May 22, 2009 | Volume VII, Issue 10 | LGBT Life in Maryland

on the Transgender Forum is a ‘Call to Action’

side In the aftermath of the very disap- pointing 2009 General Assembly’s An Interview failure to enact protections based on gender identity and expression, with Equality Maryland (EQMD), the state’s principal lgbt civil rights orga- nization, is asking the lgbt communi- Jake Nodar ty to rise and take action. To amplify this message, EQMD is organizing a By Josh Aterovis Transgender Forum in Baltimore to be held on Friday, May 29 at 6:00 Believe it or not, until very recently, the p.m. at the Cork Factory at 1601 Discovery Channel never had an openly Guilford Avenue in Baltimore. gay man on any of its programming. That The Transgender Forum is a all changed with their new reality show, call for the lgbt community and allies Out of the Wild: The Alaska Experiment. to get involved and do everything in The concept behind the eight-part series their power to protect transgender is equal parts Survivor and Man vs. Wild. individuals from discrimination in Instead of a sunny beach or tropical jun- employment, housing and public gle, though, nine strangers were dropped accommodations. Accordingly, the off in the middle of the Alaskan interior passage of statewide legislation that — or as the press release put it: “one of adds gender identity to the already- the most inhospitable terrains on Earth.” existing anti-discrimination laws is The group of amateur hikers, camp- urgent. ers, and outdoor enthusiasts were left Kate Runyon, EQMD Executive in the middle of nowhere and given the Director, said that EQMD is holding first piece of a rudimentary map, a com- this forum, as well as one in Prince pass, and a few basic tools, then told to George’s County, because trans- hike to civilization before the harsh win- gendered Marylanders do not enjoy ter weather set in. Their only lifeline was the same protection from discrimi- a GPS locator they could activate if they nation in housing, employment and were in danger or needed to be evacu- public accommodations as gays and ated — which some chose to do. lesbians, except in Baltimore City One of those brave volunteers was and Montgomery County. Jake Nodar, a horse trainer originally “They need protection under the from Baltimore, who now lives and works law,” Runyon states. “The Forum is a in Darnestown, Maryland. There was no call to action to the lgbt community, million dollar prize waiting for him at the allies, and elected representatives. end, so what did Jake get out of the ex- We have a moral imperative to fight perience? And how did he end up in the together for change!” Alaskan wilderness to begin with? I had The main purpose of this forum the chance to talk to him recently and ask is to create a groundswell of support him those very questions. I also found out for transgender anti-discrimination why being the first openly gay man on the in Maryland. Participants will update Discovery Channel was so important to the community on recent legisla- him, how his costars surprised him, and tive efforts and develop a concrete about a certain young stallion in his life. -- continued on page 38

-- continued on page 24 Photo: Sherry Scheaffer  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com outspoken

Publisher Party Poopers Mike Chase [email protected] More Dems must get on board if we are to achieve progress. Executive Editor Jim Becker By Steve Charing A number of Democratic African- [email protected] American lawmakers are either ministers Sales It’s not that often in themselves or have strong ties to black Mary Taylor, Director recent history that preachers. Virtually every poll indicates [email protected] the Democratic Party that African-Americans oppose same- Managing Editor would have so much sex marriage at a significantly higher rate Steve Charing dominance at both than the rest of the population. They tend Leather Editor the Federal and state to be religious and socially conservative, Rodney Burger levels. And they achieved that status and their ministers denounce homosexu- Writers mainly by default. ality from the pulpits using the very same Jeffrey Clagett Josh Aterovis The Republicans of late have been in Bible that at one time was used to justify Chuck Duncan Rickie Green a free-fall with no signs of reversal in the slavery and racial segregation. Eva Hersh MD Marty Hoegg near future. The incompetence and hard- This is not helpful. Senator Anthony Doug Ireland Jay Loane line dogma of the Bush-Cheney years C. Muse (D-Prince George’s) and a pas- P.S. Lorio Jim Lucio Meredith Moise Sandy Rawls have exacerbated the dwindling popular- tor in his own right, has been seen by Ben Ryland MIA - Alexander St. John ity of the GOP especially since the time lgbt activists as an impediment to push- Nate Sweeney Larry Walker they chose to invade Iraq without any ing the Religious Freedom and Civil Mar- Del. Emmett C. Burns is a Democrat but no friend to lgbt folks Graphics provocation. riage Protection Act out of the Judicial Hannah-Love Shibley, Director Then the economy faltered big time Proceedings Committee in addition to Despite Barry’s pronouncement, this [email protected] and the GOP response was the knee- his apparent opposition to transgender is not to suggest that Democrats oppos- Carol Baker jerk demand for tax cuts—their panacea protections. ing our rights are all African-Americans or Bryan Sullivan for all of our economic ills. Throw into the Delegate Emmett C. Burns (D-10, that all blacks are against us. Sen. Bri- Photographers mix the religious conservatives’ require- Baltimore County), also a pastor, has an Frosh (D-Montgomery), for example, Skip Koritzer ment imposed on Republican elected of- been a vocal, unapologetic opponent of was the chair of the Judicial Proceedings Harry Lowinger ficials that they maintain rigid opposition lgbt rights. He doesn’t want to see gays Committee this session that bottled up National Advertising to choice and same-sex marriage despite “sashay” to the alter. Accordingly, he the Transgender Anti-Discrimination Bill Rivendell Media 908-232-2021 the public’s evolving mood on these. earned a fat 0 out of 100 from Equality by not allowing an up and down vote in Only a quarter of Americans now Maryland’s legislative lgbt-rights scoring committee where it died. Web Services identify as Republicans, and that number system. On the other hand, African-American Drew Saine [email protected] is about to get worse as more African- Delegate Frank Conaway, Jr., a Senator Nathaniel J. McFadden (D-Dis- Americans, Latinos and younger people Democrat, whose district 30 includes trict 45 in Northeast Baltimore) was once Distribution/Circulation Jay Loane become eligible to vote and replace the such lgbt- populous areas as Hampden, an opponent of gay rights when he was a [email protected] older, more conservative voters down the Remington, Mount Vernon and Charles member of Baltimore’s City Council. Late- road. The GOP will continue to be es- Village incredibly said that allowing civil ly, he had stated that the issue of same- Baltimore OUTloud sentially a white, Southern, evangelical marriage for gays and lesbians will open sex marriage should not be tied directly to P.O. Box 3640, Baltimore, MD 21214 party. the floodgates to the state having to rec- the religious aspects of marriage. Raised 410-244-6780 Will this shift from a strong two-party ognize polygamy. After some letters and as a Southern Baptist, Sen. McFadden www.baltimoreoutloud.com system help us to achieve lgbt rights? phone calls from angry lgbt constituents explained his position “evolved” and had On the surface one would think it could. and allies, he apologized. heard the same arguments before in plac- Additional Information Democrats have always been more sensi- Nonetheless, during the 2009 Gen- es where blacks could not marry whites. Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride tive to our issues and the last bastion of eral Assembly, Del. Conaway slowed up “Discrimination in any form is unaccept- Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers’ comments moderate Republicans tends to be sup- passage of the inheritance tax bill benefit- able,” he said. and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: [email protected]. | Pride Media offices portive. But we have problems within the ing same-sex couples by introducing an Clearly we must reach out to our op- are located at 1120 N. Charles Street, 4R, Baltimore, 21201. Democratic Party, and that’s problems amendment—later defeated—that would ponents to achieve success. And many of | All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property with a “P” and that stands for “Pastor.” have defined domestic partner as “an in- them are Democrats. Governor O’Malley of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without To be sure, there are conservative dividual of the opposite sex with whom an- and others must display the courage to the written permission of the editor. Democrats such as Maryland Senate other individual has a child in common.” help lead the fight. African-American President Thomas V. Mike Miller who op- Even in Washington, D.C., former preachers need to stop spewing anti-gay pose civil unions, much less same-sex mayor Marion Barry who was one of the venom from the pulpits, recognizing that marriage, and skittish Democrats like early gay rights supporters did an about discrimination at any level is wrong. And Governor Martin O’Malley. But the key face by voting against a bill in the city Republicans should re-think their intransi- to achieve partner recognition and legal council that would recognize the marriag- gent positions on lgbt issues before their protections for transgendered individuals es of same-sex couples. “All hell is going party falls off the cliff. ©2009 - All Rights Reserved Chairman of the Board Jim Becker resides at the pulpits of African-Ameri- to break loose,” Barry predicted. “We may President Jim Williams can ministers who are overwhelmingly have a civil war. The black community is Steve Charing’s OUTspoken blog is at Vice President Lee Mooney Democrats. just adamant against this.” www.SteveCharing.blogspot.com. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  news NY State Assembly Votes in Favor of Same-Sex Marriage

ALBANY, NY—On May 12, the New York J. O’Donnell, a Democratic assemblyman election, control of the Senate changed State Assembly voted 89-52 in favor of who was a leading proponent of the bill. hands and Senator Malcolm Smith, a sup- marriage for same-sex couples including “The state is demanding that we provide porter of marriage equality, was chosen the backing of 5 Republicans. The legis- equality, and that’s the message here.” as Majority Leader and Senate President lation will move on to the State Senate In a recent Quinnipiac Poll, voters in Pro Tem. where a contentious fight is expected. New York State are split down the mid- In 2006 the New York Court of Ap- “It’s great to see the Assembly strong- dle, 46%-46%, regarding their support peals ruled against marriage equality, ex- ly re-affirm its support for marriage equal- for same-sex marriage. Yet 63% do not pressly stating that it should be resolved ity,” said Human Rights Campaign (HRC) believe that same-sex marriages are a by the legislature. President Joe Solmonese in a statement. threat to traditional marriage, and 60% New York currently recognizes mar- “It’s time for the Senate, which now has believe that a homosexual couple should riages by same-sex couples legally en- pro-equality leadership, to ensure that be able to adopt children. tered into in another jurisdiction, but does loving, committed same-sex couples in Broken down by race, African-Ameri- not permit same-sex couples to marry in New York can have the same rights and cans largely oppose gay marriage – 57% New York. responsibilities under the law as loving, against 35% that support it—while whites Five states have recognized mar- committed different-sex couples.” are slightly in favor, 47% to 45%. riage for same-sex couples under state Solmonese offered congratulations The party divide is also marked, with law: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, to Assembly Member O’Donnell, Mar- 59% of Democrats supporting gay mar- Vermont (effective September 1, 2009), riage Equality New York, Empire State riage and 34% opposing it, while 68% of and Maine (effective September 2009, challenged in court; a decision by the Pride Agenda, and other activists who Republicans oppose the measure with pending a possible referendum). state supreme court is expected by June. have been working for years to achieve 24% supporting. California recognized marriage by The New Hampshire state legisla- equality for same-sex couples and their In June 2007, the New York State As- same-sex couples between June and No- ture has approved legislation recognizing families in New York. sembly voted 85-61 in favor of a marriage vember of 2008, before voters approved marriage equality for same-sex couples. “The margin of victory and the bal- equality bill. That bill stalled in the Sen- Proposition 8, which purports to amend That legislation will go to the Governor’s ance of where the people come from who ate, which at the time was controlled by the state constitution to prohibit marriage desk. voted for this is broadening,” said Daniel opponents of equality. In last November’s equality. The Proposition 8 vote has been  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news HRC Launches Website


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BN CMVFQBSSPUCBSDPN baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  news LGBT Allies to be Honored at Night Out for Equality

On Sunday, June 7, Equality Maryland, the state’s largest lgbt civil rights advo- cacy organization, will be holding its 8th annual Night Out for Equality fundraiser banquet. The gala will take place at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Bethesda North Hotel and Conference Center, 5701 Marinelli Rd., Bethesda, Md. 20852. In addition to dinner, music and dancing, the event will feature numerous elected officials who have stepped up in support of lgbt rights and equality. Among those who will receive the Ally for Equality Award is former Congress- man Wayne Gilchrist, who represented the 1st Congressional District. Rep. Gil- christ, Republican, spoke out on behalf of same-sex marriage. Other recipients include State Senator Jamie Raskin (Dis- trict 20, Montgomery); Sen. James Robey (District 13, Howard); and Delegate Ben- jamin Barnes (District 21, Anne Arundel and Prince George’s). The Advocate for Equality winner Former Congressman Wayne Gilchrist to receive Ally for is Delegate Joseline Pena-Melnyk, also Equality Award. from the 21st District. Other guests will be Congresswoman which begins at 7:30 p.m., will be pre- Donna Edwards, State Comptroller Peter ceded by a silent auction that offers a Franchot, Montgomery County Executive wide array of gifts, signed photographs, Ike Leggett, Sen. Rich Madaleno, Del. Bri- health and beauty services and vacation an Feldman, Del. Anne Kaiser, Del. Shei- getaways. Dancing to live music featur- la Hixon, Del. Guy Guzzone, Montgomery ing DJ Cora will take place from 9:30 until Council member Duchy Trachtenberg and 11:00. many others. For more information and to purchase The dinner and awards segment, tickets, visit www.equalitymaryland.org.

Married in Massachusetts Pictured are Baltimore residents Jason and Steve. They had traveled to Six Flags New England in Massachusetts to be legally married as a celebration of their 13th anniversary. It also marked the 5th Anniversary for the legalization of same sex marriage in that state. They were married by a Protestant minister at the Roller Coaster as a re- minder of life’s ups and downs. This photograph was taken in front of Leon’s. At least two others from Baltimore went to the ceremony to celebrate with their friends.  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news Baltimore Filmmaker Offers ‘Blueprint’ at D.C. Black Pride

Gay film director Kirk Shannon-Butts will be present- Editor for Glamour Magazine. Uptown Magazine had ing his first full-length feature movie, Blueprint, dur- included him on its “35 Stars to Watch” list, and ON ing the D.C. Black Pride weekend beginning on May Magazine’s Peter Canavese writes, “Shannon-Butts 23. It will be viewed in the New Hampshire Ballroom makes a good case to be the GLBT Spike Lee.” at the Renaissance M Street Hotel, 1143 New Hamp- Kirk Shannon-Butts received a Master of Fine shire NW on Saturday afternoon. Arts degree from Chapman University’s School of The film, which was released in 2007, has Film & Television in May 2000. boi WONDA to friends, screened at dozens of film festivals across the U.S. Kirk is from Baltimore. His travels have taken him to and abroad, including the prestigious OUTfest in Los Russia, France, Japan and the Caribbean. He has Angeles, and has earned Shannon-Butts numerous worked with Robert Townsend, Anna Maria Horsford, accolades. Samuel L. Jackson and Loretta Devine while working Blueprint presents a modern, sexy and hip tale as a Hollywood Publicist. of two African-American young men, Nathan and “My goal is to balance cinema through provoc- Keith. With vivid Harlem street scenes and the pas- ative stories and images of those members of the toral countryside as the backdrop, the film takes the American landscape not fully addressed in Holly- viewer through the journey of the two young men and wood’s films,” he wrote on his website. their quest to overcome messy conflicts in develop- “I am influenced by the work itself rather than a ing a romance that is marked more by mutual admi- particular director or genre. Some of my favorite films ration than by their arguments. include Happy Together, The Krays, Trainspotting, Named “The Visionary” on the “Out 100” list My Beautiful Laundrette and Menace II Society.” by Out Magazine in 2007, Shannon- Butts is Men’s For more information, visit dcblackpride.org. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  health Services counseling

counseling massage

health dental advertise here

Call 410-244-6780 to list your business in the Health Services directory.  q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news LGBT Family-Inclusive Faith Curriculum Launched

Leading organizations released a cur- riculum on May 11 designed to help faith communities support and embrace les- bian, gay, bisexual and transgender (lgbt) people and their families. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s Institute for Welcoming Resources, COLAGE and Family Equality Council announced that this multimedia curriculum will go a long way in providing the necessary tools to make faith communities affirming of lgbt people and their families. “While many churches have done very well welcoming individual lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members into their midst, many have not done so well with lgbt families,” says the Rev. Re- becca Voelkel, Institute for Welcoming Resources and faith work director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. “But lgbt families deserve the same love and honor as all God’s beloved families. their children to be embraced. That’s why This curriculum helps congregations we partnered to put together All in God’s extend God’s extravagant welcome to Family. We know there are thousands of all of God’s families — especially lgbt congregations out there that want to em- families.” brace our families. We want to give them All in God’s Family: Creating Allies for the tools to do so more fully.” our LGBT Families consists of concrete “For youth and adults with LGBTQ tools to educate faith leaders, including parents, finding a faith community where a step-by-step guide to supporting lgbt your family is respected and reflected can families of faith and tools for facilitating be a challenge,” says Meredith Fenton, group learning, community dialogue, Bi- COLAGE program director. “COLAGE is ble study and community action planning pleased to be a partner on All in God’s to highlight lgbt families in our communi- Family: Creating Allies for our LGBT Fam- ties. Additionally, the curriculum includes ilies and invites your faith community to Families Like Mine, a book about adults use these tools to move beyond accep- with lgbt parents written by Abigail Gar- tance to full inclusion and celebration of ner, whose father is gay; the youth-pro- LGBTQ families.” duced documentary In My Shoes: Sto- All in God’s Family: Creating Allies for ries of Youth with lgbt Parents; and a CD Our LGBT Families can be acquired for a containing the phototext exhibit “That’s suggested donation of $50.00. As a spe- So Gay: Portraits of Youth with LGBT cial promotion, the first 50 congregations Parents.” to request the curriculum will receive it for “I know many lgbt parents who strug- free. The toolkit can be acquired at www. gle with faith,” says Jennifer Chrisler, WelcomingResources.org. executive director of Family Equality Council. “It can be difficult to find a con- gregation that feels welcoming and sup- Sign up online now for free portive. Though they want to raise their children in a community that shares their home delivery of OUTloud. values and beliefs, lgbt parents also want www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q  church directory

Grace United Methodist Church Gay?Gay? Lesbian?Lesbian? Catholic?Catholic? All Are Welcome A Welcoming Congregation with St. Bernadette Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors Roman Catholic Church We invite you to join in our mission outreach to Our Weekend Mass Schedule: Baltimore, the United States and the world, spending SATURDAY 5:30 p.m. - Church the night at a homeless shelter, home repair ministry SUNDAY in the area, supporting two soup kitchens and 9:00 a.m.,10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. - Church Contact Ann McDonald, Pastoral Life Director supporting HIV-AIDS ministry around the world. 410-969-2785 801 Stevenson Road - Severn, MD 21144-2299 Grace Church 5407 N. Charles St.~ Baltimore, MD 21210 at Northern Pkwy 410-969-2783 410-433-6650 ~ www.graceunitedmethodict.org www.stbernadette.org

The Baltimore Ethical Society Diversity Humanism Community Equality Sunday Meetings - 10:30 a.m.

COMMITMENT CEREMONIES & WEDDINGS 306 W. Franklin St. Ste.102 410-581-2322 www.BaltimoreEthicalSociety.org

We don’t debate, or simply tolerate; We celebrate your sexuality and spirituality! Metropolitan Community Church of Baltimore Sundays 9 AM Traditional Celebration 10 AM Hospitality Time - Community 11 AM Praise Celebration & Family Service 401 West Monument St. - Baltimore 410-NOW-MCCb www.mccbaltimore.org mccbaltimore.aol.com

We Welcome GLBT Families and Friends to the Life and Ministry of the Church

Beth El Congregation Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis We are a Welcoming Congregation, An open, progressive USCJ synagogue. We welcome and celebrate the lives of bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people. 8101 Park Heights Avenue Worship service: 9 and 11am Baltimore, MD 21208 Rev. Dr. Fredric Muir, Pastor  ‡www.bethelbalto.com Francoise Ateto, Director of Religion Education “This is your synagogue.” 333 Dubois Road - Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 266-8044

Call 410-244-6780 to list your church in the church directory. 10 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news Hot Hunks in Trunks Event Brings in Bucks

By Josh Aterovis

Over $3,000 was raised for AIDS Action Baltimore at the fifth annual Hunks in Trunks charity auction held on Thursday, May 14 at the Red Maple on Charles Street. The event was co- hosted by local drag per- sonality Tia Chambers and Make Me A Supermodel’s Ronnie Kroell, who also modeled in the fashion show, along with a number of the DC Cowboys. An ad- ditional $460 was raised for the Maryland Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Com- merce through a raffle. Following the fashion show, the models’ swim- suits combined with other prizes were auctioned off. One such package went as high as $925. Organizer Ted Hart was extremely pleased with the turnout of 157 people, which was a record crowd. “This year we had the larg- est group and best show ever,” Hart said. “Next year will be even better!” The next Hunks in Trunks event is scheduled for May 20, 2010. Hunks in Trunks grew Ronnie Kroell struttin’ his stuff during the fashion show out of RGroup, an Internet- based, gay social network in the Baltimore area. The group wanted a fun, qual- ity way to give back to the community. Every year, the event benefits a different gay-related cause. Says Hart, “Fundraising for char- ities is always a challenge. We all like to have fun, and Hunks in Trunks is a great, low stress way to allow the entire community to give back.” Co-host and model Ronnie Kroell with Hunks in Trunks organizer Ted Hart baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 11 12 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com news Stonewall Democrats of Central Maryland Elect Inaugural Board of Directors

New Maryland LGBT nounced that the following members had stepped up to run in this crucial first elec- been elected to the Board of Directors: tion,” said SDCM-PAC President Alice PAC Names Nine Locals Kennedy. “Our members have elected a President - Alice Kennedy Board with diverse skills and talents to to Lead through 2010 (Baltimore City) lead the PAC through our first election Vice President - Joseph Smith cycle. Now, we need to roll up our sleeves BALTIMORE—On May 6, members of (Havre de Grace) and get to work as quickly as possible so Stonewall Democrats of Central Mary- Secretary - Mala Malhotra-Ortiz that we can have an impact on elections land-Political Action Committee (SDCM- (Aberdeen) in 2010.” PAC) cast their votes for the new orga- Treasurer - Mike Natchuras As if to emphasize the PAC’s readi- nization’s first Board of Directors. The (Baltimore City) ness to get to work, at the end of the election marked a milestone for the only meeting Kennedy announced that the grassroots organization for lesbian, gay, At-Large Members include: Poppy next SDCM event would be held on the bisexual and transgender Democrats Crowe (Baltimore City), Jodi Kelber-Kaye first Wednesday in June. The speaker and their pro-equality allies in central (Baltimore City), Genya Shimkin (Balti- for the special LGBT Pride Month meet- Maryland. more City), Katrina Elaine Smith (Balti- ing will be Susan Turnbull, Chair of Mary- Despite inclement weather, more than more City), and J. Carver Struve (Balti- land’s Democratic Party. half of SDCM-PAC’s eligible members more City). For additional information about made their way to Lucy’s Irish Pub and The term of office for all Board mem- SDCM-PAC, you may call 443-563-1664, Restaurant on Eutaw Street for the elec- bers began immediately following the e-mail [email protected] tion meeting. At the end of the evening, election and will run until February 1, or write to P.O. Box 22, Baltimore, MD SDCM-PAC President Alice Kennedy the SDCM Nominating Committee an- 2011. “I’m very grateful to everyone who 21233. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 13 news PFLAG Announces 2009 Scholarship Winners

By Adam Ratliff Sean Hudson - PFLAG National Schol- community and school why equality is ensure equality. Jesse will graduate from arship so important. Simone will graduate from Pleasant Hill High School in Pleasant Hill, W A S H I N G T O N , Sean Hudson was a member of the Bir- Santa Clara High School in Santa Clara, Oregon. DC – Parents, Fam- mingham Alliance of Gay, Straight, and California. ilies and Friends Lesbian (Transgender and Questioning) Jennifer Rokakis – PFLAG National of Lesbians and Youth. He is a passionate activist, advo- Jacob DeVine – PFLAG National Schol- Scholarship Gays (PFLAG) an- cate and role model for children in fos- arship Jennifer Rokakis is the President of her nounced that it has awarded 16 scholar- ter care, serving as the parliamentarian Jacob DeVine has served as a peer men- school’s GSA where she started the ships. More than $30,000 will go to stu- for the Jefferson County Youth Advisory tor for LGBT students in his small com- “Candlelight Vigil against Hate Crimes” dents across the country who have made Council, and the president of the State munity, and worked to ensure that any in order to bring diverse student groups significant contributions to equality in their Youth Advisory Council. Sean plans to students facing harassment or bullying together for a common purpose. She was schools and communities. This marks the continue to reach out to others and to had the support that they needed. He is awarded the Girl Scout Bronze and Silver sixth year that PFLAG has awarded the help them while they, in fact, also help active in his school’s drama program and Award, is a member of the National Honor scholarships, which are funded by the him. Sean will graduate from Jess Lanier concert choir. He also works with an anti- Society, and worked at her school’s radio Palmer B. Carson Trust and other private High School in Bessemer, Alabama. drug leadership program called Target station. As a straight ally, she has suf- donors, including the Gay, Lesbian and and helped to organize an anti-drunk driv- fered the same bullying and taunting that Allies at Dow (GLAD) Employee Network, Kelsey DeForest – Palmer B. Carson ing campaign during the week of Prom. In her LGBT fellow students face but she is the Esera Tuaolo Scholarship fund, and Memorial Scholarship a small rural Midwest town he has dem- committed to using her voice in the com- the New York Gay Football League. Kelsey DeForest is an active member of onstrated leadership and courage chang- munity for change. Jennifer will gradu- “Now, more than ever, PFLAG is her school’s GSA, Student Council, and ing hearts and minds one person at a ate from Canton High School in Canton, extremely proud to honor these future theater program. She is also a reporter time. Jake will graduate from Little Falls Michigan. community leaders and to honor their and editor of her school’s newspaper. Community High School in Little Falls, academic achievement, commitment to She interned with The Metro Youth Out- Minnesota. Ryan Dykes - Carson B Palmer Nevada lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender reach Program at the GLBT Community Scholarship (LGBT) progress, and community ser- Center of Cleveland, where she worked Dena Wessel –PFLAG National Schol- Ryan Dykes’ struggle with coming out vice,” said Jody M. Huckaby, Executive with at-risk and homeless youth. Kelsey arship had a great deal to do with his family’s Director of PFLAG. “LGBT students, and has used her skills and compassion to Dena Wessel helped to organize a GSA in acceptance. It has reaffirmed his belief in their allies, are overcoming unimaginable reach out and make a difference in the her middle school and was an active mem- himself and the community. Ryan is the obstacles to succeed and prosper in their lives of others. Kelsey will graduate from ber of the GSA at her high school. She Varsity Swim Team Captain at his high education. This year’s awardees have not Shaker Heights High School in Shaker participated in the GSAFE (Gay Straight school. He has participated in a number only fought those obstacles, but have be- Heights, Ohio. Alliance for Safe Schools) planning com- of community service projects, such as come role models for their communities mittee and is a member of Proud Theater, community food drives and the Ameri- and fellow students.” Shelagh Hardrich - DOW Straight Ally where she serves as the Youth Artistic Di- can Heart Association Fashion show. He Among the recipients of PFLAG’s Na- Scholarship rector. Dena plays on her school’s Varsity is also an active volunteer with his local tional Scholarship Program awards are: Shelagh Hardrich worked with friends to Tennis Team, is a member of Top T.E.N, food bank, elementary school library, re-invigorate the GSA at her school. She Teen Education Network, and has worked and senior citizen family home. Ryan will Thomas Gray - Jeanne Manford Memo- is a member of her school’s volleyball and with her church youth group on various graduate from Douglas High School in rial Scholarship girls’ golf team, and active in the French community service projects. A born activ- Minden, Nevada. Thomas Gray began the diversity club club. She volunteers with community ist with creative talent, Dena uses all dif- (L.E.A.D - Lancers Embracing All Diver- groups such as the Open Door Mission, ferent means to educate. Dena will grad- Francis Jordan - Esera Tuaolo Scho- sity) at his school, and worked to include the Abrahams Public Library, and is a tutor uate from Madison West High School in alrship sexual orientation and gender identity for elementary-age students. As a proud Madison, Wisconsin. Francis Jordan is a teen educator for the into his school district’s nondiscrimination straight ally, Shelagh believe in fairness, OWL (Our Whole Lives) health and edu- policy. He has also been an active mem- justice and compassion for everyone. Jesse Quinn – PFLAG National Schol- cation program that teaches comprehen- ber of the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Shelagh will graduate from Northwest arship sive sex education to teens. He is also a and Student Council. Thomas organized High School in Omaha, Nebraska. Jesse Quinn started the GSA at his high member of the youth group at his church a successful fundraiser and raised more school, and it is now the largest student where he has completed various com- than $7,000 for HIV/AIDS and cancer Simone Getty – New York Gay Football group on campus. Jesse testified before munity service projects, such as build- research. When the Westboro Baptist League Scholarship the Oregon State Senate and sat down ing homes in Juarez, Mexico. Francis is Church demonstrated at his school he or- Simone Getty was the president of her with his state representative to lobby for the captain of his Varsity Cheerleading ganized a peaceful and positive counter school’s GSA. She was also elected stu- stronger anti-bullying laws. He was also Squad. Although having suffered greatly demonstration. As an activist and orga- dent body President and Homecoming a member of the Chess Team as an All- in middle school from bullying, Francis nizer he has worked to make his school Queen. She played on the Girls’ Varsity State Chess Champion, works on the has turned things around and wants to and his community safer for all. Thomas Tennis Team and the Track and Field student council, and is a member of the help others in the same situation. Fran- will graduate from Shawnee Mission East team, and was awarded Third in League recycling club. Sharing his story served to cis will graduate from Santa Teresa High in Prairie Village, Kansas. in Girls’ Varsity Tennis Doubles. Through strengthen his commitment to the commu- School in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. public visibility Simone has shown her nity and the work that needs to be done to 14 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

Compiled by Jim Becker liefs about marriage.” author of “Stonewall” and one of the fore- ball team, Middleton native Corey Johnson Gov. Lynch said, “[t]hroughout histo- most queer historians, turns 79 in August. told attendees at the annual conference ry, our society’s views of civil rights have Katherine V. Forrest, writer and head of of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Educa- constantly evolved and expanded. New the Lambda Literary Foundation, will be tion Network of Boston (GLSEN Boston), Hampshire’s great tradition has always 70 in September. Lesbian poet Adrienne that his own visit to the conference a de- been to come down on the side of individ- Rich, is 80. cade ago was instrumental in his deci- ual liberties and protections. That is what In Baltimore, 70s activists Paulette sion to come out publicly. Speaking to a I believe we must do today. But following Young, Mardi Walker, Harvey Schwartz, crowd of youth, teachers and administra- that tradition means we must act to pro- David Carroll, Lou Hughes and Jim Beck- tors gathered at Jamaica Plain’s English tect both the liberty of same-sex couples er are 60 or older and part of the 3 million High School on May 1, Johnson recalled and religious liberty. . . I met with House elder lgbt people currently in the U.S.; traveling to that year’s conference on the and Senate leaders, and the sponsors of a number expected to double within 20 Tufts University campus. Arriving at the this legislation, and gave them language years. conference he said, “I remember I was so that will provide additional protections to With its emphasis on perpetual youth- amazed at how many people -- teachers, religious institutions. . . If the legislature fulness, the realities of aging in the lgbt young people -- were there, and how they passes this language, I will sign the same- community have long been ignored, and were living their lives openly and honestly sex marriage bill into law. If the legislature older lgbt people have found themselves and were well-adjusted and happy. And I doesn’t pass these provisions, I will veto increasingly marginalized within their own immediately had this overwhelming sense it.” There has been no word yet on wheth- community, where programs and meeting that that was what I wanted for myself,” er the legislature will add the language, places for people over 50 are scarce to said Johnson, who currently lives in New NH governor will but many lgbt advocates believe that the non-existent. In addition, fear of aging York City and works for a Wall Street real language is expected to pass (Bay Win- and the economic straits many lgbt people estate firm. sign marriage bill if dows - Ethan Jacobs - at baywindows. have faced throughout their lifetimes have Johnson’s story -- first reported nine com) left many ill-prepared for retirement. years ago in Bay Windows and eventu- amended For older lgbt people, getting older ally landing on the cover of the New York creates additional problems, like deal- Times and featured on the television Concord, NH - In the last issue of Bal- ing with homophobia from healthcare or newsmagazine 20/20 -- attracted media timore Outloud we reported that New social-service professionals. Others are attention in large part because of how Hampshire Gov. John Lynch had not well prepared to face retirement and hope little controversy it generated. Johnson’s said whether he would sign the marriage their economic comfort will protect them family, his coach, his teammates and his equality bill passed by the New Hamp- from both isolation and homophobia. The fellow students all rallied around him after shire legislature. On May 14th, Gov. Lynch number of lgbt retirement homes and he came out, and his story was viewed released a statement pledging to sign the assisted-living facilities throughout the as evidence of the growing acceptance of bill if the legislature adds language pro- country is very small, which means that gay people in mainstream America. tecting religious liberties. most lgbt people will find themselves liv- Yet Johnson pointed out that 10 Gov. Lynch said,”[m]y personal views ing in a facility that is populated by het- years later, a very different kind of story on the subject of marriage have been erosexuals. (Philadelphia Gay news - Vic- was making headlines: the suicide last shaped by my own experience, tradition toria Brownworth at epgn.com) month of 11-year-old Carl Walker-Hoover and upbringing. But as Governor of New of Springfield. Walker-Hoover’s mother Hampshire, I recognize that I have a re- has said she believes one of the primary sponsibility to consider this issue through factors that prompted him to hang himself a broader lens. I have spoken with law- was the bullying he endured from class- makers, religious leaders and citizens. My mates, including taunts from students office has received thousands of phone who accused him of being gay. calls, letters and emails. I have studied “I was a gender-conforming young our current marriage and civil union laws, Aging lgbt people may man in middle school and high school . . the laws of other states, the bills recently ., and that really helped me in my coming passed by the legislature and our history face isolation and out, helped me in my acceptance,” said and traditions. Two years ago, we passed Johnson. “The reports we’ve seen of this civil unions legislation here in New Hamp- homophobia young man [are] even though he was on shire. At its core, [the marriage equality the football team, he was 11 years old, he bill] simply changes the term ‘civil union’ to Philadelphia, PA - The 40th anniversary was in many ways gender non-conform- ‘civil marriage.’ Given the cultural, histori- of Stonewall is this June, and along with Trail blazing out athlete ing… I think part of our focus needs to cal and religious significance of the word the celebration comes the reality that be, and this is GLSEN’s mission, is mak- marriage, this is a meaningful change. I many who were on the front lines of the says all students must ing schools safe for all students, not just have heard, and I understand, the very queer civil-rights movement are now on a captains of the football team, but to any real feelings of same-sex couples that a different front line as the first generation be protected student, regardless of what position they separate system is not an equal system. . of out elderly queers. In 2009, some of hold in a school.” (Bay Windows - Ethan . I have also heard, and I understand, the the best-known voices of the queer com- Boston, MA - Ten years after drawing na- Jacobs at baywindows.com) (See Out- concerns of our citizens who have equally munity are that entity that truly dares not tional attention for coming out while serv- sports.com for information about out stu- deep feelings and genuine religious be- speak its name: old. Martin Duberman, ing as co-captain of his high school foot- dent athletes. J.B.) baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 15

Cruise with Cruise Planners and Baltimore OUTLoud in 2010 Aboard Oasis of the Sea Sept 18 - Sept 25, 2010

See the slides of the Ship, Hear the details & All about the fun Plus: great door prizes!

Saturday May 30, 7pm till ? at The Rowan Tree 1633 S.Charles St or call Paula or Paul Belletiere 410-761-3554 for more details 16 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

declared that, “Traditional domestic Washington, where the family lived. The by stating he was gay. Choi was not about violence occurs in a man-woman, boy- couple moved to Florida, and their rela- to take this lying down. He returned to the girl situation.” Brady later said she was tionship ended several years later. They Rachel Maddow show with a clear mes- comparing total numbers of violent rela- agreed to share custody of both children sage for President Obama, the Army, and tionships - of which there are more be- and did so successfully until Ryan unilat- the estimated 65,000 lgbt service mem- tween partners of the opposite sex. She erally decided to separate the children, bers. “I intend to fight [the discharge] also said her information came from the who are deeply bonded as siblings, and tooth and nail,” Choi said to Maddow and South Carolina Coalition Against Do- cut off all contact between Embry and MSNBC viewers. mestic Violence & Sexual Assault. Group one of the children. In February 2008, a Since the policy was put into place spokeswoman Rebecca Williams-Agee Florida trial court held that Florida would in 1993, nearly 13,000 men and women said while sheer numbers show most dat- not recognize the couple’s second-parent have been separated from the military. ing violence cases involve boys abusing adoption. (365Gay.com) Basically, the government fires service Lawmakers say anti- girls, all groups need to be considered, members for being gay or lesbian at a especially gay teens who may already be rate of at least one, often two, every day. violence course can’t facing issues with their sexual orientation Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of Ser- in a conservative state. “When it comes vicemembers Legal Defense Network mention gays to advocating for people, you don’t get to (SLDN), an organization that provides choose who to advocate for. No one de- legal services to more than 9,000 clients Columbia, SC - South Carolina lawmak- serves to be hurt or violated in any way,” who were kicked out of the military by ers want to prevent violence in teen re- Williams-Agee said. (365Gay.com & The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” said, “[g]ay and lationships but won’t allow a new school Associated Press at 365gay.com) lesbian soldiers continue to get fired on program aimed at curbing such abuse to this president’s watch.” said Sarvis. SLDN mention gay and lesbian partnerships. Florida appeals court has set out to hold President Obama to State representatives voted overwhelm- his campaign promise of overturning the ingly to bar any mention of homosexual OKs gay adoption policy, she said. On the 2008 campaign relationships in the new program for mid- trail, Obama said, “America is ready to dle and high school students. The move Sarasota, FL - The Florida Court of Ap- get rid of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ That work was pushed by lawmakers who said they peals unanimously reversed a lower court should’ve started a long time ago. It will don’t want schools teaching about gay ruling on May 13, and held that Florida start when I take office.” All that is re- relationships and said they doubt those must give full faith and credit to adoptions quired is leadership, Obama said. partnerships have high levels of abuse. “I granted to same-sex couples by other Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA), a retired do not want the Department of Education states. The court held that Lara Embry, Lieutenant that came U.S. Navy rear admiral, couldn’t agree or school districts teaching our children the plaintiff in the case, “must be given more. “I have appreciated that the presi- in grades six through 12 about same-sex the same rights as any other adoptive out on TV fights dent is rightly focused on economic secu- relationships,” said Rep. Greg Delleney, a parent in Florida.” The court based its de- rity now with this budget, but I believe this Chester Republican who pushed to make cision on the Full Faith and Credit Clause discharge summer or early this fall that we need to the violence prevention program apply of the federal constitution and a Florida correct this.” (Seattle Gay News- Shaun only to heterosexual relationships.” statute requiring Florida to honor adop- Washington, D.C. - The United States Knittel at sgn.org) The measure, which was swiftly con- tion decrees from other states. Military Academy, better known as West demned by gay rights advocates passed Noting that “there are no public pol- Point, is renowned as the world’s pre- These news notes have been compiled, the GOP-dominated House 75-25 and icy exceptions to the full faith and credit mier leadership development institution. with permission, from the on line version should head to the Senate next week. It which is due to judgments entered in Cadets develop ethically by adhering to of various newspapers and other web initially was intended to curb youth vio- another state,” the court concluded that the Cadet Honor Code, which states, “A sites. We thank these publications for al- lence in a state that consistently ranks “regardless of whether the trial court be- cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate lowing us to bring you their news stories. high in the number of women killed by lieved that the Washington adoption vio- those who do.” Will not lie. That’s the part Usually the reports have been significant- men. Steve Ralls, national spokesman for lated a clearly established public policy in of the code that stood out to Army Lt. Dan ly edited and you can read the full story by Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Florida, it was improper for the trial court Choi, as he appeared on the MSNBC Ra- going to the web site mentioned following Gays (PFLAG), said he had not heard of to refuse to give the Washington judg- chel Maddow show March 20 to discuss the item. Comments are strictly the opin- another state with an anti-dating violence ment full faith and credit.” A concurring “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Choi shocked the ions of Jim Becker and not of Baltimore program that excluded same-sex rela- opinion further noted that Embry’s “same- audience, the host, and most notably the Outloud or Pride Media. tionships. “We are astounded that there sex relationship with [the other parent] is Army when he identified himself as a gay are those who would prioritize their own irrelevant for the purpose of enforcing service member. And on April 23, Choi re- homophobia ahead of the safety of the her rights and obligations as an adoptive ceived his discharge notice. young people of South Carolina,” he said. parent.” Choi was enraged. He could under- OUTloud’s queer TV guide: “Lesbian and gay young people are often Lara Embry had filed a petition seek- stand the attack on him - after all, admit- www.baltimoreoutloud.com doubly vulnerable when they are in en- ing shared custody of a child she had ting you are a homosexual is breaking the vironments where they are disrespected raised with her former partner, Kimberly rules - but there was another accusation and adults are sending clear messages Ryan. The couple had two children togeth- that made the infantry platoon leader, Sign up online now for free that their well-being isn’t as important.” er. Each gave birth to one child, and each Iraq War veteran, linguist and West Point Bill sponsor Rep. Joan Brady said adopted her non-biological child through graduate sick to his stomach: he was ac- home delivery of OUTloud. excluding gay relationships is fine and a second-parent adoption in the state of cused of affecting the cohesion of his unit www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 17 thinking outloud The Anti-Gay Wrecks Keep Right on Giving

By Daniel Ewald people who suffered from hormonal im- balances. “By all indications, homosexu- A lot of Marylanders rubberneck when ality in human beings seems to be gener- driving by an accident. One accident ated by imbalances in the human body,” though still continues today, and it is an Ayotte said. “As legislators, it is important awesome treat to watch. Carrie Prejean, that we do not base our statutes on ge- aka Miss California, mental acrobatics of netic aberrations.” Does he consider peo- being at one with Jesus and posing semi- ple with Down Syndrome genetic aberra- nude while stumping for anti-gay groups tions? Would my cerebral palsy count, it is quite the spectacle. being a physical anomaly? It’s satisfying to watch the beauty Joining the chorus was former Wash- turned Bible-thumper Prejean crash and ington, D.C. mayor Marion Barry, best burn. In the bat of an eyelash, she went remembered for smoking crack. He was Miss California Carrie Prejean from Christian role model to wannabe the lone city councilman to vote against underwear model when racy pictures sur- a bill, to recognize marriages performed faced. “They were quite inappropriate and outside D.C. “All hell is going to break “What’s amazing is that certainly not photos befitting a beauty loose,” Barry predicted. “We may have a the circus-like antics of queen,” Alicia Jacobs, a Miss USA judge, civil war. The black community is just ada- told NBC’s Today Show. mant against this.” Please note: Dr. Julian Prejean are the rule, not What’s amazing is that the circus-like Bond, chair of the NAACP is an ally. antics of Prejean are the rule, not the ex- Even the old guard of queer haters the exception for anti- ception for anti-gay activists. This is nor- is becoming illogical. As the House voted mal for them. Clearly there’s a brain drain on the “Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes gay activists.” among our opponents with little to offer, Act”, James Dobson claimed the inclu- other than comic relief. sion of “sexual orientation” would lead we can see how many are now classify- I hate this double standard. I am ex- to, “bisexuality, exhibitionism, fetishism, ing the fight for lgbt rights as a civil rights pected to walk the straight and narrow incest, necrophilia, pedophilia, prostitu- issue. While passing the torch to these path all the time in my quest for equal- tion, sexual masochism, voyeurism, bes- rookies, anti-gay activists have stumbled ity. However, those who are touted as the tiality...I have to ask, ‘have we all gone and risk burning down the homophobic moral ideals and prophets of what is just completely mad?’” house. and righteous get to flout the rules of “the Oh James, you are about to get Burn baby burn. norm.” Prejean is free to pose nude and served. Dobson lives in Colorado, one of fight gay marriage. twelve states with laws protecting sexual Daniel Ewald is Chair of the LGBT Cau- However, she joined a group (the Miss orientation and gender identity (including cus for Maryland Young Democrats and America organization) with rules against MD). Nineteen states offer such protec- Program Director of Baltimore County nude photos, and no political advocacy. tion only for sexual orientation. In these Young Democrats. For more information But no, she is free to do as she pleases 31 states, there hasn’t been much of a about these organizations, e-mail: daniel. and still keep her crown. It did not work problem with necrophilia or bestiality. In [email protected] out that way for Vanessa Williams. When the case of Dobson, his bizarre and para- nude shots surfaced in 1984, she later re- noid ranting says more about his imagina- signed from her title of Miss America. tion, than it does about the reality of such OUTloud News Poll Someone else who is able to be on laws. both sides of the moral standard, Joe Finally, for the sake of sheer amuse- Carrie Prejean, Miss California, was the Plumber plunged into the culture ment, I can’t leave out Bristol Palin hawk- recently under fire for her vocal op- wars with this: “I personally still think it’s ing abstinence. With baby in-tow and position to same-sex marriage. Do wrong…God is pretty explicit in…what embittered ex-boyfriend on tail, she is you believe that the political views man and woman are for…I’ve had some the poster girl for the social conservative of contestants should matter in friends that are actually homosexual… mantra: “do as I say, not as I do.” Least beauty pageants? and they know that I wouldn’t have them with gay sex, one does not need to worry anywhere near my children.” about unwanted pregnancies. o Yes o No o Not sure Joe surprisingly has a more coherent So we have here the new faces of so- argument than Rep. Bernard Ayotte (R- cial conservatism: Carrie Prejean, Joe the To vote, visit www.BaltimoreOUT- ME). Ayotte stated he wouldn’t support Plumber, Marion Barry, Bernard Ayotte, loud.com. marriage legislation since it would protect and Bristol Palin. In their wondrous logic, 18 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com thinking outloud campus scene

of drinks you prefer and then ask “Gay Marriage” Let’s Discuss them to bring their own bever- age so they will be able to enjoy the drinks they like - What’s All the as well. Turning 21 If you know what kind of alcohol you like, Fuss About? By Marty Hoegg you’re probably aware Outloud Intern of your limitations as By Thomas Powers far as consumption. On May 10, 2009 at Turning 21 does not Perhaps the problem lies not in the concept, but in the 5:30 p.m. I officially give you an excuse to packaging. Let’s take a look at the issue from another turned 21 years old. drink excessively and perspective - the middle. Semantically speaking, the That’s almost a quarter make a fool of yourself. word “marriage” traditionally carries with it a religious of my life, and I can hon- Nobody wants to be clean- overtone, with spiritual ramifications that inherently estly say that I wouldn’t change a single mo- ing up vomit or making trips suggest a domestic union between one man and one ment of the life I’ve lived. to the hospital during a party. woman. The infamous 21st birthday has come to mean This is where responsibility As homosexuality becomes more a part of main- many things to different people; especially when it comes comes in. If you’re going to have alco- stream America, the thirst for equality grows ever to how to celebrate. So let’s dispel some of the more holic beverages at your celebration, here are a few tips stronger. What this all boils down to, and what I see ignorant and dangerous meanings and discuss how to to keep you healthy and vomit free during the night: as the crux of this issue, is a battle between secular fully enjoy turning 21 without the sloppy hangover. First, have food available; eating while drinking societal change and traditional, deep rooted religious First and foremost, it’s your birthday and everyone slows the absorption rate of alcohol into your blood- beliefs; in other words, “the eyes of the law” vs. “the should do what they want to do on their birthday. If you’re stream, which keeps you from getting drunk faster. Don’t eyes of the Lord.” the work hard and party harder type throw yourself a let anyone drive when they’ve been drinking. Being a gay man who was once previously mar- huge bash and invite everyone you know. If you’re more Pace yourself. You’re going to be 21 for an entire ried (in the traditional sense to a woman), I can cer- of the subtle celebration type make reservations at your year so you don’t have to try an entire bar’s worth of tainly see both sides of this issue. As with many I’m favorite restaurant and be with those whose company alcohol in one night. sure, my spiritual beliefs often were contradictory to you enjoy most. Have fun. Drink water or some other non-alcoholic beverage in my secular beliefs, but somehow we manage to make Rule #1: Surround yourself with people you love and between drinks. Again, this will dilute the alcohol in your sense of it and all and draw from both to enrich our know you’ll have a good time with. You don’t want to cel- stomach and allow you to sustain your energy through- lives. ebrate your birthday with people you can’t stand, right? out the night. I am neither for nor against this issue, but I do I’m very fortunate to have an amazing group of If you’re feeling sick, call it quits. If you feel your- believe in equality for all. Our Constitution guarantees friends and an even more fantastic best friend, who self becoming nauseous or lightheaded, stop drinking. our right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” threw me a surprise party the day before my birthday. Switch over to non-alcoholic drinks and eat to help your and while this issue seems to polarize opinions to Then on my actual birthday I spent the day with my im- system handle the alcohol. If you’re tired, lay down. Let both extremes, the practical solution to the problem mediate family having a picnic. Love the people you’re someone who hasn’t had too much to drink know that would be for both sides to put down their swords and with; it will make the celebration much more special. you’re not feeling well and you’re going to call it a night. shields and examine this logically. Next, when it comes to turning 21 of course ev- Being smart and taking care of yourself during your In this country, we have the rule of law that was es- eryone assumes alcohol is involved but not everyone celebration will ensure that you have the most fun and tablished by our founding fathers to ensure our rights chooses to drink just because they are of age. If you’re enjoyment out of any event. and freedoms, and to secure our liberty with freedom a person who doesn’t want to drink then plan an event Rule #3: Have fun! It’s your birthday, which means from religious persecution. These freedoms were where you’re comfortable turning down a drink or make it’s the one day out of the year you’re allowed think the based upon Christian teachings, which have long es- it a dry event. If you do choose to drink make sure that world revolves around you. Call up some close friends, tablished a basic “knowing of right from wrong.” How- your guests are aware of the alcohol you like and be go out with your family, snuggle up with your sweetie; do ever, our founding fathers also recognized that along responsible. what makes you happy. No one should be alone on their with these rights comes the freedom to be individuals Rule #2: Know what you like, know your limits and birthday. and to live our lives freely and without interference. be responsible. Just because you’re turning 21 doesn’t I had one of the most spectacular and fulfilling birth- Our first amendment rights guarantee “freedom mean you have to get completely trashed and expect days I think I’ve ever had. I was surrounded by the peo- of religion,” that is, the freedom to practice our faith someone else to clean up your mess. ple I love most and partied hard. I am proud to say that and incorporate its teachings into the interactions in I do choose to drink because I like the taste and look not once during my weeklong birthday celebration did our own lives. This religious freedom, however, does of most alcoholic beverages. Though, admittedly, I am a I vomit or wake up with a hangover, which made it so not give us the right to persecute others in the same lightweight when it comes to holding my alcohol and can much easier to get up and continue celebrating the next manner that caused our ancestors to flee their home- usually only get one or two drinks in before I am ready to day. land, which in turn, resulted in the establishment of call it a night. Almost a quarter of my life spent and I am even more this country in the first place. Knowing what kind of alcohol you like will definitely excited to see what the future holds. My next landmark Practically speaking, whenever two people de- make your celebration go over much smoother. If you’re birthday will be age 25, the year which I hope will bring cide to merge their lives together as spouses eco- like me and you prefer to not taste raw alcohol I sug- me my first Oscar. nomically, financially, socially, and intimately as a gest any of the Smirnoff Ice flavors or one of Seagram’s family unit legitimately, generally, the rule of law re- mixed drinks. My favorite is “Jamaican Me Happy.” Marty Hoegg is a junior at Stevenson University in Bal- -- continued on page 38 If you’re having a party; tell your guests what kind timore County. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 19 people we like Vergil Bushnell

By Jay Loane

Recently, while strolling the streets of Mount Vernon, I ran into Vergil Bushnell. Many of you may remember Vergil as the “energizer bunny” bar back from a club in town. Only now you can find him across the street at yet another popular nightclub where he is the person responsible for the inventory. Bushnell, born of Korean and Irish decent, graduated from the University of Maryland Baltimore County with a BA in a local lgbt club, one of those interviewed English in 1999. What many people do for the article was Bushnell. not realize about this normally shy, con- “It was interesting to see him within servative young man is that he is quite the pages of the paper and to read his the philosopher. Reading his blog on his comments, considering just how shy Ver- MySpace page confuses most scholars. gil is especially when you have a camera It did for me until I conducted my own re- in your hand,” said friend Michael Serio. search via Google. Thank you, Internet! On a personal note, I have had the Then there are the books most of us pleasure of working with Vergil, and use as doorstops or to attempt to impress though our jobs differed in many ways, friends or dates. Vergil reads on a regular he was always someone I could count on basis although he prefers comic books. when help was needed. In today’s work- His favorite books are Snow Crash by place that’s something of a rarity. He also Neal Stephenson and Neuromancer by would watch out for the wellbeing of his William Gibson. friends and co-workers. When not at his Baltimore City home, Now on the fashion trends of today, one can usually find Vergil in the Patap- Vergil is more into the camouflage look. sco State Park where he can be found ev- “Black and green; incorporating both.” ery other week rock climbing. “The more Currently he is without a car. But if I’m able to balance personal attributes the opportunity arose to get one, Vergil’s like brute strength and willpower with favorite automobile is a 1984 Chevrolet skill and intuition, the better I become at Monte Carlo SS. Vergil was quick to note clambering past obstacles – mineral or that the car would be primer gray. otherwise.” When asked if he could live anywhere His musical tastes run the gamut in the world, where would he choose, Ver- from the sounds of Leslie Gore to the eye gil without hesitation stated, “I was born openings of Depeche Mode. “My favorite in Baltimore. I love my city. Let’s just say song is ‘Luka’ by Susan Vega.” I’ve been around the block a few times When the issue surfaced regarding and wouldn’t trade the gritty absurdity of the ban on smoking in clubs, The Balti- this metropolis for anything.” more Sun ran a story back in 2007 about I conclude this article with a quote what some clubs in town were doing to from author S.E. Hinton’s book. The Out- provide the smoking crowd with a place to siders and one of Vergil’s favorite quotes, go within the bar. During their interview at “Stay gold Ponyboy.” 20 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com defektive arts The Brave New Wave

By Defekto atively. Musicians are perfectly positioned to participate in our “hot music scene” (as How many times have you heard Bal- noted by major music publications), and timore described as a city that doesn’t visual artists can get their work shown want to be New York City? It’s as if Balti- almost anywhere. But what if you’re a more City itself does not aspire to some- furniture designer with a classic eye in a thing greater. Baltimore is the city that’s town that loves those white plastic patio proud to be a valley to the peaks of Philly chairs that are sold by the truckload every and New York City. Valleys are fine, but summer? does it have to be Death Valley? If hand-painted crab shells have be- come the must-have locally produced art for the traditional Baltimore home, where “What if you’re a is there even room for classically designed and impeccably produced furniture? furniture designer with Marishka Bachman is a Baltimore furniture designer with a clean, classic a classic eye in a town approach to design that is somewhat that loves those white contradictory to the town she lives in. Her work does not embrace imperfection, nor plastic patio chairs?” is there a hint of kitsch attached to it. The locally constructed pieces are so well Are we so unimpressed by anything made that they will last a lifetime, some- that we feel the need to embrace medi- thing you can’t really say about a hand- ocrity? And if we talk about something painted crustacean. enough, no matter how uninspired it is, By profession, Marishka is an interior will that make it interesting? designer and has been in the field for 11 My intention is not to bash anyone’s years, often working with furniture and personal tastes, sensibilities or lifestyle, cabinetmakers. This absorbed expertise but I got to thinking about the limited op- made it a natural progression to begin tions that some artists have based on the designing furniture herself. So when the way we have decided Baltimore should opportunity presented itself to design a be. Isn’t there a place here for high art, custom piece for a client she did it without fine furnishings, designer clothes and hesitation. other things that can enrich our lives? Or “I am influenced by Danish mid-cen- do we limit ourselves to the expensive tury modern, but when I got my first de- haircut, which seems to be the one thing sign job, my goal was first to fill a note- that people will spend a lot of money on in book with sketches and ideas. And from this town. that I found the common thread among all I do believe that we create our own of the drawings I did.” limitations. Of course, Baltimore is kind of Her furniture style is noted for its

a lowbrow, dirty jeans and t-shirt kind of clean lines, the warmth of the wood and Jim Lucio city and a lot of us love to poo poo the af- the mid-century look that originally in- MARISHKA BACHMAN with her Peek-A-Boo Table. fectations of sophisticates, but it’s an old spired her. “It’s ‘friendly modern,’” she joke and an older attitude. Sometimes I says with a laugh. and architectural firms) and begin selling them wrong. My dream is that there is a feel as if the city motto should be, Balti- Marishka is somewhere in the middle my work that way.” Another alternative is real market in Baltimore where I could more, the City that Doesn’t Care and with of designing her first collection, which to be represented by a furniture show- have my own store and a pool of local de- that attitude comes the feeling that we al- includes a coffee table, side table and room in DC or New York and leave the signers to pull from.” most don’t deserve anything better than etagere and would like to add a dining ta- Baltimore bubble completely. I hope her dream does come true be- what we have now. ble to her collection. “As far as the dining But Marishka has a fondness for Bal- cause there’s certainly a place for a high- But we do! table goes, it really is only the financial timore and tells me, “I am completely in end dream in Baltimore. All we have to do The nice variety of galleries, music aspect holding me back. It will be a more love with Baltimore despite the fact that it is BELIEVE it, right? venues and alternative art spaces around expensive piece to make and I have run isn’t perfect. It has culture, diversity, and Marishka is available through her town make plenty of options available to through the money I earmarked for get- is on the water. What keeps me here is website, where you can also see samples most of the creative people in Baltimore ting furniture built,” she says. that I get tired of everyone always saying of her beautiful work at www.marishkade- who wish to share their work and explore “One of my goals is to get more of a that if you want to succeed you have to signs.com. new ways of expressing themselves cre- name within the trade (interior designers move to NY or LA. I would love to prove baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 21

ON SALE NOW! May 29 - 31 • Hippodrome Theatre BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • 410.547.SEAT • Hippodrome Theatre Box Office Groups call 866.577.7469 • To learn more visit myspace.com/BaltimoreHippodrome Due to the nature of live entertainment; times, dates and performers are subject to change without notice. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. No refunds or exchanges. Tickets subject to service charges and handling fees. 22 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com on the screen Blockbuster Season Hits With Full Force by Chuck Duncan have revised a major piece of “Trek” history! Our final blockbuster is the fourth film in this fran- Even though summer hasn’t actually arrived – and even chise, Terminator Salvation. Christian Bale takes on the the recent weather puts spring in question – Hollywood role of John Connor, the prophesied savior of humanity has been rolling out one blockbuster after another since in the war against the machines after Judgment Day de- the first weekend of May...and not surprisingly, all of stroyed most of earth’s population. In this part of the sto- them are sequels, prequels or reboots of previous film ry, Connor is just a soldier taking orders from his leader, franchises. but he’s also listening to recordings left by his mother The season started off with a bang as X-Men Ori- explaining everything that is to come in the war. Con- gins: Wolverine attacked cineplexes around the world nor uses radio broadcasts to enlists fighters around the and devoured the competition. In this prequel to the X- world into the Resistance in the hopes of taking down Men films, Hugh Jackman returns to the role that made Skynet and restoring order for the humans. him a superstar – the mutant “Wolverine.” Of course, But Connor’s story is a small part of the new film as the that’s not his real name as we discover it’s actually Jim- character of Marcus Wright is introduced. Wright is a my...or Logan. More on that in a moment. convict set to be executed, but he is convinced to donate As the movie opens we see young Jimmy discover- his body to science for a cryptic promise of a second ing his mutant powers as he defends his family and then chance. When Wright wakes up, he finds himself in a discovers his father isn’t really his father (the man he very different world from the one he left, and once he kills is) and that his friend is actually his brother. The stumbles upon the Resistance fighters he also makes a friend/brother grows up to be another character in the startling discovery about who and what he is now. comic mythos, Sabretooth, a villain. Connor’s mission is to find teenager Kyle Reese, As Jimmy and his brother fight side by side over the who will grow up to be his father (in the original Termina- years (they are apparently immortal as the film opens in rivals in the “X-Men” movies for Jean Grey’s affections). tor film), and Marcus knows exactly where Kyle is. Con- 1845), they are recruited into a shadowy government op- There are some great action scenes, but the final nor must put aside his hatred for the machines and trust eration whose leader, Stryker, is seeking a special piece battle at Three Mile Island is just a bit too cartoony for that Marcus is not leading him into a trap, even as Con- of meteor rock. Jimmy doesn’t like the direction this op- a film that has tried to remain grounded in gritty realism nor’s commander orders him to bomb the facility where eration is heading (killing innocent people is not unheard for most of its running time. And what was with the “Ma Reese and other humans are being held. of in this group) and he walks away. and Pa Kent” scene? They weren’t really the Kents but I don’t know why Terminator Salvation is already be- Years later, someone is killing members of the if you saw the original Superman movie, you’ll know ex- ing subjected to such negative reviews but I found the group one-by-one and Stryker comes to Jimmy to enlist actly who this older couple is supposed to be! Overall, X- film to be a terrific action film that adhered to the Termi- his aid because he is supposedly the next target. When Men Origins: Wolverine is adequate but not in the same nator mythology as best as it can (the date for Judgment Jimmy’s, or Logan’s girlfriend is killed (he’s inexplicably league of superhero films like Spider-Man 2, The Dark Day has changed from film to film – and even in the re- called Logan from this point on, even by Stryker) and he Knight or even Iron Man. But if you like the sight of Hugh cent TV series). learns his brother is responsible, Logan agrees to un- Jackman – in and out of his clothes – then you may want Director McG utilizes some spectacular camera dergo a procedure that will make him invincible by hav- to check this one out. movement and frames the action in a way that you can ing adamantium bonded to his skeleton and creating the The next blockbuster is the reboot of Star Trek. This actually see what’s happening! I hate fight scenes shot killing machine known as Wolverine. The rest of the film film basically takes us back to the beginning, introducing in extreme close-up, and McG wisely avoids that bit of is a cat and mouse game as Wolverine searches for his us to Kirk, Spock, McCoy and the other Entrprise crew accepted, but lazy, bit of filmmaking. Bale is okay as brother and meets many other mutants along the way members as they attend Starfleet Academy and go on Connor but he’s still using his Batman voice and seems and discovers that he was merely being used as a sci- their first mission to battle a Romulan madman intent on to yell each and every line of dialog. Anton Yelchin (who ence experiment, as are the other mutants, so Stryker destroying all the planets in the Federation. also plays Chekov in Star Trek) is terrific as the young can create the ultimate mutant, Deadpool. Now, even if you’re not a “Trek” fan, you can still Resistance fighter, but the star of the show is newcomer I enjoyed the X-Men movies and Wolverine is fine to enjoy this movie. There are enough bits from just about Sam Worthington as Marcus. a point. Jackman certainly makes the film worth watch- every movie and series to keep the fans happy – even Worthington brings a smoldering anger to the role, ing, but if you have followed the other films, this one rais- Captain Archer’s beagle from Star Trek: Enterprise is but he goes through a gamut of emotions as he tries to es too many questions that just don’t mesh with the rest mentioned – but it’s not so arcane that those new to the save Kyle from the machines and eventually learns what of the series. Like, why does Jimmy’s name suddenly series will be lost. This is an action-packed extravagan- he has become and rebels against those who created change to Logan? His girlfriend calls him Jimmy in one za with a terrific cast of young actors channeling their him. As X-Men made Hugh Jackman a superstar, Termi- scene and Logan in the next and then everyone else well-known counterparts, particularly Zachary Quinto as nator Salvation should do the same for Worthington. The calls him that as well. Spock and Karl Urban as McCoy, and even though the movie may not have a lot of the depth of character that The Sabretooth character has appeared in the X-Men film’s action has a lot of the devoted upset – they spend creator James Cameron brought to the first two movies, movies, as a villain working with Magneto (and played by a lot more time fighting than reasoning with the bad guys but as a summer action movie, this one ranks up there wrestler Tyler Mane), but he is never addressed as being – this is one of the most exciting, edge-of- your-seat with Star Trek as one of the most exciting films of the Wolverine’s brother. Playing with a long-standing comic thrill ride movies that has come along in quite some time year. mythology to create a bit of filmic drama just doesn’t sit (this is the first movie this year that I actually want to see And as kids get out of school and the temperatures well with anyone familiar with this story. I did like how the again). The cast is terrific, the special effects are beyond begin to heat up, Hollywood will be bringing us even Cyclops character was brought into the story and how he amazing and I am eagerly anticipating more adventures more hot movies to keep us entertained in the cool dark- cleverly never came into contact with Wolverine (they’re of the starship Enterprise and her crew – even if they ness of our local theaters. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 23 theatre listings

443-840-1369 beauty and the Beast www.pumpkintheatre.com Baltimore Theatre www.ccbcmd.edu/cockpit Now – June 14 Toby’s Baltimore Souvenir SMOKEY JOE’S CAFÉ Pennsylvania Theatre May 28 - June 21 Disney’s High School Musical Now-Mar 24 Now - June 7 Centerstage Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre Rocketman 410.332.0033 410.268-9212 My Way, A Musical Tribute to Frank Now- June 6 www.centerstage.org www.summergarden.com Sinatra American Music Theatre The Man of La Mancha Now - May 31 (717) 397.7700 Johnny Guitar Toby’s Columbia www.americanmusictheatre.com Now - June 7 May 29 - June 27 2nd Star Productions 410-649-1660 Fells Point Corner Theatre www.tobysdinnertheatre.com THE MUSIC MAN 410.276.7634 410-757-5700 Now - May 31 www.fpct.org www.2ndstarproductions.com Medieval Times The Green Room Community Theatre Dinner and Tournament (828) 464-6128 On Golden Pond OZ - A Magical Journey Hammonds Lane Theatre 1-888-WE-JOUST (1-888-935-6878) www.the-green-room.org Now - May 31 www.medievaltimes.com Spotlighters June 27 Les Misérables 410.752.1225 Chesapeake Arts Center Disney’s High School Musical June 11- July 12 www.spotlighters.org 410.636.6597 NOW- July 12 Fulton Opera House www.chesapeakearts.org Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre 717-397-7425 The Mechanical Father of the Bride (703) 550-7384 www.thefulton.org ParaffinMechanical www.lazysusan.com June 4 -14 June 5 - 28 Camelot Theatre Project Laurel Mill Playhouse The Wedding Singer Now - June 6 410-752-8558 301-617-9906 Mar. 27 - June 6 Plays and Players www.theatreproject.org www.laurelmillplayhouse.org 215.735.0630 CATS www.playsandplayers.org The Soul Collector June 19 - August 29 Now - June 21 DC Theatre Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre AVENUE X Everyman Theatre (301) 662-6600. May 29 - June 21 410.752.2208 FEVER/DREAM www.wayoffbroadway.com 11th Hour Theatre Company www.everymantheatre.org June 1 – June 28 267-987-9865 Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company The Pajama Game www.11thhourtheatrecompany.org ANNIE 202-393-3939 NOW- July 5 May 29 - 31 www.woollymammoth.net Riverside Dinner Theatre Grey Gardens Spring Awakening (540) 370-4300 May 22 - June 28, June 9 - 21 Rock’ N’ Roll www.rsdinnertheater.com Philadelphia Theatre Company Hippodrome Theatre Now - June 14 215.985.0420 There Goes The Bride 410-837-7400 The Studio Theatre www.philadelphiatheatrecompany.org NOW - Aug. 1 www.france-merrickpac.com 202-332-3300 www.studiotheatre.org Rainbow Dinner Theatre Hysteria TURANDOT in Concert 717.687.4300 Now - June 14 PLACIDO DOMINGO Conductor Design for Living www.rainbowdinnertheatre.com The Wilma Theater June 2 Now - June 28 215.546.7824 Lansburgh TheatreKing Lear SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN http://www.wilmatheater.org/ BEAUTY IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER June 4- July 25 June 19 - 21 June 16 - July 19In the Sidney Harman Hall Shakespeare Theatre Company The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre The Odd Couple The Lyric 717-898-1900. Now - June 7 410-547-SEAT 202.547.1122 www.shakespearetheatre.org www.dutchapple.com Devon Theatre for the Performing Arts www.lyricoperahouse.com 215.338.6300. The Rise and Fall of Annie Hall Mansion Mysteries http://www.devontheater.org Candida The Blair Mansion Inn Apr. 24 - May30 Now - May 24 The Seagull on 16th Street 301.588.1688 The Producers The Bay Theatre Company www.blairmansion.com Now – July 19 June 17 - July 19 410-268-1333 Mainstage www.baytheatre.org THEATER J (202) 518-9400. Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits Over My Dead Body www.washingtondcjcc.org Children’s Theatre Now – June 28 Now – May 30 Independence Studio on 3 Colonial Players SEE WHAT I WANNA SEE Snow White Walnut Street Theatre 410.268.7373 Apr. 7 – May 31 NOW - Aug. 9 215-574-3550 www.cplayers.com Signature Theatre’s Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre http://www.walnutstreettheatre.org/ 703- 820-9771 (301) 662-6600. Looped www.sig-online.org www.wayoffbroadway.com Crosby, Stills and Nash at the Lincoln Theatre July 29 May 29 _ June 28 Strega Nona Hershey Theatre Legacy of Lights Dinner Theatre Now - June 7 (717) 534-3405 in Crystal City Now - June 14 Adventure Theatre www.hersheytheatre.com Arena Player’s Footloose 301- 634-2270 www.adventuretheatre.org ONCE UPON A MATTRESS 410-728-6500 NOW - June 14 June 5 - 14 www.arenastage.org Lorenzo’s Timonium Dinner Theatre. Lyle The Crocodile Theatre Harrisburg 410-560-1113 June 24 -Aug 9 717) 232-5501 The Drunkard, or The Fallen Saved www.timoniumdinnertheatre.com June 5 - 28Vagabond Players In The Lerner Family Theatre www.theatreharrisburg.com 410-563-9135 Phantom of the Opera Imagination Stage 301.280.1660 www.vagabondplayers.org NOW - June www.imaginationstage.org Half-price Tickets Available! The Wizard of Oz. Oregon Ridge Dinner Theatre June 12 - 20 The Fabulous Fable Factory 410-771-8427 May 30, 31 Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre www.baltimoreactorstheatre.org CCBC Campus Pumpkin Theatre 410-828-1814 24 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com on the stage GIANT - World Premiere at Signature

By Ben Ryland

The Signature Theatre has mounted an ambitious new musical based on Edna Ferber’s lengthy novel, GIANT, a 4-hour musical in three acts. But don’t be in- timated by its scope and running time because the show has major problems larger than those. What has resulted is a work trying to encompass too much plot, too many characters and way too many songs. Characters come in for big scenes and disappear to the point that when they return you feel like- he/she is great, I had forgotten about them. Using the ultra-wide stage in the Max Theatre, the expanse is a representation of the vast flat landscape of Texas. Most still refer to their home as the Republic Luz and her lovely voice is wonderful. All just annoying but the breaking of a cardi- of Texas, a separate country that is still a three of these actors have outstanding nal rule of (mis?) direction for the stage part of the Confederacy. They have their Broadway and Regional theatre credits. unless of course you are Lance Burton. own ways and brands of justice that de- There are tons of other weighty char- The miking of the actors has the sound mands respect or death. It was a scary acters in this two decades-long storyline; coming from high above the center of the place in the early- to mid- 1900’s when many actors are playing several char- stage no matter where they are standing. the play is set and even scarier in the new acters but mention must be paid to sev- If stereo reproduction was ever needed in 21st century in which we find ourselves eral. Ashley Robinson as Jett is amazing a show this is the one. now. intense (at one point I thought he might The often-opulent sets at Signature The best elements of the show are have a heart attack on stage) playing a are forgotten here in favor of the appear- the full lush orchestra placed above the loser who become wealthy by selling off ance of emptiness. Instead of sets we get stage and Michael John LaChiusa’s rich his tiny parcel of land for the oil beneath. the cast lined up against the bare back- score. It is his best theatre work that I Bick is the sole force behind keeping out stage wall waiting to move furniture in for have heard even considering the fact that the quest for profitable ‘black gold’ as the their next scene. The production cost a there is too much of it. His soaring an- 2.5 million acre ranch is divided among fortune with nearly 2 months of rehears- thems, powerful ballads and tender love the relatives. The tradition of cattle is all als, that huge orchestra and payroll, but it songs are effective and haunting. Other he believes in and the hard days’ work is not evident in the staging. numbers such as “Elsie Mae” and the that goes with it. Michael Thomas Holmes Even with the faults I often enjoyed Mexican style songs are very good. as the cowboy who only wins in both love GIANT especially not being familiar with Lewis Cleale (Bick) and Betsy Mor- and career by default is also quite good. the story or its characters; however poor- gan (Leslie) as the newlyweds bring a The highlight of the entire cast is ly integrated they are in Sybille Pearson’s reality stance to the story. He lives for John Dossett who doesn’t even appear script. It didn’t feel like the actual 4 hours the land and every aspect of it. Bick was until the first act finale. He is the black of running time (even though the box of- raised by this strong-willed sister, Luz, sheep, self-exiled to the mountains but fice staff blatantly lied stating it was only who continues to haunt him after her the rock that kept them all grounded as 3 ½). Not because of the running time but foolish death. Leslie, on the other hand, long as he could. His magnificent voice the show is for theatre goers really into is from a wealthy family in Virginia and and stage presence is truly outstand- new works and just not for casual pa- prefers the wonders that the world offers. ing and he seemed to be the only actor trons out for a show. GIANT is work to get While the couple is dominant in the first on stage not being miked. He has many through and with a little payoff, the ending act, they are only in and out in the second Broadway and Washington credits includ- is a letdown but it might come from the and third in important scenes; making this ing KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN & A novel itself. a true ensemble show. LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC; it was a pleasure It was just announced that Signa- Bick had been set up by his sister to to enjoy his work here again. ture will receive the 2009 Tony award marry another rancher’s daughter, thus Director Jonathan Butterell has many for Regional Theatre on June 7th, which combining their family’s holdings, but he problems in his production. By using the they richly deserve for many shows. But fell in love with Leslie and brought her huge width of the stage it is often like unhappily, GIANT the musical will never home. His angered sister even wants to watching a tennis match- someone sing- have the honor of a earning a Tony if it put them in separate bedrooms. Judy ing on the extreme right while action is makes the misguided trip to New York. Blazer gives and impressive portrayal of taking place on the extreme left. It is not baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 25 entertainment news the Lyric Brings Opera When You Care to Send tO BaLtimOre! the Very Best Don’t Miss Puccini’s By James Hipps

Hallmark Cards is gearing up its greeting card business for those who have “same- sex” couples and families on their mailing lists. The greeting card giant says they are I n C o n C e r t responding to changing consumer needs and demand by offering more cards for Performed By more occasions. They expect to start selling gay-friendly cards as early as this with a mass release of “LGBT friendly” summer. greeting cards, meeting demands for the Last year, Hallmark created a wave growing number of states that have ended of controversy by introducing its first con- marriage discrimination. gratulation cards for same-sex marriages Looks like members of the American and civil unions, and with the success of Family Association won’t be drinking Pep- that line, Hallmark is now moving forward si, or sending their very best any more! Generously sponsored By: peter and GeorGia anGelos CONDuCtOr JuSt ANNOuNCED Sex & the City’s Nixon WOrLD rENOWNED PLÁCIDO DOMINGO Announces Engagement

By James Hipps

Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon has announced her engagement to her longtime partner and girlfriend Christine Marinoni. The 43-year-old Nixon announced the engagement in support of same-sex marriage equality in New York, during a rally for LGBT rights in midtown, Manhat- tan, New York on Sunday. Others in at- Starring maria Guleghina as Princess Turandot tendance included New York’s Governor, Performed in Italian with English supertitles David Paterson and the city’s Mayor, Mi- chael Bloomberg. to Access Hollywood: Cynthia Nixon is mother of 2 (12-year- “I don’t really want to get married to old Samantha and 6-year-old Charles) get married pretend. I think we would like Tuesday, June 2nd aT 7:30PM and has been dating her partner Christine to do it in a real actual and legal way that since 2005 after she separated from her the state would recognize.” long time male companion Danny Mozes. Nixon stated she definitely wanted to James Hipps is a regular host on Blog- marry in New York whenever it becomes TalkRadio and maintains a blog, www. legal. According to a statement she made gayagenda.com. Order yOur tickets tOday! Call audience services 410-900-1150, visit the Lyric Box Office (M-F 10a-5p), ticketmaster 410-547-SEAT or online at tICkets range from $40 to $100 26 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 27 unboxed w/ ajar RON ZIMMERMAN REALTORS ® & ASSOCIATES Good Kids

By Larry L. Walker Your Independent Realtor I come from a very Selected by Fox 45 As Your large family. On Premier Realtor For any given Monday Federal Hill and Canton Making through Sunday there may be twenty family Ron Zimmerman & Associates members gathered in Your Realtor Servicing some row home in Baltimore somewhere. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor I love these gatherings because I get to Carl Walker Hoover Communities for 30 Years find out what’s happening in the lives of Your #1 One the younger members of my family. didn’t understand how his calling a bro- Marketing Expert During one of the last functions my ken phone gay was related to this trag- nephew, having trouble with his phone, edy. That is, when I explained that the yelled “Man, that’s Gay!” Given the fact kids who killed Carl and Jaheem were his R R that he knows that I’m gay, I was taken cousins and siblings, those kids that were YOUR INDEPENDENTZ REALTOR aback by his statement. So, I prodded, within an earshot of his outburst. THE FAMILY OWNED INDEPENDENT “Why would you choose ‘gay’ to describe When they hear an adult yelling that REALTOR FOR TWO GENERATIONS your trouble with your phone, as if gay is a bad situation is “gay,” they assume that synonymous with broken?” He respond- those who identify as gay are bad as well. 1234 LIGHT STREET ~ BALTIMORE, MD 21230 ed “Aww I’m sorry Uncle Lamont, but you Thus, when they communicate at school 410-752-1050 ~ www.rzonline.com know what I mean?” and in my head I or online they are using words like “gay” honestly did know that he meant no harm or “faggot” to torment one another. It is Visit your Community at FederalHillOnline.net, to gay people, but just because he meant proven that when a boy is called “gay” or your free Community Interactive Website no harm doesn’t mean that none is being “fag” he contemplates suicide. Not only done. were these the kids who forced Jaheem I should state that this nephew is and Carl to take their lives, they are Carl twenty-one years in age, so the expecta- and Jaheem. tion is that he knows that there’s nothing They are being taught, through the wrong with being gay. Yet, at the same reckless language of the Hip-Hop gen- time there were children around who can- eration, that even being called “gay” is a not be held to the same standard. So as stigma that isn’t even worth living with. I not to communicate to the children that could feel myself becoming emotional, so it’s OK to use this language, I didn’t let my I ended the conversation by saying some- nephew off the hook. I told him the stories thing like, “It’s ugly and offensive, and you of two eleven-year old boys (Carl and Ja- just shouldn’t say it.” heem) who had committed suicide after Yet, I wanted to tell him that when I being bullied at school. was in middle school I contemplated sui- I’m sure you have heard the stories of cide as a result of being of bullied. I can Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover and Jaheem remember a boy at school punching me Herrera. The accounts of what happened in the face and calling me “gay” while to these boys on two separate occasions beckoning me to fight back. I can remem- in two different states are so similar that ber how humiliated I was, left to pick up if you weren’t paying attention you might my things and continue about my day have thought that they were the same not knowing if I were safe. I wanted him story. They were both 11 year-old males to understand the anxiety I felt daily go- who got good grades, came from single- ing to school or during the bus ride home parent homes, and were what you would where I was completely vulnerable to the call “good kids.” taunts from my bully. Fortunately, I didn’t Unfortunately the similarities don’t choose the route that these two boys did, end there: both Carl and Jaheem were but many children across the country who harassed in school daily and both, weeks are faced with in-school and cyber bully- apart from one another, decided to hang ing will choose death. themselves after being called “gay” and Something must be done to stop threatened at school. this type of sexual bullying and harass- After telling my nephew of Carl and ment as it is the cause for many teen sui- Jaheem’s stories I could still tell that he -- continued on page 38 28 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com arts & entertainment

a comedy CD by Ellen Degeneris. Ev- was great, and was a bit of a wakeup call ery time I was feeling in a funk, I’d drive for me, because here I was stereotyping on the side through the Rockies and play that, and it him. I was really surprised and pleased would make me completely turn around with how everybody reacted to me. and I’d be laughing hysterically. That was my one connection to the gay community, JA: What did you take away from the An Interview with this one person who I didn’t actually know, experience? but I saw her on TV and I listened to her JN: Just how lucky I have it. I’m so Jake Nodar CD. I think there are so many kids who blessed. There’s so much that I person- really struggle with this and are brought ally took for granted. This was definitely a By Josh Aterovis up hearing that it’s wrong. If I can be out wakeup call. The fact that it would take us Continued from cover there, really representing somebody from three hours just to make fire. Or twenty- the gay community, and somebody a little four hours to go out and hunt something. Josh Aterovis: Hi Jake, thanks so different from what you typically see on Here you hit a switch and you’ve got heat. much for talking to us. You’re a home- TV, then that’s just great. You open the fridge and you’ve got a town boy, originally from Baltimore, steak. You have a bathroom, running wa- and now you train horses in Dar- JA: Do you think it would have been ter. It’s just amazing how good I’ve got it. nestown. How did you end up on Out different for you if you’d had represen- of the Wild? tations of yourself in the media instead JA: Now, it says on your bio that you’re Jake Nodar: I was planning a trip to Mon- of just, say, a Jack McFarlane [Will & in a relationship? How did he feel about golia and doing some Google searches, It was certainly life changing, to say the Grace], who represents some people, you being on the show? Did he have and I’d typed in ‘Mongolian expeditions’ least. It was wild, both the challenge of but obviously not all of us? reservations or was he supportive? and something popped up for an Alaskan dealing with the weather, and hunting food, JN: I don’t know. I found myself able to JN: Andrew was very supportive. It was expedition. It took me to a hiking forum, as well as coming to know eight complete identify with Ellen, and that was great. I much a shock for him as it was for me. and there was a link. So I sent them an strangers and learning how to completely rely on a sense of humor, and you can He does a lot of international travel and e-mail, heard from somebody in casting rely on them for your wellbeing. see on the show [Out of the Wild] that knows that I’ve done a fair share myself, the next day. when things are really rough, I turn to hu- so I think he was pretty confident that it JA: What supplies were you given? mor to change your mindset and make ev- was something I could handle. JA: What was the casting process Obviously, a gun for hunting, but what erybody upbeat. That was very fortunate like? else? as far as I was concerned, having some- JA: You’re also a rodeo rider and a JN: Apparently, there were only two days JN: On the side of the lake where the one to connect with. As far as my being member of the Atlantic States Gay Ro- left before they closed the call, so they plane drop is, there were useful and im- out there as somebody different from the deo Association, correct? What events asked me to FedEx a video of myself do- portant things like flint and steel, a com- designers and stylists — who I think are do you compete in? ing a little rundown of what I do and who I pass, a gun and some fishing hooks. fantastic —it might give somebody who JN: I train horse for a living, and primarily am, and they liked it. They showed it to the Then there were things that were not that can’t identify with that person a chance do English riding, jumping, dressage, day execs, and they knocked it down to thirty practical, like the fox fur, which, of course, they might be able to identify with me. eventing. I started out riding Western, so people. They flew us out to L.A., and two I went for right away. They just wanted to rodeo is something I can do in the rare weeks after that, they knocked it down to see what we would take, how practical we JA: You went into this expecting your chance I get for free time. The gay rodeo eleven people, myself included. They flew were, and whether we were going to be fellow participants to have some pre- community was just so accepting of me. I us up to Anchorage a couple weeks after smart and realize bringing a huge wash conceived ideas about your sexuality. went to the gay rodeo right down the road the L.A. interview. We got a couple days tub was probably not the best move. Did they meet those expectations or from where I live, and it was just such a of survival training, picked off two more did they surprise you? great group of people. They really em- people, and then put nine of us on a plane JA: I saw a video on the Discovery site JN: I was pleasantly surprised. I went into braced me, and I really felt like a part of and sent us on our way. where you talked about how important this not knowing. You had no idea who a family. Unfortunately, I don’t get to com- it was to you to be out on the show and was going to be axed and who was going pete with them as much as I would like, JA: Wow, so it was a pretty whirlwind provide a different view of gay men to be dropped off in the middle of nowhere but when I do get the chance, I’ve done experience then. besides just the designers and styl- with you. My mind started to wander. In bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel rac- JN: Yeah, it happened very quickly. Like ists we see so often. Why was that so L.A. we weren’t allowed to talk to any of ing with them. I said, I planned on this fall trip to Mongo- important to you? the other potential participants, but you’re lia. Alaska was the last place I planned JN: I really struggled when I came to certainly eyeing them up and wondering JA: So what’s next for you? on being, especially that time of year. It terms with being gay and when I came what they’re going to be like. I had some JN: I’m back to training fulltime. I abso- happened very fast. out. In 1999, I was going to a horse train- concerns. The police officer Dan was this lutely love working with horses. I just got a ing school in western Colorado, and it big, muscle-bound dude who was very young stallion that I’m working with quite JA: Tell us a bit about the show itself. was a really, really tough year for me. I much a straight guy. I was not sure what a bit. I don’t think I’d ever be able to give How long were you out there? What grew up in a very religious setting, didn’t to make of him, he was sort of quiet at horses up entirely. My time in Alaska was was the experience like? know anybody who was openly gay, and, the beginning, but he was incredible. He the longest I’ve been away from it in prob- JN: Shooting went from the middle of for the most part, was told it was wrong. was the first one that asked me about the ably twelve or fourteen years. There were September to the middle of October. Of So fighting all of that and coming to terms whole gay topic because nobody knew some aspects of the show I absolutely course, I would be shot if I told if I made with who I was, was difficult. right at the beginning and let me know loved doing, and we’ll see if anything it to the end, but the people that did make The only reason I was really able that one of his relatives was openly gay presents itself, but in the meantime, I’m it were out there for a total of thirty days. to pull through that year was that I had and how great of a person he was. That keeping myself busy with the horses. baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 29 finance What Happened to My Life Savings? By Woody Derricks, President tion to see the world from different vantage Partnership Wealth Management points. The media is often hungry for the story that scares the viewer because fear Throughout my life, I have rec- attracts attention. When the media gets ognized that I have a vision your attention, they make more money. problem. While the vision Seeing losses on your statements does in my right eye is fantas- not mean that your accounts are down tic, my left eye always as much as the S&P 500 or as much as seemed a little fuzzy. I the doomsdayers say “everyone” is down. also noticed that my Also, those people who provide “advice” right eye seemed to on TV often make blanket recommen- dominate my line of dations that don’t necessarily apply to sight, and if I covered your financial situation. Remember my right eye, my left not to view the financial world through would take a minute or the eyes of the media, but to look at the two before focusing. entire picture. Consider your personal When I would take eye performance, goals, and risk tolerance. exams in school or in the few If you’re someone that is having a times that I’ve been to see an difficult time losing 20%, 30%, or more eye doctor since, I would receive during a 12-18 month time span, then varying test results. Some years I you may need to review your risk toler- was told that my left eye was 20/20 ance. If your measurement for success and others 20/30 (or worse). I would is beating an index while things are good, explain how dominant I felt my right eye then you’re likely to be taking enough risk was, but I was told that everyone has a to lose money when times aren’t good. dominant eye. In the end, I had two op- While being panicked about the market or tometrists suggest glasses. I gave them a pulling to one side because the idea of losing your future investments try after the first recommendation only to they stand out from my eyes, is completely understandable, those who feel dizzy the entire time I wore them. I but that a contact should do the trick. He have been or are planning to take their declined the suggestion the second time assured me that in a few days I’d be see- money out of the market may want to con- around due to my previous experience. ing in 3-D. I, of course, was speculative sider a more conservative approach to Since my last exam over two years of the advice. their investing going forward. Talk with ago, I’ve been struggling with the idea of When I got home, I told Heidi all about your financial advisor about developing getting glasses. Maybe that comes with my appointment. She said that she had an asset allocation that provides you with age, but I wasn’t ready to admit that my no idea that I could only see 2-D. I told the appropriate mix of downside protec- eyesight had faded. I was also concerned her that I’ve spent my whole life seeing 2- tion and upside potential. that I’d have another prescription that D and didn’t know either. How could she My perspective has changed greatly made me feel uncomfortable. know? Because she can’t see through over the past month because I now see in In early February, I decided to give a my eyes, she doesn’t know exactly what 3-D. It was a strange experience seeing new optometrist the chance to tell me my or how I see the world. the world through new eyes. The change eyesight is perfect and not to worry about It’s crucial that during difficult market between 2- and 3-D is slight, but its im- getting glasses. It turned out that I was and economic times, that financial advi- pact on my life has been huge. I hope half right. He told me that the vision in my sors and clients recognize that not ev- that by making a slight change in the way left eye is 20/20, but he also informed me eryone sees the world through the same you view your investments helps to make that I was only using my right eye to see. eyes. If an advisor has a client that has a significant change in either the way Due to this, my vision has been limited to an account down 25% while the market you react to market conditions or to the two dimensions! is down over 40%, the advisor may be way your investments are allocated going I was shocked. Only seeing in 2-D inclined to be thrilled with the relative forward. didn’t seem right. I can tell the distance performance. That same client, however, between two objects, I explained. I told may be panicked because his accounts This article is for informational purposes him that I can see in 3-D (while I was think- have lost 25%. As a financial advisor, you only and is not intended to provide spe- ing that he was a quack). The optometrist must put yourself in your clients’ shoes cific advice to any individual. Consult refused to back down and stood by his di- and remember that what’s best for your your legal, tax, and/or financial advisor agnosis. He suggested that I wear a con- client isn’t always the black and white to determine what is appropriate for your tact in my left eye to help strengthen my facts. Sometimes what’s best for your cli- situation. vision which should allow me to see prop- ent is the advice that allows her to sleep erly. He added that glasses would more through the night. © 2008 Partnership Wealth Management, than likely make me feel as though I was Clients, however, also have an obliga- LLC. 410-732-2633. All rights reserved. 30 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com HELP US SEE YOU OUT THERE! baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 31 32 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com single black sheep Leather Line » Rules of Gay Dating #3: Common Ground

By Josh Aterovis harkens back to Rule #1: Be honest! Why say you like sipping wine at home when There’s a lot of truth in you really prefer guzzling Buds at the bar? the old cliché that op- You’re looking for someone with whom posites attract. Unfor- you’re compatible. Why make it harder tunately, if you don’t than it has to be to find that someone? have some things in You can use their interests to rule out common, the attrac- some prospects. If you live for movies so tion more than likely will turn into resent- much that Netflix can’t keep up with you, ment over time. Which is why my third you might want to look for a fellow cin- rule of dating is simple: Have something emaphile. If you love hiking and camping in common. and looking for proof of Bigfoot, someone Every healthy couple I know has who’s idea of roughing it is a hotel with- common interests. Much like Bigfoot, out room service might not be your best I’ve heard tales of happy couples with no match. overlapping interests, who lead complete- Unless you’re like me and occasion- ly separate lives, only coming together in ally go on dates just because they seem the bedroom. Also like Bigfoot, I’ve never like they might be interesting or make a met one of them in person. Where Sas- good story — I’m a writer, what can I say? quatch and these couples differ, however, — it might be a good idea to start crossing is that I’m willing to accept the existence off people with whom you have nothing in of one of them — the tall, hairy one with common. Admittedly, there’s something to big feet. be said for broadening your horizons, but Let me explain. I’m not actually ques- let’s be honest, if your idea of a nice night tioning the existence of the couple with out is a fancy dinner and a night at the no common interests, just how healthy symphony, and your potential date prefers or happy they actually might be. Maybe it hotdogs and a ballgame, you might be works for some people, but by my defini- setting yourself up for disappointment. Mid-Atlantic Title Holders Mid-Atlantic LeatherSIR 2009, Mid-Atlantic Leatherboy 2009, Mid-Atlantic tion, a healthy couple is one that is friends Once on the date, use the opportunity Leather Woman 2009, and Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2009 first and foremost...and friends do stuff to really get to know one another. A lot of together. Friends have common interests. these rules overlap, so we’ll get into this That’s why they become your friends in more in Rule #7, but talk to each other. the first place. Otherwise, the person you Bring up your favorite musicians, discuss occasionally bump into in the bedroom is your hobbies, ask your date about his fa- a sex buddy who you happen to live with. vorite movies, books, TV shows...what- He’s a roommate with benefits. Hey, if ever. The point is that you can learn a lot that’s all you’re looking for, more power to about someone by their interests. One of you, but let’s call a spade a spade. the most important things you can learn is So how does all that relate to dat- what you have in common. ing? Unless you’re just having fun — and Now, don’t think you have to be car- there’s nothing wrong with that as long as bon copies on each other. That’s just bor- you make that clear up front — then the ing. You’ll more than likely tire of each whole point of dating is to find a life part- other quickly and start looking for diver- ner. To once more borrow from the anal- sions, anything to spice things up a bit. ogy I used in Rule #2, you’re taking your Some differences keep a little mystery in date on a test drive. If you like the way he your relationship, and can open you up to handles, you’ll commit for the journey. If new experiences. Make sure, though, that not, on to the next model. you have enough common ground to build Dating is a great opportunity to find a solid foundation. There’s nothing worse out how you really mesh with someone. than setting up house only to discover it’s Of course, with many online dating sites, slowly falling apart. Oh, and as for Big- you may have already had the chance to foot? You know what they say about big see where each other’s interests lie, but feet... Until next time...Happy Dating! Cowboi Jen, Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2009 too often people do just that: lie. Which -- continued on page 38 baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 33 leather line

By Rodney Burger nity Bootblack 2007 Eric Crouse. What a panel! (I guess Mr. International House of “A Tradition Returns, Pancakes couldn’t make it!) A Return to Tradi- Of course, you can’t have a contest tions” was the theme without contestants (Well, you can-but of the 2009 Mid-At- it’s been done). There was no preliminary lantic LeatherSIR, contest this year. Competing for the Mid- Leatherboy, Mid-At- Atlantic LeatherSIR 2009 title was Ky Ea- lantic Community Bootblack and new this ton, who had just recently been sashed year Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman Contest Mr. Pittsburgh Leather Central 2009. held over the weekend of May 8th-9th at Running for the Leatherboy title were boy the Club Hippo in Baltimore. This is the eddie ortiz (D.C. boys of Leather) and boy leather contest that was once Drummer hurley (of St. Clair, Pa.). Competing to and it has evolved quite a bit since the be the first Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman spectacular (and unfortunately last) Mid- were Cowboi Jen (from Philadelphia, Pa.) Atlantic Mr. Drummer / Drummerboy Con- and Jackie (from D.C.). There were three test was last held in Baltimore in 2001. contestants for Mid-Atlantic Community As Maryland Mr. Drummer 2001, I re- Bootblack 2009: Andrew Coon (Balti- member the fantastic job done by David more), Peter daRosa (Riverdale, Md.) Allen (Mr. Maryland Leather 1999) and and Brandon Riley (Norristown, Pa.). David Baldwin (Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather It wouldn’t be a Rik Newton produc- 2002) in producing that contest. There tion without lots of entertainment. Friday had been preliminary contest held in night’s “Meet & Greet” at the Hippo was Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and held during a show hosted by Baltimore’s D.C. The four Drummerboys competed own Queen of Comedy Shawnna Alexan- for the Mid-Atlantic Drummerboy title on der. I am not sure a “Meet & Greet” works a Saturday night at the Baltimore Eagle, well during a show. There were lots of and on Sunday afternoon the four Mr. talking going on, and at times I felt that Drummer contestants competed at the the crowd was missing out on some of Stagecoach Saloon (now part of Grand Baltimore’s best entertainers: Maestro, Central) for the Mid-Atlantic Mr. Drummer Dimetria, Danielle Revlon, Mara Marks, 2001 title. Phoenix, etc. It was quite the weekend! A lot has Saturday afternoon’s contest em- changed since 2001, and there have been ceed by Frank Norwicki (Mr. Mid-Atlantic some pretty rocky contests since then. I Leather 1993) brought out more great am happy to report that a tradition has re- performances by Chi Chi Ray Colby (still turned this year as Mr. Maryland Leather beaming from having been selected 1st 2009, Rik Newton-Treadway, and Hooker Alternate to Miss Gay Maryland), LuLu & boys Productions brought the contest LaDiva, Shawnna, and... Baltimore’s oth- back to Baltimore and produced a very er Queen of Comedy- Rodney Burger. (I enjoyable Mid-Atlantic Contest. had a ball!) I knew that Rik was on the right track After a fun afternoon, Mid-Atlantic when I received word of the impressive LeatherSIR 2009 Ky Eaton, Mid-Atlantic judging panel he had assembled. The Leatherboy 2009 boy eddie, and Mid-At- International Contest to be held in San lantic Community Bootblack 2009 Bran- Francisco over Halloween Weekend could don Riley will represent this area in San not have a better board. The judges were Francisco in October. Mid-Atlantic Leather International LeatherSIR 2008 Raul J. Woman 2009 Cowboi Jen has a choice to Mendez II, International Leatherboy 2008 compete in ABW (in July in New Orleans) Bill Hoeppner, International Mr. Drummer or IMsL (in San Francisco in 2010). 1999 Fraser Picard, International Drum- After the contest Rik treated over fifty merboy 1999 woodie barnes, Interna- leather folks to dinner at the Hibachi Grill tional Ms. Leather 2007 Lauren Ide, Ms. on Joppa Road. Can you picture over fifty Olympus Leather 2005 Caro, Mid-Atlantic people in full leather walking into a crowd- LeatherSIR 2008 Andy Liu, and Mid-At- ed restaurant? It was guerrilla Asian buf- lantic Leatherboy 2008 boyshark. fet! Great job Rik! These four titleholders Judging the Mid-Atlantic Community will do well, and I am sure that you can Bootblack Contest were International Mr. count on them to keep the tradition alive! Deaf Leather 1999 Bob Rourke, Co-Pro- ducer of International Ms. Leather levi halberstadt, and Mid-Atlantic Commu- 34 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 35 36 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 37 38 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com

TRANSGENDER FORUM With this in mind, if a couple decides Our concentration focuses on issues -- continued from cover to have this union blessed by the reli- affecting your life and your rights: gious organization with whom they are af- strategy for outreach to garner the sup- filiated, hence, they should be considered port from Marylanders that is crucial to be married in “the eyes of the Lord,” in accor- successful. dance with their faith, and recognized as Healthcare Proxy Says Runyon, “We want this event to such by those who believe in their spiritual Power of Attorney be informative and invigorating. We have union. Furthermore, the lack of a blessing Joint Purchase and Savings Agreement an event where allies are encouraged to by a religious organization should in no Estate and Tax Planning step forward and be a part of this impor- way interfere with the legal rights of two Adoption and Second Parent Adoption tant effort.” people who want to become united. Child Custody EQMD is committed to ensuring William Shakespeare captured the Guardianship the passage of a statewide transgender essence of this concept beautifully in the Advance Health Care Directive Proudly supporting and serving anti-discrimination law. Twice in the last following line from Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, Wills the LGBT community since 1988. four years, a bill that would accomplish 1-2): Divorces and Break Ups this goal was allowed to die by the Mary- Juliet: “What’s in a name? That Domestic Partnership Agreements land Legislature. Greater support for the which we call a rose by any other name Corporate Law bill was achieved in 2009, but it was not would smell as sweet.” enough. The lgbt community and allies What is in a name? In this case, ev- For more information please contact: are needed to help ensure its passage. erything. The word “marriage” in this con- Mark F. Scurti, Esq. The Transgender Forum promises to text becomes contentious and causes 410.938.8718 | 410.938.8800 be the beginning of a concentrated effort anxiety for traditional thinkers. Converse- [email protected] to continue the push to pass legislation ly, by not using it, secular thinkers suffer hpklegal.com by the Maryland General Assembly. It is anxiety and feel like they are not being being co-sponsored so far by Equality treated equally. Perhaps repackaging this Maryland; Trans-United, which is a trans- concept will bring a peaceful solution to gender advocacy organization; and Bal- this debate and protect the rights of all timore OUTloud. EQMD is still accepting people. Let’s all be “united,” shall we? other co-sponsors without charge . T o w s o n C o l u m b i a B e l A i r C a m b r i d g e All interested individuals and organi- GOOD KIDS zations are invited to bring ideas and en- -- continued from page 27 ergy to this exciting free event. Light sup- per and refreshments will be provided. cides, and it is avoidable. First, if you hear For more information, you may call harmful language (i.e. “sissy,” “whore,” Mindy Daniels at 301-633-2113 or e-mail “faggot,” “bitch”) being aimed at or used at [email protected]. in the presence of a child or teen, say something, anything to make the person SINGLE BLACK SHEEP aware of the damage it does. If you are Realtors -- continued from page 32 someone who uses this language reflect 1 VILAGE SQUARE, STE.131 on the lost lives of these two boys and the BALTIMORE, MD 21210 Have a bad dating story? Share yours countless others and question whether it with me. After my Ten Rules of Gay Dat- is worth it. OFFICE: 410.323.6000 ext 114 ing, I’ll be doing a short series of bad dat- Secondly, if you are someone who is CELL: 410.960.8005 ing experiences, and how they could have gay identified, and you hear someone us- FAX: 410.323.0016 turned out differently. If you have a story ing “gay” to describe something disdainful to share, email me at singleblacksheep@ let that person know that being gay is no Leitner Winstead joshaterovis.com. If I use your story in a different than being black or tall and there column, you’ll go into a drawing for a copy isn’t anything negative about it. of my new book, All Lost Things, due out It is time that we stand our ground, as this summer. a community, to put a stop to this form of DAVE KNIGHT childish teasing. Our silence is deadly. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage GAY MARRIAGE Roland Park Cross Keys -- continued from page 18 Submit your events online Village of Cross Keys ~ 38 Village Square www.baltimoreoutloud.com Baltimore, MD 21210 gards this union as a legal contract and requires that it be formally documented to 410.235.4100 (office) 410.235.2230 (fax) ensure the rights of both parties to have 443.980.1666 (cell) OUTloud’s queer TV guide: input in all matters pertaining to the re- www.baltimoreoutloud.com [email protected] (email) lationship, be it medical, financial or oth- cbmove.com/david.knight (website) erwise. So, in essence, all documented relationships, gay and straight, are civil Sign up online now for free Expect More from unions in “the eyes of the law,” and the Coldwell Banker individuals should be considered “united” home delivery of OUTloud. by law and be recognized by all as such. www.baltimoreoutloud.com baltimoreoutloud.com | May 22, 2009 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD q 39 Professional Services tax services travel attorney

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Call 410-244-6780 to list your business in the Professional Services directory. 40 q BALTIMORE OUTLOUD May 22, 2009 | baltimoreoutloud.com

June 9 - 21, 2009 • Hippodrome Theatre BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • 410.547.SEAT • Hippodrome Theatre Box Office Groups call 866.577.7469 • To learn more visit myspace.com/BaltimoreHippodrome

Due to the nature of live entertainment; times, dates and performers are subject to change without notice. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. No refunds or exchanges. Tickets subject to service charges and handling fees. Parental Discretion is advised. Please visit SpringAwakening.com for more information.