ANO INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THE TLESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES September 19, 2014 | Volume XII, Issue 9 Erasing Hate Through Art By Steve Charing The exhibit is in tandem with a limited In an effort to bring awareness to hate engagement of The Laramie Project, a crimes in general and LGBT victims in par- play that is about the reaction to the 1998 ticular, a powerful art exhibit called “Erase murder of University of Wyoming gay stu- Hate Through Art” opened on September dent Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyo- 14 at the Columbia Art Center (6100 Fore- ming. The murder was denounced as a land Garth, Columbia, Maryland), in the hate crime and brought attention to the Long Reach Village Community Center. lack of hate crimes laws in various states, Around 50 people attended the official including Wyoming. opening, which took place at a mini-out- Grant Myers, Robert Neal Marshall, Ed door amphitheater just outside the center Higgins, and Melissa Wengler comprise where the works of art are displayed. Local the team that is organizing the exhibit and drag performer Anita Minett emceed the the companion performances of The Lara- ceremonies and entertained the audience. mie Project. Myers was inspired by find- Jeff Greenberg, one Others read poetry, sang songs, or related ing out that a person his daughter knew, of the exhibitors, their experiences of being bullied or be- a 14-year-old boy, committed suicide be- stands by his works ing victims of hate and how these events cause he was bullied for being gay. credit: Steve Charing changed their lives. —continued on p. 3 Mayor’s Aide to Receive Black Pride Award By Steve Charing who cannot be heard. There are many icons Service Award); Mr. Vann Millhouse, Mary- The Center for Black Equity Baltimore an- in the community; some prefer to quietly pull land / D.C. Black Transmen (Community nounced that Demetrius Mallisham, an aide the strings behind the scenes in our favor, Service Award); Mr. Kurt Ragin, Star Track to Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, will and others enjoy the adulation bestowed Health Educator (Youth Community Service be the recipient of the Chairman’s Award. upon them for their work. Demetrius, as he Award); and Ms. Falina Laron, facilitator of Among his other duties, Mallisham is the would have it, prefers to work loudly behind AIDS Action Baltimore Ladies TEA Time LGBT liaison to the mayor’s office. the scenes bringing our concerns to the front (Community Service Award). “Demetrius is an activist, a fighter, and of the line.” “This is our version of the NAACP Im- a champion in the community who dares to Mallisham is appreciative of the award age Awards with a little glitz and glamour care for us all by giving his unconditional and credits the mayor for his ability to be for many of community members and allies love to many in the community,” Carlton an effective LGBT liaison. “I am extremely in Baltimore area,” said Smith of the Icons Smith, executive director of the Center for honored to be recognized by my peers and awards. “We celebrate these individuals for Black Equity Baltimore, told Baltimore OUT- to represent Mayor Stephanie Rawlings- their accomplishments in the African Ameri- loud. Blake,” Mallisham told Baltimore OUTloud. can LGBTQ community. We embrace and In nominating Mallisham for the award “Working for Madame Mayor is a blessing celebrate the love for one another at this Corey Waller wrote, “The characteristics that I don’t take for granted. She makes my special event.” that Demetrius possess are unique to say job easy by being a true ally to the LGBTQ The awards for Mallisham and the Icon the least, but what makes him ideal and suc- community. She gets it and she supports us.” winners will be presented at the Grown & cessful in this role is his uncanny approach- In addition, the following will be receiv- Sexy Cultural Affair on October 11 from 7 ability… Demetrius’s obligation to the LGBT ing the 2014 Icons of the Year Awards: Rev. to 11p.m. at the Metropolitan Community community as a public servant is merely a Dorothy Harris Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore (401 West Monument fraction of the requirement of himself to re- Church of Columbia (Social Justice Commu- Street in Baltimore). Delegate Mary Wash- Demetrius Mallisham ington will be the guest speaker. t credit: Mark Dennis ring main a strong and energetic voice for those nity Service Award and Justice Community

—continued on page 10 news // LOCAL Summit Addresses LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care

By James Becker In his welcoming remarks, Judge Carr bisexual or questioning and 5.6% as trans- In recognition of the special needs of les- said that the summit had been in the planning gender. LGBTQ foster youth had six times bian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and ques- stages for months and was not a response to the number of foster placements than non- tioning youth growing up in foster care, the the study released last month by the Youth gay youth and are more likely to be in group Maryland judiciary held its first Child Welfare Equality Alliance on the state of LGBTQ youth homes than straight youth. Mallon said that Summit for LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care last in Maryland. That report (Bbaltimoreoutloud. he is strongly opposed to group homes for Friday at the Maritime Institute and Confer- com/lgbtq-news/maryland/item/2753-mary- LGBTQ youth because they require and de- ence Center in Linthicum. The serve loving families like all youth do. Strik- all-day summit, “Identifying, ingly, a high percentage of homeless LGBTQ Supporting, And Meeting The youth said they felt safer on the streets than Needs Of LGBTQ Youth,” was in group homes – echoing the finding in the sponsored by the Administra- Youth Equality Alliance that 70% of youth tive Office of the Court, Foster said they were victims of physical violence Care Court Improvement Proj- while in a foster care group home. Mallon ect (FCCIP), in collaboration quoted one youth as saying, “At least people with the Maryland Department on the street cared about me.” of Human Resources, the Na- In order to make a difference for sexual tional Resource Center (NRC) minority youth in foster care, Mallon was on Legal and Judicial Issues, emphatic that training was not enough. He the National Resource Center urged decision-makers to take a comprehen- for Youth Development, and sive look at policies and identify the requisite Free State Legal Project, a changes to improve the system. Once poli- statewide legal advocacy non- cies are changed they must be implemented profit organization that serves in practice. The final steps involve training low income LGBTQ individuals and supervision of frontline staff. He said and families. that child welfare professionals and the legal Nearly 200 participants T racy Watkins-Tribbit addresses the summit system must recognize that some youth are from 22 of Maryland’s 23 coun- credit: Maryland Judiciary out as LGBTQ and some are not, and that ties and Baltimore City heard it is important to create places that are af- presentations by experts on firming and safe for all youth. He suggested LGBTQ youth in the child-welfare system land-lgbt-youth-at-risk-says-report), using something as simple as placing supportive and attended work sessions organized by national studies, estimates that, across the books where youth will be able to see them jurisdiction to develop action plans to be im- U.S. one-third of LGBTQ youth never finish as a way to show support and openness. He plemented locally. The summit ended with a high school, three out of four experience prej- urged those in attendance not to be afraid panel of three gay or bisexual African-Ameri- udicial treatment by foster-care service pro- to say the words lesbian, gay, bisexual, and can young men discussing their experiences viders because of their sexual orientation or transgender as they are powerful. He said growing up in foster care. gender identity, and as many as 70% allege that people should not tolerate or excuse In announcing the summit, thought to be they were victims of physical violence in fos- anti-LGBTQ policies, practices, or staff, and the first of its kind in the country, Maryland ter care group homes. The report states that emphasized that as professional, many of Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen LGBTQ youth are 40% more likely to be ar- whom worked for government or the courts, Barbera said, “Maryland’s courts are dedi- rested, and physical safety is a critical prob- they must use best practices for LGBTQ cated to providing, for everyone, full, fair, and lem for LGBTQ youth in juvenile facilities. youth, regardless of their personal or reli- equitable access to justice. We therefore are The summit keynote was delivered by gious beliefs. very interested in finding ways to eliminate Gerald P. Mallon, executive director of the Following Mallon’s keynote address, par- the challenges these young people may face National Center for Child Welfare Excel- ticipants attended presentations geared to as they interact with the courts and the fos- lence at Hunter College in New York City. their respective professional disciplines: ju- ter care and juvenile justice systems. This Mallon has a doctorate in social welfare dicial officers, attorneys, social workers, and summit brings us together to identify the and has been a child welfare practitioner caregivers. Next representatives from each challenges and explore specific and realistic and researcher for 39 years. He conducted jurisdiction held two sessions to develop an ways to address them.” pioneering research on LGBTQ youth for his implementation strategy. The Baltimore City The summit opened with brief remarks by doctoral thesis which he later expanded and team was chaired by Judge Robert Kershaw, FCCIP director, Tracy Watkins-Tribbit, and a published as the book, We Don’t Exactly Get judge-in charge of the Baltimore City Juvenile welcome by Judge William O. Carr of the Cir- the Welcome Wagon. Court. Some of the suggestions proposed by cuit Court for Harford County, and chair of the Mallon discussed a recent study of LG- members of the city team were: convening FCCIP outreach and programing subcommit- BTQ youth in the Los Angeles foster care an LGBTQ youth advisory board; developing tee. Ms. Watkins-Tribbit said that organizers system that was conducted by the Williams an LGBTQ resource guide; working with ex- chose a summit format over a standard con- Institute.The researchers found that 19% of isting groups, such as Gay Lesbian Straight ference in order to ensure that participants youth in care identified as LGBTQ, nearly Education Network (GLSEN); training on LG- used what they learned from the speakers to double the number found in the general pop- BTQ issues for caseworkers, foster parents, develop implementation strategies during the ulation by the Kinsey Institute in the 1950s. and others that work with youth. The city jurisdiction work sessions. Of the 19%, 13.2% identified as lesbian, gay, —continued on p. 9

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Crisean is Using Music to Inspire Others – continued from page 1

news // LOCAL

Erasing Hate Through Art – continued from page 1 ages of victims of hate. The works included multi-media art, sculpture, photography, “The Erase Hate Through Art exhibit is stained glass, and paintings. The exhibit important because we need to take a stand runs through October 12. to erase hate crimes. Not just anti-LGBT The Laramie Project opens Oct 3 at hate crimes, all hate crimes,” said Myers, Howard County Center For The Arts (8510 the non-profit’s executive producer and High Ridge Road, Ellicott City, Maryland). founding member. “I conceived this exhibit It will run weekends through October 12. out of a desire to spread information and Performances are Friday at 7 p.m., Satur- create awareness. The victims we have day 1p.m. and 7 p.m., Sun at 1 p.m. Tick- identified on our website represent some ets are $20 ($18 for seniors, students, or of the most heinous acts of man against military). There will be a Black-Tie Open- man imaginable. We can use the medium ing Gala October 3 for $25. A portion of of fine art to raise awareness of these the proceeds from the sale of art and The crimes and help prevent their recurrence.” Laramie Project will go to support the Mat- There were some ten artists display- thew Sheppard Foundation. ing multiple pieces that represent a wide For more information, visit Erasehate- swath of art depicting for the most part im- throughart.com. t Auditions Scheduled for Local Lesbian Film By Steve Charing film project as possible,” said Berry. “That Local filmmaker Meikil Berry, who is les- includes actors and film crew.” bian, will be holding auditions for her first She adds, “It is going to be a feature- movie Landlords and Lovers. The length comedrama, and I film is about a young naive les- plan on a premiere in Bal- bian who is faced with dilemma timore so the community after dilemma with the different can capture not only the landlords she encounters. She is feeling of Baltimore, take also exploring her sexuality and a look at local artists’ work, is faced with decisions about the but enjoy a film created by lesbians who come into her life. a mostly gay/lesbian/bi/ Auditions will be held at the trans/queer Baltimore cast GLCCB (1000 Cathedral Street) and crew. I feel strongly on September 26 from 10 a.m. to about utilizing the gay art- 2 p.m., and September 28 from ists in a local film. I am a 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daughter of Baltimore and “My intention is to include as the film is based on my life many in our community on my Meikil Berry early on.” t

R .I.P. Joan Rivers – The LGBT community will miss you. We love you!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 T:9.875 in

Once-Daily

ABOUT PREZISTA® PREZISTA® (darunavir) is a prescription medicine. It is one treatment option of your eyes, pale colored stools (bowel movements), nausea, vomiting, in the class of HIV (human immunodefi ciency virus) medicines known pain or tenderness on your right side below your ribs, or loss of appetite as protease inhibitors. • PREZISTA® may cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions or rash. Sometimes these skin reactions and skin rashes can become PREZISTA® is always taken with and at the same time as ritonavir (Norvir®), severe and require treatment in a hospital. You should call your healthcare in combination with other HIV medicines for the treatment of HIV infection provider immediately if you develop a rash. However, stop taking ® ®

in adults. PREZISTA should also be taken with food. PREZISTA and ritonavir combination treatment and call your healthcare T:9.6 in provider immediately if you develop any skin changes with these PREZISTA® does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and you may continue symptoms: fever, tiredness, muscle or joint pain, blisters or skin lesions, to experience illnesses associated with HIV-1 infection, including mouth sores or ulcers, red or infl amed eyes, like “pink eye.” opportunistic infections. You should remain under the care of a doctor Rash occurred more often in patients taking PREZISTA® and raltegravir when using PREZISTA.® together than with either drug separately, but was generally mild

Please read Important Safety Information below, and talk to your Who should not take PREZISTA®? healthcare provider to learn if PREZISTA® is right for you. • Do not take PREZISTA® if you are taking the following medicines: IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION alfuzosin (Uroxatral®), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E.45,® Embolex,® Migranal®), ergotamine (Cafergot,® Ergomar®), methylergonovine, What is the most important information I should know cisapride (Propulsid®), pimozide (Orap®), oral midazolam (Versed®), about PREZISTA®? triazolam (Halcion®), the herbal supplement St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), lovastatin (Mevacor,® Altoprev,® Advicor®), • PREZISTA® can interact with other medicines and cause serious salmeterol (Advair,® Serevent®), simvastatin (Zocor,® Simcor,® Vytorin®), side effects. See “Who should not take PREZISTA®?” rifampin (Rifadin,® Rifater,® Rifamate,® Rimactane®), sildenafi l (Revatio®) • PREZISTA® may cause liver problems. Some people taking when used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, indinavir (Crixivan®), PREZISTA,® together with Norvir® (ritonavir), have developed liver problems lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra®), saquinavir (Invirase®), boceprevir (Victrelis®), which may be life-threatening. Your healthcare provider should do blood or telaprevir (Incivek®) tests before and during your combination treatment with PREZISTA®. • Before taking PREZISTA®, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking If you have chronic hepatitis B or C infection, your healthcare provider sildenafi l (Viagra,® Revatio®), vardenafi l (Levitra,® Staxyn®), should check your blood tests more often because you have an increased tadalafi l (Cialis,® Adcirca®), atorvastatin (Lipitor®), rosuvastatin (Crestor®), chance of developing liver problems pravastatin (Pravachol®), or colchicine (Colcrys,® Col-Probenecid®). • Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these signs and symptoms Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking estrogen-based of liver problems: dark (tea-colored) urine, yellowing of your skin or whites contraceptives (birth control). PREZISTA® might reduce the effectiveness

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com

Date: 06/26/14 Customer Code: 014607-140430 Group 360 Job #: 708106 File Name: 014607-140430_708106_v1b(pg 1 left hand start) Brand: Prezista Size: 9.875" x 9.6" Colors: CMYK Description: Discover the Prezista Experience Pub: Baltimore OUTloud (7/11/14 Issue)

K P G75 M50 K75 Y50 GN M25 B C75 M75 K25 Y C50 M G25 C Y75 K50 C25 G50 Y25 R T:9.875 in

Once-Daily PREZISTA® taken with ritonavir and in combination with other HIV medications can help lower your viral load and keep your HIV under control. Call PRZ ( 779) on your mobile** phone** to watch The PREZISTA® Experience isn’t just an HIV treatment. It’s an HIV treatment videos of people living the PREZISTA® Experience. experience as unique as you.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION CONTINUED of estrogen-based contraceptives. You must take additional precautions • Changes in body fat have been seen in some patients taking HIV medicines, for birth control, such as condoms including PREZISTA®. The cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known at this time Serious problems can happen if you or your child takes any of these • Changes in your immune system can happen when you start taking HIV medicines with PREZISTA®. medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fi ght infections that have been hidden

This is not a complete list of medicines. Be sure to tell your healthcare • The most common side effects related to taking PREZISTA® include diarrhea, T:9.6 in provider about all the medicines you are taking or plan to take, nausea, rash, headache, stomach pain, and vomiting. including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you experience these and herbal supplements. Do not start any new medicines while you or other side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking are taking PREZISTA® without fi rst talking to your healthcare provider. PREZISTA® or any other medicines without fi rst talking to your healthcare provider What should I tell my doctor before I take PREZISTA®? You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs • Before taking PREZISTA®, tell your healthcare provider if you have to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. any medical conditions, including liver problems (including hepatitis B or C), allergy to sulfa medicines, diabetes, or hemophilia Please refer to the ritonavir (Norvir®) Product Information (PI and PPI) • Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become for additional information on precautionary measures. pregnant, or are breastfeeding — The effects of PREZISTA® on pregnant women or their unborn babies Please see accompanying full Product Information

are not known. You and your healthcare provider will need to decide for more details. 013729-140415 if taking PREZISTA® is right for you — Do not breastfeed. It is not known if PREZISTA® can be passed to your baby in your breast milk and whether it could harm your baby. Also, mothers with HIV should not breastfeed because HIV can be passed to your baby in the breast milk Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA®?

• High blood sugar, diabetes or worsening of diabetes, and increased bleeding in people with hemophilia have been reported in patients taking © Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP 2014 protease inhibitor medicines, including PREZISTA® 05/14 014607-140430

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5

Date: 06/26/14 Customer Code: 014607-140430 Group 360 Job #: 708106 File Name: 014607-140430_708106_v1b(pg 2 right hand) Brand: Prezista Size: 9.875" x 9.6" Colors: CMYK Description: Discover the Prezista Experience Pub: Baltimore OUTloud (7/11/14 Issue)

K P G75 M50 K75 Y50 GN M25 B C75 M75 K25 Y C50 M G25 C Y75 K50 C25 G50 Y25 R IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION PREZISTA (pre-ZIS-ta) Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions on how to prevent passing HIV to other (darunavir) people. Oral Suspension Who should not take PREZISTA? Do not take PREZISTA with any of the following medicines: PREZISTA (pre-ZIS-ta) • alfuzosin (Uroxatral®) (darunavir) • ergot-containing medicines: dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45®, Embolex®, Migranal®), ergotamine Tablets (Cafergot®, Ergomar®) methylergonovine • cisapride Read this Patient Information before you start taking PREZISTA and each time you get a refill. ® There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your • pimozide (Orap ) ® ® healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment. • oral midazolam (Versed ), triazolam (Halcion ) • the herbal supplement St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Also read the Patient Information leaflet for NORVIR® (ritonavir). • the cholesterol lowering medicines lovastatin (Mevacor®, Altoprev®, Advicor®) or simvastatin What is the most important information I should know about PREZISTA? (Zocor®, Simcor®, Vytorin®) • PREZISTA can interact with other medicines and cause serious side effects. It is important to • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifater®, Rifamate®, Rimactane®) know the medicines that should not be taken with PREZISTA. See the section “Who should • sildenafil (Revatio®) only when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. not take PREZISTA?” Serious problems can happen if you take any of these medicines with PREZISTA. • PREZISTA may cause liver problems. Some people taking PREZISTA in combination with NORVIR® (ritonavir) have developed liver problems which may be life-threatening. Your What should I tell my doctor before I take PREZISTA? healthcare provider should do blood tests before and during your combination treatment with PREZISTA may not be right for you. Before taking PREZISTA, tell your healthcare provider if you: PREZISTA. If you have chronic hepatitis B or C infection, your healthcare provider should • have liver problems, including hepatitis B or hepatitis C check your blood tests more often because you have an increased chance of developing • are allergic to sulfa medicines liver problems. • have high blood sugar (diabetes) • Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the below signs and symptoms of liver • have hemophilia problems. • are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if PREZISTA will harm your • Dark (tea colored) urine unborn baby. • yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes Pregnancy Registry: You and your healthcare provider will need to decide if taking PREZISTA • pale colored stools (bowel movements) is right for you. If you take PREZISTA while you are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider • nausea about how you can be included in the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry. The purpose of the • vomiting registry is follow the health of you and your baby. • pain or tenderness on your right side below your ribs • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. We do not know if PREZISTA can be passed to your baby in your breast milk and whether it could harm your baby. Also, • loss of appetite mothers with HIV-1 should not breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in the PREZISTA may cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions or rash. Sometimes these skin breast milk. reactions and skin rashes can become severe and require treatment in a hospital. You should call Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a rash. However, stop taking PREZISTA and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using PREZISTA and certain other ritonavir combination treatment and call your healthcare provider immediately if you develop any medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. PREZISTA may affect the way skin changes with symptoms below: other medicines work and other medicines may affect how PREZISTA works. • fever Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the medicines listed below. The generic • tiredness name is provided, followed by examples of possible brand names for the drug product: • muscle or joint pain • medicine to treat HIV • blisters or skin lesions • estrogen-based contraceptives (birth control). PREZISTA might reduce the effective ness of • mouth sores or ulcers estrogen-based contraceptives. You must take additional precautions for birth control such as • red or inflamed eyes, like “pink eye” (conjunctivitis) a condom. ® Rash occurred more often in people taking PREZISTA and raltegravir together than with either • medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection such as cyclosporine (Gengraf , ® ® ® ® drug separately, but was generally mild. Sandimmune , Neoral ), tacrolimus (Prograf ), sirolimus (Rapamune ) • amiodarone (Pacerone®, Cardarone®) See “What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA?” for more information about side effects. • artemether/lumefantrine (Coartem®) What is PREZISTA? • atorvastatin (Lipitor®) ® ® PREZISTA is a prescription anti-HIV medicine used with ritonavir and other anti-HIV medicines to • bepridil (Bepadin , Vascor ) TM treat adults with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. PREZISTA is a type of anti-HIV • boceprevir (Victrelis ) ® medicine called a protease inhibitor. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune • bosentan (Tracleer ) ® ® ® Deficiency Syndrome). • buprenorphine (Butrans , Buprenex , Subutex ) • buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone®, Zubsolv®) When used with other HIV medicines, PREZISTA may help to reduce the amount of HIV in your • carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®, Epitol®) blood (called “viral load”). PREZISTA may also help to increase the number of white blood cells • clarithromycin (Prevpac®, Biaxin®) called CD4 (T) cell which help fight off other infections. Reducing the amount of HIV and • colchicine (Colcrys®, Col-Probenecid®) increasing the CD4 (T) cell count may improve your immune system. This may reduce your risk of • desipramine (Norpramin®) death or infections that can happen when your immune system is weak (opportunistic infections). • dexamethasone (Ozurdex®) PREZISTA does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and you may continue to experience illnesses • digoxin (Lanoxin®) associated with HIV-1 infection, including opportunistic infections. You should remain under the • felodipine (Plendil®) care of a doctor when using PREZISTA. • flecainide (Tambocor®) ® ® ® ® Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 infection. • fluticasone (Advair Diskus , Veramyst , Flovent , Flonase ) • itraconazole (Sporanox®, Onmel®) • Do not share needles or other injection equipment. • ketoconazole (Nizoral®) • Do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes • lidocaine (Xylocaine Viscous®) and razor blades. • methadone (Methadose®) • Do not have any kind of sex without protection. Always practice safe sex by using a latex or • metoprolol (Lopressor®, Toprol-XL®) polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, • nicardipine (Cardene®) or blood. • nifedipine (Procardia®, Adalat CC®, Afeditab CR®) 6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION

• paroxetine (Paxil®, Pexeva®) • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you • phenobarbital start taking HIV medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections • phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Call your healthcare provider right away if • pravastatin (Pravachol®) you start having new symptoms after starting your HIV medicine. • propafenone (Rythmol®) • Increased bleeding for hemophiliacs. Some people with hemophilia have increased bleeding • quinidine (Nuedexta®) with protease inhibitors including PREZISTA. • rifabutin (Mycobutin®) ® The most common side effects of PREZISTA include: • risperidone (Risperdal ) • diarrhea • headache • rosuvastatin (Crestor®) ® ® • nausea • abdominal pain • salmeterol (Advair , Serevent ) • rash • vomiting • sertraline (Zoloft®) • sildenafil ( Viagra®, Revatio®) Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. • tadalafil (Cialis®, Adcirca®) These are not all of the possible side effects of PREZISTA. For more information, ask your health • telaprevir (IncivekTM) care provider. • thioridazine (Mellaril®) ® ® ® ® ® Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at • timolol (Cosopt , Betimol , Timoptic , Isatolol , Combigan ) 1-800-FDA-1088. • trazodone (Oleptro®, Desyrel®) • warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) How should I store PREZISTA? • vardenafil (Levitra®, Staxyn®) • Store PREZISTA oral suspension and tablets at room temperature [77°F (25°C)]. • voriconazole (VFend®) • Do not refrigerate or freeze PREZISTA oral suspension. This is not a complete list of medicines that you should tell your healthcare provider that you are • Keep PREZISTA away from high heat. taking. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if your medicine is one that • PREZISTA oral suspension should be stored in the original container. is listed above. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your doctor or pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking Keep PREZISTA and all medicines out of the reach of children. PREZISTA without first talking with your healthcare provider. General information about PREZISTA How should I take PREZISTA? Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information • Take PREZISTA every day exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. leaflet. Do not use PREZISTA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give PREZISTA to other people even if they have the same condition you have. It may harm them. • You must take ritonavir (NORVIR®) at the same time as PREZISTA. This leaflet summarizes the most important information about PREZISTA. If you would like more • Do not change your dose of PREZISTA or stop treatment without talking to your healthcare information, talk to your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist provider first. for information about PREZISTA that is written for health professionals. ® • Take PREZISTA and ritonavir (NORVIR ) with food. For more information, call 1-800-526-7736. • Swallow PREZISTA tablets whole with a drink. If you have difficulty swallowing PREZISTA tablets, PREZISTA oral suspension is also available. Your health care provider will help decide What are the ingredients in PREZISTA? whether PREZISTA tablets or oral suspension is right for you. Active ingredient: darunavir Inactive ingredients: • PREZISTA oral suspension should be given with the supplied oral dosing syringe. Shake the suspension well before each use. See the Instructions for Use that come with PREZISTA oral PREZISTA Oral Suspension: hydroxypropyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium suspension for information about the right way to prepare and take a dose. carboxymethylcellulose, methylparaben sodium, citric acid monohydrate, sucralose, masking • If your prescribed dose of PREZISTA oral suspension is more than 6 mL, you will need to flavor, strawberry cream flavor, hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment), purified water. divide the dose. Follow the instructions given to you by your healthcare provider or pharmacist PREZISTA 75 mg and 150 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, about how to divide the dose. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure. microcrystalline cellulose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® White (polyethylene glycol 3350, • If you take too much PREZISTA, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide). emergency room right away. PREZISTA 600 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, What should I do if I miss a dose? microcrystalline cellulose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® Orange (FD&C Yellow No. 6, People who take PREZISTA one time a day: polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide). • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by less than 12 hours, take your missed dose of PREZISTA PREZISTA 800 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, right away. Then take your next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time. microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® Dark Red (iron • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by more than 12 hours, wait and then take the next dose of oxide red, polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide). PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time. This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration. People who take PREZISTA two times a day Product of Ireland • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by less than 6 hours, take your missed dose of PREZISTA right away. Then take your next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time. Manufactured by: PREZISTA Oral Suspension • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by more than 6 hours, wait and then take the next dose of Janssen Pharmaceutica, N.V. PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time. Beerse, Belgium If a dose of PREZISTA is skipped, do not double the next dose. Do not take more or less than your prescribed dose of PREZISTA at any one time. PREZISTA Tablets Janssen Ortho LLC, Gurabo, PR 00778 What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA? Manufactured for: PREZISTA can cause side effects including: Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP, Titusville NJ 08560 • See “What is the most important information I should know about PREZISTA?” Revised: April 2014 • Diabetes and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Some people who take protease inhibitors NORVIR® is a registered trademark of its respective owner. including PREZISTA can get high blood sugar, develop diabetes, or your diabetes can get ® worse. Tell your healthcare provider if you notice an increase in thirst or urinate often while PREZISTA is a registered trademark of Janssen Pharmaceuticals taking PREZISTA. © Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2006 • Changes in body fat. These changes can happen in people who take antiretroviral therapy. 014859-140506 The changes may include an increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the back, chest, and stomach area. Loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 bye ond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker climb or not,” said Mary Griggs, chair- Fe statistic is important because same- Sam was cut in the final round of trials woman of Forum for Equality Louisiana. sex marriage has become a huge industry with the Rams as part of the process of (Q-Notes Online at Q-notes.com) in the New Mexico state capital. (Dallas meeting the league’s mandated limit of 53 Voice – David Taffet at Dallasvoice.com) players. To quell any cries of homophobia, Rams Coach Jeff Fisher made it clear at a press conference that the decision was More same- only related to the team’s needs. “There Out football will be no challenge, no challenges what- sex than hetero soever,” for Sam. “I will tell you this: I was player Sam pulling for Mike,” he said. “I really was, couples marry in and I don’t say that very often. Mike came signed to Dallas in here and did everything we asked him Santa Fe to do.” Hopefully, Michael Sam is helping practice squad pave the way to that future. (Dallas Voice – Santa Fe, New Mexico – Since county James Russell at Dallasvoice.com) clerks in New Mexico took it upon them- Dallas, Texas – Michael Sam, the first selves to start issuing marriage licenses to openly gay football player to be drafted same-sex couples in August 2013, about by a National Football League team, has Federal judge 55 percent of all licenses issued in Santa signed with the Dallas Cowboys’ prac- Arizona softball Fe have been issued to gay and lesbian tice squad after being cut by the St. Louis upholds couples. According to Human Rights Cam- Rams. Joining the Cowboys’ practice squad teams hope to go paign, 1,388 of 2,524 licenses issued have is a sort of homecoming for Sam. Growing Louisiana been issued to same-sex couples. More up in the Texas Gulf Coast town of Hitch- to World Series than 400 of those were issued to Texas cock, his favorite team was the Cowboys. marriage ban couples. Sam’s agent told Dallas Voice Sam was Phoenix, Arizona – The kick-off of the Marriage equality began in New Mexico not doing one-on-one interviews because Cactus Cities Softball League’s fall sea- New Orleans, Louisiana – For the when Dona Ana County Clerk Lynn Ellins son marks the beginning of the journey to first time since last summer’s U.S. Su- in Las Cruces issued 40 licenses to same- two World Series tournaments. This year, preme Court decision knocking down sex couples on Aug. 21, 2013. “I took an a number of teams in both the open men’s part of the anti-gay Defense of Marriage oath to uphold the Constitution,” Ellins told and women’s division will represent Phoenix Act, a federal court has ruled to uphold a Dallas Voice at the time. To him, that meant at the North American Gay Amateur Athletic state’s anti-LGBT marriage ban. U.S. Dis- issuing licenses to couples who wanted Alliance’s Gay Softball World Series Sept. 22- trict Court Judge Martin Feldman ruled on one, because the Constitution didn’t say 27 in Dallas. And shortly thereafter, women’s September 3 that Louisiana’s anti-LGBT he couldn’t. New Mexico had never passed division teams will be heading to the Amateur state constitutional amendment does not an anti-marriage amendment and its mar- Sports Alliance of North America’s Softball violate the Constitution’s equal-protection riage law had never specified gender. World Series Oct. 13-18 in Las Vegas. or due-process guarantees. “This national While the 55 percent statistic is inter- “The World Series is the pinnacle, the same-sex marriage struggle animates a esting, other marriage-equality states don’t best of the best,” said Aaron Fullerton, open clash between convictions regarding the have a breakdown of number of same-sex Michael Sam division commissioner and Arizona Ice player. value of state decisions reached by way of marriages. New York simply issues mar- “It is the peak of the peak with competitive- the democratic process as contrasted with riage licenses – not same-sex marriage ness.” Fullerton, who has attended the World personal, genuine, and sincere lifestyle licenses and opposite-sex licenses – and he wants to “focus on football.” But the Series since 2008, described it as an oppor- choices recognition.” wrote Feldman. The expects any company doing business in 24-year-old’s legacy as a ground-breaking tunity that allows players experience a higher judge ruled it was not the court’s place to the state to honor any marriage license it pioneer in the sport is well documented level of competition. To have a strong show- make or approve policy. Louisiana’s anti- issues, so the state doesn’t keep records through print, digital, and social media. Not ing at the national tournament, Fullerton said LGBT marriage ban was approved in 2004 of how many gays and lesbian couples only has his short but successful football it is essential that players develop their skills by 78 percent of voters. Same-sex mar- have married in the state. But the Santa career been well documented, but so too through regular season and tournament play. riage, though, is now legal in 19 states have the intricacies of his personal life. The “It takes a lot of practice and dedication,” Ful- and in Washington, D.C. Several cases University of Missouri player burst onto ev- lerton said. “It takes a lot to be competitive challenging a variety of states’ bans have ery sports enthusiast’s radar in 2013, when nationally. You have to play year in and year been heard or are pending in several cir- he was the Southeastern Conference’s out.” cuit courts of appeal. Player of the Year. The consensus among Phoenix teams will compete against A conservative anti-LGBT group, the sports analysts then was that he’d be a top more than 150 of the top teams from across Louisiana Family Forum, welcomed Feld- NFL draft in the early rounds. But in Febru- the country, including last year’s A-Division man’s ruling. “This ruling confirms that ary, Sam came out as a gay man. Though champions, the Houston Force. Teams ad- the people of Louisiana – not the federal still considered a top pick, some privately vanced to the World Series based on their courts – have the constitutional right to de- wondered whether the NFL was ready for spring league standings. And, during both cide how marriage is defined in this state,” an out gay player. The Rams picked Sam World Series tournaments, teams play round- Gene Mills, the group’s president, said in a in the seventh and final round of the NFL’s robin games to determine bracketsand go news release. 2014 draft. With all cameras on him, tears on to a double-elimination tournament. Ac- Plaintiffs in the case say they will ap- running down his face, Sam kissed his boy- cording to Fullerton, the combination social peal the ruling. “Every citizen of the U.S. A great setting, evidently, friend, Vito Cammisano, claiming another events, the sense of community, camaraderie deserves protection of their rights, uphill for same-sex nuptials slice of sports history. among teammates as well as players from 8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway news // LOCAL

S uMMit Addresses LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care forum. As the three young men recounted other cities makes the event special and the page to a business or fan page. Seattle – continued from page 2 their experiences growing up in the Maryland tournament atmosphere unique. (Echo Maga- entertainer Olivia LaGarce took action foster care system they exemplified both the zine – Laura Latzko at Echomag.com) and started a Change.org petition. Olivia problems of the system and the resilience of LaGarce says that the actions taken by team decided that it will convene a meeting individuals. Despite experiencing varying de- Facebook officials, “undermines the online of interested persons to identify what needs grees of homophobia and rejection, all three communities we have built over the past to be done and propose solutions. The team were doing well. One young man who grew up Drag queens several years using our stage names – an is asking representatives of the involved city in foster care in Baltimore City said that he has integral part of our identities, both personal- agencies to commit to the changes that are found acceptance and strength as he has be- in fight with ly and to our communities.” The petition can identified by the task force in order to ensure come more connected with the gay community. be found at http://chn.ge/1uIihk4. “People that the effort achieves real results. Judge A youth from Baltimore County said he is in a Facebook over we have known (or who have known us) for Kershaw noted the success of a coordinated supportive foster home with a gay foster parent years are unable to find us, communicate approach to the seemingly intractable prob- and attends college. names with us, or recognize us in our Facebook lem of youth detention as a model for this “The summit was about promoting greater interactions now,” she claims. project. He told Baltimore OUTloud that, “the awareness, fostering education and taking ac- Seattle, Washington – It has been The issue with Facebook officials is FCCIP summit speakers and panelists made tion to address the varied needs of LGBTQ said that “Hell hath no fury like a drag that the company touts its real-name policy crystal clear that LGBTQ youth in foster care youth in foster care,” Ms. Watkins-Tribbit told queen scorned.” It’s true. We’ve all seen as a way of holding users accountable for frequently suffer deeply hurtful discrimination Baltimore OUTloud, following the summit. “The proof of it, and Facebook is about to find their behavior. But, “Research about online and bias from multi- participating lo- out. Some drag queens are pissed and identity shows that ‘real ID’ policies are not ple sources – includ- cal teams now they are organizing and starting petitions as effective as their proponents claim,” ing caregivers and have an action and planning God knows what else, all wrote Rebecca MacKinnon and Hae-in some state employ- plan that serves because they were asked to change their Lim in a July 17 Slate.com feature about ees. We should de- as a blueprint Facebook profile name from a stage name the failed policy. “Disqus, an online com- vote a focused effort which identifies back to their “real” name. I will wait for you menting platform, conducted an informal to eliminate all un- current resources to roll your eyes. I did.... I mean, where analysis of about 500 million comments lawful discrimination as well as re- do these drag queens and burlesque en- by 60 million users and found that pseud- and bias wherever it sources that may tertainers get off thinking that they have onymous users wrote better comments occurs in favor of the be needed in the the right to tell Facebook what to do? Not (and more of them) than those who were fundamental fairness, concern and compassion future to better serve LGBTQ youth. Over the so fast! Truth be told, there is a very good using their real names, with anonymous deserved by all youth in care.” next few months, the local action plans will be reason why the shit has hit the fan, as they users being responsible for the bottom- Rob Wornoff, child welfare consultant and refined and teams will assess who else needs say. A majority of the drag queens I spoke feeder-quality comments.” Facebook has former director of LGBTQ services at the Child to be at the table. Teams will begin to identify with see this as having the potential to get remained silent about the issue, only oc- Welfare League of America, presented at the af- what specific needs they have for their respec- people fired, hurt, or outed as LGBTQ. casionally pointing out their belief that this ternoon plenary session on how to improve out- tive jurisdictions and begin to have discussions It all started when a number of Seattle will keep its users safe from Internet trolls. comes in each jurisdiction. Wornoff has a long about what those needs are (i.e., technical as- drag queens began to post that Facebook But, as Olivia LaGrace points out, Face- history of advocacy for LGBTQ youth involved sistance, training, funding, etc.) to implement had frozen their accounts and demanded book is “a poor arbiter of what is or isn’t a with the child welfare system. With Lambda Le- their plans. FCCIP will assist where we can by that they post using their birth name, and ‘real name.’” (Seattle Gay News – Shaun gal Defense and Education Fund he planned, identifying technical assistance providers, re- migrate their stage name from a personal Knittel at Sgn.org) t convened and facilitated a series of “Regional sources, and start-up funding.” Listening Forums,” which represents one of the Adolescence is often challenging as young most comprehensive qualitative studies of LG- people grow in self-awareness and strive for BTQ youth in foster care to date. This effort led independence. At a time when peer pressure to the publication of Out in the Margins: A report and a desire to fit in are strong, the teen years on Regional Listening Forums Highlighting the can be particularly difficult for youth who sense Experience of LGBTQ Youth in Care. that they are different. When the difference is Wornoff said that he sees the important of a sexual or gender orientation, the usual work on behalf of LGBTQ youth in the child ups and downs of growing up can be exacer- welfare system as a transitory special issue that bated by enhanced feelings of alienation and will eventually become unnecessary as profes- isolation, especially if the youth lacks support- sionals adopt proper policies and practices. ive family, friends, and schools. Although the In chronicling the work of advocates over the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender com- last 25 years, Wornoff highlighted the Open- munities have made tremendous strides in vis- ing Doors Project initiated by the American ibility and acceptance over the past 45 years, Bar Association in 2006 as “gigantic” because these successes mean little to a lonely teen it brought judges and lawyers “on board.” Two without a support network of affirming family years later, the ABA published Opening Doors and friends. Throw growing up in foster care for LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care: A Guide for to the mix, and the statistics are grim. LGBTQ Lawyers and Judges. As the largest legal or- foster youth experience discrimination, harass- ganization in the country, the ABA is hugely ment, and violence based on their status to influential and its advocacy for LGBTQ youth an alarmingly high degree. Organizers of the in foster care should lead to courts having the summit and advocates for LGBTQ foster youth information and tools needed to make good hope that the first steps taken at the summit will decisions in the best interest of LGBTQ youth. begin the reforms needed to create safe spaces Scouting for anonymity on Facebook – Olivia LaGarce (right) The summit closed with the foster youth for these youth. t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 Thinking OUTloud

from studies indicate that same-sex relation- the Baltimore City Police V ideo showing Ray Rice ships have been afflicted by IPV/A at similar Department. “We are now punching his then fiancée rates to straight couples. in the process of building Janay Palmeram OUT A spokeswoman for Baltimore-based a system to do just that.” credit: TMZ Sports Spoken House of Ruth Maryland (Hruth.org), an Intimate partner vio- organization whose mission, in part, is to lence is defined by House Steve Charing provide safe shelter to abused women, chil- of Ruth as “a pattern of dren, and men and has recently expanded to coercively controlling be- include LGBT clients, said, “Rates of physi- haviors used by a current cal partner violence victimization are higher or previous partner to gain Domestic among gay male and transgender relation- or maintain power and ships and happen equally as often in lesbian control over the other part- Violence Hits relationships when compared to IPV in het- ner.” This could include erosexual relationships.” physical, psychological This is backed up by the Center for and/or emotional abuse Us Too American Progress (Americanprogress.org/ and intimidation. issues/lgbt/news/2011/06/14/9850/domes- Baltimore area resi- The infamous video showing Ray Rice tic-violence-in-the-lgbt-community), which dent R.J. Ladd lived to- punching his then fiancée Janay Palmer in notes, “One out of four to one out of three gether with his boyfriend on and off for three to fight back than are heterosexual women. an elevator of a now defunct Atlantic City same-sex relationships has experienced years. The boyfriend had a tendency to get This can lead law enforcement to conclude casino hotel and its ugly aftermath trig- domestic violence. By comparison, one in drunk and to fight. “I’d try and walk away from that the fighting was mutual, overlooking the gered a firestorm of anger and recrimination every four heterosexual women experiences him with no success,” explains Ladd who be- larger context of domestic violence and the throughout the country. One positive effect, domestic violence in her lifetime.” lieves IPV/A is an important issue and from history of power and control in the relation- however, was that the horrific incident shed At this point, there aren’t any available which the LGBT community should not feel ship. light on the shadows of silence concerning IPV/A police statistics in Baltimore pertaining they are immune. Abusers can threaten to take away the the ongoing problem of domestic violence or to same-sex situations. “We track all domes- “We were in multiple fights, in which three children from the victim. In some states, intimate partner violence and abuse (IPV/A). tic violence and domestic disputes. We do not of which I lost teeth, with effects still evident adoption laws do not allow same-sex par- IPV/A had been seen by many as a het- break those statistics down by orientation,” to this day. I would just try and do things his ents to adopt each other’s children. This can erosexual problem. Yet statistics gathered said Lt. J. Eric Kowalczyk, a spokesman for way and just agree even when he was wrong. leave the victim with no legal rights should the It still didn’t work, and we would continue to couple separate. The abuser can easily use have fights. He would assume I was sleeping the children as leverage to prevent the victim with all my friends – I wasn’t – but the fighting from leaving or seeking help. And in the worst still continued.” cases, the children could end up in the cus- Victims of IPV/A who are in same-sex rela- tody of the abuser. tionships encounter issues that are distinctive House of Ruth, which is now partnered from IPV/A in heterosexual relationships. For with the Baltimore Ravens and has received instance, an abusive partner may threaten to an increase in donations as a result of the “out” a partner’s sexuality to family, friends, Ray Rice matter and who has a 24-hour hot- or co-workers as a tactic to get that person to line – 410-889-RUTH (7884) – offers the fol- stay in a relationship or to coerce the victim in lowing tips: order to get what he or she wants. • Plan for your physical safety LGBT individuals whose families/friends • Inform those closest to you about what’s don’t support their sexuality have fewer going on sources of support, increasing isolation and • Establish a code word to check in with making it hard to end abusive relationships. friends or family Abusers use this to keep a relationship going; • Take threats seriously they remind the victim how alone he or she • Consider applying for a Protection Order will be if he or she leaves. and carry it with you at all times Additionally, the Center for American • Plan for your cyber safety Progress points out that lesbian and gay vic- • Screen your calls and save all voice- tims are more reluctant to report abuse to mails, emails or texts s/he sends legal authorities. Survivors may not contact • Do not use apps like Snapchat law enforcement agencies because doing so • Do not use mobile apps that track your would force them to reveal their sexual orien- whereabouts such as Foursquare or “tag” on tation or gender identity. Facebook Gay and lesbian victims are also reluctant • Turn off the GPS function of your phone to seek help out of fear of showing a lack of IPV/A affects people of all races, age solidarity among the gay and lesbian com- groups, socio-economic status, sexual ori- munity. Similarly, many gay men and women entations, and identities. It is critical to be on hide their abuse out of a heightened fear that guard against possible IPV/A and to take the society will perceive same-sex relationships necessary steps to deal with the situation. as inherently dysfunctional. Clearly, IPV/A has been around forever and Gay and lesbian victims are more likely is not going away soon. t 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

As crucial as acceptance is to build the ply catching up with each other after a long foundation for happiness, it is also impor- period. I was unquestionably falling in love Ask tant to take a look at how important the re- and at the same time drowning in denial. lationship is to you. The test for this comes, Lesbian What’s more important? Is it that your Dr. J at least some of the time, if you’re able to Taboo partner is of the opposite sex or that your set your wants and wishes aside and tend Nicole Bettis partner is of the same heart? Too many of Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. to the wishes and needs of the partner. He us are so brainwashed that we readily and is not feeling well but you want to go out to openly reject souls that are in complete see a movie. Do you compromise and watch convergence with our own simply because something together at home? If you do, my Hearts Not those souls aren’t wrapped in the bodies It’s Not Me, next question would be: Are you the one who that we are “preprogrammed” to except. accepts the other’s wishes all the time, or is Parts We stifle our own happiness before it even there a balance in how you work with these gets the opportunity to take its first breath. it’s You different wants? A balanced relationship, We disregard potential soul-mates without where partners share in how they accommo- What if you were lucky enough to have the so much as a second thought because There is a classic and corny psychologist date each other is likely to be a long-lasting person of your dreams walk into your life? their bodies aren’t considered anatomi- joke: How many psychologists does it take to connection. There will always be conflicting I mean the person who is your match in cally correct (according to society’s current change a light bulb? Only one, but the bulb interests, needs, plans, or wishes. None of every single way, the yin to your yang, the standards, of course). It all sounds danger- has to want to change. If you want a healthy us wants to be with a clone. What makes a sun to your moon, the water to your fire. ously shallow, to me anyway. relationship, you can’t get there from think- relationship exciting is these kinds of chal- The person who, for all intents and pur- When we stop being blinded by what’s ing that you’re okay but it’s his/her fault. You lenging and conflicting issues. How you re- poses, is completely worth your tears but simply on the surface of a person we are have what we call a “joint venture.” What- solve them underlies whether the partners will never, ever (intentionally) make you then finally free to actually see the per- ever is happening, both people created it. feel the sense of joy that comes from having cry. At first you aren’t exactly sure of the son’s core – their essence. We can then Sure, it’s possible that one may be acting someone to share a life with. role that they’ll play in your life but you are observe what it is, exactly, that makes up, but the other is enabling that behavior. If you are finding that your connections certain that they have an important part, them who they are; and oftentimes (when So let’s first dispense with the notion that it’s do not last long, I would say: Take an inven- then after some time you realize that they we are lucky) who they are is a perfect re- only one person’s doing. If lover-boy is a liar tory of your past. See what happened when were actually made especially for you. You flection of who we desire, of who we have and a cheat, why are you there? If your an- you found someone you cared about. Are grow to love them irrevoca- been waiting for, swer is that you love him, what is it that you you the one who breaks up? Do you go for bly. The catch is – they aren’t wanting for, wishing love? Bad behavior? personalities that are attractive in the begin- the “right” gender. Would you for. Sure this isn’t So let’s move on to examining what is ning but then become annoyances? Do you turn them away? What you always the case but, going on and how it can be made healthier always wait for someone to approach you reject this immense blessing how will we know for and happier. In the last column, I discussed first so you don’t risk rejection? Or are you which, just a few people ever sure if we never take unproductive ways of dealing with a part- the “instigator”? We typically develop pat- receive, once in a life time? the chance to find ner’s objectionable actions – namely, toler- terns in how we relate. Would you deny yourself true out? How can we ating but with resentment, engaging in pas- Good relationships do not happen with- love? say things like “True sive-aggressive behavior, and manipulating out a lot of work. But let’s also touch on how I saw a post a while ago love doesn’t really the other. I wrote about the importance of lis- there is an additional layer in LGBT connec- on IG: “Souls recognize each exist” and “Love tening to one another, which is the key to the tions. The emotional toll of coming out, fam- other by vibes, not by appear- hurts” while simulta- heart and mind. What other skills besides ily reactions (positive or negative), skills, and ances.” At first I just brushed neously cutting it off listening does one need? habits developed in connecting before and it off; you know, read it and at the knees when it The dictionary definition of relationship after you come out, and then in general pub- kept scrolling. The quote sounded nice but, doesn’t look like we think it is supposed to? goes like this: a connection, association, or lic, the gauging of prospective partners bring at the same time seemed to be kind of triv- Look, by no means am I suggesting involvement; an emotional or other connec- a lot of additional issues to deal with. I will ial and clichéd. It wasn’t until after encoun- that these types of connections are some- tion, between people. That feeling of connec- elaborate on these and patterns in relation- tering such a kindred spirit on my own, that how perfect or impervious; like any other tion is initially fueled by physical attraction ships next time. t I began to truly understand its depth. This bond between two people they are quite or chemistry. Eventually, the hormones start person came into my life in such a way that capable of detriment or harm. However, to calm down so we need to strengthen the appeared to be completely accidental and I am proposing that allowing ourselves connection we felt so strongly. This is where looking nothing like I’d expected on the out- to engage in these types of relationships it is crucial to take a look at just how accept- Like Us On side. But after our many conversations and would be far more gratifying and rewarding ing you are of your partner’s traits. Without chance encounters, it became increasingly than not. this acceptance, it is a house of cards you Facebook! evident that their inner workings mirrored Live life for you! Invest in your own hap- build if you think you have commitment, be- my own personal list of attributes wanted piness. I mean honestly, If you let others cause acceptance is the foundation. Does in a life-partner, almost down to the letter. (family, friends, church, noisy-ass, judg- that cute gesture she used to make now an- Our connection was way beyond anything mental people) live your life and theirs, noy you? Why the switch? Do you now see I could have ever imagined. From the very whose life will you live? Just, let love in, his need for order as being anal? Or can you beginning, we finished each other’s sen- whether it is five feet five inches tall, or six accept this person, as imperfect as we all tences and quoted the same books. We feet two – wearing a suit and tie or a pen- are, with all the quirks, idiosyncrasies, and had the same weird sense of humor and cil skirt and blouse, look past those things, the good points? Can you see your own im- we laughed together all the time. I mean look deeper, and who knows you may find perfections? Or are you okay but the other is that “laugh until your stomach hurts” kind out a little later that, you kind of like the not? If that is the principle you are working of laughing. There was an easiness to us outside of true love after all. t with, you can’t have a healthy and evolving which made us seem like old friends, sim- relationship. BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 Quality of Life

ple. Several weeks ago I was delivering involved. The authenticity of the will may some materials to an office for a girl’s teen be challenged based on “undue influence” coaching group I am running on October or other grounds. Or one relative may try 5th. I drove to the pediatrician’s office, to have another removed as the personal Moving which was in a medical office building. As The Law representative (executor) of the estate. Forward I walked in I glanced at the building’s reg- & You Simply put, death is often not for the Ava Barron-Shasho istry. There were at least 25 offices with Lee Carpenter faint of heart. As author Rick Riordan says various types of physicians. I mistakenly in his book Sea of Monsters, “Sometimes thought the only office I would visit would the best we can do is to remind each other be a doctor that worked with children. I Keeping that we’re related for better or for worse.” Don’t Think was immediately struck by the thought, But better than offering gentle remind- redolent of the Jaws movie, “Ava, you’re Hostile ers is preventing problems before they Scarcity going to need more flyers.” At that point arise. Simply having a will in place can my game-plan changed, as I walked into help head off family disputes by making Like most people, I get caught up in scarcity most of the offices to introduce myself. Family at Bay your wishes clear. A will allows you to say thinking. What does scarcity-thinking look In this building there were three physical who should settle your estate and where like? Well it’s when you tell yourself there therapy practices, two ob/gyn clinics, two George Burns once said, “Happiness is your assets should go. Other estate-plan- isn’t enough of something. From there your dental offices, two sleep clinics, and more having a large, loving, caring, close-knit ning documents can also prevent contro- brain starts to revert back to its “caveman” family medical practices and internists family in another city.” He may have been versy by authorizing someone to plan your way of thinking. We begin to think from a than I could count. Each office had a wait- on to something. Families can be difficult. fear-based mentality. For example: there ing room full of patients with lots of staff For most of us, of course, family woes isn’t enough so you better start hoarding running around.I was stuck by my scarcity are mere annoyances – the parent who what you have because someone else will thinking. Apparently there were enough complains we never call, the crazy uncle take it. Don’t share what’s yours. Accept patients to go around for all of these prac- who asks embarrassing questions, the in- that what you want or need is out of your titioners and I learned that there was no law who is quick to find fault. reach. shortage of places I could advertise. But for some of us, family problems Recently I was able to observe two You know you’re a “lhinker” if these can blossom into outright hostility. Our separate situations where scarcity was statements run through your mind… relatives may disapprove of our relation- winning the battle over the way people • I’ll never have enough money. ships and stop speaking to us as a result. funeral and dispose of your remains. think. • No one will ever love me. Or other issues – like political differences, These documents are especially im- In addition to my private practice, • I’m too old to go back to school. financial entanglements, or a perceived portant for members of the LGBT commu- I’m an adjunct faculty member at CCBC. • I’ll never be accepted into____. slight that will never be forgotten – may nity. Without a current estate plan as guid- I have the pleasure of teaching students • I won’t get that promotion. lead to serious family strife. ance, tasks such as settling your estate and opening their eyes to see their lives • There isn’t enough business. In cases like these, mere silence may and disposing of your remains would fall from different perspectives. Several weeks • No one will help me. be a blessing. The real trouble may start, to your next of kin. For married couples, ago, a student wanted to talk about her • I’ll never find a partner. this would be the surviving spouse, but future. I asked her what career field she • There is too much competition. “For some of us, for others, the person selected could be was thinking of going into. Without hesita- • I will always be alone. family problems can an estranged parent or indifferent sibling. tion she said, “I want to be a nurse.”Nice, • I won’t have enough customers. The result may be a far cry from what you I thought to myself. She sees a clear path • I’m going to keep this information qui- blossom into outright would have wanted. to what she wants thus making it a reality et. I don’t want everyone taking my idea. If the threat of a legal challenge to your won’t be too difficult. But before she could • There won’t be enough. hostility. Our relatives will seems likely, your attorney can include an draw her next breath she said, “But the • I’m not even going to submit my re- may disapprove of our in terrorem clause in the document. This sim- program is tough to get into and they only sume. I won’t get the job anyway. ple provision effectively disinherits anyone accept, like, 22 students. I don’t think I’ll • This is the best I can do. relationships and stop who contests the will without probable cause. make it so I need to pick something else.” When you start thinking that there isn’t In more extreme cases, your assets could The first words out of my mouth were, enough to go around, think again. Teach speaking to us as a be place in a revocable living trust. Harder to “Why can’t one of those students be you?”I yourself to think more abundantly. After you result.” challenge than a will, the trust would become followed this with, “Why are you assum- finish saying or thinking something negative irrevocable upon your death and would help ing you can’t, before you even try?” She follow it with “but I could be wrong.” Remind to keep the details of your estate private. looked at me bewildered. There was noth- yourself there is abundance in this world. however, when someone dies. Death may Whether you opt for defensive mea- ing wrong with her grades that would prove Ask yourself, “Would I think differently if I bring out the best in a family, and a sense sures like these or not, the peace of mind to me this was out of her reach. “Well I wasn’t afraid?” And “What would I do differ- of togetherness may result. When it comes that comes from having your will prepared never thought of it that way,” she replied. ently if I wasn’t thinking so negatively?” Do to dividing up worldly goods, expressions may seem enough to add years to your She had already talked herself out of it be- I know anyone who has obtained this goal? like “Mom would have wanted you to have life. As George Burns also said, “If you ask cause someone told her there are many If they can, so can I. I won’t know unless this” are apt to be heard. what is the single most important key to applicants and only a few are accepted. I try. Think confidently. So before you start But death may bring out the worst in a longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding This was scarcity thinking at its best, or talking yourself out of whatever it is that family instead. Arguments may erupt over worry, stress, and tension. And if you didn’t t worst, depending on how you want to look you want, try thinking on a larger level. You where to hold the funeral, whether to sell ask me, I’d still have to say it.” at it. I encouraged her to think of how many might surprise yourself. t the family home, and how to decide who Lee Carpenter is an associate at the nurses there are just in our area alone, and Ava Barron-Shasho, MSW, is a life and gets what. The phrase “Mom would have law firm of Semmes, Bowen & Semmes – then think of that on a state level and then relationship coach, certifed by the Inter- wanted me to have this” is more likely to 410-576-4729 or [email protected] on a national level. national Coach Federation, and welcomes be uttered. Mdlgbtestateplanning.com. No specific le- My second story is a personal exam- feedback at [email protected] In extreme cases, lawyers may become gal advice intended. 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of Life

tion on cock rings – since I was never into Tina (amphetamines), I never needed one The when I was younger. Isn’t there something an essential-oil based product. The feline Open Wide about cock rings being safe only if they are Essentials liver has a hard time processing certain plant ask Dr Eva made out of certain materials? Would I be of Living Naturally chemicals. Because of this, it is best to avoid better off using one of the erection drugs Michael Lausterer essential oils altogether. Essential oils often Dr Eva Hersh like Viagra instead? And finally, I have to share many chemical constituents but in dif- admit this makes me feel as if I am being ferent amounts, depending on the precise judged by the quality of my erections rath- plant of extraction. The solution is to purchase Questions About er than for who I am, and this decreases Natural Products a hydrosol-based product. Hydrosols are the my interest in my (admittedly hot) young floral or aromatic waters used to extract plant Sex Toys friend. Does that make sense, or is his re- for Your Pet essential oils. Though they do contain some of quest reasonable? the therapeutic chemical properties, like their Dear Dr. Eva, Questionable Erection Our family members come in all shapes and essential-oil counterpart, the amounts are eas- My boyfriend gave me a French tick- sizes, including those with four legs. Pets are ily processed-out of the feline’s system. ler for my birthday. It looks like a very Dear Questionable, very close to the hearts of those around them. Parabens, a preservative, are prevalent thick rubber condom with a piece of a Let’s start with the easy questions first. Keeping your pet in good health does not have in many shampoos and conditioners. There sea anemone on the tip and ridges on the Yes, I agree it would be a good idea to try to be expensive, but having knowledge about are natural alternatives to preserving soaps, sides. I guess it is supposed to be stimulat- an erection boosting medication such as topics such as grooming and diet can be in- shampoos, and conditioners that include citrus ing for the bottom partner. I Viagra before cock rings, keeping in mind valuable. Using more natural products in your extracts and acids. Parabens have been un- thought this was along the that if the results from the pet’s life will help to stimulate them to be better der fire by many because it is thought that they lines of a gag gift, but medication were not good companions. mimic the female hormone estrogen, causing turns out he actually enough, you could use Pets are an amazing bunch. Their sensory an excess in the body. Scan the ingredient la- wants to try it out. We the medication and a skills are superior to humans. When shopping bel. If you find any ingredient ending in para- normally use condoms cock ring together for for them, as for any products on the market, ben, the product contains the preservative. because I have HIV additional effect. read through ingredient labels to ensure that The colorant debate rages on the in the and he doesn’t, and Cock rings should ingredients are natural, primarily of plant ori- U.S. The European Union has mandated food he has hepatitis C only be used if they gin. Avoid parabens, dyes, sulfates, synthetic and certain product manufacturers to place a and I don’t. The pack- can be easily removed fragrance, and harsh chemical additives be- warning label on products containing dyes. It aging on the French with a scissors: made cause, as with human exposure, long-term was found that some of the colors used can tickler clearly states of rubber or leather. studies on these ingredients are not entirely cause certain issues in humans. This holds “This sex toy is not Never metal, wood, known. true for the animal community. Colors are designed to prevent plastic, or any other Fragrances that are not naturally essen- wonderful for marketing products, but are not pregnancy or trans- material that will not tial-oil based can tend to be over stimulating a necessity in the end. Natural colorants from mission of disease.” stretch. It may not be for your pet. A dog’s sense of smell can pin- plants, clays, and honey are becoming more He suggested he a glamorous idea, but point specific aromatic qualities in the air, al- and more popular. could wear a condom the thick rubber bands lowing the animal to home-in on its direction. Some manufacturers are using spices and under it, but I seem to that come on vegeta- If an animal can sense aroma particles at so plant extracts, such as paprika and annatto remember you wrote bles like broccoli and many parts per million, the fragrance-based seed, as coloring agents in place of synthetics. in a previous column that asparagus make effec- animal products on the market are entirely too Some of the spices used as colorants can it doesn’t work to double up on condoms, tive, free, safe cock rings. much for them to handle. Opt for essential- have some therapeutic benefits themselves, and this would be similar to that. What do You didn’t mention whether you have oil based shampoos, conditioners, and treat- such as reducing surface bacteria on the body you think? noticed any recent change in your erec- ments for canines. The aromatic qualities are and possibly stimulating skin cells. t Not Tickled tions. If you have, might you be having not intense and the therapeutic benefits are Michael Lausterer is a master essential oil difficulties due to anxiety from being in a worth the investment. therapist and is co-owner of Basic Earth Es- Dear Not, new relationship, or because you find your Felines, on the other hand, cannot use sentials with his husband Stephen Jarvis. I think what you think – this is a gag new partner so attractive? Are you drink- gift. Laugh, thank him, and toss it. If a ing more alcohol or using more drugs, condom were used, it’s very likely that the or smoking more (tobacco or marijuana) condom would stick to the tickler better since you have been in this relationship? than it would to the penis. The condom and All of these can interfere with erections. the tickler would slide off together, leaving As far as whether your friend is judg- him potentially exposed to your HIV virus ing you excessively on your erections, per- and you exposed to his hepatitis C virus. haps not any more so than you are pur- The two of you can find some other ways suing him on the basis of his youth and to have fun. attractiveness. Should this relationship not work out, you might find less judgment in Dear Dr. Eva, this area by dating men closer to your own I am an older guy in a new relationship age. If you prefer not to do that, be pre- with a younger guy. He suggested I try us- pared to face similar problems again. t ing a cock ring to get my erection firmer Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physician. and make it last longer. I have really mixed Send your comments and questions to her by feelings about this. I’d like some informa- email at [email protected].

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 FAITH Church to Host Coming-Out Discussion

By Steve Charing St. Matthew has a long tra- dition of being a welcoming and inclusive faith commu- nity. With its many ministries and outreach programs, St. Matthew has begun a min- istry called LEAD, which is designed to affirm the LGBT members of their parish family and the broader community. “The LEAD ministry will pro- vide education and clarifica- tion on matters dealing with the LGBT community,” accord- ing to their website leadlgbt- ministry.org. St. Matthew contingent at Baltimore Pride 2013 LEAD stands for: LGBT, credit: New Ways Ministry Educating and, Affirming, Di- versity. To commemorate National Coming Parents, adult children and a pastoral Out Day, the LEAD ministry will be host- counselor will talk about coming out at ing a discussion on “What Happens When home, relating their own personal stories. a Member of the Family Comes Out?” on There will be a Q&A period and refresh- Sunday, October 12 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. It ments will be served. will take place at St. Matthew Church Hall, For more information, email goodand- 5401 Loch Raven Boulevard., Baltimore. [email protected]. t

14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts //t Ou on Stage Colossal at the Olney Theatre Center By Steve Charing ing the length of and on opposite sides of and Marcus Y oung Mike The timing of the National New Play Net- the black-box stage with an overhanging (Jon Hudson (Joseph work’s Rolling World Premiere production electronic scoreboard and functional clock. Odom) bark Carlson)...... shares of Colossal could not be better. The play is The latter is used to denote the play’s out additional an intimate about football (the new season has just be- structure: 15-minute quarters, a pre-game, commands moment with gun); it’s about a gay male player dealing and a halftime – all a metaphor for how and signals his team with the macho world of organized sports the time in our lives is precious and finite. as part of co-captain (the journey of openly gay football player There is also a dance barre, a mirror at the drills that Marcus (Jon Michael Sam has caught the nation’s at- one end, and lockers on the opposite end. included vig- Hudson tention); football injuries (constantly in the As the audience makes its way to their orous and Odom) credit: news); and it’s about love and family (al- seats, a squad of college football players fast-paced, Stan Barouh ways timely). (seven in the production but they symbol- sweat-pro- Colossal, written by Andrew Hinder- ized a full team) are already performing ducing block- aker, makes its debut at the Olney The- their pre-game drills on the stage to the ing, tackling, atre Center before the new play appears commands and cadences of their coach, passing, and in three other venues in the country. Direc- played well by KenYatta Rogers, with running plays, tor Will Davis guides the talented all-male thumping, percussive music in the back- spreading cast with great skill accentuating the phys- ground. Juxtaposed in the drills is Damon, across the icality of football and dance and how these not a footballer, played splendidly by Steve stage. But to conflicting elements can sometime be Ochoa, dancing elegantly on the stage Mike, Marcus fused. The visuals are as much a part of while the players grunted through their is more than just a co-captain to him. Present-day Mike’s interactions with this unconventional play as the dialogue. paces. All this action and that which transpires Jerry, a physical therapist who is also gay If a set could define a production, Mi- These effects plus the moods depicted throughout is superbly choreographed (played nicely by James Whalen), and his cha Kachman’s design clearly does. Ol- throughout the play are bolstered by Colin by Christopher D’Amboise and fight and father reveal the physical and emotional ney’s Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab was K. Bill’s lighting design and Chris Baine’s movement choreographer Ben Cunis. The demons that are plaguing him and the converted into a miniature football stadium sound design. precise and beautifully performed dance challenges of moving on. Mike’s relation- consisting of four rows of grandstand seat- Co-captains Mike (Joseph Carlson) movements by the cast are especially evi- ships with his father and with Marcus are dent during the “halftime show” and was poignant and provide emotional lift to the one of the highlights of the production. drama. Another Regional Premiere Costume designer Ivania Stack fitted Mr. Hinderaker wrote Colossal for this well-built team with football pants, Thornton, who had suffered a spinal stroke Coming to Toby’s! shoulder pads, helmets, and tight, sleeve- in 2003 that left him paralyzed from the less shirts (not jerseys), revealing some neck down. After intense rehabilitation, OPENS SEPTEMBER 5! pretty well-defined biceps and triceps. Be- Thornton eventually regained use of his sides Odom and Carlson, the other players upper body and returned to acting and are Sam Faria, Will Hayes, Jeff Kirkman III, became a powerful disabilities advocate Michael Litchfield, and Matthew Ward. All in the theatre world, according to Olney’s are outstanding in their precision, physi- artistic director Jason Loewith. cality, coordination, and timing. Colossal touches on such issues as Colossal’s story centers on Mike, disability, homophobia in the locker room, played convincingly by Michael Patrick football injuries, and family relations. In the Thornton, a veteran of theatre and televi- compact 75 minutes of the play, however, sion. After a bad tackle (leading with his there isn’t enough time to explore each of head) to protect his love interest Marcus these issues with the depth they deserve. (Odom), he was left paralyzed from his Nonetheless, under the direction of Will waist down and is confined to a wheelchair. Davis, this vibrant, talented cast crosses t From the underground dance clubs of 1950’s Memphis, Tennessee,comes Through flashbacks, Mike relives his the goal line before the clock runs out. younger days in his mind and the challeng- Colossal runs through September 28 a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive es he faced dealing with his loss of iden- at the Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab of the dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and romance. tity ensuing when such a vibrant, athletic Olney Theatre Center (2001 Olney-Sandy specimen ends up restricted to a wheel- Spring Road, Olney, Maryland). Running chair. Young Mike (Carlson) plays out time: 75 minutes. The play contains pro- TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE OF COLUMBIA those memories exceptionally with high- fanity and adult situations. For tickets, call powered energy and immense physicality. 301-924-3400 or visit Olneytheatre.org. 5900 Symphony Woods Road • CALL 410-730-8311 Damon (Steve Ochoa), Mike’s chore- ographer father, had hoped his son would Based on availability. Due to the nature of theatre bookings, all shows, have been a dancer in the company he dates and times are subject to change. runs. In one of the play’s few light moments, TobysDinnerTheatre.com Young Mike mused how his father is proba- Di w nner & Sho RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY! bly the only one in the country disappointed that his son chose football over dance.

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts //t Ou on Stage Racial Taboos, Rock, and Blues at Toby’s Memphis

By Steve Charing audience much to the chagrin of the skeptical hearted and self-centered, his movements on of Bobby, a janitor and a friend of Delray’s As was the case throughout the South dur- and resistant station manager Mr. Simmons the stage, facial expressions, body language, who helps the illiterate Huey to read a beer ing the mid-1950s white folks in Memphis (Robert John Biedermann). posture and Southern drawl demonstrate he commercial. That scene, by the way, is the referred to African-Americans as was perfectly cast as Huey. funniest moment in the show. Young’s perfor- coloreds and by the N-word. Radio A shley Lauren Johnson as Felicia and Besides his solid acting per- mance of “Big Love” is joyful. stations played either white music Greg Twomey as Huey formance, Twomey proves he can In the role of Gator, Jonathan Randle’s or black music – not both. People credit: Kirstine Christiansen sing and he can dance.Though rendition of “Say a Prayer” is superb as it dared not set foot in an establish- there were no solos for his part, is moving. Robert John Biedermann as the ment whose ownership and clientele Twomey excels with his smooth, cranky Mr. Simmons performs splendidly. were of another race. Interracial re- pitch-perfect voice in such num- The talented ensemble proficiently sup- lationships were forbidden and dan- bers as “Music of My Soul,” “Ain’t ported the leads, performing in most of the gerous. Nothin’ But a Kiss,” and “Tear Down numbers. They sang and danced expertly While things have improved the House.” and added a high-octane presence. Give significantly but not entirely over For her part, the lovely Ashley credit to choreographer Christen Svingos for the years, these conditions provide Lauren Johnson is also perfect for the well-designed dance numbers with some the backdrop for the hand-clapping, the role of Felicia. Performing in of them infused with breathtaking acrobatics. toe-tapping musical extravaganza, her tenth show at Toby’s, her act- Ross Scott Rawlings’s six-piece orchestra Memphis the Musical, now playing ing skills shine throughout, and coordinated effectively with the on-stage per- at Toby’s, the Dinner Theatre of Co- her strong onstage chemistry with formers, allowing their vocal talents to stand lumbia. Twomey is palpable. In addition to out. Set and light designer David A. Hopkins Under the direction of Toby possessing superb vocal chops, and sound by Drew Dedrick provided the tech- Orenstein and Lawrence B. Mun- Johnson delivers a beautiful solo nical support to keep the production glowing. sey, the musical direction of Ross rendition of “Colored Woman,” The period props are great part of the Scott Rawlings with choreography and she hit the mark in “Love Will production. They consisted of old phones, a by Christen Svingos, the extraordi- Stand” – an outstanding number television camera, actual vinyl records, 50s- nary cast more than did justice to the she performs with the company. style kitchen furniture, microphones, and ra- four-time 2010 Tony Award-winning Also notable in the cast is Lynne dio equipment. To go along with these, Larry show that included Best Musical. Sigler as Huey’s bigoted mother, B. Munsey outfitted the ensemble in repre- With all the superb performances who eventually transforms her at- sentative 1950s Southern costumes, includ- and technical precision, Memphis titudes towards race. Her number ing lovely robes for the church choir. joins a growing list of elite produc- “Change Don’t Come Easy” is a Adding all the ingredients together – the tions at Toby’s famous in-the-round virtual show-stopper. Wait until you story, the music, the expertly directed well- theater. Nonetheless, Huey’s popularity leads hear that final note! cast and performed production of Memphis t David Bryan’s music and lyrics and Joe him to a local television gig whereby he can Sayne-Khayri Lewis as Delray, the over- is one that should not be missed. DiPietro, who co-wrote the lyrics and penned showcase Felicia’s vocal talents. As Huey’s protective brother of Felicia, also turns in a Memphis (140 minutes) runs through No- the book, brought the message of love, am- interest in Felicia grows, he has to overcome fine job. His duet with Twomey, “She’s My vember 9 at Toby’s, the Dinner Theatre of bition, and race home through a score brim- the defiant opposition of his racist mother Sister” is emotionally strong and well per- Columbia, 5900 Symphony Woods Road, ming with rhythmic gospel, R&B, and rock Gladys Calhoun (Lynne Sigler), who clings to formed. Columbia, Maryland. For tickets call 410- numbers, along with melodic ballads. old-time prejudice. Her brother Delray is not Tobias Young, a Helen Hayes-nominat- 730-8311 or visit Tobysdinnertheatre.com. t The story revolves around Huey Cal- too keen on this relationship either. Though ed veteran of Toby’s, sparkles in the role The show contains profanity. houn (played by Greg Twomey) a rather poor Felicia herself understands the dangers, she good ol’ boy ninth-grade dropout who loves moves closer to Huey but wants to do so in R&B music. One night he saunters into an secrecy. underground black dive club where he was While their careers rise their relationship far from welcomed. He meets Felicia Farrell is challenged by personal ambition and the (Ashley Lauren Johnson), the sister of the lack of acceptance by the outside world. To owner Delray Farrell (Sayne-Kharyi Lewis). find out how this plays out, you should see Upon hearing the young black woman sing, the show. Huey promises to find a way to get her no- Although the entire ensemble can sing, ticed. dance, and act like it’s nobody’s business, Huey, a braggart and a self-promoting Twomey and Johnson soared high as the conniver, manages to get himself a trial audi- leads.It was difficult for me to believe that tion as a DJ on a white radio station play- Twomey hadn’t performed on stage for over ing “race music.”In Memphis, no one had three years prior to being cast in the role of ever attempted this before. Huey’s unique Huey.His performance is so refined, so adroit style and personality (he uses the nonsen- in every way, one would think he is a sea- sical “Hockadoo” as his signature word on soned veteran with a mantle full of trophies. the air) plus his playing this type of music, In that regard Twomey’s acting skills which was the foundation for the upstart rock demonstrated more gold than rust. Playing ’n’ roll genre, endeared him to the listening the role of a fellow who is paradoxically big-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // personalities

AN INTERVIEW WITH FILMMAKER IRA SACHS GS: On the same token, gay actors are also a presence in the film, including that is new. I also hope that I Cheyenne Jackson as Ben and George’s aspire to the kind of passion neighbor Ted and Jason Stuart as the for life and creativity that Ben wedding officiant. As a gay filmmaker, has that was inspired for me how important is it for you to have queer Portrait of Love by a man I knew named Ted performers in your films? Byg Greg Shapiro Rust. He was a sculptor who IS: Yes, it is. I think to deny that there After a slight slump, queer cinema is able to find a suitable living situation. In- died at the age of 99. He was my great- are limitations set on people who are open making a strong comeback. In 2014, the timate and poignant, Sachs makes it easy uncle’s partner for 42 years in Memphis. At with their sexuality would be false. Those movie Love is Strange (Sony Pictures for audiences from all walks of life to get 98 he was working on his last piece, which are not limitations that I want to embrace. I Classics) is almost singlehandedly lead- involved with these men, their complex sit- was of a young teenager with a backpack. believe that there is a need for creation of ing the way. Directed and co-written (with uation and their search for resolution and That piece remains unfinished, but he was subcultures. At the same time, as an artist, Mauricio Zacharias) by Ira Sachs, Love dignity. I spoke with Sachs about the film working on it until nearly the last day of his that’s not my modus operandi. I’m trying to is Strange stars John Lithgow and Alfred during the summer of 2014. life. To me, that’s beautiful. create portraits of the world as full as pos- Molina as Ben and George, respectively, Gregg Shapiro: When I interviewed GS: That also echoes with the unfin- sible. Also, my other gig is that I run two a gay couple in New York who have been you about Keep the Lights On in autumn ished painting of Vlad in the film. arts programs here in New York – Queer together for 39 years. The film opens on 2012, you mentioned Love is Strange. In IS: Exactly! There were a couple of Arts Film and Queer Art Mentorship, which the joyous occasion of their wedding, sur- what ways did it evolve from that time to things that were influential in the writing are both focused on creating opportunities rounded by family and friends. Soon af- what it is now? of the script. One was the piece that Ted for openly queer creators, opportunities ter, the celebration turns to tragedy when Ira Sachs: It’s become something never finished. The other was a case in the that are not given by the culture at large. George, who teaches at a Catholic school, so different when you have these actors Midwest where a man, a choir director for There’s so little economic support that is fired from his job. Faced with dire finan- and you live it in a different way. I always a Catholic high school married his partner sometimes embracing one’s marginality is cial prospects, the couple is forced to live think you make three movies in the course and was fired as a result. I take things from empowering. apart – Ben with his nephew Elliot (Darren of making one. You write one movie, you real life and try to craft them into some- GS: Love is Strange is getting a warm Burrows), Elliot’s wife Kate (Marisa Tomei) shoot another movie which you think is go- thing different, something cinematic. reception from critics, recently receiving and their teenage son Joey (Charlie Tah- ing to be the movie you’re going to make. GS: I’m glad you mentioned that fir- an “A” from Entertainment Weekly, and an) and George with neighbors (and gay The last movie is the one you edit and ing, Ira, because as recently as late July the Oscar buzz has been consistent for cops) Ted (Cheyenne Jackson) and Ro- that’s the movie that lives on. I can’t imag- of this year (2014), a music director at the film. What does all of this mean to berto (Manny Rodriguez) – until they are ine that the cast was different at that point a Catholic church in a Chicago suburb you? in autumn of 2012, when we last spoke. If was fired for posting something on IS: It means people are liking the movie. you do your job right you end up with the Facebook about his upcoming wedding It means people are responding to it emo- only people you can imagine playing Ben to his male partner. It’s an event that tionally and that they are enjoying it. This is and George and Kate and Joey and the echoes, as you said, in Love Is Strange why people praise a film, because they liked characters in your film. You’ve given the when George is fired from the Catholic watching it. I’m glad I’m not going back- film over to them in a certain way. school where he works. When do you wards in terms of my skills and my voice. I GS: In that previous interview, you think this will stop being a story that look to someone like Ben, and maybe even said about Love Is Strange that, “It’s the makes the headlines? more now, someone like John Lithgow, who first film I’m making about the potential IS: I was actually in Chicago a few at 69 has taken King Lear. Next spring he’s for a relationship to blossom over time, nights ago and the couple who you are going to be in Edward Albee’s A Delicate instead of destruct. In some ways it’s speaking of came to the movie. I spent quite Balance on Broadway. He’s at one of the a projection of what I hope in my rela- a bit of time talking to them afterwards. primes of his life as an artist, which seems tionship now has the potential to grow. They were really great men and I enjoyed to me wonderful and something to aspire to. That’s something that I think is very it a lot. We were screening a film that mir- GS: Finally, Ira, as I asked you the new in gay life in many ways – at least rored their own experience so much, that last time we spoke, have you started for me.” With that in mind, how much of the timing was surprising. One thing that working on or thinking about your next Ira is in either or both Ben or George? I will say about that case that I think is so film? IS: A lot [laughs]! As well as people beautiful in some ways, or at least makes IS: Yes, I’m glad to say. Hopefully we’ll that I’ve been close to that I’ve admired it a larger picture, is this couple went off to be here in two years having this conversa- and have learned from. I think when you Rome. They got engaged and announced tion about the next film. Mauricio Zacharias, admire someone, you try to figure out what it on Facebook. One of them came home my co-writer, and I are writing the third of you’re going to keep of them for yourself. and was fired from his job as a choir direc- what we consider a trilogy of New York sto- What I love about both Ben and George, tor at a Catholic school. The other is a Latin ries. This one is about two boys, 10 and 11, and what’s kind of unique in some ways, is teacher for a public high school in Chicago who become best friends, and for various this portrait of these two very humble, who and he came home and all of his students reasons, they take an oath of silence and at the same time have this extraordinary had decorated his classroom with balloons they stop speaking to their families. It’s a confidence about who they are. That, for and streamers in celebration. After the man film about relationships and intimacy, gay example, was not true of any of my cen- had been fired, there was a town-hall meet- identity, within the context of modern times. tral characters previously. They were not ing and 700 people showed up. I think civil It’s also, once again, about real estate, be- people who knew themselves. Ben and rights are paved by these incidents that cause it hinges on an eviction. I’m trying to George in a way reflect me because I feel both contain the negative and the positive. start a new genre, which is the New York like that that’s where I situate myself. Not They become movements forward even if real estate movie. t that I know everything about myself, but personally they become challenges in real Read the entire interview at Baltimore- I’m comfortable with who I am in a way ways. But they define a changing time. outloud.com

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // Out on Screen

bar and his private life. the first robbery, while another was quite The Drop is one big puzzle a surprise. Roskam keeps things moving where all of the seemingly dis- pretty well as the mysteries pile up on each The Drop parate pieces will connect to- other, but the developing romantic feelings gether at some point to paint a between Bob and Nadia tend to slow the bigger picture and reveal many story down a bit. Luckily, and I have to put By Chuck Duncan truths about the characters. To really sell this out there for the animal lovers because I’ve not read a book by Dennis Lehane, the deceptions of each character, director it’s very hard to focus on the characters but I have seen several of the movies Michaël R. Roskam has cast a group of when you’re more worried about the dog’s based on his books (of which he is usu- very talented actors. The late James Gan- survival, the dog does not get harmed in ally the credited screenwriter). Some of dolfini (in his last role) makes Marv seem any way after his rescue from the garbage. those films I have The Drop wasn’t as good as Gone enjoyed and some Baby Gone, but was much better than I have not, mainly Mystic River. The story may be a bit con- because they all voluted but the performances are certainly seem to have a sort worth the price of admission, especially of commonality to Hardy’s. Seeing Gandolfini on screen one them – cold, grey, more time (he died in June 2013) may also extremely bleak, bring in the curious viewer, but it’s not a with nary a char- film that you can just casually stroll into acter you can actu- and sit back and enjoy. Thankfully, the film ally root for (case in also is very restrained as far as violence point: Mystic River). goes with only one scene with an execu- Gone Baby Gone tion by gun (in darkness) and any other and Shutter Island Brooklyn- bodily harm happening off-screen. If you were more suc- (ill at) -ese enjoy crime dramas with a mystery woven cessful, in my book, in highlighted by some terrific performanc- perhaps because es, then you should enjoy The Drop. t the directors made the material interest- like an average guy stuck in a shady situ- ing (and Shutter Island certainly divided ation, but he slowly reveals many layers of audiences with its extremely ambiguous the character. It’s a fine performance, but conclusion). perhaps a little too Tony Soprano in the The latest Lehane novel to make it to end. the big screen is Animal Rescue, which Tom Hardy, however, is pretty remark- now goes by the title The Drop. The Drop able, nailing the Brooklynese with great is another cold, grey, bleak story about skill, never once wavering or slipping into Brooklyn (instead of Lehane’s usual Bos- his natural accent, nor acting very stilted ton). Specifically Brooklyn’s neighborhood while trying to maintain the foreign accent bars and the organized crime element that (like Richard Armitage in Into the Storm). uses those bars as nightly drops for all of He makes Bob seem like a very simple (or the money collected during the day. One simple-minded at times) person, naive on such bar is Cousin Marv’s, run by Marv the outside, just a working-class guy who (James Gandolfini) and his cousin Bob gives away free drinks to the locals and Saginowski (Tom Hardy), but owned by has a big enough heart to rescue a dog the Chechen mob. from a trash can. There is more to Bob Marv’s is robbed one night, and Bob than meets the eye, but Hardy keeps all of nervously gives the police a vital clue as Bob’s secrets intact until he’s forced to re- to who one of the suspects may be. The veal them. Schoenaerts, who worked with money is eventually returned, and the Roskam on Rust and Bone, also pulls off Chechen’s tell Marv his bar will be the an American accent without a hitch but his drop on Super Bowl Sunday. Meanwhile, Eric Deeds is not someone you’d want to Bob finds an abused dog in a trash can, run into in a dark alley… or a well-lit one and with the help of the owner of said for that matter. Deeds always has an edge trash can (Noomi Rapace), raises the and if you get too close to him, you will get dog as his own… until a shady character cut. The only main cast member who gets (Matthias Schoenaerts) shows up claim- short shrift is Rapace as Nadia (employing ing to be the dog’s real owner and makes a non-American accent), the woman who veiled threats to Bob if he doesn’t get the only seems to show up when she needs dog back (and even worse threats as to to either take care of the dog or be put in what he’ll do to the dog when he does). If danger because of her own secrets. the Chechens and the psycho dog owner The film’s poster unfortunately screams weren’t enough, Bob also has to deal with that the film has a twist, and in fact it has a very nosy detective snooping around the quite a few. One you may see coming after

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 Lively Arts Garland on Garland (Un)American Horror By Megan Sandwick “pudgy, fat and not a pin-up girl” from a very Byg Greg Shapiro force, guzzling their blood supply and feed- Judy Garland on Judy Garland (Chicago young age in articles and reviews. As I read Only Lovers Left Alive (Sony Pictures Clas- ing on Ian. Jarmusch’s modern vamp romp Review Press, $18.00) is the chance Judy this I looked at old pictures online and was sics) looks and sounds like what you’d ex- also comes off as a cautionary drug tale, and always wanted for her life to be told in her surprised and a bit irritated figuring they must pect a contemporary Jim Jarmusch vampire Swinton and Hurt are especially addictive. words. Editor Randy L. Schmidt compiled have been looking at different pictures. movie to look and sound like; lots of interest- The Quiet Ones (Lionsgate) is a noisy various interviews from magazines, TV, ra- Throughout Judy’s entire life she was ing music and artfully shot scenes. If only it and unnecessary semi-horror tale inspired dio, and newspapers adding cool and appro- looking for a loving place to call home. With wasn’t so sluggish and overly long. by true events in the mid-1970s. Rogue priate facts. This book gives her first of five mar- Cleverly named ageless British vam- Oxford University prof Joseph (an unwatch- you a humanized perspective riages at the age of pires Adam (Tom Huddleston) and Eve (Tilda able Jared Harris) is obsessed with har- of both the personal life and 19, she had love and Swinton) have been married forever. There’s nessing the negative energy of psychotic legend that was Judy Gar- a home with each of a photo of them, from their third wedding in patient Jane (Olivia Cooke), even more land. It made me fall in love her husbands. True 1868, which Eve admires. Like some long- so after he loses his funding. Recruiting with her all over again – and happiness for Judy married couples (see Dolly Parton and Carl two students – Harry (Rory Fleck-Byrne) this time adding to my feel- was becoming a Dean), Adam and Eve live in separate quar- and Krissi (Erin Richards), as well as non- ings a great deal of personal mother and spending ters in separate countries. Fittingly, he’s liv- student cameraman Brian (Sam Claflin) to respect. time with her three ing in a ghost town called Detroit populated assist in his questionable research, Joseph The interviews walk you children Liza, Lorna, by young humans he refers to as zombies. proceeds undeterred. through the magnificent and and Joseph as they She’s living in Tangier where she hangs out With casual references to mass-murder, mind blowing 45-year ca- traveled. with Christopher Marlowe (John Hurt). Yes, demonic possession, and the occult, the reer including 32 films, 100 Judy felt loved that Christopher Marlowe. singles, over 12 albums, and and connected to her Feeding on humans is over 1500 live performances. fans saying she could passé in this day and age, so Fred Astaire called her the feel them when she Marlowe supplies Eve with “greatest performer that ever was onstage perform- blood from a French phar- lived.” I think he might have ing. She was incred- macist connection (a French known what he was talking ibly loyal and stood up connection, if you will). Adam about. for fans when media gets his from Dr. Watson I recommend this book questioned why she (Jeffrey Wright) at a hospi- as a great way to get to know had a gay following tal. Adam also pursues his Judy Garland beyond the in 1967. On the Irv music-making passion, pay- entertainer. The first part is a collection of in- Kupcinet show she explained, “For so many ing cash for classic guitars terviews and articles from the 1930s and 40s years I’ve been misquoted and treated rather brought to him by Ian (Anton during the time Judy was signed with Metro- brutally by the press, but I’ll be damned if I’ll Yelchin). Goldwyn-Mayer. This is a chance to read as have my audience mistreated.” A series of changes are the PR / media machine as they completely Reading the actual text from the articles afoot. Adam and Eve arrange The Quiet Ones built this studio giant character from a little girl. from the 1930s to 60s was very eye opening. a rendezvous in Detroit, and After leaving MGM Judy really started to This to me is one of the hidden gems of this just in time, too, since Adam has asked Ian hokey The Quiet Ones is the kind of hor- speak up as she wanted to share the truth book. It was fascinating to see how women to have wooden bullet (with a brass cas- ror show that sets the genre back years. about her studio years. Reading the inter- were treated and described in interviews and ing) made for him. Suicidal much? However, Not even gazing at Claflin (Finnick from views Judy was equally as captivating as she magazines. The specific words that were Eve’s arrival is the tonic Adam needed. Un- The Hunger Games) can make The Quiet was on stage. The names of the stars that used were devaluing and not encouraging, fortunately, their happy reunion is short-lived Ones worth your time. DVD-plus and Digital she mentions so casually are a who’s who but it was the norm. We see Judy Garland la- when Eve’s unbalanced younger sister Ava Ultraviolet special features include deleted of wowza – Clark Gable and Jimmy Stewart, beled as “bewildered,” “cute,” and “grown up (Mia Wasikowska), becomes a disruptive scenes, outtakes, and audio commentary. t among the many luminaries. Oh, and Presi- this year.” It really made me think there has dent John F. Kennedy, who she calls at the been progress for women, though of course White House for TV show advice. we still have a long way to go. I am thankful The second part of the book is a set of we had women like Judy Garland who went interviews using her insightful personality to before us. open up and show the emotional battles and Judy Garland on Judy Garland is a complexities of Judy Garland. She shares chance to see an entire overview of her truthful feelings about growing up sheltered life and career in one place. Be prepared in the studio with a lack of confidence with no to watch old performance clips on Youtube true friends until she was married at 19. As I and add a movie or two to your Netflix list. read the interviews I could see a passionate Watching Judy sing “Over the Rainbow” af- performer and my heart hurt for her personal ter reading this book and seeing the look in pain. her eyes gives me chills. The last page of the I connected with the icon of Judy Gar- book quotes Judy saying, “I’ve always taken land again seeing the pressures she faced, The Wizard of Oz very seriously, you know. but as a worldwide entertainer they became I believe in the idea of the rainbow. And I’ve her demons. The media was very unkind spend my entire life trying to get over it.” I re- about Judy’s appearance and size calling her ally hope she found it. t

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // fashion

young boy. “I’ve always loved to dance and From the the art of it,” he says. “When I saw voguing, I fell in love with it and everything about it. Closet to the I love the originality and the style. Vogue is Runway an art that involves posing and heavy move- ments. It’s a way of expressing yourself and Derrick T. Crump feelings through dance.” His photo is show- cased in the Musée d’Art Contemporain du Val-de-Marne in Paris. He has been in many music videos, including Aswish, Lola Mon- The Art of roe, A. Tamaris, Marlowe Septimius, Abdu Ali, and Marcell Russell. He’s the face of a safe sex campaign that shows his photo on Vogue the MTA buses and bus stops. The art of vogue also centrally involves When you hear the word vogue, what comes fashion. People have a chance to dress up to mind? Madonna? 80s techno music? and wear whatever they want. Often, par- Vogue was started by African Americans ticipants frolic the latest labels or elaborate and Latino Americans in the early 1960s costumey clothing. The fashions of vogue al- in underground clubs in New York, whose lows the performer to present themselves as denizens wanted to create something new a completely different person. It doesn’t dis- and fresh. Vogue started as a dance of pos- criminate by age, gender, race, or sexuality. es and intricate movements. It Marquis Revlon Clanton adds, has involved into several differ- “The ballroom scene started as ent elements, including: hands, a underground scene in New duck walk, cat walk, spins, and York City and branched out to dips. The dance created a cul- so many different states, cities, ture which lead to competitions and countries. The scene can be among groups called houses. shady and you are always being One of the most recognizable judged, but it’s a place where houses is the House of Ninja, you can be yourself and free as founded by iconic Willi Ninja. you like.” Vogue is now an international In the next five years Mar- art form. Influences of vogue quis looks forward to traveling has been all over the world the world and giving back to the including music videos from community by helping youth. Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai He values living a healthy life- and Hanna Lindblad’s, “Honey style with a focus on long-term Trap” and “Manipulated.” If sustainability. He loves all kinds you’ve ever watched America’s of music, but Beyonce is his fa- Best Dance Crew, the perfor- vorite. Vogueing’s popularity has mances of vogue evolution, been helped through social net- should ring many bells. Ele- working and celebrity endorse- ments of this art has also been ments. “The people from the ball- featured by Beyonce and Lady room community are taking their Gaga’s music video, “Video talent from the underground level phone,” Brittany Spears’s, “If U to mainstream,” Marquis says, Seek Amy,” and Willow Smith’s “and showing the world where “Whip my Hair” – not to men- it started and how it should look tion many films including Party Marquis and be done.” His inspiration and Monster and Noah’s Arc. Revlon Clanton his faith in God is what motivates I had the pleasure of in- credit: Sean Dackerman him, he says. He adds that he terviewing Baltimore’s own legend Marquis fathoms the younger generation and wants Revlon Clanton. Marquis has been vogu- to help uplift them. Not only does he teach ing for over 15 years. He’s won many OTY international vogue classes, he teach a lo- (Of The Year) awards including Baltimore, cal class at the Eubie Blake Center in Balti- Washington D.C., Philly, NYC, and At- more. He realizes that vogue is changing but lanta. He was the first person to ever win hopes it will stay true to being an “art-form of a $10,000 grand prize. “I have won grand elements, embodying style, grace, and pre- prize after grand prize, cash after cash. I cision – keeping it true to where it started.” t am now an international vogue dancer and For more info or bookings contact mar- teacher. I’ve been to Russia and France to [email protected], or check out teach and perform.” He started dancing as a Marquis Clanton on Facebook or Youtube.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 dining out TYRE’S REPAIR AUTO Quality Workmanship in crab bits, and I suppose that is a sign that they were enjoyed by all. Finger’s As for my meal, the steak is served 410.252.8001 Food with steak sauce on the side. The steak 24/7 Towing 410-583-8888 was more than plentiful, cooked exactly as I had ordered – medium, juicy, and tasteful. Voted Baltimore’s Best Auto Repair – City Paper 2000 The mashed potatoes are served in a little Next to Timonium Business Park Lightrail Stop Mr. Bill’s Terrace Inn Crab House crock. I poured some of the melted butter 200 Eastern Avenue from the corn on the cob into the crock. 1955 GreeNSPriNG Drive Essex, Maryland While my cholesterol level probably esca- Billsterraceinn.com lated, my taste buds were rejoicing. The 410-687-5994 corn on the cob was slightly overcooked, and the corn had lost some of its taste. by Richard Finger Overall, the meal was very satisfying, and I We had gone to Mr. Bill’s for a family birth- was unable to finish it. day dinner. Upon walking in, I had an im- Mr. Bill’s serves a mostly crab-infused mediate feeling I’d walked into a cafeteria selection of appetizers, soups, and sand- from the 1970s. The tables are covered wiches. If you elect not to order crabs, the in brown paper-bag mate- rial, decorated with crabs. The chairs are “stack- able,” metal backs with vinyl seats. The wall décor is sparse, with nautical themes, mostly of crabs, of course. I counted nine TVs in the dining room, all showing the Orioles game. One wall had hand-carved and painted dolphins. This place is catering to the crab-loving crowd, and it’s the crabs that keep people coming, not the decora- tions. Our server, Vickie, sat us at our table, and very quickly took our drink or- N ot for the claw-strophobic! der. We had landed on pitchers of Coke and Diet Coke. We ordered a dozen large crabs ($75). Admittedly, I am not a platters include steaks (in addition to the fan of crab, sorry to say, so I had ordered N.Y. Strip, there is the T-bone (for $16.25), a N.Y. Strip Steak Platter ($15.75), with a Seafood Platter ($21.95) that includes sides of corn on the cob, and fresh mashed crab cake, fried shrimp, fried clams, and potatoes. While we waited for our meals, fried haddock, Chicken Parmesan ($8.75), we did attempt to engage in some conver- Stuffed-Jumbo shrimp ($13.25), and a few sation. Personally, I found it a bit difficult other seafood-related items. All platters to hear someone sitting two chairs from are served with a choice of two sides from me over the noise of the televisions and the roster corn, cole slaw, potato salad, the hammers crushing the crabs at tables string beans, lima beans, applesauce, nearby. mashed potatoes, peas, or carrots. The crabs were brought to the table by Mr. Bill’s prides itself as a local crab tray, but then slid directly onto the table. house institution. Even though I am not a They are served covered in Old Bay and a fan of crabs myself, I am very glad I went to blend of secret spices. There is rumor that see what all the fuss is about! While the dé- cinnamon may be one of the ingredients cor may not have been updated in the past but we couldn’t detect it. I will say, they 30 years, the quality of the food is what re- smelled delicious. I did try a bite of crab, ally matters. I left thinking that the old décor but was not won over. As for the people I is part of the charm, comfortable and famil- was dining with, they were devouring the iar. For a truly Maryland crab experience, I crabs one by one. Our table was covered do recommend a visit to Mr. Bill’s. t

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com your money

ducted over speakerphone. My advice is erages, and/or coffee creamers disappear- enough complaints in recent years to fill to ensure your office door is closed if you ing from refrigerators. Whether these oc- a book! The most obvious bathroom tips I The More you wish to participate in the teleconference in currences are accidental or purposeful has can provide in a few sentences are, if you Know About this manner, as it is disruptive to those sit- yet to be determined, but the fact is this make a mess, clean it up. If you pick up the ting in offices around you. Another benefit is a common issue. Keeping with the food toilet seat, put it down when finished. Last- to a closed door is more privacy for you, theme, if you ly, wash your hands when Business and those on the phone with you. Telecon- absolutely must you have finished your Richard Finger ferences are not always an ideal commu- eat at your business. We all spend nication vehicle, but are often relied upon. desk, please so much time at work Minimize background noise such as finger avoid foods and likely will use the of- Office tapping or pencil wrapping. Better yet, if with strong fice bathroom at some you are not speaking, best to mute your odors. To maxi- point during the workday. Etiquette phone line until it is your turn to speak. mize your own It makes sense to make Along the lines of decreasing noise, performance, it comfortable and safe. Oddly enough, I found myself thinking mobile phones come to mind. Whether the it is always a An additional quick tip… about proper office etiquette in recent phone is kept on your person or left behind good idea to don’t talk to clients or po- weeks, and thought I would share some on your desk, remember to set the device step away from tential clients on your cell tips. I’ve written previously about the im- to vibrate mode. Admittedly, I’ve made your desk for a phone while in the bath- portance of acknowledging co- this fatal error many times – and while. Why not room. Nobody wants to workers in the office with sim- The Do’s and my ring tone is a duck quacking mingle with col- hear a toilet flushing in ple courtesies such as please, noise. Imagine yourself in a top- leagues in the the background! thank you, and good morning. Don’ts line leadership meeting disrupted office kitchen Well, I am running out Surely, these are small pleas- by this horrid noise! How embar- or sit outside? of room for this article, antries that help to promote a happier rassing, and yet so avoidable. Please learn Not only will you and there are many more workplace, but I will focus on some addi- from my mistake, and remember to use vi- benefit, but your office mates will appreci- areas of office etiquette I haven’t covered. tional tips to consider. brate or mute the phone altogether. ate you for not stinking up the hallway. I’ll leave you with this as a closing state- With our workforce becoming more and Switching gears from noise control to And finally, the office restroom(s). I ment, “do not reciprocate bad office behav- more virtual, it’s quite common to speak to the office kitchen, the strongest advice am sure another article can be written just ior.” An eye for an eye just doesn’t make coworkers via teleconference. I have over- I can give is to not take what isn’t yours. about this alone, but I will spare the read- sense when it comes to promoting a pro- heard many of these teleconferences con- Often times, I have heard of lunches, bev- ers this time. Trust me on this, I have had ductive office environment. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 real estate Seclusion... Wildlife... An Amazing Contemporary House

188 McKinley Drive, York, Pennsylvania, not will keep the bird watcher busy -- Baltimore far off the beaten path in the rolling hills of orioles, sapsuckers, woodpeckers, bluebirds, Central PA, is a secluded five-acre wooded copper and red-tailed hawks are just a small estate encompassing a contemporary home sampling. designed by architect John Ports. Built in This estate is being offered at $639,900. 1977-78 by Amish builders from Lancaster County, known for their keen eye for detail and quality building. The home boasts a unique center courtyard open to all seasons. Natural gallery lighting is provided by an abundance of windows throughout the house. There are over 4,300 square feet of living / entertaining space and an amazing 1,600 square foot multi-lev- eled exterior entertaining deck. The house offers four to five bedrooms, including a first-floor master bedroom / bath, three full baths and one half bath. The flow of the interior is excellent for entertaining and provides an abundance of wall space for gal- lery-style art display. There are three fireplac- Just five minutes off I-83. Conveniently located es, two equipped with gas logs and all three close to Baltimore, Lancaster, and Harrisburg, with wood-burning chimneys. There is a formal it is also just a train ride to Philly or NYC. So, put the top down and take a relaxing drive north into the country and check out this real gem in Central PA. Directions: I-83 North to Exit 14 (Leader Heights Road / PA-182). Turn right onto Lead- er Heights Road, Right onto Vireo Road. Then take the second right onto McKinley Drive to end in cul-de-sac, and driveway on the left. Look for the Jack Gaughen sign. To schedule a private showing contact Ron Rhodes, [email protected] or ring Ron at 717-578-7821 and/or Coal Infantino, [email protected] or call Coal at 717- 676-5545. t living room and dining room, a study, as well as a family room equipped with a wet bar, and loads of storage. The five acres of park-like grounds are as amazing as the house. You can watch the sea- sons come and go. 188 McKinley Drive offers you enjoyment both inside and outside. Spring burst forth with amazing new life. In summer enjoy the cool breezes under the canopy of trees. Fall is a cornucopia of foliage color. And in the winter sip hot cocoa by the fire while the snow falls outside the windows, or venture out for sledding and cross country skiing. The naturalist will love the plethora of wildlife that abounds just outside the door. A rafter of tur- keys roam the grounds, a herd of white-tailed deer -- buck, does, and fawns -- and hand- some red fox can be seen, and box turtles re- turn every year. The variety of birds that roost

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 2015 in a contest held over the weekend of September 5 to 7 in New Haven, Con- necticut. Trell Waters was first runner-up and also stepping up to compete was Jeff Leather Wolfstryker Victoria. I look forward to see- Line ing David in January as he competes for Rodney Burger the Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2015 title in Washington, D.C. How many people do you know who would rearrange their house, turn it into Tying Up a a museum, and invite the whole commu- nity to come to their place for three days? Few Loose When Chesapeake Leather and Pride (CLAP) was unable to be held at the Bal- Ends timore Playhouse Resurrection on Wash- ington Boulevard in Baltimore as planned over the weekend of September 5 to 7, Rik It has been a busy summer and I’ve written Newton-Treadway allowed the event to be about lots of recent contests and events. I moved to his Baltimore home. The Carter now need to tell you how all these things Johnson Leather Library and the Leather V i Johnson turned out. I want to share the rest of the Archives & Museum’s Women’s History and David story. It is time to stop and tie up a few Project were both on display. The exhibit Pfau loose ends, and you know how I love to tie started on the front porch and filled the en- things up. tire first floor of Rik’s place. It was wonder- The Labor Day weekend was a big ful to see Vi Johnson and Ms. Baltimore be shown in Baltimore. I hope that the next D.C. Eagle to open. In fact they miss hav- weekend for the Great Lakes Region as Eagle 1994 / American Leather Woman time the Carter Johnson Library comes to ing an Eagle bar so much that the High- Great Lakes LeatherSIR 2014 Mark Eddy 1994 Sarah Humble back in Baltimore. I town it can be displayed in a more public waymen, TNT club has organized a bus was sashed International LeatherSIR 2014 was able to spend a couple of hours there building like the GLCCB, as it was a few trip on Saturday, September 27 from the and Great Lakes Leatherboy 2014 Paul on Saturday afternoon and had a great years ago. You can learn more about the Green Lantern at 1335 Green Court NW Brown took home the International Leath- time. It was also touching to be there to Carter Johnson Leather Library and the in D.C. to the Eagle NYC and back. The erboy 2014 title at a contest held in Dallas, witness Mr. Maryland Leather 2014 David Leather Archives & Museum by visiting bus will leave the Green Lantern at 6:30 Texas. Our own Mid-Atlantic Region also Pfau presented Vi Johnson with a poster Leatherlibrary.org and Leatherarchives. p.m. and will depart the Eagle NYC for the had reason to celebrate as Mid-Atlantic from the recent International Mr. Leather org. return trip at 4:30 a.m. Talk about bar hop- Community Bootblack 2014 boy ed was 2014 Contest in Chicago that was signed As many of you are aware, a large num- ping! That will be some party bus. You can awarded the International Community by all the contestants as well as his per- ber of valuable artifacts from Baltimore’s find all the details on Facebook under Cit- Bootblack 2014 title. It should also be not- sonal contestant number. These are trea- leather history were displayed at the Bal- ies United. ed that the Mid-Atlantic Region was well sured keepsakes that all IML contestants timore Eagle bar. There were club colors, We also have two events coming up represented by Mid-Atlantic Leatherboy receive and hold on to dearly. In a very cases full of pins, flags, photographs, and right her in Baltimore at the end of Sep- 2014 david zeidler who made his commu- selfless gesture David wanted to add his many other objects. The Baltimore Eagle tember. On Saturday, September 20 the nity very proud in the International Leather- IML poster and contestant number to the has been closed for over a year and a half Leatherboys of Maryland are presenting boy 2014 competition. (Mid-Atlantic Leath- Carter Johnson Leather Library. The histo- now. It is my understanding that the new their second annual ASL (American Sign erSIR 2014 Marshall Roberts was unable ry of our leather community is so important owners are still planning to reopen the bar Language) Brunch from noon to 4 p.m. to be in Dallas due to a family emergency. and I hope that many others found their but have run into all kinds of structural at the Club Hippo. Tickets are just $15 at I would like to once again express my con- way to Rik’s house. I know that it may feel problems with the building. The owners the door. It will be a great chance to not dolences to Marshall on the recent passing awkward to some to visit someone’s home have assured the community that the con- just enjoy a nice brunch with the leather of his father.) if you don’t really know the person – but I tents of the bar have been stored away. I community, but also learn a little sign David Gerard of Norwalk, Connecti- must applaud Rik for stepping up and mak- pray that this is true. I have had nightmares language. Proceeds benefit the Sharon cut, was selected Mr. Connecticut Leather ing sure that this incredible display could that our local leather history ended up in a St. Cyr Fund which provides interpreting dumpster. The word now is that the Balti- services for the deaf and hard-of-hearing more Eagle will open sometime in 2015. If community. I plan to be there. Come out it does, I hope that our local leather com- and join me! munity will really pull together to support You can also catch me on Friday, Sep- the Baltimore Eagle. tember 26 starting at 9 p.m. as the Ship- A few miles away the new D.C. Eagle at Mates Club of Baltimore host leather night 3701 Benning Road NE is rolling towards a at The Loft above Grand Central. There late 2014 opening. Housed in a three story will be a raffle, Jell-O shots, and a surprise building that was built in 1928, it will be a demo. With $3 beers and well drinks for spectacular space. I have heard that the leather folks, it should be a fun night at The 16,000 square foot structure was once a Loft. meatpacking warehouse. (I would make a Okay, so you are now up-to-date. You joke, but it is just too easy.) You can see know what happened at ILSb, Mr. Con- pictures of the new D.C. Eagle at Dceagle. necticut Leather 2015, CLAP, and you can com and on Facebook. I am so looking for- make your plans for the end of September. ward to the opening of the D.C. Eagle! That should tie things up. I hate a loose The folks in D.C. also can’t wait for the end. t

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19, 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 31 32 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD September 19 2014 • baltimoreoutloud.com