Alan Mingo, Jr. credit: DreamWorks Theatricals (Joan Marcus)
OUT April 8, 2011 | Volume IX Issue 23 Stonewall Uprising Gender Identity Anti- Capturing Defining Moments in LGBT History Discrimination By Steve Charing gratulate you documentary form. Bill Passes On April 25, PBS’ American Experience for this work. SC: How long will be premiering the documentary film, Given the pauci- did it take you to House Stonewall Uprising. The impromptu battle ty of witnesses put it together? between bar patrons and police on June 28, and footage of KD: The proj- Moves to Senate 1969 following yet another raid of the Mafia- the events, what ect took about a owned Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street motivated you to year. Four months in New York’s Greenwich Village has been embark on this of shooting, and the By Dana LaRocca considered by most LGBT historians as the tough project? rest editing. On Saturday March 26 the Maryland pivotal moment – a “Rosa Parks moment” as Kate Davis: SC: How did this House of Delegates voted in favor described by the Village Voice – in the histo- This is a proj- compare with your of HB235, the Gender Identity Anti- ry of gay liberation. ect we felt very at other works, such Discrimination bill. It won by a respect- Award-winning filmmakers Kate Davis home with, given as your Emmy- able margin of 86-52. It was a hard and David Heilbroner put together this fas- our history of mak- winning Scopes: won battle that involved few amend- cinating historical chronicle of how an as- ing LGBT themed The Battle Over ments the most significant of which sortment of drag queens, hustlers, gay and films with the over- America’s Soul was the definition of “Gender Identity.” transgender patrons of the Stonewall Inn all aim of rais- (History Channel) “Identity, appearance, expres- banded together to say “enough is enough” ing mainstream and Jockey (HBO) sion or behavior” was removed from and fought off police homophobia and awareness of gay in terms of scope the definition for a more concise def- harassment. rights issues. I and difficulty? inition of “identity or appearance.” A We are grateful that Ms. Davis was was surprised the KD: Well, every clause involving commercial leasing kind enough to be interviewed by Baltimore Stonewall story film seems to have was removed also. These changes OUTloud on this must-see film for anyone had not been done its particular chal- had little effect on the outcome of the who has an interest in LGBT history. before, and yet it lenges. Scopes was legislation. Steve Charing: Stonewall Uprising is had not been told a tough intellectual On March 24 the bill had been put an exceptional documentary, and I con- in depth using a —continued on page 4 on “procedural hold” at the request of Carroll County Republican Delegate Susan Krebs. She requested a def- inition of “transgender” of Attorney Baltimore OUTloud Voted Best of LGBT Maryland General Gansler the previous day. It wasn’t clear why this request was Editor Steve Charing chosen LGBT ‘Person of the Year’ granted since the word “transgender” In an annual online poll sponsored by the the 2011 Best LGBT/Friendly Business or does not occur anywhere in the bill. R-Group, Maryland’s largest LGBT so- Nonprofit. Ron Zimmerman Realtors came The “procedural hold,” the innocuous cial organization with nearly 1,600 mem- in first. amendments, and the final victorious bers, Baltimore OUTloud was voted as the “Baltimore OUTloud was founded with vote in the House of Delegates were 2011 Best Maryland LGBT Newspaper/ the idea that this region would benefit from reminiscent of a similar victory a few Publication. The City Paper finished in sec- another and independent voice for the LGBT weeks ago in the Senate over the mar- ond place (honorable mention). community,” said Jim Becker, OUTloud’s co- riage bill. The victory faded quickly af- A record total of 2,407 votes were cast publisher and Chair of the Board of Trustees ter the weekend passed. by R-Group members and others in the for Pride Media, the paper’s parent compa- On Monday March 28 transgender Baltimore-Washington community in a ny. “This award is so gratifying because it is activists in opposition to HB235 and survey that covered 10 categories. The testament to our success in being that voice.” Equality Maryland activists in favor of awards are referred to as the “aRGies.” In addition, OUTloud’s managing editor, HB235 descended on Annapolis. This was the first year for the Best Steve Charing, received the highest number —continued on page 5 Newspaper/Publication category. OUT- of votes for 2011 LGBT Person of the Year. loud also received honorable mention in —continued on page 5 Moveable Feast
A Blueprint for Marriage Equality in 2012 Following the near-miss of a situation that is crucial dur- as one of “equal rights” where we won’t have achieving marriage equality OUT ing a referendum. to engage in a distracting side argument on in the 2011 Maryland General Clearly, the failure to move the definition of “civil rights”. But we should Co-Publishers Assembly, many gays and les- Spoken the marriage bill through the not retreat on the word “marriage”. Naming Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected] bians were left heartbroken, House this session was in part it anything else opens up the separate but angry and frustrated. It was a due to the opposition of sever- equal doctrine, which is unacceptable in this Executive Editor Jim Becker disappointment, to be sure, but al Democratic delegates who movement. [email protected] there is no reason why we can- were influenced by church- Managing Editor not succeed in 2012 if the entire going African-American con- Ideas are important too. Steve Charing LGBT community and allies get stituents. This group has Equality Maryland and its board mem- [email protected] on board. We have the benefit been traditionally opposed to bers should welcome strategic ideas from Production Director of a year’s time to regroup, col- marriage for same-sex cou- the broader community. Large open meet- Bill Andriette lect our thoughts and execute a ples. Securing the votes from ings would likely be unruly, difficult to man- Sales Director winning game plan. those delegates would likely age and nonproductive. Instead, Equality Mary Taylor Keep in mind, however, Steve Charing have been the difference be- Maryland should schedule smaller meetings [email protected] that although House Speaker tween winning and losing. in the months ahead with community leaders Leather Columnist Michael Busch indicated he Therefore, a major educa- in business and media as well as other local Rodney Burger would bring up the Civil Marriage Protection tional effort needs to be undertaken. Allies, advocacy organizations that have succeed- Contributing Writers Act in 2012, there is no guarantee that he will. such as the Maryland Black Family Alliance ed in advancing equality at the grass roots Josh Aterovis • Shawn Bradley • Terrence Brower • Jeffrey Therefore, it is imperative that he be con- who have done great work on our behalf, level. There should be a free exchange of Clagett • Jeffrey Clouser • Chuck Duncan • Deborah Draisin • Gerry Fisher • Eva Hersh MD • Marty Hoegg • Sam Kunz • Dana vinced there are sufficient votes for passage. would be helpful in that regard. ideas to determine the most effective way of LaRocca • Jessica Lemmo • Jay Loane • Meredith Moise • Vann The following represents my ideas on Equality Maryland should also solicit reaching out to targeted constituency groups Mills • Bill Palmer • David Placher • Sandy Rawls • Colin Riley • how we can secure the necessary votes in the assistance of supportive del- Gregg Shapiro • Larry Walker the House of Delegates and hold on to the egates and senators especially in Graphics Senate’s support. predominantly African-American Joe Velasquez
districts in Baltimore City and Cartoonist Keep it local Prince George’s County. Perhaps Bruce Garrett (www.brucegarrett.com)
While national groups, such as the town hall meetings held jointly by Photographers Human Rights Campaign and Gill Action these elected officials and Equality Bruce Garrett • Jay W. • Justin Nixon were gracious to help Equality Maryland with Maryland could go a long way Web Editor the efforts in the legislature in 2011, I would in allaying fears about marriage Anja Saine prefer that their resources, reach and fund- equality. [email protected] raising capabilities be applied to a referen- Of course, this could present Managed Web Services The Fusio Group dum battle should one transpire. For our a challenge in obtaining the assis- 866-322-7498, www.thefusiogroup.com work in the legislature, it is best that Equality tance of these politicians, but you National Advertising Rep Maryland, with the support of the LGBT com- can be sure that homophobic del- Rivendell Media munity and a professional lobbying firm, con- egates Emmett Burns and Don 908-232-2021 vince wavering and/or persuadable lawmak- Dwyer will be working with NOM Founders ers to gain the necessary votes. and other anti-gay organizations to ensure and to help formulate a broad strategy for Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • The national groups, many believe, a defeat. raising large sums of needed money to suc- Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams played an influential role in the controversial Also, our efforts to line up votes should ceed in a referendum battle. decision this year to commit the marriage bill focus on Democrats. Virtually all Republican The above outlines a blueprint for suc- Baltimore OUTloud to committee, which left a bitter taste in the lawmakers in this state are against marriage cess but undoubtedly there is much more P.O. Box 3640, Baltimore, Maryland 21214 410-244-6780 mouths of pro-marriage activists. This unfor- equality. Sen. Allan Kittleman is an exception that can be said and done. If you have any www.baltimoreoutloud.com tunately eroded the confidence in Equality as he is the only member of the GOP cau- ideas, please forward to me and perhaps we Maryland, and that damage needs to be cus capable of thinking for himself to support can publish them for a public airing. I also Additional Information repaired. what he knows is right. Let’s not waste time urge you to read Rev. Meredith Moise’s com- Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride We must encourage Equality Maryland to and resources beating a dead elephant. mentary “Prepping for the Win: A Personal Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and lead the fight as they are in the best position Guide to Walking Toward Justice” in our unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: editor@ baltimoreoutloud.com. All materials appearing in this newspaper to understand the idiosyncrasies of the indi- Words are important. Thinking Out Loud page of this issue. It pro- are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced vidual legislators and their constituents. And There is no question in my mind that mar- vides an excellent plan that describes how without the written permission of the editor. as a community, we must stand behind the riage for same-sex couples is a civil right. you as individuals can help win this struggle. organization and offer support as needed. But many African-Americans don’t buy into Please send any suggestions or com- that concept, and it may be hurting us. mentary to [email protected]. Winning over Although leading civil rights icons, such We want you to have a voice in this important non-supportive African-Americans as Rep. John Lewis, Julian Bond and the late effort on the road to equality. Maryland is a state with one of the high- Coretta Scott King have equated marriage In Part 2 next issue, I will lay out what © 2011 – All rights reserved est percentage of African-Americans in the equality as a civil right, it appears that a large will be needed to succeed in a referendum Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker country. And during the 2012 election with number of African-Americans brush off that battle. t President – Jim Williams President Obama will be on the ballot, a idea and listen more to their pastors. My OUTspoken blog is at www.Steve. Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase greater turnout of these voters is expected – I believe we should frame this struggle Charing.blogspot.com.
2 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com Moveable Feast
news // LOCAL
On March 12, Team Bike Zumbathon, planned for Saturday, April Curious hosted their second 30 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Weinberg Riding for Hope annual Movable Feets Dance YMCA at Stadium Place, 900 E. 33rd Street. A variety of events scheduled Party and Contest at Metro The high energy event will be led by TWAP to support Moveable Feast Gallery on Charles Street. Local bands The rider Andres Bujanda, along with a team of Firecrackers, the Degenerates, and The other trained Zumba instructors from the By Josh Aterovis Swingin Swami’s, provided live music, and Baltimore area. Registration is $20 before Imagine being alone with HIV, breast cancer, DJ John Eaton spun the dance tunes. About April 23, and $25 after. or other life-threatening disease and having 125 people attended, and $2,400 was raised “Only 200 people will be admitted to this nowhere to turn. No family. No friends. No toward the team’s goal. event,” says Demaree. “It will definitely sell support group. When the difficulties of the “I’ve been doing the ride for 4 years now, out, and no registrations will be accepted at illness take over, how will you buy grocer- this is my 5th the door, so reserve your ies? How will you cook your meals? These year,” says Bike “I love how Moveable spot immediately.” To reg- may seem like simple tasks, but people Curious team Feast is a truly ister, go to www.teamwith- with AIDS and other life-challenging condi- captain, Jodie apurpose.org and follow tions often become caught in a downward Zisow. “For me, homegrown grassroots the link to PayPal. spiral of poor appetite and physical weak- I do this ride be- The Shirley Temples, member Tom Mayer at mayer.tom@verizon. ness that prevents them from providing ad- cause I believe it group that formed to another team with a strong net. equate meals for themselves. Factor in low helps end some help people who need gay showing, is throwing The actual Ride takes place May 13-15, income circumstances and you have a rec- of the silence Play for the Feast, a night but there’s still time to join a team. If you’re ipe for disaster. and misinforma- support the most.” of games, on Saturday, not up to a 140 mile bike ride, you can vol- Luckily, there’s hope. A local charity tion that still ex- – Jodie Zisow April 16 at Silo Point, lo- unteer or make a contribution. To find out called Moveable Feast provides daily meals, ists around HIV/ cated at 1200 Steuart St, more about upcoming fundraising opportuni- grocery shopping, nutritional counseling, AIDS. I’m a sexuality educator, and some of Baltimore MD. For a $15 entry fee, enjoy ties, or to learn about ways you can become and even transportation to and from medi- the young people I teach still think that HIV is blackjack, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and involved, visit the official Ride for the Feast cal appointments. According to client ser- passed through saliva or hugging. I love how more from 8:00p.m. to 11:00p.m. The ticket site at www.rideforthefeast.org or Movable vices program director Nancy Guest, about Moveable Feast is a truly homegrown grass- price includes food, beverage, and one raf- Feast’s site at www.mfeast.org. Feed peo- 43% of their clients are gay, lesbian, bisex- roots group that formed to help people who fle ticket. For more information, contact team ple. Fight disease. Foster hope. t ual, or transgender, perhaps not surprising need support the most, and I love how the when you consider that they are less likely to Ride really feels like a celebration of life and have a support network of family. community.” Movable Feast sponsors several fund- This year’s Chair of the Ride for the raisers throughout the year, some of which Feast 2011 Planning Committee Pete Castro you may be familiar with, such as Dining Out agrees: it’s a personal mission for him. “I’ve for Life, when local restaurants donate a por- done this ride for many years, and I guess tion of that evening’s take to the charity. at this point my reasons have become rath- One of their big annual events if the Ride er selfish. I have a lot of fun and really look for the Feast, a 140 mile, forward to it!” he 2-day bike ride from says. “I suppose af- Ocean City to Baltimore. ter 8 years, it’s also Day 1 is a 100-mile ride becoming hab- from Ocean City, MD it. However, I think to Wye Mills, MD. After what first brought me an overnight stay at to the ride was the Chesapeake College, mission of Moveable the riders set out from Feast. Meeting my Sandy Point and bike goal and riding my into Baltimore City and bicycle 140-miles across the finish line at can provide a meal Moveable Feast’s East for one person for an Baltimore headquarters. Last year, around entire year. Broken down to this simple fact, 150 riders pedaled their way from the beach there really is no better reason to ride, volun- to Baltimore, and this year there are already teer or sponsor a rider.” 175 riders registered. Castro is also the team co-captain of Each rider is asked to raise a mini- Team With A Purpose (TWAP), along with mum of $1,300 with 100% of the money his partner Derek Demaree. In the past, raised by participating riders goes direct- TWAP funded most of their team goal with ly to Moveable Feast’s clients. Many riders very popular bake sales at the Waverly join teams, which in turn have a team goal Farmer’s Market, but last year they lost their as well. These individual teams often have spot there. fundraising events of their own. This year, they bounced back with a
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 3 Stonewall Uprising were also on-camera for was interpreted by some to be simply a Kate Davis – continued from front page the film. To what extent skirmish with police? did Carter assist you in lin- KD: Yes, I think that the institutionalized ing up these witnesses, homophobia of the era fed into the lack of nut to crack, trying to explain religious ten- and what other help did he reporting at Christopher Street. There were ants regarding Darwinism in a way which provide? days in which major networks could have was not deadly dull. With Jockey, the hardest KD: David Carter helped been there, as they covered the Harlem ri- part was breaking into the very closed world us immensely in finding wit- ots and others. But we think not only did they of thoroughbred racing. In making Stonewall nesses. He had researched minimize the events as being ‘just’ about gay Uprising, we were welcomed by eager and the people, but also I am betting they did not immensely open storytellers, but our chal- Stonewall events over want to offer column space or nightly news lenge was how to depict the nights of rioting, 10 years and made great ef- seconds to a subject which they thought given that about seven seconds of actual riot forts to sort out who he be- might turn off their audience. footage exist. 1969 activism was not led by a lieved were most credible SC: I find it sad that modernG ay Pride cell phone/camcorder generation. and strong as characters. celebrations and parades pay little atten- SC: PBS is airing Stonewall Uprising SC: Former New York tion to the Stonewall uprising and its sig- on April 25. Was there an attempt to have City Mayor Ed Koch came nificance. Do you see it that way, too? it presented in June – the traditional com- off as a sympathetic fig- KD: Yes it is frustrating. We found so memoration of the uprising – and did you ure to those who partici- few people, even young gay people, know consider releasing it commercially? pated in the uprising, yet what Stonewall truly means. Imagine being KD: I believe that PBS wants to feature he was extremely unpopu- a black youth and not knowing about Rosa this film in a prominent time slot, and April is lar among the gay commu- Parks or MLK?! We’re hoping that this film, a prime viewing month. We did, however, re- nity. How do you reconcile this obvious film would have veered into becoming an Ed being broadcast nationally and distribut- lease the film across the country theatrical- discrepancy between Koch’s words and Koch story, which it is not. For many, hear- ed to schools through the PBS outreach ef- ly through First Run Features, and it opened his deeds? ing him admit that entrapment and other an- forts, will help remedy this gap in knowledge during the anniversary in June of last year. KD: The role of Koch in the film is to sub- ti-gay laws were routinely enforced is impor- and make Stonewall take its rightful place in SC: The film was based on David stantiate the fact that anti-gay laws were en- tant evidence of that deeply homophobic American history. Carter’s extraordinary chronicle, forced by New York City officials. Had the era. SC: What is your next documentary Stonewall: The Riots that Sparked the film become a critical look at his record on SC: I noticed in the credits that many we can look forward to? Gay Revolution. I noticed quite a few the gay rights, I think he may not have been will- sources were tapped to obtain footage KD: We are working on a long film about key witnesses mentioned in the book ing to participate, and more important, the and stills for this project. How difficult the Cheshire murders in Connecticut. It is a was it to find these images? story of suburban shock, loss, and the death KD: It was a huge search for footage penalty as told from the inside. t from all over the country. We were fortunate Stonewall Uprising premieres on to help the New York Times uncover sever- Monday, April 25, 2011 from 9:00 to 10:30 al exterior night shots of the Stonewall bar, p.m. ET on PBS. never before seen. But we resort- ed to riot footage from the 1960s David as well as a few re-enactment Heilbroner shots filmed by Heather Gude. SC: You skillfully and seam- © 2010 C.B. Fleet Company, Inc. lessly wove in those reenact- ments to blend with the footage. Was that a major challenge? KD: It was a risk, I think, but worked out because we decided to film the staged moments using a grainy handheld look which mir-
KEEP THEM CLEAN. NATURALLY. rors the news footage of the times.
SC: As indicated in both the book and the film,` and as I re- call personally, little press had been given to the uprising dur- ing the last week of June 1969. I attributed that to the seeming- ly ongoing social unrest that INTRODUCING FLEET® NATURALS CLEANSING ENEMAS. peaked in 1968 and continued Gentle enough for daily use, now you can feel clean with the anti-war movement in and fresh—without the drugs found in laxative enemas. 1969. Do you think the media were blurred139116_b03 RSCG Euro by05/05/10 jmd those events Drug Free | Safe For Daily Use | Hygienic of the era and paid little atten- tion to a bunch of drag queens, street kids and others in what
4 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com Baltimore OUTloud Bi-Weekly May 21, 2010 Buns nes w // LOCAL
Gn e der ID Anti- For all of the efforts on both sides the able mention). Discrimination Passes House fix was already in. Senator Thomas V. Mike 2011 Favorite Gay Steve – continued from front page Miller, Senate President since 1987, sent the and/or Lesbian/Friendly Charing bill to the Senate Rules Committee. One de- Gym – Mount Vernon Gym A visit to Senator Brian Frosh’s office fined role of the committee is to review “pro- (winner); DAC Downtown was at the top of the agenda for both parties. posed legislation introduced after the bill in- Athletic Club- Merritt (hon- He was widely known to have been the ma- troduction deadline in a regular session and orable mention). jor force in keeping previous years’ Gender determines which of those bills it will refer to 2011 Drag Personality Identity Anti-Discrimination bills from seeing standing committees.” In actual practice this of the Year – Shawnna the light of day. is also a place where bills go to die. Alexander (winner); Nikki Baltimore OUTloud spoke to Senator For all of the efforts on both sides the Cox (honorable mention). Frosh’s Legislative Assistant David Brewster fix was already in. Senator Thomas V. Mike 2011 Straight Ally early on Monday March 28 and he said that Miller, Senate President since 1987, sent the Person of the Year – the office had received very few calls from bill to the Senate Rules Committee. One de- Attorney General Douglas transgender opponents of the bill. He was fined role of the committee is to review pro- Gansler (winner); Governor posed legislation introduced after the bill in- Martin O’Malley (honorable troduction deadline in a regular session and mention). determines which of those bills it will refer 2011 LGBT Event of to standing committees. On April 5 the bill the Year – Baltimore Gay was released from the Rules Committee to Pride (winner); 12 Days the Judicial Proceedings Committee. It is still of Christmas (honorable possible that it may go to a full Senate vote mention). before the session closes on April 11. t 2011 LGBT DJ of the uled for March 31 at the Spotlighters Theatre Year – Alex Funk (winner); Lord Byron (hon- but because of a scheduling problem, the orable mention). ceremony was cancelled. The results were Nominations for each of the categories transmitted via the R-Group’s network and Best of LGBT Maryland were requested in December 2010 and vot- announced over the Internet on Blog Talk – continued from front page ing began in January. The cut-off was March Radio in a show hosted by R-Group founder 16. An awards presentation had been sched- Ted Hart and Kevin Walling. t Chuck Bowers, owner of Club Hippo, re- ceived honorable mention. “There are many people who deserve this honor, especially those who had been nominated,” said Charing. “I thank everyone who voted for me, and I am appreciative of those who recognize the work of the entire staff, writers and management of Baltimore OUTloud and what we are trying to accom- Senate President Mike Miller plish in serving our community.” Jim Williams, co-publisher and President © 2010 C.B. Fleet Company, Inc. surprised that transgender citizens actual- of Pride Media said, “We are very proud ly opposed a bill that was meant to protect of our managing editor Steve Charing for them. his much deserved LGBT Person of the The Washington Blade, on the oth- Year award from the R-Group poll. His out- er hand, reported the next day that “Frosh standing work is responsible for Baltimore said his office was “inundated” on Monday OUTloud winning the Best LGBT Newspaper by calls from transgender activists opposed in Maryland and the region.”
to the bill because it has been stripped of Added Becker, “I am grateful to Steve KEEP IT CLEAN. NATURALLY. a provision banning discrimination against Charing for his tireless effort in producing the ` transgender persons in the area of public newspaper. We would not have received this accommodations.” wonderful award without him and the great Both accounts are accurate. The de- staff and writers working with him.” cision to attempt to kill the bill by oppo- Other aRGies winners and honorable nents was made after their Monday visit to mentions by category include: Annapolis; where they learned that there 2011 Favorite Gay and/or Lesbian/ INTRODUCING FLEET® NATURALS CLEANSING ENEMAS. was no move to amend the bill to include Friendly Bar in Maryland – Club Hippo Gentle enough for daily use, now you can feel clean public accommodations. At that time they (winner); Grand Central and Rowan Tree and fresh—without the drugs found in laxative enemas. urged supporters to write and call Senator (honorable mention TIE). 139116_a02 RSCG Euro 05/04/10 jmd Frosh. Enlisting the help of Senator Frosh 2011 Favorite Gay and/or Lesbian/ Drug Free | Safe For Daily Use | Hygienic was a last ditch effort by the transgender Friendly Restaurant – Mt. Vernon Stables members of the opposition. (winner); PW’s Sports Bar and Grill (honor-
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 5 Baltimore OUTloud Bi-Weekly May 21, 2010 Caboose 240Dmax beyond the beltway
Institute releases Fort Worth, TX, talking about the strides the LGBT communi- hibit recognition of marriage and any other ty has made in Fort Worth. After the Rainbow relationship status among same-sex cou- LGBT health report settles suit over Lounge raid, police chief Jeff Halstead made ples and could endanger both public and pri- raid on gay bar significant changes to the police department vate domestic partner benefits policies. The Washington, D.C. – The Institute of Medicine by clarifying the department’s policies on amendment has not yet been introduced in (IOM), an independent, non-profit organiza- Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth City Council, conducting bar checks, adding an LGBT li- the House. (Q-Notes Online – Matt Comer at tion, on March 31, released a groundbreak- voted unanimously and without discussion aison and, recently, enacting an anti-bias q-notes.com) ing report on LGBT health titled “The Health to accept a consent agenda that included an policing policy to strengthen existing rules of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender award of $400,000 to Chad Gibson, the man against discrimination by officers. (Dallas People: Building a Foundation for Better who received head Voice – David Taffet at dallasvoice.com) Forego gifts, Understanding.” The injuries in the 2009 report is an impor- Rainbow Lounge raid. donate to anti- tant reminder that the George Armstrong, an- Equality North bullying cause, unique health needs of other man injured that LGBT people are often night, settled for a low- Carolina says Kate not met under current er amount, less than $50,000. The two in- fights anti-gay programs. The report jured men entered into mediation with the London, England – Prince William’s fian- was issued in response city of Fort Worth and the Texas Alcoholic amendment cée Kate Middleton has asked guests to their to a request from the Beverage Commission. Any agreement from April wedding to donate to an anti-bullying or- National Institutes of settlement negotiations with the Commission Charlotte, NC – North Carolina’s LGBT ad- ganization – that offers a specific program for Health (NIH) for guid- is still pending approval by the State of vocacy and education group, Equality North LGBT students – ance on and information about LGBT health. Texas. Don Tittle, the attorney who repre- Carolina, is mounting a statewide education, in lieu of wedding Boston’s Fenway Health played an inte- sented Gibson and Armstrong in mediation organizing and engagement campaign, as gifts. The United gral part in the creation of the report. Judith B. with the city, said, “We thought it was a fair threats of an anti-gay constitutional amend- Kingdom’s Daily Bradford, PhD, and Harvey J. Makadon, MD, of resolution.” ment continue to loom over the North Carolina Mail reported The Fenway Institute both sit on the 17-mem- Tom Anable, president of Fairness Fort General Assembly. The group has held four that Middleton ber IOM Committee that issued the report – Worth, a group formed in the wake of the town hall meetings, in Durham, Winston- was herself a vic- The Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Rainbow Lounge raid, only commented on Salem, Charlotte, and tim of bullying at and Transgender Health Issues and Research the progress that has been made since the Greenville. Each event age 13, and ulti- Gaps and Opportunities. “It was a great privi- event. He said that this was the first time the included a group brain- mately decided to Kate Middleton lege to participate in the IOM process.... The city of Fort Worth had ever entered into medi- storming session, which change schools IOM report assembles existing research and ation without a federal lawsuit being filed. He Equality North Carolina to escape the harassment. makes recommendations for next step priori- also said it was the first time Fort Worth had says will engage citi- UK organization Beatbullying has been ties...It is truly historic, said Bradford.” Added ever compensated a member of the LGBT zens and voters to be added to a list of charitable causes that reso- Makadon, “[W]e must recognize the impor- community for unfair treatment by the city. “involved in our grass- nate with the royal couple. Middleton and her tance of educating health professionals about Jason P. Lamers, the manager of Fort roots and grasstops ef- fiancé have requested that their 1,900 wed- LGBT issues and creating welcoming environ- Worth’s Office of Media and Public Affairs, forts to keep our fine ding guests – and thousands of well-wishers ments for care. Studies show a reluctance to sent the official city response. He said the state anti-LGBT amend- around the world – choose to make a dona- care for LGBT individuals and education about council acted on advice of the legal counsel. ment-free,” Community Organizer Rebecca tion to one of the 26 charities part of what LGBT health issues in medical schools and “This settlement is not an admission of liabil- Mann said. is called The Royal Wedding Charitable Gift schools for other health professionals is min- ity on the part of the city, not only is this set- Equality North Carolina’s statewide mo- Fund. imal.” National LGBT advocacy organizations tlement the right thing to do, but it is also in bilization campaign follows a flurry of state- “Beatbullying is delighted to be working also contributed to the report. the best interest of the city and taxpayers,” level organizing initiatives. Days after the an- with the Charitable Gift Fund and greatly ap- The report’s recommendations includ- Lamers said. He added that one could not ti-gay amendment was introduced, Equality preciates Prince William and Miss Catherine ed: NIH should implement a research agen- talk about the Rainbow Lounge story without North Carolina received a $10,000 grant Middleton’s kind acknowledgement of da designed to advance knowledge and un- from the Human Rights Campaign, the na- our charity and the work we strive to do,” derstanding of LGBT health; data on sexual tion’s largest LGBT civil rights organization. Beatbullying founder and CEO Emma-Jane orientation and gender identity should be col- That money is being used in part to hire sev- Cross said. Beatbullying offers a specific These news notes have been compiled, lected in federally funded surveys adminis- with permission, from the online version eral other community organizers, including program that targets LGBT-motivated bully- tered by the Department of Health and Human of various newspapers and other web one dedicated to Eastern North Carolina and ing. The organization provides lesson plans, Services; data on sexual orientation and gen- sites. We thank these publications for another to working with faith communities. CyberMentors, and counselors for students der identity should be collected in electronic allowing us to bring you their news sto- HRC has also dedicated a full-time field or- who are victims of homophobic bullying. “We health records; NIH should support the devel- ries. Usually the reports have been sig- ganizer to work on-the-ground in the state. hope this partnership will help Beatbullying’s opment and standardization of sexual orienta- nificantly edited and you can read the Faith in America, founded by North Carolina message resonate worldwide – that we all tion and gender identity measures; and among full story by going to the web site men- furniture-maker Mitchell Gold, has also part- need to protect our children and young peo- others, NIH should support methodological re- tioned following the item. Comments nered with Replacements, Ltd. owner Bob ple who are often the most vulnerable in so- search that relates to LGBT health. The report are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker Page to call on the state’s business commu- ciety,” Cross said. “Our research shows that will help steer the NIH as the organization cre- and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride nity to come out against the amendment. one in three children has been bullied – this ates and funds health programs designed for Media. The anti-gay constitutional amendment is unacceptable, but together we can stop the LGBT community. (Bay Windows – Hannah was introduced on Feb. 22 by state Sen. this.” (Bay Windows – Hannah baywindows. Clay Wareham at baywindows.com) James Forrester (R-Gaston). It would pro- com)
6 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway
Philly Presbyterians experience in GAMMA. “When I came here, who crowded South Boston? Local gay and military. OutServe.org created the magazine. I referred to myself as a green-eyed monster lesbian organizations have been banned The organization is made up of nearly three support gays as — I thought I was the only married man who from marching in this treasured celebration thousand members and calls itself an un- ministers ever looked into a mirror and found out he for over a decade. Of the two dozen or so derground network of LGBT active duty. The was gay,” said longtime member Ken. “But spectators dotted along the parade route ap- first issue includes articles on DADT and the Philadelphia, PA – The governing body I came here and found a whole room full of proached by Bay Windows, none had any murder of Navy Petty Officer Allen Schindler. representing Presbyterian churches in the green-eyed monsters.” idea that LGBT groups were banned. The co-director of OutServe, known Philadelphia area have voted to support the Ken is one of hundreds who’ve passed As the official parade marched along, by the pseudonym JD Smith, says the pur- decision of the national Presbyterian Church through GAMMA’s doors seeking advice and there was a group of people patiently waiting pose isn’t to highlight differences but rath- (U.S.A.) to allow gays and lesbians in same- support over the last 20 years. Launched in at the start of the parade for the chance to er to show how sex relationships to be eligible for ordina- March of 1991 by Steve Henner, GAMMA, represent their communities. “We’re march- LGBT service tion. In a 182-108 vote, the Presbytery of meeting twice a month at the William Way ing to say that we’re here and we’ve had members are Philadelphia approved Amendment 10-A to LGBT Community Center, offers a support enough,” said Ben Marsh, a member of Join “proud soldiers, the church constitution, which would drop structure for men coming to terms with their the Impact – Massachusetts, an LGBT orga- sailors, airmen, the provision that ordained Presbyterian sexuality in settings that often include het- nization which helped put together Boston’s Coasties, and leaders who are not married to a member erosexual relation- first St. Patrick’s Day Peace Parade, set to Marines just of the opposite sex must live in celibacy. ships and children. march a mile behind the initial parade, as re- like everyone Last summer, Amendment 10-A passed the The group doesn’t quired by its parade permit. Organized pri- else.” “Our first Presbyterian General Assembly with 53 per- advocate for men to marily by a group called Veterans for Peace, objective with cent of the vote. leave their heterosex- along with Join the Impact, the second pa- the magazine In order for the new policy to go into ef- ual relationships or rade was led by a large group of anti-war vet- is to let all the fect, it needs to be approved by a majority remain in them, but rather provides a forum erans holding white flags that bore the peace gay, lesbian, bi, and trans members currently of the nation’s 173 presbyteries, or regional to explore their identities with others who’ve symbol of a dove carrying an olive branch in serving know that they are not alone,” Smith governing bodies — a total of 87 affirmative been in similar situations. its beak. Many individuals waved large rain- said in a statement. “We also want to com- votes. With the Philadelphia nod, the poli- The men who attend are in different situ- bow flags with the word “Peace” emblazoned municate to all troops that there are capable cy change, as of press time, has 74 presby- ations — some are out to their wives or sig- in the middle. gay military members serving honorably, and teries in favor and 53 opposed, with 46 still nificant others, some are closeted and others “Most of the veterans that we’re talking to that accepting that and moving on will make left to vote. The issue failed when put to the are exploring whether they want to remain through the Veterans for Peace group were our military stronger.” presbyteries in 2008-09. Of Pennsylvania’s in heterosexual relationships. But all faced clamoring to say ’we support your cause,’” In December, President Barack Obama 14 presbyteries, 9 have voted against the fears in confronting their sexuality. Vince, explained Ann Coleman, co-chair of Join the signed the DADT bill repealing the 17-year- change, 2 for it, and 3 to vote soon. who attended his first GAMMA meeting in Impact. “They are very, very open and it has old ban on openly gay service members. The Michael Adee, executive director of More 2002, said he and most of the other men been great for us to talk to people outside magazine can be downloaded at http://www. Light Presbyterians, which works for the were “complete messes when we first came LGBT community. As hard as this has been, outserve.org/media/OutServeMag_Apr2011. full participation of LGBT individuals in the here. When we walked in the door for the it has also been very eye-opening to get out- pdf (365Gay.com – Jonathan Fairbanks) Presbyterian Church, said this year’s vote first time, I didn’t know if I’d even be able to side the LGBT community and talk to peo- looks more promising. make it home that night. It’s a process that’s ple and find out that they support our com- Republicans nix This marks the first time that the “yes” taken years to deal with.” Wile no two situa- munity.” The group shouted sayings such as votes are ahead, and 14 presbyteries that tions are identical, having an outlet in which “We’re here, we’re queer, we’re fabulous – Colorado civil-union voted against the policy change the last they can openly discuss their feelings with- come march with us!” They held signs that legislation time around have switched sides. “We stand out fear of judgment is integral. “I had a lot of read “Love is the Answer,” “Irish Lesbian for at a remarkable moment in the life of the friends before I came out, but those friends Peace,” and “Hate is a 4 letter word.” Despite Boulder, CO – Republicans on Colorado’s Presbyterian Church,” Adee said. “We are never knew the real me,” Vince said. “When I the enthusiasm of many of the JTIMA House Judiciary Committee voted against just 13 votes from ratification of the poli- came here, it was like a switch went off. I now members, others in the LGBT communi- a civil unions bill 6-5 March 31after sev- cy change, , , But this isn’t just about policy have so many real, close and good friends ty chose to stand on the sidelines including en hours of passionate testimony from both change, it’s really about cultural change. It’s who understand who I am and accept me.” MassEquality. Coleman said she felt that re- sides. The Colorado Civil Unions Act would about people understanding that LGBT peo- (Philadelphia Gay News Jen Colletta at epgn. gardless of the lack of participation, “[w]hat have provided gay couples the protections ple can be faithful Christians, good ministers com) we hope to be doing is showing a way to con- and responsibilities of marriage, including and officers in the church.”(Philadelphia Gay front that bigotry...to be able to put forward the ability to make end-of-life medical deci- News – Jen Colletta at epgn.com) Boston holds alternate, our message of equality and peace. I think sions for a partner. that resonates with more people than not.” “I believe this law will provide the justice Philly gay married inclusive parade for (Bay Windows – Rachel Kossman at baywin- that so many families of Colorado deserve,” St. Pat’s Day dows.com) bill sponsor Rep. Mark Ferrandino told the men group Denver Daily News. Republicans, howev- celebrates 20 years Boston, MA – It was Sunday morning, March Magazine launched er, argued that civil unions should only be 20, and a varied crowd gathered in anxious passed via ballot initiative. Philadelphia, PA – The men involved with anticipation of the St. Patrick’s Day parade, for LGBT military Democrats on the House Judiciary the Gay and Married Men’s Association run a Boston tradition since 1901 that has be- members Committee and pro-gay activists told the the gamut – gay, bi, married, divorced, sepa- come the second largest St. Patrick’s Day Denver Daily News that it is “only a matter of rated, partnered – but despite their differenc- celebration in the country. Most were decked Washington, D.C. – On March 28, an LGBT time until the entire U.S. legalizes civil unions es, the members have found an unmatched in green, but what wasn’t on the minds of service member group launched the first is- or marriages for gay couples.” t (365Gay. sense of camaraderie through their shared most of the estimated half million people sue of an online magazine for gays in the com – Jennifer Vanasco)
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 7 tions the bill is bad law. That position wide- bill would not be amended, was to kill the bill. the initiates could ever possibly have any in- ly disseminated in letters and on the web is They returned from Annapolis certain terest in making these rules easier to learn.” summarized here: that their voices had been heard yet unsure of “Our bill was sent to the Rules Committee “HB235’s omission of public accommoda- the final result. They asked allies to write and – which is tantamount to procedurally killing tions is a flaw that will not easily be remedied to call. The next day the Washington Blade the bill for this year,” Equality Maryland com- City Desk in the future. All previous anti-discrimination reported that “Frosh said his office was “in- plained. That is the first time since February view from Mt Vernon Dana LaRocca bills have included public accommodations undated” on Monday by calls from transgen- that they acknowledged it was “their bill.” protections and that omission in this bill will der activists opposed to the bill because it Hitherto they claimed it was a product of in the future be seen as a legislative intent has been stripped of a provision banning dis- Delegate Pena-Melnyk. Sleeping to create a second class of citizenship for crimination against transgender persons in Senator Brian Frosh is the Co-Chair of transgender Marylanders. We are interested the area of public accommodations.” the rules committee and he is taking the heat with the Enemy in justice. By denying equal access to pub- “They are livid that that was taken out and along with Senate President Thomas Mike lic accommodations HB235 denies the digni- oppose the bill,” the Blade reported Frosh as Miller who was responsible for sending it to HB235, the Gender Identity Anti- ty of an entire class of persons. saying of the transgender opponents. the committee. Discrimination bill, passed the House of “Out of respect for the dignity of human Meanwhile, unbeknownst to transgender Both Senators are considered progres- Delegates by an 86-52 margin on Saturday persons, HB235 must be rejected, and we opponents or to Equality Maryland the bill had sive democrats with Senator Frosh received March 26. Now it was clear to transgender must not consider such legislation until such already landed in the Senate Rules Committee, a score of 92 and Senator Miller received activists in opposition to the bill that it was time that it includes the same protections for which is considered a graveyard for legislation. a score of 73 by Progressive Maryland last time to sleep with the enemy. The pivot- transgender persons as the law does for all For opponents like TransMaryland and Trans- year. But in the world of LGBT politics being al senator they sought to engage was Brian other classes of citizens. We are all entitled United this was seen as an indication that their progressive doesn’t count for votes as we Frosh who it is rumored had stymied pas- to the same goods inherent in social practice. work for the last several weeks had paid off. saw in the recent marriage debacle. sage of the bill in past years. This year, how- That is what social justice means.” For them it was a mere nail in the coffin. But for As of the date of this writing HB235 has ever, he was on the record as a supporter. Mr. Brewster took notes during the vis- Equality Maryland its supporters it was seen as passed from the Rules committee to the Transgender opponents of HB235 visit- it and said that he would forward them to a betrayal. Judicial Proceedings Committee. Opponents ed with Senator Frosh’s Legislative Assistant Senator Frosh. This was in stark contrast to Equality Maryland shouted at the senate hope it will die a happy death in that com- David Brewster the following Monday and a visit with Senator Madaleno’s office where from their Facebook page “Play by the rules!” mittee. But this is Maryland; where the politi- explained why the transgender community aide Adam Fogel took no notes and repeat- But this game is politics and as Hermann cal tide can change overnight as we saw with was opposed to the bill. Those of you who ed the Equality Maryland stance like a par- Hesse observed in The Glass Bead Game, the now you see it now you don t of marriage have followed this story know that the stance rot. The conversations outside of the one “The only way to learn the rules of this Game equality. Transgender opponents to HB235 of the transgender community that opposes with Senator Frosh’s office were coinciden- of games is to take the usual prescribed cours- must now learn how to build a coalition, hav- HB235 is that without public accommoda- tal. The goal, once it was determined that the es, which requires many years; and none of ing learned first how to dismantle one. t
8 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com thin king out lOUD Prepping for the Win There is no ci y more A personal guide to walking toward justice
By Rev. Meredith Moise religions of our choice but that does not give Divine han Bal imore. The 2011 legislative session in the Maryland people the green light to challenge our right General Assembly began on a very high to live based on their particular understand- Kinda kitschy. Kinda funky. Defi nitely quirky. And always ready note for our community. As a marriage bill ing of their sacred scriptures. We can no lon- and gender identity protection bill sped ger stand by while people demonize us in to welcome you with open arms. That’s Baltimore, the town that through, our community remained hopeful the public arena based on what they believe that we would finally make significant gains their god is telling them to say. This type of inspires John Waters—and will absolutely captivate you. Start on two of the most prominent issues facing bigotry is completely abhorrent and we must our community. continue to promote and champion our lives with the American Visionary Art Museum, where you can gaze As the session comes to a close, many of through strong and confident discussion. us are bitter and disappointed that these bills Cleaning out our closets: our biggest en- upon a larger-than-life statue of Divine, starlet of Hairspray, did not pass. And although it may seem easy emy is not the right wing or Pat Robinson. for seasoned activists and lobbyists to say, Our biggest enemy is us. Internal ho- Polyester and other memorable films. Then explore eclectic “We will try again next year,” the truth is that mophobia and transphobia are very big our community must prepare for the possi- problems in the LGBT community. We con- neighborhoods like Hampden, Fell’s Point and Federal Hill. Take ble passage of both of these bills in the next tinue to contribute to our own dehumaniza- General Assembly session. Each of us has tion by demoralizing each other. Our com- in a Broadway show, then hit the town a responsibility to pave the way for our com- munity continues to be fractured along racial munity to win marriage and socio economic lines. for an evening of dinner and drinks and gender identity pro- These divisions will surely tections in Maryland. be magnified by our open in the chic Mount Vernon District, Here is a quick look at enemies and exploited for how each reader can set their purposes. Decide to the heart of Baltimore’s thriving the stage for victory on a change the tide by start- personal level: ing with your own heart gay community. To learn more, Begin to tell your and mind. What type of story to loved ones, internal homophobia and call 1-877-Bal imore or friends and neighbors: transphobia are you har- no one knows your life and struggles bet- boring inside? Have you contributed to ra- visit Bal imore.org/lgb . ter than you do. We must now begin to be cial tensions in the LGBT community by your who we are and tell people about who we words, thoughts or actions? We must search are. Much of the ignorance spouted on the our own hearts and minds for the answers. floor of the General Assembly regarding Change really begins and ends with these bills is the result of gay and transgen- the individual. It is very easy for people to der people not sharing our stories with loved blame others for the state of our communi- ones, neighbors and friends. Let’s start tell- ty today. However, we each have a part in ing our friends and family why legal commit- making these victories possible. We should ments are important to us, why protections never leave our fate in the hands of others. regarding gender identity are significant and Ultimately, we are in control. why our lives matter. Please don’t take for Our diligent efforts to enlighten our fel- granted that people know our stories. They low Marylanders about our lives will surely do not! Tell your truth! be the decisive tactic in our struggle for full Challenge religious dogma that supports and equal rights in the Free State. Each of the dehumanization and demonization of us has a responsibility to work toward jus- LGBT people: tice. No one is too small to work for freedom. We must make it unacceptable for people In the human rights/ civil rights struggles to use religious bias to discriminate against of the 50s and 60s, young and old, men and us in public and private. It is completely in- women, Black, white, yellow, brown and red appropriate to use one’s religious beliefs people were all involved in turning the tide to spread hatred and lies against us. We against Jim Crow. Every person’s effort was should skillfully and respectfully challenge important and gave the movement the mo- those in our environment who question our mentum and energy to move forward. Our humanity based on what their pastor, priest, struggle parallels these great movements “Divine” sculpture by Andrew Logan minister or other religious professional said in human history. We all have a voice to on any day of the week. And yes, the Bill of change Maryland. Let us use it to create a Celebra e Bal imore Pride, June 18-19, 2011 • Learn more a Bal imore.org/lgb . Rights gives us the freedom to practice the more fair and just place. t
8043_BACVA_Divine_BmoreOutLoud_4-11.indd 1 3/16/11 4:07 PM BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 9 thinking out lOUD
O.K. The Confession I want to confess how you make me sweat Especially at night I hold onto the memories that has made this moment not all By O.N.E. I. alright I have a confession. I need to tell you that It’s something I never thought I’d have to do. I am sick I am tired I am literally loosing weight …but first, before I let you know my inner most feelings because of our first date you have to promise to remain true. I can’t tell you how I wish this would not be happening I’m babbling I mean, remain honest and raw as a fortune telling guru. but I mean, well...I have a confession I need to confess and I don’t want you to feel like your response has to make a that I have undressed you a million times positive impression. already knowing yet ignoring the signs
I mean I’ve known this for quite some time see I could not admit then but for some reason it kept slipping my mind what I definitely know now or I told myself I couldn’t find the place or the right its like diarrhea and I’m running around just to end up words under mounds of doubt and guilt like I didn’t want to say all of the things you have ever heard. I have built another world within myself I am finally ready to confess all of the reasons why So, I’ve felt like I was unworthy I will confess this to you and only you this secret has drove me expose every hole in my breast and if you choose to walk away it’s cool to hurt you and countless others would you from lovers to wives and children unborn look beyond the markings on my chest? ’cause I’ve rehearsed every response that a fool my inner wrath is as a woman’s scorn would you like me deserves…my nerves. still call me and care for me without performing a patch test see I have been wanting to tell someone for so long I know the brutal truth will set me apart but I can’t bare for any of you so let me start by apologizing for breaking your heart to tell me i’m wrong rather and that these are the con- your unrealistic expectations sequences for my actions I apologize for not resisting temptations The Rowan Tree Tavern I just wanted to share with I am contrite for accepting your unsolicited invitation hopes of feeling the mere causing your respiratory to be labored in respiration BALTIMORE’S satisfaction I am trapped in a white cell seeking inspiration R ALTERNATIVE T of clearing my conscience EMIE AVER so that we may deal with I DID NOT ASK YOU TO FEEL ANYTHING FOR ME! PR N each other without a cha- I DO NOT WANT YOUR PITY! rade of non-sense I NEED YOU TO LISTEN TO MY CONFESSION!
I have been trying to avoid DID YOU HEAR WHAT I JUST SAID? judgmental thoughts, pitiful wonders, curious THE CONFESSION I JUST MADE! looks, CAUGHT UP IN MY WORDS I JUST TOLD YOU I HAVE and unforgiving stares A.I.D.S.! this is why I have been so scared ! AND NONE OF YOU HEARD MY WORDS EVERYBODY’S BAR BECAUSE AND ALL OF YOU JUST SAW MY SHELL All People are Created Equal Members of to confess this AND NONE OF YOU COULD REALLY TELL even to myself WHAT THE HELL I WAS TRYING TO CONVEY... ONE HUMAN FAMILY WHAT I REALLY WANT TO SAY, IS THAT I ... that i am not damaged WANT TO LIVE I AM AFRAID TO DIE. VISIT WWW.THEROWANTREE.NET goods I should SO I CONFESS TO YOU ALL WHAT SO MANY WILL NOT And Join our Mailing List to keep up on The Tree News & Events. not be defined by a simple EVER UTTER blood test 1633 S. CHARLES STREET FEDERAL HILL | 410.468.0550 if I could I HAVE HIV AND I AM LIVING WITH FULL BLOWN A.I.D.S. FREE OFF STREET PARKING help what I am about to IT’S SOMETHING I THOUGHT I’D NEVER HAVE TO DO confess STAND BEFORE THE MASSES AND ADMIT THIS SO THAT if I could YOU ALL CAN GET A CLUE t
10 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com thinking out lOUD Running for GOP Nod Bringing the a Fool’s Errand? Community Back
By Peter Rosenstein cause anyone who really continues to think “Dress Up, Not Act Up” is the new slogan ty who didn’t attend their prom because they Washington Blade we are the devil incarnate won’t vote for him for four lesbian women in Baltimore’s LGBT fear facing discrimination whether from their It’s [a week after] April Fools’ Day 2011 and anyway. community: Melinda Anderson, Janika Peay, school, friends or family. we are at the starting line of the 2012 pres- As we look beyond the presidential pri- Lisa Williams, Shaisa Williams. “As lesbians So let’s go back in time to all the things idential campaign. Some people on both maries, the Republicans have the same prob- in the LGBT community we saw the need you expected to see at your prom, from the sides of the aisle may think it’s a fool’s er- lem this year that Democrats have often had. for a change,” said Janika Peay, one of the black ties and tuxes, gowns, good food, live rand but clearly there are enough fools out Democratic progressives of the more liber- co-founders of Strapped Up Entertainment- there willing to put on their running shoes. al persuasion make up most of their prima- -S.U.E. for short. “We took notice that a lot “So let’s go back in President Obama is on a tear to ry voters and conserva- of things that were offered to the LGBT com- raise another fortune but this time it tives of the most extreme munity as a whole have been taken away, so time to all the things seems he will look to rich people as make up most of the we decided to try to help make a difference.” you expected to see at well as the Internet. He is going all Republican primary vote. Working on bringing the LGBT commu- out to appeal to business and even Add the Tea Party mem- nity back together will be a big job, and they your prom...” suggested bringing a neighborly cake bers to the Republican know this. Shaisa Williams said, “We want to the Chamber of Commerce might primary mix and they to bring the community back to where it was local entertainment and even the photogra- have helped earlier. So why not haul can get a whole bunch years ago, not divided as it is now.” So out pher to record your night on film. in some of their money? Republican of Sharon Angles and of this feeling the women had, Strapped Up This event will be taking place on April candidates are beginning to set up “I’m not a witch” Christine Entertainment was born. 16, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Gala Center in exploratory committees as the way to O’Donnells as their can- S.U.E. will be hosting events through- Windsor Mill, Maryland. Ticket prices are test the waters and see if they sink or didates. Democrats could out the year. Their very first event will be $40 per person or $65 per couple. BYOB. swim. Some of them better have their then end up with a lot of Baltimore’s first LGBT prom. The reason You must be over 21 with an ID. You can pur- lifevests on. accidental senators like they chose to do this event was that there chase tickets online at www.strappedupent. Democrats know who their can- Michelle Bachmann Chris Coons (D-Del.). were so many people in the LGBT communi- com. t didate for president will be. So the Taking that race as entertainment will be watching the an example I would sug- Republican candidates fight it out. Rep. gest to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Michelle Bachman who thinks that Lexington Committee that they recruit strong candi- and Concord and Paul Revere’s ride oc- dates – rich ones if possible – because we curred in New Hampshire and Sarah Palin, have seen in 2010 that anything can happen who thinks, well I guess she must at times. on the way to the Senate. Tim Pawlenty who has been testing the wa- And then there are our LGBT organi- ters for months announced recently that he zations. Wouldn’t it be great if they could is going from dipping his big toe in the wa- play nice for two years and work together? ter to putting his whole foot in – or is it in his Maybe they can call a truce to the compe- mouth? Then there are the Donald and the tiveness long enough to produce a com- Newt. Those two would make a great tick- prehensive plan to elect more members of et; two adulterers, six wives between them, Congress who both believe in and will vote running on a family friendly morality ticket. for our rights. There are so many smart peo- Wouldn’t that be fun and it’s not even an April ple in these organizations but sometimes it Fools’ joke. seems as if their only role is to see who can One thing the frontrunners for the get more press or TV time. If the talent at Republican Party presidential nomination HRC, the Task Force, Equality Matters, and have in common is that they are all appar- GetEQUAL, among others could join hands, ently uncomfortable with the LGBT com- just think what they could accomplish. I don’t munity and are against us getting married. expect Log Cabin or Stonewall to join this So much so that they think it is a great idea sewing circle because their roles are politi- to say it loud and often. Now I know that cally defined by party. But the others could President Obama isn’t for our marrying yet combine resources and brain power and either but at least he has come out for the make a real difference in our world. repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and The world is changing and I think the asked his Justice Department not to defend LGBT community is changing with it. Some it in the courts. We can only hope he will fully are now part of the establishment. But for the “evolve” before the elections. Viewing 2012 next two years our goal shouldn’t be to sup- from this distance he is so tied to the LGBT port the few in the establishment, but rather community now that he might as well sup- to make all of us free to live our lives in digni- port full human and civil rights for us be- ty with our human and civil rights secured. t
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 11 No two people are alike. HEAH LT AND WELLNESS upper respiratory infections, also known as URI’s, also known as colds. Many business- Some lie about flossing. es have been affected by the large num- ber of people unable to come to work due to Open Wide these nasty…viruses. ask Dr Eva Joe, who ever said calling an illness a vi- Some brush more than 3 times a day. Dr Eva Hersh rus means it’s not serious? HIV is a virus, so are Hepatitis B and C, so is polio! The main thing a medical professional usually means when they tell a patient they have a virus is This Cold not, “You’re not really sick.” What they mean is, “Unfortunately, antibiotics won’t cure this.” A lot of problems have been caused by And, some haven’t seen the inside of a dentist’s office isn’t Common overprescribing of antibiotics. Much of that overprescribing has been done by doctors since the Discman was the latest in portable music. who found it easier to go ahead and write the Dear Dr. Eva, prescription rather than take the time to ex- I have been sick for over a month with a plain to the patient why it won’t be useful. On phlegm-y cough and just overwhelming fa- the individual level, antibiotics cause prob- tigue. I’ve used up all my sick time. My doc- lems because, while they don’t touch the vi- tor won’t give me an antibiotic. Don’t you rus, they do kill off the friendly normal bac- think that’s ridiculous? Colds don’t last this teria in the gut, resulting in diarrhea, and long, do they? What do you recommend? in the vagina, resulting in yeast infections. Sick of Being Sick (The best thing for that yeast infection is over-the-counter 1% clotrimazole cream, Dear Dr. Eva, sold as Gyne-Lotrimin and other brands. If I’ve been sick since February with a that doesn’t clear it up, please get an exam cough and major weakness. I have to force to make sure it’s not something worse than myself to go to work, then I come home and a yeast infection.) On the population level, collapse on the couch. Even my dog is dis- prescribing too many antibiotics has led to gusted with me, never mind my partner! My dangerous resistant bacteria like MRSA, the doctor gave me a course of a long-acting dangerous infection sometimes referred to in erythromycin-type antibiotic, but it doesn’t the tabloids as “flesh-eating bacteria.” seem to have touched it. I got a chest X-ray So what can you do? Rest, mainly. Sleep which was read as normal, but I know there’s 2 hours more a night than you usually do. At Chase Brexton Health Services, something wrong. Can you recommend a Drink lots of non-caffeinated fluids because we know the dentist’s office is rarely a favorite place. stronger antibiotic? Don’t tell me this is a vi- cough causes fluid loss. (Caffeine is a diuret- rus, I’m seriously sick! ic and will make you lose more fluids.) Try Need your help! to go easy on yourself and do only what re- But with dentists and hygienists who love what they do, Joe ally must be done now, until you feel better. Understand that yes, you are really sick and Chase Brexton has everything to make even the most Dear Dr. Eva, this is what sick time is for. And wait it out. reluctant teeth feel good about the dentist. I developed a sore throat over a month If you have a fever over 101 that lasts reluctant teeth feel good about the dentist. ago, When it lasted more than 10 days, I 3 days or longer, if you are short of breath, went to an urgent care center and got some if you cannot drink fluids, or if you are wor- Amoxacillin in case it was strep. Now I still ried for any reason, please do see your pri- For an appointment, call 410-837-2050. have the sore throat, I’m coughing all night, mary care health professional. But if they tell and I have a yeast infection from the antibi- you “It’s a virus”, understand you’re not be- otics! I can’t afford another visit to the urgent ing told you’re not sick. The current crop of Primary Care | Behavioral Health | Dental Services | Specialized Services care center. Is there something I can use viruses are mean ones! t over the counter? Dr. Eva Hersh is Chief Medical Officer Suzie Q at Chase Brexton Health Services. Send questions to [email protected], Dear Suzie Q, Joe, SBS, and many others: or to Eva Hersh MD, Chase Brexton Health This winter (now spring) we are seeing Services, 1001 Cathedral St., Baltimore, MD some truly impressive and long-lasting viral 21201
Complete health care, completely about you.
12 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com excited about the good things that come from achieving the goal; negatively motivat- ed people are strongly focused on avoiding pain, failure, disapproval, or punishment. For Getting example: a positively motivated person con- Unstuck vinces herself to save money because own- Gerry Fisher ing a house will feel secure, comforting, and fun; a negatively motivated person convinc- es herself that she needs to avoid homeless- ness and stop wasting rent money. Let’s Get Finally, understand that maintaining mo- tivation over time is a matter of focus. Motivated! As an example, let’s say that I’m recommend- ing a project for you. Then, I draw your attention Everyone agrees that it’s easier to do some- to the fact that you’d be in pain and discomfort thing when you’re already feeling really moti- daily, your social life will be almost non-existent, vated to do it. But getting motivated? Or stay- you’ll make no money for years, and you’re likely ing motivated over time? That’s when we hear to look oddly obsessive to others. a lot of unhelpful advice and mixed messages. So, feel like doing it? Me neither! In my work as a life coach, I’ve noticed But what if I told you that you would devel- that everyone gets motivated in slightly differ- op extraordinary skill, you’d have a great body, ent ways. But I’ve also noticed some helpful you’d be a recognized winner, and you’d have a general approaches to motivation that I’d like great chance at winning an Olympic gold med- to share with you. al – which will lead to national adoration, TV First, it’s helpful to avoid the cart-before- appearances, fame, and lots of money? the-horse trap. Early in my work with clients, Does that sound more interesting to you? I help them to stop waiting until they feel mo- Of course it does! But realize that the negative tivated to get started. If they take the first few and the positive are both true. It’s all about steps toward the goal – regardless of how giving more attention and energy to the part they feel – then motivation slowly builds; it of the truth that motivates you. Regular meet- follows taking action. ings with a mentor or life coach can really help If you’re having a really hard time get- you to stay keenly aware of the reasons why ting going, then make this deal with yourself: you’re working toward your goals, giving you “I’ll try it for a half hour. If at the end of the energy, purpose, and sustained drive. half hour I’m totally hating it, then I give my- As one last note before wrapping up, I self permission to stop.” Studies in Positive think that LGBT people who have been out Psychology show that people are very sat- for a while have an advantage with focus and isfied once they are working intensely on a motivation. We know what it’s like to resist project. Once you “get into it,” you’re highly pressure from others to focus on their neg- likely to feel pretty good. ative opinions about our sexuality. Instead, Next, I encourage a client to have a conver- we have discovered the power of keeping a sation with himself as a way to boost motiva- strong focus on the love, family, health, and tion. The purpose of this chat is to remind your- community that we derive from our sexuality. self of the good benefits of reaching your goals. We have great potential when it comes to To convince yourself, it’s helpful to know maintaining motivation. Let’s just make sure we if you are positively motivated or negatively are using our powers for our own good – reaching motivated. Positively motivated people get our goals and building our happiest gay lives. t
ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS
Let us help you acquire Local Company Serving Utilize our Equipment the vehicles and Greater Baltimore Area & Commercial Vehicle equipment you need to Businesses for over Lease Finance Solutions grow your business 35 years
CALL NANCY OR ALLAN: 1.800.733.5529 OR EMAIL: [email protected] | WWW.MadisonCapital.COM
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 13 FAITH Catholics for Equality Responds Introducing the Byzantine Rite to Conservative Leaders Old Catholic Church
Catholics for Equality, a national organiza- not confused about is that bishops are chan- By Daniel J. Romanos gle or married, gay or straight – as prepara- tion of Catholics who put their faith into ethi- neling vast amounts of money into anti- Blessings and Peace! The Byzantine Rite Old tion to ordination), our Wedding/Holy Union/ cal and effective political action on behalf of equality political campaigns and that these Catholic Church is a welcoming and affirming Pastoral Care services, and the LGBT community and their families, is financial reports are not making it into our independent religious community established Gargoyle‘s Paranormal Investigations (my voicing concern over an orchestrated effort parish bulletins. While Catholic parishes according to the Canonical precepts of the psychic research facility established in 1984). by conservative leaders within our church and schools continue to close due to lack of Declaration of Utrecht, the 19th Century bish- Our outreach to the LGBT community to frame the growing su- funding, in 2009, Catholic ops of the Roman Catholic Church who ob- comes as an outgrowth of our continued mis- permajority of pro-equali- bishops nationwide sent jected to the doctrine of papal infallibility an- sion to my own beloved Goth/Darkwave ty Catholics in America as over a half-million dol- nounced at the First Vatican Council. subculture, as we continue to reach out “confused.” The group also lars in funds from parish We carry valid Apostolic Succession to those individuals and groups who expressed concerns over collection plates to strip via the late Archbishop Joseph have been made to feel unwelcome parish funds being used same-gender couples in Renee Vilatte (Old Catholic Church by larger, institutionalized churches. by our bishops to fuel an- Maine their right to civil in America, Independent Catholic All are invited to join us in celebration ti-gay political campaigns across the country marriage. Church of Ceylon), Metropolitan of the Divine Liturgy, each Sunday at and calls for greater financial transparency. Catholics for Equality believes this is Andrei Prazsky (Autocephalous 1 p.m. at our Old Catholic Cathedral of “Two polls reaffirming vast Catholic sup- just the tip of the iceberg to the behind-the- Slavonic Orthodox Catholic Church Saint Antony the Great (in the sanctu- port for an end to discrimination based on scenes fundraising U.S. bishops are or- in North and South America, American ary of the First Unitarian UC building, sexual orientation and gender identity does chestrating for anti-gay political groups and Orthodox Catholic Church, Ukrainian 12 W. Franklin St, in downtown Baltimore). not suggest ‘confusion’ on an issue,” re- candidates. Orthodox Church in Exile) and Bishop Jason Together let us experience the Holy Mysteries marked Catholics for Equality Executive Last year, Archbishop Nienstedt of St. Fox (Old Calendar Hellenic Orthodox Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom, in the Director Phil Attey. “These polls show that Paul and Minneapolis spent over a million in Diaspora). I also previously served as na- words of the early Church Fathers, “God be- pro-equality American Catholics are clear in dollars (from an “unnamed donor” to sup- tional chancellor of the North American Old came man, that we might become gods.” our beliefs. Our eyes are wide open and we port the Republican candidate for governor Catholic Church (Archbishop Michael V. Contact the Church through our website: know what we see!” who opposed civil marriage equality in their Seneco) of Washington, DC. www.church.revdanielromanos.com, email Catholics for Equality applauds two re- state. Catholics in Minnesota protested the Ministries of our Church include our sem- [email protected], or tele- cent polls that show vast and rapidly grow- Archbishop’s political involvement, not only inary, Saint Ieronymos School of Theology phone: 443-691-4926. t ing American Catholic support for LGBT in the public square and in the media, but ul- (offering one-on-one instruction and dis- The author is the Church’s Metropolitan equal rights. A March 18, 2011 poll, released timately at the ballot box. tance learning for men and women – sin- Archbishop “Catholics deserve to know where our “It’s time for financial money is going and what our bishops are do- ing behind closed doors,” says Attey. “We’re The Byzantine Rite Old Catholic Church is pleased to announce the opening of our Cathedral of Saint Antony transparency on well aware of the strong ties between our Join us every Sunday 1:00 PM at Divine Liturgy at First Unitarian UC, 12 W. Franklin Street Church funding of bishops and ‘suspected hate groups’ like the (corner of Charles and Franklin Streets in Downtown Baltimore). For more information, anti-gay political National Organization for Marriage (NOM) contact [email protected] or 443-691-4926. but our bishops and these groups are be- http://church.revdanielromanos.com campaigns” ing tight lipped when it comes to their polit- ical coordination and financial relationship. by ABC News and the Washington Post They owe it to us, Catholics in the pews, to showed that 63% of American Catholics be transparent about those efforts and rela- support same-gender civil marriage. A tionships, especially when it comes to our March 22, 2011 poll conducted by the Public money.” Religion Research Institute showed 71% of The National Organization for Marriage Americans support same-gender civil mar- is a multi-million dollar political campaign, riage, and 73% support legislation to end currently under investigation by the Southern LGBT-related workplace discrimination. Poverty Law Center for continued use of mis- “Vatican officials, U.S. bishops and paid information, with the intention to demonize lobbyists for state Catholic Conferences are an oppressed segment of society. The SPLC all frustrated that American Catholics are not ruling on NOM as an official hate group is ex- blindly following the heavy handed dictates pected to come out later this spring. from Rome, telling us not to support the well- Catholics for Equality was founded in being our LGBT family, parish and commu- 2010 to support, educate, and mobilize nity members. And now that they’ve realized Catholics in the advancement of freedom they’ve lost that battle, they’re trying to frame and equality at the federal, state, and lo- our conviction as confusion. It doesn’t take a cal levels for our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and rocket-scientist to see who’s confused here.” transgender family, parish and community Another issue American Catholics are members. t
14 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com AGrace Reconciling CongregationUnited with M Openethodist Hearts, Open Minds, Church Open Doors
Each Wednesday through April 13, 7:30AM Communion in the chapel, followed by breakfast. Come before work and leave after breakfast at 8:00AM. PALM PASSION SUNDAY, APRIL 17 8:30AM Early Worship 10:00AM Principle Worship Celebration followed by an Easter Egg Hunt for the children MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 21 7:30AM Communion followed by breakfast — replaces Communion of April 20. 12:00PM Communion 7:30PM Service in the Sanctuary with Holy Communion GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 22 12:00PM Service with Choral presentation of “The Seven Last Words” by Dubois EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 24 8:30AM Early Worship 10:00AM Principle Worship Celebration with Brass and Choirs SAVE THE DATE: SUNDAY, MAY 22 10:00AM First Reconciling Service, details to follow PRESBYTERIAN 5407 N Charles StreetCHURCH at Northern Parkway AN INCLUSIVE410.433.6650 AND PROGRESSIVE | www.GraceUnitedMethodist.org CHURCH COMMUNITY. www.govanspres.org
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AN INCLUSIVE AND PROGRESSIVE CHURCH COMMUNITY. www.govanspres.org
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 15 Live ly Arts // OUT ON SCREEN Elizabeth Taylor: A Legacy Byck Chu Duncan known for her humanitarian efforts in the early stages of On March 23rd the world lost a legend, a screen icon for all time, the AIDS crisis. There has been debate as to who the one of the last remaining true stars of Hollywood’s golden era. first celebrity was to bring AIDS to the forefront and Joan Elizabeth Taylor – the press dubbed her Liz, but to her Rivers actually held the first major benefit, with friends like friends she was always Elizabeth – started a film career in Charles Nelson Reilly, in 1984 that raised $45,000. 1942 at the age of 10 in the movie There’s One Born In 1985, Taylor Every Minute. She became a star the following year “One has to wonder was asked to orga- co-starring with Roddy McDowall and a collie in nize a benefit for AIDS Lassie Come Home. She appeared in films clas- where we would be Project LA and through sic – National Velvet, Father of the Bride, A Place today with HIV/AIDS her personal connec- in the Sun, Giant, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Suddenly, tions was able to as- Last Summer, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf – and education and research semble such lumi- notorious – Cleopatra (which nearly bankrupted had it not been for naries as Betty Ford, Twentieth Century-Fox), The V.I.P.s, Boom! (one of Shirley Maclaine, Burt John Waters’ favorites). She won an Oscar for her Elizabeth Taylor.” Lancaster, Diahann performance in Butterfield 8, and some say not for Carroll, Rod Stewart, her acting but for surviving a near-death experience. Stevie Wonder, Cher, George Hamilton, Angie Dickinson, She endured personal scandals – stealing Eddie Fisher Heather Locklear, Tommy Lee, Morgan Fairchild and Dack from Debbie Reynolds then dumping him for Richard Burton Rambo to raise over $1 million in a single night. – and eight marriages to seven different men, as well as de- After that event and the death of her friend Rock Hudson, pendency on alcohol and a variety of drugs as a result of the first major celebrity to die from AIDS, Taylor co-founded her many health issues. Through all the highs and lows, the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) with Elizabeth Taylor was still admired as Hollywood royalty. Dr. Michael Gottlieb and Dr. Mathilde Krim. Taylor put her But there was more to Elizabeth Taylor, movie star, icon, heart and soul into these efforts and didn’t care what anyone entrepreneur. thought of her. Remember, this was at a time when President Over the last 30 years, between minor movie and TV Ronald Reagan wouldn’t even say the word AIDS when the ly-needed support services for people with HIV/AIDS. roles (trivia – she was the voice of Maggie Simpson when disease became a national epidemic. She also founded the In 2006, through her foundation and with the support of she uttered her first word), Taylor became almost as well- Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation in 1993 to provide critical- Macy’s, she commissioned a “Care Van” that was equipped with examination tables and x-ray equipment which traveled to New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and she // OUT ON STAGE donated $40,000 to the NO/AIDS Task Force serving those in the New Orleans area affected by HIV/AIDS. Taylor was also able to exercise her star power in 2007 by appearing with James Earl Jones in a staged reading of TOTEM Comes to Town the play Love Letters with the goal of raising $1 million for Cirque du Soleil brings the production TOTEM to are projected. Set designer Carl Fillion gave it curves and Taylor’s AIDS foundation. Baltimore with its exciting high-flying, acrobatic, athletic non-linear forms to reflect the natural world. The staging coincided with the Hollywood writers strike performances. The word “totem” contains the idea of the order of spe- and rather than cross a picket line for the benefit, Taylor re- TOTEM traces the fascinating journey of the human cies. We carry in our bodies the potential of all species, all quested a “one night dispensation” from the Writers Guild. species from its original amphib- the way to our desire to fly - like the thunderbird at the top of The Guild agreed not to picket the Paramount Pictures lot ian state to its ultimate desire to the totem pole. t that night, and over 500 people attended the performance fly. The characters evolve on a TOTEM runs through April 24 and appears under the at $2,500 a ticket. Taylor was also honored by the Academy stage evoking a giant turtle, the Grand Chapiteau at the Westport Waterfront. Tickets: 1-800- of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1992 with the Jean symbol of origin for many ancient 450-1480, www.cirquedusoleil.com. Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her HIV/AIDS work. civilizations. One has to wonder where we would be today with HIV/ Inspired by many founding AIDS education and research had it not been for Elizabeth myths, TOTEM illustrates, through Taylor. a visual and acrobatic language, Former President Bill Clinton said at her death, the evolutionary progress of spe- “Elizabeth’s legacy will live on in many people around the cies. Somewhere between sci- world whose lives will be longer and better because of her ence and legend TOTEM explores work and the ongoing efforts of those she inspired,” but I the ties that bind Man to other spe- think Taylor’s life and legacy are perfectly summed up by cies, his dreams and his infinite a line from her Hersholt Award acceptance speech, “I call potential. upon you to draw from the depths of your being – to prove The visual environment of that we are a human race, to prove that our love outweighs TOTEM is an organic world, a our need to hate, that our compassion is more compelling marsh lined with reeds near an is- than our need to blame.” land (the stage), on which images Lovely words from a lovely woman. t
16 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com Live ly Arts // BEAT BOX
strong on the nation’s gay dance floors, includes remixes from three current faves: Mike Cruz, Mickey Springing into Clubs but its her latest track featuring party rap- Friedman and Twisted Dee. “It Doesn’t Matter” is more than per Snoop Dogg that might just propel a hands-in-the-air dance romp. It speaks against racial and Bym Jim y Newsum Emii to superstar levels. “Mr. Romeo” is high powered dance sexual discrimination and urges listeners to appreciate dif- Spring is in the air and with it comes love, flowers, and color- romp with playful lyrics that flip the idea of what it means to ferences and celebrate diversity – all while dancing your ass ful new beats. Here are some of the best new dance tracks find Mr. Right. According to the song, romance is not about off, of course. springing life into gay clubs this season. landing the guy. It’s about taking off, flying high, and enjoying the ride. Most gay clubbers will take Emii’s message to heart. ‘Fade’ ‘World’s Away’ Kristine W A iden Leslie (featuring Farrah Burns) ‘Gave Up on Love’ There is a reason Billboard After a two-year hiatus from music, hip-pop artist Aiden Kelli Magazine named Kristine W Leslie returns to clubs with a slick groove track that examines Working to shed the school girl image she is known for from one of the top three dance human struggle and its aftermath. Its sexy vibe, catchy hook Bravo-TV’s NYC Prep, Kelli’s very grown-up “Gave Up on artists of the decade, behind and gangsta rap rhymes, courtesy of Farrah Burns, may be Love” shines the light on the erotic intensity of young ro- Beyonce and Madonna. She the beginning of a new movement mance. Its sassy lyrics (“Staring at the stupid phone, dy- has had fifteen number one in dance uniting rap with groove. It ing for him to call”), thumping beats by remixing greats like Billboard dance hits and is tied has certainly resonated with club Michael Grant, Tony Moran and Warren Rigg, and soaring with Mariah Carey for most fans, who have kept the single on vocals have made the track a dance floor staple, especially consecutive number one club the top ten charts at Masterbeat. at twink parties. play hits. Her latest dance al- com and the gay channel Logo for bum, The Power of Music, three weeks in a row. yielded six consecutive Billboard #1s. She shoots for lucky ‘It Doesn’t Matter’ #7 with the release of “Fade”, her seventh and final release R on Perkov from the album. It is just what you would expect from Miss ‘Mr. Romeo’ Since collaborating with Victor Calderone on his first smash W – another hard stomping dance anthem, guaranteed to E mii (featuring Snoop Dogg) “Dance with Me, Take Me Higher”, Ron Perkov has made a get dance floors shaking. The maxi single includes produc- With her potent blend of pop, rock and dance, Emii is launch- habit of aligning his beats with DJ royalty. His sophomore tions by Buzz Junkies, Johnny Vicious, Royaal, Alex Acosta, ing a sound all her own. Last summer’s “Magic” is still playing track, “Miss You”, was a Tony Moran production. His latest Subgroover, and DJ Chico. t
COCKPIT IN COURT ANNOUNCES ITS 2011 SUMMER SEASON!
THE SECRET GARDEN OVER THE RIVER AND DISNEY’S CAMP ROCK HAIRSPRAY THE EDGE OF MAINSTAGE THEATRE THROUGH THE WOODS ROYAL COURT JESTERS MAINSTAGE MUSICAL DARKNESS JUNE 17 TO JULY 3 CABARET THEATRE JULY 8 TO 17 JULY 22 TO AUGUST 7 CABARET THEATRE JUNE 24 TO JULY 3 JULY 29 TO AUGUST 7
New subscribers can purchase subscriptions in April. Individual tickets go on sale May 2011. Questions about ticketing? Want to receive a brochure? Call the Box Offi ce at 443-840-ARTS (2787), or e-mail [email protected]. Box Offi ce Hours: Tues-Fri, 9am-3pm.
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 17 Lively Arts // BETWEEN THE COVERS Giving a Voice to the Erased Faces
By Colin Riley trary, is all the same. In their eyes, we share Every now and then, a book comes along a common destiny…because we threaten that grabs me and refuses to let go. Erased their way of life.” Even though Juana doesn’t Faces by Graciela Limón is such a book, an realize her sexuality until she’s with Adriana, historical fiction based on the 1994 Zapatista she knows that she is accepted by these in- uprising in Mexico. Limón, an award-winning surgents because her sexual identity is rev- author of Left Alive and The Day of the Moon, olutionary, overthrowing the oppressive sta- recounts a tale of revolution, both sexual and tus quo. political, and the high price people pay to rise Some of the transitions into the dreams up against their oppressors. or memories that bring about these stories Adriana Mora, a photographer, has trav- come off as forced. Adriana, at one moment, eled to the small village of Pichucalco in is photographing a thirteen year-old mother the Lacandona jungle to document the in- in the village. She looks at the mother and digenous people’s lives. She meets Juana the baby, who bring up memories of no one Galván, an insurgent who needs her to docu- in her family loving her, and then the flash- ment the revolutionaries gathering in the heart back to her adolescence comes. The heavy- of the jungle. Adriana is immediately drawn to handed transitions come at the beginning, Juana in a way she cannot express, and as though, and later, the tales come more natu- she follows her into the training rally into the story. camp, she longs for this wom- Limón, with her beau- an to love her in a way her fos- tiful prose, depicts how ter families never could. racism, classism, and The fast-paced story is homophobia all stem built upon layers of myth, tra- from the same place: op- dition, and history. Each of the pression by the majority. characters has an impression Whether it’s the indige- that they’ve lived their lives nous people of Mexico before, and Limón weaves throwing off the burden their stories together beautiful- of hundreds of years of ly in dreams and tales passed forced labor or two lesbi- down from one generation to ans fighting for their rela- another. For example, Adriana tionship to exist, the op- has recurring nightmares of pressed eventually rise running through the forest, up and fight off their op- but she runs in the body of an- pressors. Sexuality is other woman who has a scar revolutionary. The free- with an uncanny resemblance dom to express it comes to Adriana’s. Then, the same at a high cost, but once woman in Adriana’s dream comes back in a someone steps up and speaks out, as Limón story another character tells about the same tactfully puts it, people follow, erasing their woman who protected a priest friendly to the faces to make a collective one that no one natives from being murdered. can subjugate. Orlando Flores, the man who recruit- Erased Faces. Graciela Limón. Arte ed Juana to the rebellion, tells her about his Público Press; Paperback, 258 pgs. 2001. master’s sister, who was whipped because Available at www.artepublicopress.com and she was a lesbian. “‘[B]eing una india or un amazon.com. t indio, being poor and forced to scratch a life Colin Riley, a graduate of Goucher out of a piece of dry dirt, being a manflora College, is discovering what he can do with or a man who loves men, being anyone con- a B.A. in English (and Theatre).
18 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com I was “Michael in the Morning” and started first started it would take an hour. er had a house in Puerto Vallarta and he in- doing my voices; Ester was my secretary. Do you still get nervous when you go vited us all over. That’s where Richard Burton Everyone loved Ester! on stage or is that something you find be- and Elizabeth Taylor stayed. One morning I So what happened was, I took the show comes easier as time goes on? had a hangover and came up into the kitch- from 13 to 2. The nasty conservative Sinclair Oh yes I do! It never gets easier. I tell the en and there she was sitting in all her MuMu’d Sam group owned it and basically called me into people that the day you go on and you are glory. She was very nice and kind. Unfiltered their office and said, “You’re fired, but we’re not nervous, is the day you should quit. What’s next for Ester Goldberg? Sam Kunz keeping the Jew.” “Oh my god, I thought!” They How much more different is the Assassins Production, which can be kept Ester but they fired Michael (Me) and I drag world in Baltimore as opposed to seen on YouTube. The West Coast Tony’s, couldn’t tell anyone. The JCC called and asked Hollywood? I will be hosting the Red Carpet there. A talk Ester Goldberg Ester to open their pool! So I put on prosthet- I am the only person to do a show like show that will be coming out of Hollywood. ics and fooled em’ all! I figured I would do a this at The Comedy Store. I have not per- Thinking about doing a few nights in DC. little comedy. Wouldn’t you know it, I got out- formed in a gay venue since 2004. There’s Timing is everything. I want to do Boston and From his roots in Nashville to his time served ed! They refused to believe it! So I stayed for not that big of a difference. I still do the show, New York again. in D.C., Michael Airington, who hails from 2 years followed by New York and DC. I was I still have an audience. People here are Well, I want to thank you for your time. Annapolis, has starred in TV shows. The the highest paid drag queen for several years. much more critical. There is someone who In this column I give my subjects the fi- most recent was The Suite Life on Deck on How did you come by your name, is always going to try to outdo you. So you nal word. So what you like our readers to the Disney Channel. He has written a hit Ester Goldberg? Is it an homage to any- have to be on your toes. You can’t get by bad know about Ester Goldberg? Broadway play about the late, great Paul one you admire? lip-synching. I did pitch a show to the Bunim- I miss my fans in Washington and Lynde, Oh my goodness! It’s Paul Lynde to Believe it or not, Like I said she was voice Murray team. You know those who creat- Maryland, SO VERY MUCH. If it wasn’t for starring on the most expensive You Tube originally. She was one of many. Ester is ed The Real World for MTV. Well, I pitched DC, I wouldn’t be where I am at today. And series ever made, this show called Bitch Smack to LOGO. It that is so true. It is so cool to think that Deputy “Assassins,” which was to be a house with 8 drag queens, and Chief of Staff of Michelle Obama David I am told is being every week one would be bitch-smacked Medina, and Todd Metcalfe, who works for made into a ma- off the show. They passed saying no one Congress, both read my blog, which to this jor motion picture. would watch it. Two years later Ru-Paul’s day amazes me. So I want to thank my fans His online blog at Drag Race premiered. That’s how it goes, I so much. I hope to see you all very soon! t www.estergold - suppose! berg.com draws up What would you say to 2 million hits per your biggest source of day. One character inspiration is? he plays is Ester As a kid growing Goldberg, whom I up, Bette Midler, Totie chose to interview. Fields, and Joan Rivers, First, I want of course! to thank you for If you could have taking the time 3 famous people for to talk to us here a cocktail party, who in Baltimore. You would you invite? have a lot of fans Bette, Elizabeth here. We miss Taylor and Judy Garland. you but are very I would say Liza, but happy for your she’d show up anyways. success. Let’s I meet Elizabeth. I was begin by asking Ester on General Hospital as when did you get Goldberg an actor in the 80’s. How your start in the I got on was a really fun- drag community? ny. I was a Cassadine for Accident. Would you believe it? The based on a woman named Ester Goldstein, 4 months. My roommate whole story of Nashville was I was a child and she ran the Lancôme Counter at a store was the associate pro- actor. I worked and opened for Rosemary called The Bullocks on Wilshire. I would ducer. She was coming Clooney. I starred on episodes of The do her voice and people would just laugh! on the show. My room- Jeffersons. But like most child stars, I got I created Ester Goldberg because I didn’t mate said he would get into the whole Hollywood scene and went want to be sued by the original. It’s good on me on the show. So I tried into Rehab. Advertising also. My first ads had a picture and tried. The casting di- My manager said if I didn’t, I would of the Titanic on it with the words “Warning, rector said I was no good. die. I was really bad. Right after the LA ri- a Goldberg is coming!” People didn’t know Well he wanted a re- ots they shipped my ass off to Cumberland what to think. frigerator for his office. My Heights. When I got out, my manager said How long does it take you to become roommate said when he “Michael, I got you a gig.” I wanted to go Ester Goldberg? gets on the show, you’ll get back to Hollywood but I couldn’t because I can become Ester in 22 minutes. She your refrigerator. WOW. I had pissed everyone off. So I started do- used to be older. But Ester has become more I met her but didn’t get to ing Radio. It was the LOWEST rated show. streamlined in her golden years. When we know her. But the costum-
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 19 found at your local craft store and comes the cable knit with easy and fun instruction. pattern, and it Like me, you’ll have a lot of fun creating looks truly win- the idea for each bag! try and beau- Domestic I love the texture of this purple fun fur bag tiful as a wine Dandy and the black and white ribbon really pro- bottle cover. Jeffrey Clouser vides some contrast and interest to your gift. A n o t h e r option for a hostess gift is a compila- KNIT HAPPENS tion CD. Our Ideas for your host or hostess gift friends are huge Glee fans, and so when we were invited over Heading to a brunch this Easter?! Don’t show for dinner I presented them with the Glee up empty handed. One should always pres- soundtrack. ent the host or hostess with a small token of I created the CD and the cover and appreciation…but what to bring? The quan- song list using dary of a host or hostess gift does not have Itunes. To com- to be difficult. plete the theme, A great wine is always a safe choice, but I printed and why not put a little creative and personalized cut out a musi- twist on your gift idea! One notable way to cal note graphic present your gifted wine is with a hand knit- 2 beautiful pillows for our sofa. Well, after and tied it all to- creating the pillows, I kept all of the leftover gether with co- pieces knowing that I could use them in an- ordinating black other project someday. Well, that day came and red ribbon. sooner than I thought, as I created this chic As you’re heading out to your holiday cover out of that very same sweater simply parties, think of what you can create to show by sewing up the bottom of the sleeve. I love your host your appreciation! t A second choice is this peek-a-boo pink number with white satin ribbon. To me it feels a little frisky yet demure ;).
ted wine bottle bag that you create yourself! These wine bags are the perfect ac- cessory for your host gift and even more so when they are made by your own hands! I knitted these three wine bags using two different knitting methods. I used knitting needles for one and a small 3-1/2” round knitting loom for the oth- ers. Each tool produces a unique patterned bag. As I thought about knitting the wine bags with needles, I decided to knit a small scarf And this final number evokes a nice using size 7.5 French feel which would go well with a nice needles. When French wine! Je l’adore! I reached the If you’re not one for knitting, although I appropriate length (I simply measured the highly recommend taking up this relaxing past- scarf against the bottle), I sewed the two side time...try creating this cozy cable knit number! seams together with matching yarn. The knit- If you remember last month’s article, I ting loom, I used for the other bags, can be turned my husband’s old Irish sweater into
20 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com D Ining
to take advantage of seasonal produce and NO WORRIES, NO CARES. seafood. There is even a good selection of choices for vegetarians. YOU INVITE THE GUESTS, WE DO THE REST Adventures A great way to start off is to try the Fried Dill Pickle Chips with zesty goat cheese We Shop, Cook, Serve and Clean Up in Baltimore sauce ($4). Thick cut pickle chips deep friend We Offer Distinctive 4–8 Course Dining Experience Restaurants in batter. A weird thing some may think, but We Offer Recreational, In-Home Cooking Classes Jessica Lemmo you will become a definite a fan of it. The Crosstown Burger ($10) with Roseda Call for a no cost in-home meeting, or to speak with our experienced event planner: Farms beef, shredded iceberg lettuce, onion, Mary H. Vahl: 410.224.5598 • 716.378.2931 • BaltimoreDistinctiveHomeDining.com H amilton Tavern and horseradish cheddar was a big hit. You can add sticky-spicy bacon or a fried egg 5517 Harford Road for $1 (both for $2). The meat was cooked Baltimore, MD 21214 to your liking and was moist and full of fla- vor. The burger had a perfect blend of some- Hamilton Tavern brings a nice variety of beer thing sweet and spicy, which could have and comfort food to the ever-growing and come from the added bacon. You may have popular stretch on Harford Road. You walk to cut this one in half to fit it in your mouth! in and are welcomed by a crowded bar with All Sandwiches are served with House Made locals and hardwood floors and a pressed- potato chips that are a sure crowd pleaser. The service was mediocre for being a busy place. It almost felt sometimes that you got a bit of a cold shoulder if you are not a regular. Our waiter was cordial for the most part. But from time to time he seemed to give a sense of being bothered by us and tried to hurry up. I noticed at the table next to us he was very quick with their requests and made sure to stop by many times to check on them. For those of us at our table who got water, he did bring a nice bottle so that we could refill, but for those who got iced tea, he never even mentioned a refill to them. TheGood Food & Drinks, Dizz Casual & Funky I also ordered a burger to go halfway in ceiling giving a neighborhood saloon at- through our meal and after a long wait after mosphere- the type where everyone knows we paid our tab I asked about it and received your name. a very short and cold answer. t The menu here is small to the point it fits Read more of Jessica Lemmo’s on just one page, but every item is tempt- Adventures in Dining at www.examiner.com/ ing. They also offer excellent specials and restaurant-in-baltimore/jessica-lemmo the menu changes a bit with the season as Spectacular 180° Views of Charm City
Full Bar Now Open
Mondays 50¢ Wings & $1.50 Domestic Bottles Dizz Happy Hour TheG r a n d v i e w 50¢ Off All Beer Selections Monday—Friday 11 am - 10 pm Monday - Friday 3pm-7pm Saturday & Sunday 8:30 am - 10 pm Breakfast served weekends 8:30 am - 2pm 300 W 30th St ● 443-869-5864 www.thedizzbaltimore.com St. Mary’s Roland View Towers Follow us on Facebook & Twitter 3838 Roland Ave, Rooftop ● 443-869-3085
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 21 YUMOO R NEY
Now That You’re Retired... (Share prices may fall in value as well as tions (RMDs) from company pension and re- increase, and there is no assurance that the tirement savings plans, IRAs, or annuities. full value of an investment in stocks can ever Because these distributions often involve Maximize your retirement income be recovered.) complex analysis of income and tax scenari- os, it’s wise to consult your financial advisor. Byod Wo y Derricks security while building needed profitability A focus on yield Currently, withdrawals from traditional Although much of the last decade has been may be crucial to your financial well-being. Along with some stock investments, a IRAs must begin no later than April 1 follow- an exception, historically, stock returns have significant portion of your principal will like- ing the year you turn 70-1/2. After that, you outpaced inflation by the widest margin and Keep stocks working for you ly be invested in fixed-income investments to must make annual withdrawals by December have provided the strongest returns over the Many people believe that retirement in- provide a consistent stream of income. How 31 each year. long term. vesting means allocating every- much risk (ma- If you have substantial assets that gener- Those long-awaited golden years have thing to investments that present turity and cred- ate more income each year than you spend, arrived, and you’re enjoying a well-deserved little risk to principal, such as mon- it risk) you need consider sheltering some of your invest- retirement. You’ve saved and invested wisely ey market accounts or certificates to take in these ments in an annuity. Your investment earn- to provide a financial cushion. Where do you of deposit. While the vast majori- investments de- ings will grow and compound tax deferred go from here? ty of these investments historical- pends in part on until withdrawal, when they are taxed as or- ly have not lost value, you should how much in- dinary income. Because annuities may im- Factor in inflation also consider the risk that long- come you need. pose fees and surrender charges, study You may want to start by considering the term returns may not keep pace (Bond values them closely to determine whether they are impact of inflation. With longer life expectan- with inflation. are not guaran- appropriate for you. cies, the need to finance ongoing living ex- Historically, stock returns have teed. A bond’s When building a portfolio that is appro- penses, and the requirement to take annual generally outpaced inflation by the market price may priate for your particular circumstances, distributions from retirement accounts, you’ll widest margin and have provided the stron- vary significantly from face value. Investors and deciding how much should be allocat- want to be sure your returns exceed the ris- gest returns over the long term. Depending on may receive the face value or redemption ed to each asset class, consider your risk ing cost of living. Even at a moderate 3% rate, your risk tolerance, you may want to consider value of a bond only if it is held to maturity tolerance and your need for income versus inflation can substantially cut the purchasing keeping a portion of your portfolio invested in or call date. High-yield bonds present great- growth. Your financial advisor can help you power of your savings over 20 years. A bal- stocks and stock mutual funds throughout your er risk of default.) find the right balance. anced portfolio of investments to maximize retirement. Government bonds of varying maturities General risks inherent to investments in and coupon rates typically are available to stocks include the fluctuation of market pric- match your projected cash flow needs. You es and dividend, loss of principal, market can buy bonds maturing (meaning principal price at sell may be more or less than initial will be repaid) in one, two, and three years cost and potential illiquidity of the investment based on your expected cash needs in those in a falling market. years. You’ll earn the stated rate of interest Any performance information discussed and likely have little risk of loss of principal, with represent past performance. Past per- since you shouldn’t need to sell the bonds formance does not guarantee future results. before the scheduled due date. The rest of Investment return and principal value will your bond portfolio may be invested in high- fluctuate so that investors’ shares, when re- er-yielding, longer-term investments. deemed, will be more or less than their orig- inal cost. t Your retirement distribution © 2010 Standard & Poor’s Financial For many people, retirement is also a Communications. All rights reserved time to elect required minimum distribu- Tracking #623076
22 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com SOLID IS HERE TO HELP
Whether you and your partner are buying your first home together or refinancing an existing loan, I understand the step you are taking in building your lives together and will listen to your personal needs before suggesting the best financing options. Contact me today.
Richard Pazornik Mortgage Loan Officer 443.600.1282 [email protected] suntrustmortgage.com/rpazornik
Equal Housing Lender. SunTrust Mortgage, Inc., 901 Semmes Avenue, Richmond, VA 23224 is licensed by the Department of Corpora- tions under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act; is an Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee; is a Lender in Massachusetts hav- ing Mortgage Lender license #s ML1216, ML0133, ML1432, ML1914, ML1913, ML1815, ML2411, ML1214, ML2442, ML2491, and ML2538; is licensed by the New Hampshire Banking Department; is licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, toll free 1-800- 330-4684; is a licensed lender in Rhode Island; and is doing business in Arizona as Crestar Mortgage, 7250 N. 16th Street, Ste. 100, Phoenix, AZ 85020. ©2010 SunTrust, SunTrust Mortgage, and Live Solid. Bank Solid. are federally registered service marks of SunTrust Banks, Inc.
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 23 TRAVEL 24/7 NYC: Why Boredom Is Not an Option Byk Nic Vivion Night falls, and the city gaytravel.com takes on a mysterious veil, The warmth of the vodka is settling nicely across my face, a twinkle of the anticipation. improving my complexion and adding a rosy pallor to my de- There is naughty to be had on meanor. I slide my keycard in the door and excitedly open it. this Saturday night, and ev- A weekend in New York, how exciting, I mumble to myself eryone knows it. I head out to privately. My brainchatter stops in mid-syllable as I drink in meet friends at Boxers NYC, my temporary home: a two-story loft mini-apartment on the a tremendously popular bar 18th floor of the W New York. It’s palatial! that has capitalized on the Oh my goodness, it has two bathrooms! gay sports bar trend. Look at this view! The brand is clean, the Built-in speakers connected to satellite radio throughout! vibe unpretentious, and the Wet bar! place packed. Boys who like Did someone say party? boys who like sports are not I drop my bags and do a little jig, because I have a week- the only demographic here, end in New York and I couldn’t be more ecstatic. I used to live as Boxers NYC has quickly in Brooklyn, and left because it was a bit too much for me. become the place to have a Visiting for three nights is perfect – just enough time to get laid-back night-out. my fill and get out before it eats my brain. I did the rounds, and But where to begin? It’s the age-old question, asked by quickly ducked out with travelers for centuries, as they begin to engage with a land- friends: Drag was calling! scape that has so much more to offer than one mere human- The Ultimate Drag Off, oid can take advantage of. that is! My plan is simple: Do what I can, don’t fret the rest. It’s American people, you owe me a steaming breakfast bagel!” “I am known as New York City’s big t*tted, honky soul easy to over-plan and create a hellish schedule that shreds The rest of the trip was far less eventful. I even made mama,” the green-sequined vision before me says mis- enjoyment to pieces. Quality over quantity, I will go to the peace with the shorebirds by snapping a lovely photo of one chievously. “I’m a diva with a heart of gold.” I’m sitting with places that I love the most, as well as some requisite tourist taking rest atop the National Park Service welcome sign on Sweetie, the evening’s hostess-with-the-mostess, one of stops. Couple that with some of the best food and entertain- Liberty Island. New York’s most revered and longevous drag performers. ment options on the planet, and it’s quite the potent recipe! I secured a Pedestal Ticket thanks to my NYC City Pass “I’m just a simple girl with a ukulele,” she continues, laugh- It’s easy to spend a small fortune on the myriad cultural at the ticket office in Battery Park, and after waiting in line – ing, as I look confused. attractions that the Big Apple offers, so I swing by the NYC and going through security again – I made my way up 192 “We’re so reality-based. With Drag Off, you don’t have GO information palace in Midtown and snag a New York City steps to the pedestal. It’s a tight squeeze on the overlook, to wait for the end of the season to see who gets voted off. Pass. The Pass saves serious cash by aggregating tickets to with plenty of wind pummeling the brave souls around me, You show up and it’s fur flying from the beginning to the end! some of the most popular attractions in one booklet. MoMA, but so worth it. Thinking of how much fundraising went on in It’s a really fun show to just sit back and relax, it’s beautiful the Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, and the Statue two countries, and the countless hours spent on this project, eye candy.” of Liberty, please! I was very appreciative of its monumental place in our col- With Sweetie’s blessing, we take our seats early. It’s A long jaunt down to the tip of Manhattan takes me to lective mythologies. cabaret-style seating, so we pick a spot with a high vantage Battery Park, the launching pad for ferries to Ellis Island and “The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World” was the point – ostensibly for shooting video, but secretly to diminish the Statue of Liberty. Being a gay male, I have a particular name given by designer Frederic Bertholdi. And in this city of our chances of becoming a pawn in what is surely Sweetie’s affinity for Lady Liberty’s androgyny and long-flowing robes, many nations, where the world has come together in the quint- diabolical plan to turn me into Contestant Number Four. and have yet to make my pilgrimage. essential, post-modern melting pot, Lady Liberty continues to When the show kicks off, it’s clear that this concept is a win- After going through TSA-style security – long lines, un- enlighten and evoke deep emotions in people from all over. ner. It’s light, it’s quick and it’s damn funny. Three performers clear instructions, and strange rules – I make it onto the ferry, Moving up the island of Manhattan, I take quick peeks perform through three rounds, with the audience given ballots only to have my breakfast snatched by an unworthy seabird! from two of the tallest points on the island: the Top of the to vote for the winner of each round. At the end of the show, win- Rock and the Empire State Building. I am partial to the Top ner takes the Drag Off disco crown after all the votes are tabu- Public service announcemnt for silly foreigners: Feeding of the Rock not only as a 30 Rock fanatic, but also because lated. It’s the Gong Show meets Survivor with a healthy dose of the birds might make a cute picture but makes them aggres- it is less crowded and more open than the caged-in feel of RuPaul’s Drag Race thrown in for good measure. sive... and it cost me my breakfast! the Empire State Building. The top dog as far as height is of As the drinks stack up in front of us, the crowd gets rowdy, course the Empire State Building, which is so iconic that it’s boisterously joining in the experience. One straight-suggesting I was absolutely livid that my piping hot, New York-style hard to believe it when you are standing on top of it. girl in particular is committed to her participation – I cannot stop breakfast bagel was now scattered in disarray on the top I end at the MoMA, which stuns, as usual, with its inspira- laughing at her contributions. “Yeah I like that,” “Oh yeah!” and deck, slimy with dirt. Livid, I tell you! I am not a man you want tional array of modern art from around the world. During my “Hmmm hmmm” all tumble out of her mouth unfiltered. to be around when hungry. Hungry doesn’t even do it justice. particular visit, two fans were positioned in the atrium with Ultimate Drag Off is Off-Broadway for the next 4 months, I will eat you alive. two circular ribbons floating between them. The ribbons nev- so put it on your radar. And beyond the drag, New York has Lucky for the French gentleman who was the ringlead- er collapsed, riding the air column constantly. Such a visual an unprecedented array of shows, plays, concerts, clubs and er to this Bird Feeding Circus, I had the foresight to also pur- presentation of a simple concept made me truly appreciate bars to keep a homo happy. chase a protein bar. Had I not had something else to nosh how the museum works tirelessly to educate and bring cre- And don’t even get me started on the food. on, I would have said, “To the heck with this French gift to the ativity to the forefront of everyday experience. It’s paradise, so go be entertained! t
24 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com KING AND QUEEN OF
PRIDEPHOTOS BY JAY W.
2 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MARCH 11, 2011 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 25 One is because I’m a huge chicken, and focuses on the wants, needs, and worries two what will my sexual partner think of me of the black man. I feel that BMX was a lot when I tell him of my sexual past? Now there’s more welcoming, and I was also happy to the question: how will I die without regrets es- see youth in the group that were around my Hearts pecially when it comes to sex, if I’m too chick- Voice of age and who were very intelligent. en and that? Easy, my partner, by finding out Youth I feel that there is a lot of potential and Minds what’s in his sexual past I also gain knowl- Terrence Brower with this new merge, and that there is fer- Shawn Bradley edge of what his sexual preference is. Using tile ground for growth there. With that said this information I can satisfy most if not all of I would like to announce to the readers that my sexual cravings. Has this worked in the myself and another youth leader that is well Should Your Partner past? To some extent it has. I want my partner Enter the Portal known in the African-American youth com- to be a part of all of my fantasies and desires. munity have been humbly asked to develop I want him lording over this ass and granting into BMX a youth curriculum for BMX so that there can Be Aware of Your my every wish within reason, of course. At the be a youth group and the African-American beginning and end of the day I’m his, and I’ll LGB&T and Same Gender Loving youth can SEXUAL PAST? Part 2 give him any and everything I can. I write to you 25 years older. I celebrated a have a voice in at the BMX. Try to remember that the sexual past is just birthday on April 7th. So, now I have been I am personally very excited about this. Now it won’t bother me one bit – actually it that – in the past. Your ex-boyfriends, f*** bud- around for 25 years, which is a quarter of a It gives me the chance to exercise my social turns me on to hear about his sexual past. dies and random pieces have had you. And century. Before my birthday I took a trip to work skills and to help the youth that iden- Like I said previously, I’m a voyeur hearing the physical sex may have even been better BMX. For many who don’t know what BMX tified as Same Gender Loving and Gay al- my partner talk about his past conquests is with one or more of them than your current is, BMX is The Black Men’s Xchange. This is lied African-American. I will be announcing thrilling and exciting. Hell I can sleep tight partner. I ask the question, who do you love? I where African-American men can come to- when the youth group will begin. I look for- at night, because my partner has his arms love him more than anyone in the past. When gether and talk about things that affect Same wrapped around me and our feet are inter- he holds me I close my eyes and only see him. Gender Loving men. Same Gender Loving is “When I used to go twined. His sexual past is in his past while When he makes love to me it feels as though the alternative term used at that place as op- to the Portal back in I’m his present and future. Like MoKenStef every cell in my body feels his passion and de- posed to the term gay man. (He’s Mine). The way it works for me is that I sire that he has for me. It’s an emotional sex; I will not go into my feelings on this mat- 2005 and 2006, I really can picture him f***ing them, and I want him emotional sex is always greater than the phys- ter (That will probably be my next article). to f*** me in that same manner, depending ical. Those strong emotions alone wipe the The BMX use to be called The Portal which wasn’t receptive to the on the sexual act, of course. best f*** of your life out of existence and re- was the African-American LGB&T center of anti-white feeling.” I don’t want to have any regrets in life es- places him with the man holding me. Baltimore, but Rickie Green who was the pecially when it comes to sex. I don’t want to So now you know that for me his sexu- founder of the Portal asked Cleo Manago to ward to working with Rickie, Cleo, and Mayo be 60 years-old and look back on my life and al past isn’t a problem. I’ve known all along I merge with The Portal. on this project. say damn, I should have sucked his d**k 30 wasn’t the first guy he’s slept with, but hope- Honestly, I will offer my opinion about In closing, for all those who are African- years ago. The thing is I love being in a rela- fully with hard work, I will be his last. t BMX and what kind of vibe it gave me. When American and/or any part of the African tionship, so I’m not as free to explore my sex- Check out Shawn Bradley’s debut come- I use to go to the Portal back in 2005 and Diaspora and you identified as Same Gender ual fantasies as easily as a single person can. dy CD A Bottom Like Me on iTunes. Tune into 2006, I really wasn’t receptive to the an- Loving and/or Gay allied to same gender lov- Even during the times that I have been single, to Guys at Brunch, www.guysatbrunch.com, ti-white feeling. The Portal used to give me ing, please come out to the BMX weekly men’s I still don’t explore those possibilities. the gay internet talk show. the racist vibe and after having a discussion discussion group every Sunday at 7 p.m. on with Rickie I found that he believes that black 1609 St. Paul Street across from Penn Station. people cannot be racist but I disagreed with The discussion is very informative and em- him on that matter. powering. Also, there is a light buffet after the Anyway, I thought that the new BMX meetings. Thank you for your support. was a lot more grounded and didn’t empha- Please visit www.thegangnem.com and size the issue of race. Although I will say that follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/the- BMX is still pro-black, it’s not anti-white. It gangnem. t
26 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com community bulletin board April 8 – April 23
April 8-24 April 9 April 14 April 19 Cirque du Soleil: Totem 2011 Totem traces the fascinating Just Us Girls Dance Benefit for Brother Help Queer Band Hunx & His journey of the human species Baltimore Recreation Thyself Punx at Golden West from its original amphibian Alternatives (BRAS)—a wom- Spotlighters Theatre and Led by Hunx (a.k.a. Seth state to its ultimate desire to en-run organization serving COMMAND present The Great Bogart), formerly of queer fly with acrobats, gymnasts all women from the greater American Trailer Park Musical dance unit Gravy Train, Hunx & and contortionists performing. Baltimore metropolitan area and to benefit BHT. Directed by His Punx puts the gay back into Benefit for Baltimore Homeless surrounding states will be hold- Fuzz Roark. Show also runs garage on Too Young To Be In Youth Initiative on April 14. 8 ing a dance. 8 p.m. - Midnight March 25 – April 24. 8 p.m. Love (Hardly Art) in latest re- p.m. Under the Grand Chapiteau at Confetti’s in Towson. Over Spotlighters Theatre, 817 St. lease. Golden West Café, 1105 at the Westport Waterfront. 21. BRAS Mission: “To de- paul St., Baltimore. Tickets $20. W. 36th St., Baltimore 21211, Tickets: 800-450-1480, www. sign and implement recreation- Purchase at www.spotlighters. right in Hampden, Hon! Info: cirquedusoleil.com. al and social activities that org (410) 889-8891. promotes diversity and harmo- April 8-10 ny in the women’s communi- April 15 April 20 ty.” By holding raffles at each Camp Rehoboth’s Women’s of the dances, BRAS has also Integrity/Baltimore Book Reading by Nina FEST 2011 been able to support organi- Meeting Revoyr Women’s FEST is a sen- zations including the Susan The Holy Eucharist begins Lambda Literary Award sational 4-day event celebrat- G. Komen Foundation, The at 7 pm in the Peace Chapel. winning writer Nina Revoyr ing women! One of the largest Mautner Project, Chase Brexton Celebrant and preacher this will read from her latest nov- women’s parties in the Mid- Health Services, House of Ruth, month is The Rev. Ronald el Wingshooters (see Between Atlantic with a roster of great en- Turnaround, Inc. and the Red Miller, interim rector of the the Covers in Lively Arts). 6:30 tertainment, events and semi- Devils. Info: info@brasmary- Church of St. Mary the Virgin, p.m. Enoch Pratt Free Library nars (FEMinars!) that add up to land.com or www.brasmaryland. Walbrook, Baltimore. Potluck Central Branch, Poe Room, 400 a weekend that rocks! Oh, and com. supper follows the Eucharist Cathedral St., Baltimore. don’t forget the boardwalk, sand, with conversation, a bit of busi- ocean. taffy and beach fries! Info ness, and fellowship until 9 p.m. April 23 & tickets at 302-227-5620 or visit April 12 Please bring food to share and www.camprehoboth.com. invite fellow parishioners and Tilted Torch: The Bipolar Gay Adoptions at friends to join us. Cathedral of Show at Creative Alliance April 8-10 Columbia/Howard County the Incarnation, 4 E. University Tilted Torch is celebrating PFLAG Meeting Parkway, Baltimore. their 2-year anniversary with Live and Let Die: A Tribute A panel discussion will take a throwback to their very first to Paul McCartney The world’s place concerning the various April 16 show. Prepare for two nights of most authentic Paul McCartney options available for same-sex wild and extreme mood swings look- and sound-alike, Tony couples and individuals to legal- Strapped Up Ent Presents with the sweet and sinister fire Kishman, joins the Baltimore ly adopt and become foster par- LGBT Prom play of Miss Joule and Malibu. Symphony Orchestra (BSO) ents. Plenty of information will 50-50 raffles, entertainment, 8 p.m. The Creative Alliance, and vocalist Jim Owen, lead by be available to all who are inter- food, photographer. 10 p.m. – 3134 Eastern Ave., Baltimore. Michael Krajewski. April 8 and ested in becoming adoptive or 2 a.m. Gala Center, 1700 Hill Tickets: $11 CA members, $16 April 9 at 8 p.m. and April 10 at foster parents. A Q&A session Dr., Windsor Mill, MD. Over 21, non-members. Info: www.cre- 3 p.m. at the Joseph Meyerhoff follows. 7:30 p.m. Owen Brown ID required. Tickets: $40 each, ativealliance.org/events/even- Symphony Hall. Tickets: $33 Interfaith Center, Cradlerock $65 for a couple. Info: Mel 717- tItem2482.html. - $93. Available through the Way, Columbia, 21045. 443- 650-0113, Lisa 443-602-6367, BSO Ticket Office, 877-BSO- 280-9047, [email protected]. Nika 443-904-9479. www. 1444, 410-783-8000 or www. strappedupent.com. BSOmusic.org.
email event submissions to [email protected]
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 27 ner-up for Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2011 title. There were no contestants for Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR 2011. Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR 2010 Sir John has agreed to take Leather the 2011 title and once again will represent Line the Mid-Atlantic Leather Community at the Rodney Burger International LeatherSIR/ boy/ Community Bootblack Contest in San Francisco in July. I had the pleasure of interviewing Sir John last year in this column, and he is a wonderful Two Weekends! representative for our Leather Community. I could not be happier that he stepped up CLAP & SPEAKEASY again this year. Morgaine will take her title to ABW in Chicago in October. Two Big Events! International Mr. Leather 2009 Jeffery Payne of Texas and Baltimore’s own Shawnna Bring out Baltimore’s Best Alexander were the emcees for the contest. They made a real odd couple and were hi- Leather folk from far and near gathered in larious together. Hooker & Boys Productions Baltimore over the weekend of March 25- assembled an impressive panel of judges: 27 to attend the second annual Chesapeake International Ms. Leather 2009 Lamalani, Leather Awareness Pride (CLAP), and once International Deaf Leatherboy 2005 boy alex again CLAP received much applause! leffers, American Leatherwoman 2009-2010 COMMAND, M.C. got the party started Dakota, Ohio Valley Regional Leather Bear on Friday, March 25 with a bar night at Leon’s 2010 Sir Ky Eaton, Mid-Atlantic Leatherboy Leather Lounge. The Triple L was packed as an 2009 boy eddie ortiz, slave elegant, and impressive group of leather titleholders from all Mr. Outloud Leather 2009 Robert Bowden. up and down the East Coast gathered for the International Community Bootblack Henry MLSb 2011 titleholders photo: Shutterpup meet and greet for the Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR, James was the coordination for the Mid- Leatherboy, Leather Woman, and Mid-Atlantic Atlantic Community Bootblack 2011 Contest Lemaire presented “Speakeasy” a benefit the rest of the cast were really spectacu- Community Bootblack 2011 Contest. There with Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack for SPEAK (Suicide Prevention Education lar. Grand Central looked great with black was even a brief performance by Chi-Chi Ray 2009 Brandon Riley, Mid-Atlantic Bootblack Awareness for Kids) at Grand Central. It was and white balloons, black table clothes, and Colby and Shawnna Alexander. Yes, it was a 1999 and ShipMate member Tracy Black, an incredible afternoon featuring a wonder- sparkling centerpieces. Even some of the at- command performance. and Master Archer as judges. ful cabaret show, great food, and a very im- tendees dressed as gangsters and flappers Saturday afternoon the party moved to I got to help with the entertainment by do- pressive silent auction. in keeping with the speakeasy theme. This the Club Hippo for the big contest. The crowd ing a little stand-up comedy and Northeast The production emceed by Shawnna was really a first class event and it is my un- cheered as Ms. New Jersey Leather 2010 LeatherSIR 2009 Sir Marco Rosato provided Alexander included the perfect mix of live derstanding that close to $2,500 was raised Morgaine was sashed Mid-Atlantic Leather his fantastic singing voice. singers and great female impersonation. for SPEAK. Great job Alex! Woman 2011, boy andy a member of the CLAP Weekend concluded on Sunday (Plus I got to perform again too!) Sun Nami, It has been a busy spring in Baltimore. New York boys of Leather was selected Mid- afternoon with a “Kinky Karnival” hosted by Timoth Copney, Araya Sparxx, Elora Frost, Our local Leather Community can really put Atlantic Leatherboy 2011, and Leo Mason the ShipMates, F.I.S.T. and the D.C. boys Ashley Alexander, Quae Simpson, and on a show! t of Baltimore took the title of Mid-Atlantic of Leather at the Play House in Mt. Vernon. Community Bootblack 2011. It was a fun afternoon of crazy games and Other contestants included boy mike some instructional leather demos. from Frederick, Md. who was named 1st The Leather Community moved to the Runner-up for Mid-Atlantic Leatherboy 2011 other side of Charles Street on Saturday, and Andrew Coon who was named 1st run- April 2 as Mr. Maryland Leather 2011 Alex
photo: Jay W.
28 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPEAK EASY: A GALA TO BENEFIT SPEAK (SUICIDE PREVENTION EDUCATION AWARENESS FOR KIDS) PHOTOS BY JAY W.
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 29 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MARCH 11, 2011 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM q 3 Professional Services
counseling
dental massage
Get your new smile! The ease and comfort is surprisingly advanced! Specializing in Cosmetic Dentistry XWhitening, Veneers, and Crowns XFinancing Available to Transform Your Oral Health XMost insurances accepted Zoom!® Bleaching process We also Specialize in Root Canal and Periodontal Work Stephen B. Mastella, D.M.D office 410 685 2850 1030 N. Charles St. ~ Suite 302 Baltimore MD 21201
cleaning computer books & gifts
WHEN U WONT SETTLE FOR LESS... spring cleaning special Call Michael for Free Phone Quotes 410.426.1628
Call 410-244-6780 to list your business in the Professional Services directory.
30 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com Professional Services
tax services travel attorney
afinanci l ELECTriCIAN
Helping you Navigate the Road toward your Financial Dreams
Building a relationship of trust means placing our clients’ interests first. That is what we do every day. We’re locally owned, independent, and focused on the needs of our clients.
LGBT & Eco/Socially-Friendly Investment Specialists
Email: [email protected] Woody Derricks, President Web: partnershipwm.com 1819 Thames Street Facebook: facebook.com/partnershipwm Baltimore, MD 21231 Twitter: twitter.com/partnershipwm 410-732-2633 Available by Appointment in Alexandria & DC Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC Ca ll 410-244-6780 to advertise.
upplpet s ies ppoSu rt GROUP
Call 410-244-6780 to list your business in the Professional Services directory.
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com q 31 April 16 – ShipMates Bar Night May 7 – DC Leather boy's
32 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD APRIL 8, 2011 • baltimoreoutloud.com