AN O INDEPENDENTU VOICE FOR THE TLESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITIES October 2, 2015 | Volume XIII, Issue 11

the U.S. and kept a low Orlando At age 15, she moved profile so as not to at- Cruz to New York City, October is LGBT History tract INS attention. where she made a Subsequent to name for herself as an The month of October is here. Fall with the Adams’s death in De- actress and bon vivant cool crisp mornings, Breast Cancer Aware- Month cember 17, 2012, and both on Broadway and ness, and LGBT History month. So many after the U.S. Attorney in London. people have helped to pave the way to Sullivan to receive a permanent residency General in 2011 de- In Motion Pictures make life in 2015 what it is. As far back as green card as the spouse of an American clared the Defense of magazine, Bankhead’s the 1900s you will find many different peo- citizen. In response, the couple received Marriage Act unconsti- former assistant dis- ple from all walks of life who have risked an INS reply that stated, “You have failed tutional, Sullivan filed closed that the two everything for the LGBT community. Let’s to establish that a bona fide marital rela- for a green card as Ad- had been sexually take a look at some of our history makers. tionship can exist between two faggots.” ams’s widower, so he involved. A self-de- • Richard Adams was born March 9, Adams lodged a formal protest. The could remain permanently in the U.S. scribed ambisexual, Bankhead’s sexual li- 1947, in Manila, Philippines and filed the INS reissued their denial without the slur. • A Hollywood celebrity, Tallulah Bank- aisons included the British theater actress first U.S. lawsuit to seek federal recogni- Adams filed a suit in federal court, but head, born January 31, 1902, Huntsville, Eva Le Gallienne and jazz legend Billie tion of same-sex marriage. What should the judge upheld the INS. Adams filed a Alabama, exemplified what it meant to be Holiday. Despite Bankhead’s notoriety, she have been the beginning of a happy mar- second federal suit claiming that after an a liberated woman at a time when women was widely admired, including by President riage laid the groundwork for his almost eight-year relationship, deportation of Sul- were subjected to Victorian-era strictures Harry Truman. 40-year quest for federally recognized livan constituted extreme hardship. The and marginalized. Bankhead’s colorful personality immor- marriage equality. federal district court and U.S. Court of Ap- Bankhead’s father was a conservative talized her in ways that few actresses have On April 21, 1975, Adams and his Aus- peals ruled against Adams. Southern Democrat who served in the U.S. achieved. Despite her many scandals, tur- tralian partner, Anthony Sullivan, obtained Subsequently, Sullivan requested per- House of Representatives from 1917 until bulent relations and provocative nature, a marriage license in Boulder, Colorado. manent residency for Adams in Australia. 1940. Tallulah was raised in Washington, she is remembered as a beacon of civil They were married before the Colorado The Australian government denied the re- D.C., where she received a strict religious rights and sexual liberation. She died on attorney general declared same-sex mar- quest. In 1985 the couple moved to Britain. education. December 12, 1968, in New York riage licenses invalid. Adams left behind his family and friends A proponent of racial integration and • The 2000 Olympic Games were piv- Adams applied to the U.S. Immigra- and a job he had for over 18 years. After civil rights, Bankhead’s political values otal for boxer Orlando Cruz born July 1, tion and Naturalization Service (INS) for one year in Britain, the couple returned to starkly contrasted with those of her family. —continued on page 4

By Mary Taylor & The Hippo closes: Goodbye & Rodney burger So Long and Farewell goodnight On Saturday, September timore’s greatest events. To list Eager Streets in Baltimore’s Mt. Vernon 26, the line formed early them all would fill the page, but neighborhood opened in 1972 and had and wrapped around The Saturday night we remembered them all. previously been a popular nightclub dat- Club Hippo, with people All this was able to happen because of ing from the 1930s, called the Chanticleer wanting to say goodbye one man who opened a night club on the Club. Chuck Bowers, has been the sole to an old friend, the corner of Charles and Eager in owner of Club Hippo since 1978. club that played a Mt. Vernon. Charles L. Bowers, Lights flashed and mirror balls spun as huge part in many Goodbye known to most of us as Chuck, Deejay Farrell provided a mix of classic people’s lives in the to Club greeted the patrons in the bar disco and kept the dance floor packed all LGBT community. To that night -- some having not evening. Many a Friday or Saturday night dance on the sunken Hippo been to the bar in years -- like was spent dancing the night away. dance floor for one they never left. There were Sunday, September 27 was the last last night. To recall smiles all around, and a few drag show at the Hippo. The dance bar is and reminisce about the tears, but everyone was here for one rea- now officially closed. The Saloon and Ka- almost 37 years of being son: to celebrate The Club Hippo. raoke bar will remain open until Saturday, the home to some of Bal- The Club Hippo located at Charles and —continued on page 3 2 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // LOCAL

Goodbye to Club Hippo – continued from page 1

October 3. The space will soon transform into a CVS. To Mr. Charles Leo Bowers, to quote a very famous person, “Thanks for the mem- ories,” for your love and commitment to the LGBT community, and most of all, all the fun we had because of you. The motto for this bar has always been “Where everyone is welcomed” and that is how you made us feel. You will be missed but never forgot- ten. t

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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 3 Venue for 2015 Pride block party credit: Marti Wormuth

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October is LGBT of the South by Southwest film festival in pumps, he was violently assaulted by his History Month 2015 deals with two Muslim teenagers in father. Daniels stated, “When I came out it Sex & Identity – continued from page 1 Brooklyn who struggle with their sexual was because I loathed my dad so much.” identities. 1981, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico. After rep- Torment also followed Daniels to Themes at Baltimore Alaska is a Drag – based on an award- resenting Puerto Rico in the games, Cruz school. He was gay and black in a predom- winning short film, starring Youtube celeb- launched his professional boxing career. inantly white school. “I was always told that Int’l Black Film Fest rity Martin L. Washington, Jr., as Leo fight- He won a world featherweight title and I was nothing because I was gay,” he said. ing his co-workers and himself in openly went nine years without a defeat. At age 21, Daniels started a nurse- being gay in a homophobic version of The homophobia that Cruz experienced staffing agency, which he sold a year later. By Jacob Pierce Alaska. growing up in Puerto Rico made it difficult The sale made him a millionaire and al- The second annual Baltimore International The Year We Thought About Love – lowed him to pursue his dream of work- Black Film Festival (BIBFF) is coming up about a gay-straight alliance performing ing in the entertainment industry. He first October 7 to 12 at the Charles Theater their own personal intense stories of be- worked as a casting director and later as and University of Baltimore’s Learning ing themselves to multiple high schools in a talent manager. He built a client base of Commons. This year’s theme will be “Reel Boston. Academy Award winners and nominees, Unity” as BIBFF “seeks to unite unity in Visit Bibff.com for the full film schedule most of whom later worked in Daniels’s the community,” says and ticket prices. t films. their website. The film Daniels became a Hollywood force in Festival runs festival is unique in 2001 when his production company re- October showcasing local and leased Monster’s Ball, a movie for which independent filmmak- Learn ASL Halle Berry won the Oscar for Best Actress. 7th to 12th ers from documenting Daniels later directed the film Precious. the African-American at the GLCCB His experience as a sexually abused child experience, the African diaspora more gen- erally, and same-gender loving or LGBT By Rodney Burger themes . Due to the popularity of the American Sign BIBFF’s sponsor is Sogaa, a nonprofit Language (ASL) class offered by Kevin social-service group founded in Baltimore Lowery and Dancing Hands at the GLBT by black men who love men and which is Community Center “dedicated to enhancing the social, eco- of Baltimore & Cen- nomic, physical, and mental wellness of its tral Maryland in the members and community.” spring, the GLCCB In keeping with those concerns, has scheduled a BIBFF’s roster of films deal with education, second class to be health, LGBT issues, women’s rights, and held every Wednes- Tallulah Bankhead the “Black Lives Matter” movement. Over day from October 7 80 films, shorts, and documentaries from until November 11 for him to accept his sexuality, especially over 14 different countries will be shown. starting at 6 p.m. in the world of boxing machismo. Cruz’s in- There will also be four short programs on on the 3rd floor of ternal conflict continued as rumors spread the themes of “joy, pain, love and the rain.” the Waxter Center among boxing fans. This tension culminat- BIBFF will be opening with the film (1000 Cathedral ed during his 2008 world title fight. “The Knucklehead, starring Alfre Woodard and Street, Baltimore). What’s your sign? spectators bad-mouthed me; they called Gbenga Akinnabe, which deals with mental The class which will me a faggot,” Cruz said. “That’s when I re- illness in the black community. be taught by LGBT alized that something had to change.” Among the gay-themed films showing presenters will include not only basic con- Cruz spent the next few years meeting Lee Daniels are: versational ASL, but will also teach how to with a psychologist to work through com- Naz and Maalik – an official selection curse, talk dirty, and will provide information ing out publicly. In 2012 Cruz became the inspired his direction of the film. “Precious” about deaf culture first professional boxer to come out during received six Academy Award nominations, Cast from as it relates to the his career and one of the first profession- including Best Director, and earned two Christmas LGBT community. al athletes to come out while still active. Academy Awards. Wedding Also planned is Soon after, he won a major fight wearing In 2012 his film The Paperboy, with Ni- Baby a tour of Gallau- rainbow shorts. A year later he married his cole Kidman, was nominated for the Palme det University in boyfriend. d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Washington, D.C., In 2013 the National Gay and Lesbian In 2013 Daniels directed the critically the first school Sports Hall of Fame made Cruz an inau- acclaimed film The Butler, with Oprah Win- for the advanced gural inductee. He stated, “I want kids to frey, Forest Whitaker, John Cusack, Jane education of the know that you can be whoever you want to Fonda, and Mariah Carey. t deaf and hard-of- be, including a professional boxer.” – Compiled by Mary Taylor from LG- hearing persons • Lee Daniels born December 24, 1959, BThistory.com in the world. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an Acad- The classes emy Award nominated producer, director, are free of charge screenwriter, and actor. and no advanced Daniels survived a traumatic childhood. registration is t After being caught wearing his mother’s needed.

4 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com What’s your sign?

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 5 news // LOCAL Celebrating Baltimore LGBT History in Pictures and Words

University of Baltimore Hosted a Celebra- and recollections spanning a half century had not fought ter of Baltimore [GLCCB] in 2012,” notes tion for Newly Published History of Balti- of history, and the book was feted Septem- so hard for the Richard Oloizia, the book’s assistant edi- more’s LGBT Community ber 28 at University of Baltimore Student goal of equal- tor. “The archives was the source of about Author Louise Parker Kelley’s New Center at an event featuring an exhibit ity, same-sex half of the images in the book.” Book, LGBT Baltimore, Reveals Every- of photos and artifacts from the GLCCB marriage, and LGBT Baltimore points out that for Collection held by the Special so on. With- many years, Baltimore had an LGBT com- Collections Department the out getting into munity, but it was not until the 1960s that school’s Langsdale Library. Kurt details, it was this ostracized minority began to demand L. Schmoke, UB president, and a rather grim equality. In 1969, Women: A Journal of Lib- LGBT Baltimore author Louise scenario – but eration began publication. By the early 70s, Parker Kelley were on hand to it sure made the community’s 31st Street Bookstore address the 40-plus attendees. the audience and Metropolitan Community Church were Louise also signed books. laugh. established, as well as Diana Press and The event was clearly a Louise Parker Kelley Another the Baltimore Gay Alliance. By 1977, the homecoming for a number Kurt L. Schmoke, thing that Lou- GLCCB emerged, offering a clinic and gay of activists -- veterans of the UB President ise did was to youth and lesbian support groups. In 1984, movement or the fight against call for more Johns Hopkins University’s SHARE (Study AIDS -- who were both present books, more to Help the AIDS Research Effort) program in the audience and who ap- writing about the gay and lesbian experi- became a national model for the treatment peared in the book. Louise of- ence from a Baltimore and Maryland per- and etiology of HIV, and the award-winning At the fered them high praise for their spective. Little has been written about Chase Brexton Clinic established itself reception inventiveness and determina- what has happened, she noted. The audi- as a key resource for health care for gay tion. She quoted from Jefferson, ence agreed with her, and there seemed people. Now, with the Supreme Court’s en- day Lives of Local Activists, Residents about the price of liberty being eternal vigi- to be positive energy in the room to write dorsement of marriage equality, the com- and Supporters Through Photos, Stories, lance. And she also did a “mini play” from more, say more, and of course do more. munity is celebrating new triumphs as it Landmark Events the podium, in which she imagined what LGBT Baltimore is the result of an looks back in time to acknowledge many LGBT Baltimore is a book of photos the world would be like if people like these emerging archival effort to preserve and milestones of justice. catalog the history of gay culture in the “The struggle for LGBT equality rep- city. For the past three years, Langsdale resents the most important social move- Library has been an important part of ment in late 20th- and early 21st century this work, helping gather materials such America,” said Ben Blake, the University as newspapers, photos, artifacts, orga- of Baltimore’s archivist. “We are proud to nizational records, and much more, and play a part in preserving and making ac- archiving it in special collections. For the cessible to the public the local chapter of nearby Mt. Vernon neighborhood, a Bal- the rich and powerful history of the LGBT timore cultural landmark with deep roots community.” t in the city’s gay culture, the preservation of these materials signifies an im- portant contribution to sustaining the heritage of the community. “This army of lovers won so many times in the past 40 years,” said Kelley, a leader of the re- nowned Baltimore Justice Campaign, Pride coordi- nator, and a member of then-Mayor Schmoke’s task force for gay and lesbian issues. “Now ev- eryone can gather at the University of Baltimore to celebrate the book that proves with pictures.” “I was so relieved and pleased when UB volunteered to house the archives of the Gay and About to get their copies signed... Lesbian Community Cen-

6 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com news // national

Award to actress Ellen Page for her cour- VP Biden to Keynote age and leadership. Page has charmed audiences and critics with captivating per- HRC Dinner formances in a wide range of films. In addi- tion, Page’s bold decision to come out pub- On September 25, the Human Rights licly at HRC’s first annual Time to Thrive Campaign (HRC), the U.S.’s largest LGBT conference – continues to set a power- rights group, announced that Vice Presi- ful example for LGBT and allied youth dent Joe Biden will deliver the keynote around the world. Her coming out speech address at the 19th annual HRC National was viewed more than a half-million times Dinner on October 3, 2015, in Washington, within the first 12 hours after the video was D.C. uploaded to HRC’s YouTube page. “From his historic announcement in “Ellen Page has been an inspiration for support of marriage equality to his ongo- LGBT youth around the world,” said Griffin. ing commitment to “Her willingness to speak her truth for all achieving full federal to hear, and to confront injustice against equality for LGBT LGBT people, has made her a role mod- Americans, the vice el and there is no one more deserving of president has proven HRC’s National Vanguard Award. And it’s time and again that only fitting that the award will be presented he’s a stalwart ally to by such a strong ally to our cause as Al- our community,” said lison Janney.” HRC President Chad Retired NBA athlete Jason Collins and Griffin, “and we’re Blossom Brown are also slated to speak. honored he’ll be join- Joe Jason Collins was the first openly gay play- ing us to deliver the Biden er to be signed by an NBA team. Collins keynote address at and Blossom Brown, a transgender stu- the HRC National dent and HRC volunteer who was featured Dinner.” in a television ad from HRC’s “All God’s Biden has played an integral role in the Children” campaign and has appeared on Obama Administration’s legacy of prog- I Am Cait and the Ellen Degeneres Show, ress for the LGBT community. In March, will share more about their personal jour- the vice president called for the passage neys, the challenges they’ve faced, and of new federal LGBT non-discrimination the victories they’ve claimed living open protections. “We have to pass the fed- and authentic lives. eral non-discrimination legislation, and Multi-platinum selling Grammy nomi- we need to pass it now,” said Biden. A nated singer and songwriter Carly Rae Je- few months later, the landmark Equality psen, and multi-platinum selling Grammy Act comprehensive legislation that would award-winning A Great Big World – joined guarantee explicit protections for LGBT by Hip-Hop artist Futuristic – will perform. people in many areas was introduced in Hillary Clinton will also speak to the Congress. At an HRC event in Los Ange- organization at a separate event on the les last year, Biden highlighted the impor- morning of the National Dinner. tance of defending LGBT rights abroad in The 19th annual HRC National Dinner, the United States’s foreign policy agenda. which is expected to draw over 3,000 guests, In addition, HRC announced that sev- will be held at the Walter E. Washington Con- en-time Emmy Award winner Allison Jan- vention Center. More information is available ney will present HRC’s National Vanguard at Hrcnationaldinner.org. t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 7 Protecting the ‘Homeland’?

beyond the beltway compiled by Jim Becker House reception, however, and the next drug can give the same results. It is on the day delivered a remarkable speech to a World Health Organization’s List of Essen- joint session of Congress – a first for a Ro- tial Medicines, the most important medica- man Catholic pontiff. The most stunning tions needed in a basic health system. White House feature of the Pope’s speech was the four Pharmaceutical exec Martin Shkreli, Americans he singled out as examples of CEO of Turning Pharmaceuticals, acquired reception for spiritual heroism. Martin Luther King Jr. rights to manufacture the drug just this and Abraham Lincoln were expected. But month. “We needed to turn a profit on this pope includes drug,” Shkreli, told Bloomberg TV. “The companies before us were actually giving Brought to you by the Tyler sexual it away almost.” The course of treatment Clemente Foundation “to save your life was only a $1, 000,” he minorities exclaimed in a TV interview. “These days, that he was gay, which his parents said modern pharmaceuticals, cancer drugs did not upset them – their oldest son s Washington, D.C. – Despite the dis- can cost $100,000 or more, whereas these also gay. Just three weeks into his fresh- pleasure of Vatican officials, Pope Francis drugs can cost half a million dollars. Da- man year, Tyler jumped from the George made the best of a September 23 White raprim is still underpriced relative to its Washington Bridge. His body was found a House reception that included on the guest peers,” he added. week later on September 22, in the Hud- list a gay bishop, a radical nun, and sev- Shkreli began his business career as son River. eral transgender activists. The pontiff sur- a hedge fund manager, and got into phar- The police investigation revealed Ty- vived to address Congress on September the real surprise came when the Pope cited maceuticals as part of a scheme to pay ler’s roommate, Dharun Ravi, had used a 24, and then departed D.C. for the World two American Catholics – Dorothy Day and off legal settlements with unhappy hedge webcam to secretly live-stream Tyler kiss- Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. Thomas Merton – who were, and remain, fund investors when his investment firm ing a man in their dorm room. Ravi pub- Vatican officials made it known before controversial figures in the Church. Doro- went bankrupt. According to Forbes maga- licized a viewing party for the footage on the Obama administration’s welcoming thy Day (1897-1980) was the co-founder of zine, he is now being sued by former busi- Twitter, a few days before Tyler commit- reception on the White House south lawn the Catholic Worker movement and prob- ness associates for more than $65 million ted suicide. Ravi was tried and ultimately that they were distressed at the guests ably the most famous Christian anarchist in damages. Turing Pharmaceuticals, the convicted in 2012 of bias intimidation, the president had invited. Included were in the United States. She regularly clashed current manufac- which is a hate crime, as well as invasion gay Episcopalian bishop Gene Robinson, with the right-wing Cardinal Francis Spell- Martin turer of Daraprim, of privacy and other offenses. He served Sister Simone Campbell of the Catholic man of New York (1889-1967). Thomas Shkrel was founded by 20 days of a 30-day jail sentence. Both social justice organization Network, and Merton (1915-1968) was just the opposite Shkreli in Febru- sides are appealing. Joe said Ravi has not at least four trans activists – two of them – a Trappist monk and poet who spent half ary. Shkreli has reached out to his family and they have not connected with the LGBT Catholic group his life secluded in monasteries. Merton’s also been inves- reached out to him. “I’m at peace that Tyler Dignity USA. Robinson was named bishop legacy is controversial, however, because tigated by police is with God,” Joe said. “I don’t like what of New Hampshire in 2004 – the first open- he was attracted to Zen Buddhism and in New Jersey for happened. I don’t think there’s a need for ly gay bishop in the world – and retired in believed that non-Christian religions had threatening the forgiveness. What I have a need to do is to 2013. He is reportedly a close friend of things to teach the Catholic Church – rath- family of a rival prevent other people from suffering in the President Obama. Campbell organized the er than the other way around, as Vatican pharmaceutical same way.” 2012 “Nuns on the Bus” tour that promoted officials would have it. (Seattle Gay News exec. The Infectious Diseases Society of In the five years since Tyler’s death, his Obamacare, in spite of opposition to abor- – Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) America, the HIV Medicine Association, parents started the Tyler Clementi Foun- tion and contraception coverage by U.S. and other health care providers wrote an dation and championed the Tyler Clementi Catholic bishops. The transgender activ- open letter to Shkreli’s company, urging Anti-Harassment Act, which was reintro- ists included Mateo Williamson, chair of him to reconsider. “This cost is unjustifi- duced in Congress in March. The bill would Dignity USA’s Transgender Caucus; Mar- Drug company able for the medically vulnerable patient require higher-education institutions to cia Garber of Dignity Boston; and Nicole population in need of this medication and have an established policy and resources Santamaria of the Latino group Asociacion CEO raises unsustainable for the health care system,” for dealing with harassment. The latest ini- Colectivo Alejandria. the groups wrote. (Seattle Gay News – tiative of the Tyler Clementi Foundation is The Pope made the best of the White AIDS drug cost Mike Andrew at Sgn.org) the Day 1 Pledge. It’s a script that clearly outlines what kind of behavior is accept- 5,500% able and what is not. Joe said. “People tend to comply with limits when they know These news notes have been compiled, what they are.” The pledge is supposed to with permission, from the online version New York City, N.Y. – The price of an Rutgers of various newspapers and other web important AIDS drug will rise 5,500%, from take place on the first day of school, first sites. We thank these publications for $13.50 to $750 per dose, the drug’s manu- student’s suicide meeting at work or first practice of a sports allowing us to bring you their news sto- facturer announced September 20. Da- season. Rutgers students took the Day 1 ries. Usually the reports have been sig- raprim, the trade name for pyrimethamine, motivates family Pledge at freshman convocation in August. nificantly edited and you can read the is used to combat protozoal infections For the first time, the Tyler Clementi Foun- full story by going to the web site men- usually transmitted through food. Most to organize dation is partnering with New York Law tioned following the item. Comments people can easily fight off the infections School to host an Internet safety confer- are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker even without medications, but for people Ridgewood, N.J. – Jane and Joe Cle- ence. It is expected to become an annual and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride whose immune systems are compromised menti had just dropped off their youngest event. For more information, visit Tylercle- t Media. – HIV patients, for example – the infection son, Tyler, at Rutgers University in the fall mentifoundation.org. (Philadelphia Gay could be deadly. Experts say that no other of 2010. A week earlier, he told his parents News – Paige Cooperstein at Epgn.com)

8 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com out in the valley Traveling with Kids

My kids live in the car. Our church and school are both 45 minutes away. We live in the country, so we have to drive quite a distance to get to most activities, too. We drive to grandma and grandpa’s house. We drive to see cousins and other relatives. Even the grandkids have learned how to travel in grandma’s car without complaint. My big secret? Keep them entertained. Take toys, games, movies, music, or what- ever it is that your child enjoys. Usually when I make long trips, I make sure to have Legos, puzzles, video games, DVDs, and a million other items of entertainment. I love DVDs for long trips. We sing all of the songs as we drive along. I think I’ve heard just about every movie Disney ever made Oregon about a week before we did. between you and me, I’m not sure what I’m cious moments with our children. One day, – I haven’t seen most of them, but have There were four of us who actually at- going to do after she leaves home and is they’re learning how to read and the next listened to them as my kids watched from tended the wedding. The boys flew out. no longer able to travel with me. I guess I’ll we’re traveling across country for the back seats. I remember when Finding My youngest was going to escort his sis- talk to more tow truck drivers. their wedding. Nemo came out, I knew the dialogue from ter down the aisle. An older boy flew out We had the best time. We stopped The moments are gone all memory, but couldn’t iden- with him short- when we wanted to stop. We played our too quickly. Cherish the spe- tify any of the characters. ly before the favorite music the entire way, singing at the cial times with your chil- And, one more thing. wedding. My top of our lungs (mostly because the en- dren. Make memories. It Make the trip about mak- daughter and doesn’t have to cost a ing memories. Some of the I decided to “Some of the best fortune. It just costs best memories we have Parenting drive out in our time. are the crazy, spontaneous OUTloud motorhome. memories we have are the Happy traveling! t things we’ve done along But, this crazy, spontaneous things the way – the strange Rev. Kelly Crenshaw trip was dif- roadside attractions or ferent. The we’ve done along the way amazing scenic side trips. daughter that – the strange roadside As the old saying goes, the destination is was traveling with me was a teenager and not as important as the journey. a competent one at that. She was the one attractions or amazing I have traveled all over the world. But, who made sure the straps on the towed scenic side trips.” some of the best trips I’ve taken have been car were safe and secure. She is the only in my motorhome. I get behind the wheel one I trust to direct me when I drive the car of that massive vehicle, towing my car up on that trailer. (You don’t want to know and just drive. Watching as the scenery what happened the last time gine is pretty loud). There was no whining changes day by day is fascinating to me. some- and not a single tantrum. We explored local I usually make these trips in spring and one history sites. We visited with friends along fall, when the weather is more predictable. else the way. We talked about her life and her Most of the time, I go from coast to coast. di- dreams. We laughed and joked and And, when I go, I take kids. drove through snow in the Rock- The last trip I made was a great time ies and shared a few moments of bonding with one of my daughters. My of absolute fear while driving oldest daughter was about to be married over the mountain and into and we were traveling to Oregon for the The Dalles, Oregon. wedding. The younger girl was to be her (I’m serious! The sister’s maid of honor. I had been asked sign actually said to plan and officiate the wedding. So, we it was the “final drove across country with dresses and warning” as we suits, centerpieces, and tablecloths. approached The plan was for us to arrive a couple the peak of the of weeks prior to the wedding so that we mountain. Who could find a florist, baker, and a million puts that on a road other last minute items. My oldest daugh- rected me, but it involved a tow sign?) ter lives in Arizona for half of the year and truck driver and the statement, If I’ve learned nothing else, it’s Oregon the other half. She arrived back in “I’ve never seen that happen before.”) And, that we parents need to cherish the pre-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 9 OUT in the Valley

not scandalous enough, two of them were It’s a start we desperately need. The Muslim! This past year he performed the Church (Protestants, Evangelicals, and ceremonial foot washing in a prison. Fran- Catholics alike) have struggled with a PR cis has also been a long-time advocate for image problem for decades. Our words Spirit the poor, even furthering the cause of El have not always matched our actions. Salvador’s Archbish- Frankly (and this Speaks op Oscar Romero for “The pope’s more recent is harsh), we have Rev. Dr. Rob Apgar-Taylor Sainthood. His more words about inclusion been more con- recent words about cerned with being What Difference inclusion and forgive- and forgiveness have “right” that with be- ness have been seen been seen by others as ing “Christ-like.” Can One by others as a softer, And you know gentler side of Chris- a softer, gentler side of what? The world tianity. has noticed. Recent Man Make? Now, that be- Christianity.“ generations have ing said, there are not been shy about As I write this, His Holiness Pope Fran- many (myself included) who are skepti- shouting that the Emperor indeed has no cis will have arrived in D.C. for a visit. cal about the Pope’s ability to make long- clothes. And it finally seems like we are The whole city is abuzz. Some are dread- lasting change in the present climate of listening! ing the traffic and security issues, others the Church of Rome. Does that negate his So while one man, as important as he are looking forward to seeing a man who example? Of course not, but it does re- is, may not singlehandedly change the is changing the face of the Church. What mind us not to expect his attitudes to be face of Christianity, I welcome anything is it about Francis that is so compelling? reflected in every corner of the Church. My and anyone who demonstrated a softer, Why are people so drawn to him? I think it biggest concern is that this softer, gentler more Christ-like side of the faith. It is des- is for several reasons, many of which the Pope is lulling people into a false sense of perately needed. And may we all in every Church desperately needs. security with the Church, only to return to corner of the Church follow this example. First it’s his compassion and inclusion. the same rejection and condemnation we May our words be soft, our actions com- He rocked the church in very simple ways have become so used to. Time will tell. But passionate and our lives a living reflection by washing the feet of women on his first then again, maybe it’s a start. And maybe of the One whose name we profess! t Holy Thursday as Pontiff. And as if that was that’s the most important thing he can do. Traveling Kids’ Style

by Rev. Kelly Crenshaw My kids enjoy taking trips Kelly’s and going places. They love exhibit, “I think it would be fun the conversations in the van. Kids to travel in covered wagons, but They enjoy watching movies where would we charge our game or playing games. It’s a fun systems?” (Well…) time. But, listening in on the comments After stopping overnight in a given over the years, made our travels Walmart park- ing lot, “Well, this almost as entertaining as the trip itself. is what camping “Look, there’s a horse. Oh is all about!” wait, it’s a fake And, of horse.” course, nothing “Why equals the ex- would some- citement when one put a cowboys are fake horse in seen from a field when the window they could as they ride have a real one their fences. there?” (Actual- Enjoy ly, it didn’t make traveling sense to me ei- with your family. ther.) Make the trip fun. You might even While driv- be able to sneak in a bit of education ing through Utah, “This looks just along the way! t like my video game.” (And who says – Compiled and commented on by they can’t learn from video games?) Rev. Kelly Crenshaw While exploring an Oregon Trail

10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com OUT in the Valley

The Girls er, a personal history of dense breast, a family history of breast cancer, being over- By Debbie Anne weight, using hormone replacement Tatas, headlights, boobs, bosoms, therapy for a long time, and never chesticles, knockers, or my favor- Health giving birth. It’s this last risk factor ite, “The Girls” – there are liter- that puts many lesbians like Nicki ally hundreds of slang names for Chat and Traci at risk. Warning signs to breasts. (Trust me, I googled it watch for are: A lump or pain in the just to be sure.) No matter what you call breast, thickening or swelling in part of the breasts, it’s time to give them some at- breast, dimpling of the breast skin, pulling tention because October is Breast Cancer in of the nipple, discharge from the nipple, Awareness Month. and a change in the shape or size of the Now I have to confess, as an AIDS breast. nurse, I have always been a little bit- It is always best to find breast can- ter over the pink ribbon. cer early, and having a mammogram, an After all AIDS x-ray picture of the breast, is one of the was the first best screenings that can lead to an early cause with diagnosis. If a woman is between 50 and a ribbon. 74 years of age, she should be getting a That’s right mammogram every two years. If she is be- – the red tween 40 and 49 years of age, and there ribbon was first, and don’t “As an AIDS nurse, I you ever for- get it. But no have always been a little ribbon has bitter over the pink ever rallied the troops ribbon. After all AIDS like the pink ribbon. During Oc- tober, you will was the first cause see pink everywhere you go. There will be with a ribbon. That’s walks and runs, dinners, dances, auctions, and golf. Anything that can pull people to- right – the red ribbon gether for a cause will be painted pink and promoted. was first, and don’t you This year I decided to give up my bitter ever forget it. But no streak and join the cause. I decided to do the pink thing because of a couple I know, ribbon has ever rallied Nicki and Traci. Three years ago, Traci was diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer. the troops like the pink With Nicki’s love and support, Traci fought ribbon.” valiantly and survived her surgery, chemo- therapy, and radiation. Having made it through their cancer is a family history of breast cancer, she battle together, Nicki and Traci decided should ask her doctor whether a mammo- they wanted to try to have a child. This July gram is recommended for her as well. they were in their second round of fertil- If you do not have health insurance, ity treatments when Nicki was diagnosed there are agencies that can help you get with stage three breast cancer. Having a a free mammogram through the CDC’s child is now off the table for my friends, National Breast and Cervical Cancer Ear- and Nicki is currently doing chemotherapy ly Detection Program. Contact your local and will have her surgery within the next health department. In Frederick call 301- couple of months. It’s hard enough on 600-1733. For more information go to Cdc. a couple when one of them deals with a gov/cancer/breast/pdf/breastcancerfact- breast cancer diagnosis, but both of them? sheet.pdf It’s just not fair. Don’t forget “The Girls” this October! t According to the Centers for Disease Debbie Anne is a public-health nurse Control and Prevention (CDC), except for with the Frederick County Health Depart- skin cancer, breast cancer is the second ment. She has been awarded a Governor’s most common cancer in women. Risk fac- Citation for her work with Marylanders liv- tors for breast cancer include: getting old- ing with HIV.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 11 Thinking OUTloud Bittersweet Memories: Ladies of you are a wealthy single person, you need to become a staunch ally for the rest of us. the LGBT Community Say Farewell • Dealing with the issues of matri-mania By nicole bettis Pussy cats. It blew me away!” I would have Lesbian and singlism. To me the term singlism in- I remember it like it was yesterday: There I loved to see that! Love cludes the denial – or a lack of conscious was the day of my 21st birthday, standing in After we both exchanged, some big laughs Barb Elgin awareness and understanding – that singles line at The Hippo awaiting my very first club and tearful smiles she said, “I have a feel- face discrimination and stereotyping. Take experience. Choosing Hippo as my “first” ing that tonight will be one of those memories for example married folk who wonder why was a no-brainer really – where else could a too – bittersweet.” Vera went on to say that Single & Proud singles say they are “so busy” all the time, young, queer girl go in Baltimore City to have the club exceeded all her expectations. Some when “all they have is themselves” to take a great time, feel completely accepted and of her favorite parts of being there were “hon- In Part II on this topic of Singles Pride, I care of. And it includes our own internal- free to be herself, without judgment? It was estly, just having a really cool place to posed the question: So why hasn’t there ized singlism – where we accept less and cold that night and I could feel the wind rip- chill, the bartenders (always being so good to ever been a singles equality perhaps aren’t even aware of how these ping through my tiny leather jacket and low- everyone), the energy of crowd, the support, movement? two processes stop positive change in our- rise jeans, but I waited patiently. Once inside and of course the music.” And my very initial, Part 3 selves and in the culture. my worries and cares quickly evaporated and Ah yes, the music. I also spoke with Bal- broad-stroke response was If we look at other historical human all I felt was the vibe… the timore’s very own DJ Rosie, something like the following: and civil rights movements, such as those music was booming and the who got her start at The Hip- “Perhaps there hasn’t been (at least un- that overcame discrimination due to gender, crowed was moving, danc- po 11-½ years ago, after work- til now) a singles rights or equality move- race and sexual/gender orientation, we will ing hard, and so was I. I met ing previously at Gallagher’s ment because most of us – when becoming note that those movements overcame huge so many awesome people and Club Coconuts. I can ac- single – see our current status as a ‘fleeting – perhaps seemingly insurmountable – ob- that night, many of which are tually remember dancing to a phase’ we will rather quickly move through stacles too, to succeed in their goals. How still in my life today. few of her mixes there too! DJ on to being coupled – instead of a legitimate in the heck did they do it? What did they do Much like myself, many of Rosie’s favorite memory of life status or stage. Perhaps now is the time to persevere? After all, there are more sin- us in the LGBT community being at The Hippo shows an- such a movement will coalesce given that for gles today than there ever were LGBT’s or have quite a few, fond mem- other side of the club, a more the first time in recorded history there are even African Americans as a percentage of ories of Club Hippo and just personable side. She recalled more single folk than married folk. the population. So obviously, numbers isn’t like me, they are heartbroken when management (and the I have my doubts however, because sin- enough alone to form a social movement to see it go. The Hippo has owner) threw a party for her gles pride hasn’t happened yet.” that gets things done. been a LGBT staple since and her wife prior to them get- The above paragraph is a great introduc- As I said in the introductory quote above, 1972, back when there wasn’t ting married. She said, “They tion to today’s article, where I want to begin numbers are not enough. But with the num- a plethora of places for us opened the club privately, just to talk about what a Singles Pride movement bers we do have, if we could just start to to go and just be. Charles L. for us. We had about 50 or might look like, why it matters, obstacles to see ourselves as a true group – like women, “Chuck” Bowers (owner) cre- 60 people here and we had overcome and why now might be the time we African-Americans and LGBT’s did – with an ated a safe environment a dance party – it’s just what can begin to build the critical mass neces- issue: inequality. In our workplaces. In the le- for all people to meet, re- my wife and I really wanted sary behind it to give it some steam to make gal system. In our families and communities. lax, dance, and socialize. De- as a gift!” she went on to say a difference. For example, now that businesses and pending on your mood, you that, “Chuck has been really My vision is that being single will become legislators are starting to see the value of could attended karaoke, bin- good to my family and myself – in the not too distant future – a happy life giving parents and families time off to care go, hip-hop night, ladies night, over the course of my time stage that people will no longer dread. A life for their families, how about the single, child- and an array of other happenings. Needless here.” When I asked her about what she will stage that people will consciously inhabit less people left behind to pick up the slack? to say my favorite has always been ladies miss the most about the club, without missing and perhaps even seek out, seeing it as a Because let’s get real folks: That’s what hap- night. a beat she said, ”There is a sense of loyalty very worthy life stage that contributes to their pens. While I enjoyed my last ladies night at and family between all of us here; we have health, wealth, and happiness. Those who don’t have families or part- Hippo I got the opportunity to speak to some all been through different things over all this But before we get there, we will need to ners may be the ones picking up the slack, amazing women that helped make the club time and everybody has always been there overcome some pretty hefty obstacles such either because they think they must or be- unique including, Vera Mosley, local wom- for each other. These are special people in as... cause employers implicitly expect it. Or both. en’s promoter (and founder & co-owner of Gal- my life and not being able to see them every •Getting active in the fight despite the So, why don’t employers offer single people lagher’s Bar & Grill) our host for Ladies Night. week … that’s going to be hard.” distractions and stresses of living and work- a similar benefit, so that we have some time She also remembers bringing in her 21st I’m sure these memories only scratch the ing in our modern world today – this is a big to get away from the demands of constant birthday at Club Hippo stating that, “I’ve been surface of all the memories that the category that needs a ‘movement’ itself to work to take better care of ourselves too? coming to the club since I was 21 years old, club holds for each of us who had the privi- counter it (beyond the subject of this article A radical thought, is it not? and I may have even sneaked in a few times lege of attending - oh, if those walls could talk. unfortunately!) and involves realizing if you Stay tuned to Part IV of this series on before. I’ve brought in many wonderful birth- I think DJ Rosie said it best, “I don’t think that are a middle class or ‘working poor’ single Creating a Singles Pride Movement, where days and rang in the New Years here.” When the energy in this club can really ever be du- you need to start speaking up and standing I’ll delve into how we can find ways to dance asked about her fondest memory of the club, plicated – it’s one of a kind. There is nothing up for yourself to counter today’s global- with the obstacles and create more of a she said that “They are all fond, especially like it in Baltimore. Finding this again is going centric workforce where the pace of work is healthy, happy existence for ourselves. t right after Pride (back in the day) when ev- to definitely be hard – it’s going to be hard to relentless, you are expected to constantly do Barb Elgin has been helping lesbians erything was at Druid Hill Park and everyone lose it.” more with less – less income, where most thrive since the mid-1980s as a psycho- would just come back here afterwards, after It’s safe to say that, whether you were likely your employer doesn’t rehire they just therapist, life/love coach, matchmaker, au- the block party. But if I had to choose just young or mature, gay, straight (or some- expect you to do two jobs instead of one, thor, radio show host and more. Check out one memory, I’d have to say it was the first where in-between), Club Hippo always had a and where you never know if you have a job Lastinglesbianlove.com/lesbian-social-and- drag show here – Josey (a bartender) & the space for you and it will be sorely missed. t tomorrow. And, if you are reading this and travel-with-heart.

12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Thinking OUTloud Donna Edwards for U.S. Senate

By Lauren Foster a progressive, I expected her to have a Every once in a while, you get to campaign reasonable record with LGBTQ civil rights for your dream candidate. Someone who issues – she did not disappoint. In Janu- shares your values on every level, some- ary 2012, Donna was the first congres- one with integrity, someone whom you sional candidate in Maryland to champion know is “unbought and unbossed,” who marriage equality – even though it was not is progressive with attitude and has lived popular in her congressional district – win- the causes she fights for. For me, that ning her the financial support of LPAC, the candidate is Democratic lesbian arm of EMILY’S Congresswoman Donna List. Her support for the Edwards, running for the LGBTQ community actu- U.S. Senate. I’ve been ally dates back to when campaigning for her for she was first elected in six months now, and she 2008, supporting the has never disappointed repeal of DADT before me. Let me tell you about it was popular, as well her. as supporting ENDA – Donna Edwards is a the Employment Non- black woman whose fa- Discrimination Act, ther was a veteran – he which has been float- moved them around as ing around since 1974. his way of giving them a Donna has been very taste of the middle-class active in championing life. As a result, she is a civil rights bills affect- major supporter of veter- ing the LGBTQ com- ans’ rights. At 53, she is munity since then. She just old enough to remem- sponsored the 2011 ber Martin Luther King, version of the Student Jr., and champions all Congresswoman Non-Discrimination Act, civil rights causes. Donna Donna Edwards she fought against the – and I call her that with no disrespect in- Republican version of the Violence Against tended – went to school for journalism, but Women Act of 2012 because it did not pro- ended up working on the technical side at tect lesbians and transgender individuals, NASA Goddard – so she’s on the STEM she has most recently championed the Ev- committee in Congress. ery Child Deserves a Family Act, and she Having seen domestic abuse around is a co-sponsor of the 2015 Equality Act. her among military families as a child, on Donna is opposed by Congressman her college campus, and even at her job, Chris Van Hollen, who, while having a in 1990, she founded and ran a grassroots strong progressive record, does not have organization – the National Network to any of the types of life experiences which End Domestic Violence – that pushed for would compel him to fight untiringly for an and established the first Violence Against issue, even when it means standing alone. Women Act of 1994. She is steadfast in her In fact, there are people who believe that support for women’s causes, from the right Donna’s willingness to stand alone is a to make reproductive health care choices, weakness. That she should compromise to equal pay for equal work, to paid family more, and be able to show more for her leave. efforts. She studied law, which earned her I don’t agree. I don’t see Elizabeth $100,000 in student loans – she under- Warren compromising. I see Elizabeth stands first-hand the importance of stu- Warren fighting for what she believes in. dent loan forgiveness. And as a divorced I want another woman like Elizabeth War- woman who raised her son alone, she has ren in the Senate: a woman who fights for briefly faced homelessness, briefly gone causes because they are personal to her. without healthcare, and on a gut level, un- So, I’m campaigning for Donna every step derstands #BlackLivesMatter. of the way. I hope you’ll join me. I had a chance to meet Donna back in Congresswoman Edwards will be at April when she was visiting Baltimore, and the Liberty Pavilion in Druid Hill Park on I wasn’t sure what you ask a Congress- Friday, October 9 between 4:30 and 6:30 woman who was running for US Senate. p.m. Please go hear her. She will not dis- So I posted a query on Facebook, and got appoint you. a lot of answers. One of them was to ask To get active with her campaign, e-mail where she stood on marriage equality. As [email protected] t

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 13 Quality of Life

talness on this process. None of us is perfect; every day for life. There is no cure for we make mistakes. In fact, if it weren’t for er- HIV infection or AIDS. These medicines rors, we may not learn, grow, and improve. have side effects. And people taking HIV It is when we see what is within us and what medicine must have blood drawn every 4 Ask we do as wrong or bad that we get in trouble. Open Wide months, or even more often. That sense of guilt is not what anyone wants Let me give you some statements that Dr. J ask Dr Eva to feel. When another person judges us, or are definitely true. Janan Broadbent, Ph.D. Dr Eva Hersh complains about something we said or did, • There are now 1.2 million (1,200,000) the same negative reactions ensue. So it is people living in the U.S. who are infected a lot easier to attribute causation to fate than with HIV. Men are infected much more of- Well, That’s the to take responsibility, to look inside, under- Do we still ten than women. African-Americans are stand why we did what we did, and then look infected much more often than whites. Way I Am to make amends and change the behavior. need an AIDS Half of the 1.2 million are gay and bisexual Then of course there are those who never men. Gay and bisexual men make up Often, I hear people say some version of: say they are sorry or admit that they may be Awareness less than 5% of the population but un- “Well, that is how Mary Sue is, just accept it.” wrong. It is really difficult to sustain a healthy fortunately, MSM have twenty times the Or, when one is talking about one’s self: “That relationship with a person who thinks they risk of becoming infected with HIV than Day? is how I am.” Basically what they mean is that are right all the time. If that is you, ask your- the rest of the population does. The rate you better accept whatever you may be com- self: What makes you so perfect? And who of infection of African-American MSM un- plaining about because even if you don’t like would want to be around someone who is so Sunday September 27 was National Gay der age 30 are even higher. In Baltimore it, they are not going to change one iota. perfect? If you are in a relationship with that Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, also City, one in three young African-Amer- Now let me be clear: I am not talking about super person, what does that say about you? known as NGMHAD. I got an email from the ican MSM are infected. Because of this wholesale personality overhaul here. None of In the long run, good relationships take Centers for Disease Control (CDC) about very high rate of infection, there is a seri- us wants to hear that our significant other, or time, work, non-judgmental conversations, it. Otherwise I didn’t hear of any events or ous risk that young men may become in- friend, or a family member wants us not to be and loving, caring attitudes. Sadly, not many articles to mark the day. Although gay and fected at their first sexual contact if a con- the person we are, but someone they would of us learn all these skills as we grow up, bisexual men are the group with the great- dom is not used. like to have around that fits their needs. In any but that does not mean we can’t learn and est risk of becoming infected, many don’t • Every year, 50,000 more people in relationship, there has to be a certain amount change our ways, through self-help articles, want to think about HIV. As a result of that the U.S. become infected with HIV. That of accommodating one another, understand- books, videos, and of course, therapy. t silence, there are many misconceptions. includes this year, 2015. I have heard some amazing myths about ing the other’s needs, and changing our hab- • One in five people (20%) who are in- its to meet them without making ourselves HIV from men who have sex with men fected with HIV have not been tested since (MSM). For example, into another person. If you like to stay up late, becoming infected, so they do not know and your partner’s bedtime is 9 p.m., you can • “Only older men have HIV, so if I only they are infected. This 20% of currently have sex with guys my own age I don’t either negotiate a time in between, just so you infected people cause HALF of all new cuddle for a while, or you postpone the cuddle have to worry about catching it.” infections in this country! Think about this False: African-American men be- to the morning and call it a day at different group. If you asked one of them if he is times, one early, one late. tween ages 16 and 27 have the fastest- HIV infected, he of course would say no. growing rates of HIV in the U.S. Declaring that a person won’t change He has never been tested, and his “no” re- has a subtle flavor of fatalistic thinking. I was “You can’t get HIV if you’re always the ally means “I don’t know.” Yet these are the top.” made this way, so there is no way I can do people most likely to pass on HIV. things differently. The thinking also has an False: it is easier to get HIV and other SILENCE = DEATH. Do you recognize viral infections like hepatitis as a bottom, element of ducking guilt and responsibility this slogan from the early days of AIDS ac- for one’s behavior. The buzzword in psychol- but top partners also get infected. tivism? In the1980s, it meant that people • “I always ask potential new partners ogy these days is mindfulness, “the inten- had to speak up and protest to get govern- tional, accepting and non-judgmental focus if they are positive, and if they are I don’t ment funding for HIV research. SILENCE go with them.” of one’s attention on the emotions, thoughts = DEATH applies today as well, but with a and sensations occurring in the present mo- Poor strategy. It’s hard for me to un- different meaning: if people in general, but derstand the naïveté of this one. Haven’t ment” (Wikipedia). It is important to note the especially young African-American MSM, significance of acceptance and non-judgmen- people always lied to get sex? don’t start talking openly and honestly • “You can’t get infected if you only about HIV, more and more of them will die. have oral sex.” This was proven wrong Some people think HIV is not a deadly dis- years ago, but it keeps going around be- ease any more, but that’s not true. Many cause people (understandably) really want people still die of complications of HIV in- and other infections.) to believe it. HIV transmission through fection. • History of other sexual infections, es- oral sex does not happen very often, Some key things to discuss, BEFORE pecially syphilis. A past history of sexual but it does happen. having sex, are: infections is a risk factor for becoming in- Often, people are aware that HIV ex- • HIV status, including when he was fected with HIV. Syphilis is closely linked ists, but much of what they think they know last tested. If he reports he is HIV negative to HIV. about it is wrong. For example; and the test was more than 3 months ago, I think we do still need an HIV aware- • “It’s OK if I get HIV because they have he should be re-tested. ness day. What do you think? t medicine now to cure it.” I really wish that • Willingness to use condoms. You Eva Hersh is a Baltimore family physi- were true. But it isn’t. HIV medicines are need to decide together if and when con- cian. Send your comments and questions much easier to take than they were years doms will be used (the more condom use, to her by email at editor@baltimoreout- ago. However, they still must be taken the better for prevention of HIV, syphilis, loud.com 14 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 15 Lively Arts // out on screen Life (for Mov ies) on Mars by Chuck Duncan mission is imminent, but a raging storm with the items he has on hand, enough to shelter, and he’s done for. Watney’s situa- Hollywood has had a love-hate relation- forces them back to their ship before the sustain him, along with the food stores left tion is that much more urgent, especially ship with movies about or set on Mars. The winds tip it over, leaving them stranded. In behind, until NASA can find a way to get since help isn’t just over the horizon. He 1950s and 60s saw hit films like War of the the blinding storm, a large piece of the an- more supplies to him. Of course, none of can’t send smoke signals to get attention. Worlds, Invaders from Mars and Robinson tenna breaks off, striking Watney, cutting this is as easy as it sounds, and when the And Matt Damon’s Watney is a much more Crusoe on Mars (and even the campy Mars off his signal beacon, and leaving the oth- crew learns their friend is alive, they must engaging person to be stranded with than Needs Women), but Mars hasn’t been ers believing he’s dead. They launch in the also make a life or death decision and risk Hanks’ Chuck Noland. The other plus is such a good luck charm at the box office knick of time and head back to earth. court-martial if they disobey NASA’s or- that it’s not just two hours of Damon. The of late with duds like Mars Attacks (which On earth, everyone believes Watney ders to return home. cast is filled with familiar faces including has developed a cult following), Ghosts of is dead, there are memorial services for The Martian is an emotional roller- Jessica Chastain, Kristin Wiig, Jeff Dan- Mars, and Red Planet. Disney was so wor- him and then ... it turns out he’s not dead. coaster as we go on this perilous journey iels, Michael Peña, Sean Bean (who gets ried about the M-word that they removed The debris knocked out his signal and im- with Watney. We cheer when he makes a good LOTR reference), Kate Mara, Se- the “of Mars” from John Carter’s title. paled him a bit, leaving him to get back to water and cringe when a disaster destroys bastian Stan (The Winter Soldier himself), But things are about to change now the shelter and perform staple surgery on all that he created. We laugh at his com- Donald Glover, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. that Mars is all the rage again. Probably himself. After finally repairing the radio, ments about the musical choices of his Scott and his production team have coincidentally, NASA announced only days he contacts earth and breaks the news to captain (classic disco, which becomes the created a visually stunning (and dare I say before the film was scheduled to open that them that he is indeed alive. But, NASA of- film’s soundtrack), and we cry every time a accurate) depiction of Mars with location they found running salt water on the red ficials don’t want to tell the crew that he glimmer of hope fades away. And on top of choices and stunning special effects. Scott planet and that can only help stir interest survived for the fear that they will turn back all of the emotions, the film really strives to also employs the 3D process to great ef- in Ridley Scott’s latest film The Martian (in and try to rescue him, stranding or killing get the science right. It’s never going to go fect, allowing us to experience the vast- much the same way the meltdown at Three them all. And the next mission to Mars over the heads of the audience members, ness of Mars, the long corridors of the Miles Island helped turn The China Syn- isn’t scheduled for another four years, but it’s never dumbed-down to where it just spaceship, and the horrors of a sandstorm. drome into a hit in 1979). so everyone must work together to come becomes insulting. It may not be constantly poking you in the In The Martian, Matt Damon stars as up with a solution to bring Watney home. Scott and screenwriter Drew Goddard eye, but the 3D actually serves the story in astronaut Mark Watney, part of a team on a Luckily, Watney is a botanist and discovers have managed to keep a good balance be- this case and should be the preferred way scientific mission to Mars. The end of their a way to grow potatoes and make water tween entertainment and information, and to see the film. perhaps the film will actually inspire in the I am going to go out on a limb here process. and say The Martian is one of the year’s It’s easy to compare The Martian to best films and should get some love come Cast Away with Tom Hanks, but I found awards season. It’s a film that can be en- this film and its lead character much more joyed by almost all ages, and film that will engaging. You wanted Hanks’ character to leave you feeling like you’ve just seen get home, but he was on an island so it something very special afterwards. wasn’t like he was in danger of dying at With all of the summer’s loud block- any moment. Watney is on Mars. He can’t busters behind us, it’s refreshing to see just roam around looking for food. He’s al- another blockbuster of a film that doesn’t ways in a spacesuit while outside of the need things blowing up every few minutes base, and inside water, air and food are at to excite and engage the audience. The a premium. Martian has finally broken the Mars movie One tiny tear or hole in his suit or the curse. t

Looking for a drink

16 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Lively Arts // QMusic

Listening to Nostalgic for be her lyrics, in spite of the fact that she considers her- ephemera. It seems that self a poet. Nevertheless, way because in the last few Jewel pulls through on du- LGBT History years there have been a the 90s? ets with Rodney Crowell (“It Doesn’t Hurt rash of reissues and com- Right Now”) and Dolly Parton (“My Father’s pilations. Like the aforementioned Smokey By Gregg Shapiro Daughter”), as well as on the “Pretty Faced By Gregg Shapiro disc, Dusty’s Come For A Dream: The Patty Griffin’s brilliant 1996 debut album Fool” cover, which distract from some of the Reissues, on CD and vinyl (and, in some U.K. Sessions 1970-1971 (Real Gone/ Living with Ghosts introduced listeners to monotony. cases, cassette) are a common occur- Atlantic/ Rhino) collects “long-lost” record- one of the most impressive singer/songwrit- There’s something bittersweet about lis- rence when it comes to mainstream mu- ings from British recording sessions that ers of her generation. The combination of tening to Holdin’ The Bag (Acetate) by cow- sic. There are entire record labels, such as were meant to be “a complete album.” Griffin’s stunning voice and her skills asa punk band Supersuckers. Recorded shortly Rhino, Light in the Attic, Legacy, and Real The missing piece from Atlantic Records composer of accessible and unforgettable before Supersucker’s lead vocalist Eddie Gone Music – among others – devoted to period, the songs here were supposed tunes has earned her a steadily growing fol- Spaghetti was diagnosed with Stage 3 throat re-releasing albums by popular and ob- to become See All Her Faces, an album lowing over the course cancer, Holdin’ the Bag is as scure artists, often in remastered and ex- that was released in the UK, but not in the of almost 20 years. rowdy and raucous as insur- panded editions. Over the years, some of US. The good news is that now everyone What’s more, other gent country gets. The Hayes these labels have also included work by has a chance to hear Dusty’s renditions of artists, including Bette Carll duet “This Life…With LGBT artists on their roster. songs including “A Song For You,” “Wasn’t Midler, Emmylou Har- You,” “Man On A Mission,” One of the most thrilling queer reissues Born To Follow,” “Yesterday When I Was ris, the Dixie Chicks, “Let’s Bounce,” “Jibber Jab- of 2015 is How Far Will You Go? (Chap- Young,” “How Can I Be Sure,” “What Are and even Susan Boyle, ber” and “Shimmy & Shake” ter Music), the first of its kind CD and vinyl You Doing The Rest of Your Life?” and “O- also love her songs are all super examples. Of compilation by “stoner-punk-disco-glam- o-h Child,” to name a few. and have made a point course, there’s much more gay” pioneers Smokey. Subtitled The S&M In her lifetime, Lesley Gore, who died of recording them with Sing like to Supersuckers, as you can Recordings 1973-81, the CD collects 16 of in early 2015, topped the Billboard charts, reverence. Additionally, it’s 1999 hear on the marvelous Lydia Smokey’s self-released singles produced appeared on Batman, was nominated for Griffin set herself apart Loveless duet “I Can’t Cry” by Smokey’s partner E.J. Emmons. What’s an Oscar and came out as a lesbian. In from others by being as well as “All My Rowdy more, Smokey recorded and performed the midst of all that activity, she continued daring on the edgy songs of her second al- Friends (Have Settled Down).” with stellar musicians such as the late to write and record and the CD reissue of bum Flaming Red, the ambitiously spiritual Calexico also emerged in the alt-country Randy Rhoads (of Ozzy Osbourne fame), her 1972 MoWest album Someplace Else Downtown Church and the consistently stun- scene just like Supersuckers did. Also like James Williamson (of The Stooges) and Now (Real Gone/Motown/Universal) is one ning pair, Impossible Dream and Children Supersuckers, Joey Burns and John Conver- Tin Machine men Hunt and Tony Sales. such example. Definitely an album of its Running Through. Her new album Servant tino of Calexico appreciate the value of col- Smoldering lead singer John “Smokey” time, more Helen Reddy than Joni Mitch- of Love (PGM/Thirty Tigers), leans more to- laboration. Edge of the Sun (Anti-), Calexi- Condon, who looked great in leather, ell, the songs deal with serious subjects ward her experimental side, with Griffin tak- co’s latest album features a stellar line-up of filled his songs with queer content. Just such as suicide (“She Said That”) and re- ing new musical risks, especially with her vo- guest musicians joining the band which bring take your pick from “Miss Ray,” “Leather,” lationship trouble (“What Did I Do Wrong”). cals. This comes through most prominently the songs vibrantly to life. That’s Neko Case “Strong Love,” “Hot Hard & Ready,” the doo There is also a breeziness to tunes includ- on the title cut, the stomping “Gunpowder,” on “Tapping on the Line,” Pieta Brown on wop of “Ballad of Butchie & Claudine,” the ing the title cut and “Don’t Wanna Be One.” “There Isn’t One Way,” “Snake Charmer,” “When the Angels Played,” Amparo Sanchez fiery funk of “How Far Will You Go…?,” the Jack Curtis Dubowsky is one of those and “You Never Asked Me.” on “Cumbia de Donde,” and Gaby Moreno vintage disco of “Piss Slave” and “DTNA” queer musicians who seem to have his It’s been more than 20 years since Jewel “Miles From The Sea,” all of whom contribute (which stands for dance the night away), hand in almost every pot. Dubowsky, who released her major-label debut Pieces of to making Edge of the Sun one of Calexico’s and the new wave cover “I’ll Always Love has made his name in the world of film You. The album took a while to catch on, most luminous discs. You.” A must-have for music lovers, gay score composition as well as contempo- but once it did, she and songs such as “You Whether they like it or not, subliminally and straight. (The LP contains 11 tracks as rary classical music, was also the creative Were Meant for Me,” “Who Will Save Your religious upper Midwestern trio Low un- well as a card with a code to download five force behind the trio Diazepam Nights on Soul,” and “Foolish Games,” were virtually leashed the “slowcore” genre on the world digital bonus tracks.) its 1989 self-titled queer chamber pop De inescapable. Additionally, Jewel became one and continues to mine the field on its new Gay men of a certain age (or perhaps Stijl debut. Add to that the fact the he owns of those artists whose back-story (living in a disc Ones and Sixes (Sub Pop). any age) swoon at the mere mention of the and operates the De Stijl Records label, van, working the coffeehouse residency cir- First and foremost, what Low fans want name Johnny Mathis. So you can imag- reissuing the Diazepam Nights album and cuit) became almost as important as the mu- (and what they get) are the ethereal har- ine the pearls and hankies being clutched you have the makings of a mogul. Helot sic itself. The savvy belter not only released monies of Mimi Parker and Alan Sparhawk. when he sings. The four disc set The Sin- Revolt, Dubowsky’s other musical project a string of albums since that time, but she Scratchy and thumpy electronics give songs gles (Columbia/Legacy), released to coin- from around that time, released a four song also parlayed her success into a career as an such as; the anything but gentle “Gentle,” the cide with Mathis’ 80th (!) birthday, compiles EP, In Your Face/Up Your Butt (De Stijl) author and actress. Picking Up the Pieces near epic “Landslide,” “The Innocents,” and “Kid all 87 of the timeless crooner’s non-LP sin- which captured “the world’s greatest fag- (Sugar Hill), Jewel’s first non-genre specific In The Corner,” a distinctly modern feel. They gles, from 1956 to 1981, including “Won- got heavy metal band” at its transgressive release in five years, offers a nod to her de- also balance the crawl of “No Comprende,” derful! Wonderful,” “Chances Are,” “Wild Is best in a song such as “I Like Marines.” t but, but falls short of that album’s energy and “Spanish Translation,” “Congregation,” and The Wind,” “When Sunny Gets Blue,” and spirit. Call it a loss of innocence, the now- “Into You” with the retro pop of “No End” and “The Twelfth of Never,” as well as numer- divorced Jewel is not the same person she “What Part of Me.” t ous Christmas favorites. was (but who among us is?). Album opener Patty Griffin performs on October 7 at If you didn’t know better, you might “Love Used to Be” and second track “A Boy Keswick Theatre in Glenside, Pennsylvania, think that somewhere there is an end- Needs a Bike” get things off to a strong, if and Low performs on February 1 at Johnny less supply of Dusty Springfield musical sad, start. If Jewel has a weakness, it would Brenda’s in Philadelphia.

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 17 Lively Arts // Screen Savor

anything bad could possibly happen. There well as its sequel Yossi, ventures into Almo- is comeuppance, but the suffering that pre- dovar’s arena with the colorful, sugar-coated cedes it is weighty. There’s also an unex- coated comedy, Cupcakes (Strand), making Sweet and Sour Love pectedly upbeat ending that is a pleasure to a sweet arrival on DVD just in time for Pride watch. DVD +Digital bonus special features month. On the night of the UniverSong com- include a series of behind-the-scenes vi- petition, a group of friends and neighbors By Gregg Shapiro gushing of old friends Marina (Maria Dizzia) gnettes with the cast and more. – gay schoolteacher Ofer (Ofer Schechter), Twenty years after Noah Baumbach’s and Fletcher (Beastie Boy Adam Horovitz). Speaking of agony, Gett: The Trial of lesbian singer/songwriter Efrat (Efrat Dor), well-received directorial debut Kicking and Josh thinks his fortunes are about to Viviane Amsalem (Music Box Films) is the assistant to the Minister of Culture Dana Screaming, and ten years after his critical change after he meets hyper-hipster Brook- kind of film that may (Dana Ivgy), blogger breakthrough The Squid and the Whale, lyn couple Jamie (Adam Driver) and Darby have you thinking “Josh thinks his fortunes Keren (Keren Berg- the writer/director has made his most ac- (Amanda Seyfried). Jamie is a filmmaker twice about marriage er), former beauty complished (and Woody Allen-esque) film who claims to be a fan of Josh’s work. Darby and divorce, gay or are about to change after queen Yael (Yael Bar- to date with While We’re Young (A24 / Li- makes ice cream. Before you know it, the straight. As claustro- he meets hyper-hipster Zohar), and baker onsgate). Baumbach saves Ben Stiller the two couples begin to socialize. Josh is wear- phobic as a loveless Anat (Anat Waxman) trouble of waiting to hear from Allen by hav- ing a fedora, going sockless in brogues and 30-year marriage, all Brooklyn couple Jamie – gather together to ing him play a character that the legendary buying a used bicycle to go riding with Ja- of the action in Gett (Adam Driver) and Darby watch the event on filmmaker could just as easily have created mie. Cornelia attends hip-hop dance classes takes place inside the TV. That night, they himself. with Darby. Jamie offers to help Josh with his sterile courtroom or (Amanda Seyfried). Jamie also end up writing a In While We’re Young, Stiller plays film; including pep-talking him before Josh exterior waiting room. is a filmmaker who claims song together which Josh, a doc filmmaker whose glory is fad- meets with a potential, but clueless, inves- When Viviane unexpectedly launch- ing fast because it’s taken him almost ten tor. There is a wealth of comedic situations (Ronit Elkabetz, to be a fan of Josh’s work. es them into the run- years to complete the follow-up to his well- that play out as naturally as anything in the who co-wrote/co- Darby makes ice cream.” ning to represent Is- received debut. He lives in the shadow of best of Woody Allen’s comedies. directed the film with rael in the following his acclaimed filmmaker father-in-law Les- If it all sounds too good to be true, it is. her brother Shlomi year’s UniverSong lie (Charles Grodin), especially since Leslie The unraveling is painful and draining. Each Elkabetz), began the competition. also employs Josh’s wife Cornelia (Naomi revelation of deception is painted in darker process to get a gett (divorce) from Elisha Looking for dramatic tension to bal- Watts). Josh is also reduced to teaching and darker tones. Even if Josh was ignor- (Simon Abkarian), her dull, stubborn and re- ance the camp and comedy? Ofer’s in a continuing ed classes where the equipment ing the clues (see Jamie’s personal hand- ligious husband, she had no idea it would relationship with closeted Assif (Alon Levi), fails to function. Childless Josh and Corne- held video camera), we saw them, but like become a five-year ordeal. As it drags on, the spokesperson for his family’s success- lia are also forced to endure the new-parent him, we were having too much fun to think Viviane is subjected to a hideous array of ful hummus biz. Socially awkward Keren’s humiliations. Over the course of her repeat- life revolves around her laptop. Anat’s mar- ed court appearances, at some of which Eli- riage is on the rocks. Dana, who has always sha refuses to appear, Viviane is the victim followed her father’s orders, is itching for a of misogyny, hypocrisy, religious hysteria change. Efrat is growing weary of playing her and degradation. There are a few moments music to small coffeehouse crowds. Yael’s in of levity, particularly when witness Rachel a dead-end relationship with an offensive (Ruby Porat Shoval) takes the stand, but and sexist lawyer (Lior Ashkenazi). With they are all too brief. their chance to make it big right before them, If ever there was a legitimate argument the sextet is determined not to let anything for the separation of church (or synagogue) get in their way and get to Paris to compete. and state, it would be Gett. In Hebrew, Fox proves himself to be as adept at French and Arabic with subtitles. DVD bo- comedy as he is at drama. Cupcakes also nus features include a “making of” doc, inter- features tunes by Scissor Sisters’ Babydad- views with Shlomi Elkabetz and more. dy (a.k.a. Scott Hoffman). Don’t be surprised Gay, Israeli filmmaker Eytan Fox, director if you walk out singing. In Hebrew with sub- of contemporary gay classics including The titles. The meager DVD bonus features in- Bubble, Walk On Water, Yossi & Jagger, as clude the original theatrical trailer. t

18 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 19 out on campus

public service. profit management. Who will fill the void Baltimore is undergoing massive so- left by retiring baby boomers? Where will Public Service Needs You! cial change that is positive and is bringing we gain the experience to fill vacated man- about equality. But we are also facing dif- agement jobs? These are questions that By Roger E. Hartley years ago. Its emphasis is on advancing ficult problems that have lingered for de- those of us in higher education are asking As the new Dean of the College of Pub- public service by educating new leaders cades in poverty, housing, criminal justice, now. And we’re not just talking about it – lic Affairs at University of Baltimore, I am and contributing scholarship to improve the food deserts, racial, ethnic, and sexual and we’re doing something about it: Colleges excited to have been asked to kick-off an public and nonprofit sectors. Our college gender discrimination. Achieving social who train public servants are challenging ongoing column devoted to higher educa- includes three schools with graduate and justice and equality is an ongoing problem our students to think differently and to be tion and the LGBTQ experience. This has undergraduate degree programs in Public in our city, with deep roots that are struc- prepared to work in a transformed work- been a remarkable year for the community and International Affairs, Criminal Justice, tural. In some places, block by block, you place. Public, nonprofit, and private agen- with the Supreme Court decision legaliz- and Health and Hu- see wealth cies need to train ethically minded leaders ing same-sex marriage. More remarkable man Services. We’re alongside ex- who can communicate and work effectively is the incredible change in society and law also the home of the treme poverty in a diverse and changing society. Public that happened in only the last few years. Schaefer Center for and urban de- and nonprofit leaders should reflect the In this improved environment, there is a Public Policy, which cay. diversity of the communities they serve. struggle by public servants and the LGBTQ produces research The upris- They also need to be prepared to lead and community: How will courts interpret new and training programs ing of com- govern inclusively and build policy with the and revised laws? How will the change be that have an impact munity action diversity of the community at the governing managed by government agencies? In the on the public and following the table. It takes a different public servant to years ahead, what will equality come to nonprofit sectors. We unrest in April lead and manage an evolving organization mean in our institutions – political, legal, work to achieve our gives my col- in an inclusive way. economic? goal of improving pub- leagues and Discriminatory barriers faced by the I wanted to tell you today a little bit lic service in a college me great LGBTQ community are breaking down al- about our college and why public service devoted to inclusion, diversity, and com- energy and hope. Advances in LGBTQ most daily. While there is much to do, like matters more than ever. This is also a call munity-engaged learning that exposes our rights is one positive change that has the passage of strong anti-discrimination for you to join in public service at this most students to problems impacting our city. propelled our city forward and helped us laws that include sexual orientation, basic critical time. UB students help solve these problems become more inclusive, where being gay attitudes are leaning toward a more open, The College of Public Affairs at the and improve our city and region while they or straight doesn’t matter nearly as much civil, and inclusive society. The public ser- University of Baltimore was founded five learn. Baltimore is our “training ground” for as being good neighbors and community vice workforce of today and tomorrow will members. Our university community sees reflect this progress. itself as part of a larger community, and Baltimore needs energetic, dedicat- we are more energized ed and mindful than ever to solve public “There is great need public servants. problems. But, honestly, Imagine a public there is so much to do and great opportunity sector workforce and still many barriers. that can em- At this time of great in the field of power and bring change and need for government and diverse commu- smart, responsive pub- nities together to lic service, there is also nonprofit management. solve problems. a crisis that requires all Envision a re- of us to act and consid- Who will fill the void sponsive, knowl- er government and non- left by retiring baby edgeable work- profits as a career field force that helps or an activity outside of boomers?” the city take on our work. Our govern- and beat its many ments and nonprofits face a huge suc- challenges. As I see it, the city’s LGBTQ cession problem – the current public ser- community is an important part of this re- vice workforce is rapidly retiring. Cuts in dedication to the task of creating a bet- governments and social service programs ter Baltimore. We need you – your talent, have also made these fields more chal- your passion, your voice, your leadership. lenging to work in, and at times less desir- I urge you to be the best public servants– able as career options for some. There is right here in Baltimore. t a loss of faith in our public sector at a time The author is the University of Balti- when it is needed more than ever. And, more’s dean at the College of Public Affairs here in the city of Baltimore, some have ar- gued that our most talented and dedicated public servants may be leaving for higher paying federal jobs and other opportunities in Washington, D.C. We are losing some of our best and brightest at this crucial time. There is great need and great oppor- tunity in the field of government and non-

20 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com Meet and Greet Renita Clarke: Baltimore’s more in 2012. Fotojunkie Renita’s one-woman show was titled “Rams Head Photo Exhibit.” All of the im- ages exhibited were black and white and BY JOE GARVEY were taken at Rams Head Live at 20 Market On Sunday, September 20, at 5 p.m. Balti- Place or at Rams Head on Stage at 33 West more’s Red Lion Hotel (207 East Redwood Street in Annapolis where she has devel- Street) hosted its first performer from the oped a long-term relationship with the own- LGBTQ community on The Living Stage in ers. They trust her judgment and profes- an event titled “Renita Clarke, Baltimore’s sional demeanor, which allows her to walk Fotojunkie.” Renita is an articulate, enthu- freely among the singers and musicians on siastic, young, professional photographer stage and photograph them at any angle. who for the past three years has special- Using two cameras, a Cannon EF 50mm ized in photographing events at both Rams and a Cannon EF 70-200mm, Renita has Head Live and Rams Head on Stage. been able to photograph dozens of events. The Red Lion, which opened on August For her photo exhibit Renita selected Renita Clarke on the Red Lion’s The Living Stage with photos of K. Michelle DJ Bro Safari, 1, 2015, is the first Red Lion in the nation to nine popular artists: V. Bozeman, K. Mi- Jamie Lynn Spears, and DJ Ape Drums offer an opportunity to people from all walks chelle, Scott Wieland, DJ Craze, Jamie credit: Leon Basey of Elbee Photo of life, including the LGBTQ community, to Lynn Spears, DJ Ape Drums, Yuna, Billy share their talent on The Living Stage. The Bob Thornton, and DJ Bro Safari. Her hibit was “picture perfect.” t their art or cause. To book an event, only requirements are to be focused on one lecture lasted about 45 minutes, during If you are interested in having Renita whether you are an artist or musician, poet or all of Red Lion’s three passion points: which time she explained to her audience Clarke photograph your special event, or politician, inventor or visionary, please “Creativity, innovation, and awareness”. who the performers were, what songs and please contact her at: ishootevents@the- use the online talent form located at Rlliv- The Living Stage is a performance musical genre they were famous for, and fotojunkie.com. The Living Stage is avail- ingstage.com or contact Tammy at tammy. stage approximately 18 by 20 feet. The the joy and challenges she experienced in able to anyone who is passionate about [email protected]. sound system is a combination of best-in- photographing them. class technologies with a high definition “The challenge is always lighting on webcam that allows each performance to stage,” Renita explained to Baltimore be broadcast live directly into the guest OUTloud, “too much lighting – white light- rooms and for recording for future replay. ing can blend with your image; blue or red Additionally, there are up to 12 different can blow out your image with hot spots. I outputs for microphones and/or instru- try to cut down on the lighting. I’m not a big ments, as well as a screen and projector fan of editing. I prefer to get things right the for visual display. Currently, the lighting first time.” A secondary challenge to light- is set on stands, but it will be mounted on ing comes from members of the audience the ceiling for directional lighting in a few who take pictures with their cameras that months. Equally important the entire venue flash. Also, while working at Rams Head on is free! Stage, Renita tries to be alert to the wait- When asked, “What inspired you to be- ers who are serving customers dinner and come a fotojunkie?” Renita told Baltimore drinks. OUTloud, “Literally, it started as a hobby Renita also shared with Baltimore with a box camera, taking random family OUTloud that she has a favorite singer that pictures, capturing moments at weddings, she likes to photograph, “One that I like birthdays, and special events for myself. is V. Bozeman, the current star of Empire Even harassing relatives to take their pic- on Fox. I like shooting her show because tures.” she gives so much passion on stage. The Renita was born in Baltimore and at- shots I took look like people feel they are tended Glen Burnie High School for two there. Such a passionate singer and it years before moving to England where she comes across in all the shots, especially visited relatives and graduated early from belting out a high note and letting it go a Lakenheath High School. After graduation, long time.” she returned briefly to Baltimore before After her lecture, Renita fielded ques- moving to Los Angeles. While in LA, Reni- tions for fifteen minutes from an audience ta spent six-and-a-half years working with of about 20 people, including family, friends clients and friends in all types of produc- and hotel guests. “Being from Maryland,” tions, including working as a photographer Renita concluded, “this is my first exhibit and as the executive producer for “Siren back home and everyone knows Rams Assassins,” a dance project. However, she Head. I appreciated everyone coming out did not promote herself as a professional tonight to support me.” Judging from the photographer until she returned to Balti- audience’s applause, Renita’s photo ex-

BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 21 Quality of Life

She had come from one bad situation af- play, and to listen. She Violet, ter another. She was born in a puppy mill Jake, Daisy quickly and firmly be- in Oklahoma. As an adorable little puppy, came a member of the she then went to live with a family that had family. She loved Jake Violet’s obtained her from the puppy mill and had and Daisy and they Vet her shipped to Maryland. I am pretty sure loved her back, even if Dr. Tony Calo that they were taken in by her cuteness it was in an annoying-lit- and were further enticed by the happy no- tle-sister way. Violet had tions of canine companionship. What they brought a new dimen- The forgot was that puppies require a tremen- sion to our family that dous amount of work. They also forgot that we did not even know Human / puppies grow up into fully formed dogs that that we were missing. also require a tremendous amount of work. She brought laughter, So from Oklahoma, she arrived to a fam- and adventures, and Animal Bond ily of six forgetful humans. Five of these more love than we ever humans were children and one was the expected. Looking back When Violet came to live with Connor and adult raising them. Raising five humans though, I realize that me, it was not because we lacked canine is difficult, but try adding a puppy into the she brought us some- companionship. At that time, we had a mix. The consequence for poor Violet was thing that we never gentle giant in the form of Jacob, a Golden that she grew with very little attention, very could have expected. Retriever and Daisy, a Labrador Retriev- little exercise, and very little love. Violet one family to another because she did not About two years after Violet had come to er. Jake and Daisy were a magical pair. was neglected on many different levels. know how to live outside of a crate. She live with us, Jake’s age caught up with him. I have never seen a bond between ani- She was skinny, she was bored, and she was ill-behaved (because you can mostly He was 15 years old. He had been treated mals so strong or so loving. Because they had no housetraining. She spent the vast get away with bad behavior when you are for different types of cancer and then he were so perfect, they were also perfect for majority of her formative months in a crate, cute) and worse than that, she would uri- developed neurologic disease for which our family. I say with confidence that the and before she was ten months old, she nate in the house. This is a big problem for there is no successful treatment. He had only other beings that loved me as much was given away by the family. She was dis- most people. Violet ended up at the hos- lived his life with happiness and love from as Jake and Daisy were my parents. So carded, and with no thought or concern of pital where I work for a suspected urinary the time I got him. He brought joy and com- based on that, it would have seemed that what would happen to her. Over the course tract infection as a possible cause of the fort to me every minute of every day. He Violet needed us more that we needed her. of the next four weeks, Violet passed from accidents in the house. Violet needed vet- provided these very same things to Connor erinary evaluation that day, but more im- and Daisy. I had spent his entire life not be- portantly, she also needed a home. Thanks ing able to comprehend losing his brilliant to modern technology, a cell phone picture and bright light. But when the time came was texted from me to Connor. Along with for us to let his spirit free from his earthly the picture was a simple message: “She body, it was Violet’s love that provided us needs a home”. In what goes on record as comfort during this painful transition from the fastest reply to a text in all of human the day to day with Jake to the day to day history came this message back to me: without him. Daisy never had to spend one “Bring her home”. moment being the only dog and just as im- Violet came to live with us. We provid- portant, Connor and I had still had an intact ed her with a home free of crates, and full family unit around us. We still had laughter of regular meals, a yard, and two canine with the crying and love with the loss. Vio- playmates. She was also provided with two let, in many, ways kept the family together. adoring humans that doted her as much as It was the way that we learned we needed Jake and Daisy. Violet made herself right her much more than she needed us. t at home. She did what the other dogs did, Send questions to violtesvet@baltimore- meaning she learned to go on walks, to outloud.com.

22 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 23 dining out

compote for $7.50. Breakfast Sandwich options include the Market Sandwich with Springfield eggs Fuhr and cheddar cheese on choice of bread the Love of Food for $5.95 and the Southwestern Sandwich with eggs, pepper jack cheese, red pep- pers, and onion choice of bread for $7.95. The brunch menu includes soups that Atwater’s are freshly made daily on-site. The selec- 529 East Belvedere Avenue tion changes regularly but currently include Baltimore Maryland Crab, Red Bean & Sausage with 410-323-2396 rice and scallions and Pepper & Eggplant with pasta and cauliflower (vegan). These By Nick Fuhr selection and other are available in cup, I took my mother to Atwater’s in Belvedere bowl or quart and range in price for a bowl Market for breakfast Sunday morning. It’s from $3.75 to $5.75. not the fanciest place. It’s certainly not There are also fresh salads available, the quietest place. But if you’re looking like the Sasaki (with napa cabbage, aru- for fresh, good food, Atwater’s is the right gula, marinated cucumber, pickled carrot, place. What Atwater’s does, they do very and ginger with miso tofu and sesame well. They use the freshest, most season- seeds and topped with a carrot ginger ally appropriate ingredients and create dressing) for $9.50. Then there is the Field wonderful foods. Greens (with apples, slivered almonds, I ordered the Tomato, Basil & Provo- and toma cheese over spring mix greens lone Omelets ($8.50). It was served with with a herb dressing) for $8.95. fresh seasonal fruit and choice of toast Any trip to Atwater’s would not be com- from freshly made house bread. The to- plete without a hot beverage or dessert. I matoes alone were did not try a des- worth the meal. sert at this meal, They were fresh but I have enjoyed and flavorful. Clear- their handmade ice ly no hothouse cream on other oc- wannabes here. casions. You can The omelet was chose from fresh op- well filled and pre- tions like Salted Car- pared. The fruit was amel, Pecan Praline sliced watermelon and Honey Vanilla and bananas with and have them by grapes. Everything the scoop, in a sun- was ripe, but I don’t dae, or as a milk- like watermelon, shake. There is also so I gave that to a huge selection of mom. She said it was not the best melon. fresh cakes, tarts, pies, cookies, cupcakes, One dull spot in an otherwise good meal. and brownies to try. And to accompany any I chose the Anville White bread for my of these tasty treats Atwater’s serves an ex- toast (Sunflower Buckwheat and Raisin tended selection of freshly brewed coffees, Pumpernickel were the other options). The espresso drinks, lattes, and teas all made toast was served with house jam. All meals with the high quality ingredients you would served with toast are accompanied by At- expect. water’s jam. It’s good jam. The full brunch menu is available all Mom chose the Straight Up ($6.95). It day on Sunday but does not include their came with two Springfield Farm eggs (she pancake menu options. I’m told their pan- asked for over-easy and they came, over- cakes are not to be missed. But I do find it easy), North Country bacon, and toast. odd they don’t serve them on Sunday. Dur- She selected the Sunflower Buckwheat. ing the week and on Saturday pancakes She enjoyed her breakfast with an herbal are available but breakfast items are only tea, but more on beverages later. served till 11. Both of our meals were from the “Plates” If you’re looking for freshly-made, selection. Other items under Plates are the well-prepared food served by an attentive, All Together, it’s like the Straight Up but friendly staff, Atwater’s is not to be missed. includes breakfast potatoes for $9.95 and There is counter seating as well as indoor the French Toast Casserole topped with and outdoor tables to enjoy a good meal brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon apple while people watching. t

24 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 25 real estate

cost effective. Additionally, I believe that our over- Home, Sweet (Big, loaded transportation systems will require that we redevelop large swaths of the Smart) Home abandoned inner city, either with massive urban renewal projects or a more selective combining of two or more old townhouses By Wayne Curtis dramatically, from 8.6% in 1970 to 14.3% into the spacious modern residences our Some of the most frequent comments that today. The size of our households in gen- current lifestyle demands. modern home buyers have, as we look to- eral has decreased markedly. In 1975, the Whatever happens, our homes will tell gether at homes built between 1850 and average American household had 2.94 our stories to future generations just as 1950, is how little storage space they con- people. In 2004 that number had fallen to effectively as the old homes in our neigh- tain. It shows in very real terms how our 2.57 people. borhoods give us a glimpse into daily lives lives differ from those of our ancestors: we There is one surprising bit of informa- long gone. And there will still be the inevi- have a lot more stuff! More clothes, shoes, tion in these numbers. Despite all the me- table question, “can you believe they lived etc., and we store them differently. Clothes dia coverage of college graduates moving like that?” t in most of our homes are not hung on home to live in their parents’ basements, Wayne Curtis has been a licensed hooks, as they were in ages past, but on the percentage of adults who lived in the real estate agent since 1998. In Novem- hangers in deep closets – some closets are parental home has barely budged in the ber, 2012, he was named a Realtor Hero rooms unto themselves. Rooms are gener- last 45 years, from 10.8% in 1970 to just by the National Association of Realtors for ally smaller in homes built in the 1800s and 11% in 2014. his work promoting homeownership in Bal- before, with lower ceilings in some cases, How have these trends changed the timore. Send questions to him at wayne@ to keep them warmer in winter: only in the way we live? Well, Americans are craving charmcityrealestate.com. early 1900s had central heating systems more privacy and space. For example, the evolved to the point where they could keep median square footage of new, single-fam- a modern-style room comfortable. ily homes in the U.S. has grown steadily Just as those homes tell us about our over the last 30 years, with only a slight past, recent changes in American society interruption in the years immediately after the real estate crash. We’ve gone from “Our overloaded homes of just over 1,700 square feet in 1987 to McMansions of 2,400 square feet transportation systems in 2013. Also, take a look at the growth of “en will require that we suite” bedrooms – sleeping rooms with redevelop large swaths adjoining private baths. Our desire for in- creased privacy has made a major selling of the abandoned inner point of a bedroom with a private bath; a recognition that there are more unmarried city, either with massive and unrelated adults living in the same urban renewal projects household (1.4% in 1970, up to 3.6% in 2014). Forty-one percent of new homes or a more selective built in 2012 had four or more bedrooms, and ninety-three percent had more than combining of two or 1.5 baths. According to the Census, the more old townhouses average new home now has more bath- rooms than occupants! into the spacious How will our homes change in the fu- ture? We’re starting to see the outlines modern residences of a home where technology is built in to our current lifestyle just about everything that’s installed, from electrical wiring and greater use of co-axial demands.” cable or fiber optic communication lines, to wireless transmission. Smart homes and and lifestyle are having a major impact smart appliances will be on the ‘Internet of on the homes we build and renovate to- Things’ interacting with our smart phones day. Recent data from the Census Bureau to tell us when the repairman has arrived, illustrate the point: in 1970 – 45 years when we’re being broken into, and when ago – nearly 70 percent of adults lived we need another gallon of milk. Homes will with a married spouse (69.4%). By 2014, most likely be greener, as electricity, heat- that number was barely a majority, having ing and cooling will all cost more from tra- dropped to just under 52 percent (51.7%). ditional power sources. Solar power cells, Adults who live with a partner zoomed from solar hot water systems, and alternative .5% of households to 7.3%. The number of heating sources, such as geothermal, will adults who live alone has also increased become more and more common and more

26 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com BALTIMORE OUTLOUD OCTOBER 2, 2015 • baltimoreoutloud.com t 27 Gear Party Barbecue at The Barracks bar, in advance. Unfortunately that same week- vada. Weekend packages are just $79 and Victory Party Leather/ Fetish Dance, the Mr. end was the inaugural Drummer North rooms start at $109. The weekend will in- Palm Springs Leather 2016 Contest on the America Contest (DNA) at the Flamingo Re- clude the contest, hospitality suites, interac- Grand Concourse of the Palms Springs Con- sort in St. Petersburg, Florida. As a former tive skills workshops, dungeon spaces, cigar vention Center, and more. Plus all package Drummer titleholder I hated to miss DNA, but and bourbon social, comedy hypnosis show, Leather holders receive a t-shirt, collectible run pin, I couldn’t be both places at once. I had so and more. And if that isn’t enough – you are Line and souvenir dog tags. much fun at SECC in Orlando last year that in Las Vegas. Hello! For more information Rodney Burger Folks in Baltimore won’t have to travel at I hope to return in 2016. Well, good news! you can find DNA Contest on Facebook or at all for a big leather event on the weekend of In 2016 I can go to both events. DNA 2016 DrummerNA.com. November 6 to 8 as COMMAND, MC host will be held the weekend of January 28 – 31 There is no need to be sad that summer Pack Up the the Mr. Maryland Leather 2016 Contest and and has been relocated to the Alexis Park All is over and it will soon be cold weather. their annual anniversary weekend. Weekend Suites Hotel (located across from the Hard Plan a leather getaway, pack some leather Leather & Go! packages are just $89 and included cocktail Rock Hotel and Casino) in Las Vegas, Ne- and go! t parties, the contest, and COMMAND’s an- Many people take a vacation in the summer. niversary dinner. The Wyndham Peabody With such beautiful weather this year in the Court Hotel in Mt. Vernon will be the host Mid-Atlantic area there was no need to get hotel again this year with room rates starting away. I would much rather vacation in the fall, at $129 a night. I always feel funny checking and who does not want to get away from the into a hotel in Baltimore when I live in Balti- cold winter? Leather events make great va- more, but as they say, “Get a room!” It will cations. Some involve one price that includes make your weekend so much more fun and food, drinks, and entertainment. (In the leath- you can really enjoy the late night cocktail er community we call this a “run fee.”) These parties and don’t have to drive and search for gatherings can really be a parking each day. For those great value. Many leather who wish to attend only the Clifton events are built around a contest, The Mr. Maryland Tatum – leather contest or put on by Leather 2016 Contest will Mr. PSL a leather club to celebrate be held on Saturday, No- 2015 the club’s anniversary. vember 7 at 1:30 p.m. at These functions are open Grand Central. Doors open to everyone. One does not at noon. You will want to have to be a member of a get there early to grab a leather club or even own cocktail and a good seat. leather to attend. Jeans and Mr. Maryland Leather 2015 t-shirts work fine. If you do Greg King has really been own some leather or gear a great titleholder this year bring it along. Here are a and there should be a big few leather events coming turnout. I would not miss up in the next few months. this weekend for anything. Make plans now to pack up For tickets and more details the leather and go! go to Commandmc.org. Coming up soon is the There are also a few New Jersey Leather Week- leather events coming up end scheduled for October early next year that I am 16 – 18 in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Held already thinking about. You know it’s never at the Empress Hotel (101 Asbury Avenue) too early to make reservations and to take the weekend includes a uniform / gear party advantage of airfare discounts. The New on Friday night, workshops, a dance, leather Year always starts with Mid-Atlantic Leather vendors, and the Mr. and Ms. New Jersey Weekend (MAL) in Washington, D.C., and Leather 2016 Contest on Saturday and a Vic- will be held January 15 to 18, 2016 at the tory Brunch on Sunday. More details can be Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill (400 New Jer- found at Leathernjonline.com. You will have a sey Avenue NW). I might as well go ahead great time and will not have to travel far. and make my reservation now. The hotel has If traveling far is part of the plan, Palms 836 rooms – but it will sell out. I cannot even Springs Leather Order of the Desert (PSLOD) think about missing MAL. It is my favorite will be hosting Leather Pride Weekend in event of the year! Details are available at fabulous Palm Springs, California over the Leatherweekend.com. weekend of October 30 to November 1. The Last year over the President’s Day weekend package is just $135 and includes Weekend in February I was at the Parlia- the Meet and Greet at Hunter’s Nightclub, ment House Resort in Orlando, Florida, for a clothing-optional pool party hosted by Mr. the Southeast Conference of Clubs (SECC) Palms Springs Leather 2015 Clifton Tatum, Leather Weekend and the Mr. and Ms. a formal leather dinner at the Palms Springs SECC Leather 2015 Contest. The SECC Hilton, vendor market, and back lot cruise event has been held for many years that party hosted by PSLOD at the Tool Shed, weekend and I had make reservations way

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