February 1, 2019 | Volume XVI, Issue 18

es to proceed through the lower courts as High Court Lifts Trump’s Military usual. The Supreme Court rarely grants such requests. There are multiple cases that have By Bill Redmond-Palmer Trans Ban Injunction been filed against the ban in the feder- On January 22nd, the Supreme al courts. This particular injunction came Court’s five conservative justices voted to “in their biological sex.” Those who seek from the case filed in Washington state in lift an injunction that had been placed by to transition or serve openly after that risk August 2017. Karnoski v. Trump, was filed lower courts on the Trump administration’s discharge. by OutServe-SLDN (Servicemembers Le- policy banning many transgender people It is important to note that this decision gal Defense Network) and Lambda Legal, from military service. This grants the ad- made no ruling on the legality of the ban on behalf of nine individual plaintiffs and ministration a temporary win and allows itself. In fact, the mil- three organizational plaintiffs – the Human the military to proceed with the ban’s A further step itary is not technical- Rights Campaign (HRC), Seattle-based implementation. ly obligated to imme- Gender Justice League, and the American The policy reverses a 2016 policy toward undoing diately enforce the Military Partner Association (AMPA). The of the Obama administration, which al- an Obama ban. The lifting of the state of Washington later joined the law- Sgt. First lowed all transgender service members ban only allows them suit as well. Class Kendra to serve openly. The new policy is com- achievement to proceed with do- In December 2017, the district court Holmes, a plex, and generally prohibits transgen- ing so if they choose. granted a motion by the plaintiffs to im- trans veteran, der people from military service, but does On a positive note, the court refused pose a preliminary injunction which would now in the make exceptions for those already serving the government’s request to take up the prevent implementation of the ban. The US Veteran openly, or those who are willing to serve case immediately and will allow the cas- —continued on page 3 Reserve Corps

By Frankie Kujawa on Stage Released earlier this ‘Out ’ with month on Dekkoo (a gay focused subscrip- tion-based streaming Brendan Scannell service), the outrageous- ly hilarious, diversely all see about a dozen comics from all different sketch comedy. Basically, what I felt was queer, stand-up comedy walks of life with this series,” Scannell be- that I needed to be a little better on stage. series “Out on Stage: gan. “These comics are telling their stories I needed to be writing more, and a great The Series” has audi- and their jokes in a hilarious and enjoyable way for me to do that was to go to these ences in hysterics. It’s way. You’ll see three comics per episode open mic nights – as many as I could. I fell a rarity that a grouping, and it’s a riot. It’s just so cool to watch in love with making people laugh, bombing let alone a series, of all queer people just slay and crush it at this and failing, and then tweaking jokes be- queer stand-up comics art form that hasn’t always been the most fore ultimately finding success with them. even exists. Baltimore respective to queer people.” It’s such a craft, and I just fell in love with OUTloud recently Scannell, whose background is in the process of it. I’ve been doing it for four chatted with actor and stand-up comedy, is more recently known or five years now. Eventually, it was sup- comedian Brendan for his lead role as Heather Duke in the posed to be this other thing in addition to Scannell, who was reboot of the 1988 cult classic Heathers. acting and writing, but now in 2019 it’s sort Brendan part of the eclectic Born in Valparaiso, Indiana, Scannell at- of becoming the primary thing I do. That’s Scannell – From lineup of renowned tended Northwestern University before both exciting and terrifying.” Heathers star to LGBTQ stand-up comic mining his moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career “I think, originally, I was drawing my in- small-town past comics. in comedy. “When I moved to Los Ange- spiration from things happening in my dai- “Audiences will les from Chicago, I did a lot of improv and —continued on page 17 Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

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

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

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

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

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

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

Graphics Ramon Montiel

Web Editor Adam Romanic Computer Solutions for Less

Photographers Corey Brent Eric Randolph

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

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

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

© 2018 – All rights reserved Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker President – Jim Williams Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local High Court Lifts Trump’s Military Trans Ban Injunction —continued from page 1 work, and former college Army ROTC ca- det. “It is remarkable that they believe that US Department of Justice chose not to ini- our armed forces are unable to accomplish tially appeal that injunction, and the court what 21 other nations, mostly US allies, maintained the injunction after the Trump have already done with great success. All administration released a plan for imple- those who wish to serve must be allowed menting the ban. The Trump administra- to do so. Being trans is in no way a dis- tion later appealed the ruling to the Ninth qualifier for military service.” Circuit Court of Appeals, which upheld the Following the court’s action, Lt. Col. injunction, allowing transgender people to Carla Gleason, a Pentagon spokeswom- continue serving. The government then an, told CNN that “as always, we treat appealed the injunction to the Supreme all transgender persons with respect and Court, resulting in the recent action. dignity. (The Department of Defense’s) In a brief filed in opposition to the proposed policy is not a ban on service Supreme Court’s decision, lawyers chal- by transgender persons. It is critical that lenged the need to lift the injunction, while DoD be permitted to implement personnel cases are still making their way through policies that it determines are necessary to the lower courts. “Transgender people ensure the most lethal and combat effec- have been serving openly in all branches tive fighting force in the world.” of the US military since June 2016, includ- Generally, soldiers don’t tend to worry about their buddies’ race, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity. What they “We remain hopeful that care most about is whether their buddy open and authentic service will have their back in battle. Sergeant First Class Kendra Holmes, a trans veter- will become a reality for all an who serves currently as a member of US Veteran Reserve Corps, sums up that qualified individuals.” sentiment. “As soldiers join together,” she said, “we are brothers and sisters united ing on active duty in combat zones,” their together in one band to serve the country brief said. “Transgender individuals have we love.” been permitted to enlist in the military While the LGBTQ community has won since January 2018. The government has many battles for equality, this action by the presented no evidence that their doing so Supreme Court is a reminder that this is harms military readiness, effectiveness, or not a time for the community to rest on its lethality.” collective laurels, as unceasing attacks on “Our transgender service members the community continue. “Our trans com- remain steadfast in their commitment to munity demonstrates courage and brav- honorably serving this country,” said Andy ery constantly in daily life, civil service, Blevins, US Navy veteran and executive and in the defense of our civil rights and Boosting empowerment and breaking the bonds director of OutServe-SLDN. “They have freedoms,” said Mark Procopio, executive of homophobia, racism, and stigma in same understandably been experiencing appre- director of FreeState Justice. “A court rul- hensions about serving for a Commander ing does not make that any less true. This gender-loving (SGL) men in Baltimore City in Chief that has clearly expressed that policy and other attempts like it underscore • NETWORKING he does not want them in this country’s the need for continued organizing at the Every 1st Wednesday armed forces, but routinely express how federal, state, and local level.” their sense of duty and desire to serve out- The policy remains on hold temporari- • HIV EDUCATION weighs those apprehensions. We currently ly, due to an injunction imposed by a federal Every Last Wednesday have several individuals that are deployed judge in Maryland, that technically remains in • SOCIAL EVENTS and hope to relay that their gender identity place. It is expected to also be quickly paused has had no effect on their ability to accom- based on the Supreme Court’s action. Monthly plish the mission or on their unit’s morale.” “I think it is important to note that we • ART CREATION PROJECT “The trans ban is an attempt by re- remain hopeful that open and authentic ligious zealots like Vice President Mike service will become a reality for all quali- [email protected] • 410-837-5573 Pence, to turn back the clock on trans fied individuals,” said Blevins. “To all our FB: New Horizons Baltimore • aidsactionbaltimore.org rights,” said Sharon Brackett, longtime transgender siblings-in-arms, know that trans activist, former board member of you are seen, your service is appreciated, HIV Prevention Advocacy for SGL Men's Health supported by OutServe-Soldiers Legal Defense Net- and you will not be left behind.” t ViiV Healthcare's ACCELERATE! Program

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

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

break, you paint some more and so on, for Check a total of three performances.” to 32 organizations. They will also present us out! Drink, Drag, and Information and videos are available five annual community service awards, along with tickets, which are $28.16, along with two new non-grant awards of Paint! through the Facebook event page at Bit. $2,500 each that will go to LGBTQ / SGL ly/2DJEPxj. t youth serving non-profits, as part of the Join sassy drag hosts Pariah Sinclair and new Billy McCoy Thompson Jr. Memorial Saaphyri Wildz on Saturday, February 9th Fund, begun this year in his honor by Bil- from 2 to 4 pm at Spirits of Mount Vernon ly’s sisters Jackie and Traci Thompson (900 North Charles Street, Baltimore) for Brother Help Thyself “The culmination of our work each drinks, drag, and “painting naughty wine year brings us to this day when we gath- glasses!” The idea is to paint fun nude car- Celebrates 40 Years er our grantees, friends, and supporters to toon images that can only be seen from present not just checks, but to assemble of Support everyone in one room to celebrate them- selves individually and our greater com- Instagram Brother Help Thyself (BHT) invites you to munity collectively,” said Andrew McCarty, join them on Saturday, February 2nd from president of BHT. “This year, that room I @baltimoreoutloud 7 to 10 pm at Baltimore’s historic Belve- talked about is much more elegant than in dere Hotel (1 East Chase Street, Balti- years past, so that we can honor or history more) as they celebrate 40 years of pro- and look ahead to our future in a beautiful viding grants to 501(c)(3) non-profits who setting in the heart of Baltimore’s historic serve the LGBTQ / SGL and HIV commu- Mount Vernon gayborhood.” nities in Washington, DC, and Baltimore. BHT has awarded 1,098 grants totaling The theme for the event is “A Dressier Af- $3,170,119 since 1978 to 194 non-profits Twitter inside the wine glass. “They are hilarious, fair” and those attending are encouraged serving the LGBTQ / SGL and HIV com- lots of fun, and easy to paint,” say orga- to dress to impress! munities in DC and Baltimore and points nizers. “At the event’s beginning, every- The event will commemorate the orga- in between. For more information, visit @BaltOUTloud one will receive materials and two wine nizations history, and former board mem- Brotherhelpthyself.org. t glasses, and receive instructions on how bers, and longtime supporters will be wel- – news compiled by to easily draw the first image. Soon after comed back to present award checks for Bill Redmond-Palmer the queens will perform. Then they take a the 2018 grant cycle totaling over $75,000

Valentine's Special ANDRE SHAKTI $160 for a Couples Massage with Aromatherapy for the spacentral.net Entire month of 499C Beaumont Ave. Suite #17 February (a $200 Value) Sex, Baltimore MD 21212 Intimacy and Massage and Therapy Services • Beauty and Skin Care • and More Relationship Coaching for Every Body

• ArchitecturAlly-stunning wedding venue • • Culturally Competent • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, • Accessible And eLOPeMenTS • • Emotionally Intuitive • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS SinCe 2013 • Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at Cell: 856-906-0526 ChaseCourtWeddingVenue (text or call) 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD IAmPoly.net/Coaching Owned and Operated by David Egan, for More Information Open Daily by Appointment Only 8:30 A.M.-8:30 P.M. wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud.

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker

Police disperse and the land surrounding it are governed to our lives. While intolerance and hatred Trans flag by Russian, not American law). Website: toward us and our community are not new groups Voices-4.com. (Seattle Gay News at Sgn. concepts, we have never been targeted or displayed at US org/sgnnews47_04/page9.cfm) even looked at sideways while attending a protesting at Seattle Seahawks game …. [t]o behave so Capitol aggressively towards complete strangers NYC Russian over a hatred for their sexuality is a scary Washington, DC – A day after the US Man faces hate- display of the defendant’s lack of self-con- Supreme Court lifted an injunction stop- Consulate trol. For that key aspect we believe this ping implementation of Donald Trump’s crime charge for individual presents a risk to the safety of ban on transgender men and women serv- New York City – Voices4, a non-violent other LGBTQ community members. This ing in the military, US Rep. Deb Haaland and direct-action advocacy group, and their attack at Seattle event while not only physically painful is (D-New Mexico), has posted a trans pride partner group RUSA LGBT, staged a protest extremely traumatizing and emotionally flag next to the New Mexico state flag out- on January 20th at the Russian Consulate. Seahawks game draining.” (Seattle Gay News – MK Scott at side her congressional office. Rep. Haa- The Russian LGBT Network confirmed last Sgn.org/sgnnews47_04/page1.cfm) land, who with US Rep. Sharice Davids week that about 40 LGBTQ people have Seattle – Jay Dee Harp III faced a of Kansas last November became the first been imprisoned and at least two people judge and his victims at his arraignment Native American women elected to Con- murdered since December 2018. in King County Superior Court on January gress, posted the photo on Facebook with Over 100 protesters stood in solidarity 16th for the December 30th attack of a Conference the caption, “The trans flag is displayed with LGBTQ Chechens affected by a new lesbian couple at CenturyLink field during proudly outside my office door. #Protect- round of queer purges in Chechnya. Less a Seattle Seahawks football game. The aims for better TransTroops.” than 24 hours after the protest ended, a charge was upgraded to a hate crime the US Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-Virgin- message appeared on social media in previous week. treatment of ia) became the first member of Congress Chechnya offering 300,000 rubles (about After leaving several times to buy beer, to display the trans pride flag when she $4,500) to anyone who incited violence stepping on the women’s toes and making LGBT patients posted the flag next to the Virginia state against LGBTQ people. The message sexual comments, in the third quarter, the asked people to kidnap, beat up, disrupt Fort Worth, Texas – The sixth annual bars and meeting spaces and do “every- Out For Health, slated for February 1st and thing except murder.” 2nd in Fort Worth, is the only LGBT health As the vigil began, Voices4 members conference held annually in Texas, and offers gathered across the street from the Rus- training on LGBT issues to medical students, sian Consulate. Attendees held candles physician’s assistants, nurses, and pharma- and posters with messages of solidarity, cist students. Matthew Mitts, a second-year including “Queer people anywhere are re- medical student at University of North Texas sponsible for queer people everywhere,’” Health Science Center in Fort Worth, where “You are loved,” and “We see you.” The this year’s conference will be held, pointed to visual demonstration reflected how all some alarming statistics that show the need people must stand in solidarity with per- for the conference. Surveys show that one in secuted communities. Three members of Jay Dee Harp III five LGBT people avoid healthcare because Voices4 peacefully crossed the street and of fear of discrimination. More than 56% of Flags of many hues approached the steps of the Russian con- man returned with another beer, but this LGB and an astounding 70 percent of trans sulate, where they began to lay down flow- time stopped as he passed the couple, un- people report being subjected to discrimina- zipped one woman’s jacket, grabbed her tion, physical abuse, or having a healthcare flag outside her office when she was in- breast and refused to let go, according to professional be afraid to touch them. Also, augurated on January 4th. Noting that she the charges. The woman’s wife and sev- a majority of physicians are afraid to ask a is the aunt of a trans child, Wexton said eral nearby fans intervened, taking the patient about their sexual orientation, while at the time, “I want everyone in the trans man to the ground. During the scuffle, he a majority of LGBT people are comfortable community to know that they are welcome punched one of the women in the face, talking about it. and loved even in the face of this admin- bloodying her nose and breaking her front According to Vic Holmes, a family prac- istration and its attacks on who they are.” tooth, the charges allege. The King County tice physician’s assistant and assistant pro- (Dallas Voice at Dallasvoice.com/2nd- Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged fessor at the University of North Texas Health trans-pride-flag-on-display-in-the-halls-of- Jay Harp with assault in the second degree Science Center, there isn’t an LGBT aware- congress) A similar recent protest, in London and malicious harassment, the hate crime ness track in medical schools. Holmes’s track [Editor’s Note: The actions of these statute in Washington state. Malicious ha- at Out For Health is creating a welcoming en- women stand in stark contrast to the dis- ers, a pride flag, electronic candles and a rassment and assault in the second de- vironment for the LGBT community. He said criminatory policies of the Trump adminis- sign that read “Queer people anywhere gree are both felony charges. one way to indicate to LGBT patients that tration. Remember the hypocrisy of candi- are responsible for queer people every- During the hearing, the victims, Melis- your office welcomes them as patients is by date Trump standing at the podium during where.” The NYPD removed the materi- sa and Jae, were joined by their friend and leaving items in the waiting room that indicate the Republican National Convention hold- als and ordered the Voices4 members to advocate, Mac McGregor, who was able to the practice is affirming. That might include ing the rainbow flag and declaring his sup- leave, claiming “This isn’t our land,” refer- get this statement from them: “Purchasing brochures on lesbian health or transgender port for the LGBTQ communities.] ring to extraterritoriality status the Russian tickets to this football game was not intend- health. It might include a rainbow pin worn Consulate receives (meaning the building ed to end in pain and a complete disruption —continued on page 8

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter Unity through Diversity and celebration for the sexual and gender minorities The Remix of Baltimore. By popular demand, this year’s theme December Bash will be Unity through Diversity- The Remix. Through A Fundraiser for the GLCCB Throwing back to the late nineties, we are donning our Facebook page, the Pride Committee is narrow- our nostalgia glasses to highlight a great period of ing down their list of entertainers, encouraging pa- Baltimore’s SGM community when the flip phone rade participants to sign up early and spreading the Under the direction of Mimi Demissew, GLCCB’s was hot and adding glitter to your MySpace page word to new vendors to make the 15th through 16th executive director, and the vigilance of Shelese was exciting. Before the rise of social media, the of June memorable. Greene, our tireless office manager, in concert with community pillars of the were grounded in our collec- We hope that you want to be a part of this expe- rest of our small staff, December brought the joy of tion of Mount Vernon’s clubs and the Lambda Rising rience! the holiday season with December Bash, our first was a place to shop after a program at the GLCCB. Volunteer!- TINYURL.COM/19PrideVolunteer successful fundraiser outside of Baltimore Pride. As Baltimore prepares for the possible ice storms Submit your Pride Event! Vend at Pride! Walk in Within two months of planning and promoting, a of February, the Baltimore Pride Committee is antic- the Parade! Perform on the Drag Stage! Perform for partnership with Club Bunns and and the Arch Social ipating the muggy heat of June. Planning for Pride Pride! DJ at Pride! Club, and supported by a generous donation from 2019 began last October with biweekly meetings of For more information, email 2019pride@glccb. Giant and DuClaw, we raised $1000 for our youth the committee chairs hammering out communication org programming. methods and master calendars. In concert with the $1000 is a small amount that we plan to use staff of the GLCCB, the Committee is preparing to to revive YAO, Youth Against Oppression, maintain make 2019’s celebration a blend of party, activism, Teen Art Group, and expand Family Game Night. YAO, aims to provide a safe space for SGM/ LGBTQIA youth to speak on and create advocacy actions around issues/concerns that affect the indi- viduals in the 14 through 20 age range. This group is holding an interest meeting on the 3rd of January for new members to add their voices to the Youth Pride section of the Block Party and other possible social justice actions that group feels strongly about to tackle in 2019. For more information on this group, please call our peer navigators or come out on the 3rd. We thank you for making this fundraiser a success. We look forward to more of your attending next year.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

GLCCB Calendar of Events Thursday, February 7 Thursday, February 14 December Bash Free & Confidential Testing 2:00 pm Free & Confidential Testing at the GLCCB 2:00 pm Friday, February 1 Youth Against Oppression 4:30 pm Family Game Night 6:30 pm A Fundraiser for the GLCCB Crystal Meth Anonymous 6:30 pm Board Of Directors Meeting 6:30 pm Giovanni’s Room Open Mic 7:00 pm Friday, February 15 Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 pm Friday, February 8 Black Voice 6:00 pm (Off-Site) Breaking Bread Project 6:30 pm Crystal Meth Anonymous 6:30 pm Saturday, February 2 Crystal Meth Anonymous 6:30 pm Marijuana Anonymous 7:00 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 pm Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm Saturday, February 16 Sunday, February 3 Saturday, February 9 Queer Families Potluck 11:00 am Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 am - 1:00 pm MOCHA Men’s Group 4:00 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 pm Meet for a Cause 12:00 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00 pm Baltimore Queer Book Club 3:00 pm Sunday, February 17 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 pm Sunday, February 10 Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 am Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 am Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 pm Tuesday, February 5 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 pm Coming Out Support Group 5:00 pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00 pm Yoga & Heels 5:00 pm Tuesday, February 12 Tuesday, February 19 Teen Art Group 5:30 pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00 pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00 pm Poetry Workshop 6:30 pm Dudley Physical Therapy Information Session 5:00 pm Yoga & Heels 5:00 pm SILhouette 7:30 pm Teen Art Group 5:30 pm Teen Art Group 5:30 pm Home Ownership Readiness with Live Baltimore 6:30 pm SILhouette 7:30 pm Wednesday, February 6 Baltimore Pride Committee Meeting 6:00 pm Wednesday, February 13 Wednesday, February 20 HIV/STI Testing with STAR TRACK 6:30 pm Vogue Workshop with STAR TRACK 6:00 pm Baltimore Pride Committee Meeting 6:00 pm The Mankind Project 6:45 pm Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 6:30 pm The Mankind Project 6:45 pm Trans Baltimore 7:00 pm The Mankind Project 6:45 pm Trans Baltimore 7:00 pm SCA 7:00 pm SCA 7:00 pm SCA 7:00 pm

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 beyond the beltway

—continued from page 5 learning curve for me. I tried to make it as as soon as possible,” it concluded.“Security his diary in which he alleged that it was Buck funny as possible, though. But Bierdz says forces have increased their activity.” who first introduced him to narcotics. These by a receptionist. Photos around the waiting that he never slept with anyone for a job in The Russian LGBT Network confirmed revelations prompted the LASD to reopen its room might include same-sex couples. “That Hollywood. “Probably because I did sleep the reports to Gay Star News. Chairman- investigation into Buck. Since the investiga- says a lot to people who need to see them,” with someone for a waiter job in Wisconsin,” Mikhail Tumasov said: “The persecution tion was launched, a number of other men Holmes said. The best way for medical pro- he said. of gay people – both men and women – in of color have come forward to claim political fessionals to learn their patient’s needs, he Chechnya never stopped. We’ve been say- power player Buck, who is single and came said, is to have a conversation with your pa- ing this the whole time. The scale and style out as gay at 16, paid them to take drugs. tient, not a confrontation. of persecution has changed form at times, Buck’s attorney, Seymour Amster, said Mitts said the conference will include 14 but the persecution never stopped. Since the man was a long-time friend of Buck’s in different talks about issues related to the late December, the security forces have his 50s, and had lived in West Hollywood for LGBT community, including geriatric care, increased their activity. We are doing ev- 25 years. Amster claimed that the man had pediatrics, and mental health. He said one erything we can to help the victims. We will “a history of substance abuse.” “Unfortunately, thing healthcare providers who work with reveal more about the atrocities [this week],” in the early hours this morning, a good friend LGBT patients definitely need to understand he said. The Russian LGBT Network is try- of Ed’s reached out to him. Ed was reluc- is PrEP for preventing HIV. Several work- ing to find safe spaces for those in danger. shops will deal with management of trans- They’re also trying to get LGBT people out of gender patients. (Dallas Voice – David Taffet Chechnya and provide clothing, food accom- at Dallasvoice.com/be-out-to-be-healthy) Thom Bierdz modation and psychological support. (Gay Star News – James Besanvalle & In the book, Bierdz does name a few Shannon Power at Gaystarnews.com/article/ names. “My biggest concern is hurting peo- activists-warn-new-wave-anti-gay-attacks- The sexual ple…. So, I changed the names of the people chechnya/#gs.Bh4y1Ww1) in the book I speak of negatively. But I name liberation of stars I had flings with, people like David Gef- fen, who romanced me at 22. I say nothing soap opera star bad about Geffen. I know nothing bad about Second man Hillary Clinton and Ed Buck Geffen. He was a nice guy to me. He is in Thom Bierdz the book to show how many opportunities I dies in home tant to have him over but he was insistent. encountered. I could have married a billion- He had him come over and come into his Phoenix – From 1986 to 1989, Thom Bi- aire or many millionaires, but I never went for of prominent apartment,’ Amster told DailyMail.com. “Ed erdz was one of the best known and most guys with money.” These days, Bierdz lives a had just gotten out of the shower, so he went popular hunks on daytime TV when he quiet and peaceful life. Autographed copies Democratic donor to get himself more appropriately attired. He played Phillip Chancellor III on the mega-hit of the book can be purchased at Thombierdz. came back into his living room and his friend soap opera The Young And The Restless.” com. (Echo Magazine – David-Elijah Nahmod West Hollywood – Protests have erupt- was acting with bizarre behavior. Shortly The soap star made many hearts swoon, at https://echomag.com/thom-bierdz-2019) ed outside the home of a wealthy Democratic thereafter it was obvious his friend needed but, unknown to his audience, he was a man donor in California, after a second man died medical assistance. Ed called paramedics. with a secret. Bierdz is gay, a fact that he there in 18 months. More than 100 people They arrived, they were unable to revive him, could not reveal during the more conser- gathered at the house of Edward Buck in and unfortunately, he died in the apartment vative 1980s. Now, three decades later, he Activists say West Hollywood on the night of January 7th ... It seems the individual came over already comes clean about his sexual exploits – and to demand the activist be arrested. Buck – having consumed controlled substances. the sexual shame he once felt – in his new anti-gay attacks a regular donor to Democratic campaigns There were no controlled substances ingest- memoir, Young, Gay And Restless: My Scan- including Hillary Clinton’s presidential bid ed in the presence of Ed, nor did Ed give dalous On-Screen and Off-Screen Sexual are increasing in – was investigated for a suspected murder any to his friend.” t (The Dailymail.com – Liberations. when Gemmel Moore, 26, was found dead Ryan Parry, Josh Boswell & Ariel Zilber at Now a successful artist living in the Chechnya of a meth overdose in July 2017. The retired Dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6567071/SEC- California woods, Bierdz uses the book to donor was again interviewed by police yes- OND-man-dies-apparent-overdose-apart- recall every sexual encounter he ever had, Grozny, Chechnya – Gay Star News re- terday after another black man, in his 50s, ment-prominent-white-Democratic-do- both during his teen years in Wisconsin and ports that activists are warning of a new wave died in his presence although the cause is nor-Ed-Buck.html) throughout his Hollywood life. The book is of anti-gay attacks in the Russian republic of not yet known. raw and graphic. The revealing tome is ex- Chechnya. According to a social media post Jasmyne Cannick, a public affairs strat- plicit and also humorous. In his conversa- on January 10th, activists are urging LGBT egist who has worked with Gemmel Moore’s These news notes have been compiled, tion with Echo, Bierdz describes it as “Bold, Chechens to flee immediately, amid a new family, said the DA and Sheriff’s Department with permission, from the online version Baby!” “OMG! The things I say,” he added. crackdown against LGBT people. It is under- “have blood on their hands” for failing to prop- of various newspapers and other web “Taboo shit no one else will say, no celeb stood authorities received new contact details erly investigate the donor. Cannick alleged sites. We thank these publications for for sure. I just realized an actor would not of LGBT people living in Chechnya. “We ask that Buck lures men to his apartment with allowing us to bring you their news sto- write that book; it would kill his career. Only anyone still free to take this message serious- promises of cash and injects them with crys- ries. Usually the reports have been sig- an artist would write that — an artist living ly and leave the republic as soon as is possi- tal meth for his own sexual gratification, al- nificantly edited and you can read the by his own rules with rescue dogs in a for- ble,” the statement read. It continued: “I ask though the claims are as yet unproven. The full story by going to the web site men- est hideaway who is no longer interested in you to turn to human rights activists, the me- Moore case was closed after the Los Angeles tioned following the item. Comments trying to fit in.” Bierdz describes the book as dia, friends who can help you.” The statement District Attorney found insufficient evidence are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker “shocking and draw-dropping…. How can you also provided a safe phone number for people to prosecute, sparking controversy from and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride not mention penis?” he asks. “Or balls? And in danger to contact. That number is: 8 (800) local campaign groups. In February of last Media. each new body part and sexual act was a 555-73-74 “Be careful and leave the republic year Moore’s family published pages from

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com JUNE 2019 NYCPRIDE.ORG/2019

PRODUCED BY WORLDPRIDE LICENSOR HOST PARTNER HOST PARTNER

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 quality of life // Health and Wellness

The In participation is reluctant. I love my girl- and friend and I love period sex. How can I bring her around? Sincerely, Out Esther B. Andre Shakti Dear Esther, Many cultures and religions prohibit When Sex is a sex during menstruation; these restric- tions are based on the belief that a woman Blood Sport is impure or even dirty during her period. Add the widespread condemnation of wom- Dear Andre, en desiring pleasure for themselves to the I’m a queer woman in my early 30s, mix, and you get the perfect storm of inter- and I’m in an amazing relationship with a nalized shame and disgust. Despite living woman in her early 40s. She’s kind, ca- in a Westernized society with a reasonable reer-driven, funny, and hands down the level of sexual permissiveness, these be- hottest person I’ve ever been with – I can’t liefs about period sex have the power to keep my hands off of her! There’s just one permeate our collective consciousness small issue: She refuses to be intimate and directly impact how we – and our part- mess (and save you having to strip the bed with me when she’s menstruating. I think ners – feel about it. Which, frankly, sucks. I something uniquely vulnerable about peri- afterwards). it has a lot to do with her past partners, can’t guarantee you that your girlfriend will od sex that relates to a craving for intima- You can also dim the lights in the room, because she only came out of the closet come to love having period sex, but I can cy and comfort. For me, an orgasm can be as well as offer to blindfold your girlfriend as two years ago and has told me that at least give you enough information to make one just as remedying as a mug of chamomile she receives pleasure. This can help get her one ex-boyfriend told her that period sex hell of a convincing argument! tea and a heating pad. out of her head and make her more present was “disgusting.” She’ll have sex with me There are lots of awesome reasons Also, it just plain to her pleasure. Fi- while I’m on my period, but I always have to have sex on your period! There are no feels good! Oxytocin “She’ll have sex with nally, try having the to initiate it and I can’t help feeling that her health risks associated with it, and there’s – otherwise known menstruating party as “the bonding hor- me while I’m on my use a menstrual cup mone” – is released period, but I always or sponge during oral in the body during or manual stimulation both labor and sex. have to initiate it and to avoid the mess In labor, oxytocin is I can’t help feeling altogether (some released to help your folks do report being uterus contract down; that her participation able to comfortably in sex, the same hor- receive penetration mone can help re- is reluctant. I love my while wearing a men- lieve painful cramp- girlfriend and I love strual cup or sponge, ing associated with but it’s definitely on a menstruation. The period sex. How can I case-by-case basis.) endorphins released “Not feeling during orgasm can bring her around?” sexy.” This is real. have a similar effect, And, sometimes we distracting the body from cramps. can help our partners feel sexier by provid- Finally, it’s cost effective! Menstruation ing positive feedback loops. Constantly re- provides the perfect natural lubricant for inforcing how hot we think our menstruating penetration, meaning that you’ll be less partner is and how much we desire them likely to have to constantly re-apply your can help to build their confidence. favorite brand of store-bought lube through- “It’s painful” or “I don’t get horny when Sat, February 2 out. I’m bleeding.” If your girlfriend expresses Now, to address common concerns. these sentiments to you, don’t push it. Even With DJ Rosie Hicks “The mess.” Yeah, period sex is messy, though lots of menstruating people see an Ladies Night but so is non-period sex! Between all of increase in libido during their period, there Sun, February 3 the spit, cum, sweat, and lube flying every- are just as many who don’t. Additionally, where, sex isn’t – and shouldn’t be – san- a small percentage of folks experience in- itized. In my opinion, period sex just adds creased discomfort associated with period Super Bowl Party one more inconsequential fluid to the al- sex. We always want to listen to our part- After Feb. 4th, 2019 we will be closed for remodeling ready diverse mix. However, if your girlfriend ners and trust what information they give remains self-conscious, there are a few us about their bodies. In this case, perhaps for 2-3 weeks. Check our Facebook page for updates tricks to try. Keeping the sexual positions you and your girlfriend can explore alter- facebook.com/mixersbar/ simple will help limit the amount of blood native, creative ways to connect intimately strewn everywhere and using dark-colored while she’s bleeding that fall within both of towels on the bed will discreetly absorb any your comfort levels. Best of luck to you! t 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness

The big question is: What do we do about it? This part I love! The body is adap- Spicing Up Your Love Mending tive, including the brain. Believe it or not, we can update our brain map through a Upcoming workshop to dish on the technique called mirror therapy. This is a Life the aphrodisiacs of food Gap technique used for neurological reeduca- tion and can be used here. Neurons that fire Charles Dudley By Monte Ephraim together will wire together. This is how we The LGBT Health Resource Center form habits and why change to our routine Anyone looking to spice up their Valentine’s is a challenge with a very awkward feeling. Day will have the chance to learn how food What do you tell people who might The Person from With that said what we need to do is show can play a role in their love life during an not be sure if they’re up for preparing the brain where those nerves are located upcoming Lunch & Learn Workshop hosted a meal? H.O.M.U.N.C.U.L.U.S. today! This is where the mirror comes in to by The LGBT Health Resource Center. There are many ways that one can play. Stand in front of a mirror and touch The workshop is scheduled for Valen- have a meal that is both convenient and I had an interesting client the other day. yourself. No, not the naughty way! Put your tine’s Day (Thursday, February 14th) from healthy! Anticipating that your schedule They were seeing me for their feet when pants back on and take off your shirt so you noon to 1:30 pm in the community room may get busy during the week, the conversation turned to their top surgery are topless (like so many of us at MAL). Use at Chase Brexton’s Mount or that you may want some from several years ago and some of the a finger to feel around your chest, watching Vernon Center (1111 extra time to relax, you odd sensations, they were yourself in the mir- North Charles Street, may want to create a meal still having which some- Your body in ror. When you find a Baltimore). Anyone in- plan for the week. By us- times became distracting proportion to its spot that feels odd, terested in attending ing days off to prepare during sex. Their problem nerve-ending confused, like it is or receiving more infor- a few different meal op- was that after the surgery endowment not where it is “sup- mation on this upcom- tions, you will have good things did not feel like they pose” to be, give it ing Lunch and Learn quality food that only were in the correct spot. some more atten- workshop should RSVP need to be portioned When they look in the mir- tion. The whole time to lgbt@chasebrexton. and/or reheated. When ror, they like what they see, you are watching org or call 410-837-2050 eating out at restau- and it confirms that they yourself in the mir- x1049. rants, utilize strategies are who they think they are ror. What is happen- We asked the work- to watch portion sizes however when touching ing is the brain is shop’s presenter, Chase such as pre-packing certain parts of the chest comparing informa- Brexton Health Care half of the meal in a to- it feels like they are being tion from the visual nutritionist Tiana Mat- go box before starting touched in a different spot. cortex with the pro- thews-Martinez, to dish up to eat, or sharing half This is where we need to prioceptive informa- a few details about mixing of a large meal with introduce the homunculus. tion from the hand food and love. Tiana someone. This will save you half The homunculus is a doing the touching What about a food Matthews- the cost of the meal and the addi- graphic proportional rep- to the brain map in makes it an aphrodisiac? Martinez, tional calories you may not need at resentation of our body on the homunculus to A food can be considered an nutritionist of the time. Lastly, when eating out, the brain based on nerve density for the see if all the information agrees. If it doesn’t aphrodisiac if it is thought to in- love utilizing international cuisines at motor (brain to muscle to tell them what agree it will start to update the brain map in crease libido. Different foods, in “mom-and-pop” restaurants often to do) and sensory (body to brain to tell us the homunculus as to where those nerves various cultures around the world, means greater access to foods what is going on) and are fairly similar from currently go. This is something to be done have been associated with either “prepared with love” from fresh, person to person. This is the brain’s map of daily, multiple times a day if possible due to stimulating sexual desire or improving sex whole, plant-based foods. where things should be on the body so that the fact that the brain map is so strong, you organ function. Foods thought to do this if I touch your toe and move it you will know have had it for a long time, and it is going may simply resemble sex organs or may Valentine’s Day usually means choc- it without ever looking at it. The problem this to take time and consistent reinforcement to have various nutrients that improve func- olate—what are some healthier treats? update with the new information. tioning. You’ll have to come to the presen- You can’t go wrong with treats that person is having – and they are not alone Now the curve ball. We have separate tation to learn more. are made from fruit. Try dipping fresh fruit in this – is the brain map has changed. The nerves for light touch, sharp / dull, hot / Lots of people love food, but how can in flavored yogurt, peanut butter, or dark nerves still go back and forth from the brain food be a part of love? chocolate. My favorites are grilled pineap- to the body, but they end in a different loca- cold, vibration, pain, pressure and proprio- Preparing food, or the act of feeding ples or warm apples with cinnamon and tion from when the brain map was formed ception. Each of these “files” need to be up- someone, is a display of affection and love granola streusel on top. many, many years ago. This is similar to dated. Start with light touch, it is the easiest. in many cultures. It is often a sign of disre- What do you hope attendees learn what amputee’s experience with phantom There are many ways to handle the others. spect to turn away food when someone of- from this session? pain due to the loss of the nerves at their I would like to end with a question for fers it—especially in situations where food Attendees will learn a little about why end point, as well as a person after a stroke you. Gender confirmation surgery helps a in the home may be scarce. Also, the act of certain foods are considered aphrodisiacs, in which the map itself gets damaged and person look the way they envision them- someone changing their diet is sometimes the role of aphrodisiacs in cardiovascular the nerves still go to their destination, but selves. My question is this; is there some interpreted as being offensive to family health, and taste some new foods to hope- the starting point is no longer there. dysphoria that continues, even on a low lev- members who have raised them and shown fully incorporate into their Valentine’s Day This is also like my car. The GPS is from el, because the body doesn’t quite feel the them “love” with certain types or amounts of dinner. t 2007 and has not been updated. The maps way you would like it to? food. Despite this, it is important to practice For more about Chase Brexton’s nu- have changed, and I’ve gotten lost because I would love to hear back from you self-love by eating foods and living a life- trition program, visit Chasebrexton.org/ the roads are now different – case and point regarding your experiences with this, style that nourishes the body and promotes nutrition. would be where 695 and 95 north of the city successes and struggles. Email me at overall well-being. has been redesigned. [email protected]. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 quality of life // Health and Wellness quality of life // Health and Wellness

gressive change, gradually increasing with age – not something that happens sudden- to control our environment and this is ap- ly when you turn 50. Ask parent in relationships, whether personal Open Wide There is also a decrease in sperm pro- or professional. At work, we may accept duction with aging. Sperm is what gives Dr. J the existing structure because it is a mat- ask Dr Eva ejaculate (“cum”) a white color. The clear Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. ter of choice and for which we get money, Dr Eva Hersh part of ejaculate is fluid made in the pros- and other benefits so it would be an “even tate gland. As sperm production decreas- exchange.” Cultures differ in the expecta- es, there is less white material in the ejac- tions of partners, regardless of sexual ori- Random Penis ulate. You, Me, or Us entation, and we absorb such beliefs. These changes are worth a discus- An additional complicating factor is Questions sion with your health care professional, One of the transitions one makes going the space each person needs in an inti- because there are also many medical from a single life to a partnership, is adjust- mate relationship. Have you noticed that problems that can cause softer erections. ing to the concept of “us” or “coupledom.” some people will stand very close to you, Dear Dr. Eva, These problems include: It may not be a conscious shift, but sooner and some will seek more space? Do you Guys sometimes wake up with an erec- • Circulation problems: decreased or later, there comes an instance when our want to know what your partner does tion. We call this a piss hard-on because it blood flow to the penis, caused by choles- own needs and wants collide with the oth- pretty much every moment of every day? goes down after pissing. Is there a differ- terol blocking the arteries. er’s and then it is a time to be deliberate Yes, there are people who like that kind of ence between this and an erection caused • Smoking: smoking tobacco causes about just how you merge me with us. closeness. Or are you comfortable for each by sexual arousal? narrowing of the arteries in all parts of In all human interactions, a powerful of you going your own way? And yes, there Thank you. the body, including the penis. Decreased dynamic is that of control. Who is in charge are people who like that as well. The con- Mike circulation lasts for 90 minutes after each of this relationship? Does one person dom- flict that emerges when you have partners cigarette smoked! inate in decision-making? Or is it a fairly from each of these different orientations is Dear Mike, • Damage to nerves: the nerves to the balanced, equal footing combination? We because it is difficult to merge them as the There is no physical difference. Men penis have to be healthy for erections to come into this world completely helpless have erections as part of the normal sleep occur. These nerves are damaged by di- and dependent on others to feed, clothe, cycle. These erections are not necessar- abetes and by chronic viral illnesses such and love us. If an infant is not cared for, it ily associated with sexual as HIV and hepati- will not survive, unlike most other species. dreams. Because of these tis C. So, we start with a strong need to be able normal sleep erections, men • Alcohol use, often wake up with erec- which affects both tions whether they need to libido (sex drive) urinate or not. Erections and nerve function. go down with urination be- • Drug use, es- Dear Dr. Eva, cause it is near-impossible pecially metham- I have (always) had a ring of little to urinate when the penis is phetamines, but bumps around the base of the head of my fully erect. Men can some- also cocaine and penis, like a tiny ruffle. My previous partner times urinate with a partial opioids such as her- thought it was cute and accepted it as part erection but in that situa- oin, Oxycontin, and of me. My new partner thinks I have warts tion they often need to use Percocet. and is insisting we use condoms. What do issue of control again raises its ugly head. a lot of pressure to get the • Many prescrip- you think? Let me add that there is nothing wrong urine out. So people think tion medications, Decorated with our need to control. It becomes a it is the urine or urge to uri- especially two cate- problem only when it is out of sync from nate that causes an erec- gories of blood pres- Dear Decorated, our partner’s and becomes overwhelming. tion, but it really isn’t. Doctors call sure medications: Please see the photo. Is this what your Do you want to know why he/she is still them Pearly beta blockers and thiazide di- penis looks like? If so, you are the proud not home after leaving work? Do you worry Penile Papules. uretics. possessor of pearly penile papules. (See, that your beloved may be doing something Dear Dr. Eva, You might call • Emotional problems, in- even the name is cute!) This is a normal you don’t know about? That anxiety stems I recently turned 50. My erections them nature’s cluding anxiety, depression, variation in the shape of the glans (head of from feeling insecure about the relation- aren’t as hard as they used to be (still own French and stress. the penis). It is not a form of warts. Howev- ship, and from not having formed the “cou- hard enough to have sex) and I no- ticklers. Either • Not getting enough sleep. er, there are so many good reasons to use ple” stability. tice that the fluid that comes out is way, they’re a • Performance anxiety: if a condoms that I suggest you go ahead and Conversely, getting to us from me more clear, when it used to be more natural variant man is worried that he will not use them, even after you explain to your means you give up some power, power white. have a firm erection, that wor- partner that PPP’s are not warts. Good over your own activities, needs and spur Is there something wrong with ry can become a self-fulfilling reasons to use condoms: HIV, syphilis, of the moment decisions. Now you have me? prophecy, leading to more problems with herpes, warts, Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and to consider the needs and expectations of Worried erections, leading to more worry, in a vi- more! t another soul as well. This is where trust cious cycle Eva Hersh, MD, is a family physician in one another and communication of what Dear Worried, • Low testosterone: low testosterone and fellow of the American Academy of goes on in each mind are crucial. After all, There may not be anything wrong with affects sexual drive or interest more than it Family Physicians. the ability to talk is what makes us human you. These changes can be a normal part directly affects erections, but the lowered and forms the basis for what love can be. of getting older. As men age, the firmness interest translates to less sexual stimula- May you all savor the joy of being kind, of their erections decreases. This is a pro- tion, which causes decreased erections. gentle, and loving to one another… t 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 410-581-2322. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org

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

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

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // celebrity interview

phen Trask, and how my boyfriend and his death effected it, as well as Plato, the Gnostic gospels, and philosophical Origin Story underpinnings. Also, how it resonates The Origin of Love today. How it’s effected my life. It has By Gregg Shapiro An interview with John Tour: The Songs become a piece in and of itself that is If ever there was a mod- and Stories of Hed- sort of an autobiography. ern gay renaissance Cameron Mitchell wig in select cities. I’m glad you mentioned how it man, it’s John Cameron I had the privilege resonates today. At the time you Mitchell. The actor/writ- co-author of Hedwig of speaking with were creating Hedwig and the Angry er/filmmaker probably him before the tour Inch, 20 or so years ago, the trans first crossed most of our and the Angry Inch began. community was much less visible radar when Hedwig and Gregg Shap- than it is today. How do you see Hed- the Angry Inch, which he co-wrote with iro: Beginning in February 2019, and wig and the Angry Inch’s role in that gay musician Stephen Trask, first opened then picking up again in June, you are change? off-Broadway in 1998, featuring Mitchell performing a series of concerts – The All I have is anecdotal evidence of in the lead role. The 2001 movie version, Origin of Love Tour: The Songs and Sto- how it effected people. People come up starring and directed by Mitchell earned ries of Hedwig. How did the concept for to me, maybe once a week, and say, “It him both a Best Director prize at Sundance the concert come about? really helped me at a time when I felt and a Golden Globe Award nomination. John Cameron Mitchell: It really came like I didn’t know myself. I couldn’t find Other films directed by Mitchell include about because my mom’s Alzheimer’s care my people. I knew I didn’t fit in in some Shortbus (2006) and Rabbit Hole (2010), was beyond me and beyond her. It really way, usually to do with gender or sex- which starred Nicole Kidman and marked was a crass, yet tasteful, grasp for health- uality.” Hedwig never identifies herself the feature film debut of Miles Teller. Now, care money [laughs]. The first opportuni- as trans, because, as a boy she was more than 20 years after Hedwig’s debut ty was in Australia last summer. I forged forced into a gender decision by the (and following its 2014 Broadway debut the show there with two wonderful audi- patriarchy, in effect. “You cannot leave un- John Cameron want to Mitchell starring Neil Patrick Harris and subsequent less you are married! You cannot marry the free myself from the bina- ences at the Sydney Opera House and credit: Mick Rock wins at the Tonys), Mitchell is taking Hed- elsewhere. I wrote a piece that I became man that you love!” And the man himself rchy and identify as non-bi- wig (and the wig, we hope) out of the box very proud of. It talks about the making of if like, “Actually, I kind of prefer you as a nary trans. I’m too old now in a new series of live concert events titled Hedwig, the inspiration, working with Ste- woman” [laughs]. There’s this kind of lack [laughs] and I don’t care. I of choice and agency, which is not trans. am who I am. I’ve always That was actual abuse. It had to do with been out as gay since my last year at col- JANUARY 17 - MARCH 17 the binarchy, too, choosing one or the oth- lege at Northwestern and I don’t feel the er. What I love about the new trans world need to add any new labels because I’m is that binarchy is no longer the norm. It’s just trying to make money for my mom. But about fluidity, choosing your gender, rep- I’ve become proud of this piece. I want it resenting what you are. If you choose to or to be an oasis in a time of panic. I want not to manipulate your body, so be it. You to gather together our Hedwig community decide what you are, which can only be and give them hope. I get hope from doing healthy for our culture. Even at Northwest- it, from touching them. I love crowd-surfing ern, some of the professors were a little in a seated venue, which might very well embarrassed by my work after graduation. happen. Let Me Entertain You! Other professors fought to have me come For those who don’t know, how did back and speak to students. Some weren’t you and your Hedwig collaborator Ste- sure what to make of Hedwig. It wasn’t Ib- phen Trask, who is joining the “Origin of sen. I always had great support from peo- Love” tour in June in New York, meet? ple like Frank Galati, who was my mentor We met on a plane. We talk about at school. He was a boundary pusher, that in the show. We were both ignoring (encouraging us to) use everything in our the movie, which was When Harry Met 410-730-8311 TobysDinnerTheatre.com power to make something on stage. When Sally. He put down a Fassbender biogra- phy on the seat between us, almost as an Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. • Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia, MD I would meet trans people, I’d say “Hedwig freed me up. If Hedwig could create herself ice-breaker. I think of Fassbender as an and bounce back from what was forced ice-maker, but… it was the beginning of a upon him/her, I can, too.” In other words, conversation. We kept bumping into each I feel empowered to do what I need to do other, over time, for the next few years. and what I need to make. If a weird play When I was looking for a composer for a or movie like this can resonate… when we piece that would use rock music, I went to first came out, there was no chance of us see his band at CBGB’s. His bass player being on Broadway because of homopho- became my boyfriend. He saw me in the bia, because drag was considered low- musical Hello Again and we both agreed class, punk rock was not considered the- that we must work together. ater music. We were always on the outside. Is the “Origin of Love Tour: The OPENING MARCH 21 For me, it was never a trans statement. I’m Songs and Stories of Hedwig” also a not trans. If I was 18 years old now, I might way for you to commemorate the 20th 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // personalities anniversary of Hedwig and the Angry Inch? Bob Mould Wants to Sunshine Rock It wasn’t planned that way. Because I want to make it beautiful with my cos- It’s very poor actually An interview with we sent them. That’s tume, and back-up singer and band and [laughs]. My German where Alison came in. everything, I end up not making any mon- Your World is not good at all. I can indie rock legend, now I had her come out to ey really [laughs]. I kind of break even. If I By Gregg Shapiro read a little bit and I can San Francisco at the was (performing) alone with tracks, I could For fans of gay indie rock legend Bob Mould, understand a little bit. hanging out in Berlin end of the project to make money. But I don’t want to be alone whose solo albums have borne titles such as I can speak a tiny bit, add some extra melo- on stage. I’m bringing around a community Black Sheets of Rain and Beauty & Ruin, the enough to get by. Fortunately for me, so dies to “Western Sunset.” She was a real key of people to do this. I’ve never been great name of his latest, Sunshine Rock (Merge), many people in Berlin speak English. It’s player in getting the string arrangements up with money. I’ve been great with creative might come as something of a surprise. But not really a problem. The frustrating part to speed for the orchestra. Not only playing, community. Those things lead to other it’s a completely fitting moniker, especially for me, and I’ve got to work on this, when I but really helping with shining up all that stuff. things. I always find that if you do what you since the sun rises in the names of four of the try to speak German, after a couple of sen- Sunshine Rock contains a cover of need to do, enough money comes along. record’s songs. Sonically, the album is also tences I get waved off (and they say), “No, Shocking Blue’s “Send Me a Postcard.” You’ll never be rich, but enough. Peo- more radiant, a deliberate shift on the part of let’s just speak English.” I’m like, “Oh! I’ll After all these years, why did you choose ple have been really sweet. Some have the man also known for his previous bands never get to practice! You’re going to make to include a cover tune and why that song made a little t-shirt fund for my mom and Hüsker Dü and Sugar. But fear not, there is still me go to immersion, aren’t you? [laughs].” in particular? me on Instagram and have raised enough plenty of loud, crackling guitar on Sunshine Alison Chesley, who can be heard play- When the three of us (Bob, Jason, and for a month of her care. You get by. I’m Rock. Mould was kind enough to take a few ing cello “Western Sunset,” previously ap- Jon) got together in Oakland for the week of very lucky to be able to help my mom and minutes out of this busy schedule to answer a peared on The Last Dog and Pony Show. basic tracks, we ended up finishing two days that my fans are there, too. There’s going few questions before the release of the album. She was in the early. We knew that the second of those two to be a Criterion version of (the movie) of Gregg Shapiro: The sun bands Jason & days was going to involve a film documentary Hedwig in 2019. We want it to last for the plays a starring role on your Alison and Ver- and photos and all of that. The first of the two next generation, too. This is a way of keep- new album Sunshine Rock, bow with your free days, we were like, “What are we go- ing the community feeling cuddly in a time appearing in the title track, longtime band ing to do?” We started looking through some when you need it. “Sunny Love Song,” “Camp member Jason covers of songs that we thought would be In addition to you, an amazing ar- Sunshine,” and “Western Narducy, and cool. That was one of the songs that showed ray of actors have portrayed Hedwig on Sunset.” Please say some- you produced up and we took a stab at it. We learned it stage including Michael Cerveris (who I thing about becoming a sun Verbow’s de- in ten minutes and recorded it pretty much saw do the show at the Jane Street The- worshipper on this album. but album and right then. That was the first song that I sang atre in 1999), Neil Patrick Harris, Taye Bob Mould: [Laughs] I think toured with any vocals on for the record. That’s the first Diggs, Michael C. Hall, and Andrew that after a couple of albums in a them. How take, first vocal for the record. It was really Rannells. Is there someone who hasn’t row that were informed by a lot of did this mu- funny. I said, “Somebody get the words off played Hedwig that you’d like to see do darker, heavier incidents, it was sical reunion the internet!” My favorite part of it, and it’s so? a conscious effort to write to the on “West- really key to the whole album, is that they There’s always another crew, which is brightness, to write to the light in ern Sunset” handed me these words and I’m singing. You great. It never ends. What’s fun about it, is whatever form it takes. The sun is come about? can hear the warm-up that I’m doing at the that it’s a mask, it’s drag rather than trans. the easy one because it keeps ev- A few beginning to try to get my voice open. About It’s a mask that anyone, any gender can erything going forward for all of us. weeks before half a second before the first verse starts, I wear. We’ve had trans people, women and The songs “Lost Faith” and me and Ja- hear the vocal line in my head and I’m like, “I men play it. At first, (casting) a man made “The Final Years” have what I son and Jon can’t fucking sing this!” It’s not in my range. sense because he has to also become would describe as a dance en- (Wurster) Three hundred milliseconds before the vocal Tommy at the end. Some people have the ergy, despite the seriousness of were going starts, I have to conjure up an new vocal line the lyrics. What was the thinking to start working on the spot and that’s what that is [laughs]. right chops to do sing it and some don’t. Bob behind that? It’s got to be the right person who feels it Mould on the record in Oakland, I What can folks expect from your up- and can technically do all of the things. Oddly enough, those were two of the fi- woke up one morning and coming tour? Because it’s now more part of the culture, nal songs written for the album. They were said, “This record needs Probably loud. Probably sweaty. Prob- there’s an openness to women playing it, both written in Berlin in February and March. strings. I need more mel- ably a lot of yelling and banging on instru- which is great. Lena Hall played it on the That would be the global outlook on those, odies on this record [laughs].” I had a lot of ments. It’ll go by in a blur. It could feel like West Coast. At the end, she walked into specifically. With “Lost Faith,” that was where place-holder melodies in my demos. I typically three hours of sheer noise. It could seem like the light naked. Her female body was so the tempo landed. The same with “The Final use cellos or Hammond organs for those kinds two hours of incredible joy. Maybe you have moving to me. It could be Hedwig’s body. It Years.” Maybe those would lend themselves of things. I started building the melodies out to cut out before the show’s over because the could be the actor’s body. It could be any to the dance-floor because they have a little to see what would happen. After days of sit- babysitter has to leave early [laughs]. It could of us. Any of us could be Hedwig. If you un- more room to breathe and tell the story. It’s ting with those songs and adding a lot more be so many things. Because the three of us derstand those feelings, put on the mask, interesting that you paired them up because parts to them, I had all these big string ar- rarely get together – we live in different cities. and then take off the mask when neces- they were born right next to each other in the rangements. I contacted Alison and sent her To make records and make music is really sary, when you’re done with it. To me, it’s same place. my very simple scores and she, being more of special for us. I hope that that conveys to the a tool. Anyone who plays it says it’s the Speaking of Berlin, you are dividing a master of sheet music than I, was able to get audience. It means a lot to us and we try to hardest and most rewarding thing they’ve your time between there and San Fran- everything in shape. We had another arrang- enjoy the times that we have doing this. t done, and they’re changed. The foam wigs cisco. Did you speak German before you er take a look at everything and we got all of Mould performs on February 14th at 9:30 on the fans in the film is a metaphor for moved to Berlin, if not, how is your Ger- the scores super shiny and clean. The Prague Club in Washington, DC, and February 15th Hedwig is everybody, if you dig down deep man now? TV Orchestra folks spent a day recording all at Union Transfer in Philadelphia. enough. t [Laughs] Ich spreche eine bissen Deutsch. of the strings alongside the basic tracks that BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on stage Jay Leno at Hollywood Casino at Charlestown Races By Frankie Kujawa Audiences will be in hyster- Late-night TV it. Plus, you can open sto- ics as Emmy-award winning ries up a little bit. The ‘To- comedian Jay Leno performs icon unfolds on night Show’ monologue was for fans at Hollywood Casino mostly disposable jokes. By OFF THE at Charles Town Races in sce- comedy that I mean, if the Secretary nic Charles Town, West Vir- and cars of State or someone is in the CUFF: ginia, on Saturday, February news that day you can do a 16th. The former host of The joke about it, but once you Tonight Show, and current get past that day it’s usually ELGAR host of Jay Leno’s Garage, recently chat- over.” ted with Baltimore OUTloud regarding his Leno explained that comedic timing CELLO upcoming performance and the challenge is an art form and craft it takes a while to facing many comedians in today’s political perfect. “It’s a bit like spinning plates on climate. the ‘Sullivan Show.’ You just sort of keep CONCERTO “I always liked being a stand-up come- it running, going and moving. There’s any dian,” began Leno. “And when you do a myriad of topics you talk about, and you CONCERT & show like the “Tonight Show” it’s usually just keep moving quickly from one to the about the events of the day. The mono- other. People get to trust you and they get AFTER-PARTY logue is like a newspaper, in that you open into a rhythm of it.” with a lead story, and then you go through Along with comedy, Leno’s passion different sections and then you end up for cars is evident in his show “Jay Leno’s with jokes about sports or entertainment Garage.” The series is about motor vehi- or something like cles, primarily cars and motorbikes. “I was SATURDAY that. When you do a never much of a sports live show, you can and music guy. I cur- Lotta cars, FEBRUARY 23 open up a bit more rently own about 187 one gal 7:00 PM and tell stories. But cars and 163 motor- the main emphasis cycles. So, yeah, it’s a is comedy. I’m not little much, I know. But I trying to change only have one wife, you anyone’s opinions, see.” Leno laughed. “It’s here. I mean, I try to just much easier. Most make fun of Demo- guys would have one car crats and Republi- and girls hitting all over cans equally. And, town. I just have the one though I don’t girl and cars hitting all Written at the end of World War I, Elgar’s beautiful Cello Concerto was his last care for him, I’m over town.” completed work and reflects his sadness over the loss of friends and countrymen, not giving an an- As the conversa- performed here by Armenian cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan, Tchaikovsky ti-Trump speech. tion turned back towards International Competition winner. This Off The Cuff performance is followed I will certainly do stand-up, Leno believes it offstage, but that even though today’s by a Q&A session with conductor Nicholas Hersh and Narek Hakhnazaryan. I won’t do it on- political climate has made ELGAR'S ENGLISH GARDEN AFTER-PARTY stage. It’s stand- comedy a tight-rope act Join us in the Meyerhoff lobby after the performance on Saturday for live up comedy. A lot for some, comedy is still timeless. “One thing to Dixieland jazz by SAC AU LAIT, food specials by WICKED SISTERS and of stories about growing up and things of that nature.” remember is comedy has not changed. CHARMINGTON’S, and drink specials! “The fun part about doing the ‘Tonight Comedy is comedy. If I asked you to watch YOUNG AND FREE: Children ages 7-17 may attend free with the purchase of an adult ticket. Show,’” Leno continued, “was when some- a dramatic movie from the 1920s like The Visit BSOmusic.org/youngandfree for more information. thing happened you immediately had a Sheik with Rudolph Valentino, or one of joke about it that day. You could sort of those kinds of movies, you’d be bored to MADE OFFICIAL INTERNET MEDIA POSSIBLE BY: PROVIDER OF THE BSO: PARTNERS: be the first one out with a joke that night. death because it moved so slow. But if The bad part about it was that the next showed you a Buster Keaton or a Chaplin day you’d think of a better joke. The fun film from that era, I would almost guaran- JOSEPH MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL part about being on the road is you can tee you’d laugh just as hard as people did TICKETS FROM $25 • BSOMUSIC.ORG/OFFTHECUFF • 410.783.8000 tell a story on Monday and do it a little then. You’d might even laugh more be- different on Tuesday, and by the time the cause of the costumes and the way people weekend comes you’ve got it down to its are dressed. Basically, that’s what come- bare essence and the funniest way to do —continued on next page 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on stage Forgiveness: Agony & Release ‘Out on Stage’ By Frankie Kujawa filled with faith and love, degrees to move forward and really see with Brendan In Everyman Theatre’s up- Everything is and I’m so happy that this each other.” coming play, Everything is play shows this communi- “Working on this play, and having those Wonderful, family tensions Wonderful: ty in a very realistic light. conversations with the cast, designers and Scannell and struggles of faith rever- It doesn’t romanticize it but our fabulous playwright Chelsea [Marcan- —continued from page 1 berate leaving audiences ask- about an shows how gritty and fasci- tel] has helped to establish this as a com- ly life,” Scannell added. “Just those basic ing themselves, “What does it nating it is.” mon theme. It’s about a family dealing with things like, ‘This happened to me at the mean to forgive?” Baltimore Amish family’s The director contin- forgiveness, and in this case the container airport’, etc. But over the past couple of OUTloud recently chatted with embrace of ued. “For this per- years I’ve been able to delve into things director Noah Himmelstein to formance, audiences about dating and identity. More recently, discuss the upcoming perfor- the killer of can expect a very dif- I’ve added stuff from my family and being mance. ferent point of view in from a small town in Indiana and having “This play is so surprising their sons, terms of characters that in my DNA. It can be something as and extraordinary,” Himmel- and relationships, but small as a customer-service situation to stein began, “in that it deals at Everyman one that is universal. something as deep as my mom’s advice to with a family having various We are using the en- me at the age of ten. I like exploring and kinds of crises of faith and Theatre tire width of the Ev- finding the angle that’s funny.” relationships.” As the story eryman stage, which Scannell agreed that sometimes unfolds, audiences find an Amish couple is so vast and huge. In my opinion, LGBTQ comics can get away with just a whose two sons are killed in a car acci- it’s one of the widest sets we’ve ever little bit more on stage than other comics. dent. The family struggles to maintain their had.” “There’s something about having a different faith and cling to their way of life. However, Himmelstein’s excitement for this point of view, and you’re often going into in an act of unfathomable forgiveness, they production is intertwined with the fact audience situations that you’re not always take in Eric, the wayward young driver of that the universal themes will leave audi- is an Amish family. However, it’s really all speaking to LGBTQ people. That gives you the car. But Eric’s mistake cracks open the ences reflecting upon their own lives. “I’m of our families. Whether it’s a family who is an outsider perspective. You can push the family’s dark history and brings home their excited to bring these communities into black, white, Jewish, or Muslim; this story envelope a certain way. I think that’s some- eldest daughter, Miri, who was excommu- the audience and push the boundaries a has allowed for forgiveness to be tangible, times also the case for people of color. Not nicated five years earlier. Miri returns to and that it is something that little by little necessarily getting away with more but find her family in shambles, the man who Director can transform our lives.” having that outsider point of view.” killed her brothers living in the barn, and Noah Himmelstein added. “If we are to move Scannell’s upcoming project, Bonding, the man who drove her away intent upon Himmelstein forward after this particular situation in the was recently picked up by Netflix. Writ- marrying her younger sister. White House, and if we are to find common ten and directed by Rightor Doyle, Bond- “We are taken as outsiders into a com- ground as a country, this play is about re- ing tells the story of long-lost high school munity most of us have not been inside of.” leasing anger and finding forgiveness even BFFs Pete (Scannell), a recently out gay Himmelstein continued, “We are asked to in situations when it seems unfathomable. man, and Tiff (Zoe Levin), a grad student put our feet in the shoes of a closed com- For all of us, what could be a better mes- and secretly one of New York City’s top munity, and the contradictions and ques- sage to receive when we go to the theater dominatrixes, who reconnect in an unex- tions, joy and heartbreaks of that society as to who we can strive to be and seek for- pected way. t mirror our own. The Amish community is giveness in any way we can in many parts Check out Brendanscannell.com; for of our lives.” t Out on Stage,” it’s Dekkoo.com.

Jay Leno Fabulous Fridays! Pride Night at Everyman —continued from previous page bit. [The production] also deals with ques- • Happy Hour and conversation with Costume Designer Ben Argenta Kress dy is. Right now, everyone tends to do the tions about forgiveness. The parents in our • Friday, February 8th, 6 to7:30 pm at Everyman Theatre same joke. I mean, Trump’s in the news story take in the driver of the car which all the time so, consequently, everybody’s killed their sons. A transformation occurs Everyman Theatre presents Fabulous Fridays Pride Night during the run of Ev- trying to do the same Trump joke over and based on forgiveness.” Himmelstein add- erything is Wonderful. Mix and mingle with fellow theatre lovers and enjoy dis- over again. To me, I really enjoyed it when ed, “There’s a quote that says: forgiveness counted tickets and a pre-show happy hour featuring drink specials, light bites I would get angry letters from both Repub- happens in an instant, but reconciliation is licans and Democrats. Then, everybody a journey. I’ve done a lot of research on from Birrotecca, and a conversation with Costume Designer Ben Argenta Kress was mad about something different. Now, different faiths and people who find for- about his inspiration for the show and the intensive research and detail required everybody’s mad about the same thing. giveness. For me, forgiveness is releasing to create authentic costumes honoring Amish traditions. Hosted by The Boy with Every show, now, kind of has the same the weight of your own heart. It’s more for the Blue Beard. Save on tickets to Everything is Wonderful. with code FFEW19 point of view which doesn’t quite work for yourself than it is for the other person. It’s Tickets available at EverymanTheatre.org me.” t a daily practice and sometimes it’s very Note: The Happy Hour is free (not including drink specials), but tickets to the For more info, visit Hollywoodcasino- hard. Sometimes we have clarity and it’s February 8th performance must be purchased individually. t charlestown.com. truly something that we all need in varying

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

ebrate Gotcha Day or the anniversary of the day when the child was placed in their home. Others celebrate the anniversary of the adoption finalization, which can occur Parenting years after the initial placement. Some ar- OUTloud en’t sure what to celebrate. When we took custody of Cassandra, Rev. Kelly Crenshaw uations where the adoption is planned and we were asked if we wanted it announced purposeful, there is the grief of what could at work. Our company announces baby have been. births and adoptions, even sends flowers I love my cousin. She is more than her to the new parents. We turned it down. Af- drug addiction Adoption: ter all, we’d only taken and mental ill- custody. What if some- ness. She is to keep Cassandra safe, stable, and loved. Double-Edged thing happened to re- smart and kind. So, I talked to our lawyer this week. verse that? My cousin She has expe- Soon, I will be writing a check to retain promised to get her life rienced more his services for this adoption. Hopeful- Sword on track. (She never pain in her ly, by summer vacation, we will officially did.) She promised to life than I can have 19 children, Cassandra’s future will For the most part, I’m a fan of adoption. do many things. And, imagine. I hate be secured, and the effect on Cassandra’s I’m adopted. My brother is adopted. I have while we were fairly that I am, in my bio-parents will be minimal. Hopefully. t three cousins who are adopted. I have two certain this would nev- small way, add- Rev. Kelly Crenshaw is the mom of 16 cousins who have each er happen, you ing more pain. adopted kids, two biological kids, guardian adopted two children. For foster never really And, I know of one baby girl and foster mom of dozens. And, as you know, I’ve know for sure, that I have to Some are lesbian, some gay, some straight, adopted 16 times. Adop- kids, it’s the do you? So, we push past that and some bisexual. Kelly founded a K-12 tion is more a part of my took the con- guilt to do what day school where kids could have a safe, understanding of how to final break servative route is best for bully-free environment for learning. She is make a family than any and waited. our baby. My co-owner of a counselling agency that works other method. with biological Well, here cousin made with children and their families. As my family, we ad- we are, three decisions that opted some through the mom & dad years later. It’s influenced state foster-care system, time to formal- Cassandra’s some through private adoption, and some ly adopt Cassandra. I life in both through agencies. The only type of adop- guess we don’t have to negative and do it. We have perma- positive ways. “Many families nent custody. However, Now, it’s our an offhand remark by a responsibility celebrate Gotcha Day friend got us thinking. Our will has provisions for our I’ve or the anniversary of minor children in case something happens landed! facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud the day when the child to both of us at once. We have a family identified who agreed to take our minor was placed in their children and raise them. But, what about Cassandra. She’s not technically our child. home. Others celebrate What would happen to her? The answer, the anniversary of the unfortunately, is we’re not sure. We came to realize that adoption se- adoption finalization, cures her future much better than our which can occur guardianship agreement. As long as one of us is alive, Cassandra is fine. That’s not years after the initial the case if we both die. Cassandra’s par- ents have both severed contact with us. placement. Some aren’t We’re not sure where they’re living. They sure what to celebrate.” haven’t seen Cassandra in over two years. It seems like this would be the best deci- sion for all concerned. tion we have not experienced is interna- But, I know this will cause pain for tional. Our children were all born in the US. Cassandra’s parents. Even though I’m However, one of my cousins and his wife sure they realize that they will never be in adopted a child from out of the country, so a position to be active in her life, they are 240-420-2180 I do have some secondhand knowledge. still her parents. For all adoptions, this re- Adoption can be a super happy time ality is a double-edged sword. For all those – a celebration of family and love. And, it families who celebrate, there are an equal can be confusing, too. Many families cel- number of families who mourn. Even in sit-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 out in the valley

the trailer (spoiler alert – nothing good). I asked if he’d like to go with me (and Hagerstown Hopes: yes, hold my hand). He said yes, and we shared a lovely evening of hand-holding Trans Support and Outreach Brian’s and, during a particularly brutal and beau- tiful scene, shoulder-grabbing while our by Brian George Hose clude the monologue “They Beat the Girl Brain mouths gaped in horror. Like all of you, we at Hagerstown Hopes Out of My Boy...Or So They Tried,” a piece Brian George Hose It was exactly what I wanted, and not are deeply troubled by the Supreme written for one to four transgender, non-bi- just because I like to squeeze some fin- Court’s recent decision to allow the trans- nary, or gender-expansive women as a gers when I’m scared. What I really want- gender military ban to go into effect. It was modern Greek chorus sharing one voice. A Hand ed was someone to share the experience a surprise of the worst kind and, when the Eve Ensler, the playwright and force bei- with, someone who understood why I was local news reached out for comment, we hind V-Day, conducted many interviews Worth so excited about this movie and shared banded together to draft a statement: with trans women and wrote a monologue in my excitement. Someone who wanted * ... addressing the ways society tries to sup- Holding to talk about it during the drive home and WE BELIEVE everyone has the right press the feminine in those assigned male trade theories of what the movie really to safety and to fully participate in society at birth, and how one’s true self can nev- A few months ago, I needed a date. My meant. I wanted to connect, and I’m glad without fear of discrimination and violence. er be erased. We’re working to develop a favorite movie (Dario Argento’s Suspiria) he shared the experience (and his hand) The announcement on the transgender trans-centered informational session as had been “re-imagined” by Oscar-nomi- with me. military ban from the Supreme Court today part of the V-Day celebration, addressing nated director Luca Guadagnino into what No, we’re not in a relationship, but we comes as a blow to not only the transgen- the ways gender violence affects the trans critics were calling a “grim and glorious did become friends. I was reminded of our der community, but to the LGBTQ commu- community. More information is coming, work of madness,” centering around a date, and my four-month quest to find a nity as a whole and its allies. For so many so please be sure to check Facebook for coven of witches who channel and direct hand to hold, because Valentine’s Day is years the trans community has worked updates. their magic in plain sight under the guise approaching. Looking back, it would have hard to try to educate, fight and advocate It’s never too late to get involved with of a world-renowned dance company. With been a lot easier to find a “casual” date for equality in so many different areas of Hagerstown Hopes and we hope you’ll join Tilda Swinton as the antagonist in a movie (you know what I mean), but that’s not society. Fighting for the country you love us for our next open meeting, scheduled built around sexy-scary witch danc- what I wanted. should not be defined by gender identi- for February 12th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ing, I knew I The experience ty, but that sacrifice and commitment you This meeting will be the first held at the had to be there is all the more make to wear the uniform. opening night. significant for Each trans individual I also knew I me because it has been through their own needed a hand took nearly 20 hurdles in life and each hold to hold. years of dating their own story and obsta- I began look- to find the Victo- cles. This setback is another ing for a date in rian-style con- obstacle that the trans com- July. Presumably nection I was munity will overcome by not this would be looking for. And giving up to another hurdle. enough time to I only found To our transgender com- find a compatible it because I munity, we are here for you. hand (and person was complete- We have a monthly trans- attached to it) for ly honest and gender meet up group and the November re- said exactly we welcome you with open arms. No one Hagerstown Hopes Hub, our community lease, but as the what I wanted. shall be erased. center (22 North Mulberry Street, Suite weeks went on, I Many of us have learned to compro- ... 16). We will have guests from the Wash- began to have my doubts. I met nice, in- mise, to hide parts of ourselves. We grew While this statement cannot convey ington County Health Department’s PrEP teresting guys who shared a love for Til- up during less accepting times when our the multitude of feelings stirred by this de- Program and HIV Program to provide in- da, but not horror. Some guys disqualified institutions told us that we were less than, cision, we hope that our trans, non-binary, formation about LGBTQ health resources, themselves by immediately asking if I’d be not equal. The Supreme Court’s decision and gender-expansive community mem- and we will be discussing our CARE initia- interested in holding something else. Sud- to allow the transgender military ban to bers will feel safe with us and know that we tive. Please be sure to read our Facebook denly it was October and I realized I was go into effect is doing the same thing right are always here to help in whatever way post to learn about designated parking a mid-thirties gay man with thoroughly Vic- now, telling us that members of our com- we can. For more information about our areas as unauthorized parking will result torian relationship goals that were perhaps munity aren’t enough to serve their coun- trans meet up group, please email pais- in your vehicle being towed. Don’t worry – unobtainable in 2018. In my quest I had try. When we hear it enough, we start to [email protected]. there’s plenty of space, just be sure to read been offered nearly everything except the believe it. And when we believe it, we lose We’ve also been given an exciting op- the signs. one thing I was looking for: a hand to hold sight of who we are, and we take what we portunity to support our trans community You can expect some exciting an- during the scary bits of my most-anticipat- can get instead of what we want. We com- and to help educate the larger communi- nouncements about our youth program, ed movie of the year. promise; we settle. ty about the issues affecting transgender LGBTQ prom, free confidential HIV test- Don’t worry, it all worked out. I met a This Valentine’s Day know that you are persons in America. Shepherd University ing, our next Night Out, and more at the nice, sweet guy and, when I thought there deserving of love. Love can be scary (like reached out to us for help in creating an open meeting. Please come meet us and was potential, I showed him the trailer. He Suspiria) because it means being vulner- inclusive cast for their production of The see the Hub, where all the magic happens! was as fascinated as I was and we imme- able, being honest, and saying what you Vagina Monologues, the cornerstone of Stay up to date with Hagerstown Hopes diately began speculating about the movie want. But, if you do those things, and your the annual V-Day celebration. V-Day is a by liking and following us on Facebook, and what the witches would do with the patient, you might just find a hand worth global campaign to end violence against or by visiting our website: Hagerstown- big, silver hook that was the focal point of holding. t all women, and Shepherd would like to in- hopesmd.org We hope to see you soon! t

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Law Office of David M. Lutz, P.A.

memories of another best friend who did just that, telling me that my transition was •Auto Accidents •Workers’ Compensation Asher’s merely for attention’s sake. I should be •Personal Injury •DUI/DWI World a more rigorous judge of character when Asher Kennedy getting close to people. •Criminal Defense •Traffic Court It is social media’s fault. At least partly. Se Habla Español I have distanced myself from more than a handful of close friends on account of their 1901 Fleet Street Baltimore, MD 21231 Bad Words social media activity. The toxicity around Phone: 410-558-3700 (English) • 410-299-2898 (Español) using social media to vent the frustrations E-mail: [email protected] • lawlutz.com and Broken one has within is dangerous. It is a can- cer. Enormous physical pain that is being Memories unleashed against transgender youth, who already face adversity. I have three de- cades of life to help ground me when read- That is 18-year-old me in the picture with ing vitriol. I have the comfort and stability my best friend at the time. Before adulthood that being able to live as myself freely with firmly separated our paths, we went on the substantially more support than flack, while adventures of sitcoms. Like most kids do not. The adolescent friendships, ultimately reality is that the experiences we go through are when someone what tie us to each other forever. who is already I’ve had the normal share of best struggling to un- friends forever growing up, and derstand them- while we have all followed different selves and fit paths, there are parts of our per- into the strict sonalities that have been forever and rigid social shaped by each other. standards of ad- The blurred face next to me olescence reads had a flourish of hateful and igno- messages of rant rhetoric he needed to shout hate directed at at my wife via social media about “transgenders” transgender people. And more in the style of than the words of our president or Better the an insult, that Certified Public Accountants every single stranger who has slurred in memory blur sticks with developing brains my direction, his words have sat with me. at a much higher potency I know now why he eventually unfriended than it would if they were to Don’t Panic me long after we drifted apart. Being broth- read it later in life. I am not the only millen- ers forever only counted until I realized I nial who has struggled to make peace with we can helP you trauma from childhood. “Eventually, the words Eventually, the words of my former friend will fade into the gray area of every with your 2018 return of my former friend other brutish thing said in my direction, and will fade into the gray I will have moved on. Adult me is aware of CALL US TODAY! the fleeting nature of words and the effects area of every other they have on us. But teenage me would Services for Business Services Tax Services have cried for weeks when realizing how Individuals -Small Business Accounting -Tax Preparation brutish thing said in someone I thought loved me had turned -Estate Planning -Online Payroll -Tax Planning my direction.” so sharply in the opposite direction. Over -Elder Care -QuickBooks Services -Tax Problems 30% of transgender teens have tried to -Payroll - Bank Financing was one. If my mother knew those words kill themselves. I wonder how much low- New Business Formation would come out of his mouth a decade er that number would be if we stopped to ago, she might not have paid for his trip to think about the people who are at the op- Making a Difference for Businesses & Individuals the anime convention we all went to. posite end of the hate we type. I wonder Part of me wants to lay the blame at how many lights we have lost due to the With client focus as the base of every service, Bridges & Associates, CPA’s the feet of social media. The anonymity for hatred and ignorance of others. And while of Baltimore, MD offers area businesses and individuals specialized CPA so long of being able to say anything to a Trump’s ban is now affecting thousands services tailored to the industry, business entity and targeted needs. complete stranger with no consequences of transgender service personnel, the real has changed us. I want to believe he would damage is happening to the youth who are not say those things to my face. That if he facing this hatred without the knowledge 835 Hollins St. Baltimore, MD, 21201 • 410-908-8134 saw how his words were hurting me, he that the world is kinder and more loving [email protected] • bridgescpas.com would take them back. But I also have the than the words they read. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 TheThe Quality of life venues and caterers will allow you to pro- vide your own alcohol. You bring it or have Getting the it delivered to your venue during set-up time, and take what remains home with DrinkerDrinkeryy Wedding you at the end of your reception. You trade work for money — schlepping cases of You Want beer, wine, and spirts to and from the ven- TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! David Egan ue, usually all on the day of your wedding — but the end result can be worth it. Pro 205205 WestWest ReadRead StreetStreet “Corner“Corner ofof ReadRead andand Park”Park” tip: Enlist your wedding party to make this Nine Great happen! 410-225-3100410-225-3100 •• ATMATM AvailableAvailable 6) Limit your drink offerings – Beer Money Saving Tips and wine can be just fine. if you feel the need for something more, a simple “signature drink,” can add variety and personalization. There are lots of ways to save money on your wedding. Some are great, others Cake court disaster. These nine tips can save 7) Consider alternatives to the big you hundreds and even thousands of dol- cake – If you love cake but don’t want to lars while still giving you and your guests a pay for a big fancy one, buy a small cake fantastic experience. for cutting and photography and serve your guests from a much-less-expensive sheet The guest list cake (which they’ll never see whole). Alter- 1) Invite only the people you love – natively, brownies, cookies, ice cream sun- One of my favorite pieces of wedding ad- daes (guest love building their own!) and vice comes from Miss Manners: “Invite the other “regular” dessert goodies can make people you love and who love you.” Really, wedding guests very happy. who else do you want at your wedding? Keeping the guest list tight is the single Table settings most effective way to save money on your 8) Swap Glass and Stainless for wedding. Why? Because catering, which is Plastic often the single largest wedding expense, If you’re on a really tight budget, con- is charged per person. The catering cost sider high-end disposables. Talk to your for each guest, at $60, $70, $80, $100, or caterer about good quality disposable flat- more, can add up in a hurry. ware. It looks just like the real thing. Along with nice disposable plates and cups, they The timing save a lot on rental costs. 2) Pick any day but Saturday – Book- ing your wedding for a Friday or Sunday Table decor can save you thousands of dollars over a 9) Go for color! If your caterer or ven- Saturday evening. On a super tight bud- ue uses a rental company for linens (and get? Monday through Thursday rates are many do), the choices of color, style, and the lowest of all. texture are vast. Even basic table linens 3) Have a winter wedding – Think come in many colors, all of which are usu- 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. white furs and muffs, hot buttered rum, hot ally the same price as white or ivory. Mix chocolate with marshmallows, hot apple and match them with colorful napkins and cider, a roaring fireplace, boughs of holly, you have a look. You can move up to nicer BEST PRICES IN TOWN and warm candlelight everywhere. Heck, fabrics, patterns, and textures of linens or you might even get snow for great pics! overlays for a remarkably small amount of Many wedding professionals’ fees are low- money, typically ten or 20 dollars per table. er in January, February, and March, and Linen upgrades give you an outstanding some venues offer special winter rates. bang for your buck, and minimize the need for other table decorations. The venue Any one of these tips can save you a 4) Use one venue for your ceremo- considerable amount of money. Taken to- ny and reception – Having your wedding gether, they can mean the difference be- and reception at a single venue can save tween choosing the venue or caterer (or LookLook aheadahead forfor thethe a considerable amount of money. The flow both!) that you’d settle for, and the one of of the experience will be easier, too, with your dreams. t guests flowing seamlessly from your cere- David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- BackBack BarBar toto reopenreopen mony right into your reception. ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. The bar com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue 5) Provide your own alcohol – Some on Instagram and Facebook.

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

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

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 Special Offer! Buyer and Seller clients who sign a listing or buyer agency agreement before January 31, 2019 will receive a FREE HMS Home Warranty** at closing! Contact Wayne for details: [email protected] **Basic HMS Home Warranty. Not valid with short sales or foreclosures.

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

RESIDENCES RESERVED: 50% RISK OF RESERVING: 0%

With construction starting soon on the Grand Expansion of THE BEST REAL ESTATE DEALS Roland Park Place, 50% of new residences are already spoken for. And when all it takes to reserve yours is a fully-refundable IN A LGBTQ NEWSPAPER deposit, the only question left is, what are you waiting for? 410-802-1310 Make the intelligent choice. Call today: 443.338.6212 [email protected] READY FOR MOVE-IN 443.338.6212 FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org

Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com leather

Gay Universe 2011 Destiny B. Childs, from The winners’ Taking care the European Conference of Motorcycle circle at Mr. of business Clubs Daniel Dumont, Ms. Baltimore Ea- Mid-Atlantic – Do not Leather 2019 gle 1999 Buz, and Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather disturb Leather 2018 Gérard Turner. Line For years the Mid-Atlantic Leather Rodney Burger Weekend has not been just about leather and on Friday evening the fun started with the Heroes and Villains Showdown party.

Mr. My first childhood crush was Robin on the

Batman TV series, so guys in spandex Mid-Atlantic have always worked for me. Next up was cd the Rubber Cocktail Party, followed by a cd Leather Is ... dance sponsored by the Highwaymen TNT club. On Friday evening I also stopped by Mr. Pittsburgh Leather Fetish 2019 Em- a hotel suite for the ONYX party. I got there erson Aniceto took home the title of Mr. late. There was a fisting scene going on Mid-Atlantic Leather 2019 at the annu- in the back bedroom and I was looking for al Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend (MAL) the punch. held on January 18th to 20th at the Hyatt On Saturday morning while Sir Steve Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. Mr. was off doing the contestant interviews, I NC Triangle Leather 2018 Sir Brad was joined the Mid-Atlantic Uniform League for first-runner up and David Gerard, who their coffee and doughnut social. It was “Leather Cock- was first runner-up at the Mr. Mid-Atlan- even bigger and better this year. At noon tails.” This tic Leather 2018 contest placed second on Saturday officials from International Mr. formal leather runner-up. Also competing were Mr. Con- Leather and a large group of titleholders cocktail party necticut Leather 2019 Mr. Sperry, Mr. May- who will be competing at IML in Chicago started in 1976 hem Leather 2018 Pup Baxter, and first in May gathered in a top floor ballroom in New York runner-up to Mr. Maryland Leather 2019 overlooking the Capitol dome to hear the and never dis- Raven. announcement of the IML judges. Every- appoints. This MAL 2019 was held during a very cold one was thrilled to hear Centaur MC Pres- year’s theme weekend in our nation’s capital that found ident Todd White’s name announced. No as “Around the the city’s streets clogged by both the Right additional confirmation hearing was need- World” and to Life March and the Women’s March. In ed for this judge. There will also be some saluted the a city still dealing with a government shut- changes at IML this year. For one, the In- Centaur, MC’s down, MAL 2019 provided an escape from ternational Mr. Bootblack contestants will former week- the problems of the outside world. It was give speeches. For a full list of judges and end camping also a very special MAL for me because all the details about IML 2019 visit Imrl. run that was over the summer my partner Sir Steve, Mr. com. Saturday afternoon also included the called Olympia. The ball- Maryland Leather 2007, had been asked “Puppy Park,” the ONYX fashion show and room was decorated with large posters by Tedd Patterson and Manny Ward. There to help selected Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather fundraiser, and SIGMA demonstrations. from past Olympia events and featured was also a wonderful performance by Ultra 2019. This brought him up from wintering in The large leather vendor mart which filled buffets of Mexican food, Japanese su- Nate. In a perfect ending to MAL, as I was Florida for a short visit. Joining him at the several ballrooms was also busy all week- shi, American sliders (beef burgers, BBQ leaving the 9:30 Club to catch the last shut- judges’ table were International Mr. Leath- end. pulled pork, and Maryland crab cakes), tle back to the hotel, I ran into Mr. Mid-At- er 2018 Boy Jimmy (aka James Lee), Mr. Saturday night brought what I consid- and French pastries. My good friend open lantic Leather 2019 and was able to hug Leather Italy 2017 Fabrizio Paoletti, Miss er the leather social event of the season: bar was also there. and congratulation Emerson one more time. After a brunch on Sunday, the con- I first met him several years ago and I know test was held. Emceed by Mr. Mid-Atlantic he will continue the tradition of making the Leather 1993 Frank Nowicki, the six con- Mid-Atlantic leather community proud. Hearts and Ears Inc. tests were judged in barware, jock/ phy- Thank you, Centaur MC, for another LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center sique, formal leather, and answered a fun great MAL. This is the 49th year for the question. This year’s questions ranged club and the Centaurs are already making from describing a fantasy with Santa to plans for their 50th anniversary. A web site Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, explaining how Ford could design a new has been set up to collect stories and pic- vehicle for pups. Making sure that the tures of the club’s history. Visit Centaur50. Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and judges were happy and had beverages org for details. You will not want to miss Questioning, and Gender Non-Conforming individuals was ONYX member Otter DX. The task of MAL in 2020! t keeping score went to International Ms. with behavioral health issues and concerns. Leather 2016 Lascivious Jane and her partner Simon, an associate professor and 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 • 410-523-1694 chair of women’s and gender studies. MAL concluded on Sunday evening with [email protected] • heartsandears.org a dance at the 9:30 Club featuring music facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 870 Park Ave. Baltimore 410-539-4993

410-539-4850 227227 W.W. ChaseChase StSt Valentine'sValentine's NightNight SpeedSpeed DatingDating JoinJoin usus forfor aa nightnight ofof funfun

SundaySunday TeaTea DanceDance withwith VinceVince 44 p.m.p.m. –– 99 p.m.p.m. SundaySunday KaraokeKaraoke 99 p.m.p.m. toto closeclose ShowShow TuneTune TuesdayTuesday withwith JasonJason 88 p.m.p.m. –– 1010 p.m.p.m. WednesdayWednesday KaraokeKaraoke 99 p.m.p.m. toto closeclose FridayFriday DanceDance PartyParty withwith DJDJ KaiKai 99 p.m.p.m. till?till? 1st1st SaturdaySaturday withwith DJDJ VinceVince Mr.Mr. MDMD LeatherLeather DadsDads andand LadsLads

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

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com ATTORNEY FINANCIAL Lee Carpenter, Esq. Your LGBT Estate Planning Attorney Be part of our

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

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

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 T:9.875” T:9.6”

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

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

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. No celebrity endorsement implied. ©2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD FEBRUary 1, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com

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

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