March 29, 2019 | Volume XVI, Issue 22

The ride opened a world of new possi- Finding Redemption on the Ride for the Feast bilities for Angie, who had always regret- ted dropping out of college. “That haunted By Mark S. King downward spiral, Angie made a personal in Baltimore a few months later, Angie’s me,” Angie admitted. “But my gratitude for Angie Kelley found her redemption on a bi- commitment to improve her health and physical exhaustion was no match for her the event made me determined to reach cycle, somewhere along the 140-mile route well-being. She knew she needed to get triumphant emotions. “I had absolutely no higher, and I really wanted to work for of Ride for the Feast, the annual fundrais- involved in something outside idea that I could ever Moveable Feast.” After a couple years er for Moveable Feast. The arduous trail of herself Angie accomplish some- proving herself as a volunteer, Angie won transformed a young woman with a trou- and the right Kelley thing like that,” Angie her current “dream job” as a volunteer co- bled past into something entirely new. A vehicle to do said, echoing the sen- ordinator for the organization. queer advocate. A mother. A woman of it. When a timents of so many The experience has been expansive worth. friend sug- riders each year who for Angie. She enjoys promoting the Move- “I once thought that if people saw who gested she join the event for the able Feast mission to provide sustaining I was on the inside, no one would be my check out first time. “That was meals to people with HIV/AIDS and other friend,” Angie says, taking stock of a re- Ride for the so huge to me. One life-threatening illnesses, but it is in show- cent past that now feels like a lifetime Feast, Ang- of the first things I ing new volunteers the very human value away. It includes growing up in a volatile ie found the thought was, ‘Oh of helping others that gets Angie excited household, feelings of hopelessness, and right vehicle. my gosh, what else each day. then trying to escape it all through alco- A bicycle. have I been holding “Moveable Feast showed me the im- hol and the destructive free-fall that comes As she myself back from, portance of breaking negative patterns,” along with it. approached that I didn’t know I Angie said. “So, I can turn right around and Following a health crisis related to her the finish line could do?’” —continued on page 4

by Chuck Duncan wrong time – you’re going to bump into Have you ever had that feeling that some- that spectre. Sometimes it’s a relief but it one is following you? You don’t see them, could also go south real quickly. But what Meet the you don’t hear them, but you somehow just if that someone you finally en- know that if you’re just at the right place countered was not a friend or Is Us – the at the right time – or in some cases the stranger but ... you? Enemy wrong place at the That’s just a very first must- vague set-up for Jordan see movie of her family return to her childhood Jason is stunned to find that “it’s us.” Peele’s latest thriller home near that same beach for the And that’s about all I can tell you about The specter Us. In the film, Lupita the year – an first time since her parents died. the movie so as to avoid any spoilers. But haunting Nyong’o plays Ade- While her family is eager to hang questions to consider going in to the movie them ... indictment of them- laide Wilson, wife and out at the beach with their obnox- include “What does Hands Across Ameri- selves? mother of two children, America? iously wealthy friends and their ca have to do with this?” and “Are there a boy and a girl. The even more obnoxious twin teen- more of these doubles?” One of those film opens with a young Adelaide age daughters, Adelaide is reluctant to go, questions is answered pretty quickly as the at a boardwalk amusement park, flashing back on that terrifying memory. movie takes the viewer on a thrill ride that having wandered away from her But her husband Gabe (Winston Duke) is will keep you guessing from one moment parents to get lost inside a hall persistent and she agrees to go provid- to the next as to what’s happening, with of mirrors with the phrase “Find ed they return before dark. It’s all set but an ending that’s straight out of a “Twilight Yourself” above the door. After when son Jason (Evan Alex) wanders off Zone” episode. Fitting since Peele’s next the lights go out, Adelaide pan- and panics Adelaide, that’s the end of the project literally is a reboot of that classic ics trying to find the exit but runs day. Later that night, daughter Zora (Sha- series for CBS All Access. In fact, Us is into someone else – her exact hadi Wright Joseph) says there is a family probably the greatest thriller M. Night Shy- double. standing in their driveway. After the family amalan never made, solidifying Peele as a As an adult, Adelaide and violently makes their way into the house, —continued on page 18 Co-Publishers Jim Becker • Jim Williams [email protected]

Executive Editor Jim Becker [email protected] [email protected]

Associate Editor & Director of Marketing & Production Mary Taylor [email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Editor Frankie Kujawa [email protected]

Leather Editor Rodney Burger [email protected]

Contributing Writers for Baltimore OUTloud Andre Shakti • Bill Redmond-Palmer Brynn Devereau • Charles Dudley, MPT Chuck Duncan • David Egan David Placher • Dr. Eva Hersh MD Elyse Buchbinder • Frankie Kujawa Gregg Shapiro • Jabari Lyles Janan Broadbent, Ph. D. • Jeffrey Clagett Josh Buchbinder • Lauren Lynch • Lee Carpenter Linda A. Dominguez, Esq. • Mark S. King Mark Segal • Michael Ritmiller Rabbi Jan Dodi • Richard Finger • Rodney Burger Sage Piper • Steve Charing • Woody Derrick

Contributing Writers for OUT in the VALLEY Asher Kennedy • Brian George Hose Rev. Kelly Crenshaw • Rev. Robert Apgar-Taylor Zed Sykes

Graphics Ramon Montiel

Web Editor Adam Romanik Computer Solutions for Less

Photographers Corey Brent Eric Randolph

National Advertising Rep Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

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

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

Additional Information Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: [email protected]. All materials appearing in this newspaper are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor.

The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff.

© 2019 – All rights reserved Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker President – Jim Williams Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local MD General Assembly: Teens Can Get HIV Prevention Drug Without Parental Consent

On March 25th, the Maryland legislature activity with their parents. voted to allow doctors, nurse practitioners, “While working as a therapist at Chase and physician assistants to prescribe a Brexton for over five years, I have wit- drug – pre-exposure prophylaxis, also nessed the emotional impact on a young known as “PrEP” – that helps person who is newly diagnosed prevent HIV to minors, without Bill makes with HIV and the stigmas that requiring parental consent. The often come with it,” said Stacey House voted 109 to 21 in favor of it easier Jackson-Roberts, a therapist and the final bill (SB 251), sponsored clinical social worker. “I have also by Senator Lam (District 12), for minors seen the significant difficulty that which passed the Senate by a many young people face in ac- vote of 47 to 0 on March 13. The to access cessing preventative care, partic- bill now goes to Governor Hogan preventive ularly having conversations with for his signature. their parents or guardians about Advocates say this bill will treatment their sexual health. It is ideal that dramatically extend the lifespan these conversations occur before of young black men, particularly HIV prevention medication is pre- those living in poverty. According to the scribed, but either way, social workers like Maryland Department of Health, about me would still strive to do it after the fact. 74% of new diagnoses among youth were Protecting patients’ lives is most urgent, black. followed by fostering a strong support net- “I treat teens who need the protection work of family and mentors.” of PrEP to save their lives,” said Dr. Ray- It is estimated that more than 50% of mona Smith. “Without this medicine, entire youth living with HIV in Maryland remain communities are at risk for an increased undiagnosed, which dramatically increas- incidence of HIV disease. As a provider, es their risk of infecting others. when I must inform an adolescent that he Maryland will join 17 other states who or she is HIV positive, it’s a sleepless night have passed similar legislation. t for me, and I can’t imagine the impact on them.” PrEP consists of a single pill called RESIDENCES RESERVED: 70% Truvada taken every day. Truvada can reduce the risk of becoming infected with CityLit 2019, Books HIV from sex by 90% and among intrave- RISK OF RESERVING: 0% nous drug users by 70%, according to the & More, April 27th Centers for Disease Control (CDC). On average, three people are diag- Bright lights, big city! People flock to ur- nosed with HIV in Maryland every day. Ac- ban centers because they’re so, ahem, “lit” cording to the CDC, Maryland has the sec- up. That’s the idea behind the 16th annual ond highest lifetime risk of HIV infection. CityLit Festival, set for Saturday, April 27th Advocates believe the legislation will at the University of Baltimore’s Thumel help young people who want the drug but Business Center (11 West Mount Royal Av- don’t feel comfortable discussing sexual —continued on page 4 With construction starting soon on the Grand Expansion of Law Office of Roland Park Place, 70% of new residences are already spoken David M. Lutz, P.A. for. And when all it takes to reserve yours is a fully-refundable deposit, the only question left is, what are you waiting for? •Auto Accidents •Workers’ Compensation Make the intelligent choice. Call today: 443.338.6212 •Personal Injury •DUI/DWI •Criminal Defense •Traffic Court Se Habla Español READY FOR MOVE-IN 443.338.6212 FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org 1901 Fleet Street Baltimore, MD 21231 Phone: 410-558-3700 (English) • 410-299-2898 (Español) E-mail: [email protected] • lawlutz.com Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3

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

Local news advancing equality and justice for all,” Finding said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “I commend NYC —continued from page 3 Pride, the NYPD, and City Council Speak- er Corey Johnson for working together Redemption on the enue, Baltimore). “This free, day-long liter- with my office to determine a Pride March ary arts celebration will feature published route that provides for a safe, affirming, Ride for the Feast authors, conversations on craft, a literary and meaningful experience to commemo- marketplace, and panel discussions,” say rate this historic milestone for the LGBTQ —continued from page 1 organizers. community.” CityLit will include a soon-to-be-an- “NYC Pride is thrilled to welcome mil- use that energy to lift someone else up. nounced keynote speaker and master lions of LGBTQIA+ people from around the This organization taught me how to show class; 30-minute one-on-one editorial ses- globe for World Pride as we commemorate up, and we teach that to new volunteers, or sions with authors and editors; sessions the 50th anniversary of the historic Stone- to Ride for the Feast cyclists, every day.” and panel discussions featuring published wall Uprising,” said Chris Frederick, head Angie has also learned a lot about being authors and emerging writers; conversa- of NYC Pride, “From our opening ceremo- authentic, working alongside a colorful and tions on the craft of writing and topics of ny in Brooklyn to the largest Pride march committed group of staff and volunteers. “I importance to the community; and a lit- in history to the closing ceremony in icon- identify as a queer woman who happens erary marketplace showcasing a diverse ic Times Square, it is clear that New York to be married to a wonderful man,” Angie community of self-published authors, small will embrace Pride like never before. We explains. “I was exclusively with women for presses, literary journals, accessories and welcome everyone to experience a million several years, so I was a little afraid when organizations. moments of Pride and make history with I got married that I would lose my connec- Panel discussion about the complexi- us in 2019.” tion with that queer community.” ties of interracial life in America featuring “As we prepare for the largest For more information about Heritage of Angie came to the simple conclusion “The Beiging of America, Being Mixed LGBTQIA Pride event in history, NYC Pride Pride, WorldPride 2019 NYC, and Stone- that love is love, after all, and when people Race in the 21st Century” has worked closely with the New York Po- wall 50, including opportunities to volun- choose to have a loving, monogamous re- • “How to Structure a Novel,” a dis- lice Department, Mayor Bill de Blasio’s teer, sponsor, or purchase tickets, visit lationship, it doesn’t really matter who else cussion panel featuring five accomplished office, and Council Speaker Corey John- Worldpride.org. t they might be capable of sleeping with. novelists son to determine the “I’m a married woman,” Angie says simply. • “You Can’t Live Off Air: Money’s in the most efficient and safest She’s also a mother now, having par- Room,” an open dialogue about funding for route and staging areas ticipated in last year’s Ride for the Feast writers possible for the 2019 while very pregnant. “We have a beautiful • “Your Classics Aren’t My Classics,” March,” said Julian San- eight-month baby,” Angie said, and then stories from Asian American writers who jivan, NYC Pride March she added, with a wink to gender fluidity, deconstruct the concept of a “must-read Director. “he’s a boy, as far as we know.” book.” “As we commemo- As Angie and her team of volunteers For more info, it’s Citylitproject.org or rate the 50th Anniver- gear up for this year’s Ride for the Feast, call 410-271-8793. t sary of the Stonewall no one may be more in tune with the agen- Uprising, it is fitting that cy mission than she is. “When I was at my we will march down Fifth lowest,” she said, “I had friends who stood Avenue, past the Stone- beside me, cheering me on to get through wall Inn and through it. There’s no way I could have made it WorldPride NYC the neighborhoods of without them. And for many of our clients Greenwich Village and here at Moveable Feast, we are those 2019 to March Chelsea, cradles of the friends. We are that safety net.” modern LGBTQ civ- The Ride for the Feast is an adventure Down 5th Avenue to il rights movement. I -- and possibly a life-changing one. Ang- want to thank Mayor ie urges people of any biking experience Village de Blasio, the NYPD, level to contact Moveable Feast to get in- NYC Pride and all their volved. There are opportunities to be rid- The 2019 Pride March, which commem- partners for their hard ers or to join the large volunteer force that orates the 50th Anniversary of the 1969 work in planning World- supports the weekend. Stonewall Uprising, will step off at noon on Pride NYC 2019, a “Moveable Feast doesn’t just help our Sunday, June 30th from 26th Street and tremendous logistical clients. We are a community,” Angie said, 5th Avenue. Some 150,000 marchers will feat,” said NYC Council giving some thought to how far that first proceed south on 5th Avenue before head- Speaker Corey John- bike ride has actually taken her. “Moveable ing west on 8th Street. After crossing over son. Feast,” she added, “has given me so much 6th Avenue, the March will continue on “New York City more.” Christopher Street, passing the site desig- stands ready to wel- The 2019 Ride for the Feast is set nated in 2016 by President Barack Obama come people from for the weekend of May 11th to 12th. For as the Stonewall National Monument. It will around the world to more information, visit Moveable Feast at then turn north on 7th Avenue, passing the celebrate the 50th anni- Mfeast.org or contact them at 410-327- New York City AIDS Memorial, before dis- versary of the Stonewall 3420. t persing in Chelsea just north of 23rd Street riots and the significant and 7th Avenue. role our city played in 4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Bright lights, big city! People flock to urban centers because they’re beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker SPC last December 28th. However, there 9% of NSFG females and males. Seventy people experience at work, school, and were no public announcements regard- percent of female and nearly 90% of male when trying to get basic services and ing the implementation of the law and the lesbian offspring identified as heterosexu- goods,” said Jocelyn Samuels, executive Brunei set to news was not picked up by local media. al or straight, compared to 88% and 98% director of the Williams Institute. The Hu- “It all seems to be very hush-hush,” says of NSFG females and males. Among the man Rights Campaign (HRC) stated that punish sodomy Woolfe. “I suspect the Brunei Government female offspring of lesbians, the percent- If passed, it would prohibit discrimination is trying to fly under the radar with the final age identifying as sexual minorities de- based on an individual’s sexual orientation with death by implementation.” (Gay Star News – Calum creased from 49% to 30% between the or gender identity at work, in the context of Stuart at Gaystarnews.com/article/brunei- ages of 17 and 25. In contrast, the percent- housing, credit, education and jury service. stoning to-pass-law-that-will-punish-gay-sex-with- age of female offspring of lesbians who It would also prohibit discrimination based death-by-stoning/#gs.2bld9t) had engaged in same-sex sexual behavior on sexual orientation, gender identity and Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei – Sit- increased from 15% to 54% in the same sex in programs that receive federal fund- uated on the northwestern edge of the period. The percentage of male offspring ing and places of public accommodations. island of Borneo, an island that is also a of lesbians identifying as sexual minorities “The harsh reality is that LGBTQ Americans part of Indonesia and Malaysia, the small decreased from 22% to 10% between the still face real and persistent discrimination southeast Asia country of Brunei is ex- Lesbians’ adult ages of 17 and 25, and the percentage in their everyday lives,” said HRC Presi- pected to pass its Sharia Penal Code by reporting same-sex sexual experiences dent Chad Griffin. (Q Notes Online – Lain- April 3rd, Gay Star News has learned. The children report increased from 6% to 33%. (Seattle Gay ey Millen at Goqnotes.com/62593/equali- controversial penal code includes death News & the Williams Institute at Sgn.org/ ty-act-legislation-introduced/) by stoning for people convicted of sodomy, more same-sex sgnnews47_12/page7.cfm) experiences Supreme Court Los Angeles – A new analysis finds Democrats that the 25-year-old children of lesbian turns down parents are more likely than their peers to introduce report same-sex attraction, sexual minori- freedom-of- ty identity, and same-sex experiences. The LGBTQ non- 25-year-olds are participants in the ongo- religion appeal ing US National Longitudinal Lesbian Fam- discrimination Washington, DC – The US Supreme Sultan of Death ily Study (NLLFS), which has followed the same cohort of offspring from conception Act Court announced on March 18th that it among other numerous brutal sentences. to adulthood. It has had a 92% retention would not hear the appeal of a Hawaii bed- Other Sharia punishments include the am- rate since it began in 1986. The current Washington, DC – On March 14th the and-breakfast that refused to accommo- putation of limbs for those found guilty of analysis compared 76 offspring of lesbian Equality Act – a federal civil rights law that date a lesbian couple on religious grounds. theft and the death sentence for anyone parents and 76 demographically matched would ban discrimination against LGBT In 2007, Aloha Bed and Breakfast refused found guilty of apostasy. The Sultan of participants from the National Survey of people in employment, housing, public ac- to book Diane Cervelli and Taeko Bufford. Brunei, the country’s absolute ruler, first Family Growth (NSFG). commodations and education – was intro- They filed a complaint with the Hawaii Civ- announced plans to introduce the Sharia “Our 2018 study in the New England duced by Democratic leaders in the House il Rights Commission, charging the B&B Penal Code in three stages in 2014. How- Journal of Medicine revealed that adults and Senate, including out LGBTQ Sen. with discrimination on the basis of their ever, the announcement was met with sig- who were conceived through donor insem- Tammy Baldwin and out LGBT Rep. David sexual orientation, which is illegal under nificant public outcry. ination and raised by lesbian parents are Cicilline. All ten openly LGBT members Hawaii state law. “I am extremely concerned by this move. as psychologically healthy as their peers,” of Congress have led efforts to pass the The initial lawsuit was filed by Lamb- Some of the laws that we are about to see said lead author Nanette Gartrell, MD, of Equality Act. The two openly LGBT mem- da Legal on behalf of the couple after they implemented are horrendous and unjusti- the Williams Institute. “Our current study bers of the US Senate are Baldwin and were denied service. The Hawaii Civil fiable,” Matthew Woolfe, founder and di- suggests that being raised by sexual mi- Kyrsten Sinema. The eight openly LGBT Rights Commission, which agreed with the rector of the Brunei Project, tells Gay Star nority parents may lead to more diverse members of the U.S. Congress are Cicil- couple, was listed as a co-plaintiff in the News. The Brunei Project is one of the few sexual expression for their adult daughters line, Angie Craig, Sharice Davids, Katie case. Aloha B&B did not deny the couple’s civil society groups focused on advocat- and sons.” Co-author Henny Bos, profes- Hill, Sean Patrick Maloney, Chris Pappas, claim but asserted that its discriminato- ing for LGBT rights in Brunei. “While ho- sor at the University of Amsterdam said, Mark Pocan, and Mark Takano. ry actions were protected under the First mosexual acts were already criminalized “The offspring of sexual minority parents The Williams Institute at the University Amendment’s freedom of religion clause. in Brunei under laws that were inherited may have more expansive perspectives of California, Los Angeles, School of Law, The Hawaii First Circuit Court ruled for from British colonial rule, we are going to on sexuality because they were raised reported that this legislation, if enacted, the same-sex couple in April 2013 and the see this taken to a new level. Whippings by parents who are nonjudgmental about would protect millions of LGBT individuals state appellate courts let that ruling stand. and stoning to death [will be] added to the their exploration of non-heterosexual rela- across the country, especially workers, stu- The B&B then filed a petition for certiora- punishments potentially facing LGBT in tionships.” dents and others who live in states without ri before the US Supreme Court, citing its Brunei if they are found guilty of engaging Key findings include that 31% of fe- laws against sexual orientation and gen- First Amendment claims. The high court’s in same-sex relations,” Woolfe said. male and 73% of male offspring of lesbian der identity discrimination. The full report decision to “deny cert” – in other words, to The Brunei Project has pledged to parents reported being only attracted to on the institute’s finding is available online. refuse to hear the case – allows the lower raise international awareness of the Sha- the opposite sex, compared to 54% and “The Equality Act would make crystal court decisions to stand. ria laws prior to their implementation in 91% of NSFG females and males. Also, clear that discrimination against LGBT Peter Renn, counsel for Lambda Le- early April. The Bruneian Attorney Gen- 54% of female and 33% of male of lesbi- people is prohibited under federal law gal’s Western Regional Office, said, “The eral’s Chambers website officially posted an offspring reported having a same-sex and would help to remedy the widespread Supreme Court’s decision to let the lower plans to fast-track implementation of the sexual experience, compared to 38% and harassment and discrimination that LGBT —continued on page 8 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter The Closing of Intentional LGBT Spaces By Mimi Demissew

The recent closings of Club Bunns and later Grand Central is evident of the growing trend of the shut- tering of intentional LGBT spaces. Some may ar- gue that now that we have come so far along as a community that we no longer need these intentional spaces. I would argue that is not the case.

Intentional spaces are needed because they are af- firming. The advances in some laws and changes in societal views doesn’t take away from the need to be celebrated and affirmed as individuals within a community. It’s exhausting to always have to pause and explain who you are or worse yet tense up in anticipation of having to explain who you are. Is it not more powerful to simply be seen? And that is exactly what these spaces offered, a place to be seen. Let us think about that for a second.

Being tolerated is not the same as being accepted or even celebrated. These bars provided the commu- nity a space to be celebrated and with this current trend of the closing of these spaces it is even more important to rally around the spaces that still exist like the Pride Center of Maryland. The Pride Center of Maryland offers a multitude of programming for just this reason. Even within the sexual and gender minority community/ LGBT there are still nuances that needed to be individually affirmed. Having a space to celebrate all of our nuances without judg- ment amongst community is one of the most import- ant ways that we have left to affirm ourselves and protect our community.

Intentional spaces offer a form of affirmation through visibility. Being seen is powerful and intentional spaces are empowering. The Pride Center or Mary- land does just that. It offers a space for our diverse community to be affirmed, celebrated, an opportunity to empower ourselves and most importantly a place to be seen.

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com THE LATEST UPDATES FROM THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER OF BALTIMORE AND CENTRAL MARYLAND

GLCCB Calendar of Events Thursday, April 4 Thursday, April 11 Saturday, March 30 Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00pm Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm Youth Against Oppression 4:30pm Family Game Night 6:30pm Board Of Directors Meeting 6:30pm Sistahs of Pride 7:00pm Sunday, March 31 Narcotics Anonymous 11:00am Friday, April 5 Friday, April 12 Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30pm Giovanni’s Room Open Mic 7:00pm Breaking Bread Project 6:30 pm Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm Marijuana Anonymous 7:00pm Monday, April 1 Elder Coffee Hour 12:00pm Saturday, April 6 Saturday, April 13 Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm MOCHA Men’s Group 4:00pm Tuesday, April 2 SGM Skate Night 7:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm Community Mediation Session 10:00am (offsite) Family Matters (Group for Parents) 6:00pm Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00pm Yoga & Heels 5:00pm Sunday, April 7 Sunday, April 14 Teen Art Group 5:30pm Narcotics Anonymous 11:00am Narcotics Anonymous 11:00 am Basic ASL Class ($100 registration fee) 6:00pm Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30pm Gentle Mindful Yoga 3:30 pm Poetry Workshop 6:30pm Tuesday, April 9 Monday, April 15 SILhouette 7:30pm Free Legal Clinic with MLVS 1:00pm Elder Coffee Hour 12:00pm Wednesday, April 3 Free & Confidential Testing at the Center 2:00pm Tuesday, April 16 Baltimore Pride Committee Meeting 6:00pm Dudley Physical Therapy Information Session 5:00pm Free & Confidential Testing 2:00pm Pride 2019 Volunteer Training 6:00pm Teen Art Group 5:30pm Yoga & Heels 5:30pm HIV/STI Testing with STAR TRACK 6:30pm Wednesday, April 10 Teen Art Group 7:30pm The Mankind Project 6:45pm Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 6:30 pm SILhouette 7:30-9:30pm Trans Baltimore 7:00pm The Mankind Project 6:45pm SCA 7:00pm SCA 7:00 pm

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 beyond the beltway court ruling stand reaffirms that the free- plan for medically-necessary healthcare dom of religion does not give businesses because they are transgender. HRC, UCLA to a right to violate nondiscrimination laws.” A “In 2018 I was finally in a position to year ago, the Supreme Court issued a nar- move forward with surgical care, an im- host Democratic row ruling for Jack Phillips, owner of Mas- portant part of my transition,” said Julia terpiece Cakeshop. Phillips was penalized McKeown, an assistant professor in the presidential under Colorado law for refusing to produce College of Education at North Carolina a wedding cake for same-sex couple. In State University. “I did not expect I would debate in the its Masterpiece Cakeshop ruling, the Su- have to raid my retirement and savings ac- preme Court ruled for the baker based on counts for treatment prescribed by my doc- fall the narrow facts of the case, finding an- Rainbow flag – at the beginning tors, when other state employees would be ti-religion bias on the part of the Colora- covered for the same procedures. It is de- Los Angeles – The UCLA Luskin do Civil Rights Commission, but stopped er flags were flown in the Civic Center’s meaning and fundamentally unfair.” School of Public Affairs and the Human short of ruling there is a First Amendment UN Plaza on June 25th, 1978 with eight “The only reason our plaintiffs are being Rights Campaign Foundation, the educa- right to discriminate against LGBT custom- smaller flags around the reflecting pool in denied coverage for medically-necessary tional arm of the nation’s largest LGBT civil ers. (Seattle Gay News – Mike Andrew at the civic center area. McNamara and oth- healthcare is because they are transgen- rights organization, will co-host a forum for Sgn.org/sgnnews47_12/page3.cfm) ers photographed the flags that day. Sadly, der or they have children who are trans- 2020 Democratic presidential candidates the original flags were not preserved, and gender,” said Lambda Legal Staff Attorney this fall. The conversation will take place are presumed lost. Taylor Brown. “In 2017, NCSHP covered on October 10th, 2019 – on the eve of Na- Baker continued to create other rain- medically-necessary, gender-confirming tional Coming Out Day – in UCLA’s Royce One of three bow flags and art projects in New York. In Hall, and it will give candidates an oppor- 1994, he created the mile-long Rainbow tunity to speak about their policy platforms designers of Flag carried that year in the New York and plans to move LGBT equality forward. Gay Pride Parade. Baker was honored As in other presidential candidate fo- rainbow flag two years ago when he died at age 65. rums and debates, Democratic candidates McNamara, who had studied at the Fash- can qualify for the event by receiving one continues to ion Institute of Technology in New York, percent or more of the vote in three sep- returned to the East Coast living in New arate national polls or by receiving dona- make them Jersey, where he died in 1999. He left a tions from 65,000 different people in 20 wealth of images, mostly negatives and Connor and family protest anti-trans law different states. The forum will be held in Los Angeles – Lynn Segerblom, who Kodachrome slides that he had taken at the midst of UCLA’s centennial year, when chose the material and hand dyed each the time of the making of the flags. They the campus will recognize its many con- stripe of white cotton muslin for the orig- show Baker, Faerie, and himself (occa- healthcare, but then State Treasurer Dale tributions to Los Angeles, the nation, and inal rainbow flags, appeared at the Gay sionally since he was most often found be- Folwell took office and revoked the cover- the world since its founding in 1919, as and Lesbian Center in Los Angeles on hind the camera) along with other friends, age,” Brown added, well as looking ahead to another century March 17th as part of a public panel dis- raising the flags and enjoying the parade Notwithstanding the massive fallout of discovery and achievement. Gary Se- cussing the iconic international LGBT festivities. (Q Notes Online – Lainey Millen North Carolina suffered after enacting an- gura, dean of UCLA Luskin said, “We are symbol that the flags have become since at Goqnotes.com/62603/flag-making-cam- ti-transgender bills HB2 and HB142, an- beyond excited to partner with the Human their creation. She also announced that a paign-launched/) ti-LGBT extremists in the state continue to Rights Campaign in raising LGBTQ issues GoFundMe campaign has been started for take aim at transgender people. In 2017, and the policy stances of candidates to her to continue making similar gay flags state officials removed the exclusion from greater public attention in this cycle. UCLA for presentation to various LGBT groups, the state employee health plan, giving is the perfect host for this conversation.” as well as the headquarters of the Boys Suit filed state employees a year of inclusive cov- On Election Day 2018, exit polling showed and Girls Clubs of America and one for the erage. However, in 2018 Folwell delivered that more than seven million LGBTQ vot- transgender marshal for the Los Angeles against North on his campaign promise to eradicate tran- ers – six percent of total turnout – cast Gay Pride parade in June. sition-related coverage. The seven plain- ballots, making the difference in key races Originally called Faerie Argyle Rain- Carolina over tiffs represented in this lawsuit include from coast to coast. t (Seattle Gay News bow at that time, and a member of the Jason Fleck, an employee of the Univer- at Sgn.org/sgnnews47_12/page4.cfm) Angels of Light Theatre Company, Segerb- anti-trans sity of North Carolina at Greensboro, and lom – along with Gilbert Baker – headed his 16-year-old transgender son, Connor. up the decorations committee for the 1978 health rule In the lawsuit, Lambda Legal and TLDEF Gay Freedom Day committee, which pro- argue that North Carolina officials are vi- These news notes have been compiled, duced the parade and celebration in San Greensboro, North Carolina – Lamb- olating the Equal Protection Clause of the with permission, from the online version Francisco. A call was put out to the artists da Legal and Transgender Legal Defense U.S. Constitution, Title IX of the Education of various newspapers and other web of San Francisco to make flags for that & Education Fund (TLDEF) filed a feder- Amendments of 1972, and the non-discrim- sites. We thank these publications for al lawsuit against North Carolina officials year’s Gay Freedom Day celebration. An- ination provision of the Affordable Care Act, allowing us to bring you their news sto- on March 11th for discrimination in state other friend – fashion designer, tailor, and by unlawfully discriminating based on sex ries. Usually the reports have been sig- photographer James McNamara – then employee healthcare. The North Carolina and transgender status. (Q Notes Online nificantly edited and you can read the joined Faerie (Lynn) and Baker, and the State Health Plan (NCSHP), the state em- – Lainey Millen at Goqnotes.com/62589/ full story by going to the web site men- three of them joined together to create the ployee health plan, excludes coverage for orgs-sue-n-c-officials-for-healthcare-cov- tioned following the item. Comments rainbow flags. The group of three friends, gender-confirming healthcare. Lambda Le- erage-denial) are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker Segerblom, McNamara, Baker, at times gal and TLDEF represent several current and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride living with one another, gathered about and former state employees and their chil- Media. 30 others to help them out. The two larg- dren who were denied coverage under the

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life

They set an example for me in what it means about the mission. We’re not there yet, so Brenda Laribee, Joanne Kay, Louis Schilling to serve – to educate and mentor others. the work continues. We the staff will support and Tyrone Smith. The need for organizations like Project In- each other in making it happen. Most of all, I thank my husband, Josh form, for its HIV and hep C programs, and for I’m beyond grateful to all those who’ve Tager, whose activism matches Marty’s in My Fabulous the people who do this work is undiminished. mentored and inspired me, who’ve been brilliance and ferocity, and who has inspired We need a vaccine and a cure for HIV. That partners in this work. My list is enormous me to be a fighter since I saw him across the Disease will only happen with equal participation and and spans from my earliest mentors like room at a frumpy New Year’s Eve dance in By Mark S. King leadership from every affected community. Peter Staley, Mike Shriver, Tim Horn, Lyn- 1991. Short of that, we need accessible medica- da Dee, JD Davids and Moises Agosto, to Finally, a famous quote by Oliver Wen- tions for prevention and treatment that are splendid friends and colleagues from recent dell Holmes, captures how I feel right now: A Farewell acceptable to every single person living with years, including Danielle Campbell, Karine “We have shared the incommunicable expe- HIV. Dube, Judy Auerbach, Morey Riordan, and rience of war. We have felt, we still feel, the I’m proud to have worked side by side Shannon Weber. Finally, I am deeply indebt- passion of life to its top. In our youths, our to Project with so many at PI, including Alan McCord, ed to my compatriots: Michael Anderson, hearts were touched with fire.” t Jude Leahy, Anne Donnelly, Andrew Reyn- Inform olds, Ryan Clary, and Emalie Hurieaux, just to start. The HIV community was dealt a sad Marty was a brainy, imaginative, re- Hearts and Ears Inc. blow when it was announced that the iconic sourceful activist. He cut his teeth as a labor LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center non-profit HIV treatment advocacy organi- negotiator in 1970s Chicago, which made zation, Project Inform, will end its programs. him both a skillful diplomat and a formida- Project Inform’s director of research advo- ble foe with no patience for irrational and Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, cacy, David Evans, has been working with unnecessary obstacles. When his patience Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and the organization in various capacities for the was severely tested, his crankiness and last 27 years. In this message shared with disdain could be surly, Questioning, and Gender Non-Conforming individuals My Fabulous Disease, David but it was exceeded by with behavioral health issues and concerns. reflects on Project Inform his big heart. Marty took founder, the late calls from people in dire Martin Delaney, medical situations at all 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 • 410-523-1694 with David Evans hours. in a 1997 photo [email protected] • heartsandears.org Even off the job, Marty pushed the lim- its. In the early 1990s, we drove across the Big Island of Hawaii. Marty insisted we take the most direct route through the forbidden Pohaku- loa Military Train- ing Area, rather than the much longer coast drive. Project In- I was reluctant, but Marty coaxed me for- form’s legacy and on the in- ward past the warning signs. Soon enough, fluence of its legendary founder, Martin an army helicopter gunship strafed us just Delaney. We must all honor this legacy by en- yards overhead, rattling our rented jeep with suring that HIV treatment advocacy remain at the rotor’s downwash. The pilot then turned the forefront of our movement. – Mark S. King to hover, facing us, just ten car lengths away. It was a lopsided standoff, but no matter. by David Evans Marty insisted that we call their bluff. We did Project Inform and we won. It was a small triumph, an in- It’s the end of Project Inform as we know it … structive moment, and it meant the world to but I still feel the same unflagging determina- me to share that with him. tion to break the back of this epidemic as I did I rarely heard Marty use the F-word, but when I first met my mentor, Marty Delaney, I think his life was defined by a fuck you at- nearly three decades ago. titude toward impractical rules and conven- When I first volunteered for PI in 1991, a tions that slowed progress. I remain inspired group of brilliant self-taught HIV scientists, in- and grateful he let me see all of that – the cluding Brenda Lein, Ben Cheng, and Marty, whole, real Marty. of course, patiently trained me in activism and Marty never imagined an everlasting, advocacy. They answered every question I always expanding organization. And still, asked, showed me various medical journals, these changes are hard, some are heart- 6037 Belair Rd. Baltimore, Maryland 21206 and taught me to distinguish between gen- breaking. It’s sad to say goodbye to our team 443-885-9799 • mixersbaltimore.com uine glimmers of hope versus junk science. and to this historic project. But it was always 443-885-9799 • mixersbaltimore.com

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 quality of life

Now, onto your quandary. What a constant demonstrations and large sec- doozy! I couldn’t help but feel grateful that tions of Baltimore and Washington burned The In it was you who stumbled upon that shoe- out, I walked into Leon’ s on a warm Sep- and box, as opposed to your uncle’s ex-wife tember night, confident that the world was or child. Before I go any further, though, I Days Gone going to be fine and that somewhere out want to use this opportunity to encourage Out By there, a knight in shining armor sought every single person out there to make a Andre Shakti by ‘Tao’ me.Well, things don’t always work out like plan for what happens to your weird sex dreams. We did cause the end of the draft shit when you die. and, oh yes, I did find my knight in shining I don’t know about you, but I don’t want armor. Absolute bliss! We relocated to San Avuncular to burden my grandma with the task of box- Baltimore in Francisco and lived happily ever after, for ing up my dildo collection or trying to figure at least two weeks! out if she should consign or toss my leath- Secrets My 1960s Nonetheless, despite that and all that er strap-on harnesses. For those with sig- came later, especially The Great Plague Dear Andre, nificant and/or “secret” sex paraphernalia, It was nearly 51 years ago that I first (AIDS), which knocked out nearly every- This isn’t really a love or relationship practicing preventative care and arranging crossed the threshold at Leon’s in Bal- one I knew, I found myself back in Mary- question, but I’m still hoping you can help for an independent third party to come in timore and declared to myself that I was land and much later, in Baltimore (October, me out. I’m 26 years old and a lesbian, and clean your space after your passing out. The world was in turmoil. It was the 2017), alive and if not in the best of health, and recently one of my uncles is the way to go. Whether this worst of times, but as with Dickens, it was standing tall, without a cane or walker. passed away unexpectedly. person is a friend, a romantic A beloved also the best of times. Life’s lesson seems to be that it is The two of us always had a partner, or a professional is up unknowable, that our reason for existence strong bond, and he felt more to you! relative dead, “My poor, wrinkled may be written, but under a misty shroud. like a best friend than family. I’m Back to your particular sit- So, rather than fret about what is in store absolutely devastated. About uation, Katlyn. I know a little brain overflows with and the box for the future, or it’s meaning, I now con- a week ago my mother asked bit about family death secrets. memories, stops along centrate upon the journey. if I would go to his apartment under his I didn’t find out that my grand- My poor, wrinkled brain overflows with with her and help organize his father had suffered his heart the path, in which I memories, stops along the path, in which belongings. While doing so, I bed attack sitting on a strip club I have found others, many angels, as well stumbled on a shoe box under toilet until I was in my late 20s. have found others, as a devil or two. Despite everything, I his bed that was filled to the brim with ex- True story! And you know what? That’s many angels, as well would gladly walk the trail again, for it has plicit gay male pornography. Problem is, okay. We live in a society that stresses the been rich in experience and characters. t my uncle lived his life as a straight man. harm in “keeping secrets,” but I am of the as a devil or two. Look for more “Days Gone By” coming Him and my aunt were married for years opinion that total transparency isn’t always in later May. Till then remember the days and even had a daughter together, al- the compassionate choice. Every human Despite everything, I gone by! though they separated last spring. I don’t being is entitled to a private life as would gladly walk the The really know what to do here. Do I try venerable well as a public one, as long Leon’s and initiate a con- as they’re doing no harm trail again, for it versation with the unto others. I think your members of my obligation to your uncle has been rich in family about what – your friend, your con- experience and I found, or do I de- fidant, your ally – is to stroy all of the porn destroy the pornog- characters.” and let sleeping raphy and with- dogs lie? hold that in- Despite the Vietnam War, the Katlyn C. formation political assassinations (Martin from your Luther King and Robert F. Ken- Dear Katlyn, family, at nedy), there was a general feel- My deepest condo- least until ing in my boomer generation that, lences to you in the wake his passing with the status quo seeming on the of your loss. While I don’t isn’t such brink of collapse, we were going to know the circumstances a fresh pick up the pieces and remake the of your uncle’s passing – wound. world into a better place. namely, whether his death We can make a Perhaps, part of our illusions was accidental or intentional lot of uninformed guess- were caused by the music we – your uncle sounds like he was es about your uncle’s sexual adored. Not unlike the military tunes a reliable source of love, sup- orientation, but I don’t think that with which previous generations port, and camaraderie for you. As launching an investigation into his past had marched into battle, songs of LGBTQ folks, maintaining healthy, should be a priority. Instead, do your uncle the Beatles, Bob Dylan, The Who, fulfilling relationships with our blood family this one last favor and reflect not on who Joan Baez and so many others were can often feel more like a pipe dream than he may have desired, but on the ways, directing us toward, as Lincoln would something that’s realistically attainable. It he positively impacted the lives of those say, “The angels of our better nature.” warms my heart to know that you had at t around him. So despite the King riots, the Ca- least one strong ally in your corner as you tonsville Nine, the Tet Offensive, near transitioned into adulthood. 10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com GRAB A COFFEE. TAKE A SURVEY. CHANGE THE WORLD. MAKING A DIFFERENCE IS EASY. Take the 13th Annual LGBTQ Community Survey®

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 quality of life // Health and Wellness

for a left orchidectomy (removal of the left it’s personal. A personal trainer will work Mending testicle) on the following Wednesday, No- with you to create a specialized fitness vember 7th. Surgery went well then the 12 program unique to you that will help you the weeks of chemo was started on the 26th. meet your personal goals, together! Testicular cancer moves quickly and so YouFit Healthy eating – In a world of so many Gap does the team! Today is March 14th and delicious foods, who wants to feel restrict- Charles Dudley Scott is well on his way to recover. He was Here ed? But a balanced diet doesn’t have to able to keep one testicle which will pro- be a prison of counted calories and bland duce enough testosterone to not need sup- meals. Fueling your body with the right in- Take a Moment for plements and chemotherapy is over while gredients can fuel your desire to work out they transition into a watchful waiting peri- Attaining an and convert those junk food cravings to Your Testicles od. The lymph nodes are a lot smaller than healthier alternatives over time. they were (over 57% reduction in size) and Overall Healthy Pro tip from Youfit’s registered di- April is testicular cancer awareness month the tumor markers are more normal. etician, Lindsey Gass: Start with small with April 1st kicking off awareness week. What does recover look like? “This is Lifestyle changes that you know are realistic, like Over 9,000 men will be diag- very curable and responds cutting down how much fast food you eat nosed this year, but the good well to chemo… Of course, it It’s all around you wherever you turn. Work to only once a week. That’s something you news is the survival rate av- How to give is better if caught early and if out more. Eat better. Take control of your can keep up until it’s a habit. Once the erages 95% with 99% surviv- caught early enough you may health. But often you don’t even know habit becomes a lifestyle, you don’t have al for early detection before it your family be able to avoid chemo all to- where to start or the steps you need to to keep starting over because you’re more spreads out of the testicle. gether if it has not spread.” take to achieve a lifestyle that is better for aware of your meal choices. I had the opportunity to in- jewels an “Twelve weeks of hell!” is your well-being. Mental relief – Developing a healthy terview fellow physical therapist how Scott describes the che- Here are three areas to focus on when lifestyle requires a mindset and testicular cancer survivor exam – and motherapy. He was surprised starting your journey to Scott Chupnick about his ex- the nausea was easier to becoming a healthier It’s not a work- what to manage than he feared and out – it’s a perience with testicular cancer you. funout! with regard to what initial symp- look for had medications to help. Start a fitness rou- toms took him to the doctor, the The fatigue, though, was tine – Exercise can seem challenges and transformation the worst; “It changes you. daunting and overwhelm- he and his family have gone It’s like you are a whole dif- ing if you are just starting through, as well as the life ferent person.” His wife is out, but there are practi- lessons from this experi- amazing, and he is amazed cal ways to squeeze in a ence. He also has an im- by her patience as she con- workout. Take the stairs portant message for all tinued to work (they both at work or walk to plac- you guys (and gals) out did) and take care of the es that are a mile or less there! house as well as go with away. You can even make October 31st was a him to the surgery and it a date and workout with normal day while Scott and the doctors. There were a friend. Strength (with a his kids were moving a pool days the fatigue was so side of accountability) in cover. The next day he had groin bad Scott couldn’t even go numbers, right? pain and some increased pain in Plump is okay, to the grocery store. The hair If you don’t have a shift. When his back pain. He dismissed the but bumps, on loss was another big issue. “Be- regular gym partner, see if your gym of- feeling down and out, you may not be in back pain as being from his fu- the other hand... ing a guy, that’s one of the things fers personal trainers. When it comes to the mood to work out or eat right, but there sion a few years ago, but the groin I thought I’d be bothered by but a lifestyle change, it’s not one-size-fits-all, are healthy ways to take care of the mind pain was suspicious of a hernia, turned out actually am pretty good while being kind to your body. Take a walk. so he started checking himself out with it.” It was pretty hard to hide, Get some “me time” to destress while you “down there.” Nothing unusual at and his patients noticed. He now walk around your neighborhood or a local the groin since he would expect a bulge talks to them, men and women, about the park and appreciate nature. Staying active if there was a hernia, but things got very importance of regular self-exams. helps to release the endorphins that make alarming when he discovered his left testi- What did you learn from this experi- fact is that if it drags on it can then end up us feel happy. On the other hand, you can cle was much larger than it should be and ence? “Change in perspective of what’s spreading easily to the stomach, then the take a yoga class that allows you to turn he thought “Holy shit! That’s not normal!” important, what to stress over and what lungs, then the brain.” your brain off and just breathe as you flow Friday, November 2nd found him in the not to stress over. From the moment Do an internet search on through several poses and stretches that ER, where they did the usual tests with ul- of the diagnosis your whole life is how to do a testicular exam help increase blood flow through your trasound and blood work, but the CT scan turned upside down.” and what to look for. Dr. body. No matter how you choose to give was a bit alarming. The lymph nodes on What should every man Oz has a humorous video yourself that mental relief, understand that the left side of his stomach were enlarged. know? Check yourself about this! You can also it is a necessary and important stepping The picture was coming together: enlarged every month, teach ask your doctor next time stone toward your overall health. t left testicle with enlarged lymph nodes on your sons to check you see him, or you can If you’re looking for a community of the left side of the stomach was highly every month from see your local pelvic physi- people to keep you accountable on your suspicious of testicular cancer that had the age of 15 when cal therapist…. I wonder who journey to fitness and better health, visit already begun to spread. He now meets this can start to be that could be? Hmmmmm … your local Youfit gym. Learn more at Youfit. with the oncology team and is in surgery a problem. “The me! t com 12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness

U=U Maryland That remark almost makes it irrelevant as to who is right and who is wrong. It recog- Spreading awareness that nizes the hurt/anger in a caring way and Ask opens up the path to healing. Campaign Undetectable = Untransmittable Dr. J I cannot imagine any adult who as a child was not reprimanded or scolded for en’t any drawbacks. Even large organiza- Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. making a mistake or doing what is not ac- By Aaron Cahall tions like the CDC support this statement. ceptable. So, we grow up with that baggage Chase Brexton Health Care However, it is important to understand that haunting us each time we do something Last fall, Baltimore became the newest city the emphasis of the campaign is on the Apology wrong. I am not suggesting that boundar- to join the worldwide scientific consensus first “U,” being undetectable. Only when ies should not be taught and certainly not that HIV-positive individuals who are in keeping an undetectable viral load by tak- Needed? condoning hurtful behavior. I am however treatment and have an undetectable viral ing medication daily, does U=U apply. advocating that as adults, we have the op- load cannot transmit the disease to their How will U=U change the lives of When is it comfortable for you to apolo- tion to right wrongs we may have commit- sexual partners – Undetectable=Untrans- those affected by HIV? gize? Or are you one who never uses this ted. When one gets a parking ticket, it is mittable. U=U is an amaz- form of communication? Do you think you because we violated a rule. By paying the Since then, the ing campaign with the are never wrong? Or are you the one who fine, we pay the price for that violation. But community-driven intention to fight the apologizes at every turn? we do not have to apologize to the officer U=U Maryland cam- stigma of HIV. U=U Humans being the imperfect creatures who wrote the ticket. In a relationship, if we paign has worked to means that everyone that we are, we all make mistakes that want to maintain the connection, we have share this critically can date whomever unintentionally offend others, cause hurt to accept responsibility for our actions and important message they like indepen- feelings that may trigger anger and resent- ease the adverse consequences that the statewide, including at dent from HIV status, partner experiences. This is what love is an upcoming Lunch & everyone can have about. t Learn workshop sched- healthy kids and fam- I believe forgiveness is the best form of uled for Thursday, April ilies, and have a nor- love in any relationship. It takes a strong 11th from noon to 1:30 mal life expectancy. person to say they’re sorry and an even pm at Chase Brexton Thanks to this cam- stronger person to forgive. – Yolanda Hadid Health Care’s Mount paign we can all live Vernon Center (1111 happier and healthier North Charles Street, together and forget Baltimore). about the stigma with The session will in- all the limitations it ANDRE SHAKTI clude information from created in our minds. ment. Some of us internalize these and Dr. Sebastian Ruhs, How aware are then the negativity festers. Others express director of Chase Brex- your HIV-positive patients of the U=U the reaction and may engender further ton’s Infectious Diseases Center of Excel- message? How do they view it? lence, as well as the stories of community conflict. In a relationship, these kind of in- There are still many people who have members who are living the U=U message. teractions can lead to a healthy resolution We asked Dr. Ruhs to share his thoughts not yet heard of U=U. It is important to be and consequently, to growth, but it is also about the U=U Campaign. vocal with this message until everyone has possible that one ends up with destructive U=U means Untransmittable Equals become familiar with it. At Chase Brexton patterns of behavior. Sex, Undetectable. For those not in the know, Health Care we are sharing this information When you know that you have offended what does that mean? in form of posters, infographics, and con- your partner, what do you do? Shrug it off Intimacy and The goal of HIV treatment with medica- versations. The stigma of HIV had more Relationship Coaching than 30 years to grow. It will take some time “I believe forgiveness is tion is getting and keeping an undetectable for Every Body viral load. This means, the medications to get rid of it by sharing all this good news. the best form of love in have decreased the amount of virus in the However, we are going in the right direc- blood to such low levels that we cannot tion. U=U sends out an extremely positive any relationship.” detect it anymore. But the key is to take message without any ifs and whens. the medications every day as prescribed. What do you think the future is for as it will blow over and tomorrow is another • Culturally Competent While we knew for a long time that an un- the U=U campaign, both locally and day? Say “I am sorry” kind of offhandedly • Accessible detectable viral load decreases the risk of globally? and then move on? Think your partner is transmission of HIV, we know now that an U=U will continue to grow, locally and being too emotional or thin-skinned? All of • Emotionally Intuitive individual with an undetectable viral load internationally, until everyone has heard the previous responses convey the mes- cannot pass the virus on through sex. Un- about it and until we have found a cure sage that you are not taking the event seri- detectable = Untransmittable. for HIV. The campaign will become a fun- ously and perhaps think you are right. But Are there any drawbacks or caveats damental part of HIV treatment. It helps let’s consider the case of wanting to make Cell: 856-906-0526 to the U=U message? to encourage people to be on treatment amends for whatever you have caused. (text or call) The U=U message is based on large and take medications daily. Be happy, be Being wrong or offending a person you love studies which all came to the same conclu- healthy. U=U. t does not mean you are a bad person, but a IAmPoly.net/Coaching sion: With an undetectable viral load HIV For more about the U=U Maryland human being who can make mistakes. One for More Information cannot be passed on to sexual partners. campaign, and to sign on with your sup- of the most soothing questions I have ever The data is very clear and there really ar- port, visit Uequalsumaryland.org. heard is: “How can I make it up to you?”

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 quality of life // Health and Wellness

Dear Feeling, the risk of lung cancer by more ach cancer and Your precautions weren’t pointless. They than 80%. Looking at all types liver cancer. have reduced your cancer risk and you of cancer together, if a group Three doses of should continue with the same precautions. of ten people don’t take any hepatitis B vac- Open Wide However, it’s important to understand that precautions to prevent cancer, cine are includ- only one out of three three people in the group will be ed in the regular ask Dr Eva cases of cancer (33%) is caused ei- diagnosed with cancer at some series of vaccines Dr Eva Hersh ther by risk factors people can change (like time in their lifetime. On the other Cancer given to babies. The vac- smoking and diet) or by an inherited risk of hand, if a similar group of ten people follow fighters cine can be given at any age to cancer. The other two out of all known recommendations for people who are not immune. Can We Prevent three cases (66%) are due Cut cancer risk preventing cancer, only two people 3) Avoiding tobacco greatly reduces to random mutations, which by a third by in the group will still be diagnosed the risk of lung cancer, mouth and throat Cancer? are spontaneous abnor- with cancer. cancers, pancreas and bladder cancer. malities in our genes that living healthy, The single most effective sin- 4) Avoiding sunburn and limiting sun we have no way to control. gle preventive measure a person exposure by using covering clothing, hats, Dear Dr. Eva, These random mutations but in life can take to avoid cancer is avoid- and sunblock. This prevents several forms At the age of 58 my partner has been di- occur when DNA (genes) ing smoking. People who smoke of skin cancer: melanoma, squamous cell agnosed with cancer. We are both stunned. are copied incorrectly when there are no have a five times greater risk of cancer, and basal cell cancer. Because we both have a family history of cells divide to make new lung cancer compared to people 5) Avoiding alcohol use or drinking cancer, we have done everything we can to cells. Because these can- guarantees who have never smoked. Even so, very little prevents esophageal cancer. lower our risk. We have had colonoscopies cer-causing changes occur 15% of cases of lung cancer (about And the following are the secondary on the recommended schedule, exercise with cell division, tissues that shed many one in seven) are diagnosed in people who prevention methods with the best proof of regularly, eat cruciferous vegetables at least cells and make new cells, like the skin and have never smoked. Smoking also increas- effectiveness. These recommendations are three times a week, and take antioxidant vi- the intestinal lining, are at high risk for can- es the likelihood a person will have mouth, from the United States Public Health Ser- tamins daily. We don’t use alcohol or tobac- cer. throat, bladder and pancreas cancer. vice Task Force (Uspreventiveservicestask- co. I didn’t think this could happen. Are all So, 33% is the most that people can force.org): the precautions we took pointless? decrease cancer risk by changing their be- Dear Dr. Eva, 1) Cervical (uterus, womb) Pap Feeling Cheated havior. This number varies depending on What are the most effective cancer pre- smears (women) – start at age 21, then the specific type of cancer. In the case of vention measures? every three years until age 30. From age lung cancer, avoiding smoking decreases J.B. 30 to 65, Pap with HPV (human papilloma virus) test every three years. If Pap and Dear J.B., HPV results are normal, screening can be There are two kinds of cancer prevention: stopped at age 65. primary and secondary. Primary prevention 2) Colonoscopy – Start at age 50, then methods prevent cancer from developing. every ten years. Stop screening at age 75 Secondary prevention methods detect can- unless the last colonoscopy showed abnor- cer early, so treatment can be given before malities. the cancer becomes life-threatening. 3) Mammogram (women) – Start at These are the primary prevention meth- age 50, then every two years. Stop screen- ods with the best proof of effectiveness. ing at age 74, unless a woman has a history 1) HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) of breast cancer. vaccine – HPV vaccine prevents genital 4) Anal Pap smears: some authorities cancers, including cervical cancer and pe- recommend anal Pap smears for early de- nis cancer, and nose and throat cancers. tection of anal cancer, especially for men This vaccine was initially recommended who have sex with men, as this group has recommended only for children age nine the highest risk of anal cancer. Long-term to 11, and that is still considered the best studies are in progress to find out whether age to give it because at that age children screening with anal Pap smears can de- have not yet been exposed to the HPV vi- crease the likelihood of anal cancer. rus, which is sexually transmitted. Unfortu- 5) Prostate specific antigen (PSA) nately, many parents refuse to have their (men) – Medical experts don’t agree on children vaccinated out of a mistaken belief whether the PSA blood test should be rou- that vaccination encourages early sexual tinely used to screen for prostate cancer, activity. Further research showed that the and the USPSTF recommends against it. vaccine can be beneficial for people of any The PSA level is often high in men who do age who have more than one sexual part- not have prostate cancer, and the biopsies ner, or whose partner has other partners. needed to determine if cancer is present The vaccine has been approved up to age are uncomfortable and can cause severe 45, and most insurance plans will pay for and lasting complications. PSA is most it up to age 45. For uninsured people and often recommended for men with a family those over 45, the vaccine costs about history of prostate cancer. Physical exam $200 a dose. To become immune to HPV, of the prostate (digital-rectal exam, DRE) is three doses are necessary. no longer recommended for prostate can- 2) Hepatitis B vaccine prevents stom- cer screening. t 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com WHAT: Annual LGBTQ Seder, Hosted by SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY JPride Baltimore and Bolton Street Synagogue Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church WHEN: April 11, 2019, 6:30-9:30pm. 306 W Franklin Street, #102 5828 York Road. WHERE: Bolton Street Synagogue Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore MD 21212 410-581-2322. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org 212 W Cold Spring Ln, Baltimore, Maryland 21210 TICKETS: $20/person, includes a Kosher dairy dinner. Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness Advance Purchase Only. 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD Families, friends and allies are welcome. Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 410-235-5354. boltonstreet.org Baltimore MD 21203 For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit: 410-233-5555. ifcmd.org lgbtseder2019.eventbrite.com Brown Memorial Park Avenue or email [email protected] Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore *Need-based scholarships available 1316 Park Avenue 405 West Monument Street. Baltimore MD 21217 Baltimore MD 21201 410-523-1542. browndowntown.org 410-669-6222 mccbaltimore.org Chevrei Tzedek Congregation Chevrei Tzedek Congregation 3101 Fallstaff Road Memorial Episcopal Church 3101 Fallstaff Road, Baltimore MD 21209 1407 Bolton Street Baltimore, MD 21209 443-992-7485. chevreitzedek.org Baltimore MD 21217 410-669-0220 [email protected] Congregation Beit Tikvah memorialepiscopal.org www.chevreitzedek.org 5802 Roland Avenue (443) 992-7485 Baltimore MD 21210 New Light MCC 410-464-9402. beittikvah.org 40 W. Church Street RABBI RORY KATZ Hagerstown MD 21740 Emmanuel Episcopal Church 301-797-5698 JTS Gladstein Fellow 811 Cathedral Street newlightmcc.com Baltimore, MD 21201 An informal, Welcoming, Participatory, Conservative Jewish Community 410-685-1130. emmanueldowntown.org The Church of the Advent 1301 South Charles Street First and Franklin Street. Baltimore, MD 21230 Presbyterian Church 410-539-7804 210 W. Madison Street advent-baltimore.org 䄀䰀䰀 䄀刀䔀 圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 Baltimore MD 21201-4693 410-728-5545. firstfranklin.org Veritas United Church 䴀愀猀猀 匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 of Christ 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀 㔀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀 First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 匀甀渀搀愀礀 㤀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀ 㨀㐀㔀 愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀 瀀⸀洀 1 West Hamilton Street. Hagerstown, MD 21740 刀攀挀漀渀挀椀氀椀愀琀椀漀渀 椀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀 愀琀 㐀㨀㌀ 瀀⸀洀⸀ 琀漀 㔀 瀀⸀洀⸀ Baltimore MD 21201 240- 310-6891 410-685-2330. firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀 匀琀⸀ 䈀攀爀渀愀搀攀琀琀攀 倀愀爀椀猀栀 Grace United Methodist Church 䐀攀愀挀漀渀 䘀爀攀搀 倀愀猀猀愀甀攀爀 㠀 ㄀ 匀琀攀瘀攀渀猀漀渀 刀漀愀搀 5407 North Charles Street 匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀 ㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 Baltimore, MD 21210 倀愀爀椀猀栀 䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀 410-433-6650. graceunitedmethodist.org 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀

Worship Sunday, 11a.m. Christian Education Classes Sunday, 9:45 a.m. browndowntown.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 410.523.1542

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // personalities

ed with Tony and Pulitzer Prize winning all email on my website, which is general- so difficult. Many people look to entertain- playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes on Miss ly filled with spam [laughs], but her email ment for some escape and we’re not offer- You Like Hell, which premiered at the La- came through. It said, “From one Brown ing that. We’re offering people a chance Hell, Yes Jolla Playhouse in 2016, followed by an grad to another, I have this play that I want to look more closely at something that’s off-Broadway production in 2018. How to turn into a musical. By the way, I have difficult; to open their hearts to something By Gregg Shapiro did that collaboration come to be? a Tony (Award) and I’m a serious writer.” that’s difficult. I don’t think everyone wants Since the late 1990s, queer singer / song- Erin McKeown: It came in a really cool That’s how it happened! I’d never gotten an to do that. writer Erin McKeown has been making a way, actually. One of those things that’s kind email like that in my life. I answered it and Do you see it as being on par with the name for herself as a distinguished per- of an unpredictable sum of all the relation- she came to see my show in New York the protest music of the 1960s? former with a rich and pure distinctive vocal ships you’ve had before [laughs]. I made a next day. We had lunch and she gave me Absolutely! I see it something that we style. McKeown expanded record called Hundreds the script of the play and I just said, “Yes.” had to make and there’s no way that we her creative horizons with of Lions in 2009. Quiara I had no idea that it would be a seven-year would not make it, regardless of what’s the stage musical Miss An interview had written a play around process. happening in the political landscape. We You Like Hell, a collabo- the same time called 26 The timely subject matter couldn’t were compelled and we made the show ration with Quiara Alegría with Miles. A couple of years have arrived on stage at a more oppor- we wanted to make and it says the things Hudes, for which she wrote later, she decided she tune moment, especially while we are we wanted it to say. In that way, it’s inevi- the music and lyrics. As Erin McKeown wanted to make that living in Trump world. Can you please table and we are compelled by it. When we you can hear on Miss You straight play into a mu- say something about that? look back at these Trump years and we ask Like Hell: Original Cast sical. She asked friends For folks that are undocumented and for ourselves, “What did we do to help?” I will Recording (Ghostlight), the play is about of hers for names of some female singer / people who care about our immigration sys- proudly say we made this show. the reunion between troubled mother and songwriters to whom she should be listen- tem, this is something that’s been going on As a singer / songwriter yourself, undocumented immigrant Beatriz (Daphne ing. Her best friend from growing up went to for a long time. For a group of people, me what are the challenges and rewards Rubin-Vega), who is facing the prospect college with me (at Brown), though I didn’t included, it’s been very important for a long of writing songs for others, especially of deportation, and her teenaged daugh- know her personally. I was known on cam- time. It’s been said before, and it’s always characters in a play, to Erin ter Olivia (Gizel Jiménez) and the ensuing pus for making music. This friend of hers important for me to say when addressing sing, and how do you McKeown eye-opening road trip on which the pair em- put my name on a list and gave it to Quiara. this topic, Obama was not that great on im- bark. I recently had the pleasure of speak- At the time, Hundreds of Lions was new. migration. He deported ing with McKeown about the show and her She heard that record and thought that’s more people than any work. what she wanted the musical to sound like. previous administra- Gregg Shapiro: Erin, you collaborat- She wrote me an email through the catch- tions. For various rea- sons, there wasn’t any legislation that was able NOW ON STAGE to move forward. He’s not Trump. But he doesn’t get a pass, either. That’s correct. This is an issue that I care about and am interested in, and obviously Quiara cared about it. That’s the thing we added to this story in 2011. There’s no citizen- ship issue in the play. The mom in the play is Puer- to Rican and therefore an think that American citizen. When we having written for the stage will turned it into a musical, we introduced the impact your songwriting for your own immigration piece of it. I can only say that recordings and performance? that happened because it was important to The challenges for me were mostly in us, not because something was happening the length of the project and the amount of in the news. Then it became news and was revisions. Music is on such a shorter cycle growing in waves. I think it cuts both ways, and there’s a kind of elasticity and loose- to be totally honest, with this show. I don’t ness and nightly reinvention. Theater is a necessarily think it’s a blessing to be put- different animal. I’ve never revised anything ting this show out at the same time as we as much as I revised and continued to chip have this person in the White House putting away at this project. It was a personal thing. out the kind of rhetoric he puts out. In one The reward is that I think we were able to 410-730-8311 way, it’s super important that we are here, make something that is extremely rich and TobysDinnerTheatre.com telling the kind of story that we’re telling, has a ton of depth that comes from spend- in some way pushing against that tide. In ing that much time on something. It was a other ways, in my personal opinion, there’s great lesson. Everything I make after this Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. • Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia, MD also a type of fatigue or desire to look away musical will certainly be impacted by that. I because what we’re seeing in the news is have learned to sit with something longer. I

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // personalities Are you ready to excel in a rapidly growing career? Join our community of talented students, have learned to give more time and space her Broadway debut as Mimi in Rent, massage therapists, and instructors to something. I can still write a quick song, singing your songs? if I have to. But I’ve really seen the benefits [Laughs] Oh, goodness. That is has of this kind of marination and slow edits. I been one of the hugest gifts for me. I could also loved writing for other characters which talk about her for 100 years and not be fin- ished with the depth of her artistry and her “Obama was not intelligence and the things that she brings and does as a musician that I’ve never that great on heard anyone else do. She is a legend. But immigration. He maybe to a smaller group of people than she should be. She’s a transformational deported more people performer and it’s been a joy to collab- orate with her in the way that we have. A than any previous production of this show is going to running administrations. For in Boston. It’s the first time that someone other than Daphne has played Beatriz. She various reasons, there has been with us from our very first work- Become an Allied Health Care Professional in as Little as 11 Months! shop and through every workshop, produc- •Small classes with hands-on training •Day, Evening, and Sunday classes wasn’t any legislation tion and rehearsal. Beatriz is a creation of that was able to move Daphne and me and Quiara. She’s right in •Part-time and full-time options •93% pass rate on licensing exam there with that. Maybe it’s basic of me to •Affordable tuition and financing, •Employment assistance upon graduation forward. He’s not say this, but I wish more people knew about including Federal Student Aid Trump.” her. She deserves that. and VA Benefits The gays know about her, that’s for Stay in Touch! sure. wasn’t too far a stretch from the things I’ve I know! We always know where the Holistic Massage Training Institute been making for years. Even though I may good stuff is. 2834 Loch Raven Road. Baltimore, MD 21218 use an I or me pronoun, I’ve been writing Do you foresee writing more for the 410-243-4688 • MassageTrainingBaltimore.com about other things and perspectives with- stage? in my work. I enjoyed the distance of get- Yes, in February (2019), I actually have ting to physically sit between ten and 100 a workshop reading of a new musical for feet from my music. To have it come out of which I wrote book, lyrics and music sched- someone else’s body and feel the reflec- uled. I’m already on my way with a new mu- tion of that, rather than having to produce it sical project. myself, was inspiring and enlivening. If my Is there a new Erin McKeown album goal is to help connect people, I have an in the works? Certified Public Accountants opportunity to connect more people if I don’t Yes, there is. Giv- en what I learned have to be personally involved. That’s the from Miss You thing about which Like Hell, I’m go- Don’t Panic I feel most excited ing to let it take about this phase the time it’s go- we can helP you of the show. I don’t ing to take. I have to be there for started working it and people can on it and I know with your 2018 return carry this show and what it’s about. this message like lit- I’m super-excit- CALL US TODAY! tle seed pods that get ed about it and to disperse. There’s it’s personal. Services for Business Services Tax Services a lot of openness and In some ways Individuals -Small Business Accounting -Tax Preparation flexibility for the people I have worried -Estate Planning -Online Payroll -Tax Planning performing this music in the past -Elder Care -QuickBooks Services -Tax Problems and plenty of room for a that people -Payroll - Bank Financing performer to make each wouldn’t be New Business Formation of these songs their as interested own. That’s always a if I just kept Making a Difference for Businesses & Individuals style I’ve been interested writing about in. Not only do I not have myself; that With client focus as the base of every service, Bridges & Associates, CPA’s to be there, but there’s somehow I needed to be doing of Baltimore, MD offers area businesses and individuals specialized CPA room for any of these individual stuff in service of other people’s stories. I services tailored to the industry, business entity and targeted needs. performers doing this show to bring their have been able to do that with this musical, self to it. and it’s been great. But my roots are exca- I’m so glad you mentioned that be- vating my own biography and my own self 835 Hollins St. Baltimore, MD, 21201 • 410-908-8134 cause I was wondering what was it like to make music, so I’m working on a project [email protected] • bridgescpas.com to have Daphne Rubin-Vega, who made that returns to those roots. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // out on screen As Long As I’m Famous Meet the Enjoys Hollywood Debut Enemy By Frankie Kujawa the film together. The intimacy between —continued from page 1 On Saturday, March 16th, as the lights these two, rugged men depict a love both child, his face almost always covered by of the Ahrya Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly romantic and everyday. It’s a complement master of this genre. an asbestos mask because he’s just a little Hills, California, slowly dimmed, audienc- to the fiery passion that exudes between There may be a message to this story, too friendly with fire. He’s almost always es cheered and clapped as the premiere actors David Chokachi (Gene Tunney) perhaps about the classes, but I don’t want running around on all fours like a dog, of Broadwood Media’s As and Camille Montgomery to delve too deeply into that here, again to hence the name Pluto I suppose. These Long as I’m Famous danced The Golden Age (Nedda Logan). Choka- keep the review spoiler free. What I can really are four great performances. across the silver screen. Bal- chi’s performance in the say is that Peele has constructed a mostly Elisabeth Moss and Tim Heidecker are timore OUTloud was there of Hollywood and film is a career-defin- tight, thrilling movie with only a couple of also good as the friends, offering some as Hollywood’s glitterati ing change of pace for logical / plothole questions I had, but noth- occasional comic relief in their banter to- graced the red carpet event Broadway comes the actor, who is equal- ing that ruined the experience for me. gether, but not much help when it comes to for the film. ly matched in bombshell I’m going to call it out now that Lupita dealing with the Wilson family’s doubles. Inspired by real leg- alive in long- Montgomery’s vivacious Nyong’o has turned in our first Best Ac- Well, on second thought, they do help in- ends of both Hollywood and interpretation of Nedda. tress nominated performance of the year. advertently. I also have to mention the ter- Broadway’s Golden Age, awaited film The beautiful and brilliant She is perfection and she’s fearless in her rific score by Michael Abels that is melodic Bruce Reisman’s original Chelsea Jordan portrays creation of two very different characters. and unsettling at the same time and the ex- story for the screen, combines the lives of Sid’s blind girlfriend, the scrappy Hannah, Adelaide is a bit uptight, but a loving, strict cellent choice of songs used in the movie. Montgomery Clift, director Sidney Lumet at who turns the story on its ear. mother who perhaps micro-manages her The film opens with some on screen age 24, composer Richard Rodgers, 1928 Rounding out the cast are kids just a bit too much, but she turns into text that is very important to the story’s big boxing champ Gene Tunney, Joshua the proverbial “Tiger Mom” when her fam- reveal so don’t forget about that as you’re Logan (Pulitzer ily is in danger. On the other hand, she watching. Also keep Adelaide’s childhood Prize and Tony gives us one of the most disturbing char- encounter and Hands Across America in award winning acters committed to film in Red, Adelaide’s mind as they are both key plot points. It playwright-director doppelgänger. Red looks like Adelaide, will be interesting to see how this film plays of South Pacific), just with a different hairstyle and a con- in the rest of the world because it is de- his wife Nedda stant wide-eyed look of terror or menace cidedly American. At one point, Red even Harrigan Logan or a combination of both. But when she says, when asked who they are, “We’re (founder of the speaks, her raspy, broken Actors Fund), and voice is the most disturbing Are we Latina screen star thing of all as she recounts a spooked yet? Katy Jurado. story that basically explains These names their existence. And when may not be familiar she says to Zora, “Little to movie audiences girl ... Run!” it’s the stuff of of today, but the sto- nightmares. Nyong’o gives ry of forbidden love, us two bravura performanc- mental illness, and es here. the creative process In fact everyone has to has been presented pull double duty. Duke’s in a witty, often heart- two characters couldn’t be breaking journey led Cast of more different with Gabe by the young “Sid” As Long as I’m stellar performances from Holly- a fun-loving jokester, and as he walks among his yester- Famous at the film’s wood luminaries Eric Lutes (Rich- Abraham is an imposing, days. Director Reisman also Hollywood debut ard Rodgers), Tracy Nelson (The- wordless giant of a man, not pays homage to several movie da Bara), and Michael Paré. someone you’d want to bump into in a dark Americans,” which again has to make you genres, from classy-sassy Geroge Cukor’s Reisman’s script is witty and arch, and alley. Joseph is also terrific as Zora and wonder if there is a deeper message or an Dinner at Eight, Bob Fosse’s Chicago, the as director, he summons powerhouse per- Umbrae. Zora is a typical teen and she indictment specifically on American society black and white noir boxing pictures of formances from his cast. The film’s cine- has some great facial reactions to vari- at play here. Message or not, Us is a terrif- John Garfield, and the more recent “Mar- matography, under the eye of artistic Ryan ous things, while Umbrae constantly has ic thriller – I wouldn’t really call it a horror velous Mrs. Maizel,” evoking another time Brown, is mesmerizing, and bolstered by a frozen, creepy smile on her face that is film, although some have deemed it terri- and place, whose virtues and humor are composer Gordon Smith’s original score. anything but friendly. Alex may have the fying – that will make you laugh and gasp as accessible today as they were in the The film takes audiences through the hardest role as the two boys. His Jason is and perhaps talk about afterwards. I heard 40s and 50s. streets of New York, the Hollywood Hills, a bit too babied by his mother, always with a lot of people in the lobby discussing the As Reisman’s story of life “behind the and opulent interiors of film’s Golden Age, a Halloween mask propped up on his head film after the screening and that’s always curtain” unfolds, the chemistry between and manages to bring alive radically dif- (maybe Chewbacca?). He likes to prank a good sign. Us is definitely the first real actors Aaron Fors (Sid Lumet) and Gavin ferent times and places. Yet the burning his sister but freaks out when she turns “must see” movie of the year. t Adams (Monty Clift) smolders on screen. issues of 1948 seem freshly relevant and the tables. He also likes magic and keeps Fors’ star-making performance really holds honest than ever in 2019. t attempting to do a trick with a lighter. Plu- to, on the other hand, is a frightening feral 18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // out on stage Schoolhouse Murder Set to Song By Frankie Kujawa out there and said we had to do this.” The the Los Angeles workshop and supporting This April, an advanced workshop and two documentary focused on the bullying that pre- an upcoming showcase run of the play. The staged readings of the new musical Living saged the killing, and the failure of the school musical was also 2018 semi-finalist of the Eu- Over the Rainbow will take to react before it was too late. gene O’Neill Musical Theatre National Con- place in Dallas, Texas. The Esposito said that after ference and a targeted Off-Broadway run is play is based on a true story Living Over the she finished the documenta- planned for the future. that made national headlines in Rainbow gives a ry, she still felt as if her work Esposito added, “Here’s the thing: I kept 2008 when a young gay teen- wasn’t finished. “I felt like the telling everyone that this show needs to go ager, Lawrence King, was mur- 2008 California universe was tapping on my to Broadway. Not from an ego place, but this dered by a fellow classmate at shoulder and saying, ‘This is story wants to be told to the largest number of his high school in Oxnard, Cali- school shooting a musical,’ and I thought, ‘Are people on the largest stage.” fornia. The circumstances of his you kidding me?’ I had never In August 2018, a stage reading took • ArchitecturAlly-stunning death and the issues brought to musical written a musical before.” As place in Los Angeles. It was during that wedding venue • light by it have now been made Esposito relied on mentors to time that Esposito reflected on the fact that • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding into a heartfelt and inspiration- treatment, help guide her way, she also the circle around Lawrence King’s story just al work about acceptance and felt as if there was a larg- keeps getting bigger and bigger. “Along with CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, finding peace crafted by Roz sensitively er force guiding her. “To be our little documentary, there was an amazing And eLOPeMenTS • Esposito. Baltimore OUTloud completely honest with you, I documentary that HBO produced called ‘Val- • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS recently chatted with Esposito, whose book felt like this whole thing was dictated to me.” entine Road.’ There also was a book written SinCe 2013 • and score brilliantly brings the musical to life. Esposito continued, “It just came through me. about the boys, as well as a book about the “This project brings together everything I feel that way about most of my songs, too. I trial, Murder Over a Girl. And, now, there’s our Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at that is important to me,” Esposito began, musical.” ChaseCourtWeddingVenue “and everything that has been important to Esposito added, “Even though this boy’s 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com my life.” The musical focuses on a 15-year- Roz life was cut short, he has made an impact Esposito 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD old gay boy who comes down from heaven on this world, and I hope that will continue Owned and Operated by David Egan, to confront the boy who killed him. He is met through my work and the work that can be wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud. by three oddball angels who are assigned to done through his story.” t assist him, but they are of no help. Larry is ultimately left to find the answers himself.A f- ter several false starts, Larry thinks he knows what will set him free, but it turns out his task 2019-20 is something much harder. Esposito’s journey first began when she ON Choral Arts ANTHONY BLAKE CLARK came out at the age of 19. “From a very young Music Director age, I learned that all people should learn to respect each other. My mother was a Rus- sian / Polish Jew and my father was an Italian Catholic. We were all one people, and I was a product of that.” Esposito’s journey continued T UR! in college as she fell in love with musical the- atre. “I used to go to the theatre all the time COME AND SING WITH US! and have this feeling of excitement. Just as Join Baltimore Choral Arts in the orchestra was warming up, and I settled feel like I’m a vehicle for creativity.” our 54th year as we chart thrilling in my seat, this fresh and exciting smell would After finishing her work, Esposito held her sonic voyages through music waft through the theatre. I became involved first reading of the musical about six years across the world. with singing and songwriting. Eventually I ago. “I invited about 15 people to come and started performing with the Groundlings East hear it and tell me what they thought. And it Auditions for Baltimore Choral Arts’ Comedy Company.” just kind of grew from there. One of the actors 2019-20 Season are Wednesday, As Esposito’s career continued to grow said to me, ‘I love this piece. I know some pro- and eventually took her to Los Angeles, her ducers in New York, and when you feel like it’s May 15 and Thursday, May 16 starting at connection with young Lawrence King was there, I’d love to get it to friends of mine.” And 6:30 pm at Grace United Methodist Church, immediately felt after his death. “I was liter- it happened. Almost a year and a half ago, 5407 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21210. ally sitting in my house in LA and opened the I got an email from Terry Loftis (a producer Prepared repertoire is not required for paper and I saw his face. I felt that he came of The Visit and Bandstand). He said that he these 10-minute auditions. off the page and grabbed me. I often say that just read my play on his way from New York there are things in life that we choose and to Dallas and he loved it. He was so touched For more information on scheduling an audition, You won’t want to miss the things that choose us. In that moment, I felt that he wanted to do everything he could to visit www.BaltimoreChoralArts.org or call Audience Development Manager, Karena Ingram at opportunity to sing in this I had no choice but to do something. A friend get it out there.” 410.523.7070 ext 306. and I thought about doing a documentary on Co-producing the endeavor along with exciting season! Larry. I had never done a documentary be- Loftis is Bren Rapp, with the support of Dal- fore, and he had camera equipment. We went las’s Uptown Players, who are underwriting

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 Lively ArtS // qmusic

of cool bands have roots Solo Ventures in Ohio. Devo, Pretend- ers, Pere Ubu, and later By Gregg Shapiro canon. The songs nicely The Black Keys and Af- The suitably titled Warm (dBpm), the first alternate between sunny ghan Whigs, to mention a proper solo album of all original material by pop numbers such as few, all have connections to Jeff Tweedy (of Wilco and Uncle Tupelo the irresistible “Inferno the Buckeye State. One of fame), is the kind of musical project that (Brisbane in Summer),” the best, albeit short-lived will please the artist’s fans, regardless of “I’m Gonna Tell It” (which band was the Waitresses, when they became followers. As person- comes across like a known for the songs “I Know al as it is universal, the sincerity of the 11 long lost Velvet Under- What Boys Like,” “No Guilt,” songs on Warm generate a welcome ardor ground song) and “Life “Christmas Wrapping,” and similar to what we heard Kacey Musgraves Has Turned a Page” (on the theme song to the early do on her lauded Golden Hour album. Even which you can hear For- 1980s Sarah Jessica Parker the most removed listener can’t help but ster’s wife Karin Bäum- sitcom “Square Pegs.” Chris be moved by songs such as the exquisite ler provided backing vo- Butler, who was the Wait- “How Hard It Is For A Desert To Die,” “From cals), and mood pieces resses’ leader and main song- Far Away,” “Having Been Is No Way to Be,” such as “I’ll Look After writer, has continued making “I Know What It’s Like,” “How Will I Find You,” “Crazy Jane On music since the Waitresses You?” and the John Lennon-esque “Bombs The Day of Judge- broke up and Got It Togeth- Above.” Tweedy also breaks up the serious ment,” and “One Bird er (Future Fossil) is his latest. nature of the album with songs such as the In the Sky.” You can definitely hear traces subtle humor of “Don’t Forget” and storm Solo albums have of The Waitresses delicious beckoning “Let’s Go Rain.” long been a produc- wit throughout the album’s 16 One of the original founding members tive way for musicians to stretch mus- crunch, songs (which includes three of the Australian band the Go-Betweens cles that may be otherwise sitting dormant. the dozen songs on Elastic Days Jeff Tweedy (of demo recordings). (“Streets of Your Town”), Robert Forster Elastic Days (Sub Pop) by legendary Di- are admirably mellow and elec- Wilco and Uncle Formerly of Something Cor- has been sporadically releasing solo al- nosaur Jr. front-man J Mascis is a good trically charged without being Tupelo fame), porate and Jack’s Mannequin, bum for nearly 20 years. His latest, Infer- example of this. An audible departure from washed out. Highlights include is the kind of Andrew McMahon has been no (Tapete) is a welcome addition to his Dinosaur Jr.’s trademark alternative rock “Drop Me,” “Sometimes,” “Give musical project making piano-driven pop music that will please it Off,” “See You at the Movies,” the artist’s fans as Andrew McMahon in the “Picking Out the Seeds,” the Wilderness since 2014. The subtle twang of “I Went Dust,” first few songs on his new album He’s performed at The White House, Buckingham Palace, and the title track. Upside Down Flowers (Fanta- If you don’t immediately rec- sy/Crush) set the tone with their the Hollywood Bowl, and Carnegie Hall... ognize the name Nat Freedberg, perhaps personal lyrics. McMahon knows firsthand you know him better as Lord Bendover about what he’s singing about on album from rock novelty act the Upper Crust. opener “Teenage Rockstars.” Having lived Dressed in 18th century period attire and in Ohio also gives him a particularly good presents the dashing, dazzling powdered wigs, the Upper Crust was in on perspective from which to write the song the joke as they played a style of rock that “Ohio.” In “Blue Vacation,” McMahon the combined metal, glam, and a heavy dose father sings about needing “a place to Michael of camp. For Freedberg’s solo album, Bet- raise my daughter,” perhaps on a “private ter Late Than Never (Rum Bar), featuring island” in “Blue Vacation.” No longer a JAT LIVE “love songs, sad songs, songs about the “teenage rockstar,” McMahon sings like a THE GORDON Feinstein devil,” he is joined by a stellar line-up of person with responsibilities and “mouths to Boston musicians, giving him the chance feed” (“Paper Rain”). to rock us to our core on the songs “All My Sunlight Tonight (Normaltown / New Love,” “I Think I Died and Went to Heav- West) is the solo debut album by Parker en,” “World To Come,” “Queen for a Day,” Gispert of Georgian band The Whigs. With and “Heavy Metal Cow.” the exception of “Is it 9?,” Sunlight Tonight Join us Known for leading a number of blis- is a much less raucous affair than you might tering garage rock acts including Pussy expect from the front-man of The Whigs. Monday, April 8, 2019 | 7:30pm Galore, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The gorgeous “Magnolia Sunrise” even fea- t Enjoy an evening of entertainment Boss Hog and Heavy Trash, Jon Spencer tures a lovely string section. officially steps out on his own on Spen- Jeff Tweedy performs on April 10th in to benefit financial assistance for cer Sings the Hits (In the Red). Fear Washington, DC, at Lincoln Theatre. JCC children, teens and families. not, Spencer doesn’t veer too far from his Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness trademark scuzzy fuzz rock on the album’s performs on June 22nd in Dover, Dela- For tickets visit: jcc.org/jlive 12 songs, the best of which includes “Time ware, at Firefly Music Festival. 2 Be Bad,” “Fake,” “Wilderness,” “Ghost,” Tickets available at jcc.org/jlive “Overload,” “Alien Humidity,” and “Love Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore Handle.” When you stop to think about it, a lot 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Hagerstown Hopes: Prom, Youth Outreach, and Hagerstown Pride Updates by Brian George Hose Spring is here and we at Hagerstown Hopes are excited to tell you all about the projects we’ve been working on all winter. encourage anyone interested in attending Ever since we branched out into outreach to reach out to us with questions and con- and serving our community, we’ve been cerns. the application document on our Facebook working on developing services for young We also realize that attending an page, or you can contact events@hager- people. There have been a number of chal- LGBTQIA Prom may present certain chal- stownhopesmd.org for more information! lenges (it’s been understandably difficult lenges to some youth in our community. Mark your calendars, because we is the first Pride baseball game in Hager- getting materials and resources into public Asher Kennedy has made arrangements have a number of events you won’t want stown, so let’s have a good turnout! schools) and we’re happy to announce that to have our community center, The Hub, to miss! Our next Night Out is April 18th at As always, like and follow us on Face- all of our work is starting to pay off. open from 3 to 6 pm before the prom to the Broad Axe in Hagerstown. We are also book and visit us at Hagerstownhopesmd. We are proud to announce that we will provide a safe place for youth to get ready. having a Pride Night Out at Hagerstown org to stay up to date on what we’re doing be throwing our first LGBTQIA Prom on There will be free hair and makeup ser- Suns Memorial Stadium on May 9th. This and how to get involved! t Saturday, April 20th at the Ramada Plaza vices donated by Ulta Beauty. Please let in Hagerstown. The theme is “True Colors” us know if you’d like to utilize these ser- and celebrates all the colors of the flags vices by reaching out to us! representing the LGBTQ community. Board We’re very excited to have the op- member Asher Kennedy has taken the portunity to host a prom, both because we want to provide safe places and activities for young people and because we will soon be starting our youth group! We recent- ly had a very productive meeting with the presi- dent of the Washington County Teachers As- sociation (WCTA), and we will be collaborat- ing on youth outreach in public schools! Our community outreach committee, under the lead in organizing the prom, sending leadership of board member Kelly Likely, countless e-mails and reaching out to the recently met to draft the policies for our community. Admission is free and is open youth group, which will be presented to the to youth aged 14 to 19 in Hagerstown and board for approval soon. We would also the surrounding areas. Music will be pro- like to thank board member Erin May for vided by DJ Sidekick and finger food will arranging the meeting with WCTA. be provided by us and Benny’s Pub. The Pride season is approaching and we prom will begin at 7 pm and end at 10 pm. recently announced the theme for this Admission is free with a ticket, which year’s Hagerstown Pride: Love Grows. are available through Eventbrite. We ask Inspired by the 50th anniversary of the that any youth interested in attending Stonewall Riots that began our communi- obtain a ticket by April 13th to give us a ty’s fight for civil rights, we aim to provide chance to finalize all the details that go a safe, pleasant, and educational atmo- into throwing a prom that everyone can en- sphere. We are also currently accepting joy. We also ask that those attending bring applications for vendors. Last year’s Hag- a school ID verifying their student status erstown Pride festival was voted as one of to ensure we only allow age-appropriate the top three festivals in Hagerstown, and youth into the event. Chaperones from we intend to outdo ourselves this year! If Hagerstown Hopes will be present, and we you would like to be a vendor, you’ll find

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 out in the valley

sides at home, my brother and I have since forward, and I could decide to be a part of moved away. Him to the northern part of it or drown in the past. Florida and me to across the Potomac and Eventually I was able to see that my into West Virginia. It is a straight shot up the Brian’s perception was mistaken. Yes, things didn’t highway 25 miles to see them, and when I go the way I wanted, and that was terri- Asher’s go to my meetings at Hopes, it would not be Brain ble. It also wasn’t the end, just a change World a hard detour to make, and yet I do not visit Brian George Hose in plans. My destination is the same, only Asher Kennedy or call them nearly as often as I should. And the path has changed. And that small clar- it is entirely my fault. ification makes a world of difference. It I was the daughter that my mother spent Dealing with means I have options, that I have the pow- Good Parents her childhood waiting for, so she could show er to choose what I do and what comes a daughter the love and warmth of a moth- next. This is important because it changes er that she did not have. Even as I became Disappointment the problem from impossible to something Bad Son more and more of a tomboy, I tried to stay as manageable. My earliest memories that are not of me don- feminine as possible, because I had ratio- Last week I was writing from the moon. I’ve faced many disappointments ning miniature versions of my father’s work nalized that not doing so, was a slap in the I’d just had a big disappointment, the kind before and somewhere along the line I outfit and carrying around my own tools, are face to a woman who ultimately took a sec- that turns your world upside down and in- learned a useful trick for putting things in of my mother explaining to me why my broth- ond job and ended up crip- side out. I’m not going to lie, it was rough. perspective. When things seem to be at er and I did not look like our pled from it, just so she I questioned everything I thought I knew their worst, I imagine I am writing the mov- parents. While could see that all three about myself, my place in a suddenly ie of my life. I have full creative control, many biracial of us participated in strange world, and what my future would which means I need to figure out what to and black chil- everything we wanted bring. I was ashamed and, what made dren adopted to. As I realized I was the terrible even worse was that I felt by white par- trans, the less I called, that I had somehow ruined everything ents grow up and when I came out and had no one else to blame but my- in homes that to them, my monthly self. do not push the visits simply stopped. And that’s exactly why I chose to enrichment of When I started T, I write about it. Everyone has disap- their child’s bi- completely avoided pointments and we all have a tendency ological culture them until my voice to be our own worst critic and to kick and heritage; my settled. ourselves when we’re already down, parents always I did not want whether we deserve it or not. I firmly encouraged us to my mom to have to believe this is a universal experience, explore our roots, watch the daughter and that makes it all the more important and would go out of she prayed for al- to learn how to deal with disappoint- their comfort zone most 40 years to have be con- ment. The thing to remember is that we to ensure we al- ways sumed by body hair and a deepening voice. can’t change the disappointment, but knew how fiercely we were loved, and how I thought this was easier for both of us, and we can decide how we respond to it. proud we should be to be both Kennedys instead I have hurt her far worse than I did as If disappointment is universal, that and black. Even as I slowly realized through a screaming banshee of an angsty teenager. means that everyone has experienced childhood and adolescence that I was ulti- it. That’s important to remember be- mately as queer as a three-dollar bill, my “I have come out to cause we can often feel alone when dis- parents never hesitated to stand by me my parents three appointment strikes. I like to think of it this do with the current problem in the context and continue to fight those who questioned way: all the best, most interesting people of the larger story. Is this the turning point my worth as a person. When teenage me times. And each time have experienced a major disappointment that makes the whole story a tragedy? The flipped the goth/punk switch to on, my moth- in some way. Part of what makes these event that inspires greatness? Or, is this er started shopping at Hot Topic with me. As I wrongly assumed people extraordinary is that they found a something that will end up on the cutting a child of the 60s counterculture who was it would finally way to overcome it. They could have given room floor? If you try this approach, you a misfit herself, she knew how important it up, but somehow, they found a way to keep may be surprised by how many times the was for her children to know that they were break their perfect going and, eventually, become better for it. third option applies to what at first seem loved for who they were. I will never not be This is what we call resilience, and resil- like impossible problems. I suppose it’s grateful that no matter how far away a band unconditional love ience has to be earned. true that the difference between tragedy competition was, they were always there in streak.” Perception also plays an important role and comedy is time. the stands to cheer me on. in dealing with disappointment. After all, Remember this, because dealing with I have come out to my parents three My mother is still my biggest champion. She our perception is our reality: we believe disappointment is a process and every times. And each time I wrongly assumed is active at posting and sharing things from the world to be the way we see it. So, the process requires time. I’ve been work- it would finally break their perfect uncondi- Hopes, and even though I have turned into a way we look at our problems can either ing on this for over two weeks now and, tional love streak. While they still slip with neglectful son, is still the first person to send help or hurt the ways we deal with them. though it still hurts, it hurts much less now my name, I want it known that having three me positive feedback on everything I do. I For me, I felt like my world had ended. Ev- than when it first happened. I’m not on the children who all have the same initial for talk about her as often as I can, in the hopes erything was over and done. Except that moon anymore, but I’m not quite back on their first name has always led to those slip- it helps me get over myself. If not for myself, wasn’t true. I still went to work, I still vol- Earth yet. Don’t worry, I will be soon. My ups, and they have simply added “Asher” to for the parents that waited a decade and a unteered with Hagerstown Hopes, and I movie isn’t over yet and I’ve got some ed- the roster of names they say when trying to half to give me a life they dreamed of. t still wrote for this paper. Life was moving iting to do. t address each of us. While my sister still re-

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

there, so while I held her baby, she ran around after my preschooler. It was the perfect arrangement. At first, Kassandra was nervous. She Parenting still has anxiety issues when we go any- OUTloud where. Fortunately now, it’s just a matter Rev. Kelly Crenshaw of time. Eventually, she became comfort- able with her surroundings and began to The Keystone Gay Rodeo Association is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt play. She had a blast. There were toys and games, balloons non-pro t organization whose purpose is to promote the Family and cake – although my child preferred country and western lifestyle and rodeo type events within the grapes to the cake. The other children played well together. It was a nice diver- the LGBT community and their allies. Traditions sion on a Saturday afternoon. Nobody Do you enjoy any of the following activities? pushed their kids to do anything special The past few days, my house has been and, when some kids didn’t want to play •Social Events including country music and dancing. filled with a variety of renditions of the the games, nobody was concerned. •Meeting new people and making new friends. Happy Birthday song. It’s been a couple We’re not big birthday people in our of months since we had a house. We have so many birth- •Helping other community organizations by volunteering and birthday in the house and days, that it’s usually easier to raising much needed funds. Kassandra apparently re- Like the celebrate several at a time instead •Trail riding, open horse shows, ally likes that song. of one at a time. Other families This all came about jewels in a make a big deal out of birthdays, rodeos and other horse related events. after she and I went to a and that’s great, too. Whatever baby’s first birthday party wristwatch works is what’s best. on Saturday. It was such That’s one of the things I en- If so, then KSGRA membership may a special day. The birthday girl was ador- joy most when talking to other parents. I be for you. To join visit our website able, and the house was filled with people love hearing about what they do to cele- at ksgra.org in a party mood. Kids ran around, playing brate the special days in their homes. Are games. Parents chatted with each other. birthdays big events, with lots or people? One of my older daughters was Or, are they dinner with the family and a homemade cake? This year, for example Kassandra cele- brated her 3rd birthday at the same time that Meri celebrat- ed her 18th. Kassa got toys. Meri got diamond earrings. Friends of mine always facebook.com/BaltimoreOUTloud baltimoreoutloud.com celebrate Christmas by go- ing on a great vacation with the extended family. My kids couldn’t imagine spending the Christmas holiday anywhere but at home. Whatever your traditions tend to be, make them your own. You don’t have to keep up with the Joneses as you move forward with your family. You only have to keep up with you. So, plan your celebrations in a way that works for you and know that your kids will grow up loving them. The most import- ant thing is that you are a family and you are together. t

240-420-2180 As long as it’s exactly like last year!

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 ice is a year-round sunny Picture. paradise that sits next to A short walk along the beach and the Mediterranean Sea in you are at the Castle Park (Parc du Dream of Nice the southeastern part of Chateau), also referred to as the Cas- Dream of Nice France. It is France’s fifth tle Hill (Colline du Chateau). It is one Nlargest city and it offers trendy restau- of the city’s highest points and offers rants, Art Deco architecture, beautiful some of the best views of the Mediter- By david placher beaches, and stunning sunsets. It is ranean Sea and Nice. Castle Park is home to France’s upper class. Nice’s also an archeological site because of France, and it currently belongs to the tifully decorated gay bar that offers a popular harbor is crammed with beau- its historical landmarks: the Belanda Moscow Patriarchate. It is the largest one-of-a-kind environment. Its unique tiful yachts, its cliffs are filled with ex- Tower (Tour Belanda) and a cemetery Eastern Orthodox cathedral in West- pictures delivers a museum feel. High pensive homes, and its coastline has that was split into three sections based ern Europe. Club is an LGBT friendly night club several exclusive resorts that are on religion. There is also a manmade After a full day of sightseeing, the that has a mixed crowd. It is the area’s walled off from public view. But Nice waterfall that provides an interesting LGBT community has plenty of plac- largest dance club with state-of-the- is also for the common tourist, offer- backdrop for pictures. es to visit at night. Red Kafé is a gay art light and sound system features. ing inexpensive things to do and see. The Promenade des Anglais is a bar that serves light meals, coffee, and Le GLAM is the area’s most popular Nice also welcomes the LGBT com- famous long walkway that runs next to imported wine and cocktails. It is only LGBT night club. DJs play techno, munity as many bars and clubs cater the beach. It is often filled with locals a couple minutes from the beach, so house, and dance music. There is to the LGBT community. and tourists that enjoy the ocean and when the sun goes down, a sun wor- also regular themed parties with drag The Place Garibaldi, the beautiful beach views without actually walking shiper has a place to show off his or shows. her tan. The Le Couloir is a cozy café So if France is on your destination bar that offers great drinks and local list, add Nice as a city to visit. beers. The la cave Wilson is a beau-

central square that is filled with arcad- in the pebbled sand. There are a few ed facades and graceful thin trees, is a beach bars and cafés located on the perfect place to start exploring the city. side. It is popular with bicyclists, baby The square has a majestic fountain in strollers, and families. It has become its center with a statue of Giuseppe a favorite place for skateboarders and Garibaldi, the Italian hero that was re- performers. sponsible for unifying Italy. Garibaldi The Marche aux Fleurs Cours Sa- was born in Nice in 1807, and Nice leya is a popular market that features had been annexed by the First French the region’s flowers, foods and pro- Empire in 1805. Place Garibaldi has duce from the area’s farms. Tourists shops, bars, and cafés including the can try some of the local food or buy popular Grand Café de Turin, known some inexpensive and locally made for its seafood and French wine. The knickknacks. The Palais des Congrès area is only partly pedestrianized be- Acropolis (formerly known as Parc cause it is crossed by a tramline and Expo) is the city’s famous convention sits on the junction of several import- center. It hosts various fairs, concerts, ant thoroughfares, but it is still pedes- operas, productions of shows and trian friendly, you just have to watch exhibitions. It hosted the 1999 Davis out for moving vehicles. Cup final, where it was converted into Close by is the Museum of Modern a temporary tennis court. The conven- and Contemporary Art. It has over ten tion center is memorable because it showrooms with spaces dedicated to has a gigantic art piece that is a head New European Realism and Ameri- inside a cube – something that resem- can Pop Art (Andy Warhol and Tom bles a Borg on an episode of Star Trek. Wesselmann). There are also two Not only is the area influenced by artists that are on permanent on dis- Italy, but Russia also has influence. play: Yves Klein, the inventor of the The St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral, Blue Monochrome and fire paintings an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, is also and Niki de Saint Phalle, iconic female a popular tourist attraction. It is rec- artist, inventor of the famous Shooting ognized as a national monument of

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com DINING OUT

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 quality of life // your money

Other assets, like checking and sav- ings accounts, CDs, and brokerage ac- orientation and gender identity as classes counts can also circumvent your will if The More you protected from discrimination in employ- they include a “pay on death” or “transfer ment, as well as in public accommoda- The Law on death” provision. And if anything, you Know About tions, housing, education, federal funding, & You own is held in a trust, your spouse or other credit, and the jury system. In other words, Lee Carpenter intended beneficiary will never receive it Business passing the Equality Act would be an abso- unless the trust says so. Richard Finger lute game-changer from a federal perspec- There can be good reasons for setting tive. Although we have these 21 states and up these types of non-probate transfers. Washington, DC, already prohibiting public Why Your Will May The assets will transfer to your intended The Equality and private employers from discriminating beneficiaries much more quickly than as- against LGBT workers, LGBT rights sup- Be Next to sets controlled under your will, and they Act Comes porters have long advocated for a federal are often protected from the claims of law to ensure these protections nation- Worthless creditors. Closer to Reality wide. For example, if you died owing mon- In a March 13th press conference un- Robert Burns famously said, “The best- ey to Visa, the credit card company might The Equality Act is an important topic for veiling the legislation, Rep. David Cicilline laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” make a “claim” against your estate. But our readers. Over the course of the last (D-RI), the lead sponsor and one of ten Burns was an 18th century Scottish poet, only the assets in your probate estate four years, there has been a significant out LGBT members of Congress, noted, but he could just as easily have been a would be vulnerable to the claim. Any life increase of Congressional support, jump- “I most states in this country, a gay cou- modern Estates & Trusts attorney. Too of- insurance death benefits or retirement ing from 178 members to 239. In addition ple can be married on Saturday, post their ten, this familiar saying applies to the es- account funds would go directly to their to this support, some large corporations wedding photos to Instagram on Sunday, tate of someone who has died. named beneficiaries and in most cases have publically come on board as well. and lose their jobs or get kicked out their Even if the person had a will, the final would lie beyond the creditor’s reach. When first introduced in 2015, only Apple, apartments on Monday just because of determination of who gets what might be When someone dies, the dual nature Levi-Strauss, and Dow Chemical had sup- who they are. This is wrong.” dramatically different from what was ex- of the person’s property – the “probate” ported the Equality Act. Joining this group The Equality Act died in committee the pected. Why would this be? The simple and the “non-probate” assets – can lead to are Google, Facebook, General Mills, and last two legislative sessions, but pundits fact is that a will can heartbreaking results. The probate assets, American Airlines. As of now, there are are predicting that the 2019 legislation do only so much. which the will controls, over 150 companies that support this bill. could stand a fighting chance in the Dem- It controls the as- may go to the right peo- The Human Rights Campaign orga- ocratic-controlled House (co-sponsors are sets that you own ple but could be rela- nized this corporate push with its Business entirely Democratic, except for two Repub- in your name alone tively minor in value. Coalition for Equality, whose members licans), potentially marking the first-ever and that do not After all, how much do are sending a loud and clear message affirmative House vote for LGBT-work- name a beneficia- you really keep in your the time has come for full federal equality. place protections. However, it likely fac- ry. These “probate checking account? The companies that endorsed the Equality es an uphill battle in the Senate, where a assets,” as they The non-probate as- Act operate in all 50 states and generate companion piece has yet to be introduced are called, include things sets, on the other hand, over $3.5 trillion in revenue as a collective this session. like a house, car, or bank account without may be much more significant group, and employee over 8.5 million peo- In lieu of such action, many corpora- a co-owner. but could go to the wrong person by mis- ple. The coalition of corporations has more tions have instated their own anti-discrimi- The problem is that for most of us, the take. If the life insurance death benefit, than doubled since 2016. nation measures. According to HRC’s Cor- bulk of our wealth resides in assets that do retirement account, or brokerage assets This jump in support is very exciting porate Equality Index – which rates the have a co-owner or beneficiary. Think joint bypass a loved one in favor of an out-of- Fortune 500, top 200 bank accounts, life insurance policies, and date beneficiary, the devastation will likely revenue-grossing law retirement accounts. Upon your death, be emotional as well as financial. firms, and hundreds of these “non-probate assets” will transfer to Bringing your beneficiary designa- public and private mid- the co-owner or named beneficiary – re- tions into line with the terms of your will is size and large compa- gardless of what your will might say. one of the goals of estate planning. With nies on their LGBT pol- For example, your will may leave your professional guidance, your probate and icies – 91 percent ban entire estate to your spouse. But if you non-probate assets can be coordinated discrimination based on own your house with someone other than to work in tandem. Upon your death, your sexual orientation and your spouse, the property may transfer to partner, spouse, children, or other loved 83 percent prohibit gen- the co-owner upon your death. This could ones will become the heirs of your legacy der-identity discrimi- be a parent who helped you finance the – and not just a financial legacy, but a leg- nation; in 2002, those property or an ex you bought the house acy of taking care to provide for the people figures stood at 61 per- with and never took off the title. you care about most. t given the overtones of the political climate cent and three percent, respectively. In the same way, if the beneficiary Lee Carpenter is an attorney at the law in recent years, and given there are still or- It can be concluded that with continued you named on your life insurance policy firm of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr and an ad- ganizations out there, such as Chick-Fil-A corporate and public support, perhaps this or retirement account is out of date, your junct professor at the University of Maryland still donating over a million dollars a year will influence our political leaders to vote spouse will have no right to the asset, de- Carey School of Law. He can be reached at to anti-LGBTQ causes. in favor of the Equality Act in the near fu- spite any instructions to the contrary under 410-332-8626 or [email protected]. Currently, there are 21 US states and ture. t your will. These beneficiary designations Learn more about LGBT estate planning at Washington, DC, that provide anti-discrim- In putting this article together, I relied may have made sense when you opened Mdlgbtestateplanning.com. This article is in- ination laws that protect our community. heavily on the March 18th issue of HR Ex- the account or took out the policy, but they tended to provide general legal information If passed, the Equality Act would amend ecutive magazine. eventually became outdated. and should not be construed as legal advice. the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to add sexual

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Quality of life // real estate

the Mexican neighborhood is. Here is my an- The Unreal swer: Do the twirl. My broker taught me that. Pick a neighborhood that you like the looks Estate of Mind of real estate wise. Walk it in the morning. Walk it in the evening. See who’s around. St.Paul@Chase. This COMMERCIAL/Federal Hill. 2,100+ sf office/ Decide if you’d like to live there based upon 1br/1ba condo with 18th floor views is a retail above grade, top By Kevin Assam that. If it’s not gay enough for you, invite all beautiful renovation! quality renovation. Your Ruined art. Tricky leases. Gay meccas. of your friends to buy up the other houses on City living at it’s best. business needs a home! Stephanie Barnow of the Swan Team at the block. And if you do that, call me. Yours for $129,900! Offered at $769,000! Keller Williams Compass Realty is your My apartment neighbor complains cookie baking girl-next-door realtor with a that I have too many packages delivered www.charmcityrealestate.com not so sweet dose of reality for your property to the building. I operate out of a home 410-467-8950 (direct) woes and wild real estate scenarios. Com- office. Do they have grounds to file any- bined with my zany imagination this makes thing formal? her the not-so-perfect expert for this week’s Renting can be rough. Communal spac- grilling. es are a crowded game of “I was here first.” AVAILABLE FOR RENT! Kevin Assam: I went to an open house where I accidentally leaned on a Chagall and “I went to an open Charles St. – 2nd Floor damaged it. I immediately left. Should I tell house where I the realtor? Newly renovated, 2BR/1BA, all new Stephanie Barnow: My mother said if accidentally leaned on you make a mistake, own up to it. Your real- appliances, includes heat & water. tor will contact the seller’s agent and explain. a Chagall and damaged Together they will devise a resolution. On a Walking distance to MICA, UB, Light piece of that importance they may have in- it. I immediately Rail, Penn Station & Baltimore Eagle. surance. Always do what you’d want some- left. Should I tell the one to do for you. $795/mo plus security deposit. I made a deposit on an apartment realtor?” 866-474-7000 lease based on financial projections from a job offering. That offer is now no more. Unless your packages are blocking walk- Is there any way to get out of the lease ways, spoiling and creating hazardous living and get my money back? conditions, the only thing they can file is a All lease terms are different. Read the complaint. The landlord may reprimand you fine print. Ask nicely. You may even want to appease the cranky neighbor, but you’re legal advice. Try the polite approach first not doing anything ille-gal. Curiosity is a and if you know of a tenant to replace your heady drug that can application for the same drive people mad. apartment you may have More than likely some leverage. they’re just jealous I can only afford to you get the pres- pay my mortgage by ents. having my property rent- My partner ed while I live in a small- and I are recent- er apartment. Is this bad ly separated. business? He thinks us Actually, this is called purchasing and an investment property. It rebuilding a is done all the time. Ensure tear down will that you save your pen- strengthen our nies and pay your mortgage relationship. Will it? promptly so that one day you can own it Nothing brings out the crazy like a wed- outright! That is the way to build equity and ding, a divorce, or real estate rehab. I’m not have a rent-free life. Snuggle up in your cute sure if it will strengthen your relationship, but – cheaper – little apartment until then! you will see the true level of unabashed crazy Provincetown. Key West. Palm in your other half and if that doesn’t tell you Springs. I cannot buy in these expensive if you are meant to be together, nothing will. gay meccas. What are some affordable up I’m redesigning my office space for a and coming “gayborhoods”? more contemporary look. Are glass walls Realtors get asked questions like this all still on trend and conducive to a healthy the time. It should be illegal for me to answer and communal work environment? that but since “sexuality” is not a protected I don’t have a commercial background, group like age or nationality, I will answer it but I can tell you this. Natural light is always carefully. It is my hope that in the future this a plus, frosted glass is kind of sexy, and cu- will be as illegal a question as asking where bicles need all of the sexy they can get. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 TheThe Quality of life derstanding that you can add your own cate- gories, and fill each with everything and any- Getting the thing that comes to mind that might possibly relate to your wedding, from the major items DrinkerDrinkeryy Wedding to the minute. You Want The idea is to imagine your ideal wed- The Little Corner Bar with a Great Big Heart! ding, and discard all of the items that don’t fit The Little Corner Bar with a Great Big Heart! David Egan into that image. Your list might look something like this: 205205 WestWest ReadRead StreetStreet “Corner“Corner ofof ReadRead andand Park”Park” Venue – Church, ballroom, mansion, historic, modern, contemporary, industrial, 410-225-3100 • ATMATM AvailableAvailable Spark Joy rustic, barn, city, country, suburban, country club, hotel, tent. Americans, myself included, are obsessed Ceremony – Short, long, hand-written with stuff. We cram our living spaces with vows, hand-fasting, communion, jumping clothing stuff and kitchen stuff and entertain- the broom, traditional language, religious, ment stuff and family stuff and recreation stuff non-religious, spiritual, music, hymns, live and, well, you get the idea. music, readings, singing. At some point, all of that stuff starts to Food and drink / catering – Salad, filet make us crazy. mignon, sushi, crab cake, chicken, salmon, You probably know by now where this is local food, vegan, vegetarian, beer, wine, going. Two words: Marie Kondo. She’s a stuff hard liquor, lemonade, iced tea, hot tea, cold expert from Japan, a culture where their un- cider, sparkling cider, mulled cider, cake, pie, derstanding of possessions is very different desserts, fancy, simple, gourmet, exquisite, than that of ours in the United States. comfort food, pot luck, buffet, family-style, Ms. Kondo’s KonMari Method of tidy- seated and served, cocktail-style, brunch, ing up people’s houses is all the rage these fruit, cheese, cookies, coffee, tea. days, and appropriately so. She is teaching Traditions – Garter toss, bouquet toss, the world how to free themselves from all of apron dance, cutting cake, best man, maid or the stuff that is clogging up their lives. matron of honor, attendants, flower girl, ring What, you ask, does this have to do with bearer, veil. weddings? Reception – Formal danc- Ms. Kondo’s ing, lots of dancing, socializing, method is an effi- talking, quiet, raucous, games, cient, judgement-free photo booth, entertainment, way of freeing space DJ, band, line dancing, par- in your life, both liter- ty, formal, informal, black-tie, ally and emotionally. relaxed, casual, simple, flow- It encourages you to ers, twinkle lights, candles, have empathy for the draping, potted plants, photo- things you release, and graphs in frames, up lighting. most famously, to keep Now, starting with the easiest cat- only those things that speak to the heart, egory, metaphorically pile all of the items on a discarding items that no longer, as she says, big flat surface. Pick each one up, examine it, spark joy. and discard those items that don’t spark joy. What a great criteria for including things You can honor them as perfectly fine items in your wedding! that simply aren’t needed or desired for your So, let’s give the KonMari Method a try at wedding. Keep only those things that speak helping you get ready to plan your wedding. to your heart. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Notice the “get ready” part. Before you If other categories or items come up as tour venues, before you call caterers, before you work, great! Work your way through all of you spend money, it’s really important that them until you are done. BESTBEST PRICESPRICES ININ TOWNTOWN you and your sweetheart look inward and Your wedding will take on a distinct look notice what is important to each of you, and and feel as you work through each category. what is not. By the time you are done – and do take your Ms. Kondo encourages tidying by catego- time with this – you should have a good idea ry. And so, we shall, but instead of clothes, of what you both want. Now you’re ready to books, papers, komono (miscellaneous go out into the world and create your wed- items), and sentimental items, the categories ding! t LookLook aheadahead forfor thethe we are going to “tidy” all relate to your wed- David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- ding. ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event ven- This list of categories below and the col- ue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Chasecourt. lection of items within each are by no means com, and follow ChaseCourtWeddingVenue BackBack BarBar toto reopenreopen complete. The idea is to get you started, un- on Instagram and Facebook.

28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com leather

Handlers). Started in 2017, this club now Nights to the Baltimore Eagle once it re- hosts many events including monthly pup opens. In fact, Pup Ultra will be working nights in Baltimore and Washing- there as a DJ. Capital-PAH also host play If you like to write and have an interest ton. Ultra Pup discovered kink parties at Sigma in DC. For details about in local news, theater and the arts, food, Leather at an early age. In fact, he the club and a schedule of coming LGBTQ history, doing interviews, Line laughed as he explained events visit Capitalpah.org. Pup Ul- Baltimore OUTloud might be the place that when he was 15, tra would like to see the pup com- for you. Rodney Burger he discovered his munity continue to grow in the grandmother’s box DC / Baltimore area and en- We are looking for writers to share with of toys. When he visions that Capital-PAH their LGBTQ community. Who Let the asked her about could one day host a them, he learned weekend conference In Baltimore and surrounding areas that she was a dom- much like Fur the including Hagerstown, Frederick, Dogs Out? inatrix. In fact, he More. Asbury Park NJ and Rehoboth Beach, learned that both his Pup play may and any area we reach. grandmother and his mother not be for everyone It all started as a subculture of the leath- were dominatrices. Apparent- and I have even seen For more information contact er community and as a part of dominant ly kink runs in the family. (You negative and derogatory Mary Taylor 410-802-1310, / submissive relationships. The submis- won’t find that on Ancestry.com!) comments about pups on sive would adopt canine mannerisms and When he was 18, he “got into the social media. I asked Pup Ul- or e-mail her at would be less than a boy, he would be pup thing when he discovered it tra how he deals with naysayers. [email protected] a dog. Many enjoyed the headspace of on the Recon fetish app.” He was He replied, “Life is a ride. You only she can fill you in with all the details. puppy play either with other dogs, some not aware that there were leather clubs or do it once. Don’t let anyone tell you that of whom were lead dogs or “Alphas” or even a leather community until he went to you are doing it wrong!” It wasn’t difficult Hope to see you in the paper! with a dominant man or a handler. As the the DC Eagle. He has embraced the pup- for me to see that Pup Ultra is one happy popularity of puppy play py scene 100% and feels pup. Come out and experience one of the grew, the Lone that being in puppy head- Capital-PAH events. It may be time to let State boys of space is a great outlet for out your inner dog. t Leather pro- dealing with his stress duced a con- and anxiety issues. He test. Alpha-pup added that when he Ray of Alaska adopts his pup perso- was awarded na it is “not me” and he the title of In- can escape his mental COMING IN JUNE ternational Pup- health issues. He very py 2001 in a recently discovered the contest held in furry community, as Houston, Texas. well. In fact, following Just as leather our interview he was clubs gave birth rushing off to enjoy the to leather boys seventh annual “Fur clubs, in 2004 the More” a large furry the first leather conference being held club devoted to in Tysons Corner, Vir- puppy play was ginia. begun when the Capitol-PAH has San Francis- become a very enjoy- Three Sizes, Great Rates! co K-9 Unit was able outlet for him. formed. Soon The club is open to additional puppy anyone (18 or older) clubs appeared, with an interest in Reserve your and more pup- pup play regardless py contests were Doggone of gender. Applicants held. Today the cute and are interviewed, pay pup community is obedient a $15 pledge fee, and Space NOW! a big part of the serve a six-month leather community. pledge period. The pledge period may be On Friday, March 15th I traveled down shortened if the applicate works hard at For more details... to Washington to meet with the vice pres- events. The club holds pup nights every ident of one of the newest puppy clubs. 3rd Friday at the DC Eagle starting at 8 Mary Taylor Arriving a few hours before their monthly pm and have a Baltimore Pup Night sched- [email protected] DC Eagle bar night, I was able to sit down uled for Friday, April 5th at Flavor located and talk with Ultra Pup, the vice president at 15 East Centre Street in Mount Vernon. 410-802-1310 of Capital-PAH (Washington, DC Pups & The club plans to move the Baltimore Pup

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 410-539-4850 227227 W.W. ChaseChase StSt

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30 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com ATTORNEY FINANCIAL Lee Carpenter, Esq. Your LGBT Estate Planning Attorney Be part of our

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CLIENT COMCAST FILE NAME: CMCIN18016M20_9.875x9.6_BaltimoreOUTLoud_v02.indd APPROVAL JOB NUMBER CMCIN18016M20 DESCRIPTION: DIV031-Q4-NED-A10-V1 BILL TO NUMBER CMCIN18016 COLORS: CMYK PROOFREADER GRAPHIC ARTIST Johnny Villalobos NOTES: NONE STUDIO DIRECTOR DATE 9-26-2018 11:55 AM FONTS: XFINITY Standard TT (Italic, Bold Italic, Light, Bold, Regular) TRAFFIC REVISION 2 IMAGES: 41668_GettyImages-852949206_Clutch.jpg (CMYK; 493 ppi; 60.76%), PAGE 1 CMCIN18016_Tablet_v01.psd (CMYK; 975 ppi; 7.38%), Comcast_S_4C_GRAY.eps PRODUCTION PUB Baltimore OUTLoud (9.38%), Pride_2018_CMYK.ai (29.79%) ART DIRECTOR BLEED None COPYWRITER TRIM 9.875” x 9.6” LIVE 9.375” x 9.1” ASSOC CREATIVE DIR SCALE 100% CREATIVE DIRECTOR PRINTOUT 100%

233 N. MICHIGAN AVE. SUITE 2900, CHICAGO, IL 60601, P:312.297.9600 60601, IL CHICAGO, SUITE 2900, AVE. MICHIGAN 233 N. ACCOUNT MANAGER BURRELL MECHANICAL BURRELL Lively Arts // personalities

That’s correct. This is an issue that I carefor the people performing this music and plenty of room for a performer about and am interested in, and obviouslyto make each of these songs their own. That’s always a style I’ve been Hell, Yes Quiara cared about it. That’s the thing we addedinterested in. Not only do I not have to be there, but there’s room for any of to this story in 2011. There’s no citizenship issuethese individual performers doing this show to bring their self to it. By Gregg Shapiro put my name on a list and gave it to Quiara. in the play. The mom in the play I’m so glad you mentioned that because I was wondering Since the late 1990s, queer singer / songwriter Erin McKeown has been At the time, Hundreds of Lions was new. She is Puerto Rican and therefore anwhat was it like to have Daphne Rubin-Vega, who made her making a name for herself as a distinguished performer with a rich and heard that record and thought that’s what she An interview with American citizen. When we turnedBroadway debut as Mimi in Rent, singing your songs? pure distinctive vocal style. McKeown expanded her creative horizons wanted the musical to sound like. She wrote it into a musical, we introduced the [Laughs] Oh, goodness. That is has been one of the hugest gifts with the stage musical Miss You Like Hell, a collaboration with Quiara me an email through the catch-all email on An interview Erin immigration piece of it. I can onlyfor me. I could talk about her for 100 years and not be finished with the Alegría Hudes, for which she wrote the music and lyrics. As you can hear my website, which is generally filled with spam say that that happened becausedepth it of her artistry and her intelligence and the things that she brings on Miss You Like Hell: Original Cast Recording (Ghostlight), the play [laughs], but her email came through. It said, McKeown was important to us, not becauseand does as a musician that I’ve never heard anyone else do. She is is about the reunion between troubled mother and undocumented “From one Brown grad to another, I have this something was happening in thea legend. But maybe to a smaller group of people than she should be. immigrant Beatriz (Daphne Rubin-Vega), who is facing the prospect of play that I want to turn into a musical. By the news. Then it became news andShe’s a transformational performer and it’s been a joy to collaborate with deportation, and her teenaged daughter Olivia (Gizel Jiménez) and the way, I have a Tony (Award) and I’m a serious writer.” That’s how it hap- was growing in waves. I think it cuts both ways, to be totally honest, withher in the way that we have. A production of this show is going to running ensuing eye-opening road trip on which the pair embark. I recently had pened! I’d never gotten an email like that in my life. I answered it and she this show. I don’t necessarily think it’s a blessing to be putting this show outin Boston. It’s the first time that someone other than Daphne has played the pleasure of speaking with McKeown about the show and her work. came to see my show in New York the next day. We had lunch and at the same time as we have this person in the White House putting outBeatriz. She has been with us from our very first workshop and through Gregg Shapiro: Erin, you collaborated with Tony and she gave me the script of the play and I just said, “Yes.” I had no idea that it the kind of rhetoric he puts out. In one way, it’s super important that we areevery workshop, production and rehearsal. Beatriz is a creation of Daph- Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes on Miss would be a seven-year process. here, telling the kind of story that we’re telling, in some way pushing againstne and me and Quiara. She’s right in there with that. Maybe it’s basic of You Like Hell, which premiered at the LaJolla Playhouse in 2016, The timely subject matter couldn’t have arrived on stage that tide. In other ways, in my personal opinion, there’s also a type of mefa- to say this, but I wish more people knew about her. She deserves followed by an off-Broadway production in 2018. How did that at a more opportune moment, especially while we are living in tigue or desire to look away because what we’re seeing in the news is sothat. collaboration come to be? Trump world. Can you please say something about that? difficult. Many people look to entertainment for some escape and we’re The gays know about her, that’s for sure. For folks that are undocumented and for people who care about not offering that. We’re offering people a chance to look more closely at I know! We al- Erin McKeown: It came in a really cool way, actually. One of See something that’s difficult; to open their hearts to something that’s difficult. I those things that’s kind of an unpredictable sum of all the relationships our immigration system, this is something that’s been going on for a long C Duncan sing pop ways know where you’ve had before [laughs]. I made a record called Hundreds of Lions in time. For a group of people, me included, it’s been very important for a don’t think everyone wants to do that. the – But see C-dot good stuff is. 2009. Quiara had written a play around the same time called 26 Miles. long time. It’s been said before, and it’s always important for me to say Do you see it as being on par with the protest music of the Duncan classically Do you fore- A couple of years later, she decided she wanted to make that straight when addressing this topic, Obama was not that great on immigration. 1960s? compose play into a musical. She asked friends of hers for names of some female He deported more people than any previous administrations. For vari- Absolutely! I see it something that we had to make singer / songwriters to whom she should be listening. Her best friend from ous reasons, there wasn’t any legislation that was able to move forward. and there’s no way that we would not make it, growing up went to college with me (at Brown), though I didn’t know her He’s not Trump. regardless of what’s happening in the political land- personally. I was known on campus for making music. This friend of hers But he doesn’t get a pass, either. scape. We were compelled and we made the show we wanted to make and it says the things we wanted it to say. In that way, it’s inevitable and we are JANUARY 17 - MARCH 17 compelled by it. When we look back at these Trump years and we ask ourselves, “What did we do to help?” I will proudly say we made this show. As a singer / songwriter yourself, what are the challenges and rewards of writing songs for others, especially characters in a play, to sing, and how do you think that having written for the stage will impact your songwriting for your own record- ings and performance? The challenges for me were mostly in the length of see writing more for Let Me Entertain You! the project and the amount of revisions. Music is on such the stage? a shorter cycle and there’s a kind of elasticity and looseness and nightly Yes, in February (2019), I actually have a workshop reading of reinvention. Theater is a different animal. I’ve never revised anything asa new musical for which I wrote book, lyrics and music scheduled. I’m much as I revised and continued to chip away at this project. It was a peralready- on my way with a new musical project. sonal thing. The reward is that I think we were able to make something Is there a new Erin McKeown album in the works? that is extremely rich and has a ton of depth that comes from spending Yes, there is. Given what I learned from Miss You Like Hell, I’m go- that much time on something. It was a great lesson. Everything I makeing to let it take the time it’s going to take. I started working on it and I know 410-730-8311 TobysDinnerTheatre.com after this musical will certainly be impacted by that. I have learned to whatsit it’s about. I’m super-excited about it and it’s personal. In some ways Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, all shows and dates are subject to change. • Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia, MD with something longer. I have learned to give more time and spaceI tohave worried in the past that people wouldn’t be as interested if I just kept something. I can still write a quick song, if I have to. But I’ve really seen thewriting about myself; that somehow I needed to be doing stuff in service benefits of this kind of marination and slow edits. I also loved writing forof other people’s stories. I have been able to do that with this musical, and other characters which wasn’t too far a stretch from the things I’ve beenit’s been great. But my roots are excavating my own biography and my making for years. Even though I may use an I or me pronoun, I’ve beenown self to make music, so I’m working on a project that returns to those writing about other things and perspectives within my work. I enjoyed theroots. t distance of getting to physically sit between ten and 100 feet from my mu- sic. To have it come out of someone else’s body and feel the reflection of that, rather than having to produce it myself, was inspiring and enlivening. If my goal is to help connect people, I have an opportunity to connect more people if I don’t have to be personally involved. That’s the thing about which I feel most excited about this phase of the show. I don’t have OPENING MARCH 21 to be there for it and people can carry this show and this message like little seed pods that get to disperse. There’s a lot of openness and flexibility BALTIMORE OUTLOUD March 29, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 33