OAN INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THET LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES May 17, 2013 | Volume XI, Issue 1 By Jim Becker of the print media, here we are, ten years and This issue of Baltimore OUTloud is a mile- counting! Our success against the odds and stone for us as we celebrate 10 years of conventional wisdom, rest squarely with our activist journalism in service to Baltimore’s superb staff, loyal columnist and writers – vol- sexual-minority communities. In our first is- unteers all, committed advertisers, and most sue on May 16, 2003, founding publisher importantly you, Baltimore’s lesbian, gay, bi- Mike Chase described the launch of the pa- sexual and transgender communities. Celebrating Ten per as time-consuming, nerve-wracking, and exciting – the beginning of an adventure. It Some history has indeed been all of these with ups, downs, The adventure Mike spoke about, this triumphs and tragedies, successes to cel- journey that is Baltimore OUTloud, started ebrate and obstacles to overcome. Yet, de- with a simple idea: Baltimore’s Queer com- Years Together spite the economic crisis of the last five years munities would benefit from an independent cal LGBT scene. He had also developed a Mike, Mary and the newspaper, seeking a re- and the demise of much voice, a newspaper loyal cadre of writers and columnist who en- straining order against Mike plus other relief; free from ownership thusiastically joined him in the launch of the and Viacom UK and a publication in Florida ties to community or- paper. Three of this group, Steve Charing, claimed copyright infringement in the use ganizations, focused Chuck Duncan and Greg Shapiro, remain the of “OUTloud.” These bumps necessitated a on local, national and journalistic backbone of the paper to this day. temporary diversion of time, resources and international news, With Mike at the helm, Joe Berg as editor, focus but without lasting effect. Similarly, a insightful opinions, writers like Steve, Chuck, Greg, Alexander lawsuit we instituted against the GLCCB in and political advoca- St. John, Dawn Culberston, Ben Ryland, Bob 2009 was settled and of little consequence. cy. The owners – Joe Steele, Paul Varnell, We now have cordial relationships with both Berg, Lee Mooney, and Katherine the Community Center and Gay Life. Jim Williams, Ostrowski, Joe was editor for a little less than a year. and myself – and a When he left to accept another position, Mike employed strong added editor to his responsibilities as pub- Mike to support lisher. lead the team In 2004, Dawn Culbertson died suddenly effort. 10th that in- on Thanksgiving while attending a Baltimore We also Anniversary cluded Folk Music Society dance at age 53.In addi- hired ex- Mary, tion to the work she did for Baltimore OUT- perienced Issue! Carol loud as Arts and Entertainment Coordinator, newspaper Baker, and she was a musician, composer and late night production staff Ramon Mon- host of a classical music show on a local radio including Mary tiel, Baltimore OUT- show. Her death was a big loss to the news- Taylor as Advertis- loud premiered in grand style! The lead story paper and the Baltimore arts community. ing Sales Coordi- previewed a local production of the Laramie On January 20, 2007, we suddenly lost nator. Project, Moiss Kaufman’s gripping account newspaper co-founder and co-owner Lee Mike had of the aftermath of the murder of Matthew Mooney. Lee was Mike Chase’s partner for years of experi- Shepard. (The newspaper has emphasized 29 years. He was a gentle spirit who provided ence publish- coverage of the arts from the beginning.) critical support to the paper. He was always ing community Steve Charing opined about the Iraq deba- supportive of Mike and the entire Baltimore newspapers (he cle and economic chaos in Annapolis, and OUTloud family. He provided a steady hand served twice as Chuck Duncan reviewed Matrix Reloaded. and calm voice. His death was a turning point editor of the Balti- The newspaper looked great, and the writing for the newspaper because it was such a loss more Gay Paper) was excellent. for Mike and ultimately led to Mike’s retire- and as a native But, despite this successful debut, there ment and relocation out-of-state. of Charm City were some serious immediate challenges. When Mike retired in 2009, longtime col- Issue number one – was very con- In short order the GLCCB, publisher of Gay umnist and writer Steve Charing assumed May 16, 2003 nected to the lo- Life, filed an unsuccessful lawsuit against —continued on page 4 news // LOCAL Maryland to End Benefits for Employees’ Domestic Partners by Carol V. Calhoun opportunity to obtain benefits as domestic part- to Virginia. It is clear that Maryland would have The Baltimore Sun is reporting that with same- recognized the couple as validly married before ners. After all, if same-sex couples can get ben- Co-Publishers sex marriage now available, Maryland state efits without marriage, why should opposite-sex the move. Should the move be treated as the Jim Becker • Jim Williams employees in same-sex relationships have couples be denied the same right? equivalent of a divorce for benefits purposes? [email protected] been notified that they won’t be able to include Fairness issues – Even in states that Executive Editor Arguments against eliminating recognize same-sex marriage, the panoply Jim Becker domestic partners in their health insurance as [email protected] of January 1, 2014. With 11 states, the District domestic-partner policies of rights and obligations available to married Managing Editor of Columbia, and three Native American tribes Domestic-partner policies fulfilling oth- same-sex couples is very different from those [email protected] available to married opposite-sex couples. To having legalized same-sex marriage, employ- er goals – In some instances, domestic-partner Sales Director ers that have domestic-partner benefits are policies already cover opposite-sex as well as begin with, same-sex marriage involves a much Mary Taylor increasingly reexamining their policies in that same-sex couples. For example, some employ- higher level of commitment. An opposite-sex [email protected] area. ers have wanted to protect couple knows that divorce will be available. Leather Columnist In many instances, domestic- senior citizens reluctant to However, divorce is governed by the couple’s Rodney Burger partner policies were originally marry due to the effect on state of domicile at the time of the divorce. Contributing Writers Joey Amato • Sharon Brackett • Rodney Burger • adopted based on a perception Social Security benefits. Thus, for example, suppose that a couple gets Joshua Buchbinder • Steve Charing • Jeffrey Claggett • that employees with same-sex These reasons may contin- married while living in Maryland, but then retires Jeffrey Clouser • Wayne Curtis • Woody Derricks • Denise R. to Florida. At that point, they could never get a Duarte • Chuck Duncan • Michael Farley • Jon Fairbanks • Gerry partners were disadvantaged ue to exist even after pas- Fisher • Bruce Garrett • Jeff Hammerberg • Dr. Eva Hersh • relative to those with opposite- sage of marriage equality. divorce unless at least one of them moved to a Shirli Hughes • Sam Kunz • Michelle Lanchester, Esq. • sex partners, due to the fact state that recognized same-sex marriage. Dana LaRocca • Jessica Lemmo • Jay Loane • Rev. Meredith Inconsistent state Moise • Bill Palmer • Gregg Shapiro that same-sex marriage was laws – An employer in In addition, Section 3 of DOMA precludes federal recognition of same-sex marriage. Graphics not recognized under applicable Maryland, for example, Amy Ray • Joe Velasquez state law. In most instances, the may have employees who Thus, marriage involves a greater commitment Cartoonist policies apply only to same-sex are domiciled in Virginia. for same-sex couples, while securing them few- Bruce Garrett (Brucegarrett.com) er rights. To the extent that the impetus for aboli- partners, although in some they While Maryland recognizes Photographers are also available to unmarried same-sex marriage, Virgin- tion of domestic partner benefits is fairness vis a Bruce Garrett • Jay W Photos opposite-sex partners. The ques- Carol V. Calhoun ia does not. If the employer vis opposite-sex couples, consideration needs Web Editor tion therefore becomes whether eliminates recognition of to be given to the extent that requiring marriage Anja Saine [email protected] to eliminate these policies as domestic partnerships, em- as a c-ondition for benefits in fact constitutes an Managed Web Services same-sex marriage becomes available. Some ployees domiciled in Virginia may lose benefits. equal requirement for same-sex and opposite- The Fusio Group factors to consider are set forth below. Moreover, the determination of whether an sex couples. 866-322-7498, Thefusiogroup.com opposite-sex couple is married is typically de- Timing Issues – For an employer that de- National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media Arguments for eliminating termined under the law of their state of domi- cides to abolish domestic partner benefits, an- 908-232-2021 domestic-partner policies other issue is timing. Should the change apply cile at the time they get married. And in the vast Founders Administrative complexity – A marriage majority of instances, a state will recognize a only to new employees, or to those who have Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • is typically easy to document. Governmental marriage of an opposite-sex couple performed not yet established domestic partnerships? Or Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams agencies maintain copies of marriage certifi- in another state, even if the marriage would be should it apply even to those who already have domestic partner benefits? Baltimore OUTloud cates. A marriage can be ended only on divorce impermissible under the laws of the state of do- PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 or death, either of which is also documented by micile. Thus, if an opposite-sex couple lives in To the extent that domestic partnership 410-244-6780 a government agency. Thus, it is typically pos- Virginia but gets married in Maryland, it is gen- policies apply to retirement plans, governmen- Baltimoreoutloud.com sible to determine with certainty whether an erally safe to assume that the couple has a valid tal employers may be precluded by state Con- employee is or is not married. (Of course, this marriage. stitutional provisions from taking those benefits Additional Information Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride may be more of an issue in instances in which a The law applicable to same-sex couples is away from current employees, or at least from Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and common-law marriage is a possibility, but these those current employees already in domestic unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: editor@ much less clear. Section 2 of the federal De- baltimoreoutloud.com. All materials appearing in this newspaper represent a small fraction of marriages.) fense of arriage Act provides as follows: partnerships. are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced By contrast, except in those states with No State, territory, or possession of the Another issue to consider is what happens without the written permission of the editor. registered domestic partnerships, the existence U.S., or Indian tribe, shall be required to give to those individuals already receiving benefits of a domestic partnership can be much harder effect to any public act, record, or judicial pro- as domestic partners if such benefits end. Will to document. Typically, an employee must file ceeding of any other state, territory, posses- they receive a COBRA-type ability to elect to an affidavit with the employer to establish a sion, or tribe respecting a relationship between continue benefits at their own expense? (CO- domestic partnership as a precondition for ben- persons of the same sex that is treated as a BRA itself, being a federal statute, typically does efits. However, if there is no formal divorce-type marriage under the laws of such other state, not apply to benefits to domestic partners.) How filing, it can be difficult to determine whether territory, possession, or tribe, or a right or claim long will it take them to secure other coverage? or when a domestic partnership ends. Indeed, arising from such relationship. And for those employees who do choose there could be instances in which an employee For example, if a same-sex couple domi- to get married, how fast is it reasonable to ex- pect them to do so? The average length of an The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those marries without ever formally ending a domestic ciled in Virginia gets married in Maryland, Vir- of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily partnership. (Bigamy laws would, of course, ap- ginia will not recognize the marriage. Should engagement is 13-18 months. For a couple that reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff. ply to an employee who remarried without end- Maryland nevertheless recognize the marriage has never been legally able to get married, is it © 2013 – All rights reserved ing a prior marriage, but those laws do not apply for benefits purposes? reasonable to expect them to make the deci- Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker to domestic partnerships.) Even more complicated questions arise sion to marry, and plan the wedding, within a President – Jim Williams t Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase Equal protection issues – One of the con- due to the mobility of employees. Suppose few months? cerns in Maryland was that the state could face that a same-sex couple is domiciled in Mary- The author is president of Calhoun Law lawsuits from opposite-sex couples denied the land, and gets married there, but then moves Group. 2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com SAME SEX LAW || LGBT LAW EXPECT MORE

PK Law’s Same-Sex /LGBT Law Services Include:

• Domestic Partnership • Second Parent Adoptions • Powers of Attorney Agreements • Same Sex Dissolution of • Wills • Estate Planning Partnerships • Domestic Partner • Bankruptcy • Advance Health Care Affidavits • Divorce Directives • Healthcare Proxies

To find out what else you can expect from PK Law, contact: Mark F. Scurti | 410.938.8718 [email protected] | pklaw.com/expectmore BALTIMORE/TOWSON | BEL AIR | CAMBRIDGE | COLUMBIA

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 OUTLOUD TENTH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Celebrating Ten or both, from Niclole Bettis, Shawn Bradley, Buchbinder and Garry Fisher “Quality-of-Life,” perspective to offer on political, social and Years Together Sharon Brackett, Cathy Brennan, Terrence Jeffrey Clouser “Style,” and Jessie & Michelle economic issues, and that our lives are tied – continued from page 1 Brower, Denise Duarte, Daniel Ewald, Ricky Benson, and Jessica Lemmo “Dinning.” Sam to the broader world in ways that demands a Green, Shirli Hughes, Kedrick Keyes, Dana Kuntz has covered the bar scene. Amos Bad- focus beyond what may be seen as traditional LaRocca, Vann Millhouse, Reverend Mother ertscher’s “Stories” are truly unique LGBT issues. This expansive view of the is- the position of editor. Had he not been will- Meredith Moise, Mark Patro, David Placher, A community newspaper must be more sues that are important to the Lesbian, Gay, ing to step up at this critical time of transition, Curtis Price, Sandy Rawls, Corey Reidy, Mat- than crime and politics and these dedicated Bisexual, and Transgender communities and we might not have been able to continue. thew Streib, Nate Sweeney and Larry Walker. folks consistently deliver. our pledge to covering them is worth restating His work on behalf of Baltimore OUTloud In addition to discussions of politics generally, A newspaper would be a drab and dreary here. We wrote, has been phenomenal. Although he stepped some writers also focused on specific con- read without photographs. Our dedicated pho- We are committed to improving our lives down as editor in 2011, his continued com- cerns: Cathy, Denise, and Meredith discussed tographers, Bruce Garett, Skip Koritzer, Daniel and... to holding the wider community respon- mitment to the newspaper as writer, colum- women’s issues and feminism; Dana, Sandy, McGarrity, Jay W, John Kardys, Justin Nixon, sible for actions that attack our humanity. But nist, adviser, recruiter, and visible presence Sharon, and Vann provided insights on the and Steve Charing ensure that we are able to we are also aware that our lives are tied to in the community makes him invaluable and needs of transgender people and Vann has enhance our coverage of the news and impor- the broader world. Of course we will rally sup- no small reason why we are thriving. It is no described his journey of transition; and Larry, tant events with great photos. The photo pag- port for gay rights initiatives, domestic partner stretch to say that since Mike’s retirement, it Meredith, Niclole, Ricky, Shawn, and Terrence es are very popular – who doesn’t like to see benefits, and adoption rights. But we recog- is Steve who has stepped up to ensure that raised community concerns from an African- his or herself and friends in the newspaper. nize that a prohibition against job discrimina- the paper has top quality news and editorial American prospective. tion based on sexual orientation will have little content issue after issue. Dana also worked admirably as editor in Our focus, then and now practical effect if the economy is in the tank Similarly, since Mike’s departure, Mary 2011-2012. With encouragement from me and Baltimore OUTloud was founded by activ- and there are few jobs to be had. What good Taylor has been the mainstay in keeping the Jim Williams, Dana added some edgy political ists and we have always considered advocacy is it to have domestic partner benefits if afford- cash flowing and the office running. In addi- content. as a paramount responsibility. Because we able health care is out of reach for both part- tion to selling ads and keeping the advertisers Baltimore OUTloud provides particularly are not a tax-exempt corporation, we have a ners in a relationship? For these reasons, we satisfied, she has become a jack-of-all-trades strong coverage of the arts and entertain- freedom that non-profits intend to provide cov- for the organization, doing whatever it takes ment, and the leather community. We have lack. We have used this “The acceptance of erage and commen- to ensure that a newspaper is printed every been able to maintain our commitment to this liberty to endorse political tary that reach beyond two weeks. Since the departure of our last edi- coverage in large part due to the tireless con- figures, including Presi- our ‘families’ and what might be viewed tor, she has taken on the added job of coordi- tributions of Chuck Duncan, Greg Shapiro, dent Obama, Governor the right to marry as the LGBT ghetto nating the production of the paper. and Rodney Berger. Rodney’s reporting on O’Malley and out legis- of news, events, and In the digital age, a newspaper must have the leather community is wildly popular. Chuck lators like Maggie McIn- may come at a price ideas. We will cover a web presence. Thanks to the expertise, and Greg have been writing for the newspa- tosh, Mary Washington the queer community dedication, and hard work of webmaster Anja per from its inception; they have been joined and Luke Clippinger, and for those among us thoroughly (and hope- Saine, we have a great website that she en- in our “Lively Arts” coverage by Deborah Dra- to campaign tirelessly for who have differing fully) provocatively. But hances regularly. Clearly the web is the future sin, Jonathan Hernandez, Jim Lucio, Michael legislation that we believe we will also give voice and Anja will lead us where we need to be. Anthony Farley, and Colin Riley. Jeffrey Clag- will improve the lives of identities and to those people and or- For much of the past 10 years Jay Loane ett, my life-partner of more than two decades, LGBT people, including ganizations promoting and Michael Serio faithfully delivered the has also provided his unique and insightful transgender inclusive interest. How will a progressive agenda newspapers, whatever the weather. Jay con- take on art and music periodically.The news- anti-discrimination pro- our communities for political, economic, tinues to write his popular “People We Like” paper has been very fortunate to have Wayne tections, and of course and social justice. column. The critical delivery task is now de- Curtis advising us on real estate and Woody more recently recognition support other visions During the past ten pendably done by Jerry Wise. Derricks writing on financial matters in his of same-sex marriage. of what it means to years, our communi- A mainstay of any newspaper by and for “Your Money” column. Both provide important Through advocacy jour- ties have seen a re- sexual and gender minority communities is information that has been particularly salient nalism, we have endeav- be LGBT? We look markable shift in public its news stories, political coverage and opin- during the recent great recession/depression. ored to hold the wider acceptance. We think ion columns. In addition to Steve, we have We have also published excellent articles community accountable forward to exploring that this can be attrib- been very fortunate to have had either news on “life and living” with Josh Aterovis and Mar- on critical issues such as these issues as they uted to many factors, reporting, thought-provoking commentary, ty Hoegg discussing “Relationships,” Joshua homophobic and trans- but most importantly gender phobic violence, develop.” our growing visibility. school bullying, police However, the accep- harassment, and discrimination in all its forms. tance of our “families” and the right to marry We have also provided a forum for lively de- may come at a price for those among us who bate on issues percolating in sexual-minority have differing identities and interest. How communities. We will continue these endeav- will our communities support other visions ors. of what it means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual However, we have always had a wider fo- and transgender. We look forward to exploring cus. That is why early on we were fortunate these issues as they develop. to run columns from world renowned people’s We hope that you will celebrate our birth- historian Howard Zinn and acclaimed author day with us by continuing to read the print edi- Kurt Vonnegut. More recently, we dedicated tion, visit our website, and above all, support an issue to the economy and the Occupy our advertisers without whom we wouldn’t be Movement. In our second issue, published able to provide what we see as a vital com- May 30, 2003, we announced our commit- munity service. We also hope that you join us ment to sexual liberation, our belief that as in the struggles for equality, justice, and libera- LGBT people we are outsiders with a unique tion! Thanks, and here’s to the next decade! t

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL Leather Exhibit comes to Community Center by Matthew Smith from Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, to the On May 10-12, 2013, the Maryland Leather GLCCB. Library volunteers, some of whom Clubs welcomed the traveling Carter/John- reside in Baltimore, were glad for the help. son Leather Library & Collection Leatherli- On Friday and Saturday, Bootblack brary.org to the Gay & Lesbian Community Brigade president, Amelia, Mid-Atlantic Center of Baltimore. Community Bootblack 2013, and Raquel, This exhibit includes leather, fetish, Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2012, SM, and alternative sexuality books, peri- were on hand to clean and repair leath- ers in front of a Bootblack his- tory display in the Library. Coffee was generously do- nated by Zeke’s Coffee, and served by the Leatherboys of Maryland to raise money for the Library’s “Sir Robert Davis Travel Fund.” On Sat- urday, two Leather round- table discus- sion groups were held at New Jerseyan Robert Bowden checks out the library the GLCCB. Sir John Krikorian, Mid-Atlantic odicals, posters, art, and ephemera dating LeatherSIR 2010 & 2011, led a SIR/boy Lynda Dee back to the 1700s, and has been collected discussion in the afternoon with 24 people by librarian Vi Johnson. This event marks in attendance. In the evening, FIST presi- Attorney At Law the first time the library has had a major dent and Mid-Atlantic Leatherwoman 2012, Serving the Gay Community Since 1981 exhibition in Baltimore. An estimated 300 Toni Solenne led a leather women’s round- people came to the GLCCB to see the table as part of a national tour, attended by work, some coming from as far as Denver 15 people. ASL interpreters Kevin Lowery • Criminal and San Francisco. and Mo were on hand for the discussions. The library is a collective history of Both groups were attended by people of •(

 Traffic ) various communities who have chosen to mixed genders and orientations. • DWI live and love differently, and is chartered to History was made in the library Satur- bring this history to the communities that day night as Hooker and Boys presented • MVA Hearings it serves. If you think kinky sex is a “new” the Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR 2013, Robert • Estate Planning idea, check out the display, “We didn’t Bowden of New Jersey. The 2014 Mid-At- invent this,” which provides a timeline of lantic Leather contests will be held March • Wills non-traditional sexual activities through 21-24, 2014 in Asbury Park, New Jersey. • Powers of Attorney the centuries. In the rare section, see Later, an All-Club Invasion of the Triple books from the 1700s describing what we L coincided with a benefit at the Triple L • Personal Injury would today call SM activities. The librar- for Autism Speaks hosted by Ada Buffet •(

#"
"! Automobile Accidents ian in this library encourages one-handed and the Ladies of Leon’s. The 200 block of • Worker’s Compensation reading, and tells us so. “Just don’t get West Chase Street was hopping Saturday anything on the books” is one of Vi John- night! •(

'
%

$ Family Law and Divorce  son’s favorite lines. The Carter/Johnson Leather Library •(


 Second Parent "
 "! Adoptions Bringing the Carter/Johnson Leather & Collection looks forward to returning to Library to Baltimore was an effort of Hook- Baltimore in 2014 as part of the expanded er & Boys, one of our local clubs; getting Chesapeake Leather and Pride weekend 201 N. Charles Street, Suite 2300 • Baltimore, MD • 21201 it here took cooperation from many. The (CLAP 5, date to be announced). Offices:)!
 
(
&
  410-332-1170 • Fax 410-836-0288 Leatherboys of Maryland, H&B, and Boot- Thank you to Charm City and its leath- [email protected] • www.lyndadeelaw.com black Brigade members hauled crates er clubs! t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 news // LOCAL Ride for Feast Raises Over Half Million GLCCB Names Baltimore Pride ‘Grand

By Steve Charing Moveable Feast is a longstanding Bal- Marshall’ and ‘Activists of the Year’ Ride for the Feast, the two-day, 140 mile timore nonprofit organization that provides bike ride from Ocean City to Baltimore lifesaving, nutritious foods for low-income The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Shawnna Alexander is celebrating 31 on May 11-12 raised $522,651 (and still Marylanders living with HIV/AIDS, breast Community Center of Baltimore and Cen- years of entertaining. She is labeled as counting) for Moveable Feast. Since 2003, cancer, and other life-threatening condi- tral Maryland (GLCCB) today announced Baltimore’s Queen of Comedy but also the event has been one of the principal tions at no cost. the Baltimore Pride 2013 Grand Marshall is known as The Queen of benefits and a “I am incredibly proud of my Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake. four time Drag Personality. She is the 2013 team – all 17 riders and four sup- “Mayor Rawlings-Blake’s commitment to LGBT person of the year (Argie Awards) port and gear and medical staff,” the LGBT community has been undoubt- winner and was recently given the 2013 David Sackett, the team leader edly one of the best records in Maryland Community Service Award presented by for the Shirley Temples told Bal- and for the City of Baltimore, from her early Hooker and Boys. An entertainer through- timore OUTloud. “They slogged position in supporting marriage equality in out the East Coast, she still makes Balti- through alternating thunder- Maryland to her commitment to combat- more her home. Alexander is a three time storms and sunshine and happi- ing gender identity anti-discrimination winner of “The City Paper’s Baltimore’s ly made it safely to complete 140 and violence in the city, ” announced Best” and has held several titles includ- miles of biking for a great cause. GLCCB Executive Director Matt Thorn. ing Miss Gay Baltimore, Miss Stagecoach, The dedication, perseverance, The mayor, a regular attendee of and the second Queen of Pride Working up an appetite credit: Daniel McGarrity Photography and can-do spirit of the team Baltimore Pride, also officiated for Maryland. She is now serv- and the joy of being together for the first gay and lesbian wed- ing as Miss Rowan Tree and fundraising sources for the organization. such an accomplishment exemplifies the dings on January 1, 2013. Miss Equality Maryland 2012. About two dozen teams solicit dona- notion of service to others less fortunate “The GLCCB board of Jamal H.N. Hailey is an advo- tions and participate in the ride whose can be and is an enormously rewarding ex- directors, staff, and cate for marginalized groups, length of 140 miles coincides with the dis- perience.” He proudly pointed out that the members of the Pride especially youth and LGBT tance a Moveable Feast driver must deliv- Shirley Temples raised $50,000, which is Committee are happy communities of color, who er to the farthest client. A record 235 regis- nearly 10 percent of the total. to have the chance to works to reduce the im- tered riders, 110 volunteers and thousands A full page of photos of the event are honor the work she has pact of social determinants of donors participated in this year’s event. inside and on our website. t done for the LGBT com- on sexual and behavioral munity,” said Thorn. health and HIV. A native of This year, the Pride Com- suburban Maryland, Hailey mittee is also showcasing has spent the last ten years the amazing work of local Mayor in Baltimore working to im- activists and advocates. Be- Rawlings- prove the lives of adolescents ginning this year, Baltimore Blake and young adults most at risk for Pride will be selecting two ‘Activ- acquiring HIV and living with HIV. ists of the Year’ to ride in the Pride His major focus has been working with- Parade. The 2013 Activists of the Year are in the community to ensure that youth have Shawnna Alexander and Jamal Hailey. safe spaces to be themselves. He currently “Shawnna Alexander and Jamal Hailey works with the Star Track program at the are local individuals who commit tire- University of Maryland, Baltimore, as direc- less hours, resources, and heart to the tor of programs. He also currently serves on work that they do, and they deserve the Greater Baltimore HIV Health Services the recognition for their contributions Planning Council and sits on the Board of to the LGBT community,” said Thorn. Directors for Baltimore Black Pride. t

PLEASE JOIN The Baltimore City Historical Society and The Village Learning Place As they present an LGBT History of the early years. Thursday, June 20 - 7:00 p.m. a reception and talk at 7:30

Village Learning Place | 2521 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland | (410) 235-2210

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL // NATIONAL Anti-gay Slurs in Ellicott City Stabbing Delaware Approves By Steve Charing cally targeted for any reason. I’ve confirmed The FreeState Legal Project expressed con- that information [on May 15] with the officers’ cern that an attack on a man in Ellicott City commander. The stabbing occurred when Marriage Equality that included anti-gay slurs was not investi- the exchange escalated to pushing and gated as a hate crime. According to a report shoving and one of the parties had a knife By Michael K. Lavers Staton described the fliers to the posted on ellicottcity.patch.com, on April 21, and cut another subject on the arm.” Washington Blade Washington Blade on Wednesday as “un- a man was attacked and stabbed in the fore- She added, “We take hate bias incidents The Delaware Senate on May 7 approved fortunate.” arm in Ellicott City. The perpetrator allegedly and hate crimes very seriously in Howard a bill that will allow same-sex marriage in Lopez did not immediately return the “[used] slurs against homosexuals” during County and, in fact, have a “multicultural liai- the First State. The 12-9 vote came more Blade’s request for comment, but Staton the attack. The assailant was charged with son officer” assigned solely to address mat- than three hours after lawmakers began criticized his former opponent for voting first-degree assault and reckless endanger- ters related to race, religion, sexual orienta- to hear testimony from against HB 75. ment, but not with committing a hate crime. tion and ethnicity, and to work with groups House Bill 75 supporters “He misrepresented In response to the incident, FreeState that care about those issues.” and opponents. his district,” Staton said. Legal Project sent a letter to the State’s At- Anne Blackfield, the deputy director of “It is about treating “This is a district that torney’s Office requesting more information the FreeState Legal Project, stated that they couples the same under strongly favored mar- about the circumstances and the decision have received a call from the Howard County the law as all other cou- riage equality and it was not to investigate it as a hate crime in spite State’s Attorney’s office. She told Baltimore ples,” Equality Delaware unfortunate that he could of the use of anti-gay slurs. FreeState Le- OUTloud. “It sounds like from the Statement President Lisa Goodman not side with those peo- gal Project does not have a relationship to of Facts that was submitted to their office, said. “It is about treating ple that were in favor for anyone connected with this case, and does slurs were made by someone other than the similarly situated people equality for all of us here not possess information suggesting that au- assailant. However, they are going to re-in- the same.” in Delaware.” thorities failed to exercise appropriate judg- terview the victim and make sure that there Peterson came out Neighboring Maryland ment when determining not to charge a hate isn’t any indication that the incident could be as a lesbian while she is among the nine states crime. classified as a hate crime.” spoke in support of and D.C. in which same- Aaron Merki, FreeState Legal Project’s FreeState Legal emphasizes that mes- House Bill 75. sex couples can currently Executive Director, stated: “Not every crime sages of hate that are either directly or in- “We are not seek- marry. Gays and lesbians in which hate speech is used can properly directly leveled at the LGBT community, if ing to redefine marriage,” she said, noting can legally tie the knot in Rhode Island on be considered a hate crime, though use of allowed to go unanswered, create an en- she and her partner of more than 20 years Aug. 1 after the state’s same-sex marriage such language constitutes strong evidence vironment of hostility that can leave LGBT entered into a civil union once the state’s law that Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed last in such cases. We thought the incident in people feeling unequal and unsafe in our so- civil unions law took effect in Jan. 2012. week takes effect. Ellicott City warranted further discussion to ciety. “Whether or not the incident in Ellicott “We are seeking to expand the definition of Gov. Jack Markell signed HB 75 into ensure that anti-LGBT bias isn’t going un- City was an actual hate crime, the county marriage just as the Supreme Court did in law shortly after the Senate approved it. noticed.” should convey to LGBT people that when the Loving v. Virginia case.” “Today, we wrote a new chapter in our Sherry Llewellyn, spokesperson for the anti-LGBT crimes do occur, hatred toward Venables noted “anatomy” means “a history and proved, once again, justice Howard County Police Department, told Bal- LGBT people will be investigated and pros- man should not be marrying a man” as he and equality continue to move forward in timore OUTloud, “This was a case where ecuted,” said Merki.” spoke against House Bill 75. Delaware,” he said. “By signing House Bill intoxicated individuals were engaging in Hate crimes against members of the LGBT “This is a step to break [marriage] 75 into law, we are another step closer to- ‘trash talk,’ for lack of a better term, as the community are on the rise. The FBI reports that down,” he said. wards achieving that goal.” area bars were closing. In all of the back and hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation Father Leonard Klein of the Diocese of Delaware Sen. Chris Coons is among forth name-calling, one of the slurs used was were, as of 2011, the second most common Wilmington also testified against the pro- those who also applauded HB 75′s pas- one that has connotations to homosexuality. hate crime committed in the United States. posal. sage. However, there is absolutely no reference in Law enforcement agencies reported that near- “Marriage exists obviously we believe “This is a truly historic day for our state,” the report to any of the parties involved be- ly 1,300 such sexual orientation-based hate by the will of God because the sexual ori- he said. “The passage of HB 75 ushers in a ing gay, or that anyone was actually specifi- crimes were investigated in 2011.t entation between men and women tends to new era of equality in our state and marks create babies,” he said. “Because of this, an important moment in our state’s history. every human culture has found some way I am incredibly proud.” to see to it that children conceived by the “In Delaware, we do what is right for interaction by men and women are raised our citizens,” state Rep. Melanie George TYRE’S REPAIR ideally by the people who brought them Smith (D-Bear,) who introduced HB 75 in into the ages.” the Delaware House of Representatives AUTO Quality Workmanship Lopez, whose district includes Re- last month, added. “This bill is about equal- hoboth Beach, said on the Senate floor he ity and treating all couples in a loving, and his family experienced “hate” during committed relationship with equal respect the final weeks of his campaign against and dignity.” 410.252.8001 gay real-estate agent Andy Staton last fall Victory Fund CEO Chuck Wolfe also 24/7 Towing 410-583-8888 because of the fliers the Delaware Liberty praised Peterson for coming out as he ap- Fund, an independent LGBT PAC, distrib- plauded the measure’s approval. Voted Baltimore’s Best Auto Repair – City Paper 2000 uted. He said they came from and were “We congratulate Sen. Peterson for Next to Timonium Business Park Lightrail Stop “paid for from individuals who now support telling her colleagues what marriage marriage equality.” equality means to her and her partner and 1955 GreeNSPriNG Drive The Victory Fund, which endorsed Sta- for standing up for freedom and fairness ton, declined to comment on Lopez’s claims. for everyone in Delaware,” he said. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker law, a local version of which is already in state constitution. The groups that led the the city’s Community Relations Commission. place in Russia’s second city of St. Peters- campaign against the amendment swiftly Columbus’ antidiscrimination ordinances for- Gay man tortured burg. The number of documented cases turned to pushing for legalizing same-sex bid employment bias on the basis of sexual and beaten to death of violence against gays in Russia is low. marriage, an effort aided when Democrats orientation. It is a misdemeanor to discriminate Rights group Sova, which tracks extrem- captured full control of state government in against an employee on in Russia ist violence, says violence against gays November. Only one Republican senator, the basis of sexual ori- has risen sharply – but from only three re- Branden Petersen of suburban Andover, entation in Columbus. It Volgograd, Russia – A 23-year-old corded attacks in 2011 to 12 in 2012. But voted for the bill. Three Democrats from carries maximum pen- man in Russia’s southern city of Volgo- there are no official figures on anti-gay rural districts voted against it. alties of 180 days in grad was tortured and killed after reveal- crime in Russia, and gay rights campaign- Republican opponents said the bill jail and a $1,000 fine. ing he was gay during a drinking session ers say the numbers available mask the alters a centuries-old understanding of However, to succeed in investigators said, taking a rare step by true number of attacks on gays, lesbians, marriage as a societal building block that a prosecution, investiga- linking a murder to homophobia. The vic- bisexual and transgender people. Most go benefits children. “Forcing others to give tors would have to prove tim’s 22-year-old friend and a former con- unreported, or are not classified as such you your rights will never end well,” said that it was because of by the police. “Such crimes are committed Sen. Dan Hall, a Republican and a pas- her sexual orientation. around Russia every day,” Alexeyev said. tor. “It won’t give you the recognition you Carla Hale Hale said during an “As a rule, all these crimes are categorized desire.” Hall said gay marriage supporters appearance at Stonewall as something ordinary – they argued over have told him he’s on the wrong side of Columbus on April 24 that Principal Marian a bottle of vodka, or there was ‘personal history but, he said, “the truth is I’m more Hutson denied her grievance request, and told animosity’. The real motive of hate is not concerned about being on the right side of her that she was fired not for being gay, but be- mentioned.” eternity.” (Huffington Post – Patrick Con- cause of the publicized relationship between Putin says Russia does not discrimi- don & Brian Bakst at http://www.huffington- Hale and her partner. Attorney Thomas Tootle, nate against gays, but opponents say he post.com/ 2013/05/13 /minnesota-senate- representing Hale, said that there is little differ- has fostered prejudice with public remarks gay -marriage_n_3266722.html) ence between the two. No Ohio state or fed- that seem to set them apart as second- eral law protects LGBT people from job bias. class citizens. (Reuters – Thomas Grove (Gay People’s Chronicle – Anthony Glassman Brutally murdered & Steve Gutterman at http://www.reuters. Lesbian teacher at Gaypeopleschronicle.com) vict aged 27 were detained for the attack, com/article/2013/05/13/us-russia-gay fired by Catholic which gay rights activists say is a brutal -idUSBRE94C0AX20130513) example of rising violence against homo- school in Columbus Philadelphia Mayor sexuals in the year since President Vladi- signs landmark mir Putin latched on to family values to Columbus, Ohio – A lesbian gym shore up support in Russia’s largely con- teacher was fired from her position at Bishop LGBT-rights bill servative society. Along with a planned Minnesota is 12th Watterson High School on March 28, after ad- new law banning the spread of gay “propa- state to allow ministrators saw her mother’s obituary, which Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Phila- ganda” among minors, Putin has also over- included a reference to her partner. Carla Hale, delphia made history last week as Mayor seen a religious revival that aims to give same-sex marriage 57, taught at the school for 19 years before her Michael Nutter signed into law a sweeping the Orthodox Church, whose leader has dismissal. School administrators pointed to a LGBT rights bill. Among its provisions, is a suggested that homosexuality is one of the St. Paul, Minnesota – Minnesota is clause in teachers’ contracts requiring them tax credit for companies that launch domes- main threats to Russia, a more public role set to become the 12th U.S. state where to abide by Catholic moral teachings, which tic-partner benefits programs and that offer as a moral authority gay couples can get married after a final prohibit same-sex relationships. After Hale’s transgender-specific health-care coverage, Andrei Gapchenko, a senior investiga- legislative vote Monday that will let the mother died, an anonymous letter from “a con- both programs that are the first of their kind tor in Volgograd, said one of the suspects weddings start on August 1. Democratic cerned parent” was sent to the school admin- in the nation. had admitted torturing the victim. “Four Gov. Mark Dayton has pledged to sign the istration, drawing their attention to the obituary. The legislation also revamped the city’s young people were drinking... and one of bill, and scheduled a ceremony at 5 p.m. Hale’s grievance with the school was re- health plan to prevent discrimination against them already knew, he’d heard from others, Tuesday on the front steps of the Capitol jected last week, but she plans to appeal to the transgender non-union city workers. City that he (the victim) was of an untraditional in St. Paul to do so. Minnesota is now the union that represents Catholic school teachers buildings will also now be required to pro- sexual orientation,” he said by telephone. first state in Midwest to legalize gay mar- in the area, as well as filing a complaint with vide gender-neutral bathrooms, and all city “He asked him the question and the victim riage by legislative vote, and the third forms will be gender-neutral. The city’s non- said yes. After that, one of them hit him, he nationwide in just 10 days, joining Rhode discrimination ordinance will be amended to fell to the floor, and then they brutally beat Island and Delaware. Thousands of gay These news notes have been compiled, clarify that employment discrimination based him, set fire to the clothes he was wearing, marriage supporters thronging the Capi- with permission, from the online version on one’s gender presentation is illegal and to slashed his anal area and then stuck three tol erupted into deafening cheers after the of various newspapers and other web mandate that public accommodations must bottles in there, again beat him and then Senate’s 37-30 vote; the House passed it sites. We thank these publications for permit individuals to use a restroom in ac- threw a 20-kilo stone onto his head.” last week on a 75-59 vote. Supporters and allowing us to bring you their news sto- cordance with their gender identity. The leg- Gay rights campaigner Nikolai Alex- opponents were close to evenly matched ries. Usually the reports have been sig- islation passed in a 14-3 victory April 25, and eyev said the draft law, which could be during the House debate, but Monday was nificantly edited and you can read the Nutter gave his final approval in a May 9 city passed this month, and Putin’s criticism of dominated by gay marriage backers. full story by going to the web site men- hall ceremony that was packed with LGBT gays for failing to help Russia’s population The gay marriage issue shifted quickly tioned following the item. Comments people and allies. Republican Dennis O’Brien decline, amounted to “a call to action for in Minnesota, with the Legislature’s vote are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker voted for the measure, while Democrat Bill the scum who committed this crime”. “It es- coming a little more than six months af- and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride Green opposed, joining Republicans David sentially gives these people carte blanche ter voters defeated an amendment that Media. Oh and Brian O’Neill. t (Philadelphia Gay to commit such crimes,” he said of the would have banned gay marriage in the News – Angela Thomas at Epgn.com)

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 OUTLOUD TENTH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

But this goes much deeper than just equals more customers for local advertis- advertising an offer or service, because ers, which equals stronger local culture in there is no shortage of options for a busi- turn. A rising tide raises all ships. And the Spend a Little, Gain a Lot ness owner. They are choosing to support same process applies to community news the gay community. And for a small busi- and engagement on critical issues. By Joe Berg gun anew. Ads have to be sold, designed, ness in particular, everything they spend is That greater advertising also allows A rose doesn’t look the same to any two proofed and approved. Stories have to be money they don’t take home at the end of OUTloud to deliver papers to more far- people. To a botanist it looks one way; to chosen, produced, and checked, photo- the month. It is an investment in the com- flung geographies – like Annapolis, the a poet it looks very different. And so too, a graphs taken. It all has to be “laid out” and munity. Baltimore suburbs, and even Hagerstown paper like OUTloud looks very different de- toiled over for several days. Then it has to As the cycle is proven – where the information pending on the viewer. But on this, the pa- be reviewed repeatedly, and time is up – to work, the readers in turn may be of even greater per’s tenth anniversary, I thought it might you have to cut it loose. support the advertiser, importance. It would be be a good time to step back and dissect it The next day the papers are picked up who then continues to ad- easy, for matters of time for what it is. and the next 20 hours are spent deliver- vertise. and gas mileage, to avoid Independent, niche papers like OUT- ing them to hundreds of locations all over This requires “con- going an hour out of the loud serve an important – often underval- the region. Two days off, and it all starts scious spending” on the way to drop off a couple ued – purpose, beyond connecting readers again. It’s the sort of work you only do if part of the reader, and hundred papers, but I with gay-friendly businesses and informa- you have a passionate reason, and usually the adjustment of some know personally that tion they want, catalyzing dialogue, serving there are at least 20 people involved in any ingrained habits. Skip those areas are often the as a watchdog, and acting as a hub-in-the- given issue. Chick-Fil-A and go to the ones where every copy wheel for an otherwise geographically (and In a free paper format – which allows supportive diner down the is picked up. And now demographically) disparate community. more information to be disseminated to street instead, for a very those readers know how They serve as a catalyst for community more people – this is obviously all paid for real and recent example. to get involved and can growth over all, and often that role is over- through advertisements, and this can only But many examples are feel connected to the rest looked. work because of you, the reader. far more subtle. You are of us. As you know, this newspaper is free to The average business owner purchas- voting with your dollars, The money also read. But it is far from free to produce, both es an ad in OUTloud because they are and unconscious spend- comes back in more tan- in terms of actual cost and in terms of time involved in the community and they want ing may, in fact, be hurting gible ways, perhaps in and effort. readers to know that they desire and appre- you. (How do you know Joe Berg the form of sponsorships Every other week for the past ten years, ciate their business. Most are local small if a business is donating for LGBT-related chari- the arduous process of publishing has be- businesses in the truest sense of the term. to, say, Westboro Baptist ties, or direct participa- Church?) tion in events and fundraisers. In “shop local” movements around the And all of this combined has very real country (of which I am also a part), statis- human impact. First Time Ever tics prove that as much as $.68 of every In my work with various LGBT com- dollar spent at a locally owned business munity organizations over the years, I have is recycled back into the community. At a often seen internal struggles over what direc- Mr & Miss Quest 2013 chain store, that reinvestment can be as tion to go in, or what services to focus on. low as $.14. And I usually offer these words: “Somewhere, In the same way, how much of the there is a kid who is thinking of hurting herself June 1 doors open 8pm money you spend at a local gay-friendly because she thinks she is alone. And every Happy 10th Anniversary business do you guess comes back to decision you make should have that fact in your community, versus those dollars you its heart.” Baltimore OUTloud! Show time 9pm spend elsewhere? For many, OUTloud is a connection to a There are a few aspects to consider – community that you or I may take for granted. club await- as not all community investment is as tan- And it can be easy to forget that something as gible as a dollar bill – and your re-directed simple as where we buy a t-shirt can have a spending fuels a community movement real effect on others down the line. that spirals outward and upward. This knowledge has always been central Businesses owners see others adver- to OUTloud’s mission, and it keeps the com- tise in the paper, and they know that the pass pointing to True North to this day. ing new advertising works. They join in and the I haven’t been involved with the paper advertising base grows, along with the since around 2006, and while I haven’t been paper’s ability to expand its content and there to help with the heavy lifting in a while, reach. More pages equal more room for I have a devout appreciation of the work it in- content. More copies mean more informa- volves and all of those who do it. tion to go around. That, in turn, equals a And I hope that you do too. Letting the larger community and more customers at paper know would be greatly appreciated, I gay-friendly businesses. am certain, but definitely let the advertisers But it doesn’t end at commerce. know. It’s in all of our best interests. Those extra advertisements allow OUT- Congratulations to everyone at OUTloud loud to cover more local LGBT culture, for on 10 hard-fought and valuable years, and example, which results in more public sup- cheers to 10 more ahead! Soldier on. t port of that culture. The result: more inter- The author is OUTloud co-founder and est in the community and the paper, which former editor 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com OUTLOUD TENTH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL Alexander’s World Special tenth anniversary edition By Alexander St. John me... invested over the years so it wasn’t the point of my tirade – the internet ruined thing newsworthy. Remember when she’d I ain’t dead yet bitches! Contrary to popu- like I had to do any real work. Since all the the exciting life of the gossip columnist. come tearing down Eastern Avenue in her lar belief, Alexander is not dead (at least A-gays were having babies, I decided to I mean like nowadays every fag (no hooptie-mobile: driver’s side mirror hang- I don’t think so). There have been many get one of my own – an expensive one: with matter how hideous) is on Xtube doing all ing off, trunk held shut with a bungee cord, dirty rumors going around to the effect that blonde hair and blue eyes. Unfortunately, kinds of dirty, sordid shit (and I use shit in wigs and Big Mac wrappers bouncing up I overdosed on one too many Botox and fatherhood for moi was not be – evidently both the literal and figurative and down on the rear seat, and slowing mascara injections, there’s some ri- sense of the word). I used to down only to chat with some barely-le- that my Mercedes “In the old days, I could diculous law that have to peek behind dump- gal rentboy on the corner.? Those were went into the harbor says you can’t sters and under ladies the days. after I imbibed sev- count on catching a leave a baby in the room stalls to find the dirt Now we have RuPaul’s Drag eral bottles of Grey car while shopping to report; but now anyone Race – puhleeease! What a bunch Goose (at least I couple of leathermen all day. I cracked can now find the stuff on- of boogers – all tattooed and sili- wasn’t accused of at the Eagle chug-a- the windows for line. In the old days (that coned up. A couple of them even drinking rail), that I Chrissake! would be five years ago), appeared in cheap barebacking was murdered (like lugging a plastic go- The people I could count on catching videos. I’m sure Beulah Lamont how many queens in running this tired a couple of leathermen at is spinning in her grave. And that this town can afford cup of piss on the patio rag of a paper the Eagle chug-a-lugging RuPaul – I was a star when she silver bullets), or that at Sunday happy hour” (whatever it’s a plastic go-cup of piss on the patio at was still wearing a cheap Afro wig my poor heart simply called now) con- Sunday happy hour or playing tube-steak and dancing as a back up dancer in a B- gave out after years tacted me (God boogie under the boardwalk in the back 52s music video. I remember when she ap- of hard living (of course, for that one to be knows how they found me – I’ve been in bar. But now, your next door neighbor has peared at the Hippo for a show after Super- true, I’d have to have a heart to begin with). the witness protection program since 2009) his own website where he can be seen model became a hit – arriving late and all I guess you all are wondering what I’ve and begged me to say a few words of wis- sticking an orange traffic cone up his poop- grand. I got into a fight with her backstage been up to since retiring from the glamor dom on their tenth anniversary. Wow – ten chute. – she started it! It was all over some... but of gossip and peeping Tom-ness. Alexan- years! Does anybody still read this thing? And my God – what has happened to not now, I’ll save that one for my memoirs. So happy tenth to Baltimore OUTloud, der has been able to live quite comfortably After all, we have the internet now – who drag?? I remember the days when you t on all the money I’ve embezzled... excuse needs a newspaper? And that, kiddies, is could count on Tia Chambers to do some- and as for me... I’ll see you in the gutter. HAPPY HOUR 4 P.M. - 9 P.M.

Everyday Happy 10th Baltimore AOnUnTilvoeurds!ary Karaoke 8 P.M. - 2 A.M. Friday & Saturday

205 W. Read St. Corner of Read & Park Ave. 410-255-3100 Package Goods 11A.M.-2 A.M. ATM Available

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 A Multi-Plex Dance Club All Are Welcome OUTLOUD TENTH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL Bar & Lounge at “The Club” with Wow! Ten years. Where did they go? I remember Mammoth Outdoor Recreational And Entertainment Area the day I was asked to To Our Advertisers meet Joe Berg and Jim • Cover $5 To Dance & Party! • ATM/Credit Cards Accepted Williams for lunch. I was wondering what I To them I say, Happy Anniversary! This is as • Weekend Cover Starts At 8:30PM • Parking Lot Security may have done. I went into this meeting with much your celebration as it is ours. my guard way up. Anyway, they proceeded For most of the ten years I’ve had the • State Issued ID Required • Discounted Room Rates @ Local Motels to explain to me what was about to happen. wonderful job of talking to every advertiser, • Separate Smoking Area/Billiards Room Then they asked me, “Would you like to get and there have been a lot. Each with their • The Club Eatery Menu Available All Night on board with us?” My first reaction was, own idea on how an ad should look, where “Are you sure?” We all laughed. Well I guess it needs to be placed in the paper, what Check Out Weekly Specials on Facebook you all know the answer to the question. And color it should be. I could go on and on so Baltimore OUTloud was born. but in the end each of you is a part of Bal- Walking in the office that first day on timore OUTloud. We could not do what we HAGERSTOWN Monday, May 12, 2003, watching the walls do without each and every one of you. You being built, it became all too real. I began to have seen us through good and bad times, HOPES wonder, How was I going to get all the adver- even a fire that destroyed our office on top tisers we needed to make this a successful of Grand Central. Ah, memories. Join the CLUB at Doubs Woods Park paper? I sat down at my new desk, looked To our advertisers who have become at the phone (you would of thought I had part of the Baltimore OUTloud family; Saturday May 18 from 12PM-4PM never seen a phone before) picked it up some with a special place in my heart, we and started dialing. Now just a side note... say thank you for always being there, and Keep the celebration going at THE CLUB I had to say I am sorry to all the others in believing in us. Baltimore OUTloud has the office, for days, weeks, and now years. succeeded because of you. The OFFICIAL After Party Those poor souls had to listen to me on the As for the next ten years, I have not a 4 PM-3AM phone, call after call. And as anyone knows clue what is in store for us. But know that I I am not the quietest talker. How they put up will be here, making my calls, meeting new with me I will never know. Sorry guys! friends and just having fun. So anytime you Wild Women Do Productions Black Mass Productions Call after call, advertisers were happy to want to call Baltimore OUTloud and adver- Presents Presents Dezi Minaj have the opportunity to become part of his- tise your business, fundraisers or what- Chasity Vain tory. To this day we still have advertisers who ever; just call me. I will be here waiting to Ka’Trina Knight Staccia Tori Raype have been in the paper since May 16, 2003. talk to you. t Ashley Alexander Keri Decardeza Brooke Lane Beats By DJ Spectrum Beats By DJ Ryan DoubleYou taurant. And let us not forget those who May 17 Showtime 10:30 PM May 24 Showtime 10:30 PM read us online. You have helped make Autism Awareness Benefit To Our Readers us Baltimore’s #1 LGBT newspaper. To Children’s Game Day you all we say thank you from the bottom For ten years now Baltimore OUTloud has of our hearts. We look forward to many more Silent Auction and Picnic Social been serving the LGBT community. Wow! 10 years where Baltimore OUTloud will continue May 26 1PM-5PM years! What an accomplishment. It’s been to serve the LGBT community and keep you Children Of All Ages Welcomed! 260 issues of articles written by great writers, our beloved readers up to date on the world photos by top-notch photographers and faith- around us. Outdoor Games, Bake Sale, Face Painting & Balloons ful advertisers. And then there is you; our be- Please stop by our booth at Pride and All proceeds from the silent auction as well as tips to be donated to local t Autism Awareness Charity Horses with Hearts loved reader. Yes; we mean you who pick up say hi, we are always happy to see you. our print edition every two weeks from your fa- – From the owners and staff of Balti- Featuring vorite bar, a local store or a neighborhood res- more OUTloud Decardeza Dynasty Keri Decardeza Arione Decardeza wedding and party A Royal Family Of Illusion Taylor Leigh Decardeza invitations Friday May 31 10:30 PM Jayda Colby A KERI BABY Production Colton Bacall Summer 2013 Every 2nd Saturday Of The Month The Club Grill And Chill Xtreme Outdoor Patio Grill Full Service Outside Bar $5 Cover Debra J. Quinton www.ItsASnapMD.com 5268 Williamsport Pike, RT.11 (Spring Mills 901 Ext#20 off I-81) Martinsburg, WV 25404 (304) 274-6080 410.446.4292 Facebook.com/TheClubWV W,Th, F 6:00pm-3:30am Sat 6:00pm-3:00am www.TheClubWV.com

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 THERE’S POWER IN OUR PRIDE Take the LGBT Survey Today!

ntries: Let y in 148 Cou our voice b T Citizens e heard. $5 45,000 LGB 00 in Priz es......

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. . .

.

.

.

.

.

.

. . .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. . .

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

......

...... LGBT Community. Survey®

WHY TAKE THE SURVEY

Political and Social Inclusivity Funding Community Events and Equality and Charities

LGBT studies have opened doors (and minds) in Beyond simply advertising, though, these leading corporations and organizations, which in companies support us in many ways, including turn have recognized the value of their LGBT sponsoring community events and funding employees through the establishment of equal community-based charities in order to earn our hiring policies and domestic partner benefits. loyalty. This has been a catalyst, leading to sweeping changes in political and social inclusivity. Taking an annual pulse on market trends through surveys helps Keep LGBT Publications and demonstrate the LGBT community’s growing power, and influences Websites in Business Community Marketing, Inc. positive change. is an NGLCC Certified LGBT-Owned Business Demographic reports also influence marketing Everyone who completes the survey by June 30, Enterprise. investment. Virtually absent until recently, we Founded in 1992. 2013 may enter into a drawing to win one of five now see a growing variety of a products and US $100 cash prizes, or designate a non-profit LGBT Community Survey services represented in LGBT media, celebrating charity to receive the prize. is a trademark of our diversity. Ads keep LGBT publications and Community Marketing, Inc. websites in business, serving their communities CMI Community Marketing & Insights 584 Castro St. #834 with independent news and information. Community Marketing, Inc. San Francisco CA 94114 USA

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Through the to light other matters involving our com- years, covering munity. several hundred In an effort to be positive, I overlooked editions of the pa- information I received pertaining to several OUT per, I focused on local LGBT organizations that included political matters mismanagement and the lack of transpar- Spoken pertaining to our ency. Despite the column header “OUT- Steve Charing community both spoken,” in these matters, I confess I had nationally and lo- been anything but. When one is in journal- cally. The presi- ism, there is a responsibility to enlighten dential elections readers as to any defects that may exist An Eyewitness of 2004, 2008 and within those institutions to which commu- 2012 were illustra- nity members provide donations. to Ten Years tive of the chal- Journalists who offer their opinions are lenges we faced duty bound to demand accountability from and how, as time these organizations and not be concerned of History passed, attitudes This column’s debut in Baltimore OUTloud that their officials will lash out and blame towards LGBT the messenger for their own failures. One of the blessings of writing a regular folks have shifted. Again, in trying to be positive, I fell into column for Baltimore OUTloud over the We saw the advent of same-sex mar- existed the sense that all of us – married the trap of letting things slide, looking the past ten years has been the opportunity to riage in Massachusetts and the predictable or not – are no longer considered second other way, or not doing due diligence in witness and report on the myriad events – backlash that was a key component of the class citizens in the eyes of the law. Fol- investigating specific charges in order to good and bad – that shaped the continuing 2004 election. We also witnessed the re- lowing that was the joy of covering the first avoid being accused of trying to destroy progress of LGBT rights. It has been an peal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” arguably the same-sex marriages that took place in Bal- these organizations. That was never a eye-opening ride, and I am happy to have greatest achievement thus far for LGBT timore’s City Hall on New Year’s Eve. goal; rather it would simply be to expose chronicled the movement over the years, equality at the federal level. While I can pat myself on the back for these weaknesses and allow the commu- having missed only three issues during The climate for gays in Maryland was making some predictions that were ulti- nity to demand better results. Who could that time. dim but improving. The gubernatorial elec- mately correct and being afforded the op- argue with that? Of course, I had been writing for Gay tions of 2006 and 2010 saw Governor Mar- portunity to cover significant milestones During the next ten years, I hope to im- Life and before that, the Baltimore Gay tin O’Malley defeat the not-so-gay-friendly in the LGBT rights movement, I must also prove upon that record and truly be “OUT- Paper, for two decades prior to OUTloud’s Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. In 2012 O’Malley was slap myself on the wrist for failing to bring spoken.” t debut. So providing commentary about po- able to come to terms with his religious be- litical and social issues was not new to me. liefs and enthusiastically backed marriage Ironically, my first column in the May for same-sex couples. Following previous 16, 2003, issue of Baltimore OUTloud did failures in the legislature this development, not discuss an LGBT-specific topic. In- along with other factors, led to the historic stead, the column titled “Tale of Two Cit- victory of marriage equality in the General ies” pointed out the economic dysfunction Assembly and at the ballot box, which was that was taking place in Annapolis and unprecedented. the war-torn morass that was just begin- While political roads were traveled ning in Baghdad. Here, I was surprisingly frequently in my column during this ten- prophetic; I correctly predicted just two year period, numerous other issues were months into the initial attack on Iraq that explored. Among them were the plight the conflict would eventually devolve into a of LGBT homelessness, the impact of quagmire with enormous casualties. our youth on future achievements, hate The next installment changed gears crimes, homophobia and race, the mean- dramatically as I opined that the defeat ing of Pride (an annual staple), the dan- of Clay Aiken in the finale of Season 2 of gers of political apathy, strategizing to American Idol was caused in part by his win over the persuadable political center, mannerisms and appearance that may transgender discrimination and violence, have been perceived by the public as his how the legalization of same-sex marriage being gay. That stereotyping probably would benefit all LGBT folks regardless of turned off numerous people who voted their relationship status, the challenges instead for the less vocally gifted Ruben of gays in sports, trashing opponents of Studdard. For his part, Aiken denied being LGBT rights, and a number of columns de- gay and remained in the closet until just a voted to the influence of our culture, espe- few years ago. cially television, on our community. The “OUTspoken” moniker didn’t occur My greatest thrill in writing over this until the April 1, 2005, issue. That article, period was being stationed just a few feet “Come Out and Play Ball,” presented rea- from Governor O’Malley’s historic signing sons why it would be advantageous for a of the bill that legalized same-sex marriage gay baseball player to come out amidst the for Marylanders and the ensuing raucous steroid scandal that was besetting the sport. celebration. With his stroke of the pen (and I was proud that piece found its way onto the eventual victory on Election Day) the Outsports.com – a site that relates LGBT is- lives of gay and lesbian families in Mary- sues to the world of sports at all levels. land were profoundly changed and there BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 THINKING OUTLOUD

And that it was the goal of our organiza- A Renewed Push for tion to complete that enterprise in 2012. After sitting down, the next group, we’ll Equal Rights for Women call them “D,” stated that “they would hire Rational their first staffer.” Everyone applauded. It By Denise R. Duarte Another reason for passing the ERA is T-hought was apparently all about empire building. I A renewed and bi-partisan push to elimi- to solidify women as equal to men in all as- Sharon Brackett was the only person, other than the repre- nate the state ratification deadline for the pects of the law. Apparently, it needs to be sentatives from New York State, who had Equal Rights Amendment began on May 9 spelled out in detail, since in 2011 we had anything to say about a goal. You see New with the introduction of Senate Joint Reso- Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia stat- The LGBT Non- York had just recently passed marriage lution (SJR) 15 by U.S. Senator Ben Car- ing that “certainly the Constitution does not equality, so they took their bows accord- din (D-MD), Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Barbara require discrimination on the basis of sex. ProfitIndustrial ingly. A. Mikulski (D-MD) and the companion bill, The only issue is whether it prohibits it. It I came to a revelation. These people House Joint Resolution (HJR) 43 by Con- doesn’t.” Senator Cardin elaborates on the Complex these weren’t there for their causes; these gressman Rob Andrews. necessity, “Ratification of the Equal Rights were jobs. That the focus was not neces- This is just one step in our contem- Amendment would at last make equality for sarily on getting something done, it was porary journey to attaining equality for all women explicitly clear in our Constitution. By profession I am an engineer. I look at about making a living. Don’t get me wrong, people in the U.S. Sometimes, even the We’re only three states short of victory.” complex systems and analyze them and these were good people who had some name of our beautiful country seems ironic The contemporary question of how to figure out ways to make them better or passion for change. It’s just that they want- to me. There are days, attain equality for women solve a problem. Contrary to what some ed to pay the rent while doing it. I must admit, that I feel through the ERA has been may think, I am not a “professional” ac- It felt like a networking event, and it that politically we are the issue of debate among tivist. I’ve never earned a dime doing the was. There was very little sense of urgen- more like the Fractured feminists since the second work that I do trying to move trans rights cy in anything they were doing. Since that States of America, and deadline passed in 1982 forward. I never looked at it that way. The time I have watched a number of them hop, feminists are not any dif- when only 35 of the re- notion that you could make money while skip, and jump between these LGBT orga- ferent. quired 38 states ratified. doing such a thing seems a bit foreign to nizations moving around between them in a We have two strat- There are two current strat- me. But that’s not the case with many oth- sort of incestuous family relationship. The egies for one desired egies for passage. The first ers. new blood in the room did not come from outcome: equal rights is called the Start Over Bill, In 2011 I and a few other folks started outside the fold, it was mostly very young, for women codified in which just like it sounds, a civil rights organization. We did not have fresh from college, staffers told by the old the law. The method means starting all over much cash. We raised enough to pay for a guard, “bide your time young Padawan.” I to attain our goal should be as simple as again. It is faithfully introduced annually website, occasionally a sponsored event, was an oddity having come from industry the actual wording of the Proposed Equal by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D- N.Y.), who is and printed flyers or buttons to support in my fifth decade. Rights Amendment (ERA), “Equality of expected to re-introduce it again soon. The a given bill. The notion of having a paid I also noted that they did not like what rights under the law shall not be denied or other strategy is the Three State Strategy staff has never been an option. Our board we were doing. We moved way too fast. abridged by the United States or by any (SJR 15 and HJR 43), which calls for Con- members work on our projects; we have a The nerve of non-professionals making state on account of sex.” gress to remove the deadline and allow the working board. progress in their space. I guess we made A few words with huge ramifications ratification process to continue, requiring Early on we joined the Equality Fed- them look bad. I was told, “You guys are a for women; one sentence that has sparked only three more states to ratify. eration. The Equality Federation is a na- campaign, not an organization.” We were significant writing, analysis, speeches and Many feminists have a strong opinion tional organization whose members are outsiders. You see, you did not find us debates since Alice Paul drafted and pre- on which strategy should be pursued. It is state LGBT civil rights organizations. In banging the drum weekly for more dona- sented the initial (wordier) version in 1923. the common wisdom to focus your energy the summer of 2011 I attended their annual tions, or big fundraisers every few months. Yet, women are still not guaranteed equal- on the strategy with the likeliest positive summer meeting in Madison Wisconsin. I And in point of fact when we had asked ity by the United States Constitution be- outcome. There is also that old cliche... do was the only person from Maryland there these members of the LGBT Non-Profit In- cause the ERA still has not passed in the not put all your eggs in one basket. Some na- to directly represent a civil rights organiza- dustrial Complex (NPIC) for financial help 51 years since it was introduced. tional organizations, such as NOW claim that tion. to get legislation passed we got a nice pat Why is it still important? Terry O’Neill, they support both strategies. O’Neill states, One of the things they do at this meet- on the head and were told to go play in president of the National Organization for “NOW supports both the three-state strategy ing is having “The Great Circle.” Attend- traffic. Women (NOW) states “With the gender and the traditional ratification process: Wom- ees from various state organizations sit We even recently had the head of one pay gap stagnating at 77 cents, it’s obvious en need the ERA whatever the path.” in a large circle and then go around the of these organizations, a person for whom that women need much better protections. However, I think that the tide is changing room and talk about their accomplishments I had respect, tell us, “The problem with Women of color, in particular, would ben- and more feminists and organizations are go- within the past year. I was positioned in you people is that you are not account- efit from the ERA with the gender pay gap ing to begin focusing their efforts on the Three the middle of those who would speak. As able to anyone.” “Anyone” in this instance for African-American women at 64 cents State Strategy. The political realities of start- each group got up to talk about what they meant “big donors.” Pretty shocking and and for Latinas at 56 cents. Sex-discrim- ing over are just too overwhelming for it to be had done I noticed a pattern. Group A had interesting that they seemed threatened in ination is still a factor in many areas and viable. stated “We have four new staffers.” Group some way. Perhaps in the pocket book. I the ERA would heighten the legal standard That does not mean the Three State B indicated they had raised “so many dol- don’t think you need to apologize for being to strict scrutiny, enabling women to more Strategy has a clear path to success. The lars.” Group C indicated they “had a grant, an agent of change in any venue. Welcome successfully press their cases in court. Ad- journey has risks, challenges, and outright and met with a state legislator.” to the new normal. ditionally, the presence of an equal rights obstacles. I will be sharing with you what When they got to me I stood up and And so there you have it. We are not amendment in the constitution would more these issues are over the course of the next stated that along with a number of other in- part of the LGBT NPIC. We’ve used a broadly discourage discriminatory practic- articles devoted to the ERA Next time we will dividuals we had worked to nearly achieve different model. And for my money, and es by employers, law-makers and govern- explore the ratification deadline history and its passage of a trans rights bill in Maryland. yours, that is a good thing. t ment agencies.” current context. t 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 passings

worked with Travis on these events. “Tra- TRAVIS RICE vis touched lives and hearts of so many 1986–2013 people and will never be forgotten,” she Travis A. Rice, who worked in gay bars in said. “I am inspired to always treat people both Baltimore and D.C., died suddenly with respect, warmth and with open arms from medical-related problems on May 3 in he did daily. This is a tremendous loss for Baltimore. He was 27. the Baltimore and D.C. community and we Travis was born February 24, 1986 in are heartbroken.” Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. He attend- Travis is survived by his father, Wayne ed from Spring Grove High B. Rice and companion School and graduated from Carol Myers of McSher- York County High School. rystown, Pennsylvania, his He was a swimmer since the mother Rebecca E. (Wentz) age of six, and swam on the Rice and companion Allen varsity team in high school. Huff of Codorus, Pennsyl- Sp z L f ' b A licensed scuba diver, he vania, his brother Matthew dove in the Florida Keys and J. Rice of Codorus, half sis- off the coast of Mexico. Tra- ter, Trisha Tribby, paternal vis loved animals, especially grandfather Fred E. Wentz,

his canine companion, Abby, paternal great grandfa- who will miss him greatly. ther Russell A. Wentz, and V w w Travis moved to Balti- “step” siblings Brian and B by b more for a period of time Kelly Myers. He is also sur-

P - then to D.C. where he be- vived by many aunts, cous- came a bartender and assis- ins, including special cous- b f y b tant manager at Cobalt. He ins Annie and Levi. f returned to Baltimore two years ago where A service to celebrate and remember . h @ . he worked as a bartender then assistant Travis’s life was held on May 7 at the Ken- ph 443-838-8115 R . D hy H general manager at Grand Central. worthy Funeral Home, Inc. in Hanover, with Travis was loved by many. His Face- Rev. Bonnie Wittier officiating. Burial took book page was quickly turned into a me- place in York Road Cemetery, Hanover, morial as hundreds of comments express- Pennsylvania. Memories and condolences PLEASE JOIN ing love and photos were posted on the Service of Worship Sunday at 10:30 am may be shared at Kenworthyfh.com. The Baltimore City Historical Society day of his death alone. Several video trib- In an acknowledgment of Travis’s utes to Travis were also posted. touching the lives of countless people from Weand are an The “Open Village and Affirming” Learning congregation. Place We “I never really got a chance to know Pennsylvania, Maryland, D.C., and beyond, look forward to also welcoming you in person as you Travis for the two years that he worked at there was a celebration of his life at Grand visitas us. they We are present here to servean LGBT you and History all persons in Grand Central as my general manager as- Central on May 9. People came together to our diverse community. We are here to invite you to sistant,” said Don Davis, the owner of the share memories of Travis. After sundown, find newof ways the of early service years in your journey. club who now lives in Ft. Lauderdale. “Ev- there was a candle light memorial outside ery time that I did get to Baltimore, Travis of Grand Central where people were able Thursday, June 20 7:00 p.m. was always a real gentleman towards me. I to leave a favorite picture, light a candle, or First and St. Stephen’s know he will be greatly missed by his many leave a note in memory of Travis Rice. with a reception and talk at 7:30. friends and family.” Memorial contributions in Travis’s United Church of Christ Wendy Fox, owner of SHE Produc- memory may be made to the York Coun- 6915 York Road | Baltimore, MD 21212 | 410-377-5224 tions, which produces many events at ty SPCA, 3150 Susquehanna Trail, York, [email protected] Grand Central, was a close friend who Pennsylvania 17403. t – Steve Charing

Shawna Potter “A TASTE OF JUDAISM’: ARE YOU CURIOUS” Ordained Clergy PersOn Come explore Jewish Spirituality, Values, People In a three-session class with Rabbi John Franken and Rabbi Jessy Gross Free Consultation • Hand Fasting • renewal of Marriage Designed for the Beginner, Jewish or Not Tuesdays, June 4, 11 and 18 from 7-9 pm at: Ceremony Tailored by You! Bolton Street Synagogue For more information go to … 212 W. Cold Spring Lane MysecularWedding.wordpress.com Baltimore, MD 21202 Pre-Registration Required or e-mail me at [email protected] For questions and to RSVP, please contact dbarnes@boltonstreet or (410) 235-5354.

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 “We have set a goal to grow Baltimore by 10,000 families in the next decade, and I am proud to live in a state that now legally recognizes all of our families.”

We have much to celebrate in 2013! As we continue our work to grow Baltimore, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the City Baltimore wish you a.....

www.BaltimoreCity.gov [email protected]

410.396.3835

@MayorSRB /Stephanie.Rawlings-Blake /MayorSRB

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE MEMBERS OF BALTIMORE CITY COUNCIL

DISTRICT I DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5 James B. Kraft Brandon M. Scott Robert Curran Bill Henry Rochelle 410.396.4821 410.396.4808 410.396.4812 410.396.4830 “Rikki” Spector James.Kraft@ Brandon.Scott@ Robert.Curran@ Bill.Henry@ 410.396.4819 baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov Rochelle.Spector@ baltimorecity.gov

DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT II DISTRICT I2 DISTRICT I4 Sharon Green Nick Mosby William “Pete” William H. Carl Stokes Mary Pat Clarke Middleton 410.396.4810 Welch Cole IV 410.396.4811 410.396.4814 410.396.4832 Nick.Mosby@ 410.396.4815 410.396.4816 Carl.Stokes@ MaryPat.Clarke@ Sharon.Middleton@ baltimorecity.gov William.Welch@ William.Cole@ baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov www.BaltimoreCityCouncil.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Lively Arts // out on stage Reaching the Heights at Toby’s By Steve Charing Joslin to illuminate a silhouetted sky to coincide with the Qué espectáculo! There are 96,000 reasons to love In time of the day – a wonderful effect. So detailed is Hopkins the Heights now playing at Toby’s the Dinner Theatre in that he even had chewing gum stuck to the neighborhood’s Columbia through July 21. But space constraints permit light posts. me to go over just a few. Toby Orenstein and Lawrence In the Heights contains many high points in the way of B. Munsey ably co-directed this production and took it to individual musical performances, either as solos or duets. new heights with outstanding orchestration, a talented The main performers along with the rest of the ensemble likeable cast, and a superb set. also burnished their talents in the stirring high-energy pro- Lin-Manuel Miranda composed the music and lyrics, duction numbers like “96,000,” “Blackout,” and “Carnaval and Quiara Alegria Hudes wrote the book for the four-time Del Barrio.” 2008 Tony Award-winning show, which captured Best Mu- The ensemble sang and danced with dazzling energy to sical among the statues. It also won a Grammy for Best the music that in some instances contained a mix of Span- Musical Album. Miranda wrote the first draft in 1999 as a ish and English lyrics. However, the songs were composed sophomore in college, and it was an ongoing project until in a way that one didn’t have to know Spanish to under- it moved to Broadway. stand their messages. While some of the numbers are not The action takes place in the gritty, largely Hispanic necessarily melodious, they are all solid because of the Washington Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, powerful and affecting lyrics as well as the amazing vocals near the George Washington Bridge during a typically sul- by the cast members. try three-day period surrounding July 4. Each character has Numbers, such as “In The Heights,” “Breathe,” “Inutil,” his or her story, but they are all connected in some fashion. “No Me Diga,” “Paciencia y Fe,” “When You’re Home,” A youthful, vibrant ensemble added spice to this rich mix- “Sunrise,” and “Everything I Know” stood out. Most of the An uptown story – the cast of In the Heights ture of contemporary urban hip-hop, Latin rhythms, family high tempo songs (and the better ones) are performed in credit: Toby’s Dinner Theatre drama, economic hard times, community, love, devotion, the first act while more ballads can be heard in the second expectations, dreams realized and those not fulfilled. – a distinct change in mood. ing her parents. Her rendition of “Breathe” is memorable, The setting is realistically amplified by the creative de- Christen Svingos’s choreography presented solid, real- and fortunately she performed in a few other selections. sign work by David A. Hopkins. Placing a series of three istic urban Latino dancing to the thumping beats supplied Nina’s father, the overprotective Kevin and owner of the dimensional panels depicting New York’s skylines around by the magnificent orchestra led by Cedric D. Lyles. local taxicab business played by David Bosley-Reynolds, is the upper walls of the theater, it allows lighting director Lynn David Gregory is remarkable in the role of Usnavi, a sturdy in both acting and singing. He brought his command- Dominican-born owner of a ing baritone voice that audiences loved as Tevye in Toby’s small bodega (corner store) recent presentation of Fiddler on the Roof to this production, who is a central charac- especially in his emotional solo “Inutil (Useless).” ter throughout. His passion The always reliable and talented Tina Marie DeSimone and hopes are conveyed is wonderful as Nina’s strong-willed mother Camilla. Skill- with great skill. Most of his ful in her acting, she shined in her powerful rendition of dialogue and songs are per- “Enough.” COCKPIT in COURT formed in rap, and he is quite Another standout is Marquise White as Benny, who is in 2013 SUMMER THEATRE SEASON proficient at it. love with Nina and an employee of Kevin’s taxi service and Crystal Freeman is mov- is the only non-Hispanic character. Also possessing strong ing as Abuela (Grandmoth- acting and musical ability, Mr. White was particularly effec- er) Claudia who practically tive in the duets “When You’re Home” and “When The Sun raised Usnavi after his par- Goes Down” with Ms. Gomez. ents died. She is the neigh- Santina Maiolatesi as Daniela, the chatty owner of a borhood’s loveable matri- beauty salon, was effective in that role and also demon- arch, the moral anchor. Her strated her vocal prowess in “No Me Diga.” Her employee, stellar voice is evident in the Carla, was played well by Olivia Ashley Reed. tender “Paciencia Y Fe” and Then there is Usnavi’s cousin Sonny, who works with “Hundreds of Stories.” him at the bodega. Played fabulously by Ryan Alvarado, Nadia Harika who plays the character provided most of the comedic moments in the Vanessa, Unvavi’s love in- show. Mr. Alvarado’s timing and stage movements excelled. JUNE 14 – 30 JUNE 15 – 30 terest, also possesses a Rounding out the sterling cast is Tobias Young, another MAINSTAGE CABARET glorious singing voice. Her strong vocalist, as the Piragua Guy and Calvin McCullough performance in “It Won’t Be as Graffiti Pete. Long Now” shined. This production of In the Heights at Toby’s soared CCBC BOX OFFICE: Also spectacular with her thanks to the amazing work in all the theatrical elements vocals is Alyssa V. Gomez as as well as the efforts from an enthusiastic, youthful, and 443.840.ARTS | www.ccbcmd.edu/arts Nina. She was the one mem- talented ensemble. t ber of the “barrio” (neighbor- In the Heights (150 minutes with a 20-minute intermis- hood) who went off to college sion) runs through July 21 at the Dinner Theatre of Colum- (Stanford University) on a bia, 5900 Symphony Woods Road, Columbia, Maryland. The incredible value of education. scholarship only to fail in her For tickets and info, call 410-730-8311, 800-88TOBYS, or www.ccbcmd.edu first year, deeply disappoint- visit Tobysdinnertheatre.com.

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // personalities

AN INTERVIEW WITH DREW DANIEL OF MATMOS riage of True Minds, is also a good description of Mat- mos? DD: Yes. It’s hard to appropriate a Shakespeare son- Arranged Marriages net and claim that that’s exactly what my relationship is like [laughs]. Martin and I do have a certain fidelity to- by Gregg Shapiro has a lot more emphasis on improvisation and free impro- wards each other as far as the poem states, a willingness Queer duo Matmos (Drew Daniel and Martin Schmidt) has vised music. There’s a really exciting set of players and to bear it out “to the edge of doom.” I feel as married to been at the forefront of the electronic music scene since the Martin (Schmidt of Matmos) in particular has gotten really Martin as I’ll ever be and that’s not a marriage because mid-1990s. But it was their groundbreaking 2001 release A enmeshed in that by being part of the Red Room Collective of the state or the government or conferred by a piece of Chance to Cut is a Chance to Cure that earned them their that puts on this festival every year called High Zero which paper. It has to do with a sense of alignment and togeth- elevated profile. Incorporating the sounds of surgery into brings together improvisers from all over the world. I think erness. That’s also an ideal that every day lived reality is their sonic landscape, Matmos offered a cure for the oc- Martin’s improvising a lot more. I am, too, but not nearly as not always going to sync up with. We always know from casional monotony of electro. In a way, they return to the much as him. That’s really changed our music in terms of trying to get close to people that there’s always that awful body, the mind this time, with their latest disc The Marriage our approach to what a show is. Not so much this record, feeling of betrayal or falling short of an ideal of being con- of True Minds (Thrill Jockey). A thought-provoking concept this record is pretty much a control freak [laughs] record. nected. You’re always trying to pull together and there are recording that utilizes telepathic experimentation, it’s a logi- GS: The EDM (Electronic Dance Music) genre had moments when it doesn’t work. Being on tour is interesting cal addition to the Mat- one of its biggest years in 2012 and shows because we have six people in this little metal box, this mos canon. I had the no signs of slowing down in 2013. Where van, and every emotion you put out there, everything you pleasure of speaking do you see Matmos’s place in that scene, say, every record to play, every movie you all watch, it has with Drew Daniel of if at all? this amplifying effect. I think it’s really good for us in terms Matmos at the time of DD: We’re sort of like a coelacanth. We’re of performances that we’re in this kind of pressure cooker. the release of the disc. like a thing that shouldn’t still be alive but is Most couples, each one gets up and goes to their separate Gregg Shapiro: [laughs]. I’m 41 and Martin’s 48. We’ve been workplace and then they come home and try to get back in After several years doing weird, fucked-up music for 20 years sync. Whereas Martin and I have spent, in some cases , in San Francisco, now. The fact that we’re still going at all is years where we are together every day. We have different Matmos relocated to quite odd. I feel incredibly lucky that there are problems. It’s not like it’s paradise and Utopia. Our problem Baltimore. What are still people interested in seeing what we have is being so intensely aware of the other person that there’s some of the pros and to say and hearing new music, not just pre- just not a lot of escape. But I don’t know what it would be cons of such a relo- tending that that stuff doesn’t exist or that it’s like to not have that. That’s just what we do. t cation? The estimable duo Matmos not 2013. On the other hand, I would approach Read more online at BaltimoreOutloud.com Drew Daniel: with caution try- There are so many. It’s been incredibly inspiring to see how ing to jump on trains. I don’t resourceful and creative people are often in very adverse feel the need to treat music situations. I don’t think I had grasped the prosperity of San production like an arms race Francisco in the way that wealth was cushioning and en- where, if I’m not making trap abling so much until living in a very poor city. We would go beats or not putting a wob- to shows and wouldn’t see a laptop for months. At first we ble bass-line on something thought people just don’t like laptops. Then we realized, no, then I’m not relevant. Music people just don’t have money. We got to know a lot of really is big enough that it doesn’t smart, imaginative, cool, creative people, but a lot of them have to work that way. I Presents were dishwashers and dog walkers and on food stamps. love that more people than $7 cover Making gear out of stuff they had salvaged from the dumps. ever are listening to weirder It’s just a very different attitude. You create from the ground and harsher textures and $4 cover if in abc attire! up with what’s around you. That’s been really inspiring, but forms. Whenever I hear a it’s a drawback, too, because it means a lot of people are (EDM artist) Skrillex track it $2.50 drinks from 9-10 living close to the bone and can’t take care of themselves. seems that a lot of the DNA We’ve never played so many benefit concerts in our lives. of Aphex Twin and Otto von Moving to Baltimore, where there’s just no infrastructure, Schirach, stuff from ten saturday, may 18, 2013 so you play a fundraiser to raise money for speakers for years ago, combined with doors open at a warehouse space like The Bank or a fundraiser to help a sugary and, to my ears, a record store like True Vine pay its tax bill. In San Fran- pretty lame attempt to sta- 9:00 pm cisco, there are clubs, they have speakers. There are record ple gun some pretty melodic stores, they pay their taxes. There isn’t this feeling of need- material on top, I find under Happy ing to all pull together if you want to have anything. theorized and unimpressive. GS: Are there ways in which Baltimore has influ- But that’s the kind of grumpy Anniversary enced Matmos’s music that differ from the way that San thing that someone who’s Francisco did? 41 would say [laughs]. DD: Yes. In San Francisco, and this was a good thing, it GS: You referred to the drink specials was inspiring because we were part of a thriving culture. The 20 years that you and Mar- rise of the web, the internet boom, the early 2000s boom of tin have worked together, interest in electronica, the glitch movement that was associ- not to mention spent as a all night ated with software engineers and the development of new couple, so would you say if in abc attire! digital tools. We’re using all these tools that were created by that the title of the new people sometimes that we knew. By contrast in Baltimore, Matmos disc, The Mar-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 Lively Arts // out on screen

Lurhmann has also chosen to shoot the The Great Gatsby is a Work of Art film in 3D – to the chagrin of people who but perhaps the hate the process and don’t understand why By chuck duncan Gatsby party… and no one is ever invited character is such a puzzle to begin with a story like this needs the process – and in Listening to people talk about the new to a Gatsby party; they just show up. that not even DiCaprio can show us who his hands, he has proven what the process movie version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Nick befriends the enigmatic man and the real person is. Mulligan is lovely and can bring to a film. This is no shoddy con- American literature classic, I feel like I may finds himself a go-between for Gatsby and makes Daisy almost untouchable, and version. The film was shot on high definition be the only person who has never read the Daisy. It seems that Gatsby met Daisy sometimes it’s hard to see why Gatsby is digital video in native 3D, and if you watch book. I somehow managed to get through once when he was a penniless war vet- high school and college without ever once eran, but knowing that he could never live cracking open the pages of that novel. And up to her expectations, he deserted her so on top of that, I’ve never seen the 1974 that he could somehow make his fortune version starring Robert Redford and Mia and prove his love to her. Unfortunately, Farrow, so I really am coming to the story her current marriage has gotten in the way cold. And perhaps for Baz Lurhmann’s new of Gatsby’s plans and it’s only a matter of epic extravaganza, I’m all the better for it. time before tragedy strikes and changes The story, for those who don’t know, the course of everyone’s lives. focuses on the elite of Long Island in the You’re either going to love or hate Lurh- Roaring Twenties as seen through the mann’s The Great Gatsby and I absolutely eyes of Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire). loved it. Lurhmann can certainly bring ex- His cousin Daisy (Carey Mulligan) has cess to the screen (see Moulin Rouge), married the wealthy Tom Buchanan (Joel and this seems to be precisely why so Edgerton), but a mysterious man from her many mainstream critics hate the movie. I past, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio) has was mesmerized by Gatsby’s over-the-top set his sights on her, trying – hoping – to parties, complete with music not of the era, woo her with his fabulous mansion directly but somehow a Fergie song fits very well across the river from her own mansion, or with the images on the screen. by throwing lavish, wild, booze- and music- The cast is a mixed bag of perfor- fueled parties. No one, however, seems to mances. DiCaprio is fine even if he still so infatuated with her. It’s hard to know if closely you can see how Lurhmann has re- know the real Gatsby or if he even exists. has a baby face that belies his nearly 40 there’s much substance beyond that pretty ally composed the film for 3D. He uses the That is until Nick gets an invitation to a years. His Gatsby is properly enigmatic, face, and if Gatsby is only “in love” with her depth of field beginning from in front of the to prove to himself that he is good enough proscenium to as far as the eye can see, for her. Maguire, unfortunately, is in a per- placing objects in front of actors while the petual daze and his narration of the story massive sets or exteriors stretch far behind sometimes sounds like he’s simply reading them. Lurhmann’s 3D really envelops you in a script (or directly from Fitzgerald’s novel). the story while only pulling out the gimmicky Edgerton really is the film’s star, bringing life stuff – snow, rain, confetti – when necessary. to a character that, I’m told, is not very well It’s very well-balanced and looks gorgeous. fleshed out in the book, but in the movie he’s While watching the film, I kept thinking that always got an air of danger about him, mak- this is how The Hobbit should have looked. ing you wonder if when presented with the Baz Lurhmann’s The Great Gatsby may opportunity to go off with Gatsby she finds not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found the herself torn simply out of fear for what Tom performances and the story to be engaging might do to the both of them. I think it’s Edg- for the most part, the 3D an immersive ex- erton’s performance that really makes the perience, and the visuals to be absolutely rest of the actors work harder and saves the stunning, making this film a true work of film from being a bore with pretty visuals. art. t

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com & Cheap by Carlos wonder how you can keep your new favorite Mota. the conversation going. One song. Download Inside Mota’s of the things that can be a your copy of the Domestic book you’ll find little daunting before that first Dinner Party Down- many fun and inspir- glass of wine is making small load and be the life Dandy ing ideas for flower talk with your guests. What of the party, Publi- Jeffrey Clouser arrangements in does one talk about? Are you cradio.org/columns/ your home includ- caught up on the latest news dinnerpartydown- ing beautiful color and discussions of the day? load photos to help you Don’t worry. The Dinner Par- Once you’ve Planning on your way! One of ty Download, from American dazzled them with my favorite arrange- Public Media, has you cov- your repartee and a Dandy ments was inspired ered. This intelligent and en- the evening is wind- by Mr. Mota. tertaining podcast, hosted by ing down, don’t for- Anniversary Here I used Rico Gagliano and Brendan Newn- get to send your guests home with a little several varieties of am, guides you through current news memento of the evening. One parting gift hydrangea in a bright chartreuse ceramic and culture ensuring that you can perform we gave to our guests after we hosted a Party vase that created a beautiful accent to your duty as an yoga party were these Tazo Zen green greet our guests. entertaining and tea bags with inspirational cards tied With Baltimore OUTloud celebrating its Once the stage is set, one can turn their informed host! up neatly with a hemp cord and yoga 10th Anniversary, I thought I’d share some attention to the comfort of their guests. In each 15 charm. It wasn’t difficult to make or dandy tips and tricks that I like to use when As with any party, some guests may not minute episode extravagant, but each little token put a throwing a party. know one another. A dandy way to ensure you’ll learn a joke, smile on everyone’s face as they left for When I’m planning a party, one of the your guests can mingle comfortably is with get the week’s the evening. first things I think about is my tablescape. these fun erasable wine-glass name tags major headlines, There you have it! Some simple What kind of mood do I want to set? Is it from fredflare.com! bone up on some dandy tips to make sure your next party festive, flirty or fashionable? No matter Each set comes with six silicone tags history, drink in a is a success. So as you’re planning your what you’re going for, the key to a beauti- that loop around a wine stem and a dry cocktail recipe, party, whether it is an anniversary, birth- ful and dramatic table is the centerpiece. erase marker for easy labeling and clean meet an artist of day, or simply a spring fling, remember But how does one come up with a unique up. Cheers! http://bit.ly/YJ9Jeh. note, savor an to find ways to make sure your guests and inspiring arrangement? Now that you’ve taken care of introduc- emerging food have a wonderful and memorable One of my go to books is Flowers, Chic ing your guests to one another, you may trend, and hear time. Happy Anniversary OUTloud! t

COMMA N D MC Co n g r a t u l a t i o n s O U T l o u d o n ...For Leather in Baltimore, MD your 10 years!

25th Anniversary Run & Mr. MD Leather Contest Join us for an exciting weekend in Baltimore Meet and Greet Friday night Saturday- AMCC Meeting - Annual Silent Auction MML 2014 contest Saturday Leather Dinner at the host hotel Victory Party Saturday night Cocktail Parties hosted by fellow brother Leather Clubs Host hotel is Wyndham Peabody Court Hotel and much more! For more information and to register online please visit us at www.commandmc.org (443) 296-2198

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 quality of life

when it’s not needed. My impression is that about a future together. a woman’s ability to accept a man who has The Over the next few days or weeks, you a small penis or no penis has less to do keep in touch frequently: texting, calling, with sexual desire and more to do with how Labor Skyping, or emailing. Then suddenly you Open Wide conventional or traditional she is. of hit the brick wall. No callbacks, no texts, ask Dr Eva Maybe you find this difficult to believe. Love no emails, they “unfriend” you on Face- Consider the evidence: Douglas Chay book, and you never hear from them again. Dr Eva Hersh • Male genitals are physically fragile There is no way to find out why they dis- and located in an exposed position. They appeared. You might blame it on yourself are easily injured. and start to question your “marketability” Do Penises • It’s not unusual for a man to lose Healthy LGBT or your own judgment or intelligence. You (partially or completely) the ability to have might even become depressed. Matter? erections. Erections are unpredictable and Relationships The most important thing to remember can be lost through common diseases like when you’re dating is to slow down. Wait In this column, I am sharing, with his per- diabetes and high blood pressure, from until you’ve taken the relationship through mission, correspondence from a transman habits like smoking, alcohol, cocaine use, There is a stereotype that LGBT persons car-crash testing. Over an extended period in Brazil. His name has been changed. and many prescription drugs. Erections don’t desire long-term, meaningful rela- of time, you discover whether your partner can also be lost from stress or depression. tionships that we would rather experience is equally invested in the relationship and Dr. Eva, • When a man is unable to get erec- an endless series of hookups and friends- whether the two of you remain mutually at- I have a serious question for you. I re- tions, in my experience it is always the with-benefits with nothing more. This tracted, past the initial glow. ally would like to know your opinion and man, and not the woman, who is more un- couldn’t be further from the truth. Howev- It is important to know whether they are above all your feeling about it as woman. happy and is requesting Viagra. er, finding someone who is compatible and trustworthy and honest. Everyone tends to After years of being alone, I hope • I have never heard of a case of a who is willing to work together through the be on their best behavior during the first cou- to meet a girl that can be my girlfriend. I woman leaving her male partner or start- bad times as well as the good isn’t easy. ple of months, but conflict is the real test. It is have my point of view of what happened ing an outside relationship because her When you first meet someone there a bad sign if you haven’t had any arguments. to me, born with the brain of a male with partner cannot get erections. On the other can be a real mutual attraction. You might Conflict (and learning ways to resolve it) is a some issues down below and wrong chro- hand, it is common for a woman to look share interests, enjoy each other’s com- healthy and necessary part of any romantic mosomes. I do not feel shame of my past, for love elsewhere if her man does not talk pany and believe the relationship has real relationship. If you do have arguments, ob- I feel proud to have passed through all to her, does not listen to her or is not af- potential. They may ask to see you again. serve how you argue. Examine whether your the challenges. However, I do not know if fectionate. All signs seem positive, you feel hopeful, partner is truly wants to solve problems or I want to tell the whole story and submit • Men with very small penises are able and you might even let yourself fanaticize is more interested in “winning” an argument. myself to another’s judgment. to find wives and stay married. The only way to find out is to be patient Dr. Eva, is the penis so important for • Most transmen are in relationships and not rush the relationship. Your emo- women? I think no woman will accept me with women. These women consider them- tional stock is valuable: be careful how and without a penis. I hear women where I selves either heterosexual or bisexual. given you more empathy and better lis- when you invest it. This could be the person work say about men, “I don’t care about Transmen’s relationships with women are tening skills than most men have. Many of your dreams, but don’t decide until you the face, I look at where it matters,” mean- at least as successful as those of other transmen are very good at getting to know have evidence. As long as you don’t let your ing how big it looks in the pants. It is so heterosexual couples. a woman, and therefore are more able to emotions get the best of you, you will find hard to take the risk to let a woman know, I am not saying that no woman cares understand and love her. Being known and what you’re looking for. t but I cannot afford the surgery to have about penis size. Some do, but they are loved for who we truly are is what we all Douglas Chay (dchay@pridecounsel- those parts constructed. few. I can assure you that penises are low want and need most in a relationship. t ing.net) specializes in LGBT relationship Emiliano on the priority list of most women when Dr. Eva Hersh is a Baltimore fam- counseling and is director of the Pride they are looking for their next relationship. ily physician. Send your comments and Counseling Center in Columbia, Maryland Dear Emiliano, I know things are different in Brazil. It questions to her by email at dreva@bal- (410-744-4867; Pridecounseling.net). He My answer is based on what I’ve seen is a more traditional society with traditional timoreoutloud.com, or by surface mail to has more than 20 years of experience pro- among the transmen I know in the U.S., ideas about the proper roles for men and Eva Hersh, MD, P.O. Box 4887 Baltimore, viding psychotherapy to diverse popula- and on the many hundreds of heterosexual women. Still, regarding your female co- Maryland 21211 tions. women and couples I have known in 24 workers who say they don’t look at a man’s years as a family doctor. face, only his crotch? I’m pretty sure that My impression is that, in general, pare was a joke which seemed serious to you far more important to men than they are to because you are sensitive about this. women. Sexual satisfaction is important to Finally, I think that, for you and other most women, but there are many ways to men, a woman’s ability to accept you has achieve it. A penis is not required for oral a lot to do with how fully you accept your- or manual sex, which are the ways most self. If you feel complete and adequate as women have orgasms. Only about 30% of you are, then she also is likely to feel that women have ever had an orgasm through you are complete and adequate as you intercourse. are. Self-esteem is no guarantee against Also, a penis does not have to be per- rejection. Everyone who starts a new rela- manently attached to be effective. There tionship is taking that risk. But I think your are some real advantages to the artificial chances of a happy long term relationship penis (strap-on dildo): it is erect when- are at least as good as the average guy’s, ever wanted, stays erect for as long as it and probably better. Better because your is wanted, and it can be left in a drawer difficult and painful life experiences have

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life

roll around on top of each other. “What’s not to like?” I talked about how a secretary to blame? at the mental health clinic where I worked How you decide to be healthy is entirely up at the time said that her boyfriend called Fit to you. It should be something easy in the be- Getting professional wrestling “soap operas for for ginning, maybe add some more vegetables to men.” And then I described a couple of the each meal, or get away from your desk every Unstuck corny plot lines, heads being hit with metal Life 15 minutes and move around. Maybe today’s Gerry Fisher chairs, romantic betrayals, costumes, and Joshua H. Buchbinder the day you quit smoking or stop eating fast physical triumphs. food for breakfast. All the while, the poor guy nodded his Today could even be the day where you A Healthy Need head and gave me the tight smile of some- ask someone else for help. It could be as sim- one who was trying his damnedest to be No Excuses! ple as joining your neighborhood gym or pull- to Destroy polite but who really couldn’t get into it. ing your bike out of the closet and going for a Ten minutes later, we’d said good-bye, I With the tenth Anniversary of Baltimore OUT- ride. Maybe today I’ll go for a jog with my part- was driving home, and I confronted myself loud being here I am reminded that everyday ner or maybe today I take 15 minutes to medi- ’ve been with my wonderful husband for 14 about ruining what had been a very pleas- we are faced with “Reasons to Not.” Anniver- tate. Who knows, it could be the day you finally years, and I’m delighted with my relation- ant date. “What did you do that for?” saries, holidays, birthdays, weddings, funer- try that yoga class, or kickboxing or spinning, ship. Having said that, when I provide dat- It took me a long while to sort it all out, als, Mothers’ Day, Christmas, Rosh Hasha- or whatever! Today is the day to do something ing and relationship coaching, I do find my- but it was enlightening when I did. In a very nah… There will always be reasons to not eat just for you, something you’ve been wanting to self reflecting fondly on the last few years intuitive way, I’d sensed that this guy could well, reasons to not exercise, reasons to not try, but “haven’t had the time for.” of being single before I met David. Back play with my serious side, and I wanted move, reasons to not love ourself fully. If we There are a million ways to be healthy, and then, I’d learned how to relax about dating, to see if he could play with my goofy side give in to the “Reasons to Not” on one day it if you still can’t think of something you want to and I was having a great time. as well. I’m a typical Gemini; I like my en- becomes easier and easier to not the next day, do or just need some extra guidance on how to During those few years, the pain- tertainments very high brow and very low and the day after that and so on. This down- get started, stay on the right path and live life. ful break-up of my previous relationship brow, nothing in the middle. I “tested” the ward spiral becomes Then call or email greatly influenced me. In that previous re- situation, and… fail. We didn’t have a sec- harder and harder to “I could also choose me and I’ll person- lationship, I think that our dysfunctions fell ond date. pull ourselves out of. ally help you on your in love with each other; as for the two men Which brings me to the topic of my es- Everyday when I to eat fast food, road to success. I’ve involved, I’m not sure we even liked each say. Sometimes we have to throw a mon- wake I am faced with stop exercising and helped hundreds of other very much. And, as with any break- key wrench into the machine. Sometimes, choices, some of them people discover their up, there was the embarrassment of fail- we have to mess something up or knock may not seem like a start smoking and passions and who ure, the pain of pulling apart a household, it over. This is a good thing; it’s an essen- choice but in actual- they really are and I’d and the oppression of taking a big finan- tial part of creativity, discovery, and mak- ity, they are. I could generally making bad love to help you, too. cial hit. I vowed that I wasn’t interested in ing way for something new that’s currently choose to not let my choices by saying “F” Let’s shed our another relationship unless I was 80% to lacking in our lives. The more intellectual dog out or to not go excuses and fears, 90% certain upfront that it was likely to be among us call this process “deconstruc- to work. I could even it to being healthy. let’s live life to it’s full- compatible (comfortable) and great (ener- tion.” choose to sit inside And there would be est. Today, when we gizing). In my coaching meetings, a number of and ignore the world. step outside let’s all During that heavy-dating time, I’d had clients try to explain the jam they’ve gotten And there would be consequences.” breathe life in, feel over 30 first dates. The only man who got themselves into by saying, “I don’t know. consequences for the warmth of the a second date was David. So, I guess my Maybe I’m afraid of success. I think I self- these choices – my Spring air and say, dating strategy worked! sabotage.” But they say it as if they’re house would be disgusting. I’d probably get “Today I choose me, today I choose life, a long t Among all those first dates that went blandly repeating pop psychology as a way fired and I’d be alone and miserable. life of health and happiness!” nowhere, there is one in particular that to avoid what’s really going on; it sounds I could also choose to eat fast food, stop Joshua Buchbinder is a master trainer at stands out. It was a meeting with a sweet- hollow, phony, and grossly incomplete. exercising and start smoking, drinking, and Life Time Fitness in Columbia, Maryland. He but-not-terribly-exciting psychologist over Sometimes we have to test what we’ve generally making bad choices by saying “F” it can be reached at [email protected] or at coffee. Because both of us were in psy- got by hammering it. Sometimes we need to being healthy. And there would be conse- 410-967-9699. chological fields, we both fell into “talking to motivate ourselves to create something quences for these choices as well: I’d get fat shop,” and I loved it. I really do enjoy my new by destroying the old. Sometimes, be- and have high blood pressure, cholesterol, work. ing the creative creatures we are, we just triglycerides. I would have to buy new clothes However, as I noticed us approaching can’t stand everything being “the same” because none of mine would fit anymore. I Westminster- the half-hour mark, I felt badly that I wasn’t and we have to mix it up. Sometimes we might end up with cancer and yup, I’d definitely finding out much about this guy. “Gerry, have to undermine a new project because be miserable. Carroll County you teach dating strategy. You know bet- we haven’t properly said good-bye to the Today, let’s make a choice, a pact with Chapter ter!” old. ourselves let’s find the “Reason To!” And re- Now, I can’t tell you that I had any I do admit that I used the word “destroy” ally there could be a hundred of these but at grand strategy. So, what I did next was gut in my headline just to grab your attention. the core of it all your Reason To should be the Parents, Families, and Friends instinct, done on the fly. I began to tell him I don’t think our intention and focus is on person in the mirror. You because if you don’t about my recent embarrassing enthusiasm destroying at all. We have a very human choose to live life to its fullest for yourself, then of Lesbians and Gays for… professional wrestling! need to “break on through to the other you will surely fail. I’ve seen countless people www.pflagwcc.org I told him that it started with channel side” one way or the other; let’s learn to do tell me they want to lose weight for some guy surfing and moved toward obsession. I it purposefully, with a deep understanding or some girl soon enough. They stop coming MovinG EquaLity Forward gleefully mentioned that I was a gay man of what we really need and how best to get to the gym, backslide on their diet, and end up Call us at 410-861-0488 watching beefy, sweaty men in underwear there. t resentful of the other person. But who’s really

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 New Year! Crumbs & Moore I’m Only as Good as New Law! Your Word...Tell a friend Belton Moore New Life! Pastry Chef/Owner For All Your Wedding Needs Cakes for AL L Occasions Baltimore MD 443-827-0635 [email protected] Book Your Belton Moore @ Facebook wedding Celebration from Start … to finish

903 Dulaney Valley Road · Baltimore, MD 21204 USA Phone: (410) 321-7400 · [email protected] www.sheratonbaltimorenorth.com/weddings.

Fine Press Glyph Fine Press 101B N. Washington Street Havre de Grace, MD 21078 410-939-0504 www.glyphdg.com [email protected] We serve ALL couples equally. www.facebook.com/glyphdg

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Eichenkranz Hall Let our experience work for you to make your affair one to remember. seats approximately 150 people Full Service Bar • Coat Room • Dance Floor • Bathrooms & Wait Station Weddings, Anniversary, Birthday, Company or Holiday Parties, Bridal & Baby Showers and a Host of Other Functions. 611 South Fagley St., Baltimore, maryland 21224 (off 3900 Blk. of Fleet St.) • 410-563-7577 • www.eichenkranz.com

For 130 years, the Woman's Industrial Exchange has loved 333 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD. celebrating women. We are overjoyed to now be able to (410) 244-6450 celebrate women in love. Let the Woman's Industrial Kitchen cater your wedding shower, rehearsal dinner or reception.

Fine Dining Special Events Rehearsal Dinners Main Event Date Night Dining Catering - with options that range from romantic boxed lunches to a exquisite fine dining experience. www.womansindustrialkitchen.com [email protected] Let the industrious women of the Woman's Industrial Kitchen help you celebrate your special day! Follow us on Twitter @Womanskitchen

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 For More Information Call Pam or Darlene JustWeddingsandHoneymoons.com 1301 York Rd, Suite 400 Lutherville, Maryland 21093 410-825-1300

30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com TRAVEL

GAY TRAVEL GURU DOES and sharing break- fast with them, Bry- an indulged his inner animal by soaking up this rare chance to interact with ti- Thailand gers up close and personal. Though By Sophie Needelman this experience is Gaytravel.com truly hard to top, the There are few things as exciting as getting to take a top- rest of Bryan’s trav- of-the-line, world-class international trip to one of the els around Bangkok most incredible tourist destinations in the world. Gay- included a boat ride Travel.com’s gay travel guru Bryan Kosarek experienced on a long tail boat the thrills of travel recently on his incredible trip to Thai- through the canals land. Throughout his journey to Bangkok, Chiangmai, of Bangkok to tour and Phuket, he soaked up all Thailand has to offer while the local architec- scoping out the gay scenes in around these areas for gay ture and floating travelers everywhere. markets as well as After traveling for 27 hours, Bryan arrived in Bang- an incredible spa kok and woke up a few hours later to a gorgeous view of day at the spa re- downtown – not to mention an open mind and no expec- cently ranked best tations so as to best experience this beautiful city. His spa in all of Asia. daytime destinations kicked off with the Chattachuk Mar- It would be near ket which is only held on weekends and has over 10,000 criminal to visit vendors selling everything from artwork to puppies. Even Bangkok without hit- the best travelers get lost though: Bryan spent a good five ting up the amazing hours exploring this rich hotspot in the city, which is not a nightlife there – and the Gay Travel Guru definitely did The Gay Travel Guru’s next stop on his Thailand tour bad place to get stuck for an afternoon. not disappoint! His Bangkok nightlife experience kicked was Phuket, a little island in the south of Thailand. There, After frolicking with Bangkok’s people, Bryan got a off with a party at Club Ono which is short for “One Night he stayed in a hotel on a glorious hill with cabanas home taste of this city’s famous architecture and history at the Only,” housed in Bangkok’s gaybourhood Snow Cowboy. to their own pools and an intricate network of stairs wrap- local temple and grand palace. A unique aspect of this Bryan also went to the very top of Vertigo Bar which is ping through the trees and jungle. He even got his spec- temple- the Temple of the Tigers – is the incredible op- one of the highest points in Bangkok overlooking the en- tatorship on sitting ringside at a Thai boxing match. The portunity to play with, feed, and bathe tigers ranging from tire city. Finally, the Guru rounded off his Bangkok night- main differences among the three Thai destinations Bryan cubs to three years old. After offering the local monks food life extravaganza with the city’s much-talked-about ping- visited are the size and ways of living practiced in each pong shows, ladyboy shows, one. Bangkok, with 10 million people, has a vibrant gay capped off with dancing the scene with endless bars and clubs. In Phuket there is not nights away in the gay bars much of a gay scene aside from other gay people travel- around town. ing. According to After wrapping up Bryan, Chianmai his time in Bangkok, was the perfect Bryan traveled to his balance with 2 mil- next destination – Chi- lion people and angmai, which is in a handful of gay northern Thailand. Chi- bars where being angmai is extremely gay is accepted laid back compared to but not thrown in Bangkok, with less traf- your face. fic and a very relaxed In terms of atmosphere. There, he LGBT travel safe- celebrated Thai New ty, Bryan reports Year at probably the back that he al- largest public water ways felt safe in fight – and flirt fest – in the and around the Thai destinations he visited. He believes world. In addition to this mas- that the overall Thai culture is accepting of homosexuality sive celebration for the LGBT even if it is not openly spoken about. To get around in gen- community and straight com- eral, our Guru definitely relied on a wide network of public munity alike, Bryan got to visit transportation which he assures is accessible and afford- the Chiangmai elephants. Not able. There was also a wide acceptance of a variety of lan- only did Bryan’s new elephant guages all of which were very easily accommodated by the friends take him for a ride Thai people and other travelers alike. While Bryan didn’t through the jungle, but they end up eating any crazy and exotic foods during his travels, ate and painted pictures to- he did indulge in the best of authentic Thai food which put a gether too! glorious finishing touch to his Thai adventure. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 31 TqHualitINKINGy ofOUTLOUD life // health & wellnesS Should We Get Married? by Woody Derricks vestment account, remember that anything partner/spouse. by not by a partner. Being married and liv- If you live in one of the states or the District added to that account may be withdrawn Until your marriage is recognized by ing in Maryland at the time when one of you of Columbia where gay marriage is legal, by your partner/spouse. Funds added to the federal government, I highly recom- passes away could save the survivor a fair the question you may ask your partner is: joint accounts are considered gifts upon mend that you track all contributions to amount in state inheritance taxes. Should we get married? That’s obviously withdraw by the other party and could trig- jointly owned assets. This could be cash Again, due to DOMA, federal estate and a difficult question to answer. You should ger federal gift taxes. Gift taxes may be or investments added to a joint account, income tax will continue to apply as though first be at a place in your relationship due if more than $14,000 is passed in a down payments on a you are an unmarried couple. While a mar- where you’re ready for that commitment. given year to someone who isn’t a legally house, and/or funds ried couple is typically allowed to gift as- If you decide to move forward, there are recognized spouse by the federal govern- used for home remod- sets without having to pay taxes, some questions that you may have regard- ment. For example, if you add $100,000 to you will not enjoy that same ing the financial impact of marriage. Some an account and your partner doesn’t add privilege. The survivor of the frequently asked questions that my anything, then any withdraw by your may still pay federal clients have asked are listed below. partner is considered a gift by you. estate and income How do we handle our individual, If your partner withdraws in excess taxes after one of non-retirement, assets? The first thing of $14,000 during the course of a you passes away. to remember is that the Defense of Mar- year, federal taxes may be due. I recommend that riage Act (or DOMA) is still in force at the If you add your partner/spouse you have an estate federal level. This means that the federal to the title of your home or purchase planning attorney government does not recognize same- a home together, keep in mind that work with you to draft an sex marriages; even if they’re legal at the anything added above a $14,000 value estate plan. state level. The Supreme Court is currently by one partner in excess of what the other In the event we divorce, what should weighing a case that could impact the le- partner has contributed, may be consid- eling expenses. we know? Court proceedings should pro- gality of DOMA and its use going forward. ered a federally taxable gift. For example, The tracking could help protect you in the vide a path to separate assets just as they Until a decision is rendered, you may want let’s assume that you own a home and event of an audit or to show proof of contri- would for any married couple. However, to continue treating your finances the same want to add your partner on the title. Half butions to assets when completing estate the courts will only have these procedures as you do today. of the equity that you have in the house taxes. in place should you divorce in a state that If you decide to make a joint bank or in- may be considered a taxable gift to your What about taxes? I recommend that recognizes your marriage. If you move to you see a CPA regarding how to handle a state that does not recognize your mar- your state income tax filings because ev- riage, you may find that you cannot legally ery state is different. Maryland’s state in- divorce. Remember, if you cannot divorce, 98 Rock Baltimore come taxes take the information from your you cannot get remarried (among other federal returns to determine the state taxes complications that may arise). presents: due. Because you cannot file jointly at the Will we receive survivorship Social federal level, it’s unclear how gay/lesbian Security benefits? If one of the spouses Noise in the Basement LIVE married couples will be able to file joint in a traditional married couple passes away, Hosted by Matt Davis state income taxes. Maryland appears to the survivor may be entitled to some addi- be waiting for the Supreme Court’s ruling tional Social Security benefits. Because of Monday May 27th on DOMA before deciding how to handle DOMA, these same benefits would not be at income tax filings. available to the survivor in a gay/lesbian Because of DOMA, there are not any marriage. Ottobar changes to federal income tax procedures. Unfortunately, the same answer would 2549 N Howard Street This means that a gay/lesbian married cou- apply to the federal CSRS and FERS pen- ple cannot file joint federal income taxes. sion plans. Baltimore, MD 8PM What happens if one of us dies? If you Just because marriage may be legal

live in a state where your marriage is rec- where you live, it does not mean that all of Featuring ognized, the courts may provide the same the financial inequalities that exist will go beneficiary recognition and probate proce- away. I wish that I had better news or could REINA WILLIAMS dures as they would for a traditionally mar- provide simplified guidance, but until DOMA with a Live Band ried couple. This means that in many cases, is struck down or taken out of our federal your partner may be the default primary system, financial inequalities will continue Horn Section Edition beneficiary for your estate if you do not have for gay and lesbian couples. $5 Cover a Will or other beneficiary/asset transfer ar- The opinions voiced in this material are rangements in place. Your spouse should for informational purposes only and are not Call in to request her smash hit also be the primary person to make medical intended to provide specific advice to any Ooh Damn (Like Ooh) decisions on your behalf if you are unable individual. Consult your legal, tax, and/or 1-800-767-1098 to do so. An attorney will be able to provide financial advisor to determine what is appro- better guidance on what rules apply for your priate for your situation. t state. Woody Derricks is a certified financial If you live in Maryland, your estate may planner and an accredited domestic part- www.reinawilliams.com be subject to a 10% inheritance tax. This nership advisor. Reach him at 410-732- tax may be waived for receipt by a spouse 2633. 32 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Commitment. Experience. Results. Looking For Your Dream Home? Jeffrey Tessmer Robert Lizardi Cummings & Co. Realtors I Am Your D.C. Connection! rats ong loud 2929 O'Donnell St C OUT ore Baltimore, MD 21224 ltim our Ba on y h 10t ! Direct: (202) 548-4305 C- 410-218-5235 sary iver Office Phone: (202) 547-5600 O- 410-675-1550 Ann Mobile: (202) 327-1577 [email protected] Fax: (877) 430-7089 Email: [email protected]

ALLEGIANCE Licensed in VA, MD, & DC

Congratulations Baltimore OUTloud for your 10 years!

You’ve met the person of your dreams; let us help make

Woody derricks, cFP® another dream a reality. Accredited Domestic Partnership AdvisorSM

When you build a life together it means commitment, effort, and a lot of decisions. Some decisions are easy, while others require outside advice. One of the biggest decisions you will make is to buy a home. George Mason Mortgage and I are there to support you, every step of the way! congratulates Richard B. Pazornik, Esq. Senior Loan Officer George Mason Mortgage 1447 York Road, Suite 408 hames TreeT 1819 T s Timonium, MD 21093 BalTimore, mD 21231 443-600-1282 (410) 732-2633 [email protected] (877) 807-2633 NMLS#225367 o n t h e i r Apply online: www.gmmllc.com/rpazornik weB: parTnershipwm.com

Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and th Securities offered through conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, anniversary LPL Financial, notes,terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. 10 Member FINRA/SIPC www.gmmlcc.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 33 would think about going to Cleveland, Ohio, or Tulsa, Oklahoma? Cleveland Leather Awareness Weekend (CLAW) held each April is a wonderful event and the Mr. Oklahoma Leather Contest held in alternate years in Tulsa or Oklahoma City is really fun, too. I loved writing about them. In 2006 and 2007 I ventured to Dallas, Texas for the International LeatherSIR/boy Contest. Have you ever been to the cluster of bars in downtown Baltimore that make up Power Plant Live? Dallas has A Perfect Ten! a gay version of that. Plus I even got to see the Texas State Fair, Dallas Eagle, and the old Cowboy’s Stadium. (ILSb returns to Dal- The other day Sir Steve and I were sitting on las this year over the Labor Day weekend. the back porch talking about the great time You will have a big time in Texas!) From the that we had when we went to the Tradesmen Long Island Eagle in 2007 to the Garage Bar Club’s event in Charlotte, North Carolina. in Norfolk, Virginia, in 2006 I have had a great I had just purchased a new vehicle and we time sharing my adventures. drove down. The trip put over 1,000 miles on Baltimore OUTloud has covered the local my new car. It doesn’t seem like it was that leather community like no other publication. long ago, but it has been almost ten years. As The cover of the December 12, 2003, issue awarded Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2007 back up by Mike Zuhl and the ILSb family to help this newspaper looks featured a picture of the patch. leather folks in need. OUTloud has reported back over the past ten “Everyone thinks ShipMates’ Daddy Christ- Next to my September 1, 2006 Leather the happy times and the sad. The April 30, years, I find myself mas Benefit. The March Line was an ad for the Spectrum Bar which 2004, issue shouted “The ShipMates Cel- looking back also. I about taking trips 19, 2004, paper devoted included a picture of a hot dancer in a leather ebrate 30th Anniversary in Style!” The front have a lot of wonder- to San Francisco, a whole page to pictures harness. Who would have known that the page of the September 28, 2007, OUTloud ful memories, and I of the Maryland Leath- young man in the picture would become Mr. reported that Baltimore Eagle owner Richard now have a lot more New York, or Ft. erSIR/boy 2004 Contest Maryland Leather 2008 and hit the stage at Richardson had died. miles on me too! at the Phoenix. These International Mr. Leather in Chicago at the This newspaper has done so much in There are many Lauderdale, but who pictures by Jay W. were age of 23? He was one of the youngest con- the past ten years to spread the news of the things that I love about would think about published in full color and testants ever to IML. I can still hear Mr. Mary- leather community. From the Pennsmen cel- the leather community captured Robert Davis of land Leather 2008 Kris DeBlase being called ebrating the Mardi Gras in Harrisburg in 2006 and I enjoy having the going to Cleveland, Hagerstown, Maryland for IML’s top 20. Maryland made IML history to COMMAND, M.C. hosting a leather ball at opportunity to share Ohio, or Tulsa, being sashed Maryland again in 2012 when Mr. Maryland Leather the Hippo in 2008 OUTloud was there. We some of the fun with LeatherSIR 2004 and 2012 Joseph Chmielowski-Liu and Mr. SECC toasted our leather clubs and sashed our you in this column. Oklahoma?” boy ivan reyes of Balti- Leather 2012 Andy Chmielowski-Liu became leather titleholders. We raised tons of money I love having the more being awarded the the first legally married couple to compete at for charities and discovered that there are chance to recommend places and events. I Maryland Leatherboy 2004 title. Both would IML together. more than 12 days of Christmas. I cannot be- am reminded of a summer many, many years go on to win the Mid-Atlantic and Interna- This newspaper also covers the hard gin to tell you have proud I am to be a part of ago when I first got out of college and was tional LeatherSIR and Leatherboy contest. work of the wonderful folks in leather. An the OUTloud family. The past ten years have working as a security guard at an Ocean City The cover of the May 12, 2006 issue carried article in the September 16, 2005, issue not always been perfect, but OUTloud was condominium. Tourist would ask me for sug- the words: “Eagle Turns 15, New Titleholders shows Ms. Baltimore Eagle 2005 Jessi and always there bringing the news of our leather gestions for restaurants and clubs. I remem- Selected.” A large color picture on the cover the ladies of FIST raising money for victims community to the public. On behalf of the ber a handsome gentleman asking me for a of the January 19, 2007, newspaper showed of Hurricane Katrina and gives details of the leather community, thank you OUTloud for restaurant suggestion. It was his wedding an- a beaming Gary Samuels holding the just International LeatherSIR/boy Relief Fund set giving us ten. t niversary and he wanted to take his wife out to dinner. I suggested a popular Ocean City restaurant that my mother and I had visited many times. The cost of dinner also included a complementary boat ride. The next day the visitor stopped by to thank me for my suggestion. His wife thoroughly enjoyed the evening and they had a wonderful anniversary. It made me very happy that I was able to help and I get that same feeling when I write about leather events and can help others es- cape life’s stresses and have a fun time. Everyone thinks about tak- ing trips to San Francisco, New York, or Ft. Lauderdale, but who

34 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Baltimore’s Only Levi & Leather Bar! Happy 10th Anniversary TRIPLE LLL Baltimore OUTloud! LEON’S LEATHER LOUNGE

227 W. Chase St. 410-539-4850

Watch For The Grand Re-Opening Of The Kitchen With Late Nite Fare Saturday May 18 Come Support Bob Rose Mr. Maryland Leather 2013 On His Journey To IML June 1 Drag Show 10 PM June 14 Mr. Triple LLL Leather Contest Watch For ShipMates And Command Bar Night Wednesday Karoake With Bartenders Marc & KJ Bill Triva Thursday With Charm City Trivia

Buy One Get One Free - New Happy Hours Monday Through Thursday Until 12 AM! Voted Top 50 Bars In Baltimore 2013! Join Us Friday Through Sunday Til 10 PM For Baltimore’s Best Happy Hour!

Memorial Day Picnic May 27 BBQ From 5-7 PM

Keep Your Eyes On The Roof, Watch And See What Happens!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 35 RIDE FOR THE FEAST | MAY 11-12, 2013 PHOTOS BY: DANIEL MCGARRITY • DANIELMCGARRITYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

36 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE CARTER/JOHNSON LEATHER LIBRARY AT THE GLCCB | MAY 10-12, 2013

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 37 Happy 10th Anniversary Baltimore OUTloud!

38 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com Professional Services counseling pet CARE

Get Unstuck Let Us Love Them ...at work, in love, for life! When You Can’t! 410-949-7888 •Dog Day Care Baltimore office •Dog Sleepovers Meadow Mill, Hampden •Dog Training •Salon/Spa Gerry Fisher 1st Facility 1009 Philadelphia Rd Life Coach Joppa, MD. 21085 410-671-PLAY (7529) [email protected] 2nd Facility 246 Cockeysville Road www.BaltimoreLifeCoachGerry.com Cockeysville, MD. 21030 410-773-PLAY www.bestfriendsfurever.com attorney massage financial

DJ ADVERTISE HERE SUPPORT books & gifts

Proudly Serving the LGBTQ Community Since 1972 Counseling for Individuals, Couples, Teens, Families, and Groups. 5209 York Road 410-532-2476 By Appointment Only www.womensgrowthcenter.com

Call 410-244-6780 to list your business in the Professional Services directory. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 39 40 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 17, 2013 • baltimoreoutloud.com