OUT May 4, 2012 | Volume IX Issue 26 Violence Against Women Act passes in the Senate EEOC: Trans

By Dana LaRocca Vice President Joe Biden, who sponsored try,” Adams said as she introduced the bill. Workers Protected On April 29 the Senate, in a 68-31vote, re- the original bill in 1994, said in a statement, Adams, a long time advocate for victims authorized the Violence Against Women Act. “In 2012, we should be beyond ques- of domestic violence, did not mention in her by Title VII The act, first passed in 1994, initially provided tioning the need for the Violence statement that the House version stripped $1.6 billion for investigation and prosecution Against Women Act. This law has away the LGBT protections that were By Mike Andrew of violent crimes against women. Additionally been overwhelmingly successful included in the Senate version. Adams Seattle Gay News staff writer the act imposed automatic and mandatory res- since it was first enacted 17 years said, of the House version which has The federal Equal Employ- titution on those convicted, and allowed civil ago to improve the criminal jus- no Democratic co-sponsors, “We need ment Opportunity Commission redress in cases prosecutors chose to leave tice response to this violent crime to make sure that we don’t allow this (EEOC) ruled on April 24 that unprosecuted. The Act also established the and to assist those who experience bill to become a political issue. Title VII, the federal sex discrimi- Office on Violence Against Women within the this abuse. Since then, the law has This is a bipartisan bill, and nation law, protects employees Department of Justice. twice been reauthorized with the broad it should stay as such.” who are discriminated against Fifteen Senate Republicans joined with all support of members of both parties. It But it is a political issue, because they are transgender. Democrats in voting for the reauthorization. should still be bigger than politics to- and the LGBT, immigrant, In its unprecedented decision, the The 2012 version is the first to include pro- day.” and Native American pro- EEOC concluded that “intentional tections for same sex couples and also allows Meanwhile, in the House, Republi- visions are at the center of discrimination against a transgen- undocumented immigrant victims to obtain can representative Sandy Adams has that. “We are not going to be der individual because that person temporary visas. These provisions were cen- introduced a House version of the re- looking at the controversial issues that is transgender is, by definition, dis- tral to opposition to the bill, primarily from con- authorization. “It is a bipartisan act, and will detract from what is actually VAWA,” crimination ‘based on & sex’ and such servative Republicans. Republican opposition I hope that people will quit trying to make it Adams said. discrimination & violates Title VII.” to the bill is viewed by many as part of a larger a partisan issue. This is something that affects “This isn’t a partisan issue. It’s common The EEOC is the federal agency War on Women being waged by the right wing everyone, and we need to stand together and sense,” Senator Al Franken wrote after the that interprets and enforces fed- of the Republican party. work on getting this reauthorization bill passed Senate passage. Senator Franken had added eral employment discrimination for the betterment of our victims and our coun- —continued on page 2 law, and this decision marks the first time it has issued clear guide- lines on transgender discrimination. The EEOC ruling came in response ‘Dolly’ Matches Up Well at the Spotlighters to a complaint filed by the Trans- By Steve Charing gender Law Center on behalf of Mounting a big splashy musical such as Mia Macy, a transgender woman Hello, Dolly! on the cozy 13 by 16-foot in- who was denied a job as a ballis- the-round stage of the Audrey Herman’s tics technician at the Walnut Creek, Spotlighters Theatre was sure to be an am- California, laboratory of the fed- bitious, if not impossible, challenge to say eral Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, the least. But anyone who knows the type Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). of magic Director Fuzz Roark can bring to An Army veteran and a former police theatre should not have any doubts. detective, Macy applied for the posi- “There is nothing like tackling an iconic tion as male and was told that she show like Hello, Dolly! to make even the virtually was guaranteed the job. She bravest and most experienced of directors a was exceptionally qualified for the bit wary,” Roark wrote in the program notes. position, having a military and law “Well, let’s just say that I love a challenge!” enforcement background and being He as well as his talented cast and crew met one of the few people in the coun- that challenge and more. try who had already been trained on As such, the Spotlighters 50th anniver- ATF’s ballistics computer system. sary season, which brought to Baltimore the- After disclosing her gender tran- atre lovers Tea & Sympathy, The Fantastiks, sition mid-way through the hir- Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Agnes of God thus far ing process, Macy was told that continued its celebration with a joyous, effer- funding for that position had vescent production of Hello, Dolly! —continued on page 4 —continued on page 16 news // national Teachers Taught to Combat Homophobia Violence Against Women by Anny Celsi An important aspect of the Encompass Act passes in the Senate Voice of America approach is that it’s not about changing – continued from front page Co-Publishers a teacher’s attitudes or personal beliefs Jim Becker • Jim Williams In 2010, violent crimes against gay, les- [email protected] bian and transgendered people were up about homosexuality. Instead, the train- a provision to the bill that would prevent vic- Executive Editor 13 percent over the previous year. Murders ing offers tools to help teachers recognize tims of sexual assault from being charged Jim Becker increased by 23 percent, according to the and address sexual bias in their class. for “rape kits” and a provision that would [email protected] National Coalition of Anti-Violence Projects. After watching the first scene, teachers prevent a woman from being evicted from Managing Editor The problem can start as early as elementary in the audience offer suggestions on how federally subsidized housing just because Dana LaRocca [email protected] school, but teachers who witness sexual bias to better handle the situation. The ac- she is a victim of domestic violence. in the classroom are often unsure tors then restage the scene, in- On the day of the Senate passage Mary- Production Director Bill Andriette of how, or whether, to intervene. corporating those suggestions. land Senator Barbara Mikulski said, “One Sales Director To heIp them figure it out, a non- There are other diversity train- in four women will be victims of domestic Mary Taylor profit group in Los Angeles uses live ing programs, but Encompass violence during her lifetime; one in four. Six- [email protected] theater to train teachers to counter- is different. Instead of getting a teen million children are exposed to domes- Leather Columnist act homophobia in schools. list of do’s and don’ts, teachers tic violence. And also one in six women has Rodney Burger The instructor training program get the chance to examine their experienced attempted or completed rape. Contributing Writers begins with a staged scene. High own preconceptions, trade ex- And even men now are the subject of rape. Shawn Bradley • Cathy Brennan • Terrence Brower • Steve Charing • Jeffrey Clagett • Jeffrey Clouser • Chuck Duncan school actors, playing high school periences, and then watch their Twenty-five percent of rape crisis centers • Gerry Fisher • Eva Hersh MD • Sam Kunz • Jessica Lemmo • students, walk into their English ideas played out in the classroom. have waiting lists for advocacy groups…. Jay Loane • Meredith Moise • Vann Mills • Colin Riley • class talking about a teen who was beaten up “What really made a difference was the im- “Two million victims of physical and sex- Gregg Shapiro • the day before. prov,” says Beverly Tate, who teaches at ual violence each year, 20,000 in Maryland. Graphics “If Travis wanted gay rights, he got Pasadena City College, “the way they came On average, 1,000 female victims are killed Joe Velasquez • Bob Wellington back the second time and really stayed true by their abusers. One-third of all female ho- them,” says one actor. “Rights, lefts, Cartoonist uppercuts, a kick to the face. Bam!” to their characters and to see the chang- micides are domestic violence. Bruce Garrett (www.brucegarrett.com) The discussion heats up, and the es in the way the teacher addressed the “These are numbers and statistics, but Photographers kids start baiting each other. Be- bias and the language in the classroom.” they also represent real people. We help Bruce Garrett • Jay W Photos • Justin Nixon fore long, the class is out of control. Student actor Drew Cameron hopes over 70,000 victims every day, 70,000 vic- Web Editor This training program is presented by En- they’re making a difference. “Hopefully tims every day through hotlines and ser- Anja Saine [email protected] compass, a non-profit group that focuses on teachers are watching this and not just vices and shelters. Regrettably, there is a Managed Web Services diversity issues in California schools. The ac- thinking, ‘Here’s some students that are waiting list. We need to pass this legisla- The Fusio Group tors are students from the LA County High putting on a scene for us.’ [They’re think- tion because it gives us the authorization 866-322-7498, www.thefusiogroup.com School for the Arts. School administrators, ing], ‘Here are some students who are to be able to do so. It meets these com- National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media counselors and teachers are in the audience. showing us how to be better teachers.’” pelling human needs to be able to protect 908-232-2021 According to the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Better teachers in a school where every people.” Founders Education Network, challenging moments student feels safe to focus on the job of The House is expected to debate the bill Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase • like the one in the skit, come up a lot. By learning. t next week. t Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams the time they get to high school, 90 per- cent of lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgen- Baltimore OUTloud PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211 dered students have experienced physi- 410-244-6780 cal, verbal or sexual harassment at school. www.baltimoreoutloud.com Artistic director Kevin Blake, who co-wrote the scene and plays Mr. McGregor, the teacher in Additional Information Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride the scene, says that can poison the classroom Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and environment for everyone. unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: editor@ baltimoreoutloud.com. All materials appearing in this newspaper “Just on that basic level, if these students are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced are feeling this pressure or this bullying or teas- without the written permission of the editor. ing or harassment, they’re not able to focus on their work, they’re not able to accomplish what they’re there in school to accomplish.” And when that happens, Skyler Jackson, program director of Encompass says, Califor- nia teachers don’t have a choice about wheth- er or not to intervene. In 2000, state lawmakers amended the education code “...to include sexual orientation and gender identity and those The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily that are perceived to be different based reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff. on sexual orientation to be protected from bullying and harassment in schools.” © 2012 – All rights reserved Twelve other states currently have similar laws. Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker And a federal bill, which would require every President – Jim Williams school in the country to offer those protec- Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase tions, has been gaining support in congress.

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL Movie night FundrAiser: JCC Working to Provide Services to LGBT Community The Adventures of By Mark Patro “One is that the general Jewish public Pricilla, Queen of the Desert On April 18 of a variety of Jewish leaders wants to become better informed about is- Proceeds benefit Chesapeake Pride Festival gathered to discuss developing programs sues regarding the lives of the LGBT popu- for Jewish LGBT people, their families lation. The other is that, as we speak, there Saturday, June 2, 7 p.m. and friends. Miriam D., an orthodox Jew- are Jewish teens who are questioning their ish mom, was one of the organizers of this sexual identity and if they cannot do this YMcA camp Letts (Boathouse) meeting. She got involved in this work after within a Jewish venue, we are likely to lose 4009 Camp Letts Road Edgewater, MD 21037 her son came out to her several months them to assimilation. Or, as one person Must be 18 years of age to attend, earlier. Finding no available pointed out, every time a 21 to consume alcohol services for Jewish parents Jewish gay person commits of gay children, Miriam turned suicide, our Jewish popula- Donation: $10 in advance, $12 at the door to PFLAG Baltimore County. tion decreases even more!” Tickets purchased online: Miriam and Arlene Falk, an- The planning meeting in chesapeakepridefestival.org other PFLAG mom, contacted April was a direct outgrowth Rabbi Elissa Sachs-Kohen of of the program last month Free Popcorn & Soft Drinks • Cash Bar • Come Dressed as Your “Favorite Queen!” the Baltimore Hebrew Con- and the discussion centered gregation, the Jewish Com- around: munity Center and Jewish What needs do we see in 2nd AnnuAl ChesApeAke pride river Cruise Community Services Balti- our Jewish community vis a more. vis LGBTQ issues for teens, Proceeds benefit Chesapeake Pride Festival On March 18, Miriam young adults and older Saturday, June 23, 6-8 p.m. adults, and for the parents/family? and Arlene, in cooperation with Balti- (Boarding @ 5:30 • Rain Date June 30) more Hebrew Congregation, put together What sorts of programs/services would a showing of the documentary, Mom and help to meet these needs? Dad I Have Something to Tell You, which How can we better educate the com- Scenic sunset cruise portrays the coming out process. The munity at large about the LGBT population aboard the “Richard Lee” film was followed by a panel discussion, within the Jewish community? which included both Rabbi Elissa Sachs- One program, which is already planned, Departing from Discovery Village Kohen and Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg, and is a support group for Jewish family and Marina, 4800 Atwell Road, first hand experiences of Jason Creeger, friends of gays and lesbians to be held Shady Side, MD a teacher and Michael Falk, professor at at the Owings Mills JCC on the second Donation: $40/person. JHU. Sixty community members attended Wednesday of each month. The first gath- the presentation. ering is scheduled for June 13, 2012. t AdvAnce purchASe OnLY “Two things became clear to me as a Mark Patro is president of PFLAG Balti- Purchase online at result of that program,” reflected Miriam. more County chesapeakepridefestival.org Heavy Hors D’oeuvres Served Cash Bar Available. Sheraton Hosts LGBT Wedding Show

With same sex weddings set to begin in viders including photographers, bakeries, January 2013, the Sheraton Baltimore florists, caterers and more. North in Towson, Maryland, proudly an- Guests will enjoy fabulous hors nounces their first annual “Celebrate Your d’oeuvres and specialty cocktails. All Love LGBT Wed- brides and grooms-to-be will be eligible to ding Show” being win great giveaways. held on May 20, Admission to the event is $5 and a por- 2012 from 1 to 4 tion of the proceeds will benefit the Trevor SAturdAY, AuguSt 4, 2012, 12-6 p.M. p.m. Sheraton Bal- Project, the leading national organization Mayo Beach park, 4150 honeysuckle dr., edgewater, Md 21037 timore North will providing crisis intervention and suicide Mayo Beach Park, 4150 Honeysuckle Dr., Edgewater, MD 21037 be the first full-ser- prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisex- vice hotel to host ual, transgender, and questioning youth. visit chesapeakepridefestival.org for more info an LGBT wedding For more information about the first show in the state. annual “Celebrate Your Love LGBT Wed- Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/chesapeakepride The “Celebrate ding Show”, contact a wedding specialist Your Love LGBT Wedding Show” will al- at 410-321-7400. low couples to experience the Sheraton’s Sheraton Baltimore North Ho- award-winning cuisine, impeccable ser- tel is located in the heart of the Tow- vice, meet their Wedding Specialists, and son business district, 15 minutes connect with 35-40 wedding service pro- from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. t call 410-599-0273 for more information on all 3 events

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 news

EEO C: Trans Workers Protected by Title VII federal courts in recent years, holding that – continued from front page transgender people are protected by Title VII’s prohibition against sex discrimina- been cut. She later learned that some- tion. In October 2011, HUD issued guide- one else had been hired for the job. lines saying that it would use the federal Macy now lives in the San Francisco Fair Housing Act prohibition against sex Bay Area with her wife, Trish. She strug- discrimination to investigate complaints gled to find work after she was denied brought by transgender individuals. t the ATF position, she says, applying for more than 300 jobs but finding few leads. “As a veteran and a police officer, I’ve worked my whole career to uphold the val- ues of fairness and equality,” Macy said in a statement after the EEOC ruling. “It’s incredibly significant that the com- Offering Bankruptcy Assistance mission has finally put its stamp of approval on the common-sense understanding that HPK will recommend various options that may be discrimination against transgender people available to protect your assets is a form of sex discrimination,” Transgen- der Law Center Legal Director Ilona Turner [ [ [ [ [ [ explained. National Center for Transgender Anti-gay Slurs

HPK OFFERS: Domestic Partnership Agreements ● Joint Purchase & Savings Equality executive director Mara Keis- Agreements ● Estate Planning ● Bankruptcy ● Divorce ● Second Parent Adoptions ● ling called the ruling “a major victory.” ● ● Used in Attack Same Sex Dissolution of Partnerships Advance Health Care Directives Power of HPK is a debt relief law fi rm that helps individuals and businesses fi le Attorney ● Wills ● Domestic Partner Affi davits ● Healthcare Proxies for bankruptcy protection under the Bankruptcy Code. “As many as 90% of trans people still face tremendous discrimination in employment By Steve Charing Mark F. Scurti, Esquire ● 410. 938. 8718 ● [email protected] according to our National Discrimination A 36-year-old West Baltimore gay In the courtroom. In the community. And on your side. hpklegal.com | 410. 938.8800 Survey, and it will help so much that the man was attacked by at least two EEOC agrees with what more and more men at North and Druid Hill Av- courts have been saying, that discriminat- enues. The victim, whose name as ing against trans people because of their Paul and who requested that his sex, or their perceived sex, or what an em- last name not be used at this time, ployer thinks about their sex, is clearly sex was walking to a store after finish- discrimination, illegal, and wrong,” Keisling ing classes at Baltimore City Com- said. munity College. Tico Almeida, founder of Freedom to At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Work, a group pushing for employment pro- March 28 he encountered a group tections for LGBT Americans, said Tues- of young men who were hanging day that the EEOC decision should be ap- out. Some had called him “faggot” plied to all federal agencies, and called on as he was approaching, and to Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis to issue new avoid a confrontation, Paul crossed guidelines for federal contractors to protect the street. Soon afterwards, at least against anti-transgender discrimination. two men assaulted him from behind, “There is no need for Secretary Solis to calling him “faggot” throughout the wait for President Obama to fulfill his attack. During the altercation, Paul campaign promise to sign such an ex- broke his tibia in his leg and was ecutive policy because the EEOC has treated at Shock Trauma. just given the Labor Department the le- Paul told Baltimore OUTloud gal reasoning and authority to interpret that he is not “flamboyant” but his the existing executive order, created by being gay was fairly well known in President [Lyndon B.] Johnson many de- the neighborhood. But he added cades ago, to now protect transgender that he could have been targeted Americans,” Almeida said in a statement. because one of the assailants also Saturday May 5th “Unfortunately, Secretary Solis will not called him a “snitch,” which may have the legal authority to protect Gay have stemmed from a previous inci- DriNk SpeCialS and Lesbian Americans from discrimina- dent involving drugs. tion at federal contractors until President According to Baltimore Police Enter the Biggest & Wildest Sombrero Contest Obama corrects the mistake announced spokesperson Sgt. Valencia Knox, by White House staff a few weeks ago no arrests have been made, and Prizes on tap and issues a new executive order ban- the case remains under investiga- tion. t Grand Central Nightclub 1001-1003 North Charles St. Baltimore, MD ning workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation,” he continued. 410.752.7133 www.centralstationpub.com Visit us on Facebook The EEOC decision follows a trend set by

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // From the Keystone State PA Nominates its throughout the world. The leadership-devel- First Openly Gay opment event will feature presentations by such figures as conservative footballer Tim Legislator Tebow. In the past few years, Chick-fil-A has reportedly donated more than $3 million to Harrisburg – On April 25, antigay organizations, including National former Equality Pennsylva- Organization for Marriage and Focus on the nia Board President, Brian Family, drawing protests and boycotts by the Sims won the nomination LGBT communities and progressives. to serve the 182nd House A protest may be looming on Drexel’s District. He has no oppo- campus if the event continues as planned. nent in November’s gener- Ted Faigle, program manager of Drexel’s al election and that means Brian Sims Program for LGBT Health, contacted uni- he will come to Harrisburg versity officials April 18 to lodge a complaint as the Pennsylvania Gen- about university support for the event. The eral Assembly’s first openly gay member. webcast is part of the “Creating Experien- “This is a long overdue victory for LGBT tial Opportunities for Leadership Educa- Pennsylvanians,” said Ted Martin, execu- tion and Development” series held by the tive director of Equality Pennsylvania. “No Office of Campus Activities. Faigle noted longer will we have to embarrassingly admit that, ideally, the university would cancel the that the place that gave birth to the Declara- event but, if not, supporters are prepared to tion of Independence and the U.S. Constitu- stage a public protest. “I got in touch with all tion has no openly gay members serving in of the networks of LGBT people and allies its highest governing body. This is a relief and got a deluge and it gives us hope.” of responses,” he He adds, “A relief that a member of said. “People have our community will finally participate in the really kicked into governing decisions that impact our lives action over this.” and a hope that Sims represents one more Members of the step for Pennsylvania in truly caring about LGBT student community have met to make the lives of its LGBT citizens. We also con- plans for a May 4 action. gratulate other victors last night such as In a statement released to PGN, the uni- Equality PA endorsed openly LGBT candi- versity said that it is “committed to fostering dates like Chris Dietz, Kelly Jean McEntee a community grounded in open dialogue and and Jeff Dahlander. We will work to see that a respect for diversity, a community that can they also join the State House come Janu- engage with curiosity and humility, honoring ary 2013.” and celebrating people’s fundamental differ- Equality Pennsylvania is the statewide ences and similarities.” The university added voice for LGBT Equality in the Common- that the webcast is “one of many leader- wealth of Pennsylvania and works collab- ship events sponsored by corporations oratively to establish a comprehensive net- throughout the year to provide students at work of individuals and organizations united Drexel the opportunity to build their leader- in securing equal rights for the LGBT com- ship skill set.” t (Philadelphia Gay News munity. For more information: www.equali- – Jen Colletta at Epgn.com) typa.org. Equality Pennsylvania is a proud member of the Equality Federation. t

Drexel LGBT EXTRA! students plan Coming up next! protest of Chick- OUTloud’s fil-A conference

Philadelphia, PA – The LGBT and ally community on Drexel University’s campus TRAVEL is preparing to mobilize against a planned leadership event next week – one that is m organized by a notorious right-wing food chain. Drexel was forging ahead with its May 4 Chick-fil-A Leadercast, a daylong confer- ISSUE ence broadcast live from Atlanta to venues

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 b eyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker who joined Northaven UMC after leaving Phoenix LGBT Oak Lawn UMC, is one of several local Methodists who continue to push for the youth agency opens church to become more inclusive of LGBT people. The UMC’s General Conference is drop-in center held every four years. The Rev. Troy Plummer is the execu- Phoenix, AZ tive director of the Chicago-based Recon- – The One in ciling Ministries Network. Plummer said Ten youth ser- on LGBT issues, the American church is vices agency becoming more tolerant. “I am absolutely celebrated the convinced with all my heart, if you took a opening of vote of American delegates, the exclusive its new drop- language would be removed,” he said. The in center and wording he referred to states, “The prac- high school Jennifer Tyrrell & son tice of homosexuality is incompatible with program with a Christian teaching.” That language is the ribbon-cutting event. Phoenix Mayor Greg basis for not ordaining “practicing” homo- Stanton did the honors when the ceremo- sexuals, refusing to allow clergy to marry nial ribbon was cut at the center on April same-sex couples and even excluding 13.The one n ten center opened earlier gays and lesbians from church member- this year at 3660 N. Third St., a building ship in isolated cases. Plummer thinks a that sits on stilts and is known by locals at resolution to remove the offending lan- “the Flintstone building” for its irregularly guage has a chance of passage. He said shaped windows. “The coolest building in his organization will have hundreds of vol- town houses the coolest organization in unteers working at the conference. town,” Stanton said during his remarks. Mary Lowrance is the minister of con- The free accredited high school cur- riculum is being offered in partnership with the Arizona Virtual Academy. It’s the new- est of the programs offered by the agency that serves LGBT and questioning youth and young adults between the ages of 14 and 24. The 2,900-square-foot structure includes a reception area, lounge, activ- ity room, offices and kitchen. The agency serves meals to youth. The building also has a shower, which was installed for the use of one n ten youth who may be home- less. One n ten estimates that the new Travis County District Attorney center serves 60 to 80 youth a day. Rosemary Lehmberg Besides programs at the Phoenix cen- ter, one n ten offers weekly programs in Tempe, Glendale and Mesa. The new one gregational life at Northaven UMC but she n ten center replaces the YEP! House, a surrendered her orders when she came smaller structure that closed earlier this out and she cannot perform weddings, year after the grant that funded it expired. confirmations or baptisms. She said that at (Echo Magazine – Glenn Gullickson at the 2008 conference, held in Fort Worth, Echomag.org) —continued on page 18 Texas Methodist These news notes have been compiled, seek rights within with permission, from the online version church of various newspapers and other web sites. We thank these publications for allowing us to bring you their news sto- Dallas, TX – In 1990, Shirley Cooper and ries. Usually the reports have been sig- her husband walked out of Oak Lawn Unit- nificantly edited and you can read the ed Methodist Church after a pastor told full story by going to the web site men- members gays and lesbians weren’t wel- tioned following the item. Comments come there. Twenty-two years later, Coo- are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker per, one of the founders of PFLAG Dallas, and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride is in Tampa this week, where the UMC is Media. holding its General Conference. Cooper,

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 very opinionated columnists. I do not always agree with them, but I am just a servant of the community. My obligation is to ensure that all voices are heard. That makes the water boil! I think sometimes that folks have ex- pected me to be assimilated into the LGBT orgs simply because I edit an LGBT news- paper. I think those organizations have a le- gitimate role both in LGBT journalism and in Froggy’s the LGBT community. That said, neither I, in particular, nor Baltimore OUTloud, are their mouthpiece. The community deserves more Dilemma? than that. “You know, I think they were getting Nobody jumps willingly into a bad situation, almost too devoted to us? We have been but when a bad situation grows on one grad- such an unrivalled centre of their lives and ually, it can become tolerable. If you put a thoughts. It doesn’t do for minds develop- frog in a pot of cool water, the legend says, ing to be completely dependent on one per- and slowly bring it to a boil, the frog will doze son,” shuddered Mrs. Thornton in Richard off and be cooked without ever knowing what Hughes’ A High Wind in Jamaica. New York happened. My friend Kermit insists that it is Review Books refers to Hughes’ 1929 novel only a legend. as a tale of “of seduction and betrayal, of Some people say that Kermit is not a real accommodation and manipulation, of weird frog, and that since he was not born a frog humor….” he has no right to speak on the issue. Not The story is about a group of children on wanting to test the theory on either a real a ship with pirates. I see our LGBT commu- frog or one who identifies as a frog I decided nity as a metaphor of those children, and our to leave the matter to the experts, well, the LGBT orgs, in a sense, as the pirates! We self-proclaimed experts. It got ugly. It always run the risk of getting almost too devoted to does. them. It does not do, as Mrs. Thornton might Still, I think there is some truth to the have said, for our minds “to be completely legend. After a few days in the mountains, I dependent on one” person, organization, returned home and the first thing on my gay or worldview. Yet that is what we have al- agenda was a good hot bath. I had been do- lowed ourselves to do. In so doing we have ing some heavy lifting and some gardening, lost vital voices. Owen Smith wrote in this using muscles I had not used since I had issue of Baltimore OUTloud that a local club been a tadpole, pre-transformation, that is. “chose to listen to the impacted parties and I stepped into the bath and jumped im- instead of turning away or getting defensive mediately out, using language I would never they took a long look inside themselves and share with my readers. My usual course is to found courage to get help.” That is the kind start the bath with me in the tub, slowly let- of courage that our community needs, the ting the temperature rise. Doing it that way, courage to look inside of ourselves. gradually, makes the heat bearable. I never “To take a metaphor from tadpoles, bring it to a boil, at least not intentionally. though legs were growing the gills had not During the past year or so, it has come yet dropped off,” Hughes wrote in High to a boil. When I began writing City Desk, I Wind. We are like a tadpole becoming a was not an activist. I was a transwoman liv- frog; in a sense. ing in stealth, and rarely wrote about any- The LGBT community has outgrown its thing political. The closest I came was my orgs. As Reverend Moise points out in this support of Gregg Bernstein for State’s At- week’s Crossroad Chronicles, “Ego driven torney, but that was about getting bad guys personalities who care nothing for the suf- with guns off Baltimore City streets. Issues fering masses of queer folk,” have driven of public safety have neither the venom nor much of the agendas of our orgs. Our life in the passion of LGBT politics. I wish they had, the pond with the orgs can no longer sustain at least, the passion. life. Simply, we must mature and grow. This Over the past year, especially since last is more than simple maturation, just as the May, when I was asked me to edit the paper, tadpole is more than just a frog in miniature; the water has gotten hotter. As editor, I no it is a new creature. It is a transformation. t longer have the option of considering only City Desk is not an editorial, the opinions my own opinions. Baltimore OUTloud has expressed here are wholly my own.

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Kitts, a former marketing of- have never been asked to say otherwise.” ficial for the Colorado Ava- Asked if hockey is more suitable for lanche; and Glen Witman, players to come out than in other sports, founder and president of Kitts pointed out that hockey, like many OUT Gforcesports.org formed sports, is a big family. “All sports stress a project called “You Can the same things: teamwork, hard work, tal- Spoken Play.” Using testimonials ent and skill – all things that You Can Play Steve Charing through videos from a grow- wants recognized ahead of sexual orien- ing cadre of current play- tation or other factors. There’s an irony in ers in the National Hockey hockey being the sometimes rough sport League, You Can Play’s it is being asked to take the lead with You It Gets Better primary goal is to change Can Play and we’re all grateful. But, you’re the mindset so many be- going to see the same terrific response in for Gay lieve controls athletic locker lacrosse, soccer, rowing, baseball, football rooms today and make the and any sport where effort and winning are Athletes Too environment safer for a gay valued.” pro athlete to be out – not If a gay hockey player were to come By Steve Charing just in hockey but all sports out, the impact on other professional sports When we celebrate Jackie Robinson Day – pro and amateur. will be significant. “The first several play- in baseball each April – the anniversary I spoke with one of the ers to come out, in any sport, will have tre- of the Brooklyn Dodgers’ star breaking the co-founders of You Can mendous impact and serve as role models color barrier – I always wonder if a gay Play, Brian Kitts, to find out for gay and straight athletes alike,” Kitts ex- ballplayer would summon up the courage if it’s getting better for gay plained. “The history of sport is highlighted of the late Hall of Famer who dealt with pro athletes. by ‘firsts’ among races, religions and other overt racism in baseball and in the U.S. “We share a platform with a number of heard nothing but positive response from factors that we think make us different. and come out. We are still waiting for a gay projects goals of erasing intolerance and fans and other players and executives for They set standards for success that gay athlete as strong as Robinson who would promoting equality, including programs those who have participated. Frankly, if and lesbian athletes will follow. At some be willing to endure a potential barrage of founded by other athletes,” Kitts explained. there has been resistance, it’s been limited point, a player’s sexual orientation will be taunts from teammates, opponents and “You Can Play is different in that the part- and silent. You learn as much from those a footnote in the history of an athlete’s or fans. nership is between gay and straight allies, who ignore your requests than those who team’s success. t No professional male athlete has ever and that the focus is solely on changing the say yes or tell you no from the start. We The full interview is at SteveCharing. come out of the closet while actively play- culture of sport. We don’t ask our support- can count those men on one hand.” blogspot.com. ing. It has happened at the collegiate level, ers or video messengers to take a stand Kitts believes there have been and but not professionally. Most likely the rea- on marriage or workplace equality, for in- are gay and lesbian players at all levels of son is centered on the fear of reaction from stance. We’re specifically trying to change hockey. The percentages point to a num- You’ll visit: the teammates. How will he be perceived the culture of locker rooms and arenas.” ber of gay teammates in the NHL and any LGBT Players and general managers are con- sport. “Let’s be clear that You Can Play Grand Turk, in the locker room? Turks and In one sport, hockey, the environment tacted to determine if there is interest in started with hockey, but the issues and PRIDE may be improving. participating. “We’ve been honored to have opportunities for acceptance apply to any Caicos When Brendan Burke, 21, a former col- a number of players volunteer after hav- sport at any level.” Half Moon Cay, legiate hockey goalie and student manager ing heard about You Can Play,” Kitts said. This campaign will undoubtedly ease the RIDE the Bahamas of the Miami (Ohio) University ice hockey “There’s something truly inspirational about burden of a gay player to come out. I asked team and son of the NHL’s Toronto Maple some of the guys who just showed up un- Brian Kitts if a gay athlete will be more vis- Freeport, Leafs general manager Brian Burke came announced Ottawa to shoot a video seg- ible soon. “Film, music, the military and cor- the Bahamas out as gay in November 2009, there was ment.” He credits Brian and Patrick Burke porate life are now places where men and a flood of international support by news for doing the heavy lifting in that regard. women can be openly gay. Sports, incred- Cruise from Baltimore! outlets and fans. Brendan advocated toler- But has there been much resistance or ibly, remains [a place] where discrimination ance and spoke out against homophobia in any overt homophobia during this effort? is tolerated and assumed. We’ve found that September 23-30 professional sports. Happily not, according to Kitts. “We’ve many, many players aren’t homophobic, but SAVE THE AIRFARE: His father, who was also the GM for the start your vacation close to home U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team in Van- couver, issued a statement: “I had a million New SaleS Includes live music, food, good reasons to love and admire Brendan. DvDS StartiNg entertainment, Private Cocktail This news didn’t alter any of them… There $5 Off $25 at $1.95 Party, Champagne & Strawberries, are gay men in professional hockey. We Or MOre Q&A and Book Signing with famous would be fools to think otherwise. And it’s gay author John Simpson, special sad that they feel the need to conceal this. performance by LOGO chart-topper, I understand why they do so, however… Tom Goss, & more! Since he wishes to blaze this trail, I stand GREENMOUNT BOOKS beside him with an axe! 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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 be able to use all the creative tools and day... with no night within us. tactics at their disposal to make a political Our community needs leaders who de- Ladybug’s point. The Lesbian Avengers did not ask for velop their talents and gifts on a multitude “permission” when they ate fire. ACT UP did of levels, and although sexual orientation Political not listen to critics who chastised them as Crossroads and gender expression is an important Smackdown “too angry.” These direct action groups de- Chronicles part of your lives, it is not all of who you Cathy Brennan serve credit for the GLBT movement’s suc- Rev. Mother Meredith Moise are nor should it be the center of who you cess. To abandon edgy tactics because they are. Firstly, you are a human being! Devel- are “not nice” is a coward’s gambit. Being oping your humanity is a lifelong process “nice” has never gotten females a seat at the and the most important endeavor that you On Bullying table. Being “nice” does nothing to improve A Letter to Young can undertake in this lifetime. An informed lesbian visibility or advance lesbian issues. humanity affords you limitless compassion and Being Nice Being “nice” is a tone argument, a derail. Be- Leaders and boundless hope. It will enable you to cause even when we are “nice,” we still get keep going in the darkest hour and the “Bullying” as a political issue has gained accused of bullying. To my young comrades in the struggle for brightest day. You were born to not just to much traction in recent years, with suicides of Rather than crying about bullying, how freedom, justice and equality: survive but to thrive. GLBTQ youth paving the way for a campaign about you take responsibility for the ele- I do not believe in coincidence or ac- Lastly, our community needs commit- to protect youth. Such a campaign is a worthy ments of the political transgender community cidents. I believe that all of our lives and ted leaders who lead with a servant spir- endeavor, as bullying – aggressive behavior that “bully” Dykes? It is wrong that Lesbians the lives of all people on our planet mani- it. Our movement is at a crossroad. Ego in which the Bully, through force or coercion, fear criticizing gender identity because of the fest in some sort of order. There is a basic driven personalities who care nothing for habitually targets a victim, who usually has backlash such act will earn them. It’s wrong order of birth, sickness, old age and finally the suffering masses of queer folk drive a less power than the Bully or who may be that lesbians have to justify why we don’t death. The Buddha told us that. While we lot of the “agenda” of a host of organiza- otherwise “different” from the bully – harms want to engage sexually with dick (or former are living life, there is an order. Despite tions in our community. With that, we see children. Bullying is not a new GLBT issue. In dick) holders. It’s wrong that females cannot the random ups and downs that seem to an unbalanced focus on one issue over the the 1990s, the community rallied around Ja- establish a sex-segregated boundary with- crop up in our lives, there is an order to ap- bread and butter life issues. It has been mie Nabozny, a gay youth who endured con- out having to explain ad nauseum why we parent chaos. Call it karma or divine provi- very disturbing to see one or two groups siderable abuse due to his sexual orientation. want it. It is wrong that instead of addressing dence, our lives are amazingly ordered working for the health and safety of LGBT Over the last year, the issue of anti-gay Bul- the legitimate grievances Females have with even if chaos seems to be the order of the youth, while others seem to avoid those lying has garnered even more attention, cul- gender identity legislation, the GLBT Move- moment. Even in this crazy time of con- issues that LGBT kids face. You must run minating in the conviction of a former Rutgers ment tells us that we are bullies. stant change, there is a systemic series of with the ball and cultivate allies who will University student for his role in Tyler Clem- Imagine what would have happened if, events. There is always a cause and an help to elevate our causes on a national enti’s suicide. We owe it to children to protect in the 1980s, middle-of-the-road gay activ- eventual effect. Madness may rule the day and international level. Cultivate your skills them from bullying, and each adult must do ists convinced Larry Kramer that he was but even the madness has an ordered pur- to the highest degree to effectively lead her level best to protect children from attacks too aggressive? What if establishment gay pose. and create the change you want to see. that can inflict lifelong damage. activists in Maryland convinced the Lesbian Your lives merge wonderfully in this Don’t wait for somebody else to do it. Your As an activist, though, I am constantly Avengers that they were in fact to blame for order of chaos and calm, monotony and time is now! mindful of the methods used to silence those stalled gay civil rights legislation? madness. When I observe young activists, We need leaders who lead by both who express politically unpopular opinions in It is to laugh! We need aggressive tactics I see your lives through the lens of cour- heart and head. Intellect is not enough to the GLBT community. The Bully line has been – and difficult conversations – to create real age, love and basic goodness. win the fight. Intellect and heart in balance used early and often to silence those who change. You are products of centuries of sacri- will create the change we want to see. In challenge the current GLBT march towards There is another irony about the bully fice and decades of struggle and protest. short, let your love of life, family, friend and gender identity purgatory. That is, lesbians meme. Over the last year, only a handful of From ancestors who came on ships to toil neighbor lead you to seek freedom, justice who challenge gender identity – and sharply individuals from the GLBT Community have under the oppressors’ lash or the system’s and equality. The struggle begins inside challenge transgender women who violate publically spoken out against actual violent force, you come from strength and zeal. and ripples out to the world. Develop your sex-segregated space, including our vaginas language aimed at Lesbians. Instead, such From kindred spirits who shouted, “ACT heart and all else will eventually follow. t – are bullies. Indeed, we are called “trans- violent rhetoric – proffered by individuals UP!” or elders who sang, “I’m gay and I exterminationists” with “blood on our hands.” hailed as movement leaders – has gone was born this way!” fierce queer folks who We are “bullies” because we don’t agree completely unchallenged by the establish- defied the odds and lived their lives, get- with you, political transgender community. ment GLBT organizations. In the face of ting their life, forge you. Because it’s not as if we lesbians can “force” overwhelming silence from GLBT organiza- Now it’s your turn to add to the move- Rev. Mother Meredith you to do anything – we cannot even get you tions regarding these violent threats, calls ment for rainbow liberation. The gifts you to listen and comprehend our objections to for “niceness” now that lesbian activists have possess cannot be measured or quanti- Moise, ordained Old overbroad gender identity legislation without ratcheted up efforts against overbroad gen- fied. Our community needs you! Your are you threatening to maim us or wishing we der identity legislation seem hollow, at best. being drafted into a glorious struggle, a Catholic priest, specializing would die in a fire. As for “less power,” do Instead of appropriating a serious issue struggle that is global in nature and ex- you actually believe that a handful of lesbian children and youth face to advance your own pansive in its scope. With that, be mindful in weddings, baptisms, activists who do political advocacy around political cause, what if you, political trans- of your responsibilities to yourselves and funerals, home blessings, gender identity in their spare time have gender community, engaged in an actual the people you serve. Being who you are power over a GLBT movement that has fully debate on the issue of sex versus gender without apology is the first step in our com- spiritual direction. embraced gender identity as a cornerstone identity. The political transgender community munity’s liberation. For generations, there of our community’s liberation? has benefitted muchly from female socializa- have been LGBT people who have had to For more information, It is to laugh! tion in a sexist society and our “endless” pa- hide their identities and live two and three So, where is the bullying? Point of fact, tience and tolerance for bullshit. It seems, lives in order to just exist. In this day, that 410-900-2021 or there is no bullying. Adults should be able however, that our patience has done run out. is falling away. You are on the front lines, to engage in political debate – even heated, Stop dodging the issue with the bully club. t creating a new day in which we all can [email protected] profane political debate. And adults should live openly as who we are; children of the 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com equality maryland Doing the Right Thing

By Owen Smith transgender community and added signs Many of us who get to work every day to the insides of restrooms explaining on LGBT issues are used to noticing ev- the Hippo’s welcoming and excepting erything that is wrong and the injustices policies for the establishment and lastly in our state. I have to remember and ac- agreed to have a staff training on trans- knowledge when people and businesses gender sensitivity. do the right thing! In April, all of the full-time staff at the After a few stumbling blocks, Bal- Hippo gathered for an hour and half for timore’s Club Hippo reached out to a sensitivity training. The staff was en- Equality Maryland for help. They, like gaged and very receptive. By the end of many businesses in the city, didn’t have the training the participants knew termi- a full understanding of Baltimore City’s nology as well as experiences faced by law that prohibits discrimination against transgender Marylanders (as transgen- transgender individuals. The Hippo was der people report them) and came up specifically interested in learning how with concrete next steps that the staff as to accommodate transgender and gen- individuals and the Hippo can do to im- der non-conforming people in their es- prove transgender people’s lives. Many tablishments. They had inadvertently of them even took action by signing offended and hurt members of that postcards to be delivered to their elect- community and wanted to ensure that ed officials urging them to pass non-dis-

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Club Hippo staff working on a group exercise during transgender sensitivity training Miss. Leon’s Contest credit: Owen Smith May 19 @ 10 p.M.. it didn’t happen again. The staff at the crimination protections for transgender Hippo chose to listen to the impacted and gender non-conforming individuals. Mr. Triple L Leather Man Contest parties and instead of turning away or I hope that the Hippo will be a shin- getting defensive they took a long look ing example of what local businesses inside themselves and found courage to and institutions can do to create a safer get help. Maryland for its transgender and gender Monday’s The first step was to meet with the non-conforming populations. ToM reyes Jazz JaM 8pM owner and general manager and do a More places in Maryland should fol- mini training on transgender needs and low the Hippo’s lead and educate them- Wednesdays experiences and do a quick overview of selves on the experiences of transgender KaraoKe 8 To MidnighT the establishment and what I saw (as a people. Little by little, we could actually transgender person and advocate) as create real systemic change and greatly possible ways to be more welcoming. shift the devastating discrimination and Thursdays The Hippo took several significant steps hatred this small but mighty population Trivia nighT to make things better, they apologized experiences every day. t to the impacted person, wrote a letter Owen Smith is Equality Maryland’s VOTED ONE OF THE BEST BARS IN BALTIMORE 2010 to the editor in Gay Life, that included field organizer for gender equality is- Leons a strong welcoming statement for the sues. 870 Park Avenue 410.539.4993’ Baltimore’s Best Happy Hour BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 hel a th & wellnesS

There are two key things to understand treatment with three or fewer pills a day. for the viral load to become undetectable. If about taking ARV’s. They are only effective when Current recommendations for when to start this does not happen, it is usually necessary to taken in combination and they will only stay effec- ARV’s are based mainly a person’s CD4 count switch to different ARV combination. tive when taken every day, missing no more than and their readiness to start medication. It is vi- Preventing & treating opportunistic infec- 3 days a month and never missing more than 1 tal that people with CD4 levels below 200 start tion – For people with CD4 counts below 200, an- Open Wide day in a row. Most effective ARV combinations treatment because they are at risk for opportu- tibiotics are needed to prevent some dangerous ask Dr Eva include three different medicines from three dif- nistic infections and death. People with CD4’s infections that are common in people with AIDS. Dr Eva Hersh ferent classes. Using combinations of ARV’s is between 200 and 350 are also strongly advised All people with CB4 counts below 200 should necessary because when only one type of ARV is to start medication to prevent further damage take an antibiotic, usually Sulfamethoxazole- used, the virus quickly mutates to become geneti- to the immune system. People with CD4’s be- trimethoprim (Bactrim), to prevent a deadly type HIV: Coping with a cally resistant, or “immune,” to that class of medi- tween 350 and 500 are advised to start ARV’s of pneumonia called PCP or Pneumocystis carinii cation. This means that type of ARV is no longer to prevent immune system damage. People pneumonia. People with CD4’s under 50 should New Diagnosis – part 2 effective; so far, fewer HIV treatment options are with CD4’s over 500 are also offered ARV’s, but also take a different antibiotic, usually azithromy- available for that person. Missing doses of ARV’s it is not as urgent for them to start medication as cin, to prevent mycobacterium avium (MAC), a There are three major categories of medicines also triggers HIV resistance. Missed ARV doses for those with CD4’s below 500. type of tuberculosis, which only occurs when the used in treating HIV. The first category I’ll dis- are the main cause of HIV resistance today. With ARV’s, “get ready” comes before immune system is badly damaged. These antibi- cuss are antiretrovirals, which are necessary Once resistance mutations happen, there “start.” Because of the risk of resistance, no otics do not cause HIV resistance, so opportunis- for almost everyone with HIV infection. is a permanent change in that person’s HIV one should start ARV’s until they are able to tic infection prevention can and should be started Antiretrovirals. This term is abbrevi- sensitivity pattern. Treating their HIV will al- consistently take medication every day. This immediately after the low CD4 is discovered, ated as ARV’s. Other names for these same ways be more difficult. Once a person has can mean dealing with problems like depres- even if the person is not ready to start ARV’s. medications include HAART, ART, CART, and resistant HIV, they can pass it on to others. sion, homelessness, addiction or alcohol People with very low CD4 counts, especially “the cocktail.” Antiretrovirals are medications, About 15% of new HIV infections are resistant abuse, which decrease a person’s chances of under 100, often already have an opportunistic which suppress the HIV virus and eliminate to some ARV medications from the start, even success. Alternatively, it can simply mean tak- infection when HIV is first diagnosed. Treatment it from the bloodstream. These medicines do before the person takes any medication. ing a few weeks to take a “practice” medica- for these infections should be started immediately, not completely rid the body of the virus. No Taking three different medications usually tion, for example, a daily vitamin, and not start- and may require hospitalization. medication available today can do that. does not mean taking three different pills every ing ARV’s until taking medication has become I’ll conclude this series next issue, discuss- Most ARV’s work by preventing the vi- day, or taking medicine several times a day. a consistent part of your daily routine. ing HIV as a chronic illness. Email me with oth- rus from making copies of itself. AZT was the There are several kinds of HIV treatments, Your doctor will do a blood test to check er HIV questions you’d like me to address. t first ARV. There are now more than 20 differ- which combine two or three different medi- your HIV viral load once a month after start- Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physician. ent ARV’s, in six different classes. Each class cines into one pill. Most people starting HIV ing ARV’s until no virus is detectable. 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8995 Lambskin Lane, Columbia, MD 21045 The Byzantine Rite Old Catholic Church is pleased to announce Rev. Dorothy Harris, Founding Pastor the opening of our Cathedral of Saint Antony We are no longer at First Unitarian. Divine Liturgy is now Saturdays 2 PM at Long Contact us to Join our mailing list: [email protected] Green Center, 115 E. Melrose, Avenue in Baltimore, MD. For more information, contact [email protected] or 443-691-4926. www.ufccolumbia.org http://church.revdanielromanos.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Live ly Arts // music

titular union anthem, citing “30 years of sicians, in this case Shahzad Ismaily, Grey Gersten and Marc iMusic: In Sinead’s Shadow Reaganomics” and more. There’s also Ribot. That said, the elements that make a Jolie Holland re- “Amendment” (in which she addresses cord what they are, specifically Holland’s unique vocal style, By Gregg Shapiro abortion and civil unions), “Splinter” and “J.” When it comes to are all in place here and are used to best effect on “All Those Don’t let the strange album art or the clunky title deter you. How love, DiFranco makes it clear which side she’s on in songs such Girls,” “Remember,” “Tender Mirror,” “Wreckage” and a cover of About I Be Me (and You Be You)? (One Little Indian) is Sinéad as “Life Boat” (comes closest to echoing the feel of “Red Letter Townes Van Zandt’s “Rex’s Blues.” O’Connor’s triumphant return to form, whatever form that takes. Day”), “Albacore,” “Hearse” and “Mariachi.” Of all the artists mentioned here, it’s Theresa Andersson While you’re at it, try to overlook O’Connor’s recent headline Dar Williams and Ani DiFranco are kindred spirits in the folk who comes the closest to capturing the spirit and energy of making misbehavior, including unfortunate relationship trouble realm. Both women have spent their careers striking Sinead O’Connor on “Street Parade” (Basin and talk of suicidal thoughts. The turbulence obviously makes a musical balance between their progressive politics Street). For starters, Andersson’s voice is for compelling art. How About I Be Me (and You Be You)? is the and the search for domestic tranquility. Williams’ lat- as powerful as O’Connor’s and she knows place where O’Connor’s various influences such as reggae, folk, est In The Time of Gods (Razor & Tie) finds her still how to use it to her best advantage, espe- punk, come together in one explosive and deeply personal pack- fighting the good fight on “I Am The One Who Will cially on songs such as “Injuns,” “Listen To age. The oft-married/divorced O’Connor touches on weddings Remember Everything,” “This Earth,” My Heels,” “Hold On To Me,” “What Comes and love on the buoyant “4th and Vine,” the giddy “Old Lady,” the “I Have Been Around The World,” “Write This Next,” “Fiya’s Gone,” “Endymion” and the joyous “The Wolf is Getting Married” and “I Had A Baby.” Never Number Down,” “Storm King” and even the “epic title track. She also shares O’Connor’s re- one to shy away from controversy, especially when it come to biker song” “You Will Ride With Me Tonight.” spect for musical variety, something that is religion and the Catholic church, O’Connor expresses herself on Canadian folkie Rose Cousins takes her songs audibly on display throughout this exciting “Take Off Your Shoes” and “V.I.P.” She is still virulently anti-drug in a personal direction on We Have Made A Spark album. (remember “Big Bunch of Junkie Lies”?) as you can hear on the (Old Farm Pony). Utilizing the kinds of talent connec- Grammy Award recipient Esperanza devastatingly insightful “Reason With Me,” but maintains a sense tions for which the folk scene is notorious, Cousins Spalding returns with the all-star affair Ra- of humor on her cover of “Queen of Denmark” and when she is joined by a dazzling array of artists including Ana E speranza Spalding dio Music Society (Heads Up), bringing rhymes “no wuss” and “serious” on 4th and Vine,” for instance. Egge, Edie Carey, Rose Polenzani, Kris Delmhorst, jazz and soul, with subtle traces of folk (see Ani DiFranco set the bar high with her brilliant 2008 disc Red Jennifer Kimball and Amy Correia, on standout “Black Gold”), to the table. Tristen, on the other hand, tweaks Letter Year. Her strongest studio effort in a number of years, it songs such as “The Darkness,” “The Shell,” “What I See,” “For her modern folk with a touch of twang on “Charlatans at the ranks among her best recordings. ¿Which Side Are You On? The Best” and a cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “If I Should Fall Garden Gate” (American Myth). t (Righteous Babe) isn’t quite as dazzling as its predecessor Behind.” On May 11, Dar Williams will perform in Wilmington, Del- is, but it’s still way better than Up Up Up Up Up Up or To The On her previous albums, Jolie Holland’s name stood by aware, at World Cafe Live at the Queen; on May 12 she is Teeth. As political as ever, DiFranco, joined by Pete Seeger, itself. Pint of Blood (Anti-) is credited to Jolie Holland & The in Annapolis at Rams Head Tavern; and on June 9 she adds her own updated flair and fury to Florence Patton Reece’s Grand Chandeliers, which suggests a bigger role for other mu- plays Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania at the Bryn Mawr Gazebo. A Tribute to Barbra Streisand Starring Carla DelVillaggio NOW PLAYING! Sunday, June 24 •• 3pm

Gordon Theenter GordonC CenterFor PerforFormin the G PerformingArts Arts 35063506 GwynnbrookGwynnbrook Ave.Ave. OwingsOwings Mills,Mills, MDMD For inFForormA tiontickets on tcall:iCkets CAll: 4141 0 0 - - 3 3 5 5 6 6 -74 -74 69 69 Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, dates & times are subject to change. www.carlaissimplystreisand.net FACEBOOK “fan page” - www.facebook.com/#!/funnygirltoo

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Live ly Arts // OUT ON SCREEN The Raven – Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Jr., but, again, this really isn’t a film that al- b y Chuck Duncan Poe can certainly be a 19th century, crime solving action lows one to quibble with facts. It’s more of a romantic no- Baltimore, 1849, just days before the death of Edgar Allan hero. At least the movie doesn’t take place in the modern tion to imagine Poe spending his last days trying to save Poe (under mysterious circumstances), a mother and daugh- era, because seeing your hometown on the screen is very his fiancée’s life (also fictional), and Cusack’s Poe iscer- ter are found murdered in their locked apartment with appar- distracting when they get it wrong (and the movie was not tainly someone you want and need to root for. Luke Evans’ ently no escape route for the killer. A spring-loaded window shot anywhere near Baltimore, but some of the architecture Fields is very straight-laced and stalwart, and takes no guff leads Detective Fields (Luke Evans) to connect the brutal does have a local flavor). from anyone, while Alice Eve has to make Emily charming murders with a familiar story, one written by Mr. Poe. At first, The plot cleverly interweaves the enough for the audience to want Poe to find Poe is a suspect due to his intimate knowledge of the crime, most horrific elements of Poe’s stories her before it’s too late. Luckily, she does just but a second murder (from The Pit and the Pendulum) forces with the “real life” crimes committed by that, even though she spends the bulk of her the police to bring Poe into the case to help solve the crimes. the killer, who also interjects his own screen time buried alive. Gleeson and Kevin (An interesting note: the character killed by the pendulum flourishes (which Poe angrily brushes McNally (from the Pirates of the Caribbean was a real adversary of Poe who wrote Poe’s obituary for off as plagiarism), and some Poe histo- series) sometimes ham it up and chew on the New York Tribune, and proceeded to destroy Poe’s repu- rians may appreciate the reveal of the the scenery a little too much, but they be- tation after his death with lies of drug addiction and forged killer’s name and its actual connection The Raven come more tolerable as the film progresses. letters!) Poe’s own romantic entanglement with the daughter to Poe. The film, which takes place for The only two quibbles I have are: the killer of Captain Hamilton (Brendan Gleeson), who despises Poe, the most part (appropriately) at night, looks gorgeous with is almost a little too easily identified long before the reveal gets even more complicated as the killer kidnaps Emily (Al- its warm, but muted color palette, and the script is engaging because of a just-too-obvious performance, and the writers ice Eve) and continues to play a cat-and-mouse game with once the story gets rolling. I had some concerns with the first seem to be setting up the story for a sequel involving another Poe and the police with the assistance of Poe’s stories, but fifteen minutes or so because some of the acting was loud author, but left this viewer disappointed with what seemed who is the killer and what is the end game? and over-the-top, and it almost had the feel of a basic cable, like a rather final end scene … which is a shame because The Raven borrows its look and style, heavily, from the made-for-television movie. With the puzzling first murders, I loved director James McTeigue’s V for Vendetta, and his recent Sherlock Holmes films. If Holmes can be reborn for a the film settled into its gripp ing story, nicely avoiding some visual style in both of these films, so I would have liked to new generation, why can’t Poe? As a Baltimore native with of the more action-oriented style of Guy Ritchie’s Holmes have seen another chapter in this story. As it is, The Raven some knowledge of Poe’s life and death, it was a little dif- films. is very entertaining if you can get past the whole fact vs. fic- ficult to divorce the reality from the fictional creation in the The cast, for the most part, does an admirable job. tion aspect of the story, and you don’t mind a little blood and film, but the writers have taken care to mix in just enough John Cusack plays a more robust version of Poe, more of guts along the way (the pendulum scene is particularly, and fact with fancy so that it doesn’t become entirely implausible. a functioning alcoholic than the frail, sickly author of fact. surprisingly, gruesome). Unlike Poe’s raven, I would not say I mean, if Abraham Lincoln can be a vampire hunter, then At times, he does seem to be channeling Robert Downey, “nevermore” to another chapter of this serial. t Baltimore City Health Department Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre is Proud to HIV Care Linkage Program Announce Our 40th Anniversary Season! Are you or someone you know in need of HIV Primary Medical Care and Case Management Services? HIV is NOT a death sentence; care management can prolong your life and improve your health. Take charge of your life, get life saving treatments. The Baltimore City Health Department, HIV Care Linkage July 20tH June 22nd Team can help and runnIng and runnIng We offer June 15tH weekends July 13tH weekends July 27tH • Care Linkage services to quality medical care providers and runnIng tHrougH and runnIng tHrougH and runnIng • Same-day appointments weekends august 5tH tHrougH July 1st weekends • Referral & Transportation services to first & 2nd appointments tHrougH July 22nd tHrougH July 1st IncludIng august 5tH • Free gift for enrolling 3 weekday Services offered to insured and uninsured clients MatInees Care Linkage Team: Kevin Coger: 410-948-2593 IndIvIdual tIckets go on sale May 2012 Orline Johnson: 410-627-5083 Call the Box Office at 443-840-ARTS (2787) Rodrique Sumpter: 410-627-8374 or e-mail [email protected]. Sheridan Johnson: 443-564-2007 Box offIce Hours: tue-frI 9 a.M. - 3 p.M.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on stage

‘Dolly’ at the Spotlighters centers around Dolly Gal- – continued from front page lagher Levi (Maribeth Eck- Dolly gets inrode), the well-known her man credit: Ken A mega-hit on Broadway, Hello, Dolly! starring the in- matchmaker, who seeks a Stanek comparable Carol Channing, boasted a run of 2,844 con- husband in the half-million- Photography secutive performances that began in 1964, making it at aire Horace VanderGelder the time the longest running musical. The 10-time Tony (Bob Ahrens). While that Award winner called the St. James Theatre its home for quest is in progress, she seven years. matches a rich widow, Irene Jerry Herman (Mame, La Cage aux Folles) penned the Molloy (Eileen del Valle), tuneful music and lyrics, and Michael Stewart wrote the the owner of a hat shop book for the show that had its origins in Thornton Wild- with VanderGelder’s stock er’s 1938 farce The Merchant of Yonkers, which he later clerk, Cornelius Hackl re-titled to The Matchmaker in 1955. And the plot itself (Bart Debicki). Dolly also stemmed from an 1835 English play, A Day Well Spent. sets up Molloy’s assistant, Set in New York during the Gay Nineties, the story Minnie Fay (Holly Gibbs), with Cornelius’s assis- tant, Barnaby Tucker (Jeff Baker). Then she matches Drag Benefit for the poor artist, Ambrose Kemper (Justin Johnson), AIDS Research with VanderGelder’s niece, Ermengarde (Rachel Ve- haaren). Considerable zaniness and chaos ensues amidst the solid acting, dancing and by’s Dinner Theatre (Mid-life! The Crisis Musical) deliv- vocal performances by the cast, and in the end, all the ered a fine performance as the mischievous, scheming characters carve out new paths for their lives and, spoil- Dolly and sang admirably considering the volume issue. er alert – Dolly gets her man. She hit some big notes in her numbers and was fun from Spectacular, colorful period costumes were created the start. by Laura Nicholson. Her attention to detail was astound- Bob Ahrens (Man of LaMancha, Tea & Sympathy) ing, and in every scene it was as though a palette of played the cranky VanderGelder role well but his vocals bright hues donned by the cast members was splashed were not particularly strong. across the stage. Eileen del Valle (The Great American Trailer Park Roark’s skill for spatial economy helped utilize every Musical, Sweeney Todd) as Irene Molloy is a powerful nook and cranny on and around the stage to accommo- vocalist. Her rendition of “Ribbons Down My Back” was date a 16-member cast needed to pull off this magical exceptional, with her voice rising over the volume of the fast-paced show. Set Designer Alan Zemela as well as background music. Roark managed to make the production look big even in Justin Johnson (Tea & Sympathy) as Ambrose and a small venue. The clever trap door to simulate a cellar at Holly Gibbs as Minnie exude enough energy to light up Jessica Wild from Ru Paul’s Drag Race VanderGelder’s Hay & Feed, Irene Molloy’s hat shop and a small town. They each have commanding stage pres- the scene in the Harmonia Gardens restaurant were ex- ence and timing. By Steve Charing cellent examples of this creativity. Choreographer Kris- My apologies for the pun, but “hats off” to Gibbs for The Rainbow Club, an LGBT group from CCBC-Essex, ten Cooley also made good use of the limited space with seamlessly ad-libbing when a snafu on the set occurred. is hosting a drag event called “Drag-U-Cation!” It will her creative formations for the dance numbers. A large hat in the millenary shop accidentally fell from the take place on Wednesday, May 9 from 2:30 to 4:30 And what would Hello, Dolly! be without the music? “It pillar it was mounted on. In character, Gibbs didn’t miss p.m. at the J Lecture Hall on the CCBC-Essex campus, Takes a Woman,” “Put on Your Sunday Clothes,” “Danc- a beat. “I’m so sorry Miss Molloy,” she repeated as she 7201 Rossville Blvd, in Rosedale, Maryland 21237. ing,” “Before the Parade Passes By,” “It Only Takes a Mo- attempted to fix the prop. Jessica Wild from Season 2 of Ru Paul’s Drag Race ment,” and, of course, the classic title song, “Hello Dolly” Much of the comedy was manifested by the duo of will be on hand with local drag performers Miss Gay were stirring, sentimental and tuneful. All the numbers Cornelius and Barnaby, played to the hilt by Bart Debicki Maryland 2009 Sue Nami, Anita Minett and Anastasia. amplified the plot splendidly and were performed well. (The Fantasticks) and Jeff Baker (The Rocky Horror “This event is great for people to attend because When there is a live orchestra, the maestro follows Show), respectively. They fed off each other precisely, not only will it be a drag show but the audience is the vocalists as they perform their numbers. When the and with their over-the-top style and their brightly colored given the chance to ask the performers questions and music is not live, as in this case, the vocalists must keep suits, these guys provided laughter throughout. really understand the world of drag,” Shane Messick, pace with the music. It’s a challenge for the cast but Steve Avelleyra (West Side Story) as Rudolph, the a leader of the Rainbow Club and organizer of Drag- overall they succeeded. Head Waiter, also added to the comedy and showed off U-Cation, told Baltimore OUTTloud. Messick will also But several solo performances were drowned out by some skilled tap dancing as well. emcee the event. the volume of the off-stage music. Both Maribeth Eck- Small stage notwithstanding, this fun-filled, well- Tickets are $5 for regular seats and $7 for VIP enrode (“I Put my Hand In”) and Bob Ahrens (“It Takes performed, beautifully costumed, tuneful production of (first 3 rows) with half of all proceeds to be donated to a Woman”) were victims of the volume mismatch. The Hello, Dolly! is a good match for the Spotlighters and is (AMFAR) for HIV/AIDS research. Tickets are available best musical performances occurred when the ensemble highly recommended. Dolly would agree. t by contacting the CCBC-Essex box office at 443-840- kicked in. With the multiple voices, they deftly overcame Hello, Dolly! runs through May 20 at Audrey Her- ARTS (2787). There is no guarantee tickets will be that hurdle. man Spotlighters Theatre, 817 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, available at the door. t Nonetheless, Eckenrode, a veteran of the Spotlight- Maryland. For tickets, call 410-752-1225, or visit Spot- ers (The Great American Trailer Park Musical) and To- lighters.org. 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Artist Nina Katchadourian explains Talking Popcorn

Live ly Arts // art

and visually stimulating. Her thoughtful, economic use of Plenty to See and Do Locally color and eye-moving compositions are far too successful visually to evoke any indication of “conflict” (a seemingly themed episode, Sharon’s “inaugural gown” was a futur- arbitrary concept to attach to the work). By Michael Farley istic number replete with sci-fi hair and makeup, because Joshua Wade Smith’s assemblages incorporate found Drag is seldom considered a “Fine Art”, but Sharon as she explained, it will be at least 100 years in the future objects and recognizable materials into forms that imply Needles (finalist on this season of RuPaul’s Drag Race) before this country elects a drag queen president. In the challenges and typically bear evidence of the process of has subverted the conventions of both mainstream gay age of pre-packaged gay identity that whitewashes (or their creation. In one piece, three objects rest before a culture and reality television enough to merit a museum spray tans) concerns other than assimilation, wall-mounted case containing a photograph retrospective. Sharon (the stage name of Aaron Coady) Sharon Needles has the potential to be a gen- of a sunset. Velvet-lined pockets in the shape eration’s John Waters. Sharon Needles will of the objects penetrate the image. Both the be performing tonight, May 4; at 10pm at the implied reversal of the game “Operation” and Hippo as part of her Every Night is Halloween the handle of the case invite an interactivity Tour. I am thrilled to be co hosting a costume that the viewer will never get to experience. ball as Ellen Degenerate with Sharon and The objects and the deceptively “clean” look- Amber Alert. There will be prizes for the best ing case evoke nostalgic souvenirs and a Sharon look-a-like as well as the categories portable image/object akin do a devotional Seapunk Realness, Otakunty (think Otakon), relic than specimens. An interactive “table” in Butch-Queen Juggalette, and Put the “Fun” the center of the room dwarfs Smith’s smaller Back in “Religious Fundamentalist”. pieces. A ladder-like lattice forms an infinite Tonight also marks the launch of the loop around the plane. As in most of his work, weekend-long Maryland Film Festival. At 7:30 the artist’s hand is evident in its making, but p.m., John Waters will be presenting Barbara the craftsmanship is excellent. Smith will per- Loden’s Wanda at the Charles Theater. The form on the table May 17 at 7 PM, crawling full program schedule is available at md-filmfest.com. On along the ladder until he is exhausted. On paper, Joshua May 6 at 7PM, Todd Solondz (one of my favorite direc- Wade Smith’s work sounds a little like Matthew Barney’s tors) will be presenting his new film Dark Horse, a (what early installations. In reality, Smith’s is far more endearing. else?) dark comedy featuring Mia Farrow and Christopher He displays a kind of vulnerability in his performances and Walken. object-making more so than the “daredevil” identity work Metro Gallery’s complimentary Videopolis festival that straight, white, male artists so often make. Smith’s opens tonight (Friday) at 7 PM (1700 N. Charles St). craftsmanship, materials, and ergonomic cues scream Kristen Anchor, Jordan Bernier, Kevin Blackistone, Kate “LABOR”, but do so in a way that makes viewers feel he Ewald, John Shea, and nine other video artists will show is seeking his own approval, not ours. Both artists work installations, multi-channel projections, and other pieces is stronger without the other in the room. These are not that do not usually work in a traditional film festival format. pieces about landscape, they are pieces about process Kristen Anchor’s new piece, consisting of two modified (both creating and viewing). The superficial similarities VCRs endlessly pushing broken VHS tapes back and forth between “tropical” motifs has potential to mislead some is sure to be one of the show’s highlights. The perpetual viewers, so when you go to the show, focus on the work, motion machine can bring to mind a conflict, sexual act, not the exhibition. Hamiltonian Gallery is located at 1353 and even a strange sense of sadness. The VCRs end- U Street NW. t lessly dance in futile servitude for masters who have rendered always manages to retain her distinctive character, punk them hopelessly obsolete. aesthetic, and razor-sharp wit while holding a mirror up to As this is our travel issue, a society that can often be vain, corrupt, and cruel. Her I will recommend a day trip to YouTube oeuvre includes a tragicomic peek into the home Washington, DC. Hamiltonian life of Cher and makeup tutorials from a horribly disfig- Gallery’s “Tropical Obstruc- ured pageant queen. She has burned a bible on stage tions” is a two-person show of in Pittsburgh, and now reaches an audience of millions painter Jessica van Brakle and via Rupaul’s Drag Race. She has become the fan favorite Baltimore-based sculptor Josh- of anyone who remembers teen angst with a Stiv Bators ua Wade Smith. Jessica van soundtrack and less like an episode of Glee. Brakle’s paintings are elegant Sharon’s first appearance on RuPaul’s runway was compositions incorporating im- marked by fake blood oozing from her mouth (she won agery of the built and natural en- the challenge). In an episode in which the contestants vironment. According to the art- had to impersonate a celebrity, other competitors opted ist, they strive to convey a “man for predictable favorites Lady GaGa and Beyonce. Sha- vs. nature” tension. Thankfully, ron subverted the whole challenge and imitated one the they do not succeed. Rather show’s judges, the otherwise obscure Michelle Visage. In than communicating a cliché, a contest to create a look inspired by “purse dogs” her they are paintings about look- competitors strove for glamorized Hollywood red-carpet ing at paintings. Her play with looks. Sharon Needles won the challenge by strutting the figure/ground relationship down the runway as a paparazzi-frazzled train wreck with creates interesting compositions a SCRAM bracelet on around her ankle. On a politics that are aesthetically pleasing

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 beyond the beltway the resolution to remove the Incompat- right forum for children to become aware of Hate” initiative. Lehmberg said she wants including: Culturally Competent Repre- ibility Clause was defeated narrowly. “It’s the issue of sexual orientation, or engage to think of ways for possible education op- sentation, Recognition of Name and Sex, got to happen this year, or we’ll be in a in discussions about being gay. Rather, tions to go with the punishment to stop the Relationship Recognition and Protections, period of darkness,” Lowrance said. “It’s such complex matters should be discussed hate. (Dallas Voice – Anna Waugh at Dal- Protecting Parental Rights, Relationship a critical year.” Lowrance said she was with parents, caregivers, or spiritual advis- lasvoice.com) Dissolution, Parental Rights after Relation- cautiously optimistic but doesn’t know ers, at the appropriate time and in the right ship Dissolution, Custody Disputes Involv- what the chances are. If it does pass, she setting. To disagree does not mean to dis- ing Transgender Children, Protections for could seek reinstatement. “I left in good respect and we respect everyone’s right Gay law group Transgender Youth, Intimate Partner Vio- standing,” she said. Of the 988 voting to have and express a different opinion. lence, and Estate Planning and Elder Law. delegates to the conference, 40 percent Scouting will continue to teach our mem- publishes trans (Bay Windows at Baywindows.com) are from outside the U.S. (Dallas Voice at bers to treat everyone with courtesy and family law guide Dallasvoice.com) respect.” (Seattle Gay News – Shaun Knit- tel at Sgn.org) Boston, MA – Gay & Lesbian Advocates Another Rutgers & Defenders has announced publication Ohio lesbian Cub of Transgender Family Law: A Guide to Scout leader fired First lesbian DA Effective Advocacy, the first book to com- in Texas faces prehensively address legal issues facing but fights back transgender people in the family law con- primary fight text and provide practitioners the tools to Bridgeport, OH – In March, the Boy effectively represent transgender clients. Scouts of America removed den leader Austin, TX – Travis County District Attor- Featuring chapters by attorneys with ex- Ribbon cutting for youth center Jennifer Tyrrell, 32, from her position, tell- ney Rosemary Lehmberg is one tough les- pertise in both family law and transgender ing her that because she is lesbian, she bian. As the first female DA in the county’s legal advocacy, the book was edited by “did not meet the high standards” of con- history, she’s made a name for herself as Jennifer L. Levi, director of GLAD’s Trans- student convicted duct set by the Boy Scouts of America. someone who stands up for justice, but her gender Rights Project, and Elizabeth E. for sex incident Tyrrell announced that her seven-year-old Democratic primary opponent may put up Monnin-Browder, a litigation associate in son Cruz would not remain in the national a tough fight. Lehmberg joined the Travis the Boston office of Ropes & Gray and a Middlesex County, NJ – Minjin Oh, 20, of organization because of its discrimination County DA’s office in 1976 with the grand former GLAD attorney. Transgender Fam- Bridgewater, pleaded guilty to aggravated against LGBT leaders and scouts. “We can jury and later as a trial attorney, serving as ily Law: A Guide to Effective Advocacy will criminal sexual contact and invasion of no longer support an organization that has chief of the career criminal, major crimes be available in bound and electronic ver- privacy, both third-degree offenses. Min- these policies and we hope to get them and public integrity divisions. She was sions on May 16, 2012. jin Oh knew his roommate was asleep in changed,” said Tyrrell. “That is our main elected DA in 2009 after serving as first as- “Some of the most heartbreaking sto- their Rutgers University dorm that night goal.” sistant district attorney from 1997 to 2009. ries I have heard in my career as an LGBT two years ago when he began to fondle Now, Tyrrell is fighting back. The moth- Lehmberg’s primary opponent, Charlie legal advocate involve transgender people the other man’s genitals and using his er of four has waged a campaign to bring Baird, didn’t respond to interview requests. in family courts,” said Levi, a nationally cellphone to make a video recording. The awareness to the He served on the Texas Court of Criminal recognized expert on transgender legal is- roommate woke up during the assault Boy Scout policy Appeals for nearly a decade before serv- sues. “The rights of transgender people – and reported it to university police. Within on Change.org. ing as judge for the 299th Criminal District as parents, spouses, and simply as human days of the April 6, 2010, incident, Oh was Already, the pe- Court, according to his campaign website. beings – are often trammeled in family arrested and charged with several sex tition has gar- In 2010, he established the criminal law court because of pervasive crimes. nered 140,000 section of the Fowler Law Firm. There are bias and misunderstanding. The 20-year-old engineering student signatures plus no candidates on the Republican side. Transgender Family Law: A from Bridgewater pleaded guilty to aggra- celebrity en- Under Lehmberg’s leadership, the DA’s Guide to Effective Advocacy vated criminal sexual contact and invasion dorsements. “I office was able to win a conviction in the is a road map for transgen- of privacy in Superior Court, in a case that hated feeling that my family had been dis- money laundering case of former House der individuals and their brought back memories of another recent criminated against, so I started a petition Republican Majority Leader Tom DeLay. attorneys to navigate the case involving sex and video in a Rut- on Change.org asking the Boy Scouts of And despite attempts to move the public family court system in this gers dorm room. Under a plea deal with America to stop discriminating against gay integrity unit over to the attorney general’s evolving area of law.” the Middlesex County prosecutor’s office, “This book tackles a cut- people,” she wrote on the Change.org peti- office, Lehmberg has maintained control Murder victim Oh will be sentenced in August to up to ting edge area of family law tion. “After I was asked to leave, other par- of it. Lehmberg obtained funding for a Jeffrey 364 days in the Middlesex County Adult and we’re thrilled to have ents from my pack were outraged. Some of full-time prosecutor in the environmental Caldwell Correction Center in North Brunswick. He them even waited for hours to voice their protection unit, because her office has contributions from some of remains free on bail. In addition, he will be concerns to Boy Scout officials, but they statewide jurisdiction over environmental this country’s most well- placed on parole supervision for life and were turned away. and water codes. Lehmberg also wants respected experts in this field,” said Mon- be required to register as a sex offender Other organizations like the Girl to expand the “strong hate crimes task nin-Browder. “[It] details the unique needs under Megan’s Law, Prosecutor Scouts and Boys & Girls Clubs of America force” she created in 2010. After the bru- and vulnerabilities of transgender people Bruce Kaplan said in a statement to- welcome gay kids as well as adult lead- tal beatings of two gay men in Austin went in the family law context. I hope transgen- day. Meanwhile, Oh also faces university ers. The Girl Scouts of America has had unsolved in the spring of 2010, Lehmberg der people will read and share it with their disciplinary action, including a diversity policy and non-discrimination said she wanted to use her experience attorneys as they plan a family, navigate Possibly expulsion, Rutgers spokes- clause since 1980. However, the Boy with discrimination to help increase aware- the dissolution of a relationship or a cus- man Greg Trevor said. Although Oh was Scouts of America released the following ness and reporting of hate crimes. The tody dispute, or simply seek to protect their removed from the dorm shortly after his statement, “Scouting, and the majority of task force is continuing its work on valuing rights and those of their children.” The arrest, he had continued attending class- parents it serves, does not believe it is the diversity in schools with the “No Place for chapters address a broad range of topics, es on campus, Kaplan said today. Oh’s attorney, Steven Altman, said the 18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com motivated. DINING If you really think about it, that’s how all of us sometimes talk a good game, but we JL: Best cooking tip for a novice? end up dropping the ball. We lose focus. A SL: Don’t be scared Getting goal’s importance can change depending JL: Favorite kitchen gadget? on our mood on any given day. Other goals Adventures Unstuck SL: 1950s Hobart Mixer Gerry Fisher compete against one particularly challeng- in Baltimore JL: Funniest kitchen incident? ing goal. Being comfortable becomes more SL: Not sure if they would be funny to important. Or avoiding what we are afraid Restaurants Jessica Lemmo outside people but I am known to do some of becomes more important. practical jokes on fellow kitchen staff. It helps Figure it Out I can help in several ways. First, when lighten the mood when things get stressful. we meet regularly – every week or every JL: Favorite food to cook with? other week – it becomes important to do Tooloulou One of my favorite lame jokes is to tell peo- SL: Pork what you said you’d do before you talk to 4311 Harford Road JL: Favorite dish to make at work/signa- ple that I’m partly lesbian. Why? Because me at our next meeting. Second, I teach I love women’s collegiate basketball. Spe- Baltimore, Maryland 21214 ture dish? people skills – such as mindfulness, re- SL: Smoked duck pizza cifically, I’m a huge fan of the University of framing, and techniques from Positive 443-627-8090 • Tooloulou.com Connecticut. The UConn women have won JL: Your favorite cookbook? Psychology – that you can use to stay SL: River Roads Recipes Two – Cajun seven national championships, and I love effectively focused on what you’re doing Tooloulou is new addition to the Harford their style of play. corridor that includes Red Canoe, Koco’s cookbook that was given to me by my mom. today instead of dwelling on something JL: If you were to write & publish a Recently, I decided to re-read Geno: scary that might happen in the future. Fi- Pub and more. Tooloulou, which is Cajun In Pursuit of Perfection, which is UConn for crab, features artisan pizzas, po’boys, cookbook what types of things would nally, I help you to break down problems you include? head coach Geno Auriemma’s memoir. In and manage them, so that ca- ice cream from Prigel Family Creamery and the book, he talks about one of his daily specials. SL: Recipes to make dough and pasta tering to fear doesn’t be- and some traditional family dishes, like gum- recruits calling him with a prob- come more important Co-owner / chef Shawn Lagergren has lem. She has a paper assigned previously worked at places like Luca’s bo, biscuits and potato salad that have been than having a life. given to me by other family members. to her, and she’s stuck. He Let me end by Café, Village Square Café and Dionysus asks when the paper was before he opened Tooloulou. Tooloulou is JL: When at home, what do you like to telling you one of eat? assigned, when it’s due, my favorite UCo- a small space with a storefront and open and whether she had re- kitchen. SL: My wife’s black beans and jalapeno nn women’s bas- corn bread searched it. He finds out ketball stories. Jessica Lemmo: Did you cook grow- that she’s been to the li- ing up? JL: Which item in your home refrigerator My husband, Da- would you least like to cop to? brary and has plenty of vid, and I were on Shawn Lagergren: time left to complete the pa- Yes, Started in my Maw SL: Frozen white vacation in Florida castle burgers. per. She says to him, “I tried, in the spring of Maw’s (grandmother) but I’m stuck.” kitchen at age 4. JL: In your opin- 2000, and we real- ion, what are the most He says, “Well, get un- ized that the UConn JL: What made you stuck”, and then he hangs up the decide you would be- important elements women were playing in when creating a reci- phone. “I guess she wanted me to do the national championship come a professional the paper for her.” cook? pe from scratch? game a few evenings later, and we’d still SL: Who it’s for, To understand where he’s coming from, be away on vacation. We checked the ho- SL: At age 12, I de- it helps to know his background. Auriemma cided that I wanted to balance of flavor, being tel TV, but it didn’t carry the right station. creative. describes being a child immigrant from We checked the hotel lobby and several of own a restaurant. I had Italy, and needing to learn the language a lot of positive experi- JL: What’s your the gay bars in the hotel complex…no luck! favorite music to play and pass second grade his first year in the We then thought to ourselves, “What ences with cooking and U.S.A. (“When you think about it, what is always had an interest in the kitchen? kind of bar is most likely to televise this SL: Ray LaMon- second grade, really? It’s numbers and let- game?” Of course… a lesbian bar! in it. ters. It’s not physics.”) He passed without JL: Where you tagne So, we find a lesbian sports bar in the JL: Best meal you ever staying back. local LGBT community listing, and off we were trained and how So, Geno approaches life this way: Got difficult was your training? have ever eaten at a restaurant? go. We’re nervous, though, because we SL: My birthday dinner at Woodberry a problem? Figure it out. And when a per- fear we won’t be welcome, because we’re SL: I was trained by my grandmother in son pushes back with some version of “I traditional French cooking techniques and Kitchen was amazing. That’s my most re- guys. When we get there, we quickly find cent best meal. can’t,” he says, “You can if it’s really im- out that being a guy is no problem. How- then I started working in kitchens at the age portant to you.” of 22 and trained under various chef’s to JL: What’s your favorite meal? ever it is a problem that we are northern- SL: Steamed crabs with good friends You can if it’s really important to you. ers rooting for a northern team, who just learn all aspects of working in the kitchen. I You can if you make it important enough. wouldn’t say it was difficult; I enjoyed learn- and some Natty Bo. walked into a southern bar filled with south- I have stopped by Tooloulou a few times This really strikes me as I’m reading erners rooting for the University of Tennes- ing all that I could. it, because it’s at the heart of the work I JL: Would you do it again? and tried some great items like the Tooloulou see. But, by half time, it becomes clear that Margherita with pesto sauce, tomatoes, and do as a life & career coach. On the one UConn will win easily, and someone walks SL: Yes! hand, I don’t have the kind of power that JL: What is the best part about the job? fresh mozzarella and the Muffaletta, but by by our table and says, “Hey, winner buys far my favorite so far is the distinct Smoked professional coaches or bosses have over a round!” SL: That I get instant gratification from their people. Not only can I not suspend doing something I love and then seeing peo- Duck pizza with tomato sauce, house That side trip twelve years ago is one of smoked duck, caramelized onion, sweet their pay, fire them, bench them, or take our fondest memories, and it almost didn’t ple enjoying the food that I make. away their scholarship, but my clients fire JL: Best piece of advice you would give peppers, and goat cheese drizzled with bal- happen. I guess watching that game was samic reduction. me if they aren’t pleased. So, for me, it’s important to us. So, we figured it out. t a home enthusiast? about teaching, persuading, nudging gen- SL: Try new things and think outside of Stop by and enjoy some unique flavors Learn more at BaltimoreLifeCoachGer- and friendly service. t tly, entertaining, and inspiring you to stay ry.com the box. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 Spring into fitneSS O serfecR srivate sarty Now booking for Holiday Parties, Happy Hours & Corporate events.

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20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com Mid-Atlantic Leath- erSIR 2012 Edward Woodward, Mr. SECC Leather 2012 Andy Chmielowski- Liu, and Mr. Mary- land Leather 2012 boy joe. The eve- ning began with an open bar cocktail hour. As if I don’t ShipMates love an open bar enough, there was Toast 38 Years! an adorable young blond boy bartend- In 1974, the average cost of a gallon of ing. Baltimore OUT- gasoline was 55 cents, the average cost loud co-publisher, of a new house was $34,900, President Jim Williams, must Nixon resigned in disgrace, pocket cal- have tipped heav- culators started to appear in stores, and ily because he got the Baltimore Orioles finished first in the the young man’s American League East. In April of 1974, telephone number. a group of men got together at the Gal- (Sir Steve did not lery Bar in Baltimore and decided to form tip quite so well and only ended up with the Baltimore Eagle patio that kicks off the a leather/Levi social club. The ShipMates the first three digits!) Since Sammy’s is ShipMates’ Daddy Christmas. You will not Club of Baltimore started with 27 charter not a large space, the tables had to be want to miss “Ho Ho in the Heat!” You will members and quickly grew to 49 men. A lot pushed together forming one large horse- find the ShipMates once again at the Triple L on July 21. has changed since 1974, but the Gallery ShipMates’ boxer shorts got a discount at shoe shaped table. The wonderful Italian August will be a busy month for the club Bar is still serving cold beer and on Sat- the Club Bar beer bust. The money raised food was served family style with breaks with a toga party at the Baltimore Eagle on urday, April 21, 2012, the Shipmates Club by COMMAND went to the Green Bak- between courses. It was like the leather August 4, a luau themed bar night with the of Baltimore gathered at Sammy’s Tratto- er Fund, an account that is used to help Thanksgiving! Sharing the restaurant with Reading Railmen at the Red Star Saloon ria Restaurant at Charles & Biddle Street, COMMAND members in need. us was a delightful group of people cel- in Reading, Pennsylvania. on August 18, just a few blocks away from the Gallery Bar The evening of Saturday, April 21 was ebrating a birthday. I would love to know and a bar night at the D.C. Eagle on Au- and toasted 38 years of brotherhood! truly a magical night as over sixty members what the gentleman was thinking as he gust 24. The ShipMates are at the Triple The ShipMates’ 38th Anniversary of the Leather Community including several walked into his birthday party only to find a L again on September 15 and November Weekend started on Friday, April 20 with ShipMate Life brothers and even a found- room full of men in leather shouting: “Sur- 10 and will host the ShipMates’ Halloween a bar night at the Baltimore Eagle hosted ing member of the club arrived at Sammy’s prise!” Bash at the Baltimore Eagle on October by COMMAND, MC. To help celebrate Bal- to celebrate the 38th year of the ShipMates After dinner, a brief presentation in- 27. December brings the club’s big Daddy timore’s first leather club, members of the Club of Baltimore. Also in attendance were cluded a parade of colors from the various Christmas Event that will be held at the Shipmates sold t-shirts and ShipMate logo four current leather titleholders: Mr. Mid- leather clubs in attendance and the official Baltimore Eagle on December 1. It should boxer shorts. Those who changed into the Atlantic Leather 2012 Matthew Bronson, swearing in of the ShipMates’ E-Board for 2012. (Yes, I was sworn in again as be another fun year for Baltimore’s oldest president. My taking the oath has now tied leather club. Come on out and help them “Cats” for most performances….) When toast 38 years! t the festivities ended everyone walked over to Leon’s Leather Lounge for a bar night presented by the Pennsmen of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and the Reading Railmen from Reading, Pennsylvania. These two clubs were generous enough to donate all of their proceeds from their bar night to the ShipMates. It was a very nice donation and will be used to help digitize a large num- ber of slides from past ShipMate events. After the party ended at the Triple L, many leather folk finished the evening at the ShipMates’ home bar, the Baltimore Eagle. The ShipMates’ 38th year is off to a good start and the party is far from over. The ShipMates will be back at the Balti- more Eagle for a bar night on May 5 and will be at Mixers on Belair Road on May 19. The gang will help Baltimore kick off Baltimore Pride Weekend with a bar night at the Baltimore Eagle on Friday, June 15 and will head to the D.C. Eagle on June 29. July 15 brings the popular cookout on

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 th SHIPMATES 38 ANNIVERSARY PARTY | PHOTOS BY ANDY CHMIELOWSKI-LIU

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LODGE LOUNGE & DANCE CLUB AVON WALK FOR BREAST CANCER BENEFIT \\ THELODGEMD.COM \\ PHOTOS BY RICHARD BOWE @ FACEBOOK.COM/RAB2IMAGING

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 Community Bulletin Board

Now – December May 12 Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar Govans Spring Fest Every Sunday underneath the Jones Falls Expressway Featuring live music, a flea market, and craft and bake sale. There will be bedding plants and hanging baskets as well as at Holliday & Saratoga streets. While strolling through the opportunity for children to make their mother a Mother’s Maryland’s largest producers-only market, shoppers can Day gift. Flea Market Vendors may rent a table for $15 in revel at the sight of a vast quantity of foods, including crisp advance, $20 the day of the event. Contact Judy Western fruits and vegetables, poultry, seafood, beef, pork, lamb, ([email protected]) about renting a table at the flea bison, goat, rabbit, fresh baked goods, flavorful herbs and market. Contact DeAnne Byerly ([email protected]) or organically raised and produced milk, yogurt, butter, eggs Kit Clark ([email protected]) to volunteer or with questions. and cheese products. Underneath the Jones Falls Expressway Govans Presbyterian Church 5828 York Road Baltimore, MD at Holliday & Saratoga streets 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 21212 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Now 2012 Let’s Eat! Charles Street Festival! The National Aquarium The Historic Charles Street Association is thrilled to announce its 2012 Let’s Eat! Charles Street Festival! More than 35 food Happy Feet Dances into the National Aquarium’s 4D Theater & retail vendors will be setting up tents along Charles Street, for Special Engagement. Put on your dancing shoes and tap including Mick O’Sheas, Brewer’s Art, BARCs Animal Rescue, into adventure with Mumble and friends in Happy Feet 4D Midtown BBQ and Brew, The Pampered Chef, Sascha’s, Experience! When his colony of emperor penguins is faced Urbanite Magazine, The Woman’s Industrial Exchange, MAC with a mysterious fish famine, Mumble sets off on an exciting Cosmetics, TraciLynn Jewelry and more. Live music will be journey to find the cause making friends along the way and featured between 12:00p.m. - 5:00 p.m., with headlining band discovering that being true to yourself is a good thing. The The Carousel Rogues playing between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 family fun, 15-minute immersive experience is shown in the p.m. There will be fun family activities for children – including National Aquarium’s Immersion Theater featuring digital 3D an appearance by the Oriole Bird. For more information, and enhanced with 4D multi-sensory effects such as wind, contact Laura Rodini at 410-332-4144 or info@charlesstreet. snow, scents and more. National Aquarium 501 E. Pratt net or visit their website: http://historiccharlesstreet.com. Street Baltimore, MD 21202 Shows daily $4 with purchase of admission ticket to the Aquarium online or at the admissions May 15 window. Visit www.aqua.org or call 410-576-3800. Walk-in Wednesday Chase Brexton is having a Walk-In Intake Day for HIV+ May 5 individuals who aren’t in care on Wednesday The Den: Baltimore’s LGBTQ Youth Center Stop by for a FREE Intake & Case Assessment, You may spend about a half hour with a Case Manager - but don’t let The Den is a safe space for Baltimore’s LGBTQ adolescents that scare you! They’re really nice people. And, your health and young adults ages 13-24 with reliable, culturally matters, so come on by Mt. Vernon Center 1001 Cathedral competent, high quality services that will aid in their social, Street Baltimore, MD 21201 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Questions physical, mental scholastic and career development. The Den Call: 410-837-2050 x4033 www.chasebrexton.org will be (soft) open with limited hours, hosting float-making parties on May 5, May 19 and June 3 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Look for a full schedule of expanded hours May 19 and upcoming programming at the PRIDE Youth Zone. GLCCB, 241 West Chase Street More information: info@ They’re roasting F. Scott Black! thedenbaltimore.org

The Emerging New Economy The challenge is urgent: we need to build a more equitable &more sustainable world. And to do so, we need an economic system designed to work for the common good Send your information for instead of a system designed tomaximize corporate profits. Speakers will Gar Alperovitz, Jamie Raskin, & Daphne upcoming events to Wysham. 2640 St. Paul St. 7:00 p.m. Free! [email protected]

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 4, 2012 • baltimoreoutloud.com real estate Windsor Hills Attention nature lovers! Interesting offering. Large two apartment house Market Update found that it would take a minimum wage worker 100 hours of work per week just to af- with tons of space! Each apt. has a huge covered b y Wayne Curtis ford rent. Even the average American renter, porch, fireplace and nice detail. Owner’s unit is a As we head into spring, there’s some great making a little over $14 per hour, needs a 29 4-5 bedroom duplex apt. that’s like living in a tree news brewing in the housing market. Don’t percent raise to be able to afford an average house! Convenient to Social Security, area hospi- take my word for it, here’s what other news apartment and have enough money left over tals and major arteries. Perfect for the person who sources have to say. for other expenses. Ready to ask your boss wants help with the mortgage without compro- First, the RE/MAX National Housing Report for a 29% raise? mising space. Beautiful setting! Only $199,000. for March put it best: “For the first time in 18 With mortgage rates still very low for quali- months, home prices in February rose higher…. fied buyers, it’s clearly time to buy. The website Brian Hannon Prices in the 53 cities surveyed by the RE/MAX rentorbuybaltimore.com recently compared the 410 925 9330 (cell) • 410 464 5500 (office) National Housing Report rose by 1.1% over costs of buying a $200,000 home against rent- PenFed Realty February 2011. Home sales were even higher, ing a $2,000 per month apartment – not uncom- up 8.7% from one year ago. With a positive mon these days in the harbor neighborhoods. sales trend of 8 straight months above the pre- The results, according to a New York Times cal- vious year, it’s looking like 2012 will witness a culator, showed that after just two years buying very strong home-selling season.” was better than renting. After five years, buying That should be enough reason to set off that home saved nearly $64,000 over renting. some fireworks, but there’s more. The Huff- Buyers are returning to the Baltimore area ington Post uploaded an article on the hous- home market in droves this spring. There are ing market in early April under the headline, even multiple offers coming in on desirable “Renting a Home Costs 15 Percent More Than homes. If you were waiting for signs that the Buying One.” That turns common wisdom on housing crash was over, then this is your time. t its head, since historically renting a home has Wayne Curtis has been a licensed real been as much as 10 percent cheaper than estate agent since 1998. His website Rentor- owning one. buybaltimore.com helps first-time homebuy- Not anymore. Because of very low va- ers decide whether they should rent or buy. cancy rates – at a ten year low – rental rates Charmcityrealestate.com shows his current have skyrocketed. In fact, a recent report by listings. Send questions to him at wayne@ the National Low Income Housing Coalition charmcityrealestate.com.

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