February 13, 2009 | Volume VII, Issue 4

Redefining Diva A boat full of men is not a bad thing » Page 15.

By Mark Towlande O’Malley Wants Remember Pepper Mashay and her classic 2000 club anthem, “Dive in the Pool”? to Extend Health Or how about Jeanie Tracy who’s hard thumping “Cha Cha Heels” kicked up the Benefits to lgbt State dance floors of 2004? Today’s dance floor divas hardly Employees resemble the ladies of years past. They don’t Annapolis -Governor Martin O’Malley is sport the big hair, wear the sequin gowns, being praised by lgbt activists for proposing or belt the mighty praises to the heavenly health and prescription drug coverage the father like the old songstresses used to do. domestic partners of state employees’ They don’t throw diva demands – or even domestic partners in his Fiscal Year 2010 answer to the word “diva”, for that matter budget. If approved by lawmakers, Maryland – and most notably for club goers, they do will join fifteen other states and the District not rely on the hard percussion beats that of Columbia in offering health benefits to made their predecessors famous. state employees, as well as the majority In her latest single, Diva, Beyonce of Fortune 1,000 companies, 8,600 for- Knowles boldly defines today’s diva as “the profit employers, and 300 higher education female version of a hustler.” institutions. The State will make the same Is that really the essence of today’s contribution as they do toward spouses. diva? We spoke with two divas of today’s “This opportunity to expand health care gay dance floor, Sylvia Tosun and Debbie will only require a minimal state investment, Holiday – both have singles on the top of the since Maryland can expect a less than Billboard charts right now - to get their point 1% increase in enrollment, based upon of view. other states’ experiences,” said Equality Sylvia Tosun Maryland (EM) Director Kate Runyon. -- continued on page 24 “While Maryland’s investment will be small, it will have a huge impact on the health It was bound to happen one day; Baltimore’s to its famous happy hour, the bar was also of many state employees who have been oldest gay bar has been sold pending the known for outrageous drag shows, friendly -- continued on page 30 Baltimore’s Oldest transfer of the liquor license. Ronald and bartenders and tiny bathrooms. It is also Elyse Singer have applied to the liquor the home of the annual “High Heel Race,” IN THIS ISSUE Gay Bar Is Entering board and a hearing is set for February 26 where contestants dressed in drag had to at 1 p.m. run around the block in high heels. Sports...... P 04 a New Era Rumors of a sale have been Leon’s is famous as one of the city’s circulating for several months after the best cruise bars. Old timers recall the days Beyond the Beltway...... P 08, 09 Leon’s, a city landmark with death of former owner Bob Davies. Davies when it seemed the entire gay community an international reputation purchased the popular watering hole and was milling outside the bar after it closed Theatre Listings...... P 12, 13 attached restaurant (Tyson’s Place) in at 2 a.m. For many men it was the best may be getting new owners 1974. Located at the corner of Park Ave place and last chance to pick-up a guy Film...... P 14 and Tyson Street, Leon’s has always before heading home. By Mike Chase Real Estate Today...... P 26 welcomed the lgbt community. In addition -- continued on page 30 Photos...... P 17, 28  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com OUTspoken Publisher Mike Chase [email protected] Executive Editor Jim Becker Where’s the Passion? [email protected] Sales Small Lobby Day turnout signals possible declining interest Mary Taylor, Director [email protected] By Steve Charing Senior Political Correspondent Senior Political Anaylst Steve Charing Leather Editor On a balmy February crowd is the prevailing lack of interest into the Join the Impact network? Rodney Burger 2, a crowd estimated in these issues and politics in general Equality Maryland is not solely to Writers by the Washington on the part of large segments of the lgbt blame for the lack of turnout at Lobby Jeffrey Clagett Blade to be 250 community. There are approximately Day. The director is new but capable. The Chuck Duncan assembled at Lawyers 15,000 same-sex couples throughout the organization dutifully publicized the event Rickie Green Eva Hersh MD Mall in Annapolis for a state. Add to that the tens of thousands in area lgbt papers, but it’s not their fault if Doug Ireland rally during Equality of unattached folks, family members people aren’t reading them. P.S. Lorio Maryland’s annual and other straight allies. All told, this There seems to be a persistent lack of Jim Lucio Meredith Moise Lobby Day event. This is a significant number of people to be involvement and leadership from certain Ben Ryland compares unfavorably to the previous reckoned with. And with the media present, Baltimore-based lgbt organizations to Nate Sweeney years when, according to Equality it would have made a great picture of the get the people out. Imagine if even a MIA - Alexander St. John Maryland’s figures, approximately 500 mall jammed full of lgbt activists. small percentage of Pride-goers turned Graphics attended in 2008 and nearly 1,000 did so But they didn’t show up. As is the case up at Annapolis. Imagine the impression Hannah-Love Shibley, Director [email protected] in 2007. in previous Lobby Day rallies, Baltimore that would make on legislators that this Carol Baker What’s going on? City, which comprises the largest number community is vast and they care. The Bryan Sullivan There are a number of factors that may of lgbt people in Maryland, was woefully lawmakers may pay more attention. Photographers have contributed to the paltry attendance. underrepresented. The areas of Charles Clearly, Equality Maryland will have to Skip Koritzer For one thing, Equality Maryland’s Village, Bolton Hill and Mount Vernon— recognize that there are varying degrees Harry Lowinger legislative agenda is not as ambitious as strong gay population centers—never of interest within the community and that National Advertising in previous sessions. Realizing that same- seem to turn out in large numbers. In fact, stronger efforts are needed to spark Rivendell Media sex marriage cannot pass during this the majority of Lobby Day attendees hail more enthusiasm. Attempts to obtain a 908-232-2021 session, there will not be a full-throated from Montgomery, Prince George’s and comment from Equality Maryland’s Kate Web Services push for the legislation. Howard Counties. Runyon were unsuccessful. Drew Saine [email protected] Instead, the goal is to work with One would think that the devastating Those who did attend enjoyed the Distribution/Circulation legislators to increase sponsorship of the passage of Proposition 8 in California speech made by Bishop Gene Robinson. Jay Loane Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage would spur on more people to rally and But there was criticism levied at the [email protected] Protection Act this year, according to meet with their respective delegates and speakers’ not being visible because there statements made by new Equality Maryland senators. Apparently that did not happen was no riser or stage. And the sound Baltimore OUTloud Executive Director Kate Runyon. In in Annapolis this year—at least not with system was not up to par. P.O. Box 3640 addition, the organization will be pursuing the numbers that would impress those Logistical issues have plagued Lobby Baltimore, MD 21214 410-244-6780 once again passage of the Gender Identity persuadable legislators. Day rallies in the past and may have www.baltimoreoutloud.com and Expression Anti-Discrimination Act as Weather cannot be used as an excuse tamped down attendance. These are well as other initiatives. this time around; the temperature was in technical glitches that can easily be fixed Additional Information Another factor could be a general the 50’s—fully 30 degrees warmer than at in the future. Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride decline of interest. Following the Maryland last year’s bone-chilling Lobby Day. Following the rally, the attendees split Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers’ comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: Court of Appeals ruling, which upheld the Immediately following the Prop 8 up to visit and meet with their respective [email protected]. | Pride Media offices are state’s law that restricted marriage to be debacle, nearly a thousand people, legislators. Some of these delegates and located at 1120 N. Charles Street, 4R, Baltimore, 21201. | All between one man and one woman, there mostly from the Baltimore area, managed senators were welcoming, supportive and materials appearing in this newspaper are the property of Pride was plenty of anger to go around and fire to gather outside City Hall on five days courteous. Others were plainly rude or Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. up the lgbt community as well as allies. notice in November to express their ignorant, or they simply declined to meet But lack of leadership from displeasure at Prop 8 as part of a national with their constituents. Governor Martin O’Malley on this issue Join the Impact movement. There was a When people tell their personal stories and opposition by the powerful Senate lot of passion at that event. to lawmakers and relate how the lack of President Thomas V. Mike Miller may True, it was a Saturday as opposed protections affect lgbt families, it can be have dampened the spirits of many gay to Lobby Day being on a Monday—a productive in educating these officials. and lesbian couples. These couples may work day for most—but still. It only took And a large crowd on the mall will be of the mindset that it’s a lost cause for five days by the organizers using Internet signal a strong determination to succeed. ©2009 - All Rights Reserved Chairman of the Board Jim Becker now. social networking sites to pull off such a Let’s hope we can get that passion back. President Jim Williams Another factor for the disappointing huge crowd. Did Equality Maryland tap www.SteveCharing.blogspot.com. Vice President Lee Mooney baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  News

Local Employment Deep Throats are Waiting Equality MD was for You Did you major in Journalism or Communications in college? Was English your favorite subject in high school? Do you know Targeted by State Police the complete alphabet? If so, an exciting career in news reporting may be for you. Look what it did for the Washington Post’s Woodward and Bernstein - they took down an entire in Surveillance Program Presidency. And now you can too! OUTloud is looking for people interested information on political protest groups in covering our local community. Whether you thought to be a threat to public safety, and are a seasoned veteran or a wannabe - there is a place for you at OUTloud. We need help includes EM on that list. Another reference in keeping our community up-to-date on indicates that someone contacted EM everything and anything that impacts our lives. using a fake name to obtain information From sporting events to press conferences and everything in between - you too can be an about a rally. eyewitness to history. Meet famous people, Equality Maryland also was concerned visit exotic locales, photograph scantily clothed that state police was monitoring the civil actors. It’s all here just waiting for you. rights organizations’ email lists. The Shoot us an email today at: Editor@ baltimoreoutloud.com and start your career at released information has revealed several the bottom. notations for “continued monitoring” of EM by police, although it isn’t known exactly what the police were monitoring. One note references a photograph For Advertising/Deadline Info, Please Call 410-244-6780. “on file” of former Executive Director Dan Furmansky, though whether or not a full file has been compiled on him has not yet been determined. In a press release EM’s Executive Director Kate Runyon said, “We do not believe the full extent of the spying on the lgbt community in Maryland is yet understood. I am offended and shocked that any of us associated with a reputable human rights organization would be Former Executive Director Dan Furmansky treated by our state police as potentially criminal and dangerous with absolutely Former FBI Director J. Eager Hoover was no just cause. Anyone should be free to quite comfortable spying on American advocate for anti-discrimination laws, citizens. Hoover’s files on public officials equal marriage rights, domestic partner and private citizens were both loathed and benefits, and other human rights measures feared by Hoover’s political opponents. without fear of government surveillance or Americans thought those dark days of fear that we will end up in databases.” government surveillance were behind Equality Maryland is one of many state us. Until it was revealed last year that groups lobbying for passage of the 2009 Maryland State Police was collecting data Freedom of Association and Assembly on organizations and individuals. Protection Act of 2009. The full extent of the state surveillance program hasn’t been determined yet. Last year the ACLU filed a request under the Sign up online now for free Maryland Public Information Act on behalf of Equality Maryland (EM) to determine if home delivery of OUTloud. the organization was being monitored by www.baltimoreoutloud.com state police. The request revealed that the law enforcement agency had six database entries on the organization. One memo Submit Your Events Online indicates a concerted effort to compile www.baltimoreoutloud.com  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Sports Copenhagen Plays Host SUNDAYS to Outgames 2009 HAPPY HOUR TILL MIDNIGHT 2 for 1 Rail & Domestics Rio de Janeiro, Tel Aviv and Denmark’s very own Aarhus. Game officials promise the city will be as queer and saucy as the new Outgames MONDAYS ad developed in cooperation with the Karaoke advertising agency Reputation. 9PM till 12AM From the 100-meter sprint to the Starting July 25, Copenhagen play host to 200-meter backstroke, from badminton thousands of gay men and lesbians as the to wrestling, sport is one of the main site of the 2009 Outgames. Organizers attractions at World Outgames 2009. TUESDAYS anticipate it being the largest lgbt event in Planning is underway to accommodate a GUEST BARTENDERS the city’s history. minimum of 6,500 athletes in more than Already, thousands of lesbian, gay, STOP BY BE SUPRISED! 38 disciplines and a range of workshops. bisexual and transgender (LGBT) athletes, Through close collaboration with many artists, activists and supporters have national and local sports clubs and booked their place in World Outgames’ associations which will provide the facilities WEDNESDAYS extensive program of sports, cultural and and logistical support to make World 2.50 Domestic Bottles human rights activities. And the local Outgames 2009 an open, competitive, fair community is fired up as well. and life-affirming experience for all those 8PM till 11PM Beginning with the opening ceremony involved. at City Hall square, the city center will be shaking and shimmering to the beats of THURSDAYS percussionists and live bands, DJs and OUTloud’s queer TV guide: choirs. In addition to an incredible venue www.baltimoreoutloud.com LADIES NIGHT W/BOBBIE JO of sporting events, Copenhagen’s lgbt 2 FOR 1 RAIL AND MID COCTAILS community is going all out in preparation for Outgames. Plans include picnics and Sign up online now for free barbecues, outdoor cinema and theatre, home delivery of OUTloud. circus and artistic installations and lots of FRIDAYS dancing in the streets. www.baltimoreoutloud.com DOLLAR DRAFTS Visitors can enjoy a city wide festival, 8PM TILL MIDNIGHT! aptly named OutCities. Public parks and squares will be jamming with the cultural Submit Your Events Online vibes of Antwerp, Melbourne, Mexico City, www.baltimoreoutloud.com SATURDAYS BOMBS AWAY ALL BOMBS $4.50 9PM TILL MIDNIGHT

5860 BELAIR ROAD 410.254.3785 blueparrotbar.com baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q   q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Dr. Eva Headaches, Doctors, and Other Pains By Dr. Eva Hersh

Dear Dr. Eva, This occurs at some point in the life indomethacin, half an hour before sex will like a criminal for asking for something I recently developed of about one man in a hundred, less sometimes prevent them. stronger. a severe headache often in women. These headaches are The good news is that these —In Pain and Ticked Off right at the moment an unusual form of migraine and can headaches will not put a permanent Dear Ticked, of orgasm. I thought be intensely painful. They occur most damper on your sex life. These strange I sympathize both with you and with it was a coincidence, often in men in their 30’s to 50’s. The headaches will disappear as suddenly as your doctor. One of the problems with but it happened a headaches start suddenly and continue, they started. Most people will never have doctors and dentists is that nearly all second time a week triggered by orgasm, for as long as a recurrence. of us have been overexposed to what later. These are really several months. Then, they permanently —Dr. Eva is politely referred to as “drug-seeking severe headaches; it feels like I’m having disappear. The cause of orgasmic Dear Dr. Eva, behavior” - that is, addiction to and a stroke. They are blindingly painful for headaches is unknown in most cases, Why are doctors and dentists so stingy abuse of prescription drugs. This is very the first 20 minutes, then a dull pain but they can be triggered by shifts in with pain medicine? I used to live in a much the case in Baltimore, the city lasting a few hours. Now I’m afraid to hormone levels. For this reason, when Southern state, and doctors there were where you and I live. According to the have an orgasm. What’s wrong with me? orgasmic headaches do occur in women, so much more generous. I am not an Baltimore City Health Department, this —Scared it is often around menopause. addict, have never had problems with area has an amazing 50,000 residents Several treatments can be used to Dear Scared, drugs. I just want effective relief of pain who are addicted to narcotics, both the It sounds as if you are experiencing prevent these headaches. Taking either when I have a toothache or a backache, illegal kind (heroin) and prescription the frightening phenomenon called a migraine medication of the class called and the Motrin-type drugs don’t help narcotics like Percocet and OxyContin. orgasmic headaches or coital headache. “triptans”, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex), me at all. My doctor makes me feel or taking the NSAID pain medication -- continued on page 30 baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q   q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Beyond the Beltway

Compiled by Jim Becker make life miserable, painful or even cause at the time the couple’s spokeswoman, employees and their partners. death, he added. “In the long-term they communications consultant Mary Currently, the same-sex partners of may die not of AIDS, but of a side effect: Breslauer, declined to say whether the Foreign Service Officers are considered cardiovascular, obesity and hypertension, Goodridges would divorce. The Boston members of household, not eligible family brain disease,” he said. “It’s still a very Herald broke the news of the Goodridges’ members, as are opposite-sex married important disease, and it’s not a chronic divorce Feb. 3. A clerk for Suffolk Probate partners. The distinction in status bars disease.” and Family Court said that the case, filed same-sex partners from accessing many Montagnier said it will be easier to last week, is impounded. of the rights afforded heterosexual FSOs find a cure for the disease rather than a While the Goodridges were one of and their spouses. They don’t have equal preventative vaccine, but either option is seven couples that sued the state of access to the language-training and other still a long way off. Attempts at finding a Massachusetts for the right to marry educational classes the department offers, vaccine were pushed into clinical trials far in 2001, for years they were the most nor are they given the same preferential too quickly and failed, he said. They were visible faces in the movement to win treatment for overseas employment. modeled on the way other viruses work, not marriage equality. The couple became They are also not included in the FSOs’ on HIV’s unique properties. It makes more a regular presence in the media, talking travel orders, are not part of emergency- sense to look at blasting all remnants of about the barriers faced by same-sex evacuation plans and do not have access the disease once it has taken hold, he said. couples denied recognition by the state. to certain healthcare options. Current treatments can reduce evidence of They talked regularly about the traumatic In their letter, Baldwin and her infection to nothing, but pockets of disease events surrounding the birth of their colleagues requested that Clinton rectify are hidden away and come surging back daughter Annie, now 12. Julie underwent these disparities and suggested that the Dr. Luc Montagnier if medication is stopped. An attainable a Cesarean section during which Annie inclusion of same-sex partners as eligible goal may be to attack those reservoirs, inhaled fluid and was rushed to neo-natal family members could be a viable solution HIV co-discover so that HIV becomes something that can intensive care; Hillary followed Annie, but to the problem. The letter reminded be eradicated over a fixed period of time, when she tried to get back into Julie’s Clinton that during her recent confirmation says cure efforts rather than being a lifelong problem. operating room she was denied entry hearing she said she would look into the (365Gay.com & The Canadian Press) because she was not considered family. employment disparities faced by gay trumped prevention On May 17, 2004, the first day same-sex FSOs and their partners. (Philadelphia Calgary, Canada - When Dr. Luc marriage became legal in Massachusetts, Gay News - Jen Colletta at epgn.com) Montagnier painstakingly teased out their wedding at the Unitarian Universalist the source of the new mysterious AIDS Association headquarters on Beacon DA holds syndrome in a Paris laboratory 25 years Hill became a focal point of much of the ago, the very concept of the disease local, national and international press roundtable on same sparked panic in many people. But people coverage. have become complacent and infections Since they made public their sex domestic violence are on the rise, even in many developed separation the Goodridges have largely Washington, D.C. - At least two high- countries, because they trust science will stayed out of the public spotlight. Neither profile same-sex domestic violence develop a vaccine or cure that in reality Hillary nor Julie Goodridge responded to incidents made headlines last year. In may be many years away, Montagnier interview requests from Bay Windows. (Bay April Nicole Chuminski, 25, allegedly set said Monday. “It seems that the young Windows - Ethan Jacobs at baywindows. fire to her girlfriend Anna Reisopoulos’ generation has forgotten about prevention, com & The Associated Press) South Boston home, killing her two because they think there are cures for children, ages 14 and 2. In July Sandra HIV, that it’s no big deal,” the Nobel Prize US Rep. asks Howes was arrested by police at gunpoint winner said after giving a talk in Calgary. after allegedly beating her girlfriend while “But it is, because HIV treatment is very Clinton to keep State speeding down Route 93 in her Honda heavy, has to be kept for the rest of their Hillary and Julie Goodridge Civic. Unfortunately, the resources for lives, and if they are young this is really a Dept. pledge victims of those incidents are few and far burden.” Couple in MA Walthan, MA - Openly gay U.S. Rep. between. The rush for a cure, while important, Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) called on To help remedy that situation should never overshadow the push for marriage case seek Secretary of State Hillary Clinton this week Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone prevention, said Montagnier, who shared to make good on her pledge to review held a roundtable discussion on same- the 2008 Nobel Prize in Medicine with divorce the Department of State’’s lgbt policies. sex domestic violence at Waltham District Francoise Barre-Sinoussi for identifying Boston, MA - Hillary and Julie Goodridge, Baldwin, along with Rep. Ileana Ros- Court Feb. 3, which drew a crowd of about the virus that causes AIDS. He disputes the lead plaintiffs in the landmark Lehtinen (R-Fla.) and Sens. Russ Feingold 40 local police officers, domestic violence the idea that modern medicine makes Goodridge case that led to the legalization (D-Wisc.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), issued service providers, prosecutors and victim- AIDS a controllable disease. While a of same-sex marriage, have filed for a letter to Clinton Feb. 2 requesting that witness advocates. Leone led off cocktail of drugs can keep people alive for divorce. Bay Windows first reported on she take action to address widespread the discussion, explaining that the greatest decades, the punishing side effects can the couple’s separation in 2006, although inequities faced by State Department impediments to addressing domestic baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  Beyond the Beltway

obstacle to serving victims of lgbt domestic capable of working. On the basis of the violence is the scarcity of resources. In Philly teacher psychiatric evaluation, Gliniak’s medical- particular there are very few shelters that with AIDS files bias leave benefits, also known as “wage- will accept men, and transgender people continuation benefits,” were discontinued often have great difficulty finding shelters complaint on Dec. 1, 2008, he said. He’s been that will accept them. (Bay Windows - losing about $650 weekly, due to the Philadelphia, PA - Richard N. Gliniak Ethan Jacobs at baywindows.com) discontinuation of those benefits, he said. Jr., a public-school teacher with AIDS, has Gliniak maintains that the district should filed a discrimination complaint against the have sent him to an AIDS specialist for Anti-gay rally set city’s public-school system, claiming that evaluation. He said an AIDS specialist school officials discontinued his medical- could easily determine that he’s incapable for North Carolina leave benefits because of AIDS bias. of returning to work due to chronic fatigue “They [district officials] just want to get rid and other disabling AIDS symptoms. capitol of me,” Gliniak told PGN. “They want me to (Philadelphia Gay News - Timothy Cwiek Raleigh, NC - A coalition of anti-lgbt, go back to work, which would be a set-up at epgn.com) fundamentalist churches has announced for disaster, because I’m not well enough it will hold a rally at the North Carolina to return to the classroom yet.” Gliniak, 47, These news notes have been compiled, Legislative building in support of “traditional of South Philadelphia, has been a teacher with permission, from the online version of marriage.” On March 3, churches across with the district for about seven years and the state will bring busloads of rally various newspapers and other websites. We has been on medical leave at other times thank these publications for allowing us to participants to the green park behind the during his tenure. bring you their news stories. Usually the reports Gerry Leone building where state legislators meet daily Gliniak went out on medical leave have been significantly edited and you can read for legislative work. The rally, expected to in October 2008, but later that year, the full story by going to the website following violence are “barriers to disclosure,” draw thousands, is being organized by the school officials had him evaluated by a the item. social, cultural and economic barriers that Winston-Salem-based Return America. psychiatrist, who determined that he’s dissuade or prevent victims of domestic Berean Baptist Church pastor Ron Baity violence from seeking support to escape is the organizer. their situation. “The fact of the matter is The Christian Action League and in the glbt community they have additional NC4Marriage are supporting the rally. barriers to disclosure. ... Reporting abuse, “Activist judges in Massachusetts, just that fact that someone reports an Connecticut, and California have abuse might mean someone has to out overturned their state marriage laws themself. That’s not always safe,” said because they only allowed marriage Leone. To break down barriers Leone between a man and a woman. These said his office has worked to train police judges have declared traditional marriage departments in the full spectrum of unconstitutional and ushered in same-sex domestic violence situations. ‘marriage,’ overriding the people’s wishes,” Two advocates working on lgbt Tami Fitzgerald, executive director of domestic violence issues, Peter Bottééas, NC4Marriage, said on the website of the a therapist at Fenway Health’s Violence Christian Action League. A similar rally Recovery Program (VRP) and Wayne was held in Raleigh two years ago and Thomas, an attorney working for the drew thousands. Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project For five years in a row, lgbt advocates (GMDVP), gave attendees an overview and Democratic leaders have kept the of issues facing lgbt domestic violence threat of an anti-gay, anti-family marriage victims. Bottééas said one of the most amendment at bay. North Carolina is the difficult issues facing advocates and law only state in the Southeastern U.S. without enforcement officials dealing with same- an amendment banning recognition of sex domestic violence cases is determining same-sex and lgbt relationships, although which partner is the perpetrator and which state law already forbids it. On March 24, party is the victim. lgbt citizens and straight allies will gather Thomas said GMDVP has developed at the N.C. Legislative Building to speak a tool to determine who the victim is in to lawmakers about the importance of same-sex domestic violence cases, a stopping a marriage amendment and series of questions that can be used to passing the School Violence Prevention sort out the power dynamics of an abusive Act. The lgbt lobbying day of action is relationship and determine which party organized by the statewide EqualityNC. is the batterer. Bottééas said another (Q-Notes Online at q-notes.com) 10 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com The Edge Thinking OUTloud

Child Porngraphers APR some banks charge customers is good for the recovery? Discovered in Greensburg The banking lobby may claim they need the fees and high High School interest rates because they need that revenue. But Mr. President we need that money too. You want to help us - then clamp don’t Last month six 14-17 year old high school on the money brokers. Taxpayers have given big banking billions students were arrested by the Greensburg, What About The PA police. Three girls were charged with of dollars to stay solvent – now make them help the rest us by manufacturing, disseminating or possessing requiring banks to charge realistic rates and fees. child pornography. The three boys only got And while you’re at it – make it illegal for any company to hit with possession of child pornography. All Rest of Us charge a fee in order to speak to an actual person. Honestly of the charges are felonies and each carries – if it’s so costly for banks and credit card companies to talk to q draconian sentence. So what did they do? Shared nude and their customers, then let’s use a few billion stimulus dollars to semi nude photos of themselves – at least guarantee we can talk to a real person if that corporation can the girls (which is why they faced multiple Act boldly Mr. President - America impact our credit score. charges.) It’s a sexting thing – a fetish using wants strong and inspired You want to help overextended homeowners facing text messages to send explicit photos via a foreclosure. Great! I have no problem with our Federal cell phone. Fortunately, the insanity of the whole leadership, as much as we need government guaranteeing mortgages refinanced at lower rates. thing did not escape a lot of Greensburg But why should financially-strapped homeowners be the only residents. How did the DA just make this real change. ones to benefit from this huge government handout? mess go away? The state dropped the felony What about families who rent? The ones who could of bought charges for five of the six students – who a home during the “Bush Boom Years” but decided instead to pled on lesser charge. The sixth kid? He and his mom are fighting back!! Somebody call act responsibly in managing their finances. Don’t they deserve Larry Flynt! To our representatives in Washington – Mr. President, members a chance to own a home as much as someone trying to keep of Congress, even all you lobbyists Thanks for working so theirs? Every non-homeowning American who can qualify for hard putting together a stimulus package. It seems to me, your the same government guaranteed mortgage should be treated stimulus plan provides real financial assistance to our nation’s equally as any homeowner. Mr. President – fair is fair. The corporations, small businesses, home owners and, of course, upside: credit worthy renters - could buy some of the two-plus the wealthy. But what about the rest of us? You know – those million homes in foreclosure or they could kick start new home of us who don’t own a small business or big corporation or even sales. a home. And here’s a no brainer and it won’t cost the government a Come’n folks - trickledown economics is just that – by the penny. Require credit reporting agencies to annually send every time everyone else takes a cut – there isn’t any left over for the American a copy of their credit report instead of only providing rest us. copies once a year if requested. Let’s get proactive in helping all Mr. President – grow a pair and take charge of our nation’s of us become smarter, better informed consumers. At the very recovery. least – it should reduce credit report errors. Bumper Stickers… Our government has handed big banking billions (without Mr. President. We all know the huge financial mess our even knowing what has happened to it.) Mr. President – how country is in and the challenges we face fixing years of corporate “Your National Security Letter is in the Mail” about a little relief for us. Why not do something about the corruption, government indifference and greed. At the end of the outrageous fees and interest rates banks charge. How about a day: you’re not going to fix anything – if the only ones who benefit 2003-05: Over 143,000 Americans were six-month moratorium on over limit and late fees? are the ones who created this mess in the first place. victims of the paranoid-crazed Bush You really want to help us? How about capping interest rates administration. And what did we get from all Act boldly Barack - America wants strong and inspired leadership, that surveillance? Around 40 people actually on credit cards at 18%? Do you seriously believe a 30+ percent as much as, we need real change. got charged with something.

2006-2008 – They haven’t released that number (Maybe NSA computers can’t count that high.) comment, complain, The Runs gripe, A study funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation found that many deadly grudge, third-world diseases are at the end of the or gossip: line when it comes to research and drug development funding. Way behind the big editor@ guys: HIV/AIDS 42%, malaria 18%, and TB 16%. Little guys like diarrheal got a paltry baltimoreoutloud 4.5% in 2005. Figures aren’t available for That is really strong TP! how many people survived the poops, but .com we do know 1.8 million died. baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 11

Our concentration focuses on issues Thinking OUTloud affecting your life and your rights:

Healthcare Proxy Power of Attorney Letters to the Editor Joint Purchase and Savings Agreement Estate and Tax Planning Oops Adoption and Second Parent Adoption Child Custody Editor, Guardianship I’m so disappointed and confused that you ran the propaganda from the ‘sexual Advance Health Care Directive Proudly supporting and serving reorientation change specialists’ on page 3 of your Jan. 30 issue. Surely this was Wills the LGBT community since 1988. an accident, but what an incredibly careless accident. What’s next, a regular guest Divorces and Break Ups column from Fred Phelps? Domestic Partnership Agreements I’d like to respectfully suggest that you run a front-page apology to the community. Corporate Law I was also thinking that you might want to assign one of your writers to work on a feature article about this movement and how they work. They often try to weasel into For more information please contact: existing organizations. Mark F. Scurti, Esq. A close friend of mine tells me that in an organization of men he was involved in; 410.938.8718 | 410.938.8800 they somehow got something in the front door, and then started falsely claiming that [email protected] the organization had endorsed them. Unfortunately, OutLoud has now left itself open hpklegal.com to further similar exploitation, so you might want to keep an eye on this organization’s website and other activities to monitor whether they start touting that they have been endorsed by “OUTloud, the Voice of LGBT Life in Maryland.” —Elizabeth Disney

T o w s o n C o l u m b i a B e l A i r C a m b r i d g e Thanks Elizabeth - glad you read the article, I wish I had. We had many readers ask “What the hell were we thinking?” All of us feel bad and I want to apologize to the community. In no way does this paper condone Reparative therapy to “cure homosexuality.” The harm done to people exposed to groups such as Exodus, is too high a price to pay for such a discredited therapy.

—Mike Chase, Publisher

Event Michael Bykov paints portraits for Valentines Day Saturday, February 14 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.

A special gift for a special person. Michael Bykov returns to paint portraits for Lovers and Loved ones this Valentines Day at BOI’s of New Hope. Michael has a bold style, much like Van Gogh. His portraits are done from life and take 30 to 45 minutes. Come, sit, have a glass of wine, while you have your portrait painted right in the gallery on Valentines Day. These gems are painted in oil on board. What a beautiful memory that will last a lifetime. And even if your not having your portrait painted, come to watch as others have theirs done. This will be the third time Michael has done portraits - it is always great fun! BOI’s of New Hope offers fine original paintings by local, regional, national and international artist, including many well-listed and important American artists. There is a large selection of Art Porcelain and Pottery and they have a BOI’s of New Hope Art Gallery great reputation for doing the finest creative custom framing 9 West Mechanic St in the area. New Hope, PA 18938 For additional information on the event, artists, 215-862-8292 directions, or parking sites, visit our website www. www.boisofnewhope.com BOIsofnewhope.com or contact Lonn Braender (right): [email protected] 12 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Theatre Listings

(410) 975-0200 Baltimore Theatre www.ptcshows.com Fabulation or, The Re-education of Les Liaisons Dangereuses Undine NOW- Feb. 28 Now-March 8 Colonial Players Centerstage 410.268.7373 410.332.0033 www.cplayers.com www.centerstage.org I Love a Piano The Homecoming NOW- Feb 15 Now- Feb. 15 A Delicate Balance Fells Point Corner Theatre Now - Mar. 15 410.276.7634 Arena Player’s www.fpct.org 410-728-6500 Cloud 9 www.arenastage.org Feb 13 - Mar 8 A Lie of The Mind Spotlighters NOW - Mar. 1 410.752.1225 Rep Stage’s www.spotlighters.org 410-772-4900 Run of the Mill Theater www.repstage.org Feb. 13-22 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor There Have Been Other Men in my Dreamcoat Wife’s Bed Mar. 20 - Apr. 5 Feb. 26-Mar. 7 Infinity Theatrical Productions Theatre Project 410- 491-1472 410-752-8558 infinitytheatrical.com www.theatreproject.org I Am My Own Wife DC Theater Now – Feb. 22 Everyman Theatre Hell Meets Henry Halfway 410.752.2208 Now - Mar. 1 www.everymantheatre.org Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company 202-393-3939 Grease www.woollymammoth.net Now- Feb. 15 Dora the Explorer Live The Seafarer Feb 25 - 28 Now - Feb. 22 Hippodrome Theatre The Receptionist 410-837-7400 Feb. 25 - Mar. 22 www.france-merrickpac.com The Studio Theatre 202-332-3300 An Evening With the Temptations & www.studiotheatre.org Four Tops Feb.28 The Dog in the Manger An Evening With the Celtic Tenors Now - Mar 29 Mar.7 Shakespeare Theatre Company The Lyric Sidney Harman Hall 410-547-SEAT 202.547.1122 www.lyricoperahouse.com www.shakespearetheatre.org The Gin Game The Accident Feb. 20 - Mar. 28 Now - Mar. 8 The Bay Theatre Company THEATER J 410-268-1333 (202) 518-9400. www.baytheatre.org www.washingtondcjcc.org A Man for All Seasons Marisol April 24 - May 2 Mar.14–Apr. 5, 2009 Pasadena Theatre Company H Street Playhouse baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 13 Theatre Listings

Forum Theatre EVITA 202-544-0703 NOW - Mar. 15 www.forumtheatredc.org Way Off Broadway Dinner TheatreOff Broadway Dinner T Les Misérables NOW - Feb. 22 (301) 662-6600. Signature Theatre’s www.wayoffbroadway.com 703- 820-9771 Nunsense II www.sig-online.org NOW- Apr. 26 Riverside Dinner Theatre Dinner Theatre (540) 370-4300 www.rsdinnertheater.com Dial M for Murder Oscar and Felix NOW thru Mar. 15 NOW - Apr. 25 Lorenzo’s Timonium Dinner Theatre. Rainbow Dinner Theatre 410-560-1113 717.687.4300 www.timoniumdinnertheatre.com www.rainbowdinnertheatre.com Phantom of the Opera I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now NOW - March Change Oregon Ridge Dinner Theatre Now - Feb.21 410-771-8427 The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre www.baltimoreactorstheatre.org 717-898-1900. Mid-Life, the CRISIS Musical www.dutchapple.com NOW-Mar 8 The Blair Mansion Inn Toby’s Columbia Mansion Mysteries 410-995-1969 301.588.1688 Sophisticated Ladies www.blairmansion.com NOW- Mar. 15 Toby’s Baltimore Childrens Theatre 410-649-1660 www.tobysdinnertheatre.com Rapunzel NOW - Apr. 25 Medieval Times Dinner and Tourament Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre Off 1-888-WE-JOUST (1-888-935-6878) Broadway www.medievaltimes.com (301) 662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com Witness for the Prosecution NOW- Mar. 16 Honk! Junior Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre NOW - Feb. 28Riverside Dinner Theatre (703) 550-7384 (540) 370-4300 www.lazysusan.com www.rsdinnertheater.com 14 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com On the Screen 80s Flashback: Return of the Masked Killers By Chuck Duncan If you were around in the 80s and went today, the original F13 still packs a punch If you remember the original, or are curious to the movies, it was pretty hard not to and the ending will still shock anyone who to check it out, Camp Crystal Lake was come across some kind of slasher film. hasn’t seen the film. The original MBV the scene of a series of murders of camp The trend really was kicked off in 1978 by is rather clunky and apparently was the counselors who were too busy letting John Carpenter’s classic Halloween, but victim of some slashing by the ratings their hormones run wild instead of paying it wasn’t until 1980 and the success of board at the time (new uncut versions of attention to a young boy in the lake. The Friday the 13th that the genre really got its both films are now available on DVD). The boy supposedly drowned and someone groove on. Friday the 13th was followed F13 purists, like the original Halloween was getting revenge. in quick succession by a sequel and other fans, don’t really feel a remake or re-boot As the camp prepares to re-open, variations on the masked killer horror or re-imagining of the original is necessary someone is still carrying out revenge for film. – and for the most part they are right. the accident that happened years earlier. One of the earliest knock-offs was The only thing good about a new Most of this is actually recapped in the My Bloody Valentine (which also started entry in the series (and this one tries to first few minutes of the new film before we another sub-genre – the holiday slasher go back to the beginning and start over, see Jason return and take out a group of film, even though Black Christmas ignoring sequels 4–10 and Freddy vs campers who don’t believe the legend is pre-dates that by several years). Well, Jason) is that Jason Voorhees gets his big true. Six weeks later, the brother (Jared everything old is new again with the return to the silver screen after a series Padalecki) of one of the missing campers release on Friday, February 13 of the new of simply terrible films, most notoriously is searching for his sister because the Friday the 13th re-boot and last month’s Jason X which placed him in outer space police have dropped the case due to release of My Bloody Valentine 3D which in the future! Manhattan was bad enough, is simply a remake of the original. Seen but on a space ship? Ridiculous! -- continued on page 30 baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 15 Church Directory

We Welcome Grace United Methodist Church GLBT Families A Welcoming Congregation with Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors and Friends Join us for the Lent and Easter Season beginning with to the Life and Ash Wednesday, February 25th - Communion Services 7:30 AM, 12:00 Noon, 7:30 PM Ministry of the Remaining Wednesdays of Lent through April 1st, 7:30 AM Communion Church followed by breakfast Palm Passion Sunday, April 5th, 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM Worship followed by Children’s Easter Egg Hunt Holy Week: Holy Thursday Services April 9th at 7:30 AM, 12 Noon, and 7:30 PM Good Friday Service: 12 Noon Easter Sunday April 12th 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM Worship Grace Church 5407 N. Charles St.~ Baltimore, MD 21210 at Northern Pkwy 410-433-6650 ~ www.graceunitedmethodict.org

Gay?Gay? Lesbian?Lesbian? Catholic?Catholic? Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis MMANUEL We are a Welcoming Congregation, All Are Welcome E We welcome and celebrate the lives of bisexual, EPISCOPAL CHURCH gay, lesbian, and transgender people. St. Bernadette An active, welcoming, progressive parish Worship service: 9 and 11am Roman Catholic in the heart of Mt. Vernon! Rev. Dr. Fredric Muir, Pastor Church Francoise Ateto, Director of Religion Education SUNDAYS: 333 Dubois Road - Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 266-8044 Our Weekend Mass Schedule: 8:30 a.m. Eucharist (spoken) SATURDAY 10:30 a.m. Morning Prayer (organ & choir) 5:30 p.m. - Church Beth El Congregation SUNDAY Beautiful music, soaring architecture, 9:00 a.m.,10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. - Church insightful preaching, active outreach. An open, progressive USCJ synagogue. Contact Ann McDonald, Pastoral Association Catch the spirit of Emmanuel! 410-969-2785 8101 Park Heights Avenue 801 Stevenson Road - Severn, MD 21144-2299 CATHEDRAL & READ STREETS Baltimore, MD 21208 410-969-2783 Mt. Vernon Historic District  ‡www.bethelbalto.com www.stbernadette.org 410.685.1130*www.emmanueldowntown.org “This is your synagogue.”

The Baltimore Ethical Society Diversity Humanism Community Equality Sunday Meetings - 10:30 a.m.

COMMITMENT CEREMONIES & WEDDINGS 306 W. Franklin St. Ste.102 410-581-2322 www.BaltimoreEthicalSociety.org

We don’t debate, or simply tolerate; We celebrate your sexuality and spirituality! Metropolitan Community Church of Baltimore Sundays 9 AM Traditional Celebration 10 AM Hospitality Time - Community 11 AM Praise Celebration & Family Service 401 West Monument St. - Baltimore 410-NOW-MCCb www.mccbaltimore.org mccbaltimore.aol.com 16 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Travel ‘Boys Will Be Boys’ on Sizzling Atlantis Cruise By Steve Charing After experiencing two straight cruises, Andy Bell, the front man for the 80’s group my partner and I decided to try a “gay Erasure. cruise” and signed up with the folks at Gay and lesbian comics were all over Atlantis. Chartering the Royal Caribbean’s the cruise. Ugly Betty’s Alec Mapa was “Freedom of the Seas”—currently outstanding. So was Comedy Central’s the largest cruise ship of all—Atlantis John David. Lesbian comic Poppy managed to jam some 3,600 passengers Champlin was polished and funny as all to sail for a week at the end of January hell. The venerable Miss Richfield 1981 that departed from Miami and covered the was her usual crazy self. ports-of-call of Labadee (Haiti), San Juan The ridiculously gorgeous TV and St. Maarten. personality Scott Nevins superbly With a handful of exceptions, the entertained with comedy, impressions passengers were all gay men, representing and song. He even had the chutzpah to a vast array of ages, body types, and trash Streisand as part of his act—on a personalities, and they hailed from all gay cruise no less! over the U.S. and 24 foreign countries. Two cute newcomers—the VGL Boys Most were couples, but in many cases you (Jeff Self and Cole Escola) tried their acts would not know it. out. They had been billed as 21 year- The alleged incidents of sexual olds, so predictably the youth-obsessed liaisons on the ship’s top deck in the wee passengers packed the cabaret room to hours of the morning and the “popularity” see them, even though the duo had no of the steam room adjacent to the gym heretofore-known track record. made for colorful gossip and chatter. As a And then there was the ageless way of reinforcement, these activities were can routinely enter the ship’s expansive board. To say the costumes were amazing Charro who amazed everyone with her acknowledged and made light of by the two gym and use the workout equipment is like saying the ocean is wet. And the talent and endurance. hilarious cruise directors and entertainers. without any delays. On this gay cruise, soiree lasted until 11 the next morning There were wonderful magic acts In fact, most of the comedians on board you’d almost have to make reservations (from what I was told!). and piano and other musical performers. included this phenomenon as part of their just to enter it with so many gym bods on In all of these parties, the guest But my favorite of these was Matt Yee, material. board. Indeed, it was fairly crowded even DJ’s were spectacular and kept the ship a muumuu-clad, frenetic, exceptionally Those who are still trying to secure at 7 in the morning! throbbing throughout the nights. Drinks talented piano player/singer/comic whose marriage equality may feel discouraged On a straight cruise there will be flowed. Glistening bodies on display and audience resembled a cult. The Honolulu by the fact that “boys will be boys” and daily or nighttime dances and parties on gyrating to the relentless beats heard resident was the cult leader. Yee led them wonder if gay men seriously want to make the pool deck. And they can be fun. But through the superb sound system. in frequent toasts, ordered the audience a lifelong commitment through marriage. please…do NOT attempt to compare them Another distinction between a straight to denounce talkers in the group with Putting that aside, the differences with these events on a gay cruise. OMG! cruise and this one was the fact that upon expletives, and repeated the mantra over between a gay cruise and a straight cruise The “Dog Tag” party was smoking embarking the ship at the outset, there and over: “Asian men are huge!” are as stark as say, being gay or straight. hot. You want gays in the military? Well was a drug-sniffing dog checking out each Straight cruises also provide For example, on a straight cruise, a hot here they were in their olive-colored garb passenger. Some 20 were unfortunately outstanding entertainment, but with gay body on a man might be one in which with lots of flesh displayed. There was caught and were arrested. Not only did cruises there is a clear knowledge of his belly doesn’t protrude through his also a disco party with imaginative and they have to spend a night in a Miami jail the audience, and they target their acts beater. On this cruise, there were several colorful costumes to reflect the era. An facing possession charges; they lost their accordingly. They definitely speak to the hundred who seemed to fall off the pages undersea party took place in the indoor investment in the cruise. Ouch! choir. And of course, both types of cruises of fitness magazines and materialized ice rink (that’s right, an ice rink) where it From what I heard the Atlantis offer abundant and tasteful food. into passengers. A large number of these was so crowded and shirtless you were organization filed a complaint with Royal But the gay cruise has the bodies, the donned Speedos sporting their own eventually doused by the sweat of all the Caribbean for “profiling” gay men. We’ll attitude, the parties and the campiness version of a stimulus package. men around. have to see where that goes. that will not be found on your bread and I haven’t seen so many six packs And the crème de la crème of all On a straight cruise, you won’t butter straight cruises. since my last visit to a liquor store. And not parties: the notorious “White Party”—billed normally see a thousand or more shrieking All three of my cruises have been all of them were in their twenties. There as the largest such event in the world. By men jumping to their feet applauding the arranged by Cruise Planners (see ad were plenty of hard, ripped bodies shown the look of the exceptional and creative performances of a multiple Tony award under Professional Services). off by men in their 40’s 50’s and yes, even white costumes (well, a lot were just clad winner as they did when Patty Lupone 60’s, so take note. in tighty whities or less), one would think (“Evita,” “Gypsy”) gave a surprise concert. Submit Your Events Online To that point, on a straight cruise one every big-name fashion designer was on There was also a concert by openly gay www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 17 grand central o p p i h

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Dining Out in Charm City baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 21

Dining Out in Charm City 22 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com

First In Customer Service... ANNE E. PALRANG Branch Manager and Licensed Mortgage Officer

1402 York Road - Suite 300 Lutherville, Maryland 21093 410-832-2600 p / 410-832-5954 f / 410-336-2667 m [email protected] www.gofirsthome.com

DAVE KNIGHT Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Roland Park Cross Keys Village of Cross Keys ~ 38 Village Square Baltimore, MD 21210 410.235.4100 (office) 410.235.2230 (fax) 443.980.1666 (cell) [email protected] (email) cbmove.com/david.knight (website)

Expect More from Coldwell Banker baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 23

Realtors 1 VILAGE SQUARE, STE.131 BALTIMORE, MD 21210 OFFICE: 410.323.6000 ext 114 CELL: 410.960.8005 FAX: 410.323.0016 Leitner Winstead 24 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Expressions Redefining Diva By Mark Towlande Continued from cover

OUTloud: How is club music today different than five years ago? Sylvia Tosun: There are so many sub-genres now. Electro, progressive, minimal… I can go on and on. Dance music is in a constant state of evolution and that’s a beautiful thing. Debby Holiday: I would agree with that. Club music has grown beyond ladies shouting anthems. There are more varying styles now. OUTloud: What has encouraged that change? ST: Very simple... the DJ. DH: Certainly, the DJs have encouraged feeling is that the success of one of us is the change. They are the leaders of the the success of all of us. dance floor. But I also think clubbers have DH: Well, first of all, I adore both Tracy a say too. They inspire the DJs to make and Brett and I say ‘right on’ to them for change. growing their empires. They should be branching out. It’s part of living a full life OUTloud: lot has been written about to continue stretching our boundaries. But the diminished influence of today’s they’re still a huge part of the dance scene. DJs. Many dance enthusiasts believe Tracy’s remix of my track, “Joyful Sound”, DJs no longer hold the power they is flat-out kick ass! And Brett, he is doing once held. an amazing job with Masterbeat.com and DH: I couldn’t disagree more. I am will continue to influence the dance music inspired by the DJs that are rocking our world. dance floors right now. I love them for what they’re doing. They are keeping OUTloud: How does your music dance music alive. compare to the music being played? ST: DJs are our first source to hear new DH: I’m a songwriter, so lyrics are definitely and cutting-edge music. With the internet important to me! I think I may have more and satellite radio, it’s easier than ever lyrics in my songs than most dance tracks to keep up with the DJs and their current typically have. favorites. You can log onto Masterbeat. ST: Based on the reaction we are getting com and check out their complete playlists. from the UK market, my tracks seem All true dance fans should keep up with to be fitting in well with what is being what they’re favorite DJs are promoting. played on the dance floor. The Adam K & Soha remix of “Underlying Feeling”, in OUTloud: How do you feel about the particular, seems to be connecting since trend of super DJs leaving the booth? its progressive sound is one of the most Tracy Young is beginning a clothing popular sounds in the international dance line. Brett Henrichsen has launched the scene right now. online music retail store Masterbeat. DH: One major thing Sylvia and I have in com. common is our music tends to focus on ST: There is always new and rising talent. positivism and strength. I think these two I think it’s great and healthy for DJs such elements are important on today’s dance as Tracy and Brett to be branching out into new entrepreneurial endeavors. My -- continued on page 31 baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 25

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American Cuisine Indian Cuisine Home Style Meat Loaf Chicken Tikka Masala Fresh Roast Turkey Breast Lamb Vindaloo Chicken Pot Pie Tandoori Salmon 26 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Real Estate Today Home Shopping in the Off Season By Wayne Curtis Home shopping traditionally has two main The best agents will have great answers to these questions and selling seasons: Spring and Fall. Most people make you feel comfortable, as well as excited to move forward. think of strolling through neighborhoods with Hire one of them to work for you! the tulips or the changing leaves, because 3. Don’t just rely on the internet to find a home. that’s when the weather is most pleasant for While the internet is a great tool for sifting through the large being outside and exploring neighborhoods. number of properties currently on the market, there’s only so But if you are truly interested in finding a much you can learn from pictures. A recent Baltimore Sun article good home value, avoiding multiple offer published the statistic that 52% of homebuyers “rarely, if ever” situations, and taking advantage of the lack go to an Open House. While you might learn you do not like a of demand in off times, then consider getting out there now and particular listing by walking into it on a Sunday afternoon, you starting your home search. will also learn things about the neighborhood, and how most The Slowest Time of the Bad Market of the homes in that area were constructed, which will tell you February can be one of the slowest months of the year for real whether or not you want to spend your time on any others in that estate: its cold can be snowy, and people tend to stay indoors neighborhood. That’s a lot of time-saving knowledge you gained rather than braving the elements to traipse in and out of other from a small investment. peoples’ houses. The post-holiday financial hangover is setting Make sure the agent who is running the Open House knows in as those credit card bills start to reflect gift purchases and that you’ve found your buyer’s agent of choice, especially if party expenses. Sellers are beginning to worry they will not have your agent cannot accompany you that day. Cold weather Open another showing on their house until April. Houses can be poorly attended, so use the time to get a feel for All of this can work in the favor of a home buyer, especially a property as if you were on a private showing set up by your a first time homebuyer. Here are some tips for making the slow Realtor. This is a great time for you to prioritize what you do and season work for you. do not want in a home, so take advantage of it. Open Houses generally do not succeed in pairing up a home 1. Start talking to the Mortgage Officer now. Despite what you hear in the news headlines and on the talk with that home’s new owner. So, don’t expect that you’ll fall in love channels, people are getting loans. Real estate sales were up in with one of these Sunday afternoon diversions. But, if you take December, and credit is beginning to thaw, but it will take longer the time to go out and explore the Open Houses you will start than in the past. Get started shopping for the loan before you conversations, gain first-hand experiences, get comfortable with start shopping for the house. When you have your loan in place, what your money will and will not buy, and make yourself much you will also know how much house you can afford, and you more prepared to recognize the home you want when you do can focus on that segment of the market. There’s talk in the air walk into it with your real estate agent later on. of home buyer credits, tax deductions, artificially low mortgage 4. Supply vs. Demand. rates, and sagging home prices -- what could be a better time to Demand for housing usually goes up in the spring, so if you buy?! If you stay in the home for as few as five years, it’s a good go home shopping in the slow season, the economics of the bet that we will be in a better housing market when it’s your time situation work in your favor. We have a lot of supply right now, to sell. and the real estate market is slowly working through it. You can usually negotiate a better deal in winter when supply is up and 2. Use the Internet to Find an Agent. Research the agents you hear about or see in the paper. Find demand is low. Use the cold weather to your benefit! their websites, and see who has made working with buyers a priority. When you think you have found an agent you like, set up Wayne Curtis, ABR, has been a licensed real estate professional a time to meet with them in person. Trust your instincts. Do you with Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc. since 1998. You can like the agent? Do you feel you can work with him or her during get more information about him and the real estate process, what will be a very stressful part of your life? What portion of and subscribe to his real estate blog, at his website, www. their practice is dedicated to homebuyers? What services does CharmCityRealEstate.com. Have a question you’d like answered the agent offer buyers, such as automated listing searches, etc.? in future columns? Email Wayne at charmcityrealestate@ verizon.net. baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 27 Leather Line

By Rodney Burger These dark, cold Mr. D.C.Eagle 2009 John Harris did days of winter can the same. His clothing included a t-shirt be depressing. Add which read “available” which he was quick in a partner who is to point out was being sold because it overseas and it is no longer applied! Special thanks to the even worst. After sponsors: D.C. Eagle, Plaza Artistry, The awhile watching Green Lantern, The Leather Rack, and those same old Capital Bus Crawl for a fun afternoon. movies becomes as Hope to see more Baltimore folks at next exciting as watching paint dry. Thank God year’s Scarlet’s Bake Sale. It will be the that February is also the time for some Saturday before Valentine’s Day. enjoyable leather events! Two more events this month will also The D.C. Eagle was the place to be get me over the winter blues. The weekend on February 7, as the tribe gathered for of February 13-14 is the BLADeaf 18th the 37th annual Scarlet’s Bake Sale. This Anniversary Weekend. You will want to year’s event was a benefit for GLOV (The be at the Baltimore Eagle that weekend. GLBT Anti-Violence Task Force). Even Friday night is the Club Night/Meet & with a parking nightmare outside-the D.C. Greet and on Saturday there will be S/ Auto Show at the Washington Convention M workshops starting at 11a.m., a 12:30 Center in the next block- the Eagle was p.m. luncheon ($10) and at 2 p.m. - the still packed. 1st Annual Mr. Baltimore Deaf Bear/Cub, Prior to the live auction of the cakes, 5th Annual Baltimore Deaf Leatherboy, each item was judged. This year’s judges and 17th Annual Mr./Ms. Baltimore Deaf were International Mr. Deaf Leather 2008, Leather Contest. On Saturday night at Sir Y., Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR 2008 the Baltimore Eagle there will be a victory Andy Liu, Mr. Maryland Leather 2009 party for the new Baltimore titleholders. I Rik Newton-Treadway, and Rev. David am looking forward to it! North of the MCC Church. The best club I am also looking forward to the award went to Black Rose for a cake that Mr. Club XS Leather 2009 Contest on looked like a steel ball and chain. Tim Saturday, February 28 at 8p.m., in York, Woody (Mr. D.C. Bear 2007) and partner Pa. Also don’t forget that even fourth Jim Rinefierd (Mr. Capital Pride Leather Sunday of the month Club XS presents 2008) must have been baking for days the Black, Blue, & Bears Tea Dance from and had a large number of entries. One 6 p.m.-2 a.m. There is no cover, free pool, of their cakes was a large red dress that and an on-site piercer, barber, masseuse, won the “Best Individual” award and and tattoo artist. Club XS is only an hour another of their creations had Noah’s Ark up 83 from Baltimore and well worth the on it. That extravaganza won the “most drive! Check out ClubXSYork.com for all creative award”. The D.C. boys of Leather, the details! who were also busy working the Club Bar, With fun events like these, I will get won the Director’s Award for their leather though this cold winter yet. Until then, I brotherhood themed entry. Hats off to have to go paint the living room. F.I.S.T. of Baltimore who represented our city well with their baking skills. The live auction was also lots of fun. OUTloud’s queer TV guide: There were several auctioneers including www.baltimoreoutloud.com Frank Nowicki (Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 1993) and the hilarious Destiny B. Childs (Ms. International Gay Rodeo 2007, Mr. Sign up online now for free Remington’s 2003-hell, girlfriend has way too many titles to list and is one of the home delivery of OUTloud. hardest working folks in D.C.!) In keeping www.baltimoreoutloud.com with tradition Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2009 Kip Hollar auctioned off everything he was wearing. (It took awhile. He had Submit Your Events Online more t-shirts then the GAP!) The adorable www.baltimoreoutloud.com 28 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com m r o t s

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t r o p C O C O N U T S baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 29 Expressions Talking Death: Author Chuma Whahid Rasul Brings Death to Light in New Work By Rev. Meredith Moise

was inspired by the talents of the authors liberating for me. It gave me great freedom Chuma: Death, for most, has always who wrote those novels, I realized that I and love of myself. One of the constraints been a morbid and mournful occurrence, loved words, so I would attempt to write of being black and same gender loving is so much that sometimes it’s hard for the my own stories. Then when I became a the involvement in the church. living to even discuss it. But it is real and teenager, I would fantasize about falling in Most black people are devoted to imminent. We cannot escape it, and at love, so I began writing poetry. But when I the church and the scripture of the Bible, some point it has to be embraced. In my actually fell in love and then subsequently whether or not it makes sense or not; work, I write about my journey through experienced the hurt of a breakup, I utilized whether or not it speaks of hate towards the transition of death with my mother, the expression of poetry to heal. That was their sexuality. I grew up in the Catholic my aunt, Audrey, and one of my closest when I really discovered my appreciation Church, and I couldn’t continue to listen friends named Anthony. I tell the story of for the art of poetry, and somewhere in my to a priest who told me I would go to Hell how I grew into understanding that death twenties, I started taking the aspiration of because I was homosexual. So I resigned is not necessarily a tragedy, but more so being a writer seriously. from that atmosphere. But many black a transition to an immortal existence in people stay because traditionally that is another form that still encompasses the Our culture avoids the subject of death. OUTloud: What inspires you? our culture. But I found it unacceptable, so living. My loved ones are still with me, Death is viewed from a lens of loss, Chuma: Passion. Life. Love. Pain. darkness and despair. Other cultures, Reading. Words. Emotions. They all I emancipated myself and made my exit. believe it or not, and this allows me to particularly those of the East, come inspire me. The idea that through writing Also, it seemed as if the white community embrace their deaths. Notwithstanding the to see death as a time of transition, I could either express my truths or create had a heads up on the black community sadness that still comes with the demise transmigration, and renewal of the spirit. stories around the lives I fantasize about when it came to being out of the closet, of a loved one (because I know I will still Exploring these views, author Chuma is very powerful to me. When I stop writing especially at work. So I stopped pretending grieve), the act of dying is a rebirth that we Whahid Rasul reveals his own views on for long periods of time, I start feeling as I had a girlfriend for my co-workers. I should celebrate through the healing of death in light of personal loss. The author if I am dying inside. Considering I want to would speak my lovers’ names when I time. That affect is translated in my work. would share with them the details of my reflected on his life after the passing of always feel as if I am living, the desire to OUTloud: What made you write this dinner dates, and I would feel a sense of his mother, his aunt and his friend. Going write becomes more of an incentive. book? through the pain of loss and the triumph relief after doing so. Not because of any The same reason why I wrote The OUTloud: How do you express your Chuma: of spirit, Chuma challenges the reader to reaction from them, but solely from my Affectation is the same reason why I wrote orientation through your work? explore his/her own thoughts of death, ability to be open about whom I really am. My Ancestors Traveled Them Home—self Chuma: I’m just honest about it. In my transformation and renewal. At that point, I could care less what they book, The Affectation Overcoming Shame healing. That self healing led to the desire Chuma is no stranger to the printed thought or how they reacted. and Removing The Mask, I share with to want to share that convalescence with page. He has published a coming-out My coming out was for me, and for the world how I struggled through my others who can relate. My intention is to memoir in verse called The Affectation once I didn’t feel as if who I was (black and discovery of homosexuality within myself, help them heal, as well. Overcoming Shame and Removing The homosexual) was less than. Throughout and how I triumphed at accepting it and OUTloud: What can readers expect Mask. It is a hauntingly beautiful account the years, since slavery and living in a loving myself. When I write love poems, I from you in the future? of a Black youth’s struggle to reconcile white supremacist society, blacks were refer to my lovers as “him” and “he.” Never Chuma: Well, I’m really excited about all same gender loving desire with familial brainwashed to believe white people were do I purport anything else wise. I simply the projects I’m working on. I have another expectation and religious dogma. OUTloud more powerful than them, whether those just write about me. Also, in the novel I manuscript that I will be publishing this spoke to Chuma about his views on life, white people were gay or not. So, as a am writing, I have a same gender loving year entitled When Love is Born, which is death, coming out and transformation. His black man who apprised his co-workers of character who is a poet. I took certain a collection of love poems and prose. I’m work offers each reader an opportunity to his homosexuality, I felt just as powerful, parts of myself to build that character, also writing a novel entitled When Dreams delve into loss and grief transforming these perhaps even more so powerful than they so even in fiction; I try to still express my Die, and I have a synopsis for a few stories emotions into transformation, recognition did. Although the barriers of racism and orientation in truth. that I will write subsequent to finishing this and resilience. sexism still exist, my ability to not let them novel. OUTloud: In your work, The Affectation, oppress me can best be described as “I OUTloud: How did you begin writing? Since I’m not only a writer, I’m also you talk about your coming out live my life in the light.” Chuma: When I was a child, I was always a publisher; I just started Chuma Spirit experience. How has coming out into keeping diaries and writing my feelings OUTloud: In your new book, My eBooks, which is my electronic book affected your life as a black same down. I also started reading a surfeit of Ancestors Traveled Them Home, you division to my company, Chuma Spirit gender loving man? books as a child, mostly adult novels that talk about the loss of loved ones. What Books, LLC. With the print industry Chuma: Honestly, coming out as a my mother kept around the house. As I affect does death have on the living? black same gender loving man has been How does this translate in your work? -- continued on page 31 30 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com “This health care policy change is you may be able to reach a compromise Not many people remember the Leon’s long overdue for our university system you can both be comfortable with. original MBV, so what better way to sell employees,” said University System of —Dr. Eva a new version than with the addition of -- continued from cover Maryland Chancellor William E. Kirwan. 3D? The effect works for the most part, “The University of Maryland is one of This column first appeared in OUTloud’s yet it doesn’t detract from the story by The bar started from humble only ten institutions in the 60-member April, 2008 issue. Dr. Eva Hersh is Chief simply throwing things at you. I enjoyed beginnings; in 1891 it opened as Georgia’s Association of American Universities that Medical Officer at Chase Brexton Health this film much more than F13 because Tap Room and became a speakeasy during does not offer domestic partner benefits Services. Send your comments and it has a story, it has realistic characters prohibition. By 1957 its gay character was to its faculty, and this has impacted our questions to her by email at publisher@ who aren’t all one dimensional and you firmly established. ability to recruit and retain the best talent. baltimoreoutloud.com, or by surface mail actually get to know a lot of them and you Singer is a long time Mt. Vernon Gov. O’Malley’s proposal will enable us to to Eva Hersh MD, Chase Brexton Health care if “Harry Warden” comes to kill them. businessman and other than some needed bridge this gap.” Services, 1001 Cathedral St., Baltimore, The film also gives you a few choices as to renovations is committed to seeing the Governor O’Malley’s proposed budget MD 21201 who the killer actually is and I was certain bar continue to serve the lgbt community. requires General Assembly approval by I knew who it was...and I was wrong! He told OUTloud, “I have no interest in April 13, when the legislature adjourns for The filmmakers don’t skimp on the gore changing Leon’s character.” the year. FILM effects (unlike F13 which almost all are -- continued from page 14 filmed in darkness) and they have really managed to capture the look and feel of dr. eva lack of evidence. From there, we meet a a movie made in the 80s. They also get -- continued from page 6 group of college kids who are partying at extra points for including horror film icon a lakeside cabin near the old camp, and (and John Carpenter regular) Tom Atkins as the town’s retired sheriff. If I had to Not even the most compassionate doctor before long Jason returns for another killing spree. And herein lies the problem... choose between watching either of these or dentist wants to be known as an films again, I’d have to pick My Bloody easy narcotics prescriber. Prescribing we never really get to know any of these characters to really care if they’re killed. Valentine for it’s script and cast. Sorry, too often will make a doctor a target Jason! not only for addicts, but also for drug This Friday the 13th follows the same cookie cutter approach to slasher If horror isn’t your thing, check out He’s dealers who fake painful problems to get Just Not That Into You, the new romantic prescriptions for narcotics which they film remakes as The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and The Hills Have Eyes - put comedy, set in Baltimore, with Jennifer then sell. Anyone who has practiced Aniston, Scarlet Johannson, Justin Long, in an area with a high rate of addiction a group of unlikable people together in a remote location and kill them off, but Ben Affleck, Ginnfer Goodwin and Drew has experienced this kind of fraud and Barrymore. The film is full of stereotypes manipulation, and many of us have leave at least one survivor for a sequel. The original film at least had a story and really presents the female characters had prescriptions forged under our as specific types – the needy one, the names. Besides making a doctor feel but the new one makes no attempt at developing anything except creative ways one who wants to get married, the one exploited, these events can lead to police who doesn’t trust her husband – and the investigation and loss of one’s license to to kill people, and even those aren’t that creative. I have mixed feelings about men are basically all dogs. But the film is practice. Maybe you can understand why funny and ultimately wins you over mostly these experiences and risks lead some the film – I’m glad to see Jason back, but I’m frustrated with the lack of creativity through Ginnifer Goodwin’s performance. doctors and dentists to deal with this by Drew Barrymore is in the film for about refusing to prescribe narcotics at all, or in these films – but in the end I hope it does well enough to warrant a sequel and ten minutes, and interestingly enough, her only in the most serious situations. character works for a local gay newspaper “Oh, poor doctors”, I hear you maybe the screenwriters will have to come up with something more creative to justify which resembles the one you are now o’malley saying. “You expect ME to feel sorry for reading (except with more employees and THEM when I’M the one in pain?” Well, Jason’s return once again. -- continued from cover fabulous office space). Too bad her co- you don’t have to feel sorry, but if you As for the other remake, My Bloody Valentine is actually a slightly better film workers are all flaming queens that set the understand what’s going on you will be gay movement back about 30 years. struggling to make ends meet and find able to negotiate better with your doctor than the original (although I have not seen the new, uncut version yet). This one is a Action film lovers may want to check quality, affordable care for their families.” or dentist on this issue. out Push if only for the star, Chris Evans Policies for equal compensation and It is reasonable for you to: straight remake which retains the basic story – a mining accident kills a bunch of (note – he shows a lot more skin in his benefits to public sector employees already • ask your doctor or dentist whether Fantastic Four movies than he does exists in several Maryland jurisdictions, s/he has an absolute ban on prescribing people, but it turns out one of the miners did the killing to conserve oxygen for here which is, well, none). Scratch that, including Howard and Montgomery narcotics just avoid this one altogether. The plot is Counties; the cities of Baltimore, College • explain that other pain medications himself and 20 years later the murderous miner returns to get revenge on anyone convoluted to the point of never being able Park, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Mount Rainier, have not been effective for you to figure out where it’s going (watch TV’s and Takoma Park; and the school systems • ask for, and be open to trying, connected to the original accident. In the update, Jensen Ackles (who Heroes for the same basic premise), and of Baltimore County and Prince George’s alternative treatments for pain it commits the cardinal sin of action films County. Maryland-based companies that • define the amount of pain medicine you co-stars with F13’s Jared Padalecki on TV’s Supernatural) was blamed for the by being boring! Halfway through, it felt offer domestic partner benefit include will need for the problem you are having, like two hours and I just wanted to get the Lockheed Martin, Allegheny Energy, Host and agree not to request more than that. accident that caused the mine to collapse 20 years earlier. He returns to town after heck out of the theater. Not a good sign! If Marriott, Marriott International, Sodhexo, If you show your doctor that you are you must see it, wait for the video. Allfirst Financial, Goodwill Industries requesting pain medication only for short his father’s death to sell the mine his family owned. This seems to spur killer Intl., Northrup Grumman and Gazette term pain management and that you will Submit Your Events Online Newspapers. not make ongoing requests for narcotics, Harry Warden to go on another rampage, except Harry Warden is dead and buried. www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | February 13, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 31 damn diva now. As for me, I’m happy with the principles that can be applied to keep not only overcame one of the greatest redefining diva the title I currently answer to: successful it successful. When time permits, that challenges by becoming the first African working musician. project will be borne, as well. I’m looking American president, but I truly feel that -- continued from page 24 ST: Actually, I don’t hear the word “diva” as forward to it all. spiritually, personally, and professionally much anymore. I think it’s inferred when he has an abundance of integrity. So to OUTloud: Your inspirations? Your floor. Club goers want to feel empowered. some of today’s superstars are simply come full circle, we are back at integrity, hopes for 2009? called by their first name, like Kylie, Janet, which is something I try to model my life OUTloud: Is empowerment your Chuma: Integrity is one of my biggest and Cher. I guess it would be pretty cool after. mission? What do you want people to inspirations. The definition alone inspires if someday, when people say the name My hopes for 2009 are unity, growth, take away from your songs? me to put my best foot forward when it “Sylvia”, it would naturally be assumed equality, and laughter. I hope the world ST: Music is a form of communication. comes to not betraying myself and others. Each song, for me, is a different experience. that they mean me. My partner is an inspiration because can recover sooner than expected from the profound economic deficit that the When I write, I often try to convey a OUTloud: What’s coming next for he has a story to tell about overcoming Bush administration created. I hope the personal message. “Underlying Feeling” you? obstacles and remaining steadfast and war in Iraq can end so that the troops can is about the meaning and feeling of love. ST: My label, Sea to Sun, is branching out unstoppable in the midst of them. Sonia I hope that when people experience the with releases like “Speakerbox featuring Sanchez is an inspiration because in her come home. I hope diversity and equality track, the combination of the sound and Freedom Williams” and tracks from an poetry she bleeds her suffering and her can prevail, and eliminate the repugnance of this classist and segregated world. I the lyric will trigger a reminder of what amazing DJ/producer, Hybrid Heights. celebrations with a deft rawness that hope for love—period. love feels like. Besides that, I am also working with Anton penetrates me emotionally. DH: I would love if people walked away Bass, gearing up for my first full-length Stories that impart wisdom as well as feeling happier and connected with the album release. incite me to feel something heartwarming You can view and purchase Chuma’s works at www.ChumaSpirit.com music. I love songs that give you a reason DH: I’m promoting my single, “Joyful are very inspirational to me. Affirmations, to smile and feel grateful to be alive and Sound” and gearing to release my new principles, statements of insight, folklore, strong. album proverbs—anywhere I can find the ones I can apply to my life are very inspirational OUTloud: The biggest female dance OUTloud: How will music on dance to me. Feeling healthy in every area of Sign up online now for free artist in history, Madonna, just turned floors five years from now be different my life—spiritually, physically, mentally, 50. Who will fill her shoes? than the music in clubs today? home delivery of OUTloud. emotionally, creatively, professionally, ST: There’s only one Madonna. There will DH: I could never guess that. I think we www.baltimoreoutloud.com always be only one Madonna. go in cycles: from heavier to darker to personally—is an absolute inspiration to me. Not to sound politically correct, but DH: No one will ever fill Madonna’s shoes. pop trends to electronic trends. No telling Twenty or fifty, she’s fierce. where the circle will land. Barack Obama is an inspiration to me. Submit Your Events Online Need I say why? I think it is obvious. He OUTloud: Who are some of your favorite ST: Exactly. Dance music is in a constant www.baltimoreoutloud.com female artists? state of evolution; where it stops, no one will ever know! DH: Anyone who belts it out like there’s no tomorrow. OUTloud: Will Madonna still be ST: There are a lot of cool ladies out there around? doing their thing, like Kylie and another DH: You know how they say that at the end worldwide superstar dance artist from of the world, cockroaches will somehow France that I happen to love, Mylene still be alive and survive us all? Well, Farmer. they’ll be dancing… to Madonna. OUTloud: What would a dance artist For more info, visit www.sylviatosun.com need to do to achieve the level of and www.debbyholiday.com. success Madonna has enjoyed? ST: Be original. DH: Be fearless. talking death OUTloud: Madonna is very talented but if she had come out in the 1950s, -- continued from page 29 its doubtful America would have been ready for her. Isn’t some of her success crashing and digital media taking over, due to good timing? I wanted to be on the pulse of that ST: Oprah once said, “Luck is preparation advancement in technology. I am proud meeting opportunity,” and that perspective that this year I will be publishing four other is timeless. definite books by other authors, and I will DH: Of all the artists who’ve come and be accepting fiction, non-fiction, self-help, gone, Madonna has stayed the course and novella manuscripts for consideration because she is smart, believes in herself of publishing. Also, relationships in the and knows how to work what she got. Of same gender loving community seem to course, in life, timing always plays into it, be challenging, so much that most of them but sweat and guts go a long way. fail. OUTloud: How do you feel about the My partner and I know that we have word “diva”? Isn’t it time to find a new discovered a foundation that can overcome word? those obstacles, so together we aspire to DH: Yes! Everybody and their mama is a write a book about our relationship and 32 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD February 13, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com