JULY 2014 BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.
Love it.
Vegas, Baby! AND OTHER FUN PLACES TO VISIT THIS SUMMER
8 STRAND THEATRE
9 SUMMER READING
26 PRIDE PICS
the aLL-neW
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*available only to qualified customers through Mercedes-Benz financial services at participating dealers through 6/30/14. not everyone will qualify. advertised 36 months lease payment based on MsrP of 20,740.00less the suggested dealer contribution resulting in a total gross capitalized cost of $20,740. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect your actual lease payment. includes Destination Charge, air Conditioning and smart entryline radio. excludes title, taxes, registration, license fees, insurance, dealer prep and additional options. total monthly payments equal $139.00. Cash due at signing includes $434.00 capitalized cost reduction, $295 acquisition fee, first month’s vehicle lease payment of $139, and the one-month battery assurance plus lease payment of $80 plus tax. no security deposit required. total payments equal $5,299. at lease end, lessee pays for any amounts due under the lease, any official fees and taxes related to the scheduled termination, excess wear and use plus $0.25/mile over 0,000 miles and a $395 vehicle turn-in fee. Purchase option at lease end for $12,892.00plus taxes (and any other fees and charges due under the applicable lease agreement) in example shown. specific vehicles are subject to availability and may have to be ordered. subject to credit approval. see participating dealer for details. Please always wear your seat belt. Drive safely and obey speed limits.**With Battery assurance Plus, the smart electric drive battery is rented separately on a month-to-month basis for $80 plus tax per month. initial battery lease term is one month. the maximum number of month-to-month renewal is for a total of 119 months. subject to credit approval. see dealer for complete details. for more information on Battery assurance Plus, call 1-866-700-9853.
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
IN THIS GAY LIFE
16 Feature
Summer Travel We take you to the northeast, the southwest and on the high seas in search of LGBT activities, events and hotspots for you to enjoy this summer.
Departments LOCAL LIFE
6 6
GLCCB July News 2014 Baltimore Pride Wrap Up by Steve Charing
9
Sizzling summer book selections
HIGH LIFE
8 8 9
Spotlight: The Strand Theatre Company DiningOUT: Red Emma’s by John Cullen and Marty Shayt Summer Reading by Anthony Moll
REAL LIFE
10 11
National & International News by Rachel Roth Baltimore Local News by Steve Charing
OUR LIFE
20 Review: The Normal Heart by Justin B. Terry Smith 20 Spilling the Tea by Carlton R. Smith 22 The Tipping Point by Courtney Beddell 22 Spiritual In-To-Me-I-See (Spiritual Intimacy) by Coach Maq Elé
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
BETTER LIFE
23 23
Renting vs. Owning a Home by Amanda Wooddell Staying Healthy For the Summer by Alicia Gabriel
SOCIAL LIFE
24 Datebook by Rachel Roth 26 BScene: Baltimore Pride 2014 in Review
Photos by John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Richelle Taylor, and Jay W
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
3
EDITOR’S LIFE
GLBT Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland Serving the LGBT Community of Maryland for 35 years
1000 Cathedral St. • Baltimore, MD 21201 • 410.777.8145 • GLCCB.org
All programming is now located on the 3rd floor of the Waxter Center building at 1000 Cathedral Street. For more information please visit www.glccb.org.
Trans Programs
Women’s Programs
AKANNI
SILHOUETTE
A safe, respectful, confidential environment where all transmen can share their story and their journey. 2nd Wednesdays - 6pm vmillhouse@blacktransmen.org BlackTransmen.org
BALTIMORE TRANSMASCULINE ALLIANCE
A support group for trans* men (FTM). 3rd Thursdays - 6:30pm BTMA@glccb.org
TRAN*QUILITY
A support group for trans* women (MTF), but anyone who varies from traditional gender expression is welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays - 8pm Tranquility@glccb.org
Recovery ACCESS TO RECOVERY
Care-coordinators will offer recovery support services for LGBT individuals. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2-7pm Please contact Latif Karim at outreach.latifkarim@gmail.com
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all. Mondays - 7:15pm Thursdays - 8:30pm Saturdays - 6:30pm
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
WOMEN OF COLOR
A safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors. 2nd, 4th, & 5th Thursdays - 7:30pm WOC@glccb.org Meetup.com/Baltimore-LesbiansOf-Color
Youth & Young Adult Programs RAINBOW YOUTH ALLIANCE BALTIMORE
A support, social, and discussion group for LGBTQ teens and allies ages 13-19, in partnership with PFLAG Baltimore. Tuesdays - 7-9pm RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/ RYABaltimore
MIXED COMPANY
(QUEER YOUNG ADULT GROUP) A discussion, support, and social group for young adult LGBT identified or questioning individuals and their allies. Tuesdays - 5:30-6:30pm Facebook.com/groups/GLCCB. mixed.co
Men’s Rap group for men in recovery. Sundays - 11:30am
Community Programs
Health & Wellness
POZitive PEOPLE
BEGINNERS’ YOGA
Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. $9 Sundays - 3:30pm
HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING
FREE and confidential testing from the Baltimore City Health Dept. Wednesdays - 5-8pm
continued in next column u
4
SILhouette (Spiritually In-tuned Lesbians) is a spiritual community of women who love women desiring to discover, embrace and live as their spiritual-authentic self. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays - 7pm
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
Summer: the Post-Pride Season Hello Gay Life readers! Baltimore Pride has come and gone for another year. The GLCCB staff, board and volunteer crew spent the better part of the last six months planning it. It was quite a feat as most of us were newbies to the world of large-scale event planning. Also, while planning this year’s Pride, the GLCCB/ Gay Life moved offices in February and had some leadership changes in the early spring, but we managed to pull it off! Overall, we were all terribly pleased with the outcome of this year’s Pride, but realize that there is definitely room for improvement. To aid in building on this year’s success, we’re already starting to plan for Baltimore Pride 2015 this month. In July, the GLCCB will hold a series of town hall meetings to access this year’s event and recruit for Pride committee members to begin planning next year’s event. Pride can’t happen without our
generous volunteers giving their blood, sweat, and tears. If you’re interested in joining the committee, or attending the town hall, email info@glccb.org. With Pride ‘14 a fading memory, it’s time to kick you summer plans into full gear. We’ve got a peak at some LGBT-friendly travel destinations (pp. 16-18), as well as a look some great beach reads (p. 9). Enjoy this month’s issue and see you in August!
Dan McEvily Editor
On the Cover This rendering shows the recently opened The Linq shopping/dining/entertainment area on the Las Vegas Strip with the High Roller observation wheel (currently the world’s largest) in the background. Renovations shown on The Quad Resort and Casino (left side) and Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino (right side) are still in the works.
FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB • TWITTER.COM/GLCCB • YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB
A free, weekly, peer-led support group for HIV-positive individuals in the LGBT community. Wednesdays - 7-8pm POZpeople@glccb.org
BOOK CLUB
A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss selected readings. Due to snow cancellation last month, the selection will again be Local Souls by Allan Gurganus 3rd Mondays - 7pm Facebook.com/ groups/139583666184199
The GLCCB is the publisher of Gay Life and the producer of Baltimore Pride
Dan McEvily, Editor
editor@baltimoregaylife.com
GAYLIFE
Cory Burgess, Art Director
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Contributors
Courtney Bedell, Karen Bullesky, Steve Charing, Timoth David Copney, John Cullen, Coach Maq Elè, Alicia Gabriel, Kelly Neel, Matthew Palumbo, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Carlton R. Smith, Justin B. Terry-Smith, Amanda Wooddell
Photographers
John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Kelly Neel, Richelle Taylor, Jay W.
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 2014. 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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LaPlacaCohen Publication: Insertion date: Size: 212-675-4106 BALTIMORE GAY LIFE JULY 1, 2014 4.75” x 11.25" 4C NP
Summer is
Fabulous A legendary home. Spectacular gardens. And you’re invited.
Don’t Miss Cartier: Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Dazzling Gems Special exhibition on view now See the exquisite jewelry and luxury objects collected by and specially designed for Marjorie Merriweather Post, style icon and Cartier’s most important American client. #CartierMMP
French Festival July 12, 10am – 5pm Take the ultimate summer getaway – 18th-century France – right in the heart of Washington, D.C. French Festival is presented in partnership with Alliance Française de Washington.
Where Fabulous Lives
For more information call 202.686.5807 or visit HillwoodMuseum.org 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington DC Free parking BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM HIL-0024_Gaylife_4.75x11.25_July1_v3.indd
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
5
LOCAL LIFE
A Prideful Weekend by
GLCCB July News by
KELLY NEEL Interim Executive Director, The GLCCB
6
A
s Pride month comes to a close and Baltimore Pride 2014 a memory, The GLCCB is wrapping up another successful celebration of Baltimore’s LGBT community. There were many changes to Baltimore Pride this year, but the new footprint of Saturday’s Parade and Festival has proven to be quite a hit. Thousands came out to support the community and stayed through the evening in celebration of our history, our present, and our future. With these changes, we have been inundated with positive feedback and well wishes. We’ve also received some concerns from the community, which we plan to address in the coming weeks. Change was a big topic among our Pride revelers this year. I understand that change is difficult, but oftentimes it’s a necessity. In order for The GLCCB to continue to serve and support our community, change is inevitable. We must evolve as the LGBT movement evolves, and we want to hear from the community ways in which to tackle this evolution together. The first step in doing that will occur this month, when we will host a series of town hall style meetings, open to the public, to facilitate discussion about the changes to Pride and to provide the community the opportunity to give feedback on what changes worked and what changes might need to be revisited and reworked. Once the location and dates are finalized, The GLCCB will reach out to local businesses, nonprofits, and communities, and we also want to hear from you! If you would like to attend the
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
town hall, please e-mail info@glccb.org to sign up for our mailing list. We will send out information on the dates, times, and locations of the town hall meetings as soon as they become available. Don’t forget that beyond Pride, The GLCCB offers many year round programs from youth and young adult support—including social groups like the Rainbow Youth Alliance and Mixed Company, which meet Tuesdays 7 PM and 5:30 PM, respectively—to groups like the Baltimore Trans Masculine Alliance, Akanni, and Tran*quilty, which offer support for trans* folk. The GLCCB also houses the group Women of Color (WOC) who have some exciting events coming up. On July 27, WOC will be celebrating their fourth annual picnic potluck at Patapsco Valley State Park from noon to 8pm. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets for $5 each, to benefit The GLCCB. Entrance fees to the state park are: $3 for in-state guests and $5 for out of state. Pets are allowed. Any questions can be directed to Jamdungspice@aol. com, or to the Women of Color Meetup site, Meetup.com/Baltimore-Lesbians-of-Color. We hope to see you there! Also, the LGBT Orioles Outings are still going strong! Be sure to pick up tickets for the next game outing in July. A portion of each ticket purchased through The GLCCB benefits the organization and allows us to maintain our year round programming, events and outreach. Please email info@ glccb.org to purchase.
Steve Charing
A perfect sun-splashed June 14-15 weekend combined with a new location and format for this year’s Baltimore Pride highlighted the annual event, which has been operated by The GLCCB for over three decades. Saturday’s parade changed its route by a few blocks and began three hours earlier than in the past. 60 units marched and included candidates in the gubernatorial race, the Mayor of Baltimore, a wide range of organizations and corporations, and a bevy of drag and leather title holders. The judges’ selections for the best parade entries were: Best Walking Unit—The Club; Best Car—Hot Topic Towson; and Best Float—AIDS Action Baltimore. The festival that immediately followed the parade shifted to the Mount Royal and Midtown-Belvedere areas. In effect, the block party and park festival components had been replaced by a two-day festival. Though there had been a good deal of apprehension from members of the LGBT community concerning the move, organizers estimated approximately 15,000 attended the parade and festival on Saturday. Vendors including large and small LGBT organizations, political candidates, health service organizations, banks, and even a mattress company, lined the streets of the festival’s site. Food vendors were eager to offer their cuisines. While a significant number of community members preferred the previous locale, others liked the move. “I’m up for change as much as anyone,” said Marty from Baltimore. “This set-up is pretty nice.” A bone of contention from many members of the community was the use of beverage gardens. This was intended to curtail the rampant drinking that permeated past Pride block parties. Alcohol consumption was confined to two fenced-in gardens during the festival. Some have expressed relief that the drinking would be more controlled this year, which would help alleviate other problems. Others stated that Pride was “too organized” suggesting the restriction on where to drink would hamper the celebratory nature of the event. The warmer Sunday brought out a good number of people but considerably less than Saturday. It was also a more laid back crowd than the day before. The performances at the Lady Lisa Stage—a tradition of Baltimore pride—were popular. Patrick from D.C. said it’s the best Pride he ever attended. “There is more shade, more vendors and a better stage.” Trish Pullen from Culpepper, Va. agreed. It’s her first Baltimore Pride and likes it better than D.C. The GLCCB announced that it would listen to the community to evaluate this year’s Pride. “Organizing Baltimore Pride is an around-the-year undertaking,” said Kelly Neel, GLCCB Executive Director, in a statement. “In an effort to engage and inform the Baltimore LGBT community, the GLCCB and its Baltimore Pride committee will host a series of Pride town hall meetings in July to wrap up this year’s event, recruit members for next year’s Pride organizing committee, and discuss improvements for Baltimore Pride 2015.
Find Baltimore Pride photos on pages 26–27.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
7
HIGH LIFE SPOTLIGHT
The Strand Theatre Co. by
TIMOTH DAVID COPNEY
L
ike most local theatre troupes, The Strand Theatre Company is no stranger to facing the odds. Having long proven that they are not only viable, but vital, to the Baltimore theatre community, it is not much of a surprise that they managed to not only land on their feet after the situation they found themselves in last spring, but continued to thrive. On June 1, they opened their production of One Glitz Wish. The opening was a triumph, as the group had to scramble to find a space to perform in when their home base became unusable—a week into rehearsals. Managing Director Elena Kostakis and Artistic Director Elissa Goetschius landed at Church & Company in Hampden on Falls Road. A repurposed former house of worship, proprietors Alex Fox and Joey Rubolotta’s space was a perfect fit for the women-centric company to get back on track at doing what they do best—bringing productions by, about, and for women—to the world. Their commitment is to giving voice to diversity. They may focus on women, but never to the exclu-
DINING OUT
Red Emma’s Bookstore Coffeehouse by
JOHN CULLEN with MARTY SHAYT
T
he new Red Emma’s in Station North is a 100 percent vegetarian restaurant (with a surprising number of vegan options). The space features tables stretched along windows that offer views of colorful Station North. At the rear of the space, there are books and magazines for sale and to browse. The twenty- and thirty- something customers and large, airy space dredged up memories of the old Louie’s Bookstore and old City Café of yore. The menu is limited to five veggie and vegan sandwiches ($4-7); nachos with dairy or vegan cheese, salsa and black bean salad ($7); a hummus plate ($5); black bean salad ($3); soups including Miso and a soup of the day ($3 per bowl); and a variety of loaded bagels (most $5). There’s no alcohol, but there’s free-trade coffee and teas, and naturally sweetened sodas (appx. $2). Marty and John started with a bowl of the gazpacho soup ($3) and banh mi chay sandwiches
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sion of the rest of their audience. Founded in 2008 by Jayme Kilburn, The Strand Theater Company is one of the original anchors of the arts area known as Station North. With a clear vision, the group encouraged burgeoning female playwrights and directors to share their art with the rest of us. When Kilburn decided to move on, the board began an intensive search for leadership that would continue the journey. Kostakis and Goetschius were selected based on their excellent theatre backgrounds. Goetschius is determined to further the cause of under-represented women in theatre production. Kostakis is equally devoted to making sure Strand has all the tools needed to do just that. When the decision was made to walk away from the rapidly deteriorating building that had been the theatre’s home since its inception, they teamed up as usual to find a solution. They knocked on every door until they found temporary shelter at Church & Company. The production of One Glitz Wish opened. On time.
Managing Director Elena Kostakis and Artistic Director Elissa Goetschius just opened One Glitz Wish in temp home
Making sure that audiences are given access to diverse talents is paramount. Nowhere will that be more evident than in the next production on the schedule, coming this late fall. Telethon, a story that features central characters who face challenging physical issues, will—if all goes well—actually feature actors from the physically challenged community. They are seeking to partner with area organizations serving this all too often ignored social segment. The Strand Theatre Community proudly occupies what is known as a ‘niche’ theatre corner. Women in theatre will be heard, encouraged, involved and celebrated. In the hands of these two dedicated women, it will do us all good to not just listen, but watch. This group has something to say. And things to teach us. And we are promised entertainment in the process. I’d say that’s good news all around.
($4–7) , while Tom ordered a powerhouse veggie sandwich ($5). Both Marty and Tom got mandarin-key lime soda, while John tried the strawberryrhubarb soda. You place your order at a counter in the middle of the large space. When your food is ready, a team member brings it to another table they yell out your name; you come over and pick it up. Our gazpacho had a watery broth with diced veggies in it which seemed quite different from other versions of gazpacho that we’ve had. The flavor and texture grew on John, who ended up liking it, but Marty remained disappointed by the unexpected watery broth and mild spice. Our banh mi chay sandwiches ($7 full; $4 half) are Red Emma’s vegan version of a classic Viet-
THE STRAND THEATRE COMPANY
Strand– Theatre.org
namese sandwich with tofu, red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, soy mayo and hot sauce on a baguette. The baguettes were fresh and chewy and the vegan sandwich filling was satisfying and got a “Thumbs Up!” from both of us. Tom was disappointed with his paltry looking “powerhouse” sandwich; slices of whole wheat bread paled beside the baguettes. Fortunately, our sodas, served in a large old-fashioned mason jar, were a refreshing surprise. We shared a piece of triple lemon vegan cake which we all decided was awesomely good and it got our “Thumbs Up!” Red Emma’s is a cool place with tasty and satisfying vegetarian and vegan food; a friendly, helpful staff; and a light and airy space. We enjoyed it and we’ll be back!
RED EMMA’S BOOKSTORE COFFEEHOUSE Station North 30 W. North Ave. RedEmmas.org Open Tuesday–Saturday (closed Monday) Vegan/vegetarian-exclusive menu with free-trade coffee and naturally sweetened soft drinks (no alcohol, Coke or Pepsi products) Free WiFi available • On-street parking
Email DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com and find all prior reviews at DiningOut4GayLife.Wordpress.com.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Sizzling Summer Book Selections S
ummer has arrived, that magical time of the year when we all find a few more minutes each week to sit down with a glass of something cold and a good read. Whether you’re into spending these hot months catching up on the classics or discovering something new, Gay Life has a book for you to get your nose into this season.
Redefining Realness by Janet Mock ATRIA BOOKS
“There is no universal women’s experience,” begins author and advocate Janet Mock in Redefining Realness, a memoir exploring her journey from a young, economically challenged, trans girl of color to a woman on top of the mainstream media. Mock holds nothing back in these stories of growing and becoming. She discusses the complex reality of sex work, an occupation she explored in her teens. Elsewhere in the book, she describes with a similar voice the difficult, intimate process of coming out as trans to her boyfriend. Redefining Realness is a genuinely fresh and honest take on the coming-of-age memoir, and if readers have made it to summer without already spending time with this new standard, now is the perfect time to add Mock to your list of favorites.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Carsick: John Waters Hitchhikes Across America by John Waters FARRAR, STRAUS AND GIROUX
Station North hipsters squealed with delight in May of 2012 when indie rock band Here We Go Magic tweeted pictures of themselves unexpectedly picking up a hitchhiking John Waters in the middle of Ohio. In Carsick, readers are offered the rest of the iconic director’s story of hitchhiking on his own from Baltimore to San Francisco. This touring van encounter is among the more tame adventures Waters recounts in his new book, which introduces us to a motley cast of characters that ranges from art school student to octogenarian farmer. This monument to the American road is gorgeous enough to receive national praise, but still Baltimorean enough to leave readers feeling gritty.
This Assignment is So Gay: LGBTIQ Poets on the Art of Teaching edited by Megan Volpert SIBLING RIVALRY PRESS
For many of us, summer would not exist if not as a counter to the school year, and while a poetry collection focusing on such a specific topic might not appeal to everyone at first glance, This Assignment is So Gay is an anthology meant for more than just teachers and students. The universality of
by
ANTHONY MOLL
this collection comes from the variety of evocative, accessible verse exploring not only what it means to be a LGBTIQ educator, but also a queer adult, parent, exemplar, or pariah. From Volpert’s own poetry exploring a student’s first recognition of someone like herself, to Jeff Mann’s nod to the new generation of queers on campus, the poems in this collection cut deeply into the flesh of identity and community in an era during which we find ourselves Out in the classroom, but unable to escape the specter of “don’t say ‘gay’” laws in our schools.
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson GROVE PRESS
Summer reading is also a time for classics, and Jeanette Winterson is a name on the shelves of many LGBT readers. Her 1985 debut novel, Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit, has long been considered a quintessential lesbian bildungsroman. Set in late 20th century England, the story follows Jeanette, a young lesbian coming to terms with her sexual identity while navigating her religious fundamentalist household and community. Winterson’s queer archetype story is jeweled with both allusions to canonical lesbian and feminist literature and folk tales woven into the narrative. This award-winning classic is reading worth catching up on.
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
9
REAL LIFE
SLOVAKIA
WASHINGTON, D.C.
NEVADA
IOWA INDIA
National & International News Marriage Equality News Brief NATIONWIDE
District Judge Barbara Crabb struck down a Wisconsin law that banned same-sex marriages, ruling that it violated the Constitution’s equal-protection clause. Ten days after her ruling, Same-sex marriages came to a halt while an appeal from Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen is pending. According to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) approximately 500 couples wed during that time. HRC also said it is expected that Van Hollen will appeal the ruling to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals The day Wisconsin’s same-sex marriage ban was declared unconstitutional, seven couples in North Dakota filed a lawsuit challenging the federal constitutionality of their state’s marriage equality ban. Until now, North Dakota’s marriage ban had been the only one in the U.S. not facing a legal challenge. The Supreme Court denied—without comment—a request from the National Organization for Marriage (NOM) to prevent same-sex couples from marrying in Oregon. The anti-LGBT group filed an appeal of a May ruling striking down the
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
state’s marriage ban, and sought to prevent the issuance of licenses until the matter is decided. Hundreds of same-sex couples have wed in Oregon since the ruling took effect May 19.
Executive order a boon for LGBT rights WASHINGTON, D.C.
President Barack Obama plans to sign an executive order banning federal contractors from discriminating against employees on the basis of their sexual orientation, a White House official told the Associated Press. The official—who insisted on anonymity—would not say when Obama planned to sign the order, only that the president had asked his staff to prepare a measure for his signature.
Iowa governor signs legislation modifying HIV transmission law IOWA
Iowa has modified its draconian law that
by
RACHEL ROTH
criminalizes having sexual contact without disclosing one’s HIV status. The new law, passed unanimously by the Iowa House and Senate, takes the emphasis off of people specifically with HIV, focusing instead more generally on infectious diseases, the Des Moines Register reported. It also creates a tiered system of sentencing, and removes Iowans with previous convictions under the law from the state sex offender registry.
Trans woman wins GOP primary for state assembly NEVADA
Lauren Scott, a transgender Republican handily won the GOP primary for the state Assembly’s 30th District, which includes parts of Democratic-leaning Reno. Scott, who won 58 percent of the vote, is the executive director of Equality Nevada and Gulf War veteran. If elected in November, she could be the Nations first openlytransgender state legislature. However, Dana Beyer—also a transgender woman—is running in Maryland’s Democratic primary for a state Senate seat and could also earn the title.
Census includes trans people INDIA
The first-ever count of India’s transgender population has found that nearly 500,000 citizens identify as transgender– though activists say the real number may be far higher. Despite the large numbers, Gay Star News reported that only 28,341 registered voters identify as trans, or belonging to the “third gender” as allowed in the country. Additionally, the census found that transgender Indians were more likely to be disadvantaged in education and more likely to be out of work than the general population.
Slovakia outlaws marriage equality SLOVAKIA
Slovakia’s parliament adopted a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as between one man and one woman, thus banning the recognition of LGBT marriages. The Slovak Spectator reported that 102 of 128 members voted in favor of the ban. This decision makes Slovakia the seventh European Union state to ban marriage equality and the third to do so since 2012.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Baltimore Local News
by
STEVE CHARING
Opponents Fail to Derail FAMA The attempt to gather 18,579 valid signatures to overturn the Fairness For All Marylanders Act (FAMA) failed by 1,000 as proponents of the referendum were unable to secure the requisite amount by the May 31 deadline. FAMA updates Maryland’s existing antidiscrimination law to include transgender people by providing protections in employment, housing, credit, and public accommodations on the basis of gender identity. Baltimore City and Baltimore, Howard and Montgomery counties, as well as the city of Hyattsville, Md. have such laws already in place. On October 1, when FAMA takes effect, Maryland will join 17 other states and Puerto Rico with similar protections. Shortly after passage, Delegate Neil Parrott, R-Washington County, who leads the group MDPetitions.com promised to overturn the law through Maryland’s referendum process by obtaining the required number of signatures to place the matter before voters in November. Opponents of the measure dubbed it “the bathroom bill” by claiming the law would allow sexual predators to invade the private spaces of women, such as restrooms and locker rooms by putting on dresses and commit sexual offenses. The argument failed to convince a sufficient number of voters to sign the petitions. Activists who pushed for enactment of FAMA conducted a vigil outside the Secretary of State’s offices in Annapolis the night of May 31 awaiting Parrott and the needed signatures, but they did not arrive by the midnight deadline. The group included Carrie Evans, executive director of Equality Maryland, Senator Rich Madaleno, D-Montgomery, who introduced the bill SB212 in the Senate, and Luke Clippinger, D-Baltimore City, who introduced the bill in the House of Delegates and other activists. “We finally get to really celebrate this momentous achievement! Thank you to all of the amazing volunteers who worked diligently over the last six weeks to educate voters on this law,” Evans said in a statement.
Few Leads in Murder of Trans Woman While there was still euphoria following the passage of a statewide law to ban discrimination based on gender identity and the failed effort to overturn it, a stark reality set in as the body of a transgender woman was discovered in a field near a post office
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Maryland State Delegate Neil Parrott promising to overturn the Fairness for All Marylanders Act (FAMA)
in the Coldstream-Homestead-Montebello neighborhood in Northeast Baltimore. According to Acting Captain J. Eric Kowalczyk, a spokesman for the Baltimore City Police Department and Director of the Media Relations Section, “Officers were called at about 6:30 AM on June 3 to the 1400 block of Fillmore St. for a report of a body. It took some time but officers were able to identify the body as that of Kandy (a.k.a. Ricky Carlos Hall 3/27/74). Detectives are looking into the facts and circumstances around the incident and are asking anyone with information to call Homicide at 410-396-2100 or they can call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LockUp and remain anonymous.” With the investigation underway, it appears this will be a challenging case to solve. Police do not know how the homicide occurred; they are awaiting the medical examiner to perform an autopsy. A community meeting organized by Equality Maryland and FreeState Legal was held on June 6 at the Chase Brexton Community Meeting Room where Kowalczyk was the principal speaker. Over 30 people attended with several representing various advocacy groups as well as members of the Baltimore Police Commissioner’s LGBT
Advisory Council. Also on hand was Derrick Smith of Annapolis, who claimed he grew up with Hall. The community members expressed concerns about the relations between
Acting Captain J. Eric Kowalczyk addressing community activists following the murder of Kandy Hall Photo by Steve Charing
the Baltimore Police Department and the transgender community. Carrie Evans, Executive Director of Equality Maryland and a member of the advisory board, introduced Kowalczyk explaining, “We don’t know the motive. But we must stand together to make our city safer.” Kowalczyk provided a status of the case but indicated there were few, if any, leads at this point. Detectives have not determined a motive. He emphasized repeatedly that no assumptions should be made as to motive unless and until the investigation has uncovered one. Kowalczyk stressed, “This case will not be solved without community help.” He made sure the attendees had the phone numbers shown above and urged them to spread the word. The police need help in solving the murder of Kandy Hall. “It is always heartbreaking when we lose a member of the LGBT community,” Evans said. “I hope that attendees witnessed the efforts the BPD are making to solve Kandy’s murder and will come forward with any information.” Again, anyone with information should call Homicide at 410-396-2100 or call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LockUp and remain anonymous.
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
11
SUMMER GETAWAYS
Everything’s hotter in Sin orCity! y B urgess Y
The new SLS Hotel
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ou may be wondering why we would actually suggest visiting Las Vegas, Nevada, during the hottest time of year. Yes, we know it’s smack dab in the middle of the desert with temperatures reaching 110 and beyond—a dry heat reminiscent of an oven or blow-dryer. Well, to many gay men in their 20s, 30s and beyond, both tourists and locals alike, summers in Las Vegas are all about the pool parties! Each Saturday afternoon, The New Tropicana hosts the inaugural season of the Xposed! Ultimate Beach Party. The following day, local vlogger and host J.Son of NakedBoyNews.com leads Temptation Sundays, now in its fifth season at the very LGBT-supportive Luxor Las Vegas. It’s truly a toss-up which party will have the hottest guys and best guest DJs, but since the two don’t overlap, you might as well make a weekend of it and experience both. If pool parties aren’t your thing, there’s always something to explore and experience in Sin City. Las Vegas is constantly expanding, evolving, reinventing and renewing, with the following noteworthy additions to the Strip and Downtown now open or coming very soon: yy Downtown Container Park — When Zappos.com owner Tony Hsieh and his like-minded friends started the Downtown Project with hopes to revitalize the historical heart of Las Vegas, they created something brand new: Downtown Container Park, a multilevel collection of small shops, galleries, eateries, and bars within a framework made largely of re-purposed shipping containers. The Container Park features a playground in the center and a stage for live performances on the south end with a grassy seating area.
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
by C
Don’t miss the massive preying mantis sculpture at the entrance, which shoots flames from its antennae at night. DowntownContainerPark.com yy The Linq — Built in what was once an alley between The Quad (formerly Imperial Palace) and Flamingo, The Linq is a shopping, dining and entertainment destination featuring Brooklyn Bowl, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Polaroid Fotobar, Kitson and much more. At the east end of the promenade, the High Roller observation wheel towers over the Strip offering 360-degree views from a spherical, glass-enclosed cabin that reaches a height of 550 feet halfway through your 30-minute ride. The best views are at night when Las Vegas casino resorts are fully illuminated. TheLinq.com yy Liaison Nightclub — For many years, many mainstream nightclubs on the Strip had LGBT-focused nights either weekly or monthly, and Krave has reigned as the only full-time LGBT nightclub on the Strip for several years. But now, club mogul Victor Drai has opened the first-ever LGBT nightclub actually located within a casino resort, inside Bally’s where Drai had recently been holding his afterhours parties. Liaison is an upscale venue with dark walls, gold accents and plenty of art on the walls. LiaisonLasVegas.com yy SLS Las Vegas — The Rat Pack, Liza, and so many more performed at the property known for 59 years as the Sahara Hotel and Casino. After closing its doors in 2011, SBE Entertainment began its conversion of the Sahara into SLS Las Vegas, a luxury resort opening August 23. The $415 million conversion brings a sexy new look, four nightclubs, a branch of the Los Angeles-based clothing store Fred Segal, and several high-end restaurants to the hotel. SLSLasVegas.com Perhaps you’d prefer to experience the more historical side of Las Vegas. Just head down-
town to Fremont Street, where many of the oldest hotel casinos still stand, like Golden Nugget, Four Queens and El Cortez. The Neon Museum is just a few blocks away on Las Vegas Boulevard with dozens of neon signs from casinos and businesses on display in the boneyard. For your standard, everyonedoes-it Las Vegas experience, you’ll of course want to spend some of your time on the Strip, between Mandalay Bay and Stratosphere. Pretend you’re traveling abroad while enjoying the Venetian and Palazzo, Caesars Palace, and Paris Las Vegas. Go shopping at Fashion Show or Town Square, and then enjoy one of the eight—yes, eight!—Cirque Du Soleil shows. Travel by monorail, taxi or simply walk and enjoy it all. Upcoming LGBT events of interest include BiggerVegas ( July 8-14), Gay Days Las Vegas (Sept. 2-9) and Las Vegas Pride (Sept. 5-6). See you there! TIPS You’ll probably win more by gambling at a casino far off the Strip. Locals really enjoy the entertainment of such shows as Absinthe at Caesars Palace and Vegas Nocturne at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. inside the Cosmopolitan. The Blue Moon Resort is a clothing-optional hotel for men. And the most popular LGBT nightclubs are Share, Piranha and Krave.
The Cr omwell is a new boutique hotel on t he Strip
LGBT SUPPORT & INFO A few blocks southeast of Fremont Street, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada (known by most as The Center) offers a vegan-friendly café, free computer access, a 4,000+ book lending library, active youth programs, several 12-step programs and ample meeting space to the LGBT and allied communities of Nevada. The Center is also an amazing source of information for LGBT tourists. TheCenterLV.org.
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SUMMER GETAWAYS
LGBT finds in the great state of Maine Palumbo N
amed the “Third Gayest City in America,” Portland, Maine, is a wonderful city full of numerous attractions ranging from nature walks, art galleries, and beautiful waterfront to some fantastic art galleries, nightlife, and lobster rolls. It has been recognized by The Advocate for being a prime LGBTQIA destination for family pride and safety. The most important thing to know about Portland is that there are hundreds of places to
Mr. Gauyit Ogunq ants C ontest
enjoy the sun, coffee shops, hiking trails, restaurant, etc., but it is a walk-a-holic’s and bicyclist’s city. There are several districts in Portland, each of which is known for different experiences and attractions, but there are two distinct areas which highlight the LGBT life of Portland, Maine: The Old Port and Arts District. The Old Port is best described as a local hot spot and has numerous clothing stores, street vendors, dining, and nightlife. It receives an incredible amount of attention from its tourists for its quirky shops peddling kitchenware, pottery, souvenirs, condoms, and clothing. It is also home to DiMillo’s On the Water, one of the best restaurants in town and is central for Portland’s night scene. Portland’s Art District, on the other-hand,
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by Matthew
is full of art galleries, antique shops, studios, and museums. Many of these spaces were formerly home to larger department chains and have been revitalized as the Center for Cultural Exchange, the State Theater, and the Maine College of Art. Creative energy runs through this area as on the first Friday of each month there is an Artwalk and a large street party to celebrate the galleries in the area. The last thing that should be mentioned about beautiful Portland is their unique history project, and attempt to document the history of Portland’s LGBT community. The University of Southern Maine Special Collections is currently has compiled an exhibition to showcase the gay and lesbian community and their impact within the community. It is a must see for all of the LGBTQIA history buffs. Our next vacation spot is fourty-five minutes from Portland, the artsy resort village named Ogunquit. It has a unique LGBTQIA history, spanning nearly one-hundred years, and was rated as one of the best beaches in America. Like Portland, it is a walking and bicycling destination, but also has Wheels ‘n Waves, a local shop on Main Street, which lets people rent bikes, surfboards, paddleboards, and even offers surf lessons. Throughout the nearly three miles of sandy beaches, restaurants, and clubs, there is entertainment at every turn. Several boat cruises run daily to allow sailing, cruising, deep sea fishing, and “lobster-ing,” and there are numerous national parks, such as the Laudholm Farm Reserve and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, which allow tourists to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Throughout Ogunquit, there is a focus on ‘healthy vacationing’ as there are numerous yoga studios, healthy-eating restaurants, and lots of outdoor activities. In addition, there are several nightclubs, one of which is a piano bar
named Front Porch which has been serving the LGBTQIA community for nearly thirty years. Another prime nightclub is the Maine Street Entertainment Complex which asserts “if you have not been to Maine Street, you’ve not been to Ogunquit!” It offers Circuit DJ’s, Tea-Dances, and comedy acts. The last aspect of Ogunquit that should be mentioned is Perkins Cove, regarded as one of the most beautiful sights in town. It is a must see for any vacationer as it was originally home to an artist’s colony and housed numerous neoimpressionistic painters. In addition, it was also home to the one and only Ms. Betty Davis, whose house is a tourist attraction for many. Portland and Ogunquit are prime LGBTQIA destinations, offering a host of activities with a resort-like feel. LGBT NETWORKING GROUPS The best places to find gay-friendly services are online at the websites for two networking groups: Rainbow Business & Professional Association and the Downeast Pride Alliance. RBPA has been active in the Greater Portland area for many years. Members meet monthly for dinner and a guest lecture. DEPA, launched in 2008, is a newer organization on the gay scene. Monthly gatherings for cocktails and conversation rotate among the city’s upscale bars and restaurants and are open to all. Another new website, launched in connection with the annualGayMaine Travel Guide, published by TravelMaine, also provides a directory of gayfriendly businesses.
GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
17
SUMMER GETAWAYS
Cruising should be fun, not feared Steve C haring T
At lant is C ruise
o some, cruising on the high seas can be scary. We’ve all heard of the highprofile mishaps over the past year or so that have frightened many. Or, that’s the impression. Actually, cruising has never been more popular and these incidents have not deterred cruisers. Some of the concerns relate to viruses that spread rapidly among the ship’s passengers. No question, this can occur, but cruise lines have placed hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the trip as these viruses are mainly transmitted via hands. Common sense will tell you to use them as frequently as possible. Folks may be skittish about the incidents, but others are simply apprehensive about cruising in general. I didn’t cruise at all until 2007 and since then, I have embarked on 10 journeys and regret none of them. Simply put, cruising is an enormously fun and entertaining experience. You can choose four-day, seven-day, 10-day, 14-day cruises, or whatever is offered. I recommend a shorter span for first-timers to see if this is type of vacation is right for you. You receive a lot for the money when you cruise. Of course, you get a cabin though generally they are small and space management would be needed. Some come with portholes or balconies; some are interior and have no natural lighting. Your call. The interior cabins are cheaper and are as comfortable as the others.
by
You can eat all the food you want with a wide variety of cuisines from which to select, and food is available for most of the day and night. Note that ships operate a few specialty restaurants that come at an extra cost, but one does not have to partake. In addition, you can enjoy top-notch entertainment for free on each cruise. Eat when you want, sleep when you want, exercise when you want, and participate in the endless choices of activities or you can choose not to participate at all. You set the agenda. What’s not free: alcoholic beverages and sodas, photographs taken by ship’s photographers (no obligation to buy them), gifts, Wi-Fi connections, and excursions at the ports-of-call. Also, ships have a casino on board and operate them except when in a port. All these are optional and you can determine to the extent you want these or can afford to participate. Having two major cruise lines departing from Baltimore not only makes it convenient but also cuts the costs significantly. If you are budget conscious, a local departure is considerably cheaper than flying to a destination first. Royal Caribbean and Carnival currently operate out of Baltimore and their cruises can take you to such destinations as the Caribbean, Bermuda, or New England. You can check with their respective websites for schedules and prices. There are large LGBT cruises like Atlantis, RSVP, Olivia, and Pied Piper. These are a lot of fun and you will be spending time with thousands of folks who are also LGBT, which could add to the comfort. They also have a great line-up of entertainment and offer theme parties almost each day. Therefore,
the enjoyment level is high, as is the cost since LGBT cruises charge significantly more than conventional ones (the “gay” tax, some would say). Nonetheless, with LGBT folks receiving greater acceptance of late, one can be LGBT and still enjoy the non-LGBT cruises. Same-sex dancing in the ship’s disco, for instance, doesn’t even warrant a blip on the radar; it’s considered routine now. Most people on a cruise are there to enjoy themselves, not judge. You can book your cruise online or through an agent. I had very good success with Cruise Planners (Bellecruises.com) and Vanessa Addrienne Consulting (Vanessaaddrienne. com). Both provide excellent service at no cost. I recommend you purchase insurance to protect against the unexpected. There are ways to do your research online, such as the site Cruise Critic—a popular vehicle to check out what others think. However, be cautious as some of the comments may be from people who have axes to grind. Treat yourself to a cruise; you’re likely to be hooked.
C ar nival Pr ide sails fr om Balt imor e
Photos by Steve Charing.
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
19
JUSTIN’S HIV JOURNAL
HBO’s The Normal Heart in Review by
JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH
T
he Normal Heart is a recent HBO movie that recounts Larry Kramer’s experience with the early onset of the HIV epidemic in the 1980s. I wrote an article in my May column introducing the movie. Upon publication, I received quite a bit of criticism about the article. Readers claimed that I was supporting a racist and sexist individual. In response, I did a bit of research and asked friends that know Kramer. Unfortunately, I found that those claims of racism and misogyny were not without merit. The film begins with a backdrop of idyllic Fire Island in the early 1980s—the peak of the gay male sexual revolution, some would say. Watching these first scenes, I quickly
ALL TEA, NO SHADE: DISHIN’ WITH THE DUCHESS
Will the Real Man Please Stand Up? by
CARLTON R. SMITH
W
hat’s shaking in the neighborhood in Baltimore? Well, hon, don’t we got tea for you this month! I’ve been having quite a few conversations recently relating to masculine and effeminate men. #ButchQueenAlert Before we start stirring the tea,I would like to introduce a colleague and friend Professor Steven Dashiell. I’ve known Steven for a long time, and we’ve worked together on issues related to HIV and the LGBT community. Steven boasts quite the resume— he’s worked in HIV prevention and public health since 1998, and has taken special interest in issues of the LGBT community. Steve also is an adjunct professor of Sociology at a couple of area colleges, and working on his PhD at the University of Maryland—Baltimore County, with an interest in issues of cultural identity, language, and masculinity. So why are we talking about masculinity? Well, the rant in the ‘hood is that a well-known preacher in Baltimore recently said, “Because we have westernized our Worship experience, everybody wants to shout and sashay because we made the church
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
noticed something that I didn’t like—there was no representation of the black representation being portrayed. Indeed, there wasn’t a single black character or face until the second half of the film. This maybe fueled by the Black community’s early mentality that HIV was a white gay man’s disease, but all in all, there was no representation. There were really some good points to the movie and some scenes that truly touched me. A lesbian in the movie that wanted to help with the fight against HIV came into the crisis center and explained that her lesbian friends were against her helping and that she didn’t care because a close friend who was a gay man died recently of AIDS. Another scene when the main character is taking care of his dying partner really touched my heart. Indeed, the movie’s message tugged on heartstrings and the film is a personal account of what happened to Mr. Kramer. I understand the misgivings some of us have about the movie, but that doesn’t mean I like or condone it, particularly it’s lack of diversity. I appreciated that the film touched on the politics of the early HIV/AIDS epidemic, and how the disease was dismissed as a “gay ailment.” Indeed, the casting director
should be proud because the acting was great. However, the more I think about the single-vantage point of the film, the less I feel I can relate to its ultimate message, especially since my own black gay community still remains to be ravaged by the disease we all now know as HIV/AIDS. I rate this movie a three and a half out of five stars, more or less a C+.
Justin B. Terry-Smith is a noted HIV and gay civil rights activist and the creator of ‘Justin’s HIV Journal,” a popular blog in which he shares his trials and tribulations of living with HIV. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Justin resides in Laurel, Md. with his husband, Dr. Philip Terry-Smith and their son Lundyn.
comfortable for men not to be men, but to be sanctified sissies.” Say what? To discuss any notions about “real” men, my dear colleague Steven will give us the real tea on the modern definitions of “masculinity” and “effeminacy.” Masculinity is a difficult concept to grasp. We have to understand that while we may think we know what it means to be “masculine” or “straight acting,” the fact is that masculinity, just like race, is a socially constructed concept, so the finer aspects of the definition could (and does) change from person to person. One of the big things that is talked about in fields looking at male studies (or masculinities) is the idea that masculinity is repeatedly contested in our society. In other words, men have to prove, in very direct and indirect ways, how “manly” they are. This “contest” can create what could be a confusing situation in the gay community, where there is a degree to which individuals prize the ability to be yourself (and thus ignore any masculinity rules, among others) contrasted by pervading messages (by peers, media, etc) as to what a “guy” should act like. This push-pull can be further complicated by the hate/love/hate relationship gay men have, at times, with the concept of the effeminate gay man; he’s either a vanguard of our individuality or slapstick comedy. It’s a confusing line to walk, and it’s not exactly clear to some when they, as gay men, get rejected for being “too gay,” or told that they “like their men to act like men.” So if you want to sissify that walk or butch it up,
Photo by Don Harris, Don Harris Photographics, LLC © 2011 All Rights Reserved.
OUR LIFE
remember that we can all embrace and celebrate our diversity in our community. Let’s not cast stones at one another, but instead accept everyone’s personal choice in what a defines their manhood.
Carlton R. Smith has worked in LGBT issues for many years. He has served on various committees providing outreach, leadership, and representing the needs of LGBT people at the local, state and federal levels. Carlton places emphasis on the African American LGBT community, specifically men who have sex with men (MSM).
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
21
OUR LIFE SPIRITUAL IN-TO-ME-I-SEE (SPIRITUAL INTIMACY) TRANSMISSIONS
The Tipping Point by
COURTNEY BEDELL
I
always have an idea of what topic I want to write about, and the actual piece usually comes together in my head before I touch a computer key. As I was just stepping out of the shower recently, a rush of all the amazing things relating to recent transgender progress came to mind. My first column was called “A Long Way Baby,” where I discussed how things have changed for trans-folk since I transitioned back in 1990. Recent events have shown even more remarkable progress and I am just blown away by it! For the first time in my life I can actually envision a future in America
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GAY LIFE / JULY 2014
by
COACH MAQ ELÈ
I
I think we have reason to feel extremely proud for the direction we are heading and for the extraordinary community that has fought to make things better for all of us. where being transgender will become fully accepted and eventually not require special rights or protections. It will just be an ordinary aspect of life for some of us. In May Laverne Cox was on the cover of Time in a piece titled “Transgender Tipping Point.” The last time a trans person was on the cover of Time was in 1975, when TS tennis-pro Renee Richards graced the cover. Richards’ cover seemed to be chosen mostly as a curiosity for sensational reasons. This time around, it feels different. Laverne Cox is a successful actress (Netflix’s Orange is the New Black) and transgender advocate living in the mainstream. She gave a commencement speech at Hampshire College last month and lectured in April at my school, Towson University speaking to a sold-out hall of over 3,000 students. On Katie Couric’s talk show, Cox gracefully corrected the famed-host for steering the conversation to genitalia rather than focusing on more critical transgender issues. Meanwhile in Europe, the fetching Conchita Wurtz, the so-called “Beared Lady” recently won the Eurovision Song contest. She identifies as a female impersonating gay man, not transsexual, but she uses her fame (and her beard) to fight the good fight calling attention to gender issues. I’m not exactly a fan of the beard, but she is articulate and I welcome her as an advocate. Back
Spiritual Tourism
in Charm City, Digital Harbor High School crowned Destiny Hartis, a trans woman, as their prom queen. All of these things make my heart soar! These accomplishments give me hope for the future of all transgender people. Pride month may have just ended, but we must keep the faith throughout the year. I think we have reason to feel extremely proud for the direction we are heading and for the extraordinary community that has fought to make things better for all of us. The battle is not yet anywhere near over, but as Laverne Cox said in Time, maybe we have reached a very encouraging and hard-won “Tipping Point!”
Courtney Bedell is the author of a monthly advice/insight column that covers all aspects of transgender life ranging from the practical aspects of transitioning, to employment, family, and social concerns. Courtney hopes that, through this column, her insight, knowledge, and experience as a transgender woman will help others in their quest for wholeness. Have a question? Trying to solve a problem? Want some feedback? Let Courtney know about it by emailing advice@baltimoregaylife.com.
f someone told me seven years ago that I would be a columnist for Gay Life, writing as a spiritual life coach, I would not have believed them. During that time, I battled with my attraction for women, and the urgings of my spirit to offer spiritual work in the world. I found myself torn because “this world” told —the two just did not travel well together. Also around this time, I began my training to become a Spiritual Life Coach. The training program I attended required me to spend two years mastering spiritual laws and principles before I could learn how to coach anyone else. I was required to learn, apply, and demonstrate these laws and principles in my daily life experience. Looking back on that experience, I became a spiritual tourist and the program I attended served as my tour guide. What was amazing about my touring was that I chose my itinerary and I chose my final destination. It was based on my heart and the urgings of my spirit, not based on what someone else wanted for me. My tour guide offered different attractions and exhibits, such as how to use various sacred texts including the Bible and A Course In Miracles. My journey opened my heart, and showed me how to cultivate a loving, intimate relationship with my Creator. But most importantly my journey supported me in making peace with being a spiritual woman, who just so happens to be a lesbian! Just like you may decide to back pack through Europe and your friend may choose to research their family roots across the world, each of our spirits are drawn to the right journey, at the right time, to give us what we need for our soul’s evolution and growth. What does your spirit need? What has your spirit been nudging you to try, explore, or investigate? What is your final destination, and what steps can you take today to move forward in making that happen? My beloved, allow your “YES” to serve as your passport; give yourself permission to spiritually tour! You may travel your journey with a group or solo. Whichever you choose, know that what is for you, is for you. Remember that your journey may not look like anyone else’s. Remember you choose your itinerary and you choose your destination! BE-LOVED! ~Coach Maq
Coach Maq Elè is a certified Spiritual Life and the facilitator for the GLCCB group SILhouette (Spiritually In-Tuned Lesbians). For more information about Coach Maq and SILhouette please visit www.gstringliving.com. To contact Coach Maq with your coaching questions email coachmaq@baltimoregaylife.com.
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BETTER LIFE
Renting Versus Owning a Home: What’s Right for You? by AMANDA
WOODDELL
B
uying a home is most likely the biggest investment you will ever make. When you discover your “dream house,” you may be inclined to jump at the opportunity. But it’s a good idea to temper your impulses with other factors like interest rates, housing prices, and your overall financial situation.
Advantages of Homeownership
Tax benefits can be an advantage of owning your own home. They allow you to claim a deduction on your mortgage interest and property taxes, thus lowering your overall tax liability. Taking out a mortgage to purchase a home has the benefit of monthly fixed payments, which are easy to manage and anticipate. Your mortgage payment is determined by the size (amount) and terms (length) of the loan. Terms of the loan can be fixed over a period of time, or variable, meaning the
interest rate will change over time. Principal, interest, taxes, and insurance are factored in to calculate the mortgage payment. The amount renters pay is subject to the will of the owner, but chances are the rent will increase over time. In addition, the landlord can choose to sell the dwelling, meaning you’ll have to find another place to live. Making timely mortgage payments is also good for your credit score, the tool lenders use to determine your creditworthiness for a loan or credit card. Your credit score affects the interest rate you are charged. Making regular payments will improve your credit score overtime, and many lenders offer automatic bank drafts to help you avoid missing a payment. There are also less tangible advantages to home ownership. It can give you a feeling of accomplishment—the so-called “pride of ownership.” A single-family home can offer more privacy than a rented apartment and
Swimsuits Beware DIET DO’S AND DON’TS TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY AND FABULOUS THIS SUMMER AMANDA WOODDELL, MARKETING MANAGER CHASE BREXTON HEALTH SERVICES by
I
t’s that time of year again: I’m getting out my swimming suit. Maybe you are too. I’ve put this off a little. I DREAD it. I know I’m not alone. And many of my friends and colleagues are in a new effort to lose weight for the warm weather. We can all debate Paleo, ancient grains, and fasting till the carbs come home, but these basic tips have survived the test of time. Remember, it was the tortoise who won the race. Slow and steady are more likely to become lifestyle changes that can continue forever. Consider your portion vs. the serving portion. Do you know that you are sup-
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posed to get 14 portions out of a 56-ounce container of ice cream? I know people who consider the entire 56-ounce container as one portion! Eat more vegetables. Fill half of your plate with them. Vegetables like string beans, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, spinach, kale, collards, summer squashes are low calorie (as long as they are not cooked with butter or covered in heavy—albeit delicious—cheese sauce!). Frozen or fresh veggies are best. Curb your sweet tooth with fruit. Having fruit for desert is much better than other sweets, but that doesn’t mean you can never have cake or ice cream. Just cut back
allows you to decorate and install home improvements that fit your tastes. A home can also tie you to the community through local organizations, schools, and places of worship.
The Case for Renting
How long do you intend to be in your present location? If there’s a chance you may move, renting might be the right choice at this time. There are costs associated with purchasing a home—realtor, attorney, and moving fees, for example—that can be avoided when you rent. Furthermore, there is a reason homes are called a “money pit.” Water heaters, roofs, heating, and air conditioning systems wear out over time. When you rent, the landlord picks up the taxes, insurance, maintenance, and sometimes utilities.
Conclusion
Making the decision to buy or rent is a
and have fruit more often. Cut back on fried foods. If you eat fast foods often, where chicken and fish are fried, check to see if the chicken is also available grilled and alternate between grilled and fried. Try another fast food trick. After you get your small or medium value meal, take a handful of fries (8-10) and throw them away. That reduces your intake by about 100 calories and you can still have fries. Add water. If you tend to be a regular soda, sweetened iced tea, or juice drinker, try this: have a glass of sweetened beverage followed by a full glass of water. Cutting back on sweetened beverage intake can help you to lose a pound or more a week, depending on routine intake. Get moving. The National Weight Loss Registry participants indicate that combining better food choices most of the time with routine activity has been best at losing weight and keeping the weight off. Slow down when you’re eating. It should take at least 20 minutes to eat a meal. Try chewing for at least 15 times per bite
balance between your personal finances and lifestyle. Homeownership is a major commitment in time and money. In any case, it’s important to make your rent or mortgage payments on time to maintain a healthy credit score.
Amanda Wooddell is a Manager at SC&H Financial Advisors, the Personal Financial Planning practice at SC&H Group, which is an audit, tax, and consulting firm based in Sparks, Md. To learn more about SC&H Group, visit www.scandh.com. Note: Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. and Triad Advisors, Inc. are unaffiliated entities.
(like your Mom taught you to do), and then prepare the next bite. Eat mindfully. Avoid multi-tasking during a meal, especially watching television. Focus on your food, not the boob-tube. Be careful when you eat while watching TV. Bring a single portion with you. If the whole bag of chips is there, it will be consumed. If you only have a small bowl, you will eat that. Then, think before going to get more—do you really need to eat more? Watch the alcohol. While it is true that wine is from grapes (and full of antioxidants) and beer is from hops (a grain) and hard liquor is from starches, they lose much of their nutritional benefit during fermentation. These beverages do not lose their calorie content and frequently, if drinking alcohol, you tend to eat more. Whether you’re hitting Poodle Beach or the North Shore, include exercise and eating right in your plans. And, don’t forget your sun block! Reviewed by Karen Bullesky, RDN, LDN, Nutrition Coordinator
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SOCIAL LIFE
Datebook
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RECURRING & ONGOING EVENTS
Sundays Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar Every Sunday 7am-Noon Jones Falls Expressway Holliday & Saratoga Sts. PromotionAndArts.com Dog Hikes with the Doctor First Sunday of the month 11am-Noon • $2 Baltimore Humane Society 1601 Nicodemus Rd. • Reisterstown BMoreHumane.org Metropolitan Community Church Services Every Sunday 9am and 11am MCC Baltimore • 401 W. Monument St MCCBaltimore.org League of Women Bowlers Every Sunday 4:30pm AMF Marlow Heights Lanes 4717 St. Barnabas Rd. • Temple Hill LeagueOfWomenBowlers2@verizon.net Rise Up, Honoring Women’s Spirituality Fourth Sundays 12:45-2:15pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net Westminster PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Third Sundays 7pm St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 17 Bond St. • Westminster PFLAGWCC.org Heterosexual Friendly Gay Brunch First Sunday Frederick’s on Fleet • 2112 Fleet St. FredericksOnFleet.com ASGRA Monthly Trail Ride First Sundays 10:30am • $25-30 Piscataway Stables 10775 Piscataway Road • Clinton ASGRA.org Charm City Volleyball: Competitive Play Every Sunday 10am-1pm • $7 Volleyball House 5635 Furnace Ave. • Elkridge VolleyBaltimore.org Service of Worship First Sundays 10:30am First & Franklin • 210 West Madison St. FirstFranklin.org Service of Worship Every Sunday 10am Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church • 1316 Park Ave. BrownDowntown.org
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Mondays Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg. Second Mondays 3-4:30pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. IFCMD.info PFLAG Howard County Parent Forum Third Mondays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Women 55+ Monday evenings Chase Brexton Health Services www.bit.ly/SeniorPride
Tuesdays Howard County PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Second Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Tuesday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.com Meditation Group Every Tuesday 6:15-7:45pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net PFLAG Baltimore Co. General Mtg. Fourth Tuesdays 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore City 1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays 7-9pm The GLCCB • 1000 Cathedral St. RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/RYABaltimore Teen Program at JCC Second Tuesdays 6pm Owings Mills JCC 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. JoinTeens.org Trans Parents Forum, Baltimore Co. Third Tuesdays 7-9:30pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org
Wednesdays Charm City Volleyball: Social Play Every Wednesday 6:30-9:30pm • $3-30 Mt Royal Recreational Center 137 McMechen St. Living Well with HIV Support Group Every Wednesday 10:30am Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. Jacques.umaryland.edu/support.html Spiritual Development with Rev. Sam Offer Every Wednesday 7pm Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore 4007 Old York Rd. UFCB.org GEM: Gender Empowerment MD Every other Wednesday 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org Senior Pride: Disc. Group for Men 55+ Wednesday evenings Chase Brexton Health Services 410-837-2050 ext. 2428 www.bit.ly/SeniorPride Support Group for Transgender Adults Third Wednesday 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia hoctytransgroup@gmail.com
Parents of Transgender Kids Fourth Tuesdays 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com PFLAGBaltimore.org
Thursdays
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com
HIV Support: Substance Abuse & HIV Every Thursdays 2-3pm Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia 410.280.9047 rya_leaders@hotmail.com
Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Thursday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.com
Fridays HIV Support: Just Between US Every Friday 11am-Noon Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org
Saturdays Baltimore Frontrunners Every Saturday 8:45am • Brunch 10am Panera Bread, 3600 Boston St. BaltimoreFrontrunners.org HOPE DC Monthly Brunch First Saturdays 11am Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro DC 1801 18th St. NW • Washington, D.C. HopeDCSocials-owner@yahoogroups.com In the Company of Women First Saturdays 10am-Noon First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net
THIS MONTH
Tuesday, July 1 Showtune Video Madness Sing out Louise! FREE • Tuesdays 7:45pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com
Wednesday, July 2 Gay BINGO! Every Wednesday 8:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Neighbors Night at Marquee Lounge Every Wednesday 5pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
Thursday, July 3 Star-Spangled Spectacular Music, food and fireworks— a Baltimore summer tradition! $9-20 • 5pm • Thru July 4 Oregon Ridge Park 13555 Beaver Dam Rd. • Cockeysville BSOMusic.org First Thursdays: Concerts in the Park Feat. Grizfolk, Strand of Oaks, and Lydia Loveless • FREE • 6-10pm Canton Waterfront Park • 3001 Boston St. WTMD.org
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Omega Thursdays Every Thursday 9pm-2am Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com
First Fridays FREE • First Friday of every month 6:30pm Eastern & East Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
Friday, July 4
Fridays After Five $12 • Every Friday 5pm National Aquarium, Baltimore 501 E. Pratt St. Aqua.org
Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration Live music & fireworks • FREE • 4pm Inner Harbor PromotionAndArts.org
Saturday, July 5 Bollywood Film Night Feat. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (Run Milkha Run) $9-12 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
Sunday, July 6 Family Fun Day Lawn mower Races, ice cream, and a bicycle parade! $10 for adults • Free for kids 12 and under Steppingstone Farm Museum 461 Quaker Bottom Road • Havre de Grace SteppingStonemuseum.org
Monday, July 7 Men’s Naked Yoga $18 • Every Monday 6:30-7:30pm Vitruvian Gallery, LLC 734 7th St., SE, 2nd fl. • Washington, D.C. VitruvianGallery.com
Thursday, July 10 AVAM Flicks on the Hill Feat. Back to the Future • FREE • 9pm The Hughes Family Outdoor Theater on Federal Hill AVAM.org
Friday, July 11 REVIVAL A monthly hoedown • $6 • 21+ • 7pm Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com Party at the Patterson—PIE A celebration of pie • $7-12 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Wine Tasting FREE • Fridays 5-8pm Spirits of Mt Vernon Wine Shop 900 N. Charles St. SpiritsOfMtVernon.com
HAVING AN EVENT?
Email full calendar details to Editor@BaltimoreGayLife.com
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Saturday, July 12 SHE Productions Presents REHAB $5 • 21+ • 2nd Saturday of Every Month 9pm Grand Central Disco and Sapphos 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com
Wednesday, July 16 POZ DC Happy Hour Mixer For HIV+ men • 7pm Green Lantern 1335 Green Court NW • Washington, DC HopeDC.org
Thursday, July 17 Ben Folds in Concert with the BSO Performing excerpts of his new concerto and fan-favorites • $35-75 • 7:30pm Meyerhoff • 1212 Cathedral St. BSOMusic.org AVAM Flicks on the Hill Feat. Hugo • FREE • 9pm The Hughes Family Outdoor Theater on Federal Hill AVAM.org
Friday, July 18 ArtScape America’s largest free arts festival FREE • 11am-11pm • Thru July 20 Mt. Royal Ave. & N. Charles St. ArtScape.org
Saturday, July 19 “No Pants No Problem” Take a stand and take off your pants! FREE • 12:30-1:30pm Artscape - Metro Gallery 1700 N Charles St. Facebook.com/GoPantless Hot Sauce Feat. Rich Morel • $10 • 9pm Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com
Monday, July 20 Queen + Adam Lambert $45 -125 • 6:30pm Merriweather Post Pavilion 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway • Columbia MerriweatherMusic.com
Monday, July 21 Giant Monster Monday Movies & drink specials • 8pm-Midnight The Wind Up Space • 12 W North Ave. TheWindUpSpace.com
Tuesday, July 22 Watercolors & Wine: Raven Relax with a glass and express your creative side • $20-25 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
Wednesday, July 23 Family Dinner & Movie Feat. Bedknobs and Broomsticks $5-15 • 6pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
Thursday, July 24 AVAM Flicks on the Hill Feat. King of Hearts • FREE • 9pm The Hughes Family Outdoor Theater on Federal Hill AVAM.org
Friday, July 25 Baltimore Bike Party The biggest party on two wheels! FREE • 7pm St. Mary’s • Seton Hill BaltimoreBikeParty.com THINK: An Evening of Mind Reading & Magic Starring Max Major. $20-45 • 8pm • Thru July 26 Theater Project, 45 W. Preston St. TheatreProject.org
Saturday, July 26 Charm City Ukulele Festival Celebrating the joyous little instrument. $17-20 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org “Star-Spangled Swimmer! A War of 1812 Water Ballet” History comes alive—with flotation devices & glitter! $5-10 • 5pm • Thru Aug. 3 Druid Hill Swimming Pool • Druid Hill Park FluidMovement.org
Thursday, July 31 AVAM Flicks on the Hill Feat. WarGames • FREE • 9pm The Hughes Family Outdoor Theater on Federal Hill AVAM.org
SPOTLIGHT
Queen + Adam Lambert Adam Lambert, along with Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen, come to the Merriweather Post Pavilion this month as part of their highly anticipated North American summer tour. Queen + Adam Lambert received glowing reviews for their performance together at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas last September, triggering a conversation between Adam, Roger and Brian to take the show on the road. “Let’s rock those beautiful arenas just one more time!” said Brian May. “I’m completely in awe of the Queen phenomenon,” added Lambert. “The thought of sharing the stage for a full set in North America is so beautifully surreal. I’m honored to be able to pay my respects to Freddie’s memory; he’s a personal hero of mine, and I am deeply grateful for the chance to sing such powerful music for fans of this legendary band. I know this tour will be a huge milestone for me, and with the support of Brian, Roger and the rest of the band, I feel like magic will be on display.”
Queen + Adam Lambert $45 -125 • July 20 • 6:30pm No Lawn Chairs Merriweather Post Pavilion 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia MerriweatherMusic.com
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SOCIAL LIFE BSCENE
BSCENE
High Heel Race by
JAY W
Twilight on the Terrace by JOHN KARDYS and RICHELLE TAYLOR
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Baltimore Pride Parade SAMATRA JOHNSON, JOHN KARDYS, RICHELLE TAYLOR and JAY W by
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BSCENE
Pride Festival Saturday by
JOHN KARDYS, RICHELLE TAYLOR and JAY W
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Pride Festival Sunday by
SAMATRA JOHNSON and JAY W
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