August 3, 2018 | Volume XVI, Issue 7

By Bill Redmond-Palmer In this past June’s primary election, ‘I Don’t Think They Really What are some of your goals and priori- LGBTQ people achieved several firsts. ties for your term of office? This included two transgender people be- My principle reason for running was ing elected for the first time to official office Appreciated Grassroots Activism’ the real lack of activism on the part of the in the state of Maryland. One of those two members of our former Democratic Central is Laura Hart, who was elected to a seat on ated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees as a judge and as deputy attorney Committee. I don’t think they the Democratic Central Committee for St. in electrical engineering from Villanova general for maritime law in the really appreciated grass- Mary’s County in southern Maryland. University. I went to work for the Navy in Truman and Eisenhower ad- roots activism, in fact Hart retired from her job Bucks County, Pennsylvania, ministrations. Her youngest some members were as a civilian computer engi- A chat with after college. My job moved brother, her twin, was the even hostile to the neer and engineering man- newly elected from the Philadelphia area to youngest person elected to idea. I also believe ager for Naval Aviation after Patuxent River Naval Air Station the New York City Council that they may have 34 years in September 2006. Democratic trans in 1996. At the time, it seemed at the time of his election. been intimidated by She currently serves as the committeewoman like a disaster, but ended up It was during his campaign all the energy com- chair of the St Mary’s Dem- being fortuitous for my career, that I, as a seven-year-old, ing out of the disas- ocratic Club’s voter outreach Laura Hart as well as my post retirement first got canvassing experi- trous 2016 election. committee, which is creat- interests. ence going door to door with I learned a lot of ing a precinct captain program in all of St. How did you get interested in poli- my Aunt Mabel. lessons about grass- Mary’s County’s 36 precincts, specifically tics? You were recently elected root activism focused on canvassing. I grew up in a political family. My moth- to the Democratic Central Commit- Rising star in St. Mary’s volunteering with Bill Redmond-Palmer: Tell me a little er’s oldest brother held appointed offices tee for District 29 for St. Mary’s County. County – Laura Hart —continued on page 4 about your life growing up. Laura Hart: I grew up in Upper Darby, a close in suburb of Philadelphia. I gradu- Fun on FIRE ISLAND by David Placher isolated from the other parts of the island, Famous Fire Island is a place to visit in they became and continue to be safe ha- the summer for a mini “gaycation.” It’s vens for the LGBT community. There are located off the southern rainbow flags and same-sex shore of Long Island. The Storied gay couples holding hands every- island is 31 miles long and where. varies between 520 and summertime Cherry Grove (often referred 1,300 feet wide. The drive to as The Grove) is a small com- from Baltimore to the Say- resort on coastal munity with a year-round popu- ville Ferry Service is about Long Island lation of only 2,000. It is credited four-and-a-half hours and as being one of the first areas the ferry ride is about 15 in the US where the LGBT com- minutes. The two car-free communities munity could live without facing discrimina- that receive a lot of attention from the tion and oppression. In the 1940s, it was a LGBT community are Cherry Grove and well-known place where LGBT actors and Fire Island Pines. Transportation is only writers could escape to. The Cherry Grove by foot on neatly constructed boardwalks. Community House and Theater opened in To haul things around, you either need 1948 and was recently added to the Na- luggage with wheels or toy wagons. By tional Register of Historic Places for being the nature of the oldest continuously operating gay and Party people under these two com- lesbian theatre in the US. flaming sky – It’s Fire munities being “Downtown” Cherry Grove is so small Island in the summer! geographically —continued on page 18 Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

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

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

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

Contributing Writers for Baltimore OUTloud Ava Barron-Shasho • Janan Broadbent, Ph. D. Josh Buchbinder • Anthony Calo • Lee Carpenter Jeffrey Clagett • Wayne Curtis • Woody Derricks Chuck Duncan • John Redmond-Palmer • Dr. Eva Hersh Mark S. King • Brother Merrick Moses Frankie Kujawa • Sage Piper • David Placher Mark Segal • Gregg Shapiro • Bill Redmond-Palmer David Egan • Elyse Buchbinder • Dr. Loren Olson Alex “Bear” Conley • Brynn Deveraux

Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY Laura Anderson • Rev. Kelly Crenshaw Rev. Dr. Robert Apgar-Taylor • Brian George Hose Elizabeth Thompson

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

Graphics Ramon Montiel

Web Editor Adam Romanic Computer Solutions for Less

Photographers Corey Brent Eric Randolph

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

Founders Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams

Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 410-802-1310 Baltimoreoutloud.com

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

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

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local

Out Networking • Anthony Estreet, coordinator, Accel- erate Baltimore Harbor Spirit • Lee Martin, director, Weinberg Hous- ing Resource Center Dinner Cruise • Cory Holland (aka Sabrina Blue) en- tertainer Think business! Think pleasure! The Out • Chris Jay, Baltimore King of Pride Netwtorking Baltimore Harbor Spirit Din- 2017 ner Cruise, hosted by the Maryland LGBT • Clara Angel Freeman, founder and Chamber of Commerce, is set for August head, Clara’s Angels Boosting empowerment and breaking the bonds 8th from 7 to 9:30 pm. Spirit Cruises has • Mazie Chapman and Terry McNair, El- of homophobia, racism, and stigma in same an arrangement with Royal Sonesta Hotel ement Fleet Management (30 East Lee Street), and • Stacy Williams, manager, Club Bunns gender-loving (SGL) men in Baltimore City will provide a cou- • Raheim Briggs, founder and head, • NETWORKING pon that provides Project Briggs Every 1st Wednesday parking for up to • Delores Velez, volunteer extraordi- ten hours at $8. naire • HIV EDUCATION Tickets are • Nathaniel Fields, Mayor’s Office Hu- Every Last Wednesday $55 for mem- man Services • SOCIAL EVENTS bers of the • Juan Webster, of Hotel Monaco and LGBT Cham- founder of LACC Foundation Monthly ber of Com- • Osiris Sesenaya, founder, 333 • ART CREATION PROJECT merce, and $65 for • Roderick Johnson, kindergarten non-members. The teacher [email protected] • 410-837-5573 ticket price includes a buffet din- • James Gray III of Zeta Alpha Delta FB: New Horizons Baltimore • aidsactionbaltimore.org ner, a glass of wine or champagne, and un- limited coffee, tea, and iced tea. There will HIV Prevention Advocacy for SGL Men's Health supported by be a cash bar for soda, juice, and alcohol. ViiV Healthcare's ACCELERATE! Program Tickets are available at Bit.ly/2LCi4Rw. There will be DJ entertainment on the Sky Lounge Deck along with games such as shuffleboard, foosball, and oversized Jenga, chess board, and Connect 4. For more information, visit their Face- NEW GROWTH ON t book event page at Bit.ly/2ArYe6q. WEST 40TH STREET. Joy Baltimore Hails • Tamrula Davis, founder, Gifted Girls • Michelle Smalls, case manager at ‘Unsung Heroes’ WHRC Shelter • Adam Jackson, founder and head, August 10th Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle • Rashard Corey, founder and head, I Joy Baltimore serves homeless youth. Survive Movement Join the group Friday, August 10th from • Jamar Barnes, Morgan State Social 8 pm to midnight for the “Unsung Heroes Work alumni Awards” at the Eubie Blake National Jazz • Burgundi Janae, former head of Yo Institute and Cultural Center (847 North Baltimore East Side Roland Park Place – Baltimore City’s only certifi ed Continuing Howard Street, Baltimore). The awards • Andrea Jones, head of Live To Inspire honor 30 individuals and groups excelling • Tiana Bell, youth advocate Care Retirement Community – will soon be transformed, in such areas as mentoring, leadership, • Ellis Lee, youth advocate adding 8 new stories and 58 spacious new residences, advocacy, entertainment, and community • Larry Wilson, Jr., writer, dancer, spo- outreach. ken-word artist, and HIV activist to create the perfect setting for your Baltimore story. Awardees are: • Janet Arce, Fundacion Organization • Derrick Chase, founder and head of • Carolyn Leach of Family League of Stand Up Baltimore Baltimore. • Kenneth Morrison, founder, DewMore Tickets are $35 and are available at READY FOR MOVEIN 443.338.6212 Bmore Bit.ly/2Kc8NKk. For more info, it’s Bit. FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org • Cindy Williams, founder and head, ly/2mWA7mL. Learn more at Joybaltimore. Loving Arms org. t • Ali Moody, AIDS Action Baltimore & Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging Morgan Ichat

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

Select Chase Brexton Health Care patients deemed most in need may be eligible for digital breast cancer screenings through a mobile mammography van to be located at the Chase Brexton Mount Vernon Center on September 28th. The screenings are provided in partnership with Lackawan- na Mobile X-Ray and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Breast can- cer is the second most common cancer in women, and mammograms are capable of finding it up to three years before it can be felt. The Center for Disease Control recommends mammograms every two years for women age 50 and older who are at average risk for breast cancer. The staff of Chase Brexton encour- ages their patients to remember that ear- ly detection saves lives! Any patient who feels they may quality should contact their Chase Brexton provider or call 410-837- 2050 for more info. t news // local Adult Children Raised by Lesbian ‘I Don’t Think They Really Appreciated

Couples as Healthy as Peers Grassroots Activism’ What will be, will be. I have a very specific mission and I’m just going to keep plowing Los Angeles – In a new study by the through donor insemination and raised —continued from page 1 forward. Williams Institute, researchers found that by sexual minority parents,” said Gartrell. National Center for Transgender Equality How and when did you get actively 25-year-olds raised by lesbian parents “We have followed these families since the and the National LGBTQ Task Force at the involved in the LGBTQ community? do as well on multiple measures of psy- mothers were inseminating or pregnant federal level, as well as Equality Maryland My first major grassroots effort was chological health as adults from a popula- and now find that their 25-year-old daugh- at the state level. I also gained invaluable supporting the signature challenge against tion-based sample. The ters and sons score as experience and learned about the political the petition to put Montgomery County’s researchers compared well on mental health ground game from the gold standard of gender-identity anti-discrimination ordi- relationships, educa- as other adults of the ground games, as my county’s canvass- nance on the ballot in 2008. I spent about tional/job performance, same age…. These ing coordinator for 2012 Obama for Amer- four-and-a-half months poring over signa- and behavioral, emo- findings demonstrate ica, knocking on as many as 600 doors in ture lists, and we were ultimately able to tional, and mental health that claims that it is about four months. successfully challenge half the signatures problems in the two harmful for children to St. Mary’s is a very conservative area. the opponents of the ordinance had col- samples. The report, be raised by same-sex Although the difference between registered lected, defeating their efforts. “National Longitudinal couples are complete- Republicans and registered Democrats is Following that, I spent the next two Lesbian Family Study – ly unfounded,” add- small, some of those registered Democrats years volunteering with the United ENDA Mental Health of Adult ed Bos. “There is no haven’t voted Democratic since the 1970s. (Employment Non-Discrimination Act) Co- Offspring,” appears in justification to restrict In 2014 for example, Democrats lost every alition. As a retired computer engineer, my the New England Journal of Medicine and child custody or placement, or access to contested election. I am totally committed principle role was to maintain the database is co-authored by Nanette Gartrell, Henny reproductive technologies, based on the to activating our grassroots to go out and and the web page, but at surge periods Bos, and Audrey Koh. parents’ sexual orientation.” knock on doors to remind people that there when we wanted to visit as many congres- The longest-running prospective study Ten states, including Alabama, Kan- actually is a Democratic party in St. Mary’s sional offices as we could, I had the oppor- on sexual minority parent families has uti- sas, Michigan, Mississippi, North Dakota, County. I want to build a lasting volunteer tunity to develop lobbying experience, an lized 25-year-old participants in the on- Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, network that can last across electoral cy- activity I genuinely enjoy and love. going US National Longitudinal Lesbian Texas, and Virginia allow state-licensed cles and maybe convince some of them to I also volunteered with Equality Mary- Family Study (NLLFS), which has followed child welfare agencies to refuse to place step up and run for office themselves. land and served for a time on their board. the same cohort of offspring from concep- and provide services to children and fami- You’re one of the first transgender In addition, I volunteered with the Mautner tion to adulthood. Researchers focused on lies if it conflicts with their religious beliefs, people to be elected to an official of- Project, which provides social services to mental health because the peak incidence the Institute reported. fice in Maryland. In your case, it was in lesbians and their caretakers battling seri- of many psychiatric disorders occurs More info at Williamsinstitute.law.ucla. a very conservative county. How does ous health issues, and was on the planning t during young adulthood. The NLLFS, now edu. (Q Notes Online – Lainey Millen at this impact your work, or the political committee for the First Capital Trans Pride. in its 32nd year, has a 92% retention rate. Goqnotes.com/60770/u-s-world-research- landscape in the state? What’s the work that you’re most “When I began this study in 1986, there study-shows-mental-health-of-young- I quite honestly have no idea. This is proud of? was considerable speculation about the fu- adults-with-lesbian-parents-the-same-as- a very conservative area. In 2016, Make When you have a touch of OCD, you do ture mental health of children conceived their-peers) America Great Again (MAGA) signs looked tend to get volunteer awards! The two that like our principal farm product. Most Fri- stand out for me are the 2009 Engendered days up until the election, there were a Spirit Award from Capital Trans Pride and group of guys on Route 5 just north of the 2010 Volunteer of the Year for Mautner FIST Leather Route 6 flashing their MAGA signs, stand- Project. The first was recognition from my Club ing in front of their stars and bars flag. I community. The second was for service to basically just live my life. I never hide my people in great need. trans identity, but it rarely ever comes up. What is one thing you have learned Maybe it will going forward, I don’t know. in your 12-plus years of service to the LGBTQ Community that you think would be helpful for the community to know? My biggest take away is that we trans people must speak with our own voices. It may seem comforting to be part of a larg- er LGBTQ community, but our voices get drowned out, and our priorities are often shunted to the side. I think the rhetoric around the Equality Act that is currently before the US Congress has been totally inclusionary. It’s easy to stay pure when it’s just rhetoric. What happens when there is a chance to pass the Equality Act? Does the rhetoric hold true or does history? I be- Females Investigating Sexual Terrain lieve that trans people need to demand the (FIST) celebrated 25 years Sunday, July 29th former and scream bloody hell if the latter at the Clifton Pleasure Club in Baltimore comes to pass! t 4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com In adults with HIV on ART who have diarrhea not caused by an infection

IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION This is only a summary. See complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or by calling 1-844-722-8256. This does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or treatment. What Is Mytesi? Mytesi is a prescription medicine used to improve symptoms of noninfectious diarrhea (diarrhea not caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on ART. Do Not Take Mytesi if you have diarrhea caused by an infection. Before you start Mytesi, your doctor and you should make sure your diarrhea is not caused by an infection (such as bacteria, virus, or parasite). Possible Side Effects of Mytesi Include: • Upper respiratory tract infection (sinus, nose, and throat infection) • Bronchitis (swelling in the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs) • Cough • Flatulence (gas) • Increased bilirubin (a waste product when red blood cells break down) For a full list of side effects, please talk to your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or Tired of planning your life around diarrhea? call 1-800-FDA-1088. Should I Take Mytesi If I Am: Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant? • Studies in animals show that Mytesi could harm an unborn baby or affect the ability to become pregnant Enough is Enough • There are no studies in pregnant women taking Mytesi • This drug should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed Get relief. Pure and simple. Ask your doctor about Mytesi. A Nursing Mother? • It is not known whether Mytesi is passed through human breast milk Mytesi (crofelemer): • If you are nursing, you should tell your doctor before starting Mytesi • Is the only medicine FDA-approved to relieve diarrhea in people with HIV • Your doctor will help you to decide whether to stop nursing or to stop • Treats diarrhea differently by normalizing the flow of water in the GI tract taking Mytesi Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age? • Has the same or fewer side effects as placebo in clinical studies • Mytesi has not been studied in children under 18 years of age • Comes from a tree sustainably harvested in the Amazon Rainforest • Mytesi studies did not include many people over the age of 65. So it is not clear if this age group will respond differently. Talk to your doctor to What is Mytesi? find out if Mytesi is right for you Mytesi is a prescription medicine that helps relieve symptoms of diarrhea not caused by What Should I Know About Taking Mytesi an infection (noninfectious) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy (ART). With Other Medicines? If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, herbal Important Safety Information supplements, or vitamins, tell your doctor before starting Mytesi. Mytesi is not approved to treat infectious diarrhea (diarrhea caused by bacteria, a virus, What If I Have More Questions About Mytesi? or a parasite). Before starting you on Mytesi, your healthcare provider will first be sure that you For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information at do not have infectious diarrhea. Otherwise, there is a risk you would not receive the right medicine Mytesi.com or speak to your doctor or pharmacist. and your infection could get worse. In clinical studies, the most common side effects that occurred To report side effects or make a product complaint or for additional information, call 1-844-722-8256. more often than with placebo were upper respiratory tract (sinus, nose, and throat) infection (5.7%), bronchitis (3.9%), cough (3.5%), flatulence (3.1%), and increased bilirubin (3.1%). Rx Only For Copay Savings Card and Manufactured by Patheon, Inc. Patient Assistance, see Mytesi.com for Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. San Francisco, CA 94105 Copyright © Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Mytesi comes from the Croton lechleri tree harvested Please see complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com. in South America.

NP-390-15 RELIEF, PURE AND SIMPLE

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter A Few Questions with the GLCCB Mimi Demissew

By Rose D’Longcroi to take on effective action requires effective change. Further being among the oldest Sex- With this year’s Pride behind us, Mimi Demissew, the executive director of the GLCCB, and her tight ual Gender Minority (SGM) centers in the knit staff of six dynamic individuals, have returned the Center to its normal operating procedures. Ms. country means needing to change with the Demissew took the time to address some of community’s concerns in a brief but candid interview. times. A Center should be reliable, profes- sional and responsive to its community. Hav- Q. With the GLCCB perceived in con- der the leadership of Jabari Lyles, the Center ing said that let me address the concerns our stant flux, how is your staff prepped to made a concerted effort to change our stra- community has about its Center. We made soothe the concerns of your community? tegic vision to be more inclusive and to ad- some very serious changes in the last three A. I am glad to report that the GLCCB dress the concerns of those members of our years that has left us more stable than ever is not in a state of flux. Three years ago, un- community who are most vulnerable. Wanting before and more importantly in a position to grow. We have also returned to our grassroots beginnings by focusing on community advo- cacy specifically in our work on the HIV/AIDS crisis currently taking place which affects Black and Latino same gender loving (SGL), bisexual and gay-identified men and trans- building, and bolstering our programs offer- women at epidemic levels. While doing all of ings to include more programming for elders this, simultaneously we make sure to keep and youth. What’s important to note here is our doors open so that everyone in our com- that there is a lot of great work that has hap- munity can come and use the Center. Again, pened such as being transparent about our we have never been more stable. Thankfully fiscal process and operations, having over we are able to do this because we are building 20 programs and partners meeting at the on the success of the last three years. Center, serving on average over 600 people Q. Why did the GLCCB choose a two monthly. The shift to one ED from two EDs is Executive Director model three years ago? something that is happening organically. The A. To put it plainly, we initially chose a two Center’s shift in leadership model is following executive director model because we wanted an existing plan. Rather than rebuilding from to divide and conquer during our rebuilding scratch, we are continuing with the progress phase three years ago. During that time, we that has been made and persisting with the were in a position where we had to bring the work that we started. Center back in good financial standing. At the Q. The GLCCB has been met with same time, we also needed to rebuild the trust accusations of racism and discrimina- with our Community and develop our pro- tion since its inception. How do you plan gramming that met the community’s needs. on tackling this over the next five years? At the time, we felt the best way to tackle so A. Racism and discrimination are a part many competing and equally important agen- of America’s fabric and, historically, the GLC- das was to have two executive directors who CB has been no exception to this. Baltimore focused their energy on separate missions. is almost 64% Black, and the Center is now So while I focused my energy on organization equipped to be directly responsive to the development and finance, Kenneth focused demographic realities of the community. GL- on program development and community CCB will always welcome, affirm and serve outreach. Today we have made a lot of great everyone who walks through our doors. Si- strides in both areas and we are now able to multaneously, we are uniquely positioned to move back to a traditional one ED model be- help turn the tide of a still raging local HIV cause we are out of that initial building phase. epidemic among Black same gender lov- I am able to continue meeting the mission of ing (SGL), bisexual and gay-identified Black the organization because I am building on the males and transgender women. We take this great foundation left in place from Jabari’s responsibility very seriously. Consequently, leadership and Kenneth’s partnership. we have brought in some of the most skilled Q. How will the shift to a one ED mod- Black experts in the nation to lead our work on el help the GLCCB plans for the future? this issue. We do not ignore the reverberation A. The one ED model lends itself well for of the Center’s racist past or how pervasive our future plans because a foundation has white supremacy has been within the institu- been established which we can easily build tion. Our staff is diverse, with Black, White upon. Don’t get me wrong, there is still lots and Spanish speaking staff, board members more the Center will work on such as im- and volunteers. We have held panels to dis- proving our communications, owning our own cuss how Black, Latinx, Asians, etc. uphold

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

Events Calendar: August 2018 Mimi Demissew Sundays Mondays Tuesdays Wednesdays Thursdays Fridays Saturdays 08/07 08/08 08/09 08/03 08/04 08/05 08/06 Giovanni’s Room The Mankind Project Family Game Night Crystal Meth Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous 5:00pm-8:00pm Narcotics Anonymous Drop-In Resource Poetry Workshop 6:30pm-8:30pm 6:00pm – 9:00pm Lobby/ [CMA] 11:00am-1:00pm Referrals 6:30pm-8:30pm ($5) Sisters of Perpetual Indul- Lounge 6:30pm-8:30pm 10:00am-10:00pm Conf. Room 08/11 Baltimore Queer Book gence Sistahs of Pride Giovanni’s Room Open Club SILhouette 6:30pm-8:00pm 7:00pm-9:00pm Mic feat. Nakia Jade Alcoholics Anonymous 3:00pm-5:00pm 5:00pm-8:00pm 08/13 7:30pm-9:30pm Room 3 Sexual Compulsives 7:00pm-10:00pm Room Gentle Mindful Yoga Anonymous 3 ($5) MOCHA Men’s Group Drop-In Resource 08/14 08/16 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) 7:00p-8:00pm 4:00pm-7:00pm Referrals 08/10 Drop-In Resource Pelvic Health Lunch 10:00am-10:00pm 08/12 Referrals & Learn Crystal Meth Anonymous 08/18 12:00pm-1:00pm Narcotics Anonymous 10:00am-10:00pm Free & Confidential [CMA] Rainbow Families Potluck 11:00am-1:00pm HIV Testing Sistahs of Pride 6:30pm-8:30pm 11:00am-3:00pm 6:30pm-8:30pm 7:00pm-9:00pm Gentle Mindful Yoga Breaking Bread Project Alcoholics Anonymous 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) The Mankind Project 6:30pm-10:00pm Room 3 5:00pm-8:00pm 6:30pm-8:30pm 08/17 Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Crystal Meth Anonymous 7:00p-8:00pm [CMA] 6:30pm-8:30pm Trans Baltimore 7:00pm-9:00pm Room 3

Website – Speaking of our website, when is the last time you Mimi Demissew Keeping Up with the Center visited www.glccb.org? There you can see our volunteer op- By Jennifer Eden portunities, donate funds to support our work, and learn more white supremacist institutions within the SGM community. At about our programs and services. the same time, we must also hold our staff and board account- There are a lot of changes going on at the GLCCB and even Email – If a question or concern comes to mind, you can send able. That is why we are introducing anti-racism training for more ways to stay connected with us! You can check out it right to [email protected] and we will promptly get back to you. the Board. This is an absolute must for our leaders to lead our Voice of the Center pages in each issue of OUTloud, of General inquiries will receive a response from our Office Ad- by example. Secondly, we will also be introducing cultural course. But why limit yourself? There are plenty of other ways ministrator and other matters will be forwarded to the appropri- awareness training for our staff. All of this to say, we are tak- to keep up with what’s going on at the Center. ate staff member for their direct attention. ing specific measures to address this issue. We have heard Facebook – The GLCCB Facebook page is a great place to Phone – A quick question can be answered with a quick phone directly from community members, with historical experience see all of our upcoming events as well as updates on new call. One of our friendly front desk volunteers would be happy with the Center, how much they appreciate its positive cultur- programs and schedule changes. We have almost 6000 fol- to speak with you. Give us a ring at 410-777-8145 any time al shift. However, the fight against patriarchy and racism are lowers already. Are you one of them? If not, like the GLCCB during our regular hours of operation or leave us a voicemail ongoing. As leaders of an organization that strives to unite, on Facebook today and get our updates posted right to your after hours and we’ll get right back to you. empower and advocate for the whole SGM community of newsfeed. www.facebook.com/glccb Board Meetings – Did you know our board meetings are Baltimore and Central Maryland we must always be vigilant Instagram – This photo sharing platform is the perfect place open to the public? You are invited to participate in the dis- and call out oppression whether it is in the form of aggressive for us to post our flyers and collect your likes. Follow @GLC- cussions that shape and govern what goes on in the Center. hostile leaders, internalized or worse yet in the form of quiet CB on Instagram to connect with us. While decisions are ultimately made by board member vote, complicit members. Newsletter – Big announcements are made through our your opinions can be voiced and taken into consideration. Our Q. The Town Halls were initiated by the former presi- e-newsletter. One just went out announcing our plea to Del. board accepts applications for membership on a rolling basis, dent, Jabari Lyles. Will these continue? Mary Washington to assist us with getting our own building. so if you’re interested in having a seat at the table, apply to A. Of course, they will. Jabari had a great idea by intro- Did you get it? If you didn’t, go to our website and enter your join our Board of Directors. The next board meeting will be on ducing the first Town Hall. Since then we have had several email address to sign up. Tuesday August 14, 2018 at 6:30pm at the GLCCB. town halls some focusing on general updates to others focus- ing on meeting specific members of our community such as the Deaf SGM town hall we had. The point here is town halls are great ways for us to speak with our community directly and more importantly to hear from our community. At the time of this interview, the GLCCB has announced its steps in procuring a new building for the Center. Please sign up for our newsletter at glccb.org or follow us on Face- book or Instagram for updates.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 beyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker and accessible to the public. We don’t want is strangling the morality and empathy out of 2006, and stepped down April 19th this year. to turn anyone away from this opportunity.” our society.” Raul is also the father of LGBTQ rights ac- Philadelphia to (Philadelphia Gay News – Adriana Fraser “For decades, we have been lulled into tivist Mariela Castro, and Granma says that at Epgn.com/news/local/13607-philadel- complacency and inattention as our drones he himself proposed the new gender-neutral host large trans phia-to-host-largest-trans-conference) have obliterated weddings, funerals, religious marriage language. Much of the country’s ceremonies, ordinary homes, and ordinary LGBT movement is centered around Marie- conference this people,” DeBarros said. “We begrudge the la Castro, Fidel’s niece and Raul’s daughter, poor for the pennies we give them to eat and and the director of the Cuban National Cen- weekend Queer army survive but cheer for the nearly $600 billion ter for Sex Education. Initially an activist for annually we spend on defense. The military AIDS awareness, Mariela soon developed Philadelphia – The Mazzoni Center’s up- reservist industrial complex is literally corporate greed a broader LGBT rights agenda. Mariela re- coming annual Philadelphia Trans Wellness weaponized,” Conference is expected to break its atten- highlights army DeBarros’s protest has gained the at- dance record, as close to 10,000 attendees tention of the Army, which confirmed her are expected for its 17th year. “It’s a good war machine assignment to Army Times and said it was time for people from all over the world to be looking into her statements. Officials at US with other trans-identifying people and cele- Washington, DC – Business Insider re- Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Opera- brate each other and themselves,” said Oliver ports that Brittany DeBarros is waging the tions Command “are aware of the situation de Luz, Mazzoni Center’s events and volun- kind of vehement public protest via Twit- surrounding Cpt. Brittany DeBarros,” Army teer coordinator. “This is an opportunity for ter against the Defense Department and spokesman Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Crofoot allies to better educate themselves and meet US government that’s commonplace in the told Army Times. “To maintain the integrity Trump-era – except that DeBarros is a cap- of the ongoing investigation, we are unable tain in the US Army Reserve assigned to the to comment at this time.” Army Reserve Army’s Psychological Operations Command. and National Guard soldiers are permitted According to DeBarros’s Twitter account, she to make political statements in public while cently told reporters that she would push for has been called up on two-week assignment they have civilian status but doing so is LGBT rights as part of the governmental re- since July 14th, but each day since then De- not allowed while they are on active orders. form process. Barros has posted tweets criticizing “the hor- (Business Insider – Christopher Woody at Fidel’s government was initially hostile ror being carried out by our war machine for Businessinsider.com/us-soldier-brittany-de- to Cuba’s LGBT community, viewing them profit,” with the Army moving to investigate barros-protesting-the-army-and-the-us-gov- as “inherently counterrevolutionary.” the officer’s remarks. I’m on Army Orders for ernment-2018-7) Gay sex was legalized in 1979 but with- You scratch my back... Trump and Kavanaugh the next 14 Days and there’s not much I can out any corresponding anti-discrimination do about that. What I can do is schedule daily protections for LGBT people and no partner- with members of the community in an effort posts in my absence with facts about the hor- ship rights for same-sex couples. In a 2010 to continue to support and uplift them.” The ror being carried out by our war machine for New Cuban interview with the Mexican newspaper La conference opens with a reception 7 to 9 pm profit. The “Dept. of ‘Defense’ is the largest Jornada, Fidel apologized for his regime’s on August 2nd at the National American Jew- oil consumer worldwide,” DeBarros notes in constitution to initial persecution of Cuba’s LGBT commu- ish History Museum. Participants from every one tweet. “The violence unleashed directly nity, calling it “a great injustice, a great in- continent except Antarctica are expected to guarantee same- justice!” attend. “If anyone is responsible, it’s me,” Castro The three-day conference will take place sex marriage continued. “We had so many and such ter- August 2nd to 4th at the Pennsylvania Con- rible problems, problems of life or death. In vention Center. Its mission, de Luz said, is Havana – According to the Cuban state those moments, I was not able to deal with to educate and empower trans people while newspaper Granma, the country’s new con- that matter. I found myself immersed, princi- educating and informing allies and health stitution will define marriage as a “voluntary pally, in the [Cuban Missile Crisis], in the war, providers on trans rights and issues. The and consensual union between two people in policy questions.” t (Seattle Gay News conference offers a wide range of workshops without distinction of sex.” According to Re- – Mike Andrew at Sgn.org/sgnnews46_30/ for the trans community and allies, including uters, the secretary of the Cuban Council of page3.cfm) “Family through a gender transition,” “Being Brittany DeBarrosh – Fighting the war machine State, Homero Acosta, told lawmakers, “The a millennial queer with culturally conserva- possibility of marriage between two people tive parents,” “Post top surgery scar care,” is horrific, but it also has massive spillover strengthens our project’s principles of equal- These news notes have been compiled, “Maybe baby! Baby-making options for trans impacts.” ity and justice.” with permission, from the online version prospective parents,” and “Surgical options DeBarros detailed her criticism of US for- The draft constitution, currently being of various newspapers and other web for transgender women: Vaginoplasty, facial eign policy and its impact at home in a June considered by the Cuban National Assem- sites. We thank these publications for feminization.” With some 250 workshops that 23rd speech in Washington, DC, at a Poor bly, would also affirm “the principle of non- allowing us to bring you their news sto- are free and open to the general public, the People’s Campaign rally. During the speech, discrimination based on sexual orientation ries. Usually the reports have been sig- PTWC is the largest trans-specific confer- DeBarros said she was a combat veteran and gender identity” but probably would be nificantly edited and you can read the ence in the world, de Luz said. who identified as a woman, Latina, white, silent on adoption rights, sources said. The full story by going to the web site men- “There are other gender, sexuality and black, and queer, and that as a person “ex- Cuban government began work on the new tioned following the item. Comments trans conferences, but this is the only one isting at the intersection of these identities, I constitution as part of a package of reforms are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker that is free to attend. Since its inception, the carry a grave conviction in my core that there following the retirement of former President and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference can be no true economic, racial, gender lib- Raul Castro. Raul, younger brother of Fi- Media. has always had the intention to remain free eration without addressing the militarism that del Castro, became President on July 31st,

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com thinking outloud

Merrick and he made Moses no words were except that there were black colleges here. sure his son at- spoken. Only The Black and Hispanic Student Union at his tended Catholic once he had school took a tour of this region, and he fell schools through- a glimpse – a in love with Morgan. On full scholarship, he Pointing out his childhood chance epi- graduated in 1996 with a degree in psychol- in Queens. But sode of the ogy and a minor in Spanish. Baltimore was a it Out great culture shock in some ways, as there By Sage Piper Merrick’s deep re- Phil Donohue ligious searching Show which was little ethnic diversity among Afro-Latinos. and questioning featured “I didn’t meet any people like me, at that time began at a very transgen- I had dreadlocks – they thought I was from Profile In LGBT young age. “What der guests Jamaica. When I said no, I’m Panamanian – troubled me about from Paris nobody knew what that was.” the church was is Burning lit But he was determined to stay, and Mer- Courage there was this white something rick credits Morgan with giving him the tools Jesus on the wall within and to deal with going back home as his own per- The new president of GLCCB’s board … and at home, my he thought: son. In 1998 he came out and also attended reflects on the lessons of the past, the mother was telling maybe that his first Pride in New York, which he describes nature of constant evolution, and the me that Jesus was could hap- as amazing sensory overload. “People were work ahead. black, because she pen. After the show he asked his out, breasts were out, everything was out, “ “I am the transgender son of a black Panama- was raised Baptist. And she showed me the mother out loud if she had ever wanted to he smiles, “I’ve never seen anything like that nian immigrant.” So, begins Merrick Moses, scriptures.” At nine Merrick began exploring be a man, and the swift negative response it – I’m a black Catholic kid from Queens! And by way of self-introduction. The many worlds Buddhist books and practice, started meditat- evoked stunned him. Looking back now, Mer- a part of me said this is a sin and part of me this statement unleashes is just the beginning ing, and continued to read literature from Zen rick recognizes, “I was looking for resonance said no you feel at home, and I did feel at of his complex and beautiful Baltimore story – masters. At the age of ten his living conditions from her, and her response shut me down for home and I did a lot of spiritual work around one that spans decades of hardship, growth, deteriorated; a move into his mother’s family years. So, I learned how to live in my head.” feeling that unease.” Always the work. and inimitable progress. Merrick Moses came home with an uncle who was a raging alco- He also took refuge in knowledge, in learning And Baltimore was calling Merrick Moses. to Baltimore as a teenager searching for a ref- holic and whose violent mood swings intro- information as a way to be respected and to In May of 2001, he returned for good. t uge. Along the way he found his true self, and duced a reality of danger and trauma in which excel and be independent. Coming up in the next issue: Part II: Liv- that journey encompasses the pain, courage, young Merrick felt woefully unprotected. Even This quest for knowledge brought Merrick ing My Most Authentic Life and determined endurance of our city itself. at that time, he says, he did have somewhere to Baltimore, a city he knew nothing about – As a victims rights advocate, Merrick daily to turn: “I used my spiritual practice to find helps those who have been traumatized by refuge, to find peace – I had to find a core.” crime navigate their way through the Balti- Meanwhile his Queens neighborhood more court system. As an ordained priest, was an increasingly incomprehensible place, he returns again and again to his own spir- with people literally “dropping dead around itual core to pastor others. And as the new me.” AIDS cast a wide net in Merrick’s world MIXERS-REMIXEDMIXERS-REMIXED president of the GLCCB board, he hopes to – drug users, people with multiple sexual motivate the community to heal its internal partners, a female cousin with two babies. At divisions and move forward together to face this time Merrick was being bullied in school the dangerous threats of Donald Trump’s na- for being the oddball kid, the nerdy kid, the tional agenda. kid with gender issues – all very confusing The roots of Merrick’s story are as Ameri- and painful. “I had always been a masculine can as fabled apple pie, with the familiar bru- child,” he says, hanging out with male cous- tal twists of Jim Crow white supremacy, class ins and friends, secretly dreaming of joining subjugation, religious certitude, and wide- the Boy Scouts instead of the Girl Scouts. eyed belief in that elusive American dream. “I When a cousin he had grown up with and grew up with a work ethic that was basically considered a brother was murdered in front if you work hard, good things will happen. My of a post office, it was a devastating blow. Out mother’s father was a coal miner and my fa- of their grief he and another cousin formed ther’s father was one of the diggers on the a group called CLIMB – Commitment to the Panama Canal, and a tailor as well. So hard Longevity and Improvement of Male Blacks, work runs in my blood…” a kind of rites-of-passage program based on It was the late 1950s and his father asked different African spiritualism which Merrick the white American boss in Panama for a had researched. In a support role to his male raise of 14 cents per hour for his hard labor. cousins, Merrick acknowledges that it was a When the request was denied, he quit the job backhanded way to live out this fantasy of be- and ventured to New York on his own, joining ing in the male world, but “ I could only live a sister already in Brooklyn. “America was still out so much, because I was female-bodied.” the land of plenty for black men of his age,” So, Merrick turned inward. “I lived a life in says Merrick, who was born 14 years later to my head that nobody knew about. I lived a life UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP/MANAGEMENT his father and mother, who was one of the first where I had a wife and kids in my head. I didn’t Visit our Facebook page for upcoming events, black managers of a major department store know that that was being a lesbian – there specials, and much more: @mixersbar in the city. were no words around it at that time. I wanted Merrick’s father was a devout Catholic, to live as boy.” But with no words around it,

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 thinking outloud // mark my words

The Facts of LGBT Discrimination evaluation are based on information published ination laws of the government that is granting in IRS Form 990. The IRS does not require this those funds? By Mark Segal to the Supreme Court, will shine a light on the organization to publish a Form 990.” It’s anyone’s guess how the case would be This week, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney use of the Catholic Church’s nonprofit status But what the organization did list was its ruled on by the Supreme Court, with its newest won a major court case that will most likely and your tax dollars, and what those dollars mission statement. “Stated Mission of Catholic nominee being a devout Catholic, with a capi- make its way to the US Supreme Court and are used for. Charities: To provide service to people in need, tal D for devout. But here’s the same case I’ve affects our community more than the su- And that, my friends, is a case the Church to advocate for justice in social structures, and been making since 1974: The LGBT commu- per-hyped wedding-cake case. And guess and its friends should be afraid of, since many to call the entire Church and other people of nity needs to make the Equality Act, which has what? Almost no one noticed the significance of your tax dollars go to places that would good will to do the same.” been before Congress since 1974 and never of this major turn of events, but with much shock most taxpayers. And it might answer the So, I guess that means LGBT people who passed, our number-one goal since religious higher stakes, not only for you, but especially question of how public funds are diverted for wanted to be foster parents aren’t “people of charities might be considered a protected for religious organizations. Why does it loom conversion therapy, discrimination and, more good will”? class and above government law, and we are large, with billions in tax dollars? Yes, we’ve importantly, paying for employees at a commu- Another charity watchdog, GuideStar, not a protected case like race, religion, sex, or reached a new stage of our struggle, where nity center or other nonprofit rather then dis- lists an area Catholic charity with $8 million in national origin without that Equality Act. discrimination against LGBT people could cost covering that the employee really is working publicly traded stock and blacked out where So all of you who want to take action, now billions – that’s billions, with a B – of dollars for a religious organization or maybe spending those funds came from. Are your tax dollars is the time, and peaceful demonstrations and to those who discriminate, or it could legalize some of that taxpayers time and’ money do- being used on the New York Stock Exchange civil disobedience are needed against those discrimination. ing religious work. They opened the door; let’s to benefit a religious organization that might in Congress who won’t support the Equality Here’s the skinny on the facts: Catholic walk through it. send children to torture through conversion Act. You don’t have to go to Washington, DC. Social Services had a contract with Philadel- Here’s a sample of the research I did: the therapy? You can call out your Congress members at phia’s Department of Human Services to aid Washington Times reported in September Back to that Washington Times report. their home office in your city or state. Another in placing foster youth. The Catholic group re- 2015 that “the Church and related Catholic “Catholic Charities USA, the largest charita- course is that as long as these charities contin- fused to consider a gay couple for fostering, charities and schools have collected more ble organization run by the Church, receives ue to discriminate, investigate them as I have turning them away simply for their sexuality. than $1.6 billion since 2012 in US contracts about 65% of its annual budget from state and and publicize your findings, or ask your local They claim that same old line as the wed- and grants.” That’s just until 2012. So let’s see federal governments, making it an arm of the newspaper to do so. We are not helpless in ding-cake case, “it’s against their religious be- if we can get a little deeper. federal welfare state,” said Brian Anderson, a this, we just need to be organized and have liefs,” but here’s the problem: They take public Charity Navigator had a host of Catholic researcher with the Manhattan Institute in the the will to resist oppression with our own funds. funds. Translation: Your tax dollars were used organizations listed, but guess what? Most article. Add federal, state, and city government And as for Mayor Jim Kenney, he’s a proud to discriminate. The wedding-cake shop was of the funding information was missing. They funding like the one now before the courts. Irish Catholic who went to Catholic schools. t a personal business, not a nonprofit taking explained it as follows: “Why isn’t this organi- That’s over a billion dollars of your tax dollars Mark Segal is publisher of Philadelphia Gay public funds. And this case, if it makes its way zation rated? Portions of a Charity Navigator’s … and how it is used? Against the non-discrim- News.

When used as prescribed, PrEPis more than 90% effective in stopping HIV infection from sex. Same-day-start prescriptions are available at Chase Brexton Health Care.

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness OPENING THE DOOR TO

recommend it!) In a study, after the FDA recommended that a certain surgical meth- Affirming, Affordable Ask od was not to patients’ benefit, cardiolo- Dr. J gists were more stuck to and less open to for LGBT change their methods the longer they had Elders Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. practiced. On the other hand, Captain Sully Home Health Care (remember him?) who landed the plane on By Monte Ephraim the Hudson was a perfect example of the Chase Brexton / LGBT Health Resource given, and does the company make sched- combination of an open mind, an intellectu- Center uled quality assurance calls and visits? Relationship al curiosity, and accumulated experience. Many LGBT elders struggle to find welcom- Are caregivers insured and bonded by the To the extent that we can transfer learn- ing, affirming health care providers – and company, and what qualifications, certifi- Expertise ing from a totally different context, I find it the stakes can be even higher when they cations, experience and training does the plausible that in relationships, that intellec- consider opening their doors to in-home as- company require of its workers? What does your resume show? If you’re an tual curiosity, with or without several past sistance. employer and see that an applicant for an The issues surrounding personal home “The primary concern IT job has worked at one position for five “A prospective hire care for LGBT elders, as well as tips for years, is that a positive? If you see that the finding the right provider, will be discussed for LGBT elders is person has been at Google for four years with diverse experience at an upcoming Lunch & Learn workshop and at LeggMason for five, does it add to offered by The LGBT Health Resource Cen- getting to know the the qualifications? This is a definite gen- usually ranks higher. ter on Thursday, August 9th from noon to caregivers that come eralization but often, t, the sentiment goes But when it comes to 1:30 pm at Chase Brexton Health Care’s the other way: A relationship failure! Mount Vernon Center (1111 North Charles into their home.” How does one learn what makes for a relationships, if you Street, Baltimore). strong and healthy relationship? The self- hear someone has been We asked Suzanne Bartley, business What are some common obstacles help industry in all aspects of media makes development executive with Home Centris for LGBT elders in accessing home a mint telling us how to, what to and what in five relationships Personal Home Care and the workshop’s care? not to do. After all, I myself am writing presenting speaker, to provide a preview of The primary concern for LGBT elders about the subject as well as working direct- and divorced twice ...” the session. is getting to know the caregivers that come ly with people. Few of us grow up in fam- What is home care, and what kinds of into their home. We allow our staff to be ilies where parents talk about this. Most experiences, facilitates growth and healthy assistance might it include? interviewed by prospective clients before often, it is through trial and error and then behaviors. Reading how to better commu- Home care services are doctor-ordered beginning home care services. Choosing a by educating ourselves that we learn about nicate, going to a workshop or group on services which allow individuals to have as- company can be a difficult task, but clients getting along with friends, family, cowork- emotional intelligence, and in general tak- sistance in the home. Home care provides should ensure their ers and partners. Unfortunately, some nev- ing advantage of the plethora of informa- assistance with ac- home care provider er learn. In the LGBTQ community, there tion available, then running them through tivities of daily living, meets their needs, are additional obstacles especially if you your own mind enables you to take what meal prep, transpor- whether they are live in communities where the tolerance you find fitting. When a change in behavior tation to shopping and based on culture, level is low with few identified places to works, it is empowering. Key to this pro- medical appointments pricing, or schedule. connect. Even in 2018, these are concerns cess is the ability to take a moderate risk. and assistance with What resourc- despite marriage equality, and perhaps be- The successful yield adds to confidence medication, among es are available cause of it, when you observe comments other needs. Home and an inner sense of positive feeling. to help overcome on social media. t care providers can May the force be with you! What prompted me to consider the ef- also attend to light these obstacles? Our company fect of “expertise” on relationships came housekeeping and laundry assistance. helps prospective from a podcast on “Hidden Brain.” (I highly Historically, home care clients address any Hearts & Ears Inc. was known for provid- concerns through ing companion or su- our admission pro- Is a non-profit organization for the pervision, but in recent cess and our com- LGBTQIA+ community that focuses on years it has been at the forefront of finding munity resources. In addition, The LGBT Health Resource Center can help connect behavioral health wellness and recovery ways for people to remain at home longer and age in place. individuals with caregiving services and Hearts & Ears Inc. When deciding whether home care is support, and SAGE maintains a compre- hensive guide to “Caregiving in the LGBT 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 ͻ 410-523-1694 right for them, what are some key things Is a non-profit organization for the for LGBT elders to consider? Community,” available at Tinyurl.com/ t LGBTQIA+ [email protected] that focuses on ͻ heartsandears.org There are a few things that LGBT elders LGBTcaregiving. should think about when selecting a home To attend or receiving more info on behavioral health wellness and recovery care company. These include the compa- this upcoming Lunch and Learn workshop, ny’s background – who owns the compa- RSVP to [email protected] or call ny, how long have they been in business, 410-837-2050 x1049.611 For Park more Avenue info about Suite A, Baltimore,611 Park AvenueMaryland Suite 21201 A, Baltimore, ͻ 410-523 Maryland-1694 21201 • 410-523-1694 how are their staff trained, and do they the LGBT Health Resource Center’s Old- [email protected] • heartsandears.org have LGBT staff and caregivers? How are er Adult services, visit Chasebrexton.org/ workers supervised to ensure proper care is LGBTelders. [email protected] ͻ heartsandears.org BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 quality of life // Health and Wellness

tell me that they notice! Some people have other ethnic groups.) Hair loss becomes “breast prosthetics.” asked me if I am taking chemotherapy for more frequent as women grow older, from There are medicines approved to treat cancer. I was asked if I recently gave birth 3% for women in their 20s to 29% for wom- hair loss in women, but none are more than to a baby, “Because if you did, then don’t en in their 70s and 80s. moderately effective and all take many Open Wide worry hon, the hair will come right back!” You have ruled out many of the non-ge- months to work. Over-the-counter 5% mi- ask Dr Eva (Not only have I never been pregnant, I’ve netic causes, which include damage to the noxidil (Rogaine and others) has some Dr Eva Hersh never participated in an activity that could hair roots (follicles) from hair dyes and benefit for about 40% of women who take cause pregnancy!) Some of my other chemicals like it for at least four months, but the benefit family and friends are suggesting When there’s hair straighteners, and can be anything from visible hair regrowth Hair Loss in I get a wig. Is there anything I can traction alopecia. Trac- to merely slowing the rate of hair loss. Mi- do to reverse this or at least stop less on your tion alopecia is hair loss noxidil 5% lotion or foam must be applied Women the hair loss from getting worse? caused by hairstyles to the scalp (not to the hair) once a day, Thinning head of what that pull on the hair every day. If there is improvement, it will roots, like braids, corn- only last as long as the minoxidil is contin- Dear Dr. Eva, Dear Thinning, should never rows, and tight pony ued. If it is discontinued, any improvement I am a 36-year-old woman. For the You are describing a typical tails. And, as people due to the medicine will reverse. So, to last several years I’ve had ongoing hair case of female-pattern hair loss. be in your soup have been telling you, get benefit from minoxidil, a person must loss. My hair is thinning all over my scalp. In many cases female hair loss is some medicines and ill- make a commitment to applying it to the It’s not male-pattern-like baldness on the a problem that runs in families (it is genet- nesses, and pregnancy, and even emotion- scalp every day, long-term. It takes at least crown or the front hairline receding. My ic, inherited). If you can find photos, or ask al stress, can cause hair loss, but the hair 4 months for there to be any noticeable im- other hair areas like eyebrows and pubic your family members, about female rela- gradually returns provement, and at area haven’t changed. tives your age or older, you will probably after the event least 12 months Since I first noticed this, I’ve been very learn that, on at least one side of your fam- that caused the for maximum im- gentle with my hair. I don’t dye it, don’t ily, several of them had hair loss like yours hair loss is over. provement. It’s treat it with any kind of chemicals, don’t and some of them wore wigs. Many prescrip- important to know even use hairdryers. I keep it fairly short, You may feel like you’re the only one tion medications that there may just down to my shoulders. But the hair with this problem. In fact, you are far from also can cause actually be hair loss has continued and now has gotten to alone. One in five Caucasian women has hair loss. There loss in the first the point that people really notice, and they hair loss. (Rates have not been studied in are too many to two months us- list them all here, ing minoxidil. It’s but some of the also important commonest are to avoid getting allopurinol (usual- the minoxidil ly prescribed for cream or foam gout), Coumadin on anything but (blood thinner), birth control pills, some your scalp, because that could cause hair blood-pressure medications including be- growth somewhere you don’t want it, like ta-blockers (metoprolol, carvedilol) and your chest or your face. Always wash your ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, enalopril), some hands after applying minoxidil! antidepressants (fluoxetine, sertraline), The second most commonly used and valproate, a seizure medicine some- medicine for hair loss in women is spirono- times also used for depression. If you are lactone, usually taken once a day in pill taking one or more of these types of med- form. Spironolactone is less effective than icine, do not just stop taking it! See your minoxidil; the two are sometimes given to- doctor or NP to review the reasons you are gether. Again, it takes a long time to see taking the medicine and what other med- improvement – at least a year of treatment icine, not associated with hair loss, you is recommended before deciding if spi- could take instead. ronolactone is helpful. Some women ex- It would be worthwhile for you to get perience side effects from spironolactone, some blood tests to make sure you don’t which can include weight gain, decreased have a treatable medical cause of hair sex drive, depression, and fatigue. loss, such as thyroid disorder, iron defi- There are several plastic surgery op- ciency, or elevated testosterone or other tions for hair loss. The most popular is hair masculinizing hormones. If nothing treat- transplant, in which small plugs of hair and able is found, and you continue to be both- skin are taken from an area which is not ered by people’s thoughtless comments, losing hair and implanted in an area where a good-quality wig may be a good idea. hair has been lost. This is expensive, and Some of the best are sold in stores that the results are unpredictable depending specialize in helping women who have on how many hair plugs are used and how had disfiguring illnesses or breast can- well they grow in their new locations. t cer maintain a “normal” appearance that Eva Hersh, MD, is a family physician. does not attract unwanted attention. You Please send questions and comments to her can find these stores by internet searching by email at [email protected]. 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church 䄀䰀䰀 䄀刀䔀 圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. 䴀愀猀猀 匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀 㔀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀 410-581-2322 410-435-9188 匀甀渀搀愀礀 㤀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀ 㨀㐀㔀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀 瀀⸀洀 baltimoreethicalsociety.org govanspres.org 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀 椀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀 愀琀 㐀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀 㔀 瀀⸀洀⸀

Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀 匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀 倀愀爀椀猀栀 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD 䐀攀愀挀漀渀 䘀爀攀搀 倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀 㠀 ㄀ 匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀 刀漀愀搀 Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 倀愀爀椀猀栀 䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀 匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀 ㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 410-235-5354 Baltimore MD 21203 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ boltonstreet.org 410-233-5555 ifcmd.org Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore 1316 Park Avenue 405 West Monument Street. Summer Schedule Baltimore MD 21217 Baltimore MD 21201 Worship, Sunday at 10 a.m. 410-523-1542 410-669-6222 browndowntown.org mccbaltimore.org Christian Education classes Congregation Beit Tikvah resume after Labor Day 5802 Roland Avenue Memorial Episcopal Church Baltimore MD 21210 1407 Bolton Street browndowntown.org 410-464-9402 Baltimore MD 21217 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 beittikvah.org 410-669-0220 410.523.1542 memorialepiscopal.org Emmanuel Episcopal Church 811 Cathedral Street New Light MCC Baltimore, MD 21201 40 W. Church Street 410-685-1130 Hagerstown MD 21740 emmanueldowntown.org 301-797-5698 newlightmcc.com First and Franklin Street. Pres- byterian Church The Church of the Advent 210 W. Madison Street 1301 South Charles Street Baltimore MD 21201-4693 Baltimore, MD 21230 410-728-5545 410-539-7804 firstfranklin.org advent-baltimore.org

First Unitarian Church of Balti- Veritas United Church more of Christ 1 West Hamilton Street. 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 Baltimore MD 21201 Hagerstown, MD 21740 410-685-2330 240- 310-6891 firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com

Grace United Methodist Church 5407 North Charles Street The Source for the lgbtq community Baltimore, MD 21210 To advertise in our Spiritual directory 410-433-6650 graceunitedmethodist.org please call 410-802-1310 BaltimoreOutloud.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // personalities

are. I know individual people. I think different readers might like my work for completely dif- ferent reasons. I don’t think there’s a consen- One of the Great Believers sus out there about why people like or dislike By Gregg Shapiro Wolitzer (The Interestings), for thing: you go to someone’s house and they me [laughs] for that matter. It’s not as if I’m If you’ve been waiting for the An interview example are doing something have 18 books about the Civil War on their known for mystery novels, and suddenly I’m arrival of the best book of 2018, similar. Can you please say shelf. They have 32 books about World War doing this. I think that ultimately everything look no further than The Great with writer something about this trend? II. People who are interested in American I’ve written has been character driven. It’s al- Believers (Viking, 2018), the It’s interesting, I also think that history, that is. Where are the books about ways had literary aspirations. I feel like I’ve new novel by Rebecca Makkai. Rebecca gay men happen to write straight AIDS? They don’t have books about AIDS been all over the board in subject matter and Starred reviews in Kirkus Re- women spectacularly well. I really on their shelf. Where is the museum? Where style even. A few things that what I write have views and Publishers Weekly, Makkai do. You look at someone like Mi- are the monuments? This is one of the ma- in common is that I tend to be writing fre- as well as an A- review in En- chael Cunningham or at Darren jor events of the 20th century. We should be quently about artists or academics, and that tertainment Weekly, are not exaggerations. Star and Sex and the City. I think there is talking about this in school to the extent that was helpful for this book. It’s not that it’s dark Makkai’s dazzling epic about the AIDS ep- more common with straight women and gay we talk about World War II; and for the same humor, but my work is always going to be hu- idemic and its impact on a group of friends men than, for instance, with straight wom- reasons. So that history doesn’t repeat itself, morous on some level and dark on some lev- in Chicago during the 1980s is insightful, en and straight men [laughs], for sure. I feel to understand America the way it is now be- el at the same time. That’s also holding true sensitive, revelatory and nothing short of a more comfortable writing gay men than I do cause of what’s already happened, to under- for this book. tearjerker. I had the privilege of speaking with writing straight men. I get them better. I also stand the cause and effect of history, and so In terms of the book’s timeframe, Rebecca on June 19th, the publication date tend to be good friends with them in real life. I on. This is a drop in the bucket. It’s The Great Believers is told in alternat- of The Great Believers. think that’s part of it. I do always have an eye cool that these things ing chapters. Were all of the 80s / 90s Gregg Shapiro: Rebecca, I’d like to on the problems of possible appropriation. are out there, but chapters written at once. The same begin by congratulating you on the rave I’m so glad you mentioned that. What when I hear peo- with the 2015 chapters? review for The Great Believers in the June precautions did you take? ple say “There’s I could say neither or both. I was 22nd issue of Entertainment Weekly. What I didn’t undertake this project glibly. I was so much stuff right initially writing about the 80s, writing does a review such as that mean to you? constantly thinking as I wrote whether a proj- now,” (I think) there Yale’s story. I got about 150 pages in Rebecca Makkai: Thank you! I’ve been ect like this is going to mute or amplify more should be 85 times with just that when I realized that the thrilled about getting really good magazine direct LGBTQ voices. Ultimately, I wouldn’t more. I’m shocked that story needed broadening. At that coverage ahead of publication which always have kept writing if my answer hadn’t been there hasn’t been. I was point, I wanted another character, an- means a lot. Entertainment Weekly actual- the latter. First of all, the success of any shocked, setting out to other point of view. I also wanted an- ly has fantastic book coverage. I don’t think book featuring LGBTQ characters and sto- research this book, and other time frame. I spent some time we normally think of it as the venue for that. rylines and a plot having something to do specifically AIDS in Chica- figuring out what that would be. Ul- I think we think of it more as covering mov- with AIDS, is going to mean that publishers go, finding next to nothing timately, I went back into the man- ies and music and things like that, but they are more likely to put money behind some- about the AIDS crisis in uscript and found Fiona who had do a fantastic job on books. Everything’s a thing like that in the future; first person ac- Chicago. Not a single big really been a minor character until bit of a blur to me right now; it’s publication counts, etc. Also I can use the opportunity as book of non-fiction about it. Rebecca that point. I decided that she would day today. But I know that was I’m writing essays about the book, as It’s not even in the index of a lot of Makkai be my voice for the other chapters. a lovely review. You work I’m talking about the book and pro- the big trade book about AIDS, such as I went back and wrote her first few “in the dark” for a few years, moting it, to refer people to fictional (David France’s) How to Survive a Plague. sections, weaving them into the story, break- alone, writing without an au- and non-fictional accounts by LGBTQ Chicago’s not even in the index. ing Yale into chapters as I did that. Once they dience, not knowing how writers. That said, I do think there is Since the beginning of the epidemic, were caught up to each other, I wrote forward people are going to receive a strong kinship between the straight much of AIDS literature was set in New in alternating chapters. the book. It’s a little bit like female experience and the gay male York City and San Francisco. The Great Believers is incredibly cin- getting dressed in the dark experience with a lot of tremendous- Yes, exactly. Even from the perspective of ematic. If there was a movie version, who and showing up at a party ly fundamental differences, many of people writing the history of Chicago, where’s would you want to see play Yale and Fio- without having looked in the them societal. Those are people I’m the doctoral dissertation being turned into na? mirror. You hope that it all drawn to, and characters I’m drawn a book? It’s not out there. I searched for it It’s funny, I just did an essay on this. works and that people get it. to, again and again. for five years. I’m thrilled to see Angels in There’s a wonderful blog called “My Book, You’re grateful for all reviews, The subject of AIDS has re- America back on Broadway. I think it’s one The Movie” where they ask you to cast your no matter what someone’s cently made a return to the cul- of the seminal works of the 20th century. I story. In “My Book, The Movie,” you get to opinion is. All pleasant, com- tural zeitgeist. In addition to The can’t speak to some of these other pieces pick anyone living or dead. Or you can un- plimentary reviews, of course Great Believers, there is Tim of fiction simply because I was specifically age them. For Fiona, because we see her you’re over the moon about. Murphy’s 2016 novel Christodora, Kenny avoiding fiction about this book. I was read- in two time periods, I said that I wanted to When I interviewed you in 2015 about Fries’ 2017 memoir In the Province of the ing non-fiction and doing direct research. I’m see Kate Hudson and Goldie Hawn. They’re Music for Wartime, you told me you were Gods and an essay in the new David Se- thrilled that they are out there but this is such mother and daughter. But I need them like 15 working on a novel set in 1985, “with daris book Calypso. It’s back onstage in a small amount of space that that epidemic years ago, I think [laughs]. For Yale, I said the specter of AIDS looming in the back- the Broadway revival of Angels in Amer- takes, whether we acknowledge it or not, in a cross between a young Paul Reiser and a ground.” This made me think about how ica, which won a number of Tony Awards our history. young David Eigenberg, but with a Chicago 20 years ago, straight women such as earlier in June, as well as on TV in Ryan You’ve already dealt with queer issues accent instead of a New York one. If it really Ann Patchett (The Magician’s Assistant) Murphy’s new FX series Pose. Why do in The Borrower and in Music for Wartime. were made into a movie, I think I would want and Jane Hamilton (The Short History of you think that is? But The Great Believers is something else someone young and unknown who has the a Prince), were creating these wonderful As much as I think it’s amazing that all entirely. How do you think your core read- right look and doesn’t have the baggage of gay characters, and more recently you, this stuff is out there, I am much more inter- ers will respond to it? being a known entity behind them, so they Hanya Yanagihara (A Little Life) and Meg ested in why there isn’t more of it. Here’s the I don’t really know who my core readers can just be that character for people. t 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // QMusic

those performers who sing in their own with the early keyboards of Prince (when he voices, and do it well (see RuPaul), tower was still sexually fluid) and you’re on the Queerer than Ever (in heels) over those that lip-synch. A com- right path. Seductive and slinky tracks such petitor on season nine of “RuPaul’s Drag as “Casual” (featuring the Last Artful Dodgr) By Gregg Shapiro Lush (Matador), the suitably named Race,” Alexis Michelle is a queen with and “Pillow Talk” are definite mood-setters. Remember when lesbian rock was mea- full-length debut by Snail Mail (aka teen Broadway aspirations as she demonstrates Want to dance? You can shake it to “St*rs,” sured on a Melissa Etheridge scale? The sensation Lindsey Jordan), plays like a on her debut album Love Fool (Broadway “Grab Onto Me,” “Wake Up The Night,” and way you could find common ground with reverent tribute to the 1990s, the decade Records). Broadway numbers including the bootylicious instrumental “VCR.” other Indigo Girls, Tracy Chapman, K.D. in which the performer was born. That’s “Follow Your Heart” (Urinetown), “You Can You’ve heard of blue-eyed soul? Mi- Lang, Joan Armatrading, Melissa Ferrick, the 90s through a queer, 21st century lens. Always Count On Me” (City of Angels) and chael Blume makes gay-eyed soul on and Two Nice Girls fans. Then, along came “Pristine” asks the age-old question, “Don’t the medley “Simple / Good Thing Going” his seven-song EP Cynicism & Sincer- Sleater-Kinney, Kaia (and The Butchies), you like me for me?” and you can dance to (from Nine and Merrily We Roll Along, re- ity (S-Curve). Blume is more successful Tegan and Sara, Le Tigre, Team Dresch, it “anyways.” “Heat Wave” is as warm as the spectively) are examples of Michelle’s way when he sticks to singing, but he insists Mary Gauthier and Ani DiFranco, and the summer sun and centerpiece “Stick” reach- with a show-tune. Michelle also wisely in- on rapping, which gives his songs a subur- world began to shift on its axis. These days es a crescendo that stays with you. The cludes familiar songs ban New Jersey quality. Opener “I Wanna the spectrum has broadened to include dreamy “Golden Dream” will get your kicks from the contempo- Know,” for instance, would Brandi Carlile and Brandy Clark, St. Vincent moving and “Full Control” is a sorry-not-sor- rary pop songbook be so much better without the and Sia, Hayley Kiyoko and Kehlani, Julien ry anthem. All in all, Snail Mail delivers. such as the Beatles’ spoken-word passages. The Baker and Beth Ditto, Lucy Dacus and H.C. (Snail Mail performs July 12th in Balti- “The Fool on the same can be said for “Maybe McEntire. more at the Parkway Theatre, and July Hill,” The Cardigans’ Love Is True.” It’s almost as if Courtney Barnett’s brilliant 2015 de- 14th in Philadelphia at Union Transfer.) “Lovefool,” Blond- Blume doesn’t trust his vocal but album Sometime I Sit and Think, and Like Snail Mail, Tancred (aka Jess Ab- ie’s “Call Me,” Paul capabilities, which are far and Sometimes I Just Sit earned her a Gram- bott, formerly of Now, Now) channels the Williams’ “Rainbow away his best attribute, as you my nomination for Best New Artist. In the edgier women you might have seen at Lilith can hear on “I Got You.” When interim, she collaborated with Kurt Vile on Fair, such as Kristin Hersh or Tanya Don- Courtney Barnett Blume asks “are you mad that the 2017 album Lotta Sea Lice. While not nelly, on her new album Nightstand (Poly- performs on July I’m gay” in “RU Mad,” the an- as immediately gratifying as Sometimes I vinyl). This especially comes across on the 24th at The Anthem swer is, “No, we’re mad you’re Sit and Think…, Barnett’s new album Tell irresistible “Queen of New York.” Also worth in Washington, a poseur.” Me How You Really Feel (Mom + Pop / mentioning are “Hot Star,” “Something DC, and on Out singer / actor George Marathon Artists / Milk) definitely has its Else,” “Just You,” and “Reviews.” (Tancred October 23rd at Salazar teams up with song- The Fillmore in charms. Grungy opener “Hopefulessness” performs on November 7th in Philadel- Philadelphia. writer / musician Joe Iconis for alerts listeners that Barnett is exploring phia at Underground Arts, and Novem- Two Player Game (Ghostlight). other avenues. Still, poppier tunes such ber 10th in Washington, DC, at The Black A performer known for his work as “City Looks Pretty” and “Charity,” prove Cat.) Connection” and Carole King’s “Beautiful” in theatrical productions of Godspell, Spring that listeners need not despair after hearing A queer woman of color, Frankie Sim- (which later became a Broadway show Awakening, Here Lies Love, Be More Chill, a blistering number such as “I’m Not Your one has dedicated her “life and music to tune). and others. Salazar is an expressive sing- Mother, I’m Not Your Bitch.” If you detect radiating light” as the “fierce spirit” she is. A dizzying blend of provocative hip-hop, er on songs such as “Broadway, Here I some Breeders influence, that could be Her five-song vinyl EP Love / Warrior (In- industrial and electro, Basura (Christeen- Come!,” “I Love Play Rehearsal,” “The An- because Barnett is joined by Kim Deal and finite Companion), features the anthemic emusic.com) the second album (available swer.” “Michael in the Bathroom,” and “The Kelly Deal on “Crippling Self-Doubt and a title track, on which she urges her people on limited edition vinyl) by “transgressive Goodbye Song.” General Lack of Confidence” and Kim on to “come out, come out.” She wears her queer” performer Christeene is an ear- Described as a “surrealist, Mexi- “Nameless, Faceless.” Barnett plays up her queerness right on her chest in “Queer” ful. Never one to mince words, Christeene can-American, queer pop artist,” Felix and gentler side on “Sunday Roast” and the apt- and the dramatic love song “Love You Just kicks things off with an ode to butt sluts in the Future loads his album Holy Hands ly titled “Walking On Eggshells.” (Courtney the Same” declares that “love is worth the “Aktion Toilet” (check out the music video Vol. 2 (Felixandthefuture.com) with glam- Barnett performs on July 24th at The An- heartache and the heartache’s worth the by gay filmmaker PJ Raval), turns, stares, my sci-fi dance pop. Imagine Jobriath with them in Washington, DC, and on October pain.” shakes and poses on a different kind of a dance club beat and you get the gist of 23rd at The Fillmore in Philadelphia.) In the vast and varied world of drag, runway in “TSSP,” celebrates the bottom in songs such as “Karen,” “A Good Son,” “Butt Muscle,” honors Nine Inch Nails and “Candy Road,” and “Fumbling Through the Ministry in “Welcum My Lord,” and takes us Gramophone.” to clubbing in “Fuk V29.” With his cover of the Carpenters’ “Top of With Elton John on his retirement tour the World” on his previous EP, Getting High, (hint: if it’s the same one Cher did, he’ll be Bobby Blue The Balladeer gave us a clue back!), the gay male music quotient has about what to expect on his new self-titled shrunk considerably. Fortunately, we have seven-song EP (Bobbybluetheballadeer. Car Seat Headrest, Perfume Genius, Ezra com). An acoustic “folk / country-western” Furman, Calum Scott, and Frank Ocean, recording featuring covers of Gene Autry’s among others, to carry on the tradition. You “Mexicali Rose,” Loretta Lynn’s “Whisper- can also add the following artists to the list. ing Sea,” Patsy Cline’s “I Fall to Pieces” Led by Portland, Oregon, “retro-futurist” and Gilberto Parra’s “Por Un Amor”; it’s a Chanticleer Trü, Chanti Darling effortless- wonderful showcase for BBTB’s impressive ly channels 80s and early 90s soul into a vocal range. He also takes an interesting glistening synth-laden glitter cannon of mu- approach to Madonna’s “Who’s That Girl?” sical delights on RNB Vol. 1 (Tender Loving and even reimagines one of his own songs, Empire). Think Sylvester’s falsetto crossed “(You’ve Got To) Go.” t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // OUT ON STAGE Toby’s Heather Beck Takes Mamma Mia! to Soaring Heights

By Frankie Kujawa is musical, and it wasn’t until ABBAliciousness Mamma Mia! continues to dance its way college I decided that I want- reigns at into the hearts of audiences this month at ed to give it a shot. When I Toby’s Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia, Mary- finally did I basically caught land. Running until September 9th, Mam- the acting bug. I had seen ma Mia! is the story of a daughter’s quest a lot of shows at Toby’s in to discover her father’s identity, which high school, and [Toby’s] brings three very different men from her has always called to me. I mother’s past back into her life. Baltimore would sit in the audience OUTloud recently chatted with Heather as a viewer and was Beck who plays Donna, the protagonist’s moved to cry watching mother in the performance. some of these perfor- “This performance is just absolute- mances. I wondered if ly fun!” Beck began. “The show is just I’d ever have the op- high-energy, and it can’t help but put a portunity to evoke that emo- smile on the faces of our audiences.” tion for audiences. When I was finally Beck’s depiction of Donna, who is also hired here it was a big dream for me!” portrayed by Meryl Streep in the on-screen Beck has worked in and out of Toby’s enjoys performing version, brings another layer to the charac- for the last 19 years. “I also worked with many of the musical dance ter. “I’m able to bring to this show a big part some other theatres in the area. I did Ol- numbers throughout the show. “There of myself. That’s what makes this show so ney Theatre for a bit, as well. When To- are so many it’s hard to pick my fa- much fun for me. I feel that I can connect by’s opened in Baltimore I worked there vorite one, but I think I have fallen with Donna. This is especially in the sec- for a period of time, as well. Currently, I’m in love with the song ‘Mamma Mia!’ ond act when there are a lot more heavier a sign-language interpreter for Howard itself. It feels completely freeing to issues to tackle.” County Public Schools so performing now sing this song while the charac- ABBAlicious For tour-de-force Beck, performing and depends on that schedule.” ters – the three men of Donna’s the arts is in her DNA. “My entire family For this specific performance, Beck romantic past – are frozen there. It makes me feel like I’m entire- ly free on stage by myself, even COCKPIT IN COURT though there are 300 people in the audience around me! I feel Summer Theatre like it’s my own time when I’m doing ‘Mamma Mia!’” With the sequel Mamma Mia! Here Come Back to the Five We Go Again now in theatres, Beck has na] is so stressed maintained a firm decision not to see the about this one thing that & Dime, Jimmy Dean sequel until after the Toby’s production is happened earlier in her life, and over. “I’m very excited to see it, but I don’t everything eventually works out for her. Saturday, July 21 thru want any outside influences changing my Whatever problems you go through in your Sunday, August 5 performance in this production.” Beck also life, you ultimately come to this wonderful added, that if she were given the opportu- place. I would tell Donna that she needs Theatre, Arts, Cabaret nity to say something to her character of to settle down and enjoy the ride.” t For Donna she would tell her to relax. “I would more info on Mamma Mia! at Toby’s, visit To- Disney’s tell her not to stress out so much. [Don- bysdinnertheatre.com The Little Mermaid Law Office of David M. Lutz, P.A. Saturday, July 20 thru Sunday, August 5 •Auto Accidents •Workers’ Compensation Mainstage, Arts, Cabaret •Personal Injury •DUI/DWI 7201 Rossville Blvd. •Criminal Defense •Traffic Court Call the box office at 443-840-ARTS(2787), or visit Se Habla Español www.ccbcmd.edu/arts 1901 Fleet Street Baltimore, MD 21231 For further details Phone: 410-558-3700 (English) 410-299-2898(Español) or to purchase tickets E-mail: [email protected] www.lawlutz.com

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com People In Our Neighborhood

by the two owners. “I would say the reac- Meet Eric Randolph and Alan Cortie tions have been very favorable.” Cortie explained. “We have repainted with some By Frankie Kujawa another one go down. That was one of the brighter colors, new seating arrangements, Gay nightlife, like the driving forces why we chose to purchase new photography – we really wanted to gay community, has al- Mixers. We also wanted to keep that loca- brighten up the scene a lot and it is going ways existed in one form tion a place for the LGBTQ community.” very well.” or another. Over the last Prior to Mixers, which had been around Both Cortie and Randolph went on to 50 years, gay bars have for ten years, discuss some of the future plans for the taken form to help shel- The new the bar was one bar. “We’ve recently just hired a new bar- ter gay culture and have called Thirsty’s tender for Saturday nights, so that’s ex- been one of the building owners of for a period of citing. We’re also putting in an alcoholic blocks of the LGBTQ time, as well. snowball machine. We just recently pur- community. Fostering a Mixers The returning pa- chased an old beat up piano that’s been climate where LGBTQ trons who have re-tuned and is ready to go. We’d like to individuals feel safe and been coming to do some piano nights, and singalongs, as protected is necessary Mixers over the last few years seem very well. There is a lot to look forward to in the t for the well-being of pleased with the new changes brought on future.” the gay community. For Eric Randolph and Alan Mixers-ing it up – Eric Randolph & Cortie, the new owners of Alan Cortie Mixers Bar, this has be- come a mission. “Mixers is a bar which ' is a comfort zone for everyone in the up on my radar. After a lot of thought, and Rockin It Country Style LGBTQ community,” began Cortie. “Many discussion, we both decided to go ahead people may not want to travel to a bar that’s and purchase the bar. This was mainly be- FEATURING: further into the city, or one that is outside cause many of the gay bars and places in of their comfort zone. Anyone in the com- Baltimore had closed. I didn’t want to see Country Artist The KSGRA munity can come here and have fun with- out dealing with any specific stereotypes. Donnie Lee Strickland Royalty Team [Eric and I] want to build something that’s welcoming and is on the outskirts of the city so it’s convenient out there to people who are also in the county.” “There are quite a few people that don’t “Mixers is a bar which is a comfort zone for everyone in the LGBTQ community.” August 18, 2018 Doors open at 6pm Show starts at 7pm want to deal with parking downtown,” add- Eyler's Stables ed Randolph. For Randolph and Cortie, the road to • ArchitecturAlly-stunning 137 Emmitsburg Rd To purchase tickets: Mixers began far across continents and wedding venue • Thurmont, MD 21788 Visit ksgra.org oceans. Cortie, who is also a mechanical engineer, grew up in Johannesburg, South • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding Africa, and moved to the US in 2001. Ran- CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, An event for adults 18 and over only dolph, who grew up in Columbus, Ohio, And eLOPeMenTS • Tickets can be purchased online for $35 per adult or are $40 per moved to Baltimore in 1987. Both Cortie • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS adult at the door. Ticket price includes admission as well as and Randolph met online in 2001. After SinCe 2013 • appetizers, drinks and an open bar. one date the two have been together ever since. They married in Provincetown, Mas- Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at sachusetts in 2011. ChaseCourtWeddingVenue All proceeds benefit the Keystone State Gay Rodeo Association. KSGRA is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization whose “I was working as a registered nurse,” 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com purpose is to promote the country and western lifestyle and rodeo began Randolph, “and while I was on hia- 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD tus from that position I began looking for Owned and Operated by David Egan, type events within the LGBT community and their allies. something else to get into. I was looking wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud. for a business for sale, and Mixers came BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 david’s thoughts // travel Fun on FIRE ISLAND —continued from page 1 offers great lighting and sound. The Blue that you could miss something with just a Whale is a popular waterfront gay bar and blink of an eye. It has a seasonal post of- eatery with drag brunches, dance parties, fice and a tiny hardware store. There are seafood, and cocktails. It is also located about seven small restaurants that serve everything from a slice of pizza to fancy “‘Downtown’ Cherry seafood. The famous “Sweet Licks” ice cream shop is a popular place to visit af- Grove is so small ter dinner. The jumping Ice Palace with its very popular underwear-only Friday nights that you could miss is a great place to dance. You can also go something with just a dive into the Grove Hotel pool after 2 am. The hotel is adjacent to the Ice Palace. blink of an eye.’ While in Cherry Grove, the stunning Bel- vedere Guest House for Men is a must-see. on the popular Harbor Walk, where many It is a Venetian palace-style property that gather in the evenings to watch the sunset. stands out. Each room has a theme décor The Pines is also known for having Boardwalks ranging from baroque to naval. There is also several high-profile events during the everywhere! a rooftop terrace that provides a great view summer. The Fire Island Dance Festival of the ocean, decks for sunbathing that have is a weekend where world-class dancers the ocean in the background, and a small perform. The diverse lineup of choreogra- pool. Note that it is clothing optional so you may encounter a The ‘in’ man in his birthday crowd suit by the pool. extends a welcome! Fire Island Pines (often re- ferred to as The Pines) is also known as being one of the first towns that accept- ed the LGBT com- munity. Since the 1920s, it’s been an area with very liber- al attitudes toward sexual identity. To- day, the area is filled Island with members of the glamor! LGBT community. It is also an area that screams highfalutin. The area has some of the most expen- sive real estate on the island and it is not uncommon to see expensive yachts phers perform on a stunning and marches onto floating around or docked on the Pines waterfront stage. The event has raised the dock. The origi- Harbor pier. It has 600 houses and a large over $5.5 million and it gets more popu- nal act took place in condominium complex. Its summer-sea- lar each year. The Invasion of the Pines is 1976. sonal population is around 3,000 and its a famous drag-queen parade that is held With Fire Island be- all-year population is around 300. each year on the Fourth of July. The event ing so close, the LGBT The Pines has a tiny area where its starts in Cherry Grove. Drag queens pa- heritage so storied, nightlife is concentrated. Sip-n-Twirl is a rade through Cherry Grove and meet at and the community so popular gay bar with an amazing dance the Ice Palace Bar. Then they get on a welcoming, a weekend floor that blasts today’s hits. It also has chartered ferry boat and sail to the Pines trip should definitely be The famous events, such as drag shows and movie Harbor. Thousands of cheering fans greet planned! t ‘Sweet nights. The Pavilion is a dance club that the drag queens as each leaves the ferry Licks’ ice cream shop

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Out Country Singer to perform at

for the LGBT community – especially mu- have a good time and put it out there on Keystone Rodeo Fundraiser sical artists that are afraid to do what I do. stage and give it 110%. The crowd always I have a lot of gay friends who have come gives it back to us in return and we just By Frankie Kujawa out, or have not come out, and are scared have a good time!” t The Keystone State Gay Rodeo Associa- day. I was learning choreography and how of how the industry will accept them. But, I tion (KSGRA) will hold “Rockin’ It Coun- to sing harmonies, and how to make the have also received a lot of texts and mes- try Style: A Benefit” on Saturday, August audience just stop and feel what you were sages saying, ‘You’re making me open my 18th at Eyler’s Stables in Thurmont, MD. singing. That show definitely put me where eyes.’ and ‘Thank you.’ Just the fact that The concert and show will feature upcom- I am today as a performer.” Strickland many people are calling me an inspiration ing Country Artist Donnie Lee Strickland, eventually left North Carolina, – that means the world to me.” as well as the KSGRA Royalty Court. and moved Strickland added, “I really have not Baltimore OUTloud recently chatted experienced anything dangerous or hard- with charming Strickland to ships as being an ‘out’ performer. Today’s discuss his upcoming per- society is more accepting than what it formance, his career as an used to be, and I do believe that God has out-country singer, and how a plan, and he put me where I needed to music is in his DNA. be when I needed to be there.” “I fell in love with country In regard to the upcoming “Rockin’ music at an early age,” Strick- Country Style: A Benefit” performance, land began. “I started singing Strickland is very excited to be bring- in church when I was about five ing in some traditional music as well as years-old. I was raised Southern some new stuff. “I want to give some- Baptist in North Carolina. I found thing for everybody. I’m a country art- a love for country music at home ist and grew up on the 80s and 90s and at my grandparent’s house, country music. I want to do a mix of where I eventually learned to some of the old and the new. You nev- play the piano by ear. I used to er know what we’re going to throw in love the old hits of Reba McEntire. as surprises for the audiences. We Randy Travis was a hero to me, as may perform some Conway Twitty or well as George Straight and Con- Luke Bryan. We may perform some way Twitty. I used to watch those Carrie Underwood or Martina Mc- performers a lot, and that’s where Bride. If it’s a good song, it’s a good I learned how to entertain. I was a song, and we like to do some rock- good observer, and I used to love to ing country. We have some of the wear my boots and my cowboy hat. best musicians and players in my I thought to myself, ‘I am going to be band, and they sing a lot of rock, George Straight.’” Strickland laughed pop, and southern rock. It’s going to be a and added, “Of course this was to central Arkansas. very versatile performance! We just love to Donnie Lee until I grew to be a little older and Strickland The performer went on to release realized that I had to be myself his first EP in 2015 and has been on and not an imitation of someone the road touring ever since. Having else.” won the Josie Music Award for Mod- When Strickland was in sixth grade, he ern Male Country Artist of the Year in 2017, started in the school band and began to the numerous accolades just push Strick- read music. “Music is in my blood and in land to work harder. “You want to keep go- my heart, and I’ve been doing it ever since ing harder because you have something then.” Strickland’s first paid gig was when to prove and you want to keep it up. The he was 11 years old. When he was 13, he band and I work very hard – we tour, we entered his first karaoke contest in a bar, travel all over the country and we give it even though he wasn’t supposed to be in our all. It can be tiresome, but it’s fun and I it. “I had the permission of the owners to love what I do. It’s just very humbling. Peo- perform. I won singing a George Straight ple are so gracious, especially when they song! Winning gives you that taste of come to the shows and support the music. fame, and you want it just a little bit more. As long as fans continue to love the music, Since then I’ve had that drive.” I’m going to continue to sing and perform; Strickland began performing at his lo- it’s in my heart.” cal community college in North Carolina, Coming to terms with being an out and before he began what would be a 14-year proud gay man, while pursuing a career in 240-420-2180 run with the cast of the American Music country music, hasn’t always been easy Jubilee country variety show in Selma, for Strickland. “Everyone wants to be ac- North Carolina. “It was there that helped cepted and loved,” explained Strickland. shape me into the performer that I am to- “I’m just trying to be a small voice of hope BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 quality of life dining out

ganizations like FreeState Justice, Lamb- Boy from Hanoi, which consists of Ketel da Legal, or the Trevor Project, or who has One, grapefruit liqueur, strawberry, lime, taken leadership positions on issues that fantinel, and rosé ($12). Let’s just say affect LGBT equality. upon first sip, I could taste the Cajun influ- The Law 2) Bedside manner – Next, evaluate Finger’s ence – there was definitely a kick! the lawyer’s soft skills. Especially in the We decided to try several options from & You realm of estate planning or family law, you Food the menu to share: the Edamame Hummus Lee Carpenter want an understanding counselor who is at- Richard Finger ($10 – edamame, tahini, lemongrass chili tentive, engaging, and warm. Responsive- oil, rice crackers, fresh herbs); Veggie Roll ness and good communication skills are ($10 – crispy tofu, mango, carrot, cucum- also important. Take note of things like how ber, herbage, hoslin crispies); Spicy Tuna Finding the Right quickly you get a response to your initial in- Phuc Yea Roll ($16 – line caught local yellowfin tuna, quiry and whether the lawyer can speak in 7100 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami lemongrass, chili, cucumber, rice crispies, Lawyer for You plain English, rather than “legalese.” 305-494-0609 herbage, lettuce); and Caramel Chicken The lawyer should focus on your con- Phucyeah.com Wings ($12 – fish sauce caramel, lem- A good lawyer is like a good friend – some- cerns, rather than touting his or her past ongrass, chilies). When our dishes were one who is smart and honest, has your best successes or discussing only the technical While away on vacation last week, I was placed on our table, I was impressed by interests at heart, and is enjoyable to be aspects of your matter. Your legal con- so excited to spend time with a very dear the presentation, each plate adding its around. But finding such a lawyer can be cerns are too important to leave to chance, friend. She suggested dinner Saturday own flair to the food placed on it. Each an intimidating experience. Should you look so make sure they are as important to your night at a Vietnamese-Fusion restaurant, item was absolutely bursting with flavors online? Ask a friend to suggest someone? lawyer as they are to you. Phuc Yeah, in Miami. Granted, it was a bit I’d experienced never before. I was a little And how do you know when you’ve found 3) Skills and experience – Beyond of hike from where we were in Fort Lau- concerned that we would become over- the lawyer you need? Here are four things finding an LGBT lawyer who is easy to derdale. But the name of the restaurant whelmed by the chili in our choices, but to look for when seeking legal counsel: work with, consider how competent the grabbed my attention, so there was no actually, that did not happen. It was if oth- 1) LGBT bona fides – Your first prior- lawyer is likely to be. Find out whether question we were going. er ingredients in each dish offset the chili ity should be to find a fellow member of the lawyer’s practice area aligns with your Located away from the hustle and bus- spice, which led to a brilliant meal. the LGBT community. Working with a law- legal needs and how long he or she has tle of downtown Miami or South Beach, There are other menu items that the been working in that area. For example, Phuc Yea is located in an area of Miami food adventurous might also find appeal- “Look for a lawyer if you need to prepare a will or settle an that’s in the midst of reinvention. That ing, such as the Octopus estate, an estates and trusts attorney with said, it would be ($18 – lemongrass oil, who can grow with more than ten years’ experience will likely easy to miss, but lime, herbage, kaffir you – someone who do a better job that a general practitioner I’m sure glad we lime); Cajun Cod Bao still cutting his teeth. didn’t. I wasn’t (buns, pickles, srira- is committed to their Scan the attorney’s online bio for awards too sure what to cha remoulade); or the and other accolades, for membership in pro- expect, as upon PY Noodles (signa- area of law and to the fessional organizations, and for leadership in walking in, there ture house noodles, community they serve.” the law. These feathers in the lawyer’s cap isn’t a whole lot to garlic, oyster sauce, won’t guarantee competency, but they will see, other than the Parmesan cheese). yer means letting down your guard and give you a sense of how well regarded the “Phuc Yea” sign Of course, there are entrusting your confidences to a stranger lawyer is by his or her peers. Online reviews in neon lights. As many others, but want who is also a professional. You will proba- can also be helpful, but the best endorse- you can imagine, to provide you readers bly feel more comfortable doing this if the ment may be the recommendation of a friend some guests were with a general sense professional in question has had life expe- who has worked with the lawyer. busy taking selfies of what Phuc Yea has riences similar to yours. 4) Fees and commitment – Some in front the sign. We to offer. A gay or lesbian lawyer is also more lawyers offer a free consultation and then were escorted up- It’s always won- likely to understand your legal concerns on charge by the hour. Others charge for the stairs to the dining derful to spend qual- a personal level. He or she will probably initial meeting but then apply the charge area and bar, and ity time with close be better informed about the latest chang- toward a flat fee for the work to be done. very quickly the vibe friends, and even es in the laws affecting LGBT people and Ask up front how the lawyer bills and what changed for the bet- extra special to do will know how to leverage the law to your the total cost is likely to be. ter. The upstairs had so while enjoying a greatest advantage. Finally, look for a lawyer who can grow its own unique look, meal. Our service A lawyer outside our community may with you – someone who is committed to with lots of different was top-notch and art – and light fixtures A phukin fine our waiter was so gracious, recog- be fully competent. But someone who their area of law and to the community they marriage of has also suffered through the anxieties of serve. If you can continue to work together, – deliberately combining styles from Vietnamese nizing we had much catching up to bullying, coming out, or fighting for equal- the good lawyer you find may well become Vietnam, areas of the world with Ca- and Cajun do, we were never rushed, as he ity will be better equipped to provide the a good friend. t jun influence, and of course, Miami. ensured we had the ultimate din- unique skills and understanding you need. Lee Carpenter is an associate attorney We were tucked away at a table ing experience. While not located If you must consider a lawyer outside at the law firm of Saul Ewing Anstein & for two, near a window, in one of the din- nearby, I am hopeful that if visiting South the LGBT community, find out whether Lehr and can be reached at 410-332-8626 ing rooms. In short order we were warmly Florida, readers will consider an alterna- they support LGBT causes. Does the law- or [email protected]. Learn more greeted by our waiter, who proceeded to tive dining experience. I love telling people yer have a track record of advocating on about LGBT estate planning at Mdlgbtes- tell us that Phuc Yea was not going to be that I ate at a restaurant called “Phuc Yea,” behalf of our community, or do they simply tateplanning.com. This article is intended a typically Vietnamese experience, as its and I am sure you will, too. (For those con- want to market to our demographic? Look to provide general infor about legal topics , menu infuses “Cajun influence with Miami nected to me on Facebook, yes, I certainly for someone who sponsors advocacy or- not specific legal advice. swagger.” I would soon find out what this did take a selfie in front of that neon-sign, meant, as I ordered a cocktail called Lady and posted it instantaneously!) t 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

Fabulous Brunch Every Saturday & Sunday 11:30 am - 3:00 pm Happy Hour Monday – Friday 4 pm – 7pm with $15 Bottomless Shucking Sundays Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, A Dozen Oysters and 2 brews or wine for $20 Sangria and EVO Craft Drafts • Serving Brunch on Sundays! Meatless Mondays $15 for a Veggie Burger and Bu alo Brussel Sprouts • Now open for lunch at 12 p.m. on Saturdays Burger & A Beer Tuesday $12 for A Purist Burger and • Penguin Pils now available an EVO Craft Draft in 16oz cans! Wine Wednesdays Introducing Lumen 1/2 O Select Bottles of WIne Our new beer brewed speci cally for Light City! Mussel Mania Thursdays All You can Eat Mussel $25 per person Late Night Happy Hour on SERVES BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, Tuesday, Wednesday, COFFEE AND DRINKS! and Thursday Evenings! Hours 1604 Kelly Avenue. Tues. -Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Baltimore, MD 21209 Get house draft beer for $3.75 Sat. 10 a.m. –to 9 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 443-869-6240 from 11 p.m. to close nickeltaphouse.com 10 Art Museum Drive 1106 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 Baltimore, MD 21201 410-889-3399 410-547-6925 • thebrewersart.com gertrudesbaltimore.com Sparkling Swine Sundays $20 Sparkling Wine & Charcuterie Flight MagnificentMagnificent Mondays Happy Hour at the Bar All Night Taster Tuesdays

$2 for 6 oz. Tasting Pours of Any Draft BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY from 11am – 3pm With$ 15 Bottomless Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, Wine Wednesdays Sangria and EVO Craft Drafts All Wine by the Glass ½ off, Select $20 Bottles of Wine OFF THE VINE WEDNESDAYS ½ Off Select Bottles of Wine All Day Thirsty Dog Thursdays TAP THAT THURSDAYS – All Taps Half Off On the Patio. Get a Frosty Paws Treat for Your Pooch with the HAPPY HOUR: Wed. – Sat. from 3pm – 7pm Purchase of any EVO Craft Beer Draft or Tito’s OUR TERRACE IS OPEN! Birroteca Baltimore 1520 Clipper Road. Baltimore, MD 21211 800 KEY HIGHWAY BALTIMORE, MD 21230 443-708-1935 • www.bmorebirroteca.com 410-752-1000 www.bmorebirroteca.com/baltimore-events www.encantadabaltimore.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 TheThe quality of life Crème brûlée – Want to get fancy and still stay with single-servings? How about Getting the some créme brûlée! With a vanilla-flavored custard base and a torch-hardened layer DrinkerDrinkeryy Wedding of sugar on top, the presentation value is high, and the eating experience is always You Want joyful. If you don’t like vanilla, chefs love to TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeartHeart!! David Egan tinker with créme brûlée recipes to make something special. 205 West Read Street “Corner of Read and Park” Ice cream – I love ice cream and could Let’s Talk eat it ’til it comes out my ears! But storing 410-225-3100 • ATM Available and serving ice cream for a wedding re- Dessert! ception has its challenges. If you’re plan- ning a summer wedding, especially if your Weddings are about two things: celebrat- reception will be outside, ice cream may ing the union of two people, and provid- not be your ideal dessert. But if the tem- ing hospitality to those who’ve come to perature suits, freezer space is available, celebrate. How you chose to do those two and everyone can be served in a reason- things is entirely up to you. That freedom able period of time, then game on! extends to dessert! My favorite dessert is ice cream sun- Cake – Love wedding cake? Wonder- daes (I just went and and made one after ful! Go for it. There are dozens of cake writing this paragraph!). You or your ca- flavors from which to choose, with an ex- terer can set up a make-your-own-sundae ponential number of layer combinations. bar, with two or three flavors of ice cream, Add to that all of the possibilities in surface a selection of fruit (strawberries, bananas, decoration, and you have infinite varieties and raspberries come to mind), liquid top- of wedding cake. pings like chocolate and caramel, chopped Cupcakes – One step away from cake nuts and chocolate shots (or jimmies, or brings us to cupcakes, which are simply sprinkles, depending on where you grew cake in a different form. Individual serv- up), and of course, whipped cream! ings allow for more flavor choices. Want If sundaes don’t float your (banana) a dozen different flavors? You can have boat, how about ice cream cake? You get it with cupcakes. The downside is cost. all of the features of cake, plus ice cream! Decorating every one of those little guys If you’re thinking ice cream cones and takes time. The cost per serving is more you’re near a city, there are food trucks like than with cake. Cupcakes are also more Tahaka Brothers in Baltimore who special- complicated to display, usually requiring a ize in bringing ice cream to events. You’ll special stand (which can often be rented need a place for the truck, of course, rain 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from the cupcake bakery). is an issue, and you’ll want to allow time 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pie – Everyone loves pie! What looks for everyone to get to the truck, get served, and smells more like home than and return to the reception area. half a dozen pies on a table, just No matter what you BESTBEST PRICESPRICES ININ TOWNTOWN asking to be eaten! You can be chose to serve for dessert, as decadent as you want with you can always uphold tra- pie, mixing and matching fillings dition – whatever you un- and toppings. Pie can be served derstand that to be – with either from a buffet or dessert a cutting cake. A small station, or family style, with a pie cake, just large enough to or two on each table. cut and photograph, is all Brownies, blondies, lem- that you need. on bars, and the like – A great Dessert is a great op- way to keep costs down, or to portunity to add fun and simply avoid cake, is to go for surprise to your wedding single-serving desserts. They reception. Be creative, are far easier to prepare and serve what you like, and serve than cake. Caterers often have a blast! have them as menu choices and Next time: The Wed- if not, they’re an easily-procured bakery ding Planning Mindset. t item. If your plan is DIY catering, brown- David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- ie recipes are a mainstay of home baking. ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event The portion sizes are smaller than cake, venue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Cha- cupcakes, or pie, which smaller eaters and secourt.com, and follow ChaseCourtWed- people managing their intake of sweets will dingVenue on Instagram and Facebook. appreciate.

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of life // your money

will be easier to tailor a correctional conversa- tion that will end with positive results. The More you Coaching is more of the ongoing men- Making Your Real Estate Fantasies Come True... Know About toring relationship between manager and employee. Coaching deals with developing Business an employee’s skills and, at the same time, Richard Finger & Lauren Lynch their engagement with the team and with the company. Attainable and measurable goals should be set each year. These annual goals should be items that an employee can realis- Coaching tically achieve within a 12-month time frame, be aligned with personal and departmental and Counseling goals, and mirror the values of the company. Allowing developmental opportunities tells Renee Batson, REALTOR® Most people in business can relate to this sit- the employee that the manager values them Mobile: (443)739-8818 uation: There’s a person on your team or in and is willing to invest in them. Office: (410)647-2222 your department who you enjoy working with There are a few strategies to exhibiting @HousedbyRenee #HousedbyRenee Before it and who shows true potential. This same per- the most successful coaching and counseling comes to this... son also has room for polishing. Let’s say this outcomes. One approach is to treat a mistake employee’s demeanor around the office as a learn- is very pleasant and engaging but her Half ... ing opportu- Operated by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC customer-service skills are less than stel- nity. Instead lar. You know she’s teachable but she can of criticizing also be defensive and/or sensitive. Your the em- next counseling technique could save ployee for or destroy a chance for this employee to something stay with the team. If she does stay, your he or she coaching tactics will determine whether did in error, or not her con- a manager ... and tinuation on half should get your team is down in the positive. trenches, Counsel- walk the employee through the resolu- ing is a tool tion, and explain what he or she can do used for cor- differently in the future. Another tactic recting behav- is to give an employee praise and rec- ior. Effective ognition. This never has to be an over- counseling is the-top display of gratitude. A simple a skill that no “thank you,” “good idea,” and giving one can learn credit where due will go a long way. overnight. It is not technical – it’s a soft skill Another method that is absolutely valu- that takes time and experience to master. It able is giving the employee the full picture. begins with simple logic and common sense Whenever a manager is explaining a process mixed with respect and politeness. With prac- or a resolution to a problem, the description tice, it will grow into an ability where one will should never stop after explaining the “what.” be able to read the person or persons in any It should also review the “why” and the “how.” situation and tailor one’s communication to This way, the employee is taught to be more fit the needs and response-levels of each in- self-sufficient because by having an opportu- dividual simultaneously. In partnership with nity to fully understand the inner mechanisms counseling, effective coaching is a technique of the work. that is used to develop employees’ talents If all else fails, the most important tactic is and raise engagement levels. to always remember to treat every moment as Counseling techniques can (and should) an opportunity for training. The manager can change. The style should largely depend on incorporate a lesson into almost every con- who is addressed and the issue at hand. Peo- versation. It can be conversations around hy- ple learn, listen, and take criticism very differ- pothetical situations or about the employee’s ently. It is important that managers build rela- perspective on a current organizational issue. tionships with their employees. This will allow Most coaching and counseling will take managers to understand how their employees place in an unstructured environment. Often it operate and know their strengths and weak- will be very brief and in an almost casual ex- nesses. With this, managers should take cau- change. Never underestimate the power of an tion as the relationships that are built cannot open conversation. An employee, and some- cross the line of neutrality. Managers need to times the manager, will walk away with more remain objective. When this is understood it valuable information and new perspectives. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 leather

WOMEN’S LEATHER IN ALASKA they had been at- tending classes earlier. This was also Hear Them Roar the fourth year that the competi- by RJ Johnson ful women, who own themselves and tion for the Alaska Last December, CNN projected that 2018 share what they know, empowering other State Bootblack ti- would be the Year of the Woman. Sarha women. That’s what this weekend was all tle would be taking Shaubach had been of a similar mindset for about.” Payne also appreciates the unique place. All weekend months before that. Shaubach is the cre- ability Alaskans have to all play nicely to- long the three con- ator of Northern Exposure, the only Alas- gether. “I love Alaska,” she adds. “It’s so testants for the title kan BDSM, leather, sex, and kink confer- eclectic. When we travel in the lower 48, loved on leather, ence. She’s a leather titleholder, and the there are so many clubs that are specific to sold raffle tickets, self-described “head lackey” at the Alaska a niche of the LGBTQ community. In Alas- and got to know Center for Alternative Lifestyles. For this ka we find that the group is more eclec- the out-of-state visi- year’s conference, Shaubach decided that tic, with all types, and all lifestyles getting tors through service she wanted to celebrate the strong women along.” and education. On ies could do such things.” The fire walk was she has come to know in her life. So, she While the ticketed portion of North- Sunday night, during the wrap- up dinner one more way that people were learning started inviting them up to Alaska to teach, ern Exposure is only from Friday morning and awards show, each contestant gave a what their bodies were capable of. present to, and experience her home com- to Sunday evening, the producers of the speech, performed a fantasy number, and Spirits were high throughout the week- munity. event make sure to pack an entire week was interviewed. All attendees of the con- end among all attendees, no matter where This is also the year that we gained the of adventure and connection in for all test were given a chance to influence the they identified on the gender spectrum, while first Woman of Drummer. Within the plan- those who attend. It all starts on Thursday score with different ballots. In the end, the everyone also remained consciously present ning of Northern Exposure, the Women of night at the Raven Bar, the northernmost only female-identified contestant, Gretch- in the knowledge of the hashtags that have Drummer movement decided to also plan LGBTQ-owned-and-operated bar in the en, emerged victorious. united a nation, and in many their Northwest regional meetup in the US, with a potlatch. For this year’s event, By Monday night, friends began to say ways the same location. Shaubach and Woman of Drummer Voss goodbye to each other, and some had al- world. The Women of Drummer movement is co-hosted a play party specifically for ready taken off to the airport or gone back #MeToo, full of fierce, sexy, playful, female sexual those individuals that identify as women. to work. After the traditional brunch at #Time- outlaws. This is not only a perfect descrip- On Friday morning, following a key- Gwennie’s Alaskan Restau- tion of someone like Shaubach, but it’s a note speech given for the first time ever by movement that she fully supports. These Shaubach, classes began. Over the almost women celebrate their love for their broth- 200 attendees were given the opportunity ers in leather, but rightfully claim ownership to further their knowledge of subjects like and control of their movement. As Pam fire cupping, communication techniques, Payne – also known as MasterPam, a pre- impact play, and wax play. A class from senter at the conference – said, “I love to be Glenda Rider focused on the many ways to surrounded by powerful, independent, suc- play with female genitals. Rider thoroughly cess- enjoyed her time visiting and said, “This is one of the best weekends I’ve had in a long time. All the right people were here. Northern Exposure is an amazing event. The Alaska community is so warm and welcoming. They bend over backwards for their guests. Some great educators were here, some wonderful hardworking titleholders were here. Women from all over the country gathered in Alaska – how awesome is that?” Each night the sUp, #LetHerDoHerJob, attendees were invited back to the loca- rant, some visitors had gone on trips to #OneWomanIsAllWomen. Throughout the tion which had been turned into 12,000 see more of the 49th state. As tempera- weekend I asked attendees and others if square-feet of dungeon and play space, tures started to cool down, and rain sub- they had a hashtag for what comes next, as well as a large social area, and for the sided, a fire in Meadow Lakes, Alaska, was and their were some good answers. #Pass- first time ever, a radical self-care room just getting to the point of being able to be TheMic, #PayHerWhatSheIsWorth, but for those needing a break. On Saturday raked down for a fire walk. Dozens of peo- my favorite came from Sivert, who laugh- night, in between classes and the play ple lined up to face fears and walk across ingly said #WomenWillFuckShitUp. As a party, attendees were also given the op- the burning coals. Tears were shed and cisgnder, queer-identified male who was tion to attend The Show at ACAL (Alas- secrets revealed as the crowd participated permitted to be witness and participant to ka Center for Alternative Lifestyles), a in what has become another Northern Ex- this weekend of empowerment, I will say weekly erotica and kink inspired variety posure tradition. “To see the female body that I completely believe that they can, and show that happens at the center. The of leadership and all the women’s presence they can also do any other thing that they packed house watched 18 performanc- was powerful,” said Lamalani Sivert. “A lot choose. t es take place on the same stage where of people said they didn’t realize their bod-

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD AUGUST 3, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com leather

One of my favorite weekends last year I always look forward to October. It is visit LeatherNJonline.com. was when I went to Portland, Maine, for the one of my favorite times of the year and if These are just a few of the leather events Harbor Masters leather club’s anniversary. it is October it is time for the New Jersey coming soon to our area. Make plans to attend I had never been to Portland before so that Leather Weekend. Held this year on Octo- one or more of the above leather events. It is made the trip extra fun. Have you ever been ber 19th to 21st at the Paradise located in- always good to have something fun to look for- Leather to New Haven, Connecticut? Here is anoth- side the Empress Hotel in Asbury Park this ward to on your calendar. Enjoy the rest of the Line er chance for a little leather adventure. The weekend produced by Dragonslair Produc- summer. t Rodney Burger Mr. Connecticut Leather 2019 Contest will be tions and the New Jersey Leather Family * I also must note events that are sched- held on Saturday, September 8th at 9 pm at will include the 19th annual Mr. & Ms. New uled to be held at the Baltimore Eagle may the 168 York Street Cafe in New Haven. The Jersey Leather 2019 Contest, the uniform / need to be located at another venue due to the meet and greet is Friday, September 7th at the gear meet and greet party on Friday, educa- recent closing of the bar. Watch this space for The bar with entertainment by Morgana De Luxe tional sessions presented by Jersey Kollege details. Dog and there are also BD/SM classes on Satur- of Kink, a vendor mart, cigar social, Sun- day afternoon and a victory brunch on Sunday day’s victory brunch, and more. For details put on by the Imperial Sovereign Court of All Days Connecticut. The New Haven Hotel is the host hotel. For more details visit Mr. Connecticut of Summer Leather 2019 on Facebook. A little closer to home is Leather Fetish It’s that in-between time of year. Memorial III which will be held over the weekend of Day Weekend brought the start of summer September 14th to 16th at the Woods Camp- and a new International Mr. Leather. We have ground in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. This celebrated Pride and danced in the streets. annual leather weekend includes the Mr. & We toasted the 4th of July and hosted or at- Ms. Woods Leather competition, a gathering tended a summer cookout. Many have been of Mid-Atlantic Women of Drummer and so to the pool or the beach. As the summer sun much more. Visit Thewoodscampground.com has faded into the rainy season many folks for reservations and more information. are starting to feel a little down. I find that I They are doing it again! Capitol Bus can always cheer myself up if I have some- Crawl – Down & Dirty Edition is scheduled thing fun planned. The anticipation of an for Saturday, September 15th starting at the event keeps me going. So, what’s next? DC Eagle. This ultimate evening of barhop- It may seem ridiculous that I am already ping will take you from the DC Eagle to the looking forward to Mid-Atlantic Leather Week- Baltimore Eagle to The Bike Stop in Phila- end in Washington. After all this popular leath- delphia and back to the DC Eagle. Tickets er event is not until January 18th to 20th, 2019! are $50 and will benefit the Carter / Johnson That’s the issue exactly. MAL is so popular Leather Library. Details on Facebook. that the 880-room Hyatt Regency Washington Speaking of Philadelphia, the tenth an- on Capitol Hill is already nual Philadelphia Leather Pride Night sold out. I’m glad I booked will be held on Saturday, September my room a few weeks ago. 22nd starting a 5 pm at Voyeur Night You don’t have to miss out. Club. There will be a charity auction, Rooms are available at the dancing, and more. Proceeds will ben- nearby Phoenix Park Hotel efit Project Home – the Gloria Casa- – but don’t wait any longer. raz Residence, Philly AIDS Thrift, Reservations can be made KSGRA, and By the Grace of George. at Leatherweekend.com. In Baltimore on September 22nd You may have seen my the Baltimore ShipMates invite you to interview with Amy “Foxxy” join them for a tour of three area dis- Phillips. I cannot believe tilleries: Sagamore Spirits, the Balti- that is has almost been a more Whiskey Company and Old- year since she was select- Leather Line Spirits. The tour bus will leave ed Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2018. pup braves from the Mount Vernon Stable at 11 Although her title year is almost over, summer heat am. Tickets are $50 and includes you have not seen the last of her. Come transportation, guided tours, and join me on August 24th and 25th for the tastings. I know this event will lift Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman and Bootblack my spirits! Visit the Baltimore ShipMates’ Contest. This is not just an event for the wom- Facebook page for details and to make an in leather. I wouldn’t miss it. Friday, August reservations. Space is limited. September 24th starting at 9 pm is the meet and greet and 28th to 30 is the third annual Atlantic States the contest is at 2 pm on Saturday, August Leather Weekend featuring the Atlantic 25th. Originally scheduled at the Baltimore States LeatherSIR / boy / Bootblack Con- Eagle*, the meet and greet has been moved test. The weekend will also include demos to Mixer’s (6037 Belair Road) and the location and educational classes. This event is cur- of the contest will be announced soon. rently scheduled at the Baltimore Eagle.

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

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CLIENT COMCAST FILE NAME: CMCIN18009M4_9.875x9.6_Q3_LGBTQ_v01.indd APPROVAL JOB NUMBER CMCIN18009M4 DESCRIPTION: DIV031-Q3-NED-A4-V1 BILL TO NUMBER CMCIN18009 COLORS: CMYK PROOFREADER GRAPHIC ARTIST Jason S. Thomas NOTES: NONE STUDIO DIRECTOR DATE 6-19-2018 12:58 PM FONTS: XFINITY Standard TT (Bold Italic, Medium Italic, Light, Bold, Regular) TRAFFIC REVISION 1 IMAGES: ABC Network Butterscotch Pearl Logo.eps (CMYK; 5038 ppi; 5.96%), PAGE 1 103748_GettyImages-900217228.tif (CMYK; 618 ppi; 48.51%), XR15_052217- PRODUCTION PUB Baltimore OUTLoud bLED-m.psd (CMYK; 11104 ppi; 2.7%), CMCIN18009_TV_Front_NO-FEET-SIL- ART DIRECTOR BLEED None VER_4C_v01.psd (CMYK; 1098 ppi; 27.31%), Comcast_S_4C_GRAY.eps (9.38%), COPYWRITER TRIM 9.875” x 9.6” Pride_2018_CMYK.ai (29.79%) LIVE 9.375” x 9.1” ASSOC CREATIVE DIR SCALE 100% CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINTOUT 100%

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