Goodnight and Good Luck That Is Stronger Than Ever on Goodnight Rhonda by Gregg Shapiro an Interview with Lee

January 4, 2018 | Volume XV, Issue 18

march in Washington in 2018 and were disappoint- Baltimore ed when the organizers chose to support a march on the west coast. After initially considering at- Women’s March tending the New York City By Bill Redmond-Palmer panoply of pro- march, they decided Bal- To commemorate last year’s Women’s gressive causes: Jan. 20th timore deserved its own March on Washington, a Baltimore march immigration rights, march. The brainstorm of and rally is planned for Saturday, January healthcare reform, event marks three local women soon 20th, from 11 am to 2 pm – one of numerous LGBTQ rights, ra- celebrate. commemorate, and continue the attracted a group of some 16 organizers. events planned around the world. Subject cial equality, free- one year vision of the 2017 marches. The planners are working for a diverse to city approval, the rally will begin at 11 am dom of religion, Baltimore activists generally join in on turnout. “We believe in intersectionality and at the War Memorial Plaza in front of City and workers’ rights. from iconic marches in next-door Washington. Thou- are working hard to reach out to all ethnic, Hall, then march down Holiday and Con- Many of the march- sands of Baltimoreans went to the DC social, religious, and non-religious groups,” way Streets, across Pratt Street, and end at ers were motivated DC protest march in 2017, while a small group of wom- said Camille Mihalic, a coordinator. McKeldin Park. by opposition to the en organized a rally at 33rd Street in Bal- Some of the specific goals of the march On January 21st, 2017, some five mil- election of Donald J. Trump. timore. Organizers expected perhaps 100 include encouraging women and their allies lion women and allies around the world This year, an estimated 50 to 250 people to attend, but some 5,000 people to vote in the 2018 primary and general – with the flagship event in Washington, marches and rallies, depending on the processed down Charles Street. elections in Maryland, ensuring high voter DC – marched for women’s rights and a source, are being planned nationwide to Local organizers expected a repeat —continued on page 3

bum, Neptune City, was the vintage pop influence in your music. It’s a sound Goodnight and Good Luck that is stronger than ever on Goodnight Rhonda By Gregg Shapiro An interview with Lee. Is this the kind of Already considered to be music you listen to for one of the best albums of Nicole Atkins pleasure or does your 2017, Goodnight Rhonda personal musical taste Lee (Single Lock), the fourth full-length run in different directions? disc by Nicole Atkins, deserves all of Nicole Atkins: I listen to many dif- the praise being heaped upon it. The 11 ferent types of music. I love old country, stellar tunes further Atkins’s singular ex- psychedelic and drone, fantasy rock, prog, ploration of vintage pop in the most exhil- singer songwriters. There’s always been arating way, as you can hear on the title something to 1950s romantic crooner re- track, “Sleepwalking,” “A Little Crazy,” “If cords and their arrangements and old soul I Could,” “Listen Up,” and “Brokedown records that has drawn me into another Luck.” Also of note is the way that the world every time I hear them. That’s prob- album addresses the singer/songwriter’s ably why I make the music I do. It’s the newfound sobriety, on songs including zone where my heart lives and my brain the aforementioned titular number. I had can relax. the pleasure of interviewing Atkins about The aforementioned vintage musical the disc in 2017. style also carries over to the cover art Nicole Gregg Shapiro: One of the for Goodnight Rhonda Lee. Atkins things I loved about your first al- —continued on page 15 Chase Brexton & Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

The LGBT Health Resource Center Believe Executive Editor Jim Becker gender-diverse children & their families [email protected] [email protected] should have a strong network & specialized care. Associate Editor & Director of Marketing & Production Mary Taylor [email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

IN 2015 WE LAUNCHED Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

Contributing Writers for Baltimore OUTloud GENDER JOURNEYS OF YOUTH Ava Barron-Shasho • Janan Broadbent, Ph. D. Josh Buchbinder • Anthony Calo • Lee Carpenter AN INTEGRATED CARE PROGRAM FOR Jeffrey Clagett • Wayne Curtis • Woody Derricks Chuck Duncan • John Redmond-Palmer • Dr. Eva Hersh Mark S. King • Brother Merrick Moses Frankie Kujawa • Sage Piper • David Placher Mark Segal • Gregg Shapiro • Bill Redmond-Palmer GENDER-DIVERSE YOUTH David Egan • Elyse Buchbinder • Dr. Loren Olson Alex “Bear” Conley • Brynn Deveraux

LED BY NATIONALLY-RECOGNIZED Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY Laura Anderson • Rev. Kelly Crenshaw Rev. Dr. Robert Apgar-Taylor • Brian George Hose PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGIST Elizabeth Thompson Contributing Writers OUT in Asbury Park, NJ Rai Guerra-Nelson • Christy Girlington

Graphics Ramon Montiel DR. ELYSE D. PINE Web Editor Anja Saine [email protected]

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

Founders Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams

Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 410-802-1310 Baltimoreoutloud.com

Additional Information Honoring diversity. Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: [email protected]. All materials appearing in this Inspiring wellness. newspaper are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely Improving our communities. those of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff.

chasebrexton.org/WeAreChaseBrexton

Pediatrics2 t BALTIMORE OUT LOforUD JANUArY her. 4, 2018 •Primary baltimoreoutloud.com care for you. All in one location. news // LOCAL Baltimore, Jan. 20th: Women’s March Redux —continued from page 1 at least $10,000 to cover the events ex- turnout; electing progressive candidates. penses, and are seeking sponsors and ● Elder Law “Event planning continues to move donors, and will soon launch a GoFundMe ● Estate Planning forward, and permits will be submitted on page. January 2nd,” said Mihalic. “Eric Costello, While tickets for the event will be free, ● Family Law city council representative for District 11 organizers need an estimate of the num- ● Guardianship has said he’s supportive of the event, and ber of attendees, and have created an ● Mediation will be inviting Mayor Catherine Pugh to Eventbrite page to issue tickets at Bit. speak. We hope that other local and state ly/2CborCJ. ● Medicaid Planning & Qualification politicians, as well as the heads of local Details of this event are subject to ● Personal Injury groups such as the Baltimore Transgen- change. For the lastest info, visit Bit. der Alliance, Maryland Working Families, ly/2Cv4ZUU, and follow news on Twitter @ ● Probate Black Girls Vote, Black Lives Matter, and WomensMarchBalt. A website will launch ● Veteran's Benefits others will join the rally as speakers as soon. For now, coordinator Mihalic can be ● LGBTQIA Matters well.” reached at [email protected] for t The organizers expect to need to raise info on volunteering or sponsorship. Call ERA Law Group Today (410) 919-1790, or visit us at 1997 Annapolis Exchange Pkwy, Catholic Bishops Tell Parents to Suite 300, Annapolis, MD 21401 Valerie E. Anias, Esq. Stop Children Transitioning [email protected] Washington, DC – An open letter by the ic fact of human biology and supporting the US Conference of Catholic Bishops is urg- social institutions and norms that surround ing parents to reject gender transitioning for it. . . The movement today to enforce the children. “We acknowledge and affirm that false idea – that a man can be or become all human beings are created by God and a woman or vice versa – is deeply troubling. thereby have an inherent dignity. We also It compels people to either go against rea- believe that God created each person male son – that is, to agree with something that or female; therefore, sexual difference is not is not true – or face ridicule, marginalization, an accident or a flaw – it is a gift from God and other forms of retaliation. … We call for that helps draw us closer to each other and policies that uphold the truth of a person’s to God. What God has created is good. “ sexual identity as male or female, and the privacy and safety of all. “ The letter was co-signed by various US-based religious leaders, including members of the Lutheran Church, the Islamic Society, the Southern Baptist Church, the Boosting empowerment and breaking the bonds Anglican Church, and the Orthodox Greek Church. The sentiments of the letter echo of homophobia, racism, and stigma in same what Pope Francis said back in 2016, calling gender-loving (SGL) men in Baltimore City Is gender sacred? the increasing acceptance of transgender • NETWORKING people “terrible.” t (Gay Star News at Gay- starnews.com/article/catholic-bishops-urg- Every 1st Wednesday The letter continues, “Children espe- ing-parents-reject-trans-kids) • HIV EDUCATION cially are harmed when they are told that Every Last Wednesday they can ‘change’ their sex or, further, given hormones that will affect their develop- • SOCIAL EVENTS ment and possibly render them infertile as Monthly adults. Parents deserve better guidance on • ART CREATION PROJECT these important decisions, and we urge our medical institutions to honor the basic med- [email protected] • 410-837-5573 ical principle of ‘first, do no harm.’ Gender ideology harms individuals and societies by FB: New Horizons Baltimore • aidsactionbaltimore.org sowing confusion and self-doubt. The state HIV Prevention Advocacy for SGL Men's Health supported by itself has a compelling interest, therefore, in ViiV Healthcare's ACCELERATE! Program maintaining policies that uphold the scientif- BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

Select Chase Brexton Health Care patients deemed most in need may be eligible for digital breast cancer screenings through a mobile mammography van to be located at the Chase Brexton Mount Vernon Center on September 28th. The screenings are provided in partnership with Lackawan- na Mobile X-Ray and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and mammograms are capable of finding it up to three years before it can be felt. The Center for Disease Control recommends mammograms every two years for women age 50 and older who are at average risk for breast cancer. The staff of Chase Brexton encour- ages their patients to remember that early detection saves lives! Any patient who feels they may quality should contact their Chase Brexton provider or call 410-837- 2050 for more info. t beyond the beltway

compiled by Jim Becker Poehler’s Smart Girls website, Natalie December 26th in their basement, bound Morales, the “Parks and Recreation” star and with their throats slashed. Police be- Some notable related her emotional journey from a Cath- lieve this attack was targeted. The victims olic schoolgirl who “thought something were identified as Brandi Mells, 22, Shan- people who came was really wrong with [her]” to a popular ta Myers, 36, and Myers’ children Shan- actress “I don’t like labeling myself, or any- ise, 5, and Jeremiah, 11. Mells and Myers out in 2017 one else,” she says, “but if it’s easier to were reportedly in a relationship. “The en- understand me, what I’m saying is that I’m tire city is really traumatized by what has Charlotte, North Carolina – This past queer.” Ryan O’Callaghan, a former New happened. It’s inconceivable,” said Pas- year, more personalities stepped out into England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs tor Jackie Robinson Sr. of the Oak Grove the light and professed their sexual orien- offensive tackle got candid with Outsports, Baptist Church. Robinson knew Myers as tation. From pop stars to athletes, the rain- describing a youth and young adulthood a bus monitor for many years for the Troy bow got a little bit larger with them included. using football as “a great place to hide” his school system’s bus service. The sole sur- Here are some of those faces in the news. orientation. O’Callaghan said counseling vivor of the homicide is Isaiah Smith, the Actually, not so welcome Aaron Carter, onetime child pop sensation, gave him the courage to share his secret, 15-year-old son of Myers. He was not at who ruled the airwaves at age 12 with his first with a close friend and eventually with home during the violent attack. “I’m scared hit single “I Want Candy” (2000), came out the world. Shannon Purser, of “Stranger to go to the corner store,” he told reporters. or by her former male name, or mocking as bisexual in an emotional Twitter post Things” and “Riverdale” shared in a series White and Mann were brought in for her by calling her ‘ma’am’ or ‘madam’ in a in August, after living with his sexuality of Twitter posts that she has recently come police questioning on Friday, December sarcastic tone of voice, or pretending con- “weighing on my chest for nearly half of my out as bisexual to those close to her. “He- 29 and arraigned the following morning. fusion by calling her both ‘ma’am’ and ‘sir’ life.” Alia Shawkat, the 28-year-old actress, roes” star Thomas Dekker, who also co- The men were sent to Rensselaer County in succession.” She was also branded a best known as droll rebel Maeby Funke in starred in 2016 gay romantic drama “Do jail. Both White and Mann were charged “faggot” by colleagues, who “humiliate[ed] cult favorite “Arrested Development,” has You Take This Man,” took to Instagram to with one count of first-degree murder and Ms. Bost by treating her as a freak,” the confirm his sexuality after being obliquely four counts of second-degree murder, ac- filing continues. On one occasion, a cus- outed by writer-producer Bryan Fuller. (Q cording to Troy Police Capt. Daniel DeWolf. tomer filed a complaint with Sam’s Club Notes Online – Torie Dominguez at Go- (Gay Star News at Gaystarnews.com/ management after hearing co-workers qnotes.com) article/two-suspects-arrested-connec- call Bost a “faggot.” Bost says her boss- tion-murder-lesbian-couple-children) es failed to step in to stop the harassment even after she reported it. “Despite excelling at my job, Sam’s Two charged Club treated me with cruelty and disre- Trans woman spect, simply for being a woman,” she said in murder of in a statement. “I am bringing this lawsuit sues Walmart because transgender people must have lesbian couple the same opportunities to work hard, earn Out in 2017: Ryan O’Callaghan alleging a living, and contribute to our communities, and their free from bias. No one should ever be con- come a long way since her portrayal of an discrimination fronted with the prejudice I experienced on adolescent in love with her own cousin. children the job.” In August the US Equal Employ- Shawkat discussed gender, sexuality, and Kannapolis, North Carolina – A for- ment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) gravitating toward queer roles with Out Troy, New York – Two men have been mer Walmart employee is suing the retail ruled that Bost was subjected to discrim- magazine, saying: “Now I consider myself arrested in connection with the quadru- giant for discrimination and harassment ination and a hostile work environment be- bisexual, and I think balancing my male ple murder in Troy, New York, earlier this she alleges she faced at work because cause of her sex, and determined that this and female energies has been a big part of week. James White, 38, and Justin Mann, she is transgender. The Transgender Le- violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of me growing as an actor.” 24, both from Schenectady, New York, gal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF) 1964. Few surprises here, Barry Manilow, were arrested on December 30th. Both filed the federal lawsuit on behalf of Char- The determination was one of two suc- confirmed in a People magazine interview men plead not guilty to the homicide lene Bost on December 28th. Bost was cessful EEOC decisions secured by the that he was gay – and had been in a re- A mother, her female partner, and their employed at a Sam’s Club store in Kan- TLDEF against Walmart this year. (Seattle lationship with manager and now-husband two children were brutally murdered in napolis, North Carolina, from 2011 until Gay News - Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) Garry Kief since the late 1970s. And Cody their own home. The family was found on she was fired in 2015. Sam’s Club is a Alan, a popular host on Country Music membership-only retail warehouse chain Television and CMT Radio, 44-year-old owned by a subsidiary of Walmart. These news notes have been compiled, Alan shared on Facebook that he could According to the lawsuit, Bost endured with permission, from the online version no longer “live with this layer of misery a shockingly hostile work environment of various newspapers and other web underneath that happy face on TV.” Daniel during her time at the company. After she sites. We thank these publications for Newman the emerging star of AMC’s “The transitioned, Bost says, co-workers and allowing us to bring you their news sto- Walking Dead” discussed his sexuality in a supervisors began discriminating against ries. Usually the reports have been sig- post on Youtube before further addressing her because of her sex. She was subject- nificantly edited and you can read the the topic in a People interview. Newman, ed to a barrage of hostilities, which includ- full story by going to the web site men- 36, says he wants to take advantage of the ed wrongful discipline and being repeated- tioned following the item. Comments “huge platform” he has been given through ly misgendered. The lawsuit says Walmart are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker his role on the cable TV phenomenon. employees took to “misgendering Ms. Bost and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride In a lengthy essay published on Amy Murdered family in Troy, New York directly by addressing her as ‘sir’ or ‘man’ Media.

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway

ing on leadership roles at the church. One unprecedented numbers, by raiding not member and certified deacon candidate just bars and saunas but hotel rooms and said that the church was “shaken to its private apartments. Gay choir core,” adding that she would “challenge According to the Times, the crackdown Rev. Smith to present how Ryan has been began in November 2016, when the police director’s nurtured after his abrupt firing and the broke up a party in South Jakarta and de- public degradation he has been made to tained 13 men. The most recent incident ouster sparks endure.” Another member, whose family was in October, when 51 men were ar- left Trinity after the firing, sent an e-mail rested at what is thought to be Jakarta’s controversy in to Bishop Hope Morgan Ward and The last gay sauna. Most of the hundreds of Rev. Linda Taylor, district superintendent men swept up in the raids were released the church for Sound District, stating that she found with no charges filed, and few cases have Smith’s “behavior as a Christian leader made it to trial. But Steven Handoko, an Risqué business Jacksonville, North Carolina – Ryan disturbing.” Reconciling United Method- aspiring journalist, who was dancing nude Mould, a former children’s choir director at ists, as well as others, have thrown their on the stage at the Atlantis gym when the tea bag over a female doll asking: “How Trinity United Methodist Church, was fired support to Mould. It delivered over 2,000 police raided it, and nine other men were do you like your tea? One lump or two?” from that position in October. Since the fir- signatures to Bishop Ward and the North sentenced to more than two years in pris- Others show the elf playing cards with na- ing incident, which has garnered national Carolina Conference Cabinet in an open on, convicted of violating Indonesia’s an- ked dolls and drawing a suggestive-look- attention directed at Trinity, it has led to letter in support of Mould. Signatures are ti-pornography law which includes a ban ing Christmas tree. In another, which has internal division as well. still being collected at bit.ly/2BDoEyg. (Q on striptease performances. But the Times the caption “Don’t tell Rudolph I’ve found a Mould was fired by the church as a Notes Online – Lainey Millen at Goqnotes. says that even men who weren’t charged new piece of ass,” the elf is riding a cuddly result of his discussion about his sexual com) have been subjected to humiliating scru- toy donkey. orientation with Rev. Steve Smith. Smith tiny and local news coverage, with their The tweets have baffled many on so- met with church leaders and said it was photos often posted on social media. cial media. However, Poundland has de- against church policy to keep Mould in a The authorities justify the raids by cit- fended the tweets. Some shoppers have leadership position. However, others said Anti-gay ing the pornography laws loosely worded accused Poundland’s campaign of being in that the prohibition applied only to clergy, ban on material or actions that undermine poor taste. Others have been left baffled, not lay leaders and Mould, who has been crackdown public decency. Ade Armando, a communi- speculating that the account must have cations professor at the University of Indo- been hacked. Others have been amused. taking hold in nesia, who helped draft the pornography The company has hit back, saying it was statute said the raids went well beyond “proud” of its work and adding that the pos- Indonesia the laws intent. “It’s not fair. It’s not right itive response had been “overwhelming” what the police are doing there,” the Times and “only cost £25.” Writer Caroline Cria- Jakarta, Indonesia – The New York quoted Mr. Armando. He said, “Hotels are do Perez accused Poundland of insulting Times reports an unprecedented crack- private places that pornography law does this year’s #metoo movement, which came down on gay men in Indonesia where ho- not apply.” (New York Times – Jeffrey Hut- in the light of scores of sexual misconduct mosexuality has generally been tolerated ton at Nytimes.com/2017/12/20/world/ revelations against dozens of men. She or ignored. But that began to change in asia/indonesia-gay-raids.html) said: “The t-shirt she’s wearing positions 2016, when the authorities, under pres- this as a middle finger up at the #metoo Sing out ... pay price: axed choir director sure from right-wing movement. “Baffled that @Poundland or Ryan Mould Arrested Islamic groups, started in fact anyone with human empathy would journalist arresting gay men in British retailer do this.” Women’s Aid wrote: “How do you a member of the Jacksonville church for Steven Handoko what experts say are take your social media posts? One lump about four-and-a-half years, says he feels criticized for of outdated misogyny completely ignoring “disgraced, confused, and misled by church the current international agenda, or two?” leaders.” The congregation was a “place edgy Christmas Some have defended the campaign, in- where my values and morals were shaped cluding comedian Jason Manford, who and crafted. I now struggle with how to elf campaign said: “It’s pretty good marketing! I’m think- serve my church and ‘do all in your power ing of popping in on the way home!” Others to strengthen its ministries.’” Mould, who London, England – The Evening Stan- have described the campaign as “hilarious” was born in West Virginia, grew up in the dard reports that British discount retailer, and said they “loved” the posts. Methodist church, and has continued to be Poundland, has sparked a backlash after Poundland’s marketing director Mark a member of Methodist congregations ever posting amusing sexual images featuring Pym said: “If you think this is edgy, you since. an elf in its Christmas campaign. The Ad- should see the ones we didn’t post. The The Christian Post reported that Meth- vertising Standards Authority has received love on Facebook is overwhelming – that’s odist news service dispatches shared that a number of complaints about the Christ- because it connects with our shoppers. some of the church members had left the mas-themed posts which show the festive “In fact, we’re proud of a campaign that’s congregation due to the situation and that helper in a series of vulgar situations. “We only cost £25.53 and is being touted as the North Carolina church conference had will carefully assess the complaints to es- the winning marketing campaign this stepped in to mediate between affected tablish whether there are grounds to inves- Christmas!” t (Evening Standard – Patrick parties. The United Methodist News Ser- tigate,” the authority said in a statement. Grafton-Green at Standard.co.uk/news/ vice also reported that church members The budget retailer has been sharing uk/poundland-sparks-fury-with-christ- had resigned from committees, ceased pictures of the naughty elf on Twitter and mas-campaign-featuring-elf-in-bi- teaching Sunday school or stopped tak- Facebook, with one showing it dangling a zarre-sexual-positions-a3725491.html)

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter The GLCCB and Fiscal Responsibility to the invoices showing the purchase. We currently have a either a debit By: Mimi Demissew that we have made some great strides about five years worth of returns. The requisition form or a check requisition The GLCCB has been around for over in improving our financial processes process of filling back taxes meant form that is filled depending on how 40 years. In that time the Center has and truly living to the promises made pulling out historic bank records and the transaction is completed. These seen several new leaders come and of having a more transparent GLCCB. personnel files when we could find forms are signed by both an Executive go, each leaving their mark on the One of the first changes we made them to piece together each year. The Director and Finance Manager ensur- Center and the community. I official- under my leadership was to file all of project was pain staking and took nu- ing dual control. All purchases need ly joined the Center on September 1, our past tax returns and to post our merous house between myself and our the proper invoices attached to them. 2016 as the Center’s Co Executive Di- completed tax returns online. When finance manager. Today all of the past Any purchase made without the prop- rector. In that time I am proud to report I joined the Center we were missing returns have been filed. The last re- er documentation and invoices are not maining piece, fiscal year 2016 is with approved. If some how they are made our accountant waiting to be filed. without following the proper protocol In addition to filing back taxes an- the price of the items are reimbursed other crucial piece of improving our fi- by the person who made the purchase nancial process meant actually putting without following the proper procedure. procedures in place to ensure that no The final step in improving our in- purchase was made without dual con- ternal financial procedures came down trol. The first step was to define our op- to change management or in other erating budget and to create approved words getting employee buy-in. An budget line items where all purchases Employee Manual was created to out- would be made. So that means if any- line employee rights and exceptions. one wanted to order a pizza for game In addition an Operation Manual was night it would have to come through also created to document all proce- an approved budget item designat- dure steps and rules of the center. The ed by one of the Executive Directors. steps for making purchases are out- The next step was creating a process lined in the Operations Manual. Outlin- that included proper documentation ing all procedures and rules makes it for all purchases. For instance going transparent and easy for all employees back to the pizza example, it wouldn’t to reference and follow. Not to mention be enough that there is an approved helping to standardize process steps. budget for the purchase to be made. After all is said and done the real work Rather the approved budget is only the comes down to actually following the first step. The purchase needs to have rules and enforcing the rules. Today all proper documentation attached no purchase is made without following from the appropriate requisition form these procedures.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

Events Calendar: January 20018 Sundays Mondays Tuesdays Wednesdays Thursdays Fridays Saturdays 01/10 01/05 01/06 01/07 01/08 01/09 Free & Confidential HIV 01/11 Giovanni’s Room Open Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous New Volunteer Testing Youth Against Oppres- Mic featuring 5:00pm-8:00pm 11:00am-1:00pm Orientation 6:30pm-8:30pm sion Be Steadwell 01/15 Gentle Mindful Yoga 6:30pm-8:30pm The Mankind Project 4:30pm-6:30pm 7:00pm-10:00pm ($5) 01/13 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) 6:30pm-8:30pm Family Game Night Alcoholics Anonymous 01/16 01/12 Sisters of Perpetual 6:30pm-9:30pm 5:00pm-8:00pm Giovanni’s Room Indulgence Get SMART with iCHAT Breaking Bread Project 01/14 Poetry Workshop 6:30pm-8:00pm 6:00pm-8:00pm 6:30pm – 10:00pm 01/20 6:30pm-8:30pm ($5) Narcotics Anonymous Sexual Compulsives Art Rising Open Mic Alcoholics Anonymous 11:00am-1:00pm SILhouette Anonymous 7:00pm-10:00pm ($5) 5:00pm-8:00pm 7:30pm-9:30pm 01/19 Gentle Mindful Yoga 7:00p-8:00pm Sistahs of Pride 3:30pm-4:45pm ($10) 7:00pm-9:00pm 01/17 Free & Confidential HIV 01/18 Testing Youth Against 6:30pm-8:30pm Oppression The Mankind Project 4:30pm-7:00pm 6:30pm-8:30pm Peculiar Blerd League Sexual Compulsives 6:00pm-9:00pm Anonymous Baltimore Trans 7:00p-8:00pm Masculine Alliance Trans Baltimore 6:30pm-9:00pm 7:00pm-9:00pm Our End of the year Big Ask

This year the GLCCB has a lot to be nity and more importantly to become proud of. We had a larger Pride than the community center that you want us last year, we had our first Women’s to be. Please visit our end of the year event in March and we averaged about campaign and give what you can. You 40 programs monthly. In addition to can find the link to our campaign here this we improved our case manage- https://www.crowdrise.com/end-of- ment services, servicing more people year-giving1/fundraiser/glccb and on than years past. 2017 was a good im- our website. provement and we have lots to celebrate. At the same time we are looking With warm Holiday Wishes your Center forward to 2018. We want to grow and https://www.crowdrise.com/end-of- expand our services to be more inclu- year-giving1/fundraiser/glccb sive of our greater community. We plan on implementing more programs that are geared to families, elders, deaf and Latinx communities. We have a small staff but we pack a big heart. In support of our continued growth I ask that you think of your Center this holiday season. Please consider giving to the GLCCB to help us to continue to grow and serve our large commu-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 quality of life

survivor would have to pay a tax of 10% the US, who wishes to enlist in the US mili- of half of the value of the house when one tary, must first undergo a background check partner dies. That would mean a hefty before reporting for basic training. The prob- $20,000 tax bill on a $400,000 property. The Law lem with such a policy is that the US military The Law For bequests to nieces and nephews, & You cannot legally conduct a background check & You the simplest way to sidestep the inheri- Linda A. Dominguez until after the person enlists and reports for Lee Carpenter tance tax is to leave the bequest to their duty / basic training. So, the outcome is that parents – your siblings – rather than the no one with a green card can enlist. children directly. These bequests can be Unfortunately, many of the persons remade with the understanding that they are Military fused the right to enlist and serve in the mili- Are Death Taxes intended to benefit the children, but there tary who have green cards are persons who is of course no guarantee that this will hap- Service for also have the language and cultural skills Themselves pen. that would enhance the national security of A more effective option is to set up a Noncitizens the US. The background checks required un- Deceased? “Crummey trust” for a niece and nephew der the memos issued in October 2017 must you wish to benefit. After the trust is es- Persons who wish to serve in the US military include checking into the person’s life out- When newspapers reported about the de- tablished, you can transfer up to $15,000 and are not citizens can do so if they are law- side of the US, as well as their life since en- mise of Mark Twain, the American author a year into it. (Each transfer is considered ful permanent residents (have a green card). tering the US. The checks can take months and humorist quipped that “rumors of my a gift, and annual gifts of up to $15,000 Or can they? While the websites for the US to complete and, if the person entered as death have been greatly exaggerated.” are exempt from the federal gift tax.) Pro- military all claim that anyone with a green a refugee, they have already undergone More than a century later, the same could vided that the beneficiary leaves the mon- card is at least eligible to apply to join, the checks for at least three to four years prior be said of the federal estate tax, which is ey in the trust, the assets will accumulate reality is that since October 2017, the active to being permitted to enter the US. If the per- effectively defunct for all but the richest over the years and then pass to the niece duty military, as well as the reserve units, son was an interpreter for the US military in Americans. or nephew tax-free cannot allow someone who is not a citizen of one of the war zones, they had to undergo Under the tax The federal estate tax, upon your death. the US to enlist. The reason for such a policy an intensive background check before being bill signed into law The other death is that Gen. Anthony Kurta, who has been allowed to serve as an interpreter while in on December 22nd, which is effectively tax that may still ap- nominated to be the Deputy Undersecretary their native country. Yet, the memos demand 2017, individuals can defunct for all but the ply is the Maryland of the Department of Defense, wrote memos additional checks be performed outside the leave behind more estate tax. This year stating that anyone who is not a citizen of US. than $11.2 million in richest Americans. at least, estates that Another problem with this restriction on wealth without trig- are small enough who is allowed to enlist is that quotas cannot gering the tax. For them, the “death tax” to avoid federal taxation may still be sub- be met by recruiters unless they relax the is dead, at least until the law sunsets in ject to taxes in Maryland. The Maryland eligibility standards for enlistment and grant 2026. But even for those of us who aren’t exemption is $4 million in 2018 – a sub- waivers to those citizens who do want to en- exactly rich, other death taxes may still be stantial amount, but considerably less than list. Such waivers currently include mental due once we are out of the picture. the federal exemption of $11.2 million. In health issues (depression, including persons In Maryland, a 10% inheritance tax 2019, Maryland’s exemption will increase who engage in self-harm as a way of deal- applies to any bequest left to a friend, an to match the federal exemption and will re- ing with their issues), use of controlled sub- unmarried partner, or a distant relation main “coupled” thereafter. stances, and criminal convictions. It seems (including a niece or nephew). Same-sex With proper planning, married cou- that the writer of the memos did not see ples can effectively double the federal the movie Full Metal Jacket and the conse- estate-tax exemption under a rule called quences of giving someone who is mentally “portability.” And of course this rule applies unstable training in violent behavior and ac- to married same-sex and opposite-sex cess to a weapon. couples alike. Portability will take effect in We offer a Serving in the US military was seen in Maryland starting in 2019. 20% off the past as a way to get through the natu- When estate taxes do apply, the rates discount for all area ralization process faster because the person can be steep. In Maryland, they run up to students with valid student ID. enlisting was allowed to start the process 16 percent, and the federal rate is a whop- soon after completing basic training. The ping 40 percent. Tuesday-Thursday October memos, however, set a new policy Reports of Mark Twain’s demise were from open to 4 p.m. that someone enlisting in the military must in fact exaggerated (it was actually Twain’s serve a minimum of 180 days of active duty cousin who was ailing). But new tax laws before beginning the process. The original couples and other members of Maryland’s aside, the importance of having your es- Any first time client reason for a policy allowing a person who LGBT community tend to be disproportion- tate plan prepared by a professional simply 20% off also volunteers to serve in the US military to file ately affected by this tax. With proper plan- cannot be overstated. t for citizenship after one day of active duty ning, however, the tax can sometimes be Lee Carpenter is an associate attorney 2801 Huntingdon Ave. was to demonstrate appreciation for the will- avoided. at the law firm of Semmes, Bowen & Sem- Baltimore, MD ~ 21211 ingness of that person to die in combat. Now, For example, if you and your partner mes and can be reached at 410-576-4729 Phone: 410.646.8115 the message being sent to noncitizens is are not married and own a house together or [email protected]. Learn more www.fringebaltimore.com that “Your life is not as worthwhile as that of as joint tenants, you can prepare an Affida- about LGBT estate planning at Mdlgbtes- a citizen” and the person does not deserve vit of Domestic Partnership to exempt the tateplanning.com. This article is intended recognition for their willingness to die for the property from the inheritance tax. Without to provide general info, not particular legal US. It is truly a sad time in America. t the affidavit to verify the partnership, the advice.

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com

In adults with HIV on ART who have diarrhea not caused by an infection

IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION This is only a summary. See complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or by calling 1-844-722-8256. This does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or treatment. What Is Mytesi? Mytesi is a prescription medicine used to improve symptoms of noninfectious diarrhea (diarrhea not caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on ART. Do Not Take Mytesi if you have diarrhea caused by an infection. Before you start Mytesi, your doctor and you should make sure your diarrhea is not caused by an infection (such as bacteria, virus, or parasite). Possible Side Effects of Mytesi Include: • Upper respiratory tract infection (sinus, nose, and throat infection) • Bronchitis (swelling in the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs) • Cough • Flatulence (gas) • Increased bilirubin (a waste product when red blood cells break down) For a full list of side effects, please talk to your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or Tired of planning your life around diarrhea? call 1-800-FDA-1088. Should I Take Mytesi If I Am: Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant? • Studies in animals show that Mytesi could harm an unborn baby or affect the ability to become pregnant Enough is Enough • There are no studies in pregnant women taking Mytesi • This drug should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed Get relief. Pure and simple. Ask your doctor about Mytesi. A Nursing Mother? • It is not known whether Mytesi is passed through human breast milk Mytesi (crofelemer): • If you are nursing, you should tell your doctor before starting Mytesi • Is the only medicine FDA-approved to relieve diarrhea in people with HIV • Your doctor will help you to decide whether to stop nursing or to stop • Treats diarrhea differently by normalizing the flow of water in the GI tract taking Mytesi Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age? • Has the same or fewer side effects as placebo in clinical studies • Mytesi has not been studied in children under 18 years of age • Comes from a tree sustainably harvested in the Amazon Rainforest • Mytesi studies did not include many people over the age of 65. So it is not clear if this age group will respond differently. Talk to your doctor to What is Mytesi? find out if Mytesi is right for you Mytesi is a prescription medicine that helps relieve symptoms of diarrhea not caused by What Should I Know About Taking Mytesi an infection (noninfectious) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy (ART). With Other Medicines? If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, herbal Important Safety Information supplements, or vitamins, tell your doctor before starting Mytesi. Mytesi is not approved to treat infectious diarrhea (diarrhea caused by bacteria, a virus, What If I Have More Questions About Mytesi? or a parasite). Before starting you on Mytesi, your healthcare provider will first be sure that you For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information at do not have infectious diarrhea. Otherwise, there is a risk you would not receive the right medicine Mytesi.com or speak to your doctor or pharmacist. and your infection could get worse. In clinical studies, the most common side effects that occurred To report side effects or make a product complaint or for additional information, call 1-844-722-8256. more often than with placebo were upper respiratory tract (sinus, nose, and throat) infection (5.7%), bronchitis (3.9%), cough (3.5%), flatulence (3.1%), and increased bilirubin (3.1%). Rx Only For Copay Savings Card and Manufactured by Patheon, Inc. Patient Assistance, see Mytesi.com for Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. San Francisco, CA 94105 Copyright © Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Mytesi comes from the Croton lechleri tree harvested Please see complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com. in South America.

NP-390-15 RELIEF, PURE AND SIMPLE

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 Thinking OUTloud // mark my words quality of life Goals for the Upcoming New Year move on, having learned not to repeat the BY MARK SEGAL Now, here’s where you come in. You act. Okay, someone has to say it. We’ve sur- only need to do one thing to make 2018 a Ask Moving on to a proactive mental set, vived the first year of the Trump adminis- stellar year. what I believe all relationships can bene- tration, but it has done damage to both the Just vote. Dr. J fit from is to improve, if not develop, bet- country’s reputation and our community. And let’s be even clearer. Since many Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. ter “listening” skills, something that can And if you feel that way, 2018 is your Republicans have been part of be taught and makes a huge difference in year to correct that path. this country’s debauchery and communicating fairly. When you listen, it This New Year’s, you have blocked any attempt means your focus is on what I say and not have reason to celebrate at accountability, there is 2018: Mea Culpa what you want to say next. It does help to because it is the year of only one way that can check out what you heard, giving the oth- resistance and you are a change: You need to – Not! er person a chance to modify and elabo- part of that resistance. It vote Democrat for both rate. That way you reduce the possibility doesn’t matter if you’ve your Senate and House So here comes another year, 2018, once of misinterpretation. Further, implicit is the been to a demonstra- races. we got through the reviews, the best and message: Your thoughts are important to tion, posted on your So, there is no con- the worst of 2017 on media of all forms, me, and thereby, you are important to me. personal social media, fusion, the election I’m social, visual and print. In the spirit of em- or protested any of the referring to is the Novem- barking on a new calendar and perhaps in “Deal with conflicts hate-filled actions of Donald ber election, not the prima- spite of it, I plead guilty that I will not follow Trump’s first year. None of that ries. The situation we are in now some of the traditional approaches to this rationally, or take time counts, but your action this year is happened because few people came event. how you do count. out to vote. If you want to be part of the Number one: I will not make any new off if emotions are too Let’s take a phrase that many Republi- resistance, or just want a solution to this year resolutions, not about dieting, or more intense, but then go cans and right-wingers like to use and turn madness, make voting in the 2018 General exercise, or time-management, or anything it on them: 2018 is the year we take our Election your New Year’s resolution. That else. Now we know that gyms and health back to discussion. country back and, to make it clear, back to will make it a great 2018.t clubs get a surge in January but by March, inclusion and appreciating diversity. And Mark Segal is publisher of Philadel- that rush disappears as one’s best inten- Being kind and gentle most importantly, let’s bring back our san- phia Gay News. His new memoir And Then I tions start to peter out. If there are chang- with one another ity and accountability. Danced is out now. es one wants to make, why wait another day? Do it now! underlies much of Number two: I will not think of all the AA smallsmall communitycommunity withwith bigbig rewardsrewards good old days, lamenting the present human connections.” and yearning to bring back time. What is gone is indeed gone, and hopefully, I have There are many self-help books on this learned the lessons from mistakes made, subject, as most of us did not grow up in and savored the successes that were had. families where we saw it modeled. I usu- Number three: Engaging in blame, and ally hear about households either where major guilt trips for self and others. A little there were no discussions or arguments, guilt goes a long way when you understand or where there was much yelling, and both what you did violated a rule, but extend- ways with no resolution. It is crucial to deal ed indulgence is not productive. If you are with conflicts rationally, or to take some imposing it on another, it is not welcome time off if emotions are too intense, but and creates resentment, both detrimental then go back to discussion so one does not to relationships. If you offended someone, accumulate baggage. apologize with sincerity. If you broke a Being kind and gentle with one another t •Everyone Knows Your Name rule, make amends or restitution, and then underlies much of human connections. Residents always feel right at home with a community that knows them (and sometimes their pet!) by name. Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, •A Strong Sense of Community Lives On Intersex and Questioning individuals RPP o ers a strong sense of "community" where everyone with mental health issues has a feeling of belonging and there are no strangers. and concerns. Residents are well-connected and welcomed neighbors at RPP. We warmly welcome all sexual and Wellness and gender minorities. Roland Park Place is the only full-service, accredited nonpro t Recovery Center Sun. through Tues. Closed continuing care retirement community in Charm City Wed. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m 830 W. 40th Street • Baltimore, MD 21211 611 PARK AVENUE SUITE A BALTIMORE, MD 21201 • 410-523-1694 410-243-5700 • rolandparkplace.org heartsandears.org

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness The LGBT Health Resource Center’s For or more information about LGBT health care and resources, please contact [email protected], call 410-837- Best Tips of 2017 2050 extension 1049, or visit resourcecen- t antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, minerals, pro- ter.lgbt. The LGBT Health Resource Center of By Monte Ephraim teins, carbs, and water which our bodies Chase Brexton Health Care is to provide Chase Brexton Health Care need to function at their best. Each color of The past year has seen amazing growth the rainbow is like a magic wand that helps LGBTQ individuals and their families with at the LGBT Health Resource Center, as maintain your health in a different way. welcoming access to expert health informa- we’ve launched many new programs, new Make sure to speak with a dietitian/nutrition and resources that will enhance well- support groups, and new services to help tionist for individualized recommendations. ness and quality of life. For more info, visit members of our community live their happi- Intimate partner violence ResourceCenter.lgbt. est, healthiest lives. – Lauren Vaszil LCPC, LCADC, Chase Before we move on to all the exciting Brexton things in store in 2018, we wanted to take If someone is a moment to recap some of our favorite tips facing a violent we’ve provided here in OUTLoud over the or potentially vi- last 12 months. olent situation, But, like, way more • Family Law • Estate Planning From all of us at the LGBT Health Re- what should they valuable! • Real Estate source Center and Chase Brexton Health do? Care, best wishes for a happy, joyous, and If someone stemming from this dryness, including an Stephanie Cañas Hunnell, Esq. healthy New Year! faces the threat Money management – increased risk for tooth decay, altered food Sylvia L. Breitowich, Esq. Franklin of violence, they taste and problems with swallowing. This 408 7th Ave. McNeil, Jr., Vice President and Community should develop a can all lead to poor nutrition, loss of weight Asbury Park, NJ 07712 Consultant with PNC Community plan for their safe- Lauren Vaszil and a decline to overall health. Other is- 732-749-3500 Development Banking ty. We understand sues older adults may have include gum fax 732-749-3503 What is one easy that a person cannot always immediately recession, bone loss, loss of dexterity in financial manage- Monmouth-Divorce.com flee their situation. But victim advocacy their hands and fingers, and the loss of ment tip you can of- programs, such as those offered by Chase mental capability to care for one’s self. fer? Brexton, The House of Ruth (Hruth.org), Take the time to TurnAround (Turnaroundinc.org) or the track your expenses! National Domestic Violence Hotline at Keep a log for at least 1-800-799-7233, can help develop a plan a month of your typical of action to ensure their safety when they bills, and remember to finally choose to leave the relationship. account for periodic If active violence is occurring, we always expenses like car / home insurance or, if Franklin McNeil, Jr. encourage individuals to call 911, as do- you are a homeowner, mestic violence can very quickly escalate any taxes or special maintenance, to see to lethal violence. exactly where your money is going. PNC Most importantly, individuals need Bank has a pocket-sized Expense Tracker to know that they are not alone, and the that you can use to capture any time that abuse is not their fault. There is help, and you put money in the parking meter or go here at Chase Brexton we can support in- out to eat. You will be astounded by how dividuals facing an unhealthy relationship. much money you are spending at your fa- Oral health – Karyn Carr Porter, vorite coffee shop or convenience store, es- RDH, BS, Chase Brexton Health Care pecially when you are trying to find money What are some oral health issues to save, go on vacation or buy a home, etc. that older adults need to be aware of? Nutrition – There are many issues that older adults Chase Brexton Health will most likely encounter with their oral Care nutritionist Tiana health as they age. The biggest change Matthews-Martinez centers around what MS, RD, LDN we call xerostomia, What are some or dry mouth. This easy ways that LGBT condition is a reduc- elders can improve tion in saliva in the their nutrition?LGBT mouth. It can also seniors can improve affect other areas in their nutrition by re- Tiana the body that need Matthews-Martinez membering to eat the lubrication, such as rainbow – and I don’t your eyes. Patients mean Skittles! Fruits, vegetables, and vari- with xerostomia can ous colored legumes have phytochemicals, have many issues Karyn Carr Porter BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 quality of life // Health and Wellness

to make good use of the motivation for pos- twice a week, not every day. Continue with ing sun exposure will improve your sense itive change that many people feel at the this small first-step change for at least one of well being, help relieve depression, and start of a new year. month before trying for greater change. increase your vitamin D level. Here are some suggestions After a month, if you feel comfortable • Twenty minutes of brisk walking, Open Wide to help you choose 2018 New in your new behavior pattern outdoors or indoors, on two or more days ask Dr Eva Year resolutions that you’ll be and it no lon- a week can have noticeable positive effects Dr Eva Hersh able to keep. ger feels like on depression, on feelings of sluggishness, Successful behavior an effort, try to on irritability, and on constipation. If you change is gradual, not sud- decrease your can walk for longer, that’s even better. Simple, den. For most people, a rea- problem behav- • Promote your own positive mood. sonable change is no more ior, or increase It is worthwhile and in your best interest to Healthy than 25% at a time. This your new, want- seek out the things and people that make means, don’t try to change ed behavior, you feel good, positive, cheerful and ener- Changes for your behavior some more. If getic. Pay attention to the way different ac- all at once. Don’t even try to the 25% change tivities, people, and places make you feel. If 2018 New cut down by half. Instead, try is still difficult after one month, don’t the TV annoys you, turn it off or go in another cutting down by one quarter try to increase your behavior change any room. Is there music you love but never lis- Dear Readers, year, (25%). For example, instead further until you are comfortable with the ten to? Find your headphones and listen to Lots of people make New Year’s res- of trying to quit smoking over- initial 25% change. It’s fine if that takes it regularly. What about the friends or family olutions. When a person can’t stick with new you night, decrease the amount several months. Remember that when you members you love but never see? Get back the changes they planned – which is you smoke by one quarter are making changes for your health, the in touch. Increase the activities you enjoy. what usually happens - they may feel like a (25%). If you now smoke a pack (20 cig- goal is to make changes that will last for Whenever possible, at work, school, and at double failure. Not only are they continuing arettes) a day, decrease from 20 to 15 the long term. Improving your health can’t home, spend more time with the people you the behavior they meant to change, they cigarettes a day. If you now eat meat with be done with short-term or rapid change. enjoy and less time with those who bring also have been unable to keep their com- every meal and want to cut back, start with It’s done by making gradual changes which you down. Mood has profound effects on mitment. Considering this, my first thought 1 meatless meal every day, or even one can become a permanent part of your daily the function of both brain and body. Mood is was that maybe we should swear off the meatless meal every other day if that is life. also self-reinforcing: people who frequent- whole idea of New Year’s resolutions. But what’s manageable for you. If you want to Decreasing or stopping drug or ally feel cheerful, happy or content get into on second thought, it would be a shame not start exercising, start by exercising once or cohol use requires support. Managing the habit of being in a good mood. People addiction is not a solo, do-it-yourself proj- who often feel annoyed, angry, dissatisfied, ect. You may be able to keep from using on low or negative tend to become habitually your own for a while, but to stop using for irritable or depressed. Most likely you know the long term and achieve sobriety you will some examples of both kinds of people. need education about the disease of addic- No one knows better than you do what tion and support for recovery. Please seek puts you in a positive or a negative mood. help. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics As much as possible, keep yourself positive Anonymous are not the only way, but they for your own sake and also for the people are good places to start because they are around you. Your emotional state affects free and are available in most communities. their moods as well. Here are a few easy resolutions that will Wishing you greater health and happi- make you feel good! ness for the new year. t • Spend at least 20 minutes outdoors Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physi- in direct sunlight on most days. This cian. Send your comments and questions works best when there is the most sun- to her by email at editor@baltimoreoutloud. shine, between 10 am and 2 pm. Increas- com.

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12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Spiritual Directory

Worship Sunday, 11a.m. Christian Education Classes Sunday, 9:45 a.m. browndowntown.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 410.523.1542 䄀䰀䰀䄀刀䔀圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀䴀愀猀猀匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀㔀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀匀甀渀搀愀礀㤀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㨀㐀㔀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀瀀⸀洀刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀椀猀愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀愀琀㐀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀㔀瀀⸀洀⸀

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http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/us/ Lively Arts // out on screen

great performances from Steve Carrell and Emma Stone that took us deeper into each The Most Entertaining Films person’s life than merely the tennis rivalry. The movie did not shy away from King’s budding got my blood pump- A bent Waititi delivered the comedic shot in the arm romance with hair stylist Marilyn Barnett as ing... Thor needed to succeed. The movie is visu- King grappled with her love for her husband of 2017 In general, the hor- take on ally stunning, borrowing heavily from the look and her own sexual identity. Andrea Rise- ror genre had a pretty established by James Gunn for Guardians of borough and Sarah Silverman also turned in by Chuck Duncan successful year. Even the year in the Galaxy, has some great action, and is fun- some nice performances, and the story even You’ll hear a lot of different opinions about the though the year kicked ny without being overly silly. Chris Hemsworth has a contemporary connection with Margaret movie year of 2017. Some people think it was off with the dreadful cinema proves he can deliver a punchline as well as Court who, back then, railed against the les- an absolute crap year for film, some will point The Bye Bye Man, a punch, Cate Blanchett makes for a sultry bianism she suspected was permeating the out the few truly great films of the year, and horror fans were rewarded throughout the year villain, and Jeff Goldblum does the best Jeff sport and today has been a vocal advocate some will call it an average year. I’ll call it av- with a collection of films that included Get Out Goldblum he’s done in years. Thor: Ragnarok against same-sex marriage in Australia. Bat- erage. There were quite a few films I enjoyed (which is topping many end of year lists), Hap- was one of the two most satisfying superhero tle of the Sexes didn’t make much of a splash (and for the record there are a lot of 2017 re- py Death Day, Better Watch Out, Annabelle: movies of the year. at the box office, but it was one of the more leases I’ve yet to see), but there were few films Creation, and It (you can also throw The Mum- The other, of course, was Wonder Wom- entertaining films of the year that seems to that fall into my “I’d watch that again” category. my in there too, even if it was more action than an. After a small role in Batman v Superman: be getting unjustly snubbed by the various Some films unexpectedly caught me off guard, horror). Get Out had its social commentary, Dawn of Justice, we got the backstory of Di- awards committees. and others failed to live up to expectations. Happy Death Day put a clever spin on the hor- ana, and the film works on so many levels be- There were two unusual love stories this Kingsman: The Golden Circle, Guardians ror/comedy genre, Better Watch Out was a not cause it is its own thing. The movie takes place year as well. Disney successfully brought their of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and The Lego Batman bad Christmas horror flick (that was released in the midst of World War I (instead of the more animated classic Beauty and the Beast to bril- Movie were fun, but went for the “let’s throw straight to video), and Annabelle: Creation and familiar Second World War of the source ma- liant life in a gorgeously mounted musical di- everything and the kitchen sink in” approach It gave us some good, old school thrills. terial), so it’s not tied directly to either Batman rected by Bill Condon (Chicago, Dreamgirls). to top their predecessors … and excess does Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell v Superman or the Justice League follow up. The film had a lot to live up to not only from the not equal success. Alien: Covenant basically No Tales successfully wrapped up the Captain And while there have been some complaints source material (and the Broadway musical) remade the original Alien and tried to justify the Jack Sparrow saga, and after a couple of not about one of the film’s villains, the movie still but coming after the successful remake of The existence of Prometheus. Dunkirk was a bril- very well received outings, this one had some has given young girls and women of all ages Jungle Book as well. The film was lavish, made liant exercise in filmmaking, but the disjointed terrific action and stunts, a great villain in the a superhero of their own, and has become a great argument for the use of 3D, and left me storytelling and lack of any character develop- form of Javier Bardem, and a pretty emotional the most successful movie ever directed by an emotional wreck as the credits rolled. The ment left it devoid of emotion. Will Ferrell and climax that also resolved the fate of another a woman. In a year that saw the rise of the other beauty and beast tale this year was The Amy Poehler could not generate many laughs regular character. And they cleverly left the #MeToo movement and the exposure of ram- Shape of Water, which featured a mute wom- with The House, and Matt Damon failed to door open for the series pant sexual harassment in the movie an and her connection to and romance with a score with The Great Wall, Suburbicon, or to continue with another industry and beyond, creature known only as Amphibian Man, a sort Downsizing. So, there was a lot of disappoint- character. Overall, it was Wonder Woman be- of Creature from the Black Lagoon but with ment this year, but there were many highlights. much better than it had came another symbol more humanoid characteristics. Set in Balti- I know I should probably include Call Me any right to be. for female empower- more, the film was more a sly commentary on By Your Name on my favorites list, but I’m not Kong: Skull Island ment. the social mores of the 1960s with a core group sure it’s as great a movie as most critics think was also better than ex- Going back to World of characters considered outcasts of society at it is. It’s beautiful, the actors are terrific, but it’s pected. I really wasn’t War II, there were three that time: a mute woman, a black woman, a gay slow, artsy style left me a little bored and some a fan of the Godzilla movies taking place man … and a misunderstood “monster.” It may of the filmmaking techniques were a bit “for- reboot, so I went into during that global event: not be a fairy tale for everyone, but I enjoyed it. eign film” cliché. What follows is a list of films Kong with some apre- Dunkirk, Darkest Hour My favorite that I enjoyed, movies that had me smiling – or hension. Where the film and Their Finest. You’ve crying – as the credits rolled. Many of these grabbed me was with probably heard of the first films would never find their way onto a main- its 1970s setting, a total two, but may have missed stream Top Ten list, and that’s fine. I’ll march surprise. It had some Kong: Better the charming third film on to the beat of my own drum, thank you very great action, amazing CGI than expected that list. Their Finest fo- much. As a movie buff, these are the films that effects in rendering Kong cused on a woman hired by a film company as a living, breathing creature, a lot of human to help make British war propaganda films and emotion (even if some of the characters were the romance that developed between her and simply thrown away), and was not just anoth- a co-worker, even though she was married. Call Me By Your Name – another er remake of the classic King Kong story. And The film gave us characters we cared about, foreign film the whole thing stands on its own, but has just had some beautiful period detail, cleverly put enough information there to tie it into the inev- us in the middle of the bombing of London itable Kong vs Godzilla mash-up. without actually seeing the event, and deliv- Thor: Ragnarok was also a major surprise. ered much more emotion than Dunkirk was The first twoT hor movies suffered a bit by tak- able to muster. Their Finest didn’t get a wide ing themselves much too seriously. These are release, but it’s definitely one worth seeking comic book movies, for Pete’s sake, lighten up out. a bit (something the folks over at DC Comics And speaking of period detail, Battle attempted to do with Justice League). By hir- of the Sexes brought the 70s back to life ing a director with zero experience with com- in style. The story of the infamous Bobby Wonder who ic book movies or ginormous budgets, Taika Riggs / Billie Jean King tennis match had two this is? 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // personalities Lively Arts // MUSIC Goodnight and Good Luck BSO ‘Carnival of the Animals’ —continued from page 1 Not in the situations, but in the feeling of By Brynn Devereaux My good friend, photographer Griffin the songs. Timpani solos. Hip hop narration. These Lotz, came out to the studio in Fort Worth In the song, “Love Living Here (Even are two phrases that do not fit into the for a couple days while we were record- When I Don’t),” there is a “walk on by” common perception of “classical” music. ing and took some pictures to document lyric. Is that a nod to Bacharach? Most people think of strings and operatic the sessions. He took this pic of me while Sure is! singing. In the start of the second half of I was listening to the string players. I There’s a powerful soul vibe on “Lis- their 2017-2018 season, Music Director thought the look on my face summed up ten Up,” which contains the wise line “It Marin Alsop and the Baltimore Symphony the whole journey. To me it looks like hope takes mistakes to grow.” Orchestra aim to alter that perception with and wonder. I sent the picture over to my I wrote that song with Ryan Spraker and their performances of Philip Glass’s “Con- artist friend Lucia Holm who slapped some Vincent John one afternoon in LA and we certo Fantasy for Two Timpanists” and makeup on me and did the color treatment tossed the melody back and forth and I was Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals” on and then Jeremy Fetzer from the band just thinking about how badly I was blowing January 11th and 14th. Steelism did the layout and the type. He’s it at life that week. Being late to everything, “This performance is very special with got an old-school aesthetic. anxiety, feeling a bit lost, and was just trying unique programming. The “Concerto Fan- In “Darkness Falls So Quiet,” you to figure out how to get over it. tasy for Two Timpanists” is a rarity and fea- sing “My records are old friends, I have “Colors” is one of your most gor- tures the BSO’s principal timpanist, James trusted in them many times before.” geous songs. It sounds like something Wyman, along with his counterpart in the What can you tell me about the role that could become a standard on the National Symphony Orchestra, Jauvon Gil- music played in your life before you be- cabaret circuit. Would you say that you liam,” says the BSO’s Tonya McBride Ro- came a singer / songwriter? exercise different vocal muscles on that bles. “Timpani players are vital members I can’t really remember not being a song? of the orchestra, often providing the pulse singer / songwriter, but I guess it would No, I wouldn’t say that. I consider “Col- and percussive pitch to anchor classical be one of fantasy and escape. I’d watch ors” a very simple song vocally. It’s an ex- works. In these concerts, we have the op- Tommy from The Who when I was three or tremely vulnerable song though and I have portunity to hear two talented young play- four, I think, and just feel like I belonged. a bit of a tough time singing that emotional- ers as soloists.” Camille Saint-Saëns got married, but the ly. It comes from a pretty shit time in my life. Audience members also have the composer of ‘Carnival of the Animals’ was You worked with some amazing col- chance to hear something remarkable in open about his homosexual feelings, and laborators on the new disc, including “Carnival of the Animals”: hip hop narra- moved to Algiers, where his relations with Chris Isaak and Louise Goffin. What do tion. This piece is usually performed with youths were more accepted than in Paris you look for in a songwriting partner? spoken verse written by Ogden Nash. I just like to learn from other people I In this concert, Baltimore-based rapper, same manner as viewing an Impressionist Most Entertaining admire. I like to get to know about their lives Wordsmith, will perform a hip hop narra- painting from the Cone Collection at the and process and have that challenge me to tion of his own creation. Baltimore Museum of Art.” Films of 2017 think about new ways to write. I’ve written “I see [this performance] as an oppor- Wordsmith hopes that audiences will with a lot of people and I’m so grateful that tunity to introduce the beauty of classical be enriched from this experience at the movie of the year, hands down (and this one I’ve come to know and collaborate with music to more urban audiences,” says BSO. He hopes viewers “walk out of the surprised even me), was Pixar’s Coco. The such wonderful artists. In lyrics, I’ve found Wordsmith. “The addition of hip hop to a event with peace in their soul, a couple Pixar team knows how to tailor their animated a really great partner in Jim Sclavunos of classical composition shows the BSO’s good laughs, and a new appreciation for films for all ages even when they skew more the Bad Seeds and musically I’ve met my commitment to putting on diverse shows classical music.” to the younger crowd. Toy Story 3 was a pro- foil in Dave Sherman from NYC. current with the times along with opening “Concerto for Two Timpanists” will be foundly emotional film for adults, and Coco LGBTQ folks love their divas and its doors to all races. Personally, having at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall falls into that category as well. In fact, the mov- you would definitely qualify as one. Are the freedom to create new narration con- on Thursday, January 11th at 8 pm and at ie is more for adults than children (there’s a you aware of a following in the queer sisting of wit, humor, wordplay, and story- Music Center at Strathmore on Sunday, murder, for Pete’s sake!) as it teaches us to community? telling was a rewarding experience.” January 14th at 3 pm. For tickets, visit value and remember those who came before I ain’t no diva but I play one on TV Audience members attending this con- Bsomusic.org. t us. Even weeks after seeing the movie, I still [laughs]! The LGBTQ community has been cert will not only be blown away by these get teary-eyed thinking about it, and that is the so supportive and loving towards me and unique performances. “In addi- mark of a great film. The animation is color- my work since I started and I’m forever tion to the uncommon ful and stylized, alternating between the real grateful to them! elements, audiences world and the fantastical land of the dead, but I recently interviewed Jimmy Webb will enjoy two hall- the storytelling is spot on, grabbing your heart- about his memoir The Candle and the marks of musical Im- strings and never letting go. If there was one Rain in which he writes about his histo- pressionism, Debussy’s movie that was profoundly moving this year, ry of substance abuse. There are songs ‘La Mer’ and Ravel’s ‘La one that fired on all cylinders, it was Coco. on Goodnight Rhonda Lee that deal with Valse,’” says McBride So, 2017 wasn’t so bad after all. There your recovery. Do you feel like having a Robles. “The unusual were only a few films I actively hated, many creative outlet, such as making music, is a harmonies, timbre and were just okay but the good (and great) out- good tool to have on the path to recovery? use of color in these weighed the merely adequate. We’ll pop a cork Absolutely! It’s saving my life. t compositions create a to celebrate the movie year that was and pop Atkins performs on January 26th at The soundscape that trans- some corn for the movie year to come! t Fillmore in Philadelphia. ports listeners in the

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // MUSIC

Young Frankenstein Brings Baltimore Shakespeare Factory’s Hair-Raising Laughs to Upcoming 2018 Season Stratford? London? Fuhgeddiboutit. The Bard is virtually in residence here in Toby’s Dinner Theatre Baltimore in 2018. Here’s what’s happening when...

By Frankie Kujawa in his grandfather’s laboratory. And as they The Tempest – Marshall B Garrett Young Frankenstein, the musical based on say in TV Guide – whacky hijinks ensue. I January 12th – February 4th the hilarious 1974 horror comedy from get to come to life, and it’s like being born Great Hall Theatre at St. Mary’s Community Center the comedic wit of Mel Brooks, electri- every night on stage. I Frequently read as a semi-autobiographical story of a magician giving up fies Toby’s Dinner Theatre this month. have to learn how magic at the height of his power, Shakespeare’s final solo-authored play is a Running from January 11th to March to walk again. I get meditation on forgiveness, power, colonialism, and love. 11th the musical reimagining of the to learn how to love Frankenstein legend follows young Dr. and get to a be a Othello – directed by Thomas Delise Frankenstein and Igor as they attempt good person, going April 6th – April 29th to create a monster, but not without through various ran- Great Hall Theatre at St. Mary’s scary and hilarious complications. dom events that hap- Community Center Christopher Kabara, who plays pen.” Baltimore Shakespeare Factory The Monster, recently sat down with Kabara studied presents Shakespeare’s story of the Baltimore OUTloud to chat about theatre while attending utter destruction of one man’s soul in the upcoming performance. “Well … the Baltimore School the name of purposeless hate. Per- I’m dead,” laughs Kabara as he be- for the Arts in downtown formed in original pronunciation as gins to describe his character in the Baltimore. “We were all Shakespeare would have heard it. production. “I start out in the show crazy and passionate no longer living, which is probably because it was like go- Macbeth – directed by Kevin Finkel- the best way to put it. Because of Fred- ing to a conservatory for stein rick’s passion and discovery of his family’s high school.” After graduation, Kabara July 6th – July 29th passion to brings something back to life, attended the musical theatre program at See website for Details he pools all his resources as being a bril- Syracuse University for a time, but even- Shakespeare’s driving story of mur- liant brain surgeon and creates life tually left to pursue local der, fate, ambition, and witchcraft. community theatre. “I began to audition for larger King John – directed by Thomas Delise things around the coun- July 27th – August 19th Christopher try, and then eventually See website for details Kabara, who moved to Los Angeles A chance to see this rarely performed gem of a play of a hapless king fending plays The off threats from France, the pope, and his young nephew. Monster, where I auditioned left and right for television and film. The last thing A Chaste Maid in Cheapside – by Thomas Middleton I auditioned for was October 26 – November 18th the first national tour of Great Hall Theatre at St. Mary’s Community Center Hairspray. The audition In our continuing Shakespeare’s Contemporary series, BSF presents Thom- was a blast, but they as Middleton’s city comedy (the sitcom of early modern England) of marriage, told me I wouldn’t get a courtship, adultery, and childbirth. t role because I was big- For more information, visit Baltimoreshakespearefactory.org. ger than everyone else. – Frankie Kujawa They said, ‘No one would believe you are a teenager.’” Kabara atre. My friend dragged me back to as- and drive to be busy and always looking went on to explain that sistant-direct a show and from that I went for your next role. When I came back, I de- he took a break for 15 from White Christmas to doing Sweeny cided that I wanted to do stuff that I really years. Todd [both at Laurel Mill Playhouse], Thor- wanted to do, not just to keep busy. I have “I completely oughly Modern Millie [Heritage Players], a very full-time job which I enjoy, and I get stopped everything and then Young Frankenstein [Heritage to do this because I absolutely love it. The theatre and went Players] about a year ago. Adding Totally parts and the people I work with, that’s into retail. I climbed Blonde, Cry Baby [Silhouette Stages] and what’s important for me.” Kabara adds that ladder and be- here I am today at Toby’s!” that he is very excited for this Toby’s pro- came huge with that For Kabara, he genuinely is very selec- duction. “Audiences can expect to laugh, company. Then, my tive in the roles that he chooses to play. have a good time and fall in love with these husband at the time “One of the things that drew me away from characters.” died. I realized that theatre and that lifestyle is that you’re al- For more information, visit Tobysdin- I missed doing the- ways having to have this massive passion nertheatre.com. t 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // qmusic

features a 5.1 Sur- Big Blasts from the Past round Sound Mix & 96 kHz/24-bit 1967 By Gregg Shapiro songs. “My Generation” is one of 86-tracks stereo mix, along Depending on your generational perspective, to be found on the five-disc The Who box set with visual content. the late soul goddess Minnie Riperton is ei- Maximum As & Bs: The Complete Singles If you didn’t get ther the mother of actress / singer / SNL alum (Polydor / UMC). Each of the singles, includ- your fill of psyche- Maya Rudolph or the singer with ing “I Can’t Explain,” “Substitute,” “I delic sounds with the five-octave vocal Can See For Miles,” “Won’t Get Fooled The Moody Blues range best known for the Again,” “Join Together,” “Squeeze reissue, you owe timeless 1975 hit single Box,” “Who Are You,” “You Better You it to yourself to “Lovin’ You,” co-written Bet,” and “Eminence Front,” is imme- check out The by Riperton and her hus- diately followed by the B-side, many Mysticism of band Richard Rudolph. of which are not heard very often. Sound & Cos- You can hear Riperton, The box set also includes a booklet mic Language who died of cancer in featuring photos, memorabilia and (Smog Veil 1979 at 31, paying a “lo- track-by-track annotation. Records) by Moody vin’” homage to her daugh- In the late 60s and early 70s, “Cleveland’s Blues ter Maya at the end of “Lo- The Who’s Roger Daltrey proba- mythical prog vin’ You.” The double-disc bly got a lot of attention from gay rock improvisors” Hy Maya. Members deluxe edition expanded fans due to his stunning physique of the short-lived band include Robert Ben- reissue of Perfect Angel – smooth, pumped up pecs and sick, Albert Dennis, Scott Krauss and Allen the beautiful “Hanukkah in the Village,” are (Capitol / UMe), Riperton’s rippling abs. Years later, sneer- Ravenstine. The double CD set includes stu- among Sage’s most appealing compositions. second album and the one Billy ing bleached-blonde Billy Idol, who dio and live recordings dating back to 1972 The disc’s centerpiece, in which Sage sings on which “Lovin’ You” can be found, is a long Idol started out in the punk band Genera- and 1973. in Yiddish, is the song “Umru Meine,” featur- overdue celebration of an artist we lost too tion X, gained a reputation for putting The above-mentioned Smog Veil label ing lyrics by the modernist poet Moyshe-Leyb soon. Riperton and Rudolph co-wrote seven his shirtless body on display. Why has prided itself on its esoteric roster of artists Halpern. of the songs on the original album, including not? He was in good shape, especial- for more than 25 years. Similarly, Blue Thumb The 10th anniversary edition expanded the standouts “Reasons,” “The Edge of a ly for a punk rock/new wave guy. Idol’s first Records, in its brief ten years of existence, in- reissue of Josh Groban’s Noel (Reprise), Dream,” “It’s So Nice (To See Old Friends),” two albums – his eponymous 1982 debut and troduced listeners to its own impressive line- described as “one of the biggest-selling and “Our Lives.” The presence of Stevie Won- 1983’s Rebel Yell (both on Chrysalis / Capitol up of artists, including Sylvester and the Hot Christmas albums of all time,” now boasts six der, playing electric piano and harmonica, as / UMe) – have been reissued on high-quality Band (featuring the fabulous gay music icon additional songs, including four newly record- well as contributing the title track and “Take a vinyl, along with the two-LP hits compilation Sylvester in his pre-disco phase), The Pointer ed selections. The original 2007 album by the Little Trip,” only served to increase Riperton’s Idolize Yourself: The Very Best of Billy Idol Sisters, The Crusaders, Leon Russell, word- classical crossover superstar played it rela- artistic and hip factors. The abundant bonus (Capitol / UMe). Listeners can expect to find jazz innovator Ken Nordine and many others. tively safe with a few exceptions. A duet with material includes 11 additional tracks that go songs such as “White Wedding,” “Hot In the Originally released in 1995, the 2017 reissue Brian McKnight on “Angels We Have Heard a long way in further cementing the album’s City,” “Eyes Without a Face,” “Flesh For Fan- of All Day Thumbsucker Revisited: The on High” soars. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” legendary status. tasy,” “Dancing With Myself,” “Mony Mony,” History of Blue Thumb Records (Verve / is made more poignant because of the inclu- No, you’re not hearing things. That’s the and “Cradle of Love,” among others, on Idol- UMe) is as enjoyable for the stunning array sion of holiday greetings from soldiers and Ramones’ cover of “Little Bit O’ Soul” play- ize Yourself. talent, such as T. Rex, Captain Beefheart and their families. “Thankful,” co-written by Car- ing in the Fidelity Investments commercial. The story of UK psychedelic/progressive his Magic Band, Ike & Tina Turner, and Love, ole Bayer Sager, is the newest of the original Yes, we’ve gotten to that point in our culture. rock band The Moody Blues, which contin- as it is for being a music history lesson. disc’s compositions. Of the newly recorded Nevertheless, that should not diminish our ues to this day, has some fascinating chap- Eighties music legends Tears for Fears is songs, the duet with Tony Bennett on Vince appreciation of the American punk progeni- ters. Early on, The Moody Blues had a hit one of those bands that has almost as many Guaraldi’s “Christmas Time Is Here” and John tors, who, in 1977 released two (!) phenome- single with the song “Go Now,” which doesn’t hits compilations as it does studio album. To Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War nal albums. Rocket to Russia (Sire / Rhino), really sound like anything that came after be fair, TFF’s hits, including “Mad World,” is Over),” on which Groban is joined by a chil- the second of the two, has been reissued it. In fact, it was the follow-up album 1967’s “Change,” “Pale Shelter,” “Shout,” “Every- dren’s choir, are especially pleasing. in a limited edition 40th anniversary deluxe Days of Future Past (Deram / UMC), new- body Wants To Rule The World,” “Head Over A cappella outfit Pentatonix are the new edition, and contains Ramones classics such ly reissued in a 50th anniversary double-CD Heels,” and “Sowing the Seeds of Love,” to reigning kings and queens of holiday music, as “Sheena Is a Punk Rocker,” “Rockaway set, that set the tone for The Moody Blues’s mention a few, are sensational and deserve topping the Christmas (records) list for the Beach,” “Teenage Lobotomy,” “Cretin Hop,” greatest successes. Of course, when it was to be heard by ears new and old. Rule The last three years. The quartet’s platinum-sell- the queer “We’re A Happy Family” and the first issued 50 years ago, it was something World (Mercury / UMe) is a 16-track compila- ing 2016 album has been reissued with five band’s distinctive covers of “Do You Wan- of a peculiarity, because it was recorded with tion that includes the aforementioned songs, new songs and retitled A Pentatonix Christ- na Dance?” and “Surfin’ Bird.” The reissue the London Festival Orchestra, conducted as well as two brand new songs. t mas Deluxe (RCA). In addition to interesting consists of engineer/mixer Ed Stasium’s re- by Peter Knight. The album did fairly well on Leave it to a nice Jewish (bisexual) girl such renditions of “Up on the Housetop,” as well as mastered original and tracking mix on disc the British charts, as did the single “Nights In as Rachael Sage to come up with one of the covers of Kanye West’s “Coldest Winter” and one, two dozen bonus cuts on disc two and White Satin,” but it took another five years for most delightful holiday recordings of the year. Nsync’s “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” a previously unreleased 1977 live recording both the album and single to make the im- Her five-song EP Joy! (MPress) opens with from the previous version, the expanded edi- from a concert in Glasgow, Scotland, and the pact it did in 1972. The reissue includes the a reading of “Joy to the World” that is pure tion includes “Let It Snow!” and a duet with original LP on 180-gram vinyl. original 1967 stereo mix (available for the first Sage, right down to her distinctive phrasing Jennifer Hudson on “How Great Thou Art.” Would the Ramones have existed without time on CD), along with nine bonus tracks on and vocals. A radio mix of the songs also As career transformations go, Gwen Ste- The Who? After all, The Who’s teen / coun- the first disc. The second CD contains the closes the EP. In between, it’s a festival of fani’s is one for the record books, so to speak. terculture anthem “My Generation” has been 1972 stereo mix, four bonus tracks and six lights and light pop. The originals, including Over the course of about 25 years, Stefani cited by some as one of the first punk rock mono single mastsers. Additionally, a DVD the lighthearted “Tchatchkes & Latkes” and —continued on page 23 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 out in the valley

is completely cruelty- and controversy-free. Not all these things are practical or possible, though. That’s why I generally just re- Brian’s solve to “be better” in the new year. It’s a simple resolution that covers all the bases. Brain After the third or fourth conversation Brian George Hose about resolutions, I started to notice a pattern. Whether you want to lose weight, wake up earlier, save money, or get out had missed her nap and, more importantly, more, there’s something all these reso- finished the last strawberry on her snack What the lutions have in common: We think that plate. Based on her anguished screams, making changes will make us happier. The you would think the world was ending. What the toddler taught me is that may- Toddler catch is that everyone’s idea of happiness Then, just as quickly as it began, the be we’re looking at New Year’s resolutions is somewhat unique to them, so how do you screaming stopped and was replaced by all wrong. Yes, it would be great if every- Taught Me write an article about happiness that ap- the happy gurgles of a sweet and con- body could be a ten on the happiness scale peals to everybody? tented toddler. The all the time, but is that realistic? Is it even I’ve been thinking a lot about happiness I was stewing “Perhaps the best way strawberries may possible? Perhaps the best way to achieve lately. No, I’m not in the midst of an existen- over this idea, won- have been gone, but happiness in the new year is to live like a tial crisis and yes, everything is okay. I’ve dering what to write, to achieve happiness in their place, was a toddler and celebrate even the smallest of been thinking about happiness because when a long, sus- freshly-peeled tan- victories. Most resolutions have a set goal, with the new year approaching lots of peo- tained shriek broke in the new year is gerine. And a kind of finish ple are talking about their New Year’s res- my concentration. to live like a toddler she loves tan- line that’s off in olutions and asking me what I’d like to be Before you jump to gerines. The the distance. We different in the new year. conclusions, I should and celebrate even the expression on think we’ll be This question always throws me be- say that my brother smallest of victories.” her face was happy once we cause I never have a good answer for it. Of and his family, which pure bliss as achieve what- course, there are things I’d like to be differ- includes my two she slipped ever our goal ent: I’d like to be just an inch or two taller. school-aged nephews and toddler niece, each wedge into her smiling mouth. may be; but, in I’d like to go to Iceland and see the north- were visiting. My niece was feeling fussy, She even insisted on sharing, shoving doing so, we’re ern lights. I’d like to wear a real fur coat that as toddlers do sometimes, because she a juicy piece into my mouth with one also delaying tiny fist as the other stroked and pulled the happiness my beard. we’re all chas- I had never seen her happier, ex- ing. Isn’t it cept for every other time she’s been easier to take happy. That’s when it clicked. When we a moment to think about happiness, we tend to think appreciate all of a state of being. You wake up, live Full-time the good things life has your life, and go to bed feeling happy all toddler, to offer when we have a the time. This generally isn’t the case for part-time happy experience? most people because life invariably has philosopher If we do this, perhaps ups and downs. We consider ourselves queen we’ll realize that even happy if we’re scoring a seven or better when life’s strawberries on a scale of one to ten, but we would all are gone, there’s always prefer to coast through life in the nine-to- a juicy, delicious tangerine just waiting to ten range – and that’s why we make res- be discovered and that thought alone will olutions. bring us happiness. Happy New Year! t

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18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lots out & ABOUT // David’s Thoughts of Turks, but lots of Xmas, too

Frankfurt | Nicht nur Geschäftlich!(Not just business!)

Still a bit of alt was part of the occupied American Zone. in Frankfurt In 1949, Frankfurt was the proposed temporary capital of West Germany and a par- liament building was constructed, but never used for its intended purpose because many feared Frankfurt would be accepted as the permanent capital, thereby weakening West German support for a reunification with the east and the eventual return of the capital to Berlin. Bonn was ultimately selected as the West German capital (1949-1990). In the 1970s, Frankfurt developed a state-of-the- art public transport system that links city and suburbs. In 2015, Germany decided to open its borders to immigrants because its population was on the decline and many immigrants were fleeing war and poverty in the grants’ staunch beliefs because they may Middle East and Africa. The number of peo- have only learned from conservative coun- ple with an immigrant background in Ger- tries that have suppressed LGBT speech. many rose 8.5% to a record 18.6 million in Frankfurt is very LGBT-friendly. It has a 2016. In part because of refugees, Frankfurt Gay Christmas Market, located in the popu- is known as the city without a majority, with lar Friedrich Stoltze Square, where gifts are more than 50% either non-German, German sold by or made by members of the LGBT citizens born abroad, or Germans who are community. Most gay bars in Frankfurt are the children of immigrants. located close to each other in the downtown Turkish migrants are the largest non-Ger- Innenstadt area. Zum Schwejk is a gay bar by David Placher European cities is easy. Frankfurt Airport is man minority in Frankfurt, accounting for that has been in business for more than 25 Although Frankfurt is a major business hub one of the world’s busiest international air- around 13% of the population. With Frank- years. It offers a friendly atmosphere and with towering buildings and offices of over ports and Frankfurt Central Station is one furt’s LGBT-friendly environment, there’s quirky décor. Its bartenders are friendly and 300 major banks and the Frankfurt stock of the largest rail stations in Europe and the concern that with an influx of people from speak English. Bar Central is a gay-friend- exchange, it’s also one of the most popu- busiest junction, with 342 trains a day to do- conservative countries that culture shock ly lounge that has themed nights. Babylon lar tourist destinations in Germany. There mestic and European destinations. Frankfurt is a fun gay bar with a are beer gardens, street markets, bistros, Although Frankfurt has an old reputation Blut und mini-stage for performances. It fashion boutiques, and candy stores. It’s the for being cold and boring, it’s a city with a Eisen offers karaoke on some nights. birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, rich history, a place with modern immigration Lucky’s is a gay bar that has Germany’s Shakespeare, whose former issues, and a spot that has a thriving LGBT friendly bartenders and offers a home is now the Goethe House Museum, a community (same-sex marriage became le- relaxing environment to unwind. popular tourist destination. With Frankfurt’s gal in Germany on October 1st, 2017). It can be smoky, however, as strategic location, getting around to other Frankfurt, formerly known as the Free cigarettes are not prohibited in parts of Germany or going to other major City of Frankfurt, was a city state for nearly bars. (Lucky’s is located in an five centuries, and was an entrance to the Westin Grand important city of the Holy Frankfurt hotel.) Autograph’s Bar Roman Empire; howev- offers a relaxing environment for er, it lost its sovereignty the gay community and serves a in 1866 because Prussia range of beers, wine, sparkling annexed it as a result of wine, and whiskey. It showcases the Austro-Prussian War. an impressive collection of auto- Prussia is considered graphs on its walls. Switchboard the legal predecessor of is a gay bar where customers the unified German Re- may be difficult to shake. For example, in can relax with a drink and meet others in a ich (1871–1945) and as Turkey, where many migrated from, a Ger- friendly environment. Zur Hex Fun, run by lo- such a direct ancestor of man LGBT film festival was banned by Turk- cal celebrity “Mother Charlotte,” is decorated today’s Germany. During ish authorities citing public safety and LGBT in red and plays German tunes. Birmingham World War II, the Allies pride parades have been banned in Istanbul Pub is a gay-friendly pub and sports bar that dropped over 12,000 tons for the last two years. As Germany continues offers late-night food and a range of beers. Times Square – of explosives on the city, to grow and Frankfurt continues to diversi- With all of the adventures Frankfurt has to Franco-eputedly the very destroying parts of it. Af- fy, it may have to spend a greater amount offer, it should be on your list of places to Germanintergalactic amity belly t at Chapeau ter World War II, the city on public campaigns to soften some immi- visit in Europe. button!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 quality of life

Guest capacity – Venues all have a Getting the maximum capacity. Some venues over- state their capacity, which means that your Wedding guests will be jammed up against each You Want other and have difficulty moving through David Egan the room. Nobody wants that! Ask the venue manager, face to face, “What is your comfortable maximum capacity?” That’s the number you want to use. Choosing Your Location – Do you like the neighbor- hood? Is it a hospitable and interesting Wedding area? Are there nearby venues for your rehearsal dinner and after-party? How ac- Venue cessible is the venue from highways and main roads? Saying “yes” to the venue is the most im- If you have guests who will be staying portant decision you’ll make about your overnight, how much lodging is there with- wedding, followed closely by your choice in a reasonable distance from the venue? of caterer. What is the lodging like, and what kinds There are lots of things to think about of rates might your guests expect to pay? as you plan your wedding. If you take them Outdoor ceremony – Are you think- one thing at a time and do them in order, ing about an outdoor ceremony? Ask the the process can be what it’s meant to be – venue manager about the rain plan. Will fun and exciting! guests be seated auditorium-style, or at You’ll want to get two big hard things their dinner tables, or will done right up front in they be standing? How far your wedding planning ahead in hours or days do process: your budget and you have to make the deci- your guest list. You need sion to invoke the rain plan? to know how much money Catering – How ven- you have available, when ues handle catering varies it is available, and the widely. On one end of the number of people you plan spectrum, the venue is run to invite (give or take ten by a caterer, with the venue guests) before you can do fee included in the cater- StartStart YourYour NewNew LifeLife WithWith anything else. ing fee. On the other end, Almost all of your plan- the venue is totally lais- The Perfect Soundtrack ning depends on knowing sez-faire about catering, The Perfect Soundtrack your wedding date, time, allowing you complete freedom to use any True Harmony Events is an elite group of DJs and wedding planning and place. So once the money and the caterer that you choose, including self-ca- professionals that break the mold; We love music and we love being guest list are in order, it’s time to choose tering. Between these are several other a part of people's lives. your ceremony and reception venue. Let’s common ways that venues handle cater- We plan events and weddings that take the event to another level get right into how that’s done! ing. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each in the next issue. and people to another place. If you’re planning a church wedding followed by a reception at another ven- Go visit – I’m a visual and visceral Our team is unrivaled in music knowledge, each one with ue, get a list of available dates from your person. I have difficulty visualizing spac- a specialty. There is not a style of music around that we don't church before you look at venues. Church- es from afar. I need to be standing in the have in our catalog of more than a million songs. es are often quite specific about the time space, feeling it, to know if it’s right for me. From music to planning, our team is specialized in planning of day and day of the week when they’ll I know that’s also true for lots of the cou- the perfect event. have weddings. Reception venues usually ples I meet here at Chase Court. So get have much more flexibility. out there and visit venues and see which From start to finish or day-of coordination we have you covered! Start organized – Sorting through ones touch your heart! venues can be lots of fun, and it can also Once you have a list of venues that be confusing and frustrating. You can meet all of your needs, let your gut feel- make the process go smoothly and easily ing be your guide for the final choice. Look by creating a set of selection criteria to ap- and feel are ultimately your key criteria for ply to all of the venues you’re considering. venue selection. I encourage you to set up a spreadsheet to Next time: all about wedding catering. t DJ/MC DANCE LIGHTS UPLIGHTS keep the information you gather together David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- and in order. That spreadsheet will really ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- 202-798-6544 • trueharmonydjs.com/lgbt.html help later on. Trust me on this. You’ll love ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. being able to sort venue by venue to nar- com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue Consultations are free and available 7 days a week. row down your finalists. on Instagram and Facebook. 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Quality of life // your money What the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017 Could Mean for You By Woody Derricks (down from the current $1,000,000). The There’s a lot of debate on whether the Tax good news is this was initially looking like Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will help grow a cap of $500,000 which likely would have our economy or add trillions in debt to the impacted a much greater portion of the federal balance sheet. While only time will population. tell the true impact on the US economy, The good news for parents is that most of our clients are more concerned the Child Tax Credit has been doubled about the bottom-line impact on their per- to $2,000. In addition, the income phase sonal taxes. At first blush, it appears some outs for the credit have been increased of our clients may see tax savings while to $200,000 for individuals and $400,000 others may wind up with more taxes due. for married couples (up from $75,000 and HHAPPYAPPY HOURHOUR To help give you an idea of how this could $110,000 respectively). impact your taxes, I’ve listed several items 401k Loans – Currently, when some- that stand out to me as the most likely to one leaves their job, they need to pay off 44 p.m.p.m. toto 88 p.m.p.m. impact the taxes of our clients. any existing 401k loans or pay interest Tax-bracket shift – Tax brackets and a penalty on any remaining balance. will make a slight shift down. Current tax The bill allows for former employees to roll brackets are 10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 33%, those loans into an IRA after termination. 35%, and 39.6%. The bill shifts these to For those with outstanding 401k loans, re- 2-in-12-in-1 RAILRAIL && 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and paying those loans at termination is often 37%. The good news is that many may see a reason to stay with their current job. Now a slight decrease in marginal tax rates (the job seekers can have a way to leave their amount of tax paid on the top bracket of current employer without having to pay a DomesticDomestic BeerBeer earned income). large tax/penalty on the 401k loan should Marriage-penalty relief – The mar- they roll that to an IRA and continue meet- riage penalty has hurt high-earning couples ing the terms of the loan. as it taxed them at higher rates than two 529 Plans – Until now, 529 plans individuals making the same combined in- could only be used to fund post-second- come. For most married couples, you’ll see ary schooling. The new tax law allows for BACKBACK BARBAR OPENOPEN that penalty has been removed. As a re- distributions of up to $10,000 per student, sult, you should be in the same tax bracket per year for public, private, or religious as two individuals earning the same com- schools from elementary through second- FRIDAYFRIDAY && SATURDAYSATURDAY bined income from your first dollar earned ary schooling. through $600,000 of combined income. This is a big win for parents. Funding For those earning greater than $600,000 529 plans only for college increases the Until 1:30 a.m. per year, you could see income taxed at risk that their child might not use all the Until 1:30 a.m. savings. Also, parents may want to send higher rates on that excess income. Deductions – While the bill provides a their child to a private high school but slight increase to the Standard Deduction might not have sufficient cash flow to pay withwith KaraokeKaraoke ($12,000 for single and $24,000 for mar- tuition. If their child has a 529 plan, they ried versus a combined Standard Deduc- can now use that account to help offset the tion and personal exemption of $10,400 high school’s tuition. single / $20,800 married), those who live 2025 Sunset – Keep in mind that these in high-tax states could see a reduction in changes are currently temporary for indi- TheThe itemized deductions. viduals. Unless something is enacted prior The new tax law will cap state, local, to 2025, taxes for individuals under the Tax and property tax deductions at a combined Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will revert back total of $10,000. For those living in states to 2017’s laws. Corporate tax changes such as California, DC, Maryland, New were made permanent under the bill. DrinkerDrinkeryy Jersey, and New York, the cap could be Still unsure how this will impact especially painful given high state income you? You’re not alone. If you’re interested TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! taxes and property values. in learning more about how these changes The bill also repeals deductions that could impact your bottom line, you can get include tax preparation fees, investment a rough idea with this calculator: Calcxml. advisory fees, and unreimbursed business com/calculators/trump-tax-reform-calcula- 205205 WestWest ReadRead StreetStreet “Corner“Corner ofof ReadRead andand Park”Park” expenses. tor. The site also offers a link for a 2017 For those looking to buy a new home, estimate of your taxes to allow you to com- 410-225-3100410-225-3100 •• ATMATM AvailableAvailable the bill caps the deduction of interest to pare the two years. the first $750,000 of mortgage principal I highly recommend reaching out to 22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of life // your money Real estate

your CPA as soon as possible to see if you many changes: Kitces.com/blog/final-gop- can do anything prior to the end of 2017 tax-plan-summary-tcja-2017-individual- to help minimize your taxes for the year. tax-brackets-pass-through-strategies. t Also, you may want to find some time in This column is for informational purpos- early January (before tax season heats up) es only, and is not meant as specific ad- to strategize with your CPA and financial vice to any individual. Partnership Wealth advisor about tax planning for 2018 and Management offers financial planning and beyond. wealth management services, with a long More information – This article only history of working with the LGBT commu- addresses a few of the changes that could nity. Reach them at Partnershipwm.com or Have a Career, come with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of call 410-732-2633. 2017. Here’s a more thorough piece on the Not a Job! Join the Weichert Realtors-Urban Lifestyles Team and become part Big Blasts from the Past of the family. —continued from page 17 fellow LDS members David Archuleta and the Check out our successfully morphed from the belly-baring Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra, as career night. lead singer of OC ska act No Doubt to full- well as Peter Hollens. Other guest artists on fledged diva and fashion icon. Continuing the album include Placido Domingo (“Silent Call us for further the “feels like” theme of her previous studio Night, Holy Night”), The King’s Singers (“O information album, Stefani’s first Christmas album, You Little One Sweet”) and Lexi Walker (“O Holy Make it Feel Like Christmas (Interscope) Night / Ave Maria”). 410-752-1050 combines her interpretation of holiday stan- Fiddler and Dancing With the Stars com- Proud sponsor of dards (from “Silent Night” to “Santa Baby”) petitor Stirling bows with her first holiday al- along with half a dozen new tunes. Thanks bum Warmer In the Winter (Concord). More to Stefani’s gay co-song- than half of the songs are instrumentals in writer Justin Tranter, it’s Johann the new tunes, including Sebastian ... which the plucky Stir- “My Gift Is You,” “When I oops, ling shows off her ac- Was A Little Girl,” “Under Elvis complished string skill The Christmas Lights” on Christmas stan- and “Christmas Eve,” that dards including “Carol are the real gift here. of the Bells,” “I Saw The 2017 double-disc Three Ships,” “What edition of Broadway’s Child Is This,” and Carols for a Cure: Vol- even Mariah Carey’s ume 19 (rock-itscience. “All I Want For Christ- com) serves a dual pur- mas.” What separates pose. First and foremost, this disc from the oth- it’s a benefit for Broad- ers are the Stirling way Cares/Equity Fights originals including AIDS (broadwaycares. “Christmas C’Mon” org). Secondly, the 20 (with vocals by Becky selections give listeners G), the title track a chance to hear artists (featuring Trombone from some of Broad- Shorty) and “Time To way’s hottest tickets – including Hamilton, Fall In Love” (sung by Alex Gaskarth of All Dear Evan Hansen, Kinky Boots, War Paint, Time Low). Groundhog Day, Anastasia, Waitress, to Elvis Christmas (RCA / Legacy) is the mention a few, perform traditional and new latest in a series of Elvis Presley releases in Christmas songs. which The King’s songs and recordings are This Christmas, the Latter Days Saints reimagined with his vocals backed up by the have a leg up, as well as a piano, a cello and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Elvis Christ- a violin, on the competition. Mormon musical mas has everything from “Blue Christmas,” acts The Piano Guys and Lindsey Stirling “Merry Christmas Baby” and “Santa Bring My have newly released holiday albums. On “An- Baby Back to Me” to “The First Noel,” “Oh Lit- gels From the Realms of Glory,” the opening tle Town of Bethlehem,” and “O Come, All Ye number on The Piano Guys’ Christmas To- Faithful.” t gether (Portrait) album, they are joined by

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 leather

Winners all – year. (And you thought leather was just fun memories in what was not a Mr. Mid-Atlanic and games.) happy year. Now it is 2018 Leather 2017 It is not too late to book a flight and get and instead of looking back, out of this winter weather and head to Las Leather I’m ready to start another Vegas on February 22nd to 25th for Drum- Line year in leather. the 9:30 Club. mer North America (DNA) at the Alexis Park Rodney Burger The leather year starts The Hyatt has All Suite Resort. Not only will DNA / DNA in Washington, DC, and I’m been sold out boy and DNA Bootblack be selected, but Please, Sir – very much looking forward for months, but new this year will be the first ever Wom- to Mid-Atlantic Leather a few rooms are en of Drummer Contest. It may be hard to May I Have Weekend (MAL) on Jan- available at the think about April when it’s this cold outside, uary 12th to 14th at the nearby Phoenix but you need to make reservations now to Hyatt Regency Washing- Park Hotel. It attend BBM, IMsL, and CLAW. The 8th an- ton on Capitol Hill (400 is worth the trip nual Bears, Bikers & Mayhem is scheduled Another? New Jersey Avenue NW). down to DC just for April 5th to 8th at the Eisenhower Inn The fun actually starts on to shop the huge & Aspire Conference Center. This annual We did it. We made it through another year. Thursday, January 11th leather vendor weekend of cocktail parties, dance parties, If you watched some of those “Year in re- as a group of Mr. Mid-At- mart at the Hyatt. and the Mr. Mayhem Leather / Bear Contest view” pieces on television, 2017 was really lantic Leather titleholders For a complete always sells out. Also appearing this year is a horrible year. I for one went to too many take over the club bar at schedule and comedian Harrison Greenbaum from TV’s funerals in 2017. Thankfully I ended my the DC Eagle starting at more informa- “Last Comic Standing.” Get your tickets at year on a high note with a trip to Fort Lau- 10 pm. The Hyatt will be tion visit Leather- Bearsbikersandmayhem.com. The Interna- derdale, where I visited my ShipMate club packed all weekend with weekend.com. tional Ms. Leather (IMsL) and International brother Mike Reisig, two COMMAND MC all kinds of fun events. Friday evening brings MAL is a real- Ms. Bootblack (IMsbb) Contest is scheduled members Mike and Marty, and took a cruise the International Mr. Rubber social and the ly big event, but you can also have a great for April 19th to 22nd in San Jose, Califor- to the Dominican Republic with Thomas of Highwaymen TNT Impact dance party. Satur- time and meet new people at a smaller leather nia. All details can be found at Imslbb.org. the Centaur MC, Mr. Maryland Leather 2013 day afternoon from 2 to 6 is the popular Onyx function such as the monthly “Sinner Sunday” The host hotel is already sold out for the Bob Rose, and Mr. Maryland Leather 2007 cocktail party and gear show and Sunday at gatherings put on by the New Jersey leather 18th annual Cleveland Leather Awareness Sir Steve. Once again my friends from the 1 pm is the Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2018 family at Paradise in Weekend on April leather community helped me make happy Contest followed by a dance that evening at Asbury Park, New Jer- “Once again my friends 26th to 29th, but two sey. The first one for additional nearby 2018 will be held from from the leather hotels are available. 2 to 6 pm on Sunday, This leather week- January 21st with a community helped me end in downtown theme of “It’s Freakin’ make happy memories Cleveland, Ohio, in- Cold.” Wear some- cludes men’s BDSM thing warm, like a sexy in what was not a dungeon parties, a union suit, and relax big vendor mart, and with the warm folks happy year.” silent auctions, Flex from the New Jersey porn star parties, a leather family. Other Sinner Sunday events formal leather dinner, and many demos and will be held February 11th, March 25th, April educational seminars. 15th, and May 20th. Circle you calendar in May for Excel- If you plan to be in Philadelphia at the be- sior MC’s annual “Lust for Life” and Fire ginning of the year make sure that you stop Island Leather Weekend on May 18th to in the William Way LGBTQIA Center between 20th. Have you ever been to Fire Island, January 12th and February 23rd and check New York? It’s amazing and this is the best out “Black & Blue, The Colors of Leather.” weekend to go. Details are at Excelsiormc. This art exhibit, curated by Mid-Atlantic com. Leather Woman 2018 Amy (aka “Leather No list of coming leather events would Fox”) and Ms. Philadelphia Leather 2017 be complete without the biggest leather Heather Raquel “aims to display what black event of them all: International Mr. Leather and blue means through the eyes of artist (IML). Chicago’s Congress Plaza Hotel is and what it means to embody the leather / the host hotel again this year and the leath- kink lifestyle.” For details visit the Center’s er world will gather in the beautiful city of website at Waygay.org. Chicago on May 24th to 28th for the Super Coming up on January 20th, the annual Bowl of leather contests. Brother Help Thyself (BHT) grant reception The New Year has started and here are will be held at the Baltimore Eagle starting at just a few of the many leather events coming 2 pm. Join the celebration as local charities up in the next few months. We made it. We receive grants from funds raised by various have another year to enjoy. I hope it is a good leather clubs and LGBT organizations. This one. Go out to a leather event, meet new really is one of the feel-good events of the friends, and make some happy memories. t

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com 870 Park Ave. Baltimore 410-539-4993

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26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com FromFrom allall ofof usus atat BaltimoreBaltimore OUTloudOUTloud wewe wishwish youyou thethe HappiestHappiest ofof HolidaysHolidays andand aa veryvery MerryMerry NewNew Year!Year! SeeSee youyou inin 2018!2018!

BaltimoreOUTloud.com

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BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11:30 a.m. - 3p.m. Featuring $15 BottomlessGet Mimosas, tested Bloody together. Mary's and EVO Craft Beer drafts And stay in sync. CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY VISIT HOURS OF OPERATION Wednesday & Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday & ANDSaturday TALK 11:30 TO A a.m. HEALTHCARE - 10:00 p.m. PROVIDER Sunday 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

HEALTHYSEXUAL,Birroteca GILEAD, and the GILEAD Baltimore Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc. © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. UNBC3910 01/17 800 KEY HIGHWAY 1520 Clipper Road. Baltimore, MD 21211 BALTIMORE, MD 21230 443-708-1935 • www.bmorebirroteca.com 410-752-1000 www.bmorebirroteca.com/baltimore-events www.encantadabaltimore.com

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD JANUArY 4, 2018 • baltimoreoutloud.com UNBC3910_B_9-875x9.6_BaltimoreOutLoud_Coordinate_p2.indd 1 8/1/17 9:06 AM