Baltimore Gay Life July 2012

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July 2012

BaltimoreGayLife.com

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

Love it.

TRAVIS WALL SHAPES SOUND THROUGH MOTION THE DANCER / CHOREOGRAPHER TAKES HIS TALENTS TO STAGE AND SCREEN

BALTIMORE PRIDE PICS SUMMER READING KINSEY SICKS


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IN THIS GAY LIFE

LOCAL LIFE

JULY 2012

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Local LGBT History in Video By John Love

9 GLCCB Board Updates, Town Hall Meetings 10 AIDS Conference

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Celebrating Patriotism with the Kinsey Sicks BY FRANKIE KUJAWA

By Daniel McEvily

Chase Brexton CEO

By Alicia Gabriel

11 Deaf Leather Conference

By Daniel McEvily

HIGH LIFE

"America's Favorite Dragapella Quartet" brings their newest show, Electile Dysfunction, to Creative Alliance for two performances.

12 5 Things Summer TV

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Summer Reading & More

Terri Solomon introduces readers to a local book club for gay men and details five hot books she recommends for reading during these hot summer months. Plus, James Magruder mourns the loss of Baltimore-based author, teacher, and world traveler Dudley Clendinen.

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On Stage: Murder for Hire By Querin Brown

13 Dining at Gertrude's

By John Cullen with Marty Shayt

REAL LIFE

20 National & International News

By Rachel Roth

22 Advice for Women Business Owners

By Renee Wooding

Relationships: Ready for Marriage? By Shelly Webb

23 Queer Health: The Tops

By Alicia Gabriel & Deborah Dunn

SOCIAL LIFE

BY DANIEL MCEVILY

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

By Daniel McEvily

BETTER LIFE

Shaping Sound Through Motion, One Dance at a Time Gay Life asks So You Think You Can Dance runner up and choreographer Travis Wall about his new projects, including an Oxygen reality series and adding his moves to the Step Up film franchise.

24 BSCENE: Baltimore Pride 2012 28 Datebook

By Rachel Roth

HOME LIFE

Kinsey Sicks photo by C. Stanley, Courtesy of Theater J. Travis Wall photo by Bobby Quillard

30 Living Well in Small Spaces By Danielle Ariano

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EDITOR’S LIFE

Changes and Constants Change is inevitable. It is, in fact, the only constant (thank you Heraclitus and La Rochefoucauld). Having been with Gay Life for 18 months, I’ve already witnessed my share of change in the community. While I’ve enjoyed new additions, and I’ve loved getting to know new contributors, staff and board members, some changes are not as enjoyable. While we say goodbye to Trevor Ankeny—GLCCB Board President, Pride Committee Chair, Gay Bingo Aficionado—I’m grateful that I made a friend in the community. And for a few “hellos,” the GLCCB welcomes three new board members: Club Hippo Own-

er Chuck Bowers, Gender Rights of Maryland’s Sharon Brackett, and Marylanders for Marriage Equality’s Rachael Stern. Look for detailed bios for all board members soon on GLCCB.org. What’s another constant we can rely on? Having a blast at Pride of course! Check out our four-page photo spread (p. 24) and see if the cameras caught you enjoying our community at its best.

MAGGIE BEETZ Editor

FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB TWITTER.COM/GLCCB YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB ON THE COVER So You Think You Can Dance's Travis Wall. Photo by Bobby Quillard.

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

Love it.

241 W. Chase Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410.837.7748 Phone 410.837.8889 Fax sales@baltimoregaylife.com www.baltimoregaylife.com

Maggie Beetz, Editor editor@baltimoregaylife.com M. Cory Burgess, Art Director cory@metroscapemedia.com Sabre Chase, Advertising sales@baltimoregaylife.com National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Marty Shayt Senior Volunteer Contributors Danielle Ariano, Querin Brown, John Cullen, Deborah Dunn, Alicia Gabriel, Frankie Kujawa, John Love, James Magruder, Daniel McEvily, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Terri Solomon, Shelly Webb, Renee Wooding

Photographers terra hiltner, Anthony Moll, Chris Jennings, John Kardys, Jay W.

Newspaper Committee John Cullen, Charlie Mumford, Marty Shayt, Terri Solomon, Gary Wolnitzek

Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published monthly in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2012. All Rights Reserved. Gay Life is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Gay Life or its publisher.

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GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


LOCAL LIFE

Baltimore’s LGBT History Project Captures Decades of Pride BY JOHN LOVE In celebration and commemoration of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore’s 35th anniversary, a special “LGBT History Project” is underway. The project, organized by MICA master's degree program candidate and GLCCB artist in residence Denise R. Duarte, is a multipart video series. The completed component features 14 people who have lived or worked in Baltimore speaking on their personal experiences and involvement in the LGBT community in Charm City. “We wanted to do something for the 35th anniversary,” said Marlene Adrian, Duarte’s partner and director/editor of the series, “and Denise came up with this wonderful idea to show the history of the local LGBT community.” With experiences in the community spanning five decades of “coming out,” the interviewed subjects were leaders, supporters, activists, and innovators. “At first we asked a few people to speak,” Adrian said of finding interviewees, “and they referred us to more prominent people who they thought had interesting stories.” Among the featured interviewees is Kevin Clemons, one of the first HIV community counselors, who recollects his struggle to create organized support for HIV-positive African-American males in Baltimore in the mid-1980s. “I saw all these people coming and testing positive and they had no place to go,” said Clemons, “so what could we do?” In his interview, he described how his work led to the nationally recognized Positive Power support group, which directly addressed these issues, and the overwhelming response he received. “I think the most significant thing for me was the domestic partnership bill,” said interviewee Joiyvonne M. Veney, who played a role in enabling the passing of the bill. BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

She also spoke of supporting and creating a multitude of other projects including Moveable Feast, leading HIV support groups, and collecting submissions for the AIDS Quilt Project. Perhaps most relevant to the GLCCB’s anniversary are two of its founding members, Jim Becker and Harvey Schwartz, who describe the transitions in societal LGBT awareness, and the substantial differences and progress that has been made since the 1960s. With a history that is seemingly shown via accomplishments and spread through word of mouth, Baltimore’s LGBT movement has never been visually presented in such a raw, informative, and captivating manner. Words spoken are much more powerful than words read, and what is seen of a picture is only evident in its framing. So, visit the GLCCB website to peer into 14 different perspectives of various segments of LGBT Baltimore history over the last 35 years. Allow it to reinforce the pride that you have in not only in your sexuality or in your city, but in yourself. Check out the following interviewees who participated in the LGBT History Project on GLCCB.org: Jackie Adams Jim Becker Page Campbell Kevin Clemons Karen M. Feldman Patricia Grossman Louis L. Hughes, Jr.

Denise Duarte, Project Organizer

Joiyvonne M. Veney

Jim Becker

“We wanted to do something for the 35th anniversary,” said Marlene Adrian, director/ editor of the series, “and Denise [Duarte] came up with this wonderful idea to show the history of the local LGBT community.”

Richard Oloizia Marty Shayt Harvey Schwartz Mike Slatkin Carlton R. Smith Joiyvonne M. Veney Calvin Wheatley

Get Involved!

Interested in joining the project? If you have video editing experience, an interest in LGBT history, or if you’d like to be interviewed for the next installment of the LGBT History project, contact Marlene Adrian at adrianmjlv@gmail.com.

Kevin Clemons

Patricia Grossman

JULY 2012

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LOCAL LIFE

GLCCB Board Announces Changes

TOWN HALL MEETING FIRST OF MANY The Board of Directors of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB) hosted a town hall meeting June 25 to inform LGBT community members about recent changes. The following leadership appointments were voted on and implemented at the June 19 board meeting: Bud Beehler, Board President and Jay Day, Board Secretary. Matt Newcomer and Mike McCarthy will continue in the officer roles of Treasurer and Vice President, respectively. Mike Robertson, Charlie Mumford and John Flannery will continue in the positions of Board Directors. Additionally, Chuck Bowers, Rachael Stern, and Sharon Brackett were appointed as Board Directors. In the near future, bios of all board officers and directors will be available on GLCCB.org. The board also endorsed newly revised by-laws modeled after the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Organizations (MANO). The board aims to approve the new by-laws before the end of the month and post them online for public review. “Our goal is to create a fully transparent organization that serves the community to its fullest extent,” said Board President Bud Beehler. “We feel this is a chance for a reset.” Beehler also announced the board’s plan to hold regular town hall meetings where community members can makes sugges-

tions, ask questions, or express concerns about the LGBT issues and how the GLCCB can respond. Regular advisory committee meetings are also planned to obtain input from community leaders. Several community members expressed concern at the June 25 town hall that the board does not currently represent all segments of the community including people of color, youth, transgender men, and gender-nonconforming individuals. Beehler expressed the board’s desire to engage and include all local leaders about how the GLCCB can most effectively serve all segments of the community. Those interested in any level of involvement with the GLCCB are encouraged to contact Bud Beehler at 410.837.5445. The next town hall meeting is scheduled for the end of September. See the August issue of Gay Life for details.

Memorial Service for Community Member A memorial service will be held to honor Ira Michael New at the Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore, (4007 Old York Rd.) on Saturday July, 14 at 2pm. For more information please call Derrick/ Helena Hologram at 443.717.9770 or Ronnie at 443.277.3285. BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

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LOCAL LIFE

XIX International AIDS Conference Convenes in Washington FIRST TIME HOSTED IN US SINCE 1990 BY DANIEL MCEVILY More than 20,000 delegates from 200 countries will assemble in Washington, D.C. July 22-27 for the XIX International AIDS Conference. This year’s biennial event marks the conference’s return to the United States after a 22 year absence on the heels of President Barack Obama’s October 2009 announcement that the United States would end entry restrictions on people living with HIV. The conference was last held in the U.S. in 1990 in San Francisco. The event is touted as the world’s largest meeting on AIDS, where leading scientists, community leaders, and policy makers report on the latest AIDS research and help to identify next steps in the global response to AIDS. The conference will also highlight recent developments in treatment and prevention. “In the last few years various trials, in-

Chase Brexton Welcomes New CEO BY ALICIA GABRIEL In late April 2011, David H. Shippee left Chase Brexton Health Services after nearly twenty years of remarkable service as Chief Executive Officer. Shippee left Chase Brexton not simply better than when he found it, but poised to be a model of community health care for the nation— providing ideals about health care delivery, accessibility, and the future of health care. Since Shippee’s departure, under the leadership of interim CEO Daniel Neumeister, the organization has expanded further: Nearly doubling the size of its Columbia Center, beginning the process of expanding its site in Easton, and purchasing the Monumental Life Building as its headquarters and new Mt. Vernon Center. All the while, the Chase Brexton Health Services Board of Directors

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cluding HPTN 052, TDF2, Partners PrEP, and iPrEx have demonstrated with solid evidence the efficacy of treatment as prevention, while other studies are currently investigating the possibility of a cure for HIV,” Elly Katabira, International Chair of AIDS 2012 noted in a recent statement. “Thanks to these scientific advances, for the first time we have a real opportunity to put a major dent on the epidemic.” The conference will also address the state of the epidemic in the United States, with particular focus on the host city. An estimated 3 percent of Washingtonians are living with HIV, eclipsing the national estimate of 0.35 percent. Bill Clinton, philanthropist Bill Gates, and humanitarian Sir Elton John will be among the speakers who will address the conference. John is slated to deliver the keynote address on July 23, with Clinton

continued to search for a permanent CEO. In June, after an extensive and relentless search for the appropriate candidate, the Board announced its decision: Richard Larison will begin as Chief Executive Officer on July 16, 2012. Neumeister will continue as interim CEO until Larison’s arrival. A senior health care executive with more than 27 years experience, Larison brings with him a portfolio of successful leadership in both domestic and international health care. He has led startups and turned around underperforming organizations, effectively meeting financial and patient quality goals and objectives. Larison comes to Chase Brexton from Johns Hopkins Medicine International where he is currently CEO for Hospital Punta Pacifica in Panama City, Panama. His experience as CEO and in executive leadership is global—reaching to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he led the American Hospital; Bangladesh and India, at Apollo Hospitals; and Ft. Worth, Texas, at the MD Ander-

speaking at the closing session on July 27. The theme for the conference is Turning the Tide Together, which was selected to emphasize the need for a global and decisive commitment to change the course of the epidemic during a time that science is presenting promising results in HIV treatment and biomedical prevention. “AIDS 2012 represents a unique occasion to mobilize policy makers, governments, NGOs, scientists, people living with HIV and civil society to join forces,” said AIDS 2012 US Co-Chair Dr. Diane Havlir in a news release. “Even though we are currently going through a global turbulent economic climate, we cannot miss this historic moment, and it is vital to continue to attract funding and promote programmes based on effectiveness and efficiency in

son Cancer Network, to name just a few of his posts. It is his unique mix of leadership, knowledge, and passion for the Chase Brexton mission and vision that proved Larison the proper candidate to lead the ever-growing community health center’s four locations into its promising future. “After conducting an extensive search reviewing many excellent candidates, the Search Committee has found the perfect leader for Chase Brexton,” noted Guy Van Tiggelen, president of the Chase Brexton Board of Directors. “We are excited about our future and thrilled to have Mr. Larison at the helm as we believe his experience and commitment match the exceptional qualities of Chase Brexton Health Services.” Tyler & Company led the CEO search under the guidance of the Board’s Search Committee composed of board members as well as community members SalliAnn Alborn, Kamila Alexander, and Rick Bennett. From a small office in the GLCCB in

order to optimize the use of resources.” The event is being organized by the Geneva-based International AIDS Society, which serves as the world’s leading independent association of HIV professionals. Local sponsors include the District of Columbia Department of Health, the Black AIDS Institute, and the U.S. Positive Women’s Network.

XIX INTERNATIONAL AIDS CONFERENCE

July 22-27 • Washington, D.C. t AIDS2012.org

New CEO Richard Larison and Board VP Kim Price Photo by terra hiltner

1978, Chase Brexton Health Services has expanded exponentially to meet the needs of Marylanders throughout the past 34 years. Providing a range of clinical services from primary medical care to behavioral health services to pharmacy, among others, the Joint Commission Accredited, Federally Qualified Health Center currently operates four centers located in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Howard County, and Talbot County. For more information on programs and services, please visit ChaseBrexton.org.

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


B’more Hosts International Deaf Leather Contest BY DANIEL MCEVILY Baltimore will host the International Deaf Leather (IDL) contest from July 12 through 15 at the Tremont Plaza Hotel. Now in its 21st year, the event aims to bring the deaf leather, SM, and fetish communities together for the purpose of networking, socialization and education, as well as bridging the gaps with the hearing leather community. The event will feature contestants vying for the titles of leatherman, leatherwoman, and leatherboy who will compete in categories including personal and on-stage interviews, fantasy costume, and attitude/personality. The contest show final will take place July 14. A panel of seven judges, including the three winners from last year, will preside over the event. Last year’s winners were International Mr. Deaf Leather, Justin Eddy (aka Sir Justin) from Boston, Mass., International Ms. Deaf Leather, Val Sherrill of Wilmington, Del., and International Deaf Leatherboy, David Pirc (aka boy david) from Columbus, Ohio. While the contest is a celebration of the deaf leather community, organizers are encouraging everyone to participate in the festivities. “Everyone is welcome, leather and nonleather, deaf and non-deaf,” said IDL President Terry Morrell in a recent news release. Titleholders will represent the deaf leather community and will make appearances at various deaf and leather events across the country throughout the year. In addition to the contest, the weekend will feature a score of activities and events including cocktail parties, a leather bar crawl, and workshops. There will also be a meet and greet event at the Triple L Bar on July 13. The contest has been held annually at various locations throughout the United States and Canada. The event was last held in Baltimore in 1992. Individual tickets for the contest show can be purchased for $35. Additional combination packages, which include entry to workshops and private cocktail parties, are available for purchase through the organizers.

INTERNATIONAL DEAF LEATHER July 12–15 Final event July 14 • 8-11pm • $35-$110 Tremont Plaza Hotel • 222 St. Paul Place t InternationalDeafLeather.org

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HIGH LIFE

ENTERTAINMENT

Five Things: Summer Television Edition BY DANIEL MCEVILY Growing up as a spazzy gay kid in the time that existed Right Before The Internet Changed Everything (also known as the Early Nineties), the arrival of summer was a mixed blessing. Being freed from the shackles of elementary school education was great but, for a kid whose fairy godmother was television, the summer selection of television programming left much to be desired. My personal choices rotated between Family Feud, Guiding Light, and the Home Shopping Network. But nowadays (I say as I shake my old crotchety gay man stick), summertime programming has grown by leaps and bounds. Here are five brand spanking new seasons of original programming that will grace our TV screens in July.

WEEDS

SEASON 8 PREMIER JULY 1 AT 10PM • SHOWTIME

Television’s favorite pot-dealing soccer mom returns to Showtime on July 1 for its eight (and final) season. For its final 13 episodes, the Botwins’ go back to the their suburban roots (weeds?). The shot heard round the Tri-State area promises to transform everyone for the better, at least initially, as tragedy causes Nancy (Mary Louise Parker) to turn over a new (pot) leaf and return to her pre-dealing soccer mom ways. If there is any justice in the universe, the final season will neatly tie up loose ends of season’s past and perhaps bring back Nancy’s original suburban nemesis, the deliciously sardonic Celia Hodes (Elizabeth Perkins).

PROJECT RUNWAY

SEASON 10 PREMIER JULY 19 AT 9PM • LIFETIME

On the heels of last winter’s lackluster All Star season (seriously, did the producers have to edit Mondo into such an unlikeable Moody McGrumpenpants?), Project Runway returns on July 18 for its tenth season with a new set of sixteen designers all vying to become “the next PAGE 12

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great American designer.” Also back after sitting out of the All Star season are judging panel regulars Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, and Heidi Klum.

THE REAL L WORD

SEASON 3 PREMIER JULY 12 AT 10PM • SHOWTIME

Showtime is bringing back the unscripted lesbian docuseries The Real L Word on July 12 with a new set of twists and turns as well as a new location. While the first two cycles focused on the lives and loves of a group of women in Los Angeles, the show’s third year will go bi-coastal, adding a new set of cast members out of Brooklyn, N.Y. Fans of the show need not fret, as the Los Angelenos will still be represented, including fan favorites like Whitney Mixter.

BIG BROTHER

SEASON 14 PREMIER JULY 12 AT 9PM • CBS

Since its debut twelve years ago, I promise myself every summer that I will not partake in the ridiculousness that is Big Brother, but I inevitably give in and become completely consumed. Debuting on July 12, producers, in an attempt to keep the show fresh, are promising a “super-sized” version of the show, which will boast more houseguests than in previous seasons.

BIG ANG

SEASON 1 DEBUT JULY 8TH AT 9PM • VH1

If you’ve never seen VH1’s Mob Wives, you probably haven’t witnessed the sage Staten Island philosopher queen that is Big Ang. The essence of big, loud, and bawdy, the single mother of two (and niece of deceased Mafioso Sally Dogg Lombard of the Genovese crime family syndicate), Big Ang promises to talk it straight and shoot from the hip in her new eponymous reality show, debuting on VH1 July 8.

ON STAGE

Murder For Hire A MURDER MYSTERY DINNER PARTY COMES TO TOWN BY QUERIN BROWN Wendy Olenik was only three when she felt the glare of the spotlight that bore a love for theater and performing arts. Some 35 years later, in 2007, Wendy created Whodunnit for Hire, LLC, a mystery theater troupe that tours in and around Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. In this dinner-theater-withouta-stage, guests and actors work together to create a play-like skit, filled with both scripted dialogue and improvisational discussions. "The performances are partly scripted and partly improvisational and encourage audience participation,” said Olenik. “As a matter of fact, the dead body for the Manor Tavern show will be a volunteer from the guests.” “Our mysteries are always comedies and always encourage people to relax and be a little silly.” Comprised of 20 actors (some professional, some hobbyist), Whodunnit For Hire is sure to bring the suspense along with a few laughs.

Some of the entertainers have fulltime jobs with occupations outside of theater. Tanya Davis, Ben Fisler, Bill DeBrason (who appeared in Evan Almighty), and David Elvove (who appeared in Death Without Consent), are just a few actors that make bringing this unique art form to its patrons possible. Whodunnit For Hire also specializes in games, traditional production, private theme parties, and public events. Contact Whodunnit for Hire for your next event by calling 410.549.2722.

MURDER ON THE VINE

July 18, Sept. 19, & Nov. 14 6:30-9pm The Manor Tavern 15819 Old York Rd. • Monkton W Reservations: 410.771.8155 T TheManorTavern.com $50 per person (+ tax/gratuity) for a three-course meal and the mystery. Cocktail attire recommended. Happy hour drink prices all night.

Writers Sought for LGBTQ Screenplay Contest Have you ever come up with the most brilliant concept for a LGBT-centric film and began doodling plot devices on the back of a cocktail napkin? Well, here’s your chance to finally piece everything together and get that script into the right hands. The One In Ten Screenplay contest, the world’s largest LGBTQ screenplay competition, is currently seeking aspiring screenwriters for submissions for its 14th annual contest. Entries are now being accepted online through September 1 and are limited to the first 600 submissions. Interested writers should go to OneInTenScreenplayContest.com for entry forms. Winners will be announced November 15. Prizes include cash, industry exposure, and merchandise. Last year’s winner was Dennis Shinner’s Barrio Boy. Screenplays must be in English and between 90 and 125 pages in length and must contain at least one positive portrayal of an LGBTQ primary character. Executive Producer David Jensen noted in a recent news release, “We receive entries from around the globe and Hollywood is taking notice in a very big way. Many of our past winners have had screenplays optioned, sold, and produced. Many others have gained major representation.”

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


Food for Thought

DINING OUT

Gertrude’s at the BMA

Marty is amazed by the size and flavor of the ice cream sundae

BY JOHN CULLEN WITH MARTY SHAYT

Gertrude’s opened in 1998, positioned between the Baltimore Museum of Art and its outdoor sculpture garden, and is co-owned by noted chef and writer John Shields and his long-time life partner, John Gilligan. Their restaurant is named after Shields’ grandmother who early on got him interested in cooking. During the day, Gertrude’s walls of windows provide lots of light and views of the adjacent fountains and plantings. At night, votive candles add a flattering glow to the room while containers of crayons whimsically invite you to draw on the white paper that tops the tablecloths. Outside patio dining is available when weather permits. The menu’s focus is on regional Chesapeake cooking and includes soups (cups $6), a dozen small plates ($8-12), six salads ($8-12 with choice of protein extra), 20 entrees ($16-22 including vegan options) and burgers ($9-11 with beef, turkey, and black bean patty options). A mix of breads and butter proved so good that we asked for more! Marty started with red crab soup which was spicy, full of veggies and visible crab and earned his “Thumbs Up!” John was happy with his Caesar salad topped with an anchovy or two and lots BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

of grated parmesan. Our friend JT was pleased as could be with a half dozen Malpeque oysters on the half shell ($13); cream of crab soup earned praise from our other friend. For our main course, Marty enjoyed fried oysters with a cornmeal crust (not at all greasy), which were served with grilled red potatoes and apple-fennel coleslaw. John relished the Old Bay spiciness of his vegan faux crab cakes made with grated zucchini and topped with an orange chipotle sauce and nicely accompanied by garlic spinach and chilled udon noodles. Our friends enjoyed deliciously dark-crusted Maryland pan-fried chicken served with mashed potatoes and broccoli. Our server, Kevin, was excellent, checking in on our progress and impressively keeping drinks filled. Despite initial protests that we were too full to think about dessert, we were too tempted to just say no. The deep blue/purple lusciousness of Marty’s blueberry-pomegranate sorbet ($5) earned another “Thumbs Up!” John tasted some and agreed completely! Our friend JT indulged in an ice cream sundae ($7) which was so big and overflowing with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and pecans that we all got to taste

and enjoy it. Our other friend relished an unadorned bowl of house-made pistachio and vanilla ice cream ($5), which produced satisfied smiles. It’s a good (and too rare!) thing when everyone at your table enjoys their meals without any quibbles, praises the server, and there’s a resulting flurry of “Thumbs Up!” like we experienced at Gertrude’s. If that wasn’t enough, Gertrude’s offers its long standing “Tuesday with Gertie” special when 10 regular entrees are offered for just $12 each. And then there’s the lure of a weekend brunch followed by a stroll in the adjacent museum. So many ways to enjoy Gertrude’s! Ah! Decisions! Decisions!

GERTRUDE’S

10 Art Museum Dr. w 410.889.3399 T GertrudesBaltimore.com Tuesday-Friday lunch & dinner Saturday & Sunday brunch Full Bar • Vegan/Vegetarian options Street parking Email DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com and find all prior reviews at BaltimoreGayLife-DiningOut.info.

Born Round: The Secret History of a Full-time Eater is a combination biography and coming out story by Frank Bruni, who did a stint as the primary restaurant critic for The New York Times. His tale offers insights to the struggle between the perceived conflicts between his lust for food and his lust for men. Ruth Reichl, who preceded Bruni as the New York Times restaurant critic, captured her adventures in Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise. In this wonderful, hard-to-putdown book, she shares recipes as well as insights into the world of a restaurant critic. Her love for food is obvious, and it’s fascinating how restaurant personnel—as well as co-workers and family—respond differently to the various personas she takes on in her quest to report on how ordinary people fare while dining out. A few years back, Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma totally changed my attitudes about what I eat. Pollan traces how the foods we buy get to the grocery store. I found his lessons on the Midwest paradigm of “corn-fed beef” (and how that has more to do with corporate profits than with a good steak) have lingered in my mind even today. He has subsequently published shorter variations of these themes, but what I learned in these 400+ pages was worth every minute. JULY 2012

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What are your feelings on the upcoming 2012 election? “Self-Absorbed” and “Horny” seem to top the list. Oh, did I mention self-absorbed? You have a hilarious clip about education posted on YouTube. How would you change the education system in America? If people want a good education, they should get off their asses and be born into a good family. What are your views on domestic policy? I think that domestics are invaluable for tidying up. I don’t think it matters where they come from, so long as they are underpaid. We believe America should

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Your tagline, “Sometimes it’s hard being a Republican,” beckons the question: Why is it hard being a Republican? I do my best to maintain my virginity pledge, but with so many deliciously self-loathing closeted campaign aides, sometimes it gets so hard! Did you know that people racked with shame and guilt are great for a really spicy pounding?

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Your show, Electile Dysfunction: Kinsey Sicks for President, is a hilarious romp about your group’s attempt to be voted in as President of the United States. What would you do for our country if your group truly was voted as President? Free lube for everyone. And to prove that I am a woman of the people, I will personally deliver it to your home, confessional, or bathroom stall.

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he Kinsey Sicks, America’s Favorite Dragapella Quartet, mark their return to Baltimore this month, with their hilarious, acclaimed performance of Electile Dysfunction: Kinsey Sicks for President. The show follows the group’s journey in their campaign for President of the United States of America. Audiences will enjoy the riotous romp as the girls harmonize their way into the volatile world of Washington politics. The Kinsey Sicks’ humble beginnings date back to a fateful day in 1993. It was then that a group of friends attended a Bette Midler concert in San Francisco, Calif., dressed as the Andrew Sisters, a swing-era female singing group. After assuming they would find many others in drag, the group soon realized that they were the only ones there dressed up. After being approached that evening, to perform for another event, the friends replied that “they didn’t sing” only to decide later on that, based on their individual musical backgrounds, they could harmonize fabulously. The following year, the group held their first public performance on a street corner in San Francisco’s Castro District. After drawing large, enthusiastic crowds, the group spent the next few years performing up and down the West Coast, slowly moving their way east. By 2001, the girls were performing off-Broadway, in the storied Studio 54, following up with an acclaimed run at Las Vegas’ Hilton Hotel. Gay Life recently sat down with Ben Schatz, aka ‘Rachel’ of The Kinsey Sicks, to discuss their upcoming performance here in Baltimore.

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be a land of golden lack of opportunity for immigrants. On your album, Electile Dysfunction, you have some fabulously farcical music. Is there a favorite track you enjoy performing? I enjoy performing on a Nordic track, although if you put up the speed too fast then you and your partner might fall off and spill the lube (hence my helpful campaign promise about lube delivery above). Anyway, performing on a Nordic track can get really messy. Thank God there are domestics to clean up. None of whom are illegal, by the way—I’m running for President, for God’s sake! “I Will Watch YouTube,” an innovative spin on The Police’s “Every Breath You Take,” delves into the issue of social media sharing. So, in your opinion, to YouTube or not to YouTube, that is the question? If you really cared about my answer you’d film it and post it! It’s not like anyone’s actually going to read this interview! The July 14 performance of Electile Dysfunction marks your group’s return to Baltimore. Is there anything specific about Baltimore that you enjoy? We are especially impressed by the enormous number of tasteless people in Baltimore who also have discretionary income. Anything you hope to accomplish while here?

Rachel (Ben Schatz) Winnie (Irwin Keller)

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Trixie (Jeff Manabat) Trampolina (Spencer Brown)

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Photo by C. Stanley. Courtesy of Theater J.

Yes, I’d like to finally be able to get both legs behind my head. Presuming, of course, that neither leg is mine. Your group has traveled quite extensively, and has enjoyed quite the run on Broadway. Do you have a favorite city? Without a doubt it would be Baltimore, or perhaps Rio de Janeiro. I always get the two confused. People are always saying that Baltimore is the Rio de Janeiro of Maryland. Ever since the formation of The Kinsey Sicks, the group has always been a perfect balance of harmonies with just the right amount of humor. What do you hope audience members will take away from your performances? Eight CDs, two DVDs, a T-shirt, and a lasting sense of shame. Your group originally started in 1993, after attending a Bette Midler concert in San Francisco. Have you had an opportunity to meet The Divine Miss M? If not, how would you hope a meeting with Miss Midler would go? We are hoping to schedule a meeting with her just as soon as the stalking protective order expires. 

Electile Dysfunction: Kinsey Sicks for President

Saturday, July 14 • 7 & 9:30pm • $20-25 Creative Alliance • 3134 Eastern Ave. W 410.276.1651 T CreativeAlliance.org

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JULY 2012

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


Building Community Since 1977 The GLCCB is proud to offer a wide range of free and low-cost programs, events, and services to the community. . Unless otherwise noted, all events are held at the GLCCB located at 241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore. For more information please visit www.glccb.org or call 410-837-5445.

WOMEN’S PROGRAMS

TRANSGENDER PROGRAMS

WOMEN OF COLOR

TRANS CENTRAL OF BALTIMORE

Meets 2nd, 4th, and 5th Thursdays at 7:30pm in room 202 For info contact WOC@glccb.org

Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance

A collective group committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors.

Support and resource groups for transgender, gender queer, and anyone who varies from traditional gender expression.

A support group for FTMs.

WOMEN OUT AND ABOUT

A social group for LBTQ women who want to meet new people while enjoying fun activities.

Meets 3rd Thursday at 6:30pm in room 202 (NEW MEETING DAY & TIME) For info contact BTMA@glccb.org

Tran*quility

Meets off-site, dates and times vary For info contact BWOAEvents@yahoo.com

A support group for MTFs

MEN’S PROGRAMS POZ MEN

Meets 2nd and 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact Tranquility@glccb.org

SOFFA-T

A peer support group for men who are HIV+. Meets EVERY Wednesday at 7:00pm in room 202 For info contact POZMen@glccb.org

CHARM CITY GAY SOCIAL

A support and resource group for significant others, friends, family, and allies of transgender persons. Meets 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 202 For info contact SOFFA-T@glccb.org

A community based social and discussion group focused on building an understanding for gay culture and personal identity, and civil rights for gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning, and intersexed (GBTQQI) men 18+. Meets EVERY Fridays at 8:30pm in room 201 for discussion with dinner in the area following. For info contact David at charmcitygaysocial@gmail.com or 410-790-3592. www.CharmCityGaySocial.org or www.facebook.com/groups/charmcitygaysocial

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS SUFFICIENT AS I AM (SAIM)

A supportive group for youth and young adults 24 years of age and under. Youth are welcome to drop-in and try out this successful long running program that features discussion sessions, special events, guest speakers, and trips. Meets EVERY Saturday at 12:00pm in room 201 For info contact SAIM@glccb.org

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS The GLCCB offers a wide range of community events including art shows, musical performances, variety shows, special events, and projects. For more info look for separate ads in the Gay Life newspaper or visit our website.

RECOVERY PROGRAMS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Meets EVERY Monday at 8:30pm, Thursday at 8:30pm, and Saturday at 6:30pm in room 201

AA—POSITIVELY SOBER

an open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides a safe place for those with HIV or other health related issues. All are welcome. Meets every Sunday at 6:15pm in room 201 For info contact jeffreysquibb@yahoo.com

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

Men’s Rap group for men in recovery. Meets EVERY Sunday at 11:30am in Room 201

HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS BEGINNERS’ YOGA

Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. Drop-ins WELCOME!

The GLCCB is the publisher of

The GLCCB is the producer of

$9.00 per person, per class EVERY Sunday at 3:30pm in room 201

HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING

FREE and confidential testing provided by the Baltimore City Health Dept. EVERY Wednesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on 3rd Floor

www.glccb.org BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

JULY 2012

PAGE 15


A QUEER AND PLEASANT DANGER

A memoir by Kate Bornstein

BEACON PRESS Kate Bornstein made me cry. Lest you think this is some tale of high school woe or love gone wrong, think again. I was reading the final pages of Bornstein’s new memoir, A Queer and Pleasant Danger. In it, Bornstein details her life from male to female, Scientologist to excommunicated member. The epilogue contains a letter that begins, “Hello Sweetie;” it’s addressed to Bornstein’s daughter Jessica, who is forbidden to have any contact with her. It’s heartbreaking, in the way that all tragedies are, and familiar as well. Even those readers who haven’t experienced this level of loss should empathize with Bornstein’s raw expression of love, regret, and kindness toward the child she hasn’t known for over thirty years. This would be a fascinating book if it only dealt with Scientology, a philosophy that appeals to Bornstein while she’s still Al, a Jewish man who wants to be a woman. But this personal account delves into gender identity, familial ties, and sadomasochism with equal relish. When the author stumbles into a Scientology meeting during a spiritual road trip, she knows she’s found the answer to all her problems. “My gender was a ship without sails, tempest-tossed. I needed an anchor. I needed a life preserver. Here’s what the Church of Scientology threw me: They said I’m not my body, and I’m not even my mind. They told me that I am a spiritual being called a thetan—from the Greek letter theta, which we were told meant perfect thought. Male and female is for bodies, they told me. Thetans have no gender,” writes Bornstein. Voila! Bornstein has arrived! Her descriptions of life aboard L. Ron

PAGE 16

JULY 2012

Hubbard’s private yacht, the Apollo, are among the book’s most entertaining. In the 1970s, the Sea Organization is Scientology’s highest level of management, and Bornstein signs a contract for one billion years. It’s a zany world, with statistics kept on production and how well members are “helping Ron and the Sea Org take over the planet.” Along the way, Al gets married, has a child, gets divorced, married again, and then leaves the Church of Scientology in disgrace (I won’t spoil all your fun by giving you the juicy details!). Once she’s out, Bornstein begins to really explore life as a woman, cross-dressing in secret and trying out her girl name—Katherine. Oh, and she gets married one more time, because she doesn’t want to be a “fucking freak.” As it turns out, the third time pretending to be a heterosexual man is not the charm, and Al finally decides, after therapy, Alcoholics Anonymous, and her father’s death, to become Kate permanently. She’ll live as a female for a year, learn to embrace being a lesbian, and struggle through transitioning at her corporate sales job. By the time she gets genital-reassignment surgery, she’s already had enough adventures for one lifetime. But of course there are plenty more tantalizing personal tidbits to entertain readers, including a graphic detailing of SM play and Bornstein’s exploration of playwriting and storytelling. “When you write a play, you’re casting a spell,” she explains. “You imagine your characters, you write them down, then you watch them come to life. And there’s a bit of you in every single character you write.” One could imagine this memoir as a spell cast as well, the kind of linguistic and emotional manipulation that would make L. Ron Hubbard proud. I wanted to join the Cult of Kate by the last line.

THE BORROWER

A novel by Rebecca Makkai

PENGUIN BOOKS Makkai’s debut novel is a great read on so many levels—both her heroine Lucy Hull, a children’s librarian in a small town, and her hero, 10-year-old Ian Drake, are engaging characters. Ian is drawn to Lucy because she smuggles him books his conservative mother forbids, and Lucy is drawn to Ian because she wants to save a young (probably) gay kid who is being shipped off to his pastor’s de-gaying camp. And then it’s about that American summer tradition, the road trip, although most readers probably don’t drive across state lines with a kidnapped child. But who kidnaps whom here?

DOES THIS BABY MAKE ME LOOK STRAIGHT?

CONFESSIONS OF A GAY DAD by Dan Bucatinsky

TOUCHSTONE/SIMON & SCHUSTER It’s fitting that Dan Bucatinsky is a Hollywood writer and producer. This account of the ups and downs of adopting two kids with his partner would make a great TV comedy. Bucatinsky shares hilarious moments with Eliza and Jonah, such as Eliza asking her Daddy to smell her fingers, what to do when Papi gets an intricate valentine and Daddy gets nothing, and the horrors of lice. But there are also insightful musings about parenting and life itself—“I want life to be neat and predictable and safe and calm and quiet and controlled, with no surprises…but Eliza herself proved how small and wrong and petty that thinking was with her big, open, generous heart.”

TRANSITIONS OF THE HEART

STORIES OF LOVE, STRUGGLE AND ACCEPTANCE BY MOTHERS OF TRANSGENDER AND GENDER VARIANT CHILDREN Ed. Rachel Pepper

CLEIS PRESS A heartwarming collection of 32 personal accounts, Transitions of the Heart details the “changes and challenges” faced by mothers of transgender children, ranging from deep grief over losing a son or daughter to rage at the ignorance of school administrators. The courageous voices of these moms come through this book’s pages with emotion and stark honesty. I defy you to read Anna Randolph’s “What I Didn’t Say” and not be moved. One lesson learned? “I now realize that all children are born exactly as they are meant to be,” writes Betti Shook.

ARISTOTLE AND DANTE DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSE by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

SIMON & SCHUSTER BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS “To all the boys who’ve had to learn to play by different rules” reads the dedication for this young adult novel about two Mexican-American fifteen-year-olds whose fast friendship may lead to something scarier and more intimate. Rules figure heavily in this story—Ari’s strict mom loosens her rules in the lazy days of summer, his older brother breaks society’s rules and goes to jail, and there are internal and external rules governing who boys are supposed to be attracted to, and what type of men they should become. Sáenz does a superb job of presenting the complexiti����������������������������� es of a modern teenager growing into his authentic self.

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


REMEMBERING DUDLEY CLENDINEN By James Magruder

On May 30 Baltimore lost a character— and a man of great personal character— when Dudley Clendinen died at the Joseph Richey Home for Hospice Care of complications of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). He was 67 and had made the city his home since 1990, when he came to work in the editorial department at The Baltimore Sun. I shall honor of one of Dudley’s own rhetorical strategies and list many of the things he was: Journalist, editor, prizewinning essayist, teacher, collector of outsider art, devoted father, lover of men and blackberry cobbler and conversation, vintage car owner, dedicated AA sponsor, world traveler, reporter for The New York Times and The Atlanta Constitution, sexy silver daddy, extraordinary storyteller, fiercely loyal friend, unabashedly liberal Southerner, fabulous listener, and, as my partner Steve and I knew him first and best, the most amazing host in town. We met Dudley in March 2004 at a dinner for six at his house on Bolton

Street. He had heard via another friend that we were “interesting.” That was all the introduction one needed for Dudley. How he loved putting people together. One was in for no mere moment chez Clendinen. Those with blood sugar issues knew to eat beforehand. One could turn up at the appointed dinner hour and find Dudley blithely unpacking the groceries for the meal to come. One filled up on honey roasted peanuts and pickled garlic cloves and terrific conversation with a guest list that might include the founder of the American Visionary Art Museum, a Pulitzer Prize winner, the gay rabbi next door, and a leather dom from Sandtown. All were made welcome and all joined hands for an impromptu prayer that ended with thanks for The New York Times. In 2010 he faced his ALS diagnosis with characteristic courage and humor. His series of radio interviews he made on WYPR’s “Maryland Morning” with Tom Hall called “Living with Lou: Dudley Clendinen on a Good, Short Life” is a heartbreaking

example of making lemonade from lemons. His untimely death leaves a hole in many overlapping communities. To get an idea of Dudley’s mind in print, I recommend his Out for Good: The Struggle to Build a Gay Rights Movement in America, which he co-authored with Adam Nagourney, or his memoir of his

THE MODERN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB OPRAH’S GOT NOTHING ON THESE GUYS By Terri Solomon

In 2007, half a dozen friends began meeting regularly at each other’s houses to discuss a group-selected text. Today, the “Book Club” as it’s informally called has 20 members, all gay men with a diversity of ethnicity, religion and spirituality, and life experiences that contribute to “a rich conversation,” said book club member Bud Beehler. “We read The Lost Language of Cranes (by David Leavitt), a coming out story of a married man with a wife and children, set in the late 1970s,” said Beehler. “The younger guys in our group had never heard of it. It was interesting because they didn’t have much insight as to how someone could end up in a heterosexual marriage and not know they were gay.” But since three members of the club

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

are divorced, and had children while they were married to a woman, they were able to contribute their personal perspective to the group’s discussion. Another book, The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri, also generated an emotionally charged discussion for its readers. And while the text does not contain typical gay themes, its readers could definitely relate to the struggles of parent-child relationships. “It’s my favorite book now,” Beehler said. “It so poignantly describes relationships between parents and sons and how you are not aware of sacrifices the father makes for his sons. This turned into a talk of how did you come out to family members because of what the father and son didn’t talk about. We shared what we wished we did say.”

Book Club members read a variety of texts, ranging from gay literature to current bestsellers, non-fiction to fiction. Hosts tend to pick the book that will be read at their house, and are also responsible for compiling questions to lead the discussion. Sometimes there is even themed food to accompany the meeting. When Beehler hosted The Help last year, he organized a themed dinner with Southern food and Minnie’s surprise chocolate pie for dessert. (Don’t worry! For those familiar with the popular book or movie, the secret ingredient was NOT

mother, Canterbury Tales: Tales of the New Old Age in America. For a sense of the Southern storyteller in action, his unforgettable baritone rumble can be heard to hilarious effect in the archives of StoopStorytelling.com. James Magruder writes and teaches fiction in Baltimore. His second novel, Let Me See It, comes out this August.

included.) Many in the group related experiences similar to the intolerance and discrimination characters confronted in the text. Beehler is a fourth generation schoolteacher and has always loved to read. What advice does he have for other bookworms looking to begin a similar venture? “If I was starting a book club, I’d invite two dozen or more of my ‘book loving’ friends to meet and talk about a favorite book, and flesh it out from there,” he said. He acknowledges that the group will need “a few structures in place,” with each club having a different format to suit the needs of its members. There are many book club resources online, including Oprah’s, that will offer reading suggestions, discussion prompts, and helpful tips on how to get started. So what are you waiting for? Here at Gay Life we’ve selected five of our favorite recently published books (see opposite page) that would be perfect for scintillating summer reading and deep discussion (or just a good laugh).

JULY 2012

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What can you tell us about All the Right Moves?

The show is about me and my three best friends [Nick Lazzarini, Teddy Forance, and Kyle Robinson] living in a house together, starting our own dance company, Shaping Sound, and what it takes to be new choreographers in the industry. The show is also going to look at how two gay guys and two straight guys can live in the same house together. I’ve known these guys my entire life and we are brothers. We fight and love like brothers and we call each other when we need to call each other out. What unsuspecting challenges did you find in working with your closest friends in launching Shaping Sound?

You are back as a resident choreographer for the ninth season of SYTYCD. What has this season been like?

I’m just so thankful to be back, because the show has changed my life. All the projects I’ve gotten have come from the exposure of being on the show. As a choreographer, I feel more seasoned and responsible to the job. I’m coming back with so much more respect and understanding. The male duet you created for Kent Boyd and Neil Haskell in Season 7 of SYTYCD has been noted as revolutionary. How did you come up with the concept for the performance and what was it like choreographing two male dancers together? I came up with the concept from my personal life. Instead of going to see a therapist, I choreographed my aggressions about a relationship of mine and put it on television.

M h g h u r o t d

[Laughs] I knew it was a great routine and the way it was received was amazing. I didn’t really realize the impact it had as it was going on, until I was watching it on television and thought, “Wow that is really effective. I haven’t really seen two guys dancing together like that on television.” You’re serving as the principal choreographer this fall in the New York musical bare: A Pop Opera. The show focuses on two gay Catholic school students and how they struggle with religion, sexuality, and their identities. How do you plan to incorporate your own story when choreographing the show?

I related so much to the characters. I went to a reading back in October when I was being considered for the part, and there were certain feelings of loneliness that the characters described, and it was everything that I felt a couple years back. The main reason I got the job was because of that boy duet I did on SYTYCD. The struggles in the story of bare are very similar to that duet.

n o i ot

Your first cinematic choreography effort, Step Up: Revolution, hits theaters July 27. What was the experience like?

The movie was amazing! It was done so fast. We had two weeks to set all the dance numbers, and I had half a day to get the final duet with the two leads, Ryan Guzman and Kathryn McCormick, done. Ryan’s not a dancer, so I had to teach him how to dance contemporary in 12 hours, but he did unbelievable! It’s really cool that the Step Up series finally incorporated contemporary dance. I feel like the films are always about hip hop or “taking it to the streets.” [Laughs] I really love that they’ve expanded their horizons. With juggling so many projects at once, when do you find the time for yourself? [Laughs] I really don’t find the time for myself! When I do have some free time, it’s time for me to escape and stay in my house for a day with my boyfriend and just relax. Read the extended interview with Travis at BaltimoreGayLife.com.

c e n a a t D a Time e By Daniel McEvily

Shaping

S

uo n

Everything was a challenge. There’s been a lot of emotion involved. We definitely test each other to make sure that we’re all thinking on the same level. We went in thinking we were starting a dance company and quickly realized we were really starting a business. We were so naïve, but we’ve learned so much about ourselves in the process. It’s been a hell of a ride, but we’re so proud of our dance company.

, On

It

may be a little misleading to describe Travis Wall as an ‘up-and-comer.’ At the ripe old age of 24, the dancer/ choreographer has taken both the dance and entertainment worlds by storm, and judging from his packed schedule of upcoming projects, he isn’t planning on slowing down any time soon. Fans of the hit FOX competition series, So You Think You Can Dance, have been familiar with Wall’s work for some time. He first came to prominence as the second season runner up and returned three years later in 2009 as one of the competition’s choreographers. Wall returned for the show’s ninth season earlier this summer. In addition to his work on SYTYCD, Wall is also starring in the upcoming Oxygen reality series, All the Right Moves, which debuts July 31 on the Oxygen network.

Photo by Bobby Quillard

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JULY 2012

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


m. cory burgess print and web designer + logos + marketing materials + advertisements + publications + etc email

cory@metroscapemedia.com web

metroscapemedia.com BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

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REAL LIFE

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS

BY RACHEL ROTH

CROATIA

MINNESOTA ENGLAND

PENNSYLVANIA ILLINOIS NEW YORK

UTAH

RUSSIA

WASHINGTON, D.C.

NEVADA

EL SALVADOR

Highest Number of Anti-Gay Murders in 2011 NEW YORK

According to a report from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, 2011 ranked the highest in LGBTrelated murders since the coalition began monitoring in 1998. While overall reports of anti-gay hate violence were down from 2010, the reports states that there were three more “fatally violent hate crimes” committed against LGBT victims in 2011 versus 2010. Despite the apparent drop in violence, both the FBI’s annual report on hate crimes and the authors of the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs report think that hate crimes are underreported.

Unlikely Allies March in Salt Lake City’s Pride Parade UTAH

Nearly 300 Mormons marched in solidarity with LGBT Utahns during last month’s Pride festival in Salt Lake City. According to a Reuters article, members of Mormons Building Bridges—a group founded by Erika Munson, 52, a devout Mormon and mother of five—carried PAGE 20

JULY 2012

signs stating “God Loves His Children.” The group is not endorsed by or directly affiliated with Utah-based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “I feel like this is the time to speak up,” Munson told Reuters. “I’ve always felt like I was supportive in my own way of the LGBT community, but I’ve had to keep that and my commitment for the church separate.”

NYPD Adds Transgender Protections NEW YORK

The New York City Police Department amended its Patrol Guide to include changes that call for more respectful treatment of transgender and other gender nonconforming individuals. Gay City News reported that some of the changes include requiring police officers to address individuals according to their gender identity and expression, regardless of the gender on their legal documents. Derogatory remarks regarding gender identity and expression, as well as sexual orientation, are expressly forbidden, as are personal searches aimed at determining one’s gender. Further, individuals getting searched have the right to request the gender of the officer doing so and have the right to have the incident documented if refused that request.

DOJ Celebrates Pride Month WASHINGTON, D.C.

It’s been a year of milestones for the U.S. Department of Justice. DADT was repealed, the Bureau of Prisons announced that every federal prison will soon appoint an LGBT representative to the Affirmative Employment Program, and gender identity has been added to the DOJ’s workplace non-discrimination policy. In another first, the DOJ and Department of Defense hosted events to recognize gay and lesbian troops and employees.

Minnesotan Trans Woman Sentenced to 41 months MINNESOTA

Chrishaun “CeCe” McDonald, a 23-yearold African-American transgender woman who survived a brutal attack outside of a South Minneapolis bar, was charged with second-degree manslaughter due to negligence. She was sentenced to 41 months in prison, with credit for 275 days served. McDonald was ordered to pay $6410.00 in restitution. In June, Gay Life reported that McDonald accepted a plea agreement for the death of her attacker. Prior to the deal, she was facing two

charges of second-degree manslaughter; a charge many community leaders and LGBT advocates argued was “egregious.” The Department of Corrections has not determined where McDonald will spend the remainder of her sentence, but it is likely that she will go to one of Minnesota’s men’s prisons.

First Out Lesbian Elected to NV Legislature NEVADA

Pastor Patricia Spearman has become the first openly gay woman, and the second African American, elected to the Nevada State Legislature. According to Passport Magazine, the Democrat “overwhelmingly” defeated the incumbent senator, John Lee.

Ill. State’s Attorney Calls DOMA Unconstitutional ILLINOIS

Soon after a U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston declared the 1996 marriage ban unconstitutional in May, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office in Chicago came to the same conclusion last month. According to the Chicago Tribune, this decision stems from two lawsuits that GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


argue refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples violates the due process and equal protection clauses of the Illinois Constitution. The Illinois Attorney General’s office has also said it plans to file a brief in support of the lawsuits, and Governor Pat Quinn has voiced his support for gay marriage. The next stop for DOMA is the Supreme Court, which has final say in deciding if any law passed by Congress is unconstitutional.

Lancaster Papers Change Announcement Policy PENNSYLVANIA

Lancaster Newspapers Inc. came under fire for refusing to run same-sex marriage announcements. The publisher reversed its decision when readers voiced outrage. Lancaster Online reported that the publisher’s position on LGBT engagement announcements was made public when Jeffrey Clouser and Brent A. Weaver’s announcement was denied space in the Sunday News’ Celebrations section. “We weren’t trying to be champions of equality. We were just trying to be like every other couple was allowed to be,” Clouser said.

Church of England Opposed Same-Sex Marriage Initiative ENGLAND

In a statement to the government regarding a proposal to legalize gay marriage, the Church of England warned that introducing same-sex marriage could lead to the church being forced out of its role of conducting weddings on behalf of the state, reports The Guardian. Ben Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall, an advocacy organization that campaigns for gay rights, accused the church of “carrying out a masterclass in melodramatic scaremongering.”

No Pride Parade for Russians RUSSIA

In Russia, gay rights activists were arrested in Moscow during an unsanctioned Pride celebration last month. LGBTQ Nation reports that The Moscow City Court upheld a district court’s decision to ban gay parades in Moscow for the next 100 years. BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

LGBT-Friendly Nominee Confirmed as Ambassador to El Salvador EL SALVADOR

After failing to get enough votes from members of Congress in December, Mari Carmen Aponte has now been approved to become the United States ambassador to El Salvador. On June 14, the Senate voted 62-37 to end debate on the nomination, and within an hour of that vote, she was confirmed by voice vote. According to Roll Call, Sen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) led the charge in opposing Aponte, accusing her of being “pro-gay and anti-family.”

US Catholic Leader Addresses World Pride Conference ENGLAND

The head of a national Catholic ministry—New Ways Ministry, which promotes equality and justice for LGBT people—traveled to London to take part in meetings and conferences as part of the 2012 World Pride celebration. New Ways Ministry’s Executive Director, Francis DeBernardo, was a panelist at the Mind the Gap Conference and conducted a daylong workshop called Next Steps: Developing LGBT Ministry and Spirituality.

Croatian Authorities Called Out for Inadequate Response to Hate Crimes CROATIA

Amnesty International recently called on the Croatian government to take further steps to combat homophobic and transphobic hate crimes in the country. Just days before the June 9 Split Pride event, Amnesty International launched Inadequate Protection, a briefing that documents cases where alleged homophobic or transphobic motives were not appropriately taken into account in the investigation and prosecution of physical violence. Additionally, Amnesty International reports that victims of hate crimes have not been duly informed on the progress of their case, faced discriminatory treatment by the police, and were inadequately protected from violence during Pride marches. JULY 2012

PAGE 21


BETTER LIFE

BUSINESS

Women Business Owners Focus on the Future BY RENEE WOODING

RELATIONSHIPS

Are You and Your Partner Ready for Marriage? BY SHELLY WEBB

While it’s often true that women and men approach the business of running a company differently, women-owned and managed-businesses require the same financial support and counsel as their male counterparts, after all, business is business. Still, there are considerations unique to business women that can help hone-in on what they want to do, how they want to do it, and with whom they want to trust to help them meet their goals and objectives. In a 2011 PNC survey of women business owners, most in Maryland were pleased with their financial results and optimistic about sales. While few planned to hire, nearly six out of ten had plans for capital spending. Still, 37 percent said their business was falling short. As a PNC Women’s Business Advocate, I’d like to offer the following: By investing in a business when it’s strong and by having credit available in good times and bad, business owners can protect against the unexpected bump in the road. Owners who rely on personal credit leave few options to weather downturns without cashing in personal assets or taking a hit to their personal credit history. Establishing separate business credit and using it wisely is crucial. To that end, I offer the Four C’s of Credit.

Four C’s of Credit for Building Your Business

1 KNOW YOUR CAPACITY

There are numerous financial benchmarks such as debt and liquidity ratios that banks use before providing a loan or line of credit. What is your company’s borrowing history and track record of repayment? How much debt can your company handle?

2 PERSONAL CAPITAL

It’s best not to put all of your personal assets on the line, but if you have invested in PAGE 22

JULY 2012

your company, it demonstrates to the bank a personal commitment, and could make the banker more inclined to lend to you.

3 MAKE USE OF BUSINESS COLLATERAL

Unless you are a business with a proven payments track record, you will almost always be required to pledge collateral. While cash flow is usually the primary source of repayment of a loan, bankers also look at secondary sources of repayment such as real estate, inventory, or accounts receivable.

4 YOUR GOOD CHARACTER

Simply put, banks want to put their money with business owners who have the best credentials and references. With credit in hand, how do you use it wisely? If it’s invested in capital spending, do not overextend business lines of credit or credit cards. Look for ways to streamline processes for issuing and collecting payments, such as remote deposit. Most importantly, stay on top of credit and cash flow needs to be well-positioned to respond to changing market conditions. The best way to avoid a credit crunch is to secure and use credit wisely throughout the life of your business. Renee Wooding is a PNC Senior Vice President responsible for Treasury Management and a PNC Women’s Business Advocate. She may be reached at renee.wooding@pnc. com. For more information for women business owners, visit PNC.com.

Thanks to the efforts of marriage equality groups all over the country, President Obama taking a stand, and the efforts of our own amazing Equality Maryland and Marylanders for Marriage Equality, gay marriage is an exciting reality for many of us. But are you ready? My sister has a famous saying in our family: “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” I don’t mean to be harsh in saying that, but think about it. Will we LGBT folks find a way to be better prepared and more successful in our marriages than heterosexual people have been? Will our relationships be conscious and connected? It’s up to us. The thing we have going for us is that we are actively fighting for the opportunity to get married—this must mean we want to do it right. So let’s do it.

Five Suggested Steps for Being Ready for Marriage

1

Are you the kind of couple other people like to be around?

It’s a great question. How do you treat each other in public? Do you bring out the best in each other? Look at yourself from the perspective of a friend, family member or even acquaintance. Does your relationship make the world a better place?

2

Do you feel connected to your partner? I don’t mean co-

dependent or symbiotic, but is the “space between you” well cared for? Is your relationship one where the two of you exist as individuals with a place of overlap where the relationship resides in a state of healthy connection?

3

Is your relationship a conscious one? Are you able to talk

about all sorts of topics and issues? Are you going into marriage with information about money, religion, sex, family, and kids out on the table? Most importantly, do you have a structure that works for both of you that enables you to talk about differences of opinion you might have?

4

If you’re in it for the long haul, take time to be pre-emptive. Do some premarital counsel-

ing. Things have come a long way since your parents got married and there are lots of great therapists, wedding celebrants, and clergy out there who can help you prepare for marriage in a formal way.

5

Marriage isn’t just about the promises you make on your wedding day. It’s about promis-

ing to become the person who can keep those promises. There’s no way anyone can be completely ready for marriage—there’s too much ahead that we can’t foresee. But we can promise to keep becoming the person who can be committed, conscious, loving and caring to our partners.

The right to marry is an amazing gift that we and our allies have worked long and hard for—do your part by getting your relationship ready to say “I do” in the way that gives you the best chance of starting right and staying connected. Shelly Webb is a Certified Imago Educator. Contact Webb with your relationship questions at webbimago@ earthlink.net. Learn about Imago Relationships International at GettingTheLoveYouWant.com.

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


QUEER HEALTH

The Tops BY ALICIA GABRIEL, MARKETING MANAGER, AND DEBORAH DUNN, PA-C, MBA, CHASE BREXTON HEALTH SERVICES, INC. Everyone’s unique—just like you. And, everyone has unique health risks—just like you. Risks can be based on genetics, race, culture, even on geography. So, it’s no surprise that there are commonly shared health risks within our communities. Both the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have outlined the top ten health concerns of LGBT individuals. It’s important to remember that these top ten lists are developed from data about health trends within a community as a whole; the issues may not relate to you in particular. In this issue, we will look at three of the lesser known (and often overlooked) items on the lists. However, for your own information and education, the full lists are available on the sites noted at the end of this article.

Transgender Individuals

CONCERN: HEALTH HISTORY Perhaps because of historic discrimination and risk of personal danger, trans individuals may hide important details of their health history from their medical providers. From the data available on transgender health, patterns in documented care show that even years after surgery many trans patients omit the history of their transition when seeing a new provider. This can result in dangerous health risks for the individual. Though all providers should be expected to provide compassionate and affirming care, patients should be selective in their care. Find providers who understand trans health care and needs and create a relationship with those providers for a lifetime of comprehensive health care.

Lesbians/Bisexual Women CONCERN: GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER

For a variety of reasons—including lack of insurance, discomfort disclosing sexual history, no need for birth control or family planning—many lesbians do not get annual gynecological screenings, such as the BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

Pap test. The Pap test recognizes infection, abnormal (unhealthy) cervical cells, or cervical cancer. Aside from cancers, lesbians and bisexual women should remember they are at risk for both spreading and being infected by STDs, including the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Routine gynecological exams will reduce both the health risks and the spread of STDs.

Gay Men/Bisexual Men

CONCERN: ANAL PAPILLOMA The human papillomavirus (HPV)— which causes anal and genital warts—has been widely publicized as riskiest for women because of its link to cervical cancer. For men, it is often thought to be little more than an unsightly inconvenience. Increased rates of anal cancers in gay men have been linked to anal warts caused by HPV. Health professionals now recommend routine screening with anal Pap smears, similar to the test done for women to detect cervical cancers. Safer sex practices, routine screenings, and treatment are a must.

What should you do with this information?

Use it to educate your primary care provider—many don’t know the health concerns of the LGBT communities. Use it for your benefit. Know the various health trends that are a part of our communities. But remember, sexual orientation or gender identity are not the causes the health issues on these lists. For example, simply being a man who has sex with men does not mean you are fated to be depressed. (After all, isn’t ‘gay’ a happy word, really?)

RESOURCES

Gay & Lesbian Medical Association T GLMA.org CDC Development Solutions T CDC.org Chase Brexton Health Services T ChaseBrexton.org (Click on “The Top Tens”)

JULY 2012

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SOCIAL LIFE

BSCENE

Lezz Pride Party at Mixers

PHOTOS BY terra hiltner

Pre-Pride Party at Howard's

PHOTOS BY terra hiltner

Pre-Pride Party at Pazo PHOTOS BY terra hiltner

Pride Kickoff at Grand Central PHOTOS BY ANTHONY MOLL

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JULY 2012

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


FIND HUNDREDS MORE PHOTOS ONLINE AT BALTIMOREPRIDE.ORG

Twilight on the Terrace PHOTOS BY JOHN KARDYS

Pride Parade

PHOTOS BY ANTHONY MOLL

Pride Parade PHOTOS BY JOHN KARDYS

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

JULY 2012

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SOCIAL LIFE

BSCENE

Parade and Block Party PHOTOS BY JAY W

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JULY 2012

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


FIND HUNDREDS MORE PHOTOS ONLINE AT BALTIMOREPRIDE.ORG

Pride Festival PHOTOS BY JAY W

Pride Festival Entertainment PHOTOS BY CHRIS JENNINGS

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

JULY 2012

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SPOTLIGHT

SOCIAL LIFE

DATEBOOK

SUNDAY, JULY 1 Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar

Every Sunday Morning Thru 12/23 FREE • 7am-sellout (noonish) Holliday & Saratoga Sts. PromotionAndArts.org

10th Annual Crabaret Benefits House of Ruth This month brings the 10th anniversary of the sensational summer event that takes you from sunning on the Eastern Shore to the streets of Santiago, and all to benefit the House of Ruth Maryland. Enjoy sultry crab dishes by chef extraordinaire, John Shields, cocktails from The Wine Source and Heavy Seas, and a smorgasbord of salsa, cha-cha, and percussion compliments of Mambo Combo live in the BMA’s Sculpture Garden. The House Of Ruth Maryland is one of the nation’s leading domestic violence centers, helping thousands of battered women and their children find the safety and security that so many of us take for granted. The House of Ruth Maryland is a local nonprofit and is not affiliated with other national shelters. To become a sponsor, contact Cheri Parlaman at 410.554.8446. Purchase tickets online at HRuth.org/crabaret.

CRABARET

Thursday, July 12 • 6:30-10pm $90 ($125 after July 2) Gertrude’s at the Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. T HRuth.org T GertrudesBaltimore.com

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JULY 2012

TUESDAY, JULY 3 Scissor Sisters w/ Rye Rye

An explosion of infectious dance floor anthems. $40 • 7pm 9:30 Club 815 V St. N.W. • Washington, DC 930.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 Independence Day BINGO!

Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Drink specials, appetizers, and raffles. Every Wednesday Evening Benefits GLCCB • 8:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. 410.547.0018 • ClubHippo.com

Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration Live music and a spectacular fireworks show. FREE • 4-10pm Inner Harbor BOP.org

THURSDAY, JULY 5 First Thursdays Concerts in the Park

Scars on 45, JD McPherson, The Herd of Main Street. FREE • 5:30-8:45pm Mount Vernon Park WTMD.org/radio/first-thursdayconcerts-in-the-park

Sarah McLachlan with The National Philharmonic

The folk-singer gets a boost from the famed chorus. $41-96 • 6pm Merriweather Post Pavilion 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia MerriweatherMusic.com

BY RACHEL ROTH

Wine Tasting

Comp. tastings and bottle discounts. FREE • 5-8pm • Fridays Spirits of Mt. Vernon • 900 N. Charles St. 410.727.7270 • SpiritsOfMtVernon.com

SATURDAY, JULY 7 Baltimore Frontrunners

LGBT running/walking club. Every Saturday Morning 8:45am • Brunch 10am Panera Bread • 3600 Boston St. BaltimoreFrontrunners.org

African American Festival

An eclectic mix of entertainers, exhibits, arts and crafts, food and activities. FREE • Noon-10pm • Thru 7/8 M&T Bank Stadium • 1101 Russell St. AfricanAmericanFestival.net

For parents and friends of LGBT children. FREE • 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 BINGO!

(See listing under July 4)

Transgender Issues Working Group

Meets every other Wednesday. Registration required • FREE • 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org

THURSDAY, JULY 12

“Magically Suspicious” Opening Reception

Works that draw connections between process-based art, abstraction, and the desire to explore the unknown. FREE • 3-6pm School 33 Art Center • 1427 Light St. School33.org

Jazz in the Sculpture Garden

Featuring the Houston Person Quartet. $18-35 • 6:30pm The Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. ArtBMA.org

SUNDAY, JULY 8 Baltimore Farmers’ Market

(See listing under July 1)

TUESDAY, JULY 10 Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County

International Deaf Leather 2012

(See article p. 11) $35-110 • Thru 7/15 Tremont Plaza Hotel • 222 St. Paul Place InternationalDeafLeather.org

FRIDAY, JULY 13 Come Out and Say It

Five people. Four pros. Three murderers. Two lovers. One miscalculation. $12-15 • 8pm • Thru 7/28 The Mobtown Theater 3600 Clipper Mill Road, Ste 114 MobtownPlayers.com

Wine Tasting

Support for LGBTQ teens and allies. Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia 410.280.9047 • rya_leaders@hotmail.com PFLAGMD.org

(See listing under July 6)

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County

(See listing under July 7)

FRIDAY, JULY 6

Support for LGBTQ teens and allies. FREE • 7:30-9:30pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com PFLAGBaltimore.org

The Holdup

50 Shades of Hot Sex

Opening night of the comedy written by Norman Lear (Night Mother). $16-20 • 8pm • Thru 7/29 Spotlighters Theatre • 817 St. Paul St. Spotlighters.org

Howard County PFLAG Monthly Meeting

Learn how to add a little twist to your sex life. Inspired by the bestselling novel. $21.69 • 6:30pm Sugar • 927 W. 36th St. • Hampden Sugartheshop.com

SATURDAY, JULY 14 Baltimore Frontrunners Kinsey Sicks Electile Dysfunction

(See article p. 14) $20-25 • 7 & 9:30pm Creative Alliance • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars and Beyond

Relive the explosive music of one of the biggest film franchises of the 20th century. $9-18 • 8pm • Oregon Ridge Park 13555 Beaver Dam Rd. • Cockeysville BSOMusic.org

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


SUNDAY, JULY 15 Baltimore Farmers’ Market

(See listing under July 1)

The Music Of ABBA

With ARRIVAL from Sweden and ABBA original musicians $35 • 4pm (All ages) • 7:30pm (21+) Rams Head On Stage 33 West St. • Annapolis RamsHeadOnStage.com

Westminster PFLAG Monthly Meeting

For parents and friends of LGBT children. FREE • 5pm St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 17 Bond St. • Westminster PFLAGWCC.org

MONDAY, JULY 16 PFLAG Howard County Parent Forum

Group for parents of LGBT children interested in support or helping others. Meets on the third Monday of each month. FREE • 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org

Reception: Artscape Prize

FRIDAY, JULY 20 Artscape

America’s largest, free arts festival. FREE • Thru 7/22 • Mount Vernon Artscape.org

Sunset Boulevard

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical delivers all the passion and drama of Norma Desmond’s ill-fated attempt to return to the glamour of her Hollywood career. $12-20 • 8pm CCBC Essex • Mainstage B Building Theatre • 7201 Rossville Blvd. CCBCMD.edu/cockpit/shows.html

SATURDAY, JULY 21 Baltimore Frontrunners

(See listing under July 7)

Jay Brannan

TUESDAY, JULY 17 Neko Case with Kelly Hogan

Case tours to promote her 6th album, “Middle Cyclone” $30 • 7pm. Rams Head Live • 20 Market Place RamsHeadLive.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 BINGO!

(See listing under July 4)

Yappy Hour

Wine, cheese, and four-legged friends. FREE • Camp Bow Wow 7165 Oakland Mills Rd. • Columbia CampBowWow.com

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

“Laura”

For the annual Janet & Walter Sondheim Artscape Prize Semifinalists. FREE • 6-9pm Fox Building: Decker and Meyerhoff Galleries • 1303 W. Mount Royal Ave. MICA.org

(See listing under July 6)

This side of scandalous, the performers celebrate feminine beauty, wit, power, sexuality and freedom... never forgetting to keep it smart, funny and HOT. $20 • 7pm & 10pm Rams Head On Stage 33 West St. • Annapolis RamsHeadOnStage.com

Baltimore Restaurant Week

Dine your way through the city. Participating restaurants offer special three-course prix-fixe dinner menus. $15.12-30.12 • Thru 8/5 BaltimoreRestaurantWeek.com

THURSDAY, JULY 19

Wine Tasting

Gilded Lily Burlesque

FRIDAY, JULY 27

Murder on the Vine

(See article p. 12) $50 • 6:30pm • The Manor Tavern 15819 Old York Rd. • Monkton WhoDunnitForHire.com

See the singer/songwriter Rolling Stone says “makes even the saddest lyrics easy on the ears.” $20 • 7pm • U Street Music Hall 1115A U Street NW • Washington, DC UStreetMusicHall.com/event/110253/

SUNDAY, JULY 22 Baltimore Farmers’ Market

(See listing under July 1)

XIX International AIDS Conference

(See article p. 10) $235-1045 • Thru 7/27 Walter E. Washington Convention Ctr. 801 Mount Vernon Pl. NW Washington, DC AIDS2012.org

Pride in the Park

Join the LGBT community and allies for a day at Hershey Park. $40-56 • 10am-10pm Hershey Park 100 W. Hersheypark Dr. • Hershey, PA HersheyPark.com Have a calendar listing? Send it to

CALENDAR@ BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

When Mark McPherson is assigned to investigate a murder, he hardly expects to find himself falling in love with the hauntingly beautiful “victim.” $14-16 • 5pm • Thru 8/5 CCBC Essex • Mainstage • Cabaret B Building • 7201 Rossville Blvd. CCBCMD.edu/cockpit/shows.html

Dustin Lance Black’s “8”

A staged reading of the new courtroom drama based on transcripts and interviews from the federal case for marriage equality. $10 • 6pm Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis • 333 Dubois Rd. DignityPlayers.org

TUESDAY, JULY 24 Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County

(See listing under July 10)

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County

(See listing under July 10)

Parents of Transgender Kids Support Group

Support and Q&A for parents of transgender kids. Meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month. FREE • 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com • PFLAGBaltimore.org

PFLAG Baltimore County General Meeting

For parents and friends of LGBT children. FREE • 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org

Exhibitions: Gallery Opening Reception

Ceramics from Maryland Hall instructors and students. FREE • 5:30-7pm Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts 801 Chase St • Annapolis MDHallArts.org

BSO presents the Music of Led Zeppelin

Join the BSO and a full rock band as they combine passion and power to perform some of your favorite Led Zeppelin classics. $30-45. 6:30pm. Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Ave. BSOMusic.org

Wine Tasting

(See listing under July 6)

SATURDAY, JULY 28 Baltimore Frontrunners

(See listing under July 7)

BIG’s Summer Silliness

Be a BIG kid for the weekend with the improv troop. $8-10 • 8pm • Thru 7/29 Fells Point Corner Theater 251 South Ann St. BigImprov.org

A Night in Fantasia: The Ultimate Games and Anime Experience

(See listing under July 4)

Featuring selections from some of the greatest video game and anime scores in the world. $38-75 • 4pm Meyerhoff Symphony Hall 1212 Cathedral St. BSOMusic.org

Transgender Issues Working Group

Jazz in the Sculpture Garden

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25 BINGO!

(See listing under July 11)

THURSDAY, JULY 26 Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents The Music of Michael Jackson

Each era of this storied performer is represented. $20-40 • 6:30pm Pier Six Pavilion • 731 Eastern Ave. BSOMusic.org

Featuring The Steven Kroon Latin Jazz Sextet. $18-35 • 6:30pm The Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. ArtBMA.org

SUNDAY, JULY 29 Baltimore Farmers’ Market

(See listing under July 1)

JULY 2012

PAGE 29


HOME LIFE

"It’s geared for people who have a global outlook, who love to travel, love to entertain, love food, love art and culture and design and architecture."

Rohous: Home Style for Small Spaces

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR LAUNCHES E-MAGAZINE BY DANIELLE ARIANO For years, Daryl Landy’s ideas about Baltimore were based solely on the blurred landscape that whizzed by as he rode the Amtrak train through some of the rougher areas of the city. Landy, a New York native, never expected that he would wind up living here; but in 2001 he moved to the city to be with a boyfriend and he was pleasantly surprised to find that Charm City lived up to its nickname. “It just kind of creeps up on you,” Landy says of his affection for Baltimore, “you turn around and it’s like, ‘Oh, I like it here.” Landy liked it here so much, in fact, that he chose Baltimore as the first city to be featured in his new monthly online magazine, Rohous. The magazine focuses on how to live well in small spaces, and each issue highlights a different city. The idea for the magazine is one that has been germinating in Landy’s head for over ten years. Having grown up in a PAGE 30

JULY 2012

Photos by Anne Gummerson

small apartment in Queens, NY, Landy developed an interest in using space efficiently at an early age. A self-described magazine junkie, Landy admits that he’s always enjoyed poring over home design magazines, but he felt that for the most part, they were not geared toward small, city spaces. “Most home magazines will do at least one issue per year about living in small spaces,” Landy concedes, but he felt there was a void in the market when it came to a monthly magazines dedicated to dwellings of less than 1200 square feet; so the 42-year-old entrepreneur moved to fill it. Landy, who will act as creative director for Rohous, has partnered with a good friend, Patricia Mines, who will serve as writer and editor of the magazine. For now, Landy and Mines are financing the magazine from their personal savings and the pair will generate the majority

of content, conduct the interviews and do the layout, but Landy hopes that the magazine will grow enough to hire a staff in the near future. Rohous contains a variety of sections that explore houses as well as restaurants, boutiques, apartments, and other unique spaces. The magazine offers tidbits of history and culture behind some of the featured city’s architectural styles as well. Rohous has also partnered with two local architects, Nestor Zabala and Fernando Iribarren of Curry Architects, who offer visually rendered design solutions for subscribers who submit photos of their own challenging, small spaces. The magazine even features a section called “Host” that offers easy recipes geared toward entertaining in a small space. June’s issue showcases Landy’s own row house in Pigtown (above), which he renovated to create a beautiful and practical living space. Waterfront Kitchen in Fells

Point, Home Anthology, and several other local businesses are also featured. Future issues of Rohous will highlight cities such as Chicago, New York, Paris, Amsterdam, Morocco, Barcelona and Seattle. For Landy, the magazine launch is a dream come true. “All of my interests are in the magazine. It’s geared for people who have a global outlook, who love to travel, love to entertain, love food, love art and culture and design and architecture. Everything that we’re putting out is something that is close to my heart. I almost feel guilty,” he says, “it doesn’t even feel like work.”

ROHOUS

A lifestyle magazine celebrating the art of living well in small spaces less than 1200 sq. ft. $9.99 for 12 digital issues t Rohous.com

GAY LIFE MAGAZINE


BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

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