Ann Llewellyn McKenzie | 1925-2009

An Era Draws to Close with the Passing of Rights Pioneer Ann McKenzie

Baltimore’s community is mourning TOWSON—An hour before the planned protest by representatives of the Westboro Bap- loss of one of the city’s most vocal equal Hundreds tist Church on March 30, there was relative quiet. An occasional airplane flew overhead, rights advocates. Ann Llewellyn McKen- and the sound of the chilly wind gusts whipping through the leafless branches of the trees zie, 83, died March 27 at the Seasons that surround Towson High School briefly interrupted the serenity. Hospice in Randallstown of complications Protest Anti- The thousand or so students at the 60 year-old, brick and stone, 3-story structure from emphysema. A Baltimore attorney were still in their classes anticipating the final bell. But it was not a normal school day on and business owner for more than five this particular Monday. decades, Ms McKenzie suffered from a gay Church Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas, which is notorious for its anti-gay, anti- variety of health issues in recent years, American vitriol and led by its patriarch flame-thrower, Fred Phelps, chose Towson High yet remained an important voice for lgbt By Steve Charing -- continued on page 3 equality up until her death. More than a decade before the 1969 Stonewall riot in New York, McKenzie had already made a name for herself in the Iowa Supreme Court with the recent movement by statehous- Lambda Legal filed suit with the Polk legal community as a vocal advocate for es across the nation to advance pro- County Court in December 2005 on be- reform of the state’s discriminatory laws Grants Same-Sex Couples marriage bills shows that the tide has half of six same-sex couples and their against gay sex. At a time when many law- Right To Marry finally turned in support of the freedom children after the couples were denied yer’s refused to represent gay people, Ann to marry.” marriage licenses. provided legal representation to hundreds Des Moines, IA – A unanimous Iowa In reaching its decision, the court “Like the Iowa justices who coura- of men arrested during an era when city Supreme Court ruled on April 3 that said, “Our responsibility … is to protect geously made Iowa a legal haven for police routinely arrested on petty the state could no longer bar same-sex constitutional rights of individuals from desegregation and equality nearly a charges as a routine form of harassment. couples from marriage. Iowa is the first legislative enactments that have denied century before the federal government Born in Oxford, NC on December mid-western state to legalize same-sex those rights, even when the rights have did so and who issued pioneering deci- 18, 1925, she was the only daughter of marriage. not yet been broadly accepted, were at sions advancing the rights of women, the Clement and Ruth Llewellyn. Growing “The Iowa Supreme Court has given one time unimagined, or challenge a court today showed the world that Iowa up in Concord, NC where as a young girl an incredibly well reasoned explanation deeply ingrained practice or law viewed is again among the leaders in America’s she started working in her father’s law of- for why our constitutional principles of to be impervious to the passage of quest for justice and fairness,” said Ben fice – beginning a lifelong interest in the fairness and equality simply will not per- time.” Stone, Executive Director of the ACLU of law. Ann attended the University of North mit us to continue to deny and The case, Varnum, v. Brien, upholds Iowa. Carolina, eventually earning a law degree. gay couples the right to marry,” com- an August 2007 decision by an Iowa dis- Rabbi David Saperstein, Director of At the time of her graduation, Ann was al- mented, ACLU lgbt project director Matt trict court that it was unconstitutional the Religious Action Center of Reform ready a licensed attorney in NC, having Coles “This unanimous decision coupled to deny marriage to same-sex couples. -- continued on page 38 completed a two-year apprenticeship in -- continued on page 19  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com OUTspoken

Youth Are Showing Us the Way Publisher Mike Chase [email protected] By Steve Charing Executive Editor Jim Becker The burst of energy displayed by the young [email protected] people who participated in the protest of Sales the homophobic, Kansas-based Westboro Mary Taylor, Director Baptist Church on March 30 was breathtak- [email protected] ing. They demonstrated against the Fred Managing Editor Phelps-led hatemongers who had marked Steve Charing Towson High School for its Diversity Club Leather Editor and Gay-Straight Alliance. Phelps, himself, Rodney Burger was absent, but a handful of his family members brandishing ab- Writers surd, hate-filled slogans on their familiar placards did the deed. Jeffrey Clagett Aside from students from the targeted school, kids from oth- Chuck Duncan Rickie Green er high schools in the area as well as local colleges voiced their Eva Hersh MD opposition to hate. And they did it loud and clear. Even straight Doug Ireland “jocks” from Towson High School—a group that in years past P.S. Lorio Jim Lucio wouldn’t ordinarily be expected to join forces with the pro-lgbt Meredith Moise demonstrators—supported the cause openly. Ben Ryland While other groups participated, such as PFLAG, church or- Youth demonstrating at Prop 8 protest. Nate Sweeney ganizations and an assortment of adults bent on social justice, MIA - Alexander St. John the youth stole the show. They enthusiastically cheered at each Graphics Hannah-Love Shibley, Director passing car that honked its horn in support. They shouted down peers. [email protected] the Westboro clan on the other side of York Road. They publicly The gay element eventually played a subordinate role when Carol Baker voiced their opposition against hate and expressed their affir- other weighty matters took over, like how one of the cast mem- Bryan Sullivan mation towards love and equality. They support gay rights in all bers was facing an uncertain future as he was recalled for an- Photographers forms and did so with fervor. other tour of duty in Iraq. Skip Koritzer All told, around 300 people overwhelmed the 6 Westboro As the episodes rolled along each week, the ultimate con- Harry Lowinger crazies both in numbers and passion. flicts weren’t between gay and straight and straight and trans- National Advertising Back in November, there was a nationwide protest of the gender or even gay and ; they existed among each Rivendell Media 908-232-2021 passage of Proposition 8 in California. Locally, a thousand peo- other regardless of who they were. Gay, bisexual, transgender? ple gathered outside Baltimore’s City Hall on a rain-threatened Oh yeah, so what. Web Services Drew Saine Saturday to plea for marriage equality and express their outrage This is the attitude that is prevailing among young people [email protected] aimed at the California results. today. A straight kid may argue with a gay kid, but odds are, it Distribution/Circulation There were many adults there to be sure, and a significant has nothing to do with sexuality. Conflicts centered on sexual Jay Loane number of them were straight allies. But there were also plenty of orientation do exist, of course, but to a lesser degree. [email protected] college students who descended upon the War Memorial Plaza Of course, there still are incidents of bullying and epithets in clusters from all directions like an invading army. Waving col- like “that’s so gay” in schools. But the trend is definitely moving Baltimore OUTloud orful hand-made posters displaying pointed messages, these in a favorable direction. P.O. Box 3640, Baltimore, MD 21214 410-244-6780 youthful protestors surprised even veterans of demonstrations Politicians would be smart to take notice of these shifting www.baltimoreoutloud.com of yore with their verve and commitment. attitudes. The youth have been swelling the voter ranks and af- The center of gravity for lgbt politics and activism is steadily fecting elections. The Obama phenomenon brought more young Additional Information shifting to the youth. This is not just manifested by the increas- people into the political process than any time since the 1960’s. Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride ing number of young lgbt people who are at a faster Elected officials who experience trepidation about support- Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers’ comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent rate than in previous generations. It has been bolstered by an ing equality based on or are skittish about con- to: [email protected]. | Pride Media offices astounding number of youth who simply shrug off the existence ferring rights to same-sex couples are doing so at their peril. The are located at 1120 N. Charles Street, 4R, Baltimore, 21201. of lgbt people as no big deal. old-time attitudes are dying off. The new generation of kids—gay | All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property Although much of these changing attitudes by straight youth and straight—will show us the way and those backward-thinking of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. can be attributed to their expanding exposure to lgbt peers, the politicians the door. more welcoming culture with which these people are in tune, reinforces their beliefs. For example, the role MTV has played Steve Charing’s OUTspoken blog is at www.SteveCharing. for the past two decades in enlightening the youth of this country blogspot.com. concerning lgbt issues cannot be understated. The network’s programs routinely depict lgbt youth as or- * * * * * * * * * * dinary people with the same family, social, economic and psy- Recognizing the positive contributions of our lgbt and support- ©2009 - All Rights Reserved chological issues facing all teenagers. This season’s run of Real ive straight youth in society, Baltimore OUTloud is making a Chairman of the Board Jim Becker World was so well done, that in the show’s later episodes, it was concerted effort to reach out to young people in our area. To President Jim Williams Vice President Lee Mooney difficult to notice that the “house” included a gay man, a bisex- help accomplish that, we have added some young writers to our ual woman and a transgendered woman living with five straight -- continued on page 38 baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  news

Hundreds Protest Anti-gay School to unleash its toxic venom. In the meanwhile, counter-pro- The extremist group targeted this tests were being planned by a variety of Church school because, like so many other groups. Among those were the Central schools around the country, it has a gay- Baltimore County Democratic Club, the -- Continued from cover straight alliance or GSA. It also boasts a new Baltimore County chapter of PFLAG, diversity club, and a website that empha- Bel Air Unitarian and The Presbytery of sizes tolerance and diversity as part of the Baltimore. school’s mission statement. In addition, area schools, such as When officials at Towson High learned Towson High School, Dulaney, Carver, of the impending Westboro protest, the and Friends School, as well as Towson school sought to minimize the students’ University and Goucher College mobi- exposure to the predicted taunts and in- lized anti-hate demonstrators to protest sults shouted at them by the extremists. the Westboro demonstration. School officials prepared the students and The six weary-looking Westboro parents with a letter. Club meetings and bunch did their thing for over a half-hour. sports practices were rearranged so that They paraded along the prescribed area as many students as possible would not carrying their usual assortment of scath- exit the building at the time of the West- ing messages on sticks while under the boro demonstration. watchful eyes of the police and Silent Wit- Moreover, Baltimore County police ness—a group carrying rainbow umbrel- were in full force and did not permit any las—who also acted as a peaceful buffer. demonstration within a few blocks of the The pro-lgbt crowd on the other side school. The Westboro clan was forced to of York Road was building with each pass- protest at the intersection of York Road ing minute. Many carried hand-made signs and Hillside Avenue, so exiting students decrying hate and advocating unity and did not have to hear any rants that said love. Students from nearby Towson Uni- they are doomed to hell and other such versity, an assortment of religious groups epithets. -- continued on page 39  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news Maryland Senate Votes to PFLAG Program to Focus Eliminate Inheritance Tax on Transgender Issues On April 7, the Maryland Senate voted 28-19 to pass SB 785, which would elimi- nate the inheritance tax on jointly owned The Howard County chapter of PFLAG— primary residences for same-gender do- Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbi- mestic partners. Spouses and immediate ans and Gays—will present their next family are already exempt. general meeting, “Understanding Gen- The bill was sponsored by Democrat der Identity and Transgender People.” It Sens. Jim Robey (Howard County) and will be held on April 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Rich Madaleno (Montgomery County). the Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Republican Senator Alex X. Mooney Cradlerock Way, Columbia, MD 21045. of Frederick County was the lone legisla- All PFLAG meetings are free and open tor to speak up in opposition to the legis- to everyone. lation. Democrats Norm Stone (Baltimore The chapter will be offering a broad County), James DeGrange (Anne Arundel range of topics regarding the transgen- County), Roy Dyson (St. Mary’s County), der experience, including health and Doug Peters (Prince George’s County), social issues, insurance, post-transition C. Anthony Muse (Prince George’s Coun- concerns, as well as other topics as pre- ty), and Ulysses Currie (Prince George’s sented by Mara Drummond, a male-to- County) voted No. transgendered individual. Then a Disappointingly, Chairman Currie supportive PFLAG parent of a transgen- Mara Drummond flipped his vote, since he supported the dered youth will provide her perspective measure in committee. Sen. Alan Kittle- by discussing school, medical, counsel- man (Howard and Carroll Counties) was ing, , and general parent- of gay children. We also welcome all the lone Republican supporting the ing issues. people—gay, straight, bisexual or trans- measure. An interactive panel discussion con- gendered, as well as their families and The day before the bill was passed by sisting of a female-to-male transgen- friends. Together, we support each other, the Senate Budget and Taxation Commit- dered individual, Asa Keiswetter; the educate the broader community and ad- tee by a vote of 9-6. aforementioned parent as well as her vocate for equality. A surviving partner in a same-sex child; Juli A. Buchanan, Psy.D., a staff PFLAG is the nation’s foremost fam- couple, no matter how long they were with therapist/psychologist from Chase-Brex- ily-based organization committed to the their partner or how long they owned and ton Health Services; and Mara Drum- civil rights of gays, , bisexual shared their home together, face a 10 per mond will follow these presentations. and transgender persons. Founded in cent tax on half the home after their part- The audience will be encouraged to ask 1973 by mothers and fathers, PFLAG ner has died. questions to specific individuals on the has 200,000 members and supporters in As some in Annapolis testified, pay- panel and to the entire panel. more than 500 chapters throughout the ing this tax can eat away at life insurance This program promises to be illumi- United States. policies and affect the ability to care for nating concerning the issues surround- For more information about this children. For others, the tax may be too ing gender identity and transgenderism. meeting or the chapter, you may call 410- high to pay and their home must be sold. The mission of PFLAG-Columbia/ 290-8292, e-mail: [email protected], This bill will not be costly to the state, but Howard County is to support parents or visit www.pflagmd.org. will help families to stay in their homes. Same-sex couples in Maryland can- not legally marry, or even form a civil PW’s to Host Benefit for PFLAG parents forum, and a youth group called the Rain- union. Because of this legal disparity, se- bow Youth Alliance. Many members of the lgbt rious problems can arise, especially after PW’s Sports Bar, Howard County’s only , community from Howard County and surrounding will be hosting a benefit for PFLAG-Columbia/ areas belong to the chapter demonstrating that the death of a partner. Howard County on Saturday night, April 25. The PFLAG is not just for parents anymore. Kate Runyon, Executive Director of event, which will begin at 8:00 p.m., will be high- PW’s has a history of raising money for Equality Maryland, told OUTloud that she lighted by “Drag Bingo” with live entertainment worthy organizations. Recently, PW’s held fund- throughout the evening. raisers for Equality Maryland, Breast Cancer was encouraged by the Senate’s vote to “PFLAG is a great organization serving Research, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS move the bill forward. “We are grateful for our community,” John Cook, owner of PW’s, told foundation, and LARS—Laurel Advocacy Re- the support we received from the Senate OUTloud. “We like the idea that members of the source Services—which assists families during community look out for each other like an extend- time of need. and appreciate the fact the Senate noticed ed family.” The bar is located at 9855 Washington Blvd. the importance this bill would have on gay PFLAG-Howard County offers support, N (in a shopping center at the intersection of Rt. and lesbian couples during their time of education and advocacy to help improve the lives 1 and Whiskey Bottom Road) in Laurel. For more need,” she said. of lgbt people and their families. The chapter fea- information, call 301-498-4840 or visit PW’s web- tures monthly meetings for the general public, a site at www.pwssportsbar.com. At press time, the bill will move on to the House of Delegates for consideration. baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  news RON ZIMMERMAN REALTORS ® & ASSOCIATES New LGBTQ Group

Forms in Anne Arundel Your Independent Realtor Selected by Fox 45 As Your Combining advocacy and fun, EQUAAC hopes to make an Premier Realtor For Federal Hill and impact. Canton Making By Steve Charing Ron Zimmerman & Associates Your Realtor Servicing “Never doubt that a small group of thought- work with Equality Maryland in the near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor ful, committed citizens can change the future to develop ways to foster an advo- Communities for 30 Years world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever cacy presence. Your #1 One has.” –Margaret Mead “While advocacy is an intentionally Marketing Expert Using the anthropologist’s famous stated core component of EQUAAC’s quote as a rallying point, a new social, mission, we also seek to bring com- community and political group has been munity together through social and R R born in Anne Arundel County. Equal- networking events,” Tony points out. YOUR INDEPENDENTZ REALTOR ity Anne Arundel County or EQUAAC is “We are fun--and we mean that, too! THE FAMILY OWNED INDEPENDENT looking to attract LGBTQ folks and al- That’s why the formula we are using REALTOR FOR TWO GENERATIONS lies from the county and the surrounding to define our success is Fun+GLBTQ areas to have fun and yes, help make a Community+Action=EQUAAC!” 1234 LIGHT STREET ~ BALTIMORE, MD 21230 difference. Such fun would include regular happy 410-752-1050 ~ www.rzonline.com Following the successful model used hour socials and to enjoy community and in several legislative districts around Mary- friendship at movies, sporting events and Visit your Community at FederalHillOnline.net, land, constituents from District 30, who concerts. Already, EQUAAC volunteers your free Community Interactive Website gathered to support Equality Maryland’s are enthusiastically planning an outing in Lobby Day in February, wanted to keep in April and a food and beverage event in touch. May. “When we met in March, we dis- The fledgling group is looking to in- cussed what brought us together and crease its size with more exposure to the what we seek to cultivate, and we quickly community. “I hope that EQUAAC will have realized we seek not just more socializing, good representation and participation at but also more social justice on a county- events throughout the region during peak wide level,” said Tony, the founding mem- Pride season,” says Tony. “We will meet ber of EQUAAC and the man handling its soon to discuss plans for this summer.” Facebook presence. “Consequently, con- To get connected to EQUAAC, you sensus and commitment emerged to form can join the group through Facebook by Equality Anne Arundel County.” searching for “Equality Anne Arundel” or In addition to having been a District “EQUAAC.” 30 team captain for Equality Maryland’s Within its first week on Facebook, the Lobby Days, Tony has worked for HIV/ fan page (“EQUAAC! the official equality AIDS organizations as well as public poli- Anne Arundel County fan page”) gained cy makers in Washington, D.C., which has scores of supporters, and the number of helped prepare him to move this group participants in the EQUAAC community forward. more than doubled. EQUAAC is committed to advocacy Maybe in time it won’t be the small and awareness on public policy issues group Margaret Mead was speaking on the local, state and national level af- about. fecting LGBTQ people, their families and For more information, you may send loved-ones living and working in Anne an email to [email protected]. Arundel County. The group expects to  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news Obama appoints gay man to OPM post John Berry to oversee Federal personnel

John Berry has been selected by Presi- dent Obama to head the Office of Per- sonnel Management. In doing so, Berry becomes the highest ranking openly gay man to be appointed by the Obama ad- ministration. Berry previously served as director of the National Zoological Park. “As the human resource agency for the federal government, OPM is responsi- ble for implementing the Administration’s personnel policies,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “John Berry has an exemplary record of leadership in both the public and private sector. As Director of OPM we fully expect that he will apply federal employment poli- cies fairly and equitably to all employees, including LBGT workers.” John Berry At his confirmation hearing, Berry emphasized the need for the federal gov- ernment to adopt policies, which make their equal contributions. it competitive with the private sector. Al- Before his time at the National Zoo- though the federal government has his- logical Park, Berry was executive director torically been a leader in providing strong of the National Fish and Wildlife Founda- employee benefits, it now lags behind the tion, a congressionally chartered nonprofit private sector because its lesbian and organization dedicated to the conserva- gay employees cannot take advantage of tion of the nation’s wildlife resources. Prior the high-quality family health insurance to joining the Wildlife Foundation, Berry program and other benefits. By contrast, served as Assistant Secretary for Policy, most Fortune 500 companies now reward Management and Budget at the Interior their gay and lesbian workers equally for Department for three years. D.C. Council Votes to Recognize Marriages of Same-Sex Couples

By a 12-0 vote, the Washington, D.C. would be sent to Congress for a 30 legis- Council fully recognized marriages by les- lative day review period. bian and gay couples legally entered into The vote occurred on April 7—the in other jurisdictions. The Council also same day that Vermont’s legislature over- voted to recognize civil unions and broad rode their governor’s veto of a bill that le- domestic partnerships from outside D.C. galizes same-sex marriage in the state. A final Council vote on both bills is expect- “The D.C. Council’s votes today are ed May 5. The bills would then be sent another positive step toward equality, to Mayor Adrian Fenty and, if approved, -- continued on next page baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  news

D.C. COUNCIL -- continued from previous page coming on the same day as the historic marriage vote in the Vermont legislature,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “We look forward to the final Council votes, and urge Mayor Fenty to sign this common-sense legislation. We also hope that Congress will respect the Council’s votes and will respect the District of Columbia’s choice to provide equal recognition for couples who have legally entered into relationships in other jurisdictions.” Washington, D.C. law currently pro- vides domestic partnerships for lesbian, gay, and heterosexual couples that give access to the rights and responsibilities of marriage under D.C. law. Four states currently recognize marriage for lesbian and gay couples: Massachusetts, Con- necticut, Iowa (expected to begin April 24, 2009) and Vermont (effective September 1, 2009).

It is hoped that D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty signs the bill into law.  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news BEYOND THE BELTWAY

Compiled by Jim Becker Because there is no federal law man- Vermont Approves dating states and municipalities to report hate crimes, they are often under-report- ed. However, the Federal Bureau of Inves- tigation’s own statistics, based on volun- Same-Sex Marriage tary reporting, show that since 1991 over Legislature Overrides Governor’s Veto 100,000 offenses have been reported to the FBI, with 7,624 reported in 2007, the FBI’s most recent reporting peri- On the heels of Iowa’s historic break- od. Violent crimes based on sexual orien- through, Vermont has extended recogni- tation constituted 16.6 percent of all hate tion to same-sex couples crimes in 2007, with 1,265 reported for the By a 23-5 vote in the state Senate year. In addition, while not captured in the and 100-49 vote in the House of Rep- federal statistics, transgender Americans resentatives the Vermont legislature on too often live in fear of violence. President April 7 overrode Republican Governor Obama has said that if the bill is passed he Jim Douglas’ veto. In doing so, Ver- would sign it. The legislation passed the mont becomes the first state to approve House in 2007 but President Bush threat- same-sex marriage through the legisla- ened to veto it if it passed in the Senate. tive process. California’s legislature has (365Gay.com) twice passed similar measures that were vetoed and not enacted into law. The ity not as the result of a court order, but Vermont legislation goes into effect Sep- because it is the right thing to do.” tember 1. Vermont is the fourth state, after Reps. John Conyers “This historic vote in the Vermont Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Iowa, legislature reminds us of the incredible to extend marriage equality to commit- progress being made toward equality,” ted lesbian and gay couples. Iowa’s state Federal hate-crimes bill said Human Rights Campaign president Supreme Court unanimously ruled on Joe Solmonese in a statement. “Less April 3, 2009 that the state constitution reintroduced than five years ago, lesbian and gay guarantees lesbian and gay couples the couples began marrying in Massachu- equal right to marry. Washington, D.C. - Legislation to add setts. This is a law that will strengthen New York recognizes marriages by to the list of categories families and give meaning to the promise lesbian and gay couples legally entered covered under federal hate crime law has of equal rights for all.” The Human Rights into in another jurisdiction. California been reintroduced in Congress. The Local Campaign is the largest lgbt civil rights recognized marriage by lesbian and gay Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention organization in the U.S. couples between June and November of Act, also known as the Matthew Shepard “The struggle for equal rights is 2008, before voters approved Proposi- Hate Crimes Act for the college student never easy. I was proud to be President tion 8, which purports to amend the state who was murdered in an anti-gay hate of the Senate nine years ago when Ver- constitution to prohibit marriage equality. crime in Wyoming in October 1998, would mont created civil unions,” said Vermont The Proposition 8 vote has been chal- provide local police and sheriff’s depart- Senate President Pro Tem Peter Shum- lenged in court; a decision by the state ments with federal resources to combat lin. “Today we have overridden the Gov- Supreme Court is expected by June. hate violence. The bill was introduced with ernor’s veto. I have never felt more proud Lesbian and gay couples do not re- bipartisan support by Reps. John Conyers of Vermont as we become the first state ceive federal rights and responsibilities (D-MI) and Mark Kirk (R-IL). In addition to Eric Mohat in the country to enact marriage equal- in any state. lgbt rights groups the bill has the support of more than 300 law enforcement, civil rights, civic and religious organizations. Suit claims bullying led to The Senate is expected to introduce a bi- partisan companion bill soon. teen’s suicide Gay rights groups have been fighting to have the legislation passed for over a Mentor, OH - The parents of an Ohio decade. “Each year, thousands of Ameri- High School student say their son would cans are violently attacked just because be alive today if the school had prevented of who they are,” said Human Rights Cam- bullies from tormenting him. In a federal paign President Joe Solmonese. “These lawsuit the parents of Eric Mohat allege crimes not only harm individuals, they ter- that he regularly was called ‘gay,’ ‘fag’’ rorize entire communities. After more than ‘’ and ‘homo’ among other names a decade of delay, it’s time to provide local and that the school did nothing to prevent police and sheriffs’ departments with the it. “This harassment and bullying took the full resources of the Justice Department form of constant name-calling, teasing to address vicious hate crimes.” and verbal intimidation in one particular baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  BEYOND THE BELTWAY Our concentration focuses on issues affecting your life and your rights: class and constant pushing, shoving and City apartment. Police found his body hitting both in class and in hallways of the with dozens of stab wounds after a fellow high school,” court papers say. The law- staffer at ABC News Radio, where Weber suit names the school district, administra- worked as a freelance anchor, grew con- Healthcare Proxy tors Jacqueline A. Hoynes and Joseph cerned when he did not show up for work. Power of Attorney Spiccia, and math teacher Thomas M. Police arrested 16-year-old John Katehis Joint Purchase and Savings Agreement Horvath. All have declined comment in of Queens for the murder. He was found in Estate and Tax Planning the case. upstate New York. Adoption and Second Parent Adoption Mohat, 17 at the time, went home Paul Browne, New York Police De- Child Custody from school on March 27, 2007, put a gun partment spokesman, said Katehis had Guardianship to his head and pulled the trigger. “On the been hiding out in Middletown, N.Y., where Advance Health Care Directive Proudly supporting and serving day Eric committed suicide, one of the police apprehended him at about 11 p.m. Wills the LGBT community since 1988. students who had been harassing him March 24. Browne said police have not Divorces and Break Ups said to Eric, in front of other students and, determined a motive but that Katehis “has Domestic Partnership Agreements by information and belief, in front of de- made statements implicating himself.” Corporate Law fendant Horvath, ‘Why don’t you go home Katehis told police he answered an ad and shoot yourself? No one would miss that Weber had placed on Craigslist.com For more information please contact: you,’” the lawsuit said. requesting a partner in “rough sex.” The Mark F. Scurti, Esq. The lawsuit does not seek punitive pair met up on the night of March 20 in 410.938.8718 | 410.938.8800 damages. Instead it wants the school Brooklyn and went to Weber’s apartment, district to recognize the suicide as the where the two drank vodka and inhaled [email protected] result of and for the district cocaine together, the suspect told police. hpklegal.com to implement an anti-bullying program to Although the teen admitted to stabbing prevent other similar tragedies. The Mo- Weber, he said he “blanked out” during hats claim that three other students at the the attack. Browne said the murder took school committed suicide in 2007. A study place sometime after 6 p.m. Weber was by GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight stabbed approximately 50 times in the 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 Education Network, found that 47 percent neck, the upper torso and arms and also of junior/middle high school students iden- had defensive wounds on his hands. He tified bullying, name-calling or harass- was found in his bedroom, half-naked, ment as somewhat serious or very seri- with his feet bound together by duct tape. ous problems at their school. Additionally, ABC News Radio vice president RETAIL 69 percent of junior/middle high school Steve Jones contacted police after Weber students reported being assaulted or ha- failed to report for work the previous night THERAPY you can afford rassed in the previous year and only 41 and did not answer his home phone.”We percent said they felt very safe at school. are shocked and deeply saddened by the (365Gay.com) death of our colleague and friend George Weber. . .Our condolences and prayers go out to George’s family and friends at this very difficult time.” New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who used to host a weekly radio show on WABC to which We- ber contributed, said Weber was a con- summate professional. (Philadelphia Gay News - Jen Colletta at epgn.com) Come to the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival to relieve your stress, forget the news and interact with hundreds of caring artists. These news notes have been compiled, with permission, from the on line version of Treat yourself various newspapers and other web sites. We thank these publications for allowing Shop with friends George Weber us to bring you their news stories. Usually Sample specialty foods ƒ the reports have been significantly edited Enjoy children’s shows and you can read the full story by going to SUPPORT AMERICAN ARTISANS Leave refreshed Radio broadcaster the web site mentioned following the item. APRIL 24, 25, 26, 2009 Comments are strictly the opinions of Jim Maryland State Fairgrounds murdered after Craigslist Becker and not of Baltimore Outloud or BUY DISCOUNT Timonium, MD (EXIT 17 OFF I-83) tryst Pride Media. TICKETS ONLINE Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5 New York City, NY - George Weber, 47, SugarloafCrafts.com a radio broadcaster was murdered the OUTloud’s queer TV guide: 46("3-0"'.06/5"*/803,4 */$  weekend of March 20th in his New York www.baltimoreoutloud.com chasebrexton_outloud4.qxp 4/3/2009 2:17 PM Page 1

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TULIPS GALA SPONSORED BY: baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 11 12 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news past news Guerilla Gay Bar Baltimore

Over 525 attended the latest monthly installment of Guerilla Gay Bar Baltimore. It is a social event where members of the LGBT community and friends visit a straight bar or club. On the night of April 3, here are a few of the many who dropped in on Bourbon Street--a 3-story club downtown on Guilford Ave.

Attending from Harrisburg were (l to r) Mark Smith, Justin Bacon, Tammy Cassel, Diana Kuhns, Donald Anklam, Brent Weaver, and Jeff Clouser. Harrisburg Pride Sends Six to Interpride Conference in Philly

Six board members of the Pride Festival of with organizers from five out of the states Central PA attended the annual Northeast eight Pride Festivals in attendance”, re- Regional Pride Conference (NERP) held ports Jeff Clouser, Board President of March 13-15 in Philadelphia. NERP is a Pride Festival of Central PA. The Penn- division of Interpride, the worldwide body sylvania delegation included representa- of Pride festivals. This year’s conference tives from Pittsburg Pride, Philadelphia included workshops and training sessions Pride, Pride Festival of Central PA, Leigh on how to incorporate families, ethnic mi- Valley Pride, and New Hope Pride. Three norities, and pro-life lgbt groups into local other Pennsylvania Pride Festivals, Read- Pride celebrations. One roundtable ses- ing, Lancaster, and Northeast PA, have sion examined the connections between not yet joined the Interpride organization. faith communities and Pride celebrations. The National Liberty Museum in the Another session examined the unique historical district was the site of Satur- challenges faced by smaller Pride festi- day evening’s dinner where participants vals. Among the issues discussed were dressed in colonial attire. Conference at- marketing, financial sponsorship, traffic/ tendees where treated to a visit from Ben crowd control, and community relations. Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. More Philadelphia Pride was the host for modern entertainment was provided by this year’s NERP conference which in- Betty from the L-Word. Members of Phila- cluded organizers from most of the Pride delphia Pride emphasized the cities mar- events in the northeastern portion of keting to the lgbt tourist with the slogan the United States (Maryland to Maine). “Get your history straight and your night “Pennsylvania had good representation life gay.” baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 13 church directory

Gay?Gay? Lesbian?Lesbian? Catholic?Catholic?  Grace United Methodist Church  A Welcoming Congregation with Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors All Are Welcome  St. Bernadette  Join us for the Lent and Easter Season beginning with  Roman Catholic  Remaining Wednesdays of Lent through April 1st, 7:30 AM Church  Communion followed by breakfast  Our Weekend Mass Schedule:  Palm Passion Sunday, April 5th, 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM SATURDAY  Worship followed by Children’s Easter Egg Hunt 5:30 p.m. - Church  SUNDAY  Holy Week: Holy Thursday Services April 9th at 7:30 AM, 12 Noon, and 7:30 PM  9:00 a.m.,10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. - Church  Good Friday Service: 12 Noon Contact Ann McDonald, Pastoral Life Director   Easter Sunday April 12th 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM Worship 410-969-2785  801 Stevenson Road - Severn, MD 21144-2299 Grace Church 5407 N. Charles St.~ Baltimore, MD 21210 at Northern Pkwy 410-969-2783  410-433-6650 ~ www.graceunitedmethodict.org www.stbernadette.org 

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

We Welcome GLBT Families and Friends to the Life and Ministry of the Church

Beth El Congregation Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis We are a Welcoming Congregation, An open, progressive USCJ synagogue. We welcome and celebrate the lives of bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people. 8101 Park Heights Avenue Worship service: 9 and 11am Baltimore, MD 21208 Rev. Dr. Fredric Muir, Pastor  ‡www.bethelbalto.com Francoise Ateto, Director of Religion Education “This is your synagogue.” 333 Dubois Road - Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 266-8044

Call 410-244-6780 to list your church in the church directory. 14 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 15 16 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com letters to the editor the edge Editor: The first meeting of the law student This year, the award went to Bryan As a longtime advocate for lgbt rights, I’m group was held off campus for safety Stark, former director of the Baltimore pleased to see that the April 3 same-sex reasons in a student’s apartment. An Mayor’s Task Force for LGBT issues. Two marriage decision by the Iowa Supreme hour after the posted time only about community groups were honored as well. Court has not set off the kind of media three students was present. Slowly —Mark F. Scurti, Esq. anxiety and conservative outrage that others knocked softly on the door and Hodes, Pessin, & Katz, P.A. lgbt issues have sparked in the past. The entered. We had approximately 10 decision legalized same-sex marriage for students in total. Thus the group began. Editors note: the first time in a midwestern state. An agenda was created along with a Mark has spent the last 20 years When Massachusetts’ Goodridge v. mission and purpose. representing individuals and issues Dept. of Public Health ruling established The group’s first event was to protest of the . In recognition same-sex marriage for the first time in the military’s presence on campus of his dedicated service, the annual 2003, you couldn’t turn on the news or – we were joined by allies such as award presented by OUT Iaw has been read a paper for days without seeing a the Women’s Student Bar, Black Law renamed “The Mark F Scurti Award for discussion dominated by gay marriage. Students Assoc, and a few others. The Outstanding Contributions to the LGBT Today, thanks to four years of incredible momentum grew and the group continued Community.” work by Lambda Legal, the Iowa to group. Our next task was to have the A Bottle of Pop Supreme Court broke down another law school adopt a non discrimination Hi there, barrier in Varnum v. Brien. But this time, policy based on sexual orientation. This I stumbled upon your website while A Singapore man recently died after getting his member stuck in a pop bottle. the response is different. was met with opposition by the faculty but looking for info to share with my family According to Sin Chew Daily and China Our country stands in the midst ultimately was passed. regarding today’s Anti Phelps protest. Press, the unfortunate accident occurred of an economic crisis, our president Twenty years ago the presence of I attended this today and was pretty while he was engaging in a sexual act is overseas rebuilding and restoring out lgbt students was nonexistent at UB. horrified at their hate-agenda. Anyway, I (apparently condoms are hard to come America’s leadership in the world, and The climate and culture of the school found a little blurb about this on your site by in Singapore.) Doctors tried to pull the guy’s penis out - without success. Instead, our Congress is addressing the pressing was not welcoming. Our group, in the and then looked around and liked what I they cut off the bottle base (very carefully) issues of health care and energy. face of hostility and bigotry did not give saw. and, then apparently attempted to pull the Americans realize in this context that, up. We continued to create alliances and As someone who has a sister man thru. as important as marriage equality is for build bridges. We worked with faculty, who is gay (and in a happy, healthy Sadly, “inflammation set in causing millions of gay and lesbian Americans, administrators and students to create and committed relationship) I am quite him to be unable to urinate,” according to the China Press, he eventually died from the United States faces issues that changes in policy, class content, and passionate about this “issue”. I put heart failure. Perhaps, equally astounding deserve our attention much more. I am outreach. “issue” in quotes because it should NOT is that a 77 year-old could still get wood. optimistic that the members of the Iowa We were told by career counselors be an issue, I don’t see why people get General Assembly will agree. to remove or delete any reference to our so worked up over who someone ELSE —Winnie Stachelberg group from our resumes and applications loves. I’m also a classical singer and for employment with area law firms. I had have been in a number of opera choruses Editor: one hiring partner tell me “any reference and such and, of course, many of my I write this as I reflect upon my life and to your group on a resume would be a friends there are gay. how it has changed over the last 20. reason to throw the resume away. We are I really like the little article your site On April 1, OUT law, the University of not looking for that kind of associate.” by Marty Hoegg. Very well put. Baltimore law school lgbt student group The group has remained a viable Anyway keep the faith and keep up hosted its annual awards reception force at the law school assisting students the good work. Hopefully generations will celebrating the organization’s 20th in career placement with lgbt friendly look back on this and wonder how such anniversary. firms, fighting military discrimination, ignorance was possible, just as we do In 1989 a small group of law and maintaining a course on sexual when we look back on the days of slavery students at the law school posted orientation and the law. with disbelief. flyers announcing the formation of the At the awards ceremony a Best regards, Masturbating in May school’s first lgbt student organization in community award is given to an individual Carol an attempt to work on creating a more who has worked hard for lgbt equal Remember when masturbating was still fun? Before the internet and cybersex accepting and integrated law school rights in Maryland law. The award was - when a good rub was still a private secret experience. first presented to Judge Brooke Murdock Sign up online now for free event. Well the folks at San Fran’s Center Shortly after posting, our flyers and me three years ago. I was humbled for Sex and Culture will celebrate the hand were defaced with derogatory words, to share the spot light with the judge for home delivery of OUTloud. job on May 2 (May is Masturbation Month) ripped off of bulletin boards, shredded her work in the equal marriage case. www.baltimoreoutloud.com with a Masturbation-a-Thon. The Center believes: Masturbation is and destroyed. We didn’t give up. the safest sex, more masturbation means Replacements were quickly put back more sexual self-awareness; and it can be up. Within hours, the same wave of very educational and hot with someone destruction took place and no one was else. held accountable for their actions. This Can’t make it? Why not plan your own little party, or hire a masturbating party did not deter our group; instead we planner. recognized how vital it was to move forward. baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 17 thinking outloud the edge Will the Gays Bash the GOP Out of Existence? By Daniel Ewald

Lord knows I do my part. If you’re a Republican, you have pas- sion about the issues: abortion, stem-cells, The Patriot Act, gun control, capital gains tax, and privatization of Social Security. The GOP goes through these issues Limited Time Offer! like the latest fashions; right-wing anger The guys at Dominic Ford have taken porn for something new every season. Black 3-D! And they will send free glasses to the is the new women. Gay is the new black. first 500 fans who email them. Get yours at Black is the new black. People who pray to [email protected]. a different deity or who look foreign have always been in vogue. Sticks and Stones “Instead of dividing Beheading: Remains the preferred method in three countries, including Saudi Democrats from Arabia who at least tidy up afterwards. “Today in Saudi Arabia, the condemned Republicans, increasingly, is given tranquilizers, and after the beheading takes place, a medic takes the the issue of gay rights is head to a doctor, where he uses a gloved hand to stem the flow of blood. The head is dividing Republicans from then sewed back on, and the body taken to themselves.” be buried.” Stoning: Legal and used in five This worked well. It drew in busi- countries. nesses and religious groups, families, Michael Steele, Chairman of the Republican National Committee Electrocution: Only the U.S. still likes social conservatives and hawks. By treat- to smoke’em. ing the democratic process as a pick and choose buffet, Republicans found the “I’m not gonna jump up and down and Nowhere does the bright shining Crucifixion: Apparently Sudan and perfect stance on any issue — but they beat people upside the head about it and fracture within the GOP appear as obvi- Saudi Arabia still like that old rugged cross. built a party based on populism at the ex- tell gays that they’re wrong for wanting to ously as when the issue of gay rights is Make it three, if you count Hamas’ recent decision to bring it back to Palestine. pense of a coherent political philosophy. aspire to that, and all of that craziness… brought up. Of course, when gay and les- This may have finally caught up with the [Y]ou just can’t simply say… ‘Tomorrow bian rights are brought up in conservative party, which is no longer “conservative” in morning I’m gonna stop being gay.’ It’s circles, they aren’t really talking about you any meaningful way. The party is decay- like saying, ‘Tomorrow morning I’m gonna — we’re shorthand for a certain kind of ing from within. stop being black.’” lifestyle and worldview. Pro-lifers support the death penalty. Joining Steele, we have “intellectual For social conservatives, the anxiety Fiscal conservatives hand over no-bid conservatives” like David Frum and other over gays and lesbians stems from a fear contracts. Gun-toting libertarians want moderates like Schwarzenegger, Crist, that the country has strayed too far from mandatory school prayer. It’s a hot mess. and Huntsman Jr., who believe the party its spiritual ideal: women lovingly doting on Desperate for something, social con- must offer gay rights. their husbands, families gathering around servatives still see one glimmer of old- But for most of the party faithful, gay the dinner table and attending church ev- time social divisiveness. The country may rights aren’t something to moderate on; ery Sunday, and sex only for procreation’s be full of Obama lovers, but at least they it’s a rallying point. As Paul Jenkins writes sake. For them, “America” is a state of still hated fags. Here was an issue that on HuffPo: grace, which the nation should be striving could be used again and again to draw a “For now, Republicans seem to be to achieve. contest between the “real Americans” and settling their hopes on the usual suspects: Moderate Republicans have no such the “Democrat” party. abortion and gay people. When Steele fantasies of opulence — they want to win But, instead of dividing Democrats is deposed of his chairmanship, it will be elections and if being indebted to this il- from Republicans, increasingly, the issue because of his intemperately moderate lusion and the hate it works off of, they’re of gay rights is dividing Republicans from comments on both issues, which have willing to reformulate. These conserva- themselves. Oh the guilty pleasure I get predictably energized the party’s social tives see the writing on the wall. The most from this! It’s like binging on chocolate. conservatives.” virulent anti-gay conservatives are either And low and behold, their elected Jenkins goes on to say that Obama dead (may they rest in peace) or have Cindy Crawford head of the Republican National Commit- may stoke the flames more by being more one foot in the grave already. Americans Need I say more? tee had some nice things about gay rights. inclusive, which will set off a firestorm are, despite our many failures, a tolerant Michael Steele told GQ: within the social conservative wing. -- continued on page 38 18 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com out there

D.C. Cowboys will appear at the Hunks in Trunks Day of Silence/Night of event. Noise Set for April 17 Hot Male Bodies, Bathing APRIL 17—Spring is upon us and stu- dents are gearing up for the National Day Suits and Charity of Silence, a day dedicated to acknowl- edging the silence felt by lesbian, gay, bi- MAY 14—On May 14th, the annual RGroup sexual, transgender and ally youth across Hunks In Trunks Charity Event (hunksin- the country. The Day of Silence is a pow- trunks.net) will be sizzling. RGroup is an erful way for lgbt students and their allies Tulips Gala to Benefit Shippee explains. “The success of this Internet-based social group consisting of to stand together in visible opposition of event will allow us to assist with those out- over 1,400 lgbt folks and allies in the Bal- discrimination in all its forms. Chase Brexton of-pocket health care costs for many of timore area. In conjunction with this event, the our patients in need, whether that be cov- No “little black dresses” will be on Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network MAY 2—Spring is here, and that means ering their co-pay for a visit to their thera- this runway; just very little bathing suits (GLSEN) of Metro-Baltimore and the Chase Brexton’s annual Tulips Gala is pist at Chase Brexton or helping them pay and lots of hot guys. In its 5th year this all- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender soon upon us. On Saturday, May 2 from for a needed prescription in our pharmacy. male fashion extravaganza, features the (LGBT) Student Development Program at 7:00 p.m. to midnight, the creative black Without the proceeds from the Tulips Gala hot dancers from the DC Cowboys Dance Towson University, invite students to the tie affair will be held at the Scottish Rite many of those we serve may be forced to Company. It will be hosted once again by 2nd Annual “Night of Noise” Celebration Masonic Center, 3800 North Charles choose between staying in care or feeding Miss Tia Chambers, who will auction the and Dance on April 17, 2009 at Towson Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21218. themselves and their families.” swim suits right off these guys to benefit University. Chase Brexton Presents: Embrac- Chase Brexton Health Services, Inc. local Baltimore HIV/AIDS charities includ- The event is free and will take place ing our Roots, Growing to Serve; A Tulips is a growth oriented provider of patient- ing AIDS Action Baltimore. between 7:00 and 10:00 p.m. at the 2nd Gala will welcome guests from across centered interdisciplinary health care for In addition to one of the most fun gay floor of the Towson University Student Maryland, and feature the same great our diverse communities including those events in Baltimore all year, everyone at- Union. Parking is free for guests in the food, entertainment, dancing, live and individuals who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, tending gets a copy of the 2009 DC Cow- University Union Parking Ramp. Refresh- silent auctions that guests have come to and transgender; HIV infected and affect- boys Wet and Wild Calendar, and VIP tick- ments will be provided. expect from a Chase Brexton Presents ed; and all others who face barriers ac- et holders get to meet the models/dancers In addition to being a culmination of event. cessing quality health care. and get autographed copies of their “Mak- the National Day of Silence, the event is “As Chase Brexton watched the vol- To meet the growing needs of our ing of Wet and Wild” steamy DVD. also designed to provide lgbt youth and ume of uninsured patients that received communities, Chase Brexton now oper- The organizers promise even more faculty/staff members from across the care from us last year increase by 51% ates four sites throughout Maryland: Mt. big surprises this year than ever before. region an opportunity for networking and over the prior year, the Tulips Gala is truly Vernon Center, 1001 Cathedral Street in Get your tickets early! resource sharing with a goal of building critical in allowing us to support the needs Baltimore; Randallstown Center, 8507 The runway and show will take place connection among schools in the Metro- of the thousands of uninsured men and Liberty Road in Randallstown; Columbia at Red Maple, 930 North Charles Street, Baltimore area, GLSEN, and the LGBT women who look to us for emotional and Center, 5500 Knoll North Drive, Suite 370 Baltimore, MD 21201 on May 14th. Doors Student Development Program at Towson physical healing at such a miserable time,” in Columbia; and Easton Center, 300 Tal- open at 7:30 p.m. University. says David H. Shippee, Chase Brexton’s bot Street, Easton, Maryland. Tickets available by calling 410-997- If you don’t have a GSA at your school Chief Executive Officer. Proceeds from Tickets to the Tulips Gala cost $150 0404 or to insure you get your tickets and want help starting one, would like to the Tulips Gala will benefit the Care Fund per person. They can be obtained by call- before they sell out, go right online www. plan a Day of Silence event, planning the of Chase Brexton Health Services, provid- ing 410-752-0954 ext. 4015; by mailing a hunksintrunks.net. Day of Silence, or wish to have more in- ing quality health care to individuals and check to Chase Brexton Health Services, formation about GLSEN, please contact: families without the ability to pay. Attn: Development Department, 1001 Ca- Sign up online now for free [email protected]. You “Even those with insurance cover- thedral St., Baltimore, MD 21201; or by can also find more information at www. age are struggling now, more than ever, to purchasing online at https://secure.chase- home delivery of OUTloud. dayofsilence.org just cover their co-pays and deductibles,” brexton.org/events/2009tulips150 www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 19 people we like NEWS

Ann Llewellyn McKenzie Laura Buniff -- continued from previous page By Jay Loane her father’s law office. In a 2004 interview with OUTloud, On a windy and sunny spring day, I sat she recounted the story of her early legal down with Laura Buniff. What many do not education. She was proud to have been realize about this 20 year-old is besides the last attorney in NC to be licensed as being married for the past two years and an attorney without first earning a law having two boys (ages 2 and 3), Laura is degree. She joined the family practice in bisexual. Concord and married Herbert Greene. I first met Laura back in 2001 when I The two had one son, but eventually moved to Harford County. Full of energy separated. Ann moved to Baltimore af- as most teens are, I was taken back when ter marrying Claude Fleet McKenzie, I was told of her sexual orientation. How a young, ambitious Baltimore attorney. can anyone decide something of that mag- Both grew up in South in families steeped nitude at such a young age? It is not like in southern culture. While neither forgot Ann with husband Fleet there are bisexual teens out in the world their roots, they did leave behind them Photo: Mike Lazzara today where you can look up to them. And the common in a still segregat- living in what is described by many as the Laura (center) is flanked by sons CJ and Damien ed South. nity Church and strong supporters of the Bible Belt of Maryland, it can’t be that easy Ann called her move to Baltimore “a gay community center in its early years. either. life changing experience.” She enjoyed They moved to Seton Hill in the 1960s With that in mind, I thought I should cian’s office. “I like children.” the city’s vitality and nightlife. The couple and led the effort to restore the run- tell her story. Maybe it might help some- Though many teens have the social could often be found sharing cocktails down neighborhood. They founded the one out there, or at least let the younger network MySpace, Laura believes that with friends while enjoying a show and community association and purchased generation going through the same tri- there is a need for some type of service night out clubbing. They regularly attend- and renovated several properties in the als and tribulations as Laura has gone out there where the young people of today ed risqué shows in smaller venues that neighborhood. Often providing housing through have someone to look up to. can either go to or call when they are con- welcome gay people. It was during these for lgbt people in need at rents far below In Laura’s case, coming out to her par- fused about who they are. early years of their marriage that they market value. ents happened by mistake even though, “On MySpace I tell it like it is. I admit met Broadway actors Lynn Fontanne When the AIDS epidemic hit Bal- as she tells it, “my parents put two and two that I am bisexual and many of my friends and Alfred Lunt. The couples became timore the couple took up yet another together and figured it out on their own.” still accept me for who I am,” Laura says. friends sharing many common interests. cause - the fight for better healthcare ser- It was during her freshman year of “People need to look at themselves before In addition to a mutual appreciation of the vices for PWAs. Lynn’s became a popu- high school when Laura realized her at- they judge others.” Broadway Theater and comedy, the cou- lar spot for fundraising events to help traction to other . “It was when, I spoke with Laura’s parents, Mike ples had marriages of a similar nature. HIV/AIDS organizations and for individu- after gym class, that you had to change in and Christina, about Laura’s . They remained friends with the couple als in especially difficult circumstances. front of everyone else,” she says. Both agreed that “it doesn’t matter what until Fontanne’s death in 1972. Chosen in 1996 as the Pride Pa- “Before my prom, my girlfriend and you are, just as long as you are happy and When the McKenzie’s opened a rade’s Grand Marshal’s the couple I were doing the picture thing and I was that you respect yourself.” small gay bar in the late 1970s they walked the entire parade route sharing having so much fun, I forgot what house Though Laura is into pop and techno named it Lynn’s, in honor of the actress a well-deserved honor with just enough we were at, and just as the picture was music, her favorite group is the Pussycat and an upstairs art gallery – The Fon- flamboyance to delight the crowd. After being taken, I kissed her. My father gave Dolls. “I like all of the girls but I would re- tanne Gallery. closing their beloved Lynn’s of Baltimore out a gasp.” ally like to be with the lead singer,” she Another of Ann’s favorite entertain- in 1995, the couple continued to be regu- She further explains, “It wasn’t any- admits. ers was Ray Bourbon, a Vaudeville co- lars at drag show, contests and com- thing bad when my parents found out. The acronym for F-O-R-D (found on median who often performed in drag. munity fundraisers until Fleet’s declining They have always told me to be honest road dead) best describes her current ve- The McKenzie’s never missed a show health kept them home. After his death in with myself. In fact, my father once told hicle. She admits that she would love to when Bourbon was working in Baltimore. 2005, Ann continued to live in their Se- me that he would rather I come home have a convertible. “I really don’t look at Ann delighted in introducing friends to ton Hill townhouse and enjoying an oc- and say that I was a lesbian than to come cars since ours is not working.” Bourbon’s unapologetic and hilarious casional dinner out with friends. Like her home and say I was pregnant. Of course, If given an opportunity, Laura would routines. She had an extensive collection home which was filled with antiques and both happened!” love to live in Amsterdam. “It is party cen- of Bourbon’s stage recordings. memorabilia, Ann’s life was filled with Currently, Laura works within the tral and fun.” This coming from a person Ann’s work as a defense attorney friends, fun times and memories from a fast-food industry. “At my store, there are who, when asked where their favorite opened her eyes to the widespread life richly led. several people there that are bi[sexual] vacation spot, replied “Vacation? What’s discrimination and victimization of gay Surviving is one son, Herbert Greene too. Because of that we have so much fun that?” people. At a time when even gay people of Colonial Heights, VA, a brother Clem- when there aren’t any customers in the If you have questions about your were afraid to stand up against anti-gay ent Llewellyn, two grandsons and two restaurant.” sexuality and need someone to talk with, prejudice, Ann embraced the fight, join- great-granddaughters. A private funeral Married for two and a half years now contact The Trevor Helpline at 1-866-4- ing efforts to repeal anti-gay laws in the service was held on April 4 in Oxford, and with two children of her own, Laura U-Trevor (1-866-488-7386) 24/7. All calls Maryland’s . NC. would like one day to work in a pediatri- are confidential. Ann and Fleet were among the found- A celebration of Ann life is being ers of Baltimore’s Metropolitan Commu- planned for early May. 20 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com arts & entertainment An Interview with Tom Goss By Josh Aterovis

Tom Goss might not be a household name just yet, but he’s working on it. The indie singer-songwriter based out of Washing- ton, DC just released his latest CD, titled 46/%": “Back to Love.” As you might guess from 406/%40'-*7& the name, the album’s overarching theme is love — in all its forms, not just romantic. 1.5*--1. The eleven tracks are catchy and smart, with everything from an ode to his Lover to a touching tribute to his late grandfather, .0/%": Legacy of You. He recently made Balti- ,"3"0,& more one of the first stops on his latest tour with a concert at the Gay, Lesbian, 1.5*--.*%/*5& Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore, part of their Pride in the Arts program. 56&4%": Goss has been touring steadily to 16$,&361 promote his music. Last year, he partici- pated in the Rock the Folk Out tour with 16$,&34)054 fellow out-gay musicians Jake Walden and Stewart Lewis, which stopped in Bal- timore in December, and toured with Eric 8&%/&4%": Himan. The video for title track from his last EP, Rise even made it into rotation on %0.&45*$#055-&4 gay channel LOGO. When I caught up with Goss, he was on his way to Boston for the next stop on his tour. He was at a book café picking 5)634%": up a year’s worth of National Geographic -"%*&4/*5&8#0##*&+0 from 1962. Singer/songwiter Tom Goss '03"--/*5&-0/( Josh Aterovis: Hi Tom, congratulations on the new CD! Tom Goss: Thank you! I’m really excited points and some low points, and I just writer you continue to get better at it. My '3*%": about it. wrote about that and how it affected my first album was very much a raw album %0--"3%0.&45*$%3"'5 ability to love the people around me. — content wise and emotionally. It’s been JA: When does it officially come out? a long three years since then. I’ve grown a 1.5*--1. TG: April 7th. JA: This is your second full-length al- lot as a person. I’ve grown as an artist. If bum, with your EP “Rise” in between. you listen to “Rise,” it’s very singer-song- JA: Tell me a bit about “Back to Love.” How does “Back to Love” compare to writer based. Very heavy acoustic guitar. 4"563%": Where did the title come from? your earlier releases? This one [Back to Love] brings in a lot of $&-"5&5)&8&&,&/% TG: When I was writing this I realized that TG: When I did “Rise” and got out of the new sounds for me, a lot of electric gui- all the songs were about love, not only ro- studio, I had a newfound appreciation for tar, some different keys. It rounds out my 8*5))"11:)063 mantic love, but also love between friends Pop writing — Pop in the sense of 60’s songs and brings a new edge and depth to 1.5*--.*%/*5& and family, even love lost, which is always and 70’s music — listening to a lot of the what I’m doing. really hard. That’s where the title came Beatles, and just being so impressed with from. how they were able to take you on a roll- JA: Do you have a favorite song on the I’m pretty predictable in a lot of ways, ercoaster ride in two-and-a-half or three album? and one of the ways I’m predictable is minutes, really grab you right off the bat. TG: I have a couple favorite songs on the #&-"*330"% that’s what I’m motivated by. That’s how I When I started writing some of the content albums for different reasons. I love Back make my decisions: What will bring more for this album in early 2008, I had that in to Arkansas. In many ways, that’s the #"-5*.03& .% love into my life? That sounds kind of lame mind, catching you right off the bat. There most poetic song I’ve ever written, as far  to say out loud, but at the end of the day, are songs that I wrote like Take Me On as the lyrics. It’s very poetic and beauti- it’s true. or Forty Years that are really slick, really ful. Sometimes We Fall and the final track, #-6&1"3305#"3$0. It was a long year for me, but at the poppy. Legacy of You, are two of my favorite same time it was good. I had some high Hopefully, as you progress as a song- -- continued on page 38 baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 21 on the stage

CROWNS Returns to DC By Ben Ryland

The gospel-themed musical, CROWNS, Into this mix is a street kid from Brook- has just opened its 4th production by lyn, sent to live with grandmother in this Arena Stage in Washington for a short sleepy southern town after her brother is run through April 26th. Mixing traditional killed on the streets. There she is exposed hymns with new songs by Michael Cun- to the African tradition of women wearing ningham and Craig Marberry, this time the crowns; “can’t go to see the king in his show is being staged in the majestic Lin- house on Sundays without your hat.” coln Theatre in the neo-trendy neighbor- She is taught ‘hat-etude’ explaining hood of U Street NW. the reasoning behind collecting hats- how Basically without a plot the show is they dip, bob and sway in church, and like a structural mess if you require theatrical china are passed down to the next gen- entertainments to have a narrative; here eration. The men don’t get it, but give in to you have plot points and heartfelt stories keep their women happy. Sometimes un- to move the evening along. Much like a der threat! Don’t mess with these ladies. church service the pivotal role is the Rev- Beautifully sung and performed erend (as well as other roles) performed (sometimes rattling the roof of the Lincoln by the lone man in the cast of seven. Theatre) it’s not difficult to understand the Phillip Boykin, new to the show, has popularity of this work. And at 90 minutes a powerful singing voice surely touched the running time is perfect to sustain its by God and is the best actor on the stage vision without a beginning-middle-conclu- in an ensemble where there are no weak sion style of a narrative plot. performances. The women lead by Center This run of CROWNS is short so don’t Stage and Arena Stage favorite, E. Faye delay, but be aware the parking around U Butler and Marva Hicks knock the audi- Street is tough. Go early and enjoy a nice ence out of their seats earning ovation meal at one of the myriad restaurants in- after ovation for their vocal pyrotechnics. cluding the famous Ben’s Chilli Bowl right Natasha Yvette Williams, Kara-Tameika next door. Watkins, Mary Millben and newcomer Zur- in Vallaneua (in her professional debut) CROWNS – produced by Arena Stage at tell the stories through dialog and song of the Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street. DC their elaborate hats, which encompassed Now until April 26th | Tickets and direc- their actual life stories. tions at- www.arenastage.org 22 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com on the stage listings Baltimore 410.268.7373 An Interview with Veteran Dancer Www.cplayers.com Souvenir Crowns Apr. 24 - May 24 At The Lincoln Theatre Centerstage Mar. 27 - Apr. 26 Steven Sofia Touring in CHICAGO 410.332.0033 Maureen Mcgovern Www.centerstage.org In A Long And Wind- By Ben Ryland and Lori Fortuna ing Road Bug In Crystal City Steven Sofia is currently touring in the Na- he is incredibly talented at what he does. April 17 - May 3 Mar. 27 - Apr 12 Fells Point Corner Arena Player’s tional company of CHICAGO, a show that It was definitely the beginning of his ca- Theatre he feels has been very good to him over reer as well; it was the show that set him 410-728-6500 410.276.7634 Www.arenastage.org the years. Now in DC at the National The- up and others who have gone on to suc- Www.fpct.org atre the show opens at the Lyric Theatre cessful careers. Walter Bobbie was in that God’s Ear Sweeney Todd Opens Apr. 1 in Baltimore for a two night engagement- show and then directed CHICAGO. It was Mar 20 - Apr 19 April 21st & 22nd. Baltimore OUTloud a launching pad for many and it’s special Rep Stage’s Spotlighters 410-772-4900 spoke to him by phone at his apartment for me since it was my first Broadway 410.752.1225 Www.repstage.org during a week off in early March. show. Www.spotlighters.org I Hate Hamlet The Mechanical Apr. 17 – May 17 OUTloud: Since you are touring all over OL: What is in the future for you? Sunrize On The Vagabond Players the country where is home? SS: As far as that is concerned, I am older Highway Mechanical 410-563-9135 April 17 -18 Steven Sofia: New York City, I was born and I am transitioning. I have been on the Www.vagabondplayers. Theatre Project there. I grew up in the city and my mom faculty at NYC and I teach in a dance stu- org liked theatre, we used to go a lot so it was dio called STEPS. I have been working on 410-752-8558 Ages Of Man something I was introduced to at a young those skills and I have been directing at Www.theatreproject.org Now - Apr.11 The Cherry Orchard age. As I got older it was something I knew NYU. I choreographed the Andy Williams Performance Workshop Now - Apr 26 that I wanted to pursue. float last year for the Macy’s Thanksgiv- Theatre Everyman Theatre ing parade. So I have been pushing in 410.659.7830 410.752.2208 OL: Do you enjoy working in the musi- that direction- teaching, education and Www. Performancework- Www.everymantheatre. choreography. As you get older you can’t shoptheatre.org cal CHICAGO? org SS: Absolutely. I have worked with CHI- dance forever. Going into choreography Godspell A Bronx Tale CAGO off and on since ’98. I have done and teaching is definitely a nice transition Mar. 27 - Apr. 19 Apr. 14 - Apr. 26 all the tours I’ve done the Broadway com- for what I do. I’ve had eleven students on Laurel Mill Playhouse Hippodrome Theatre 301-617-9906 pany and it’s been very good to me. I’ve Broadway in Jersey Boys, Hairspray, Cur- 410-837-7400 Www.laurelmillplay- stayed for a year then gone away to do tains and Spamalot. I like passing on the Www.france-merrickpac. house.org something else but it’s always still around torch to the next generation. com and then they always call me back. Exuviae Maryland Public Now - Apr. 25 I have done it now for so many years OL: Are you excited about coming back Television Presents Maryland Ensemble I’m the dance captain and I take care of all to Baltimore? The Best Of Doo Wop Theatre that now. SS: I love it. It’s like my third time there. I 2009 Concert 301-694-4744 April 19 haven’t been at the Lyric for a while; it had Www.marylandensem- Chicago OL: What does the dance captain do? to be early 2001 or 2002. We will be in DC ble.org SS: The dance captain position is basical- until the 12th of April and then a week off. April 21-22 ly there to keep the integrity of the show. So we will arrive in Baltimore on Monday The Lyric Menopause The Musical Keeping the choreography clean, making April 20th. 410-547-seat Www.lyricoperahouse. Apr. 14 - May 10 sure it is always kept to the best of what com The Bethesda Theatre the director and choreographer put to- OL: Great, so on Tuesday night the 301-657-star (7827) Candida gether. We are also in charge of putting in as well; a little more open or accepted. I Club Hippo has SHOWTUNES VIDEO Www.bethesdatheatre. Apr. 24 - May30 new people, teaching them the show. went to the performing arts high school so com MADNESS which OutLoud sponsors. The Bay Theatre Com- there was that openness as well. So my You should come and bring some oth- pany OL: You have a partner, so are you coming out was not traumatic I guess. ers from the cast- 410-268-1333 DC out? SS: We have been to this in Chicago at Www.baytheatre.org SS: Yes, absolutely. I have a partner for OL: Do you have a favorite role or Sidetracks and Splash in NY does it on Ragtime A Man For All Apr 18 - May 17 ten years. I came out when I was 18. show? Mondays. Seasons In The Eisenhower It was very healthy in my household SS: It was the last show I did with Chita I’ll see how many people want to go April 24 - May 2 Theater [growing up]. I have an older brother who Rivera, A Dancer’s Life. I did the end of after the show [Opening night]. We’ll see Pasadena Theatre The Kennedy Center is gay as well so my family was very ac- the Broadway run and the tour. I enjoyed you there. Company (202) 467-4600 cepting of that so it was not a difficult tran- it, working with the queen of theatre. It (410) 975-0200 Www.kennedy-center. sition to say I was gay. It was very open was very fulfilling to share the stage with Www.ptcshows.com org and accepted in the house. I have heard someone like that- a legend. And I was in OUTloud’s queer TV guide: She Loves Me Woolly Mammoth’s the other horror stories and stuff. And I the original company of Guys and Dolls Now – Apr. 18 2009 Bollywood grew up in the city so that also eased it with Nathan Lane. He is a crazy man and www.baltimoreoutloud.com Colonial Players Bash baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 23 listings ON THE SCREEN

April 18, 2009 Small Craft (301) 662-6600. Woolly Mammoth The- Warnings Www.wayoffbroadway. atre Company Now - May 10 com Summer Comes Early to Local 202-393-3939 At The Clark Street Nunsense Ii Www.woollymammoth. Playhouse Now- Apr. 26 net Washington Shake- Riverside Dinner Theatre Theaters Rock’ N’ Roll speare Company (540) 370-4300 April 22 - May 31 703-418-4808 Www.rsdinnertheater. By Chuck Duncan The Studio Theatre Www.washingtonshake- com Stoop Stories speare.org Oscar And Felix Even though spring has allegedly sprung Now - Apr. 12 Now - Apr. 25 – and who can tell when it’s 75 degrees In The Metheny Theatre Dinner Rainbow Dinner Theatre one day and snowing the next – Holly- 202-332-3300 717.687.4300 wood is already gearing up for summer, Www.studiotheatre.org Theatre Www.rainbowdinnerthe- which according to their calendars be- Ion Footloose atre.com gins May 1. Yes, in just a couple of short Now - Apr.12 Now - June 14 Disney’s High School weeks, temperatures will (hopefully) be In The Sidney Harman Lorenzo’s Timonium Musical Hall rising outside and at our local theaters. Dinner Theatre. Apr 9 - May 30 Jungle Books So to mark the official start of the Sum- 410-560-1113 The Dutch Apple Dinner In The Lansburgh mer of 2009, let’s take a look at what the Www.timoniumdinner- Theatre Theatre studios have to offer us in May. theatre.com 717-898-1900. Apr. 18-19 Www.dutchapple.com May 1 – Summer kicks off with a Shakespeare Theatre Phantom Of The Opera bang, as usual, with the release of the Company The Blair Mansion latest in a long line of traditional comic Now - April Inn Mansion 202.547.1122 book action films that open in this spot. Www.shakespearethe- Half-price Tickets Avail- Mysteries atre.org able! 301.588.1688 This year, Hugh Jackman returns to the Oregon Ridge Dinner Www.blairmansion.com role that made him a star – Wolverine The Rise And Fall Of Theatre – in X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The sto- Annie Hall 410-771-8427 ry takes us back to the beginning of Wolverine’s life pitcher Miguel Santos who struggles to make it to Apr. 15–may 24 Children Www.baltimoreac- story and also stars Liev Schreiber, Ryan Reynolds, the big leagues to pull himself and his family out of Theater J torstheatre.org Theatre (202) 518-9400. and Dominic Monaghan. poverty. Www.washingtondcjcc. Beauty And The If you’re looking for something with a little more May 15 – Everyone is getting out of the way of Beast Rapunzel org Now - Apr. 25 class – and subtitles – the French drama Paris 36 this day’s lone release, the long-awaited (and de- Now – June 14 opens exclusively at the Charles. Set in 1936, the layed due to the writers’ strike last year) sequel to Bernadette Peters Toby’s Baltimore Way Off Broadway 2009 Strathmore Disney’s High School Dinner Theatre Off story follows three unemployed entertainers who The Da Vinci Code, Angels and Demons (which ac- Spring Gala Musical Broadway try to reopen their old music hall and produce a hit tually comes before the first movie in print, so it will April 18-19 Now - June 7 (301) 662-6600. show that will bring some glory back to their lives be interesting to see if the movie is actually a sequel The Music Center At My Way, A Musical Www.wayoffbroadway. and the neighborhood in which it is located. or a prequel). Ron Howard returns to the director’s Strathmore Tribute To Frank com May 8 – The big release on this date is the chair and Tom Hanks reprises his role of Robert (301) 581-5100 Sinatra If You Give A Mouse A long- and eagerly-awaited reboot of the Star Trek Langdon who is called in to solve another conspir- Www.strathmore.org Now - May 31 Cookie franchise from director JJ Abrams (Lost, Alias). The acy involving the Vatican. Ewan McGregor, Stellan Call Of The Wild -the Toby’s Columbia Now - Apr. 11 story goes back to the beginning of the Star Trek Skarsgard and Armin Mueller-Stahl also star. 410-649-1660 Musical Adventure Theatre saga with young versions of Kirk, Spock, McCoy May 22 – Another day, another sequel as Night Www.tobysdinnerthe- 301- 634-2270 Now - May 3 and the other Enterprise crew members. The trailers at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian comes to Olney Theatre Center atre.com Www.adventuretheatre. look fantastic, so here’s hoping the best stuff isn’t the big screen. Ben Stiller returns along with a who’s 301.924.3400 Medieval Times org on display in those three minutes. The cast features who of big name stars including Amy Adams, Jonah Www.olneytheatre.org Dinner And Heidi Christopher Pine as Kirk, Zachary (Heroes) Quinto Hill, Bill Hader, Owen Wilson, Robin Williams, Hank Tournament April 4 - May 17 Walmartopia as Spock, Karl Urban as McCoy, Simon Pegg as Azaria, Christoper Guest, Dick Van Dyke, Ricky Now - Apr. 26 1-888-we-joust In The Lerner Family Landless Theatre Co. (1-888-935-6878) Theatre Scotty. Zoe Saldana as Uhura, John Cho as Sulu, Gervais, Steve Coogan and Eugene Levy. Www.landlesstheatre- Www.medievaltimes. Imagination Stage Anton Yelchin as Chekov and Leonard Nimoy re- If you enjoyed the spectacle of the first film, this company.org com 301.280.1660 turning as an older Spock. Eric Bana is the villain- one is sure to not disappoint. For some low-brow Www.imaginationstage. ous Nero. Bruce Greenwood, Ben Cross and Wino- humor, the Wayans family returns with another of See What I Wanna See Disney’s High School org Apr. 7 – May 31 Musical na Ryder also make appearances and Majel Barrett their spoof films, this time taking aim at dance mov- Signature Theatre’s Now- July 12 The Adventures Of Roddenberry’s voice returns – sadly for the last time ies in the aptly named Dance Flick. Written by virtu- 703- 820-9771 Lazy Susan Dinner Dr. Dolittle – as the Enterprise Computer. ally every Wayans and starring even more, the film Www.sig-online.org Theatre Now - Apr. 26 If you’re not a Trek fan, also opening this day lampoons such dance flicks as Step Up, You Got (703) 550-7384 Children’s Theatre Of is the comedy/crime/action film, Next Day Air which Served and even Flashdance. If recent films such N Virginia Theatre Www.lazysusan.com Annapolis tells the story of what happens when two bumbling as Superhero Movie and Disaster Movie are any in- Heroes The Wedding Singer 410.757.2281 criminals accidentally receive a shipment of grade- dication, this one won’t be any good, but with the Www.childrenstheatreo- Apr. 23 - May 24 Mar. 27 - June 6 A cocaine and the people who are trying to get it appearance of the brilliant Amy Sedaris as Mrs. Metrostage fannapolis.org Way Off Broadway Din- back. The film stars Donald Faison, Mike Epps, Cameltoe, it might not be all bad. And again, if these 703 548 9044 ner Theatreoff Broadway Www.metrostage.org Dinner T Mos Def and Debbie Allen. And if you’re not into aren’t your cup of tea and you prefer movies with drug comedies, Sugar tells the story of Dominican -- continued on page 33 24 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com Professional Services

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collaged and adhered to canvas. The resulting pieces form a much larger square or rectangle that packs an emotional wallop of unusual color and landscapes of the mind. Kern says, “I can’t work on more than one piece at a time, otherwise the mood will change. If I am putting some finishing touches on some- thing, I have to cover it up while I work on anything else to maintain the vibe.”

“His studio shelves are lined with bursting notebooks each worthy of psychological analysis. ”

Kern puts a lot of himself into his work. His studio shelves are lined with bursting notebooks each worthy of psychological analysis. They are filled with drawings, ideas, adhesives, patterns, mysterious scratchings and lots of writing. Some of the writing actually makes it onto his Polaroid works. “The writing is more for myself. It wouldn’t mean very much to anyone else.” Photo: Jim Lucio But that’s where he’s wrong. The inclusion MATTHEW KERN. In his Bolton Hill studio. of his writing which is etched on from the back of the Polaroid film may not make much sense to the casual viewer, but it does mean a lot and this personal element The Dreamy Polaroid Art of Matthew Kern contributes greatly to the overall emotional strength of each work of art. One example By Defekto is a piece called “11”, composed of images taken at a lake in Idaho where he and his Anyone who knows a thing about me York began to taper off and he warmed up format for the next three or four years, but stepfather used to go fishing. The piece knows that I am koo koo for Polaroid pho- to the idea of living in Baltimore full time. adds that it is a slow process to create a even includes writing taken from a journal tography. But as much as I love it, I have “Baltimore is very inspiring. It really pro- single piece. Kern kept as an eleven year-old boy. The a hard time appreciating much of the work vides me with a lot of energy.” Being a The Polaroid art of Matthew Kern is effect is a wonderful tribute to a time and done by other Polaroid enthusiasts. I find New York transplant myself, I completely reminiscent of David Hockney’s Polaroid a person that is obviously important to the work either really forced, uninspired or understood the power of those simple explorations combined with the collage Kern. pretentious...and yes, instant photography words. and photographic work of Peter Beard. As I sat in his studio, soaking up the can be all that. Not only does Baltimore provide en- The work is very stylized without giving energy of his art, I couldn’t help but think Considering that there are Polaroid ergy, it also provides Kern with a larger that impression. For his work, Kern uses of the changing colors of a Mood Ring. “artists” all over the world, many of whom space to work in. Kern works out of his or- an SX-70 camera which produces square His works are experiences and feelings share their work on the Euro-based Po- derly Bolton Hill studio which may also be images. The actual photos are then re- that he is sharing with us, each eliciting its laroid-only website Polanoid.com, I was home to the largest stash of Polaroid film moved from the white encasement border own emotion that could seemingly adapt very surprised to discover a stand-out, on the planet. A closet holds large plastic and then go through some of his many to whatever mood the viewer may happen honest to Gawd Polaroid artist right here tubs filled with all types of Polaroid pack forms of modification and experimentation to be in. in Baltimore! film. From Time Zero to Spectra to loads including emulsion etching, painting, draw- Experience his work for yourself in a Matthew Kern moved to Baltimore and loads of 600. I try not to drool and am ing and other secret techniques he’s been three-person show titled Patterns of Ob- from New York last summer and began just thankful that he has stocked up on the developing over the years. Many of his session at Gallery Imperato through May commuting between the two cities, but it now impossible to find film. Kern says he larger pieces are formed and constructed 2nd. Gallery Imperato is located at 921 E wasn’t long before the trips back to New has enough film to keep working in this around 100 individual Polaroids which are Fort Ave. Ste. #120. Check gallery hours. baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 31 32 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com single black sheep Unboxed w/ ajar Rules of Gay Dating #1: Say Something By Larry Walker

Honesty is the Best Policy Sometimes I wonder I know that the world is becoming By Josh Aterovis if the advent of the more and more “virtual” it is to the point internet and sites like where you can be at a club and on your Why is dating so com- tually want to date, you’re going to have to manhunt and Adam- favorite site at the same time. However, plicated and frustrat- meet this person eventually. If you don’t 4Adam has made when you’re at a bar on your Blackberry ing? Over the years, look anything like your pictures, your date meeting new and searching for the profile of the guy sitting I’ve often heard my is going to catch on pretty quickly. Unless interesting people across from you there is a problem. single friends talk you’re dating Stevie Wonder. And even face-to-face obso- When you see a person that peaks about how difficult it he would realize something was amiss as lete. So, recently I was hanging out with your interest say it. I don’t care how ridic- is, but from the cozy soon as it became apparent you’re not re- my friend Jerry, as I often do, at one of ulous you may feel, because everyone comfort of my long- ally into any of the interests you listed. Baltimore’s hottest watering holes for sin- wants to be appreciated and noticed for term relationship I didn’t really understand. People don’t like being deceived. gle, sexy, and free Gays, Bi(s), and ques- their perspective “flyness”. Come on, you Now that I suddenly find myself shoved What’s up with the false advertising? If tion marks. I noticed that while everyone know we do, if not we wouldn’t care to get into the dating world, I get it. It’s hell down you want somebody to like you for your- appeared to be having a good time, most all dolled up. Could you imagine what the here in the trenches! Having never real- self, you have to let them see the real you. people just stayed with the people they club would be like if we all rolled up in our ly dated before, it’s been a sharp learn- The whole bait-and-switch routine rarely came with. I thought this was so weird. PJ’s? Actually, then we might be comfort- ing curve, to say the least. I really could works on anyone. Here we are at the club where single able enough to divorce anxiety, and let have used a handy, pocket-sized guide. A The need for honesty extends beyond people are expected to mingle and meet, our crushes know how we feel. I can see Pocket Gay Handbook, if you will. the initial marketing of yourself. If you end yet the opposite was actually happening. it now: “Hey dude, I like that robe, it com- In my last “Single Black Sheep” col- up on an actual date, please, please, I beg As opposed to getting to know Jane pliments your slippers. umn I introduced myself and told you a of you by all that is holy — like RuPaul’s or John Doe we are all becoming more Where did all these nerves and pride bit about what I’m hoping for this column wigs — be yourself. Some of us have acquainted with our closest homeboys come from? I look at my little nephews to be. One of those goals was exploring finely attuned bullshit detectors. If you and girlfriends, or practicing our latest and nieces and they have no problem the rules of gay dating. Are there really act fake, it comes across. Even if you’re a Beyonce routines. What’s up? I know a making new friends. They aren’t scared any such things? I don’t know, but I made good enough actor to pull off your subter- bunch of y’all are reading this saying to of being rejected. They aren’t ashamed some up anyway. fuge, you’re either going to be stuck being yourself “I don’t go to the club to meet of saying what they want, and because Again, I’m hardly an expert. I can’t someone you’re not for the entire time you people, I go to have fun.” they aren’t, they get it. Have you ever stress that enough. These are for me as see that person, or the real you if going While I understand your “fun” senti- thought that maybe, being an adult isn’t much as they are for you. So without fur- to have to eventually come to light. Let’s ment - meeting new people is fun, espe- so complicated, but that we complicate ther ado, here are my ten rules of dating: face it, how long can you pretend you’re cially if it’s someone you’re interested in. it with our bullshit? For instance, you see 1. Be honest. fascinated by Dostoevsky if you can’t even Say something! It’s like we don’t feel safe an unnamed cutie at the bar, but instead 2. Know who attracts you. make it through Harry Potter? More im- just saying “hey” unless we’re seated in of saying “hi” or buying him a drink, you 3. Have something in common. portantly, as I said earlier, don’t you want front our computer screens. I think if you wait until you cross paths virtually. Yet, 4. Know your expectations. your date to like you for you and not some are brave enough to “Poke” someone what if cutie, isn’t on your site? What if 5. Make sure you have chemistry. false idea of you? Facebook, you should have the nerve cutie doesn’t have a computer? What if 6. Have a plan. Lastly, be honest after the date, too. enough to poke them in person. Don’t he or she is you soul mate and you just 7. Be interesting and interested. If you’re not interested, be honest. Don’t send me a smile on Adam if you can’t at missed out on him, when all you had to 8. Know what to avoid and when to bail. lead your date on with false hope of a the Hippo. do was say something? 9. Don’t rush it. second date if you know damn well there More posturing happens online, at 10. Have fun! won’t be one. On the flip side, if you are least in person you know what you’re I plan to explore each rule in depth as interested, make sure they know that, too. getting, and don’t have to go through Sign up online now for free we go, one per column. So first up in my Playing hard to get is one thing, but acting the awkwardness of meeting a stranger home delivery of OUTloud. Rules of Gay Dating is “Be honest.” disinterested when you really would like to with a ten-year-old profile picture. I’m not It may seem like a no-brainer, but go out again is just silly and confusing for knocking Internet social sites. They do www.baltimoreoutloud.com if you think that then I’m assuming you everyone involved. seem to be the most popular way to meet haven’t dated recently. Like since the So the moral of today’s story, boys new people, especially for the lgbt com- Carter administration maybe. In the days and girls, is be honest and be yourself. munity, but we shouldn’t let it hamper our Submit Your Events Online of Internet dating, it’s easier than ever to If you’re date doesn’t like who you really social skills. www.baltimoreoutloud.com deceive your prospective date. Create a are, then you don’t want to be with that profile on Gay.com (or one of the dozens person anyway. Can I get an amen? How of other online social sites), throw up a about just a man? Until next time... Happy picture of yourself from eight years (or for- dating! ty-eight pounds) ago, come up with some Josh Aterovis (www.joshaterovis. witty comments about your likes and dis- com) is the author of the Killian Kendall likes, and you’re ready to go. Mystery Series and writer for www.Af- Only one problem: assuming you ac- terElton.com. baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 33

THINKING OUTLOUD books -- continued from page 17

subtitles, the Russian crime drama 12 Becoming the (Wo)Man He Always opens on this day. The film tells the story of 12 jurors who must decide if an 18-year-old Chechen boy is guilty of the first degree murder of his step-father, an Dreamed of officer in the Russian army. By Colin Riley May 29 – Pixar releases their 10 computer animated film – and the first Jonathon Scott Fuqua, an award-winning author well known one in 3D! - with Up, the story of a 78- for his young adult novels The Reappearance of Sam Webber, year-old balloon salesman who ties DARBY, and The Willoughby Spit Wonder, has written another thousands of balloons to his house and groundbreaking novel, In the Wake of the Boatman. flies away to live out his dreams. The The novel’s main character, Puttnum Steward, longs to im- film features the voices of Edward As- press his father, Carl. He even goes as far as putting another ner, Christoper Plummer, John Ratzen- boy’s eye out one day at the country club pool. Putt figures his berger (who has been in every Pixar father will be proud because he stood up for himself. Yet Carl, film) and Delroy Lindo. From charming who can’t even hug his own son, looks at him and feels only dis- family film to bloody horror, courtesy of appointment. Putt’s longing to make his father proud is a preva- Evil Dead maestro Sam Raimi, Drag Me lent theme in the story, often keeping him from living out his own to Hell tells the story of an ambitious life. He either wants to do what his father wants or do exactly loan officer who decides to impress her the opposite, keeping him from forming his own identity in the boss by turning down an old lady’s loan beginning. This disconnection between father and son reflects application, but becomes the victim of a one of the rigid standards to which American men must hold powerful curse that transforms her life themselves: show as little emotion as possible. into a living hell. Alison Lohman, Justin Soon, Putt can’t stand measuring up to Carl. To get out Long and David Paymer star. from under his father’s shadow, he leaves Norfolk to attend the Also opening in May – with a date University of Virginia. Putt feels like something’s not quite right to be determined – is Brothers Bloom with him. One night, he gets drunk at a bar off campus; the next starring Adrien Brody, Mark Ruffalo and morning, he wakes up, unable to remember what took place with Rachel Weisz. As always, dates are not the man who helped him home. Fuqua leaves this scene deliber- always set in stone – particularly for the ately ambiguous, making the reader fill in the gaps. One thing is smaller, limited release films so consult clear; Putt begins to question his sexuality. In his mind, he feels your local listings for dates, theaters like a freak. Yet Fuqua does not fixate on this single aspect of and showtimes. Putt, but allows Putt’s sexuality to unfold as another aspect of his And keep in mind that the Maryland identity he must discover. Film Festival will be returning to the Incapable of figuring out who or what he is, Putt goes to Charles Theater the weekend of May 7! Vietnam and becomes a hero after discovering a Viet Cong sup- We’ll have more information on that in ply route. When Putt comes home, Carl still thinks his son hasn’t an upcoming issue. Until then, we’ll see done much with his life, and Putt’s sister Mary’s new husband, you at the movies! Survival, sees Putt as weak, calling him “Cadet” even after Putt’s distinguished military career. Putt can’t stand Survival for the same reason he can’t stand Carl; both have very strict ideas Deep Throats are about what it means to be a man, and in their minds, Putt doesn’t fit the mold. Carl’s impossible standards. Waiting for You Putt strives on to make something of himself and uncovers a Will he succeed in the end? Fuqua’s characters are so real Did you major in Journalism or Communica- Soviet spy ring in the U.S. He has become the hero that Carl and that you can’t help but turn the page to see what happens to tions in college? Was English your favorite subject Survival dreamt of becoming, a man with a distinguished military them. Putt’s identity struggle might seem to take a while, his in high school? Do you know the complete alpha- bet? If so, an exciting career in news reporting may career and service to his country. But Putt feels less like a man great epiphany delayed until almost the end of the book. be for you. Look what it did for the Washington than ever. He has a shameful secret; he loves to put on women’s But this is also symbolic. Attitudes about masculinity, sexual Post’s Woodward and Bernstein - they took down an entire Presidency. And now you can too! clothes and let the woman inside him loose. Meanwhile, Carl experimentation, and gender identity take time to change, re- OUTloud is looking for people interested in has an obsession with making boats, but none of them float long flected in Putt’s drawn out discoveries. Putt’s greatest challenge, covering our local community. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a wannabe - there is a place enough for either Carl or Putt to ride in. even greater than fighting in Vietnam or staring down the barrel for you at OUTloud. We need help in keeping our This image symbolizes Putt’s struggle. His success, like his of a Russian’s gun, is daring to live his life with integrity. community up-to-date on everything and anything that impacts our lives. father’s boats, is not enough to keep him afloat. He can’t define In the Wake of the Boatman by Jonathon Scott Fuqua. Ban- From sporting events to press conferences who he is by Carl’s and Survival’s terms anymore because his croft Press, 2008. 309 pages. ISB 1-890862-42-8. www.ban- and everything in between - you too can be an eye- witness to history. Meet famous people, visit exotic identity is in uncharted territory. croftpress.com locales, photograph scantily clothed actors. It’s all As drawn by Fuqua, the character of Putt transcends the here just waiting for you. Shoot us an email today at: Editor@balti- antiquated notions of the American man. He’s a hometown hero, Colin Riley is a senior English and Theater double major at moreoutloud.com and start your career at the bot- complete with the financial security of a military job and a secret Goucher College. tom. that could sink him just as easily as one of his father’s boats. The more he discovers who he is, however, the more he can let go of For Advertising/Deadline Info, Please Call 410-244-6780. 34 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com campus scene Leather Line » Pride: Distinguishing Excellence from Mediocrity

By Marty Hoegg tity within their community.” OUTloud Intern The events at Towson’s Pride Week include a drag show with no cover charge, It used to be that pride a Gay Prom, for those of us who felt our was something to be Proms were tainted because we couldn’t cherished; duels were bring the date we wanted, and a BBQ pic- fought to defend young nic to finish off the week. More information maiden’s honor, sons on the events and the QSU can be found would rush off to war to make their father’s at www.Towson.edu/lgbt/. proud and nations were unified under one I think Pride celebrations are wonder- guise creating patriotism. Respect was ful. They allow everyone in a community gained, life was prosperous and nations to come together and enjoy just being, were united because of pride. though I wish that more people would When I asked a fellow colleague of celebrate themselves on a daily basis. mine, “What is pride?” He responded, Again, I reiterate that pride is not inher- “Isn’t that the day for gays in Baltimore?” ently homosexual. To be completely honest I found his an- How do I celebrate myself? First and swer to be quite humorous but at the same foremost I accept and love myself for ex- time slightly pathetic. actly who I am at this moment. I accept The answer I was looking for and the the things I cannot change and love the answer I would have responded with would things which make me distinctly Marty. I have included that pride is the sense of guess when it comes down to it, our cele- dignity and duty one feels towards one’s bration is more of an expression. I express identity, work or accomplishments; its self myself through numerous outlets. This respect and merit. Pride is getting up in column, dancing, acting, sketching are all the morning and wearing something that means for me to emote and display Marty makes you feel good or finishing your Hoegg. work to the best of your ability so you can So here comes the part where I put achieve that sense of self fulfillment and on my Oprah hat and reach out to my au- accomplishment. dience. I hope that in the past few months Pride is celebrating you. I’ve been able to develop some form of Pride is not something that is inher- readership and that I am able to receive ently homosexual. Everyone has it. We some response to what I’m about to ask. just advertise it better. I want to know how you celebrate Towson University’s Queer Student pride. No, going to Baltimore Pride does Union (QSU) has embraced the celebra- not count. I want to know individually what tion of diversity. Holding their 2nd Annu- you do each day or maybe once a week al Pride Week, the QSU has given their to display and just be you. How do you students a chance to present and honor demonstrate respect for yourself and hold themselves as an individual as well as a honor in the things you do? member of a community. What does your response get you? Towson’s Pride week starts April 20, Unfortunately, I’m not Oprah so I cannot 2009 and runs through the 24. The QSU promise you a new car or trip to an exotic has set up events each day which facili- location but I can tell you that out of all the tates a healthy, safe and fun way for stu- responses I will chose one to highlight and dents to display themselves. detail in an upcoming article. The chosen Briana Edwards, A senior and trea- respondent will have an interview with me surer of the QSU, states that, “There are and be featured in my column. two main focus’s for Pride Week and the Please email your responses to QSU. One is awareness, letting people [email protected]. I cannot wait know that we are here and we are avail- to see what some of your answers are to able if people need information or a place how you celebrate pride in your daily life. to feel welcomed. Second, is building community. We want people to increase Marty Hoegg is a junior at Stevenson Uni- their networks and have a sense of iden- versity in Baltimore County. baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 35 Leather Line

By Rodney Burger gathered on Long Island for the 17th An- niversary of the Long Island Ravens. Sat- There are so many urday night saw another fantastic leather contests, bar nights, banquet at the historic Thatched Cottage benefits, etc. that after in Centerport, NY. The Long Inland Ra- awhile they all start to vens also held their annual distribution of run together. If only a grants to local charitable organizations. bar would try some- This year receipts included The Gay & Les- thing different-well on March 28th Club XS bian Switchboard of Long Island, LI Gay & in York, Pa. did just that as Club XS and Lesbian Film Festival, LI Gay Men’s Cho- Bottom Rope Productions produced: “ rus, LI , LI Community Fel- The Pride Pro Wrestling Inaugural Event lowship (Church & Food Bank) and more. – XS Violence.” It was a knockout! I had Since their founding in 1992 this popular a ball (and with a ringside seat in the front New York leather club has given out over row, I almost had more then one!) $50,000. After the banquet a Master/slave It was a special night from start to auction was held at the Long Island Eagle finish. At the entrance to the club, repre- to start the fundraising for this year. When sentatives from Barefoot Wines treated you run into a leather club pushing jell-o everyone to a little wine tasting. Prior to shots, drafts, etc make sure you buy one! the matches a VIP Room was set up in Those funds go to many good causes. the back of the main room with a buffet. On the other coast, Baltimore’s own A full size wrestling ring dominated the Glenda Rider along with Levi Halberstadt, dance floor area. Poison, Ms.Club XS and tomo were busy producing another was the Mistress of Ceremonies and she successful International Ms. Leather / was wonderful! She even got into a little International Ms. Boot Black Contest at wrestling action herself. I thought I was the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway Hotel watching Laila Ali! In wonderfully campy in San Francisco during the weekend of and over the top theatrical productions, March 19th-22nd. This year saw Washing- most matches saw Bible thumpers vs. ho- ton State Ms. Leather 2008 Lamalani se- mosexuals! (If you have ever been to Har- lected as International Ms. Leather 2009 risburg Pride, everyone’s fantasy came to and Kentucky Bootblack 2006, pony was life!) There were six matches starring Eddie awarded the International Ms. Boot Black Valentine, Jordan Winters, Rick Feinberg, 2009 title. This year’s IMsL weekend The Penetrator, and many others. At one kicked off on Thursday with a show enti- point between matches Poison brought a tled “Seduction” a burlesque type produc- few guys from the audience to the ring for tion, which I hear was a big, hit! There was what can only be described as a “Biggest also a vendor mart, a large silent auction, Bulge in the Briefs Contest.” This part of a BDSM Dance Party, endless hospital- the evening was cute but it wasn’t long. In ity receptions, and much more. Plans are fact a very lovely lady seated next to me already in the works for International Ms. delivered one of the best lines of the night Leather 2010 which will return to the Holi- when she shouted to the winner, “It’s all day Inn Golden Gateway Hotel on April balls!” Poison also announced that later 15th-18th, 2010. It is not too early to plan there would be a “Best Buns” contest but I to attend. Until then, I have to work on my guess she couldn’t fit it in. wrestling moves! It is a risk to try something new in a dance bar on a Saturday night but the folks at Club XS really pulled it off! If they stage another match I will be front and center again-I might even wear briefs! Sign up online now for free Two recent leather events also de- serve a note. On March 20-22nd over 100 home delivery of OUTloud. leather folk from all over the East Coast www.baltimoreoutloud.com 36 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com

The Drinkery Jay's On Read Street

The Baltimore Eagle baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 37 z z i D e h T

Leon's 38 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com

uphold constitutional principles, and [the OUTSPOKEN B-MORE TRANS Iowa court] reaffirms the state’s tradition -- continued from page 2 as a leader in ending historic forms of discrimination.” family. By Way of Introduction The decision was not well received at the We have showcased a “Campus Lynchburg, VA university founded by de- Scene” column, superbly written by OUT- By Sandy Rawls ceased anti-gay crusader Jerry Falwell. loud intern Marty Hoegg, a junior at Ste- Falwell died in 2007 after preaching anti- venson University, to appeal to the inter- Hello OUTloud read- tive, so make no mistake about the unity gay bigotry for more than 30 years. ests of the lgbt and straight members of ers! My name is that is taking place in our community. We Liberty University associate dean Matt the community attending college. Sandy Rawls, and had great hearings on February 25 and Barber wasted no time in validating We are also proud to display the tal- I am the Executive March 4 for the transgender anti-discrim- Keegan’s warning about a rightwing back- ents of Josh Aterovis, an award-winning Director of Trans- ination bills in the House and Senate. lash. “Here we go again,” Barber said, author of gay literature that focuses on United a local non- We have to change things for those “While citing the specter of ‘equal protec- youth. He opines a column “Single Black profit that provides who are coming up in future genera- tion,’ the Iowa Supreme Court today has Sheep” and will be contributing special vital resources to the tions and are wondering why they feel unanimously joined a leftist gaggle of contemporary features, such as this is- transgender community. as though they are the opposite sex for ideologically driven judges in California, sue’s interview with Tom Goss. Trans-United has been around since which they were born. If we can look at Massachusetts and Connecticut, creat- Also on board is Colin Riley, a se- 2007 and has been located in various our issues in the trans-community and ing, from thin air, a phantom ‘right’ to the nior English and theater double-major places. But no location has felt like home say every thing is O.K. according to a ridiculous, oxymoronic and postmodern at Goucher College. He ably wrote this more than 1601 Guilford Ave.—the Cork chopped up bill, then we have already ‘gay’ marriage counterfeit.” issue’s book review. And we salute Larry factory. Now we have two homes includ- lost the battle to stop discrimination in The Iowa decision follows similar high L. Walker whose excellent column, “UN- ing Baltimore OUTloud. The people here the transgender community. court decisions in Massachusetts, Califor- BOXED W/AJAR, makes us all think. We are so down to earth and welcoming Touching on more positive issues in nia and Connecticut finding that is uncon- would also like some more women to join without judgment. the community, there is an education ex- stitutional to bar lesbian and gay couples the OUTloud family of fine writers. If you There is a lot to write about these plosion happening in Maryland on trans- the right to marry. In addition to the courts, are interested in helping to inform our days. I would like to start by touching on gender issues. These events are taking a number of statehouses across the coun- community, please e-mail me at schar- the transgender anti-discrimination bill in place every day. For example, Dan Fur- try during this legislative session have [email protected]. Maryland’s General Assembly. We can mansky, Owen Smith and I are on the advanced bills granting same-sex couples draw a lot of points from the slow pro- public awareness program X-Change the ability to marry. Both houses of the PROTEST cess on this bill. But one thing is for sure: that will air on Comcast TV Channel 25 Vermont legislature have approved a bill -- continued from page 3 whether it passes or not, we still will have in Baltimore starting mid-April. giving same-sex couples there the ability a lot of work to do as far as educating Team-Trans is a new group that has to marry. and curious onlookers joined the ranks the public about who transgender people formed, and they are doing a great job In New Hampshire, the House has ap- and signaled their support for the anti- are. educating people about trans-people. proved a marriage bill, which is now pend- Westboro demonstrators. They lined the We will also have to work to restore There is an event called Poetic Awaken- ing in the state Senate. Marriage bills side of the road, for at least a two-block “public accommodations” as part of the ing dedicated to Shelton Jackson who are also expected to be introduced soon length. bill, and this alone will be a daunting has gone on before us. The event will in New Jersey and New York, were a bill This is what the Westboro group task. We had to remove “public accom- take place at 1601 Guilford Avenue, 4th passed the Assembly in 2008. In addition, wanted: a reaction so strong that the me- modations” so that the bill could move floor. For more info on this event you may there is a comprehensive bill dia would cover it and give attention to forward in the Senate and the House of call Keith Holt at 410-433-6889. pending in the Illinois legislature and a do- their unpopular cause. Delegates. I will be writing more in the coming mestic partner bill pending in Wisconsin. Marilyn, a member of PFLAG-Balti- As one of Baltimore’s transgender issues, and I thank OUToud for allowing The Washington legislature is consider- more County who has a gay family mem- political leaders in Baltimore and Mary- me to be the correspondent on all the is- ing expanding its domestic partner bill to ber, hopes that the overwhelming opposi- land, I can say with total conviction that sues that deeply affect the transgender include nearly all of the legal protections tion to the Westboro clan would help get there will be a stronger united front line community, both in joy and in troubles. that it provides to married couples. rid of them. “Goodness, I hope that we are in Baltimore and Maryland to fight dis- Until next time, focus on the present, Shannon Minter, Legal Director of the able to drive groups like this away from crimination in and outside of the lgbt learn from the past, and always look for- National Center for Lesbian Rights, ex- our whole country,” she said. “We have to community. ward to tomorrow. pressed hope that the California Supreme be here to respond to their hate. It’s evil, The turnout in Annapolis was posi- Court will reach the same conclusion as and we don’t want people to hear their the Iowa court. CA Supreme Court justices message.” are considering a challenge to Proposition With each passing car that honked its IOWA their marriage rights, “It’s a joyous day for 8, which altered the state’s Constitution to horn in support of the counter-demonstra- -- continued from cover the Iowa families involved in the case, and eliminate marriage rights for same-sex tors on busy York Road, and there were for equality advocates in Iowa and across couples. The referendum was passed scores of them, the mainly young crowd Judaism, issued a statement praising the nation. Congratulations to the coura- by voters last November. “We hope the cheered loudly. the court’s decision, “[the] Iowa Supreme geous couples who challenged unfair and California Supreme Court will uphold the Bradley Bolin, the secretary of the Court ruling reaffirms that denying civil unconstitutional discrimination.” essential principle of equality regardless Towson University Queer Student Union marriage equality violates the American Keegan warned of an anticipated back- of political controversy, just as the Iowa and a junior, was emboldened by the turn- concept of equal protection and equal lash from the religious right. He urged ev- Supreme Court has done. The eyes of out. He mentioned that when he was in justice.” eryone not to be confused by opponents California and the world are now on the high school and he tried to start a GSA, People for the American Way Founda- of civil marriage, who often distort facts California Supreme Court.” The California he didn’t receive the level of support he tion Interim President Michael Keegan about the issue for fundraising purposes. Supreme Court is expected to rule on the would have liked from the community and congratulated the six couples who sue for “Americans rely on independent courts to validity of, by June 3. local colleges. “Now that I’m in college I baltimoreoutloud.com | April 10, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 39 want to show my support for the youth and try to do something that’s right.” TOM GOSS INTERVIEW the Folk Out Tour. How different is that and artist. People are going to label you Bradley acknowledged that anti-pro- -- continued from page 20 from touring solo, and which do you whatever they want to label you. If some- tests give Westboro Baptist Church what prefer? one wants to label me a gay artist, I re- they want. “I’m not concerned with what tracks as well, probably because I have TG: It depends. There are positives and ally have no control over that. I don’t put they want. I’m more concerned about some heavy emotional ties to them. negatives to both. I prefer touring with peo- much thought into that. I hope that I’m an the youth and what THEY want,” he ex- ple because it gets lonely sitting in a car example of a well-integrated gay man. I plained. “I want to stand up for the people JA: What was the experience like mak- by yourself for four to eight hours a day, feel honored that people in the LGBTQ who can’t fight by themselves.” ing the video for your first single, Till and sitting in venues by yourself before community find my message to be some- As the Westboro group was nearing the End? Do you enjoy that process? and after that. I’m meeting up with Jake thing of value to them. I’m glad it connects the end of their allotted time, amidst the TG: Oh my God! That video, I can’t speak and Stewart again on the West Coast this to people. It’s easy if you’re someone in a honking horns and competing chants, a highly enough about it. I didn’t really want spring, which I’m looking forward to. community it’s easy to connect with some- surge of Towson High School students that to be the first single. I was trying There’s a lot more responsibility when one who is like you. That’s just life. eventually showed up following dismissal. to shy away from it, but everybody kept you’re touring by yourself, but there’s a lot I don’t aim to be a gay artist. I’m an These new forces swelled the crowd to saying, “Do it! Do it! Do it!” So I was like, more personal rewards, too. When a show artist and I’m gay. If that’s means I’m a gay near 300 according to some estimates. ‘Okay. Let’s do it.” So my director and I goes really well, you can be happy knowing artist then whatever, I’m fine with that. I “They [Westboro Baptist Church] have and my partner were sitting around one your hard work and music and connecting just feel honored that people in the com- the right to protest,” said Charlie, a senior day, and we came up with this idea for the with people really paid off. I really do like munity can resonate with my music and at the school and is straight. “But nobody video, and it just took off. The whole pro- touring with people, though. I toured with find a message there. To me that’s what in the school supports their beliefs.” cess, organizing it, planning it, shooting it, Eric Himan last year. I toured with him for music is all about, communication and Joey, a straight junior at the school and editing it took about three weeks. It about six weeks. It was great. I learned so connecting with people. At the end of the supports gay people and opposes those was a pretty intense three weeks. About much. To be able to share a concert and day, if I’m doing that, you can label me a who spread hatred. Mike, also a junior ten minutes into the project, it became so tour experience with fellow musicians and penguin, it doesn’t really matter. [laughs] and a member of the school’s wrestling much bigger than me. So many amazing hear their music and learn about it, it’s re- team, says he has gay friends, and sev- couples were involved. I couldn’t have ally great. It’s fantastic. I love it. JA: I was just about to mention that. I eral of his fellow teammates joined in the done what they did. There’s no doubt in was on Facebook stalking today, and counter-demonstration. my mind. I couldn’t have stood in front of JA: You’ve written a couple songs ad- saw that. Congrats on that as well. Another Towson High student Beth the camera, other people in the room, a dressing being gay and political top- You’re living the American Dream. said “I don’t care what sex you like, every- dozen lights glaring on me, and shared ics. Is that important to you? Do you TG: [laughs] Well, the gay American body is equal and God loves everybody.” intimate moments with my partner. I just consider yourself an activist? Dream. I don’t think our mothers are like, Hannah, who is also straight, says couldn’t do it. TG: I guess I consider myself a social activ- “I want my son to find a nice man!” “Love is beautiful, and I don’t think any- When I started editing the video, ist, but in so many more ways than simply one should protest against it. I knew there when I started processing the eleven LGBT rights. I’ve always been very finely JA: What’s next for you? You’re tour- would be so many protesters on our side, hours of tape to turn into a three minute attuned to social justice issues, that’s why ing now, but what’s after that? but not their side.” music video, it edited itself. There were I entered the Catholic seminary, that’s why TG: [laughs] I don’t know! [laughs] I have And that certainly was the case on so many beautiful moments, so much love I still dedicate my life to it. I still run a meal to figure this CD out first. Focus on “Back this otherwise chilly, quiet Monday. shared. Even watching the video, it’s re- program for the homeless in Washington, to Love” and this tour. I’ve got my hands ally palpable. I could have done it a million DC. It’s very important to me. full with that. I’m hoping to do another vid- THINKING OUTLOUD different ways; I could have a put a million Emotionally, I’d say I’m tied into LGBT eo, I’m hoping to get back in the studio as -- continued from page 17 different clips in, because the couples re- rights and marriage rights because I’m in soon as possible and cut a new CD, but ally were just so comfortable and so open. love with a man. I think it’s important that for now, I don’t even have the third CD out people, and actively hating the lgbt com- I couldn’t have asked for more. People’s musicians and writers and people who yet! I need to focus on that. [laughs] munity is a big turn-off. response to it has been overwhelming. are out there communicate with people. I’m more excited about this project The result seems to be a civil war, Take stock in what you believe and what than anything I’ve done before. I feel really unsurprising when part of the party is so JA: How did you get started in the mu- you want to accomplish with your voice, strongly about this CD, both its message toxic. Eventually the GOP will want to win sic business? Did you study music at and be really conscious of that voice when and the quality of the music. The reviews elections again. The question is, when all? you’re writing. I want to promote equality and responses have been really posi- they do, will anybody care? TG: I was obsessed with the Dave Mat- and social justice, and there are myriad tive so far. I’m glad it’s getting in people’s Look at it another way: social conser- thew’s Band. I asked for a guitar for my ways to do that. hands and they’re getting it. You know? I vatism may be as loud as ever, but reject- high school graduation, and just started When it was very political, and the can’t ask for more than that. I can only ask ed by mainstream America, it’s retreated playing it all the time and learning every election was going on, and Proposition 8 for people to give it a listen. If they do that, to within the Republican Party. And like single Dave Matthews song ever written. and all that stuff — that’s my life! I care I’m confident that they’ll be really happy a crazy uncle you can’t kick out, it’ll be a [laughs] That’s how I learned to play. deeply about that. It was some of the high- they did so. thorn in the side of the GOP for years to At the time, I think I used the guitar est and lowest parts of the year for me. It come. and my writing as something very thera- was great to see people coming together, JA: Well, thanks so much for taking peutic. At that point in my life, I had a lot but at the same time it was terrifying to the time to talk to us. Congratulations Daniel Ewald is Chair of the LGBT Caucus of anger issues and it was very violent, see it all fall apart. Obviously, that’s go- again on the CD, the engagement, and for Maryland Young Democrats and Pro- so that was a great way for me to be in- ing to be reflected in my music. I’m always the house! You’ve got a lot going on, gram Director of Baltimore County Young trospective and expressive and not do going to be writing about social justice is- so good luck with everything. Democrats. For more information about that through yelling and fighting. I’m very sues whether it deals with LGBT commu- TG: I really appreciate that! these organizations, e-mail: daniel.lory. grateful for being able to do that, it helped nity directly or not. That’s just who I am. [email protected]. me to integrate a lot of things in my life. You can find Tom Goss online at www. JA: Do you worry at all about being la- tomgossmusic.com and on MySpace and OUTloud’s queer TV guide: JA: You’ve been touring with Jake beled a “gay artist”? Facebook. www.baltimoreoutloud.com Walden and Stewart Lewis on the Rock TG: I’m first and foremost a songwriter 40 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD April 10, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com