AN O INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THE TLESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES October 17, 2014 | Volume XII, Issue 12 Another Gay Murder in Northeast Baltimore

By Steve Charing ments, Jackson’s mother told police that The mother walked partway down the Less than three weeks after Tamala Har- the suspect was in the basement of her steps and saw what she believed was a ris was charged in connection with the house with a male friend when she left the body wrapped in plastic on Jackson’s bed. stabbing death of her girlfriend Tekeya dwelling in the morning. She reported that She then called police and the fire depart- Amanda Johnson in the 6000 block of Am- she returned home around 6 p.m. to cook ment. Upon arriving at the scene, police berwood Road in Northeast Baltimore (Bit. dinner when her son came up from his discovered a male wrapped in a sheet ly/1qpKjN8), another murder involving a room in the basement telling her there was and plastic suffering from apparent stab gay couple struck the area on October 11. a dead body in his bed. wounds. Nicholas was pronounced dead Andre Nicholas, 28, who performed a Jackson then told his mother to get at the scene. variety of handyman jobs at Club Bunns, important papers together because they A photo of the corpse was posted on was found dead in the basement of his boy- needed to leave the house. When she Jackson’s Facebook page then removed friend’s mother’s home at the 2500 block asked what happened, Jackson told his following protests from the victim’s friends. of Garrett Avenue. Nicholas’s boyfriend of mother, “he choked and stabbed Nicho- Police are reportedly investigating how the about a year and a half, Jermaine Jackson, las because the victim wanted him to do photo was posted during the time Jackson also 28, was arrested and charged in the something he didn’t want to do,” police was in custody. Jermaine Jackson charged in the homicide. wrote in the documents. What that request Mark McLaurin, a very close friend of killing of Andre Nicholas According to police charging docu- entailed has not yet been identified. —continued on p. 3 credit: Baltimore City Police

Hello Tinsley–Hall Named GLCCB’s Executive Director Baltimore!

By Steve Charing experience that will undoubtedly prove es- He is currently pursuing a master’s degree by Joel Tinsley-Hall The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans- sential in continuing the organization’s re- in social work at Morgan State University. The GLCCB’s new executive director gender Community Center of Baltimore cent efforts to better serve all of Baltimore Tinsley-Hall is a Baltimore native and lives I am so very excited and honored to join and Central Maryland (GLCCB) appointed and Central Maryland’s LGBTQ communi- with his husband Scott Tinsley-Hall (who the GLCCB as the new executive director. Joel Tinsley-Hall of Glen Burnie, Maryland, ties.” had been a member of GLCCB’s board I’d like to thank the GLCCB board of direc- to be its next executive director. The ap- Tinsley-Hall, 39, is an eight-year veter- since August but resigned upon his hus- tors for entrusting me with the responsibil- pointment was effective on October 3, the an of the United States Army. He recently band’s appointment) and their daughter. ity to serve Baltimore’s LGBT community last day that the interim executive direc- worked as a supervisor at the University “I am honored and humbled by this ap- through this leadership post. It’s a respon- tor Kelly Neel served. Neel of Maryland’s Harbor City pointment,” said Joel Tinsley-Hall. “The sibility that I don’t take lightly, and in the had resigned citing vision Unlimited rehabilitation GLCCB is at a crossroads, and I look for- coming weeks and months, I look forward and values differences with services, a psychosocial ward to rolling my sleeves up and to begin to meeting and getting to know many of the GLCCB’s board. She had rehabilitation and resi- starting real conversations with everyone you as I transition into this executive di- been a candidate for the posi- dential program for those in Baltimore’s diverse, vibrant, and often rector role. tion but withdrew. with severe mental illness. underrepresented LGBTQ community.” A little background about myself: I “We are overjoyed to He previously worked as In an email message, he told Baltimore am a Baltimore native, born at the South announce Joel’s appoint- director of music for the OUTloud, “Our center has great potential. Baltimore General Hospital (now Medstar ment,” said Michael McCar- Congregational Church of With the right direction and partnerships, Harbor Hospital). I attended the Baltimore thy, GLCCB board president. Jacksonville, Illinois, and I hope to mend bridges and build up this School for the Arts, located in Baltimore’s “Joel has a tremendous vi- as a project coordinator wonderful asset.” Mt. Vernon neighborhood. As an adult, I sion and passion for LGBTQ for the Image Foundation, Tinsley-Hall becomes the first African- proudly served for seven years in the U.S. advocacy and activism and a non-profit arts organiza- American to hold the post of executive di- Army, and subsequently lived in Germany, brings a breadth of nonprofit Joel Tinsley-Hall tion, also in Jacksonville. rector of the GLCCB. t —continued on page 3 2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL

Another Gay Murder in Northeast Baltimore Jewish Group Court documents indicate Jackson was – continued from page 1 charged with murder in the first degree, to Host Two Events murder in the second degree, assault in Nicholas and who knew the couple well, the first degree, assault in the second de- JQ Baltimore (Jqbaltimore.org), an organi- told Baltimore OUTloud that Nicholas fre- gree, possession of a dangerous weapon zation that strives to make Baltimore a wel- quently spent the night at Jackson’s moth- with intent to injure, and possession of a coming community for Jewish LGBT indi- er’s home. “Andre was always the much concealed dangerous weapon. viduals, families, and allies, will be hosting bigger personality, and Jermaine was more A preliminary hearing is set for Novem- two events. On October 25, there will be a quiet and laid back but not at all standoff- ber 18 in District Court at 1400 E. North Rainbow Shabbat – a vegetarian potluck ish, almost shy but affable and approach- Avenue in Baltimore. t dinner and Havdalah Service in honor of able. It’s impossible to know what happened that day but I never would have guessed in A ndre a million years that Jermaine Nicholas (L.) and would kill Andre.” Jermaine McLaurin, a Washington, Jackson D.C., resident and political credit: furnished director for the Service Em- by Mark ployees International Union McLaurin Local 500, added, “I know it’s Noah and the Ark. It will take place at 5 a cliché but Andre never met p.m. in Pikesville, and all are welcome. a stranger, through the sheer Keshet Parent and Family Connection force of his personality and (Keshetonline.org), a community of Jew- the brightness of his light. To ish parents and family members of LGBT know Andre was to love An- Jews, along with JQ Baltimore will hold dre. Our community has lost their first Parent Café on October 28 at 7 so many, but this one is par- p.m. To RSVP and to find out the specific ticularly hard.” locations for these events, email jqbalti- [email protected]. t

HELLO Baltimore – continued from page 1 business owners; from established advo- cates to those many individuals in our com- Washington state and Illinois, before my munity who often feel under-represented husband Scott and I eventually decided to and undervalued. lay down our roots back here in Baltimore As the center’s new executive director, three years ago. Our family includes our it is also my duty to keep the center finan- beautiful daughter, LaRay and our two furry cially viable. From my understanding, times kids: our cat George and our dog Cher. We have been lean in the recent past, but I recently moved from Baltimore City proper firmly believe that the center will get its foot- and now reside in Glen Burnie. ing back. It is crucial that the GLCCB begins I am incredibly proud of my role as a to enhance and expand its current revenue devoted husband and doting father, and I streams, while also developing new streams am excited to add this new role as the com- of cash flow. This must be done in short or- munity center’s executive director. Please der as it is imperative to ensuring our cur- know that I come into this position with a rent services at the center are preserved deep passion for ensuring your community and other programs can be established to center will be positioned, planted and firmly address additional needs of the community. rooted on a solid foundation, so that it will The task of strengthening the founda- be here to serve our great, vibrant commu- tion of the center is not one that can be done nity for another 40 years. single handedly. Everyone in Baltimore’s My first order of business is to person- LGBT community, as well as our allies, must ally introduce myself to as many of you in unite for this common purpose and mission. the community as possible. I want to share I know that I’m excited about the opportu- my vision and listen to your ideas for the nity, and cannot wait to work with all of you GLCCB. I want to gain your trust so we can as we forge a path together toward a bright move forward united in a common purpose. future for our LGBT community center. I know relationship building must occur both Through honest dialogue, we all can inside and outside the LGBT community – do great things together. My door is always from government leaders to small LGBT open, and I’m eager to hear from all of you. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 news // local

rival on specific policy issues. policy and law for over 25 years, in issues Brown Criticizes “I have no formal advisory role,” said involving gender-based violence, repro- Gansler. ductive justice, and civil liberties. She is a Hogan on LGBT Brown stressed that Maryland Demo- seasoned crisis intervention specialist and crats remain united going into next month’s legal advocate, having worked many years Issues general election. for domestic violence shelters, rape crisis “We’re excited about where the cam- centers, crisis hotlines, and reproductive paign is,” he said. t and sexual health clinics. By Michael K. Lavers Philip’s work as a youth ally has ranged Washington Blade from volunteering for youth and runaway Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown last hotlines to advocating for the construction week criticized Larry Hogan’s positions on PFLAG Chapter to of a professionally-designed skate park T he candidates debate marriage rights for same-sex couples and credit: WJZ to help increase youth’s access to pub- the state’s transgender rights law. Discuss ‘Living in lic space. She is most well known for her Brown told the Washington Blade of fairness, equality, inclusion, and recog- work as the founding executive director on Sunday during a telephone interview nizing the riches of Maryland’s diversity.” the Margins’ of Jane’s Due Process, the first statewide that Hogan has been “very clear that he Brown spoke with the Blade two days nonprofit in the country to provide free le- does not support marriage equality,” even before he and Hogan squared off in their By Steve Charing gal services to pregnant minors seeking though his Republican rival for the gover- first televised debate the Baltimore Sun The Westminster chapter of PFLAG will help with public school Title IX violations, nor’s office has previously said he would and WJZ co-sponsored. present Diana Philip from the FreeState protective orders, emancipation petitions, not seek to repeal the law if Maryland vot- A Washington Post-University of Mary- Legal Project who will discuss the recently and judicial bypass for abortion care. ers next month elect him to succeed Gov. land poll released on Monday shows published report from the Philip’s experience Martin O’Malley. Brown ahead of Hogan by a 47-38 percent Youth Equality Alliance in strategic planning “It’s not enough for a candidate, a margin. A Gonzales Research and Market- (YEA), “Living in the Mar- and implementation will would-be governor to say that they won’t ing Strategies survey conducted earlier gins,” which looks at chal- help FreeState realize its seek to repeal the law,” said Brown. this month showed the lieutenant governor lenges of LGBTQ youth commitment to providing “They’re very well may be issues that was ahead of his Republican rival by only face in education, foster legal advocacy services emerge regarding the full protections and four points. and juvenile justice sys- throughout urban and rights and benefits and privileges of same- “Clearly this is a competitive race,” tems. The meeting takes rural areas of Maryland. sex Maryland couples. We want to know Brown said. place on October 19 at 5 One of her major roles is there is a governor who is going to aggres- Hogan’s campaign has not responded p.m. at St. Paul’s United to coordinate the efforts sively enforce and fully fund if necessary to the Blade’s multiple requests for an in- Church of Christ, 17 Bond of the Youth Equality Al- those measures to ensure that marriage terview. Street (Corner of Bond & liance, a working group equality is a true privilege and benefit in Green Streets), Westmin- of nonprofits, service Maryland.” Gansler, Mizeur back one-time rival ster, Maryland. providers, and govern- Brown also criticized Hogan for oppos- Brown in June easily defeated Gansler The report found that mental agencies to help ing the state’s trans rights law that took ef- and Mizeur in the contentious Democratic LGBTQ youth are at a LGBTQ youth and their fect on October 1. gubernatorial primary. The lieutenant gov- heightened risk of entering allies fight discrimination “Among some voters there’s some con- ernor told the Blade that his former rivals the “school-to-jail pipeline.” in school, foster care, cerns about sort of protecting the gains, have attended several “Democratic Party Public institutions and systems – primar- and juvenile justice systems throughout protecting the win,” Brown told the Blade. unity rallies” in recent weeks. Gansler is ily the education, foster care, and juvenile the state. “Larry Hogan presents a fundamentally dif- also scheduled to headline a fundraiser for justice systems – are among the toughest All PFLAG meetings are open, free ferent alternative and approach to many of Brown’s campaign later this month. Brown environments for LGBTQ youth. YEA’s re- and confidential. Light refreshments will be the issues important to not just the LGBT told the Blade that Mizeur has also “worked port briefly outlines the challenges facing served. For more information, visit Pflag- community, but the community at large.” with him on policy issues.” LGBTQ youth as they navigate these three wcc.org. t Brown in March testified in support of “Notwithstanding the competitiveness systems and proposes specific recommen- the bill – the Fairness for All Marylanders of the primary, we’re doing what each of us dations for addressing these challenges. Act of 2014 – during a Maryland House pledged to do during the primary, which is The bullying problem that often af- of Delegates committee hearing. He told to unite behind the Democratic nominee so fects LGBTQ students begins a spiral that the Blade in a previous interview that he that we can ensure victory in November,” places these youth at risk. Often school Like Us On spoke with “a number” of lawmakers about said Brown. personnel fail to address the needs of the the issue and “coordinated my efforts” with Mizeur did not return the Blade’s re- bullied victims, and they are routinely sus- Equality Maryland. quest for comment. Gansler told the Blade pended, expelled, and criminalized, push- Facebook! Attorney General Doug Gansler, who he has attended “a number of unity events” ing them into the juvenile justice systems. challenged Brown in the Democratic gu- across the state to “make sure that the Statistics from GLSEN put the prob- bernatorial primary alongside lesbian Del. Democratic base is energized for the elec- lems in perspective. For instance, 64 per- Heather Mizeur (D-Montgomery County), tion.” cent of LGBTQ students feel unsafe in said Equality Maryland “traded” its early “People have to be reminded that we’re their schools because of their sexual ori- endorsement of the lieutenant governor for Democrats first,” he said. entation, and 44 percent because of their his support on the trans rights bill. Carrie Gansler said that he and Brown talked gender expression. Approximately one in Evans, the group’s executive director, de- about the economy, taxes, the environ- four LGBTQ youth are kicked out or run nied the claim. ment, and higher education during a recent away from their living situations. “I take my lead from the community,” lunch. The outgoing attorney general said Diana Philip has been working in the Brown told the Blade. “My values are one he is not “formally” advising his one-time nonprofit sector with an emphasis in public

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Keystone state

So our friend finally published, and and his goal is to have a perfect score on the Hu- The Bureau had been looking into romanc- To Publish or guess what happened? Very little. man Right’s Campaign Municipal Quality Index. ing the LGBT visitor as a market niche over the My faith in how we in newsprint cover This year was the first year Reading completed past year and a half with ads in regional LGBT Not to Publish and work with our communities is higher the Index with a not so shabby score of 86. The publications. About six months ago, the Bu- than ever. My faith in professionalism, mo- main speaker at the summit was Bill Geist, a na- reau and Pride began working together to ben- By Mark Segal dernity in media, and the sensitivity of my tional tourism consultant hired by the bureau to efit each other’s mission and vision statements The Pennsylvania News Media Association fellow PNA publishers makes me proud to complete a study of the area, who announced with the help of Santo D. Marabella, professor is an organization of most of the profes- be a member of an organization that at one that the bureau was on the right track in going at Moravian College and columnist for the “Busi- sional daily and weekly newspapers in the time didn’t want us. t after the LGBT market since studies show that ness Weekly” of the Reading Eagle. The mayor’s commonwealth. It is also one of the oldest Mark Segal is publisher of Philadelphia on average they spend 1.5 percent more than office LGBT liaison and the Berks County Com- press organizations in the nation. After a Gay News. You can follow him at Facebook. other tourist and are drawn to the experiences munity Foundation joined the partnership in lengthy battle, Philadelphia Gay News be- com/MarkSegalPGN or on Twitter at Twit- and attractions Greater Reading has to offer. helping to make the initiative reality. t came the first LGBT publication to gain ad- ter.com/PhilaGayNews. mittance to the group more than a decade ago, and I now sit on its board of direc- tors. But this is not a story about PNA, or PGN – it’s about the change taking place in America towards equality through the Reading Pride & eyes of those who serve local communi- ties: newspapers. Visitors Bureau We have a private email chain that con- sists of Pennsylvania publishers. There- Partner New fore, this column won’t mention particular names or publications. Every once in a Initiative while, someone will ask his or her fellow publishers what they would do in a certain On Tuesday, October 7th, over 30 busi- incident. This past week, a small newspa- ness and organizations of Greater Reading per in a very conservative area of the state took a step being on the right side of history by was asked to post a marriage announce- signing a statement supporting human diver- ment for a same-sex couple. They had sity and the LGBT community in their establish- never done so before and requested sug- ments. The Greater Reading Convention and gestions from fellow publishers. Visitors Bureau’s Annual Breakfast Summit held There comes a time with each of the at the Google Works Center for the Arts were the activities with which you’re involved when catalysis for the launch of this project. Richard you feel proud of the people you are as- L. Spangler, president of Reading Pride Celebra- sociated with, and for me this was that mo- tion, told the crowd, “We are not asking anything ment, as the member newspapers of PNA out of the ordinary or any special treatment. We stood tall. are simply asking for equality for all that will make When that first question hit my inbox, our city and county a welcoming and affirming my anticipation to read the responses was place to go for intense. a weekend, a My input was a short note of encour- visit or to live.” agement, and then the responses from Crystal Seitz, publishers around the state brought me bureau presi- to the realization that the polls that dic- dent, asked tate that the population supports marriage those present equality are on target. to “stand up First, it has to be stated that my fellow and be counted publishers are a brave group, since the because it is the first publishers to be heard from were ones right thing to do” and in return those who signed in similar conservative areas of the state. received a decal to display on their front door They had all taken the plunge and encour- identifying them as welcoming and supporting aged the questioner to do so as well, and workplace equality for all including the LGBT visi- some made the point that it’s an issue of tor and employee. The decal shows a rainbow fairness, since marriage equality is now flag with “Greater Reading” printed below. Mem- law in Pennsylvania. bers will be identified with the same icon in the But the most surprising comments bureau’s visitor’s guide and all who sign on will came from the publishers of those conser- be on a designated page on their website and vative publications who noted that, when on the resource page on Reading Pride celebra- they had considered this very question in tion’s website. the past, they worried about reader and Other speakers at the summit supported the advertiser backlash. But, each of them effort including City of Reading Mayor Vaughn D. wrote that, if there was a backlash, it was Spencer who said that the LGBT community has small and was in the past. a place within the Greater Reading community

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 b eyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker these guests were total strangers. It makes Last week, courts also ruled in favor a complete mockery of the security struc- of same-sex marriage in North Carolina GLAD sues ture, unfortunately.” (Seattle Gay News – and Alaska. If all goes well, Arizona could Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) secure the freedom to marry as soon as Social Security this week. Filings from both sides are due no later than Thursday, and once they’re over widow’s in, the judge could rule on the freedom to Same-sex marry in the Grand Canyon State. (Echo benefits Magazine at Echomag.com) marriage Providence, R.I. – Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) filed suit continues gains October 2 against the Social Security Ad- Boston health ministration (SSA) in U.S. District Court for with more court the District of Rhode Island, charging SSA center launches with wrongfully denying survivor benefits wins to 56-year-old Deborah Tevyaw after the study of female- death of her spouse, Patricia Baker. Deb Is Grindr Phoenix, Arizona – Last week, the and Pat were married in Massachusetts in U.S. Supreme Court surprised many by to-male trans 2005. Pat, a career Rhode Island correc- use by royal declining to review any of the marriage- tions officer, was diagnosed with stage- equality appeals before it – likely bring- people four lung cancer and died in August 2011. staff a threat ing marriage equality to 11 more states. SSA has repeatedly denied survivor On October 7, the Ninth Circuit Court of Boston, Mass. – The Fenway Institute benefits to Deb, who as a result has been to Queen’s Appeals ruled that Nevada’s and Idaho’s at Fenway Health has been approved for living on virtually no income for more than bans on marriage for same-sex couples an $813,000 funding award by the Patient- three years. “More than a year after the security? are unconstitutional. After a brief stay of Centered Outcomes Research Institute that ruling, the Supreme Court allowed the (PCORI) to study the sexual health of fe- London, England – Queen Elizabeth decision to take effect. male-to-male (FTM) transgender people. II’s security may be compromised by her Arizona is within the jurisdiction of the The study is one of 46 proposals PCORI palace staff’s hookups, royal officials have Ninth Circuit and the ruling will likely lead approved for funding on September 30 warned. According to British newspapers, an Arizona federal court to swiftly overturn- to advance the field of comparative clini- a “huge” number of royal staffers bring ing the marriage ban here. This prompted cal effectiveness research and provide people they meet on hookup apps like lawyers in the case challenging Arizona’s patients, healthcare providers, and other Grindr and Tinder back to royal palaces clinical decision makers with information for overnight stays. Police are said to be that will help them make better-informed “deeply concerned” that none of the Grindr choices. guests are vetted by security agencies. An Sari Reisner will lead the research proj- unnamed source told the Mail newspaper, ect, which will focus on preventive sexual Patricia Baker and Deborah Tevyaw “It is a security nightmare, especially in the health screening with 150 sexually-active current climate.” FTM transgender patients. Researchers The Queen employs over 800 live-in will assess the acceptability and effective- demise of the Defense of Marriage Act, staff. They have always been allowed to ness of self-swab HPV testing compared to Social Security’s misguided and mistaken have overnight visitors, but the number of clinical swabs as well as investigating the application of the law is causing serious guests has reportedly skyrocketed since prevalence of sexually transmitted infec- harm and distress to people like Deb,” said the introduction of popular hookup apps. tions (STIs) in this group. Janson Wu, GLAD attorney. “I’ve lost my None are allowed in Buckingham Palace, The project is designed to fill key gaps wife and my best friend, and Social Secu- the Queen’s principal London residence, in clinical knowledge about sexual health rity has made that so much worse by telling but they may stay in other royal palaces in FTMs by comparing the effectiveness me that in their eyes, I was not Pat’s wife,” like Kensington, St. James’s, and the marriage ban to file an urgent motion on of alternative strategies for prevention, said Deb. “Not only is that hurtful and in- Royal Mews, where members of the royal October 9, calling on the judge to rule in screening, and diagnosis. sulting, it has meant that I am living in pov- family live and the Queen often makes ap- favor of marriage equality in Arizona with- “This project will have a national and erty. I am not looking for a handout; this is pearances. out delay as the ban is legally no longer international impact on sexual health money that Pat earned through hard work.” “Historically this has always been a defensible. But that’s not all. The same screening for FTMs, a hard-to-reach and Despite Deb’s valid marriage to Pat, problem, even when I was in charge way day, after Why Marriage Matters Arizona, underserved patient population,” said Re- Social Security initially refused in 2012 to before the introduction of these so-called same-sex couples and clergy delivered isner, a transgender health researcher at provide Deb disabled widow’s benefits and dating apps,” Chief Superintendent Dai more than 5,000 petitions calling on the At- the Fenway Institute. a lump sum death payment, citing the De- Davies, the former head of royal protec- torney General to drop his defense of Ari- “Findings will improve patient care, de- fense of Marriage Act (DOMA). After DOMA tion, told the Mail newspaper. “If members zona’s marriage ban, AG Tom Horne was livery, and decision-making in preventive was struck down in June 2013, SSA con- of staff lived in certain quarters such as the quoted saying that his office was “weigh- sexual health screening and potentially tinued to deny Deb’s appeal, claiming that Royal Mews and Kensington Palace, which ing their options.” This is a huge change lead to alternative screening strategies, the state of Rhode Island would not have have both single sex and married quarters, from the same man who previously said he as well as less invasive STI detection recognized Deb and Pat’s marriage at the they were, and I presume still are, permit- would never stop defending Arizona’s mar- practices.” (Bay Windows at Baywindows. time of Pat’s death. “There is no doubt in ted to bring back unvetted guests. Often riage ban. com) our minds that Rhode Island would have

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

recognized Pat and Deb as validly married after midnight October were homeless. It is unclear how Fischman at the time of Pat’s death in 2011, and that 1. Police later arrested knew James and his boyfriend. The couple These news notes have been compiled, Social Security’s reading of the law is just Jonathan Williams, aka lived with Fischman in his home until Fis- with permission, from the online version plain wrong,” said Wu. (Bay Windows at William James. James, chman, who believed James was stealing of various newspapers and other web Baywindows.com) 33, according to police, from him, asked James to move out, but sites. We thank these publications for is most likely homeless. allowed his boyfriend to stay. On the day of allowing us to bring you their news sto- He has been charged the incident, police say, James broke into ries. Usually the reports have been sig- with murder, burglary, the house and an argument ensued with nificantly edited and you can read the criminal trespass, and Fischman over the alleged theft of Fis- full story by going to the web site men- Gay man related offenses. Fis- chman’s belongings, leading to the stab- tioned following the item. Comments chman was a cantor at bing. James will face a preliminary hearing are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker t arrested in Jonathan Mishkan Shalom syna- October 22. (Philadelphia Gay News – and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride Williams gogue in Roxborough Ryan Kasley at Epgn.com) Media. murder of man and a former teacher who most recently worked as an editor at a who befriended publishing company Watch Your Business Grow With The night of the murder, police went to him Fischman’s house for a report of a break- Richard Finger ing-and-entering. While police were inves- Philadelphia, Penna. – A gay man was tigating the scene, additional witnesses SPHR, HRMP arrested two weeks ago for the murder of described a man they saw fleeing the vic- a Roxborough man who had once opened tim’s home. Police stopped James and no- 410-599-3173 his house to him. On Sept. 30, police found ticed a laceration on his right hand. After Ronald Fischman lying unresponsive on being treated and released from Einstein 817 St. Paul Street, #502 the floor of his home on the 200 block of El- Hospital, he was transported to the homi- Baltimore, MD 21202 lena Street. He had been stabbed multiple cide unit for questioning and later charged. HR Consulting, LLC times in the neck, shoulder and leg. After Investigators believe Fischman had being transported to Einstein Hospital, Fis- opened up his home to both James and [email protected] chman, 54, was pronounced dead shortly James’s boyfriend, both of whom they say http://fingerfreshconsult.wix.com/richardfinger

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 Journeys

and supportive, but I am also worried. ble, and probably undesirable. We grow by The Child is Father of the Man I teach at a community college. This being put in danger. Which doesn’t make it semester, I’ll be teaching The Laramie easier for anyone. ba y J mey & Alexander Gallagher down, and pretty anxious too, but now I Project, a play that centers around the For a while, as I was trying to process I’M ALEX. I’m gay and I need a haircut. was really messed up! Looking in the mir- slaying of Matthew Shepard, beaten to the changes in our lives, I told a lot of peo- I attend a magnet school with a focus in ror made me want to throw up, and being death because he was gay. It’s not the ple that my son was trans. Many people acting, and at the start of classes we often misgendered darn near made me pee my- first time I’ll be talking about these issues told me and my wife that the world was get that whole “How did you start acting?” self with anger and anxiety. I look back on in class. Over the past few se- different now, that kids today question, and I always tell the same story it in an uncomfortably sarcastic way, be- mesters I’ve opened up have a different attitude, – one that gives acting a bit cause it’s way easier to go “lol yeah I was LGBT topics in my that they’re more ac- The more credit than it deserves. boring and sad” than it is to actually own classes, not always cepting. No big Maybe I shouldn’t twist the up to your emotions. Eventually, though, I comfortably. I am deal. As a com- Son story so much in class, but got on meds, and then I got on hormones, not the kind of munity college it’s always the most dramat- and then I got happy again. teacher who instructor ic, and that’s generally how I like to be. Now I’m great! In acting class I usually preaches my who often When I was maybe 10 or 11, I took a wrap up (a considerably shortened version own beliefs teaches summer camp for Shakespearean theatre of) this story by saying that, throughout at students, youngish and earned the prestigious role of Ariel’s the whole dealio, acting was what kept me but I want to students, left hand in The Tempest. This was, clearly, going, and that in the acting community, model intel- I’m not al- quite the honor. So much so that I contin- everyone was reallly nice and hardly ever lectual en- ways so ued doing that summer camp every year misgendered me. If I’m being honest here, gagement, sure. Some – until I moved away. Ini- though, I got misgendered and the most of them tially, I was stoked as hell “I suppose I am a ton. I always think it’s important in- have star- to be leaving New Jersey funny that people knew my tellectual en- tlingly conser- – that town was far away passing better now, name was Alexander and gagements center Jamey & vative attitudes. from everything, and ev- and I think a lot still decided they wanted around our beliefs. Alexander Some of them are eryone there was seri- to call me a “she.” But I I’ve had to wrestle with Gallagher ignorant, in the true ously racist. However, it of that comes from always got my male roles, this one. sense of the term. They turns out that moving to a confidence. I know and that made me feel The reason I opened the class just don’t know. On the other new state when you are I’m male, and I good. to LGBT issues is my son, Alex, who was hand, my students this semester, who 12 years old and halfway Maybe someday folks my daughter until fairly recently, and who have, so far, been able to talk about these through middle school is know how to carry will learn to get it right, but happens to be gay. As you can see from issues with intelligence and compassion, actually terrible! myself as one.” right now, a lot of people his piece, Alex went through a lot of pain and Alex’s writing, give me hope. Teaching I came to Maryland still get pronouns wrong. in coming to his gender identity. This was has a way of making me optimistic – even with the intention of “rein- Maybe it’s something not an easy or a simple process. My first when I read about the horrors that people venting myself.” Honestly, it was a stupid about my hips, or the length of my eyelash- reaction to the news was “really?” are capable of, plan, and I carried it out by forcing myself es, I don’t know. It’s getting better, though, Are you sure this is who you are? “I have accepted the I see individu- to become even more feminine than ever however slowly, and that’s something to be Let’s wait and see what happens. als in my class, before. In earlier years, I liked wearing happy about. I suppose I am passing bet- After two years, I have never fact that this is much and each one of boys’ clothes and sometimes acting a bit ter now, and I think a lot of that comes from been more sure of anything. His more about him than them is worth- more masculine than my peers. I’d even confidence. I know I’m male, and I know pain has lessened, and how can about what my vision while and kind chopped off all my hair. But hey! It’s a new how to carry myself as one. I am certain any parent question that? I have and caring. state – why not wear makeup and push-up that people will eventually get it right. come to terms with these chang- of him might have Last semes- bras for once! It’s not all bad, though, that’s for sure. es. I have accepted the fact that been before. I’m being ter one of my Turns out, that was a terrible idea. But I may be a gay transgender person, but I this is much more about him than students, an 18 the final attempt at being traditionally femi- haven’t gotten the shortest end of the stick. about what my vision of him might as supportive as I year old, asked nine may have been what alerted me to the I am lucky to have supportive people in my have been before. I’m being as know how to be.” me whether I fact that something was wrong. It wasn’t life – like my family. They screw up my pro- supportive as I know how to be. ever wished that just the skirts, it was everything. Being nouns too –and it’s annoying as hell, sure The Laramie Project, howev- my son was still called a she, trying out for female parts in – but they’re trying, and that’s pretty good. er, throws my own worst fears in my face. my daughter, that he wasn’t transitioning. I school plays – all of it. Even when we went When it comes down to it, I really am pretty The world is a violent place. I’ve some- answered, honestly, that I never did. I have out to eat – nothing pleased me more than lucky. t times found it difficult to figure out how to come to see Alexander through the lens when I was “mistaken” for a boy by waiters. “be a man” in it myself. I’ve been pushed that he’s given me. And I see him clearly. I stumbled upon some serious issues. So and had to push back. My single biggest There might be a risk to his life now that I got educated, and I figured out that I was MY SON ALEX is the strongest man that I fear is that one of my children will be hurt wasn’t there before, but the greater risk is trans. It was about a month or so before I have ever known – and he’s only 14. He’s by this world. Many other parents share in trying to stop a child from becoming who came out to my family. (Unintentionally. By not afraid to be who that fear. When I discussed homosexual- she, or he, truly is. t yelling “I feel like a guy!”) he is. He has endured The ity in one class, an older woman claimed (I mean, they already thought I was psychic pain I can that she would never “let” her child be gay probably a lesbian, so whatever.) barely imagine. No Father because of the stigma attached. Although Coming out was great and all, I was one is going to hold I think she’s wrong, her reaction is under- finally myself, but, boy, did it change my him down. He is not going to allow anyone standable. We want to keep the people we depression. Ever since I moved I’d been else’s expectations define him. I am proud love safe. But complete safety is impossi-

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud

to rush” unless a split emerges in the vari- attempts to demon- ous federal appeals courts and one of them strate more accep- decides to uphold a state ban on same-sex tance towards gays OUT marriage. and other minorities Spoken Had there been a split, the justices may to improve their gen- have taken a look at it. That can happen in eral election chanc- Steve Charing that the 6th Circuit in Cincinnati is thought as es. Indeed, a vast one of the few that could uphold the bans. majority of Republi- Therefore, the Court put itself in a place cans remained silent Supreme Court’s where they would likely have to tackle the following the recent issue once and for all. Supreme Court an- Punt Gives Us Evan Wolfson, the founder and presi- nouncement. dent of the advocacy organization Freedom Senator Ted Cruz from Texas who many where marriage equality is in place includ- Good Field to Marry, said while the October 6 action regard as an extremist, was one of the ex- ing Maryland, the sky has not fallen, society provided “a bright green light” to same-sex ceptions to have lashed out against the has not been destroyed, and the institution marriage in more states, marriage equality Court. “The Supreme Court’s decision to of marriage has not deteriorated. Instead, Position advocates do want the Supreme Court to in- let rulings by lower court judges stand that children of same-sex couples are now pro- When the U.S. Supreme Court unexpectedly tervene and provide a definitive ruling cover- redefine marriage is both tragic and inde- tected; couples receive the same benefits, decided on October 6 not to take up several ing all 50 states. “The Supreme Court should fensible,” he said. He pledged to again rights, and responsibilities as their hetero- appeals of lower court rulings that struck bring the country to a nationwide resolution,” introduce a constitutional amendment that sexual counterparts; and the local econo- down the existing bans on same-sex mar- Wolfson said. defines marriage as a union of one man and mies have received a much-needed boon. riages, many believed the justices “punted.” Those opposing marriage equality do as one woman. Good luck. As same-sex marriages continue to take That is, less than four of the nine justices well and will continue to defend the bans in Reince Priebus, the chair of the Repub- place across the land, it will become in- chose not to review these cases and will court (though stalling would appear advan- lican National Committee, in an effort to creasing difficult to invalidate all those nup- likely not be part of this term’s docket. tageous to them if a Court vacancy is filled keep his job, threw a bone to his base by tials should that day eventually arrive when Both sides had hoped for a sweeping with a conservative). They strongly believe condemning the Supreme Court’s decision. the ball lands in the Supreme Court justices’ decision by the Court to settle once and for that the people should decide the definition He said that if gays were allowed to marry, hands. Too much chaos would result. Ac- all whether the right for same-sex couples to of marriage, not judges. “America will ultimately collapse.” cordingly, we’re in a good position now to marry is protected by the U.S. Constitution. Opponents should note, however, that As we have witnessed in the states ultimately take it to the end zone. t Rather, by choosing to sidestep these cases the people are not as against marriage they allowed the lower court rulings to stand. equality as they think. Ever since 2004 when To use football parlance, because the the first same-sex weddings took place in Supreme Court punted the hot-button is- Massachusetts – an occurrence that be- sue for a likely date sometime in the future, came a winning strategy for Republicans marriage equality advocates did not score a during the presidential campaign – support touchdown they were hoping for but instead for marriage equality swung dramatically. In found themselves in good field position. fact, poll after poll indicate that a majority of By refusing to review cases from the Americans now support marriage equality. Fourth Circuit – which covers Maryland, During the ten years since gay marriage Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and was used as a political wedge issue, clear South Carolina – same–sex marriages are evidence of a transformation in attitudes be- no longer prevented from occurring. The gan in 2012 with the startling first-time vic- Court also did not take on cases arising from tories at the ballot box in three states that the Seventh Circuit (which includes Illinois, included Maryland. Since then, legal chal- Indiana and Wisconsin) and in the Tenth Cir- lenges to a swath of state constitutions were cuit (which covers Colorado, Kansas, New launched claiming that the denial of same- Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming). sex couples to marry was in violation of the And in the Ninth Circuit, marriage bans U.S. Constitution under the Equal Protection were struck down in Idaho and Nevada by a Clause. panel of judges the next day. This ruling also As these cases meandered through applies to Arizona, Montana and Alaska. the lower courts whereby one ruling after Nuptials may be delayed in some of these another found for the plaintiffs, federal ap- states because of specific legal procedures, peal courts have upheld those rulings in a but eventually they will be allowed. In all, the stunning wave of victories, adding great mo- number of states permitting same-sex mar- mentum to the movement. The rationale for riage would jump from 19 to 30 plus D.C., these decisions had been bolstered in 2013 representing states with 60 percent of the by the Supreme Court’s striking down key U.S. population. provisions in the Defense of Marriage Act. Though the Supreme Court offered no What was once a political weapon for explanation for their action, Justice Ruth Republicans nationwide, the changing at- Bader Ginsberg, who once officiated a titudes towards same-sex marriage has same-sex wedding, indicated last month pushed most Republicans to a hands-off ap- that for the justices there is “no need for us proach. This is consistent with their alleged BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 Quality of Life

orphanage. Basically, our view of the world as Almost everyone is familiar with the culi- a friendly, safe, welcoming and positive place nary herb rosemary and the distinct flavor it versus a dangerous, unsafe, and scary place imparts to foods. Not only does this herb taste underlies our sense that we can trust others, or The good, it is also a huge player in stimulating Ask feel mistrusting of people. brain function. Rosemary contains a chemi- How do we form a relationship if we have Essentials cal called 1,8-cineole and researchers from Dr. J basic feelings of mistrust? I will quote Bud- of Living Naturally Northumbria University in the U.K. linked this Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. dha here: “Doubt is a poison that disintegrates Michael Lausterer chemical to brain performance; their study friendships and breaks up pleasant relations.” was published in the journal Therapeutic Ad- If you want to go through your partner’s wallet, vances in Psychopharmacology. pocketbook, computer, and oh that tempting The research involved 20 people, expos- Trust – Is it cell phone, then there is not much trust go- The Benefits of ing them to different aromatic levels of rose- ing on, is there? At the same time, if you have mary essential oil. Blood samples were taken Overrated? things you don’t want your partner to know of Essential to test the levels of 1,8-cineole absorbed in about, what is the relationship doing for you? each person’s body. The participants then took Trust – a short, five-letter word; easy to break, Now, I want to be clear that 100% transpar- testing of speed, accuracy and mood in order hard to repair. It is one of the building blocks ency is probably an unrealistic expectation. If Oils to obtain statistics as to whether the oil had of a relationship, and one that human beings your best friend confided in you and does not any effects on the individuals in these specific need for a healthy outlook, but can be disre- expect you to share that with your partner, you Essential oil therapy utilizes the chemical prop- testing areas. The study found that the more garded and violated when other emotional have to respect that secret and not disclose erties of raw plant botanicals to work with the present 1,8-cineole was in the bloodstream, needs dominate. it. So there may be a few things you would body. These chemical constituents aid in the the better the performance of the individual in Erik Erikson, a psychoanalyst and a Har- not tell your partner, but overall, there needs alleviation of physical ailments and psycholog- the areas of speed and accuracy. Rosemary vard professor, described the first stage in his to be openness about your own life, your own ical disorders. Plant extracts are very powerful oil affected mood at only a small scale. theory of psychosocial development as fol- thoughts and feelings is the order of the day. and can be used to help eliminate the body of Women who are pregnant should avoid lows: Between birth and 18 months of age, Growing up with a secret, and struggling toxins and promote bodily healing response in rosemary in excess amounts or altogether. the trust-versus-mistrust stage takes place as with your sexual identity is a stumbling block to regards to internal issues and symptoms. The herb is considered emenagogue and pro- the most important period in a person’s life. maintain trust. Even with 30 states and same- Take advantage of the beneficial properties motes the natural process of menstruation. The human infant is the most dependent of sex marriage a reality, there is just too much of essential oils as a tool for promoting better Though essential oils can be a wonderful addi- all species. If the infant is not cared for, fed, harsh judgment, negativity, and outright hos- memory, focus, and concentration. Essential tion to a pre-natal massage, there are a limited and nurtured, the baby will not survive. So the tility and even danger out there to which the oils are not only effective for school students; number of oil types that can be used for this quality of that care plays an important role in LGBT world is subject. So it becomes a huge they can be very beneficial in your day- practice. It is in the consumer’s best interest to the shaping of the personality. If food comes task while negotiating the world to maintain to-day work routine, allow- ing you become educated on essential oil therapy be- without delay, if there is comforting in the face trust in humankind. At the same time, it is your to better recall information, fore attempting to use these powerful extracts. of fear or pain, the baby learns to trust those life, your peace of mind and your relationships events and pro- Learning from a clinically certified es- around him/her. If, however, the needs are not where trust is an essential factor. How do you moting a clearer sential oil therapist, such as consistently met, we see the start of the devel- find the balance? mind in order to myself, will allow you to safe- opment of mistrust. You probably have heard this before: To accomplish your ly use the right essential oils With the consistent care giving of those trust others, you first have to trust yourself. All goals. for the right situation. people around him/her, the child will success- issues start with looking into ourselves, hav- Essential oils Essential oils have col- fully develop trust, and feelings of safety and ing confidence and a sense of self-worth. So have direct ac- lective benefits if used for security in the world. If the care is inconsistent, here is a short quiz that might help you get cess to the brain through memory needs over time. Use or if the caregivers are emotionally unavailable started to identify where you are. Check out the blood brain barrier; a protective el- them to enhance recall, increase focus and or even rejecting, then the world appears to be this site: Greatergood.berkeley.edu/quizzes/ ement designed to keep the brain environment boost concentration effectively and safely an inconsistent and rejecting place and mis- take_quiz/5 healthy and stable. The key chemical com- when studying or helping to retain information trust characterizes the child’s personality. Next issue, I will get into tips on building ponents of essential oils interact with certain on the job.. t I use the term caregiver instead of parent trust. t parts of the brain in order for them to effective- Michael Lausterer is a master essential oil because this process could take place in a Send comments/questions to drjanan@ ly work within the body. When the aroma of the therapist and is co-owner of Basic Earth Es- family home as well as in a foster home or an aol.com. essential oil is inhaled, it works with the hip- sentials with his husband Stephen Jarvis. pocampus; part of the limbic system respon- sible for the formation of memories and their storage and organization. This limbic system Like Us On TYRE’S structure is important because it creates new REPAIR memories and connects or links these newly Facebook! Quality Workmanship formed memories to emotions and sensory AUTO stimuli such as smell. This is one reason why the human sense of smell is linked to specific personal memories. 410.252.8001 There are certain essential oils which work 24/7 Towing 410-583-8888 best for stimulating areas of the brain for fo- cus, memory retention and retrieval. Pepper- Voted Baltimore’s Best Auto Repair – City Paper 2000 mint has been studied extensively and proven Next to Timonium Business Park Lightrail Stop to be an effective component in the recall of information stored in the memory cells of the 1955 GreeNSPriNG Drive brain. Lemon, as well as grapefruit, is also good for promoting the recall of information.

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

provide many tax benefits, including addi- tional tax credits. Some clients seek out my services af- When one spouse dies, the survivor ter surviving a battle with cancer. They ex- The Law can inherit an unlimited amount in assets Moving press their anger at being diagnosed at a tax-free. In Maryland, any inheritance left young age or loosing a breast to the beast. & You to a surviving spouse is also exempt from Forward They explore their fears and trepidations. Lee Carpenter the state’s inheritance tax – a hefty 10 per- Ava Barron-Shasho “I will never be the same. I exercised and cent levy on any bequest to a partner or ate healthy and my body let me down.” other non-family member. Through their sobs I listen. “Why is this I Do? The Beyond the realm of taxes, being eli- happening to me? It’s not fair.” They are gible for federal benefits can depend on May Be right. It’s not fair. The disease of cancer, Legal Benefits where the couple lives. The following ben- or any other for that matter, doesn’t fac- efits hinge on a “place of domicile rule,” tor “fair” into the equation before infecting of Marriage meaning that only couples who live in a There is a Taoist story of an old farmer who someone. As a therapist and life coach I state that recognizes their marriage will be had worked his crops for many years. One am patient. It takes time but usually people eligible: day his horse ran away. Upon hearing the come back and say “Had it not been for my Toward the end of her long life, an elderly Medical Leave – The Family and Medi- news, his neighbors came to visit. “Such illness, I would not have improved my rela- woman received a visit from her parish cal Leave Act of 1993 requires employers bad luck,” they said sympathetically. “May tionship with my parents” or “Having can- priest. Sitting amid the flowered wallpaper to provide unpaid leave for certain medical be,” the farmer replied. cer gave me the courage to finally make and lace doilies that festooned the old la- and family reasons. These include illness The next morning the horse returned, that career change I hand only dreamed of dy’s living room, the Episcopal clergyman of the employee, a parent, a spouse, or bringing with it three other wild horses. doing.” Or “While having cancer was like invited her to reflect on the choices she a child; family military leave; pregnancy; “How wonderful,” the neighbors exclaimed. dying everyday, it has proved to me how had made over the years. adoption; or the arrival of a foster child. Eli- “May be,” replied the old man. strong I am and as a result I feel I can face “If you could do it all over again,” he gible employees may take up to 12 weeks The following day, his son tried to ride anything.” It’s that quiet voice that says, said, “how would you live your life differ- of unpaid leave during any 12-month pe- one of the untamed horses, was thrown, “May be” that keeps my eyes on the future ently?” riod without jeopardiz- and broke his leg. The neighbors again to see how it will all unfold. The aging parishioner ing their job security. came to offer their sympathy on his misfor- There is also the reverse scenario. looked thoughtful at first, Medicare – This tune. “May be,” answered the farmer. Take for example the Evelyn Adams. Ev- and then cracked a mischie- federal program pro- The day after, military officials came elyn won the New Jersey Lottery not once vous smile. “The next time vides health insurance to the village to draft young men into the but twice! Unlike Miss Adams, the best I around,” she said, “I would for people who are at army. Seeing that the son’s leg was bro- can do is win $5 on a scratch off. Between work for love and marry for least 65 years old or ken, they passed him by. The neighbors 1985 and 1986, she won over $5.4 million. money.” who have certain dis- congratulated the farmer on how well Currently, Evelyn lives in a trailer (and not If two people are well abilities. Several fea- things had turned out. “May be,” said the a double wide, mind you) and is flat broke. suited to each other and in tures of the program farmer. I imagine her friends told her after hitting love, should the economic are affected by a par- Life can be hard. Often we hear people the lottery, how lucky she was and then I implications of marriage be a factor in de- ticipant’s marital status, including eligibility complain about something in their lives hear the faint whisper of the wind saying… ciding whether to tie the knot? based on a spouse’s work history, premium only to find out what they thought was a well may be. Evelyn admits to having a Many gay and lesbian couples are ask- amounts, and exemptions from enrollment curse ends up being a blessing. And of gambling addiction and a gambler can lose ing themselves that very question. In the penalties that may result from remaining course there are the “blessings” that end their money faster than any other addict… wake of the Supreme Court’s recent deci- on a spouse’s private health plan. up causing us problems as well. and she lost it all. sion to let stand all of the same-sex mar- Social Security – The Social Secu- One of the biggest problems we en- riage cases up for review, marriage is now rity Administration provides spousal ben- counter in our society is that we want to available to more of us than ever before. efits when one spouse retires, becomes know the outcome of a situation and we The federal benefits of marriage were disabled, or dies. In an interesting twist, want to have all the information yesterday. extended to same-sex couples last year couples applying for Social Security or We don’t like to be told we have to wait when the Supreme Court struck down Medicare who are in civil unions or domes- for the test results or “we will get back to Section III of the Defense of Marriage Act tic partnerships will also be counted as Domestic Partnership.” you.” We like things “buttoned and bowed.” (DOMA) in United States v. Windsor. spouses if they have a right of inheritance Immigration – American citizens who Wrap it up so I can plan my next move. As a result, married gay and lesbian under their state’s intestacy laws. are legally married to someone of the The old farmer was wise enough to be pa- couples can now file joint federal tax re- For other federal benefits, a “place of same sex can sponsor their spouses for tient and observe overtime how the story turns. Couples who live in a state that rec- celebration” rule applies. Same-sex cou- visas and green cards. would unfold. While many of us want to ognizes their union can also file joint state ples who were married in a state that al- For most couples contemplating mar- know “just what does this mean in my life returns, and even some non-recognition lows same-sex marriage will be counted riage, the legal benefits will of course be right now and how will this effect me long- states will allow married same-sex couples as spouses, regardless of the rules of the a secondary consideration. But they are term,” we need to be patient and wise and to file joint state returns. state where they live: worth bearing in mind. To paraphrase Paul realize it might be too early to tell. Living Whether filing jointly will mean a lower Military and veteran benefits – Mem- McCartney, money can’t buy you love, but with uncertainty can be uncomfortable and tax burden is a question for the couple’s bers of the military receive about 70 per- marriage can help you prosper. t scary. It’s like waiting for the other “shoe to accountant. Most married couples will ben- cent of their compensation in the form of Lee Carpenter is an associate at the drop.” Well, I have news for you, the other efit from filing jointly, but a minority will benefits, and many of these are based law firm of Semmes, Bowen & Semmes – shoe will drop and that shoe might be bet- suffer a “marriage penalty,” which affects on marital status. The military also offers 410-576-4729 or [email protected] ter or worse than your current situation. So some couples with similar incomes. Even if limited benefits to unmarried same-sex Mdlgbtestateplanning.com. No specific le- practice patience and try to live in the now. the penalty applies, being married will still couples who complete a “Declaration of gal advice intended. It will help. Of this I am sure. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 Thinking OUTloud How the Criminalization of the Queer Community Affects Us All b y Andrew Extein marriage has seen victories nationwide. As people and other sexual minorities are gender expression, or sexual participation. In 2005, when Danny was 17 years old, such, it is now time to consider new fron- disproportionately affected by sex laws We see a conscientious and open-minded he began dating a 16-year-old boy. Like tiers. We believe that the queer commu- and sex-offender registries. Homophobic queer community that engages with issues many teenage romances, this one did not nity should widen its scope of activism and biases in lawmaking and law enforcement of criminal justice that respect race, ethnic- end well – but not for the reasons you take a critical look at the ways in which we and hysteria around queer sex are largely ity, class, ability and sexual diversity. might expect. When the 16-year-old’s are still, as we have been for quite some to blame. We want to engage the queer com- parents found out about the relationship, time, criminalized and targeted for public In order to keep track of people who munity in a dialogue around sex-offender they blamed Danny for “turning their son persecution by unjust sex laws. have been convicted of a sexual offense, issues and sex laws, and their effect on gay,” and, incensed, called the police to Sexual minorities, including queer and our state and federal governments have queers. We want to end discrimination report the age difference. Danny ended up LGBT people, face many obstacles when created surveillance registries: publiciz- based on sexual orientation, gender ex- sentenced to jail for statutory rape. While navigating the criminal justice system. One ing one’s photo, address, and conviction incarcerated, he discovered that his boy- especially difficult challenge is the treat- record to anyone with an Internet connec- “Once on the registry, friend had taken his own life; the trauma ment of sex within the legal system. Sex tion. These registries are problematic and of Danny’s conviction and the public fall- crimes and sex laws have had far-reaching harmful, exposing registrants to harass- many queer people out of his parents’ intervention proved too repercussions, and queer people often find ment and vigilante violence and making it feel isolation within much for him. Once released three years themselves targeted. There is a long, well- nearly impossible to find a job or secure housing. Due to rigid residency restric- the community of tions, lack of employment or stable shelter, social ostracism, public humiliation, and registrants and in isolation, registrants are at a high risk of treatment.” homelessness, unemployment, substance use, and mental illness. These registries created to keep children and families safe pression, and sexual practices in judicial have become useless tools of oppression legislation and proceedings. We want to that shatter families and jeopardize public educate the queer community and the pub- safety. lic about how families are devastated by Once on the registry, many queer peo- sex-offender registries and foster empathy ple feel isolation within the community of for those impacted. We want to organize registrants and in treatment. Many treat- a community of support for queer regis- ment models are heteronormative and trants, families, friends and allies in order based on one-size-fits-all assumptions. to lessen the trauma of life on the registry, There is a greater bias against same-gen- decrease isolation and better the lives of der sex crimes than heterosexual counter- everyone affected. parts. Risk assessments are often homo- We encourage anyone who has been phobic and label a queer offender as being affected by anti-queer sex laws or is inter- of an augmented risk level. “Sex offender” ested in learning more about these issues becomes one’s identity as seen through to visit our website and reach out to us. Marked for life – Photos of boys scraped from state sex-offender websites the eyes of a heteronormative and anti- We look forward to engaging vibrant and queer society and criminal justice system. diverse queer communities in ongoing dia- later, Danny had to register yearly as a documented history of law enforcement We at the Center for Sexual Justice en- logue and collaboration. t sex offender on a public online registry. entrapping queer people in prostitution vision a legal system that is free of hysteria Andrew Extein, MSW, is executive di- His parole officer, who was intolerant of busts and gay cruising stings. HIV status and anti-sex bias, in which queer people rector of the Center for Sexual Justice gay parolees, imposed arbitrary restric- is increasingly criminalized nationwide. and other sexual minorities are not dis- (Centerforsexualjustice.org). This article tions. These included limits on travel and Trans folk are harassed and singled out by criminated against based on sexual desire, originally appeared on Huffington Post. Internet use, causing Danny to feel socially law enforcement. Queer people are more isolated and cut off from peers and support likely to be targeted for civil commitment. systems. Today, due to the challenges of Current sex laws ignore the needs and finding work as a registrant, Danny lives realities of queer youth, while seeking to with his parents. They too are exposed to criminalize their unique experiences. the social stigma and harassment caused In jails and prisons, queer people, es- by their son’s registry status. pecially youth, are extremely vulnerable, Danny’s tale is shocking, but by no often the focus of sexual and physical means singular. It is just one of countless abuse by inmates, guards, and staff. Many stories of queers who find themselves at incarcerated queers are physically and the mercy of unreasonable and homopho- emotionally isolated, with a lack of access bic/transphobic sex laws. As executive di- to resources such as hormones, HIV medi- rector of the newly founded non-profit or- cation, and condoms. Being incarcerated ganization the Center for Sexual Justice, I with a known same-sex sexual offense wanted to share Danny’s story as a means adds another layer of harassment and risk. of introducing our organization and ad- Rising hysteria around so-called “sex dressing why our work is vital at this time crimes” has created a new category of of shifting queer politics. The push for gay purported villain – the sex offender. Queer

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

the consistency and persistence of their family will be great, if it is not already. Very ment also prevents the onset of menstrua- cross-gender identification, meaning that few transchildren escape bullying, which tion, which causes severe emotional dis- it is always there and it persists over time, often leads to absenteeism or school re- tress in most transboys and leads to suicide and by their insistence on it, meaning that fusal. Parents of transchildren who choose attempts in some. Open Wide they refuse to deny their transgender iden- to support their children are often criticized GnRH blockers: If the child is dis- tification even if parents and others deny it, by their families and their religious homes. tressed at signs of puberty, but is still not ask Dr Eva punish them, or attempt to persuade them A professional who has worked with other certain about committing to going through Dr Eva Hersh otherwise. Some are inconsolable when families in similar situations can be a valu- puberty in the opposite gender, or if the par- their cross-gender clothes and toys are able source of support and useful ideas. ents are not willing to give consent to cross- taken away. Puberty: Children who persist in cross- gender hormone therapy, GnRH blockers, Needs and The transchild is not playing a game. gender identification as puberty approaches often referred to as “blockers” can be pre- The child is living his or her reality, and that are not likely to “outgrow” their cross-gen- scribed. These medications shut down the Treatment is why s/he is so heartbroken when the der identity. There are many advantages to production of estrogen or testosterone. people s/he loves try to take This allows the family more time to discuss Transgender that reality away. It may be this transition without the child having to experi- intensity of feeling that best dis- ence any further progression of puberty, in Adolescents tinguishes the transchild from either gender. The use of GnRH blockers the gender-experimenting child. also allows for further increase in height, as Like any rule, this is not perfect. height increase stops when the long bone Continued from last issue If a child has been punished for ends fuse at puberty. This can be useful for Which children will be trans? In discuss- cross-gender dressing or be- transboys, who are often much shorter than ing transgenderism in children and adoles- havior, s/he may repress emo- average for males. GnRH blockers also cents, it is important to understand that 1) tions and the depth of feeling stop menses, which are often very upset- transgenderism is a rare condition, affecting may not be apparent. ting for transboys. For transgirls, they stop perhaps one in 3000 people, and 2) there When to transition? Gen- the progression of voice change and face are many children who enjoy cross-gender der transition is a major life- and body hair. play but will not grow up to be transgender. changing step for a child or an Uncertainty is one of the most difficult These children may even take on an oppo- adult, and for the family. It is a things for people to handle. Parents of gen- site-sex name and persona for a time, but step that should be taken only der-variant children want to know (now!) they do not usually express distress about when it seems clear that no what their child’s future will be. However, their genitalia or about the prospect of ma- lesser step will make the per- we don’t know the future for anyone, in turing into an adult of their birth-assigned son more comfortable living lots of ways – it’s just that in the matter of gender. Many, but not all of the boys among with him or her self and in the gender, we usually do. Families of gender- these gender-experimenting children will world. Transition should never variant children need regular follow up with grow up to be gay men. Some will be het- be something a person is per- medical and if possible also with mental erosexual. For unknown reasons, the girls suaded to do or coaxed into. If health professionals who are familiar with in this group are less likely to be lesbian the motivation for transition is children like theirs, and can encourage the than the boys are to be gay, and a large not coming from the person who parent to leave space open for the child to proportion of the girls will be heterosexual is transitioning, it is the wrong develop into the person he or she will be “tomboys.” Some gender-variant children idea. Even when it seems clear most comfortable being. That will be the will ultimately define themselves as two- to all that the person will ulti- best solution for the child. spirit, both male and female. mately transition, the person Every decision to diagnose a child, Since many children who engage in must decide for him or herself or adult, as transgender should be made cross-gender play do not grow up to be when is the best time. For example, many treating with cross-gender hormones early, only after extensive interviews and careful transsexual, there is appropriate concern adolescents feel that their junior and high at the onset of puberty. The optimal time is thought by one or, if possible, more profes- about how to know which children will be school peers will not be supportive, so they defined by endocrinologists as Tanner stage sionals knowledgeable in the field. All treat- transsexual and about the potential risks of choose to transition right after graduation two, recognized by these signs: penile ment decisions should be understood and allowing children or youth who are not ul- and before starting college or work. lengthening, testicular enlargement, onset agreed to by the patient and, if the patient timately going to be transsexual to gender Medical care: The parents of a child of pubic hair in genetic males, and devel- is a minor, by the patient’s parents. So this transition. Unfortunately, there is no medi- who is interested in gender transition, or opment of breast buds and onset of pubic can happen, families need education about cal test for transgenderism and there is not whose parents think transition may be in- hair in genetic females. Treating with cross- the condition and treatment options. We likely to be one any time soon. The longitu- dicated, should try to locate a transgender- gender hormones in early puberty prevents are fortunate that Gender Spectrum, a well dinal studies that have been done to date knowledgeable and supportive primary the emotional trauma of voice deepening known educational group that until now has have informed us that most gender-variant care medical provider by the time the child for transgirls. There is no reliable way to re- held conferences only on the West Coast, children will not grow up to be transsexual, is about nine years old (one to two years verse the voice changes of puberty. It also will be having its first East Coast conference but these studies did not provide ways to before puberty). If the primary care pro- prevents the development of face and body here in Baltimore on November 14 (profes- distinguish which children are likely to be vider does not prescribe cross-gender hor- hair, which require thousands of dollars and sionals’ day) and 15 (family and youth day). transsexual and which are not. In the ab- mone therapy, a hormone prescriber, often much pain and time in electrolysis or laser If you have an interest in this topic, I en- sence of data, we can listen to the experi- a pediatric endocrinologist, must be found treatments to remove. Treating transboys courage you to look into this conference at t ence and recommendations of profession- as well. Consultation with a supportive, with cross-gender hormones in early puber- website Genderconferenceeast.org. als and families who have experience with transgender-knowledgeable mental health ty prevents the emotional trauma of breast Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physi- trans children. Kim Pearson, founder of professional is helpful, not because the development. Breast development causes cian. Send your comments and questions Trans Youth Family Alliance (Imatyfa.com) child has a mental illness (s/he does not) feelings of embarrassment and shame and to her by email at editor@baltimoreoutloud. states that transkids are characterized by but because the stress on the child and the requires surgery to reverse. Hormone treat- com or [email protected]

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 faith The Truth Will Set You Free by Rev. Victoria Burson in that same vein with me, it took several I am baffled yet saddened how we as believ- storms to come our way before we were able ers (Followers of Christ – Christians) have to conquer the eye of the storm and live in bought into so many of the world’s ideolo- our truth. In John 8:32 the Word of God sug- gies and contraptions. In fact, the Universal gests “Then you will know the truth, and the Church has created ritualistic doctrines in the truth shall set you free.” This is a very popular name of God that are pernicious and dogmat- scripture in the Bible that is used world-wide ic, keeping God’s people from fully living out in many settings for various reasons. We live their truth let alone their reality. I am equally in a culture which questions whether or not amazed about our culture, on many fronts; it truth really exists and, can one truly believe appears that many of us perpetually live our that there are really any absolutes? Can truth lives in constant fear, contentment (settling really be measured? For some of us, truth is for less than the best for our lives), or threats vitally important. of suicide. Since moving to Baltimore, I have Feminist Gloria Steinmen reputedly said engaged folks in conversations that leave me “The truth will make you free, but it will piss breathless and grief-stricken for the people of you off first.” Yes, we go through trials and God. Don’t get me wrong, Dallas and Atlanta tribulations of many kinds, however, your have their issues also. I am more inclined truth may not be my truth. While in under- to notice it more here and the surrounding grad school many years ago, I had a pro- states because of where I am spiritually. I am fessor named Dr. Doug Chatham, who said more in tuned to God’s people more-so than that “Truth is something that never has to be ever before in my entire life. I am trusting God corrected.” Yet, in many cases, truth needs more and I believe in God’s promises to us adjusting because of the emotionalism tied - that “God’s Word will not return back unto to the reality or actualization of the truth. The God empty, but they will accomplish every- Bible clearly explicates that if we hold to the thing it was purposed for…” teachings of Christ, not just his words, but his Nevertheless, it was not easy getting to life as well, then we will be able to live a life of this point. Like many of you who are there liberty. t Stay tuned for part two, next issue.

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts //e Betwe n the Covers

Words and pictures non-fiction book States of Desire, which Thanks to talented folks such as Ali- received high praise from Christopher Ish- Fall 2014 Bookshelf son Bechdel, Art Spiegelman and Marjan erwood, Fran Lebowitz, and Andrew Holle- By Gregg Shapiro Control,” “Women’s Rights,” “Her Person- Satrapi, the graphic novel has become a ran upon its publication, has been reissued Poetry reading list – The expanded 50th ality,” and “The Kind of President She’d staple of our literary diets. Joyce Brabner, in an expanded edition as States of Desire anniversary edition of Lunch Poems (City Be,” to mention a few. widow of Harvey Pekar, has teamed up Revisited: Travels in Gay America (Uni- Lights, 1964, 2014) by Frank O’Hara is Tom Maxwell, known as one of the vo- with illustrator Mark Zingarelli for her “gang versity of Wisconsin Press, 2014), and in- a glorious tribute to the brilliant book as calists and songwriters for popular Swing of misfits” creation, Second Avenue Caper: cludes a new introduction written by White. well as the genius of the poet himself. Movement revivalists Squirrel Nut Zippers, When Goodfellas, Divas, and Dealers Plot- Anyone who has encountered straight Poet John Ashberry wrote the preface and is the author of Hell: My Life in the Squir- ted Against the Plague (Farrar Straus Gi- breeders pushing SUV strollers through publisher/poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti also rel Nut Zippers (Oyster Point, 2014), which roux, 2014), a thoughtfully rendered tale Chicago’s Boystown or NYC’s Chelsea has his say about anniversary edition. If purports to “tell the other side of the story,” of how “thousands of social rejects took neighborhoods will find something to relate you haven’t read this essential volume of in which a fascinating cast of characters amazing care of each other” in the early to in sociologist Amin Ghaziani’s There poetry, including the amazing poem “Ave played their part in Maxwell’s musical and days of AIDS crisis. Goes the Gayborhood? (Princeton, 2014). Maria,” you don’t personal life. Children’s books have a unique way of know what you’re The posthumously combining text and images to get stories No biz like showbiz missing. published Glow: The and messages across to readers (of all The prolific Lisa Rogak (see Hillary Sam Taylor – Autobiography of Rick ages). Gay cabaret artist Craig Pomranz, Clinton above) shifts gears in Angry Op- a poet known for James (Atria, 2014) by “inspired by a true-life incident,” wrote timist: The Life and Times of Jon Stewart the “ecological en- the late Rick James with Made by Raffi (Frances Lincoln, 2014), (Thomas Dunne, 2014), her thoughtful gagement” in his David Ritz, hits shelves with illustrations by Margaret Chamberlain, biography of the actor/comedian/director/ work, as well as his ten years after James’s to introduce us to “different” little boy Raffi, writer, longtime friend of the LGBT com- ability to summon passing. The man re- who prefers knitting to kicking a ball. munity, and Daily Show mainstay. Whitman, O’Hara, membered as much for Story/Time: The Life of An Idea (Princ- The aforementioned Frank O’Hara’s and Ginsberg – is songs such as “Super- eton University Press, 2014) by Bill T. Lunch Poems isn’t the only cultural touch- the author of the freak,” “You and I,” and Jones is the “printed artifact of three Toni stone marking its 50th anniversary. The new poetry col- “Give it to Me Baby,” as Morrison Lectures” given by the gay cho- Joseph Stein/Jerry Bock/Sheldon Harnick lection Nude De- he is for his purported reographer at Princeton. A combination of musical Fiddler on the Roof is also cel- scending an Em- last words (“I’m Rick Jones’s “thoughts, quotations from oth- ebrating the significant milestone of its pire (University of James, bitch”), has his ers,” original short stories, as well as 16 Broadway debut. In Tradition!: The Highly Pittsburgh Press, say in this book. pages of photographs, the book provides Improbable, Ultimately Triumphant Broad- 2014), containing additional insight into the multi-award win- way-to-Hollywood Story of Fiddler on the the poems “Ameri- Sexy stuff ning artist’s creative process and genius. Roof, the World’s Most Beloved Musical ca: An Autobiogra- A massive and thor- (St. Martin’s Press, 2014), Barbara Isen- phy,” “Testimony,” ough tome, with lined (Gay) geography lessons berg traces the show’s evolution from con- and “Walt.” pages for readers’ Filmmaker, monologist, writer and cept to stage to screen and back to stage Described as “a look at the constitu- notes, Male Sex Work and Society (Har- pop culture icon John Waters extends his again. tional history of corporate personhood in rington Park Press, 2014), edited by Victor thumb and hits the road for his own per- Film and music journalist John Jobling the United States,” poet Jena Osman’s Minichiello and John Scott, features es- sonal odyssey in Carsick (Farrar Straus tackles the task of writing the unauthorized Corporate Relations (Burning Deck, 2014), says such as “Male Sex Work from Ancient Giroux, 2014), in which he hitchhiked from U2 bio in U2: The Definitive Biography combines the personal and the political for Times to the Near Present,” “Representa- Baltimore to San Francisco, encountered (Thomas Dunne, 2014). Spanning the be- a potent poetic potion. tion of Male Sex Work in Film,” “Advertis- an assortment of drivers willing to stop, loved band’s 35-year career, from its reli- ing Male Sexual Services,” and “Clients of pick him up and get him to his next desti- gious roots to its outspoken political nature In their own words Male Sex Workers,” to name just a few. nation. Can’t wait for the movie (please let (see the late gay artist David Wojnarow- Gay poet Richard Blanco became a With contributions by Jeff Mann, Rob there be a movie!). icz’s artwork used for U2’s “One”) and its household name, a feat not accomplished Rosen, Simon Sheppard, as well as the an- Edmund White’s groundbreaking 1980 multi-platinum recording history. t by many poets, when he was selected as thology’s editor Shane Allison, and more than the fifth inaugural poet, reading his poem a dozen other writers, Men on the Make: True “One Today” at President Obama’s sec- Gay Sex Confessions (Cleis, 2014), compiles ond inauguration in 2013. In his Miami-set titillating and true hook-up tails, uh, tales. memoir The Prince of Los Cocuyos: A Mi- A View From the Bottom: Asian Ameri- ami Childhood (Ecco, 2014), Blanco em- can Masculinity and Sexual Representa- ploys lyrical prose to tell his story. tion (Duke, 2014) by Nguyen Tan Hoang Hillary Clinton: In Her Own Words examines “portrayals of Asian and Asian (Seal, 2014), edited by Lisa Rogak, con- American men in Hollywood cinema, Euro- tains more than 300 quotations from pean art film, gay porn” and more. Secretary of State (as well as New York Though written for our hetero brothers Senator and former First Lady), and pos- and sisters, much of the advice offered in sible 2016 presidential candidate Hillary How To Woo a Jew: The Modern Jewish Clinton, on a vast array of topics including Guide to Dating and Mating (Seal, 2014) “Gay Rights and Marriage,” “How People by JDate columnist Tamar Caspi , with the Perceive Her,” “America’s Role in the necessary pronoun adjustments, could ap- World,” “Her Daughter” (Chelsea), “Gun ply to same sex Kosher coupling as well.

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts Prostitute to the Stars Vinyl Version: In the Nick of Time Best-Kept By Gregg Shapiro pensity to cancel concert tours (something things to a close on an experimental note. There’s a lot to be said about the 25th an- he’s gotten quite good at in recent years, The World Peace is None of Your Business niversary 180-gram vinyl reissue of Bonnie virtually crushing his already overly sensitive LP package includes a digital download of the Raitt’s multi-Grammy Award-winning 1989 al- fans), you will be happy to learn that there deluxe edition of the album, including six (!) Boy bum Nick of Time (Capitol), remastered from is much to like about his new album World bonus tracks. the original analog tapes. First, rest assured Peace is None of Your You’re not supposed to judge a By Megan Sandwick that it sounds as marvelous and timeless as Business (Harvest). The book by its cover. The same holds The subject of Arthur Vanderbilt’s Best- the first time you heard it, on vinyl or CD (it 12 songs on the double true for record albums. But, in the Kept Boy in the World (Magnus Books, was originally released in LP, 180-gram vinyl edi- case of Tolerance (White Iris) by In- 189 pages, $19.99) is Denham “Denny” 1989, after all). Producer/ tion of World Peace is can Abraham, the feeling of exhila- Fouts, arguably the greatest male prosti- iMusic musician Don Was (of None of Your Business ration captured in the cover photo tute of the 20th century. He was consid- Was Not Was fame) met feature some of his best (a kid hanging out the window of ered the most expensive prostitute and the challenge of lifting the longtime singer, and most memorable – yikes! – a moving car with moun- was a muse to Truman Capote. Vander- songwriter and blues diva out of shocking lyrics, beginning with tains in the background) comes bilt’s book looks at the Jacksonville, Flor- semi-obscurity and getting her the long over- the well-timed title track, close to depicting the sounds that ida-born Fouts and how he used his mag- due attention she had deserved. Sure, Raitt in which he deters any these childhood friends have cre- netic charm and personality for a life of (the son of Broadway actor and singer John “poor little fool” from ated on their debut album. In fact, adventure and addiction Raitt), had released nine albums on Warner voting. Moz follows that Incan Abraham sounds like a band around the world. Brothers, from 1971 to 1986, gaining a de- with “Neal Cassady Drops Dead” (in which that has been together longer than just five Between I was excited to read voted following, skirting chart success and he tries some Allen Ginsberg wordplay) and years. These ten tracks are marvelous, run- the Covers this book and see the life developing a devoted following in the heyday “I’m Not a Man,” two of the queerest songs ning the gamut from lightly modern psyche- that Denny created and of FM radio, but superstardom eluded her. he’s ever written. With the right remix, the delic (“Tram,” “Spring House” and the title be introduced to the ex- With Nick of Time, featuring the brilliant incredible “Staircase at the University” could cut) to stunningly beautiful pop (“Concorde,” periences he had with shipping tycoons, original title tune, Raitt not only (re)staked become an unqualified tea dance sensa- “Forgiveness,” “All You Want,” and “Peers”). lords, princes, heirs, and artists. What was her claim as a gifted songwriter, she also tion. The brass, courtesy of Gustavo Manzur, The LP comes with a code giving folks ac- this life like in the late 1930s and 1940s? proved that she hadn’t lost her talent as an shines brightly on “The Bullfighter Dies” and cess to download the songs on the album in Tell us the nightly craze of the London Un- interpreter of other people’s material. Her “Kiss Me A Lot,” and “Oboe Concerto” brings digital fashion. t derground during World War II? Instead, I hit version of John Hiatt’s “Thing Called had a hard time finishing the book. True, Love,” helped Hiatt as much as it helped my first attempt may have been unsuc- Raitt. Producer Was was wise not to shift at- cessful because I was at the beach. I tention from Raitt’s long-established blues changed my location to the comfort of my background, something that comes through couch and still had a hard time getting into on the Hiatt tune, as well as songs includ- the flow of the book. ing “Love Letter,” “Real Man,” and especially While read- Raitt’s composition “The Road’s My Middle ing, I kept hav- Name.” Other timely tracks include the gor- ing a feeling geous ballads “I Ain’t Gonna Let You Break that Denny was My Heart Again” (co-written by gay singer/ given an en- songwriter David Lasley), “Cry On My Shoul- semble role not der,” “Too Soon to Tell” and “Nobody’s Girl.” the starring part If you can forgive Morrissey for his pro- in his own life story. I was slow getting into the book as I was trying to keep track of the dif- travels, and drugs that are part of Denny’s ferent names life. As we are introduced to his affairs with and who was Gore Vidal and Truman Capote we never who while I was are given an understanding of how their reading. After emotional connection was built. Much of scrolling back a few pages a several times, the text that is devoted to the Capote rela- I realized that it was more effort than I per- tionship is actually a reprint of text from his sonally wanted to expend on a light read book “Answered Prayers” instead of offer- so I decided to speed read ahead to get ing details specific to Denny. to the promised scandal and excitement! I I recommend this book if you are inter- also realized several times as I was trying ested in facts about the timeline and peo- to figure out who I was reading about and ple involved in Denny’s life between the why, “Who is this person and why are they years of 1937-1948. This is not a look at not Denny Fouts?” the experiences and relationships between This book tracks the people, affairs, Denny and his mutual obsessions. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // out in stage RELIVE A TV CLASSIC WITH

like Desi Arnaz, but if you squint a little I Love Lucy Live On Stage and just listen to him speak or sing, you’d swear Desi was on stage (and the audi- By Chuck Duncan cial breaks and all the busy-ness that goes well. In the second, Ricky brings a Broad- ence loved when he finally told Lucy she Step back in time to 1950-something, to on between set-ups, and even a “flubbed” way producer home for dinner and Lucy had some ‘splainin’ to do). the beginning of the Golden Age of Televi- line which has to be “re-shot.” It’s not as and the Mertzes want to audition for him. Of course, besides Ricky the toughest sion, step into the theater which is now a technical as a real TV shoot, but it is enter- He agrees, but the next day Lucy has an act to pull off is Lucy. With her distinctive TV studio, specifically Desilu Studios and taining enough to make you feel like you’re eye exam which renders her nearly blind, voice and showgirl beauty (Lucy came enjoy the “filming” of two episodes of the really there with the cast and crew. and hilarity ensues as she can barely see to Hollywood as a Goldwyn Girl), it’s al- classic TV comedy I Love Lucy. In addition to being a part of the “live her jitterbug partner. most impossible for anyone to do a good If you’re a fan of Lucy, Ricky, Fred, studio audience,” a cast member or two These episodes probably aren’t the Lucy Ricardo without becoming a carica- and Ethel, then you’ll want to make sure may wander through the audience chatting most well-known in the I Love Lucy canon, ture (Lucy impersonator Diane Vincent is to snap up some tickets to the hit touring up other real audience members as they but they are certainly the easiest to re- one of the best). So you have to give it to production I Love Lucy Live On Stage, now look for their seats (Birdie Mae Figg from produce on a in its “second season.” This production is Oklahoma introduced herself to us as she stage with only currently at Baltimore’s Hippodrome The- was looking for her seat), and between epi- the Ricardo’s atre through October 26. What can audi- sodes there is a trivia game with one audi- living room and ences expect from something that’s prob- ence member and Birdie Mae which adds Ricky’s night- ably so familiar to so many? A really fun to the fun. club needed evening! While the commercials and behind- as sets, and a The show transports the audience back the-scenes moments are entertaining, the healthy dose in time to Desilu Studios where two episode reason for the show is the re-enactment of of music and of I Love Lucy will be filmed back-to-back. the two episodes, “The Benefit” and “Lucy dancing. As a While we’re watching the show, we’re actu- Has Her Eyes Examined.” In the first, Ethel die-hard fan, I ally participants as well, clapping when the wants Ricky to perform at her ladies’ club can’t say that Applause sign lights up, enjoying commer- show but Lucy wants to be in the act as the Tropicana is accurate to the show, but Another Regional Premiere it does the job. The apartment Coming to Toby’s! living room is very well re- produced from OPENS SEPTEMBER 5! the show, right down to the R icky (Euriamis Losada) & Lucy (Diane Vincent) figurines on bring the tube to the stage the mantle but there is one glaring error – “The Benefit” is from sea- Thea Brooks for even attempting to take son one when the apartment did not have on such an iconic role. She doesn’t sound a window while “Lucy Has Her Eyes Exam- like Lucy, but she does the character very ined” is from season three when there was well indeed, right down to the over-the-top a window. This set has a window, but curi- crying, off-key singing, and her signature ously enough, the first touring production “spider voice” that she used when one of used the first season apartment. It doesn’t her hair-brained plans went off the rails. detract from the show in any way, but for Brooks is pretty terrific in a daunting role, From the underground dance clubs of 1950’s Memphis, Tennessee,comes hardcore fans it does nag at you a bit. even more impressive as this is her first a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive On the plus side, the ensemble cast lead role in her second touring production. is amazing, taking on various parts from Overall, the sets, costumes and lighting dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and romance. crooners to commercial jingle singers and design are marvelous, the interaction with actors, right down to Speedy Alka Seltzer, the audience makes this more than just a and “Dinah Beach” singing the Chevrolet night out at the theatre, and the cast work TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA song. Kevin Remington and Lori Hammel their magic as they transport you back in 5900 Symphony Woods Road • CALL 410-730-8311 play Fred and Ethel, and while they get to time to see a classic TV show brought back sing and dance a bit, I really would have to life before your very eyes. I Love Lucy Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, liked to have seen more of that interaction Live On Stage should be a must-see for dates and times are subject to change. they had on TV with Lucy and Ricky. Euria- any Lucy fan, or for anyone who just wants TobysDinnerTheatre.com mis Losada is excellent as Ricky. He’s got to escape today’s worries and woes for a D the voice, the accent, and all the manner- couple of hours. Tickets are available at Il- inner Show & RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY! isms down pat. He may not look exactly ovelucylive.com. t

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts

shove his kids’ faces in their food when they mestic violence can maximize Aristotle’s Six Arts Against Violence would not eat. My student came to find out Elements of the Drama --- plot, character, his grandmother was a hero for leaving this theme, language, music, and spectacle (and b y Pete Carver Shepard) is CCBC’s Community Book Con- man and blazing a new uphill trail for her convention, the newer seventh element). My wife and I found teaching jobs in Bal- nection title for 2014-2015 year, so I decided family. His grandmother sounded so strong, This project has life to it. I aim to take timore, so this August we moved our fam- to teach the play in my “Fundamentals of so kind, so unlike a victim who had endured my time and find out how to best tell the sto- ily here from Asheville, North Carolina, a Communication,” “Introduction to Theatre,” years of pain. My student admitted that this ry. All of my students are welcome to be a progressive place where there is a strong and “Film and Television Writing” classes. was the deepest conversation he had ever part of the process. sense of community. There’s a lot to like My aspiring screenwriters read the play had with his grandmother, and they had bro- When asked about how leaving two re- about Baltimore – the city has unbelievable aloud and then discussed the strengths and ken new ground in their relationship. lationships with abusers has affected her diversity and great pride in its history and weaknesses of the dialogue. We compared A couple of students interviewed their life, one anonymous interviewee replied, its sports teams – but it didn’t take us long the film to the play, finally transposing a sec- mothers and posed questions they had never “I’m more open, honestly. I talk about it to see there is a violence problem here. It tion of the film to screenplay format. asked. “Why did you stay?” “How did this more freely now. I kind of fight back now. seems most people don’t want to talk about Matt Shepard’s murder (and the media affect you?” “Did you tell anyone?” Some Now, I’m almost the abuser more than the it (“The Wire” does that already), although storm that followed) forced Laramie, Wyo- students interviewed friends who are cur- abused. I’m learning to deal with that now many are affected. My students surprised ming, to deal with a tough subject and make rently trapped in relationships they are too myself. Once you’re with a new person and me in class last month when they candidly changes in their town. I believe the Ray afraid to leave. Students found that victims you’re used to being abused constantly.... so told me they fully expect to be a victim of Rice maelstrom can have the same effect can become abusers, violence can become you’re almost picking fights because that’s the violence in Baltimore at some point or on our community, so I am creating a play habitual, and that drugs and alcohol can fuel what you’re used to. Dealing with that right another. based on domestic violence interviews. a fury. Some students are victims themselves now in therapy. I’m defensive constantly After the Ray Rice punching video put Inspired by The Laramie Project, 40 of and unveiled pent-up frustration and guilt. when it comes to men. Guard is completely Baltimore in the international spotlight, I my Fundamentals of Communication stu- Right now, my Introduction to Theatre up. At any given time, I’m almost ready to suggested we should own the subject of do- dents conducted and recorded interviews students are creating a play from the in- fight. I’m so willing to fight back now. I’m at mestic violence and do something to stop with domestic violence victims and abusers. terview clips and collecting support materi- that point where I refuse to be hit again. I it. I got to work and began my first artistic The clips and transcripts are real, and these als – statistics, sounds, and videos. This will defend myself. Before, I didn’t. I really t project in my new home. Baltimore stories are heartbreaking. month we have focused on the work of the didn’t defend myself before.” The Laramie Project, (a play built from One student interviewed his grandmoth- playwright, showing how a strong piece of The author is Assistant professor of interviews detailing Laramie, Wyoming’s er and learned for the first time that his own theatre has the ability to change the world. communications, theatre, and mass com- reaction to the 1998 murder of Matthew grandfather abused the family and would We have discussed how our play about do- munication at CCBC.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 Best One Night Stand in Town! BROADWAY | OPERA | COMEDY | DANCE | POP | FAMILY

LYRIC OPERA BALTIMORE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, JAMES HARP Trace Adkins

Featuring THE BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Conducted by STEVEN WHITE Sung in Italian with English Surtitles The NOVEMBER 7 7:30pm Christmas Show NOVEMBER 9 3:00pm NOVEMBER 13 8:00pm NOVEMBER 16 7:30pm NOVEMBER 22 8:00pm

Once pronounced by Bob Dylan as America’s “greatest living poet,” acclaimed singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson’s career spans over 4 decades of hits. DEC 26 7:30pm DEC 27 1:00pm, 7:30pm DECEMBER 4 7:30pm DECEMBER 12 8:00pm DEC 28 1:00pm JANUARY 22 8:00pm

For more info and complete listings, visit (410) 547-SEAT WWW.MODELL-LYRIC.COM Box Office (M-F 10am-4pm) 110 W. Mt. Royal Ave, Baltimore

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on stage

version of this famous Blaster Al spoken a sense of ownership and cannot let go of AT IRON CROW The word technique. their vision, but Mary gives me a stack of She would be standing on stage writing and I do whatever is in my head, HeART- dressed in sexy outlandish outfits, wild hair keeping the artwork fresh and alive. It is a 4.48 Beat of and wide eyed. Her sweet almost innocent true collaboration, not a dictatorship.” Baltimore cherubic face with crimson red lips reading Hand printed by Beppi are also a Devin Cherubini her work aloud to the large crowd. When wide variety of “Pretty Beaver” inspired t- Psychosis suddenly she would half chortle out, “My shirts featuring many of the comical char- beaver! My beaver!” in order to rattle the acters inspired by real life native Baltimor- audience to attention just in case anyone eans. These crazed caricatures are drawn By Steve Charing Pretty Beaver had drifted off. This tactic was a success! It with a very confident and bold line qual- In keeping with the Iron Crow Theatre Com- became her trademark. She instantly won ity juxtapositioned with various interesting pany’s tradition of staging unconventional, “Let me see that pretty beaver!” may the hearts of many fans in the local Balti- and unique patterns and shapes that bring thought-provoking, often dark dramas, the sound like the cat call of a dirty construc- more writing scene. the composition together very nicely. kick-off to their three-play 2014-2015 season tion worker in an alley of Baltimore City. Several years later, in 1996, the comic Beppi, and her husband Stephen and did not disappoint. You know you’re in for The innuendo is exactly what you think it “Pretty Beaver” their son a signature Iron Crow theatrical experience is. But, “Pretty Beaver” is the title of an in- was born! A very Gunnar, when before the play begins the audience ternationally published comic sprung from queer and strange shared the observes a body dressed in white, highlighted the cynical, sardonic loins of Baltimore. reflection of Bal- cover of the by occasional red lighting, lying prone on the It’s even been published in “StripBurg- timore life. The Baltimore otherwise darkened Baltimore Theatre Proj- er” of Slovenia, Yugoslavia! And another satires are sexual Alternative ect stage with some gloomy New Age music publication from Montreal, Quebec, “Fish but not sexy, fun along with droning in the background prior to its presen- Piss,” has a cover illustration depicting and not always other LGBT tation of 4.48 Psychosis. green, beautiful, angry fish squabbling. funny, but always families Though Iron Crow bills itself as Balti- During my interview with the writer poignant. once during more’s queer theatre company, 4.48 Psycho- of “Pretty Beaver,” Mary Knott, she had When asked the 90s. In sis by British playwright Sarah Kane stepped strewn hundreds of colorful publications why she chose my interview aside from past Iron Crow plays that usually all over my couch and desk. A rainbow of the actual words with the artist have LGBTQ themes woven into the scripts. controversy, magic and mayhem in print. for the title “Pret- she laughs Research reveals, however, that Kane had This LGBT comic is raw, confrontation- ty Beaver.” She telling me al, and funny. All of the stories are con- smirked a little, she was once “The performances ceived by Knott – Baltimore writer, poet, laughed and even mistak- performance artist, and singer in a local quipped with a en for a drag were enhanced by a band, “The Dirt” (with masterful musician side glance, “It queen. She Mike Bell on guitar). Mary writes the lyr- was better than calling it Pretty Pussy.” describes it as her “badge of honor” and creative though spartan ics of songs the duo has performed at Bal- Mary’s first piece of writing was an ar- still proudly adheres to all the drag-queen set that depicted the timore art venues such as the Pow Wow ticle published on the front page of The fashion tips taught to her by some of the and Sowebo Art Festival. “The Dirt” has Federalsburg Times when she was only best queens of Baltimore. She lists them inner workings of the put out several albums that have gotten 16. This gave Mary the courage a young for me: mind itself.” air play on New York City radio. girl needs to pursue a career as a profes- • before leaving the house, add one “Pretty Beaver” comics are drawn by sional writer. piece of jewelry Baltimore mixed-media artist and fashion Mary received a degree in literature at • go big or go home affairs with women, so this presentation does designer Beppi Isbert. Isbert’s fabulous Towson University in 1990. • always keep them guessing have an LGBTQ connection even if the sub- designs have been featured in many Pride Her very first illustrated publication of • from the moment you wake up, put ject matter was mostly devoid of it. Day drag shows throughout the years – as crazed creativity was in Nude Polaroid in on make-up In fact, 4.48 Psychosis doesn’t even have well the House of Frau commissioned her 1996 with art by Baltimore artist Pat Horn- • stay strange! a plot, structure, timeline, or staging direc- to single-handedly design a fashion show berg. Eventually as destiny would have The exciting, wide variety of stories that tions. Iron Crow’s artistic director Steven J. for them. Beppi enjoys working in a wide it the two sisters found their collaborative Mary brings to life never seems to cease in Satta attests to that fact in a press release variety of mediums and textiles in order to niche the following year when Beppi re- aiding Beppi’s creative illustration process, announcing the season: “The play is written keep the artwork fresh. placed Pat as the artist for Mary’s writing setting the stage for Knott’s characters to in a manner, which is not realistic or linear but During our interview, Mary reminisced in 1997. flourish and thrive. rather abstract and disjointed, which is ap- how the title of the comic was partly in- There are actual Baltimore places and Mary Knott’s writing is the backbone propriate when dealing with issues of mental spired by her mentor and close friend people in Mary’s writing – things very fa- of “Pretty Beaver,” the core of the comic. health—the rational does not apply.” Blaster Al, a very beloved and nationally miliar to both Beppi and Mary. Commonali- Knott’s creative story-telling is the skeleton Indeed, 4.48 Psychosis, which opened in renowned local Baltimore writer who re- ties that appear to be a kind of super glue and bones of the visual experience. Al- Britain’s Royal Court Theatre in 2000, touch- cently passed away on St. Patrick’s Day in holding the comics together making them though startling at times there is never a dull es upon such issues as depression, suicide, 2013. She smiles through her tears when strong, powerful, and direct. moment when reading a copy of Pretty Bea- self-harm, religion, medications, the mental speaking fondly of him. Remembering the Beppi has collaborated with other writ- ver. So, next time you’re at Atomic Books health care system, relationships and love— way Blaster would teach her how to use ers over the years, but according to her, tell them, “Let me see that Pretty Beaver!” t all packed within the confines of a one-hour a catch-phrase technique to grab people’s Mary has always been the writer that has Devin Cherubini has a BA from Mary- play. It was the last work written by Kane who attention in story-telling. been the easiest for her to work with. When land Institute College of Art. He majored in committed suicide a year and half before the Sometime in 1985 Mary came up with asked about this process, Beppi says, general fine art mixed media and minored first performance by hanging herself using her own similar but very radical female “Most writers go into a collaboration with in creative writing. —continued on page 25

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 dining out

a bowl. I was surprised to see a somewhat creamy sauce on top of the shrimp and grits, as the sauce was not mentioned spe- cifically on the menu. I did enjoy the shrimp Finger’s and the sausage, but the sauce really over- Food whelmed the grits. I am having a hard time describing the taste, but it was fairly spicy and salty, and a flavor not to my liking. I was thankful our server was consis- Nick’s Fish House & Grill tent with water refills. Before offering my 2600 Insulator Drive, Baltimore opinion of our meal to my dinner compan- Nicksfishhouse.com ion that had ordered the same meal, I had asked her opinion. by Richard Finger Oddly enough, she said it was “salty, My visit to Nick’s Fish House was on a and a bit spicier than she would have ex- cool but pleasant weeknight. I hadn’t been pected.” In addition, we both agreed the to this area of Baltimore before, so I had copious amount of this sauce was too over- no idea what to expect. Upon driv- ing up, I was a bit skeptical, as the building looked a bit worn down, but I had heard of Nick’s excellent reputation, so was content to over- look appearances. I’d arrived quite a bit earlier than our friends so I decided to have a drink at the bar. Upon walking in, the bar and res- taurant looked inviting enough. A very friendly bartender served me a glass of chardonnay, and I relaxed until my party arrived. I hadn’t quite finished my glass of wine when our friends arrived. We decided to have a seat outside. Given it was a weeknight, it was rather slow, and we had our pick of tables. I was struck by the views from our vantage point. Quickly, our server brought out drinks, and final- ly, I was no longer drinking alone. Nick’s menu is exactly what I ex- pected: many seafood options with a smattering of non-seafood choice; there are soups, salads, sandwich- es & wraps, raw and steamed shell- Fruit de mer à la Nick’s fish, and a large selection of entrees on the Big Plates list. We decided to bypass the appetizers and order entrees. Although I will admit, the Deck powering for us to enjoy our meals. Fries looked appealing, hot potato fries Well, this might have been an unfortu- served with Old Bay, malt vinegar, aioli nate choice for us, but I could see that din- and cheese dipping sauces ($5). I will be ers at other tables seemed to be enjoying sure to try that next time. Other appetizers their meals. We saw two gentlemen at a range from Crab Balls ($10), to Nick’s Crab table next to us tearing through a heap of and Shrimp Dip ($16). clams, and on the way out offered that they For my entrée, I decided on the Shrimp were some of the best they had tasted. We & Grits topped with Sautéed Spinach ($18), were dining with two high-ranking Army served with Andouille Sausage, Nick’s officials who are very vigilant about what calls this a “Southern tradition.” Another they eat. I did want to sample a dessert member of our party had the same, so I option, but I was quickly outvoted. I’d like was excited to have another taste perspec- to visit Nick’s Fish House again when the tive, in addition to my own. Our server, who weather is warming up again in the spring. was very attentive, brought our orders out I will try something else, and next time will in no time. All were served hot and freshly ask the server to be very specific about the prepared. The shrimp & grits are served in dish so there are no surprises. t

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com your money LIVELY ARTS // out on stage

IRON CROW’S 4.48 every country, and even sometimes re- Psychosis gions with countries, will pay differently, The More you – continued from page 21 Know About depending on what the market rate is for a job at the time. At the same time, in this ex- Business ample, we are not comparing apples to ap- Richard Finger ples, as euros and American dollars have foreign exchange values. The bottom line is, from an employee’s perspective, this is always a great mystery as to why they are paid what they are. The So what’s in it for companies to expose the mystery? As I have written many times Controversial before, people tend to trust organizations that are transparent about their policies and practices. When there is a high de- Issue of gree of trust in place, generally, employ- ee engagement is also increased. When engagement is high, productivity will no Salaries N ick Horan and doubt increase along with it. Katie Keddell Another benefit is more indirect, and credit: Zachary Z. that is that through transparency, salary Handler Making an employee’s salary public has differences will dissipate over time. Even always been a controversial issue. A big with the passing of the Equal Pay Act of shoestrings in a British hospital. cide that was afflicting her prior to her final challenge of pay transparency is having 1963, which primary purpose was to re- Kane was suffering from clinical depres- fatal act. Others disagree based on some of to explain differences among salaries to quire employers to pay the same to men sion before her suicide, which led to a pre- the lines in the play that could be interpreted head off perceptions of unfairness. While and women performing equal work, there vailing assumption that 4.48 Psychosis is an as optimism. The final line in the play, “Please there is still an issue of salary discrepancy has been extremely slow progress to nar- autobiographical suicide note whereby she open the curtains,” is one such indication. between men and women, between whites row the salary gap. President Obama reveals in ethereal and at times, incoherent In 4.48 Psychosis, Kane doesn’t identify and minorities, and even between workers passed an Executive Order in April 2014 ways the mental chaos of contemplating sui- —continued on page 28 in the same job title in general, more and that will require federal contractors to pro- more companies are turning towards mak- vide summary data on how much they pay ing their pay practices and salaries known people by gender and race. With this step to their employees. taken, it could only be a matter of time be- Many times I have been confronted by fore all employers are required to do so. employees asking for explanation of why My sense is that proactive employers are taking this step for the benefit of building trust in the organization, not because they have to. Before deciding to lay all of the salary cards on the table, leaders in the organiza- tion, and HR support for the business must equip themselves with the answers to the tough questions they will face. It will be important for all employees to understand how the company strategy is translated into compensation and performance prac- tices. For example, if your organization Y ou’re my honey so don’t worry ’bout money promotes a “pay for performance” philoso- phy; this will need to be clarified for em- ployees to understand that pay will differ they are paid what they are. Most times, depending on performance. Over several this will have been after they have seen years, higher performers may, on average, an unverified or invalidated salary study on earn higher than average salaries if they the internet, or even a more reputable sal- continually perform better than their peers. ary study on the internet (i.e. Glassdoor. If employees understand what that means, com, PayScale.com, or Salary.com) or the mystery is somewhat solved. after they have discussed salaries with a In summary, salary is a subject that is coworker. I once had an employee based near and dear to the heart, and let’s face it, in the Netherlands tell me that his salary very personal. My advice is, before open- is lower than the company’s “global salary ing the organization up to a boatload of band” for his job level. I had to explain to questions, carefully plan a communication him that a global salary band structure is approach that will be consistent with your not in existence, and further explain that organization’s intent. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 your money Employee Benefit Options

Byo Wo dy Derricks efits you receive. If you elect to pay your pre- It’s getting to be that time of year. If you haven’t miums with after-tax dollars and you are paying already, you should soon receive your 2015 the full amount (not employer subsidized), you employee-benefit options from your employer. will likely receive benefits free of income taxes. These options typically include selecting a Disability coverage is important to have- health insurance plan, dental, and vision cover- especially if you are single or the primary bread age. Your employer may also provide for things winner in your family. Disability insurance of- such as life insurance, disability insurance, and/ fered through your employer is also often in- or a flexible spending account (FSA). Because expensive. Because of this, I generally rec- you have to wait a full year before you can ommend that my clients opt for the maximum change your mind, it’s important to take care disability benefit that they can receive through with your elections. their employer. Life insurance – Employers often provide Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – FSA some sort of basic insurance coverage. This accounts are accounts where you can take pre- could be $50,000 or some multiple of your sal- tax dollars from your pay and your employer puts ary. They may also provide optional coverage them into a holding bucket. When you encounter that comes at your expense. a medical expense that is not covered by your Optional group life insurance is usually insurance company, you can submit a claim to some sort of term insurance that provides a your employer and they will issue you a check. death benefit to your elected beneficiary while The FSA should reimburse you for dental you’re employed. This coverage will likely come expenses, vision expenses, insurance deduct- in amounts that are multiples of your salary. The ibles and co pays, as well as purchases for coverage typically ends when you leave your over-the-counter medications. You are only lim- employer or retire. ited in reimbursements up to the amount that Because this is group insurance, the insur- you contribute to the FSA for the year. ance company provides coverage at a blanket Just as is the case with your other ben- cost based on age, not health. Due to this, the efits, you cannot change your FSA deduction insurance may come at a cost that is higher for after you elect it. If you decide to have $1,200 healthy individuals and cheaper for smokers or deducted from your pay for the year, your em- people with health issues. You may also find ployer will take $100 per month from you pay that your premium goes up in bands (meaning and place that into the FSA. Later in the year, if that it increases as you reach ages such as 35, you decide that the $100 a month is not enough 40, 45, 50, etc). or is too much, you cannot change your mind. Having some sort of life insurance is impor- The other drawback to the FSA is that if you tant for most people. After you determine the do not spend your full deduction for the year, correct amount of coverage to purchase, you you lose it. That means if you deducted $1,200 may want to weigh the costs of purchasing in- from your pay, but only used $500, the other surance on your own versus having coverage $700 is forfeited to the FSA company. Again, through your employer. Again, this is because make sure that you make the proper election the coverage may increase in cost every five because you cannot change the amount later years and that it may end after you leave your and could lose a portion of your savings. company’s employment. The good news is that the full amount Disability insurance – Your employer may you elect to deduct is available to you starting also offer disability insurance. If they do, you in January. For example, if you opt to deduct may find that they provide a short-term plan for $1,200 for the year and you have a $1,200 you. That plan may cover you should you be- or greater medical expense in February, you come sick or disabled for a period of time that should be able to be reimbursed for the full exceeds your personal leave. The plan often amount right away. starts to pay some percentage (likely 60% or Contact us to help assess your insurance so) of your salary for 90 to 180 days. Because needs and to help review your options. You your employer is paying for this coverage, it will want to make sure you have the coverage you be taxed to you as ordinary income. need; but you also want to make sure you don’t Your employer may also offer the option of have too much coverage, that you’re not paying purchasing long-term disability insurance. This too much for it, and that you have the right type would provide coverage after the short-term of coverage for your situation. We’re happy to period ends though age 65 at a rate of some- discuss your options with you and your benefits where around 60% of your current pay. You department. t may be provided with the option to pay for your Woody Derricks is a certified financial plan- premium pre tax or after tax. If you elect to pay ner and an accredited domestic partnership pre tax, you will get a tax break on the premium advisor. Reach him at 410-732-2633. This ar- payments, but pay income taxes on any ben- ticle not intended to offer specific advice.

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOber 17,, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 p.m. The leather guys of Onyx prom- IRON CROW’S 4.48 ise a freaky night filled with strippers, Psychosis raffles, and demos. DJ Theo Storm – continued from page 25 will be providing the music and the Leather cover charge is just $10. who or how many characters are involved or Line The big news in D.C. is the pend- what the characters’ genders, age or race Rodney Burger ing opening of the new D.C. Eagle at are. Without such guidance, the interpreta- 3701 Benning Road NE and plans are tion of this play remains in the hands and cre- already in the works to celebrate the ativity of the producers and directors. And it Eagle’s 43rd anniversary and the Mr. allows the audience to fill in the blanks and The End D.C. Eagle 2015 contest at the soon- shape the story in their own way. to-open new location. In keeping with Director Ryan Clark, who also designed is Near! tradition, the annual Eagle Wings Auc- the sound elements, took advantage of this tion is scheduled for Friday, November artistic latitude and superbly guided a skilled Is it really the middle of October already? 21 from 10 p.m. to midnight. This live Iron Crow ensemble and crew with profi- Where has this year gone? It is time to make auction is a great way to get a good ciency and imagination. Three excellent ac- plans for those last few leather events of the deal on some leather and at the same tors—Nick Horan who turned in an admirable year. I can’t believe that I am already think- time support a good cause. This year performance in Iron Crow’s The Homo Poe ing about the Mr. Maryland Leather Contest, the beneficiaries of Eagle Wings are Show in March, Katie Keddell and Ché Lyons Eagle Wings in D.C., and those big holiday SMYAL (Empowering LGBTQ Youth) —efficiently rotated in and out of the roles of I nternational gatherings. The truth of the matter is that and SAGE Metro-D.C. (Services & the doctor, the patient and the bystander. Or Mr. Leather when it comes to 2014, the end is near. Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual were they all different dimensions of a singu- The first weekend of November is always and Transgender Elders). The Mr. 2014 Ramien Pierre lar mentally ill person? Or…? a big weekend for COMMAND, M.C., as they D.C. Eagle 2015 Contest will be held These actors, all attired in plain white present the Mr. Maryland Leather Contest. on Saturday, November 22. The Mr. outfits, performed their multiple roles con- This year the 25th Mr. Maryland Leather D.C. Eagle Contest is always a great vincingly aided by their striking movements titleholder will be selected! This event is contest, but it should be a little extra spe- flea market, pictures with Santa, and one on the stage; their well-delivered soliloquies always one of Baltimore’s biggest leather cial this year considering that Mr. D.C. Eagle lucky person will win a wagon of cheer. This and dialogues that included a naturalistic, weekends. Plus it is going to be even more 2014 Ramien Pierre went on to be selected year’s Daddy Christmas fundraiser benefits abstract or poetic language forms; and facial fun this time because the event kicks off on International Mr. Leather 2014. the Gene Kirchner Memorial Fund. (Gene expressions frequently contorting to convey Friday, October 31. That’s right the opening The Mr. D.C. Eagle Contest is the lon- Kirchner was a volunteer firefighter who was the anguish the characters are experiencing. cocktail parties at the Wyndham Peabody gest running leather contest in the country killed in the line of duty.) It was a big year for The performances were enhanced by a Court Hotel and the contestant Meet & Greet and is a huge tradition each November. the ShipMates. Maryland’s first leather club creative though spartan set that depicted the Reception that starts at 10 p.m. at The Loft Another big November tradition in the Mid- celebrated 40 years of brotherhood in April. inner workings of the mind itself. / Grand Central are on Halloween! The Mr. Atlantic leather community is scheduled for Come out and join the ShipMates as they Two four foot-wide curtains on either side Maryland Leather 2015 contest will be held Saturday, November 29 as the Bucks, M.C. celebrate the start of the holiday season. of the stage and a wider one above the rear on Saturday, November 1 at Club Hippo. kickoff the holiday season with their 41st an- Baltimore’s other holiday tradition occurs of the stage served as screens for a series Doors open at noon for the silent auction nual Santa Saturday fundraiser. This year’s on the second Saturday of December at the of projections that appears to be at times a and social hour and the contest begins at 2 event will be held at the Paradise in Asbury Club Hippo. Hooker & boys will present the corridor in a hospital when the doctor and pa- p.m. There is also a formal leather dinner, Park, New Jersey. This annual gathering in- 16th annual 12 Days of Christmas Show: tient scenes take place and abstract bubbly victory party, and there’s a Sunday brunch. cludes live entertainment, an auction, leath- “Sweet Sixteen / Sixteen Candles” on Satur- images floating up and down the curtains dur- You could just do the contest on Saturday er shop, and the always popular Buck’s bear day, December 13. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. ing other moments when inner thoughts are afternoon, but why not go to Commandmc. Santa. Doors open at noon. and the show starts at 2 p.m. You will want revealed. org, get your tickets, and enjoy the whole The first Saturday of December always to get there early so that you will have time The actors employ only a few props during weekend! brings the ShipMates’ Daddy Christmas to look over the large silent auction, get your the presentation but are effective: three chairs In D.C. on November 1 the men of Onyx Benefit. This year’s event will start at 9 p.m. picture taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and that are moved about throughout the play and will be hosting the Blackout Ball at MOVA on Saturday, December 6 at The Loft at buy your raffle tickets for the Christmas tree. to signify changes in the scenes and a rope Lounge (2204 14th Street NW) starting at 10 Grand Central. There will be a silent auction, This year’s variety show will be hosted by to denote the tensions created by pushing and Shawnna Alexander and Summer Clearance pulling of the characters’ mindsets. and will benefit the Lady Lisa Drag State at Credit lighting designer Alec Lawson, pro- Baltimore Pride, the Leather Heart Founda- jection designer Travis Levasseur and sound tion, AIDS Action Baltimore – Scott Stansfield designer Ryan Clark for giving the play the vi- Fund, and Project Real (Real Empowerment sual and audio amplification to the fine acting. on All Levels). This annual extravaganza 4.48 Psychosis like other Iron Crow pro- which brings the LGBT community together ductions is not a feel-good encounter if one (leather community, drag community, etc.) only evaluates the play on a single level. But from all over the Mid-Atlantic area will pack it is a solidly creative theatrical experience the Club Hippo. Reserved tables may be al- given the potent performances and clever at- ready sold out, but $20 general admission mospherics. t tickets will be available at the door. 4.48 Psychosis runs through October I can’t believe I am thinking about holi- 18 at the Theatre Project, 45 West Preston day events already but it is not too soon. I Street, Baltimore. The play contains profanity just reserved my table for “12 Days.” No- and runs about one hour with no intermission. vember and December are just around the t For tickets call 443-637-CROW (2769) or visit corner. The end of 2014 is near! Ironcrowtheatre.org.

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