OUT November 30, 2012 | Volume X, Issue 13 World AIDS Day Commemorated December 1 By Bill Palmer schedules and interests. “A Conversation of Agreement” more than 15 years, music and re- The theme for the 25th World AIDS Day on From 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the Mary- Symposium for Pastor’s and membrances of people who December 1 is “Getting to Zero.” The theme land’s Infectious Disease and Environmental other invited guests hosted have passed in the past focuses on “Zero new HIV infections. Zero Health Administration will hold their annual by Pleasant Hope Baptist year, at the Metropolitan discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths.” World AIDS Day Commemorative Event at Church, 430 East Bel- Community Church of World AIDS Day provides powerful opportu- the O’Connor Building of the State Office vedere Avenue, Bal- Baltimore, 401 West nities to raise awareness, to honor and re- Building Complex, 201 West Preston Street, timore, 9 to 11 a.m. Monument Street, Bal- member those who have passed on and to Baltimore. The event will highlight the work Continental breakfast timore. Anyone wish- celebrate achievements, such as increased of the Department of Health and Mental Hy- served. RSVP re- ing to read names access to treatment and prevention services. giene in providing and supporting quality quired. Contact: 410- from the book, and Maryland and the Baltimore-Towson HIV-prevention education, testing, care and 435-0851. share names of their area have some of the highest rates of HIV treatment services. For more information, Towson State Uni- own may do so. Short infections in the country. Infection rates con- contact Carmi Washington-Flood at 410- versity has partnered biographies of individu- tinue to increase, and in spite of the fact that 767-5252. with the Jacques Initia- als who have passed some people living with HIV are living longer Coppin State University and Women tive to conduct free HIV since December, 2011, with treatment, new information is continu- Accepting Responsibility invite the commu- testing and linkage to care to be shared during the pro- ally discovered about the great harm those nity to breakfast and discussion, “An Anthro- in the Towson State University gram are requested. To submit same treatments do to those they are de- pological View: Intersection of HIV/SIDS, Student Union, Towson, noon to 4 biographies, or for more information signed to help, making World AIDS Day as Trauma, Violence, and Drug Abuse.” Coppin p.m. Contact: Liz Ellis at 410-706-6817. contact 443-421-9090. relevant today as ever. State University, Health and Human Ser- From 4 to 6:30 p.m., Celebration of The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Tau Eta The range of events planned for De- vices Building (Nurses Building) 2500 West Community will host a reading of the “Book Zeta chapter hosts “My Brother’s Keeper: cember 1 in the Baltimore metro area North Avenue, Baltimore, 9 a.m. to noon. of Life” – a compilation of names of people Men and the HIV/AIDS Epidemic” at the includes something to suit a variety of Contact: Latasha Watts at 443-561-5366. lost to HIV/AIDS collected in Baltimore over —continued on page 2 Baltimore Observes Transgender By Sharon Brackett transgender The 14th annual Interna- community -Day of Remembrance tional Transgender Day holds these of Remembrance (TDoR) services in cities throughout the world on with prayers and blessings. These includ- was observed with sol- this date each year to bring attention to ed; Kate Bishop and Laurel Mendes of the emn and insightful eve- recurring discrimination that still persists Wicca Community and Fellowship of the ning services held at the against trans people. In Baltimore the Spiral Path, Helen Hillegrass and Rev. Da- First Unitarian Church of event is organized by the Transgender Re- vid Carl Olsen of the First Unitarian Church Baltimore on Tuesday, sponse Team and other members of the of Baltimore and the Rev. Dorothy Harris of November 20. The an- Baltimore and Maryland LGBT community. the Unity Fellowship Church of Columbia. nual service was held in About 100 persons, including repre- A highlight of the evening was a mov- recognition and remem- sentatives from the Baltimore chapter of ing, inspirational and motivational monolog brance of the members the Guardian Angels, were in attendance by Vann Michael who spoke extemporane- of the worldwide trans- for the services which began with perfor- ously on the experiences of his transition, gender community killed mances from singer/songwriter Georgie family, marriage, and finding his place as in recent years, with Jessup and the New Wave Singers of Bal- a newly minted black man among other R emembering many of the victims los- timore. Demonstrating the interfaith nature black men. In his speech entitled “Celebra- transgender victims ing their lives in horrific of the ceremonies, spiritual leaders from tion of Transcendence,” he described him- credit: Sharon Brackett and violent manners. The many faiths and organizations participated —continued on page 3

—continued on page 2 news // LOCAL

World AIDS Day able Feast – a Baltimore-based non-profit liance.org/events/2012/world-aids-day- Commemorated December 1 that helps provide food for those who have cabaret – continued from front page AIDS and cancer. The first concert will take On Sunday December 2, Speak to My Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams place on December 1 at Heart Ministries hosts World [email protected] 8 p.m. at the First Unitar- AIDS Day Community “Maryland and Executive Editor American Brewery Building, 1701 North Gay ian Church of Baltimore, Awareness Sunday begin- Jim Becker Street, Baltimore, 6:30-8:30 p.m. This event 12 West Franklin Street, the Baltimore- ning at 10 a.m. with exhibits [email protected] includes free HIV testing and special presen- Baltimore. The second is and speakers at 3903 West Managing Editor tations. Contact: [email protected] or go scheduled for December Towson area Belvedere Avenue, Balti- [email protected] to Zphib-thz.org. 2 at 4 p.m. at the Gov- more. Stmhonline.com. Production Director have some of the Bob Wellington The brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Frater- ans Presbyterian Church, Registration for the nity, Epsilon Nu Sigma Chapter, host a “Mix, 5828 York Road, Balti- 2012 Ride for the Feast Sales Director highest rates of Mary Taylor Mingle, and Skate” AIDS Awareness event more. Tickets are $20 HIV infections to be held on May 19- [email protected] at Skateland Putty Hill, 8019 Belair Road, (free for youth age 17 and 20, 2012, goes live on Leather Columnist Baltimore, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Cost: $12 per under) for each perfor- in the country. December 1. The annual Rodney Burger person. Contact j_crocker@ens-pbs1914. mance, and New Wave will bike ride from Ocean Contributing Writers com. donate half of the proceeds Infection rates City to Baltimore benefits Joey Amato • Sharon Brackett • Cathy Brennan • Rodney Burger • Joshua Buchbinder • Steve Charing • Jeffrey Claggett • Jewish Community Services will host an to Movable Feast. Tickets Moveable Feast. Register Jeffrey Clouser • Wayne Curtis • Woody Derricks • Denise R. educational exhibit at the Jewish Commu- may be purchased online continue to at Rideforthefeast.org. Duarte • Chuck Duncan • Michael Farley • Jon Fairbanks • Gerry nity Center, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue, Ow- Fisher • Bruce Garrett • Jeff Hammerberg • Dr. Eva Hersh • at Newwavesingers.org. increase, making Additionally, there will be Shirli Hughes • Sam Kunz • Michelle Lanchester, Esq. • Dana ings Mills. For information visit IfIknew.org. Friday, November 30 a kick-off party that night, LaRocca • Jessica Lemmo • Jay Loane • Rev. Meredith Moise • Johns Hopkins University School of at 8 p.m. the Creative Al- World AIDS Day at Metro Gallery in Sta- Bill Palmer • Gregg Shapiro Medicine hosts a free online CME confer- liance at the Patterson, tion North from 6 p.m. un- ence, “Game Changers in Infectious Dis- as relevant today Graphics 3134 Eastern Avenue, til midnight. There will be Joe Velasquez • Bob Wellington ease: A Focus on Important Changes in the Baltimore, will be host- bands, dancing, prizes, as ever.” Cartoonist ID Field” 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This conference ing a World AIDS Day and onsite registration. Bruce Garrett (www.brucegarrett.com) is approved for a maximum of 9.0 AMA PRA Cabaret featuring Adam Balance – the Salon, Photographers Category 1 cred- Cooley, star of their run 409 West Coldspring Lane, Baltimore, will Bruce Garrett • Jay W Photos • Justin Nixon its. To register go of Hedwig and the Angry host a Cut-a-thon on December 3 in honor Web Editor to Idcarelive.com. Inch, Mink Stole famous for of World AIDS Day. All proceeds will ben- Anja Saine [email protected] The New her work with John Waters efit Moveable Feast. Can’t make the date? Managed Web Services Wave Singers films, satirist Joseph Ritch, Just mention Moveable Feast when you The Fusio Group of Baltimore will and Quae Simpson. A re- book an appointment any time in the month 866-322-7498, www.thefusiogroup.com honor World AIDS ception follows. Tickets are of December and $10 will be donated to National Advertising Rep t Rivendell Media Day with concerts $20, $15 for CA members. Moveable Feast. Contact 410-366-6169 908-232-2021 on December Proceeds benefit AIDS Bill Palmer is a long time community Founders 1st and 2nd to Action Baltimore. Tickets organizer and advocate for HIV/AIDS and Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • benefit Move- available at Creativeal- LGBTQ related issues. Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams

Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 410-244-6780 www.baltimoreoutloud.com

Additional Information Congratulations Maryland! Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: editor@ baltimoreoutloud.com. All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced Same Sex Marriage is Law! without the written permission of the editor.

Be a part of This History and Participate in Baltimore OUTloud’s 1st Gay Wedding Issue January 11 2013, or be part of the Our Wedding Section. Let Us Know About The Big Day With Pictures and Info and We Will * Place It in The Paper. Sent It to [email protected]* Let Us Know if You are a Service Provider or Vendor for Weddings The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those and get a 4 Issue Package Deal for Your Advertising. Call Our Friendly of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily Sales Staff 410-802-1310 or e-mail [email protected] reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff. © 2012 – All rights reserved or [email protected] for More Information! Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker President – Jim Williams It is Now Our Time to Promote Our Lives Together! Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL AN HEIRLOOM IN THE MAKING Tnra sgender Day of contrast 15 reported cases were noted in Smith of Equality Maryland read a blessing A fair trade wedding gift registry celebrates hope, respect Remembrance the United States. Jean-Michel Brevelle and over the multitude of candles then present and love—a meaningful way to start your new life together. – continued from front page Lauren Stokeling shared in the task of read- in the memorial box. The box was then car- ing the names with Donna Plamondon and ried out by community members and placed self, “I am a man of trans experience” and Becky Savadkin lighting a candle for each on the front stoop of the church where at- that he had “lived a double life.” He stated name and placing it in a sand-filled memorial tendees filed past in reflection, each carry- Phoenician that he knew all would be well when his box. Each reading identified the person, date ing their own candles. The entire group then Glass Carafe, $68 HANDCRAFTED IN children were free to say “It’s okay, my dad and location of death and in many cases a paused in silent reflection surrounding the WEST BANK is a trans man.” Michael’s remarks drew a description of what had been done to the candles for many moments finally broken by standing ovation from the attendees. victims, with many mutilated or burned after a single voice spontaneously singing “This Following in the interfaith tradition of being murdered. Many attendees appeared Little Light of Mine.” Within an instant the the ceremony William Palmer of Interfaith visibly moved including those performing the singing was joined by all as one by one they Fairness Coalition of Maryland recited the services. added their own candles to those lingering in Mourner’s Kaddish, a traditional Jewish Upon completing the list of names Owen the memorial box. t prayer offered in memorial settings. The Rev. Sam Offer demonstrated his ample vo- cal skills in his performance of “Here I Am.” Offer’s voice filled the sanctuary, often with- Music by The Master out benefit of the microphone. The last solo performance of the evening featured Geor- gie Jessup singing her song “The Road to Gary Schwartz Trinidad,” an homage to Trinidad, Colorado, Music to personalize your special day. Before, TEN THOUSAND where Dr. Marci Bowers had a clinic for gen- during and after the ceremony Gary will help you VILLAGES ® GIFTS THAT GIVE TWICE* der reassignment surgery until 2010. set the mood. A Themed wedding? ... Renaissance, A Fair Trade Retailer. The most challenging portion of the pro- Medieval, Victorian or whatever your Personal 1621 Thames Street, Fells Point gram for attendees was the reading of the (410) 342-5568 • Open 7 Days a Week names of the dead which included those Style, Gary has Music to Fit Every Wish. www.tenthousandvillages.com from Baltimore in years past as well as a You can contact Music by The Master at: 301.639.6479, Contact us to arrange a personalized host of other names, many of which were consultation for your Gift Registry from Brazil, which had an astonishing 126 [email protected] or go to www.musicbythemaster.com selection. Online registry also available. transgender murders in the past year. By February Turn Your Wedding Day into a Your Destination Wedding Weekend! • Rehearsal Dinner in Alexandra’s American Fusion Restaurant • Overnight Stay in the Hotel, featuring Wedding Day over 170 Guest Rooms Getaway • Relax and Rejuvenate in the Spa Book Your Wedding For January or February in 2013 or 2014 •Celebrate Your Special Day in one of Valid for New Bookings Only, with a Minimum of 40 Guests. Cannot Winterbe combined with other offers. Additional conditions may apply. Four Beautiful Ballrooms, accommodating And Receive 25% Off! up to 600 guests Call 410-465-1200 or email [email protected] today!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 news // LOCAL Pushing for Gender ID Rights FreeState Legal Project to The civil rights team that had success in How- marriage equality and it is fundamental that ard and Baltimore counties will press ahead the LGB and ally community stand by the trans Hold Will Power Party in 2013 to secure gender identity rights in community in the pursuit of comprehensive Even in the wake of “LGBT families re- Maryland. On November 20, Gender Rights non-discrimination laws on the state level.” achieving marriage main at risk of having Maryland (GRMD), the state’s only civil Added Mark Patro, PFLAG Baltimore equality in Maryland, unfriendly relatives rights organization exclusively representing County chapter president, “Following the tre- LGBT individuals and and other parties inter- trans persons and the Howard County and mendous success that these three organiza- families need to take vene upon the illness Baltimore County chapters of Parents and tions had working together with other friends special care to protect or passing of a partner Families of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) an- and allies in Howard and Baltimore counties, their assets, property, belonging to a same- nounced they will continue the alliance they PFLAG is making a commitment to remain and relationships through sex relationship,” says formed this past year in passing gender-iden- part of this alliance and to continue our work small estate planning. Aaron Merki, director tity and expression legislation in two Mary- for trans rights and protections in the state of FreeState’s dedication to of the FreeState Le- land counties. Maryland.” serving Maryland’s low- gal Project. “This is an The alliance will mark the second year of “We welcome all allies, including those al- income LGBT community opportunity to protect cooperation between the organizations that re- lies who worked for these causes in previous Marching at Pride credit: Steve Charing includes providing small- against that risk.” sulted in the passage of comprehensive anti- years, to join our alliance in moving these is- estate planning services. FreeState provides discrimination protections for trans and gender sues forward,” said GRMD Executive Director FreeState will hold a Will Power Party at legal services to the low-income LGBT non-conforming persons in Howard and Bal- Dr. Dana Beyer. the GLCCB, 241 West Chase Street, Balti- community members who cannot access timore Counties in 2012. The organizations “This team has been instrumental in per- more on December 11 at 6:30 p.m. Low-in- the existing service providers. FreeState plan to take the measures to the Maryland suading legislators to take action on the is- come LGBT families and individuals will be also seeks to educate the broader legal State Legislature and to the Prince Georges sues surrounding trans rights,” said Sharon able to consult with an attorney and begin community on LGBT issues, enabling them County Council for passage in 2013. Brackett, board chair of GRMD. “Our alliance the process of planning for their futures. to better represent pro bono LGBT clients. “PFLAG Howard County is proud to have with PFLAG and the results we have achieved If there is a question as to whether Free State is working to build the capacity been an integral partner in the successful pas- together has secured protections to over a mil- an individual or family qualifies as low-in- within the Maryland bar to handle LGBT is- sage of comprehensive legislation in Baltimore lion more Marylanders including many thou- come, they should contact FreeState Legal sues. t and Howard counties,” said PFLAG Howard sands of trans or gender non-conforming per- Project in advance at 410-625- 5428. In- For more information about the County president Matt Thorn. “The transgen- sons in Maryland. Now is time to make sure come verification will be requested in order FreeState Legal Project, visit Freestatele- der community has stood steadfast with the that all Marylanders have a common set of to complete the offered legal services. gal.org. gay and lesbian community in the quest for rights.” t CoMing soon! The LoCker rooM!

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4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL

Introducing... Volcheck elaborated on seeks to raise public awareness that peo- the relationship of the local ple can be good without believing in God. The LGBTQ Humanist Council of Baltimore and national ethical and hu- It is a coalition of nine nontheistic orga- manistic organizations nizations in By Denise R. Duarte hill states that “as part of ethical culture, we • The LGBTQ Human- Baltimore that The LGBTQ Humanist Council of Baltimore are always looking to learn. When we are ist Council of Baltimore is includes the was formed this year as a project of the open to learning and when we are open to a chapter of the American Baltimore Ethi- American Humanist Society in association new knowledge, our brains are growing.” Humanist Association (AHA) cal Society and with the Baltimore Ethical Society (BES). “I grew up religious and I know that not and part of their national the LGBTQ Hu- The organization “believes in working to everybody’s church is inclusive of LGBT project called the “LGBT Hu- manist Council create a better, more humane world and people,” says McCahill. “I am not really try- manist Council.” of Baltimore. a more ethical culture for all,” says BES ing to convert anybody; it is just a way of • The AHA is a national Baltimore CoR president Emil Volcheck. “Fundamental to saying if you’re not practicing your religion, nonprofit that advocates pro- established the our understanding of ethics is to respect maybe you are practicing ours.” gressive values and equality LGBTQ Hu- the inherent worth, uniqueness, and dig- McCahill came out as a secular human- for humanists, atheists, and manist Council nity of all people. This means we have a ist and a genderqueer individual over the freethinkers. of Baltimore at responsibility to support equal rights for course of one month last summer. “Before • The Baltimore Ethical the invitation of all. The Baltimore Ethical I came out, I had already Society (BES) is a humanis- the AHA. Lucas McCahill Society... was founded “I grew up mentally established that I tic religious fellowship. Like To find out by civil-rights activists did not believe in a higher all ethical societies, it is part more and to and offered the first ra- religious and I power. I know that this is of the American Ethical Union, a national connect with the LGBTQ Humanist Council cially-integrated religious know that not not the experience for many nonprofit that promotes humanism and of Baltimore and to learn more about ethi- education in Baltimore in people I have met in my life. ethical culture. BES is an affiliate of the cal and humanist organizations, browse 1951. Sixty years later, everybody’s I know that it made it easier AHA. BES works closely with the LGBTQ to Meetup.com/LGBTQ-Humanist-Coun- the same worldview leads for me to come out because Humanist Council of Baltimore. BES hosts cil-of-Baltimore, Lgbthumanists.org, Bal- us to support our LGBTQ church is there was no questioning of some of the Council’s activities, and BES timore Ethical Society Bmorethical.org, members, the Baltimore inclusive of my beliefs.” Coming out as Members helped launch the council. Baltimore Coalition of Reason, Baltimore- LGBTQ community, and genderqueer, had a different • The Baltimore Coalition of Reason cor.org. t their issues.” LGBT people. set of challenges and was Lucas McCahill, lead more difficult for McCahill, organizer for the LGBTQ I’m not trying since it is a new concept in Humanist Council of Bal- to convert gender studies. McCahill ex- timore, states that “basi- plains that “for me, gender- cally we believe that you anybody; it’s queer means that I do not may or may not believe in fall into the box. I know that the higher power, but that just a way of it is hypercritical sounding, belief in the higher power saying if you’re to have a label when you do does not dictate whether not like labels, but I don’t feel you live ethically.” not practicing that I should be expected to “Many LGBTQ [peo- fall into male or female.” ple] continue to go to your religion, “As a genderqueer per- church despite the fact maybe you’re son in leadership position,” that they may not agree McCahill says, “I have been with the teaching of the practicing trying to, so to speak, rip the religious setting,” Mc- lid off society’s definition of Cahill says, adding that ours.” gender.” Becoming the lead- the LGBTQ Humanist er of the LGBTQ Humanist Council of Baltimore provides community Council of Baltimore has “empowered me “without the aspect of compromising how to say I am genderqueer. It has given me you live and present yourself to get that the confidence to speak up and speak out.” acceptance.” The organization serves as The LGBTQ Humanist Council of Bal- an alternative to the traditional organized timore’s meet-up page outlines their dedi- religion and includes atheists, agnostics, cation to advancing equality utilizing pub- humanists, or anyone whose beliefs are lic service, outreach, and education. The outside the traditional theistic definitions. group was a member of the Marylanders Humanism focuses on the acquisition for Marriage Equality and that relationship of knowledge, acquired by rational or sci- gave them their initial publicity. Accord- entific means. This knowledge, in conjunc- ing to McCahill, now that Question 6 has tion with compassion, is applied to social passed, the council will focus on support- questions. Humanism posits that follow- ing statewide legislative protections for ing this philosophy is considered the best gender identity and expression in Annapo- method for attaining life fulfillment. McCa- lis in 2013.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker should not play a role in determining royalty fought and won. woman’s former lesbian partner. Kenneth Miller candidates. “We wanted somebody who was This is written to encourage thought and of Stuarts Draft, Virginia, faces up to three years a true Sun Devil, somebody who represent- planning before committing to wed. There in prison when he is sentenced in federal court White House joins ed all of what ASU is looking for – in their are few more regrettable decisions in life in Burlington on March 4. His attorney, He was in Trans Day of students and the progress that ASU is mak- than a hasty or improvident marriage. One convicted last summer for helping Lisa Miller and ing,” Sitter said. Nominations for the home- should be sure to marry for the right reasons, her daughter Isabella flee the country in 2009, Remembrance coming court included eight women and two at the right time, and, most importantly, to several days before the girl was scheduled for a men, including Sebastian Navarro who said the right person. So here is a very brief dis- weekend visit with Lisa Miller’s former partner, Washington, D.C. – As part of Transgen- he was initially skeptical about the change. cussion of marriage in Washington and its Janet Jenkins of Fair Haven. During Kenneth der Day of Remembrance, National Center But after he met other homecoming court legal ramifications. Miller’s August trial, prosecutors used cellphone for Trans Equality (NCTE) Director Mara nominees and gaining the full homecoming • First, you cannot marry someone if records and sometimes-reluctant witnesses to Keisling and NCTE Director of Policy Harp- experience, Navarro said he realized it was you are married already. That is bigamy – a lay out a broad network he oversaw that helped er Jean Tobin, along with two dozen other a good idea. “It’s awesome to be surrounded Class C felony in Washington. Lisa Miller and transgender advocates, joined the White • Second, marriage is a permanent con- Isabella travel House observance of Transgender Day of tract with no warranty or guarantee. One first to Canada Remembrance. John Berry, director of the marries for better or worse, in sickness and and then Nica- Office of Personnel Management, led the in health, for richer or poorer. There are only ragua. It was group in a moment of silence to honor trans- two ways to end a legal marriage in this also two months gender victims of violence. state: divorce or the death of a spouse. The ahead of an an- Keisling said, “Today, NCTE is in sol- matrimonial relationship is not terminated by ticipated order emn vigil for the Transgender people we’ve simply packing one’s bags and leaving the from a Vermont Pastor Kenneth Miller lost to senseless anti-transgender violence. marital tent. judge transfer- Transgender Day of Remembrance is a chill- • Third, Washington is a community prop- ring custody of ing reminder that the work we all do too often erty state. The wealth that you accumulate the girl from Lisa Miller to Jenkins. The Millers comes too late for many in our community. during your marriage will be deemed marital are not related. So today, we reflect on the people we’ve lost. assets, legally belonging to both of you. And A civil lawsuit by Jenkins at the conclusion And tomorrow, we renew our commitment to with people that are at the top two of their you will be liable for the debts incurred by of Kenneth Miller’s criminal trial is also pending. ending the discrimination and violence that school, and nobody was limited by their gen- your spouse. And Miller’s attorneys continued to fight a sub- keeps many more of us imprisoned with fear.” der.” • Fourth, your spouse has inheritance poena from federal prosecutors that he testify Commenting on the participation of the Northern Arizona University’s homecom- rights. If you die first, your spouse will have before a grand jury, presumably about other White House in the Day of Remembrance, ing also had a shift in traditional gender roles a legal right to a portion of your estate, even people involved in helping Lisa Miller and her Keisling said, “To have a senior administra- by electing a male student, Tony Peña, as if you have written a will directing otherwise. daughter travel from Virginia to Canada and tion official leading us in commemorating queen and a female student, Kathleen Short, • Fifth, marriage may jeopardize your then on to Nicaragua, where they are still be- transgender victims of violence is a good as king. Short said she felt like the title of pension or public benefits. Before hiring a lieved to be. thing, But to have President Barack Obama’s “queen” didn’t really fit her and felt more caterer, you should get in touch with the ap- Jenkins and Lisa Miller were joined in a Ver- commitment to solving anti-transgender vio- comfortable as king. “No matter who you propriate office or government agency and mont civil union in 2000 and Isabella was born lence affirmed in today’s meeting is a great are, or what you are, or where you’ve been, ascertain precisely what effect your mar- to Lisa in 2002. The couple split in 2003. A Ver- thing.”(Seattle Gay News – Shaun Knittel at it shouldn’t hinder you from what you truly riage will have on your future benefits or en- mont family court awarded custody of Isabella Sgn.org) want to do,” Short said. Short said Arizona titlements. to Lisa Miller but gave Jenkins regular visitation. will influence what could become a trend I offer two suggestions to the marriage- Lisa Miller returned to Virginia, became a con- in the nation’s schools of breaking down minded: Consider premarital couples coun- servative Christian, renounced homosexual- gender barriers. “To have one of the most seling. Many excellent professionals offer ity and sought full custody of the girl. The two Homecoming at two conservative states make that statement, classes and private sessions, and it is stan- fought a years long legal battle that reached the Arizona schools go it’s extremely powerful,” Short said. (Echo dard procedure in many churches. Find out if supreme courts of Vermont and Virginia. The Magazine at Echomag.com) you two are truly compatible before you reg- U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case. gender neutral ister a china pattern. Also, consider a pre- Ultimately, the courts agreed the case should nuptial agreement, Even if a marriage is suc- be treated the same as any custody dispute be- Phoenix, AZ – Students at two Arizona uni- cessful and the agreement is never needed, tween heterosexual parents. t (Bay Windows versities have taken steps to free homecom- Attorney: Stop and it still provides lasting peace of mind and & Associated Press – at Baywindows.com) ing royalty titles from gender roles. Arizona think before tying security. (Seattle Gay News – Martin Sjolie State University in Tempe made history this at Sgn.org) fall by doing away with its traditional home- the knot coming court headed by a king and queen. T hese news notes have been compiled, And at Northern Arizona University in Flag- Seattle, WA – So many of us are ecstatic with permission, from the online version staff, students selected a woman as king over the approval of [the marriage] Refer- Pastor to be of various newspapers and other web and a man as queen. endum on November 6. The effect of this sentenced in lesbian sites. We thank these publications for At ASU, the homecoming committee es- law on the dignity of our intimate relation- allowing us to bring you their news sto- tablished “homecoming royalty” to avoid limi- ships will be profound and transformative, custody battle ries. Usually the reports have been sig- tations on the pool of nominations. Two wom- both to society and to us. This having been nificantly edited and you can read the en – Kayla Burkholder and Natasha Yenina said, I have no plans to marry. To paraphrase Montpelier, VT – A Mennonite pastor is sched- full story by going to the web site men- – took the crowns in October. Natalie Sitter, Groucho Marx, I would never marry anyone uled to be sentenced in March for his conviction tioned following the item. Comments ASU campus director of homecoming for the who would have me for a husband. I do not on a charge he helped a Virginia woman and her are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker Programming and Activities Board, said the consider marriage a civic duty like voting, no daughter flee the country three years ago rather and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride homecoming committee decided that gender matter how valiantly the recent battle was than allow the girl to have regular visits with the Media.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Journeys

assigned person that everyone talked to and enjoyed Real Trans Talk: Murky Water to me. being around yet I suffered with insomnia, Calling me crying spells, and began cutting to relieve the were outfits the family cooed over. The dog weird, strange, and criticizing what I now know pain. I tried to be obedient and date which led b y Vann Millhouse and pony show held every spring season at as my gender expression tore down my self- to a two year abusive relationship, sexual as- Sunlight shining brightly into the play area, Easter caused the insightful sandbox young- image, esteem and worth. My clothes were saults and a rabbit hole that deepened with the youngster stood in the doorway watch- ster to fade into people pleasing obedience. discarded and during one outburst my father every attempt to be ‘normal’. Upon graduating ing their classmates franticly pick and choose These annual feelings of discomfort were said, “Don’t you want to look pretty like all of I worked, paid bills to come home everyday toys to play with for free time. Feeling discon- stored in an arsenal unknown to them. the other young ladies?” I thought, ‘I’m not like contemplating a way to take my life. Predis- nected and alone; unsure of the response, There she was in all white, Shirley temple all the other young ladies’ so I asked, posed for mental health disparities and the three-year-old would receive, developed a drop curls and doll baby Mary Jane’s! Their “Are you ashamed to walk down the already experiencing symptoms I new courage to pick up that sturdy old truck, heart fluttered as her Kool-aid stained ruby red street with me looking like this?” I spent several stints in the hospital place it in the sandbox and hoped for the other lips, dirty blonde hair and neatly pressed jeans attended an all girl’s school, ev- during my twenties. During my male children to join in. Briefly, one classmate decorated their first crush. It was third grade eryone said I would be gay; they well moments I was productive pretended to play along, but not for long. Just year, and no words to explain their feelings. were close but no cigar. I hid my yet hollow and after losing a for a moment they felt connected to the world. As time passed no one knew about their first internal struggle in academics, second job the arsenal explod- Called for reading time the youngster stayed crush and there would be many to come just music and sports in spite of my ed. Drinking and getting high behind to relish in their new found relation like her. Not embracing puberty well, a conflict deplorable body image. I lived became a way of life for several to the world until the teacher noticed. Reluc- was brewing. After not getting the Lionel train in two worlds and I could not find years, until I was shown a new tantly joining the group, the little person clev- set, the race car set, the Hulk under-roos, and a way to merge the two. I studied way of living at which time I came erly decided to use the restroom to get away the match box cars, now puberty?! They es- the male species from every angle out as a lesbian at 30. from their peers. Instead of returning to their caped the raw, ever so clear reality; they do at every moment but I could not gain I thought all was solved. We wed- ‘spot’, the brave kid decided to sit in the cor- not fit into the social constructs for one to be full access, yet I did not enter the female ded in Canada, began raising our family ner protected by the tall bookcase and pen- considered female and spent time crushing on rites of passage because I did not belong. and yet a piece was still missing. I was more tagon shaped working table. Balling up with a girls and infiltrating the secret society of young Forced to walk the middle of the road my ar- than a person who liked women and after say- book and a kid size chair as the audience they manhood. Social anxiety grew and feeling senal increased and I slowly lost myself and ing the letters LGBT together haplessly. In stared at the pages feeling a discord inside. paralyzed without anyone to talk to figure out became robotic and numb. therapy, I came to understand the T and what The polyester navy-blue skirt, light blue what was happening, early signs of depres- College was freedom so I thought. I man- it means for me. I sat my wife down for a game tights, black patent leather pocket book and sion manifested, and living life as a manikin aged to create a new image and meet new changing conversation. Expecting her to leave shoes to match, the A line white dress with became a way of existing. people but I could not shake the feeling that I hesitantly said, “I think I’m transgender.” She small pink polka dots and satin ribbon belt, My parents did not see me, but what they something was wrong with me. I was the cool said confidently, “I know.” t

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 (Search for it on YouTube for a laugh.) We have the same battles in transdom. Process, words, who does what and when are all critical. To a disinterested outsider it seems silly. On the inside it is serious Rational business. T-hought In 2011 myself and a number interested Sharon Brackett trans people and supporting allies from the straight and LGB community formed Gen- der Rights Maryland (GRMD), the state’s Big Happy Family only exclusive trans-rights organization. From the beginning GRMD took a different A few weeks ago I wrote in this column approach. We did not adopt the traditional about the fact that trans folk are not po- “grass roots” organizer role. Our take was litically monolithic. The goal of that piece twofold. was to educate the non-trans public that First, there already were organiza- we have much to say and offer on other tions and persons who believed that grass subjects. This time I want to dig into an- roots are the only way to get things done. other aspect of “transdom”: We don’t all For us that was not working and a differ- get along or like each other. ent approach was needed. We needed to One of the mistakes I’ve seen with be more business-like, less random, more many efforts to effect change in the world structured and better disciplined. is the notion that if you keep And secondly, that doing the same thing you will “There those grass-roots meth- get a different result. This ods worked only if you might happen, but usually already were have sufficient resources doesn’t. Usually there has to organizations (money and thousands of be a catalyst or sea change supporters) to make that that makes the difference. I and persons happen. Transdom has contend that marriage equal- neither. A catalyst was ity progress would not have who believed needed. been made in four states this that grass We tried our approach past election day if Obama twice in the last year. We had not clearly indicated that roots are the worked directly in alliance he was in favor of it. That is with PFLAG in Howard a game changer. A catalyst. only way to get and Baltimore Counties, In Maryland we have a things done. who in both places adopt- very similar challenge with ed our approach as well. respect to statewide gender- For us that was NCLR, GLSEN, and other identity protections. organizations joined in. Unfortunately, our gov- not working Guess what? It ernor, who supports it, is not and a different worked. And at the end the gatekeeper. That would of the day the council- be Senate President Mike approach was member sponsors in both Miller, who some refer to as Howard and Baltimore the “King of Maryland.” As needed.” counties credited GRMD goes Miller, so goes the leg- and PFLAG with being the islative agenda in Maryland. groups that made their job So the bottom line is “What will Miller do?” easy and resulted in a win Right now that’s a big unknown. And for trans folk. A catalyst. there are some trans activists who seem This past year the senate president to think they know the answers on how you told us the game was cancelled and would resolve that. not be played at all and that there was only Our problem is that their approach is one game and we were not in it. the same old, same old, when we need a The result was we did not engage our game changer. plan. There was no point in spending the People bring their own experience to time and effort what little money we had in the table. Some will agree, some won’t. doing so. It was going no place. You may have two groups that completely Not everybody in this state agrees with agree on the goal of a piece of legisla- how we did things, and there are many tion, but violently disagree on how it gets voices that keep saying “You are doing it passed or the language contained in it. wrong.” Even if the resulting outcome is the same. But from where we sit we think you I’m reminded of a scene in Monty Py- should probably keep backing the team thon’s Life of Brian. There is a discussion that has been getting results. If you are about how much the Judean Peoples Front winning games you do not change the despises the People’s Front of Judea. quarterback. t 8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com not the black vote but se- to rest one of the longstanding quivers in niors. the arsenal of the anti-marriage crowd and Nonetheless, marriage end race-based discrimination and avoid- equality advocates in Mary- ance in our own equality movement.” land largely marketed their I always thought that blacks were given OUT campaign towards black vot- a bum rap on this issue. Although there is Spoken ers who were expected to clear resistance to marriage equality among Steve Charing comprise around a quarter churchgoing African-Americans, other eth- of the total voters. Though nic groups are generally non-supportive polls showed greater support as well. They include Hispanics, Asians, among African-Americans, ad- Muslims and Orthodox Jews Those white Race and vocates did not rest on those Catholics who adhere to their hierarchy’s numbers. The plan was to win dogma have consistently opposed same- Question 6 over as many persuadable President Obama announcing his support sex marriage. African-American voters as for marriage equality in April. Those who are so-called socially con- possible to mitigate the num- servative have done the same. That ex- The high-fives, toasts, hugs, kisses, and ber of opponents who have strong religious apparent that age and political leanings were plains the lack of support for Question 6 in dancing have abated somewhat since the beliefs against homosexuality and follow the more of a factor than race. One could argue the rural, traditionally conservative jurisdic- historic election on November 6 when Mary- preaching of influential church leaders. that we won not in spite of the black vote but tions in the state. land voters supported Question 6 and thus, Presenting the testimonials favoring because of it. Ethnicity aside, I believe the real oppo- marriage equality, by over 127,000 votes. marriage equality and its connection to fair- On this point, Delegate Mary Washing- sition is in the older members of population. As we turn the calendar to 2013, many of ness from two leading black pastors in TV ton, the first out lesbian African-American Surely the younger voters under 30 support the state’s estimated 17,000 commercials and web vid- legislator in the state’s history and a pow- marriage equality and LGBT rights in gen- same-sex couples will tie “A solid grass- eos was a smart tactical erful leader in achieving marriage equality eral in a big way, and in due course, they the knot. Cheers to them all! roots effort, decision. This followed the in Maryland, told me: “The truth here that will constitute the overwhelming majority. This was a surprising public endorsements from should never be forgotten by our national Other states are poised to attempt to outcome because never helped out by President Obama, First Lady and local LGBT advocates is that on Ques- legalize same-sex marriage via the ballot had marriage equality been Michelle Obama, Vice Presi- tion 6, the African-American voters carried box. But as Mary Washington points out favored by statewide votes supportive dent Biden and former Presi- the day well above conventional wisdom and the post-election numbers support, the until last month’s election. clergy in dent Clinton. Also joining and without which we could not have won results in Maryland should finally dispel the (We know, of course, that in was a key endorsement this historic victory. It is my hope that what myth that African-Americans universally op- Maine and Washington also predominantly by Benjamin Jealous of the we have done in Maryland is to begin to put pose marriage equality. t made history on that glori- national NAACP, civil rights ous night as did Minnesota African- icon Julian Bond, Rev. Al in turning back a consti- American areas Sharpton and several local tutional amendment that celebrities – an cache of big- Friday, December 7 would have banned same- helped repel name supporters the Prop 8 sex marriage.) advocates lacked. One of the issues that the exposed- In addition, there was dominated the conversation wedge attempts a solid grass-roots effort, following the signing of the helped out by supportive Civil Marriage Protection on the part of clergy, in the predominantly Act and the inevitable refer- African-American areas to endum attempt in Maryland the Maryland reinforce these endorse- is race. We were told from Marriage ments and help repel the the Proposition 8 experi- exposed wedge attempts End of the World Party ence in 2008 that African- Alliance.” on the part of the Maryland Americans’ opposition to Marriage Alliance and their same-sex marriage was a sponsor the National Orga- huge factor in upholding the measure that nization for Marriage. denied gay and lesbian couples the right to When the happy numbers rolled in on marry in California. Election Night, it was very obvious the strat- Later analyses from exit polling and egy of strong outreach to African-Americans other data pointed to a different conclu- paid off. In predominantly African-American sion. While more African-American voters Baltimore City, the pro-Question 6 folks out- in California supported Prop 8 than were numbered the opponents by 57% to 43% opposed, the differential would not have margin. In Prince George’s County where impacted the ultimate result given the so many advocates feared that blacks would www.centralstationpub.com • Visit us on Facebook (It may be your last) percentage of African-American voters in vote overwhelmingly against Question 6, op- California is smaller than many other other ponents outnumbered supporters by a scant states, especially Maryland. Regardless, 3,000 votes out of nearly 370,000 cast. post-Prop 8 assessments indicated there Marriage equality supporters also held a was inadequate outreach to the African- majority in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Freder- American community – a lesson learned. ick, Howard and Montgomery counties. The The chief contributor to the Prop 8 debacle remaining jurisdictions in the state, which besides outside money, we found out, was are largely white, opposed the measure. It is

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 health & wellnesS thinking outloud

between women. developing nations in Africa and Asia. We It’s great that you’ve never had symptoms should be alarmed because AIDS con- of an STD. However, don’t be sure you have tinues to kill, taking the best and bright- Open Wide never had one. It is quite common to have her- Crossroads est. Some of us have grown complacent pes or HPV without any symptoms at all. Many Chronicles because the complexion of infection has ask Dr Eva people have one or both of these two chronic changed but the pain is the same. Children Dr Eva Hersh viral infections without ever being aware of it. Rev. Mother Meredith Moise losing parents, parents losing children, fam- I don’t recommend testing for HSV or HPV, ily losing family, and friends losing friends. except in certain unusual situations. Transmis- Neighbors disappear and we, the living, are Lesbians, STDs, sion of HPV virus from woman to woman is one An Attitude of left to pick up the pieces of our love. reason why it is important for women who only I am thankful because the medicines & Cancer have sex with women to get Pap smears on the Gratitude are better. I am thankful that so many are same schedule as other women. becoming aware of their status and tak- Dear Dr. Eva, December 1st marks World AIDS Day. We ing proactive measures. I am thankful for Can women transmit STDs between them? Dear Dr. Eva. have unfurled to AIDS quilt all over the na- another day to tell the stories of beloveds For while there was a lot of talk about dental In the last six months, two lesbians I know tion for years. It has grown, somberly, and lost and spirits triumphant because their dams, but that seems to have died down in the have developed endometrial cancer, and a with each year, the numbers of dead and memories will never be erased by a four- last couple of years. As a longtime member of third was diagnosed last year. I know more dying grow as well. I remember the day letter acronym. the Lesbian community, I have never heard of straight women than lesbians, and I have not from a personal context. Having had fam- We must do more and compassion a woman getting an STD from another woman. heard of any cases among straight women. I ily and friends that the virus has taken, I compels us to do more. I have spoken In 30 happily “unsafe” sexually active years know some cancers are caused by viruses. am so thankful for those I know and love about getting back to the bread-and-but- with quite a few women, I have never seen any Could this be something contagious? Or is still soldiering on. ter issues. We don’t get more basic than signs of infection in myself either. there something about lesbian genetics or life- I am so moved by the change that this life and living. If anything I have learned Let’s have the real truth. style that could cause this? Or, is it just a coinci- scourge has wrought. At the beginning of through this experience with the dead Anonymous Over 50 dence and I should stop being paranoid? this pandemic, gay white men were the and dying, I have learned to bathe each Worried face of AIDS. In 2012, the face of AIDS moment with sincere gratitude. I have Dear Anonymous, is increasingly black and female... and learned to embrace the now and remem- It’s true, women can infect each other with Dear Worried, heterosexual. In some parts of the U.S., ber the promise of life and the ability to sexually transmitted infections. As you have It’s hard to prove, but from years in the the rates of new infection mirror rates in live with boundless courage. t noticed, transmission of sexually transmitted community I too have the strong impression infections between women does not happen that lesbians get more endometrial(uterine) nearly as often as it does between two men or cancer, and die from it more often, than other between a woman and a man. In most cases women do. A review of the published literature of transmission of STDs between women, one does show that endometrial cancer (also called or both of the female partners has also had sex uterine cancer) is more common among lesbi- (oral, vaginal, or anal) with a male sexual part- ans. There are several theories about why this ner. is. Trichomonas, an infection cause by an 1) Many lesbians will ignore abnormal vagi- amoeba-like critter, is the most common sex- nal bleeding for far longer than they should.

ual infection passed between women. Tricho- There could be several different reasons for COMMUNITY Our readers know good food monas used to be considered a “minor” STD this – no health insurance, no money, no rela- because it has no long-term medical conse- tionship with a gynecologist, alienation from the Isn’t it time you get to know them? quences, unlike (for example) syphilis which uterus and a tendency to ignore what happens OUT can cause neurologic damage or Chlamydia “down there.” Be aware that vaginal bleeding Advertise in DINING OUT which can cause infertility. However, it is now which begins after 6 or more months of no Baltimore

known that the vaginal inflammation caused menstrual bleeding should be considered can- loud by Trichomonas makes women more likely to cer until proven otherwise. Our Charm City Section become infected with HIV and other sexually 2) Lesbians have a whole variety of posi- LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER transmitted infections. tive risk factors (meaning the risk is based on T For details call 410.802.1310 Herpes virus and HPV, the virus that something the person did) and negative risk causes genital warts and cervical cancer, also factors (meaning risk is based on something

U or [email protected] are fairly commonly passed between women. the person didn’t do). Positive risk factors for Herpes and HPV can be passed directly from uterine cancer include: cigarette smoking, alco- Ask about the signing bonus intact skin to intact skin. Vaginal penetration is hol use, being overweight. Negative risk factors AN INDEPENDENT VOICE FOR THE O not necessary to transmit these infections. : not taking birth control pills, and not having The only reported cases of passing HIV any full-term pregnancies. between women have involved either shared Anyone, especially if postmenopausal, use of sex toys without condoms, or sharing who has vaginal bleeding after six months of syringes for IV drug use. no menses should quickly get seen by a gyne- Other sexually transmitted infections, in- cologist or a primary care provider who can do cluding gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and syphilis, an endometrial biopsy. t are transmitted to women almost exclusively Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physician. through oral, vaginal, or anal penetration with Send your comments and questions to her by DINING an infected penis. They are rarely transmitted email at [email protected]. 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com thinking outloud

Re-naming the being with a sexual orientation. We are rendered him no longer fit to serve as the all sexual the degree to which works on a ‘All In’: Marriage, country’s top spy. spectrum from non-existent to obsessed. Gay men and lesbians were vulner- LGBTQIAA We have even made people who do not par- Rights, Hypocrisy – able to this kind of take down from public ticipate in sexual activity: asexual. Accepting service until recently on the theory that il- Community the spectrum idea ends the classification of The Case of David legal and shameful behavior such as being being other something other than normal. gay or having an extra marital affair could By Mark Patro These categories are artificial constructs. Petraeus render you susceptible to blackmail, thus Yes, of course, we are a diverse commu- We are working in identity politics you jeopardizing national security. nity and there seems to always be someone say. Yes, we are. So, we need to separate What a moment this is that on the left out. How do we correct this situation? I ourselves you say. Can we, is it possible and by Katherine Franke heels of having won enormous victories do not yet have an answer. I am trying to worth it, to come together as a “community” As many now know, CIA director and re- in electing openly gay candidates such ignite a community-based conversation. Our (also an artificial construct) in a way that tired four-star Army General David Pe- as Tammy Baldwin and securing marriage traeus has resigned his post at the CIA rights for same sex couples in four more on account of newly emerging information states, marriage remains an institution that he had what the media calls an “extra- whose mores, morals, and social standing marital” affair with Paula Broadwell, who can bring down someone as powerful as is also married. Broadwell David Petraeus when he is the author of the flatter- “Gay people violates them. It seems ing Petraeus biography All that we live in a time when In: The Education of General continue to it’s safer to be gay than to David Petraeus. clamor to be be an adulterer. Others have pointed Yet gay people con- out the irony that Petraeus’ included in tinue to clamor to be in- career ended in humiliation cluded in the venerated on account of adultery, not the venerated institution of marriage so the alleged war crimes and institution of that we, just like straight crimes against humanity people, can get in trouble, best thinkers should engage this idea in a does not cave in to using “their” categori- committed by the U.S. gov- marriage so lose our jobs and be pub- real and meaningful way. cal description of us? If I were ranting here ernment in the Petraeus-led licly ridiculed when we Many, I have been told, have already I would pound my fist and yell “absolutely military campaigns in Af- that we, just have sex with someone started using the term “sexual minority” to not!” But I truly want to engage thoughtful ghanistan and Iraq, or the like straight who isn’t our spouse. describe our alphabet soup of collective conversation on this issue. expansion of the CIA’s Pred- Oh, and just as a re- sub-communities. Yes, we might be a minor- There will be a separatist opinion on ator campaign in Yemen, people, can minder, adultery remains ity if we agree that there will always be more this I am sure. I’ll wait for their perspec- or his role behind a recent a crime in 27 states in- “straights” and that we will never outnum- tive. I feel more closely aligned with the push to expand the agency’s get in trouble, cluding the states that ber them. This is a stereotypical attempt to assimilationists among us. I do, however, drone fleet. He played a key lose our jobs Petreaus claims as his simplify who human beings really are. And also recognize that some of us will want role in decisions to carry out residence: New Hamp- yes, there is sex involved except when we to celebrate the attention that the use of controversial strikes, includ- and be publicly shire and Virginia. And of are talking about gender identity /expres- “sexual minority” will bring to the conversa- ing the Predator attacks last perhaps greater impor- sion. So my first thought in this narrowed- tion. Free love has been around for a long year that killed two U.S. citi- ridiculed when tance, the Uniform Code vision renaming is another attempt by those time and it will continue to be a part of our zens: the alleged al-Qaeda we have sex of Military Justice treats with privilege (inside our community) is once culture. leader Anwar al-Awlaki and adultery very seriously: again trying to speak up for the minorities My other objection is to the word “mi- his teenage son. The Center with someone Adultery is punishable within our community. Has anyone thought nority.” I feel like this too is a way of sepa- for Constitutional Rights and who isn’t our under Article 134, with a about this? rating us into a polarized community. The the ACLU have filed a law- maximum punishment of My personal problem with the word “sex- world is far more complicated than two suit charging senior CIA and spouse.” dishonorable discharge, ual” is that our opponents, in what seems to categorical choices. The word minority has military officials, including forfeiture of all pay and be our endless effort to gain civil rights, have developed negative baggage and maybe Petraeus, with violating the allowances, and confine- perpetually focused on our orientation (yes, it’s time come up with a creative and use Constitution and international law when ment for 1 year. I purposely left out sexual) to behaviorize of an old thought here. Many people in our they authorized and directed drone strikes And lest we forget, the military is an who we are. I see this unfocussed effort as community have historically influenced the that resulted in these deaths as part of a institution gay people have been clamoring another “oops” like the one where we origi- global culture, and I believe we have a pro- broader practice of extrajudicial “targeted to get into as well, rendering us subject to nally used the term “sexual preference.” Our gressive opportunity here to set the stage killing” by the United States outside the its morality code a few short years after we opponents’ effort was and continues to be and squelch this descriptor which I find context of armed conflict. escaped the surveillance of civilian sod- an attempt to otherize us so that we can be personally insulting. It works to minimize But no, it was adultery that brought omy laws in the Lawrence v. Texas case. separated from the larger community. “Sex- us as people. Are we working for full inclu- down Petraeus. Other facts will no doubt All In. t ual minority” will enshrine this otherization in sion into the global culture as valued hu- emerge in the coming days that may im- The author is law professor at Co- world culture; I encourage us not to do this. man beings or do we want to continue the plicate additional complications connected lumbia University. This article was taken My point here is that we are all human use of this self-deprecating adjective? t to his affair with Paula Broadwell, and/or from the Gender and Sexual Equlality Law with Broadwell’s behavior toward others, Blog – http://blogs.law.columbia.edu/gen- but the official story of his resignation, ac- derandsexualitylawblog/2012/11/10/all-in- knowledged by the Obama administration, marriage-rights-and-hypocricy-the-case- was that his “marital infidelity” was what of-david-petraeus/

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 FAITH // SPIRIT CORNER New Year! Called to And as they viewed Roberta lying in the New Law! casket dressed in a man’s suit, shirt, and tie Remember, – and bald – they were shocked, outraged, and insulted as well! New Life! As an observer and someone who had Called to Love spoken and met with both sides, I found that ironically, although neither side was happy For All Your Wedding Needs b y Shirli Hughes with the presence of the other, both sides This month is the time that we pause to re- had great love for Bob and Roberta. All of member and celebrate transgender folk. I this was very sad. And as I sat there and will never forget the time that I attended a listened to what was going on around me, I Book Your funeral service for a member of our trans- could not help but wonder if either side re- gender community. There was nothing but ally knew the full truth of Bob or Roberta. heartache and pain in the Perhaps the deceased was wedding air that day. The church was “It was a little of both. Would that divided into two factions. On have really been such a bad the left sat the family of the common thing? Celebration deceased. And on the right, knowledge that It was common knowl- sat the friends of the de- edge that Roberta had from Start … ceased. These two groups Roberta had taken her own life because may as well have been from she could no longer face two different planets, hon- taken her own the pain, loneliness, and to finish oring and remembering two life because she hardships of her life. Okay, different people. that’s a bit of oversimplifi- The family of the de- could no longer cation of the full story, but ceased was upset, con- nonetheless based on the 903 Dulaney Valley Road · Baltimore, MD 21204 USA fused, and hurt because face the pain, letter she left behind. Ro- of who they believed their loneliness, and berta died sad, alone and Phone: (410) 321-7400 · [email protected] loved one was, a man afraid. What a shame and www.sheratonbaltimorenorth.com/weddings. named “Bob,” and they hardships of what a waste of a beautiful could never understand or human being. accept how or why “Bob” her life.” In this month of trans- chose to live his life as “Ro- gender temembrance, berta.” They saw the funeral as their last wouldn’t it be nice if we could “remember” Advent & Christmas at chance to set things right and send Bob to to be a little kinder, more open and support- heaven as the man that God intended him ive of our transgender brothers and sisters? Grace United Methodist Church to be. They were not at all happy that “Ro- Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we actually took berta’s” friends had the audacity to show up the time to get to know some of these peo- December 2: Sunday of Advent. at the funeral! The family was outraged and ple from the inside out? I have witnessed 11am Workshop Wreath Making and other insulted. too many times the quiet and sometimes crafts. 6:30pm Advent Studies. The friends of “Roberta” were shocked, not-so-quiet slights, insults, and slurs lev- heartsick, and hurt that their dear friend eled at transgender people. Perhaps, we December 9: 4pm Christmas Concert. was being buried as a man and not as the could try a little harder to “remember” to of- Turkey dinner Afterwards. RSVP a must! woman that they believed that God had tru- fer an open heart and helping hand to these ly intended her to be. They were not at all brave men and women who dare to become December 16: 10am Children’s Christmas Pageant. happy at what they believed was the close- who they believe they are meant to be. Per- December 17: 6:30pm Holiday Caroling at Johns Hopkins Hospital. minded, unforgiving stance of the family. haps, we could try and remember to love. t December 19: 7pm Service for the Hope and Healing Quiet Reflection/Worship time. You and your friends and family are invited to join us. Ordained Wedding Officiant Regular Sunday Worship Times: 8:30am & 11am Bill strives to • Non-denominational A Reconciling Congregation! understand your weddings unique needs & create • Secular to spiritual a custom ceremony • Traditional to contemporary Grace United Methodist Church to reflect your values, Bill duffy Part Of the glBt • Multi-cultural 5407 N. Charles Street at Northern Parkway beliefs & life together. cOmmunity fOr & interfaith Baltimore, MD 21210 • 410-433-6650 Over 30 years! 410-202-6444 • [email protected] • www.ceremoniesbybill.com www.graceunitedmethodist.org

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Visit us at EmmanuelDowntown.org If You are OUT, then You are IN with Us! “ALL ARE WELCOME!” EmmanuEl God with us St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church all of us 3701 4th Street, Brooklyn, MD 21225 without ExcEption 443-869-5548 sunday sErvicEs Sunday Mass 9:30am and 12:00 Noon 8:30 AM & 10:30 AM A Parish of the New Catholic Church of North America

Mt. Vernon’s Church of the Arts

811 Cathedral Street at read Street Mount Vernon’S ChurCh of the artS

All Are Welcome EMM2011_Outloud_Feb.indd 1 1/28/11 11:25 AM St. Bernadette Roman Catholic Church Our Weekend Mass schedule: SATURDAY SUNDAY 5:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. Contact Deacon Fred Passauer, Parish Administrator 410-969-2785 801 Stevenson Road - Severn, MD 21144-2208 410-969-2783 www.stbernadette.org

ComeUnity FellowshipCelebrate ChurchYour Pride of Columbia with us! Our Services are held at: Locust Park Neighborhood Center 8995 Lambskin Lane, Columbia, MD 21045 Sundays at 10 a.m. • Rev. Dorothy Harris, Founding Pastor Contact us to Join our mailing list: [email protected] www.ufccolumbia.org

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Lively Arts // OUT ON STAGE

several other numbers that have become favorites over Mame Delivers Big at Spotlighters the years and are synonymous with Mame. Among them are: “We Need a Little Christmas,” “Open a New Window,” over his skeptical family with her charm and her astound- “My Best Girl,” “If He Walked Into My Life,” and the won- By Steve Charing ing fete of catching a fox in her hands during a hunt. They derfully comedic song “Bosom Buddies.” When you think of a big-time, splashy, iconic musical married but alas, he was killed in a mountain-climbing ac- Michele Guyton has an abundance of personality to such as Mame, you imagine (or recall) it unfolding on a cident while on their honeymoon. play the likable Mame. Her movements grand stage of a Broadway theater. You also picture color- Flush with cash from the inheri- “Mame at the were fluid, and she commanded the ful scenery, period costumes, a huge orchestra in the pit tance, widowed Mame began her new stage as one would expect from her and a terrific storyline with a memorable musical score. life of comfort still surrounded by her Spotlighters does character. Guyton’s lovely singing voice Mame ran on Broadway from 1966-1970 for over 1,500 “bosom buddy” Vera Charles (Eleni excelled throughout the show; her rendi- performances and garnering three Tony Awards (Angela Densmore), her secretary Agnes not have the benefit tion of “If He Walked Into My Life” was as Lansbury, Bea Arthur and Frankie Michaels) and was Gooch (Allie Dreskin) and her house- of a spacious emotional highlight. nominated for five other categories. keeper Ito (Patrick Long). Mame re- Eleni Densmore as Vera Charles, So when Fuzz Roark, artistic director for the Audrey unites with grown-up Patrick (James stage with vast Mame’s sidekick, an actress who en- Herman Spotlighters Theatre, booked the show for the Ruth) only to discover he became a joyed a cocktail or ten, was also strong friendly confines of that venue during its 51st season, one snob and plans to marry Gloria Upson wings to mount in her role. Though lacking the baritone can appreciate the challenges that awaited him and his (Sara Ritmiller) who is also a snob this wonderful voice that only Bea Arthur could serve up staff. But the courageous Roark and company pulled it off. from a family of bigots. as she did in the original Broadway pro- The production of Mame at the Spotlighters plays big in But Mame, using a devious, hi- production. But it duction, Densmore played the role to the the little theater that could. larious plan, sets up an event that hilt. The duo knocked “Bosom Buddies” Mame is an extremely fun musical with the book by brings Patrick to his senses and ends triumphed because out of the park. Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee and music and his marriage plans to Gloria. He goes of the magnificent Austin Brannan as young Patrick is lyrics by Jerry Herman (Hello Dolly, La Cage Aux Folles). on to marry another young lady, and a scene-stealer. He sings well, dances, Originally titled My Best Girl, it is based on the 1955 novel Mame takes Patrick’s young son to book and score, acts and has precise timing which is Auntie Mame by Patrick Dennis and a 1956 Broadway India as the show ends. quite amazing for an 11-year-old. His fu- play, by Lawrence and Lee, which starred Rosalind Rus- As enjoyable as the plot is, Jerry direction, execution ture in theatre is bright. sell. Herman’s superb score is the back- by the talented cast Mame’s secretary and nanny-in-law The Spotlighters version boasts well-casted, talented bone of the show. He had originally Agnes Gooch is played brilliantly by Allie performers and a strong supporting crew. Director Allan tried to cast Judy Garland to play the and crew.” Dreskin. Perfectly cast for the role, Dre- Herlinger is masterful in keeping the production as close original Mame but her managers be- skin possesses powerful vocal skills and to the original as possible and was creative in making use lieved she couldn’t handle the stress of an eight-show per comedic instincts. In a memorable number, she belted out of the limited space to allow this show to be as strong as week Broadway regimen. “Gooch’s Song.” it is. Of course, the title song “Mame” is a well-known smash Another standout is Larry Pinker as the stuffy Dwight Set mainly in New York just before the Depression, the hit that was performed magnificently by Greg Guyton and Babcock. He played the villain role deliciously. show centers on the title character, Mame Dennis played the chorus. Yet, the score is so excellent that there are The remainder of the cast also excelled especially dur- delightfully by Michele Guyton. ing their musical numbers. All were Mame, an eccentric fun-loving involved in scene changes, and with sort had her life change when nearly 20 cast members in the ac- her late brother’s 10-year-old tion, they were able to move freely son Patrick (Austin Brannan) without bumping into each other. was entrusted to her care. Kudos to Michael Tan and his Her lifestyle did not meet the three-piece orchestra for skillfully standards of the executor of presenting the tuneful songs and Patrick’s father’s estate, Mr. enhancing the quality of the vocals. Babcock (Larry Pinker) and And Laura Nicholson did a fine job shipped the boy off to a board- of designing costumes that were true ing school in Massachusetts. to the era. Mame tried to cope with Mame at the Spotlighters does this loss as she had devel- not have the benefit of a spacious oped a deep love for the boy stage with vast wings to mount this as her only living relative. wonderful production. But it tri- When the stock market crash umphed because of the magnificent hit in 1929, Mame lost every- book and score, direction, execution thing and tried a string of odd by the talented cast and crew, cre- jobs, which comically ended ativity, and the fearlessness of Fuzz up in failure. Roark for taking on this ambitious While working as a mani- treat for an appreciative audience. t curist she met an aristocratic Mame (running 140 minutes with a Georgia plantation (Peck- 20-minute intermission) runs through erwood) owner Beauregard December 23 at the Spotlighters Jackson Pickett Burnside Theatre, 817 Saint Paul Street, Bal- (Greg Guyton – Michele’s timore. For tickets call 410-752-1225 real-life husband). Mame won Packing lots into a small space credit: Ken Stanek Photography or online at Spotlighters.org. 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com “BILLY’S GOTTA DANCE. AND YOU GOTTA SEE HIM DO IT.” WASHINGTON POST

ON SALE NOW•GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT! December 18-30•Hippodrome Theatre Contains some adult language. Parental discretion is advised. Due to the nature of 410.547.SEAT•BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com live entertainment; dates, times, perform- ers, and prices are subject to change. All + patrons, regardless of age, must have a Box Office (M-F, 11a-3p)•Groups 10 Save! Call 866.577.7469 ticket. No exchanges or refunds. Tickets are subject to additional fees.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // OUT ON STAGE // OUT ON screen A Christmas Carol at Toby’s N. Korea: The ‘Red’ in Dawn By Steve Charing songs stand out (“A Place Called Home,” by Chuck Duncan held up by the NRA as a tool of propaganda The spirit of Christmas in more ways than “Fezzwig’s Annual Christmas Ball,” and the It’s interesting coming into a remake of a cult against those who supposedly want to re- one is alive and well at Toby’s, the dinner the- finale). The lyrics worked well, along with the classic movie without ever having seen the peal the 2nd amendment and take every- atre of Columbia. Charles Dickens’ beloved dialogue and actions on stage to spin the original. All I know about Red Dawn is that one’s guns. If that happened, how would we classic 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, tale. Patrick Swayze is in it and the Russians in- be able to fight these invaders, they might with its familiar characters featuring Ebene- Splendid vocals added to the joy. As vade the US. And something about wolver- ask. So, I’m sure the film could end up being zer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley, Andrew Horn’s tenor voice excelled ines. That’s about it. So going into the new the new film of American patriotism, which is Marley, and various ghosts of Christmases in the wonderful production number “Link Red Dawn with a fresh perspective may be a fine, but I’m glad they held off on the release By Link.” Elena Crall who better experience than having those memo- date (as did DreamWorks with Lincoln). played Emily, Scrooge’s ries of the original always on my mind. After the initial attack, which also sup- one-time love, displayed This time around, I was wondering just posedly left the power grid of the Pacific a beautiful soprano in who the “Reds” of the title were. Back in 1984, Northwest fried, the kids begin their stealth “A Place Called Home.” it wasn’t so far-fetched to have the Russians attacks and brand themselves the Wolver- And Bosley-Reynolds as as an invading force, and despite recent polit- ines, after the local high school football Scrooge had some strong ical proclamations, I don’t think anyone would team. As their resistance grows, the enemy moments, particularly in have bought the Russians again invading the becomes desperate to shut them down and “Yesterday, Tomorrow country (although they are still a little politi- during the various attacks and deaths, you and Today” late in the cally shady). In this version, our real number realize people keep talking about not hav- – past, present, and future – is presented on- second act. one enemy is none other than North Korea ing power or telephones and the one object stage in a fanciful and entertaining musical Pamela Witt conducted the five-piece … with the help of the Russians! See, I told the resistance wants is a case that the North production. orchestra and did a great job backing up you they were still shady. (And in the original Koreans use to communicate with each A Christmas Carol – with music by Alan the singers and dancers. The sound quality version of the film that was to be released in other … except the entire city is extremely Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by overall in the show was perfect. Drew Ded- 2010, the villains were actually the Chinese, well lit. There’s even a rally of sorts where Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens – was a fixture rick made sure the right balance took place but the flags were all digitally altered in the the enemy says they are ready to restore each holiday season at the Paramount The- so that the singers were not drowned-out by meantime to avoid a real version of the movie power, while city lights blaze about them. I atre in New York’s Madison Square Garden the orchestra, and dialogue was clearly au- from happening.) don’t know if I missed something or if the from 1994 to 2003. Menken is an eight-time dible. Coleen M. Foley handled the lighting As the film opens, war veteran Jed Eck- director just thought no one would notice all Oscar-winning composer of Disney’s Beauty expertly conveying the right effects for the ert (pre-Thor Chris Hemsworth) returns to his the lights. and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. appearances of the ghosts. hometown of Spokane, Washington unan- But enough nit-picking. Red Dawn is ac- David James (who also plays Crachit) Many clever props and furnishings are nounced. There seems to be a lot of tension tually a pretty entertaining action film with directed A Christmas Carol at Toby’s with a used onstage and are a strong asset to the between him, his father (Brett Cullen) and lit- lots of stuff blowing up, lots and lots of guns, skillful touch. The Helen Hayes winner staged show. Street vendor carts, bank teller win- tle brother (Josh Peck), a magnificent, well-paced production manag- dows, and a dancing skeleton add to the joy. but we don’t really get ing a large cast through the musical numbers, A clock on a facade, though not visible to to in depth with their special effects and costume changes on To- some in the audience, provides a terrific ef- characters before the by’s in-the-round venue. fect of the ghost’s faces projected on it when invasion begins. The Many of the characters’ good attributes the ghost of Marley warns Scrooge of the initial invasion is a pret- as well as shortcomings in A Christmas Carol three visitors he should expect overnight. ty spectacular scene related in some manner to Dickens’ own life’s But of all the acclaim this show deserves, with thousands of para- experiences that included struggling to make there is none better than the extraordinary troopers falling from the ends meet and witnessing his father hauled off costuming designed by Lawrence B. Munsey. skies, and fighter jets to debtor’s prison while he was a young lad in A veritable fixture at Toby’s who has performed roaring overhead. As London. The imaginative story centers on the every function through the years except per- the neighborhood pan- miserly Ebenezer Scrooge (played superbly haps preparing the beef stroganoff as part of ics, Jed and his brother by David Bosley-Reynolds) and his Christmas Toby’s superb buffet, Munsey meticulously Matt gather up a few Eve to Christmas Day evolution from when designed 1840-era early Victorian costumes friends and make their way to a cabin in the a group of photogenic home-grown heroes, he began as a mean, arrogant, and friendless for the large cast. And with many playing mul- woods (not the same cabin in the woods that and even a few Marines along for the ride. soul to one that ended up as a caring, gener- tiple roles, Munsey had to have created over Hemsworth visited earlier this year, although It’s hard to be too critical of a movie like this ous human being embodying the true mean- a hundred such glorious costumes. that would have made for a pretty awesome because all it wants to do is entertain, and it ing of the Christmas holiday spirit. Toby’s tight, well-staged production of A mash-up movie), where a stranger they does that very well. The film also has a couple This extraordinary transformation in Christmas Carol is great theatre, and it spins picked up along the way bolts in the middle of very surprising moments that should leave Scrooge’s personality was accomplished the right message as to how the spirit of of the night with all their food and returns viewers a little shaken, but having certain through the eerie nocturnal visits from three Christmas and the holiday season in general with the North Koreans, the Ekerts’ dad and characters die or get left behind only adds to ghosts: one representing Christmas Past ought to be. t the mayor (who is also the father of one of the realism of the situation. No one is safe. If (Heather Beck), one from Christmas Present A Christmas Carol (running time: two the kids). Jed tells them not to surrender, you have fond memories of the original Red (Ray Hatch), and one from Christmas Future hours with a 20-minute intermission) plays dad is killed, and the fight begins. Dawn, I would wager that you’ll probably en- (Julie Lancione). Through song and dialogue, through December 30 at Toby’s, 5900 Sym- It’s probably a good thing the release of joy the new one. My friend who attended the these ghosts pointed out Scrooge’s failures, phony Woods Road, Columbia, Maryland Red Dawn was held off until after the elec- screening with me considers the original one the effects of his actions, and the conse- 21044. For tickets call 410-7390-8311 or tion (well, it’s been in storage for at least two of his all-time favorite movies and he thought quences that could occur in the future. 1-800-88TOBYS or online at Tobysdinner- years due to original studio MGM’s bank- this one was even better. So there you go. While the music isn’t stellar overall, a few theatre.com. ruptcy) because it certainly could have been Can’t have a better review than that! t

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // ART BMA GAZES AT FUTURE WHILE The Walters Looks Afresh at the Past b y Michael Farley Warhol’s Camouflage is all about flatness. It is per- The Baltimore Museum of Art completes renovations of its haps the piece that achieved the 20th-century painter’s contemporary wing while The Walters presents Revealing goal of an impermeable canvass; there is no hint of a per- the African Presence in Renaissance Europe. spectival space in which the viewer can meander, no trace After closing for $6.5-million worth of renovations just of sfumato promising a distant horizon. It is utterly flat. shy of two years ago, the Baltimore Museum of Art’s con- West’s pieces, on the other hand, beg to be penetrated. temporary wing reopened with a well-attended party last The relationship between The Last Supper, an image of Saturday night. If one could navigate the sea of visitors an image – and one of the most iconic images in the his- and steer clear of the long lines for drinks (always my Isle tory of painting – and West’s abstract sculptures is par- of Circe at museum events), the newly organized, well-lit ticularly compelling. Here is an abstract form that seems galleries were a gratifying reward. so much more alive and “real” than one of the most cel- Kristen Hileman, the museum’s contemporary art ebrated works in the history of figurative representation. curator, has brought in local artists to dialogue with the It is a testament to the strength of both artists’ work and museum’s impressive permanent collection. In one room, their respective intentions. Hileman has performed an act an interactive installation by local design firm Post Typog- of curatorial alchemy that allows two very different artists raphy encourages visitors to make text pieces in corre- to complement each other while simultaneously affirming spondence with several their own distinct points-of-view. decades of text-based While most of the changes at the BMA are welcome, work hanging in the “One particularly the attempt to make the museum a less intimidating gallery. Nearby, Gaia, space can perhaps work to the detriment of pieces whose street artist and cura- haunting strength relies in part on the perceived sanctity of those tor of Open Walls Bal- painting from the hallowed halls. Felix Gonzalez-Torres was a gay instal- timore, wallpapered a lation artist who lost his partner to AIDS and created temporary mural that 1500s, attributed haunting, often interactive, pieces about loss, the body, superimposes color to Annibale and personal space prior to his own death of the same portraits of Remington epidemic. His piece Untitled (Water) is a beaded curtain residents over black- Carracci, depicts designed to act as a barrier in the gallery. Referencing the and-white line drawings fear of bodily fluids at the height of the AIDS epidemic as of rowhouses, physi- a presumed slave well as cathartic baptism, the piece drew a certain poten- cally anchoring the locking eyes cy from the old “look don’t touch” mentality of yesteryear’s walls of the museum museums. I vividly recall experiencing Untitled (Water) to the neighborhood it with the viewer as a self-concious teenager. It used to be installed rather borders. One figure, a dramatically at the top of the contemporary wing’s spiral woman holding a man- in a surprisingly staircase. After ascending the steps, I stood tentatively have been in the days before the less-intimidating ground- go, mimics a Gauguin confident and before it. Looking for a guard to confirm that I was meant floor entrance was added. in the museum’s famed to pass through it, thinking that I should turn back and find I missed Sunday’s BMA opening festivities to catch Cone Collection. dignified gaze.” the other entrance to the second floor galleries (surely the legendary Fred Wilson give an artist talk at The Wal- The theme of the there was a handicapped-accessible approach... perhaps ters. In 1992 Wilson famously juxtaposed pieces from the new contemporary this piece was a commentary on the exclusivity of stairs!), Maryland Historical Society’s permanent collection to cre- wing seems to be “Ac- and wondering what the penalty would be for violating the ate a narrative about race and its material history for Bal- cessibility and Engagement,” a mantra that the local art- rules and penetrating the sculpture, I eventually worked timore’s now-defunct Contemporary Museum. On Sunday, ists, Hileman, and bountiful wall text nearly scream at visi- up the courage to enter the piece, and remember the sen- Wilson presented a fascinating look at his 2003 Venice tors. The evening was a fitting capstone for more than a sation the beads passing over my arms and slapping my Biennale project. Wilson investigated the role of Africans decade of museum director Doreen Bolger’s tireless work face, as well as turning and watching the ripples I had in contemporary and historical Venice. From background to reconnect the institution to its host city. Based on the caused slowly subside to confirm that I had caused no figures in oil paintings and the subject of ceramic kitsch to turnout, I would say she has succeeded. damage. Never had I experienced an artwork that made street vendors, Wilson highlighted that the impacts of the Despite the injection of fresh, local pieces, the con- me so very aware of my own body and its relationship to African Diaspora have been felt in Venice for more than temporary wing’s impressive permanent collection has not an art object. half a millenium. After the talk, I was fortunate enough to been forgotten. It has merely been recontextualized in a Today, the Gonzalez-Torres marks the entrance to a eavesdrop on Wilson’s tour of Revealing the African Pres- way that feels less archival and more about dialogue be- ground floor gallery and has exterior-facing wall text ex- ence in Renaissance Europe by curator Joaneath Spicer. tween individual works. plaining that it is meant to be touched. Visitors hurriedly Revealing the African Presence in Renaissance Eu- In one of the larger galleries, dominated by enormous brushed through it to look at paintings on the other side. rope examines the visual record of Africans living in Eu- Warhols (which after several decades still feel oddly con- In the crowded exhibition I was the only one lingering by rope as a result of the Age of Discovery. The exhibit begins temporary), several people lounged on Franz West sculp- the threshold... waiting to feel that potency once more. I with maps and illustrations that demonstrate a European tures. The pieces, lumpy, tactile and seemingly organic sometimes wonder if the demystification of the museum curiosity about Africa and its “otherness.” It progresses interact with the Warhols in unexpected ways. In Warhol’s has the unintended consequence of making certain expe- to religious paintings in which black models were often The Last Supper, Jesus and the apostles silently pose be- riences less magical. I cant help but think how dramatic used to evidence the universality of Christianity and even- hind their silkscreen table while West’s Swimmer invites and glamorous climbing those steep neoclassical temple tually focuses on individual portraits of slaves, visitors, the viewer to have a seat and join them. steps to the BMA’s original (now unused) entrance must —continued on page 18 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // ART Lively Arts // Out on the Tube

ART AT BMA & WALTERS the wall text. Once again, I found myself LIFETIME TV’s LIZ & DICK – continued from previous page longing for mystique more than informa- tion. Overall, however, the stories behind er. They made movies together, merchants, members of court, and people these works raise more questions than Queen Elizabeth including the acclaimed “Who’s whose life stories remain a mystery. they answer and often inform a richer Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” but they’re a One particularly haunting painting from reading of the piece. Andres Sanchez Gal- By Gregg Shapiro (movie) star-crossed pair if there ever was the 1500s, attributed to Annibale Carracci, lque’s Portrait of Don Francisco de la Robe As he always did during the course of their one. Love may conquer all, but jealousy, depicts a presumed slave locking eyes and His Sons Pedro and Domingo is one on again/off again relationship, Richard insecurity and alcohol give love a run for with the viewer in a surprisingly confident of my favorite paintings in the show. It was Burton (Grant Bowler) wrote letters to his its money. In 1974, the tempestuous re- and dignified gaze. It is believed that the a gift for King Felipe III from a judge in great love Elizabeth Taylor (Lindsay Lo- lationship eventually crumbled under the painting was originally a portrait of her Quito, Equador, depicting the leader of a han). He even composed one on the last weight of tragedy (Burton’s brother Ifor’s owner and that she was a marginal figure. group of escaped slaves who had formed day of his life in 1984. In this final letter, injury and death), infidelity (Burton cheats) The painting was damaged in a fire and their own settlement in the New World. The he says that he fell for her the moment he and, of course, all that alcohol. They fool- cropped; removing the master from the figures confidently flaunt a mixture of gar- saw her all those years ago at a party in ishly remarried more than a year later, only composition and focusing on the slave. In ments and signifiers of class and power Hollywood. She was everything he ever to divorce again after nine months. Still, this light, her ambiguous expression al- from Europe, South America, and Africa. when Taylor learned of Burton’s death in most seems to indicate that she has had Although commissioned in 1599, it feels “Perhaps the movie’s 1984, she fainted dead away. For a visit the last laugh. Although this woman died utterly current with a mixture of paint tech- to his gravesite (she didn’t attend the fu- in the 16th or 17th century, her image lives niques and a somewhat subversive edge. greatest sin, far worse neral out of respect for his family), Taylor on; replicated countless times in muse- One figure’s garment is rendered mostly is naturally emotional. um catalogues and promotional material, as purple pattern with washes of almost than casting Lohan as But, wait, you don’t care about the fa- posthumously liberated from her forgot- neon-orange stripes. Gold leaf is gener- Taylor, is its title.” miliar story (and any liberties taken). You ten master by an act of poetic justice and ously applied to form indigenous jewelry, want to know if Lindsay Lohan an actress seemingly amused at her vindication. while text and realistically rendered col- as troubled (if not nearly as talented) as The curator’s interest in the personal lars and folded fabrics ground the piece wanted; even though she looked at him Elizabeth Taylor did a decent job portray- narratives of the Africans depicted in these in the traditions of European portraiture. with utter disdain. ing the titular Liz. Let’s just say it takes works creates a sense of intrigue and in a The Gallque, and the pieces surround- Sitting in directors’ chairs, dressed in more than good (and probably gay) hair way, restores some sense of identity to the ing it in the final area of the exhibition, black, “Liz & Dick,” the titular characters and make-up artists for a transformation figures who most likely led marginalized point to the beginnings of African identity in the Lifetime movie, employ the classic of this scope. Lohan, who gives it her all, lives marked by alienation and objectifica- asserting itself in the West. The portraits device of laziness and simply wasn’t up tion. At times, the mark of the institution here represent individuals as opposed to recount their “true sto- to the challenge. is a bit heavy-handed and the show can constructs (as in the Christian paintings), ry,” interwoven between There are defi- seem more like an evidence locker than or property, (as in many of the representa- flashbacks. Beginning in nitely times when a collection of artworks. There are certain tions of slaves). This really is a can’t-miss Rome in 1961, while film- she comes close to pieces that are so powerful and depict in- show. It runs until January 21, so see it ing Cleopatra, with Tay- pulling it off, espe- dividuals with so much presence I wish before this rare collection (which is mostly lor’s late entrance on the cially in the scenes they were allowed to speak more for them- on-loan) is returned to scattered European set, to their first awkward from the earlier selves and be seen less as illustrations to institutions. t exchange, the sexual ten- years. But as time sion mounted while Bur- (and the movie) ton’s excessive drinking wears on, Lohan as and Taylor’s haughtiness Liz becomes less threatened to derail it all. credible and more Never mind that both were comical. Bowler married to other people – has an easier time Burton (the “Welsh Don with Burton, which Juan”) to Sybil (Tanya might have more to Franks) and 29 year old do with the accent Taylor to her fourth hus- than the bad hair band Eddie Fisher (Andy pieces, although Hirsch). he flirts with cari- “Liz & Dick” follows the notorious cature over character on more than one couple from their famous first love scene occasion. through the beginning of the affair to their Perhaps the movie’s greatest sin, far scandalous headline-making relationship. worse than casting Lohan as Taylor, is its We see Richard force Elizabeth to choose title. Elizabeth Taylor remarked on more between him and Eddie. We watch Eliza- than one occasion, including an interview beth swoon as Richard recites poetry for with Barbara Walters, that she hated to be her. But mostly we watch them get drunk called Liz. “Liz & Dick” is not the tribute and fight. They make up, he buys her ex- that Taylor or Burton deserved. It’s also pensive gifts (usually jewelry, once a jet) not the comeback that Lohan was prob- and the drinking/fighting cycle begins ably hoping it would be. But for all of its again. flaws, the scenery chewing is still fun to Eventually, they divorced their respec- watch and worth seeing if you have 90 tive spouses and finally married each oth- minutes to waste. t 18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // PERSONALITIES AN INTERVIEW WITH MITCH GRASSI OF PENTATONIX specific people or are the duties evenly music business might deter you from having a career, but I don’t distributed? think that’s true. My career, as a queer person, has been pretty Pump up the ‘Volume 1’ MG: That’s an interesting question. successful. We’re still on our way up, but I think we’ve been do- I would say that Kevin (Olusola) and Avi (Kaplan) are the ing an amazing job. I love By Gregg Shapiro rhythm section and the rest of us are the vocalists. Some- the support. I’m proud. “Some people Mitch Grassi is one of two openly gay members of Pentato- times we’ll switch positions. I actually really do like doing GS: Pentatonix are nix, an a cappella group that came to fame via its appearance rhythms, but it rarely happens because I can’t get those low just back from China. might say that on the NBC series The Sing Off. Pentatonix, who have just ends that Avi can usually get. How was that experi- released Volume 1 (Madison Gate), a six-song EP, including GS: Four of the six songs on the Volume 1 EP are ence? being openly their cover of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To Know,” are covers. What is involved in the group’s song selection MG: It was amaz- gay in the music process? ing. It was so incredible. MG: We’ll discuss our favor- The country itself was so business might ite songs of the time or songs beautiful. We actually got that we always really wanted to to perform on The Sing deter you from do as a group. It was a bit dif- Off: China and that was a having a career, ficult at first, because we had so trip [laughs]. We actually many possibilities and options. sang a Chinese song on but I don’t think In the end, I think we chose the the show. They requested right ones. It was just a mat- that. I messed up a lot, that’s true.” ter of, can we arrange these personally [laughs]. It was songs for the group, will it sound a fun experience. All the good, are we going to have a groups on the show were so supportive. good lead vocalist? There are a GS: Pentatonix are embarking on a US tour. What can hitting the road on a multi-city US tour during the fall and bunch of factors, basically. people expect from a Pentatonix show? early winter of 2012. I spoke to Mitch about Pentatonix in late GS: What was involved in the songwriting process MG: If they’ve seen any of our earlier shows, they can summer 2012. of the two originals, “Show You How to Love” and “The expect more of a “show.” We’re putting together some differ- Gregg Shapiro: Mitch, please say something about Baddest Girl”? ent things, some treats hidden in there. We’re going to change how your musical background led you to Pentatonix. MG: That was quite a process in itself, because we had things up a little bit and make it more interesting. It’s going to Mitch Grassi: Sure! Pentatonix started out as a trio with never done that before. We knocked out the covers for the be a real show. t Kirstie (Maldonado), Scott (Hoying) and me, because we had EP first and then we were like, been in choir for most of our high school careers. [Laughs] “now what do we do?” (When I guess that was a big influence. More than that, especially it came to writing the songs) I now, currently with the music we are doing, we all have differ- think it was melody first. We ent musical influ- had a friend named Ben Bram ences I would say help us out with the arranging that mine is a little process. It was difficult. It was bit more elec- trial and error. tronic. Scott’s is GS: Pentatonix’s six a little more R&B. song EP has the Volume 1 It’s kind of a melt- label – when can we expect ing pot of different Volume 2? genres. MG: We’re hoping next GS: A penta- spring at the latest. tone is defined GS: Is that also going to as “a gapped be in EP or will it be a full- scale with five length disc? notes; usually MG: We’re still in the decid- the fourth and ing process [laughs]. It would seventh notes make sense if it was a second of the diatonic EP, but I think were ready to scale are omit- pop out an album. ted.” Please GS: What are the advan- say something tages and disadvantages of about the choice being one of two gay mem- of Pentatonix as bers of Pentatonix? the name of the Mitch Grassi MG: There are actually group. more advantages than disad- MG: The pentatonic scale is a scale that’s very popular vantages. I think it’s a great in R&B, soul and pop music. We use a lot of it in general and thing. I love that our fans are when we are writing music. It’s a five-note scale and we have so accepting of it. It’s amaz- five members, so we thought it was pretty appropriate. ing; it makes me feel so close GS: Do members of the group have assigned tasks? to them. Some people might For example, are harmony or rhythm parts assigned to say that being openly gay in the

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 TRAL VE Out Destination

tion featured on Travel Channel’s “Man For a lighter entrée, choose one of Local’s v. Food Nation.” Even though host Adam signature salads. The Seared Tuna Tostada Richmond suggested trying the ribs, my contains ahi tuna cooked to perfection over guest and I both opted for the succulent Memphis a bed of mixed greens, marinated cucum- Pork Shoulder sandwich. At just $7.95, bers, crisp wontons, and toasted sesame By Joey Amato this delicious over-sized sandwich arrives seeds with a Thai dressing. Known for blues, barbecue, and Elvis, overflowing with pork and accompanied by If you have more of an appetite, try Memphis is a city steeped in culture and baked beans and a unique mustard and Crossroads, one of Memphis’s premier gay the Fish & Chips, a hearty portion of North tradition. There are many things to do vinegar-based slaw. It’s the perfect way to bars. The establishment boasts a large Atlantic cod deep fried in a Ghost River and see in Memphis, but one of the larg- begin a culinary journey of Memphis. stage, outdoor patio, and multiple bar ar- Golden Ale batter with lemon dill tartar est tourist attractions by far is Graceland, After lunch, walk over to the historic eas. However, they don’t serve alcohol but sauce served with hand cut fries. Anoth- the former home of Elvis Presley. I was a Peabody Hotel and catch a glimpse of encourage patrons to bring their own. er great selection is the Shrimp & Grits, bit surprised to see that the estate was lo- the world-renowned Peabody Ducks, Other options include Drew’s Place and served with chaurice sausage broth, to- cated in the heart of an urban neighbor- which have been featured on The To- Pumping Station, but club-goers should mato jam and fried egg. hood instead of the sprawling countryside, night Show with Johnny Carson, Sesame head to Spectrum. The 30,000-square-foot Memphis is a great weekend destina- but once you enter the music note complex boasts two dance floors and is the tion and an excellent city for those look- adorned gates, you are quickly trans- hottest place in town to meet and mingle ing to learn more about music history. ported back in time. with the young and fabulous crowd. Remember, bring your appetite and don’t Many of the rooms in Graceland Memphis is home to many music- forget to pack your blue suede shoes! still contain the same furnishings and related attractions in addition to Grace- For more information browse to decor as it did when Elvis and his land. The Stax Museum of American Soul MemphisTravel.com.t family lived there. Over 600,000 visi- Music, located at the original site of Stax OUT Destinations is part of OUTreach tors tour Graceland every year, mak- Records, pays tribute to all of the artists Public Relations (Outreachpublicrelations. ing it one of the most visited homes who recorded there. The museum features com). Founded by Joey Amato in 2012, in the country. The mansion sits on an amazing collection of more than 2,000 OUTreach PR serves celebrities, corpora- 13.8-acres and was declared a Na- pieces of memorabilia from soul pioneers tions, and non-profit organizations looking tional Historic Landmark in 2006. including Ike & Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, to target LGBT consumers. The only portion of the mansion that The Jackson Five, Al Green, is off-limits to guests is the upstairs, Sam Cooke, James Brown as Elvis always wanted to keep that and Ray Charles. portion of his home private. A few miles up the road Hundreds of gold records and is Sun Studio, a recording memorabilia can be found throughout the Street, Oprah, and in People magazine. studio opened by rock pio- estate. Even the clothes worn by Elvis Over the years, celebrities including Paula neer Sam Phillips in 1950. and Priscilla on their wedding day can be Deen, Joan Collins, Kevin Bacon, Emer- The building is known for re- seen behind glass in another building con- il Lagasse, Patrick Swayze, and Peter cording what is being called structed on the property. Visitors can also Frampton have received the coveted role the first rock-and-roll single, tour Elvis’s private plane collection. I’m not of Honorary Duckmaster. The Peabody is Jackie Brenston and the talking about model planes, these are the a member of the International Gay & Les- Delta Cats’s “Rocket 88”. real deal. Finally, pay your respect to the bian Travel Association, so you and your The studio also holds the King with a visit to the Presley family grave partner will feel welcome staying here. nickname “The Birthplace of site in the meditation garden. Spend the early evening walking down Rock & Roll.” Music legends If all of the touring has made you hun- Beale Street and listen to any one of doz- including Johnny Cash, Elvis gry, head downtown to find some of the ens of live bands perform, or grab a cock- Presley, Carl Perkins, Roy best BBQ east of the Mississippi. Hidden tail at Wet Willie’s. Beale Street comes Orbison, and Jerry Lee Lew- in an alley off of 2nd Street is Charles alive after dark, but if you’re looking to is all recorded here at some Vergo’s Rendezvous, a Memphis institu- catch a great drag performance, head to point in their career. For dinner, I recom- Celebrate Your Wedding in Maryland, & Leave the mend Local Gastropub on Main Street. Diners should Honeymoon Planning to the Professionals … choose to sit outside and watch as street cars and decorated horse-drawn car- riages travel up and down the street, which is closed to thru-traffic, giving Local Gas- Call for LGBT Honeymoon Options! tropub a very European vibe. The food at Local is varied and plentiful. For starters, try the Smoked Duck Que- sadilla with chipotle aioli or the Crispy Spanish Shrimp Sarah Kline · [email protected] · www.timefortravelltd.com · 301-627-8890 · 866-259-2066 with sweet paprika mayo.

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com The Law and You Are You Naked and Legally Unprotected? b y Michelle Lanchester grants someone the power to act for you indicated on the priority list. So if you do the hospital and have him to sign a power When it comes to estate planning, many through a guardianship proceeding. not get along with your parents and you of attorney so that I can handle his affairs? LGBT people are legally naked and totally The guardianship process is a court happen to be in a relationship with some- Can’t my partner, or loved one just make an unprotected. While in some arenas, na- process by which a judge conducts a hear- one but you did not get around to marrying ‘X’ mark now as his/her signature?” My an- kedness may be exciting and sexy, trust ing and determines whether you have that person, then your parents would have swer is generally, “No!” It sounds like it may me, there’s nothing even remotely thrilling become incapacitated or not. Usually an priority over your boyfriend or girlfriend. In be too late for the power of attorney process. about being legally unprotected. acute health fact, your boyfriend or girlfriend would be The time to sign a power-of-attorney docu- At least cover yourself with basic issue or med- way down on the priority list and would have ment is when the person is competent and estate planning power-of-attor- ical emergen- less standing than a distant relative. has adequate understanding of his/her prop- ney documents that are tailor- cy (such as The priority list can be bypassed (just erty, financial affairs and personal affairs. At made to cover your backside. a debilitating like the entire guardianship process may be this point, we may have no other course, ex- There are at least two kinds stroke or car bypassed) if you have a properly prepared, cept the guardianship process. of power-of-attorney documents accident) is signed, and witnessed power-of-attorney LGBT people should be especially vigi- – one known as power of attor- the trigger- document that meets the requirements of the lant about having their power-of-attorney ney for health care and the other ing incident Maryland Code. documents properly prepared because even for financial matters. This ar- that leads In your power-of-attorney document, you though the voters approved same sex mar- ticle will only address the latter, you be part have the right to determine who you want to riage in Maryland, there are many people and it’s timely to do this, because as of of a guardianship proceeding and exposes handle your affairs in the event of your in- who do not approve of their unions, marriag- October, 2010, Maryland revised the law the fact that either you do or do not have capacity. You can even pre-select your pref- es, and even their right to exist. Therefore, regarding the personal financial power of a power-of-attorney document. If you erence for guardian in the event that your LGBT people may be subjected to higher or attorney. do not have a properly signed and wit- power-of-attorney document is challenged even unfair scrutiny. t Even if you are legally married (or will nessed power-of-attorney document that in court. If you don’t have this document it’s The author is an attorney with the become legally married after January 1, contains your wishes and the name(s) of very unlikely that your wishes will be hon- Lanchester Law Firm (400 East Pratt Street, 2013 in Maryland) a personal financial the person(s) that you have pre-selected ored. Suite 800, Baltimore, Maryland 21202). You power-of-attorney document can prove to as your agent(s) to handle your personal Over the years, I’ve received many inqui- can reach her at [email protected] be invaluable for you. affairs, your property and financial mat- ries such as, “My partner has had a stroke or 443-759-3245. This column of course is not The Maryland law already has a plan ters, then the court will determine who will and is completely out of it. Can you come to meant as specific legal advice. of action for you that will be carried out for handle your affairs, your finances, proper- you if you become incapacitated and if you ty matters, and make decisions regarding do not have a personal financial power of your personal care. attorney (for property and financial mat- Some negative aspects of the guard- ters). If you become incapacitated and you ianship process are that once you are de- do not have a financial power of attorney, termined to be incapacitated by a judge, your county judge has the legal authority you are stripped of major constitutional to appoint someone (legally known as a rights, such the right to determine where guardian) to handle your business mat- you will live. The judge may appoint a ters, control your bank accounts, take stranger and not your loved one or your charge of all of your money and all of your agent of preference to be your guardian. possessions. In addition, a judge has the If you have significant assets such as a legal authority to appoint a guardian (who house, some investments, or banking ac- may be a stranger) to determine where counts, your loved ones may not have the you will live, who can visit you, and what resources or credit rating to get bonded. will happen to you on a daily basis. In Maryland, the guardian of your property A major purpose for preparing a power- (sometimes known as the conservator) is of-attorney document is to avoid the guard- required to get bonded by a surety com- ianship process entirely. In this document, pany. you have the power to appoint someone In addition, the Maryland Code con- that you trust to act as your agent. The tains a priority-list of individuals who may agent is known as your “attorney-in-fact.” serve as your guardian of your person and The attorney-in-fact is the legal name for property. Your spouse, children, parents, your agent and it is not the same as an siblings, respectively, in that order, are the attorney at law. top people on the priority list. If you do not There are two major requirements in have a spouse, then your child or children order for you to legally sign a power-of- are next in line. If you do not have chil- attorney document. You must be an adult dren, then your parents are next in line. If and you must be legally competent. you do not have parents, then your broth- Once you become an adult (18 and ers and sisters are next in line. If you are over), no one has the legal authority to estranged from someone on the priority list speak or act for you unless either you give and you did not have a properly executed them the legal power to do so through a power-of-attorney document, then yes, power-of-attorney document or a judge you are generally stuck with the order as

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Planning a Special Event?

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 bar’s 41st anniversary weekend. The celebration started early for me on the sunny afternoon of November 17 when Mr. Maryland Leather 2013 Bob Rose hosted a wonderful cocktail party on his boat as he sailed down the Potomac River past the fa- mous monuments of our nation’s capital. Bob had invited a small group of friends which included among others Mr. D.C. Eagle 2004 Jason Hendrix who went on to become In- Nigel Williams ternational Mr. Leather 2004, Mr. D.C. Eagle 2001 Darrell Moyers who was selected First Runner-Up at International Mr. Leather 2001, Sashed Mr. D.C. Mr. D.C. Eagle 2012 Kevin Jordan who was Second Runner-Up at International Mr. Leath- Eagle 2013 er 2012, the First Lady of Leather Mary Eliza- beth Boyd, and Mr. Maryland Leather 2007 Sir History and tradition are so very important Steve. It was a great way to celebrate the his- in the leather community. When I first heard tory of the Mr. D.C. Eagle title. that the D.C. Eagle was going to close on De- On the evening of Saturday, November cember 1, 2012, I thought that it would be the 17, the D.C. Eagle was packed with what ap- end of the line for the title of Mr. D.C. Eagle. It peared to be the entire Mid-Atlantic leather would have been such a shame because the community. I felt like Jdoan Rivers on the red very charming Mr. D.C. Eagle 2012 Kevin Jor- carpet as I greeted leather titleholder after dan would not have had a proper step-down leather titleholder! A friend of mine who is new to the leather community (Hell, at 22 he is new, Although the owners period!) said that it was “an exceptional mo- ment to see the D.C. Eagle packed like that.” It was like the old days with wall-to-wall leather- of the D.C. Eagle are Mr. Double L and friend men. Two strong contestants, both reportedly Nigel Williams – Mr. D.C. Eagle 2013 still shopping for a new from the D.C. area, competed to be the 34th location, the current Mr. D.C. Eagle. Nigel Williams, who relocated It was just an incredible evening at the D.C. Christmas will benefit Moveable Feast. There to D.C. from the Orlando, Florida, area where Eagle and I am sure that Mr. D.C. Eagle 2013 will be a beer bust, a raffle for a wagon of New York Avenue venue he was in the Orlando Gay Men’s Chorus was Nigel Williams will do extremely well at the cheer, a silent auction, pictures with some of sashed Mr. D.C. Eagle 2013. Runner-up to Mr. International Mr. Leather 2013 Contest in Chi- Santa’s hotter helpers, and the famous porn will stay open at least D.C. Eagle 2013 is John Eddleman. I was very cago in May. He is sure to do a great job rep- flea market. On Saturday, December 8, the until April 1, 2013 pleased to see that two very dear friends who resenting the D.C. Eagle and will carry on the party moves to the Club Hippo for the annual have been involved in the D. C. leather com- great tradition. “12 Days of Christmas” extravaganza. The munity for many, many years were selected to Two big traditional holiday events are up show starts at 2 p.m. and will bring leather folk after he had such a wonderful title year, which be judges. J.P. Halford of the Centaurs, M.C. next right here in Baltimore. Hope to see you to Baltimore from near and far. Tickets will be even included coming in Second Runner-Up at and Nokomis Jefferson of the Highwaymen, at the Baltimore Eagle on Saturday, December available at the door. I wouldn’t miss these two the International Mr. Leather 2012 Contest in TNT joined Mr. D.C. Eagle 2012 Kevin Jordan 1, starting at 9 p.m. as the ShipMates pres- events. They are my Christmas holiday tradi- Chicago. It would also mean that the longest- and Mr. Eagle New York 2012 / First Runner- ent Daddy Christmas 2013. This year’s Daddy tions! t running leather title in the country would come Up to International Mr. Leather 2012 A. C. to an end. I am happy to report that although Demidont at the judges’ table. Mr. Mid-Atlantic the owners of the D.C. Eagle are still shopping Leather 1995 Joe Morris was Tally Master and for a new location, the current New York Ave- Mr. D. C. Eagle 2002/ Second Runner-Up In- nue location will stay open at least until April 1, ternational Mr. Leather 2002 Herb Kaylor was 2013, and on Saturday, November 17, 2012, the Den Daddy. The contest was emceed by Mr. D.C. Eagle 2013 was selected during the Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 1993 Frank Nowicki.

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com ASK MAMA YOUR MONEY Financial Planning for Singles to her. Here are two things that you can do to help her: 1) Keep telling her that she is by Woody Derricks ture soon enough. Again, because you’re re- Ask beautiful to you and that you care about Most of my articles have been geared to- lying on your income and savings, it’s impor- her. 2) Encourage her to find a good thera- wards couples, yet individuals have financial tant to assess your needs and begin saving. ? Mama pist to talk to. In your letter, you say that concerns as well. In a relationship, gener- Estate planning: In order to make sure Mama answers your questions sex is “Okay for the most part” but baby, ally, one of the partners handles most of the that your estate is disposed of properly, con- you both deserve so much better. If your financial planning and money issues. But sider getting a basic estate plan in place-at girlfriend is not ready to get the help I sus- what happens when the spouse who actively a minimum. A basic estate plan begins with pect she needs (I could be wrong), you find managed the couple’s assets and financial naming the beneficiaries on your accounts. Ugly Feet and yourself someone to talk to. Go on line to future is no longer the decision-maker? The Many singles (without children) name par- GlbtNationalHelpCenter.org. You’ll find all less experienced spouse has to step up to ents, siblings, or nieces/nephews as benefi- Dressing Up sorts of helpful information on this site. the plate, usually with little or no warning. ciaries of their accounts. Your parents may Because this transfer of responsibility is often already be retired and your siblings may not Dear Mama occasioned by death, dis- need the money. If that’s the Dear Mama, My man and I have a smokin’ sex life, ability, or divorce, it can be case, you could consider do- I’ve been dating the best woman in the or so I thought but lately, he’s been asking an emotionally challenging “If you do not nating a portion of your es- world. She’s everything I’ve ever dreamed me to role play with him. He says that it will time. Yet critical decisions have a will, the tate to a charity. of and she loves me and she’s perfect in spice up our sex life. I’ve been telling him concerning investments, in- The next piece of an every way, except for one thing. She has that I would think about it but I guess he surance, financial and estate probate court estate plan is getting a will. the ugliest feet I’ve ever seen – big and got tired of waiting because last night, he planning need to be made to While a will does not bypass ugly. I hate to get near them but she loves came home with “Dickie Doc and Naughty avoid or minimize financial will create one probate, it will help the court to have her feet rubbed and massaged be- Nurse” costumes. I lied and told him that hardships later. for you.” transfer your estate per your cause she stands on them on all day and I had to get to work and didn’t have time Insurance: Typically wishes. If you do not have a when she gets home, they are tired. I hate to play dress up. Help Mama, I don’t know when we think of insurance, we think of life will, the probate court will create one for you. touching them. What should I do? what to do. This role playing idea seems a and/or long-term care insurance. While it Typically the court’s will passes assets on to Footsie little “out there” to me and embarrassing. may be necessary to carry some of those your closest living relatives. This may or may Or am I just being boring? types of insurance, singles often don’t require not be your desired result. Dear Footsie, Playtime Playmate as much coverage as a couple may. Arguably the most important part of an You is giving me a headache. What’s Without dependents to provide for should estate plan for singles is getting a power of wrong with you? If you’re lucky enough Dear Playtime Playmate, a death or long-term care event take place, attorney in place for health care and financial to have found a woman who loves you, I Honey, when it comes to sex, Mama it’s not normally a priority for singles to spend issues. In the power of attorney, you’ll name don’t care if she wears a size-15 shoe. So has one simple rule and that is, when you the money on insurance simply to provide a someone to handle your health care and/or fi- what if she has big feet? Thank your lucky put together two consenting adults who larger inheritance to adult children, extended nancial matters should you become incapaci- stars that she uses those big feet of hers care about each other, anything goes (as family, or friends. tated. Without these documents, your family to walk home to you. And be glad that she long as no one gets hurt). Sweetie, you One area of insurance that is especially may have to hire and attorney and present wants you to rub everyone of her ten toot- ought to be grateful that your man wants important for singles is disability coverage. to a court why a particular family member sies. After all, she could be letting some- to “play” dress up with you. Trust me hon- Because you are self reliant, you need to pro- should be in charge of your well being. This body else give her a foot rub and maybe ey, there are a whole lot of treacherous, tect your income. If you suffered a disability may not be the person you would select. even let them rub a little something else. good for nothing, thievin’ men out there and didn’t have sufficient savings, the disabil- In order to protect yourself and prepare And do her a favor and give her a few gift who would have no problem whatsoever ity could prove to be financially catastrophic. for the future, you need to act. With the be- certificates to the spa. Tell her to get a fire playing dress up, dress down, and any I suggest that you consult your human ginning of a new year approaching, you may and ice pedicure. Honey, it will change and everything in between with your man. resources department about group disability want to put this on your list of resolutions to her life. Her feet will be feeling so good, There is nothing to be embarrassed about. coverage and your financial advisor about take care of early in 2013. t she just might come home and give you a As long as your man doesn’t ask you to supplemental insurance. Woody Derricks is a certified financial rub down. If she does, write back and tell do anything that hurts you, you’ll be okay. Retirement planning: When it comes to planner and an accredited domestic partner- Mama all about it. Try it, you might be surprised. Try talking retirement, you can’t start planning for the fu- ship advisor. Reach him at 410-732-2633. about your fantasies first with each other, Dear Mama, you might be surprised and find yourself My girlfriend won’t let me see her na- really turned on. You do have fantasies, ked. When it’s time for bed, she changes in don’t you? Here’s my last little bit of ad- the bathroom and then makes me turn off vice, honey chile, anybody can “get” a man the lights and close my eyes while she gets but the trick is to keep him wanting to come into bed. For the most part, sex is okay but home to what you got waiting for him. It’s I’m confused and worried about her. okay to try anything that seems like it might In the Dark be fun and good for the relationship but don’t ever let anybody talk you into doing Dear in the Dark something that you just can’t live with. Honey, Mama is so very sorry for you Let me know how it goes. And if Dickie both. Although I don’t have enough details Doc and Naughty Nurse costumes don’t for a complete answer, I think your girl- work for you, try Handy Dan the TV repair- friend is in a world of hurt. I would imagine man or Mighty Mac the mechanic or Big that somewhere along the way in her life, George the wrestling coach Tom the teach- something and or someone bad happened er or... must I go on? t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD NOVEMber 30, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 Community Bulletin Board

FREE Rapid HIV testing Now - Jan. 1 At The Lodge Lounge. Onsite FREE Rapid HIV The Polar Express testing will be provided by the Frederick County Health Department at the Lodge Lounge and Dance National Aquarium Club, 21614 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD from 8:00 presents The Polar p.m. – 11:00 p.m. The main number is 301.591.4434. Express™ 4-D Experience. Feel the I GOT snow fall, smell the December 1 & 2 hot cocoa in the air, MYSELF and watch images TESTED The New Wave Singers leap off the screen Present “A Concert: World AIDS Day.” Baltimore’s this holiday season as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and straight National Aquarium, GYTNOW.ORG (GLBTS) choral group will perform music that Baltimore welcomes guests to enjoy the return of inspires hope in two concerts to benefit Moveable The Polar Express 4-D Experience. This 20 minute Feast, Maryland’s primary food delivery service show based on the inspiring and beloved Caldecott for people suffering from AIDS-related illnesses. December 14 Medal children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. December 1 First Unitarian Church of Baltimore Vienna Boys Choir The Aquarium’s 4-D Immersion Theater brings 12 W Franklin St. Balt. December 2 Govans Nov. 30 – Dec. 2 George Mason University’s Center For The visitors closer to the sights, sounds, and smells Presbyterian church 5828 York Rd. Baltimore of the action. The theater is equipped with 4-D Shows start at 8:00 p.m. EVENT COST: $20 Arts Presents Vienna Boys Choir “Christmas capabilities, which combine the high-definition World AIDS Day In Vienna. This enchanting musical evening Pleasant Hope Baptist Church is observing (50 percent of each ticket will be donated to drama of 3-D film with special sensory effects Moveable Feast); FREE for 17 y. o. and younger features everything from Gregorian chant and such as mist and wind. Viewers are immersed in World AIDS Day 2012 this weekend beginning traditional Christmas carols to popular holiday Friday, November 30, 2012 through Sunday, Purchase tickets at www.newwavesingers.org. For the experience as they follow a doubting young favorites and songs from across the globe. boy as he takes an extraordinary train ride to the December 2, 2012. On Friday, they’ll screen the information, contact any NWS member or e-mail: PBS documentary, ENDGAME: AIDS In Black [email protected] Under longtime Choirmaster Kerem Sezen, the North Pole. He embarks on an epic journey of self- choir will perform works by Schubert, Haydn, discovery that shows him that the wonder of life America. On Saturday, they’ll host a CLERGY never fades for those who believe. Shows daily. ONLY forum on HIV/AIDS and advocacy. On December 2 Mozart, Brahms, Beethoven, Britten and even a Times vary National Aquarium, Baltimore 501 E. Sunday, the church will partner with Sisters couple of popular hits by Billy Joel and Freddie Pratt Street $5 upgrade with general admission. Together And Reaching (STAR) to offer FREE Mercury. This performance is Family Friendly: HIV testing during and after their 10:00 a.m. Holiday Visit www.aqua.org for tickets. youth through grade 12 are half price when worship. The church address is 430 E. Belvedere Handmade accompanied by an adult. A pre-performance Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21212. (Near York Road & Crafts discussion, free to ticket holders, begins 45 Now -March 22 Belvedere Avenue) For more information contact (410) 435-0851 or [email protected] Creative Alliance at The minutes prior to the concert on the Center’s National Aquarium Patterson. Kids’ Activity while Grand Tier III and is sponsored by the Friends Every Friday evening through March 22, guests November 30 U Shop! Made in Charm City of the Center for the Arts. Tickets are $25, $42 entering National Aquarium, Baltimore between gifts! No manic mall madness and $50 Show starts at 8:00 p.m. The Center for 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. (exploring until 9:30 p.m.) will Cabaret at the Patterson necessary! Kolleen Kilduff and the Arts complex is located on George Mason enjoy a low admission price of $12 as part of the Jill Popowich host an amazing University’s Fairfax Campus at the intersection The Creative Alliance hosts an evening World show with clothing, handbags, Fridays After Five program. AIDS Day Cabaret at the Patterson, 3134 Eastern of Braddock Road and Route 123. Paid parking is felt accessories, ceramics, located in the Mason Pond Parking Deck adjacent Avenue, Baltimore, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Tickets soaps, kids’ toys, mixed media, amazing jewelry, and are $20 for general public and $15 for members the Concert Hall and FREE parking is located in Now - Dec 23 proceeds benefit AIDS Action Baltimore visit great art! A diverse mix of indie crafters from across university Lot K. For more information, please Bmore and beyond! Creative Alliance at The Patterson http://www.creativealliance.org. visit cfa.gmu.edu. MAME! the musical 3134 Eastern Ave Baltimore 11: a.m.–5:00 p.m. Free! Spotlighters Theatre For the kids while you shop: our free drop-in arts Presents MAME! the December 1 workshop for kids runs 12-3pm. Dec. 14 – Jan. 13 musical. The musical revolves around the antics World AIDS Day Mixed Doubles of Mame Dennis, a fun- B&O American Brasserie’s Red Ribbon Happy December 11 Performance Workshop Theatre Presents Mixed loving, wealthy eccentric Hour. In honor of World AIDS Day and benefiting Doubles. In time for the Holidays, Performance with a flare for life and a Unwrap the Magic Chase Brexton Health Services, B&O American Workshop Theatre presents Mixed Doubles, an razor sharp wit. Her life Brasserie, a Kimpton restaurant, is giving guests a A Benefit Performance for Pathfinders for Autism is suddenly changed when feel good reason to enjoy a cocktail or two. Hand- and St. Elizabeth School starring Grammy award- exciting, provocative entertainment written by she becomes the guardian crafted by Head Bartender Brendan Dorr, with a winning, two-time Tony Award Nominee and eight of England’s finest modern playwrights on of her late brother’s only portion of the proceeds going to Chase Brexton Dukes of Hazzard star Tom Wopat. One night only the comic, familiar, passionate, and surprising child, Patrick Dennis. Health Services. 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. B&O at Kraushaar Auditorium, on the Goucher College journey following the words, “I do!”, directed Her adventures take us from the speak-easies of American Brasserie 2 N. Charles Street. campus. Show start at 7:30 p.m. and will feature an by Marc Horwitz. Young love, old love, same the roaring 20’s to the depression following the entertaining mix of seasonal and Broadway favorites sex, no sex, harmony, jealousy, desire… Mixed great Stock Market crash. She is rescued by a Sisters Together & Reaching performed by Wopat and his eight piece band of Doubles, celebrates the courage it takes to be in wealthy Southern plantation owner, marries and Sisters Together and Reaching (STAR) is New York City Players. With special appearances by a marriage – any marriage.. Showtimes are 8:00 is widowed suddenly, and through it all, manages partnering with Dr. Ron Howell and the Collington local performers from the Friends School Chamber p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings to keep things under control. With some help from Square Non-Profit Corporation in an HIV/STI Choir, the Susquehanna Youth Ballet and the elite and 3:00 p.m. on Sunday matinees. Tickets are her dearest friend, Vera Charles, she helps keep Testing event from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the dancers of the EMC Performance Arts Studio. A $22 general admission, $20 for seniors and $15 things at 3 Beekman Place a rousing free-for-all! Mattie B. Uzzle Outreach Center located at 1211 N. pre-show VIP reception hosted by Tom Wopat and TICKETS are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and Chester Street, Baltimore, MD. for students and may be purchased by phoning B.J. Surhoff, President of Pathfinders for Autism and the Theatre or online. The Theatre is located $16 for military and students. Order online at Oriole Hall of Fame player, will begin at 6:00PM at 5426 Harford Road in Hamilton, Baltimore. www.spotlighters.org or call 410.752.1225. World AIDS Day at the performance site. Kraushaar Auditorium is Ceremony at City Hall. The Baltimore City located on the Goucher College campus at 1021 For reservations and more information, Mayor’s Office and the Baltimore City Health Dulaney Valley Road, Towson,. Tickets may be call the Performance Workshop Theatre Send your information for Department will host a World AIDS Day Ceremony purchased online at www.pathfindersforautism.org Box Office at 410.659.7830 or visit: www. at City Hall and the War Memorial Promenade performanceworkshoptheatre.org ; upcoming events to from 4:00 p.m. –5:15 p.m. The event is free and or by calling 443-330-5370. Tickets also available at open to the public. St. Elizabeth’s School. VIP Tickets $100 General [email protected] Admission $35 Children 12 and Under $20

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