ANO INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THE TLESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES August 22, 2014 | Volume XII, Issue 8 Maryland LGBT Youth at Risk Says Report By Steve Charing – with friends, with family, on the street. tice Systems. When Eric was nine years old, he lived He came home on Fridays to get the $25 Formed in May Nowhere to go? credit: Brion McCarthy with relatives due to his mother’s mental or $50 his mom would give him for the next 2013, YEA is a Photography illness. He began to develop what people week. To maintain the charade, Eric would statewide coalition considered effeminate mannerisms. Neigh- be present when the caseworker came for of various service borhood men would try to “macho him out” a monthly visit. providers, non- by beating him up. Eric never told anyone about profit organiza- Eric entered foster Statewide coalition this arrangement because he tions, government care at age 12, when his was afraid that he would be agencies, and in- relatives would no longer proposes punished even more. He par- dividual advocates keep him in their home. ticularly feared being placed in that seeks to iden- He was placed with a changes to help a group home with other people tify policy and foster parent who had who might harass or abuse him. regulatory solu- two children of her own and another foster Eric’s situation is among several de- tions to problems child. The foster mother made it clear that scribed in a report released on August 12 faced by LGBTQ he was not welcome there. He was bullied by the Youth Equality Alliance (YEA) titled youth in Mary- by the foster mother’s children, and the Living in the Margins: A Report on the land. At this point other foster youth. Instead of living in the Challenges of LGBTQ Youth in Maryland members include foster home, he stayed wherever he could Education, Foster Care, and Juvenile Jus- —continued on p. 2

roots on Blue Smoke The River & The Thread are no exception, (Masterworks/Dolly). The especially “The Long Way Home,” “World of disc boasts a pair of du- Strange Design,” “Night School” and “Money ets – “You Can’t Make Road.” Dixie Divas Old Friends” with fellow From the beginning of her career, Cash’s byg Greg Shapiro plastic surgeon devotee Kenny Rogers and stepsister Carlene Carter also experimented The voice of Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles steps “From Here To The Moon and Back” with Willie with an alternative country vibe, working with out on her own on her first solo disc That Nelson (who appears to have wisely avoided Graham Parker and The Rumour and (ex- Girl (Mercury). Produced by Rick Rubin, who the plastic surgeon’s knife) – that are equally husband) Nick Lowe. That period wound down retains Nettles’ trademark modern country pleasant. Parton, who has always shown good during the mid-1990s and Carter experienced sound, That Girl feels a little underwhelming taste in cover material, does so here with ren- a period of profound hardship. Six years after when all is said and done. Collaborating with ditions of Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice” and making an unexpected, but welcome, come- interesting songwriting partners, including Bon Jovi’s gospel rouser “Lay Your Hands On back, Carter continues to impress with Carter Sara Bareilles and Richard Marx (!), Nettles Me.” Parton originals “Home,” “If I Had Wings,” Girl (Rounder), a loving homage to her Cart- plays it safe throughout, even on the one cover and “Try” are also deserving of mention. er Family kin, including mother June Carter tune, Bob Seger’s “Like A Rock.” If you’re lis- For years, Rosanne Cash has been the Cash. With the exception of Carlene’s own tening to That Girl it probably has something to urban queen of contemporary country, in- “Me and the Wildwood Rose” (which originally do with Nettles’ powerful voice and you won’t fusing her songs with a wit and wisdom that appeared on her 1990 I Fell In Love album), be disappointed when she belts out on tunes comes from being a New Yorker. You can hear the songs are all Carter Family compositions such as the title track, “Falling,” “Know You it firsthand in the song “Modern Blue,” from her on which Carlene leaves her mark. Guest art- Wanna Know” and “Good Time To Cry.” latest album The River & The Thread (Blue ists Willie Nelson (“Troublesome Waters”) and Still the gold (or is that platinum blonde?) Note). Cash could be singing about the Missis- Kris Kristofferson (“Blackjack David”) also join standard when it comes to country super- sippi River as easily as the Hudson River. Her Carter for duets on this celebratory effort. Jennifer Nettles stardom, Dolly Parton, approaching her 50th worldly approach has always given her songs Keeping with the sisterly theme, Put Your credit: Marina Chavez (!) year as a recording artist, returns to her a distinctive sophistication and the songs on —continued on page 15

—continued on page 10 news // LOCAL

Maryland LGBT Youth at Risk Says Report ble to harassment by law enforcement; ex- less youth being at risk. Nyasha Dixon, ac- – continued from page 1 ploitation while engaged in survival crimes, tivities coordinator for Youth Empowerment such as drug dealing and prostitution; and Society, said the police discriminated against such groups as ACLU of Maryland, the increase their chances to contract HIV/ her. “Police don’t have training on how to com- Public Justice Center, Equality Maryland, AIDS or experience other health problems. municate.” PFLAG, Planned Parenthood of Maryland, Some of these youth may land in foster Jenny Egan, an attorney, agreed. “LGBT Homeless Persons Representation Proj- care, but they could be subject to hostil- youth are disproportionately represented in ect, GLSEN, Star Track, and the Baltimore ity in the system because of institutional survivor crimes. Police are not trained to deal Child Abuse Center. bias and lack of training in the system as with LGBT children.” She stated that “specific “Although the Maryland LGBTQ com- well as the prejudice against LGBTQ youth policies and protections are not in place in de- by foster care parents. Eric’s experience tention facilities and group homes. These kids “LGBTQ youth are at above is illustrative. are most vulnerable to sexual abuse.” a heightened risk of As a result, many of the youth leave or The report presents an array of recom- are removed from these temporary place- mendations in all three areas that would entail entering the ‘school-to- ments. Approximately one in four LGBTQ mainly policy, regulatory and legislative chang- youth are kicked out or run away from their es, as well as mandatory training for direct jail’ pipeline.” living situations. service professionals and administrators and “This statistic is disproportionate and the conduct of needs assessments. YEA urges munity has recently secured several new shocking,” commented Ingrid Lofgren, a that the Office of the Governor, state govern- rights, including marriage equality and the Skadden Fellow, Homeless Persons Rep- ment agency directors, legislators, and po- Fairness for All Marylanders Act, there is resentation Project, litical candidates read much work to be done to protect the rights at the unveiling cer- this report and decide of LGBTQ youth,” said Aaron Merki, exec- emony of the YEA re- what initiatives they will utive director of FreeState Legal Project, port Living in the Mar- champion to improve one of the founding members of YEA, in gins held at the Enoch the outcomes of these announcing the report’s release. Pratt Free Library. youth. This has been an ongoing issue that Jabari Lyles, who “When youth enter is in need of attention and solutions. LG- is with the Baltimore spaces in which they BTQ youth are at a heightened risk of en- Area chapter of the Gay are to be supervised tering the “school-to-jail pipeline.” Public Lesbian and Straight as well as protected by institutions and systems – primarily the Education Network adults, they expect that education, foster care, and juvenile justice (GLSEN) and a mem- professionals will be systems – are among the toughest envi- ber of YEA, added, knowledgeable about ronments for LGBTQ youth. YEA’s report “People have to won- individual youth rights briefly outlines the current barriers fac- der what is going wrong and needs, as well as ing LGBTQ youth as they navigate these when they hear that sensitive, respectful, three systems, and proposes specific rec- as many as one-third and effective in their ommendations for addressing these chal- of LGBTQ youth never interactions with all lenges. finish high school and youth,” Diana Philip, Statistics from GLSEN put the prob- up to 40% of our home- Policy Director for lems in perspective. For instance, 64% less youth self-identify FreeState Legal Proj- of LGBTQ students feel unsafe in their as LGBTQ.” ect, told Baltimore OUTloud. “LGBTQ youth in schools because of their sexual orienta- The high rates of homelessness lead to an Maryland are no different.” tion, and 44% because of their gender ex- increased involvement with the juvenile justice Philip urges Maryland LGBTQ communi- pression. system, which is often challenging for LGBT ties to take notice of their youth. “The coalition The bullying problem that often af- youth in terms of their health and safety espe- is looking for individuals and groups to join fects LGBTQ students begins a spiral that cially from those adults who punish them or try YEA and participate in workgroups formed to places these youth at risk. Often school to change their sexual orientation. And once implement the recommendations outlined in personnel fail to address the needs of the released, they face other barriers including fin- the report. We are asking adults and youth to bullied victims, and they are routinely sus- ishing school, obtaining employment, locating read the report and select the recommen- pended, expelled, and criminalized, push- stable housing, and dealing with mental and dations that they feel they can best contrib- ing them into the juvenile justice systems. physical health issues – all could lead to arrest ute knowledge, contacts, and resources to If the students are not out to their par- and incarceration. influence administrators, policy makers, ents or guardians, they cannot turn to them Dijohn Thomas, a Baltimore-area youth and legislators in their home counties.” for support for fear of rejection. Once the advocate, pointed out at the Pratt Library pre- To view the report, visit Freestatelegal. families learn the reasons for the bullying, sentation that while in school he was picked org/what-we-do/policy. t the home situation could be unaccepting on for being gay by his principal and teachers. and even violent. Accordingly, these youth “People fear what they don’t know,” he said. may be forced to leave because of the hos- “They need education.” He added, “Foster tile environment or the families could kick homes are the worst place to be in. I was at- them out altogether. tacked, beaten up, and things were stolen They may be forced to live on the street from me.” or “couch surf” causing them to be vulnera- Some blame the police for LGBTQ home-

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Crisean is Using Music to Inspire Others – continued from page 1

news // LOCAL GLCCB Board Conducts Open Meeting B y Steve Charing September 12-14 that the GLCCB is help- Responding to community insistence that ing to promote, a book reading at the Cen- the GLCCB’s board of directors becomes ter by authors Gregg Shapiro and James more open and transparent, the board Magruder on September 17, and on Sep- on August 11 held their first public board tember 21, the GLCCB will be a sponsor in meeting in years. Following a town hall the Fells Point Music Festival. meeting held in July that was at times con- In addition, the Center has several tentious, the Center moved quickly to invite events lined up including a happy hour the public to the August board meeting and in Canton on October 1 at The Chasseur posted the invitation to the Center’s web- and participating in AIDS Walk D.C. on Oc- site Glccb.org. Past copies of tax forms tober 25. There are also programs in the 990 and previous board meeting minutes works, such as a six-week conversational to the extent they were located were also ASL workshop; a youth theatre project with posted online. Iron Crow Theatre in conjunction with the Fifteen members of the LGBTQ com- Rainbow Youth Alliance; a youth arts pro- munity witnessed the meeting that featured gram involving MICA; an LGBT domestic an ambitious agenda. An important order violence / sexual assault support group; of business was the installation of three and a support group for trans couples. new board members: John McClernan, Following the business discussions, Jr., Michael Derouin, and Scott Tinsley- the board opened up the floor to questions Hall. They join Mike McCarthy (president), from the public that included questions Daniel Moore (treasurer), Gilles Strom- about inclusivity and finances. berg (secretary), Chris Adkins (member- Bill Redmond-Palmer, a former board at-large) and Shelly Higgins (member-at- member was in attendance. “This meeting large). was a laudable first step that should be In addition to the board members pro- followed by holding community meetings viding updates to action items and status in accordance with their bylaws, and seri- of the Center’s financials, Kelly Neel, the ously considering opportunities to truly en- interim executive director, discussed a ro- gage community participation, especially bust list of activities in which the GLCCB reinstating community membership in the will be participating as well as upcoming Center,” he said. meetings with community leaders and rep- The next board meeting is September resentatives. 8 at the GLCCB located in the Waxter Cen- For example, there will be an LGBT ter, 1000 Cathedral Street. Visit Glccb.org/ Exclusive Transformational Workshop on about-us/our-board-minutes. t

Current GLCCB Board members: (left to right): Gilles Stromberg (secretary); Michael Derouin (at-large, elected in August); Shelly Higgins (at-large); Chris Adkins (at-large); Mike McCarthy (president); John McClernan, Jr. (at-large, elected in August); Scott Tinsley-Hall (at-large, elect- ed in August); and Daniel Moore (treasurer) credit: GLCCB BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 news // LOCAL

ther as well as her aunt who spoke fondly about her beloved niece. Friends and com- A Celebration of Life munity members offered remembrances, poems and prayers. Inspirational music BY Bill Redmond-Palmer dancing to the exact choreography she was provided by local Baltimore musicians Several dozen community members gath- had seen in music videos. Amirror and Blaire Leon. ered on Saturday, August 17 at the Spiri- Mia loved home-cooked meals and The service was organized by Monica tual Empowerment Center in Charles Vil- often fussed if she Stevens, a trans- lage to say “until we meet again” to send was not informed “Her friends recall gender community Mia Henderson home with dignity and to that a meal had member who was celebrate her life. Mia was a 26-year-old been prepared in her her adoration for her compelled to do transgender woman, brutally murdered on absence. She was younger siblings, ‘girl something to bring July 16. Also honored at the service was proud of her family people together to 40-year-old Kandy Hall, another transgen- and friends, and of- time’ outings to the honor Mia, even der woman who was viciously murdered a ten spoke highly of nail spa, as well as though she had only few weeks earlier on June 3. Hall was a them. Her friends re- met Mia twice. Sev- hairdresser from Annapolis. call her adoration for her immense pride eral attendees had Born in Baltimore in 1987, Mia Hen- her younger siblings, never met Mia, but derson grew up in Kinston, North Caro- “girl time” outings to in her brother, NBA wanted to offer the lina, graduating from high school in 2006. the nail spa with her guard Reggie Bullock, support and solidar- Mia Henderson posted this photo on Shortly thereafter she moved back to Balti- sisters, as well as ity of their faith com- Facebook on July 8, 2014 more where she is said to have conquered her immense pride who plays for the Los munities or commu- the hearts of many of those around her. in her brother, NBA nity organizations. them being connected. Last year another As a humorous and outgoing social guard Reggie Bull- Angeles Clippers.” The service was transgender woman – 29-year-old Kelly butterfly, a ten-minute trip to the grocery ock, who plays for followed by a recep- Young – was found dead in East Baltimore, store took thirty minutes, as Mia stopped the Los Angeles Clippers. tion where friends, family, and allies broke and unfortunately her killer has yet to be to greet nearly every person she saw. Mia The service was officiated by Rev. M. bread together, and shared stories and brought to justice. t was an avid Beyonce fan, and often awak- Olu Moise, who also offered an uplifting hugs. Bill Redmond-Palmer is a long time ened her roommates at the break of dawn sermon. Several of Mia’s family members Baltimore Police are still investigating community organizer and advocate for singing along with Beyonce’s music and were in attendance, including her grandfa- both murders, as well as the possibility of HIV/AIDS- and LGBTQ-related issues.

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // national

Smithsonian Collects LGBT Artifacts photographer and Washington, D.C., native Patsy Lynch, who’s work documents sev- As part of its mission to document the full parade in Phoenix in 2000. Helms is also do- fessional tennis player. In 1975, after under- eral decades of the struggle for LGBT civil breadth of the American experience, the nating a Transgender American Veterans As- going sex-reassignment surgery, she was rights; a full run of the newsletter, The Drag Smithsonian’s National Museum of American sociation button and a TransParentDay.org denied entry into the 1976 U.S. Open by the Rag by LGBT historian and activist Mark History will add a significant number of ob- rubber wrist bracelet. United States Tennis Association, citing a Meinke; and 86 photographs from Cuban jects and archival materials related to LGBT Ambassador David Huebner – Hueb- women-born-women policy. She disputed the American photographer Silvia Ros who has history, including Renee Richard’s tennis ner served as the U.S. ambassador to New ban and the New York Supreme Court ruled documented the LGBT community for more racquet, the original transgender pride flag, than a decade. materials from the NBC television series Will These donations join the museum’s col- and Grace and the diplomatic passports of lections of more than 3 million objects and ar- former U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand chival materials. The museum’s LGBT collec- and Samoa David Huebner and his spouse, tions date back to the 19th century. Objects Duane McWaine, and will acknowledge sev- in the collections include a selection of pro- eral other recent donations. test signs from gay civil rights activist Frank The museum officially accepted the ob- Kameny, materials relating to the military’s jects into its collections at a donation cer- “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, Billie Jean King’s emony on August 19 that was attended by tennis dress and HIV and AIDS-related lab Huebner and McWaine; Will and Grace cre- equipment and medications. The archival ators David Kohan and Max Mutchnick; flag collections are rich in ephemera, oral histo- designer Monica Helms; Washington, D.C., ries, photographs, posters and entertainment photographer Patsy Lynch; Florida photog- publicity materials. The museum has also rapher Silvia Ros; Mark Meinke, LGBT his- collected materials that express opposition torian and activist; and representatives from to LGBT issues, including protest posters as- donor organizations: GLBT Community Cen- sociated with the Westboro Baptist Church, a ter of Baltimore and Central Maryland and copy of The Anita Bryant Story and materials the D.C. Cowboys. in opposition to gay marriage. “The pursuit of civil rights in America is The museum has mounted various LGBT woven throughout our history,” said John history displays throughout the years, includ- Gray, director of the museum. “It is a tale of ing two marking the 25th and 40th anniversa- struggle and accomplishment as the nation ries of the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York strives to fulfill its ideals. We are grateful to City, generally considered the beginning of our donors for assisting us to fulfill our mis- T he historical Mattachine Review –Illustrious predecessor to Baltimore OUTloud! the public gay rights movement in the U.S.; sion to help the public understand the past an exhibit on the 30th anniversary of the in order to make sense of the present and Zealand and Samoa between 2009 and in her favor in a landmark decision in favor of emergence of the HIV and AIDS epidemic; shape a more humane future.” January 2014. He was the first openly gay transsexual rights. She recently donated the and a display during the 10th anniversary of D.C. Cowboys Dance Company Re- ambassador in the Obama administration. Dunlop tennis racquet she used to win the the AIDS Memorial Quilt. cords Founded by Kevin Platte, the D.C. At the Senate confirmation hearing, Hueb- 1963 All- Navy Championship and the 1964 National Museum of American History Cowboys Dance Company was an all-male, ner introduced his spouse Duane McWaine New York State Men’s Championship, play- explores the infinite richness and complexity gay, nonprofit dance group based in Wash- and noted that the day was their 20th wed- ing as Richard Raskin. Included in the dona- of American history. The museum is located ington, D.C., active from 1994 to 2012. The ding anniversary. The museum is adding the tion are a high school trophy, ophthalmology at 14th Street and Constitution Avenue N.W., donation includes business records and doc- couple’s diplomatic passports, four challenge loupes, a hat, red silk dress, shoes and an and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. umentation of its national and international coins designed and distributed during Hueb- autographed photo of Martina Navratilova. (closed December 25). Admission is free. performances, along with photographs and ner’s tenure and a quilt commemorating mar- Recent Donations – The Museum also For more information, visit Americanhistory. costuming. riage equality from Samoa. acknowledged a number of recent dona- si.edu or call 202-633-1000 for Smithsonian GLBT Community Center of Baltimore David Kohan and Max Mutchnick, Cre- tions, including more than 100 images from information. t and Central Maryland The Gay and Lesbian ators of Will and Grace – Will and Grace Community Center of Baltimore is donating aired on NBC from Sept. 21, 1998, to May material documenting LGBT life in Baltimore 18, 2006, and is recognized as the most suc- during the past 40 years. Included are pho- cessful television series featuring gay princi- tographs, gay pride ephemera, editor’s files pal characters. Creators Kohan and Mutch- TYRE’S REPAIR from the Baltimore Gay Paper, Gay Life, nick are donating a number of materials, Quality Workmanship correspondence, advertising and materials including copies of Mutchnick’s correspon- AUTO related to the National Association of LGBT dence with the Human Rights Campaign, Community Centers. copies of the show’s scripts and an original Al Monica Helms, Transgender Pride Hirschfeld caricature of the principal charac- Flag Helms joined the Navy after high school, ters. NBC has also agreed to donate a num- 410.252.8001 serving in the engine room of two submarines ber of objects from its archives, including a 24/7 Towing 410-583-8888 until 1978. In 1997, she started living as a pill bottle and flask, the signboard for “Grace Voted Baltimore’s Best Auto Repair – City Paper 2000 woman and became involved in transgender Adler Interior Design” and Will Truman’s activism. She created the first transgender framed diploma from Columbia University. Next to Timonium Business Park Lightrail Stop pride flag in 1999 as a symbol of transgender Renee Richards – Richards is an Ameri- 1955 GreeNSPriNG Drive diversity and rights and debuted it at a Pride can ophthalmologist, author and former pro-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 beyod n the beltway compiled by Jim Becker Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Hondu- part of the opening ceremony. drama The Night Listener, based on the Ar- ras, Guatemala, and then on to Mexico and Members of the Sisters of Perpetual mistead Maupin novel of the same name, finally El Paso, Texas. Indulgence were in Cleveland for the Gay saw Williams play gay radio show host Sinayor was attacked back home by Games to hand out safe-sex kits outside Gabriel Noone. Mrs. Doubtfire featured Ga Mashie Youth for Change, an anti-gay Q Arena. The officer forced them to leave Harvey Fierstein as Williams’s gay brother. group that the police cannot prosecute be- the arena area, even though they had pre- In his most recent television series, “The cause of their operating under the aegis purchased tickets to attend. They also said Crazy Ones,” Brad Garrett played a mar- of local leaders. “The chief and his elders that other Sisters who were originally sup- ried gay man who was the co-owner of the and some politicians both supported this posed to participate in Opening Ceremo- ad agency with Williams’s character. In the youth movement that targets homosexuals nies were cut from the event. Gay Games new indie film Boulevard, Williams plays and lesbians… leaving the police with little officials said they hadn’t heard about any Nolan Mack, a man who is dealing with to do to fully defend and protect the vic- incidents happening outside the arena in coming out late in life. tims,” police superintendent A.C. Wowolo Cleveland. And they said that even though Williams was also a friend and ally to wrote in a letter to the immigration court, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were the LGBT community through his real-life supplied to Buzzfeed by Sinayor’s attor- A midu Fredrick Sinayor not included in opening ceremonies, the advocacy, including attending the 15th An- neys. The federal attorney could appeal drag community was. nual GLAAD Media Awards in 2004, where the court’s decision in Sinayor’s case; re- Former Dallas resident Shawn Huff, he presented a special award to then-San Immigration gardless, it will take weeks for the govern- who now lives in Cleveland, said he un- Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom in rec- ment to process his asylum. (Gay People’s derstood the Sisters were escorted off the ognition of his decision to issue marriage judge grants Chronicle – Anthony Glassman at Gaypeo- property because they were distributing licenses to same-sex couples. In a state- pleschronicle.com) condoms. “The city has bent over back- ment, GLAAD said, “We’re saddened by asylum to gay wards to be hospitable,” he said. “This the loss of such a strong ally and grate- was a huge event for the city. There are ful for the outstanding work he did during African rainbow flags everywhere and billboards. his life to promote equality and bring LGBT I haven’t heard of one incident in the city.” stories to mainstream audiences. (GLAAD El Paso, Texas – On July 30, a federal “About 12,000 participants and specta- & Bay Windows – Megan Townsend at immigration judge granted asylum to a gay tors representing a diverse cross section Baywindows.com) African in a Texas detention center. Amidu of the Northeast Ohio community as well Fredrick Sinayor escaped from Ghana to as out-of-town guests, friends and families South America after being attacked repeated- enjoyed Opening Ceremony. Obama is the ly by anti-gay gangs spurred on by religious first host-country’s leader in the history of Blog lists and political leaders in the African nation. the Gay Games to officially open the event. Dozens of Africans have made the per- (Dallas Voice – David Taffet at Dallasvoice. back-to-school ilous trek from Africa to South America and com) then north to the U.S., only to be picked resources for up by immigration officials. Depending on which border town they cross into the U.S. gay parents in, there’s between a 13 and 62 percent Death of Robin chance they will be granted asylum. Sinay- Boston, Mass. – With the start of or was going to escape to South Africa, Williams a school approaching, LGBT parents may but after hearing news reports of violence feel extra pressure not knowing if our chil- against LGBT people in the country, de- Obama video loss to LGBT dren’s teachers and classmates will be spite its constitutional protections, he de- welcoming to our families. Here are some cided instead to head to the United States, opens Gay communities resources that may help you work con- paying sailors in Cameroon $2,000 to take structively with schools and teachers in the him across the Atlantic. He was brought Games while cop Los Angeles, Cal. – The death of actor year ahead. to Colombia, then met up with a group of and comedian Robin Williams is big loss to other Africans and traveled north through bars Sisters the LGBT communities. Through his work in film and television and his real life advo- Cleveland, Ohio – While President cacy, Williams showed his strong support These news notes have been compiled, Barack Obama was welcoming participants for the LGBT people. with permission, from the online version and fans to the U.S. via video inside the While Williams’s most well-known gay of various newspapers and other web arena, a Cleveland police officer was turn- role is his portrayal of The Birdcage’s cab- sites. We thank these publications for ing away the Sisters of Perpetual Indul- aret owner Armand Goldman, he starred allowing us to bring you their news sto- gence outside. Dallas Sister Lawna Jocqui in several LGBT-inclusive films and series ries. Usually the reports have been sig- said she and Sister Rachel from Cleveland throughout his career. He played the title nificantly edited and you can read the were outside the arena distributing safe- character in 1982’s film adaptation The full story by going to the web site men- sex kits when a Cleveland police officer, World According to Garp, which co-starred tioned following the item. Comments identified as Lt. Chuck Depenti, told them John Lithgow as transgender former foot- are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker to go across the street. Once they were ball player Roberta Muldoon. Roberta is and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride across the street, they continued handing considered by many to be one of the first Media. out their packets, but they said athletes sympathetic transgender characters in a and spectators asked why they weren’t film made for a mass audience. The 2006

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway news // the panhandle Frederick Center Applauds IRS Recognition Teaching Tolerance’s guide, “Best Rudolph is the founder and publisher of Practices: Creating an LGBT-inclusive Mombian (Mombian.com), a GLAAD Media B y Steve Charing youth in our central Maryland community. This School Climate,” is a useful compact ref- Award-winning blog and resource directory The Frederick Center, the leading organiza- is a major step toward engaging and educating erence for classrooms of all ages – Toler- for LGBT parents. There is much more on tion for LGBTQ resources and advocacy in the people of Frederick about what we’re doing ance.org/lgbt-best-practices. The Family her website. (Bay Windows – Dana Ru- central Maryland, announced that its applica- and how they can help us.” Added Board Chair Equality Council’s Inclusive Schools page dolph at Mombian.com & Baywindows. tion for tax-exempt status under IRS regula- Brian Walker, “We owe thanks to the many offers sample letters that parents can send com) tions was officially approved last month. Ac- donors who have supported us since our in- to teachers to start a conversation about cording to the approving letter, the effective ception. This designation now clears the way LGBT inclusion; suggestions for making date of the exemption is April 5, 2013, mean- for us to grow our efforts and to expand our school forms more inclusive, and book ing all contributions to the Frederick Center outreach into the community.” ideas for all ages. Phoenix Rugby since that date are tax-exempt. Celebrating the announcement are from Gender Spectrum has classroom dis- Among other benefits, the 501(c)(3) non- left: Ryan Andrews, Austin Beach, Silad cussion ideas, information about teacher Team Going to profit status clears the way for the Frederick Murphy, Cindie Beach, Brian Walker, Mau- training, school policy suggestions, and Center to seek funding for its peer support reen Connors, Rev. Rob Apgar-Taylor, and more related to gender identity and ex- Australia for activities currently including groups for youth, Steven Pippin. pression, in addition to many other useful trans and gender nonconforming, victims of The Frederick Center was founded in resources for parents. genderspectrum. Bingham Cup sexual violence, as well as its HIV home-test 2012 with the vision of being the leading orga- org/education/. For families with young kit distribution efforts. nization for LGBTQ children, the Human Rights Campaign’s Phoenix, Arizona – The Phoenix “The Frederick Center E xempt at resources in cen- Welcoming Schools site is perhaps the Storm is heading to Sydney, Australia, is delighted to finally re- The Frederick tral Maryland. t best single resource here, covering family for the 2014 Bingham Cup. The biannual ceive our 501(c)(3) status,” Center For more in- diversity, gender stereotyping, and bully- rugby tournament, set for Aug. 24 to 31, said executive director formation, contact ing. They have a section just for parents beckons the best players from around the Austin Beach. “Our board the Frederick Cen- and caregivers (as well as ones for teach- world to compete on an international stage has spent many hours ter, P.O. Box 3231, ers and administrators), with book recom- and to celebrate diversity within the sport. working on this in order to Frederick, Maryland mendations, ideas for building community, Named after Mark Bingham, a gay rugby kick-start our development 21705-3231; the- suggestions for productive discussions player and 9/11 hero, the tournament takes efforts. We have some frederickcenter@ with teachers and administrators, and place every two years and is open to LGBT pivotal programs in need gmail.com; Face- much more. Be sure to watch the trailer and straight players alike. of funding, especially the book.com/TheFred- for their award-winning DVD, What Do You “Bingham Cup is a world champion- outreach to the LGBTQ erickCenter. Know? Six- to 12-year-olds talk about gays ship,” said Mike Fortey Phoenix Storm and lesbians – Welcomingschools.org/ head coach. “There’s more focus and more parents-or-caring-adults. GLSEN’s Ready, purpose in play because everyone wants Set, Respect Toolkit is a great set of tools and lesson plans for elementary school teachers covering name-calling and bully- ing, family diversity, gender-role diversity, and more – Glsen.org/readysetrespect. Many resources aimed at older stu- dents focus on LGBT youth, but most also have applicability to children of LGBT par- ents, whatever the children’s sexual ori- entation or gender identity. GLSEN again is a good resource here, with extensive safe-schools materials for both educators and students, including information on its educator training program and start- ing gay-straight alliances, as well as re- search about the impact of homophobia to prove their worth.” “It’s really all about and transphobia. glsen.org. GLSEN also inclusion and diversity. There’s no restric- manages a number of programs/events to tion on having gay and straight players on engage school communities of all grades teams,” Fortey said. “Mark Bingham was throughout the academic year, including a strong advocate for building bridges be- Ally Week, ThinkB4YouSpeak, the Day of tween guys who play sports who are gay Silence, No Name-Calling Week, and the and guys who play sports who are straight. Safe Space Kit. PFLAG’s Safe Schools for It was just about bringing people who like All: Cultivating Respect program has simi- to play sports together.” lar materials (in English and Spanish) for This year marks the fifth time members making schools safer, reducing bullying, of the Storm have participated – including and providing comprehensive health edu- the 2010 tournament in Minneapolis where cation. The Gay-Straight Alliance Network the team won first place in its division. t also has great materials for starting or (Echo Magazine – Laura Latzko at Eco- sustaining a GSA – Gsanetwork.org. Dana mag.com)

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 Thinking OUTloud

On that waterlogged August 12 morn- Indeed, we’ve painted no matter ing, ten YEA coalition members and LG- achieved goals how noble and de- BTQ youth spoke passionately about the in equality and sirable the goal is. OUT experiences of bullying, harassment, and transgender non- I’m concerned that Spoken discrimination that tend to lead to negative discrimination that the whole effort to outcomes. were seemingly make changes in Steve Charing Most of us are aware that LGBTQ youth unimaginable five the Education piece are bullied and tormented in school or on- years ago, and we could be derailed if line. We have a sense that some parents are proud of that. this recommenda- kick their kids out of their homes when they Those have been tion is included in The Next find out their child is LGBTQ. We realize powerful, sexy is- the package. that homeless children (as well as adults) sues that attracted Nonetheless, Big Thing are at great risk on numerous levels. We generous contribu- the other recom- recognize, too, that foster care is not a tions, volunteers mendations are There was an abundance of symbol- good solution to homelessness when the and the work by elected officials to make it ambitious and solid and could go a long ism on the day the report from the Youth child is constantly discriminated against, happen. These matters were the subject of way towards alleviating the misery expe- Equality Alliance (YEA) was released, bullied, or abused. conversations from dinner parties in Bolton rienced by LGBTQ youth. The rest of us which revealed that many LGBTQ youth We know these problems exist; there- Hill and Silver Spring to the pews in Balti- should get behind the effort by lobbying in Maryland are facing difficult challenges fore, it’s time to finally turn our attention to more’s churches to the sands of Rehoboth legislators and other officials, and at a mini- including homelessness. The unveiling of the plight of our LGBTQ youth. Aaron Mer- Beach. mum, raise awareness about problems fac- the report Living in the Margins (Freestate- ki, the executive director for the FreeState They were historic, monumental ing our youth. Moreover, the YEA needs to legal.org/what-we-do/policy) took place Legal Project, which is one of the founding achievements. Are we ready to tackle the keep our communities informed through the in Baltimore’s Enoch Pratt Free Central members of the YEA coalition, agreed. “Al- gritty, less glamorous task of helping our LGBT press of any progress so that their Library where homeless individuals fre- though the Maryland LGBTQ community youth? I hope so. It’s time, and it’s the next efforts could gain momentum by enlisting quently enter to gain shelter. It also oc- has recently secured several new rights, big thing, although much work is still need- additional support. curred during the record-breaking deluge, including marriage equality and the Fair- ed to ensure our safety, combat HIV/AIDS, “Maryland LGBTQ communities are which reminded people of the deplorable ness for All Marylanders Act, there is much address the needs of the burgeoning aging called upon to take notice of their youth,” conditions the homeless must endure on work to be done to protect the rights of LG- population and deal with other concerns. said Diana Philip, policy director for days like that. BTQ youth.” The YEA coalition, consisting of a num- FreeState Legal Project. “We are asking ber of advocacy groups and individuals, is adults and youth to read the report and searching for additional members to join select the recommendations that they feel in and participate in workgroups formed they can best contribute knowledge, con- to implement the recommendations out- tacts, and resources to influence admin- lined in the report. Many of these initia- istrators, policy makers, and legislators in tives require policy, regulatory, or legisla- their home counties. I am hopeful that we tive changes to help LGBTQ youth, and the will have youth in the room to help inform process is expected to take several years. discussion and decision-making.” As YEA constructs the coalition, hope- To that end, Philip pointed out that YEA fully those joining will not simply lend their has begun reaching out to Gay Straight Alli- name as we have seen at times before, but ances and LGBTQ youth community groups rather they should roll up their sleeves and throughout the state to see if they can part- work. And YEA should ensure accountabil- ner to hold Speak Up, Speak Out events – ity in that regard. public discussions where LGBTQ youth can In the coming weeks, YEA will assign share their experiences in schools, foster tasks to those best equipped to carry them care, and juvenile services. “We want to out. Much of the changes are political and capture information about the parts of these enlisting the support of top elected officials three systems that are supportive of these is paramount to implementing the recom- youth as well as the parts which undermine mendations. Our LGBT caucus in Annapo- their wellbeing – what works, what doesn’t, lis, fresh off of the previous two big victo- what we should fix,” she said. ries, would be helpful in championing this This is going to require an all-hands-on- cause as well. deck approach from our communities. Rev. One recommendation, however, is a Olu-Moses Moise from the Apostolic Catho- non-starter, in my judgment. Under the sec- lic Church said as much at the Pratt Library tion titled “Education,” there is this: “Teach event, “I’m glad we are saying ‘enough is students about LGBTQ rights, issues, and enough.’ This is a call to LGBTQ commu- history in a K-12 curriculum.” nities to come out to support LGBTQ chil- While that would be great, it will unlikely dren.” fly politically. Those who opposed marriage While other work is needed and should equality will get on their soap boxes and not be brushed aside, helping solve the say, “We told you that if gays were allowed challenges facing our LGBTQ youth is the to marry, the next step is teaching homosex- next big thing. They are the future; we must uality in the schools.” That’s how it would be join in. t

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud

change. That means that, sometimes you REAL TRANS TALK: 1967, Quiet Before Storm have to modify yourself or at least your be- havior so you won’t end up just another en- By Vann Michael the horrific bullying, misunderstanding and trée on a greedy girl’s buffet. The year was 1967. Motown, Soul Train, and isolation many on the transgender spectrum Lesbian “Off with her head” is just my way of afros were the sounds and scenes of the share. Taboo saying, break the cycle; she comes in, se- Baltimore black community. The Civil Rights Candidly she spoke her truth. “Living Nicole Bettis duces you, occupies your mind, plants her Movement had hit its peak and racial tension with my mother, uncle, and grandmother was seeds, and walks away… until she decides was high in Baltimore. Traveling down mem- hard for me. My mom was not emotionally to come back, seduce you, occupy your ory lane they recall their parent’s black light, available; she pushed me away often. She Off with Her mind, plant – See where I’m going with this. and velvet-textured artwork adding to the had no patience and yelled so much. My un- You have to cut her off. No matter if the situ- conscious energy of the times to their home. cle – loud, opinionated, and an abusive ad- Head part 2 ation started out that way or turned out that As Roxanne Storm, affectionately called dict – constantly tore me down. He called me way, you have to change it! “Roxi,” shares her unique coming of age a sissy and other derogatory names. I came How? Well that’s the million-dollar story with Real Trans Talk, we had the op- home from the store after being robbed. It’s so easy to tell other people what they question. I can’t tell you how exactly to go portunity to learn Hurt and scared should do or how they should handle a about cutting her off. Everyone has their what it felt like to I started to cry situation, especially when you’re not in own way. Some people just stop all com- exist before the and his words the situation yourself. But what happens munication with her – no phone calls, no word transgen- of consolation when you are smack-dab in the middle of text, no emails, nothing. Others simply, der became a were, ‘You ‘mis the mess? What happens when the strong close the intimate doors and try to create a part of the Ameri- well give up any- walls of your relationship begin to buckle? platonic type of relationship with her. In my can lexicon. way and dress Or worse, what happens when those walls experience, the latter almost never works With gleam- for a man!’ My come crashing down? How do you recov- because, while I’m busy trying to close cer- ing eyes, Roxi mother defended er? tain doors she’s busy sticking her foot in the recounts her him and said, See, I like to practice what I call “pre- cracks. Just try everything until something hidden girl- ‘He’s just trying ventive relationship maintenance” (and works and if all else fails, just evict her ass hood. During to make a man yes, I made that up). I like to do things on a from that space that she’s renting between my pre-school out of you.’ daily basis that help to prevent certain situ- your legs. I guarantee you that once you do days I remem- “At school ations from arising. For example, I try to that, the space that she’s also occupying ber practicing things were no pay attention. I try to listen to what my par- between your ears will eventually become screaming like a better, even my ticular love interest at the time says, even off-limits to her. You may even begin ac- girl. “You know gym teacher when she’s not talking. Most times this cepting new applications for a much bet- those Hollywood teased me. Pic- works in my favor. If it seems like she nev- ter tenant (wink). It may be difficult at first screams?” She ture the comedi- er wants to go out together or she never but, with each passing day the power will invites us to an Damon Way- stays to cuddle after sex, more often than shift back in your favor. Soon the decisions take the trip with ans with an afro not, she turn out to be the kind of woman you make will be rooted in certainty and not her in her ultra and bell bottoms I warned you to avoid – only interested fear, loneliness, or confusion. girl scream. “Oh my goodness! I remember – that’s what he looked like except there was in loving the sex, not actually loving me. I can tell you this though, when you fi- watching television, I had to be about five nothing funny about him. He pushed me to my If this is the case, because I had an idea nally, truly cut her off (despite your means) years old and thinking I want to have beau- limits and taunted me about not being ‘macho in the beginning, hopefully I can find my and your mind begins to clear, you will be tiful legs like the women I saw. Then when enough’ and cheating, I resorted to hitting him. way out before she finds her way in (into better able to see the whole, entire picture the L’eggs Sheer Energy Pantyhose com- I did have one friend who wanted to dress in those in-between spaces I told you about). all the way to the edges of the frame. Not mercials aired I knew I had to have a pair,” jeans and shirts, and gave my sister flower Just like everything else, this method isn’t only will you be able to see yourself for the she recalls, bursting into a giggle. Then in print dresses which she didn’t like. I wanted to perfect. Sometimes, I mistake an introvert wonderful, beautiful, breathtaking, amazing an instant the joyous girlhood is halted when keep the dresses so bad, but my mother gave as being uninterested or a person who isn’t person that you are, you’ll also be able to she recollects when her mother caught her them back, another fleeting moment.” necessary as affectionate as I am as aloof. see her for the marvelous person that she’s trying on a pair of hosiery for the first time. In Roxi describes her childhood as a “death So just try not to be too hasty in your judg- not. t a solemn, flat tone, she shared, “Needless to camp” in which she was unable to be who ments but don’t waste your time either. say she discouraged me.” Her eyes still con- she felt herself to be. Suicidal thoughts fre- As we all know, sometimes even when vey the fleeting joy. It is a feeling that many quently crossed her mind. She felt like she we think we are doing everything right and Like Us On transgender people experience while drawn was being brainwashed by everyones’ fears taking all the precautions shit still happens. to their most natural inclinations. and expectations. “No one asked what was Like I said before, some “situation-ships” Facebook! Still frustrated she goes on to tell us, “No on my mind but instead wanted me to ‘go just can’t be avoided; sometimes regular/ one wanted to see me for who I was and am. with the flow’ or ‘be like one of us.’ I didn’t good relationships turn into other types of Either they didn’t see me or couldn’t accept like the idea or thought of ‘dressing up’ as “ships” without warning. Sometimes we find me. Everyone told me not to be sensitive, a male. I felt like my body, flesh, spirit, and ourselves in places that we never thought ‘Be a man,’ and it didn’t help that I was deal- soul had femininity spraypainted from head we’d be and no matter which way we turn ing with the stigma of a mental-health diag- to feet. I did not have any knowledge about we can’t seem to find a way out. This is nosis.” Roxanne grew up in West Baltimore the difference between homo and hetero until when you have to take a step back and re- during the 70s. Born with a communication Newsweek published an article entitled “Gay member who you are – realize the power disorder she recounts how difficult it was to America” around 1985. I only knew what I that you have inside of yourself, and realize attend school being misgendered. Although felt, like a girl. There were no words to de- the power that you give up when you open she did not understand that she was trans, scribe me, no support to help me understand up to the wrong person, even if she used to she certainly felt deep in her soul that she who I was. Why didn’t the world want me to be the right person. Things change. People was a girl. Hence, she encountered all of be me?” t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 Quality of Life

Though ingredients such as parabens, limiting the body to exposure of parabens amounts for children. Lavender is consid- sulfates, dyes, fragrance, and phthalates was recommended by many health care ered the golden botanical of essential oil The have been around for quite some time, experts, especially those from outside the therapy and has been proven to be effec- they are not necessarily welcomed by U.S. As unsurprising as one would expect, tive in reducing anxiety and stress and is Essentials those that strive to live a healthy lifestyle. the CDC stated that “finding a measurable an excellent facilitator for healing minor of Living Naturally Parabens are used extensively in per- amount of parabens… does not imply that cuts, scrapes, bruises, and sunburn. Michael Lausterer sonal care products because they prevent they cause an adverse health effect.” When reading the ingredient label of bacterial growth. They are an inexpensive Walk down many of the personal care any product, if the word fragrance is listed, preservative and generally effective. Para- aisles in the store and you are welcomed the aroma is a fragrance-oil base. When it Parabens, bens have been around since the 1950s with the aroma of these products. The aro- comes to natural essential oils, the genus and have a long track record of safety, matic qualities of these products can come and species along with the common name which is why newer preservatives are used from two sources – natural or synthetic. should be listed; lavender would be listed Fragrances, & less often. Common names of parabens For the most part, personal-care products as Lavandula angustifolia. can be found under the guise of butyl para- that are less expensive derive their aroma Manufacturers have taken an addition- Dyes Oh My! ben, methyl paraben, and propyl paraben. from synthetically-produced fragrance oils. al step by blending both essential oils and Within the last few years parabens were Unlike essential oils, which are highly con- fragrance together. When scanning labels, When it comes to personal care products, a hot topic of debate. Many consumers centrated extracts from raw plant materi- you will find the word fragrance as well as the word “natural” seems to be finding its asked manufacturers to remove the ingre- als, fragrance oils are cheaper to produce one or several genus and species of plant way on to many labels of consumer prod- dient from the products they purchased; and are made to mimic the smell of the bo- extracts. This method is less expensive ucts. The consumer has an arduous task of most of these complaints came from fe- tanical for which they are created. Some than just using essential oils and is consid- sorting through the many products on the male consumers. fragrance oils may contain a cheaper form ered a blended product. As with fragrance- market to find hidden gems that are truly Parabens were given a bad rap in the of a plant extract, but more than likely they oil based products, the “fragrance” portion deserving of the term “all-natural.” The ap- mid-90s when they were categorized as are manufactured using a petrochemical of the aroma is the most prevalent, not the proach to moving from everyday personal- xenoestrogens; they mimic the estrogen base. essential oils. care products to those that contain only hormone in the body. This finding stated Fragrance oils can be overwhelming to Dyes in products have been used for Earth-inspired ingredients may be as sim- that parabens were estrogen disruptors many, especially pets. Side effects may be decades to create eye appeal in both con- ple as reading the ingredient label. Prod- and were being linked to breast cancer and different from one person to another and sumable and non-consumable products. ucts that claim to be natural may contain reproductive issues. Though the findings can include congestion, skin sensitivity, Though external exposure to dyes causes ingredients that are complicated to read or were not conclusive as to whether para- over-stimulation of the brain’s limbic sys- less of a health risk than internal consump- are unfamiliar to the average consumer. bens had actually caused these issues, tem, as well as mimic the symptoms of tion, these synthetic colorants are now be- seasonal allergies. Using fragrance oils ing called into question as to their contribu- with pets is not recommended. An animal’s tion to health issues such as hyperactivity sense of smell is much greater than that in children, toxicity, learning impairment, or of a human, and too much fragrance can irritability. overstimulate your pet, possibly causing As of July 2010, the European Union some of the same sensitivity issues as in has mandated that food manufacturers humans. place a warning label on products contain- Essential oils are a more costly way ing dyes with a statement “may have an to incorporate aroma into a product and adverse effect on activity and attention in are safe and effective for both humans children.” and pets. Within each essential oil drop Stepping back to 2009, the British gov- are minute chemical constituents which ernment asked food manufacturers to re- work with the body. Essential oils have move most of the artificial colors used in been clinically studied many years for their their products. Currently, the U.S. does not therapeutic properties and their interac- require warnings for products containing tion within the body. They can be used in dyes and the FDA must regulate these ad- smaller quantities for dogs and in limited ditives for safety. t

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

your behalf gives you pause, preparing an One of the things we know is that the more Advance Directive should be at the top of energy you put into exercising the more your to-do list. Even if you have full con- energy you get out of it. On days when I fidence in your family to make the right Moving work out I have more energy than on days The Law decisions for your care, they may disagree Forward where I sleep late and chill out. On yoga & You among themselves. “Oh, she was a fighter Ava Barron-Shasho days you will find me accomplishing my to Lee Carpenter and would want us to keep her going,” one do list without struggle and that last minute sibling might say. “But she has no quality of run to the grocery store... not a problem. life left and shouldn’t be allowed to suffer,” Kindness works the same way. The another might counter. With an Advance Honey or more you practice acts of kindness the bet- Why You Directive to guide them, your health care ter you feel. It’s a simple way to recharge agents can take the bull by the horns and Vinegar? your battery. Kindness towards others in- Need an avoid disputes like these. creases our internal sense of happiness. One fact beyond dispute is that Ad- A phrase I often heard growing up was What’s nice about being kind is that it’s Advance vance Directives are not just for old peo- “You catch more flies with honey than you simple, doesn’t cost any money, and every- ple. Accidents and health problems can of do with vinegar.” Of course when I was re- one benefits. It is truly a win-win situation. Directive course affect any of us at any time. The ally small, elementary-school age, I would Simple acts of kindness are just that... added danger for someone young and picture the literal image of this phrase. simple. Smile at people when you pass A hospital can be a joyous place – babies healthy, however, is that the resulting inca- There on a table sat a cup of honey and to them Give a compliment. Open a door for are born, diseases conquered, and noses pacity could last for many years. The result its right a cup of vinegar. In my mind flies someone. Ask people how they’re doing. straightened. Some of life’s happiest mo- could be an extended period of time with would be all over the honey and the vinegar Greet people by name. ments and greatest victories take place the wrong person in charge of your health would stand alone and lonely (because in- When you start practicing acts of within its walls. care. At a scant five pages, an Advance animate objects had feelings, you know). kindess you start seeing the world differ- But a hospital can also be a difficult Directive fills the role decisively and with Now my image is quite different. Yes- ently. You begin looking for goodness in place, where tough someone you trust. terday, I happened to see a manager in- the world and by doing so your tolerance decisions must be Also known as teracting with a customer. The customer for stress is minimized. You might notice made: Should we in- a Medical Power of was pissed and her “attitude” was starting you start frequenting businesses where the sert a feeding tube to Attorney, Healthcare to seep out like staff is friendly try to keep dad alive? Proxy, or Living Will, too much mayo because it Should grandmother an Advance Direc- on a sandwich. “feels” good. be resuscitated even tive is an essential I was waiting for Or maybe though her dementia part of any estate the customer’s you start vol- is advancing? Who plan. If you already catlike claws to unteering should decide when have one, it is worth pop out as she because you the time has come to reviewing it to en- stood straight know you are take our dear friend sure that it’s still up and started helping oth- off life support? to date. Are your pointing and ers. When you These are difficult questions to grapple agents still available? Is their contact infor- leaning forward. start practic- with, but they can be made easier simply by mation the same? Have your preferences It was at that ing acts of considering them in advance. In preparing changed for end-of-life care? point the man- kindness your an Advance Directive, you can decide who A statement of those preferences is a vi- ager spoke up. eyes start should manage your healthcare if you be- tal part of your Advance Directive. Either on Her tone was searching for come unable to, and what kind of care you your own or with the help of an estate-plan- calm and kind. good things want to receive. The document takes effect ning attorney, you can choose various treat- If the customer was a bomb, the manager because good when you can no longer speak for yourself ment options in case you should ever find set out to disarm it with the least amount things make us happier. As I said, it be- and could be the most significant piece of pa- yourself terminally ill or in some other end- of damage. “I am so sorry for the difficulty comes a win-win situation. per you ever sign. of-life circumstance. Do you simply want to you have experienced,” she said in her “Mr. Now for you skeptics out there this Having an Advance Directive is espe- be kept comfortable and allow nature to take Rogers” tone. “I too would feel frustrated. might sound very Pollyanna-ish. I can hear cially important for same-sex couples and its course? Or should every available treat- Here you are trying to get this important you now mumbling to yourself, “Sure be other members of the LGBT community. ment and procedure be attempted? Or would task accomplished and you’re doing all the nice, blah blah, be happy, blah blah.” But Married couples – gay or straight – have a you prefer something in between? right things but it isn’t going well. I am going honestly it really works. legal right to act as each other’s health care As uncomfortable as these questions to speak to the manager of another depart- Someone told me that life is about be- “agent,” as the law calls it. But your unmar- may be, answering them ahead of time will ment to see how we can make this right.” ing happy. Though it sounds simplistic I ried partner or close friend has no authority be easier than waiting until a crisis erupts. And with that, the customer/cat pulled in think there is some truth to it. If you want to make medical decisions on your behalf Our judgment tends to be clearer in the her claws, smiled, flicked her tail and curled to reach a new level of happy try being without an Advance Directive to back them face of a hypothetical crisis, rather than a up to wait for the manager to return. She kinder because you do after all catch more up. real one. As a Mexican proverb puts it, “The had been heard and the bomb of anger had flies with honey than with vinegar. Happy Instead, that responsibility would fall appearance of the bull changes after you been disarmed. Mission accomplished. Days! t to your next of kin. If you are single, your enter the ring.” t Being kind means you are being em- Ava Barron-Shasho, MSW, is a life and adult children, your parents, or your sib- Lee Carpenter is an associate at the phatic to others. It means you are treating relationship coach, certifed by the Interna- lings would be put in charge simply by vir- law firm of Semmes, Bowen & Semmes a – others, as you would like to be treated. Be- tional Coach Federation, and welcomes tue of being blood relations. If the prospect 410-576-4729 or [email protected] ing kind tells others that they matter. feedback at avabarronshasho@yahoo. of having an estranged parent or distant Mdlgbtestateplanning.com. No specific le- Now let’s follow this one step further. com sibling making life-and-death decisions on gal advice intended. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 FAITH

is room for everyone. Our services are en- Coming Full gaging, interactive, and informative. You don’t need to know Hebrew to fit in, you Circle don’t have to be observant, and you just have to want to be there. The congregation B y Rabbi Tova Dodi has their own educational program for chil- When I returned to the Baltimore area, I dren from kindergarten to bar/bat mitzvah. spent my Shabbats (Sabbbaths) looking for We also have adult education programs a place to pray – a place to belong. I left throughout the year. Maryland as a lesbian activist and returned KHL is a diverse group of Jewish and as a lesbian activist and a rabbi. I wasn’t interfaith families joined together as one sure where I would fit in. It wasn’t an easy community. We encourage active participa- task. tion in all of our services and events creat- I wanted to pray with congregants that ing a vibrancy that comes from different vi- would welcome me, the all of me. I wanted sions, understandings, and interests. We a religious home where the rabbi would wel- explore how traditional Jewish values can come me as a congregant but also as a rabbi. be integrated with our modern lives, and we When I first arrived, I only came out as a rab- engage thoughtfully in the moral issues and bi, but not as a lesbian. It was/is the same old challenges of our times. Rabbi Geoff has story, coming out over and over again. created a “values based” congregation. He I attended many services teaches: “Judaism as re- in the Baltimore area and source,” not “end in itself.” was welcomed by all, but KHL is truly a no judgment I felt at home at Kol HaLev zone. We welcome all – in- (KHL). Rabbi Geoff Basik terfaith couples, non-prac- introduced himself to me ticing and traditional Jews as I entered the prayer and explorers (people space. After the service, looking for a faith commu- he spent time talking to nity). Kol HaLev is affiliated me about me and about with the Reconstructionist KHL. Rabbi Geoff likes to movement, using their prayer explain extends an invitation books, but not being limited by to construct the Jewish/spiritual them. Rabbi Geoff puts the heart in life we may want, and connect KHL – the Voice of the Heart. If it to our lives in general. It is you are looking for a religious not a spectator sport. I was home, our doors are open to all encouraged to participate and who wish to come in and give to use my rabbi skills. He has us a try. embraced an understanding of leadership Sabbath services include traditional that makes room for all, inviting everyone’s Torah services, non-traditional community participation and insights, everyone’s ex- lead services, “Mindful Minyans” (medita- perience and wisdom. tive services), and services lead by other Rabbi Geoff takes the teaching about leaders (myself included). humility seriously. Humility is not about I lead some services on Friday nights, making yourself small. That doesn’t serve Saturday mornings, holidays and also study anyone or any purpose. And KHL is all circles. I am working with Rabbi Geoff on about encouraging and nurturing our “full- the High Holy Day (HHD) services, co-lead- ness,” being better human beings, engag- ing the Shabbat service the sabbath before ing in psycho-social growth and develop- they start, and then parts of the HHD ser- ment, through the resources of the Jewish vices. If you are looking for a place to pray, wisdom tradition. I would recommend you join us for a Shab- I spent my first year there coming out bat service. We meet at the Browns at 6200 to one individual at a time, and then more North Charles Street, Baltimore 21212. You publicly to the congregation. Although, can reach KHL through the website at Kol- KHL has not gone through a “welcoming halevmd.org, or by phone – 410-299-7967. training,” they got it. I am now an elected I have had the great pleasure of offici- member of the board of directors, preparing ating at same-sex marriages here in Mary- a “welcoming training” session so that we land. I began fighting for equal rights, now I can officially say we are “welcoming” – but, lead prayer with many who are able to ben- the fact is, KHL is already there. efit from that work. My life’s work has truly The congregation’s is composed of come full circle. My personal email ad- young and older singles, married couples dress is [email protected]. I welcome with little ones, married couples with teen- your emails and meeting you in prayer or agers, empty-nesters, and seniors. There activism. t

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // personalities

AN INTERVIEW WITH NEON TREES’S TYLER GLENN GS: Tyler, it’s been a few months since you came out publicly. How has out that that is actually Neon body’s book. Is that kind of productivity the reaction been so far? Hitch’s name. Her parents part of Neon Trees’s long-term plans? TG: It’s been way more interesting than gave it to her. TG: Yes. I think we get bored if we’re I expected. I didn’t think it would still be She couldn’t go chang- not putting out new stuff. We’ve always something I would be talking about, but Pop Tart ing her name [laughs] and we been into the old model of bands putting I’m happy to because I think people are couldn’t fault her for that. I out (records yearly). If we could, I would intrigued with my point of view revolving don’t know the answer; may- love to put a record out every year. I also around my faith as well. I’m happy that I’ve B gy Greg Shapiro be the connotation with new wave music feel like – I don’t know if it’s everyone’s been able to do it in a really honest way. Neon Trees gay front-man Tyler Glenn is or something. label – but our label puts a lot into the first The worst things I heard were maybe from a nice guy. Funny, smart, and thoughtful, GS: I’m so glad you mentioned new song and they put a lot into the record re- gay atheists [laughs], because they were he’s the kind of artist who makes the inter- wave music because on Habits, Neon lease, but they don’t do much past that. If okay and excited about me coming out, but view process an enjoyable one. So it’s not Trees’s full-length major-label debut, we have to write a new record every time they were mad at me that I’m still religious. all that surprising that Tyler’s band also there is a song titled “1983” which is to get attention from our label [laughs], I’m GS: The closest thing LGBT folks comes off as funny, smart and thoughtful, followed by the song “Girls and Boys okay with that. I’ll continue to write records. had to a gay music festival was Cyndi especially on its latest release, Pop Psy- In School,” which recalls New Order in GS: The songs on the newest re- Lauper’s True Colors Tour, which is now chology (Mercury). A more personal effort 1983. Can you please say something cord, Pop Psychology, are as colorful an annual event held only in New York. than the quartet’s previous releases, many about the both the musical significance as the artwork for the album. Please say If Cyndi asked Neon Trees to perform of the songs involve serious subject mat- of the year 1983 and the band New Or- something about that sonic shift. as part of the benefit concert would the ter. But instead of getting bogged down, der for Neon Trees? TG: I set out to make a really dark re- band be up for that? the music, which is buoyant and brilliant TG: The song 1983 is about the year cord. When I started writing the third album TG: Yes, we have been asked to do the dance-pop, elevates the songs and the I was born, but it’s not really about the I was talking to my therapist a lot. I still Christmas show. We’ve been asked a few mood, sort of like a musical anti-depres- year. The song’s more about maintaining sant. I spoke with Tyler about the band that level of innocence before love gets Neon and more during the summer of 2014. tainted, for me anyway. I think the song Trees Gregg Shapiro: Tyler, for the few un- definitely took a more literal approach in initiated, I’d like to begin by asking you the music video. I think listeners looked to say something about the genesis of at us and thought, “Oh, they love the 80s” the name of the band. [laughs]. But I think the song was more a Tyler Glenn: I was with friends in high nostalgic thing for me, in terms of inno- school and we would hang at a burger cence and youth. New Order has always establishment called In-N-Out in Califor- been a massive influence on the band. I nia. It was one of the older, more original love their hybrid of electronic music and ones. They had these palm tree lights. We the roots of it and how it started as a band thought Neon Palm Trees sounded like back with Joy Division, when it was more a cool band name. I always kept it in the guitar-based, I thought they did that re- back of my mind [laughs]. Unfortunately, ally well. And Peter Hook’s bass-playing we are kind of tied to fast food [laughs]. is timeless. I’ve always been highly influ- GS: Were other names in conten- enced by that band, for sure. tion? GS: Back in 1983, radio and MTV TG: There was always a list of names were the main places to hear cool mu- that my guitar player and I had. But a lot of sic, such as New Order. Now bands the names were either too dark and seri- have to find other ways to get expo- ous for the type of music that we wanted to sure, including having their music used make or a lot of them were (the names of) in advertisements. Neon Trees were smaller bands that I thought no one knew. fortunate enough to have a song, “Ev- I don’t know what I was thinking. “No one erybody Talks,” from the Picture Show knows this band, so we’ll have this name.” disc, featured in a Buick commercial. do. But I was just talking to her and getting times, but our schedules never line up. It It was very immature of me. I don’t think What did that experience mean to you? through some stuff. What I was writing lent sucks. But, absolutely, I love her! there were any viable options, really. TG: I loved that they put us in it, so it itself to that sort of theme. By the time it GS: Speaking of music fests and GS: Neon has been a popular com- felt like we were being used as more than came to hunker down and make a focused live performance, what can fans expect ponent of bands’ names in the early just a song over a bunch of shiny cars. I body of work, I was in a really happy place. from a Neon Trees show? part of the 21st century, with Neon think there was a quirkiness to it that was I didn’t want (the record) to reflect where TG: We are very much like a rock band Trees, Neon Indian, Neon Hitch, and very much us. I was happy with the finished I’d been, but where I was at at the current when we play live. But I think that as much Neon Neon as examples. Why do you commercial. To this day, (some) people re- time. I was interested in writing something as we are a band playing our music, we think that is? call it as a Neon Trees commercial. It was colorful and anthemic and celebratory. The put as much theatricality that we can in the TG: Yeah! I don’t know. That was defi- crucial in propelling the song from just a themes – it talks about identity and the show. The Pop Psychology tour and pro- nitely a concern. We had had our name modest radio hit to one of the bigger songs troubles of finding love with technology – duction that we’ve been doing is really fun for a long time. We had been a band be- of that year. I loved how it worked. It doesn’t that I set out are still there, but I think it and colorful, as you’d expect from looking fore we put out our first record for quite always happen that way when you license reflects a more colorful view on love. I also at that album cover and listening to the al- a while. When we put out our first record your music. It was a cool opportunity. love the Pop Psychology name. I thought bum. I never stand still. I love to entertain. in 2010, that’s when Neon Indian put their GS: Three albums in four years it was a great name for a record and it fits Even if you’re not familiar with all of our record out, and then Neon Hitch. We found would be considered prolific in any- everything about it. music, I think it’s an entertaining show. t

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts //i imus C

Dixie Divas – continued from page 1 blank with whichever Lord you are affiliated. Osborne, teaches us a thing or two on her The double disc set Only Me (Upper Man- Lesbian new disc Learning Faith (Motherlode). For Needle Down (Republic), the second album agement Music) by fiddler and mandolinist example, when she elaborates on why by the Alabama-based The Secret Sisters Rhonda Vincent features one CD of “blue- she’s “So Fucking Cool,” on the song of (Lydia and Laura Rogers), picks up where grass” tunes and another of “country” num- Season the same name, we have no choice but the first album left off and improves on it by bers. The ubiquitous Willie Nelson joins Vin- to believe her. Learning Faith also finds sharpening the edges. More raucous and cent on the title cut, and Vincent’s band The byg Greg Shapiro Klein singing about “sweet acceptance” on rowdier than its predecessor, Put Your Needle Rage backs her on the bluegrass tracks. To The Belle Brigade is a brother/sister duo “Surrender,” makes an effort to separate Down makes a lasting impression, like a tat- Vincent’s credit, the music remains true to the with excellent genes. Siblings Barbara church from state in “If There’s A God,” and too. Stompy and rompy songs such as “Rattle genre in which it is categorized. and Ethan Gruska are the grandchildren does something similar on her “Dear God” My Bones” (which does just that), “Iuka,” the Norah Jones may have first gained atten- of composer John Williams. Of course, (not XTC’s), about the dwindling status of sharp “The Pocket Knife,” the colorful “Black tion as a folk-influenced jazz vocalist, but in the The Belle Brigade’s music doesn’t really a woman’s right to choose. Thank the god- and Blue,” the retro country rocking “I Can- dozen years since her best-selling, award-win- sound anything like any of their famous dess for Jess Klein. not Find A Way” and “Good Luck, Good Night, ning debut disc, she has dabbled in a variety grandpa’s compositions (you’re not disap- Mary Gauthier is our resident expert on Goodbye,” and the heartbreaking harmonies of musical styles. Not her first time at the rodeo pointed, are you?). Instead, out lesbian the trouble with love, so it’s apropos that of “Let There Be Lonely,” prove that sister- (see her 2006 group effort with The Little Wil- Barbara and her brother Ethan make sun- she titled her new album Trouble and Love hood truly is powerful, secret or not. lies), Jones returns to her Americana roots as soaked modern pop music that is appeal- (In the Black). Still the reigning lesbian The prolific Shelby Lynne takes a gos- one third of Puss N Boots (along with Sasha ing and evocative. The Belle Brigade’s Lucinda Williams, Gauthier has brought pel detour on her new five-song EP Thanks Dobson and Catherine Popper) on No Fools, second disc Just Because (ATO) begins us down low with her before. However, (Everso). Described by Lynne as “a way to No Fun (Blue Note). Performing live and stu- with deceptively upbeat and rhythmic the depths here are deeper, and yet it’s express” her “love and gratitude to the uni- dio versions of songs by Rodney Crowell (“Bull numbers such as “Ashes” and “When Ev- hard to resist traveling this painful path verse,” she sounds truly grateful. Anyone Rider”), Neil Young (“Down By The River”), erything Was What It Was,” before diving with Gauthier. Singing and writing with familiar with her music won’t be the least Roger Miller (“Tarnished Angel”), and Wilco head first into the substance abuse sub- more authority than ever, you believe ev- surprised by these songs especially be- (“Jesus, Etc.”), as well as originals such as ject matter of “Likely To Use Something.” ery word (and emotion) Gauthier sings on cause her voice is custom-made for singing Dobson’s “Sex Degrees of Separation” and The pair shares lead vocals on “Be Like the title tune, as well as “When A Woman in a spiritual fashion. Gratefully, for listen- Popper’s “Always,” these country kittens are Him,” with a nod to queerness. “Miss You Goes Cold,” “Oh Soul,” the ache of “Wor- ers who may or may not share her path, the almost purr-fection. t In My Life” and “How I See It,” two songs thy,” “Another Train,” and “How You Learn songs are general enough, expressing grat- Carlene Carter performs August 28 in Al- on which Ethan takes the lead, are worth To Love Alone.” More authentically and tra- itude to a “Lord,” allowing you to fill in the exandria, Virginia, at the Birchmere. mentioning, as is “Not The One You Want.” ditionally country than that poseur Taylor More than 20 years and nearly a doz- Swift, Nashville and the rest of the coun- en studio albums into her recording ca- try music community would be wise to pay “Always Be Yourself. Unless You Can Be A Pirate, reer, in-demand bass player and unique more attention, and do it soon. singer/songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello is Allison Weiss follows up her impres- Then Always Be A Pirate!” still able to surprise and delight us as she sive 2013 full-length disc Say What You does on her blazing new album Comet, Mean with the five-song EP Remember Come To Me (Naïve). Opening with a pure When (No Sleep). In addition to an acous- JUNE 26 - AUGUST 31 Ndegeocello cover of Whodini’s “Friends,” tic cover of Robyn’s “Call Your Girlfriend” she not only revives the song for new ears, (brava, Allison, for seeing the queer poten- but also makes it her very own in the pro- tial in the tune), original tunes such as “Re- cess. Comet, Come To Me burns brightly member When” and “The Fall” make Weiss and beautifully throughout, but especially an unforgettable talent. Prolific singer/ on “Good Day Bad,” “Tom,” “Shopping songwriter Rachael Sage also goes the EP For Jazz,” “Folie A Deux,” the dreamy ti- route with her latest release New Destina- tle song, and even “Conviction,” the best tion (MPress). Sage definitely sounds like song the Rolling Stones never wrote. she moving towards a new destination on A new iteration of the late, lamented the innovative title cut and the marvelous queer quartet Girlyman, Django Jones fea- “Wax.” t tures the trio JJ Jones, Doris Muramatsu and Nate Borofsky. The new name also Like Us On You won’t want to miss this updated brings about a new direction on it debut album D is for Django (Djangojonesband. Facebook! version of Gilbert and Sullivan's com). The 15 songs on the album are most popular musical comedy. geared towards “kids and families.” Of course, there are all kinds of families, in- cluding those with two moms or two dads, TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA so the LGBT appeal remains intact. A doz- 5900 Symphony Woods Road • CALL 410-730-8311 en of the songs get spoken intro, ranging from six to 59 seconds in length, and the Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, songs themselves have many of the same dates and times are subject to change. elements that made Girlyman such a fan TobysDinnerTheatre.com favorite. D inne how Jess Klein, who belts like a queer Joan r & S RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // Out on Stage // Screen Savor IRON CROW’S UPCOMING SEASON BRINGS ON Road Trips chugging meds), Hardy’s Locke is the only rational does not apply. Through face we see on-screen for 85 minutes. It’s Strong Female the use of video, projections and B gy Greg Shapiro to Hardy’s credit that we never look away. abstract movement, Iron Crow Construction director Ivan Locke (Tom DVD / Digital special features include a will attempt to navigate the human brain Hardy) is in the process of resolving as featurette, audio commentary by writer/di- Characters through Kane’s text in this highly stylized many “fuck-ups” as he’s creating in the rector Steven Knight and more. production. one-man show Locke (IM Global). On the Horton Foote’s The Trip to Bountiful Directed by Ryan Clark eve of the biggest concrete pour ever in (Lifetime/Lionsgate) has a lengthy history, B y Steve Charing Preview: Friday October 3 at 8 p.m. Europe, Locke is in his BMW SUV, driv- especially as a showcase for actresses. The Iron Crow Theatre Company, Bal- Opening Night: Saturday, October 4 at ing away, almost two hours to London, to Originally presented more than 60 years timore’s only queer community theatre 8 p.m. be with Bethan (voiced by Olivia Colman), ago as an NBC teleplay, Foote’s piece was group, consciously sought out plays for Performances Thursday through Satur- the 2014 / 2015 season that featured day, Oct 9-18 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, October I ntensely strong female characters and put them 12 at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, October 15 at driven at the center of the story. “Regardless of 8 p.m. where you sit on the gender spectrum, we know these plays will speak to you,” said The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard by Artistic Director Steven J. Satta. “These Rich Espey – A poignant and lyrical new productions will provide you with a rich play by Rich Espey. Vivid dreams of the and satisfying evening in the theatre.” late Bobby Pritchard compel Marta to return The season of three plays features to her childhood home, a rural community of the first full production of a new work by faith she fled some 50 years earlier. With Baltimore playwright Rich Espey; an out- her wife, Cyn, at her side, Marta encounters rageous comedy by lesbian icon Holly Hank, a brother she no longer knows, and Hughes; and a provocative play by Sarah Oren, her nephew who is struggling with Kane, a British playwright known for her his sexuality. Hank must choose between edgy work. his family and According his church, as a woman who became pregnant with his made into an Oscar-winning 1985 film. It to Iron Crow’s Marta reveals a baby after a one-night fling. also had a couple of Broadway produc- website Iiron- secret that some The fact that it was the only time that tions, most recently in 2013 with Cicely crowtheatre. are desperate to he ever strayed in his 15-year marriage to Tyson and Vanessa Williams. org), “Iron Crow keep hidden, and Katrina (voiced by Ruth Wilson) makes no Tyson and Williams reprise their roles, Theatre is the shots ring out. difference to his wife. Through a series of as Carrie and her daughter-in-law Jes- theatre of mis- Directed by car-phone calls, we get to know these two sie Mae, respectively, in the latest film chief and sub- Steven J. Satta women almost as well as Ivan knows them. adaptation. Independent and elderly Car- version, a queer Preview: Fri, For example, when Bethan asks Ivan if he rie, forced to live with bossy and nervous theatre celebrat- March 13, 8 p.m. hates her for going through with pregnan- Jessie Mae and Carrie’s over-worked and ing the renegade and the unorthodox, in Opening Night: Saturday, March 14, 8 cy, he tells her he doesn’t really know her henpecked son Ludie (Blair Underwood), all of us, reflecting the diverse stories of p.m. Thursday through Saturday, March 19 well enough to have those kinds of feel- wants nothing more than to make a (final?) our community and the world in which we – 28, 8 p.m., Sunday, March 22 at 7 p.m., ings. Meanwhile, it’s perfectly clear how trip to Bountiful, her hometown. Deter- live. We produce and create professional Wednesday, March 25 at 8 p.m. much Ivan loves Katrina (as well as his mined to get there by any means neces- new work, re-imagine well-known stories, sons Sean and Eddie) through their phone sary (including hiding her pension check), and seek out innovative scripts. Our work The Well of Horniness by Holly conversations and the tears he sheds. Carrie packs a suitcase, sneaks out of the ignites conversation and all voices are Hughes – This outrageous comedy by au- Ivan also converses with others. house in Houston and heads to the bus welcome.” thor and lesbian icon Holly Hughes tells There’s his boss, Gareth (Ben Daniels), station in order to make her trip a reality. All performances this season will take the story of the hidden world of the Tridel- who, in spite of Ivan’s track record of ex- At the bus station, after a close call run- place at Baltimore Theatre Project, 45 ta Tribads, a sinister, Sapphic sorority. cellence, may not be able to save his job. ning into Ludie and Jessie Mae, Carrie meets East Preston Street, in Mount Vernon. The When one of their members gets murdered There is the medical staff at the hospital, to Thelma (Keke Palmer), who becomes her schedule is as follows: in the powder room of the Vixen’s Den Din- whom Ivan constantly makes the distinc- seat-mate for the first leg of the excursion. 4.48 Psychosis by Sarah Kane – In ner Theatre, it’s up to Garnet McClit, “lady tion between being the baby’s father and Along the way, Carrie regales Thelma with 1999, Sara Kane took her life by hanging detective” to solve the case. A hilarious Bethan’s partner, keeping him abreast of stories of the Bountiful she remembers and herself by her shoelaces. Her personal send up of the film noir detective genre the delivery situation. He also carries on offers advice. However, not too far along the life was riddled with conflict stemming performed by an all-female cast. an imaginary conversation with his father, way, Carrie gets some bad news, and finds from severe depression. In one last act of Directed by Julianne Franz a man he despises and one he doesn’t herself stranded at a bus station where she love to the theatre, she wrote what many Preview: Friday, June 5, 8 p.m. want to be anything like. But it is Ivan’s sings hymns, has some laughs and sheds consider her greatest achievement, 4.49 Opening Night: Saturday, June 6, 8 p.m. calls with Donal (Andrew Scott), his right some tears, before completing her journey. Psychosis. She gives us an insight of the Thursday through Saturday, June 11 – hand man at the construction site, which Originally a Lifetime cable presentation, the human brain in the place between life and June 20, 8 p.m.; Sunday June 14 at 7 p.m., provide necessary tension-breaking humor 1950s-set The Trip to Bountiful, includes the death questioning the validity of suicide. Wednesday, June 17 at 8 p.m. and offer more insight into Ivan. commercial pauses. Tyson’s performance is The play is written in a manner, which is For more information and ticket reser- Locke is especially notable for giving of the high standard we have come to expect not realistic or linear but rather abstract vations visit Ironcrowtheatre.org or call the viewers another side of Hardy to admire. from her and Williams adds a level of camp and disjointed, which is appropriate when Iron Crow box office at 443-637-CROW Bearded, beaten down by life and a head to the production. The DVD contains no bo- dealing with issues of mental health – the (2769). t cold (he’s constantly blowing his nose and nus material. t

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // fashion

ground information about yourself. the near future. A few months later, I was Hopefully I am married with kids, a few Ashley Green: I was born in Eliza- nominated Emerging Designer of the year pounds lighter, have three houses and an From the beth, New Jersey, and raised in Colum- 2013 by Baltimore Fashion Awards. island. I see myself with my own head- Closet to the bia, Maryland, by my grandmother and my DC: How have you grown as an art- quarters in LA and New York; I see my great uncle. I like to think of my life as the ist? collection in Barney’s, Niemen Marcus, Runway Fresh Prince of Belair. My mother wanted AG: I feel like I’ve grown a lot from my Bloomingdales, and Nordstrom’s. I’d have Derrick T. Crump me to have a better life. So I was privileged first fashion show in New York Fashion a few outlet stores around the globe. Hav- to live in a stable environment financially Week. I had to reach down and search for ing a men’s and children’s line would also and emotionally. I never lived in a man- what type of designer I want to be. How be awesome. sion or anything close to it, but we lived can my legacy continue without me? It DC: What’s your take on the evolu- in a big house with my two dogs, Smokee honestly took a while for me to realize what tion of fashion? UB Student and Spike. Growing up I wasn’t your aver- I wanted for me and my brand. At the end AG: I feel that everyone is trying to age kid. I would watch “Gilligan’s Island” of the day I want to be happy with every find different ways to self-express. We no and “The Golden Girls” and would listen to garment I sell. February 21, 2013, I was in longer have eras where there are themes. Graces the jazz. So when I tell people my age – 21 – a car accident. It changed my point of view Since we don’t have those themes, design- they are very shocked to know how young on life. I was in physical therapy for four ers are trying to reinvent the 1920s dress- I am because I am very mature. I was actu- months. I cut it short because I had exten- es or the 90s jogging suit. For the last ten Catwalks of ally raised in a Baptist home. Religion was sive pain in my back and there was nothing years, people have been trying to figure never forced on me. That is one thing that that the doctor could do. Part of me wish- out who they are. They do not want to fol- t I loved about my grandmother and my un- es it never happened, but it also showed low trends, they want to start them. New York cle. They let me experience life for myself. me who really cared about me; which was Reach the designer at ashley@ash- I always got to choose what I wanted to do, my grandmother, my uncle, and two best leypdesigns.com. A University of Baltimore student was able as long as I had a plan. When I changed friends. That’s it. It taught me to be more to showcase her fashion line during the my religion it wasn’t the easiest thing to do. independent. One setback shouldn’t stop prominent New York Fashion Week in the The first time I covered my hair was the me from what I want to do in life. Big Apple. beginning of my senior year in high school. DC: Where do you see yourself in I finally had the chance to catch up That very same day, I was basically exiled the next ten years? with the woman behind the line. Everyone from my class. No one talked to me. Some AG: In the next ten years I will be 31. sees the fabulous clothing and the beauti- guy tried to take my hijab (scarf) off while ful photos from the shoots but who’s the I was going down the stairs. For the rest designer? I had the chance to catch up of my senior year at lunch, I would go to with the Fashion Award Nominee and UB the TV. production room; I spent most of student. my senior year there. It never bothered me Derrick Crump: Give some back- because I was so busy getting ready to graduate and go to college. DC: What exactly do you do? Are you a designer? What else do you do? A.G.: I am everything! I design clothes, construct them, make the website, the content, press releases, and figure out what shows we will be doing for the year. Of course I have help from my wonderful creative director, Derrick, but it is best if I know most things. If I want something done right, I should just do it myself so I won’t complain. I actually use to do hair and makeup for weddings and proms. I’ve dabbled in a little bit of everything. DC: What are some of your accom- plishments? AG: The very first fashion show that I’ve ever done in life was in New York Fashion Week, September 2012. I was ac- tually contacted by a producer on Model Mayhem to be in the show. I was happy, but it never dawned on me that it was a huge deal at the time until afterwards. Yas- mine Yasmine is a stylist whom contacted me while I was at my office job at the time. She offered me a placement in Azizah magazine. I was beyond thrilled. After that, A shley Green (right) I was offered to do shows at Hong Kong and one of her creations Fashion Week and London Fashion Week. credit: Jasmine Sadly I couldn’t go to any, but hopefully in BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Quality of Life dining out Essential Oils for ian options. I selected one soft of beef and one soft of chicken to start, and the tacos Humans and Pets are served with a choice of refried beans Finger’s or black beans, as well as rice. The tacos Ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks cessity. Lausterer and Jarvis did not like were fresh and hot, served with the usual used botanicals macerated in olive oil for using many of the personal care products Food ingredients – lettuce, cheese, and diced their natural aromatic components and on the market and were determined to tomatoes. I poured a little of the salsa on therapeutic value. The infused oil was used make all-natural essential oil therapy prod- mine to give it just a bit of extra taste. I did as a way to cleanse the body and allevi- ucts that were free of unnecessary dyes, Mi Ranchito Restaurant come equipped with an appetite, so I asked ate conditions of the skin. Later in human fragrance oils, parabens, sulfates, petro- 1116 Hollins Street, Baltimore for two more tacos. By the end of that, I history, the Chinese meticulously recorded chemicals, and ingredients of animal ori- 410-528-9345 the spiritual and medicinal benefits found in gin. More people today are seeking natural natural botanicals, preserving their elders’ for their everyday personal care products. by Richard Finger knowledge for future generations. In the Basic Earth Essentials has hit the mark I was joyfully surprised to early 1900s, it was discovered that plant with their essential oil products. Not only have an OUTloud reader extracts had special medicinal properties are they creating chemical-free products refer me to a restaurant to that can help the body to relax and offer for humans, the Pet Essentials line of natu- review! This was a first, so a wide variety of natural remedies to as- ral dog and cat products has been a huge quite excitedly, I set upon sist in the body’s healing response. Today, success. Natural therapeutic remedies are my journey to Mi Ranchi- essential oil therapy has become increas- available for both cats and dogs. Basic to. As we drove closer to ingly popular and more respected for its Earth Essentials has created a full pet line the restaurant location, I clinical aspects as more people are turning with products that help to alleviate anxi- will admittedly state that to it for relief of common ailments. Many ety and provide a natural defense against I thought we were com- countries, especially those in Europe, are fleas and ticks. The hemp-based shampoo pletely in the wrong place. now using essential oils as a therapeutic line for canines was created for their own As we drove a little further regimen in the medical field. rescued dog’s therapeutic needs, including along on Hollins, there Meeting those needs is Basic Earth the relief of dry-itchy skin as well as reduc- it was, proudly standing Essentials, a company that produces high- ing bath time anxiety. out in the middle of a lost quality, affordable essential oil therapy Personalized therapies are available neighborhood, in the for- in three simple forms: roll-on, inhaler and products, including several essential oil mer Cultured Pearl loca- Mi ranchito es su ranchito! lines for both humans and pets. Based in mist. Products range in price from $10 to tion. Lewisberry, Pennsylvania, Basic Earth Es- $14. “From the beginning, our goal has We parked the car, and sentials hand-crafts all of their products been to develop a high-quality, affordable entered into a wonderfully was done. Nick had the chicken burrito using organic and wild-crafted ingredients product so everyone can enjoy the bene- decorated eatery. Our hostess, Brenna, with ranchera sauce ($9.95), topped with that are of plant origin. Certified clinical fits of essential oil therapies,” says Jarvis. warmly greeted us and we were seated cheese and sour cream, and served with essential oil therapist and co-owner Mi- Products, including sample sizes, are sold at our table. I had never visited the Cul- rice and beans. He also enjoyed his meal, chael Lausterer is available for consulta- at their place of business and online. Two tured Pearl, so I am not familiar with what with an empty plate as evidence. tions and for blending customized, synergy of their most popular blends are Serenity, it had looked like previously, but I could For those who like a good challenge, therapies tailored to an individual’s medi- sought after for relaxation and peaceful see newly completed renovations, with or- and like fajitas, check out the all you can cal needs. Customized blends have been rest, and Relief, a powerful blend contain- nate tile ceiling, nice accent-lighting, clean eat fajita night on Thursdays. Those not fa- found helpful for addressing symptoms ing eight essential oils specifically chosen brick flooring. There are some tasteful and vorable on the “all you can eat” concept, related to allergies, stress-related issues, to alleviate and help eliminate migraine or colorful paintings hanging, appropriate for Mi Ranchito does offer traditional menu and even cancer. Lausterer is also a clini- headache discomfort and pain. a Central and South American restaurant. selections: ensaladas, sopas, burritos, chi- cal nutritionist with 25 years of experience Basic Earth Essentials also creates Brenna wasted no time and brought us michanges, tacos, enchiladas, and tosta- in healthcare, using his training to offer a highly sought-after spiritual essential oil some chips and salsa. The salsa is home- das. All in many combinations of meat and complete and balanced approach to one’s products in three specific lines; Sacred, made on the premises, and I thoroughly sides, and all with very sensible pricing. wellness needs. Compassion, integrity and Angelic, and Astrological. These lines are enjoyed it. Mi Rachito salsa is of smooth Additionally, there are many lunch specials quality comprise the foundation of Basic premier in the metaphysical and spiritual consistency, not at all chunky, with a mild to sample. Earth Essentials business philosophy. communities. Jarvis, a professional as- kick. What compliments chips and salsa Our very gracious host encouraged Basic Earth Essentials oil therapies are trologer, collaborated with Lausterer in better than a frozen strawberry margarita? us to sample the deep-fried ice cream truly all natural; every ingredient is easily creating an essential oil therapy line as a For $5, this is an excellent value. It was not dessert. We were not at all disappointed, pronounceable with a little lesson in Latin, remedy to balance aspects within one’s only a huge drink, it had the right balance and I think I had to fight Nick off because and all are made with compassion and astrological chart. of alcoholic components and strawberry I couldn’t inhale it fast enough. When I care, says co-owner Stephen Jarvis, who The essential oil products in the spiri- goodness. Nick had a Dos Equis beer, also asked Brenna how the restaurant was do- adds, “We use only the highest quality in- tual lines were designed to accomplish a nice combination with chips and salsa. ing, she stated, “It’s been tough. I’d love gredients and always operate with integri- several key factors which include helping We snacked on chips and salsa, sipped the community to know we are here, and ty.” This means they purchase ingredients an individual to move past emotional ob- our drinks, listened to some light Spanish under new management. We have great from reputable companies that can provide stacles, promote personal empowerment music in the background, and struck up food and margaritas, so come try us out!” analysis sheets which prove purity levels and build confidence to face and move some good conversation. I really hope that Mi Ranchito does catch and that botanicals were grown without past challenges which hinder personal Lucky us, Wednesday night is $9.95 all t on, and the community embraces the kind- pesticides. growth. you can eat taco night! A deal I could not ness of the staff and the quality of the food. Many of the products that Basic Earth To find us look for our ad in Baltimore pass up. There is a choice of hard or soft I can’t help think of it as the “little restau- Essentials produces were made out of ne- OUTloud, August 22 issue. tacos, with beef, chicken, pork, or vegetar- rant that could.” t 18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com real estate your money Water Water Everywhere In the DOL’s proposed rule “spouse” Byy Wa ne Curtis intervention can stop it. Basements in this The More you will no longer be defined by the state of The thorough drenching that we expe- time period were not meant to become fin- Know About residence, but instead will be defined rienced earlier this month in the Balti- ished space, and the building technology based on where the marriage was entered more region probably caused its share of of the time couldn’t aspire to make them Business into – sometimes referred to as the “place backed-up drains and flooded basements watertight. Richard Finger of celebration.” This will allow all legally- – not to mention ruined furniture, stained So does your basement just have damp married couples, whether opposite-sex drywall and wet storage boxes. Even the walls, or after a moderate rain does water or same-sex, to have consistent Federal cavemen had to deal with water intrusion actually pool and turn your man cave into family-leave rights regardless of whether into their caves. We humans simply can- Lake Huron? Marriage & the state in which they currently reside not escape it, no matter how hard we try, If you just have damp walls, consider recognizes their marriage. Furthermore, because Mother Nature does her best to yourself lucky and buy a dehumidifier to Employee the proposed rule change will recognize break down our shelters and rain on our reduce the amount of humidity and con- same-sex marriages entered into abroad if heads. densation. Paint the walls with Drylock if : The valid in the place where the marriage oc- This is why, in real estate transactions, you really want to reduce the amount of Rights curred (e.g., Canada, Argentina, Uruguay, water comes up over and over as one of seepage to the absolute minimum, but re- Brazil, Spain, France, Denmark, Portugal, the most contested issues, whether your member you most likely will not be able to Feds Catch Up Iceland, The Netherlands, Norway, Swe- basement walls are stone, block, or con- completely eliminate it. Do not drywall over den, South Africa, or New Zealand). crete. What should a them – that’s how The Supreme Court’s historic decision If the proposed rule is adopted, it would buyer expect? What mold starts! in the U.S. v. Windsor case has caused mean that eligible employees, regardless should a seller worry If, however, you a cascade of positive trends in the U.S. of which state they live, would be able to about? need a canoe to do towards equality, with courts ending gay- take FMLA leave to care for their same- 1) Is your “base- your laundry after a marriage bans in states across the land. sex spouse with a serious health condition, ment” really just a storm… congratula- Of course, there are still hurdles to cross and be protected by Federal law. Addition- cellar? Many homes tions… you have a before we see gay-marriage recognition in ally, the proposed rule will allow for FMLA in Baltimore have wet basement. In this all 50 states, with many cases pending, but for leave due to a same-sex spouse’s cov- at least part of their case, the best most there are still signs pointing towards this ered military service, and to take military basement with its homeowners can do eventuality. In June, the U.S. Department caregiver leave for their same-sex spouse. original dirt floor, or is to make sure water of Labor (DOL) issued a proposed change Meanwhile, in our very own state of a walkway dug out does not pool next to to the Family and Medical Leave Act Maryland, the Parental Leave Act will ex- and retaining walls the foundation and (FMLA) changing the definition of “spouse” tend protections to workers in smaller com- holding the soil back. flow into the base- to one of same-sex or opposite-sex. The panies as of October 1st. Small employers When the soil outside is soggy, water will ment in great quantity. Here is your four Department of Labor is notoriously slow will be required to provide employees with naturally seep into the soil beneath the item action list: to change policies fitting current trends, unpaid leave for the birth or adoption of a house. Installing a vapor barrier (which • Make sure your landscaping has this is what makes this proposal so monu- child under the Maryland Parental Leave is a fancy name for heavy plastic sheet- graded the soil to run water away from the mental, if approved. If the Supreme Court Act (PLA), passed by the Maryland Gen- ing, installed by a professional) will keep foundation. should weigh in with a favorable decision eral Assembly. The PLA covers businesses the moisture in the soil and not let it be • Take your downspouts out of the old on legalizing same-sex marriage in our that employ at least 15, but not more than absorbed by the beams and subfloor. This underground pipes meant to carry water to country, this ruling creates a platform for 49, employees in Maryland. The Federal will keep the musty smell out of the main the street and add extensions that run the organizations to act in accordance with it. FMLA covers employers with 50 or more house and also reduce the likelihood of rain water out into the yard at least six feet, workers. termites and other wood-eating pests. or until the grading does run water away In my previous article, which explained Have the house treated annually to make from the house. the three major areas in which HR prac- sure these unwelcome houseguests don’t • Have your main drain cleaned: you’d be titioners are responsible, this proposed sneak in and start snacking on your under- surprised how many older houses in Balti- miraculously disappeared from view. They’re FMLA change, and the approved Maryland pinnings. more have at least some of their rainwater still there! Today they are just covered over, PLA change, fall under the category of HR 2) What is a wet basement? This is a flowing into the graywater drains that empty and your basement might be one of the Operations. Companies with 50 employees whole lot harder to answer than it seems. into the sewer. places they will overflow into when there’s or more that conduct business in multiple Modern concrete foundations have the po- • Finally, cover old window wells be- a downpour. Let the waterproofer stake states will be required to comply with this tential to be the most waterproof, as long cause they can act like a funnel in a heavy their reputation on fixing it, and then when it new FMLA definition, and ensure that man- as they have not become cracked and al- rainstorm and bring water back through the comes time to sell, disclose the facts and the agement is aware and understands the rul- low water to come in. Block foundations, basement wall. fix to the buyer. ing to prevent any exposure to litigation for which were popular for about 50 years, 3) Do I need a professional water- Dreading a heavy rainstorm is no fun. failing to follow these guidelines. Naturally, from 1940 to 1990 can absorb moisture proofer? If you have gone through the steps Experiment with some of these fixes, and the same is true with the Maryland PLA. and deteriorate over time, letting more wa- I’ve outlined above and you still need a snor- you can at least improve your home’s situa- Whether FMLA leaves, or PLA leaves, are ter in over the years. If your house was built kel to go into the basement after a storm, tion, if not solve the problem. Try it! t administered in-house, or through third before 1940, most likely your foundation then the answer is “yes.” There are some Wayne Curtis has been a licensed real parties, ignorance is not a defense to vio- walls are made up of a mix of stone and houses that either were built over a spring, estate agent since 1998. In November, lation of any Federal or state labor law. brick. These older basement walls were or have some serious water-table issues 2012, he was named a Realtor Hero by the For more information on either FMLA or never meant to be 100% water tight: there near the harbor, for example, and only a pro- National Association of Realtors for his work Maryland PLA, consider visiting Dol.gov/ is a certain exchange of moisture between fessional can truly solve the problem. Take promoting homeownership in Baltimore. whd/regs/compliance/whdfs28.htm, Mary- the walls and the soil on the other side that a look at an old map of Baltimore and you’ll Send questions to him at wayne@charmci- landemploymentlaw.net/?p=280, or Shrm. will naturally occur, and very little human see dozens of creeks and springs that have tyrealestate.com. org. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 real estate Amazing Mid-Century Modern in York County 188 Highland Road, York, Pennsylvania, windows that look out into the rear gardens kitchen has been updated, but some of was built in 1950 by Daniel Webster “D.W.” and terraces. The living room has a fire- the original cabinetry has been preserved. Detwiler and his wife Vera Detwiler. D.W. place and is large enough to be home to a It contains Viking / Sub-Zero appliances, developed the Outdoor Country Club of grand piano. A pecan paneled den / guest breakfast island, and a custom mosaic York and the neighborhood, Strathcona suite with fireplace, full bath, and walk- mural designed and created by the artist Hills, in which 188 Highland Road is situ- / owner. There are ated. Vera was instrumental in the exterior three full baths, two and interior design of the home. The De- of which showcase twilers lived in the home for 38 years; Vera original large glass resided there until her death in 1988. The wall tiles and radi- home is a beautiful example of Mid-Centu- ant heated floors. ry Modern style and luxury. Two additional bed- The exterior boasts the iconic muti-lev- rooms are found el flat roof design, floor-to-ceiling windows in addition to the front-to-back, an amazing veranda, and master en-suite. It multiple terraced gardens. Original brick includes a sitting garden walls have stood the test of time room, bedroom and with barely a crack to be found. The prop- a luxurious master erty includes a wooded lot, secret garden bath that contains a rooms, and an original shuffle board court. Jacuzzi tub, sepa- The home sits on just under one acre of rate glass enclosed land. It is also ready to go for an in ground shower, skylight, pool. The mid-century suburban dream marble floors, and The interior of this home has been pre- an amazing granite served in its entire splendor, but has been in closet are to your left through a set of vanity. Additional details include an 800- updated to bring it into the 21st century. glass double doors. There is a four-season plus bottle wine cellar and a two-car ga- Updated kitchen Upon entering the home’s foyer you are (a.k.a. Florida Room in the 50s) that also rage with workshop. The home is equipped met with the living room / dining room and has amazing views of the gardens. The with a solar electric system which returns solar energy back into the grid and also rewards the owners with “found” money geous design gem and piece of architec- every quarter. tural history. Listed at $425,000. If you are looking to relocate – maybe For more information, contact Ron Rhodes retire… maybe purchase a weekend home or Coal Infantino of Jack Gaughen Realtor to get away from it all – this could be your ERA, at 717-578-7821 or 717-676-5545 or destination. 188 Highland Road is just min- 717-854-9242 or email RingRonYork@gmail. utes from I-83. Schedule a tour of this gor- com or [email protected]. t

Lounge away!

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 have not been able to find a suit- able space. Plans to move to a vacant former Thai restaurant at 37 Barrow Street fell through Leather when neighbors protested the Line move with complaints of added Rodney Burger traffic and potential noise. There goes another one of my favorite bars. On the bright side, I can’t stop I Was Just thinking how happy I am that Bal- timore bar owner Don Davis start- Thinking… ed leather nights every Friday at The Loft above Grand Central. The recent closing of the Quest Bar has Not only is The Loft a beautiful me thinking about how much Baltimore has space with friendly bartenders, changed since I moved here in 1984. Balti- but the outside deck has been more had so many gay bars and businesses the best place to be this cooler when I arrived and one by one our gay bars summer. On Friday, August 8 the and stores have faded away. I always bought Leatherboys of Maryland hosted my Christmas cards at the Lambda Rising a bar night there and it brought bookstore because I always want to sup- out many members of other area port those businesses that support us. When leather clubs. Some folks who I was producing a leather contest or fund- came to Grand Central that night raiser, places such as Lambda Rising and for a scheduled Stagecoach Sa- the Quest Bar were always happy to help loon reunion country music night with gift certificates or donations. When the downstairs were at first disap- Lambda Rising bookstore closed I remem- pointed that the planned deejay didn’t starting at 9 p.m. Come join the fun at this and it was great to see those friends again ber seeing a quote in a newspaper which show. They soon discovered the party up- great location. on August 16. It was also great to see Char- read: “I am so sorry to see it close. I walked stairs and had a great time. A cowboy can I was thinking about going to the Club lie, the owner of the Red Star. I can’t believe by it every day and always wanted to go in.” be fun, but I’ve always been partial to the Hippo on Saturday, September 20 from he is 80 years old. He looks fantastic. He That is the point. You didn’t go in! Please go leather man. Speaking of leather men, I re- noon to 4 p.m. for the American Sign Lan- said that he recently went to his doctor for in and support our LGBT and LGBT-friendly turned to The Loft on Saturday, August 9 guage (ASL) brunch hosted by the Leath- a check-up and his doctor said, “You look businesses. You don’t have to ask which for a surprise 50th erboys of Maryland. great. What are you doing?” Charlie said he ones. They are right here in this newspaper. birthday party for Boots & Saddle, NYC – I missed the first one replied, “Drinking, smoking, and men.” I have been thinking about taking a friend and Bikers, last November be- A big congratulations goes out to all the trip to New York City before the end of the Bears, & Mayhem There goes another one cause I was in Wash- folks involved with the Leather Heart Foun- year. I was sorry to hear that a NYC bar producer Gregory of my favorite bars. ington for the Mr. D.C. dation. This organization recently received that I’ve visited many times is also clos- King. It was a great Eagle Contest. I have the Pantheon of Leather 2014 award for ing. Boots and Saddle, which has been evening that fea- many deaf friends in large nonprofit. On Sunday, September 14 a popular West Village watering hole on tured a heartfelt song from Gregory’s other the leather community and always thought at 6:30 p.m. you can join Miss Hippo 2014 Christopher Street for 40 years, will soon half Charles, a performance by Mr. Youth it would be great to know a little sign lan- Shawnna Alexander and a great cast for the go dark. The new owner of the building Prince 2014 Nitro Alexander, and a hilari- guage. Tickets are just $15 at the door. Trevor Project and Leather Heart Founda- plans to raise the rent for the 700-square ous performance by Shawnna Alexander, There will be food, a cash bar, and present- tion Benefit Show at the Club Hippo. Tickets foot bar by thousands of dollars per month. who provided the top statements uttered ers who will provide personal stories and are just $6. You can also donate and learn Although managing owner Rob Ziegler and by men when they hit 50. The ShipMates hands-on classes on basic ASL. All pro- more about the Leather Heart Foundation founder Ron Silver would like to reopen in Club of Baltimore will be hosting a bar ceeds will benefit the Sharon St. Cyr Fund, at Leatherheart.org. a new location in the neighborhood, they night at The Loft on Friday, September 26 which provides interpreting services for the After such a beautiful summer it is sad deaf and hard of hearing community. to think that fall will soon be here. Oh well, I remember the first time I went to the the fall season kicks off with a number of Red Star Saloon at 11 South 10th Street leather contest. The weekend of September in Reading, Pennsylvania. It was 1997 and 5 to 7 will bring the Mr. Connecticut Leather I had just pledged the ShipMates Club of 2015 Contest at the 168 York Street Café Baltimore and the ShipMates were having in New Haven, Connecticut. You can learn a joint bar night with Reading’s leather club, more about the contest and the planned the Reading Railmen. Thank God some weekend of events at Mrctleather.org. You things don’t change. The ShipMates and can have a great time in New Haven in Sep- Reading Railmen are very much still around tember. Are you going? It is something to and although Reading has lost most of its think about. t gay bars, the Red Star is still there. It was so much fun to return to the Red Star Sa- loon on Saturday, August 16 with my fellow ShipMates and two current ShipMate pledg- es Devine and Jahleel for a joint bar night with the ShipMates and Reading Railmen. I made lifelong friends on that night in 1997 24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD august 22, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com