City head of the Center • NETWORKING for Black Awards Gala Equity Every 1st Wednesday On August 26th, the Community Cares • HIV EDUCATION Project hosted their first Leadership Every Last Wednesday Awards, honoring eight black LGBTQ lead- ers. Earle Fowlkes, head of the Center for • SOCIAL EVENTS Black Equity, gave the keynote and DJ Monthly Shawn Smallwood kept up the beat. t • ART CREATION PROJECT [email protected] • 410-837-5573 FB: New Horizons Baltimore • aidsactionbaltimore.org HIV Prevention Advocacy for SGL Men's Health supported by ViiV Healthcare's ACCELERATE! Program

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

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

community programs to address what The Royal Pride of New York Times Magazine calls “a public health failure.” Feeding the The project is a key component of Ac- Nations Hosts celerate, ViiV Healthcare’s response to two countervailing forces: the promise of the Homeless, standard of ‘Night of Royalty’ care for HIV treatment Sept. 16th and preven- Sept. 17th ly board meeting at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, tion; and the September 12th at the GLCCB (2530 North persistent, Two upcoming events focus on our home- Charles Street., third floor). A review of the dispropor- less friends and neighbors. A Night of Royalty will be a spectacular most recent strategic plan and progress re- tionate im- The organizers of the Holiday Party for showcase to launch the first State Pre- port are on the agenda, along with the year pact of HIV the Homeless are hosting their first in-per- liminary of the newly formed Mr. & Miss in review. Additional new board members on black Royal Pride of Nations Pageantry System, will join. Americans, For more info, call the center at 410- especially 777-8145 or email at [email protected]. On gay, bisex- the web it’s GLCCB.org. t ual, and other men who have sex with Jackson, Miss., meets men. Ac- Baltimore hosted by Helena Hologram. The doors will celerate’s open at 8 pm and the show will run from Fighting HIV community programs are driven by the 9:30 to 11:30 pm on Sunday, September perspectives of these men. 17th at Ziascos (1313 East Pratt Street, Reserve a free ticket at Acceleratetick- Lunch al fresco Baltimore). Among African- ets.com. Learn more at Viivhealthcare. Among the performers will be Mr. and com/us. t Miss Ziascos (Inferno Lee Sephora and son planning meeting for the event as a Tania Lashay); Queen of the Royal Drag Americans: Film potluck on September 14th from 7 to 9 pm Family of Maryland (Miss Catherine Wil- at the home of Bonnie Lane (322 East 28th son, Miss Royal Pride of Nations; Imani Street, Baltimore). Valentino, Miss Virginia Capital City Pride; Screening, Want to help with the planning? Bring Katrina Colby, Miss Gay Maryland Amer- Faith Against AIDS – yourself and a dish or non-alcoholic bever- ica; Miss Eva Couture; Ganivah Cache age, as you are able. Parking can be chal- Sephora; Morayah Kools; and Tazz). Sept. 7th to 14th Interfaith lenging so if driving, arrive early. Indicate There will be a cash bar and food for sale. Donations are accepted for the New Miss Prayer Rally Maryland Royal Pride of Nations, on her way Back by popular demand, As Much As I to nationals in March 2018 in Florida. Can (tag: #AsMuchAsICan), an immersive Tickets are $10 at Eventbrite.com/e/a- theatre experience, will be in Baltimore night-of-royalty-tickets-35656245791. For September 7th to 14th at the Baltimore more info it’s Bit.ly/2xGeJFr. t War Memorial (101 North Gay Street), – Bill Redmond-Palmer sponsored by the Community Cares Proj- ect (Facebook.com/theccpbmore). As Much as I Can invites audiences into the lives of four men from Jackson, Mississippi, and Baltimore – two cities GLCCB Annual disproportionately affected by the HIV ep- idemic. It explores their complex relation- ships to faith, family, community, friends, Meeting to be and themselves. Revealed are the disrup- tions, dreams, disappointments, and resil- iencies the epidemic has spawned. Audi- a ‘Town Hall,’ ences can explore the universality of love, family, faith, and self-acceptance. This experience is designed to elevate Sept. 12th the voices of black gay men and encour- age a transformative shift in attitudes, be- August 27th saw clergy, lay leaders, and people of faith gathered for an Interfaith Community Local News GLCCB Annual Meeting liefs, and understanding. A major theme is Prayer Rally coordinated by HopeSprings, celebrating the first annual Faith HIV and AIDS The GLCCB Annual Meeting and Town the importance of listening to those most Awareness Day. The group marched to Beth Am Synagogue to enjoy a health fair and entertain- Hall will be held in place of the month- affected by HIV and supporting innovative ment including Positive Voices. 4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL your participation on their Facebook event page at Bit.ly/2wi2mA3. Queer Love Pride 2018 King and Queen Inaugurated The Feeding the Homeless Back to —continued from page 1 School Block Party, an event all about Summer Cookout "Today I'm most thankful for my re- kids, will take place at 420 Fallsway, under community through doing casework with covery," said Bleu. "There was a point I-83, on Saturday, September 16th at 2 pm. the National Institutes of Health and Be- where life's choices and situations had me The party will include back-to-school sup- havior," said Bleu. "I worked LGBTQ peo- hooked really bad on recreational drugs, plies, clothes, food, music, and fun. The ple with HIV/AIDS, and counseled home- but I have been clean and sober now for event will be co-hosted by Brian Dolbow less LGBTQ kids, providing information six years. Since that recovery, I could dis- and Kalel Rojas (aka Super Boy). and assessing their needs to provide them cover who I was and that I could have a Organizers are seeking donations of the best help possible." career, so everything good has stemmed backpacks; notebooks; pens, pencils, from that, and I am most grateful for that." markers, and crayons; USB drives; lunch- “I’m no messiah, but I "I'm most thankful for acceptance," boxes; umbrellas; non-perishable snack said Jay. "For a long time, I didn't know if items for kids; plastic silverware; carry-out Over 200 people gathered on August 26th have a love for my city being the way I am, and looking the way I boxes; and ice. They are also seeking as the Baltimore Trans Alliance hosted its and community, and I do, would be something that people would clothes and shoes for men, women, and first annual Queer Love Summer Cookout. accept. A lot of times I would talk myself children. They would also appreciate the Beautiful weather and beautiful people (in- hope becoming Queen out of doing things because I thought I loan of coolers, chafing dishes, and fuel, cluding Monica Stevens Yorkman and Ava of Pride will be the didn't fit the body type or the stereotype and large tables to be used during the Pipitone, above) helped to make the day of what people were looking for. I'm just event. memorable. DJ Shawn Smallwood kept gateway to make that thankful that I've been accepted and that A signup sheet for donations is at Bit. up the tunes. Find the alliance online at people will see me for who I am, and can ly/2wVmZ7l. Bmoretransalliance.com. t happen.” show love for me just being myself." Anyone in the need of food or clothing Baltimore OUTloud congratulates the is encouraged to stop by. "In DC, a friend and I started a phe- regal winners and looks forward to work- Afterwards, join the hosts for hap- (5828 York Road, Baltimore). nomenal and thriving drag troupe called ing with Queen Sapphire Bleu (Facebook. py hour at the Drinkery (205 West Read At the rehearsals, you’ll get to know the Prettyboy Drag," said Jay. "I also produced com/Sapphirebleu32) and King Chris Jay the Chocolate City Burlesque Cabaret that (Facebook.com/chris.jennings.31149) in Street, Baltimore). chorus’s singers and artistic director Adam t For more info email werbaltimore@ Koch, and will participate in learning new had a huge impact on the black burlesque the coming year. gmail.com. t music, to test the waters to see if you want community. Everything that I do, I am try- to make a splash by joining New Wave. ing to think of ways to give back to the New Wave has been performing for community." over 30 years, bringing people together, "The song that must be on the singing beautiful music, and showing how soundtrack of my life would be ‚ÄòThat's New Wave diversity becomes harmony, as Maryland’s the Way it Is' by Celine Dion," said Bleu. gay, lesbian, transgender and straight cho- "Nothing I have ever achieved has been rus. They perform in a wide range of styles, easy, but when your heart is in the right Singers from traditional choral music to pop, gos- place, and you want something bad pel, jazz, and Broadway. Their voices have enough, you do whatever you need to do brought world premieres to Baltimore au- to get it. And that's the way it is, and that's Auditions diences, and taken the works of Baltimore how I live my life. Life is what it is; it's what composers to international events. you make of it, and what you take from it." New Wave Singers is looking for people At the end of the rehearsal on Sep- "'Where Does this Door Go' by Mayer who love to sing, and who are looking for a tember 12th, the chorus will hold a vocal Hawthorn is a song about making choices weekly creative outlet where they can con- placement audition with their artistic direc- and trusting in the universe," said Jay, "so nect with a diverse group of folks. If that’s tor, where you will be asked to sing a wide- when I am down that is my go to song. That you, then come to their open rehearsals ly known patriotic song along with a few would be the song required to be on the and auditions for new members on Sep- vocal exercises to test your range. soundtrack of my life." tember 5th and 12th from 7 to 9:30 pm in For more info, visit NewWaveSingers. "My champion has always been my Sharp Hall at Govans Presbyterian Church org. t grandmother," said Bleu. "She's no longer with us, but she's the one who taught me the example of working hard, doing the things that matter most, and not focusing on trivial things. Her strength was every- thing, she overcame a lot in her time, and she transferred that onto my sister and I, onto our whole family." "My greatest champion is my mother," said Jay. "She is the strongest, most amaz- ing person I know. She took nothing, and built a whole lot of something and brought me up in it, and gave me space to find myself. I could not be here doing this if it wasn't for my mother's hard work."

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker there were no “ongoing treatments” for organizations espousing anti-LGBTQ reli- “We have long warned the government transgender individuals that would cause gious or public policy stances,” Charlotte that a plebiscite or postal vote on mar- Trump moves to them to be nondeployable. “Thus there’s Pride said in a statement. “Charlotte Pride riage equality would amplify extremist and no difference between the deployability of envisions a world in which LGBTQ people hateful views – yet the prime minister as- implement trans transgender service members” and others, are affirmed, respected, and included in sured us of a respectful debate,” Croome Fulton added. (Seattle Gay News – Mike the full social and civic life of their local said. “It is now incumbent on the prime military ban in Andrew at Sgn.org) communities, free from fear of any discrim- minister, who initiated the postal vote cam- ination, rejection, and prejudice.” paign, to take responsibility and denounce six months Deplorable Pride issued a statement anti-LGBT vilification like this poster.” Ac- reprinted here in part: “Join us in Charlotte, cording to Bloomberg, a poll taken in 2016 Washington, DC – The White House Gay pro-Trump North Carolina on August 27th. Come and showed 64 percent of respondents back issued a two-and-a-half-page memo on Au- show your support for your fellow Trump same-sex marriage. (Bay Windows at Bay- gust 23rd, ordering Secretary of Defense group banned supporters who are LGBT and are being windows.com) James Mattis to enact Donald Trump’s pol- persecuted by their own gay community. icy barring trans troops within six months. from Charlotte Help us show them that we all stand unit- It was the first official action on transgen- ed! … We will have items for you to make der military service since Trump’s notori- Pride to protest signs or you can bring your own. This will Critics ous July 26th tweets saying he would ban be a non-confrontational peaceful demon- Charlotte, North Carolina – Looks like stration showing that you stand with your say Philly we haven’t heard the last of the Deplor- fellow Trump supporters. Please help us able Pride group, who support President show that intolerance is not acceptable. administration Donald Trump. The group was blocked Deplorable Pride and Carolinas for Trump from participating in the Charlotte Pride will be hosting this event. (Q Notes Online stereotypes parade Sunday, August 27th. They hoped – Jeff Taylor at Goqnotes.com) to have a float, which would have includ- some gay bars ed a Melania Trump impersonator. Instead, the group is going to hold a protest march Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – in an Now please wash the flag “against intolerance” to coincide with the ‘Stop the article about dress codes in some Center trans people from the military. At the time parade, beginning half an hour before it City bars, Philadelphia Gay News report- of the tweets, the ACLU and other LGBT starts and stopping along the route to stop Fags’ poster ed that some critics recently blasted the rights groups invited trans service people and be seen. Kenney administration for allegedly ste- to call on their legal services, and lawsuits A Charlotte Pride spokesperson de- in Melbourne reotyping LGBT bars in the Gayborhood are expected to follow once the Pentagon fended its decision on Friday, the Charlotte as having racist practices and requiring 11 issues its rules. Observer reports, saying “the nonprofit has causes protest of them to attend anti-bias training. Crit- According to the Wall Street Journal, the right to exclude any group it feels does ics questioned whether city officials delib- the White House memo allows Mattis to not reflect the parade’s values of welcom- Melbourne, Australia – The appear- erately ignored racist practices at Center consider “deployabaility” as a legal means ing groups on the fringes of American so- ance of an anti-LGBT poster campaign in City bars that don’t specifically cater to the to determine whether to discharge trans Melbourne that used questionable statis- LGBT community. service members from the military. In oth- tics to denigrate gay families has many Jeffrey Sotland, co-owner of Tabu, an er words, if trans service people are able in Australia up in arms as the country is to serve in a war zone, or participate in poised to have a postal vote on the na- military exercises, then the Pentagon can tional legalization of same-sex marriage. keep them in the military. A 2016 Rand The poster at the center of the controversy Corporation study found that almost all features two menacing figures brandishing currently serving transgender military per- rainbow belts as if to punish a child that sonnel are deployable. On the other hand, cowers below them. Above the child bold officials who spoke to the Journal about letters read: “Stop the Fags.” The post- the White House memo said it also gives er goes on to claim that “92% of children Mattis the power to turn away transgender raised by gay parents are abused... 51% people seeking to join the military, and to have depression... 72% are obese” HIzzoner James Kenney – Philly mayor halt spending on medical treatment for The Daily Mail reported that the afore- those currently serving. mentioned statistics came from a discred- LGBT sports bar in Center City, said Tabu LGBT activists denounced the new ited 2016 study by Reverend Paul Sullings was among 11 LGBT bars required by the Trump memo as unfair and based on bias from the Catholic University of America. city to undergo anti-bias training. “We were rather than facts. “transgender people The Guardian noted that despite the post- never found to have done anything wrong, are just as deployable as other service er’s message the vast majority of studies but we undertook all the training because members,” Sue Fulton, former president show children with LGBT parents are no there’s tndard if the city doesn’t force [oth- of the LGBT military organization Sparta, worse off than those with heterosexual er bars] to undergo anti-bias training. The told the Journal. “Other service members Charlotte Pride nixes First Amendment parents. city was under attack. They addressed the may undergo procedures when they are According to Hit.com, long-time Austra- situation to appease a part of the commu- at home base, just as other service mem- ciety, including undocumented immigrants. lian LGBT rights advocate Rodney Croome nity by requiring 11 LGBT bars to undergo bers schedule shoulder surgery or gall … In the past, we have made similar de- was opposed to the government putting anti-bias training. But don’t hold me to a bladder surgery,” she said, adding that cisions to decline participation from other the marriage issue up for popular vote. —continued on page 12

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter city, however, GLCCB was the base for all our tion at all, he was making a suggestion. He endeavors. strongly “suggested” that if Kevon’s Room Well, GLCCB was the base for all our was going to only serve youth-of-color that we Why the GLCCB? endeavors until one day the executive direc- move our meeting somewhere else. 18-year- tor at the time asked to have a meeting with old me was crushed. The meeting ended with By Kenneth Morrison in Baltimore City. me in regards to Kevon’s Room’s relationship 18-year-old me packing up our stuff in search When I was 18 (almost 15 years ago) a friend The first big move for Kevon’s Room was with GLCCB. I was unsure of the nature of for a new building. I promised myself that I and I started a youth-led nonprofit called to sign a lease at the GLCCB. It was an em- the meeting. I scanned my internal checklist: would never step foot in the GLCCB again. Kevon’s Room. Kevon’s Room was a social powering feeling for 18-year-old me to sign a we paid our rent on time, we made sure the Fast forward a little more than a support group for gay-identified youth of color contract, make a payment, and officially have space was clean before and after our meet- decade and here I sit as the co-executive di- between the ages of 14-19. Armed with na- a home for my first big dream. 15 eager youth ings (most of the time), we didn’t damage any rector of the GLCCB. I accepted the position ive youthful determination and a $3,500 grant of color were excited to call GLCCB home. property or disrespect any staff. I was sure because the GLCCB failed the 18-year-old from Youth As Resources we launched, what Eventually Kevon’s Room went on to open we did nothing wrong. me and a lot of other people of color. Most was then, the only youth-led LGBTQ initiative up a total of four support groups around the The meeting opened up with the exec- importantly, it failed the same young people utive director praising the efforts of Kevon’s who would one day be asked to lead it. It did Room and all of the young people who worked not operate from an anti-racist framework, it hard to serve the community. This made me did not recognize the importance of inclusion, happy and calmed all of my anxiety. After 15 it did not seek to ensure its values and work minutes of affirmations and praise he asked reflected the community it served. I made a me a question. “Is it true that your group only decision with 18-year-old me in mind, to en- serves youth of color?” “Yes”, I replied. The sure the next 18-year-old who walks in the look on his face changed from one of a proud door with a vision, with hope or a need would father to a disappointed principal. “Have you not be told to go away. ever heard of the Portal?” he asked. The Portal The first task I took on when start- was the African American LGBTQ Community ing at the GLCCB was helping to give space Center. “Yes, I replied. “We have a Kevon’s for Youth Against Oppression (YAO), a youth- Room chapter at that center too. It meets on led support/social/advocacy group for SGL/ Thursdays.” With a puzzling look on his face LGBTQ students. Nothing brought me more he asked why would we meet at the GLCCB joy than getting the funding announcement when we could just meet at The Portal. I tried last year that Youth As Resources approved to explain transportation, proximity to schools, their first grant to get started. If I never accom- the difference between east and west, but I plish another action at the GLCCB knowing suddenly realized that this wasn’t a question that I helped ensure YAO and other groups about logistics or geography. This was my had a home to heal, grow, and build is enough first not-so-obvious lesson on subtle racism. to know my time here was well spent. He wasn’t in fact asking a ques-

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

Events Calendar: September 2017 Sundays Mondays Tuesdays Wedesdays Thursdays Fridays Saturdays 09/01 09/02 09/06 09/07 -City on the Rise Alcoholics Anonymous 09/03 09/04 09/05 --Free & Confidential -Youth Against Op- 5:30pm-7:00pm 5:00pm-8:00pm -Stop in and see a - LGBTQ Youth Mental HIV Testing pression -Giovanni’s Room -Narcotics Anonymous case manager between Health Group 6:30pm-8:30pm 4:30pm-6:30pm Open Mic 1st 09/09 11:00am-1:00pm 6:00pm-7:30pm 10:00am and 6:00pm -The Mankind Project -Family Game Night Anniversary Show Alcoholics Anonymous 6:30pm-8:30pm 6:30pm-9:30pm 7:00pm-10:00pm ($5) -Gentle Mindful Yoga -Pink Lady Dance 5:00pm-8:00pm 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) 09/11 6:00pm-9:00pm -Sistahs of Pride -Stop in and see a -August Board Meeting 09/13 7:30pm-9:30pm 09/08 09/16 09/10 case manager between 6:30pm-8:30pm - Free & Confidential -Black Men’s Xchange Narcotics Anonymous 10:00am and 6:00pm HIV Testing 09/14 6:30pm – 10:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 11:00am-1:00pm 09/12 6:30pm-8:30pm -Youth Against -TAG Outreach 5:00pm-8:00pm Gentle Mindful Yoga -Giovanni’s Room -The Mankind Project Oppression 8:00pm-4:00am 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) Poetry Workshop 6:30pm-8:30pm 4:30pm-7:00pm 6:30pm-8:30pm ($5) -Trans Baltimore -Baltimore Trans 09/15 -SILhouette 7:00pm-9:00pm Masculine Alliance -City on the Rise 7:30pm-9:30pm 6:30pm-9:00pm 5:30pm-7:00pm -Get Smart with iChat 7:00pm-9:00pm

Youth Against Oppression – YAO The GLCCB’s Youth Program

By: Mimi Demissew YAO meets every Thursday. There’s Youth Against Oppression or YAO as it always food and drinks served and any- is better known is the GLCCB’s youth pro- thing could be happening from “What’s the gram serving youth between the ages of 14 T” where you get to dish about what’s on through 20. YAO is a youth led advocacy your mind that week to watching movies or program of the GLCCB dedicated to creat- having guest speakers come and present ing affirming space, fighting oppression and to the group. Some guest speakers in the supporting same gender loving and LGBTQ past included folks who were able to give youth’s personal development. “We provide our youth options for their future from being a safe space for queer youth to participate able to attend College debt free to finding in discussion groups, workshops and en- alternatives to finding a career path that gaging activities at the GLCCB. We also or- doesn’t include college, earning your GED, ganize activities to advocate on issues im- or learning about what kinky consensual pacting the quality of life for queer youth.” sex is or could be. This past program year YAO was established in February 2016. YAO had several field trip from a picnic at The organization developed organically. As Druid Hill Park to ending the summer at Six LGBTQ youth began spending time at the Flags. GLCCB, the youth saw that there was no From an adult advocate’s position, I dedicated space for queer youth to gather. have had the absolute honor to watch our A group of youth decided it was important members grow into wonderful, confident to create such a space and together with young adults. This group is amazing and is other youth and the GLCCB staff created a always looking for more youth to come and space dedicated for Baltimore queer youth continue its growth. of all races, gender and backgrounds to meet. Today this group has developed into a program with clear direction and purpose comprised of and led by dedicated LGBTQ youth from Baltimore.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 beyond the beltway

—continued from page 9 Naveen Jain and Jun Jeon, aims to pre- vent LGBT patients from having negative Verbal consent Texas anti-trans higher standard than non-LGBT bars. Hold experiences with SpectrumScores, a web- me to the same standard.” based application. The three developers, needed at sex bathroom bill A spokesperson for the Philadelphia all of whom will enter their second year as Commission on Human Relations issued University of Pennsylvania medical stu- positive spaces? fails for now this statement: After noting that certain dents in the fall, created the app to help dress codes could end up being discrim- patients find LGBT-friendly providers. Toronto, Ontario – After describing Austin, Texas – North Carolina’s House inatory, the statement added, “The sub- Jain, 23, said users will find specific an incident at a fetish party involving a Bill 2 may have been repealed in name, but its ject of our October 25th, 2016, hearing providers ranked based on “Spectrum- man continuously groping him in the coat legacy lives on in imitation legislation pushed was discrimination in the gayborhood and Scores,” a system made up of four differ- check-out line and outrageously refusing by conservative lawmakers in other states. within Philadelphia’s LGBTQ communi- ent components: welcoming environment, to take no despite repeated rebuffs, Aeryn The Texan version of the infamous “bathroom ty and institutions. It was spurred on by inclusive policies, LGBT-specific knowl- Pfaff writes at Dailyxtra.com, “I like to par- bill” was left unheard when the state’s House the I Candy incident and other concerns edge and an aggregation of the other ty in sex-positive spaces in Toronto, where of Representatives ended its special session – raised by members of the LGBTQ commu- three rankings. Users can rate the pro- I live. ... The vibes and the atmosphere are but Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick hasn’t given up the is- nity. At the hearings, we heard from many viders based on aspects such as proper less uptight at these parties – you meet sue. “You know why it’s going to be back next who complained about ‘gayborhood’ bars. pronoun usage, unbiased interviews about open-minded, chill people, and you often session? Because the people will demand it,” The focus was on the bars, clubs, restau- sexual histories, and overall knowledge hear music styles you might not hear at Patrick told reporters after the legislative ses- rants, and non-profits that were mentioned, on LGBT needs such as PrEP, hormone other LGBT parties. Wearing leather and sion concluded. “The issue is not going to go and mistreatment that had largely gone other gear is fun and provides a nice relief away.” ignored or unaddressed. That is how the from the way we have to act in the puri- Despite Patrick’s claims about the peo- bars, clubs, and restaurants we trained tanical outside world. But I’m not a fan of ple’s demands, even Republican leaders in were identified. Again, PCHR is here to lis- non-consensual groping. the Texas legislature have expressed opposi- ten and assist and we encourage people “Of course, cruising has a long history of tion to perpetuating efforts to dictate LGBTQ to contact us around issues of discrimina- nonverbal flirtation and cues that emerged freedoms. Like HB2, the Texas bill requires tion and bias. If we are not advised, we will during decades of gay oppression, when public bathrooms and not know.” (Philadelphia Gay News – Tim it was dangerous to ask others outright facilities to be ac- Cwiek at epgn.com) if they wanted to hook up. However, as cessed according to newer generations integrate into LGBT gender assigned at scenes and social norms shift to prioritize birth and nullifies all clear consent, many of us interpret these local anti-discrimina- New app to non-verbal actions as non-consensual or tion laws. It’s a repeti- even harassing behavior. tion not lost on Texas connect LGBTQ “Young people are very conscious about House Speaker Joe consent in a way that was rarely discussed, Straus, a moderate patients and publicized or politicized in the past. Many of Republican who spoke us also have the luxury of verbally express- against the measure. doctors ing our desire and lust without persecution. “Why would Texas, af- Clever gay app While there are aspects of our cruising cul- Protester – winning ter seeing the example Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Phil developers ture that can be considered tradition, and at the moment in North Carolina, want Williams recalled his experience after tell- therefore deserve some respect, I would to walk headfirst into a ing a doctor he was gay around age 11. “I therapy, and gender-confirmation surgery. argue that grabbing someone’s dick without giant cactus? I think it’s a good question and was looking for someone to talk to and the This information will create a score from any prior interaction shouldn’t fall under that I hope that we don’t go there,” Straus said, al- response that I got was that I could be re- one to five to aid patients in their search. banner. Just because you’re in a sex-pos- luding to a North Carolina newspaper editorial. ferred to someone else. It was perceived Additionally, patients can filter providers itive space Supporters of the Texas bill use the same as, ‘This is a problem to be fixed’ when all based on spoken languages and accepted doesn’t line of defense as HB2 supporters did, claim- I was looking for was a word of encour- insurance. The team intends to reach out mean it’s a ing the measure would protect women and agement, being told, ‘It’s okay.’” Williams, to providers with low scores and provide free-for-all children from bathroom assault. Texas Free- along with his colleagues and LGBT allies concrete suggestions for how they can im- where con- dom Network President Kathy Miller con- prove their LGBT competency. sent goes demns this argument as “telling lies to justify The team has already begun winning out the win- passing laws that discriminate against people These news notes have been compiled, accolades, such as the Audience Choice dow. Just simply because of who they are.” “This legis- with permission, from the online version Award at Sling Health’s National Demo because lation has never been about protecting women of various newspapers and other web Day. The website is expected to launch by people are at these events wearing sexy in public restrooms. That’s why organizations sites. We thank these publications for the end of summer, with a mobile app to outfits is not an invitation for anyone to be that advocate for victims of sexual assault allowing us to bring you their news sto- follow. “We really see the primary purpose groped. [Editor’s Note: According to this have strongly opposed it,” Miller told the Aus- ries. Usually the reports have been sig- of the app to connect LGBT patients to not abridged opinion piece, the mores among tin American-Statesman. “We’re here to say nificantly edited and you can read the just [providers] who won’t be negative [to- some younger gay men dictate affirmative Texans across the state won’t rest until the full story by going to the web site men- ward LGBT patients] but to the best provid- consent to touching even in sex playgrounds final gavel – and beyond that, we won’t rest tioned following the item. Comments ers,” Williams said. where groping is often an expected common until our leaders recognize that discrimination are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker Visit Spectrumscores.kickoffpages. occurrence. This is certainly a change I is reprehensible.” Corporate opposition to the and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride com for more info on the project’s upcom- would not have expected! JB.] (Xtra – Aeryn discriminatory legislation has been shouted Media. ing launch. (Philadelphia Gay News – Jer- Pfaff at Dailyxtra.com/can-we-talk-about- from the rooftops, too. t (Q Notes Online emy Rodriguez at Epgn.com) groping-in-sex-positive-gay-spaces-77832) Maria Domingues at Goqnotes.com) 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud

against HIV & Stigma. This video has everything a campy Southerner might imagine: smack talk, ripped sleeves, and macho posturing between the op- My Fabulous ponents. It’s as if extras from the set of “Lucky Logan” decided to make an Disease HIV-prevention video. By Mark S. King The folks who made this video have their tongues planted in their cheeks more firmly than a wad of The First chewing tobacco. Who the heck came up with this? Redneck HIV- The brains behind the brawny video are Thrive staff members Mark Prevention Video Moore, director of marketing, and Jay Hixon, communications specialist. Even though I was born in Mont- The good people at Thrive Alabama have gomery, Alabama, I felt sheepish been working their butts off for years, cov- about telling the team that they have ist Jay Hixon about it, and he went into his down while playing with straight stereo- ering 12 counties in northern Alabama just produced the first redneck PrEP vid- office and shut the door. This is what he types. “We have a lot of people here who with five free clinics and vans that travel eo. They laughed out loud and took it as a came up with.” are ‘men who have sex with men’ but who country roads you would never find on your compliment. “In the South when I was growing up,” do not identify as gay or just don’t do la- GPS just to fetch clients for appointments “We wanted to do something to stand Jay Hixon adds, “it was all about Hulk Ho- bels,” Mark said. and get them home again. out from the pack,” Mark Moore explained. gan and WWF wrestlers. I wanted to har- The cast of the video includes friends But don’t ever say that the hardworking “There have been sexy PrEP videos with ken back to that. And it was just plain funny and local theater actors and was produced folks at Thrive, based in Huntsville, don’t hot guys in bed, which we loved, but that’s to think of it as a prime time fight.” by the local production company 4 Mile have a sense of humor. not what we could do in Huntsville, Ala- What’s striking about the video is that Their hilarious new public service an- bama. I knew I wanted to talk about stig- there are no discernible gay men. The “There is such a sense nouncement is a World Wrestling-style ma. If stigma is a fight, who’s fighting it? video, although campy around the edges, smackdown that pits PrEP & Prevention So I talked to out communications special- turns other gay-centric PrEP videos upside of joy in this video, and you can tell they are having some sly fun sending up Southern stereotypes.” 1001 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201 410-752-7133 • grandcentralclub.com Post. Fun fact: the actor playing “HIV Pre- vention” was the first openly gay Navy Seal and lives outside Huntsville. Talk about he- roic! The video’s messages are a bit more conservative than other PrEP videos, urg- ing people on PrEP to continue to use con- We offer a 20% off doms to prevent other sexually transmitted infections. Which is factual, of course, and discount for all area more in line with what Jay calls “Southern students with valid student ID. sensibilities” than other PrEP messages Tuesday-Thursday geared specifically toward people who are Friday,Friday, SeptemberSeptember 15th15th barebacking. from open to 4 p.m. There is such a sense of joy in this vid- ININ THETHE DANCEDANCE CLUBCLUB ((99 p.m.p.m. toto close)close) eo, and you can tell they are having some sly fun sending up Southern stereotypes. Any first time client You should really check out Thrive Ala- LADIESLADIES NIGHTNIGHT withwith DJDJ KIMKIM 20% off also bama’s Youtube channel to see more of their work. $5$5 cover,cover, $3$3 MillerMiller LitesLites AllAll NightNight 2801 Huntingdon Ave. Organizations like Thrive Alabama are Baltimore, MD ~ 21211 doing awesome work with very limited re- Phone: 410.646.8115 sources in areas of the country that need it 99 p.m.p.m. toto 1111 p.m.p.m. www.fringebaltimore.com most. I love shining a light on their creativ- ity and energy. $3$3 WellWell Drinks,Drinks, $3$3 DomesticDomestic BeersBeers Thanks for watching, and please be well.t

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud // mark my words TheThe What Did America Do on its Summer Vacation? DrinkerDrinkeryy

By Mark Segal politician’s baggage. Yes, sexism was a TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! It’s the last week of August – or what are part of that equation, and the proof could known as the lazy, hazy last days of sum- be seen last Sunday from the Rev. Jerry 205205 WestWest ReadRead StreetStreet “Corner“Corner ofof ReadRead andand Park”Park” mer. Soon schools will open and, as many Falwell, Jr. – of Liberty University, son of of us will recall, many teachers will ask Jerry Sr., who founded the Moral Majority, their assembled students, “What did you a religious right-wing organization that was 410-225-3100410-225-3100 •• ATMATM AvailableAvailable do with your summer vacation?” antigay, pro-life, anti-climate … You get the Well this summer has been somewhat idea. different for many of us. Let’s see … we On August 20th, Falwell tweeted in came perilously close to a nuclear war. As support of Trump’s remarks regarding a country, we stuck our noses up at the Charlottesville. When asked why he con- rest of the world and walked out of an in- tinued to support Trump, he stated that it ternational agreement on climate control. was his message during the campaign that HHAPPYAPPY HOURHOUR Our Republican-controlled Senate and was “anti-P.C.” House couldn’t agree on any meaningful Anti-politically correct is code for all the legislation. And this was all, of course, issues “those people” feel we elitists have littered with tweets. Then to top it all off, pushed, the so-called liberal or progres- 44 p.m.p.m. toto 88 p.m.p.m. Charlottesville. sive agenda. Let me be very clear on two points. So on one side you have the Repub- First, anyone who marches with a Nazi licans fanning the flames that now have flag is not a good person. Second, this em- empowered the KKK and Nazis. Then you 2-in-12-in-1 RAILRAIL && powerment of Nazism and the KKK (I won’t have the other side, a group calling for simplify and call them “white suprema- more tolerance and understanding of our cists,” as they stand more for hate than just differences – simply put, inclusion and di- racism) has been created by eight years versity. And then we have a man in Char- Domestic Beer lottesville plow his car into a crowd, killing Domestic Beer of Republican values. Yup, I said it: This is cause and reaction of Republicans, and a woman who was peacefully demonstrat- their support for those hate groups. Want ing for tolerance. Let’s make this clear: Her proof? After the president’s remarks about blood is on the hands of each and every “nice people” among the Nazis and KKK, Republican who did not decry this vio- BACKBACK BARBAR OPENOPEN only 54 of the 292 Republicans spoke out lence. t against that view. That, as John Oliver not- Mark Segal is publisher of Philadel- ed, was less than 20 percent. phia Gay News. His new memoir And Then I FRIDAYFRIDAY && SATURDAYSATURDAY My position on the election, which Danced is out now. You can follow him oat started this downfall into hell, was that Facebook.com/MarkSegalPGN or Twitter. working-class Americans view those of us com/PhilaGayNews. UntilUntil 1:301:30 a.m.a.m. in the urban bubble as elitist, always push- ing a cause with which they weren’t com- fortable. And the symbol of that was Hillary Clinton. Noted, she had baggage, but that withwith KaraokeKaraoke baggage was no different than any male Law Office of David M. Lutz, P.A.

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 quality of life // Health and Wellness

three leaves growing from each stem (see soil. Chigger larvae inject enzymes into the photos). An oil in the leaves causes the skin host’s skin, which cause skin cells to dis- reactions. Remember the Girl Scout saying: solve so that the larvae can drink it. Chiggers Open Wide “Leaves of three, let it be.” Poison ivy leaves often bite areas that have thinner, more ask Dr Eva take many shapes, so leaf shape is not use- delicate skin – like Dr Eva Hersh ful to help identify it. In the late summer and fall, the leaves often become shiny, with an oily sheen, and may turn red. Touching any The Rashes of Tinea part of the poison ivy plant can cause red, cruris swollen skin with blisters and severe itch- ing, sometimes within hours after exposure. Summer There is wide variation in sensitivity to poi- Because of the warm weather and spend- has a son ivy. Many people develop severe blister- ing more time outside, people get more skin clearly seen mar- ing rashes after being exposed to it, but some rashes in summer than any other time of gin, which may be raised (see pho- have no reaction or only a slight reaction. If year. Some rashes are easy to recognize; to). It is slightly itchy to very itchy. Once you may have been in contact with poison ivy, identifying others takes some detective Part 1 of the fungus has become estab- taking a thorough shower with soap can pre- work. Any skin infection that comes with lished it grows into the skin. vent the rash. Skin irritation does not start un- a fever, headache, shortness of breath, 2 – more For this reason, even though til several hours after contact, so you may be or abdominal pain should be evaluat- it is not a dangerous problem, able to wash off the oil before the rash starts. Chigggers ed by a medical professional. This colorful Tinea cruris can take weeks or Poison ivy rash usually clears up on its series of articles will cover seven months to cure. Like all warm own within a few weeks. Cool compresses the ankles, behind summer rashes: heat rash, jock itch, rashes weather rashes, Tinea cruris the knees, the crotch, armpits, or under poison ivy, chiggers, scabies, Lyme cannot be healed unless the area “Some rashes are the belt line. Chiggers do not burrow into disease rash, and impetigo. next issue! of the rash is kept cool and dry. the skin, and they do not feed on blood. 1) Heat rash – Heat rash (oth- Sprinkling an over the counter anti- easy to recognize; Also, in North America they do not transmit er names are “prickly heat and “mil- fungal powder onto the rash twice a any infections to humans. (In other parts of iaria”) is a red or day for four weeks will clear up most cases. identifying others takes the world, chiggers do transmit infections.) Antifungal creams can be applied instead but some detective work. Redness and itching start three to six are not as good as powders for keeping the hours after the bite. Itching lasts several Heat area dry. Some anti fungal medicines that Any skin infection that days, and the bites may take up to 2 weeks rash are effective for Tinea cruris include buten- to heal. Cool showers, cold compresses, afine (Lotrimin Ultra), miconazole (Desenex, comes with a fever, antihistamines – diphenhydramine (in Lotrimin AF, and generic brands), and tolaf- headache, shortness of Benadryl) or loratadine (in Claritin) – and nate (Tinactin, Lamisil, and generic brands). OTC hydrocortisone cream provide relief Fungal infections can be very hard to get rid breath, or abdominal from itching. Avoiding chiggers: they are of. Many people find that they treat the rash pain should be most active in early evening and night. and it goes away, but then recurs weeks or Use DEET-based insect repellent on your months after stopping treatment. In that sit- evaluated by a medical skin and clothes. t uation, prescription antifungal pills can be Dr. Eva Hersh is a Baltimore fami- pink rash with small tried. professional.” ly physician. Please send questions and bumps that may look like whiteheads. It 3) Poison Ivy – Of all the rashes listed comments to her by email at dr.eva@balti- appears in warm weather on areas of the in this article series, poison ivy is the easiest are helpful. Over the counter hydrocortisone moreoutloud.com. body covered by close-fitting clothing, like to avoid, by avoiding contact with the poison cream is helpful for swollen, painful areas, the back, shoulders, or chest. Heat rash ivy plant. Poison ivy is not found just in the but not for areas that are draining. Over-the- develops because sweat ducts become woods – it is a pioneer plant which grows counter antihistamines – diphenhydramine blocked and swell up, causing discomfort well in parks, yards, and school- (the active ingredient in Benadryl) or lorata- and itching. yards. Poison ivy dine (in Claritin) – may relieve itching. Treatment for heat rash is simple. Keep Poison For severe cases such as those involv- the affected skin cool and dry. If the ing the face or genitals, prescription steroid rash remains tender, apply 1% OTC HC ivy pills are helpful. Some people benefit from a (over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream) short course of a sleeping pill to stop night- in small amounts twice a day. To prevent time scratching. heat rash, wear loose clothes made of 4) Chiggers – Chigger bites look like cotton or linen (not synthetics like polyes- small insect bites, from flesh-colored to ter) to allow better airflow to the skin. bright red. The bites may increase in size for 2) Tinea cruris (Latin for “crotch fun- the first few days. Usually, there are many gus”) is caused by a skin fungus. It can oc- bites and they are very itchy. Chiggers are cur at any time of year, especially in athletes, grows as tiny insects, a type of mite. They live in tall but it is most common during the summer. vines, often growing high up grass and shrubs. Immature chiggers, called Tinea cruris looks like a red, brown, or pink into trees, and as low shrubs. It is recogniz- larvae, feed on humans and other animals. to purplish area on the inner thighs. The rash able by its leaves, which grow in triads, with Adult chiggers get their nourishment from

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 quality of life // Health and Wellness

of mindfulness: “Mind- Finally, allow things to flow. How Mindfulness Can fulness means paying Each moment is unique. Things attention in a particular are constantly changing. Allow way; on purpose, in awareness to flow freely from one Improve LGBT Seniors’ the present moment, experience in the present moment and nonjudgmental- to the next experience ly.” in the pres- Physical, Mental Well-Being How can prac- ent moment. ticing mindfulness Be aware of By Monte Ephraim and Paul Lotz about mindfulness I thought about Be Here improve both your aware- LGBT Health Resource Center of Chase Now, a 1971 book on meditation, yoga, and the physical and ness. Simply no- Brexton Health Care spirituality by Ram Dass (aka Dr. Richard mental well-be- tice where your Pausing to be in the moment through Alpert) “who dropped out, turned on and ing of LGBT el- awareness is in mindfulness meditation can have power- tuned in” on LSD with fellow Harvard pro- ders? each moment. ful effects on both an individual’s physical fessor Timothy Leary. Ram Dass found he It could help some in- Paul Lotz & What do you health and their mental well-being. could experience similar bliss through the dividuals feel less lone- Monte Ephraim hope attendees practices of meditation when he turned to ly. Loneliness among – mindful like learn from this LGBT elders will have the opportunity monks and cool to learn about mindfulness at an upcoming the East for spiritual awakening. We can seniors can be danger- as cucumbers Lunch & Learn? Lunch & Learn event presented by Paul add to that the practice of living with what ous, as it’s known to To be in the mo- Lotz and Stephanie Saunders of Chase cannot be changed through conventional raise the risks for many ment. We hope our Brexton Health Care, on Thursday, Septem- medicines. health conditions. But UCLA researchers LGBT 50- plus attendees walk ber 14th from noon to 1:30 pm in the com- With roots in Buddhism, mindfulness found that mindfulness meditation helped away with strategies that will directly im- munity rooms at Chase Brexton’s Mount entered the American mainstream through to decrease feelings of loneliness among pact their psycho, social, emotional phys- Vernon Center (1111 North Charles Street, the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn at the Univer- the elderly, and boost their health by re- ical health and well-being and just “Be Baltimore). sity of Massachusetts Medical School in ducing the expression of genes linked with Here Now.” Paul Lotz discussed the basics of mind- 1979. Since then, studies have document- inflammation. For information and to register for fulness with Monte Ephraim of the LGBT ed the physical and mental health benefits A study in the journal Brain, Behavior & the upcoming Lunch and Learn program, Health Resource Center. of mindfulness. Immunity found that mindfulness is linked please contact lgbt@chasebrexton.org or What is mindfulness? In the words of Kabat-Zinn’s definition to decreased loneliness. Other benefits As a baby boomer myself, when I heard and impact on mindfulness related to ag- “Mindfulness ing include, but are not limited to: meditation is best seen • Higher brain functioning as relaxation happening • Increased immune function • Lowered blood pressure spontaneously. Just let • Lowered heart rate • Increased awareness yourself move into a • Increased attention and focus state of being. Accept • Increased clarity in thinking and per- ception everything internally • Lowered anxiety levels and externally – Regain the BEST SEX of YOUR LIFE! • Experience of being calm and inter- nally still embrace and accept Medical ED Therapeutics is a licensed medical practice committed • Experience of feeling connected to the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of whatever is happening What are some basic elements of in and around you, in Erectile Dysfunction and Testosterone Correction. mindfulness that anyone can practice? First, don’t get caught up in expecta- each moment.” • Results GUARANTEED regardless of medical history or age tions. Mindfulness is about being aware • Erections lasting 45 minutes, 1 hour or longer of changes and noticing if and when they call 410-837-2050 x1107. t • Safe, proven and affordable medications happen. Having certain expectations can About Chase Brexton LGBT Health Re- • Consultations, testing, and treatment in the privacy of our clinic actually limit your possibilities. source Center – The purpose of the center Martin Maassen, M.D. Also, don’t try to be mindful, just be is to provide LGBTQ individuals and their with what is. Mindfulness meditation is families with welcoming access to expert Medical Director and Board Certified Physician best seen as relaxation happening spon- health information and resources that will taneously. Just let yourself move into a enhance wellness and quality of life.For Call and schedule your appointment TODAY state of being. Accept everything internally more information, please visit Resource- and externally – to experience relaxation Center.lgbt. 410-449-3200 through mindfulness you want to embrace www.maletherapeutics.com and accept whatever is happening in and around you, in each moment. Accept your Medical Ed Therapeutics external environment, and accept whatev- 6 Park Center Court, Suite 201 / Owins Mills, MD 21117 er is happening internally in your mind.

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness Chemically Dependent? SMART And this is where I focus on what comprises our personal world: Our families and friends. Recovery Offers Options Ask However we decide to contribute to any cause, first, how do we deal with those in our by Arien Smith with urges and how to handle relapses, but Dr. J sphere who may disagree or not support our Those of us in the LGBTQ community know we spend equal time balancing our lives and Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. beliefs? How do we not feel disappointed? what it’s like to have to push for validation, replacing old bad habits with new inspiring The key is not to take it personally, to re- recognition, and our rights. We’ve empow- ones. That strength and craving for living an spect whatever they believe, and then disen- ered ourselves collectively and as individu- authentic, true-to-ourselves life that so many gage if a civil discussion cannot ensue. You als, but that doesn’t mean it’s always been of us LGBTQ folks desire is a core part of No End to may see that on any social media thread, easy. We’re up against a lot and, because of SMART’s mission. there are those who immediately launch into this, many of us suffer from addictions. I remember walking away from my first Injustice personal attacks and name-calling. Surely For so long we have relied on our own meeting feeling unbelievably understood. one can argue, even passionately, on any strength, so when an addiction strikes it can It was an environment where I could safely Wow! I dare not even imagine what all may subject? When it becomes insulting, then hit hard. I remember feeling helpless and dis- come out as trans, disclose past trauma, and transpire by the time this article appears in the only option is to disengage because no couraged in the face of mine. And, as I was speak about the addiction I was struggling print. But last night’s news dump – with the productive result can follow that course. This looking for re- with. Many of the stigmatized things I feared military transgender action, Sheriff Joe’s may go so far as to breaking up relationships sources to help would be shunned or shamed in other groups pardon, other political happenings, and the and friendships, as I have recently seen in me, most of Fighting were embrace by this meeting’s attendees. To hurricane in Texas – may not have any ri- families. But let us be positive, which good them preached this day, I have never experienced any judge- vals. How to keep one’s sanity and survive in mental health requires. How do we stay true surrendering to addiction ment against who I am and the struggles I these times? How do we, whether to ourselves? a higher power. face during a SMART Recovery meeting. a minority member or Remember when you first I’m a spiritual without Those of us in the LGBTQ community not, deal with the anxiety learned to ride a bi- individual, but know the power of putting our voices together over the vulnerability we cycle? Or when you the last thing I 12-stepping to and fighting for a common cause. SMART’s feel for ourselves, our first mastered any oth- wanted to do discussions are a perfect mirror for this. Any- friends, and families? er skill? That sense of was give up higher powers one experiencing any addiction – substance Some people choose to power? Of feeling like my power in this situation. For many, this is or behavioral – is welcome to attend. We talk limit their exposure to you own the world? So a beautiful path to recovery, but for those of about all the commonalities of addiction be- all media, and that may tap into that feeling and us who want to retain some control over our cause of this diversity. The helplessness, the work for them as long remind yourself that bad destinies, SMART (Self-Management and cravings, the need to escape life. as one does not have times come but they also Recovery Training) is a wonderful alternative. We focus on the experience of strug- anything to do with go. Do those things that SMART Recovery, a non-profit organi- gling with addiction and how to overcome it. the consequences of you enjoy; spend time with zation recognized by (among others) the US Each member has the opportunity to contrib- these developments. For most of us, those whose company and Department of Health and Human Services, ute and listen to the discussion that unfolds if not for ourselves, there is a person or a support make a difference in your life. use offers a different model of addiction recov- throughout the meeting. In many cases, what group we care about, that is affected by the humor, whether by watching a funny show or ery. There are 90-minute meetings – scat- one-member shares worked for them, in- new rules. movie, or reading jokes. Most of all, strength- tered throughout Baltimore on almost every spires the others to take action. Seeing one more man incarcerated for en your connections with people who are day of the week – which open up the doors for Best yet, this collaboration does not out- years when he was proved innocent, read- important to you and look for opportunities incredible empathy, support, and self-empow- shine our own inner power. SMART Recovery ing the stories of men and women who have to be with people who support your causes. erment. Through the use of therapeutic tools, teaches us that we have all the strength we died in Arpaio’s jails with no medical atten- There is strength in numbers. Seeing thou- group discussions, and SMART’s philosophy, need to overcome our addiction. By choosing tion and no definite paperwork as to cause sands of people marching for minority rights, you are guided towards learning how to re- to apply the tools offered, we can tap into that … these all make my blood boil. I do, how- or for marriage equality lifts our spirits and claim control over your life. strength and effectively overcome the chal- ever, want to turn my attention, and yours, to adds to our sense of community. That, in SMART goes beyond just managing an lenges we face. Almost every one of these what we can do to address these injustices. fact, is how we fight helplessness. t addictive behavior. Yes, we talk about coping techniques can be as easily applied to other conflicts we face in life – like healing our rela- tionships, leaving jobs that aren’t good for us, Hearts & Ears, Inc. and making lifestyle changes. is a non-profit organization for Gay, SMART Recovery is a completely free Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and open community. You can join a group at • Family Law • Estate Planning any of the locations listed here on the SMART Intersex and Questioning individuals Recovery website (Smartrecovery.org).This with mental health issues • Real Estate simple step to attend a meeting is the first and concerns. Stephanie Cañas Hunnell, Esq. commitment you can make to yourself to tru- Sylvia L. Breitowich, Esq. ly improve your life. Your addiction no longer We warmly welcome all sexual and needs to keep controlling your life – you can Wellness and gender minorities. 408 7th Ave. overcome this, and SMART is here to help. t Asbury Park, NJ 07712 Recovery Center Sun. through Tues. Closed Arien Smith is a transgender activist, ad- Wed. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m 732-749-3500 vocate for SMART Recovery, and life coach fax 732-749-3503 working to make the the field more inclusive 611 PARK AVENUE SUITE A BALTIMORE, MD 21201 • 410-523-1694 Monmouth-Divorce.com for people living with mental illness at Un- heartsandears.org coverYourJoy.com.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Celebration of life faith For Dean Weese aka Chez Stephan You don’t have to be Jewish to hear the call to action. You just have to care. You have to want to be a participant in the society we Spirt live in. During the March on Wasington, Rabbi Speaks Heschel (who marched with Martin Luther By Rabbi Jan Dodi King) said he was praying with his feet. What an incredibly spiritual moment that must have been. Many of our religious leaders are pre- paring for the 1,000 Minister’s March for Jus- Call to Action tice which will be held on August 28th in our Nation’s Capital. It will be a chance to Pray Now that we have entered the Hebrew month with their Feet. of Elul, some of us, depending on where we On September 30th, there will be a March live, hear a strange sound in the morning. for Racial Justice, In most orthodox neigh- borhoods, the shofar (ram’s horn) is blown every day. The purpose of this is to awaken us from our complacency. The shofar is nor- Sunday, Sept 17th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. mally blown on the High At Grand Central Dance Side (Corner of Charles and Eager) Holy Days to shake us up, startle us, call us to Dean passed away from complications of diabetes on Aug. 18th, 2017 the action of repentance He is survived by his Mother, two Brothers and and then to finally an- his two gay fathers Ronnie and Greg nounce the end of the Yom Kippur fast. In times of trouble, the shofar was blown to Shofar, announce danger, call the also in our Na- so good community together, and sometimes to an- tion’s Capital. This is an nounce the new month. The startling sound opportunity for groups, organizations and in- of the shofar seems extremely relevant today. dividuals to stand together for racial justice in So much of what we hear on the news, read Washington, DC. The gathering is at Lincoln Park beginning at 10 am. More information “The call to action, is available on their Facebook page “March for Racial Justice.” This march takes place on whether it be the Yom Kippur, so many Jewish voices will not shofar, the bugle, a be heard. Many of us rabbis have asked that our congregants pray for a peaceful and just reply to the actions in march or that if you do not plan to attend a religious service, to join with our brothers and our nation, is a real sisters in this march. call. If we do not stand The call to action, whether it be the sho- far, the bugle, a reply to the actions in our na- together against hate tion, is a real call. We must take action. If we do not stand together against hate and injus- and injustice, who are tice, who are we? Our voices must be heard. we?” Our lives depend upon it. Not just our physi- cal lives, but our spiritual lives. It is impossi- in the papers, see on Facebook and the inter- ble to sit by and let the hatred that has been net warn of the problems in our country. The stirred up in our nation (and around the world) blast of the shofar startles us to action. But continue. There is no room for it in our lives what action? and the lives of the children. It is our spiritual We need to write letters, sign petitions, obligation to do something. come together at rallies and marches. We Do what you can. Extend yourself just a need to call our politicians and let them hear little bit farther than usual. Change can only from us. Let them know what we like that they happen if we make it happen. We need to are doing and let them know what we feel use our voices, our feet, and our prayers to needs to be done. make a difference. t Change will not happen if we sit back and Contact Rabbi Jan Dodi at rebtova@ do nothing. rebtova.org 22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com Spiritual Directory

religous symbols set #1 by dragonart

Creator : DragonArt dragonartz.wordpress.com

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/us/ 䄀䰀䰀 䄀刀䔀 圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 䴀愀猀猀 匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀 㔀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀 匀甀渀搀愀礀 㤀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀ 㨀㐀㔀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀 瀀⸀洀 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀 椀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀 愀琀 㐀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀 㔀 瀀⸀洀⸀

䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀 匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀 倀愀爀椀猀栀 䐀攀愀挀漀渀 䘀爀攀搀 倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀 㠀 ㄀ 匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀 刀漀愀搀 religous倀愀爀椀猀栀 䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀 匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀 ㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ symbols set #1 by Start the New Church dragonart Year With Us Sept. 10: 11 a.m. Worship 12:30 p.m. Cookout and Tiffany Windows Tour (Worship on Sept. 3 is 10 a.m.) browndowntown.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 410.523.1542 Advertise with us

Contact Mary at 410-802-1310

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23

Creator : DragonArt dragonartz.wordpress.com

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/us/ Lively Arts // out on STAGE

Way Off show beginning at 2:15. Season tickets for those who have been rejected for 2018 are now on sale. Visit the the- and devalued, a stronghold against Broadway atre or call the box office at 301-662- normalcy and a place where Peter 6600. t and his Lost Boys can finally be Theatre themselves.” Putin on Ice, written by Lola By Frankie Kujawa Pierson and directed by Yury Urn- Nestled in quaint Fredrick, Maryland, the ov, hits the stage in fall 2018. The Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre & Chil- Children’s show, co-produced with the Acme dren’s Theatre promises to entertain and Corporation, will entice audiences excite audiences this season. Shifting Theatre of as political puppetry and savage its 2018 season line up this year to align spectacle meet in a “fantastical more closely to other theatre schedules Annapolis new portrait of Vladimir Pu- around the country, the producers of Way tin.” This piece will Off Broadway have recently announced a Revives ‘Tale as blend fable three show mega-mini season that runs Old as Time’ and from January to August. Single Carrot By Frankie Kujawa The Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA) Theatre – doesn’t just put on great shows – they also build self-esteem and creativity. Since Boldly Goes its first production of Hansel and Gretel in 1959, the CTA has been dedicated to By Frankie Kujawa nurturing the growth and development of The Single Carrot Theatre, now cele- Baltimore young people from five to 18 through the- brating its 11th season in Baltimore, atre – via performance, workshops, tech- will thrill audiences with a diverse nique-building, community involvement, series of adaptations, collabora- Fall and apprenticeships. tive efforts, and new works. “By “This fall, CTA is bringing back TAG subverting and reframing famil- OUTloud – the Teen Acting Group – that was first iar figures and figureheads,” the established a few years ago,” explained ensemble boldly declares, “Sin- the CTA’s Kelsey Casselbury. “The perfor- gle Carrot Theatre will challenge Theatre mance outreach group visits schools and everything we thought we knew.” 2017 libraries to perform one-act plays.” Audi- Running from September 29th tions for the group are on September 30th. to October 27th is Lear, by Young ! CTA has a season of theatre prepared Jean Lee. It’s “Shakespearean dra- “We can’t wait for for all ages. The first full production will be ma meets millennial self-indulgence” in 2018,” says Bill Kiska, executive produc- Special Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Auditions an outlandish and driving take on King er. “The three shows we have coming are for 12- to 18-year-olds are on September Lear. Running from February 2nd to 25th, huge audience favorites.” 2018 is A Public Reading of an Opening the Unproduced Screenplay About season will be the the Death of Walt Disney, by Lu- fairytale-esque Way Off cas Hnath. Leaving the magic of adventure Shrek Disney behind, this darkly hu- – The Musical. Broadway’s morous performance examines melo- For the spring, A the “megalomaniac who shaped drama to create something “both entirely Funny Thing Hap- three show a thousand childhoods.” The per- new and thrillingly strange as it examines pened on the Way 16th and 17th, with the production running formance delves into the dark heart of the a man who is elevated to myth status to the Forum will mega-mini from January 12th to 28th, 2018. Following Disney machine and focuses on power, through cycles of power, control, and po- return to Way Off up the “tale as old as time” will be Dream- betrayal, deception, and ultimate disillu- litical savagery.” t season runs Broadway. Clos- Works’ Madagascar, A Musical Adventure, sionment of a man filled with hubris and ing out the me- Jr. Auditions for performers ages eight to obsessed with his own legacy. from January ga-mini season in 14 will be December 2nd and 3rd, and the A beloved tale of magic and mystery the summer will show runs from May 4th to 20th, 2018. gets a new update as Peter Pan runs from to August be Disney’s Beau- For more info on auditions and show April 27th to May 20th. The classic child- ty and the Beast. times, visit Childrenstheatreofannapolis. hood story is re-imagined as Single Car- Mainstage performances are every com. t rot, in collaboration with Baltimore LGBTQ Friday and Saturday evening, with mati- residents and service groups, creates an nees on the first, third, and fifth Sunday of adaptation that “includes contemporary each month. For the evening performanc- conversations on sexuality, gender, and es, doors open for dinner at 6 pm with performative identify, and embraces queer the show beginning at 8. For the Sunday culture.” Neverland is “transformed from a matinees, doors open at 12:30 pm with the distance fantasy to a modern safe-haven

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on STAGE

and Oklahoma! Currently running from October 17th to Sunday, October 22nd is Riverside Center July 26th through September 24th is the The Color Purple. rollicking adventure Seven Brides For Sev- The “circle of life” travels through Balti- for the Perform- en Brothers. more as Disney’s Lion King roams through The touching On Golden Pond, starring the Hippodrome from Thursday, Novem- ing Arts Joe Inscoe and Joyce Dewitt from TV’s ber 16th to Sunday, December 10th. Wait- Three’s Company fame will run from Oc- ress, the irresistible new hit featuring orig- tober 4th to November 19th. Following the inal music and lyrics by five-time Grammy By Frankie Kujawa Riverside Christmas Spectacular, running nominee Sara Bareilles, runs from Tues- The Riverside Center for the Perform- from November 29th to December 31st, day, January 30th to Sunday, February ing Arts is celebrating its 20th anniversary the beloved Abba-infused classic Mamma 4th. this 2017- Mia will take the stage from January 10th, The Hippodrome rocks out as School to March 4th next year. Closing out Riv- of Rock is in session, running from erside’s celebratory year will be The Tuesday, March 20th to Sunday, March Hunchback of Notre Dame, based 25th. Spring continues to blossom and on the Victor Hugo novel and songs bloom as An American in Paris waltz- from the Disney film. The beloved es into Baltimore running from Tues- epic will run from March 14th to day, May 1st to Sunday, May 6th. The May 6th. For more info, tickets, Tony Award-winning musical follows an and show times visit: River- that American soldier, a mysterious French sidedt.com. t decision comes a myriad of girl, and an indomitable European city, mad-cap adventures. The performance is each yearning for a new beginning in the based on the blockbuster DreamWorks aftermath of war. Baltimore film of the same name. This adaptation The Hippodrome’s national touring contains high-energy and fun for the whole season comes to a rousing close as On family – just in time for the holidays. Your Feet! Fall Red For more info, it’s Redbranchtheatre- – The Sto- company.com. t ry of Emilio OUTloud Branch and Gloria Estefan Theatre rocks audi- 2017 Theatre Company’s Hippodrome ences run- ! Maddening Theatre 2017- Special Line-Up 2018 Season By Frankie Kujawa By Frankie Kujawa The Red Branch Theatre Company The Hippodrome Theatre is set to in Columbia, Maryland, has celebrated take audiences on a rollercoaster a successful season with two more fabu- ride of emotions this 2017-2018 2018 season. Lo- lous productions lined up for fall. In line season. The crown jewel of the cated in Fredericksburg, with this season’s “Mad About You” theme, newly established Bromo Tower Arts Virginia, the theatre’s main the theatre will perform Bridges of Madison & Entertainment District promises stage season has been underway County. Running from September 22nd to to deliver one of the best seasons since late spring. Some Enchanted Eve- October 14th, Bridges of Madison County ever. “Our season includes the very ning: The Songs of Rodgers and Hammer- is based on the iconic best-selling novel by best in national touring Broadway,” stein, having run from May 17th to July Robert James Waller. Following an impul- says theatre president Ron Legler. 16th, took audiences on a moving journey sive and passionate four-day romance with “We know Baltimore audiences de- though the music from beloved classics a travelling photographer, Iowa housewife mand the hottest new shows and such as Carousel, The King and I, South Francesca must decide whether to follow we’ve delivered. We have something Pacific, Cinderella, The Sound of Music, her heart or her head. for everyone in our new season, and Following up Bridges is we urge you to get your tickets early the family-friendly production so you don’t hear ‘sorry, we are sold- of Madagascar – a Musical out.’” Adventure. Running from De- Running from Tuesday, October cember 8th to 24th, the story 3rd to Sunday, October 8th is Love follows the decision of Alex Never Dies, the sequel to Phantom of ning from the Lion who, with the help the Opera. The production in Baltimore Tuesday, June 5th to Sunday, June 10th. of the rest of his friends, bust will be a special preview engagement And that’s not all! Peppered throughout the out of the captivity of New ahead of the official opening of the North year are live performances from Ray LaM- York’s Central Park Zoo. With American Tour. Running from Tuesday, ontagne, Evanescence, and John Oliver. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 Lively Arts // out on STAGE

and Shakespearean language rehearsals with my husband. I feel honored to be part of such a fantastic staff and cast all these Pirate Queen Swashbuckles years. Describe for our readers your work as a Smithsonian scholar, historian, and performer. I’m an award-winning actress with ten at MD Renaissance Festival different shows about amazing women in history, like Clara Barton and Rosie the By Frankie Kujawa and in newspapers around the world as got the second female lead as Lady Lettice Riveter. For many years, the Smithsonian As patrons begin to flock to the Maryland famous women from history. In 2002, the Knollys, rival to Queen Elizabeth I. Thirty flew me around the country to perform Renaissance Festival over the next few ambassador of France gave her highest years ago, this month, I met my husband for their Teaching American History work- weeks, newcomers may be surprised to praise for her one-of-a-kind portrayal of Tom Plott, who played my love interest shops. They liked my energetic, interac- find a real-life pirate queen in their midst. Queen Catherine de Medici for his guests. Lord Robert Dudley – and no acting was tive, authentic style of shows about great Mary Ann Jung, the talented historian and Frankie Kujawa: How did you be- needed. We really did fall in love and have women in history and wanted teachers actress who plays the pirate queen Jean come involved with the Renaissance been together ever since! He’s our perfor- to see how the elements of drama (cos- Cabot, chatted with Baltimore OUTloud Festival? mance director now. tumes, props, accents) and humor can be about her involvement with the festival, her Mary Ann Jung: In 1980 Mike More- Can you tell our readers a little bit used in the classroom. I also pack lots of character, and her passion for history. land, a college friend, asked me to help about the charac- surprising information about Along with performing at the Renais- with his falconry show for this new event ter you now play the woman and her era into sance Festival, Jung is an award-winning he’d been asked to do in Columbia in Sym- – Jean Cabot, the only 45 minutes. Various actress and Smithsonian scholar who phony Woods. I love history, Shakespeare, Pirate Queen? Smithsonian museums also presents incredible women spanning from and performing and I fell in love with ev- She’s based on use me for special events. 1530 to the modern day through her “His- erything about the Renaissance Festival. the amazing Grace It’s a huge thrill to play Ame- tory Alive” workshops and performances. I wrote the funny audience participation O’Malley, the Pirate lia Earhart in front of her plane She researches and writes her own scripts, part of our show and he handled all the Queen of Ireland. and Sally Ride in front of the and performs in the authentic costumes, fascinating falconry information. We made But since Grace Space Shuttle at the National accents, and attitudes for her characters’ a great team and I proudly bear the scars wasn’t born in Air & Space Museum! eras. Jung has also appeared on CNN, the from working with those gorgeous hawks 1527, and the fes- In your own words, what “Today Show,” “Good Morning America,” and falcons. Years later, when he left the tival tries to be ac- show, I auditioned for the Royal Court and curate with history, makes the Renaissance Fes- I made my char- tival such a rarity to find in acter the daugh- Maryland? ter of John Cabot It’s everything anyone will – the explorer love, no matter how old you are! who discovered We are the second largest Re- Newfoundland. naissance Festival in the country By the way, I cre- and one of the few all-profes- A local media production company is excited to ated her and my sional fairs, so it’s quality enter- tainment and crafts and food. If announce its venture into live production with a Pee Wee Pirates show before the Pi- you love terrific music we have all new theatrical event now in the early stages of rates of the Caribbean movies. Mary Ann kinds of top-notch acts from bawdy development. The new production will feature Since I perform year-round in Jung – menace pub groups to lovely madrigals. We on the high seas several drag performances throughout the year schools and festivals, I want- have comedy, sword fighting, joust- ed to create a show to include ing – many unique shows you can’t with at least one scripted stage production of young children about sailing and pirates see anywhere else. We have a one-hour well-known shows. The new venture aims to cast a are the perfect hook – pun intended! I lit- version of The Tempest and Shakespeare wide range of drag performers, actors, erally make the entire audience get up and scenes played out in the pathways. There singers and dancers to appear in do actions you’d do on a ship. It’s a fun, are lots of activities and shows for children interactive way to learn how to sail. Most and others in the pubs more for the grown- productions on a regular basis. people have no idea there was a female ups. So, whatever your tastes, we have sea captain who had an entire fleet of ships something for you in the charming setting Casting is underway for talented, professional, and commanded hundreds of soldiers and of a village from the reign of King Henry funny performers with great personalities to sailors. When I do that show outside the VIII. And where else can you actually meet festival it’s Grace O’Malley I portray. Ev- and talk to the King and Queen of England represent the show in advertising and fundraising eryone loves pirates! The ideas of trea- and courtiers playing real people from campaigns and to eventually appear in the shows. sure and adventure appeal to all ages, so 1527 in gorgeous period clothing? We’re The performers cast will also serve as hosts for an I have versions of the show for adults, too. a unique escape from the troubles of the I love teaching history through performing modern world. Many patrons love to dress evening of drag bingo to be held in the near and being as entertaining as I am informa- up and pretend to be part of the show. It’s future. If you are interested in learning more tive. The festival gave me the perfect tools truly a feast for your eyes and ears, as well about this opportunity, please email on how to do that. I’m one of the veteran as your stomachs! t [email protected] for more information. performers. This will be my 38th year, and To see where Mary Ann Jung is per- I happily also direct the Royal Court and forming next, visit her website History- their historical shows as well as the improv AliveShows.com 26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com MaRyland Renaissance Festival Time Travel To... Fun!

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 Lively Arts // personalities

Life’s Her Cabaret way to being famous, including taking cater-waitering jobs and playing live by Gregg Shapiro up guy (for the studio audi- Barb is the kind of moth- gigs in gentlemen’s club. In what ways A fixture on the alt-cabaret circuit for years, ence). My friend Nadia was An interview er who would want people to have you had to pay your dues? Bridget Everett is the definition of a force to there and she knew Jimmy, think that she and her daugh- I waited tables for 25 years. I also sang be reckoned with. Possessing a voice that so it felt like not a big deal, with Bridget ter Patti are sisters. How do in a gentlemen’s club. Paper routes, all rattles walls and windows, Everett is a dy- even though I knew it was a you feel about mothers like kinds of shit. Anything that would keep me namic singer, where she’s performing solo big deal. They asked me if I Everett that? going. or with her band, Tender Moments. Current- would sing. Since I knew that I think it’s weird [laughs]. My Cultural appropriation is big buzz ly Everett can be seen giving an outstand- was coming, that allowed me to not be so mother was 38 when she had me, so there phrase these days and in the movie Pat- ing dramatic performance as Barb, mother nervous. was no sisterhood thing. I certainly see ti is accused of that by a famous rapper. to the titular Patti in the movie Patti Cake$ Your performance as Barb in Patti people who do it and it works for them. But Do you have any thoughts on that? (Fox Searchlight), written and directed by Cake$ is unforgettable. Was getting to for me and my family and my mom, there It’s interesting, I think, with Geremy Jasper. I spoke with Bridget in Au- sing in the movie one of the appealing was a clear distinction between mother and this movie in par- gust 2017, shortly before the film opened aspects of playing that character? daughter. I always think, “You’re the moth- tic- in theaters. Yes. I think also it made it appealing to er. There has to be some boundaries Gregg Shapiro: Bridget, if you don’t them to cast me. They wanted somebody and [laughs] rules.” mind, I’d like to begin by talking about who could sing and sing that style. It’s cer- Barb your August 2017 appearance on the tainly a calming thing for me. I know I’m a has a vom- “Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon – good singer. That’s my asset. I was doing a iting scene which went viral. Can you please say dramatic role, which I’d never done before. in the mov- something about the experience? I was like, worse comes to worst, they could ie. As acting Bridget Everett: It was my first time just use the parts where I sing [laughs] and challenges doing a network, late-night talk show, hopefully that’ll be good. Geremy is such a go, how would so I was kind of just like wacked out the wonderful director and he did such a great you rate that? entire time I was on there. I was so ner- job of making us feel comfortable that even It wasn’t fun, vous. I’ve met Questlove (of “The Roots”) though it was something completely foreign I’ll tell you that. previously and my friend Seth is a warm- to me I felt capable that I could do it. I’ve thrown up so few times in my life that it’s always OPENING AUGUST 31 like you’re losing ular. control. For some Patti loves hip-hop reason, it’s very Bridget and rap music. It’s something emotional for me to Everett that many people love. I love throw up. Sitting over a toilet like hip-hop music, too. I think it that, I’ve been there, and there’s some- dominates the culture and peo- thing that’s the-end-of-the-earth about it ple want to be a part of things and I don’t like it. they see and adore. Would you agree that “blood is thick- Your performance in Patti Cake$ is er than Jager” as Barb says to Patti? generating Oscar buzz. No [laughs]. I love my family. They’re [Laughs] maybe from you and my mom, cool. But I definitely have a chosen family but that’s probably it. in New York that’s just as important to me. What would it mean to you to be Patti has this supportive best friend nominated for an Academy Award? 2018 Season Subscriptions Jheri aka Hareesh. Do you have a best That would be a dream on a dream on friend like that? a dream. I just do things because I love NOW ON SALE! I do! I have a lot of people like that. But doing them. I’m just lucky to cash a check (my friend drag king and comedian) Murray that comes from doing something I love. Hill reminds me so much of him (Jheri); a You’ve made your name performing Visit TobysDinnerTheatre.com to Order Yours Today! positive force in my life. Murray is literally on the New York cabaret circuit, which my high command. He’s always texting me has also earned you a considerable fol- words of encouragement, “This is the day! lowing in the LGBTQ community. What You’ve got this! You live for this!” We do does it mean to you to have been so that for each other. I treasure my relation- warmly embraced by that community? ship with Murray. It means everything to me. My friends 410-730-8311 The vintage Cadillac that Patti drives have always largely been gay, queer, or TobysDinnerTheatre.com has the vanity plate PATTIWGN. If you trans. That’s who showed up at my shows had a vanity plate, what would it read? early on. Those are the people who have BIGANDJUICY [laughs]. supported me and lifted me up and chal-

Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. • Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia, MD The movie comments on the things lenged me to be better. I feel honored that people do to support their art on the that audience has accepted me. t

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com SUNDANCE  | RAINBOW XXX

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 Baltimore’s Friendly Lively Arts // screen Savor LGBTQ Square Dance Club for Everyone Beach, Please! By Gregg Shapiro beach safe from ruthless real estate mag- The year 2017 got off to a dismal start in nate and insensitive flakka supplying drug terms of good movies, with only a few de- lord Victoria (Priyanka Chopra). As the body cent ones at the multiplexes (including Get count mounts and Mitch has an increasingly Out, T2: Trainspotting, Baby Driver, Wonder hard time getting law enforcement officials Free Open House Party on August 29! Woman, and Colossal). However, the biggest dud of all has washed ashore in a Blu-ray+D- “If eye candy was the Fun Introduction to SQUARE DANCING! VD+Digital HD combo pack for home view- reason you watched the Doors open at 7 pm • Dancing starts at 7:30 pm ing. Baywatch (Paramount), presented in skin-shaking Dolby, based on the insipid and ‘Baywatch’ TV series, jiggly NBC / syndicated series that dominated No experience necessary the 1990s and made the wooden David Has- then you will find Everyone welcome • No partner needed selhoff a household name, is a waterlogged Baywatch the movie Dress is casual and comfortable mess with no means of resuscitation. Set in Emerald Bay, Florida, lifeguard just as sweet.” Mitch (an unfortunate Dwayne Johnson) is NEW CLASS BEGINS SEPTEMBER 12 AT 7:30 PM! well-aware that his job is more involved than to take him seriously, he and his law-abiding just rescuing drowning surfers and children. lifeguards hatch a plan of their own, which Waxter Center, 1000 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 He has the support of fellow Baywatchers will ultimately include Victoria’s demise by Across from City Café • Free parking CJ (Kelly Rohrbach, an actress so stilted Roman Candle. she makes Pamela Anderson look like Meryl If eye candy was the reason you watched Questions? Email [email protected] the “Baywatch” TV series, then you will find www.chesapeakesquares.org https://www.facebook.com/groups/ChesapeakeSquares/

Saturday, September 16 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Baltimore Humane Society, 1601 Nicodemus Rd. Reisterstown, MD 21136 • $10 & Kids under 12 free when purchased online. • $15 at the door & $10/kids 6-12. • Kids age 5 and Under and Dogs ALWAYS FREE. • Free Parking, Rain or Shine. Streep) and Stephanie (Ilfenesh Hadera), but For tickets, walk registration, and more: he needs to expand his crew. Baywatch the movie just as sweet. Efron www.dogfest.org Luckily, the time for lifeguard tryouts has spends most of the movie shirtless and owes Contact: [email protected] arrived. Among those competing for the three a massive debt of gratitude to genetics and his Tel: 410-833-8848, ext. 202 coveted spots are: squishy Ronnie (Jon Bass, personal trainer. Johnson, who almost never a second-tier Josh Gad), who has failed to removes his shirt, doesn’t need to; his clothing make the cut in the past; perky Summer (Al- fits like a second skin. Additionally, the sexual exandra Daddario); and disgraced Olympic tension between Mitch and Matt is thick as ste- gold medalist Matt (Zac Efron at his buffest), roid-enhanced muscle. When Matt refers to aka the Vomit Comet. Ronnie and Summer Mitch as a “greasy hairless gorilla,” you just are eager to prove themselves on the course. know he wants to feed him a banana. Matt, who has the backing of corrupt police The special features on the “fully ex- chief Thorpe (Rob Huebel), must also pass tended” (get it?) combo-pack edition in- the test because the Baywatch gig is part of cludes both the theatrical and extended his community service. versions on Blu-ray, along with deleted and Suffice to say, Ronnie, Summer and Matt extended scenes and three featurettes. The make the team. In addition to Mitch’s verbal second disc contains the theatrical version of sparring with Matt, he must also keep his the movie on DVD. Rating: D-minus. t

30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com lively arts // people in our neighborhood

Baltimore knows how exciting choral mu- Anthony Blake Clark Brings sic can be.” —continued from page 1 Though in Baltimore just a short time, sion for it.” Along the way Clark, who also Clark added that he was amazed to find learned violin as boy, “kept adding instru- hidden artistic gems throughout the city. “It a New Song to Baltimore really surprised me at how steeped in fine ments to my belt.” Along with leading ensembles through- arts Baltimore actually is, and it’s a really out the US and Europe, Clark’s composi- vates talent from a young magical way. We’re all sto- well-kept secret. I hope that we can blow tions have been heard across the country, age. Coming into an orga- “The promotion rytellers, so it’s my aim to the top off that and not keep that as a se- as well as in the UK and the Czech Repub- nization with such a varied continue to tell convincing cret anymore. Coming from DC, I think that lic. He has prepared choruses for Sir John history, we are very pumped of choral music stories that speak of the we compete with our southerly neighbor, Eliot Gardiner, Simon Halsey, Gijs Lee- to get things going this sea- human condition and what and I think everyone in DC should be com- naars, and Julian Wilkins for performanc- son!” is top on our list we’re all experiencing in ing up to Baltimore to see cool stuff. I can’t es with top ensembles, including the Berlin Clark’s vision for the the world right now. I envi- wait to explore and see all that’s plentiful Philharmonic and the Berlin Radio Choir. Baltimore Choral Arts So- so that everyone sion us going out into more here! It’s very exciting!” His recent appointment as musical di- ciety? “Well, first we have performance venues and For more information on the Baltimore rector of the Baltimore Choral Arts Soci- a tradition of excellence in in Baltimore opportunities and collabo- Choral Arts Society, visit Baltimorecho- ety weighs additional weight as being only execution of really great rations. Maybe even add- ralarts.org. t the third musical director in the organiza- music,” he said. “We’ll con- knows how ing some new tion’s 51-year history. “There are a lot of tinue to put on jaw-dropping elements into our expectations that surround it and it’s very concerts.” exciting choral concerts. I envi- exciting,” Clark said. “More than any other Upon learning that the sion lots of col- Seasons of Song emotion, I’m honored. [Baltimore Choral issue this article was slat- music can be.” laborations in the Arts Society] has a long and interesting ed for OUTloud’s “theatre community. I want Baltimore Choral Arts Society history so it’s very special to me to be the issue” Clark added, “I think choral music, to continue telling stories in an Upcoming Concerts newest and the youngest musical direc- more than any other concert impactful way.” tor.” Clark added that the or- music, tells a sto- Clark added, “Another vision Free Community Sing ganization usually hires Anthony Blake Clark ry in a very is to being making more inroads takes the helm at Friday, October 13th, 2017 at 7 pm young. “I am grateful Baltimore Choral with the community Northside Baptist Church that they’re an Arts and serving the 1100 East Northern Parkway, Baltimore organization community in that takes a way that Handel’s Dixit Dominus a chance we haven’t Saturday, October 28th, 2017 at 8 pm and before. Kraushaar Auditorium culti- Such as 1021 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson pairing with Christmas with Choral Arts other Tuesday, December 5th, 2017 at 7:30 pm organi- The Baltimore Basilica zations 409 Cathedral Street, Baltimore so that all of Sing-Along Messiah Balti- Friday, December 15th, 2017 at 7:30 pm more Kraushaar Auditorium gets sing- 1021 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson ing and un- derstands the Christmas for Kids power of sing- Saturday, December 16th, 2017 at 11 am ing together. Kraushaar Auditorium The advantages 1021 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson of belonging to a musical community A Ruby Cabaret – Annual Baltimore and how music can Choral Arts Fundraiser help you in all aspects Saturday, April 14th, 2018 at 6:30 pm of our life. We will con- Grand Lodge Ballroom in Hunt Valley tinue our relationships 304 International Circle, Cockeysville, with the Baltimore Sym- Maryland phony Orchestra, as well. We want to provide really Durufle’s Requiem cool, symphonic choral mu- Sunday, May 6th, 2018 at 3 pm sic and continue our history of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church really amazing artistry. And the 233 North Charles Street, Baltimore promotion of choral music is top on our list so that everyone in BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 31 T:9.875” T:9.6”

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DIV17-201-A6-V2

32 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com

CLIENT COMCAST FILE NAME: CMCIN17009R25_m26v02_9.875x9.6_LGBTQ_iPad-cta.indd JOB NUMBER CMCIN17009R25 DESCRIPTION: Q3 LGBTQ PRODUCT DIFF APPROVAL

BILL TO NUMBER None COLORS: CMYK PROOFREADER GRAPHIC ARTIST Johnny Villalobos NOTES: CODE: DIV17-201-A6-V2 STUDIO DIRECTOR DATE 7-24-2017 5:24 PM FONTS: XFINITY Standard (Light, Bold, Regular, Bold Italic) REVISION 2 IMAGES: CST276_bkgnd_240NP.tif (CMYK; 348 ppi, 645 ppi; 86%, 46.44%), TRAFFIC PAGE 1 CMCIN17009_103318_Rainbow_Woman_UI_Screen_4C.tif (CMYK; 833 ppi; 36%), PRODUCTION PUB BALTIMORE OUTLOUD CMCIN17009_Pride_LGBTQ_TECH_forDIGITAL.psd (CMYK; 415 ppi; 36.14%), Com- ART DIRECTOR BLEED None cast_M_4C_COLOR_BLK.eps (8.41%), XFINITY_tag_v_r.ai (83.32%) TRIM 9.875” x 9.6” COPYWRITER LIVE 9.125” x 8.85” ASSOC CREATIVE DIR SCALE 100% CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINTOUT 100% 233 N. MICHIGAN AVE. SUITE 2900, CHICAGO, IL 60601, P:312.297.9600 60601, IL CHICAGO, SUITE 2900, AVE. MICHIGAN 233 N. BURRELL MECHANICAL BURRELL ACCOUNT MANAGER out in the valley

Parenting OUTloud Rev. Kelly Crenshaw Other task, even when it’s hard. People’s Kids But, that day, Austin couldn’t concen- trate. So, our guy pushed him – mentally, As parents, we all like to think that our kids not physically. He said, “You know what are perfect. We love every developmental you’re doing. You know how to do this. I’m milestone passed. Our kids are the cutest going over to that bench to sit down.” And, and the brightest and the best behaved – he left Austin there to load the groceries on that was suddenly removed from the team? except when they’re not. the conveyor – a task he’d done hundreds Maybe that kid’s aggression issues have I’m that mom. I’m the mom who cringes of times before. been intensified and he needs a break when my kid says something inappropri- All of a sudden, a complete stranger from all opportunities to be aggressive. ate. I’m the mom who seems approached the helper and You don’t know my situation and I don’t adopted kids, two biological kids, guardian too strict. My kids have some began to yell at our helper. know yours. But, whatever it is, we all try of one baby girl and foster mom of dozens. serious behavior issues. Not She accused him of being the best we can to be the best parents we Some are lesbian, some gay, some straight, all of them, of course, but too lazy to do the job. She need to be. Strive to give your kids what and some bisexual. Kelly founded a K-12 many. They came from bad kept touching him. Our help- they need. Try to ignore the advice and day school where kids could have a safe, situations and complicat- er has PTSD and it can be criticisms of other parents. You know your bully-free environment for learning. She is ed lives. They brought that pretty bad. He doesn’t do kids better than anyone else. t co-owner of a counselling agency that works baggage into our home and well with confrontation and Rev. Kelly Crenshaw is the mom of 16 with children and their families. it doesn’t just go away, like he certainly doesn’t do well many people seem to think. with being touched. To his So, we’ve learned to adapt credit, his response was ap- our parenting styles to best propriate and focused. But, meet the needs of our kids. he wasn’t able to convince And, there are many the woman that her assess- more like me. We’re the par- ment was way off. He knew, OCTOBER 8TH, STARTING AT 11 A.M. ents whose kids are whining however, that he had to stay Carroll County Equestrian Center in the grocery line. We’re the in control to show Austin that 300 S. Center St. Westminster, MD 21157 ones who hold our kids hand even when things are diffi- to cross the street, even cult, you can maintain. www.ksgra.com though our child seems a Please report They both learned a les- little old. We’re the parents comments and son that day. I’m not so sure All are welcome to attend! who pull our child from the suggestions about about the stranger. sports team when he or she my behavior to She didn’t know that Austin Classes: Exhibition Barres $3 Per Run 1-800-MND-YR-BZNS crosses the line. needed that push to keep going 1. Small Fry 50 Yard Dash 11. 3d or 4d Open Barrel Race ** $40 2. Junior 50 Yard Dash 12. Small Fry Barrels Over the years, we’ve even when he was rattled. She 3. Adult 50 Yard Dash 13. Junior Barrels heard the comments from other people. didn’t know that our helper was there to 4. Small Fry Pole Bending 14. Adults Barrels work with Austin to help make his life bet- When we walk into a restaurant with a doz- 5. Junior Pole Bending en kids in tow, people sigh, roll their eyes, ter. She didn’t recognize that her yelled ac- 6. Adult Pole Bending cusations made Austin more rattled. She Small Fry: ages 10 and under or say something rude. And, when we 7. Small Fry Flag Race Junior: ages 11-16 leave, we smile when people compliment thought she was offering parenting advice. 8. Junior Flag Race Adult: 17 and older the children, even though we know those But, she just didn’t know. Each of us 9. Adult Flag Race Food will be available for purchase comments are only reserved for our large parents our children in the best way we 10. Goat Dressing Free admission for spectators family group. can. We make decisions based on our Small fry classes $5 each, junior and adult classes $10 each. Money and ribbons will be given to all The other day, our in-home helper took kids’ personalities and our own unique juniors and adult classes. Paybacks for adult and Junior classes will be 1st 20%, 2nd 15%, 3rd 10%, 4th my 15-year-old son Austin to the grocery situations. That kid whining in the grocery 5% for entries of over 8 raiders line? Maybe she has a mental health diag- ** For jackpot 3D/4D depends on number of entries. For 50 entries or less will be run as 3D. store. He’s autistic and gets easily rattled For 51 entries or more will be run as 4D. 80% Payback for open 3D/4D Barrel Race nosis and is struggling to maintain calm in in public. Once he gets rattled, he starts SPONSORS: to make mistakes. He can’t perform simple a crowded store. That older child holding tasks. He’s nervous. He waves his hands Mom’s hand as they cross the street? May- and can’t talk very well. Over the years, be that kid struggles to control his impuls- we’ve pushed him to keep working through es and is likely to rush into traffic without it. That works for him. He keeps doing his any indication. That teenager football star

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 33 out in the valley

py with. This is a tried-and-true approach for solving problems that all parties wish Celebrating Pride Country Style to resolve. By Adam Romanik of these events include the KSGRA But, by definition, intolerance does not Are you a little bit country? Put on Think Opening Gaming Show October 8th, Brian’s allow for differing opinions. Intolerance your boots, dust off your hat and get a Cowboy Calendar Event Signing wants to be the only option, the law of the ready to go Boot Scootin’ Boogie! rodeo! November 25th, a drag brunch and Brain land. If we tolerate intolerance, we do so Since 1985, the International Gay holiday party December 2nd, the Brian George Hose knowing that intolerance will not change Rodeo Association has been roping KSGRA Royalty Pageant and Show and will actively try to destroy its opposi- and riding all across the United States. IGRA, January 13th, regularly monthly trail rides, tion, which is tolerance. So, allowing intol- based out of Denver, Colorado, is made up and many others. Should We erance essentially undermines tolerance of 20 local associations. Each of the asso- The Keystone State Gay Rodeo Associ- and efforts to allow everyone to have a ciations hold unique events -- including ro- ation is a non-profit organization whose pur- Tolerate voice and an opinion. It’s like creating a deos, dances, trail rides, and horse shows pose is to promote the country and western monster, teaching it English, then giving -- for the country cowboy and cowgirl lover lifestyle and rodeo type events within the Intolerance? it a bullhorn. If we want to live in a world in all of us. LGBTQ community and their allies. If you of diversity, opportunity, and equality, we The main events that IGRA Should intolerance be tolerated? That cannot allow intolerance to go unchecked, associations hold each year are question has weighed on my mind since otherwise it will destroy everything that charity rodeos. Each season, the events of Charlottesville. It’s a para- isn’t itself. there are between ten to 12 of dox: If you think of yourself as tolerant it I’m writing this hours after learning that these held all around the US means, by defini- tion, that you Joe Arpaio, the infamous rogue ex-sheriff in cities such as Denver, Dal- tolerate opinions from Arizona, was pardoned. The pardon las / Forth Worth, Kansas City, and perspectives wasn’t exactly a surprise, but I Sante Fe, Palm Springs, Las that are different still got a sinking Vegas, San Francisco, Phoe- from your own. feeling in my nix, and now in our own back- Otherwise, by gut when I yard, Harrisburg, Pennsylva- not being open heard about nia. These rodeos are a unique to all perspec- it because of family-friendly rodeo and com- tives and opin- the message munity event that feature some Steppin’ ions, including it sends to the traditional rodeo events as well on up ones that are alt-right, Na- as a few unique IGRA events intolerant, it zis, and white only. In IGRA-sanctioned ro- would seem supremacists deos, men, women, members of the LGBTQ enjoy some of the following things member- that you’ve become in- representing in- community and their straight allies will be ship in KSGRA may be for you: tolerant yourself. So, what’s a tolerant tolerance. It was competing equally in all rodeo events. • Social events person to do when faced with intolerance? said that if Arpaio was In our own back yard, the second annu- • Country music and dancing. The answer may surprise you. pardoned it would act as a bullhorn al Keystone State Charity Rodeo will take • Meeting new people and making new Let’s start with the words themselves. to these groups, and, following the events place in Harrisburg June 22nd to 24th, 2018. friends. I’ve never been a big fan of “tolerance” in in Charlottesville, it doubles as a slap in Make sure you save the date for a weekend • Helping other community organiza- a social or political context because I think the face to many Americans affected and full of exciting rodeo action, country dancing tions by volunteering and raising much need the more appropriate word is “acceptance.” concerned about racial inequality. If our and cowboys and cowgirls from all over the funds. We tolerate things we wish we could avoid, president condones this behavior, isn’t US. The rodeo will include events for kids, • Trail riding, open horse shows and oth- but can’t, whereas acceptance is an em- that the same as supporting and encour- vendors and your chance to come and sup- er horse related events. bracing of difference. For example, we aging it? port a central Pennsylvania based commu- To join KSGRA or for a full listing of up- want friends who accept us, not tolerate us This is why it’s important that we not nity charity. Leading up to the rodeo, there coming events, check out the web site at like a burden. So, by changing the word we tolerate intolerance. To me, the very idea are many events where you can come out to Ksgra.org. t find a much more positive, affirming, ac- of this kind of intolerance goes against and meet the cowboys and cowgirls. Some Adam Romanik is president of KSGRA. curate definition of what we call tolerance. everything I believe about our country. Ironically, the same isn’t true if we change America is a place, but it’s also an idea, a intolerance to non-acceptance. The defini- radical theory and social experiment that tion stays the same because that’s what values freedom, diversity, equality, justice, intolerance is, the refusal to accept differ- and opportunity. Without these values, ence and to actively avoid or destroy it. what are we? Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s If you find yourself in need of guidance get back to the question of tolerating intol- during these trying, paradoxical times, erance. Many tolerant / accepting people look to your heart. Resisting intolerance value collaboration and problem-solving. is not the same as fighting hate with hate This usually involves discussions about – it’s supporting the things you love, the differing values and perspectives, which things that intolerance is fighting against. is why it’s important to be open to what Intolerance stirs strong feelings because it others have to say. The goal is to get ev- is an afront to what we love. So, find your erybody on the same page, to allow all love, nurture it, and let it guide you. t parties to feel heard and validated, and to reach a conclusion that everyone is hap- 34 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Hagerstown Hopes Dissolves Old A Message from the Board and Creates a New Board Chairman of the Board On Monday, September 28th, 2017 at 6:55 ects. Also, the ability to write propos- Hagerstown Hopes supporters, pm the former board of directors of Hag- als for corporate grants. If you have I’m proud to support the good work of Hagerstown Hopes. Many volunteers erstow Hopes was abolished and a new this ability and would be interested in have worked tirelessly to bring equality and a positive image to Hagerstown and board was voted in by a unanimous mo- volunteering your time please contact the greater community. tion. The new board consists of: Jeff Rohrer at jrohrer@hagerstown- As the first Queen of Pride, I carried the banner and outreached as a face of • president – Jeff Rohrer hopesmd.org. Grants are a vital part the organization. • vice president – Lauren Williams of this organization being a success Because of your support, Hagerstown Hopes is a strong and growing organi- Rowe and being able to have projects that zation. The board of directors continues to fulfill its visionary and fiduciary duties. • secretary / treasurer – Justin Sigler give back to the community. So, with a meeting of the board, I was chosen to lead the organization during this • board member – Mark Fadely Out of the Darkness Walk: turbulent time as Hagerstown Hope’s chairman. • board member – Brian Alexander Next month, Hagerstown Hopes will We’re counting on your continued support as we plan for 2018 Pride and • parliamentarian – Rik Newton-Tread- be walking in the 2017 Hagerstown other community outreach efforts. With your support and belief in us, you made it possible for way Out of the Darkness Walk on Sep- all of us, to have the most successful pride in Hagerstown Hopes Volunteers/Donations: Hagerstown tember 23rd. In addition to inviting history. We still need your continued support, be it as a volunteer, a committee Hopes is always in need of volunteers, do- you to join our team and walk with member, or via a monetary donation. nations and sponsors. With the group be- us to help bring awareness to and We’re here for you– please address any questions, concerns, words of encour- ing a non – profit, we’re completely running develop advocacy for the American agement, or queries about helping out to me at [email protected] off of funding from the public. We want to Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Look forward to wishing you happy 2018 Hagerstown Pride! grow our offerings to the LGBTQ communi- we request that if you cannot join Thank you for your continued support, ty and we cannot do that without your help. us for the walk that all donations go We are always on the lookout for com- through our Facebook page. Let mittee members and volunteers. If you us all stand together and show our Jeffrey Rohrer have a passion to help the LGBTQ com- support for this foundation and the Chairman of the Board munity and Hagerstown Hopes have a bit of free time, contact us for more in- formation and so we can see where you would fit within the Hagerstown Hopes fam- ily. Grant writer: Hagerstown Hopes is looking for a great work they’re doing. Remember, even grant writer. We have several opportunities something as simple as a smile to a pass- for grants from foundations available, but ing stranger can make all the difference in need a writer that is familiar with writing the world. No one should be left to feel that and submitting proposals for planned proj- his or her life isn’t worth living. t Our Vision To provide the community with a comfortable environment to socialize, acquire educational HIV Testing Services: information, and guidance. Easy, Fast and Free Serving our LGBT Friends Our Mission in a comfortable, welcoming environment Hagerstown Hopes mission is to unify the community, educate others about LGBTO+ causes Providing referrals for PrEP in Frederick County and issues, and to provide services and resources Call 301-600-3342 for an appointment to support our local communities.

Frederick County Health Department 350 Montevue Lane, Entrance B, Frederick, MD 21702 hagerstownhopesmd.org | Follow Us:

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 35 AA smallsmall communitycommunity withwith bigbig rewardsrewards quality of life

impose additional requirements. To be eligible for a Protective Order you must fall within one of the following The Law relationship categories: & You a) current or former spouse Atty. Valerie E. Anias b) residing together in an intimate re- lationship for at least 90 days within the year of filing Domestic c) related by blood, marriage, or adop- tion •Everyone Knows Your Name Violence – How d) having a parent-child or steppar- ent-stepchild relationship and residing to- Residents always feel right at home with a community to Protect gether for at least 90 days within the year that knows them (and sometimes their pet!) by name. of filing Yourself e) have a caretaker-vulnerable adult relationship •A Strong Sense of Community Lives On When law enforcement, government agen- f) be parents of a child together, and/or cies, and people generally think of domes- g) have had a sexual relationship with- RPP o ers a strong sense of "community" where everyone tic abuse an image of a heterosexual cou- in a year of filing. has a feeling of belonging and there are no strangers. ple is immediately cast. It’s traditionally If you do not meet one of those re- assumed that the abuser is the male part- quirements, then you will need to file for Residents are well-connected and welcomed neighbors at RPP. ner and the victim is the female partner. a Peace Order. A Peace Order is a form of The ugly truth is that domestic violence protection for anyone who is experiencing Roland Park Place is the only full-service, accredited nonpro t occurs at similar rates among LGBTQ as some sort of problem with an individual. continuing care retirement community in Charm City heterosexual people. According to 2012 When filing a Peace Order the relationship 830 W. 40th Street • Baltimore, MD 21211 Center for American Progress study, one between the parties is not a factor. in four same-sex couples have experi- 410-243-5700 • rolandparkplace.org What a judge can and cannot order enced domestic violence – the same for also varies based on the type of order heterosexual females. requested. In both cases, a judge can or- Though patterns of domestic violence der the abuser to stop abusing you and to involving physical, emotional, and verbal stay away. In the case of a Peace Order, abuse all share many common character- a judge can also order counseling, medi- istics, same-sex couples often face addi- ation, and for the abuser to pay the court tional threats simply due to their sexuality. costs and filing fees. Because a Protective The closeted victim in a same-sex rela- Order involves more intimate relationships, tionship may be threatened by the abuser a judge can also impose more restrictions that their sexuality will be exposed and make additional awards. For example, to their family, employer, a Protective Order can award temporary friends, classmates, or custody or visitation, emergency their community. Many family maintenance (or, victims – heterosex- financial sup- Enjoy the comforts ual or homosexual port) to – fear speaking to be paid by of home in law enforcement but the abus- The Rowan those in the homo- er, award Branch Lounge sexual community possession A space to have a conversation; have the addi- of any pet, tional “coming award use NO loud music. out” component and posses- Join us on Friday September 8th for which further sion of a jointly prevents them from titled car, etc. OUR Guest Bartenders Contest to raise money for speaking out. It can also or- Chase Brexton’s Gender Joy Program Regardless of your sexual orienta- der the abuser to $100000 will be given to the organization tion, you have the same rights and means stay out of the marital of protection as any other victim. If you, home, stay away from your who raises the most money. a loved one, or someone you know is a child’s school, and to stay away from and Kick the night off with Nate Sweeny and crew from victim of domestic violence, know what to not contact family members. do. The victim can file a Protective Order You did not ask to become a victim of Chase Brexton's Gender Joy Program. or Peace Order depending on the relation- domestic violence. You did not ask to be- ship they maintain with their abuser. In ei- come a victim. If you find yourself in that 1633 South Charles Street • 410-468-0550 ther case, the order is signed by a judge position, knowing what rights and oppor- and instructs the abuser to stop commit- tunities you have to protect yourself and ting a specific act or set of acts and can loved ones is important. t 36 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life

child support), tax returns, and letters from family and friends stating that the person is a good person and contributes to the well- The Law being of the community in which they live. The third factor is the most difficult to & You prove because it is a given that the relatives Linda A. Dominguez a person leaves in the US will suffer emo- tional hardship because they are no longer living in the US with them. If the spouse, Cancellation of parent, or child suffers from a medical con- dition and the person in removal proceed- Removal ings is a key provider of health care for the relative with the medical condition, this is When a person is able to reside in the US the ideal scenario to prove exceptional and without being caught by Immigration and extremely unusual hardship. The person Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) officers for at must also show that the medical condition least ten years, they are eligible for can- cannot be treated properly in the country cellation of removal as a nonimmigrant. of their birth so that taking the relative with This means that they can apply for perma- them is not possible. There is case law that nent resident status before the Immigra- says this level of hardship may be proven tion Court if they can demonstrate several if the person is able to show that they are things: the sole financial support of the qualifying 1) their residence in the US before the relative (without a medical condition) and Notice to Appear was issued lasted for at there is no one else to care for the rela- least ten years from the date of entry tive if they are removed from the US. How- 2) they have good moral character ever, this is not easy to do. Anyway, a lot and have not been of documents and convicted of a crime “So, the lesson here records are needed involving moral tur- to demonstrate the pitude within five is to be humble and level of hardship re- years or other crimes agreeable because they quired by law. as listed in Section Finally, the court 237(a)(2)(A) of the are asking for a benefit has the discretion IfIf youyou likelike toto writewrite andand havehave anan interestinterest inin Immigration and Na- to deny the appli- tionality Act that can be granted or cation if it feels that locallocal news,news, theatertheater andand thethe arts,arts, food,food, 3) they are able to denied at the whim of the positive factors demonstrate “excep- do not outweigh the LGBTQ history, doing interviews, tional and extremely the court.” negative factor of unusual hardship” to being illegally in the Baltimore OUTloud might be the place for you. a qualifying relative, who is a US citizen or US. If the person is able to prove the first permanent resident (child, spouse, or par- three factors, then usually the only reason We are looking for writers to share with their ent), and finally why the court would deny the application 4) that they are deserving of a favorable as a matter of discretion is if they show ar- LGBTQ community. In Baltimore and exercise of the court’s discretion. rogance in court or refuse to agree to obey So, how does a person prove these four the laws of the US. So, the lesson here is surrounding areas,including Hagerstown, factors? to be humble and agreeable because they The first one is fairly easy if they en- are asking for a benefit that can be granted Frederick, Asbury Park NJ and Rehoboth Beach, tered the US with a visa: just make a copy or denied at the whim of the court. While of the passport showing the date of entry. a person does have the right to appeal a and any area we reach. If they entered without a visa, then it be- denial based on the Court abusing their dis- comes more difficult because they need cretion, it is better and easier on the mind documents to prove they have been living and heart (not to mention the wallet!) to not For more information contact Mary Taylor in the US the entire time. Those documents need an appeal to the Board of Immigration (in both cases) include: leases, utility bills, Appeals. The court’s granting of the appli- 410-802-1310, or e-mail her at letters from employers and friends in the cation for cancellation of removal results in US, Federal and state tax returns for every permanent residence or green card for the [email protected] year they have lived in the US. person in removal proceedings. t The second factor can be proven by and she can fill you in with all the details. getting a police clearance report based on fingerprints from every state in the US that they have lived in since entering the US, as well as copies of any child-support orders (and proof that they are paying the required Hope to see you in the paper!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 37 Chicagoans out & ABOUT // David’s Thoughts might call it ‘The Ferris Loop’ plants and other factories. Prohibition (the Chicago | Prarie Brash alcohol ban from 1920 to 1933 – the drug war of its day) spawned famous Chicago gangsters such as Al Capone and Bugs Mo- ran who wreaked havoc on the city. by David Placher Enjoying Brownsville Chicago is the first city in the US to have Traveling to Chicago a skyscraper. The ten-story, steel-framed for a weekend trip is Home Insurance Building debuted 1884 and easy and affordable. was demolished in 1931. In 1969, the John Spirit, United, and Hancock Center opened and it is now Chi- Southwest airlines offer cago’s second tallest building. In 1973 the round-trip tickets from 1,450-foot Willis (Sears) Tower opened, and Baltimore to Chicago it remains the tallest building in North Ameri- starting at $140 if your ca and the third tallest in the world. The Aon timing is right. Chicago Center is Chicago’s third largest building at has two airports and 1,136 feet. It was completed in 1973 and both offer public trans- was originally clad with Carrara marble, but port to downtown. Chi- due to Chicago’s harsh weather conditions, cago is the third-most it had to be resurfaced with white granite in populous city in the the early 90s. Chicago has many more archi- sports bar with flat-screen TVs and kara- US and a major busi- Venice tectural marvels and they can be seen on the oke. The Phoenix is a popular gay suburban ness center. Its famous of the famous Chicago Architecture River Cruise. hangout. The Closet – a tiny, unpretentious nickname “Windy City” Plains Chicago is also the first city to devel- lesbian bar – features dancing, games, and comes from the frig- op a reverse water flow system, forcing an karaoke. Little Jim’s Tavern, a famous neigh- id breezes that blow about-face on the Chi- borhood venue, has off Lake Michigan and go through the city’s trader named Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, cago River, sending it been open since 1975. streets – though some say the moniker ref- a free black man from Haiti, who came to the toward the Mississippi Baton Show Lounge, a erences Chicago politicians, deemed to be city in the late 1770s. In 1795, the US military River instead of Lake A city bar known for its night- “full of hot air.” Famous landmarks include built Fort Dearborn, but it was later destroyed Michigan. This stopped spouting with ly drag shows, is also the Millennium Park, Grant Park (where for- by Native Americans. Chicago played a ma- the waterborne illness- excitement! popular for its bache- mer President Obama gave his acceptance jor role in the early westward expansion by es plagueing the city; lorette parties. Second speech on November 4th, 2008), Navy Pier, the completion of the Illinois and Michigan however, the polluted Story Bar, a small old- the Willis (Sears) Tower, the Magnificent Canal in 1848 because it created a water water would become a school watering hole, Mile, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Chica- link between the Great Lakes and the Mis- headache (and stom- is tucked away above go is popular for its history, its city planning sissippi River. In 1871, the “Great Fire” de- achache) for the cities the Sayat Nova restau- and development, and its cultural diversity – stroyed most of Chicago’s buildings, streets, downstream depen- rant. Club Krave, a of which the city’s large gay community is a and sidewalks (because they were made of dent on Mississippi fun nightspot, offers glittering jewel. wood). Chicago rebuilt and many immigrants water. dancing, karaoke, Chicago’s first permanent resident was a came to Chicago to take jobs in meatpacking The Chicago drag shows, and game gay scene is huge. nights. Mary’s Attic is a Northalsted Market Days (Northalsted.com) nice little bar above Hamburger Mary’s. And just celebrated 36 years as an event that this list only scratches the surface! brings Chicago’s gay community out on the For more info on gay Chicago a good streets. Chicago offers a vast variety of gay starting point is the Center on Halsted, the bars and clubs. Sidetrack is a large popu- city’s LGBT community center: Centeron- lar club that draws a diverse crowd and is halsted.org or 773-472-6469. t known for its showtune nights. Roscoe’s is a neighborhood bar with a dance floor, pool tables, and an outdoor area. Hydrate is a lounge and dance club that of- fers theme nights. Jackhammer is a multilevel club with dance bars that serves strong drinks. Berlin is a cavernous club with rollicking nightlife and a diverse crowd. Big Chicks is a lively bar A nice with art-lined walls. The famous spot for a leather bar Cellblock offers cruise pool tables and theme nights. Touche, another leather bar, of- Architectural fers strong drinks and a place gems of many to meet new people. North eras End is a longtime, low-key gay

38 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 39 quality of life

The bride in Dan’s story may have Getting the thought that all DJs are the same, or that price had no relationship to quality. Maybe she thought that it just didn’t matter how Wedding good they were. None of those things is You Want true. I can’t think of any category of wed- David Egan ding professional where the latter would be the case. Everything is important in wedding planning. Penny Wise, DJs play a large part in creating your reception experience. As that bride discov- ered, they aren’t a commodity. The differ- Pound Foolish! ence of a few hundred dollars in fee can represent a significant difference in perfor- Dan Hawkins has been a full-time pro- mance. There is a lot of talent and skill re- fessional DJ for 31 years. His company, quired to do the job well, not to mention a MusicMasters, provides DJs for all kinds pile of high quality (and expensive) equip- of events. They regularly win awards for ment. Owning top quality equipment and their work. They’re not cheap, starting at knowing how to use it are two of the marks just under a thousand dollars, nor are they of a great DJ. Having heard hundreds of over-the-top expensive. Dan and the DJs DJs at work in my own and other ven- who work for him are frequently seen ues, I can tell at weddings and you that their events all around sound quality Baltimore. I know varies widely, Dan, like his work, from annoying and think the to fantastic. world of the guy. Good He’s kind, has in- DJs do a lot tegrity, and is very, of work to very good at what be sure that he does. you and your Dan posted the guests have a fantastic experi- following story on Facebook re- ence. They’ll honor your play and don’t- cently, which he has given me permission play lists, make recommendations, and to use here in its entirety. create a minute-by-minute timeline for StartStart YourYour NewNew LifeLife WithWith “As I was powering down from a really your wedding that they’ll synchronize with fun wedding at the Baltimore Museum of your caterer and other professionals. They TheThe PerfectPerfect SoundtrackSoundtrack Industry last night, I saw a guest walking will bring the equipment that sounds best towards me from across the room. “You in your venue. They’ll watch your guests True Harmony Events is an elite group of DJs and wedding planning did a really good job,” she said, but oddly, closely, playing just the right music for the professionals that break the mold; We love music and we love being without a smile. I said “Thank you,” a little moment, with careful attention to matching a part of people's lives. confused as to why her affect didn’t match one song to the next. We plan events and weddings that take the event to another level her compliment. “No, you did a really, re- If you need to save money, talk to the and people to another place. ally good job,” she said again with a little professionals whose work you like but can- Our team is unrivaled in music knowledge, each one with more emphasis this time. I thanked her not afford. Tell them exactly that, and ask again, still a little bewildered as to why she who they recommend, either within their a specialty. There is not a style of music around that we don't had such a somber look on her face. “I got own company or elsewhere. There are al- have in our catalog of more than a million songs. married two weeks ago,” she said, paus- ways up-and-comers who are doing good From music to planning, our team is specialized in planning ing then slightly lowering her head. “My DJ work but aren’t yet commanding full pro- the perfect event. sucked.” The look on her face can only be fessional fees. From start to finish or day-of coordination we have you covered! described as someone who was wishing Will using an up-and-comer sacrifice that she could go back in time and do it all some things? Sure, but you’ll be starting over again. “But he was cheap,” she add- at the best possible place – performance ed with an obviously forced smile. It was quality – and have a much better shot at clear that didn’t make her feel any better. getting what you want instead of the disas- I swear, at that moment, I wanted to give ter that befell the bride in the story. her a hug, snap my fingers, and somehow Next time: planning a cost-conscious grant her a redo. No bride should have to wedding. t DJ/MC DANCE LIGHTS UPLIGHTS look back at her wedding celebration with David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- regrets or remorse.” ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- 202-798-6544 • trueharmonydjs.com/lgbt.html There are lots of good ways to save ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. Consultations are free and available 7 days a week. money on your wedding. Compromising com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue professional quality isn’t one of them. on Instagram and Facebook. 40 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com Real estate Let Our Real Estate Family Be Your Guide! 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42 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com • ArchitecturAlly-stunning wedding venue • • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, And eLOPeMenTS • • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS SinCe 2013 • Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at ChaseCourtWeddingVenue 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD Owned and Operated by David Egan, wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 43 leather

location.) At the start of the contest Dawn put together a basket of items to be auc- by the step aside speeches of the 2017 title- Marie entered the stage with a fur coat tioned (with the money going towards the holders. Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman Boot- over one of the many outfits she wore on- travel fund), appeared in formal leather, black 2017 Jadelynn “Wicked Jade” Wikkid Leather stage. (She had more costume changes and gave a brief speech. I am sure that talked about her love of making lists. She Line then Carrie Underwood hosting the CMA’s) the scores for the two Mid-Atlantic Leath- said that, “When you only have a few things Rodney Burger When asked why she was wearing a fur er Woman contestants were very close to work with, you work with what you have. coat in August, Dawn quipped, “I thought because they were both excellent. Christy The most important tool in my boot black kit this contest was in November!” Lee’s fantasy involved a burlesque per- is love.” Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2017 There were so many noteworthy mo- formed who transformed into a dominatrix Alex “Bear” Conley started her speech by Here’s to the ments during this contest, but I must start by applauding pro- ducers Rik Newton-Treadway Ladies in and Tina Landi who started the event by asking the audience to not live stream the contest Leather! or take random pictures and crowd shots. This has long Amy “Foxxy” Phillips from Baltimore, Mary- been a big pet peeve of mine. land, was named Mid-Atlantic Leather Not everyone is out and wants Woman 2018 and “Bumper” from Hampton their picture posted all over so- Roads, Virginia, was selected Mid-Atlantic cial media, especially while at- Leather Woman Boot Black 2018 during tending a leather event. I wish the annual MAL-W Contest held on Satur- every contest started this way. day, August 26th at the Baltimore Eagle. Rik also announced that the Runner-up for Mid-Atlantic Leather Wom- tradition of starting with the an 2018 was Christy Lee, Ms. New Jersey playing of the national anthem Leather 2016. There were no additional would be waived and replaced contestants. with a moment of silence for The contest began on Friday night with all the problems in our nation. the meet and greet at the Baltimore Eagle. After an introduction of judg- It was a beautiful evening on the Eagle pa- es, the contest staff was intro- tio and I was happy to have a chance to duced which included judge’s speak with the MAL-W contestants and to boy Jake Cordova, tally master welcome the many out of town judges to Paulie Treadway, stage manag- Charm City. This year’s judges were Inter- er Buz with stage crew David national Ms. Deaf Leather 2010 Valerie O. Spellman (who had a huge job Winners Sherrill, Mr. Eagle NYC 2017 John-John at one point when one performer dumped complete with flogging and hot wax play presenting $1,600 to the Leather all Punki, Ms. Capital Pride Leather 2009 an entire bag of glitter on the stage), den and Amy donned sexy ringmaster garb Heart Foundation and spoke of Jackie Thompson, Ms. Baltimore Eagle daddy Morgaine, and Lady Desire (who and put a kinky spin on the Britney Spears’ attending over 34 leather events during her 2001 Tracy Black, Ms. Philadelphia Leath- was the silent auction chair). Plus I’m sure number “Circus.” Both skits were well done ten month title year. The afternoon also in- er 2017 Heather there were many and kept the audience entertained. cluded performances by Baltimore’s recent- Raquel, Mid-Atlan- “Boot black Bumper others involved in The speeches delivered by all three ly crowned King and Queen of Pride 2018. tic Community Boot putting on this won- contestants were also wonderful. There Chris Jay and Sapphire Blue gave very en- Black 2013 Amelia explained that a boot derful event. seemed to be a reoccurring theme of fam- ergetic performances that had the leather- Horo, and founding black in the leather When the in- ily that ran through the weekend. I know I clad crowd smiling and dancing. member of The Sev- troductions ended, enjoyed seeing many friends that I do not In the spirit of a regional leather event, en Guardsmen leath- community is not just Shawnna made her get to see very often. Christly Lee spoke the victory party for the new Mid-Atlantic er organization Dana entrance performing with great emotion about her cancer diag- Leather Woman titleholders was held on Prosser. someone who shines a hilarious number nosis last year and how she learned the true Sunday, August 28th at Georgie’s Bar in On Saturday af- shoes. A boot black entitled: “Back When meaning of having a leather family who kept Asbury Park, New Jersey. Congratulations ternoon the upstairs We had Sex.” Her her spirts up and got her out of the house to Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2018 Amy Nest at the Baltimore preserves history.” other number later in when it would have been easier to just stay “Foxxy” Phillips and Mid-Atlantic Leath- Eagle was a packed the contest had her at home. Amy spoke of the two types of er Woman Boot Black 2018 Bumper. It is house as contest emcees American Leath- dressed as a giant dildo as she performed people in the leather community: the guard- an exciting time for women in the leather ergirl 2006 Dawn Marie and Baltimore’s a spoof of the James Bond movie theme ians who want to keep people out and the community who are really stepping up and Queen of Comedy Shawnna Alexander “Diamonds Are Forever” or as Shawnna gatekeepers who welcome people in. This taking charge. In fact on February 22nd to kept everyone entertained for the three- performed it “Dildos Are Forever.” What year she plans to work hard as a gatekeep- 25th, 2018 the Drummer North America hour-plus contest. Last year the contest, can I say? She brought down the house. er and welcome more people into the leath- Contest in Las Vegas will include the first which is usually held in August, was post- Contestants, who had been interviewed er community. Boot black Bumper explained ever Woman of Drummer Contest. This is a poned until November while the producers by the judges earlier in the day, competed that a boot black in the leather community is big change for Drummer that was founded were waiting for the Baltimore Eagle to onstage in “hot wear,” answered a funny not just someone who shines shoes. A boot on a platform of machismo and masculini- open. (They finally had to select another question, performed an onstage fantasy, black preserves history. I was also moved ty. Here’s to the ladies in leather! t

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD september 1, 2017 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 45 MALW Contest Saturday August 26th Photos by Corey Brent

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