July 5, 2019 | Volume XVII, Issue 5

Home , Energy being, Imperial Teen, Project Dreams

A Place to Grow in Southwest decompress. Commu- nity coffeehouse hours are Thursday, 7:30 to the Hollins Celebrating a 10 pm; Friday, 9 am to Baltimore Market area noon; and Saturday 9 am By Rodney Burger neighbor- neighborhood to noon. On Sunday, June 23rd during a reception hood, but is hangout that serves Clay Pots is a non- to show appreciation for a diverse group of welcoming to profit 501c3 and will be volunteers, center director Dwayne Hess anyone re- a cross-section of hosting its “White Napkin was kind enough to offer this writer a per- gardless of Affair” fundraiser on Sat- sonal guided tour of Clay Pots, a communi- age, income, Baltimore urday, September 28th ty center located at 1635 West Pratt Street or residence. from 6 to 10 pm. To learn in southwest Baltimore. Clay Pots offers GED classes, ESOL class- more about Clay Pots vis- Founded in 2002, Clay Pots fills what es (English for speakers of other languag- it Claypotsbaltimore.org, was once an old corner store and a neigh- es), wellness workshops, job coaching and find them on Facebook, boring rowhouse. There is a large gather- support, and recovery support groups. It’s or call 410-233-1133. With ing space, kitchen, classrooms, computer also just a nice place to relax. all that’s going on in the lab, and even an art gallery. The third floor, Three days a week Clay Pots becomes world today, everyone can which has not yet been rehabbed, will pro- a community coffeehouse, with free cof- benefit from a safe place vide even additional classroom and meet- fee, tea, free wi-fi, and a chance to meet to grow. Clay Pots is that ing space. Although it is a wonderful old people, read, use the computers, or just place. t Clay Pots in the hood building, the real magic of Clay Pots is in – Southwest Baltimore the energy and spirt of the organization’s many volunteers, who represent a real cross-section of Baltimore in age, race, By Frankie Kujawa Steve Preston and sexual orientation. Coretta Scott King once said, “The great- Clay Pots is a safe space that provides Miracle on ness of a community is most accurately a place to grow not just for residents of measured by the compassionate actions and Marvin ‘Doc’ of its members.” For Parks & Cheatham, Sr.’s McKean People’s Ste- ven Preston ean” – the Easterwood / Sandtown park live there, but I feel that every community I and communi- and playground and their enduring friend- touch becomes part of my community. We ty leader Mar- ship that has grown from the project. all have the same passion in moving green vin L. “Doc” For Steve Preston, parks construction spaces forward in all of our communities.” Cheatham, Sr., and design manager for the Parks & Peo- Born and raised in Harford County, compassion for ple Foundation, the word Preston’s back- the commu- “community” isn’t isolat- Made-in-Baltimore ground as a nity is rooted ed to a single group. “For licensed land- in their DNA. me, it’s a group of folks collaboration gives tough hood scape architect Preston and who have likeminded a place to play and picnic grew from his Making a park Cheatham re- views, goals, and heart. passion for the come true in cently chatted They have the passion outdoors, con- Easterwood with Baltimore and drive to move something forward.” necting people and improving physical en- / Sandtown – OUTloud re- Preston, who lives in the Patterson Park vironments and aesthetics through design. Steven Preston and community garding their community, doesn’t feel that where you live “This year marks ten years since I moved leader Marvin collaboration solely should determine which community to Baltimore. I was drawn to Baltimore L. ‘Doc’ on the “Mira- you should feel part of. “People say that since I grew up in the county and saw Bal- Cheatham, Sr. cle on McK- Patterson Park is my community because I —continued on page 24 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.

2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // local

(left to right) Andree Powell, Jeffrey Clagett, Stonewall Jim Becker, and Joe Gutleber 50th in NYC prepare to march in the Stonewall 50th Anniversary World Pride Parade

Baltimore Gay Alliance veterans make a showing at Worldpride in New York City on June 30th U of Maryland Grad Alphonso David Named as HRC President Washington, DC – On June 25th, the enacting policies and regulations to support Human Rights Campaign (HRC), announced people living with HIV and drive new diagno- that Alphonso David, an accomplished and ses to an all-time low statewide. Prior to his nationally-recognized LGBTQ civil rights work for New York State, David served as a lawyer and advocate, will lead the organiza- staff attorney at Lambda Legal Defense and tion beginning in August. David will be the Education Fund. first civil rights lawyer and the first person In a new HRC video released today, Da- of color to serve as president of the HRC in vid shares how his life story and career as the organization’s a civil rights attorney prepared him to lead nearly 40-year his- the HRC forward and said, “I believe that to- tory. gether, we can harness the strength that’s David most inherent in our differences, to stand together recently made in the face of fear and division. And that’s history as the first exactly what the Human Rights Campaign openly gay coun- was built for. If we want to win full equality, sel to the governor that’s going to require us to come together, New HRC head of the state of New to dig deep, to be resilient, to embrace our Alphonso David York and, before differences, to tenaciously defend the most that, served as the vulnerable among us, to fight with every first Deputy Secretary and Counsel for Civil ounce of determination we have. I promise Rights in New York. In these roles, he played you this: I will fight for each and every one an integral role in securing marriage equali- of us. All I ask is that you join me, that you ty in New York in 2011, banning the abusive join the Human Rights Campaign in our fight practice of so-called ‘conversion therapy’ on for true equality. In unity, we will fight back minors, establishing nondiscrimination pro- and we will win.” David is a graduate of the tections for transgender New Yorkers, ex- University of Maryland and Temple Univer- panding Medicaid coverage to cover transi- sity School of Law. t (Seattle Gay News – tion-related care, making it easier to amend Human Rights Campaign Press Release at gender markers on birth certificates, and Sgn.org/sgnnews47_26/page9.cfm) BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 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 cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and mammograms are capable of finding it up to three years before it can be felt. The Center for Disease Control recommends mammograms every two years for women age 50 and older who are at average risk for breast cancer. The staff of Chase Brexton encour- ages their patients to remember that early detection saves lives! Any patient who feels they may quality should contact their Chase Brexton provider or call 410-837- 2050 for more info. t news // local

La Garou Hosts know how. Please limit your projects to dry, non-messy kinds, as the meet-up is in a ‘Love Has public restaurant. Craft Night at R Parking in lots and on the street is available, but it can fill up fast. There are No Borders’: House convenient bus lines nearby. The location is fully accessible, and everything is on one Immigrants & The Midnight Dreary Den, the Mid-Atlan- floor. It can get crowded but the space is tic chapter of La Garou, invites you to a large and usually accommodating. Please Refugees in the munch-style meet-up to meet members, note that the lighting is restaurant-style friends, and those curious dim, so you may need to Bible about La Garou on Tuesday, bring along a craft light. July 9th at R House (301 Please wear only street Immigration and faith is the topic of the West 29th Street). La Frater- legal clothing appropri- day on Sunday, July 14th at the local com- nite du Loup-Garou, or “La ate for a casual dining munity faith project Dreams and Visions. Garou” for short, is a tradi- atmosphere. The facility Join the discussion from 4 to 5:30 pm at ‘Drag Queen Bingo’ tional leather / Levi fraternity has several restaurants 3400 Norman Avenue, Baltimore (look for with full membership open with a broad selection the big red doors; the entrance is close to Benefit BARCS to “assigned-female-at-birth of choices, as well as a to Lake Avenue). Speaking will be Karen masculine gender outlaws.” bar. For more informa- Gonzalez, author of The God Who Sees: Help raise money to help all the pooches, Associate membership is tion visit the Facebook Immigrants, the Bible, and the Journey to kitties and other critters taken care of by open to all supporters of their event page at Bit.ly/2X- Belong. Her book explores the stories of BARCS (Baltimore Animal Rescue and t mission. The event welcomes dgHcN. Care Shelter) by joining in at Drag Queen the crafty and the craft-phobic Bingo for BARCS Animal Shelter on Thurs- alike! There will be good food, drinks and day, July 18th, from 7 to 9 pm The event conversation, and bring a game if you’d will be held at Points South Latin Kitchen like to engage some folks in that fun. (1640 Thames Street, Baltimore). Feel free to bring your own craft proj- This one’s about saving lives, folks. ect or ask ahead if you would like to learn baltimoreoutloud.com It’s free to play bingo, and a portion of all something new, someone on hand may food and drink sales will benefit the shelter. There will be some great raffle baskets up for grabs. Tito’s Vodka will donate an additional dollar for every drink sold. “Bring your appetite and come thirsty,” say orga- immigrants and refugees in the Bible, in- nizers. “And don’t forget to bring some cluding Hagar, Joseph, Ruth, and Jesus. dollar bills to tip the queens for their per- Immigration is a central theme of scripture, formances and for the raffles.” Hosts are she maintains, and discusses how people Brooklyn Heights and Iyana Deschanel. can welcome immigrants and fight the in- Please note that you no longer need to justices of the US immigration system. reserve a free ticket in advance. Instead, Learn more about Karen at Karen-gonza- bingo will be on a first-come first-served lez.com/about. basis. For more information visit the Face- For those with mobility issues, please book event page at Bit.ly/2XBMqJ6. t contact emily@dreamsandvisionsbalti- – compiled by Bill Redmond-Palmer more.org in advance to arrange assistance. For more info it’s Bit.ly/2NqYpFA. t Hearts and Ears Inc. Make a difference ... LGBTQIA+ Wellness & Recovery Center We are seeking Maryland residents who are interested in becoming a therapeutic Hearts & Ears, Inc. is a non-profit organization for Gay, foster parent. Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and If you have room in your heart and Questioning, and Gender Non-Conforming individuals room in your home, call us today at with behavioral health issues and concerns. 301-804-6109. foundationscommunity.com Model representations of real patients are shown. Actual patients cannot be divulged due to HIPAA regulations. For 611 Park Avenue Suite A, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 • 410-523-1694 language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 191229-1119 3/19 [email protected] • heartsandears.org

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker – we are not going away!” (Gay Star News celebrates Pride, our Senate confirmed a Istanbul police – Rik Glauert at gaystarnews.com/article/ nominee who has stood in the way of es- police-tear-gas-pride-marchers-in-istan- tablishing LGBTQ equality. They confirmed attack Pride bul/#gs.m9599b) Matthew Kacsmaryk to a district court seat in Texas, and by doing so, brazenly jeopar- marchers dized the rights and the safety of LGBTQ people. Istanbul, Turkey – Istanbul authorities Psych It’s clear that this Senate feels little to have banned the annual LGBT pride pa- no sense of accountability though: The ma- rade for the last five years. Turkish police association Freud fraud? jority of Trump’s judges – both confirmed fired tear gas at pride marchers in Istanbul and nominated – - have long histories of on Sunday, June 30th. apologizes for bias and animosity towards the LGBTQ Organizers of Istanbul LGBT Pride ended the convention so much, Drescher community. Though we shouldn’t be sur- Week had hoped the march could go saying LGBT said, that by December 1973 the APA’s prised by Trump’s cohort of bigoted nomi- ahead despite authorities banning the board removed homosexuality from the nees, we must still demand that our elected event for the last five years. Police allowed people sick Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Men- representatives reject attempts to pack our people to gather in a side street as orga- tal Disorders (DSM). But APsaA did not courts with biased judges who will not treat nizers read a statement, according to Tur- San Diego – Reuters reports that the change its position until 1991 when, under all people fairly. While the Supreme Court key-based Bianet. But riot police then used American Psychoanalytic Association threat of an anti-discrimination lawsuit, it makes the headlines, the lower courts have shields and fired tear gas to disperse the (APsaA) apologized June 21st for previ- allowed the training of gay and lesbian ously treating homosexuality as a mental psychoanalysts, Drescher said. (Reuters That illness, saying its past errors contributed – Daniel Trotta; Editing by Cynthia Oster- (wasn’t to discrimination and trauma for LGBT man and Bill Berkrot at Reuters.com/arti- even) then people. It may be the first US medical or cle/us-usa-LGBT-stonewall-psychoana- mental health organization to issue such lysts-idUSKCN1TM169) an apology. Although psychiatrists declas- sified homosexuality as a disorder in 1973 and psychoanalysts came around nearly 20 years later, the APsaA says it is un- Trump judges aware of any related professional group Alas, not members of the Istanbul Leather / that had apologized. are a real Levi / Uniform Fraternity “It is long past time to recognize and apologize for our role in the discrimination threat to LGBT the final say in more than 99 percent of fed- crowds, local media reported. Police also and trauma caused by our profession and eral cases that impact us all. These lifetime closed off streets. say, ‘We are sorry,’” said a statement by progress appointments have a direct and lasting im- “These walks have become more and Dr. Lee Jaffe, president of APsaA. The pact on our daily lives. Much of our nation’s more difficult every year, and since we’ve group uses that abbreviation to distinguish Dallas – Pride Month events took arduous journey toward the protections that been faced with hate, we’ve been able it from the American Psychiatric Associa- place throughout the country in June. But we all enjoy has been fought and won in to keep ourselves safe for the LGBT and tion (APA). Jaffe announced the apology at in stark contrast to celebrations over the federal courts. Now those rights are at risk to open up our voices” a statement from the opening session of the group’s 109th LGBTQ equality gains made during the 50 because the Senate is failing to stand up Istanbul LGBT Pride Week said. “Unlike annual meeting in San Diego, drawing a years since Stonewall, our senators have and be a check on a dangerous president. these peaceful provocations, the state’s standing ovation from about 200 people been rushing through the confirmations of (Dallas Voice – Kristine Lucius, Special hate crimes have become visible to police present, witnesses said. Jaffe said his federal judicial nominees who threaten all Contributor and executive vice president for brutality.” group has long been active in promoting the progress we have made toward “equal policy and government affairs at The Lead- Istanbul Pride had taken place every LGBTQ rights but had yet to put its contri- justice under law.” President Trump and the ership Conference on Civil and Human year since 2003. And, the event in 2014 tion into words. Senate Republicans are trying to remake Rights at Dallasvoice.com/even-as-the- brought a record number of participants. It The change in the medical commu- our courts in their image and position hard- country-celebrates-pride-50-years-of-prog- was one of the largest pride events in the nity’s thinking about homosexuality and liners who will push their political agendas ress-is-in-jeopardy-in-the-courts) majority Muslim region. the apology both stem from a seminal by rolling back civil rights progress. Fore- —continued on page 10 Why does Turkey ban pride in Istanbul? event in LGBTQ history 50 years ago: going precedent and traditional oversight of Although gay sex is legal in Turkey, LGBT the Stonewall uprising. New York police the process, they’ve forced through some citizens report regular discrimination and recently apologized for the raid and dis- of the most extreme nominees we have These news notes have been compiled, abuse. Organizers warned LGBT citizens criminatory laws of the time, which prompt- ever seen. with permission, from the online version are blocked access to fundamental hu- ed APsaA to issue its apology. LGBTQ According to Lambda Legal, one in of various newspapers and other web man rights such as education, health, and activists disrupted the annual meeting of three of the president’s judicial nominees sites. We thank these publications for housing. Amnesty International dismissed the American Psychiatric Association in have hostile anti-LGBTQ records. These allowing us to bring you their news sto- authorities’ claims of security or public or- 1970 in San Francisco. The protests up- biased judges will have enormous influ- ries. Usually the reports have been sig- der concerns. ence for the rest of their lives, with power nificantly edited and you can read the Organizers, meanwhile, in a statement to rule against LGBTQ individuals and the full story by going to the web site men- said “The hostility towards LGBT commu- community in cases ranging from access to tioned following the item. Comments nity has even become a state policy.” The health care to employment discrimination, are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker statement said they would not abandon to housing, and more. It is appalling – and and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride the struggle. “We are here! Get used to it baltimoreoutloud.com hardly a coincidence – that as our country Media.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 M05 - Left Hand Page

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Important Facts About DOVATO Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription This is only a brief summary of important information about DOVATO and does not and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment. Some medicines interact with DOVATO. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. What is the Most Important Information I Should Know about DOVATO? • You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact If you have both human immunodefi ciency virus-1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B virus with DOVATO. (HBV) infection, DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • • Resistant HBV infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV infection before Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. you start treatment with DOVATO. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the hepatitis B virus can Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take DOVATO with other medicines. change (mutate) during your treatment with DOVATO and become harder to treat (resistant). What are Possible Side Effects of DOVATO? It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in people who have HIV-1 and HBV infection. DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • • Worsening of HBV infection. If you have HIV-1 and HBV infection, your HBV may get worse Those in the “What is the Most Important Information I Should Know about (fl are-up) if you stop taking DOVATO. A “fl are-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns DOVATO?” section. • in a worse way than before. Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with DOVATO. Stop taking DOVATO and get medical help right away if ° Do not run out of DOVATO. Refi ll your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally your DOVATO is all gone. ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters or peeling of ° Do not stop DOVATO without fi rst talking to your healthcare provider. If you the skin; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; stop taking DOVATO, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do problems breathing. blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver. • Liver problems. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk What is DOVATO? of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with DOVATO. DOVATO is a prescription medicine that is used without other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV-1 Liver problems, including liver failure, have also happened in people without a history of liver infection in adults: who have not received antiretroviral medicines in the past, and without known disease or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your liver. resistance to the medicines dolutegravir or lamivudine. HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs Immune Defi ciency Syndrome (AIDS). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in children. or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow Who should not take DOVATO? (jaundice); dark or “tea-colored” urine; light-colored stools (bowel movements); nausea or Do Not Take DOVATO if You: vomiting; loss of appetite; and/or pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your • have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine that contains dolutegravir or lamivudine. stomach area. • take dofetilide. • Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis is a serious medical What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DOVATO? emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis: Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: T:9.6” • have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection. feel very weak or tired; unusual (not normal) muscle pain; trouble breathing; stomach pain • have kidney problems. with nausea and vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms and legs; feel dizzy or lightheaded; • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. One of the medicines in DOVATO (dolutegravir) may and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

harm your unborn baby. • Lactic acidosis can also lead to severe liver problems, which can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). ° You should not take DOVATO if you are planning to become pregnant or during the ﬁ rst 12 weeks of pregnancy. Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the signs or symptoms medicine if you are planning to become pregnant or become pregnant during treatment of liver problems which are listed above under “Liver problems.” You may be with DOVATO. more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female or very overweight (obese). ° If you can become pregnant, your healthcare provider will perform a pregnancy test before you start treatment with DOVATO. ° If you can become pregnant, you should consistently use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with DOVATO. ° Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are planning to become pregnant, you become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant during treatment with DOVATO. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take DOVATO. ° You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. ° One of the medicines in DOVATO (lamivudine) passes into your breastmilk. ° Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Learn more about Alphonso and DOVATO at DOVATO.com

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com

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Billing#: HN16106 Artist: Johnny.Ho Cyan Helvetica LT Std (Bold Condensed, Light Condensed; Open- Studio Manager H. WEINTRAB/M. JOHNSON Labor: HN16106 Previous: susana.marquez Magenta Type), ITC Avant Garde Gothic Std (Bold Oblique, Bold, Medi- Proofreader None Proofreading: HN16106 Bleed: None Yellow um; OpenType), Helvetica Neue LT Std (77 Bold Condensed; Print Producer I. WAUGH OOP: HN16106 Trim: 9.875”10” x 10.5” x 9.6” Black OpenType), TT Slug OTF (Regular; OpenType), Avenir LT Std Account Executive None Tracking#: DLLADVT190005 Safety: None (95 Black, 55 Roman, 35 Light, 65 Medium; OpenType) Art Director None Client: GSK Viewing: None Copywriter None Brand: DOVATO Gutter: None Product: NEWSPAPER Scale: None Media: NEWSPAPER Final Size9.875”10 x 10.5 x 9.6” Caption: None

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SO MUCH GOES INTO WHO I AM HIV MEDICINE SHOULD BE THE LEAST OF IT.

Reasons to ask your doctor about DOVATO: DOVATO can help you reach and then stay undetectable* with just 2 medicines in 1 pill. That means fewer medicines† in your body while taking DOVATO You can take it any time of day with or without food (around the same time each day)—giving you ﬂ exibility DOVATO is a once-a-day complete treatment for adults who are new to HIV-1 medicine.

Results may vary. *Undetectable means reducing the HIV in your blood ALPHONSO‡ to very low levels (less than 50 copies per mL). † As compared with 3-drug regimens. Living with HIV T:9.6”

What are Possible Side Effects of DOVATO (cont’d)? • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ﬁ ght infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking DOVATO. • The most common side effects of DOVATO include: headache; diarrhea; nausea; trouble sleeping; and tiredness. These are not all the possible side effects of DOVATO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Where Can I Find More Information? • Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. • Go to DOVATO.com or call 1-877-844-8872, where you can also get FDA-approved labeling. Trademark is owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. ‡Compensated by ViiV Healthcare Could DOVATO be right for you? Ask your doctor today.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7

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Please contact I. WAUGH at 212.886.4100 with any questions regarding these materials. This advertisement was prepared by Havas Worldwide NY at 200 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013. VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter The Pride Center of Maryland Releases Incident Reporting Form for Sexual and Gender Minority Community Following Discrimination by Local Business

Every year for over 44 years the Pride Pride is a time that signifies unity, di- A locally franchised branch of the na- form to report various incidences of vi- Center of Maryland has organized Bal- versity, and the commemoration of the tionally recognized transportation com- olence and discrimination experienced timore Pride, the largest cultural event historic events that led to this celebra- pany Penske informed us that due to by community members. The Incident for the sexual and gender minority tory moment. Unfortunately, this year the nature of the events we promote, Report Form can be found under the (SGM) community. Without the support we were reminded that even amid our their company would not be associated services tab of The Center’s website at of local businesses and organizations, celebration, there are still several so- with our community. This is not only a www.pridecentermd.org. planning and successfully hosting Bal- cial and cultural roadblocks that we reminder that the fight for equality is not The form is not meant to replace for- timore Pride would not be possible. continue to endure. over, but that we as a community must mal reporting of a crime to the proper stand together and continue to support authorities but will be utilized to cap- eachother. This is how we grow. As for ture and track the frequency of which the business, we will continue to sup- SGM’s are forced to navigate acts of port businesses that support us. How- violence and discrimination, who was ever, this is not an isolated incident. responsible for the incident, the vic- Throughout the last several weeks, The tim’s gender identity, and the zip code Pride Center of Maryland has received of which the offence occurred. By pro- numerous reports of violence and dis- viding a space within community for in- crimination experienced by Baltimore’s dividuals to report their experiences we SGM Community. These reports have hope to work more collaboratively with not solely highlighted acts of discrim- city leaders and community organiza- ination and violence perpetrated by tions to provide increased protections businesses, but within community as for the SGM Community of Baltimore well. In response to the growing num- and Greater Maryland. The Pride Cen- ber of reports we have received, and ter of Maryland remains committed to given the on-going strained relationship its mission of being a catalyst for unit- between the Baltimore Police Depart- ing and empowering sexual and gen- ment and the local SGM Community, der minorities in Baltimore and Central The Pride Center of Maryland has de- Maryland, and to advocate for a better veloped and released, on its website, a quality of life for the entire community

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com VoiceVoice ofof thethe CenterCenter ED Corner The Pride Center of Maryland Calendar Since joining the Center in 2016 the planning of Bal- timore Pride has been one of the most challenging of Events and rewarding endeavors that I have the responsibility of overseeing as the center’s Executive Di- Saturday 7/6 rector. Baltimore Pride 2017 was the first Pride held Alcoholics Anonymous 6:00pm-8:00pm (Rm. 3) under my leadership. That year the planning of Pride Sunday 7/7 changed, the leadership of the Pride Planning Com- Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 11:00am-1:00pm (Rm. 3) mittee became more inclusive and representative Gentle Mindful Yoga ($10 drop-in) 3:30pm -4:45pm (Rm. 3) Monday 7/8 of the community we serve. The Committees were No Programs comprised of women, trans and non-binary people, Tuesday 7/9 and people of color who took on leadership positions Free Legal Clinic with MVLS 1:00pm-4:00pm (Rm. 1) Free HIV/STI Testing at the Center 2:00pm-5:00pm as committee chairs. In 2018 and 2019 that trend Teen Art Group 5:30pm-7:30pm (Rm. 2) continued and continues to grow, and the difference Wednesday 7/10 shows. Center Work (students study hall) 3:00pm-5:00pm (Rm. 3) Family Matters (parenting group) 6:00pm-7:30pm (Lounge) Each year we grow the attendance of Pride and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 6:30pm-8:00pm (Rm. 2) diversity of people present at the largest cultural cel- Mankind Project 7:00pm-9:15pm (Rm. 1) Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7:00pm-8:00pm (Conf. ebration for our diverse community. Baltimore Pride Rm.) 2019, Unity Through Diversity the Remix took place Thursday7/11 over Father’s Day weekend and highlighted the com- Free HIV/STI Testing at the Center 2:00pm-5:00pm munity’s accomplishments and served as a call to Family Game Night 6:30pm-9:30pm (Lounge) Friday 7/12 action to travel the road still yet ahead. Center Work (students study hall) 3:00pm-5:00pm (Rm. 3) Aside from being a cultural event, this celebration Marijuana Anonymous (MA) 6:30pm -8:30pm (Rm. 3) also supports The Pride Center of Maryland’s pro- It has been a great honor to serve in my role as Ex- Saturday 7/13 Alcoholics Anonymous 5:00pm-8:00pm (Lounge) gramming and services that are all free to the public. ecutive Director of the Pride Center of Maryland, Queer Families Potluck 11:00am-12:30pm However, supporting the community goes past a sin- alongside a group of talented and dedicated staff Sunday 7/14 gle weekend and single event. Support needs to be and volunteers, without whom none of this would be Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 11:00am-1:00pm (Rm. 3) Gentle Mindful Yoga ($10 drop-in) 3:30pm -4:45pm (Rm. 3) sustained and should demonstrate a real investment possible. So, a very big thank you goes out to each Coming Out Support Group 5:00pm-7:00pm (Rm. 3) in the community; that is why we held the inaugu- staff member and every single committee member Monday 7/15 ral Pride Sexual and Gender Minority career fair in and volunteer who put in the hard work of bringing No Programs 2019, and we will continue to do so each Pride sea- this event to fruition. Tuesday 7/16 Free HIV/STI Testing at the Center 2:00pm-5:00pm son. This year I asked our Pride sponsors to partici- Teen Art Group 5:30pm-7:30pm (Rm. 2) pate in the career fair, as means to encourage them Baltimore Pride is a wonderful weekend to celebrate SILhouette- Spiritually In-tune Lesbians (Rm. 3) to hire from within our community. who we are, who we love and how we live. Pride Wednesday7/17 Center Work (students study hall) 3:00pm-5:00pm (Rm. 3) I’m excited to report that twenty-two of our Pride weekend, and every weekend thereafter is ours, all Mankind Project 7:00pm-9:15pm (Rm. 1) Sponsors were present, and over 60 individuals from of oursto be free, seen, and heard. We have come a Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7:00pm-8:00pm (Conf. Rm.) the community attended the inaugural Pride Career long way in securingrightsand privileges and we still Trans Baltimore 7:00pm-9:00pm (Rm. 3) Fair. have a long way to go. Thank you for your support Thursday 7/18 Baltimore Pride is another way that the Center helps and I hope you had an amazing experience celebrat- Free & Confidential HIV Testing 2:30pm-5:00pm Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance 6:30pm-9:00pm (Rm. 2) to give back to our beloved Baltimore City. This event ingat Baltimore Pride. Friday 7/19 allowed us to bring over 30,000 people to come to the Center Work (students study hall) 3:00pm-5:00pm (Rm. 3) city and spend money in Baltimore. Baltimore Pride Marijuana Anonymous (MA) 6:30pm -8:30pm (Rm. 3) The Young and The Restless 6:00pm-8:00pm (Rm. 3) weekend helps provide a much-needed economic push to the city and helps to support Maryland’s local businesses. I love that many of the businesses that vended at Baltimore Pride are Maryland businesses among which most are in Baltimore City.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 beyond the beltway

—continued from page 5 that Democrats and Republicans on the committee could come together to unani- ICE challenged mously support this common sense mea- HRC names sure to recognize that marriage is more on transwomen’s than a husband and wife. Same-sex cou- House ples no longer need to feel excluded when death filing their taxes. A companion has been committee introduced in the Senate by Senator Eliza- Washington, DC – After the recent beth Warren. (Press Releases from Repre- death of transwoman Johana Medina Leon okays tax bill sentatives Andy Levin and Judy Chu) and nearly a year after Roxsana Hernan- dez’s death, Congressman Joe Kennedy to affirm LGBT III today demanded answers from US Im- migration and Customs Enforcement about couples Lesbian self- the reported neglect that led to her death. In a letter to ICE Acting Director Mark A. Washington, DC – On June 20th, the described Morgan, he raised concerns that the treat- House Committee on Ways and Means ment of Johana has not been an isolated yesterday passed a bill that contains Rep- tomboy was incident for transgender asylum seekers resentative Andy Levin and Representa- in ICE’s custody. As Chair of the Congres- tive Judy Chu’s Equal Dignity for Married allowed to be a sional Transgender Equality Task Force, Taxpayers Act, which would modernize the Kennedy recently hosted a briefing on the tax code to remove outdated gendered lan- girl challenges and threats that trans migrants guage and to affirm the dignity of LGBTQ and refugees face. couples and families. The bill was includ- Oslo, Norway – Tonje Gjevjon was a “LGBTQ asylum-seekers who arrive at ed as part of HR 3299, the Promoting Re- girl who stuck out – not feminine enough Too tomboy? – Tonje Gjevjon at 16 in the our nation’s borders do so as their last ref- spect for Individuals’ Dignity and Equality and a lesbian, she worries that today she 1980s. Today she worries she would have uge for survival because of the daily, of- (PRIDE) Act of 2019. would have been transitioned into a boy. been pressured to transition. ten state-sanctioned, transphobic violence “Our tax code, like all of our laws, should She writes in Feminist Currents “I was born they face at home,” said Kennedy. “When accurately represent and include all the in 1967, into a time of upheaval. Equality, “I’m a lesbian tomboy who grew up in they set their sights on this nation from people to whom it applies,” Congressman the right to self-determined abortion, and an age where the concept of being ‘born afar, they see a beacon of equality and jus- Andy Levin said. “Gendered language in equal pay for equal work were high on the in the wrong body’ didn’t exist. If I were a political agenda. I grew up in a small town child today, I wouldn’t have stood a chance outside Oslo. My mother was considered against trans activism. I can’t bear to think uppity and my father a wuss because they what might have happened if I had been were concerned about women’s right to an assessed at the Karolinska University Hos- education and ability to make decisions pital, which hosts Sweden’s largest gender about their own bodies and lives. … I was identity clinic, or the Gender Identity De- a daddy’s girl and tagged along with him velopment Service (GIDS) at the Tavistock as often as I could. … In 1974, on the first and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. In tice but instead have found an administra- day of school, I wore a shirt, blue jeans, 2019, lesbians, women, and others who tion unwilling to provide lifesaving asylum a wide black belt with a large buckle, and want to think and express themselves free- and determined to match the cruelty they football shoes. At seven years old, I’d ly are arranging meetings in secret loca- fled. ICE must answer for the preventable Reps. Judy Chu and Andy Levin – sponsors found my style and, to be honest, it hasn’t tions. … We are doing what we can to re- deaths of both Johana Medina Leon and of the Equal Dignity for Married Taxpayers Act changed significantly since. As a child, I claim this right which the anti-democratic Roxsana Hernandez.” didn’t really reflect on who or what I was. LGBTQ has managed to stifle across many On May 18th, 2019, after voluntari- the tax code represents a vestige of the My days revolved around school and doing parts of Western Europe and elsewhere. … ly presenting herself in Texas, Johana days when LGBTQ couples could not get things I was interested in and had a talent I have never experienced such hate and passed her “credible fear” interview which married. Fortunately, those days are over for. I loved playing football and ice hockey. anger towards lesbians talking about their determined she, in fact, would be perse- and marriage equality is the law of the land. … Because I insisted on having short hair, needs and opinions until now. This is my cuted if returned to El Salvador. However, Updating the tax code to include language wore football shorts, and often ran around story, my experiences, and my call for Johana was not processed for parole until inclusive of LGBTQ couples and families topless, I was regularly mistaken for a boy. help. [Tonje Gjevjon is a visual artist, com- May 28th, the same day in which she was is a small change that will have a huge im- “Today, many would consider me a girl poser, and filmmaker. Translation by Kari transferred to Del Sol Medical Center for pact on the affirmation of the LGBTQ com- ‘born in the wrong body.’ But in those days, Müller.] (Feminist Current – Tonje Gjevjon chest pain. Within days, Johana died from munity. I’m so proud that this bill passed even though some reacted negatively to at Feministcurrent.com/2019/06/11/i-was- complications from HIV. The private facility out of committee, and I look forward to my being boyish, no one ever suggested a-lesbian-tomboy-allowed-to-be-female- where Johana was held, ignored her nu- ushering its passage in the House.” I was actually ‘born in the wrong body. … i-fear-young-girls-today-no-longer-have- merous requests for treatment even as her The PRIDE Act, introduced by Con- But I was lucky. I lived through puberty that-choice/) health rapidly deteriorated according to gressman Levin and Congresswoman Chu, during the best decade possible: the 80s her family. Her lawyers said her treatment makes additional changes to the tax code, – the decade when the world of pop music in ICE custody was so deplorable, she including allowing LGBTQ couples who was characterized by androgynous women pleaded to be deported, a request officials t were previously denied federal recogni- and men who used clothes, makeup, and also denied. (Press release from Con- tion of their marriages to amend their past hairstyles to express their image and per- gressman Joseph Kennedy III) tax returns and receive the corresponding sonality. It was cool to have an image that baltimoreoutloud.com benefits. Said Rep. Chu, “I’m so happy broke with gender roles. …

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com thinking outloud

is dead.” nosed to die without much options for treat- blackness, or my HIV. This feeling was By the way, all of this was a good two ment or for living. However, the desperation at the core of my severe depression that years before Andrew Sullivan wrote his first only began there. forced me to drop out of college, off the piece announcing the end of the AIDS ep- Parallel to my own personal disintegra- football team, depart from my dreams, and My Fabulous idemic – for him. His announcement was tion was the rise of crack addiction and gun lead to not one but three suicide attempts. largely framed by his public and economic violence in Norfolk, here in DC, and other Still, as some people pronounced the Disease status and access to newly available an- predominantly black communities around end of an epidemic for them after being By Mark S. King tiretrovirals and combination therapies that, the country, turning young men into dust. among the first in line for treatment and for him, and other primarily white gay men Drugs and violence emanating from a rage- care, statistics began to emerge of the with means, that yes, the epidemic could be filled generation of young black men know- apocalyptic impact the virus had among called over. However, in that year of 1996, ing the truth that a Reagan-Bush United black, brown, and immigrant communities We Must what about the rest of us? States had no interest in saving them – pro- in this city and across America with black Ok, so now in 2019 let’s all take another viding jobs, providing viable health options, women leading the way in new infections Reinvigorate AIDS deep breath, and let it out slowly, again. I providing hope. in the early 90s. The AIDS epidemic had am going to give another man’s perspective This is where the HIV & AIDS epidemic begun to resemble the impact of econom- Fight on where we’ve been, where we are, and was born in black America. And young men ic, education, and overall health disparities where we’re going. and women like myself in the District stared that we see regularly here. For many years, I’ve viewed activist Lar- When I was kid, from the first time I put feverishly in the face of a local and federal We know those numbers. We know ry Bryant, Jr., as one of the most on a football helmet, I wanted to government that refused to even speak the those disparities. And the response the highly regarded voices of con- Larry be a professional football player. name of an epidemic that was rampaging AIDS epidemic at that time began to resem- science in the HIV/AIDS move- By the time ble the “rescue” response ment, and among black men in Bryant at I arrived at this city has always had particular. At the recent Reunion high school Larry Bryant, Jr. – longtime AIDS activist for black and brown com- Project event in Washington, DC DC Reunion across the and field organizer for the ACLU of the munities – slow (if at all), – a day of education and commu- Project Potomac District of Columbia ineffectual, and ultimately, nity for long-term survivors – Larry at TC Wil- not close to what is need- laid bare his life with HIV and his liams, I idol- ed. observations from decades in the ized shut And let’s be real, the HIV arena. down cornerbacks HIV & AIDS organizations Larry does not mince words. He calls like Lester Hayes and in DC as well as cities and out other community figures when he sees Mike Haynes. And af- towns elsewhere perpetu- fit. He names names. He exposes racism ter winning a Virginia ated much of this ineffec- and transphobia, even among our ranks. State Champion- tual response. People liv- His keynote speech taught me, shamed me, ship in 1984 on one ing with HIV & AIDS were, and maddened me. That’s good. The HIV the best high school and still are, often count- community could use some righteous anger teams in the country, ed in numbers but not yet and serious reflection, and far more than we and one of the best seen as complete, whole have exhibited lately. ever in Virginia, I people. Here are the full remarks from Larry hoped that my college Sure, the HIV & AIDS Bryant, Jr., at the Washington, DC, Re- experience would community has had much union Project event on June 22nd, 2019: give me the chance to to celebrate and has On World AIDS Day in 1994, the ven- get to that level. grown in many ways since erable black AIDS activist Mario Cooper re- And for a little the 90s and early 2000s. leased a blog post that cautioned all of us while, it did. I was For example, I’d like to to ‘take a deep breath, [and] let it out slow- among the nation’s think that we’ve come ly’ as he was about share his opinion about leaders in interceptions and on my way to among those most vulnerable. a long way since 2006 when a group of what was wrong with the AIDS movement becoming an All American as a freshman. It reminds me of quote from Ralph Elli- black women in south Florida representing at the time. I was certainly on the path toward what I son’s Invisible Man: “I am invisible, under- themselves and the Campaign to End AIDS Mario went on to talk about what he had dreamed of before putting on the green stand, simply because people refuse to see were yelled at by a fellow World AIDS Day described as exhaustion within the AIDS and gold at Norfolk State University. And me. Like the bodiless heads you see some- marcher, a white gay man who told them to community and groups around the country, despite being a football star on the field I times in circus sideshows, it is as though I go and get their own disease, because they including the AIDS Coalition To Unleash was also still dealing with the challenges have been surrounded by mirrors of hard, had come and taken theirs. Power, or more commonly known as ACT of depression and anxiety and just being a distorting glass. When they approach me, I’d also like to think that we’ve evolved UP, seemed to be moving away from the freshman away from home for the first time. they see only my surroundings, themselves from hearing Paul Kawata lecturing Nation- mic, literally. And the following spring would bring far dif- or figments of their imagination, indeed, ev- al Association of People With AIDS board Cooper wrote that during an ACT UP ferent and debilitating challenges. erything and anything except me.” members about choosing between being meeting in New York City, writer David B. I was diagnosed as living with the an- It also reminded me that this is a world, more like the NAACP or the Black Panthers, Feinberg, “barely out of his hospital bed and tibodies to the virus that cause AIDS ear- this is a country that hunted down, coerced implying that in his view there are “proper” suddenly missing 25 pounds, expressed his ly in 1986 – the term HIV-positive did not and terrorized, then wrongly convicted five ways we should act as activists and advo- profound anger and frustration over ACT yet exist in Norfolk, Virginia, at that time. I young men in New York City in 1989 for cates and not rock the boat – reminiscent of UP’s loss of energy.” Cooper continued that was also given, at the most, eight years to crimes they didn’t commit – for no other the yanking of Larry Kramer from the stage. even Larry Kramer “snatched up the micro- live based on the current science of the day reason than being young, male, and black. I’d like to think that we in the HIV and phone and implored ACT UP to refocus” be- regarding diagnosis and life expectancy of Why would I think that things would be any AIDS community – many of us who have fore being voted out of order and storming someone in my condition. different here in DC? off with a shout: “ACT UP is dead. ACT UP Basically, at 18 years old I was diag- This city didn’t have time for me, my —continued on page 12 BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 thinking outloud quality of life // Health and Wellness

permanent and supportive housing. Having to make a public speech or pre- We Must We need to reinvigorate a local and na- sentation? Rehearse in front of friends, or tional grassroots effort like the Campaign on video and take something with you that Reinvigorate To End AIDS, or locally, like DC Fights Ask gives you confidence. That object could be Back, that prioritizes the voices of people one that is connected to a powerful time who are living with HIV and AIDS. These AIDS Fight Dr. J in your life. In other words, in manageable networks should again provide that training Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. ways, confront the sense of inadequacy. If and leadership development of those same you have a fear of elevators, every time individuals so that they are not continually —continued from page 9 you avoid one, you reinforce that fear and tokenized and shuttled like cattle from one the avoidance response. It is only when conference to the next for funders and grant Win-Win? been or are still experiencing blatant rac- you can approach the elevator, step by obligations. ism, sexism, transphobia, and homophobia, We live in a culture – and indeed in a step, that you can train your mind to over- These networks should be supported or just experiencing outright disrespect and world – where the attitude is that if I win, come the debilitating reaction. And so it is by, not obligated to, local and major AIDS dismissal – would be the bridge-builders for you lose, or if you win, I am condemned with insecurity. Think back to a time when organizations. These grassroots networks those who will carry this fight to its end.Y es, to lose. And of course, losing has a neg- you felt on top of the world. Focus on that should be organized like a political cam- to the end of this epidemic. ative connotation. How does that image and memory and bring it paign. Locally, this grassroots network And with all this talk about intersection- work in a relationship? Or even up when you feel insecure. should use modern polling and targeting ... Or win- ality, as the old folks in the room we need in any human interaction? Do you It also helps when you get techniques that will allow us to create a to be more comfortable in that intersection look to see who is right? Is it more away from the negativity and savvy communications effort to remind DC lose? ourselves, meeting and greeting others important to you to be right at the look on the bright side. residents and their representatives in the where they are. Advocating for life solu- expense of your connection to another If you dread social situations, but Wilson Building the importance of these is- tions, not just HIV-specific solutions. person? you may be a great friend to those By the way, many of us have been sues. I come upon many people who say that around here sitting at the table for way too We need to re-engage the mainstream their partners never admit to long not allowing other voices, experiences, media. The waning of coverage by local being wrong, or never apolo- and perspectives to be heard and seen. We networks and newspapers has undercut our gize, taking responsibility for have to realize that the end of AIDS, and ability to keep our most pressing issues in their words. This creates a lot the end of all that comes with this epidemic, the public eye. Included should be social of resentment, and surely, no goes far beyond just acquiring your meds media campaigns, local radio networks reg- one can be right, or wrong, all and treatment. The stigma and ignorance ular blog posts or editorials. the time? As the cliché goes, surrounding this disease still cuts like a We must actively and meaningfully even a broken clock is right knife to the jugular, and even more so when bring new allies to the table. The HIV and twice in a day. So why do we it comes from within the community we all AIDS community still marginalizes young make it such a huge issue with hope to find refuge, solace, connection, log- voices, transgender voices, and ex-offend- people we care about? Beyond ic, understanding, and love. er voices. There are still divisions among our immediate circle, even on Again, Mario Cooper wrote in 1994 race, gender, and education. Those who social media, this is a problem that, “We fail to recognize that the manner live and love different than us should not be as there are those who claim to in which America responds to AIDS is an written off as allies or even leaders. be spot-on in every encounter. indicator of its value of our lives. The con- Locally, a grassroots mobilization that The roots of this defense verse is also true: how we respond as a can motivate and focus on our entire com- mechanism go to basic insecu- community is an indication of how we value munity in DC is sorely missing. This can rity. Everyone, no matter how ourselves.” That second part is what stings only be created by building, at the neighbor- successful, how smart, how at- most even when the first part is predictable. hood level, an organizational structure that tractive or wealthy, experiences That second part stings because still at allows for broad and informed participation. insecurity. It is a human condition. Groups can focus on their respective ward times we are our worst enemy. We all develop ways of dealing close to you, and councilmember, meeting with them reg- So, how do we move forward? Where do with this in unhealthy and healthy why not share that sunny disposition with ularly, holding them accountable when they we, in DC and beyond, go from here? Sit- ways. Clinging to being correct harms our those you may yet meet? Share your ex- are slow to act, praising them when they are ting smack in the middle of several DC interactions. A healthy approach to this is pertise in a speech with those who may on point. councilmember’s and mayor’s elected term benefit from your knowledge? Rather than Look, we are all tired. We are all getting and on the precipice of what’s going to an- “Everyone, no matter focusing on yourself, this approach gets older. And, at least with me, I awake most other loud and combative presidential cam- other people’s needs into your viewpoint mornings frustrated and impatient, much how successful, how paign cycle, we need to begin mounting a thereby moving away from the internal like Mario did in the early 90s, looking at a comprehensive, coordinated campaign that smart, how attractive feeling of insecurity. t dysfunctional AIDS community struggling to targets both incumbents and political hope- “I have self-doubt. I have insecurity. be effective in a dysfunctional America, a or wealthy, experiences fuls. I have fear of failure. I have nights when dysfunctional DC. How will they address the social, eco- I show up at the arena and I’m like, ‘My However, we can still impact our future insecurity. It is a nomic, and structural factors that will end back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. as well as those coming after us. None of this epidemic once and for all? Our collec- human condition.” I don’t have it. I just want to chill.’ We all this happens overnight. And though as tive effort would allow us to develop a strong have self-doubt. You don’t deny it, but you much has changed since the 80s and 90s base for challenging the radical attempts to taking a look at how and when you expe- also don’t capitulate to it. You embrace it.” end government-funded AIDS efforts and and even through the 2000s – my hairline, rience insecurity. Going into social situa- – Kobe Bryant programs, including expanding harm reduc- my waistline, for example. One thing re- tions where you don’t know people? Next tion programs, sex and sexuality education mains and will always be true – AIDS will time, go with someone else and then prac- for school aged children, and affordable not be over until it is over for everyone. t tice approaching people you don’t know.

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness

fears that every chest twinge is the begin- missing work or school, or may stop their ning of a heart attack and every abdominal usual social activities. They may isolate cramp is a sign of cancer very likely has anx- themselves from others. iety. General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the For both depression and anxiety, talk Open Wide most common type of anxiety. People with therapy and medication are helpful. The ask Dr Eva less common types of anxiety may have combination of talk therapy and medication Dr Eva Hersh more specific fears, also called phobias. helps the most. The most useful types of talk These include fear of leaving the house (ag- therapy are: oraphobia), fear of social gatherings (social • cognitive behavioral therapy, which phobia) and fear of enclosed spaces (claus- teaches how to adjust your thoughts and Is Anxiety trophobia). Even more specific forms of anx- actions iety include test anxiety and fear of spiders, • interpersonal therapy, which shows you the Same as called arachnophobia. Panic disorder and how to communicate better post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are • problem-solving therapy, which teach- • ArchitecturAlly-stunning Depression ? other types of anxiety disorder. es you skills to manage your symptoms Just as excessive worry is the key sign Because the brain chemical imbalances wedding venue • Dear Dr. Eva, of anxiety, persistent sadness or irritabili- involved in depression and anxiety are simi- • indOOR & OuTdOOR wedding What’s the difference be- ty and loss of interest or plea- lar, the same medicines work for both condi- CeReMOnieS, ReCePTiOnS, tween depression and anxiety? Worried sure in life are the key signs of tions. Useful medications include SSRIs (se- And eLOPeMenTS • I was told at different times that depression. Like anxiety, there lective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRIs I have both. Is it just two names readers are are different forms of depres- (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibi- • OveR 30 SAMe-Sex weddingS for the same thing? sion. Major Depressive Disorder tors), and others such as bupropion (Well- SinCe 2013 • BT stressed to (MDD) is the most common type. butrin.) Some common SSRIs are fluoxetine Follow us on Instagram and Facebook at While both anxiety and depres- (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxitine (Pax- ChaseCourtWeddingVenue Dear BT, find out! sion can severely affect a per- il), citalopram (Celexa), and escitalopram 410-727-1112 • chasecourt.com Depression and anxiety are son’s ability to function in daily (Lexapro). Some examples of SNRIs are two different conditions and involve two dif- life, depression is more likely to cause dis- duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlefaxine (Ef- 1112 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD Owned and Operated by David Egan, ferent sets of problems, but it isn’t unusual ability and much more likely to lead to death, fexor). t wedding columnist for BaltimoreOUTloud. for a person to have both conditions. Both through suicide. Depression is the leading Dr. Eva Hersh is a family physician. depression and anxiety are disorders of cause of disability in the US among peo- mood, called “affective disorders” in medical ple ages 15 to 44. (Statistics from the 2016 language. For most people who have National Survey on Drug Use and both depression and anxiety, Health, National Institutes for July 11 one of the two conditions is Mental Health.) About two more severe, which leads out of every ten Ameri- to diagnoses like “de- cans will have depres- pression with features sion in adulthood. of anxiety,”or “anxi- Major depression ety with features of is present when a depression.” Many person has at least people with depres- five symptoms of sion have problems depression for more that are common in than two continu- anxiety disorder as ous weeks, and well, like nervousness, one of the symptoms is either a deep feeling Friday July 19, irritability, problems con- 9p.m. - 12a.m. centrating and trouble sleeping. Still, anxiety of sadness or a loss of interest in most activities the person used to enjoy. Other signs of Shawnna's Chicken Box: and depression are not the same thing. A SILLY SHOW • being nervous, irritable or “on edge” major depression include: Sunday July 14 • fear of approaching danger, panic or • change in appetite (decreased or in- death creased) • rapid heart rate • not sleeping well or excessive sleeping • rapid breathing (hyperventilation), and • physically slowing down – slower • increase in sweating. speech, moving slower or, less often, agita- Anxiety disorders are the most common tion (overactivity) mental disorders in the United States. About • constantly feeling tired three out of every 10 Americans will have an • feeling worthless anxiety disorder in adulthood. All types of • feeling hopeless anxiety disorders cause excessive fear • recurrent thoughts of death (even if and worry. Other common signs of anxiety there are no thoughts of committing suicide) include: • problems in thinking, like difficulty con- 60376037 BelairBelair Road.Road. Baltimore,Baltimore, MDMD 2120621206 Anxiety increases a person’s aware- centrating or making decisions ness of body sensations, which often results • worsening social, work, or school ac- 443-885-9799443-885-9799 ·· Facebook:Facebook: @mixersbar@mixersbar in worry about one’s health. A person who tivities. For example, the person may start BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 quality of life // Health and Wellness Sexual affected muscles how to relax. We can use Benefits of a different version of that same program to Kegel Exercises teach those muscles how to contract and detailed at upcoming Mending By Aaron Cahall work better/stronger by keeping the com- Chase Brexton Health Care workshop the puter’s music playing if held above a de- If you’ve heard of Kegel exercises, you termined threshold. Once again, the brain Gap might think that their positive effects are ways working their core, which includes makes the connections on a subconscious limited to women, particularly following the pelvic floor muscles. Charles Dudley level and you get stronger through more childbirth. But Kegel exercises can improve What other similar or related exer- effective use of the muscles involved. anyone’s sexual function, improve bladder cises have positive effects on sexual I use this equipment regularly to treat and bowel health, and even help with back function? clients who have pelvic pain where they EMG and pain! Yoga is excellent for sexual health! cannot sit down, stand up, painful erections, These benefits will be detailed at an It combines controlled movements with painful intercourse, genitals going numb, Biofeedback upcoming Lunch & Learn workshop hosted breathing and stretching thereby giving etc. … These are cases where the muscles by the LGBT Health Resource Center on the person exercise in a low impact, gen- One of the hidden treasures of a pelvic often times are overworked. I have also Thursday, July 11th from noon to 1:30 pm. tle and controlled way to improve strength, physical therapist is the use of Electro- used the same equipment to help retrain We asked Charles Dudley, a Balti- flexibility, and stamina (and let’s face it, MyoGraphy (EMG) The first question to the muscle to work better when faced with more-based personal trainer and the ses- we all like good stamina!). If you are sed- answer is: what is it? Electromy- incontinence (men and women) sion’s presenter, to share a bit more about entary at work and/or at home, ography (also known as EMG) is and erectile dysfunction. Kegel exercises and their positive benefits. a way in which I can look at the Tools to Where do the electrodes How can Kegels electrical activity of your muscles. soothe go? I try to get them as close affect sexual func- We have heard of an EEG (Elec- to the muscles we are working tion? troEncephaloGram), which reads your pelvic with as possible. When work- Kegels are exer- the wave patterns of the brain and ing on the pelvic floor muscles cises for the series of nerve conduction studies in which musculature we can put them on the out- pelvic floor muscles they look at the electrical activ- side around the taint (formally (PFMs) that sling from ity of the nerves. This is similar known as the perineal body) the front of the pel- in that we are looking at electrical activi- but I am a firm believer that going internal vic bone to the back, ty but EMG is focusing on your muscles. gives the best signal quality because we thereby creating a So, what? Big deal! What does that really are closer to the source and we are not hammock for our belly mean?!? A muscle at rest, hanging out, do- picking up the glutes, hamstrings, etc. … organs – such as the ing nothing is still electrically active with a which can interfere with and mask prob- bladder, kidneys, vagi- voltage of 3µV -4µV (micro-volts). When I lems that are deeper in. Yes folks, this na, and liver – to give have you laying on my table and have you means inserting the sensor/stimulator into them support. Some of and your muscles hooked into the system the rectum or vagina. the muscles of the pel- then regular walking will help lower your this is what I should see. If I see the resting The EMG below belongs to a gentle- vic floor become muscles for the penis body weight which will allow the pelvic EMG signal is higher than that – let’s say … man who came to me for pelvic pain. His and scrotum as well as the opening for the floor muscles to do their job more easi- 10µV to 20µV – then we have some work resting signal was around 30µV. Remem- vagina. Kegels strengthen these muscles, ly. Imagine what sex would be like if the to do in order to quiet those muscles down. ber what I said earlier, that is should be which results in improved support and con- muscles had ten pounds less to manage Essentially in that scenario they are work- around 3µV or 4µV. He was high and tight! trol of the vagina and the penis plus the – imagine that muscular energy being able ing evenings, weekends, and holidays and The muscles were pinching nerves which scrotum, improving erections, vaginal tone, to sustain erections and vaginal control. could be the cause of your pain. The next caused pain in the taint and into the penis and ejaculation. What do you hope attendees learn step of testing is to then have you contract and scrotum. Who should avoid attempting Kegel from this Lunch & Learn? the muscles being tested. By looking at exercises? Fun! I want you to have fun! I also the EMG signal I can tell how well you can Similar to any exercise routine, there want you to get your questions/concerns contract the muscle and for how long. We are those among us who should not be do- answered regarding pelvic health issues. can look at “strength” and endurance. I say ing Kegel exercises. Someone who is in a I want this to be a fun conversation about “strength” because there is only a loose lot of pain or has pain when they are doing some issues that can be embarrassing correlation between EMG signal and over- a Kegel should stop and see their doctor. and often don’t get talked about, which ul- all strength of the muscle. All it means is Before ... Pain is typically a good indicator that some- timately limits our understanding of where that the muscle is more electrically active thing is wrong, and these exercises should not hurt. The other group of people would the pelvic floor muscles are, what they do when working but we cannot take the EMG This is the same gentleman after 3 ses- be those who are very tight. This can be and why they are important for not just signal and tell if you lifted ten pounds or 25 sions of biofeedback for quieting the mus- evidenced when they have difficulty with sexual health, bladder, and bowel health pounds. It doesn’t work that way, sorry ☹ cles. Vastly improved signal at 5µV – 10µV vaginal or rectal intercourse. This can also but also for back care. Yes! Kegel exer- Great, we have the information from and his pain was greatly reduced, which be true for high-level athletes who are al- cises can help with back pain too! I want your first EMG study, now what?!? This is made him and his girlfriend very happy! people to walk away knowing how to do a where biofeedback comes in. My comput- Kegel as well as why they are doing it. t er is equipped with a program to read the To register for the upcoming Lunch & EMG signal and if we need to get you to ... AIffter you have questions about EMG and bowel, or sexual function then reach out to Learn Session, RSVP to lgbt@chasebrex- relax then you need to keep the voltage biofeedback, pelvic problems with bladder, ton.org or call 410-837-2050 extension under a determined level in order to allow me either by phone/text 443-742-0019, fax 1049. For more on the LGBT Health Re- the music on the computer to keep playing. 443-345-3414, email charles@dudleypt. source Center’s older adult programming, This is in part where we are reprogram- com, on Facebook messenger, or on my visit ChaseBrexton.org/LGBTelders. ming the subconscious brain to teach the website, Dudleypt.com 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com quality of life // Health and Wellness ANDRE SHAKTI drink “normally.” being questioned – just another kid on the The school called my mom concerned road adulthood. Fit about the 53 days I had missed that semes- On June 25th, 2019 I’ll celebrate 18 ter. A flurry of parent / teacher conferences, years of continuous sobriety, 100% free from for meetings with the principal, outside counsel- alcohol & drugs and a completely different Life ors, extended exam deadlines offered me a person. Since graduating I have earned my Joshua H. Buchbinder chance to pass since I was “such a great kid.” bachelor’s of science degree from the Uni- Then I celebrated my 16th birthday in a partial versity of Maryland, been a top performer at Sex, hospitalization program with a fistful of meds, the nation’s top three health insurance pro- Intimacy and From the pending court dates, and daily urinalysis. The viders, and have started my own successful gig was up. business. My husband, also in recovery, and Relationship Coaching Depths One drinking buddy had been placed I will celebrate five years of marriage and are for Every Body in the Phoenix II program, a recovery high welcoming our first child. These milestones In this edition of “Fit for Life,” Joshua H. school in Gaithersburg, Maryland. I didn’t may seem normal, but for me they are mon- Buchbinder turns over the podium to a wom- want to change, I just wanted to get me out umental compared to where I could be. The an who wishes to remain anonymous of trouble. I entered the Phoenix II program Phoenix program set me on a path of trans- • Culturally Competent Most 16-year-old kids look forward to their under the influence, yet didn’t think I had a formation. I didn’t plan on living such a ful- driver’s license, first job, and becoming an up- problem, but something caught my attention. filling life, but I have been blessed with such • Accessible perclassman. I was faced with The environment was interested an amazing existence. Without the Phoenix • Emotionally Intuitive the destruction and agony of and supportive and the 20 other program and a moment of willingness I would being a heavy drinker and drug A young students gave positive peer-pres- have remained in a big high school to be con- user. Hopeless, defeated, and woman’s tale sure. I struggled maintaining sobri- sumed by alcoholism and drug addiction. I shattered I disappointed my ety, but I met the school’s require- turned 18 sober, celebrated my 21st birthday Cell: 856-906-0526 family and teachers. My par- ments: participate in my academic sober, graduated college sober, and got mar- ents were divorced but co-ex- of addiction, and recovery classes, attend four ried sober all thanks to the Phoenix Program. (text or call) isted amicably, and I had grown 12-step meetings weekly and ob- Every day is a gift and I get the opportunity to IAmPoly.net/Coaching up in a faith-based, alcohol-free high tain a recovery sponsor. The other help another man or woman out of misery and home. At 15, the few months school, and students challenged me to ques- into a new existence. t for More Information of summer freedom exposed tion my drinking and drugging and Joshua Buchbinder, MS is the co-owner me to “typical teenager exper- redemption the thought process preceding the of B-Strong Athletics. imenting” – cigarettes, weed, first drink or drug. My willingness alcohol, and sex. This freedom shifted – my behavior and my re- transformed me into a completely different sponses to life changed slowly. My last drink person – now experienced and worldly, or so was June 24th, 2001 and I spent the sum- I thought. mer trying to stay out of trouble by avoiding RESIDENCES RESERVED: 70% I thought my substance use would be ca- drinking friends, tempting houses, and par- sual, but that quickly changed, as did my so- ties. I attended the Phoenix program’s sum- RISK OF RESERVING: cial circle. I was no longer driven to excel as mer school and enrolled in summer school to 0% a student or community member. Long-term catch up on credits missed during 10th grade. goals and acts of selflessness were replaced The little building which housed the Phoe- with a chemical addiction, and I started to nix program burned down the first week of seek out the drinkers and drug users. The 12th grade but the staff continued their work weekends-only pact I made to myself melt- and investment in the students. They were instrumental in my recovery and helped me “My mom tried to nurse learn about myself. I had never been interested in white-water rafting, bike riding, rap- me out from each binge. pelling, or camping, but these adventures were part of the program. It transformed how I desperately wanted to I saw myself and my peers. With construction starting soon on the Grand Expansion of drink ‘normally.’” My science teacher recognized my enthu- Roland Park Place, 70% of new residences are already spoken siasm and passion for science, so she introduced me to the bio-technology program at for. And when all it takes to reserve yours is a fully-refundable ed away. I was a trained concert pianist and the Thomas Edison vocational school. She deposit, the only question left is, what are you waiting for? studying to earn my black belt in Tae Kwon saw things in me I couldn’t see myself. Do but there was no way I could run piano Before the Phoenix program I couldn’t Make the intelligent choice. Call today: 443.338.6212 scales or do katas at 6 pm when I had been see beyond next week. I became able to see drinking since 2:30 in he afternoon. Eventual- a real future: college, career, relationships, ly, morning and lunch drinking made the first and a real existence. I graduated from high half of the school day seem futile. school in June 2002, two weeks before my READY FOR MOVE-IN 443.338.6212 I became a black-out drinker in six 18th birthday and four weeks before cele- FALL 2020 RolandParkPlace.org months. If an entire day didn’t escape me, I brating one year of continuous sobriety. The would have glimpses of bartering my body Phoenix program was able to use my primary to drink or drug. My mom tried to nurse me high school for my diploma, so I was able to Pending final approval from Maryland Department of Aging out from each binge. I desperately wanted to apply for colleges and jobs without my past

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 quality of life // Health and Wellness Thinking OUTloud

port services that contribute to those spac- (Love) Letter to Mayor Pete es, such as access to inclusive health- The In care, affordable housing, age-appropriate By Ron Blake just me; but for all the LGBTQ people be- and non-discriminatory education, and more. Here’s a letter to Mayor Pete. This is kind fore you who never got their chance as It also calls for more families of origin to of like the letter that outgoing presidents candidates because of struggles with sex- Out show up for their LGBTQ kids, because leave behind in the Oval Office for the in- ual orientation. Andre Shakti hell, safe spaces should start in the home. coming commander-in-chief. It’s advice As your campaign moves forward, you Instead we’re still seeing families rejecting from a guy who has a shared experience will be challenged to fight by more people their vulnerable queer children, with many with you. along the trail. They won’t care about the of those children subsequently never mak- I also grew up in northern issues. Just that you are gay. There will be On Your Terms ing it to the age you are now, reader. It’s Indiana and gradu- many moments to a tragically overlooked national epidemic. ated high school as fight back. Dear Andre, Regardless of our sexual orientation, the All-American guy But please I’m a trans femme punk girl in her we all deserve elders to guide us and hold with good grades, don’t. Anger and mid-twenties and I desperately need some us along our journey. However, queer folks scholarships, and a hate begets anger advice. I came out as trans at home when (and marginalized people in general) are gregarious personal- and hate. We have I was 17 and my parents promptly kicked more often put in a position to cultivate ity. I attended the lo- too much of that al- me out of the house. After being homeless alternative support networks than their cal Catholic Church ready. for over a year I finally found work, a room heterosexual counterparts. Whatever you and was active in God knows so to rent, and the beginnings of stability. wish to call them – mentors, elders, chosen the youth group. I many of us in the Along the way I had the benefit of forming family – their role is to fill the void where returned from col- LGBTQ community a close platonic relationship with an older acceptance, guidance, and unconditional lege and was quickly want so badly to see trans woman who basically acted as my love should have been provided. I’m so elected to my home- you in fight mode. town city council. Pete Buttigieg – We have faced an surrogate mom and definitely saved my glad that you were introduced to your very running for prez, My family and friends were so abundance of abuse over life on more than one occasion. She’s an own guiding light and that they’ve proved openly gay mayor of elder in the community and a mentor. Now critical to your evolution and ongoing suc- proud. I was on my way and was South Bend, Indiana so many decades and cen- my biological mom is reaching out want- cess. I hope you two continue to hold onto prepared to do what I had always turies. Beatings, bullying, ing to reignite a relationship with me and one another. imagined doing. A life of public service to and discrimination. It’s only normal to want she’s insisting on meeting my surrogate It’s also good to hear that you’re feel- my community and country. you to punch back. mom, but I don’t know if it’s a good idea. ing healthy, happy and stabilized enough But in 2004, I withdrew my candidacy But please don’t. Stay focused on the Thoughts? to consider the possibility of reintegrat- for county commissioner. I had a big se- issues. Society is better when we don’t Sincerely, ing your biological mom back into your cret. I am gay. And I was confronted about give in to hate. Raven B. life. However, no matter how sincerely that. Most of Indiana and the country Over 72 years ago, Jackie Robinson repentant your biological mother may be wasn’t okay with gays in public office back was the first black player in major league Dear Raven, (and I’m being generous here), she has then. I was crushed and confused about baseball to take the field. There was in- Before we go any no right to make my identity. My career was put on hold. tense opposition to him being in the game. further, let me first say any demands of And now 15 years later is where you Jackie Robinson eventually won over how sorry I am to hear you. Instead, you come in Mayor Pete. Your presidential many fans. He was an excellent ball play- the consequences you should be making campaign brings back memories for not er who helped the Dodgers win numerous were dealt – and sub- demands of her. pennants and a World Series. There’s sequent challenges you As an inde- nothing like talent and results to get people were forced to face – af- pendent adult, to forget over time why they dislike you. ter coming out to your your presence in Just like Jackie, you have so much tal- parents. You deserved your family’s life have had on you. Then consider what you ent and many accomplishments. People better, and your parents is your leverage. would need to hear and/or see from your will see this. You too have the ability to get failed you. The sheer To say your moth- mother in order to move into a place of for- people to forget why they don’t like you. fact that you survived er did you a great giveness and write those actionable items Just keep being you and keep bringing the that trauma and grew a disservice when down as well. Finally, figure out what your results. life for yourself against she abandoned you boundaries are around communicating You have a lot of folks behind you. Not the odds, and at such as an adolescent is with your mother. Do you want to commu- just from the LGBTQ community. Not just from the Democrats. You have all those a young age, speaks credit: an understatement, nicate via email, text, phone, or in person? to your resilient nature and the Iris Yan and there’s no way to undo the Are there certain topics you want to avoid individuals who want to see the guy with strength of character. You’re to- damage she inflicted. As some- discussing? What kind of care might you knowledge and skills overcome hate and tally my new superheroine! one who cut ties with her biological need in your support networks before or anger. The true underdog story. That…that Moving on, I cannot overstate the im- family three years ago and only recently after interfacing with your mother? Once right there…is the America we all love. portance of developing surrogate familial cracked the door of communication open you’ve got all of this solidified, then loop I am reminded of a quote from the in- relationships in a queer person’s life. Our to her own mother, I cannot stress this your mother in. If she pushes back on your comparable artist Frida Kahlo. She said, “I culture has shifted forward enough that enough: Any attempted reconciliation – requirements, tries to guilt or coerce you, never paint dreams or nightmares. I paint LGBTQ folks are coming out more readily which you are in no way obligated to par- disrespects one of your boundaries, insists my own reality.” So that’s where I will leave t than ever, which means we’re looking at a ticipate in, by the way – needs to be on on misgendering or dead naming you, etc, it Mayor Pete. Keep on painting. larger concentration of openly queer youth your terms and your terms only. you simply pull your presence back. Be The author invites readers to reach him than we’ve seen before. This calls for a If I were you, I’d take some time to kind to yourself throughout, and remem- at [email protected]. dramatic increase in safe spaces for queer create a list of your mother’s past discre- ber, you don’t owe her a thing. Best of luck youth as well as an increase in the sup- tions and the direct consequences they to you! t 16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com SPIRITUAL DIRECTORY Baltimore Ethical Society Govans Presbyterian Church (Love) Letter to Mayor Pete 2521 Saint Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 5828 York Road. Summer Schedule [email protected] Baltimore MD 21212 Worship, Sunday at 10 a.m. baltimoreethicalsociety.org 410-435-9188. govanspres.org

Bolton Street Synagogue Interfaith Fairness Christian Education classes 212 West Coldspring Lane Coalition of MD resume after Labor Day Baltimore, MD 21210 P.O. Box 13132 410-235-5354. boltonstreet.org Baltimore MD 21203 browndowntown.org 410-233-5555. ifcmd.org 1316 Park Ave., Balt., MD, 21217 Brown Memorial Park Avenue 410.523.1542 Presbyterian Church MCC of Baltimore 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 3101 Fallstaff Road Memorial Episcopal Church 䄀䰀䰀䄀刀䔀圀䔀䰀䌀伀䴀䔀 Baltimore MD 21209 1407 Bolton Street 䴀愀猀猀匀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀 443-992-7485. chevreitzedek.org Baltimore MD 21217 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀㔀㨀㌀瀀⸀洀 410-669-0220 匀甀渀搀愀礀㤀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㨀㐀㔀愀⸀洀⸀Ⰰ ㄀㈀㨀㄀㔀瀀⸀洀 Congregation Beit Tikvah memorialepiscopal.org 5802 Roland Avenue 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 21210 New Light MCC 410-464-9402. beittikvah.org 40 W. Church Street 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 Hagerstown MD 21740 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 Emmanuel Episcopal Church 301-797-5698 811 Cathedral Street newlightmcc.com 倀愀爀椀猀栀䄀搀洀椀渀椀猀琀爀愀琀漀爀匀攀瘀攀爀渀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀礀氀愀渀搀㈀㄀㄀㐀㐀ⴀ㈀㈀㤀㤀 Baltimore, MD 21201 㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀㐀㄀ ⴀ㤀㘀㤀ⴀ㈀㜀㠀㌀ 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 Baltimore MD 21201-4693 410-728-5545. firstfranklin.org Veritas United Church of Christ First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 22 N Mulberry Street., Suite 113 1 West Hamilton Street. Hagerstown, MD 21740 Baltimore MD 21201 240- 310-6891 410-685-2330. firstunitarian.net veritashagerstown.com

Grace United Methodist Church 5407 North Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21210 410-433-6650. graceunitedmethodist.org

Chevrei Tzedek Congregation 3101 Fallstaﬀ Road, Baltimore, MD 21209 [email protected] www.chevreitzedek.org The Source for the lgbtq community (443) 992-7485 To advertise in our Spiritual directory RABBI RORY KATZ JTS Gladstein Fellow please call 410-802-1310 BaltimoreOutloud.com An informal, Welcoming, Participatory, Conservative Jewish Community

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // personalities

for it to sit. Even though the Imperial Teen band super seriously, but I think we realized that members are living in other places, I Timeless Teen when things are not taken that seriously think many people still associate the By Gregg Shapiro To me, that would be super-flattering. and we are ourselves, in laughter and band with San Francisco. With that in Imperial Teen delivers on the promise of I’m a big fan of The Drums. I don’t see sharing a sense of humor, that works best mind, the new edition of Tales of the the title of the band’s new studio album that as being what The Drums are doing. for us. City is airing on Netflix. Were you a fan Now We Are Timeless (Merge), its first I think they have their own sort of vibe. You mentioned having the women’s of the books and the other TV series and in seven years and its sixth overall. The What they do, I feel like they do really well. voices as part of the band. I love the do you have plans to watch this one? aptly named second It would be flattering to assume that way that Lynn Perko-Truell and Jone For sure I’ll watch the new series. I track, “We Do What We other people are trying to emulate Stebbins are featured in the lead on love the books and I’m a big fan. It’s kind Do Best,” almost says it An interview what we’re doing. Checking myself, “The Girl.” How did that come about? of an interesting perspective for us. We all all when it comes to the with Roddy I don’t think I really see it that much. That’s an interesting one. We had lived in San Francisco in the 80s. I moved ten tracks on the album. What we lead with is girls and guys a different recording of that song. Will up there in There are synthesiz- Bottum of singing together and pop harmonies. (Schwartz) and I pretty ers, danceable beats, It’s also sort of a pride thing. I would a variety of vocal har- Imperial Teen hope that we’re creating something monies, and a blend of that’s not replicable. humorous and serious How would you describe the messages. The current evolution of Imperial Teen’s song- running through the irresistible opener “I writing process over the course of the Think That’s Everything” is au courant. almost 25 years since the band’s 1996 “Walkaway” arrives on a sexy dance-pop debut album Seasick was released? strut, while “Parade” marches boldly for- Of all things in the band that have ward, and “Somebody Like Me” is one of changed, and all things that have remained the prettiest songs in Imperial Teen’s arse- constant, I think the songwriting has pretty nal. Roddy Bottum, one of Imperial Teen’s much remained the same. I think we work two gay male members, was good enough best, and as a testament to who and what to answer a few questions shortly before we are as a band, when we all four of us the album was released in the summer of work together. We get our best results 2019. when we sit down in a room together and Imperial Roddy, I’d like to begin by come up with things and Teen talking about “Timeless,” the everyone’s voice is last song on the album and the heard. It’s difficult 1981. At that one from which the album gets where we’ve come point it was such a crazy, different city. its title Now We Are Timeless. to at this point in the much write the lyrics for the songs. The Maupin series takes place even be- What can you tell me about game because we all That’s what the two of us do together. We fore that. At this time, it’s a bygone era. the message of that song? live in different cit- had written that song and Will recorded a San Francisco now is crazy. There are el- Roddy Bottum: We’re a ies. Getting together vocal take with the lyrics that we wrote. ements that are there that we still love, but band that’s been together for and creating music Lynn, I think, was not particularly crazy it’s changed into more of a tech, expen- more than 20 years. It feels takes a lot. I think we about the lyrics. She didn’t like what was sive, and different lifestyle place. When we like we’re at a time in all of our all recognize that do- being said. We said, as a challenge to her, were there, I lived in a beautiful Victorian lives where we’re older people. ing it together, phys- “Then write some other lyrics.” Kind of in flat with six friends in the Mission and I The question of pertinence and ically creating in the a pissy way [laughs]. She and Jone did, paid $160 rent. We would eat $2 burritos what we were doing when we same room is always and we collaborated a little bit, but it was every day. It was a crazy mix of weird gay jumped into the process of re- Roddy what rules as the best coming more from the women’s perspec- people and strange artists and people who cording a record came up. (About) how Bottum possible mode for us. tive. That’s how the two them singing that were into leather and hippies and punks. relevant we felt. The answer to that was To my ears, one of the most song came about. It was a crazy collision of a lot of differ- very relevant! It came up in a global constant elements of Imperial Speaking of Lynn and Jone, is that ent cultures. I don’t find it that way in San sense, where the world is now, as far Teen is the band’s sense of hu- them on the phone conversation re- Francisco so much these days. So it’s alas global warming and how we exist as a mor. How important do you think it is to cording heard on “Ha”? ways nice to see something like Tales of world and how long we as a world will ex- maintain that in the band’s songs? No, that’s my friend Susie, from Los the City that comes up and reflects back ist. When we were making music and cre- I think it’s super im- Angeles. She was going though a on a time when we were there. ating songs for this record, it felt like we portant. We, as a group, hard time. Finally, is there a possibility of an were doing something that would survive have a really good time. We were in Imperial Teen tour? elements of time. We have a good rapport the studio and Yes. As of now, we’ve just planned a I have a friend who says that “Imi- with each other. One of she left that few shows – one in New York, one at our tation is the laziest form of flattery,” the things that rides high message. I record label Merge’s 30th anniversary in but whenever I listen to the band The in our gatherings and was listening North Carolina and a show in San Francis- Drums, I think that they are honoring times together is laughs to it when we co and a show in Los Angeles. I’m pretty Imperial Teen by emulating you and the and what we find fun- were mixing sure we’ve booked the Folsom Street Fair band. In any case, what does it mean to ny; our perspective on that song and in San Francisco in September. That’s all t you to have another band following in things. I think at one I felt like it was we’ve planned so far. Imperial Teen’s footsteps? point we took ourselves a good place

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // QMUSIC

leased in time to co- Ernie lets containing Big Blasts from incide with the latest Kovacs new essays edition in the Shaft and artwork. spawned seven (!) hit singles, including movie series, we Perhaps best “Nasty,” “What Have You Done for Me Late- have the double-disc known for its ly,” “When I Think of You,” “The Pleasure expanded reissue of soundtrack work the Past Principle” and “Let’s Wait a While,” estab- Shaft – Music from (the 1981 James By Gregg Shapiro lishing Jackson as a preeminent pop artist. the Soundtrack: Caan vehicle Known for his unique comedic style and The massive success of country cross- Composed and Thief and a pair innovative TV shows, Ernie Kovacs’ influ- over acts in the 21st century owe a consid- Performed by Isaac of Tom Cruise ence lived on long after his un- erable debt to Glen Campbell. His Hayes (Craft Re- flicks – 1984’s timely death at 42 following an brilliant 1967 albums, Gentle on My cordings / Enter- Risky Business automobile accident in 1962. To The Mind and By the Time I Get to Phoe- prise). The first disc and 1985’s Leg- commemorate the Kovacs cen- nix, went a long way in changing features the original end), Tangerine tenary, Kovacs’ Grammy-nomi- deathless the way people thought about coun- soundtrack, includ- Dream can also nated album has been reissued try-western music. Additionally, his ing the Academy lay claim to lay- on CD for the first time in an 1960s collaboration with songwriter Jimmy Award-winning smash hit theme song as ing the ground- expanded version as The Ernie Kovacs Al- Webb not only created a lifelong friendship well as nearly 20-minute version of “Do work for the genre that would come to be bum: Centennial Edition (Ominvore), fea- and creative partnership but gave Webb a Your Thing.” The second disc contains 22 known as ambient music. 1974’s Phaedra turing six bonus tracks. A compilation con- career boost. Originally released as a box tracks from the film score. (Virgin/UMC) and 1975’s Rubycon (Virgin/ sisting of “bits and pieces of Kovacs’ World set in 2003, the repackaged and expanded When it comes to pioneering German UMC), the first two, and best, of the reis- of Kraziness,” the album functions as both a four-disc compilation The Legacy [1961- electronic music bands from the 1970s, sues sonically illustrate Tangerine Dream’s worthwhile introduction for newcomers and 2017] (Capitol / UMe) includes the essen- Kraftwerk is probably the first one that impressive abilities, with the songs “Move- a pleasant reminder for those already famil- tial hits from the 1960s (such as “Wichita comes to mind. But you shouldn’t forget ments of a Visionary” (from Phaedra) and iar with Kovacs’ substantial talents. Lineman,” “Galveston,” and “Try a Little about Tangerine Dream. To guarantee that the prog-rock epic “Rubycon: Part 1” (from As innovative and influential artists who Kindness”) and 1970s (such as “Rhinestone you won’t, Tangerine Dream’s mid-to-late Rubycon). Others in the Virgin / UMC series died too soon go, Prince ranks high on that Cowboy” and “Southern Nights”), as well 1970s catalog has been reissued in newly include the live albums Ricochet and En- list. Therefore, who can fault the folks at the as some of Campbell’s musical collabora- remastered and expanded CD renderings core, as well as the studio discs Stratos- t Prince estate, Warner Brothers Records, tions with Bobbie Gentry and Anne Murray. featuring Steven Wilson remixes and book- fear, Cyclone and Force Majeure. and NPG Records for wanting to do some Additionally, the collection now includes a vault-raiding, especially when the results number of Campbell’s recordings from his are as revelatory as 2018’s stripped-down late-career comeback which began in 2008, MAY 22 - JULY 28 Piano and a Microphone 1983 and 2019’s a few years before his passing in 2017. exhilarating Originals (WB / NPG). The 14 It may be difficult to reconcile, but singer previously unreleased Prince recordings on / songwriter Steve Goodman (“City of New Originals are songs written by the revolu- Orleans”) has been gone almost as long as tionary musician and recorded by others, he was alive. Emerging from the Chicago some of which went on to become hits. folk music scene that gave us John Prine Hearing Prince’s versions of songs such and Bonnie Koloc, Goodman made a last- as “Manic Monday” (The Bangles), “Jungle ing impression in a short period of time. Ex- Love” (The Time), “The Glamorous Life,” panded reissues of 1983’s patchwork live and “Noon Rendezvous” (Sheila E.) and compilation Artistic Hair (Omnivore) and “Nothing Compares 2 U” (The Family and 1984’s live and studio recordings disc Af- Sinead O’Connor), breathes new life into fordable Art (Omnivore) remind us not only the familiar numbers and it’s almost like of Goodman’s originality (and his dazzling hearing them for the first time. sense of humor) but also of tragedy of losing The Minneapolis sound that became someone so gifted. LGBTQ listeners should Prince’s stock-in-trade sometimes spilled pay close attention to Goodman’s cover of 410-730-8311 over into the work of others, including Jan- Mike Smith’s “Wonderful World of Sex” and TobysDinnerTheatre.com Due to the nature of theatrical bookings, et Jackson, the sister of Prince’s biggest as well as Goodman’s own “Men Who Love all shows and dates are subject to change. competition in the 1980s. For her ground- Women Who Love Men” (originally found on breaking third album Control (A&M / UMe), 1978’s High and Outside), two bonus tracks newly reissued on vinyl and available in on Artistic Hair that are insightful and sensi- black or translucent red, Jackson teamed tive songs that show Goodman as an artist up with Minneapolis producers Jimmy Jam who was ahead of his time. and Terry Lewis, who were previously mem- Can you dig it? When Isaac Hayes bers of The Time, a band led by Morris Day won the Oscar for Best Original Song for and under the guidance of Prince. With “Theme From Shaft” he forever changed Control, Jackson made her ultimate artistic the category, paving the way for future wins statement, beginning with the title track in by songs including “Glory” (from Selma), which she declared her independence, mu- “Last Dance” (from Thank God It’s Friday), sically and personally. A truly remarkable “Lose Yourself (from 8 Mile), and “Streets AUGUST 1 - SEPTEMBER 8 feat, the Grammy-winning nine-track album of Philadelphia” (from Philadelphia). Re- BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 Lively Arts // BETWEEN THE COVERS

with his mother, and how she Mormonism in “American popular media,” came around to acceptance including Sister Wives, Big Love, and the After Stonewall after meeting his friends. Broadway musical The Book of Mormon, as Distasterama! Ad- well as gay filmmaker C. Jay Cox’s under ventures in the Queer appreciated feature-length debut Latter Days After the parade Underground 1977-1997 (co-starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt). (Due out settle down with a (Three Rooms Press, in September.) Reading List 2019) is writer / musi- Pages for all ages – In To Night Owl By Gregg Shapiro involving sex, travel, cian / exotic dancer Alvin From Dogfish (Dial / Dutton, 2019), Meg Stonewall 50 celebrations may have come politics and the dangers book Orloff’s memoir of life Wolitzer (who created an unforgettable gay and gone, but that doesn’t mean that there of life in this part of the amongst San Francisco’s character in her 2013 novel The Interestings) isn’t an abundance of good LGBTQ reading century. (Due out in queer alternative scene teams up with Holly Goldberg Sloan for a to be found to take you through the summer November.) during the zenith of the AIDS crisis, follow- young-adult novel told via emails and letters, and into the fall. All titles are out now unless The 43 poems in Aviva-No (Alice James ing his odyssey from the city’s suburbs to the a correspondence between Avery and Bett, otherwise indicated Books, 2019) by Israeli writer Shimon Adaf post-Stonewall into the “lavender twilit shad- daughters of gay dads who have fallen in love Poetry pages – According to gay poet (translated from Hebrew by Yael Segalovitz) ow world of the gay ghetto” and beyond. (Due with each other. Aaron Smith In The Book of Daniel (Univer- mirror the age that Adaf’s sister Aviva out in October.) Based on a series of Facebook posts that sity of Pittsburgh Press, 2019), he needs his was when she died at 43, and are a Legendary music journal- originated in 2013, St Sukie’s Strange Gar- Frank O’Hara and Denise Duhamel (among potent reflection of grief and loss, in- ist and NYU professor Vivien den of Woodland Creatures (Rattling Good other poets), and he certainly gets them in corporating “biblical, Talmudic, and Goldman returns with Re- Yarns Press, 2019) by St Sukie de la Croix, this 47 poem collection that merges pop cul- Rabbinic intertextualities.” (Due out in venge of the She-Punks: A with drawings by Roy Alton Wald, compiles ture references and sensibility with his own November.) Feminist Music History from and expands on the original text with delirious personal and political struggles for an intoxi- Screen and stage pages – Poly Styrene to Pussy Riot results, enhanced by Wood’s artwork. cating concoction. (Due out in October.) Dustin Lance Black, the Oscar-win- (University of Texas Press, If you, or any of the little ones in your life, The fourth book in gay poet Tommy Pi- ning screenwriter of Milk, turns his 2019), which opens with the au- somehow managed to miss the Stonewall 50 co’s Teebs tetralogy, Feed (Tin House Books, pen to his mother and himself in his thor’s “Womanifesto” and con- commemorations, you can read all about it in 2019) is an appetizing love letter addressed memoir Mama’s Boy: A Story from tinues with interviews, as well as the official Who HQ book What Was Stone- to the “dear reader” (who is “easy to love but Our America (Knopf, 2019) in which historical and personal perspec- wall? (Penguin Workshop, 2019) by Nico hard to get close to”) that employs heart and he writes about his conservative religious tive. Goldman includes a wide swath Medina with illustrations by Jake Murray. humor and hunger to spell out its messages upbringing (Mormon) and his relationship of queer acts including “Le Tigre,” “Tribe 8,” Set in 1973, Ziggy, Stardust and Me “Sleater-Kinney,” and “Girl in a Coma,” to (Putnam, 2019), the debut novel by gay actor mention a few. / filmmaker / activist James Branden, imag- Featuring essays by queer artists such ines what it was like to be the boy, in this case as Joan Jett, Allison Wolfe, and Tara Jane 16-year-old David Bowie-obsessed Jonathan, O’Neil, among others, Frame of Mind: Punk who changed the mind of his psychiatrist, Dr. Photos and Essays from Washington, DC, Evelyn in the book, regarding homosexuali- and Beyond, 1997-2017 (Akashic Books, ty’s classification as a mental illness. Disney's Aladdin Jr. 2019) is a cool coffee table book by Antonia Like a Love Story (Balzer & Bray, 2019), JULY 6–9; Lecture Hall Tricarico, containing pics of The Gossip, The a “bighearted and sprawling epic” by Abdi Julie Ruin, and many others. Nazemian, is set in NYC in 1989, and follows Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. is presented Published to coincide with the 25th an- three teenagers – Reza, Judy and Art – as through special arrangement with niversary of the beloved 90s NBC sitcom they navigate a world in which being gay is Music Theatre International (MTI). Friends, Saul Austerlitz’s Generation tangled up with the specter of AIDS, and how All authorized performance Friends: An Inside Look at the Show That love and friendship come into play on their materials are also supplied by MTI. Defined a Television Era (Dutton) is the ul- journeys. timate peek behind the scenes into the cre- The titular character of Zenobia July (Vi- Fri, July 19 - Sun, July 21 ation and execution of the series that broke king, 2019) by young-adult novelist (and New new ground with its inclusion of a lesbian Hampshire’s first transgender state repre- wedding and other LGBTQ-related storylines. sentative) Lisa Bunker is a transgender tech (Due out in September.) whiz coming out of her online shell, as well Almost biblical in scope, Jeanine as finally living openly as a girl, who hasa Basinger’s encyclopedic The Movie Musi- chance to confront an online troll. But at what cal (Knopf, 2019) has the benefit of being personal cost? written by someone who “was raised on mu- Part of the “Ordinary People Change the sicals” and loves them. Basinger describes World” series, I am Billie Jean King (Dial the book as her “effort” to relate the story of Books for Young Readers, 2019) by Brad Sat, July 20 - Sun, July 21 the genre “from then to now,” from “the arriv- Meltzer with illustrations by Christopher al of sound” to the most recent version of “A Eliopoulos tells the true story of one of the Star is Born.” (Due out in November.) world’s best tennis players (and LGBTQ ac- 7201 Rossville Blvd. Speaking of bibles and movies, in Lat- tivists), from childhood to championship. And ter-day Screens: Gender, Sexuality, and King herself loves the book! t 443-840-ARTS(2787) • ccbcmd.edu/arts Mediated Mormonism (Duke University Press, 2019) by Brenda R. Weber takes a look at the pervasiveness of Mormons and 20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com NEW EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY! New outdoor resort opening this summer located north of Get ready! It’s the most unique, furtastical event of the year -- Romney, Hampshire Co. West Virginia. DOGFEST WALK & FESTIVAL! We need the following positions filled within the next four Pet lovers, pet owners, kids, and pets – this is THE day for you. to six weeks. Many of these positions will be year round! It’s a dog day extravaganza lled with tons of activities for both humans and dogs. You don’t need a dog to love DogFest. Restaurant: Bakers, Bartenders, Bar-backs, Bus & cleaning staff, Dish/Pot washers, Food prep & Line cooks, Saturday, September 21st , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Floor managers, Host & Wait staff. Baltimore Humane Society, 1601 Nicodemus Rd. Outside Help: Activities attendant, Groundskeepers, Reisterstown, MD 21136 Horse tenders, Facility maintenance staff. $10 & Kids under 12 free when purchased online; $15 at the door & Please complete the job application at the following link $10/kids 6-12; Kids age 5 and Under and Dogs ALWAYS FREE and we will get back to you! Free Parking https://rainbowcountryresorts.com/job-application For tickets, walk registration, and more: Come grow with us!!! http://dogfest.org [email protected] Tel: 410-833-8848 ext. 202

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including: BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including: } Worsening of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have } Those in the “Most Important Information About both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if BIKTARVY” section. you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY } Changes in your immune system. Your immune system without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections. Tell your will need to check your health regularly for several months. healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. ABOUT BIKTARVY } Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. It can either be used in they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose } Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.HIV-1 is the virus symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual that causes AIDS. muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. that contains: } Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. } dofetilide Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these } rifampin symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, } any other medicines to treat HIV-1 dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY } The most common side eects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). Tell your healthcare provider if you: These are not all the possible side eects of BIKTARVY. } Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any hepatitis infection. new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. } Have any other health problems. You are encouraged to report negative side eects of } Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare or call 1-800-FDA-1088. KEEP provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your } Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY. breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines PUSHING. you take: Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food. } Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter GET MORE INFORMATION Because HIV doesn’t change who you are. medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider } This is only a brief summary of important information about and pharmacist. BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat } BIKTARVY and other medicines may aect each other. Ask } HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take } If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. To learn more, BIKTARVY with all your other medicines. for program information. visit BIKTARVY.com.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP PUSHING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important MyDailyCharge.com Version date: December 2018 © 2019 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0103 02/19 warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_9-875x9-6_BaltimoreOUTloud_KeepPushing2_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 3/4/19 12:15 PM IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_9-875x9-6_BaltimoreOUTloud_KeepPushing2_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 3/4/19 12:15 PM people in our neighborhood

he loved it.” “Steve and I began working together on projects that really impact people’s lives. Miracle on this as a result of the Freddy Gray riots,” It truly focused on community engagement Cheatham says. “My neighborhood was hit and focused on changing the community —continued from page 1 hard – we are the Matthew Henson East- from the inside-out and not the outside-in.” timore as this ‘jewel in the rough’ and a erwood community, and even the elected Cheatham summed how the work of he place that was overlooked. I moved there McKean officials that were supposed to represent and Preston helped to ripple throughout because I thought I could and wanted to us during the riots didn’t know where it the community for positive change. “We make a positive change after seeing years you think of them as family. If we take unity is. We thought, how can we help our res- are all going to have different experiences of people turning their backs on the city.” to the next level – we think family. Most idents? We lived in a ‘food desert’ where and differences – not just by color, gender, After joining Parks & People about five of us should be conducting ourselves as we had no place to buy anything. Even and all those things. We have to find ways years ago, Preston had been part of doz- a family – even with the differences we small things like toilet paper and food. I to work together, and I think that’s what ens of projects around Baltimore, involving have.” kept having these dreams about building important. That’s how Steve and I bond- both existing parks and new ones. It was Preston continued, “Parks & Peo- a park where there were boarded-up housed – we are different individuals and from in the process of creating a new park that ple was invited into the community, and I es. I shared my ideas and dreams with different communities. But we found it im- Preston was introduced to Cheatham. Bal- heard ‘Doc’ [Cheatham] speak about his the governor, the lieutenant governor, and perative that we have to work together and timore-native Cheatham is the president of desire to do something positive in his com- their people. I had no expertise in writing find ways to help other people – folks of all the Matthew Henson Neighborhood Asso- munity. Our former CEO pulled me in and it up, and I reached out to Parks & People ethnicities came to both of us. Steven was ciation, as well as CEO of the non-profit said, ‘Why don’t we go meet him?’.” Pres- and they gave me my ‘brother from another the expert and I’m the community member Matthew Henson Community Develop- ton added, “I vividly remember that we met mother’ – Steve Preston.” and together we created this positive en- ment Corporation. Cheatham’s communi- on October 5th, 2016 – my birthday – and It was exactly six months from the vironment.” Cheatham added that people ty leadership and service speaks for itself we went to a site with ‘Doc’ and he told day the sketch was finalized that the park from Maryland and all over have come to throughout Baltimore City. me exactly what he wanted. He laid it out opened in April 2017. Preston explained, see what was created with this park. “Peo- “Community to me,” Cheatham be- that these series of vacant lots had been “It really became a celebration point for ple always ask, ‘How did you do this?’ and gan, “if I had to put it in one word, would neglected for decades, a few still with va- that neighborhood. It was hit very hard I have to give credit where credit is due. I be ‘family.’ Community has a connotation cant houses. He said he really wanted a from the Freddy Gray uprising, and it got always sing the praises of Parks & People, of dealing with neighborhoods and people space that would rally the community, a a lot of negative press, which Baltimore but most importantly, my friend, Steven living together, but at the end of the day stage for performances, cherry blossoms often gets. But this was really a rallying Preston. It’s been an honor to continue to it equates to something bigger. You must to highlight the beauty of spring, a space point for a great neighborhood that’s often work with him. At the end of the day mul- act and communicate as a family. You do for kids – and adults, chess tables, etc. A overlooked.” Preston added, “Projects, like tiple communities are benefit from his and things on behalf of the community because week later I came back with a sketch and the one I did with ‘Doc’ are the kinds of my friendship.” t

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24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

Hagerstown mental in our history and culture. Our Hopes goal is to bring the community togeth- Presents er and our hope is that, through learning about those who Hagerstown came before us, we can better under- Pride 2019! stand our place in the world and how far we as a communi- This year we will also be carrying lim- by Brian George Hose ty have come during the last half century. ited edition Pride t-shirts with our “Love Happy Pride from all of us at Hagerstown You can expect to learn more about well- Grows” logo. Shirts are available in sizes Hopes! As you may know, 2019 commem- known figures, as well as the many unsung small to XXXL and quantities are limited. orates the 50th anniversary of the Stone- heroes of our community. We hope you’ll All sizes are available for $20, though wall Riots. It was the Stonewall Riots that enjoy the exhibit and gain a better appreci- our volunteers will receive a free t-shirt in artist and owner of Luckee Studios, Suzee began our community’s long journey to ation and understanding of our community! thanks for their service and support. We’re Cline-White, will be supplying materials where we are today. Along the way we We’re also pleased to announce our always looking for volunteers, so sign up and instruction to make your own Rain- fought, and won, battles for equal- headliner for Hager- today and claim your very own t-shirt, on bow Sky painting. Your $30 ticket includes stown Pride – Maya us. We appreciate our volunteers and want a 16x20 canvas, supplies, and a dollar off Montana, former them to be able to enjoy Pride, so we’re your first specialty drink of the night. This Miss Gay Maryland only asking for a two-hour and 15-minute event is open to those 21-plus and will be and Miss Gay Amer- commitment. We can never have too many followed by karaoke, dancing, and drag ica, will be joining volunteers, so please sign up today! shows beginning at 8 pm. Come join us Butch Kelly and Hopefully by now you’re excited about and get into the Pride spirit! Chasity Vain, King Hagerstown Pride! To make the wait eas- As always, follow us on Facebook or and Queen of Hag- ier, we’ve added a new Pride event. Join visit us at HagerstownHopesMD.org to erstown Pride, and us at The Lodge on Wednesday July 10th learn about what we’re working on. We look your favorite local at 6:30 pm for our first paint night! Local forward to seeing you! Happy Pride! t talent to deliver memorable performances all day long. Hagerstown Hopes president Jeff Rohrer shared with us how excited Maya is to be invited to headline Hagerstown Pride, adding that “She is a great human being that will be a great asset to our Pride.” We hope you’ll join us in welcoming Maya Montana Maya Montana back to ity and civil – former Miss Maryland, both at Hagerstown rights. Every member of our com- Gay Maryland Pride and at The Lodge for the and Miss Gay munity has a different relationship to Pride Party. America these events. Some were pioneers, Hagerstown Pride is a leading the movement; others were born free, family-friendly event. We’ve been into a more progressive, accepting world working with Beacon House to create a created by those who came before them. It Kid Zone, complete with activities and art is our history and culture that connects us, projects for kids. Keeping with our “Love and that’s cause for Pride and celebration! Grows” theme, we will be supplying young- For Hagerstown Pride, to be held in sters with materials to make their very own the central parking on July 13th, we chose special Pride leaves to be displayed for “Love Grows” as our theme. In honor of the community to see. We look forward to the Stonewall Riots, we will be displaying seeing what they’ll come up with! We’ve poster-size photographs and biographies got more fun activities for young people, of LGBTQ pioneers who have been instru- so please stay tuned for more information.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 out in the valley

Having been on the working side of Pride, I can also say that I’m always pleas- antly surprised by how many people are Brian’s representing organizations and contributing to the community. In the past month Brain I’ve learned about small grassroots organi- Brian George Hose zations that are active in the arts, connect people with resources, and provide services directly to the community. Because most of these organizations are new (or The Perks of small), I never would have learned about them if I hadn’t run into them at Pride. Let Pride me tell you, there’s so much more going on in our community than you think, and that’s This seems to be the year of Pride. Over a great thing. the last few years we’ve been seeing more Pride is also a great chance to network. and more small towns and communities After all, Pride is traditionally the biggest celebrating Pride. Only a few years ago LGBTQ event of the year and lots of peo- it seems that only major cities celebrat- ple come out (pun intended) to support the ed Pride; now, Pride is everywhere, and community and find out what’s going on. I couldn’t be happier about that. Every This makes it a great opportunity to meet town has its own personality, made up of other like-minded individuals who other- all the folks who call it home. This means wise would have flown under our radar. that every Pride is different and is a reflec- I was recently introduced to a lo- tion of the wants and cal composer and needs of the commu- musician by a nity. Having attended friend who knows several Prides al- I’m working on ready this year (with arts outreach more to come), I’m for Hagerstown happy to say that Hopes. The po- each Pride has had lite introductions something for every- quickly turned one. To me, this says into a conversa- that more and more tion about harp- members of our com- sichords, which munity (and our allies) is admittedly a are stepping up to niche topic of make positive changes conversation. in their communities. As a former pianist, my interest was For me, that’s what Pride is about: piqued and I quickly realized that this was community. There are some great parties a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Finding and entertainment, along with vendors of a harpsichord is like finding a unicorn – all kinds, and they’re all there to support, it just doesn’t happen. Now I have a new build, and strengthen our community. Af- friend with whom I’ve played some chal- ter all, none of that would exist or happen lenging piano duets, original compositions, if there wasn’t a community to celebrate. and, yes, I’ve finally gotten to play a harp- Everything about Pride is meant to support sichord. Another item from my bucket list and bring people together. To me, that’s a has been checked off, and it wouldn’t have beautiful thing. happened if I hadn’t gone to Pride. Pride is also a chance to meet new This random occurrence may seem in- people. Here in rural Western Maryland, significant, but it means everything to me. it’s not uncommon to know people through I love knowing that there are other music social media that we’ve never met in per- nerds in my own backyard and somehow son. Pride brings us all together in a safe, that makes my world a little bigger and a lot affirming place that allows us to form, brighter. It also reminds me that there are strengthen, and build new relationships. others like me and that I have access to a I also love seeing casual acquaintances whole community that I otherwise wouldn’t expressing themselves in ways I’ve nev- have known about. If this is what Pride can er seen. After all, we can’t always fully do for me, what can it do for you? This express ourselves at work, which means Pride season, I hope you find out. t really seeing who someone is presents an opportunity to connect on a deeper level.

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley

I look in clothes, and even what clothes I Nyet! choose to wear are blissfully gone from my are we like this? Why does it have to be mind. And I forget what it feels like, until so hard? Asher’s it’s 90 degrees outside, and I’m begging Those among us who have hidden in World my wife to wear shorts so she’s not melt- Parenting the closet know how it feels. You wait for Asher Kennedy ing. OUTloud someone to figure out your secret. You go We’ve been together for 11 years, and through life pretending to be one person Rev. Kelly Crenshaw outside of the beach or a swimming pool, in public, knowing that you’re someone How Lizzo is my wife only wears pants outside. The else in private. When someone confronts summer humidity is no joke, and while you with the truth, you lie. “That’s not me. I Bringing More teenage me refused to wear anything oth- don’t know what gave you that idea.” er than black (and thick industrial-goth Why Are We It all stems from our fear of rejection black at that) I still had shorts for the most and what that might actually mean. We than an Award sweltering of days. The fact that I wait until want our parents to love us. We don’t want the last absolute minute to throw my cot- Like This? to be alone. We want to know that some- klShow’s House ton-blended breathable khakis on before one is there when life gets too tough to heading to work each day is a testament to My young friend came out to his parents handle. So, the closet it is. Down how hard I’ve tried to get Alli to even buy a today. It was his own Independence Day. If you are already a parent, please look pair of shorts. He sat them down and told them in no un- at your children and think about what might My wife and I watched Lizzo’s performance Last year, when we went to Pride with certain terms. His mother cried. His dad be their Closet Issue. Maybe it has to do from the MTV Movie and TV awards a my best friend, their partner, and sister; was silent. He was scared. with sexuality, but maybe it has to do with combined 30 times this week. My YouTube she let me cut a pair of her old jeans into That scenario plays out in now has a row entitled “Watch Again,” shorts for the trip. She didn’t wear them, so many households. It’s which consists of just that video. I have at but simply owning them in her physical a shame that in this day least a dozen albums that are not a part possession was a big step in a battle that it and time we have to worry of our music subscription’s licensing that both hurts and enrages me that she has to about what people think I enjoy playing along to, and an unhealthy fight. Where she ranks in terms of size and about our sexuality. It’s a and longstanding obsession with The weight amongst myself and the people in shame that our young peo- Lonely Island’s videos, and the only video my life is irrelevant, because people aren’t ple still think they need to that has ever prompted this new category (you know what word) numbers, and our live in a closet. It’s a worse is Lizzo. self-worth should have nothing to do with shame that there are some I love both the homage to Sister Act what those numbers are. When it’s hot, we places where closets still 2: Back in the Habit. Alli is far less a fan should wear whatever we want to wear to keep people safe. of Sister Mary Clarence, and while she not pass out simply going about our lives. Our children should agrees with me on Lizzo’s incredible talent; I’m not talking about dress codes; I’m be able to tell us anything. she keeps watching screaming about They should be able to share a dream job that doesn’t fit with your ex- that video because societal codes their deepest fears and their greatest pectations. Maybe it has to do with a bully she sees herself. that imply big loves. They should be able to talk to us in their life. Maybe it’s none of the above. A fat girl dancing, girls need to cov- about who they are and where they want But, if there are Closet Issues, maybe you and singing, and er up everything their lives to go. They should expect that need to find a way to tell your child how succeeding, and about them- we will celebrate with them when things go much he or she is loved. dressing comfort- selves and be well and cry with them when they struggle. Maybe you already do that. If so, con- ably and happily ashamed. And gratulations to you. Just know that there for her, herself only starve them- “Let’s strive to work are many of our children, teens, and young and bringing down selves into being adults out there who still need some affir- the whole dang sys- able to dress for toward a time when mation. And, even if those children are not tem. Except she’s all-seasons. our children don’t need your own, maybe they need someone they not. Lizzo’s isn’t Seeing Lizzo can trust. tearing down the look so happy to be afraid of being My young friend and his parents are entirely ridiculous, on that stage going to be okay. His mom cried and then hurtful, and blatantly demeaning structure wearing an outfit that my wife wouldn’t themselves.” hugged him, saying that she loves him and that puts big girls on the bottom and has dare wear because it shows that she is supports him and can’t wait to see the man reduced them to being the butt of the joke a human woman with human features However, they should never expect that he will become in his future. His dad didn’t since long before my wife or Lizzo were and shape is why she keeps rewatching. we will be harsh critics or judgmental. say much, but grabbed his son’s hand and born. Yesterday when we went shopping, she Even within our LGBTQ family, there held it for a very long time. This kid got the I wish she was. I wish more than any- paused at the shorts. Maybe this will be are some among us who don’t feel safe family support he needed. He’s feeling bet- thing she was. I do not miss the endlessly the year she buys a pair, maybe it won’t owning themselves publicly. We hear lester, more assured and confident. His situ- toxic cycle that is how we judge women on be. But Lizzo said it herself: “If [she’s] bians who make fun of gay men, gay men ation turned out for the best. Let’s strive to their weight and lose any sense of human shining, everybody gonna shine.” I want who make fun of each other, bisexuals work toward a time when our children don’t respect on how we express our opinions nothing more than my wife to shine like the who are criticized across the spectrum, need to be afraid of being themselves. t on such. I look in the mirror and have non- perfectly wonderful human diamond that and those who only support transgendered trans related body blues by my lack of she is, for herself. t persons when they easily pass in society. sculpted muscles, but my weight and how And, that’s the least of our struggles. Why

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 out in the valley Karen Kendra Holmes: My Journey all made sense. It opened my eyes to “me” The question you may be asking is “Who is me to see a psychiatrist, who later said I en from my life for good by throwing away and forced me to make a decision on the Karen Kendra Holmes?” To start things off, had a chemical imbalance and put me on her clothes yet again, but this time it was most important part of my life, and that is I am an advocate for the transgender com- lithium. After months of using this drug, I over a cliff. About five months later, Karen to be who I really am. I’m not a crossdress- munity. But let me take you back to the time realized this was crap – I was able to get was back in my life. I couldn’t shake Karen er, I am a woman. before I became an advocate for my fellow off that drug by faking everything was okay. loose, it was a consistent battle and she I left that conference like a runaway sisters and brothers in the community. But deep down inside I knew ev- would return with force each time I tried to freight train on a mission. I embraced the I recall as early as erything wasn’t okay. remove her from my life. So I embraced woman I’ve been hiding from for 40 years. After returning home from the awakening 13 years of age when Kate Kendra I was afraid to talk to the fact that I was a crossdresser, but my I started dressing in Holmes and my parents about what soul was still in turmoil. at the conference, my mission to fully be- clothes designed for friend was going on with my It was in June 2010 when the start of come who I was meant to be began. On women. I wasn’t sure dressing because I my life really began. A good friend invited October 1st, 2010, I began living as a why or when I decided didn’t understand it me to the Philadelphia Trans Health Con- woman full-time. On April 8th, 2016, the to do that, but I felt right myself and couldn’t ference. I didn’t know what the conference actual day of my second birth, my transi- within myself to wear find the words to ex- was about, but it sounded like fun – I felt tion from male to female was completed women’s clothing and I plain it. I was con- free to crossdress all weekend. The thought after having sex-reassignment surgery. was more comfortable fused when I was a of that was exhilarating! The first day of the During my transition, my friends and family with myself when I did. young boy and my conference had in attendance about 1,200 were more supportive and understanding For years I purchased confusion contin- transgender people from around the world. than I imagined. I am very thankful to have women’s clothes, shoes, ued as I grew into a I attended the workshops and for the first great friends, great co-workers and the and wigs to dress in. young man. time in my life, I started to understand why most understanding and supportive par- I kept the clothes for a year or so and In my 20s I got married and my wife I was in such turmoil. It made me nervous ents anyone transitioning could have. then packed them up to throw them away, was okay with my dressing, but six months about what I was hearing and now feeling. I’m so much happier now and my soul only to return to dressing as a woman a later she realized that it wasn’t okay and On the second day, I saw young children is at peace. My commitment to support the few months later. I felt awesome and at divorced me. That was my first marriage. who were transgender who were support- transgender community is stronger than peace when I dressed in women’s clothes. My second marriage lasted 18 years, and ed by their parents. This helped me to re- ever because now I’m stronger than ever! t I never talked about my feelings to any- during that time I suppressed Karen and alize that my parents would be supportive Baltimore OUTloud welcomes Karen to one, not even my parents. Later my par- hid her from my wife and her kids. Between and accepting of me being transgender. our family of writers! Watch for new column ents felt something may be wrong and sent marriages I thought I would remove Kar- The third day I was now on fire because it coming in a future issue.

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28 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com 19_LBH_0504_LGBTQ_OutLoud_Ad_Print.indd 1 6/3/19 8:52 AM Quality of life // did you know!?

Is Ptown’s Joe Coffee the Jolt 66 patio seats up from 20 to 25 in years past. It’s a virtual Your ? meat market with no alcohol Dating Life Needs where you can flash a smile, By Kevin Assam munity of Northampton. share a piece of carrot cake, Glenn Siegmund is a Webster, Massachu- We have been friends for 30 years. Me or take a sip of a younger setts, native and former CIO and IT pro- and Mark retired from corporate America, guy or daddy’s latte. It’s the fessional with over 30 years of experience. where we were IT leaders. We are the place to go – on Joe’s sea- Why on earth has he recently acquired same age but four days apart. Peter is the side patio! Grab yourself a Joe Coffee in Provincetown with longtime youngest and still works at a large insur- new or at least a vacation friends Mark Shaw and Peter McBrien? Is ance company as a VP. He supports our spouse. this an elaborate ploy to improve his dating Rose Kennedy and vaping habits. Is Joe Coffee tackling prospects or are they teaming up to bring Is Alexis Glenda your nickname? the affordable housing the most addictive year-round coffee expe- Well sometimes it’s Glenda when I’m crisis in Provincetown as rience to the Cape? Let’s bother him with in a good place. When I’m demanding, it’s it affects the labor pool? delightful questions. Alexis. We are the new owners. Kevin: Do you recall your first queer Who bestowed you with these titles? This is our first season. We experience with coffee? We loved “Dynasty” in its day. Years are focused on this being Glenn Glenn: I was a huge Janet Jackson ago when I was being demanding over our first retail experience Siegmund – fan. She was touting the benefits of cof- cocktails, Mark said “Okay, Alexis!” and and learning and under- purveyor of fee enemas and their ability to expel sad Peter burst out laughing. He commented standing the communi- coffee for sipping or... that I was both Glenda and Alexis. As a ty, labor challenges, and “I was a huge Janet Gemini, I have a good twin and a bad twin. customer needs. We have hired I snapped back, “Mark you are a fake many full-time local residents who already Jackson fan. She was Fallon – nice and sweet but playing peo- have housing but we will engage more in while and am ready to go on a date. Ptown ple behind the scenes. And Peter, you are the community as we grow. is an interesting place. It’s a vacation des- touting the benefits Sammy Jo. Cocktails, cigarettes, and men Will your dating life suffer tremen- tination where people are coming to have of coffee enemas and all night.” dously from Provincetown’s notorious- fun for a week and not fall in love or date. Does the business of coffee change ly demanding season work schedule? But working on Joe’s patio all day should t their ability to expel in a highly seasonal and LGBTQ-centric I hope not. I’ve been single now for a expose me to some hotties. town? Is Joe Coffee doing anything dif- sad cells. I had my first ferent? queer date that same Yes. In a highly seasonal vacation sort of resort town one has to understand the night and decided to visitors’ hopes and vacation needs and the needs of full-time residents and workers. kill two birds with one The main push is the high season. July and stone. I got rid of my August are balls to the wall. The typical line is 20 to 25 people deep all day. We must sad cells and prepped provide an awesome experience for those for my date just in happy faces on vacation while taking care of local friends and coworkers who may be case the chemistry was just as tired as we are. The locals and second-home owners are the ones who keep right. It was euphoric.” us in business the other seven months we are open. They are equally important. cells. I had my first queer date that same Our focus for the 2019 season was to night and decided to kill two birds with one create a friendly experience that provides stone. I got rid of my sad cells and prepped quality coffee and baked goods. Our baked for my date just in case the chemistry was items are all made from scratch in-house right. It was euphoric. Although the next and our coffee beans are roasted weekly in time I stuck with drinking it as half and half smaller batches on Mondays and shipped with added sweetener. It proved messy. to us on Tuesdays. We grind our coffee for Who are the three queers behind the brewing to ensure the highest quality. recently launched Joe Coffee in Prov- I’ve heard Ptown can be a bit de- incetown and how did they get enough pressing if you’re a single gay man time off from work to pursue this ven- who’s already had his bike stolen. Is ture? Joe’s the new playground for meeting a We are Mark, Peter, and Glenn, collec- potential partner? tively known as MPG – Miles Per Gallon. Never leave your bike around town with Our distinctive small-batch locally-roasted the seat off. It’s certain to be stolen in this coffee is sourced from Indigo Roasters, gay man’s playground and parked near the which is owned by “our sisters” in the com- dick dock. But, yes! Joe Coffee now has

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 29 TheThe Quality of life rule in every way. Getting the “A few people” is different than “a cou- ple dozen,” which is way different than DrinkerDrinkeryy Wedding several times more than that. Pop over a You Want hundred and things start to change dra- David Egan matically. Ditto for 200 or more. TheThe LittleLittle CoCorrnerner BarBar withwith aa GreatGreat BigBig HeHeartart!! Details, details, details… Planning for that backyard wedding needs to take into 205 West Read Street “Corner of Read and Park” consideration the condition of the proper- Backyard Blues ty prior to the wedding, what needs to be done to make it just so, what kind of wear- 410-225-3100 • ATM Available Caroline Hax, who writes an advice col- and-tear will result from even the most umn for the Washington Post, recently well-behaved guests’ presence under the answered a question from a bride who best of conditions, and how to restore the wanted to have a “small backyard wedding property to its original condition afterward. with about 75 guests” in her grandmother’s All of those people need to be fed and backyard. The bride thought that such a watered, so the plan needs to include a gathering was no big deal, which is to say food preparation space with all of the prop- that she said that all they would need t Two er equipment available, plus a place to o do is “get some chairs and everything serve all of that food, and of course, trash will work out.” collection and removal. Keeping enough Can you see where this is going? food and drink hot and cold may call for As it happened, the bride’s family was more equipment than is normally present. BALTIMORE’S BEST far more aware of what a wedding for 75 What goes in must come out, so un- guests requires, as well as the impact that less t Two here are several bathrooms an event of that size can have on the prop- available (and even if there are), you’ll erty and the neighborhood. want portable facilities that are inviting The bride didn’t enough to get people HAPPY HOUR like that thinking to use them. It’s a good at all. So, with high Two idea to put those fa- hopes, she appealed cilities far enough away to Caroline Hax to from the ceremony and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. help her stop the fam- eating areas that they ily from complicating aren’t intrusive, but not her “simple backyard so far away that people BESTBEST PRICESPRICES ININ TOWNTOWN wedding.” won’t use them. And, To her eternal of course, downwind. credit, Ms. Hax set Fun fact: I was present the bride straight on a for a backyard wedding number of things, with where the septic sys- parking, peeing, and tem was overrun. We had the pleasure of permission leading a long list of logistical watching the honeypot truck do its work concerns that need to be considered and while we dined al fresco in the Plan B sec- managed. tion of the yard… In a world filled with fantasy visions You’ll want to have tables and chairs, that are reinforced by Pinterest and Insta- of course, and maybe a second set of gram, it’s easy to imagine things happen- chairs for your ceremony. While you can ing magically. We think that everyone will use plastic tablecloths (ick!), or bare tables be light as fairies (and dressed to match!), (double ick!), it’s worth the expense to rent twinkle lights will appear all around us, and or borrow nice cloth table linens. By the that food and drink service just, somehow, way, the time and expense of having bor- happens. We believe that our beautiful- rowed linens professionally cleaned can ly-attired, sweet, and considerate wedding be enough to justify renting, not to men- guests will do all of the things that we want tion the far greater selection of colors, pat- them to do, and none of the things that we terns, and textures available. t BACKBACK ROOMROOM OPENOPEN don’t want to have happen. More on Backyard Blues to come in It’s a lovely fantasy. And so, so, not Part Two (and a happy ending)! grounded in reality. David L. Egan is the proprietor and stew- Size matters – The greater the num- ard of Chase Court, a wedding and event THURSDAY-SUNDAYTHURSDAY-SUNDAY ber of people involved in a thing, the more venue in downtown Baltimore. Visit Cha- complicated the thing is to plan and ex- secourt.com, and follow ChaseCourtWed- ecute, and the greater the impact of the dingVenue on Instagram and Facebook. thing on the venue. Weddings follow this

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Also, on Sunday, July 14th Let’s Go will be celebrating their 20-year anniversary Mr. Virginia Leather Weekend presented Play is presenting another one of their at the Clifton Pleasure Club from 1 to 5 pm. by the Knight Hawks. The Best Western BDSM educational sessions at the Clifton There will be food, fun, frolic, and fundraising. Plus Holiday Sands Inn & Suites in Norfolk Pleasure Club (2803 Grindon Avenue, Bal- August 29th to September 2nd brings is the host hotel. There will be a leather timore). There will be a social hour at 6 pm the popular Master / slave Conference to vendor fair, a jock party, a Sunday brunch, Leather and the presentation starts at 7 pm. Ru- the Westin Tysons Corner in Falls Church, and the Mr. Virginia Leather Contest. De- Line mor has it that Mr. Maryland Leather 2007 Virginia. MsC is the largest gathering of tails can be found at Knighthawksofva. Rodney Burger Sir Steve may be doing a presentation on Masters and slaves and the only fully ed- com. These are just a few of the leather electrical play – talk about things heating ucational event on Master / slave relation- events coming up in July and August. After up! ships. a hot and busy summer in the Mid-Atlantic July 19th is DC Pup Night at the DC Now is the time to make your reserva- leather community, a late September vaca- Things Eagle starting at 8 pm. The Capital Pups tions for September 27th – 29th and the tion sounds like a great idea! t and Handlers are a fun group. There will Are Heating Up! be a puppy moshing and drink specials. The DC Boys of Leather will be at the DC Eagle on Saturday, July 27th starting One would think that the leather communi- at 9 pm for “Red, White, and Blue Balls.” ty takes a break in the summertime. After Throw on your favorite red, white, or blue all, heat and cowhide do not seem like the gear (leather, rubber, jocks, whatever) and best combination. For the many of us who join the fun. On Friday, August 2nd Ms. DC are dedicated members of the leather com- Eagle 2019 Alyssa Durnien and Mid-Atlan- munity the summer months are filled with tic Leather Woman Bootblack 2019 Amy D. just as many events as during any other Phillips and Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman time of the year. In fact, in the Mid-Atlantic 2019 Julie Vanderlee are teaming up for a area the leather calendar bar night at the DC Eagle is just getting heated up! starting at 8 pm. You can How do you turn a Get your also catch the Mid-Atlantic paws on random Wednesday into me! Leather Women on Sun- something special? You day, August 4th from noon hang out with the DC Boys to 4 pm at the Clifton Plea- of Leather. Join them for sure Club for a BBQ and happy hour on Wednes- Art Auction Extravaganza. day, July 10th from 6 to 9 Come out and support at Larry’s Lounge (1840 these amazing leather 18th Street NW, Washing- women. ton, DC). Thursday, August 15th Friday, July 12th at 9 the Living in “Leather pm brings another Balti- Conference 2019: A Cel- more Pup Night sponsored ebration of Leather Cul- by Let’s Go Play to the Bal- ture” will be held at the timore Eagle. Upstairs at the Baltimore Ea- Hilton Alexandria Mark Center in Alexan- gle you will find a large mosh pit space and dria, Virginia, a big ball pit. What better way to celebrate On Friday, August 16th at the Baltimore the dog days of summer! Eagle starting at 10 pm the Atlantic States On Saturday, July 13th the Knight Leather Family will celebrate their regional Hawks of Virginia leather club will be host- titleholders as they prepare to depart for ing Kilts and Cigars starting at 9:30 pm at Dallas and the International Leatherboy MJ’s Tavern in Norfolk, Virginia. It may be and International Community Bootblack difficult to think of Christmas in this warm Contest. Proceeds will benefit the travel weather, but the ShipMates Club of Balti- fund. more is ready to kick off their big Daddy Speaking of leather contests, it will Christmas fundraiser. Although the main soon be time to select the Mid-Atlantic event is not until Saturday, December 7th Leather Woman 2020 titleholders. The at the Baltimore Eagle, join the ShipMates Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman Bootblack for “Ho Ho in the Heat” on Sunday, July and Mid-Atlantic Leather Woman 2020 14th starting a 4 pm at Mixer’s (6037 Belair Contest is schedule for August 23rd and Road, Baltimore). There will be a cookout, 24th in Baltimore. On Friday, August 23rd a silent auction, pictures with Santa (Mr. the “Boots, Cigars, & Barber Meet & Greet” North American Bear 2019 Kevin Barni), will be held from 9 pm to 1 am at the Clif- and more. This year’s Daddy Christmas ton Pleasure Club. The contest will be held charity is CHANA, which for over 25 years Saturday, August 24th at Grand Central: has been helping people in our community bar opens at noon, doors to contest open deal with physical, psychological, sexual, at 1 pm, and the contest is at 2 pm. On or financial abuse. Sunday, August 25th Hooker and Boys

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36 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD july 5, 2019 • baltimoreoutloud.com