Pride in July? No Worries Credit: Bob Ford by Steve Charing Maryland, D.C., and Beyond to Partake in Any Concerns from the Shift of Dates for the Celebrations

AN O INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THE TLESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES August 7, 2015 | Volume XIII, Issue 7 H uge crowd at the Block Party Pride in July? No Worries credit: Bob Ford By Steve Charing Maryland, D.C., and beyond to partake in Any concerns from the shift of dates for the celebrations. Baltimore Pride from its customary June “I like this set-up,” commented An- event to the weekend of July 25-26 should dre from Baltimore. “Last year it was too be put to rest. If people thought it would spread out.” be too hot to have Pride in July, consider For many in Baltimore’s LGBT commu- that the high temperature in Baltimore for nity, it was a bittersweet event as it marked July 25 was 88 degrees, and July 26 it was the last time the Club Hippo would take 90. If Pride had been held on the normal part as it is scheduled to close its doors weekend, it was 87 on June 20 and 92 on later in the year after over four decades. June 21 – basically even. “This is my last Pride as owner of the Baltimore Pride’s 40th Anniversary fes- Hippo,” Chuck Bowers, who was select- tivities had returned to the “gayborhood” ed to serve as the Grand Marshal at this following an unpopular move in 2014 to the year’s parade, told Baltimore OUTloud. Mount Royal area. Pride is run by the Gay, “But it’s not my last Pride.” Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Com- As has been the tradition, the High munity Center of Baltimore and Central Heels Race preceded the parade, and the including transgender activists led the pa- marched as did Baltimore State’s Attor- Maryland (GLCCB). winner of this year’s event was Jay Day. rade under the banner #BaltimoreTRAN- ney Marilyn Mosby. Other political figures Thousands descended upon Mount The parade included a record 82 units SUPrising. They pointed out racism within included Representatives Donna Edwards Vernon on a sun-baked Saturday to cheer and proceeded up Cathedral Street from the LGBT community and called attention and Chris Van Hollen who are seeking to on the Pride parade and celebrate at the Monument Street. It ended on Chase Street to the lack of safety in Baltimore for trans- succeed the retiring Sen. Barbara Mikulski. block party. The new dates deep into July several blocks north. Marchers were fling- gender folks. Marchers also carried signs Local advocacy and health organiza- and a revised location for the annual pa- ing colorful beads, candy and other items proclaiming Black Lives Matter. tions participated, such as FreeState Le- rade as well as a new venue for the block at the crowds lining the parade route. Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and gal, Chase Brexton Health Services, Johns party did not deter visitors from all over A contingent from BlackOutPrideBmore Interim Police Commissioner Kevin Davis —continued on page 3

across the state. From strengthening pro- A cting tections for LGBT youth and parental rights Director A Scaled-Back Equality Maryland to being the watchdog holding Governor Keith Equality Maryland chair, and Rab- Hogan and General Assembly members Thirion credit: Steve bi Stephanie Bernstein, Equal- accountable to our community, there is a Charing Will Remain Open ity Maryland Foundation Chair, the clear need for the political power Equality boards elected a transitional board Maryland has built.” By Steve Charing to oversee the organization’s work. Keith Budget shortfalls caused by reduced Facing a severe financial crunch that led Thirion, the former director of advocacy donations following the passage of mar- to the laying off of its director, Carrie Ev- and programs for Equality Maryland has riage equality in Maryland brought the ans, in June, Equality Maryland’s board of been named the acting director, represent- organization to this point and faced the directors announced that the organization ing the only full-time paid staff member. real possibility of closing down. On June will continue its work but in a reduced fash- “Now is not the time to stop our work, 30 the board issued a statement that said, ion. They met on August 2 with two options it’s the time to build on our successes,” “Unless and until we secure adequate rev- on the table: close down the 25-year-old the statement said. “We must ensure that enue to sustain the organization, the im- LGBT civil rights organization or keep it Equality Maryland remains the advocacy portant services, oversight and advocacy it open but scale back its operations. voice for Maryland’s lesbian, gay, bisex- has consistently provided to the Maryland In a statement released on August ual and transgender communities in An- LGBT community will cease to be.” 3 signed by Lawrence S. Jacobs, Esq., napolis, local governments, and agencies —continued on page 3 2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL

Pri de in July? No Worries A Scaled-Back Equality – continued from page 1 Maryland Will Remain Open – continued from page 1

Hopkins Medicine, PFLAG, ShipMates As a means to reduce overhead, and COMMAND leather groups plus drag Equality Maryland vacated its 1201 S. and leather title holders from outside the Sharp Street office on July 31, which it had state, and a number of LGBT-welcoming held for the past six years. Jacobs told Bal- churches. Bars past and present were rep- timore OUTloud that a board member has resented including the Hippo, The Lodge donated free space in Baltimore for Thirion (from Boonsboro, Maryland), and a sizable to carry out his work. The office phone contingent standing on a flatbed from The number remains at 410-685-6567, and the Baltimore Eagle, which has been closed email address continues to be info@equal- since 2012 but which supporters are hop- itymaryland.org. ing to re-open. “Maryland’s LGBT communities de- There were various sports groups as serve a voice in Annapolis and represen- well as banks and other LGBT-friendly tation in shaping our laws,” Thirion told businesses participating. Drums of Mass Baltimore OUTloud. “We have work to do Destruction and D.C. Different Drummers to strengthen legal protections for our full provided the percussion beats along the community, including youth and parental route. rights, and working in coalitions for racial “This parade is outstanding with more and economic justice, like earned sick- diversity and businesses,” said Tonya from leave policies. We must also continue the Baltimore. Paul from Southern Maryland fight where laws have not yet had the im- who is attending his first Baltimore Pride pact we need – on the streets where trans- event agreed. “It’s entertaining, fun and gender people, particularly transgender energetic. People are happy and are hav- women of color, face daily threats of vio- ing a good time.” lence and harassment, in schools where Stacie from Greenbelt, Maryland, was LGBT youth are being bullied, in more on hand to support her gay son. “I like how rural communities LGBT Marylanders call everyone is getting along, no arguing, no home.” fighting, and there’s unity.” He adds, “I’m excited to work with the The block party following the parade Transitional Boards on securing Equality became so crowded it spilled onto sur- Maryland’s long-term future, and look to rounding streets. Newly elected president the community for support so that we can of the GLCCB board of directors, Jabari continue this vital work.” Lyles, spoke from the main stage and em- To address the organization’s long- phasized the role of people of color in our term future, the boards plan new fundrais- successes. “We’re not free unless all of us ing strategies, permanent board-member are free,” he cautioned. Other speakers recruitment and solidifying their vision. appeared on the stage to relate their ex- “We will also be setting our 2016 legis- perience as both black and LGBT and the lative agenda and continuing our programs oppression they had received. and advocacy to address the discrimination Headliners Cazwell, Ts Madison, and LGBT Marylanders face, such as trainings Martha Wash and other performers enter- to create safer spaces for LGBT people tained on the stage throughout the evening and serving as a resource for those facing to a packed area. discrimination,” said the statement. “We in- The Sunday event, more laid back tend to reach out to every member of our than the frenetic block party, returned to community to learn what they think is our Druid Hill Park after a one-year absence. most important work.” A number of LGBT organizations and gay- The boards set an immediate goal of friendly business had set up booths along raising $25,000 and a goal of $50,000 by the paths for people to peruse. Many per- the end of 2015 in a Save Equality Mary- formers appeared on the Main Stage and land campaign. To donate, visit Equali- the Lady Lisa Memorial Drag Stage to en- tyfederation.salsalabs.com/o/35015/do- tertain the masses. Popular country singer, nate_page/saveeqmd. t Steve Grand was Sunday’s headliner. Paul Liller, the deputy director for the GLCCB and the person who oversaw Pride, was pleased with the weekend’s festivities. ”We at the GLCCB are very excited about how Pride 2015 went,” Liller told Baltimore OUTloud. “We feel it was a great way to honor 40 years of LGBT activism and civil rights.” t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 Venue for 2015 Pride block party credit: Marti Wormuth

news // local

portive to speak with your mother or join “The number one issue for transgender an organization with people like yourself. It women, especially transgender women of is very, very tough without family support.” color, is survival. Transgender women face The Power of Pride Joe Wenke echoed similar sentiments. danger every time they leave their homes.” “Many young transgender people feel iso- Panelists and audience members By Joe Garvey der woman, her mother once again sup- lated, trapped. Many are rejected by their spoke of other struggles: situations that Baltimore Pride began earlier than ex- ported her. Referring to those who bullied families and are forced to leave home. “trigger” hostility, class disparity between pected this year: July 21st at 6:30 p.m. in her while growing up, Gisele spoke assert- These young people are often underedu- white gays and black gays, and states dis- the Wheeler Auditorium of the Pratt Main ively about herself. “I was bullied my whole cated and cannot find housing or employ- criminating against transgender people in Library. It began with the simple question, life. Bullied at school. Bullied by people ment. Many are exposed to harassment their usage of public restrooms. Panelist “Who am I?” In celebration of Baltimore and abuse. We Saida Agostini noted that the highlight of Pride 2015, the Enoch Pratt Free Library must continue the panel discussion was “the passion of and the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans- to educate fami- the panelists and audience in articulating gender Community Center of Baltimore lies, schools the reality that the LGBTQ movement is and Central Maryland (GLCCB) presented and society in far from over despite marriage equality. So a panel discussion on “Sexual Orientation general on the many people spoke to the need for the LG- and Gender Identity.” need to create BTQ movement to be truly intersectional in The LGBT Pride Month Panel featured a more support- its focus and ensure that all members of five panelists, including Joe Wenke, writ- ive environment our community are not just heard but hon- er, social critic and author of The Human for transgender ored in their struggles and made central in Agenda: Conversations About Sexual Ori- youth.” our fight for justice and freedom.” entation & Gender Identity; Gisele Alicea A fright- For additional information regarding (a.k.a. Gisele Xtravaganza) a Latina trans- ening aspect services related to issues of sexual ori- gender high fashion model and activist who about coming entation and gender identification, please has appeared in many national magazines, out as trans- contact the following organizations: including Vogue and Vanity Fair as part of gender and be- Everyoneisgay.com: provides advice to the groundbreaking Barney’s campaign ing rejected by youth, creates compassionate school environ- featuring transgender models; Y-Love one’s family is ments, and works with parents to foster dialogue. (a.k.a. Yitz Jordan) an African-American the high suicide Glaad.org works with print, broadcast Jewish hip-hop artist, activist and writer; rate, which far and online news sources to bring people Keith Thirion, acting executive director for exceeds that powerful stories from the LGBT community Equality Maryland; and Saida Agostini, di- of the overall that build support for equality. rector of LGBTQ resources for Free State Y -Love, Gisele Alicea, and Joe Wenke U.S. popula- Freestatelegal.org: or sagostini@ Legal Project. Approximately 40 people at- credit: Joe Garvey tion. A 2014 freestatelegal.org; Free State Legal pro- tended the event. study, “Suicide vides legal services related to gender iden- What followed was an honest and in- who used the Bible to justify their bigotry. Attempts among Transgender and Gender tify, presentation and sexual orientation; sightful panel discussion with a highly But I told myself ‘I am going to be strong. Non-Conforming Adults” by the American and a LGBTQ Youth Resources Guide that vocal and interactive audience. As panel I’m not going to let any ignorant person put Foundation for Suicide Prevention and lists 80 resources including community member Gisele Alicea related her personal me down.’ I was almost killed a number of the Williams Institute at UCLA School of centers, mental health practitioners and story, she appeared calm and serene. She times. I was bullied, but I confronted the Law, found that 41% of respondents had affirming medical care providers. spoke of her difficult childhood growing bullies every day until I won.” attempted suicide. The study notes that To follow Joe, Gisele, and Y-Love, contact up in Harlem where no one spoke of ho- Gisele was more fortunate than most “respondents who experienced rejection them (respectively) at: Joe Wenke: josephwen- mosexuality let alone being transgender. trans youth in that her mother supported by family and friends, discrimination, vic- [email protected]; Twitter: @JoeWenke; Gisele When she told her mother she was gay, her. “If your mother is not supportive,” timization, or violence had elevated preva- Alicea: Facebook.com/pages/Gisele-Alicea- her mother cried, but she supported her. Gisele told Baltimore OUTloud, “find lence of suicide attempts.” Gisele-Xtravaganza/226432890700747; Y- When Gisele came out as a transgen- someone in your family who is more sup- As Joe Wenke told Baltimore OUTloud, Love: Facebook.com/ylovemusic?_rdr. t

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local

Transwoman Trans Activists homeless shelter for LGBTQ individuals in Sexually Assaulted in March, Rally to Raise Baltimore City. 7. We demand that County Awareness cases that involving discrimination at the Police are searching for a man, Tavon James A diverse crowd of around 100 trans activists workplace and that Horton, 24, who allegedly assaulted a trans- took to the streets on July 24 to draw attention have been referred woman in the Woodlawn area of Baltimore to the plight of transgender residents of Balti- to the Commission of County on July 25. According to Baltimore more and in particular, those who are people Civil Rights be pur- County Police, Horton is being charged with of color. The march had been organized by sued with the uptmost first-degree assault, first-degree sex offense, Bryanna Jenkins, founding member and di- importance and ur- and related charges. rector of the Baltimore Transgender Alliance, gency. The victim, who is as well as leaders from other trans advocacy 8. We demand that 31, met Horton before groups. any hospital or clinic Bryanna Jtenkins leads the march 6 p.m. on July 25 in the Jenkins saw the event, Baltimore Trans providing medical ser- credit: Brian Gaither 3400 block of Gaither Uprising, as an opportunity for the transgen- vices to transgender Road in Woodlawn, der community and allies in Baltimore City people be competent and non-discriminatory Black Trans Advocacy, agreed. “This is a very according to the report “to put a voice and face to our anguish from in their treatment towards us. significant event in the history of Baltimore and had met the sus- the various traumas we have experienced in 9. We demand healthcare that is trans- LGBT communities. Trans folks and our al- pect previously online this city and to demand accountability from specific and trans-inclusive. lies are saying we will no longer be ignored or and became acquaint- the systems that are supposed to represent 10. We demand that initiatives be put in seen as an addendum to someone’s agenda. Suspect Tavon ed on Facebook. Then protect us.” place to set aside vacant houses for LGBTQ We demand equal treatment and to be seen James Horton they agreed to meet in The march originated on Charles Street people of color so they can own their own as human beings!” credit: Baltimore County Police Department person. and North Avenue and proceeded one mile homes in the cities with various grants to sup- Off to a good start, a contingent from The victim and down to the Washington Monument Plaza for port this initiative. #BaltimoreTRANSUprising led off the Bal- suspect went for a the rally on a hot late afternoon. The route 11. We demand that LGBTQ children in timore Pride parade the next day to loud walk that eventually was chosen to symbolically pass through Baltimore city schools are protected from bul- cheers. t took them off the footpath, say the police. the Old Goucher neighborhood, where many lying and harassment. As they walked away from the footpath, the African-American transgender women have 12. We demand that the City of Baltimore suspect produced a handgun, pointed it at the been harassed, according to Monica Ste- sets money aside for a mural to be created in victim, and told the victim to enter the tree line vens, founder of trans support group Sistas order to honor the lives of transgender people area around a nearby field. While in the tree of the T. that we have lost to hate and intolerance in line area, the suspect sexually assaulted the A host of speakers addressed the crowd this city so that they are never forgotten. victim. After the assault, the suspect and the calling for action and solidarity. Frequent 13. We demand that our allies use their victim exited the wooded area and the sus- violence towards transgender people, po- privilege to interrupt patterns of transphobia, pect ran off. lice brutality and marginalization of the trans homophobia, violence, and hate whenever it Detectives were able to identify the sus- population were among the top concerns ad- happens, whether someone LGBTQ is in the pect based on information given to them by dressed. room or not. the victim. “The world is watching and our voices 14. We demand that when you are work- Police said Horton is considered armed were heard,” said Jenkins in a Facebook ing to meet the rest of our demands that you and dangerous. Anyone with informa- post. “I want to give special thanks for all of intentionally include us at the table, mainly tion on the case is asked to call police at the speakers who set the stage on fire and let trans women of color, when you are doing so 410-307-2020 or Metro Crime Stoppers at the city know that we are a force to be reck- that you are making policy with us and not 1-866-7LOCKUP. t – Steve Charing oned with.” just for us. She points out that this event is just the Jenkins requested additional donations beginning and further work and dedication will at Gofundme.com/bmoretransup to continue be required. the work that is taking place in Baltimore. The following is a list of demands that She credited Merrick Moise, Dane Edi- Like Us On were announced at the rally: dim, Roxanne Raven Storm, Danielle Revlon, 1. We demand that an investigation is Dionne Halsey, Tyler Vile, Monica Stevens, Facebook! opened into the death of Mya Hall. and Ken Jiretsu for their efforts in making the 2. We demand an end to the police brutal- march and rally a success. ity and police profiling of transgender people “As we marched down St. Paul St. we of Baltimore City. chanted ‘Your voice is power! Silence is 3. We demand that every cold case in- death!’ The #BaltimoreTRANSUprising at- volving the murder of a transgender person tendees found their power, they are choos- be reopened and solved. ing to live, and the new narrative has begun,” 4. We demand that there are intentional Jenkins told Baltimore OUTloud. “I look for efforts to reduce the recidivism rate among forward to continuing to create a new nar- transgender people in the prison system. rative of equality in Baltimore that intention- 5. We demand that jobs are set aside for ally includes the transgender residents of this the transgender community of Baltimore. city.” 6. We demand funding be set-aside for a Merrick Moise, a volunteer leader with BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 beyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker Gonzalez said. “We do not discriminate or in comprehensive care, including support minimum wage and guaranteeing paid sick recruit on the basis of race, religion, eth- for treatment adherence; universal viral and vacation time to all workers. He spoke nicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic suppression among people living with HIV, against mass incarceration and police bru- status, national origin, or physical or de- since it benefits their health and reduces tality. Boy Scouts vote velopmental disability. transmission of the virus to others; full ac- So far, Sanders has received 325,000 The Mormon Church, which sponsors cess to comprehensive pre-exposure pro- contributions, more contributions from in- on gay leaders the most Boy Scout troops in the U.S., said phylaxis (PrEP) services for those where dividuals than any other candidate. He’s it was “deeply troubled” by the vote in a it is appropriate and desired, with support been attracting large crowds at events seen as partial news release. The church had requested a for medication adherence for those using in different cities. His Dallas appearance delay in the vote, claiming members of the PrEP. David Stacy of the Human Rights several weeks ago attracted 7,000 people. victory governing council were out of their offices Campaign said, “Achieving an AIDS-free The event was to add volunteers to the in July and unable to vote. “The Church generation is within our grasp, and Con- campaign. Sanders is trailing far behind Irving, Texas – News this week that has always welcomed all boys to its Scout- gress must ensure the Obama Adminis- Hillary Clinton in national polls, with 22% the Boy Scouts of America had voted to ing units regardless of sexual orientation,” tration has the vital resources it needs to favorability among voters compared with change its policy about LGBT adults serv- the church claimed in its press release. meet the strategy’s achievable goals.” (Se- 57% for Clinton. More information is avail- ing openly in Scouting was met generally “However, the admission of openly gay attle Gay News – Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) able on his website Berniesanders.com. with approval, but for many in the gay com- leaders is inconsistent with the doctrines (Dallas Voice – David Taffet at Dallasvoice. munity, the victory was qualified at best. of the Church and what have tradition- com) ally been the values of the Boy Scouts of America.” (Dallas Voice – David Taffet at Zach 3,500 events Wahls Dallasvoice.com) held across HUD issues the country for guidance on ant- Obama Bernie Sanders LGBT housing announces Dallas, Texas – About 25 people gath- discrimination updated HIV/ ered on July 29 for a Bernie Sanders for President event. The local event was orga- Washington, D.C. – As part of the White AIDS approach nized by members of the LGBT community, House Conference on Aging on July 16, the but attracted a mixed crowd. At the same U.S. Department of Housing and Urban De- Atlanta, Georgia – President Obama time, about 100,000 people participated in velopment (HUD) issued guidance to better unveiled the latest version of the National 3,500 similar events that took place in ev- serve and help avoid discrimination to LGBT This week’s vote “was progress, not a final HIV/AIDS Strategy at a July 30 event at ery state around the country. There were Americans seeking victory,” said Zach Wahls, an Eagle Scout Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. 46 events in Maryland including one in the HUD-assisted or HUD- raised by two lesbian moms who founded The plan is an updated version of the strat- Hamden area of Baltimore City. insured housing. The the nonprofit Scouts for Equality. There egy President Obama first announced in Sanders broadcast a short speech live guidance will help will still be discrimination in some areas, 2010. The new version emphasized the from a house party in Washington, D.C. clarify the Equal Ac- though. “Any discrimination sends a harm- goal of viral suppression for HIV-positive He called this the largest online political cess to Housing in ful message to kids,” Wahls said. The new people and access to PrEP therapy for organizing effort in history. “Tonight is a HUD Programs Re- policy still permits individual troops associ- people who wish to remain HIV-negative. historical night and all of us are making gardless of Sexual ated with churches to discriminate against “Our work is far from finished. One history,” Sanders said at the event, read- Orientation or Gender Taking down LBGT adults. About two-thirds of all troops in eight people with HIV still go undiag- ing his notes from a music stand. “Why Identity Rule (Equal the flag have such an affiliation. The national orga- nosed,” the president said in a pre-record- are we seeing spontaneous uprisings if Access Rule), which was originally pub- nization will also not discriminate. ed speech. “Only three in ten people with you like and meetings in cities and towns lished in 2012. In May, Robert Gates – the former De- HIV have suppressed the virus in their sys- all over this country? My answer is the The Equal Access Rule ensures that fense Secretary who oversaw the imple- tem, lowering it to an undetectable level. American people are saying loudly and housing across HUD programs is open to mentation of the end of Don’t Ask, Don’t And this disease still affects different ages, clearly, enough is enough.” In his speech, all eligible individuals regardless of actual Tell and is now president of the Boy Scouts races, sexual orientations, and even differ- he laid out his platform that includes mak- or perceived sexual orientation, gender of America – told the organization that its ent regions of the country in disproportion- ing college tuition-free at public universi- identity or marital status, including Section policy on gay adult leaders was “unsus- ate ways. That’s why this is the first ad- ties, creating a path toward citizenship 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly. tainable” and said he would no longer try to ministration to release a comprehensive for undocumented residents, raising the HUD’s guidance on multifamily and in- revoke the charters of Scouting units with strategy on HIV/AIDS, and that’s why we sured housing programs clarifies that a de- gay leaders. Girl Scouts has maintained an are updating it for the rest of this decade. Bernie termination of eligibility for housing that is inclusive policy for more than a century and It seizes on the rapid shifts in science and Sanders assisted by HUD or subject to a mortgage that policy has worked well for it, accord- policy as we’ve learned more about this insured by the Federal Housing Adminis- ing to Monica Contreras Gonzalez, direc- disease.” tration (FHA) shall be made in accordance tor of marketing and communications for The top priorities through 2020 in- with the eligibility requirements provided Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. “I can tell clude: widespread HIV testing and linkage for such a program by HUD, and be made you that our membership is a cross-section to care, enabling people living with HIV to available without regard to actual or per- of America with regard to opinions on re- access treatment early; broad support for ceived sexual orientation, gender identity, ligious and social issues and practices,” people living with HIV to remain engaged or marital status.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

The guidance also clarifies that no GLAD backs ban PA judge owner of administrator of HUD-assisted or HUD-insured housing, approved lender on conversion retroactively in an FHA mortgage insurance program, nor any recipient or sub-recipient of HUD therapy in okays same- funds may inquire about the sexual orientation or gender identity of an applicant Massachusetts sex common law for, or occupant of, HUD-assisted housing or housing whose financing is insured by Boston, Mass. – Bennett Klein, Senior At- marriage HUD, whether renter or owner occupied. torney for Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defend- The creation and implementation of ers (GLAD) testified July 30 in favor of banning Bucks County, Penna. – In what is the Equal Access Rule builds on HUD’s the destructive practice of so-called “conver- thought to be the first decision of its kind, and President Obama’s commitment to Kate Lynn Blatt sion therapy” in the Commonwealth of Massa- a judge in Bucks County issued a ruling on expanding opportunity, advancing equal- chusetts. His testimony came at a hearing of July 29, allowing retroactive recognition of a ity, and leveling the playing field for the Cabela’s is located in Hamburg and the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Children, same-sex common-law marriage. The deci- LGBT. Since 2010, HUD has taken steps specializes in outdoor sports items. Blatt Families and Persons with Disabilities. H 97, “ sion came in the case of Doylestown resi- to strengthen LGBT protections, such as worked there as a seasonal stocker be- An Act Relative to Abusive Practices to dent Dr. Sabrina Maurer, who sued after be- formally adopting the principle that gender tween September 2006 and March 2007. Change Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity ing forced to pay inheritance tax and being identity discrimination is sex discrimina- In a four-page filing, the DOJ noted that in Minors” would prohibit licensed health care denied other spousal benefits following the tion under the Fair Housing Act, releasing Blatt can obtain those remedies through professionals from engaging in the discredited death of her partner, Dr. Kimberly Under- a groundbreaking study on LGBT housing her sex-discrimination claim against Ca- and harmful practice of seeking to change a wood. discrimination, and pursuing complaints bela’s. minor’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The couple was together since 1998, and under the Equal Access Rule. Thus, the court doesn’t have to rule on H 97 is sponsored by Rep. Kay Kahn. If H 97 was joined in a religious ceremony in 2001, “Every American deserves to live with Blatt’s GID-exclusion challenge. The mat- were to become law, Massachusetts would before any state legalized same-sex mar- dignity, regardless of who they love or who ter is pending before U.S. District Judge join California, New Jersey, Oregon, and the riage. Underwood died in 2013, six months they are,” said HUD Secretary Julián Cas- Joseph F. Leeson Jr. District of Columbia in banning the practice. prior to Pennsylvania allowing marriage tro. (Bay Windows at Baywindows.com) Blatt claims Cabela’s discriminated “Massachusetts can take a huge step to equality. Although Pennsylvania abolished against her on the basis of her disability creating a better world for LGBT youth with common-law marriages in 2005, it does rec- – gender dysphoria – by denying her ac- this bill,” said Klein. “Young LGBT people ognize such unions formed prior to that year. cess to a female restroom and a female still grow up believing that there is something Judge C. Theodore Fritsch Jr. issued his Obama name tag. wrong with who they are, increasing their risk decision stating that Maurer and Underwood Blatt contends that Congress acted il- of depression, suicide attempts, and skipping “entered into a valid and enforceable mar- administration legally 25 years ago when excluding GID school. Our state can send a powerful mes- riage under Pennsylvania common law on as a protected disability under the ADA. sage to LGBT youth that they are absolutely Sept. 2, 2001, and remained married under seeks delay The ADA protects those with disabilities okay as they are.” In addition, Klein testified, the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylva- from discrimination in private employment, “conversion therapy” is considered by main- nia until the time of Kimberly M. Underwood’s in ADA trans public accommodations and governmen- stream mental health and medical groups to death on November 20, 2013.” tal services. Blatt is seeking lost wages be ineffective and unethical, subjecting pa- The judge wrote that the couple’s “mar- exclusion ruling and benefits, front pay, punitive damages, tients to significant harm, such as “confusion, riage is valid and enforceable, and they are compensatory damages, interest and at- depression, guilt, helplessness, hopeless- entitled to all the rights and privileges of val- Philadelphia, Penn. – The U.S. De- torneys’ fees. ness, shame, social withdrawal, and suicidal- idly licensed, married spouses in all respects partment of Justice has urged a federal Jennifer L. Levi, director of Gay & Les- ity.... So-called “conversion therapy” is nothing under the laws of ... Pennsylvania.” judge to postpone ruling on a challenge bian Advocates and Defenders’ Transgen- more than a remnant of our nation’s shameful Maurer was represented by Ira Lefton, to the American With Disabilities Act’s der Rights Project, said the GID exclusion history of oppression of lesbian, gay, bisexu- Mary Hackett and M. Patrick Yingling of exclusion of gender-identity disorder as should be declared unconstitutional. “I’m al and transgender people,” said Klein. (Bay Reed Smith, LLP. t (Philadelphia Gay News a protected disability. Kate Lynn Blatt, a surprised the Obama administration isn’t Windows at Baywindows.com) at Epgn.com) Pottsville trans woman, is challenging the ready to speak out against the GID exclu- constitutionality of the exclusion as part of sion, because it’s so rooted in bias, ani- her lawsuit against Cabela’s Retail, Inc. mus and moral objections to transgender B4U-ACT promotes people having workplace protections,” Levi professional services and told PGN. “If the court does take up the resources for self-identified These news notes have been compiled, question, I hope the Justice Department individuals (adults and with permission, from the online version will weigh in against the exclusion. Having of various newspapers and other web ADA coverage is so important because it adolescents) who are sexually sites. We thank these publications for would allow workers to get an accommo- attracted to minors and desire allowing us to bring you their news sto- dation in the workplace for a medical con- such assistance. We educate ries. Usually the reports have been sig- dition. In this case, the medical condition B4U-ACT, Inc. mental-health providers nificantly edited and you can read the was gender dysphoria,” she said. “Kate P.O. Box 1754 about understanding and full story by going to the web site men- Lynn Blatt needed access to the women’s Westminster, MD 21158 responding to individuals with tioned following the item. Comments restroom and a female name tag, and Ca- these feelings. Come join the are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker bela’s refused to accommodate her.” (Phil- • 410-871-8156 conversation! and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride adelphia Gay News Tim Cwiek at Epgn. • [email protected] b4uact.org Media. com)

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Caledonia State Park – Fayetteville, Pennsylvania

By Marti Wormuth I’ll admit, I’ve been living in the southern part of Pennsylvania for over a decade now, and I’m still exploring the whole area as best as I can. There are so many things to do and get to while you’re here that you may never want to leave once you get started. Anyway, if you’ve ever been to the I started my hike to Harper’s Ferry back Marti Wormuth is a freelance writer who southern part of Pennsylvania, you know in 2011. The views are absolutely amaz- has resided in the Cumberland Valley since that we’re almost overrun with state for- ing no matter where you ramble, so you’ll 2003. She currently resides with her part- ests and state parks. There are so many quickly get in touch with nature. ner in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Marti of them all over this part of the state, and Beyond hiking, there’s plenty of open frequently visits the Hagerstown Valley as each of them offers something a little dif- space to enjoy while you’re visiting, so if well, and is very involved in the LGBT com- ferent for those who may be visiting the you want to toss around a football or play munity in the region. Her website can be region. One of my favorite parks to visit is soccer, you can do it. During the summer found at Martis-miscellany.com. only a few miles from my home. Caledonia months, there’s a pool that is open to the State Park is located on Route 30 between public (with a nominal admission charge), Chambersburg and Gettysburg; technical- a snack bar, and educational programs. ly, it is located in the town of Fayetteville. Feeling hungry? There are picnic Caledonia State Park is large and var- tables and outdoor grills (bring your own ied – no matter what your favorite outdoors fuel), and pavilions that can be reserved for activity, you can likely find it here. I like to large group events. The East Branch Con- hike, and there are dozens of trails of all ococheague and Rocky Mountain creeks difficulties located throughout the park, run through the park as well, and offer everything from a nice relaxing walk to a good fishing (Pennsylvania fish and game difficult challenge. The Appalachian Trail laws apply). They have a campground that cuts through the park; it’s actually where is also open during the summer months, and a lodge that you can rent if you don’t really want to “rough it” in the outdoors. If you’re around Cham- bersburg or Get- tysburg, make sure that you take the time to head up to Cale- donia State Park. Learn more about this great park at Dcnr.state.pa.us/ stateparks/find- apark/caledonia. Maybe you’ll even see me there on one of my many visits throughout Caledonia State Park – Fayetteville, Pennsylvania t credit: Marti Wormuth the year!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 OUT in the Valley

same, no matter the age. is the way to get a candy bar. You will end up conversations. It may take some time for the So, how do you handle it? More important- with a tantrum in the store more times than not. lesson to sink it, but it will. ly, how do you make it stop? The same goes with teens. If your teen By working with your child to help him First off, know that what works for one throws a tantrum and refuses to clean his room, learn how to manage his frustration, you will Parenting person may not work for another. don’t do it for him. He will learn that if he throws a be helping him learn the skills he needs to be So, if you find that what you’re big enough fit, he won’t successful as a grown up. After all, our goal OUTloud trying doesn’t work, try something have to clean his room. as parents is to create happy, healthy, tantrum- Rev. Kelly Crenshaw else. Pick another tactic. You’ve Situation resolved – for free adults. Happy parenting! t ignored the behavior and the tan- the teen. However, this Rev. Kelly Crenshaw is the mom of 16 ad- trum continues, then it’s time to isn’t teaching your teen opted kids, two biological kids and foster mom reassess the situation. Some kids the skills he will need of dozens. Some lesbian, gay, straight, and bi- Taming just need a hug. Another might be to make it in the real sexual. Kelly founded a K-12 day school where hungry or tired. Little kids respond world. Will he be able kids could have a safe, bully-free environment Tantrums well to distractions. Older kids of- to have a tantrum at for learning. She is co-owner of a counsel- ten just want to be heard. Removing everyone work and expect his boss to give in? Will he be ling agency that works with children and their The Temper Tantrum! The words are enough from the situation can be helpful, if you’re in a able to yell at the police officer who stops him families. She has worked with kids in the foster to strike fear in the heart of even the most ca- public place. Often, the tantrum needs to wind for speeding? Of course not. care system for two decades, actively advo- pable parent. Even if your own child is relative- down before any logical approach will work. The goal here is to make it a teachable cating for all kids, but especially those in the ly tantrum-free, you can’t avoid it. Someone’s The best response for all of these is to re- moment. Wait for the tantrum to subside, then LGBT community. And, in her spare time, she child will throw a tantrum and it will involve you. main calm. Acknowledging the anger allows calmly talk about why it happened. Ask ques- is co-pastor of New Light MCC, the first openly Maybe it will be at a play date or when you’re the child to know that it’s alright to get upset. tions like, “What made you mad?” or “How can LGBT friendly church in Washington County. driving the car pool. It could be that your child We all do. However, by modeling a calm, com- we work together to make this better?” or “How She will be answering your questions about gets hurt at daycare when someone else’s posed response, we can show that even when can we make sure we don’t have this happen parenting, as well as sharing stories of her own child gets upset. It will happen and you will times get tough, it’s easier to work it through if again?” Even little children can have these parenting adventures. need to respond. we are unruffled and willing to communicate. The experts tell us that temper tantrums usually happen when someone feels like “The goal here is to they’ve lost control. A two year old doesn’t Summer Adventures have the words to say, “Daddy, I’m tired and make it a teachable hungry. I’ve been busy all day and this grocery moment. Wait for the b y Rev. Kelly Crenshaw she’s 17 and you’re five.” “Who made line is getting on my last nerve.” The four year It’s summertime! With only a few weeks that rule?” old can’t quite express, “I really think it’s unfair tantrum to subside, until school starts, my kids are trying to At Harrisburg Pride celebration: when little Brandon gets to play with my favor- then calmly talk about work every possible activity into the lit- “Mom, why are those people yell- ite toy. We all know that Brandon’s favorite toy tle time they have left. One daughter is ing over there? Did we do something is the red basketball. It’s not fair.” The anxiety why it happened.” off for a week of vacation with her best wrong?” Mom answered, “Those peo- builds and the child melts down. friend’s family – others are jealous. I ple don’t like gay people.” To which the I remember a day when I had the won- fear that they are permanently wrinkled child replied, “Well that’s just drous experience of simultaneous tantrums. I have found that, when they are upset, may after so much time at the pool. Some of mean! They My three-year-old was melting down about the children respond to a light touch and a sooth- our kids with special needs need to go fact that he didn’t want a nap and, at the same ing voice. Lightly rubbing your child’s back are struggling home and time, my 17 year old was throwing a fit about or arm while speaking softly can provide just with the an- grow up.” having to complete her chores before going enough of a distraction to quiet the storm. ticipated sched- “Can I out on a date. Neither child could see the oth- And, whatever else, do not give in to the ule changes. go to work er, but I was perfectly positioned for the show. pleas, no matter how tempted you are. You We’ve had Pride with you? I remember watching the exact same tantrum know that if you give in, the tantrum will go events, birthday I’m sick being performed by two completely different away. But, if your preschooler is loudly de- parties, an out- of being actors. It was at that point that I realized that manding a candy bar in the checkout line and of-town trip, and around a tantrum is never pretty. And, they all look the you give her one, then she will learn that this so much more. every- It’s been a week body.” of tantrums, ques- (Ev- tions, explanations, erybody means her compromises, and brothers and sisters.) And then, an fun. hour later, “Can you take us all to the Here are some of the overheard movies? We need to spend time to- conversations of the past week: gether before school starts.” From the little brother to the col- Kids, make memories this summer. lege freshman, “Sorry you can’t go to Enjoy time with your family – even your the beach with us. Your school starts pesky little brother or sister. And, don’t before ours. I’ll bring you back some grow up too fast. You’re teaching us all sand.” how to be fair, compassionate and car- “Why does she get to drive the car ing. Thanks for just being you! t on the road? I want to drive the car – Compiled and commented on by on the road.” Answer? “Well, because Rev. Kelly Crenshaw

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com OUT in the Valley

Tuesday of each month in Howard County. medical procedures are being developed that We know how to treat and care for trans- Visit Pflagmd.org for details. provide treatment and relief for these chil- gender and gender-variant children. The Beyond Fortunately, parents of young children dren. question is whether we are ready and willing the have time to determine, in conversation with Clinical care guidelines have been de- to take the necessary steps to provide for the Ice health care professionals, what the right ap- veloped by the World Professional Associa- safety and needs of these children. Educating proach may be if cross-gender feelings are tion of Transgender Health (WPATH) and by parents and families, our schools and other Machine strong and persistent. Parents are often coun- The Endocrine Society that support the use members of the community, and professional L:aura Anderson seled to provide space – maybe weekends at of puberty-blocking medications (reversible health care providers is essential for the well- home allowing the child to express gender medical treatments) that stall the onset of being of transgender children and young feelings. For many children, however, this secondary sex characteristics until the age is adults. t The Plight of will not be enough. Some parents, out of love reached when it may be appropriate for the Note to readers: Trans Lifeline is a cri- and desperation, will provide their children introduction of cross-sex hormones (usually sis hotline by transgender people for trans- Trans Youth the support to socially around age 16), the gender people of any age. Volunteers are all transition – becoming effects of which are trans identified and educated in the range of Ask any transgender adult and you will likely on the outside through The dreaded onset not reversible. Pedi- difficulties transgender people experience. hear a story about a transgender child. Each their gender expres- of puberty can be an atric endocrinologists Call 877-565-8860 or visit www.Translifeline. of us knew about ourselves when we were sion what their gender are now working with org. Please help our children to be safe! t really little – age five or six or earlier. Although is on the inside. Medi- overwhelming fear for children and parents Laura Anderson is an educator, author, many young children who express confusion cal intervention is not the socially transitioned in numerous hospi- researcher, parent, and granddad. Her years about gender grow up without ongoing gen- required at these early tal clinics. However, teaching in public school classrooms as male der issues, parents of children who persist in ages. A successful so- child who has found these medications provided the foundation for her more recent their beliefs about their gender, are insistent cial transition requires are quite expensive role educating future teachers. Living female about how they want to dress and behave, the cooperation of the happiness and comfort and are seldom cov- for the past decade, she has come to appreci- and are consistent in identifying an inner gen- school, the community in their gender ered by insurance. ate the privileges she once held – both male der that differs from their gender assigned and others. This is why a con- and cisgender – privileges now replaced with at birth must take note. Usually by age 11, The dreaded on- congruence. certed effort by trans- the fulfillment of living as her true self. children not transgender will discontinue such set of puberty can be gender rights groups thoughts and beliefs. But those who contin- an overwhelming fear is working to make ue to experience and express inner turmoil for the socially transitioned child who has these medications and treatments available about gender are most certainly transgender, found happiness and comfort in their gender for all children who need them. For the ado- and without the support and understanding of congruence. Imagine being a little girl or boy lescent child who is denied treatments and family these youth face a painful and tumultu- who, for the past five or six years has been family support, the consequences can be ous adolescence and are at risk of self-harm. happily living as your true self, to suddenly deadly. Support by parents and others is absolutely face the prospect of your body changing in In a 2012 study comparing trans youth vital. ways that are completely counter to your with supportive parents vs those without, We hear parents report that some chil- gender feelings. No child should ever be sub- as reported by Trans Student Equality Re- dren as young as two express extreme dis- jected to such a fate. Steve Rosenthal of the sources (TSER), the results were staggering. tress about their sex and genitals. It can be University of California San Francisco Child While being trans with or without family sup- hard for a parent of a little “girl” to acknowl- and Adolescent Gender Center put it this port can be a difficult journey, the negative ef- edge the possibility that their child may actu- way: “For biological girls who know they are fects are greatly minimized when the family is ally be a boy. For a time, these parents may boys deep down growing breasts and start- supportive of the child. 72% of children with consider their child merely a tomboy. For the ing menstruation are ‘basically intolerable’. supportive parents reported positive ‘life sat- parents of a little first grade “boy” who insists The same goes for transgender girls who feel isfaction’ – only 33% of those without paren- on wearing feminine clothing and continuous- physically trapped in a boy’s body. Develop- tal support reported the same. While 23% of ly expresses feelings of being a girl, society ing a deep voice and an Adam’s apple can those with parental support reported suffering may be especially cruel and the parents will feel like a permanent deformity.” (San Jose from depression, a staggering 75% of those feel pressured to deny their child opportuni- Mercury News, June 5, 2015) Fortunately, without parental support suffered some form ties for self-expression. As difficult as it may of depression. And most frightening of all, be for the parents, it is for these children that while only 4% of trans children with parental life becomes unbearable. support reported having made a suicide at- Support groups have popped up across tempt, 57% – yes, over half, of those lacking the country, many formed by parents who the support of parents reported one or more struggled with a lack of information and re- attempts at suicide. These stunning numbers sources to best care for their children. One highlight the need for continuing and ongoing such group is TransParent in St. Louis, whose trans support. founders, two families of gender-variant chil- Dr. Norman P. Spack, pediatric endocri- dren, started the group to help take families nologist at Boston Children’s Hospital and co- from isolation and to find ways to “best sup- founder of the first clinic in North America to port children in their journey towards living treat transgender children, pointed out during authentic lives” (Transparentstl.org). In Mary- a 2013 TED Talk that “the risks of not doing land, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbi- anything for (transgender children) not only ans and Gays sponsors a trans parent sup- puts all of them at risk of losing their lives port group the second Wednesday of each to suicide, but it also says something about month in Baltimore County and the fourth whether we are truly an inclusive society.” BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 OUT in the Valley

not at all convenient for me. (I know #first- ing thing is that by blessing others… We room at the office. But that’s not really im- worldproblems, right?) But I got here. I sat are the ones who are often blessed. How portant anymore. I met an adorable three- on the sofa and watched TV between a many times have you done something good year-old girl and her brother who shared three-year-old girl and her seven-year-old for someone and you felt better for it? You popcorn with me. I met a guy who shared Spirit brother. We were sharing a bowl of popcorn were a better person because you gave of his story and in so doing inspired me. These before bed. Suddenly I feel the girl lean yourself to make someone else’s life easier. are good people and I am better for my time Speaks against me to snuggle. “You’re really nice” You were blessed by being a blessing. with them. I was blessed by being a bless- Rev. Dr. Rob Apgar-Taylor she said, “I like you.” I went outside for a So tonight I go to bed on a sofa in a hot ing. What an honor. t break and some of the parents were in the backyard. I said hi to a dad and started a Blessed by conversation. Suddenly he was telling me about his life, his former career, the events Being a that led to his homelessness, and his plan Light at the End of to get his family back into an apartment. We Blessing had so much in common. I genuinely like the National HIV men who have sex with men, and “priority this guy. And honestly? There was a time areas,” including the entire Southern U.S. As I write this, I am sitting in my sleeping when that could as easily have been me. and Maryland. Objectives call for “wide- shorts in my church office. Why? Because I am better for being here right now. This spread HIV testing and linkage to care,” “full our parish is the site for the Religious Co- Epidemic space, these people have touched my life, access to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) alition family shelter, a safe place for par- even if only for one night, and helped me Byb Deb ie Anne services,” “broad support for people living ents with children who would otherwise be th see God in their experiences. On July 30 , President Obama put into ef- with HIV,” and “universal viral suppression sleeping on the streets. We have 5 families The scriptures teach that we are to bless fect the first update of the National HIV/ among people living with HIV.” in our church this week: moms and dads, others because we have been blessed. In AIDS Strategy (NHAS), first Ryan White funding – federal babies, toddlers, and teens. the Old Testament, Abraham was told by signed by him in July 2010, and funding that supports treatment and The problem is that I didn’t want to be Health God that he was “blessed to be a blessing.” a policy approach he had champi- services for people living with HIV here tonight. It’s Saturday night and I am But I think Abraham got it wrong. Here’s oned. When first unveiled in 2010, – will continue. PrEP will also be sleeping overnight on a sofa in the office. Chat why: It is important to bless others. It is it was the U.S.’s first official strat- made readily available for high-risk It’s hot on the upstairs floor. And to make it good to share what we have so that others egy in the nearly three decades of individuals. Maryland is already looking at worse we leave after church tomorrow for have enough. But tonight it’s so much more the epidemic in spite of the fact that we ways to fund PrEP clinics, and the Afford- our much awaited Disney vacation. This is than that. I think the other side of this bless- required a national strategy for any country able Care Act and Medicaid expansion in to whom we provided aid under the Presi- Maryland will play an important role in get- dent’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief ting PrEP out to those who need it most. In (PEPFAR). You might say that the admin- addition, studies are now being conducted istration, at the time that PEPFAR was en- to determine the efficacy of using PrEP ep- acted, operated under a “Do as I say, not isodically – when needed – and not daily as I do” philosophy. as it is prescribed now. Early reports look Having long worked in the field of HIV, promising, and should the FDA grant ap- both before and after 2010, I’m witness to proval, PrEP would be even more acces- the fact that the strategy has not just been sible. a nice idea but has truly guided the work Over the next five years, I believe that of federally-funded HIV testing and treat- we’ll see expansion of needle exchange ment programs, like the one I supervise at programs, which research shows are ex- the Health Department in Frederick, Mary- tremely effective in preventing HIV infec- land. Prior to 2010, performance of these tions. After the outbreak of over 150 new programs was measured more frequently HIV infections among injection drug users as process objectives, how many i’s you in Scott County, Indiana, this year, there is dotted and how many t’s you crossed. To- new interest in ending the bans on needle- day, because of the goals of the NHAS, exchange programs. performance is measured by outcome ob- With Obama’s update of the National jectives. Have infections been prevented? HIV/AIDS Strategy we could actually see And for those living with HIV, has their the first real downturn in the epidemic in health improved? Is their virus fully sup- decades. It’s a step in the direction of mak- pressed? ing HIV infections rare, and when they do The goals of the new strategy will re- occur, insuring every person will have ac- main the same: cess to life-saving care, free from stigma • Reducing new HIV infections and discrimination. • Improving access to care and health For more information go to AIDS. outcomes gov/2020. t • Reducing HIV-related health dispari- Debbie Anne is a public health nurse ties with Frederick County Health Department • Achieving a more coordinated nation- in Frederick, Maryland, focused for the al response. last 12 years on HIV/AIDS. In 2014 she How those goals are addressed will be was awarded a Governor’s Citation for her focused on “key populations,” including work.

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud

Since December raise their voices and be heard. four individuals One day before Pride, around a have served as the hundred vocal demonstrators marched Board’s president, through the streets of Old Goucher – an OUT and in less than area where many transgender women Spoken a year and a half, have been harassed or harmed. They end- Steve Charing four have held the ed up at Washington Monument Plaza for executive director a rally whereby a series of demands were or interim executive announced. director’s post. The amount of individuals participating To be fair, other in the movement and the support it is re- The Summer local organizations ceiving from the broader community could have also expe- signal a new dynamic in the quest for over- Winds of rienced changes all equality. Perhaps as a way to recognize in leadership or in this cause, Pride officials agreed that a Change Are key personnel this contingent from the #BaltimoreTRANSU- summer. Examples Prising group lead off all marchers in the include Hearts & T aking it to the streets at Pride Pride parade. This is a rare phenomenon Blowing Ears, Moveable credit: Bob Ford in recent Baltimore Pride events in that in- Feast, and Iron creased focus was given to a political ini- No one can say this has been a hum- Crow Theatre. In tiative, and it’s welcome. drum summer in LGBT Baltimore. Huge the spring FreeState Legal hired its new among transgender people, better access As older, established organizations are victories, such as the Supreme Court’s executive director Patrick Paschall. to health care in general as well as trans- becoming less relevant today to a younger ruling that legalized same-sex marriages A major departure from the norm, how- specific health care, and other forms of group of impatient activists, a new wave of throughout the nation and the Boy Scouts ever, was the recent GLCCB-led Pride cel- discrimination, particularly towards trans- leaders are emerging to try to create vis- of America officials voting to allow gay ebration that took place in July rather than gender people of color. ibility and support to help reach the goal of leaders grabbed the headlines. This prog- its customary June spot during Father’s Many trans folks believe that they have equality for all. ress, unthinkable just a few years ago, Day weekend. Schedule conflicts with the been ignored during the fight for marriage This may be the most significant result were reasons to celebrate. city forced the dates to July 25-26, and it equality and their concerns have been of a summer whose winds of change are Locally, other developments have tak- worked out well overall. The separation brushed aside. Now it’s time, they feel, to blowing through the streets of Baltimore. t en place or occurring during the summer from other area Pride festivities allowed that are changing the LGBT landscape. the Center to increase its sponsorships This began prior to the summer when the and more importantly, it provided greater iconic Hippo stunned the community by opportunities for potential Pride-goers announcing its closing later this year after from out of town to visit Baltimore instead more than four decades of being a major of having to make choices during June’s LGBT institution in the city. congested Pride calendar. Another institution, Equality Maryland The two-day event in Baltimore drew – a 25 year-old statewide civil rights ad- sizable crowds and in theory should have vocacy organization that started out as provided critical revenue to the financially Free State Justice – disclosed in June wobbly GLCCB. For these reasons, if the that financial difficulties stemming from GLCCB continues to operate Pride in the declining revenues following the passage future, keeping it in July should be seri- of same-sex marriage among other factors ously considered. led to the laying off of its executive director An additional change during the sum- Carrie Evans. mer has been a renewed brand of activism They recently vacated their Sharp that is bypassing conventional models and Street offices to reduce overhead and is instead taking it to the streets. This is gave away office furniture, old lawn signs significant in that it is not a seasonal event from the marriage battles, and other such but potentially the beginning of a larger memorabilia. On August 2, a new transi- movement. tional board was established and decided Inspired by the protests under the the organization will remain open for the banner #BlackLivesMatter that followed time being but with a scaled down opera- a spate of police-involved killings of un- tion. armed African-American men including The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans- Freddie Gray in Baltimore, transgender gender Community Center of Baltimore advocates banded together and formed a and Central Maryland (GLCCB) is con- #BaltimoreTRANSUPrising movement to stantly in a state of flux so that any chang- air a list of grievances. es this summer are almost to be expected. Much of their disquiet centers on po- The GLCCB is experiencing a staggering lice relations with transgender individuals amount of turnover in their board of direc- and unsolved murders of transgender vic- tors and at the executive director position. tims. Other issues include homelessness

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Thinking OUTloud Brown Memorial Park Avenue Pride Weekend is Not an done right. Not as part of some other Presbyterian Church Entitlement Program job, running some other organization, Celebrates Pride 2015 Byu Lo ise Parker Kelley but do it as a professional and get the dates Pride weekend I overheard snippets such locked in, the logistics handled and the pa- By Andrew Foster Connors meets at 9 a.m. every week throughout the as: perwork in on time as a job. Two pastors and 16 members of Brown Me- year. Worship is a 10 a.m. in the summer “The Pride parade wasn’t big enough or long Oh, and arrange for funding so that you morial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church (Memorial Day through Labor Day). During enough.” get paid as the coordinator of Pride Balti- joined marchers from many other congrega- the remainder of the year, an education hour “The Block Party was not very good and more. tions in the Baltimore Pride parade on Sat- begins each week at 9:45 and worship begins I didn’t want to stay.” I talked to people who complained it was urday, July 25. The church is an inclusive, at 11 a.m. All are welcome. “The Festival last year was bigger and it too corporate. Like it or not, that’s where the inspiring, urban Christian community com- The Tiffany Series, Brown Memorial’s cost too much to park today.” money is, and if you are going to throw a party mitted to following Jesus and exploring and concert series featuring artists and speak- “Why wasn’t there a map showing where for thousands of people for several days, that’s living out the Christian faith in everything is and a program about when it going to be part of it. The nonprofits can’t af- Baltimore and beyond with an is?” ford that much. They can barely afford to pay emphasis on worship, justice, Everyone who said these things, al- for a table and chairs at the Pride Festival. service to others, and preaching lowing for variations, was perfectly sure Let’s declare that our Baltimore Pride is relevant to the questions of mod- they were right. It’s pos- ern life. sible they were, but I feel The congregation has been a obliged to tell everyone More Light (open and affirming) that Pride is not an entitle- church for more than 25 years ment program. It doesn’t with a diverse LGBTQ commu- have to be a certain size, nity that participates fully in the or include certain events life and leadership of the congre- and it doesn’t even have gation. Leaders from the congre- to be much fun. It’s also gation participated extensively true that if it fails to meet in the lawsuit seeking marriage expectations, people won’t equality in the state of Maryland, come back. That’s true of and subsequently in the legisla- any annual event, not just tive push to bring this to fruition. Brown Memorial Park Avenue church goes the one that commemo- The church does perform wed- all out at Pride rates the day drag queens, dings for non-members including dykes and hustlers fought same-gendered couples. ers engaging the intersection of art, faith, and back against the police in Some Pride-goers feel entitled Rooted in the Bolton Hill neighborhood public life, sponsors programs throughout New York in 1969. credit: Bob Ford since 1869, the church has a long history of the year. Past speakers have included Civil I don’t think it works to justice-seeking ministries in the neighborhood Rights leader and artist Harry Belafonte, child insist that those with complaints should vol- important, that the people who want to go and across the city. With a stunning sanctu- advocate Marian Wright Edelman, peace ac- unteer themselves and make it better. Nor should be served and that it’s time to stop ary featuring the largest collection of Tiffany tivist Elizabeth MacAlister, and film-maker is it okay to say that it was good enough, indulging our denial. There aren’t an unlim- stained glass windows anywhere in the world Beau Willimon. Information on upcoming considering. Or that attendance (or the en- ited number of people able or willing to do it (outside of a museum), a 35 member choir, concerts and on the church’s ministry, mis- tertainment) was too black, too white, or too at this scale. It’s one of the top ten festivals and renowned Skinner organ, Brown Memo- sion, and schedule, can be found on the whatever. on the East coast. Let’s do a talent search rial continues to value the language of art church’s website at Browndowntown.org. t Not everyone should volunteer for Pride and find someone willing to find the money that glorifies God, deepens faith, and brings The author is senior pastor at Brown Me- Day. That’s not an entitlement program ei- and devote their time to it. I think that would a community together. A meditation group morial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church. ther. Some people are not willing to lead, serve the community better than hoping that despite all the challenges in the past few “It’s time to pay years, Pride will just somehow happen. You get what you pay for. That applies someone to run Pride to the annual June commemoration of the Weekend.” Rainbow Revolution as much as it does to anything else. Perhaps then we can stop thinking of it as an entitlement program and and some people already did it enough – return to the idea that is an historic celebra- and some people would screw it up. I ran tion. Running it with enough support matters. Pride Day for several years, and I know this In Baltimore, Pride matters. t to be true. The author is a self-described “cranky So here’s my radical idea: it’s time to pay old dyke that for unfathomable reasons someone to run Pride Weekend. This is what is still volunteering for the archives of that happened with many LGBT organizations equally touchy and ancient organization, the and related issues: this job takes lots of time, GLCCB.” She is also has been an LGBT ac- energy and talent and a celebration that sat- tivist since 1975, has served on the GLCCB isfies and gratifies our people needs tobe Board and chaired 1989’s Pride Day. 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on stage

As Cinderella, Julia Lancione demon- Into the Woods at Toby’s is a Good Choice strates her superb vocal skills in a duet with Ms. Cuellar in “A Very Nice Prince” and her By Steve Charing the characters in fairy tales “lived hap- as blood, and hair as yellow as corn. solo “On the Steps of the Palace.” If there’s one thing you can say about Into pily ever after.” That’s not necessarily the During their arduous journey, they en- If you have a Grimm fairy tale then you the Woods, the Tony Award winning musi- case in Into the Woods. In this magical counter Cinderella (Julia Lancione) for the need a handsome Prince Charming, and cal whose score and lyrics were brought and sometimes dark musical, real choices slipper, Jack (Jimmy Mavrikes) for the cow Jonathan Helwig as Cinderella’s Prince into the world by the genius of Stephen found in adulthood – not necessarily child- (Alex Beveridge), Little Red Riding Hood checks that box. He and his brother, Ra- Sondheim and the book by James Lapine, hood – and the consequences of these (Sophie Schulman) for the red cape, and punzel’s Prince, played by Justin Calhoun, is that the production playing at Toby’s the choices are brought to the fore. Rapunzel (Katherine Riddle) for the hair. provide much of the campiness in the show. Dinner Theatre of Columbia was perfect- Into the Woods is not just one fairy They, too, had wishes ly cast. With every one of the show’s 22 tale; we get to enjoy four from the Brothers of their own as they me- Fairy-tales mixed and matched characters popping up at a frenetic pace Grimm – “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Cin- andered through the credit: Jeri Tidwell throughout the musical donned in dazzling derella,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” and “Ra- woods in search of those old-time costumes by Eleanor Dicks, it is punzel” – whose plots are interwoven and dreams. clear that there is no one better who could linked with the original story of the Baker Act one conforms have performed each of the roles. and his Wife played superbly by Jeffrey to what we expect: all Co-directors Toby Orenstein and Mark Shankle and Priscilla Cuellar, respectively. the characters had their Minnick ably took advantage of this abun- Russell Sunday with his deep resonant wishes fulfilled and “lived dance of talent and helmed an entertaining, voice is the narrator who ties everything to- happily ever after” – or message-laden, family-friendly spectacle. gether, and there’s a lot to tie. He also per- did they? In act two we The technical crew is also commendable, forms admirably as the Mysterious Man. get a glimpse of what can particularly Lynn Joslin’s lighting design, In order to break a spell from an ugly transpire beyond “hap- which is effectively used to illuminate the Witch (played zestfully by Janine Sunday) pily ever after” endings characters that appear at different loca- that had prevented the couple from bearing and the consequences tions in the in-the-round stage while black- children, the Baker and his Wife needed to of the characters’ wish- ing out parts of the stage so that others venture into the woods to find four items es. Without revealing seamlessly exit. the Witch demanded: a slipper as pure as the storyline, this act is When we were kids we remember that gold, a cow as white as milk, a cape as red darker than the first with its murders, terror, lies, adultery, betrayals, Their comical duet “Agony” whereby the two AIDS Response Effort accusations, and revenge. muse about the women in their lives hits the Serious problems must be addressed, mark. Fundraiser at The Club such as dealing with the angry vengeful Ms. Sunday as the Witch sparkles in widow of the Giant. In tackling this and the ballad “Stay With Me” and later after her other challenges, the four surviving charac- youth and beauty were restored but her pow- ters discover they can find strength in their ers were stripped by the potion comprised interdependence with one another. by the sought after ingredients in “Last Mid- As mentioned earlier, all members of the night.” company were suitably cast as if the roles Other favorites performed by the com- were written specifically for each. Their vo- pany include the title song as the prologue cals excel during Sondheim’s lyrically solid and “Your Fault.” numbers and backed ably by the robust The remainder of the cast also turns in sounds of Ross Scott Rawlings’ six-piece or- stirring performances, notably Heather Ma- chestra. rie Beck as Cinderella’s Stepmother, Law- As the determined Baker, Jeffrey Shankle rence B. Munsey as Cinderella’s Father mixed his acting and singing ingredients to and the hungry Wolf, Sophie Schulman as form a delicacy of a performance. Working Little Red Ridinghood, Katherine Riddle as with Priscilla Cuellar as the Baker’s Wife, the Rapunzel, Scott Harrison as Steward, and duo exhibits excellent onstage chemistry and Katie Keyser and MaryKate Broulliet as Cin- performs well in “It Takes Two.” Mr. Shankle derella’s stepsisters Florinda and Lucinda. also does very well in the group number “No And last but not least, a pat on the rump is One is Alone.” in order for Alex Beverage’s strenuous work Ms. Cuellar with her lovely voice in top as Milky White. form sings beautifully in her solo “Moments in The show takes on serious and complex the Woods” among others. subjects in a creative and artful way. Sond- Another stellar combo are Jimmy Ma- heim’s music and the cast’s sterling perfor- vrikes as the simple boy Jack whose friend mances make the trek Into the Woods worth- t The AIDS Response Effort (ARE) Reunion Show Fundraiser was held at The Club, was his cow Milky White and veteran ac- while. Friday, July 31st. The show raised a total of $4,443 for ARE. A big “thank you” to all of tress Jane C. Boyle as his struggling mother. Into the Woods (about 170 minutes, with our entertainers and of course to the staff and management of The Club for the evening Nimble and energetic, Mr. Mavrikes is in con- an intermission) plays through September – you guys are a true gem! A special thank you to the gentleman who matched all of the stant motion playing the youthful and rather 6 at Toby’s the Dinner Theatre of Columbia tips for the night. Last but not least, to our friends in the community. I’d call you patrons, dim-witted Jack. His solo “Giants in the Sky” (5900 Symphony Woods Road, Columbia, but that seems so impersonal, especially after all you did during this night of giving back. soars. Ms. Boyle performs at a high level in Maryland). For tickets, call 410-730-8311 Thank you and love to you all! – Nicole James her attempts at parenting. or visit Tobysdinnertheatre.com.

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Live ly Arts // screen savor

run rather than stick around to help, Monti spends much of the first half of the movie Elias Tapped to Head Iron Happy Hustler peering over his shoulder. Jürgen, who fell in love with Monti at first sight, spends Crow Theatre By Gregg Shapiro most of his time in pursuit of the hustler. as the organization’s sales and internal Bruce LaBruce and Rick Castro’s “queer That is when he’s not making disparaging By Steve Charing operations. Sean was also responsible for cinema classic” Hustler White (Strand) remarks about L.A. and Hollywood. On July 27, Iron Crow Theatre’s board of securing the largest institutional gift in Iron has been restored in HD and is In addition to the directors announced that Sean Elias, pre- Crow Theatre’s history. now available on Blu-ray. Open- budding Jürgen and viously Iron Crow Theatre’s executive di- “I’m disbanding the company model ing with a familiar Sunset Boule- Monti romance at the rector, is the company’s new artistic direc- – it will no longer be an ensemble theater,” vard homage, that of a body float- center of the movie, tor and chief executive officer. Steve Satta Elias told The Bad Oracle, a site that re- ing face-down in a pool (or in this Hustler White also had resigned as artistic director and will views small theatre in Baltimore. “Artists case, a Jacuzzi), the low-budget combines travelogue continue to serve on Iron Crow Theatre’s will not fulfill administrative roles just for black comedy stars Madonna’s and history with kink, board of directors. Elias will join the board, the chance to be fulfilled artistically. We’ve former boy-toy Tony Ward as rent- including scenes ineffective immediately. found this to be a tricky model. We’re boy Montgomery (Monti to friends) volving sex with an “Steve’s vision and leadership has going to get the right people for the right Ward. amputee, skin burned been the foundation of Iron Crow Theatre roles. We’ll be a producing house, if you Monti becomes the object of by cigarettes and since its inception back in 2009,” said Elias will. Anyone can be a Crow. We’re also desire of Jürgen Anger (LaBruce), slashed with razors, in a statement. “[He] has guided Iron Crow going to focus on grants and government no relation to Kenneth, who is in a modern primitive Theatre to become one of the most recog- funding. There will be some revisions of L.A. to research a project about mortician with a drag nized and sustainable small professional the mission statement as well. Iron Crow hustlers. Monti, a “two-bit hustler fetish, a porno shoot, theatre companies in Baltimore. Steve has is known as ‘the gay theater’ which is one with a couple of porn credits,” only and finally, murder. If made countless contributions to Iron Crow thing I absolutely want to change. I want has sex with men for money so that you can overlook the Theatre’s success and has attracted and to broaden the public’s understanding so he can support his young son (the terrible sound and the inspired many of the leading artists in the that they see queer theater as a mindset, mother abandoned them). camera’s occasional lack of focus, Hustler region.” a perspective, or an Wherever Monti goes, trouble seems White does a good job of capturing a time Elias continued, aesthetic rather than to follow. After stealing a car from a trick, and place. Blu-ray bonus features include “Steve will continue just originating from Monti runs over (and severs the foot of) video commentary and footage of LaBruce to serve Iron Crow a sexual orientation.” a fellow working stiff. Choosing to hit and at a film fest in Toronto. t Theatre with his When asked if unique vision both “broadening” meant on the board of di- that Iron Crow will be rectors and through changing its identity other artistic ven- as “the gay theater,” tures in the future. Elias responded, “I I’m honored to be would be worried entrusted with con- if I felt that broad- tinuing his legacy ening meant that and to move Iron we weren’t going Crow Theatre into its serve or do stories next chapter of rapid that were specific economic growth to the LGBTQ com- and artistic suc- munity. It doesn’t cess.” mean we’re taking Satta stated, “It away or not doing so has been six happy much as we’re add- and productive years Sean Elias ing to. Will you see serving as Artistic gay characters at Director and I am Iron Crow, absolute- proud to see that the company’s reputation ly, will you see work dealing with issues for quality, innovative theatre is firmly es- specific to the LGBTQ community, abso- tablished. There comes a time in the jour- lutely. But you’ll also see work like last ney of every arts organization when it can season’s 4.48 Psychosis, which had no benefit from fresh leadership. That time gay character and no obvious discourse has come for Iron Crow Theatre.” around homosexuality. It was a queer He added, “At this time, I am equally telling, a queer look into the mind. It’ll be proud to turn the leadership of the com- a mix. We’re proud to say that we’re Bal- pany over to Sean Elias, who has done a timore’s only queer theater, and all that spectacular job as executive director over that encompasses.” the past year and a half.” Iron Crow Theatre is a professional As executive director, Sean was re- not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization and sponsible for the company’s internal re- Baltimore’s only queer theatre. For more structuring and public rebranding as well information, visit Ironcrowtheatre.org. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // out on screen

Another Heart-pounding Thrill Ride on the other side of the opera house as well. With Ethan dispatching the first assassin, b y Chuck Duncan the evidence he needs to prove The Syndi- is she playing both Lane and Ethan for the and with only a single bullet, who does he It’s rare for a long-running series of movies cate does exist. Brandt, Benji (Simon Pegg) British government? It’s a great game of cat take out? It’s a real nail-biter of a scene, and to actually get better with each successive and Luther (Ving Rhames) work covertly with and mice that McQuarrie has constructed, has the feel of a classic 1960s spy thriller. film, but when you had such a terrible start Ethan to track the mysterious While it’s great to see and an even worse second chapter, there’s Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Fergu- A nother the familiar faces of the nowhere to go but up. And with the fifth in the son) and a man known only quiet IMF team, the new cast series of Mission: Impossible movies, they as Lane (Sean Harris), who Sunday members inject some wel- have definitely hit the heights of storytelling Ethan believes is the head drive come new blood into the and action. of The Syndicate. But will he story. Harris is a remark- In Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, be able to put all the pieces ably unsettling villain, al- Tom Cruise returns as IMF agent Ethan Hunt, together before the FBI finds most always working re- now focused on exposing a dangerous group him, or will this be the last motely, giving directions of international terrorists known only as The we’ll see of the Impossible to his henchmen and con- Syndicate. Many within the government be- Missions Force? stantly playing Ilsa. Having lieve The Syndicate is a figment of Hunt’s If Mission: Impossible – a virtually unknown actor imagination, or worse, he created the idea of Rogue Nation, written and playing a villain makes it the group to sustain the IMF. Unfortunately, directed by Christopher Mc- easier for the audience to FBI director Alan Hunley (Alec Baldwin) be- Quarrie, is any indication, we accept, not just watching a lieves the latter and has launched a commit- should see as many more famous face play bad. tee to disband the IMF ... which it does while films in the franchise as star Rebecca Ferguson is Hunt is still in deep cover in the field. Tom Cruise can physically also spectacular as Ilsa, Hunt’s mission leader, Brandt (Jeremy handle. McQuarrie’s plot is playing the bad girl with Renner) has to break the news to Ethan full of twists and turns, always making you making this one of the best Bond films that just as much ease as the ally. When we first that the IMF is no more, but he refuses to wonder just whose side Ilsa is truly on as she isn’t a Bond film. meet her, it seems as if she’s going to torture come in. The FBI launches its own mission bounces back and forth between Lane, MI5 Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation also Ethan, but Lane’s men arrive to take over to find him – something Brandt says they’ll and Ethan. Is she trying to help Ethan, or is has some of the most spectacular action the job and suddenly she’s helping him es- never be able to do – but Ethan finally gets she just using him to help The Syndicate? Or scenes ever committed to film, mainly be- cape. We’re just as confused as Ethan and cause Tom Cruise is actually doing the stunts! Ferguson gives Ilsa the needed confidence Yes, that is Cruise hanging onto the side of an to always keep us guessing as to which side airplane (which took him up to 8,000 feet sev- she’s on. It really is a terrific performance. eral times). Yes, that is Cruise zipping along I know many people gave up on the fran- winding mountain roads on a motorcycle at chise after the second movie, but once J.J. 100 MPH millimeters from the road surface. Abrams took control with the third film, bring- Yes, the is Cruise holding his breath for ing it back to its television roots, the series three minutes during an underwater scene. really found its footing. Brad Bird also did an Say what you will about Cruise the man, but excellent job directing the fourth film (his first Cruise the actor will go to any length to make live action film), and McQuarrie, who wrote these films as authentic as possible. The Usual Suspects and worked with Cruise But for all the outrageous stunts, one of on Jack Reacher, has given the franchise the film’s best scenes involved Hunt, Ilsa and another injection of pure adrenaline. After a multiple assassins inside the Vienna Opera summer of CGI-fuelled action flicks, it’s re- House. While Ethan stalks one assumed kill- freshing to see one that puts the real action er, he notices Ilsa also with her sights set on front and center to give the audience a very the prime minister. And then there is another real thrill ride. t

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // Personalities AN INTERVIEW WITH WRITER JENNIFER MORALES JM: It’s really simple: I fell in love with called Ebonics), depending on their situa- my characters and I wanted to know more tion, age, and social class. There are also Going All the Way about their lives. I kept wondering about black characters who speak what linguists people who played minor roles in one story call Edited English – the language of the by Gregg Shapiro JM: The long answer about the inspiration – What would they do in their own story? white professional class. I wanted to rep- Meet Me Halfway (University of Wisconsin for the story comes from my 23 years liv- What are they like? What do they need to resent all those voices because I love lan- Press, 2015), the fiction debut by Jennifer ing in hyper-segregated Milwaukee. I came learn? – and then, next thing I knew, I’d guage and I have had close relationships Morales is subtitled “Milwaukee Stories.” from a racially mixed family in the Chicago be off writing another one. Gloria’s story with people who speak each of these Mil- Because of that, Milwaukee is as much a area and had a diverse group of friends, (“Misdirected”), about the aftermath of her waukee dialects. character in the book as high school stu- so I was absolutely shocked to see how son’s death, came to me last. Gloria resist- “Fragging” deals explicitly with the clash dents Johnquell and Taquan, Johnquell’s sharply segregated my new home town ed “giving” me a story for a year and a half of cultures that different forms of English mother Gloria and his aunt Bee-Bee, elder- was. In Milwaukee I served on the city’s after the other stories were done. I don’t can provoke. Johnquell has a conflict with ly Frances and Mrs. Czernicki, dedicated blame her, since I killed her child teacher Mrs. Charles, or any of the people [laughs]. “I tried to use my who populate Morales’ stories. Most of the Jennifer GS: Teachers, from opposite stories are set in present-day Milwaukee, Morales ends of the spectrum, play a years of working with although “Prelude to a Revolution” takes prominent role in Meet Me Half- Milwaukeeans of all us back to the late 1960s, setting the tone way. There’s Mrs. Charles, a for the racially divided city of today. I spoke teacher who offers her students colors and cultures to with Jennifer in April 2014 before she em- respect and support, and then barked on a book tour for Meet Me Half- there’s Stu, aka Mr. Discharge, present each dialect way. who isn’t the most nurturing of with great respect. Gregg Shapiro: I always like to begin educators. As someone who is by asking a fiction writer who they consider a teacher herself, what can you Everyone’s home some of their writing influences to be? tell me about your approach to language deserves to Jennifer Morales: I’m influenced by writing about teachers? everything I’ve read, but I think the real JM: Teachers are my he- honored and heard with influences on my fiction writing are the roes. Although I teach writing day-to-day storytellers in my life. My late workshops, I have never been care because that’s our grandmother used to love to hold court a full-time classroom teacher. heart language – the at the dining table and tell us stories that Those who do that job day after made her laugh and cry like they were hap- day, year after year in the K-12 language our families pening again right there. My mom has an schools have my deepest re- almost painfully acute eye for detail, and spect and gratitude. That said, talk to us in, the my dad, who had schizophrenia, used to teachers are human, too. They language we first heard tell me the most fantastic stories about his school board and was active in community can be jerks and bigots and sometimes (fictional) life as an FBI agent in charge causes, as well as being a mom to a diverse fail to understand their students. I wanted our names spoken in.” of hunting down Nazis. In my political and bunch of kids, a writer-in-the-schools, and to reflect the full range – from the astute, performance lives, I’ve also spent years a middle-school Sunday school teacher, so caring, almost super-human ones, to the listening to politicians, ministers, actors, I got to know many young people and see pompous, discriminatory examples. Stu, the substitute, over his use of what Stu and activists tell stories -- when they are their struggles with the city’s racial legacy As a former school board member, pub- calls “gangster” English. But Johnquell is talking, my writer ear is always attuned to first-hand. As an elected official trying to lic school parent, and education research- capable of speaking multiple English dia- how they frame a narrative for audience ef- convince senior citizens to raise their own er, I’ve had a lot of opportunities to see lects. His school friend Taquan comes from fect. property taxes to support the schools, I teachers in action, but the Stu character is a working-class black/Puerto Rican home GS: The format of Meet Me Halfway also got to hear the voices of many of the based on an experience I had as a student. and he speaks a deeper AAVE that is also is linked stories, with different narrators. city’s elders. Stu is modeled on a racist substitute teach- influenced by his mom’s native Spanish. Why did you choose that configuration as From all that history, you get the short er I was subjected to in my high school his- I tried to use my years of working with opposed to framing it as a straightforward answer: I was lying on my couch one day tory class – a class normally taught by a Milwaukeeans of all colors and cultures to novel? after getting back from an exhausting MFA teacher I practically worshipped. He also present each dialect with great respect. Ev- JM: I came to fiction writing after many in Creative Writing residency and noticed was a Vietnam vet, like Stu, and used that eryone’s home language deserves to hon- years of writing poetry, so I think my natu- my bookshelf was leaning and probably status to bully us into parroting his version ored and heard with care because that’s our ral tendency is writing in shorter forms. Af- should be moved. Even though I hadn’t of U.S. history. heart language – the language our families ter writing “Heavy Lifting,” the first story in been able to write anything for a week, I GS: You make use of dialect, in “Press- talk to us in, the language we first heard our Meet Me Halfway, I felt compelled to try to suddenly stood up, grabbed my laptop, ing On” and “Fragging,” for example. names spoken in. bring in a wide range of Milwaukee voices. and wrote the first half of “Heavy Lifting,” JM: My characters speak a range of One of the reasons that I saved “Press- I kept asking, “Who does the character in about a black Milwaukee teen moving a Milwaukee “Englishes.” There’s Frances, ing On” – Taquan’s story – for last is be- the last story need to encounter in the next bookcase for his elderly white neighbor. I who speaks South Side white Milwaukee- cause I think many middle-class white read- one?” I wanted to show the diversity of the don’t know where Johnquell and Mrs. Cz- ese, and Netania, who is a native English ers will be challenged by his voice. I wanted city and the many ways that people inter- ernicki came from, but they popped into speaker whose language is inflected by her them to be invested in the series of stories act – for better or for worse – across group my head and threw me off the couch, so I parents’ Mexican Spanish. And there are before getting to Taquan, so that they take boundaries in a deeply divided place. knew I had to write their story down. several black characters who speak differ- the time to hear him and see him for the GS: You said that you wrote “Heavy Lifting” GS: How did you know that you wanted to ent Milwaukee variations on African Ameri- funny, resilient, good-hearted kid that he is t first. What was the inspiration for the story? develop the characters into a full-length book? can Vernacular English (AAVE, sometimes and root for him to succeed. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // outstyle quality of life

have made these tragedies occur aside, I My Love/Hate Relationship want to segue into the need for some people to compare and contrast experiences By Rick Aronhalt Ask in a relationship. To me, brass is like that old boyfriend you with Brass Person A: I had a terrible dream last thought you’d never see again. Now, two de- Dr. J night. cades later he comes knocking at your door has reentered the market in sophisticated Person B: Oh yeah? Let me tell you looking smoking hot. So, you sleep with him. designs in just about every style, from mid- Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. about the nightmare I had last week. And now he won’t leave. century modern (my fav) to tradi- One upmansship? You bet. What this That seems to be the tional. You can find it in everything does is it makes people feel they are not way it is with brass these from cabinet hardware to furniture. Cecil vs. being listened to, and that’s not good. Take days. Martha Stewart called I’m also seeing a lot of chandeliers a minute and think about your reactions in it a couple of years ago. But I in brass again. But this time, forget this regard. Do you respond to what your kept hoping that brass as an the builder’s grade stigma. What I’m Sandra partner has just said? Or are you either interior design trend would seeing on the market is well-made, thinking of a similar experience of yours, have the life span of the sec- artful, and will become the focal How did we get to comparing media, com- or even planning what you want to say ond iteration of the elephant point of your room. For inspiration, munity, or social-media reactions to trag- next? In either case, you are not listening leg jean. But just open any log on to Dwellstudio.com. Their edies? In the last several days, I’ve seen but are more self-absorbed than carrying current issue of Elle Décor Stellare Chandelier is my favorite. comments and tweets about why there is so on a conversation. or Architectural Digest and It’s 24-light sunburst design will toss much more attention paid to Cecil the Lion True – the grief over losing a job does you’ll see that brass has you right back to the ’70s. It comes than to Sandra Bland or Samuel DuBose. not compare to the grief over losing a infiltrated nearly every fea- in small and large sizes and is suit- That an unarmed person, among many be- loved one. But we also have to remember ture and is here to stay for a able for high moisture areas, such fore him, was shot by a police officer, and that a lot of things in life are relative. My while. Just like the ex. as bathrooms and covered patios. another was arrested to end up in suicide, pain over what I have lost should not be I’ll admit that I have a Prices start at $2,400. Also check for no other offense than a minor traffic vio- compared to your pain over what you lost. love/hate relationship with Kaden Table out the Constellation Indoor/Outdoor lation, is a horrible tragedy and says a lot For the people and the animals, we need brass. So, if brass is going to Lamp, available at Antique Brass 5 Light Wall Sconce, about police training or lack thereof. It also to remember that media are fickle and get be more than a passing fad, Birchlane.com also by Dwell Studios. This sunburst is a reflection of a society where a cow- diverted to the shiniest object. This is why I’m going to have to deal with sconce looks like it belongs on the boy mentality of he who has authority rules evening news has all the murders and ac- my issues. Issue No. 1: I like set of American Hustle. Truly fabu- and can use the power whether deserved cidents and not the good and kind acts that to polish things about as much as I like to lous. Priced at $1,200. or not. This is not to say that all police of- people have performed. Did you see the dust. Issue No. 2: The brass I remember as If you don’t want to make such a per- ficers are the same way – but that there tweet of the viral video of two police offi- a child was the epitome of tacky. As a child manent brass addition to your decor, occa- have been a number of such incidents of cers in Newark, Delaware, going around of the ’70s, I cringe at the thought of those sional lamps are another good option. Visit white cops treating black people differently with signs that read: “Free hugs”? It was round brass-plated wall plaques embossed Birchlane.com and check out the Kaden that have come to light because now prac- awesome! Many people gave hugs, but with Puritans and eagles and whatever other Table Lamp. It has a beautiful hammered tically everyone has a phone camera and sure enough, there were a number of sour- hideousness we were antique brass some officers have body cameras. pusses that just walked by. It is important doing circa 1976. And base and is Back in Africa, a defenseless and en- to acknowledge good and kind deeds as let’s face it: Nothing only $239. Also dangered lion was lured and then killed at much as we need to condemn horrible and says “builder’s grade” peruse their a close encounter where hunting skill does unfair acts. like a plain brass chan- floor lamps. The not even seem to have played a role. Jim- In a relationship, likewise, it is crucial delier in the dining Watkins Brass my Kimmel said it best: “Why would any- to appreciate and thank your partner for room. Floor Lamp bor- one want to kill a lion in the first place?” loving and thoughtful behavior, as much as The good news rows from the The same cowboy mentality and machis- it is important to resolve actions that are is that the new brass iconic Caterpil- mo. bothersome. Always go for balance, and isn’t like this at all and lar lamp with The reasons and rationalizations that think of the yin and yang. t my issues (at least the stacked antique ones relating to this brass balls that topic) seem to have form its base. been resolved. Dwellstudio.com’s It’s on sale right Issue No. 1: The Stellare Chandelier now for $239. upkeep. The new Another op- brass on the market isn’t that shiny lac- tion for adding small touches of brass is quered brass that we dismissed in 1989 to work it into your hardware in the kitchen because we had buffed off all the finish. or bath. Mixing metals is still in fashion, so Think about the brass pulls on grandma’s don’t worry if a lot of your decor consists of old chest of drawers. That’s what this “new” brushed nickel or chrome. Start small and brass looks like. It’s meant to age grace- build from there. Before you know it, you’ll fully, meaning that is will oxidize naturally, have rekindled your long lost relationship gaining a deep, rich patina. Polishing is ac- with brass. I know I did. t tually discouraged. Amen. Rick Aronhalt is a writer and owner of Issue No. 2: The tacky factor. Gone Retrorurn, a mid-century modern furniture are the brass-plated plastic Home Interiors and home décor store in Hampden. He may wall mirrors. Looking at you, Mom. Brass be reached at [email protected].

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 dining out

tree menu. Sandwiches include choices of a Black Angus burger ($14.50), turkey burger ($12.75), fish & chips ($14), BLTA (A = avocado – $9.50), or a grilled cheese Finger’s ($8). Main courses include crabcake ($15), Food hanger steak ($25), chicken breast ($20), vegetable sauté ($16), fish tostada ($23), salmon ($19), lamb shoulder chop ($27), and a fish of the day (market price). I had Johnny’s initially selected the hanger steak, how- 4800 Roland Avenue, Baltimore ever, after placing the order, I was notified 410-773-0777 that they were out of this option, which dis- Johnnysdownstairs.com appointed me. As a second choice, I had the chicken breast, served with corn, zuc- by Richard Finger chini, and cucumber sauté, sweet onion A new friend of ours suggested to meet rings, and a dab of dill and lemon yogurt. him for dinner at Johnny’s. After research- The presentation of the chicken breast ing a bit about the place, I was excited to was quite pleasing, as well as the taste. go. Tony Foreman and Cindy Wolf opened I only wish for $20, that there was more Johnny’s restaurant in Roland Park in of it. I couldn’t help but think I could prob- 2012. The cuisine centers on “American ably have a whole rotisserie chicken from West Coast flavors,” and promises fresh Boston Market for a lesser price, and the and healthy meals anytime of the day. Giv- taste was just the same. Maybe I am just en my renewed focus on fitness and eat- a bit too frugal, and, after all, the ambi- ing better, this seemed like a great place ance of Boston Market cannot compare to dine without worrying too much about to Johnny’s. Anyhow, given the large the the menu. Caesar salad, my appetite was completely Upon walking in, I was immediately satiated for the moment. struck by the relaxed atmosphere. We sat On the whole, our Johnny’s dining ex- at a booth by the bar, and we were warmly perience was enjoyable. Despite it being welcomed. Our server noticed we had engaged in discussion with our friend, and we were not rushed to place our More please! meal orders. I always enjoy a nice cold glass of white wine in the summertime, so I selected the Airfield Estates “uno- aked” Chardonnay ($10), while Nick and our friend Steve ordered the Lone Birch Pinot Gris ($7). I was very happy that the wine glasses were filled quite nicely, and the wine was served at an arctic cold temperature. Off to a great start! Johnny’s selection offers more than 50 American wines by the glass or bottle, a selection of American and Mexican beers, as well as more than 17 whiskey options. Certainly enough variety to fit every taste. For a starter, Steve and I selected the side Caesar salad ($9), while Nick enjoyed some of the sushi selections. The Caesar salad was almost large enough to stand alone as a meal. Johnny’s serves theirs with cucumber, reggiano chips, croutons, and a house Caesar dressing. There are a number of restaurant week, and it being a busy night, other appetizers offered. Perhaps on the we did not feel rushed at all. I was remind- next visit I will try a cup or bowl of the ed of my European dining experiences chicken corn tortilla soup ($5/$7), or the where it is assumed you have a table for Ahi tuna poke ($12). Both sound very ap- the evening. For a special occasion, or pealing for sure. even for a night out with friends, I would Depending on the time of day, and definitely recommend Johnny’s to anyone. the mood you are in, you may consider a I’m hopeful the next time I am there, the sandwich or something off the main en- hanger steak is well-stocked. t

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 Your money

for 1% from someone when they could buy a change in value. Bonds: Preparing for new issue bond for 2%. Other investors who are concerned about The amount at which the selling party loss of value may look to invest in shorter- would have to decrease the value of the bond term bonds. This is because shorter-term Rising Interest Rates ... depends in part bonds are typically By Woody Derricks investor should receive the dividends from on the term of the less volatile if all Historically, people have looked to bonds the bonds, and, when the term is complete, bond. The longer other factors are for stability, income, and security. As peo- the investor should receive a return of their the term, the more the same. The other ple approach retirement, they tend to take $1,000 principal payment. he/she’d have positive to owning a more conservative risk position with their How do interest rates impact bonds? to decrease the shorter-term bonds portfolio. The more conservative people be- Bonds typically change value from their origi- value. The shorter is that they ma- come with their investments, the more bonds nal $1,000 as interest rates change. You’ll the term, the less ture sooner. With a they typically add to their mix. For some time find that bond values generally move inverse- he/she would have shorter maturity, the now interest rates have been falling or have ly to interest rate changes. This means that to decrease the investor may be able stayed relatively stable. If that trend changes a decrease in interest rates could increase bond’s value. to buy new bonds and interest rates move up, then the value of bonds and that an What can with higher interest the value of your bonds may go increase in interest rates could you do to protect rates thus increasing down. Take stock drive down the value of bonds. yourself from his/her income. What are bonds? Bonds As an example, let’s say rising rates? De- Fearful of losing are debt issued by corporations of your that you want to buy a bond. pending on your current income needs, com- any value in bonds and able to withstand a and governments. Typically portfolio The current interest rate is 2%. fort level with a fluctuating portfolio value, potential decrease in income, some investors these loans run from 30 days to If you want, you could buy a and liquidity needs, you could see several may opt to move some of their bond portfolio 30 years. Generally speaking, new issue bond for $1,000 at options. You could stay the course, move to cash. the longer the term of the loan the greater 2% interest. You could also purchase a bond to shorter-term bonds, and/or move toward One or all of these options may be ap- amount of interest paid to the holder of the from someone looking to sell his/her bond. If cash. propriate and should be assessed on an bond. someone purchased a bond with a 1% inter- Some investors, who hold individual individual basis. Consult your financial ad- An investor may pay $1,000 per bond est rate, they’d have to decrease the bond’s bonds, will want to keep their bonds intact. visor for specifics regarding your situation and receive an agreed upon rate of interest value from $1,000 to provide you with a com- Knowing that a solvent company is expected and consult your tax advisor about the tax for the term of the bond. So long as the com- petitive interest rate. This is done because to provide a return of principal upon maturity, implications of selling bonds prior to ma- t pany (or government) remains solvent, the an investor is unlikely to want to buy a bond they may not be concerned about the bond’s turity.

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 about it again. Perfect setting for a playdate in the building, one only In late June I was needs to be 19 to attend. contacted by my long- When I asked why 19 was Leather time friend Rik New- selected as the age to get Line ton-Treadway about in and not 21, I was in- Rodney Burger doing an article on formed that the manage- the Baltimore Play- ment felt that 18 was too house. He informed young because someone me that not only who is 18 could still be in Come Out was he on the board high school and that 19 of directors but he was selected because and Play was co-producer of many college students Chesapeake Leather are interested in kink and Sir Steve and I are very fortunate. We have and Pride (CLAP) that this would give them a a large house with the perfect basement and that the weekend safe place to learn and ex- dungeon. There is a large sturdy sling event would be held periment in a supervised supported by wooden columns and a St. there. He wanted me space. During play parties Andrew’s cross. I only regret that in the to see the place. We there are staff or “dungeon past year the space has become more of a agreed to meet at the masters” in the building storage room than a playroom. It is a great Baltimore Playhouse who would stop any risky area for the two of us and we have enjoyed at 2 p.m. on July 31. behavior. This allows for it for many years. For larger groups or for The Baltimore a safer environment than those who are not lucky enough to have Playhouse is located just meeting someone on the space for a playroom in their home, at 3010 Washington a social app or website. there are a number of BDSM play spaces Boulevard and was I enjoyed my tour of in the Baltimore area. COMMAND, MC, easy to find. I was coming from downtown may be added at another time. There was the Baltimore Playhouse and on the week- recently hosted a gathering at Studio 58 Baltimore so I just turned onto Washing- a small snack bar area and a quiet room end of August 28 to 30 I would like to invite located at 5811 Grove Lane in Frederick, ton Boulevard off of Martin Luther King with sofas for aftercare. (Some folks do you to attend the 6th annual Chesapeake Maryland, and have another event sched- Jr. Boulevard and followed it across. It is need to wind down after play.) Leather and Pride (CLAP) so that you can uled there on Saturday, October 17. There a warehouse building with parking right in After I had a chance to walk around see this space, too. This event will benefit the is another facility called “The West Wing” front on the right just past Parkman Ave- and take a few pictures, (Photography is Carter/ Johnson Leather Library (which will that is located on a large waterfront estate nue. There is no sign but I had no prob- not allowed when the space is in use.) Rik be on display during the weekend) and the just 45 minutes across the Chesapeake lem turning into the correct entrance. I got arrived and the three of us relaxed on one Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman travel funds. On Bay Bridge. The very pleasant owner of there a little early but Jennifer Johnson, of the many sofas to talk. Friday, August 28 from 2 to 8 p.m. you may The West Wing came to a meeting of the who is also a board member, was there Many longtime members of Baltimore’s view the library and enjoy panel discussions ShipMates Club of Baltimore a few months ready to show me around. The grand tour leather community may be familiar with the by Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman titleholders. ago and gave a wonderful presentation did not take long. Once one passes the Baltimore Playhouse that for many years Cost is just $5 on Friday. One of the high- complete with a slide show. There are lobby area, the Baltimore Playhouse is ba- was located in the Mt. Vernon area of Balti- lights of the weekend will be the Mid-Atlantic other such spaces in the Baltimore met- sically two very large rooms filled with all more. Although many in the community may Leather Woman 2015 Contest and the Mid- ropolitan area, but some of these places sorts of BDSM equipment and play areas. think that this space is just a new location Atlantic Puppy and Mid-Atlantic Puppy Han- are very much underground. They are the At 12,000 square feet, it is billed as one for the Baltimore Playhouse, Jennifer was dler Contest which will take place on Satur- speakeasies of our time with no signage of the largest playrooms in the country. quick to point out that there is no relationship day, August 29 at 3 p.m. The doors open at and open for members only. I had heard One can find everything from St. Andrew’s between the two spaces and that the own- 11 a.m. on Saturday so come early and enjoy a lot about the new Baltimore Playhouse, crosses to cages, spanking benches, and ers of the Baltimore Playhouse “just bought the Carter/Johnson Leather Library before but when I looked into it earlier in the year I even areas set aside for medical scenes. the name.” This Baltimore Playhouse is a the contest starts. There will also be a cook- received some less than kind text from one I asked if there were showers or a locker 501(c)7 non-profit social club and opened on out from 12 to 2 p.m. Tickets on Saturday are of the owners. I wrote it off and didn’t think room area but was informed that showers October 24, 2014. It is all new and welcomes $20 at the door. All are welcome to attend. all genders, orientations, etc. None of the The weekend will also include a flea market equipment came from another location. Al- and barbecue on Sunday starting at 10 a.m. though this private club has only been open For a full schedule visit Chesapeake Leather less than a year there are over 450 current and Pride on Facebook. Rik is very excited “contributors.” abo]ut this year’s CLAP but is also very busy Since it is a private club, one must be looking for a new location for his annual “12 a contributor to attend a play party there. Days of Christmas Show” on December 12. There is a short application on the website He recently learned that the Club Hippo will (Baltimoreplayhouse.com) and once the ap- no longer be open ln December as planned. plication is approved by the three-member The show will go on! I will keep you posted board (usually in 24-to-48 hours) an annual regarding the new location. $20 contribution is required. There is no face- As I ended my tour of the Baltimore Play- to-face interview and no references are re- house I received a few more text from one quired. Contributors pay $20 admission (or of the owners. It is a great space to come more or less depending on the event) per out and play and I look forward to returning visit and may bring a guest at the cost of $30. during CLAP, but I guess you can’t have a Since alcohol is neither served nor allowed playhouse without a little drama. t 28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 7, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Sorry I can’t take your call – I’m in a meeting

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