Baltimore Gay Life July 2015 by Baltimore Gay Life

JULY 2015 BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

I’ve always said I don’t care who you love. That’s none of my business. It’s all about love. There’s so much hate in this world that we need to focus on loving one another.

Love it.

CAZWELL

TS MADISON

The Queen of Clubland Martha Wash twirls her way back to

STEVE GRAND

BALTIMORE PRIDE

WE FOCUS ON HIV TO HELP YOU FOCUS ON

TODAY

Ask your doctor if a medicine made by Gilead is right for you.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015 2 UNBC1848_KC1_GayLife_9.75x11.25.indd

3/24/15 4:18 PM BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

IN THIS GAY LIFE THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO

11 13 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 25

GLCCB Welcomes You to Pride 2015 by Paul Liller Pride Week Events Welcome from Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Saturday Block Party Map Saturday Main Stage Performers Saturday Headliner: Cazwell Interview by Corey Lacey Saturday Headliner: Martha Wash Interview by Frankie Kujawa Saturday Headliner: Ts Madison Sunday Festival Map Sunday Headliner: Steve Grand Sunday Main Stage Performers

Departments 5

REAL LIFE

National & International News

OUR LIFE 33

I Forgive You, Caitlyn

by Rachel Roth

with Courtney Bedell Eckler

Baltimore Local News

by Steve Charing

34 out-skirts by Danielle Ariano 34 The W.O.E. Report

BETTER LIFE

7 8

by Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm

35 36 37

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

Achieving a State of Financial Pride and Confidence by Nate Sweeney & Alicia Gabriel

SOCIAL LIFE 8

BScene: Orioles LGBT Night Out

by Jay W.

by Wyatt O'Brian Evans

Spiritual In-To-Me-I-See by Coach Maq ElĂŠ

Crossing T's by Angela Wren Justin's HIV Journal by Justin B. Terry-Smith

HIGH LIFE

Summer Theatre Preview

by Timoth David Copney

38 Datebook

by Rachel Roth

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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

Trans Programs

Women’s Programs

BALTIMORE TRANSMASCULINE ALLIANCE

SILHOUETTE

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. 4th Saturdays - 8pm Tranquility@glccb.org

Recovery ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS LGBTQ-centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all. Thursdays - 8:00pm Saturdays - 6:30pm

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

Men’s Rap group for men in recovery. Sundays - 11:30am

Health & Wellness BEGINNERS’ YOGA

Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. $9 Sundays - 3:30pm

HIV & STI TESTING

FREE and confidential testing from the Baltimore City Health Dept. and University of Maryland. Wednesdays - 5-8pm

HIV SUPPORT GROUP

2nd & 4th Saturday - 6-7:30pm

Youth & Young Adult Programs MIXED COMPANY

(QUEER YOUNG ADULT GROUP) A discussion, support, and social group for young adult LGBT-identified or questioning individuals and their allies. Tuesdays – 5:30pm Facebook.com/groups/ GLCCB.mixed.co

SISTAHS OF PRIDE

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

elcome to our Official Gay Life Guide to Baltimore Pride 2015! Pride coverage (beginning p.9) includes everything you need to know about the three-day-long festivities from Twilight highlights to Parade kick offs, details on the popular High Heel Race to stage lineups. We also have exclusive interviews with some of our Pride headliners, including out hip-hop artist Cazwell and the legendary Martha Wash. But that’s not all! This issue also covers many other local happenings including a fantastic summer theatre preview from Timoth David Copney, columnist Courtney Bedell-Eckler’s thoughts on Caitlyn Jenner’s debut, and the Share Our Tomorrow project. As always, we have way more stuff to cover than we have space to fit it, so check out BaltimoreGayLife.com for more great local coverage. Pride weekend is quickly approaching and the final details are still being worked out, for the latest and most up-to-date information, check out BaltimorePride.org.

THE MANKIND PROJECT (MKP)

Peer-support group that is open to men of diverse race, background, sexual, and gender expression who consciously and compassionately challenge, mentor, and model the type of growth that honors and celebrates the full-spectrum of the mature male. Wednesdays - 6:30pm Bmoi1000@gmail.com

Community Programs BOOK CLUB

A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss a selected reading. 3rd Monday - 7pm

Also be sure visit us across all of our social media holdings: Facebook.com/Glccb; Facebook.com/BaltimoreLGBTPride and Twitter (@glccbpride). Have a safe, wonderful Pride. Until next month!

Dan McEvily Editor

Support ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILD ABUSE (ASCA)

FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB • TWITTER.COM/GLCCB • YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB

Community based self-help support group designed specifically for adult survivors of neglect, physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse.

Thursdays – 6:30pm

Dan McEvily, Editor

ASCA-Baltimore@hotmail.com ASCA-baltimore.tumblr.com NOTE: Not meeting in July

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

For more information on our programs, please contact Kevin Holt at reception@glccb.org

Love it.

2013

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

Men’s Programs

The GLCCB is the publisher of Gay Life and the producer of Baltimore Pride

Happy Pride, Baltimore!

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 & 3rd Tuesdays - 6:30pm Meetup.com/silhouette

Love it.

1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410.777.8145 Phone 410.777.8135 Fax sales@baltimoregaylife.com www.baltimoregaylife.com

editor@baltimoregaylife.com

Cory Burgess, Art Director National Advertising Rep.

cory@coryburgess.com Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863

Contributors

Danielle Ariano, Steve Charing, Timoth David Copney, Courtney Bedell Eckler, Coach Mac Elè, Wyatt O’Brian Evans, Alicia Gabriel, Frankie Kujawa, Corey Lacey, Paul Liller, Rachel Roth, Justin B. Terry Smith, Nate Sweeney, Angela Wren, Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm

Photographers

John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Asia Kenney, Kelly Neel, Eric Randolph, 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 2015. 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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REAL LIFE

Baltimore Local News by

STEVE CHARING

Recent Gay Bashings Trouble Community Two separate attacks on young gay couples took place in Baltimore within two weeks of each other that has caused the community to be concerned about safety. The first occurred on May 28 after midnight outside the Cathedral Court Apartments near Read Street. Jeremy Smith said he was coming home from a bar with his fiancé and a group of six black men, according to the police report, came up from behind. “I think they were hiding or I was just oblivious to their presence,” Smith said. “They said just take it and jumped us. They were saying some pretty hateful stuff.” Smith said they were calling the men “bitches” and “queers” during the attack. Both men were beaten in their faces with closed fists and were stomped on. They were robbed of money, identification and cell phones. The stolen phones had an estimated value of $700, and $80 in cash was taken. Smith said a man down the street heard the screams and called the police. The men received minor treatment at the scene but refused to go to the hospital for further medical care. “The worst part about it all was getting everything back in order like new cards, ID’s, Social Security card, filing fraud alerts, applying for new cell phones, doctor visits, getting checked

Steven Lemmerman after the attack

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out, and the loss of being carefree thinking my part of the city was a nice place,” he said. The victims were unable to provide detailed descriptions of the attackers, who fled on foot. They are recovering from their wounds and the case is still open. The second incident, which received a good deal of publicity, took place on June 11. A 25-year-old gay man, Steven Lemmerman, also known by his DJ name DJ Lemz, was attacked along with his partner Stuart Parlier on the corner of Charles and Fayette streets in downtown Baltimore. They were walking back from a drag show at Soundstage when they were attacked. Lemmerman provided the following detailed account via email: “The driver was sitting at the red light going west on Fayette, and since no one was diving up Charles, the green light, we decided to cross. Stu walks faster than me typically so he was up ahead. As we crossed, we were serving catwalk model walking in the crosswalk. “The second he saw us doing that, he sped his car up and pulled up to me. I noticed the car as it was coming at me and my hand went down on the hood out of pure instinct and reaction to a vehicle approaching that quickly. I did not stand there and deliberately hit the hood. The car stopped within inches of my body, if not, an inch. It was a deliberate intimidation move. “A second or two later the driver side door flew open and we are fairly certain we both heard ‘f*****g faggots!’ as the door was opening. At this point Stu was about 15-20 feet away from everything happening. He was approaching the northwest corner of the intersection when the attacker started to go after him. The car ordeal was happening on the northeast side. “Stu finally noticed the commotion behind him and he turned around. The attacker must have been hoping for a surprise hit because when Stu turned around, he did too. He then went after me and landed multiple blows to the head. The first hit was with his left fist to my right eye. After that he punched the back of my head, my mouth, and then my nose. Stu at this point was screaming for help and my nose started profusely bleeding, so the attacker ran back into his car and sped off. I suffered a black eye, pain in my head, a sore nose, and a chipped front tooth, which was also cracked in the back. No items were stolen from us; this was purely a hate crime.” Lemmerman described his attacker as being “light skinned” to the City Paper and driving a light “Creamsicle-colored” orange sports car. He had recalled being the victim of a gay bashing three years ago when he hosted a club night at the Get Down in Fells Point. “Central District officers are continuing to

Neighbors objected to Baker's "relentlessly gay" yard

investigate this incident as a hate crime,” said Det. Jeremy Silbert, a Baltimore City Police Department spokesperson. “Anyone with information is asked to call 410-396-2411.”

PW’s Loses Liquor License PW’s Sports Bar and Grill located on Route 1 and Whiskey Bottom Road in North Laurel has been Howard County’s only gay bar for over a decade. Known for its numerous drag shows, leather contests, Karaoke, bear nights and charitable bingo events as much as for their tasty meals, PW’s was a popular destination for those in the Baltimore-Washington corridor and beyond. As a result of back taxes owed to the state of Maryland, however, PW’s has lost its license to serve liquor. The license had been halted effective May 1 after the state officials notified the county’s Liquor Board that owed taxes had not been paid by April 30. As a result, PW’s operating hours were curtailed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. serving food and nonalcoholic beverages only. On June 9, the Liquor Board met and officially deemed the license “dead,” according to Board Administrator Denise King. PW’s owner John Cook did not respond to a request for comment but a spokesman for the bar, Scott Gould, said that they are actively pursuing a buyer for the business with the hope of retaining its LGBT identity. King said that any new owner would have to apply for a liquor license rather than seek a license transfer from the current ownership since the license is dead. There is a vigorous application process, and if approved by the board, the new license owner, who must be a Howard County resident, would be required to pay an annual fee in the amount of $1,000. Over the years, PW’s distinguished itself by its involvement with community causes. Organizations, such as Equality Maryland; Grassroots; The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS foundation; and PFLAG-Howard County are among those who benefitted from numerous “drag bingo” fundraisers. In addition, PW’s had been active in local sports leagues, mainly softball and bowling, whereby they had sponsored teams. PW’s announced that Sunday, June 21 was their last Sunday brunch.

Overlea Woman Launches ‘Relentlessly Gay’ Campaign Julie Baker, a homeowner from the Overlea community in Baltimore County just northeast of the city line, woke up the morning of June 16 and found a note affixed to her door that has certainly changed her life. The typewritten note read: “Dear Resident of 4900 Kenwood Ave., Your yard is becoming Relentlessly Gay! Myself and Others in the neighborhood ask that you Tone It Down. This is a Christian area and there are Children. Keep it up and I will be Forced to call the Police on You! Your kind need to have respect for GOD. A Concerned Home Owner.” The note ostensibly referred to a string of rainbow-colored solar light jar lamps made from jars she had hung outside her house. Baker, 47, who identifies as bisexual, established a GoFundMe effort to become even more “relentlessly gay.” The note and her response have gone viral. On the GoFundMe page she wrote: “Needless to say... I need more rainbows... Many, many more rainbows…. […]So, I am starting this fundraiser so I can work to make my Home even More “relentlessly gay” If we go high enough, I will see if I can get a Rainbow Roof ! […] Because my invisible relentlessly gay rainbow dragon should live up there in style! “I think they choose to think of all rainbow stuff as being gay,” Baker said in an email. “I cannot figure out how or why they actually jumped to that conclusion. Just... I don’t know.. closed minds and closed hearts??” On June 23, Baker updated her GoFundMe page: “I want to humbly thank everyone for their extreme generosity. Please now, take all of this good energy and help each other. […] Please carry on with flooding the world with rainbows and joy, be relentlessly generous, be relentlessly compassionate, be relentlessly vibrant and stay relentlessly gay.” As of June 24, over $43,000 was raised.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

REAL LIFE IRELAND TEXAS

National & International News by

VIRGINIA

CUBA

RACHEL ROTH

Supreme Court makes marriage equality the law of the land

FDA considers changing rules on blood donations from gay men

NATIONWIDE

Marriage equality is now the law of the land. In the long-awaited Supreme Court decision, the justices decided 5-4 that states cannot ban same-sex marriages. Justice Anthony Kennedy authored the majority opinion and wrote that gays and lesbians “may not be deprived of liberty” or of that “fundamental right” to marry. The court addressed the argument that granting gays and lesbians the right to marry is a threat to the sanctity of marriage saying; “it would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness.” The four justices who voted against the ruling—Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito—each wrote their own dissenting opinions. Justice Roberts wrote that the court had taken an “extraordinary step” in deciding not to allow states to decide the issue for themselves, saying that the Constitution does not define marriage. And Justice Scalia called the ruling “a threat to American Democracy.” Shortly after the decision was announced, President Obama addressed the nation from the Rose Garden, saying the court “reaffirmed that all people should be treated equally, regardless of who they are or who they love,” and called the ruling “a victory for America.”

The Food and Drug Administration introduced a draft guidance that recommends changing the lifetime ban on blood donations from gay men to a one-year deferral period. “I am encouraged that the FDA is moving forward with guidance that will revise the discriminatory lifetime ban on blood donations,” said Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., the first openly gay senator in the U.S. “This is a first step in ending an outdated policy that is medically and scientifically unwarranted, but it doesn’t go far enough.”

INDIA

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

Va. school system bans discrimination against transgender students VIRGINIA

Virginia’s Fairfax County School Board, which is the largest school system in the state, voted 10-1 to add a clause to its nondiscrimination policy to include protections for transgender students, employees, and job applicants. “[W]e are hoping this will bring a new age of respect and valuing of transgender and gendernonconforming students and employees,” said Ryan McElveen, the school board member who sponsored the measure.

Hawaii lawmakers approve bill to help trans people change birth certificates HAWAII

The Hawaii Legislature approved a bill to allow transgender residents to change their gender on their birth certificates without having to undergo gender reassignment surgery. All that would be required to change

documents would be a note from a doctor. If approved by the governor, the bill would make Hawaii the seventh state, along with the District of Columbia, to pass a law regarding gender changes on birth certificates.

people who took part in the event as part of the annual commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Same-sex marriage is presently illegal in Cuba.

Texas House committee approves pro-LGBT birth certificate bill

State Department does not recognize transgender passports

TEXAS

INDIA

A Texas House of Representatives committee passed a bill that would allow same-sex parents to have both names on the birth certificates of their adopted children. The bill, which was introduced by Democratic state Rep. Rafael Anchia, passed 7-4 after receiving bipartisan support from GOP members in the committee. The House must now pass it before it can move to the Senate.

BuzzFeed News has confirmed a report in India that a U.S. consulate delayed processing a visa request from a transgender HIV activist, Amruta Alpesh Soni, because her passport lists her gender as “T” for transgender. The website was told by a State Department Spokesperson that anyone applying for a U.S. visa must declare themselves male or female on their application even if they have been issued a passport with an alternative gender designation in their home country. India is presently the largest of a growing number of countries that allow people to identify as other than male and female on official documents, including Pakistan, Nepal, Australia, and Denmark, according to Richard Tom Koehler of the organization Transgender Europe.

Ireland votes to approve marriage equality IRELAND

Ireland became the first nation to approve same-sex marriage by a popular vote last month, becoming the first country to do so. The Daily Beast noted that the resounding victory—62 percent of the population voted in favor of the referendum—was in large part due to the massive voter turnout and strong support in the rural, traditionally conservative areas.

Clergy from U.S., Canada bless same-sex couples in Cuba CUBA

Clergy from the U.S. and Canada blessed nearly two-dozen Cuban same-sex couples during an LGBT Pride march in Havana. The Washington Blade reported that Mariela Castro, daughter of Cuban President Raúl Castro, was among the more than 1,000

Marriage equality case in Guam to proceed GUAM

A lawsuit challenging Guam’s same-sex marriage ban will move forward after a federal judge decided against postponing it until after the U.S. Supreme Court rules on gay nuptials this summer. Attorney General Elizabeth Barrett-Anderson has decided not to defend Gov. Eddie Calvo and Office of Vital Statistics registrar’s decision to deny a lesbian couple a marriage license. If Guam allows gay marriage, it would be the first U.S. territory to do so.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

BETTER LIFE

Achieving a State of Financial Pride and Confidence by

AMANDA WOODDELL WILHELM

hroughout 2015, I have had the opportunity to share my financial planning tips that span everything from setting financial New Year’s resolutions to achieving fiscal fitness. However, it is not always easy to implement these tips—it often takes hard work and discipline to achieve financial freedom. If you have reached your financial goals so far this year—whether it is paying down your debt or maxing out your 401(k) contributions—it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment to be proud of your accomplishments. Why? Because most individuals only focus on what they have not achieved financially, and do not take the time to congratulate themselves when milestones are reached along the way. But, if you take pride in your efforts, all signs point to the fact that you are more likely to continue on the same path. This cycle can serve as a positive self-fulfilling prophecy, improving your confidence and providing you with even more control over your long-term financial destiny. According to a recent study by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board), a large portion of Americans reported that having a financial plan helps reduce stress, and younger respondents feel more confident when they are in control of their finances. This confidence and pride comes down to knowing that you will be financially secure in the future. Of course, this requires a roadmap that outlines the necessary actions for achieving your long-term goals. When you reach a certain level of financial pride, you also realize that, while money is the foundation for being comfortable, it is really more about freedom and enjoying a lifestyle that fits both your “wants” and “needs.” Strong financial confidence can also positively impact other aspects of your life, including your work performance and personal relationships. You will be able to cope better with life’s challenges, feel good about other people’s accomplishments, and be more at ease overall.

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Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow by NATE SWEENEY, THE LGBT HEALTH RESOURCE CENTER and ALICIA GABRIEL, CHASE BRAXTON HEALTH CARE

W So go ahead and feel good. It is perfectly okay. Financial confidence is the positive side effect of working hard to be on a path towards financial freedom. Keep taking the right financial steps and enjoy the ride as you go—and gain more control of your destiny. Of course, if you are not feeling good about your financial situation, it is never too late to take the steps to turn things around.

Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm is a Manager with SC&H Financial Advisors, the Personal Financial Planning practice of 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.

here were you when the US Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality? For many of us in the LGBT community, it was a moment that will live brightly in our memories, a milestone in the journey for LGBT rights. This milestone is the product of generations upon generations of milestones. From the Stonewall Riots just 46 years prior (nearly to the day) of the ruling, to every LGBT individual who has ever come out to anyone, many milestones were reached in order to achieve marriage equality. And although we celebrate this milestone and take pride in what we have achieved, it’s just as important for us to keep talking about our needs as a community. We know even with this great shift in our legal rights, there is still much ahead. So we ask you to share your voice. The LGBT Health Resource Center of Chase Brexton has joined together with about 100 other LGBT organizations and funders to ask LGBTQ America: “What are your hopes? What are your fears? What are your ideas?” We hope you’ll join in the conversation by sharing

your answers through the Share Our Tomorrow Project. The Share Our Tomorrow Project is an interactive survey where people can see what others are saying across the country about the future for our LGBT communities and where we need to focus attention. It’s vital that these groups, and especially these funders, know what challenges we face. What are your challenges and concerns as an LGBT community member? Is it housing and workplace discrimination for transgender individuals? Is it housing for LGBT elders? Is it safe schools for gender nonconfirming children? Is it the access to PrEP? Is how we address intimate partner violence in our communities? Being a part of the Share Our Tomorrow Project may not seem as impactful as the Supreme Court’s ruling, but it and you shape our tomorrow. So share your voice, share your challenges, and share your hope. Let’s continue to shape the world for a brighter, prouder, healthier tomorrow. Visit ShareOurTomorrow org and begin the survey today.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

SOCIAL LIFE

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WELCOME Hello friends and Happy Pride! The beginnings of Baltimore Pride date back to 1975, when a small group of activists staged a rally at Charles Plaza. I wonder whether those organizers envisioned what Baltimore would be like for the LGBT community nearly four decades later. Did they imagine that first rally would pave the way for our community to celebrate openly with thousands of revelers, vibrant floats and national sponsorships? Did they foresee an LGBT community center (in this case, the GLCCB) organizing one of the biggest events the community has ever seen? Could they have believed that our community would have openly out-and-proud politicians, task forces and liaisons within most of the government agencies? Could they even have fathomed that we would be able to officially marry the one we love, regardless of gender,

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

and be recognized as not only acceptable, but the new normal? That day is here my friends, and while none of us could have imagined it just a few years ago, it seems we have plenty

of reason to celebrate in 2015. However, the fight is still not over. There are hate crimes all over the country. Our trans brothers and sisters still battle for equality daily. There is still a huge racial divide that plagues not only our city, but the country. Baltimore Pride weekend is a chance for us to come together, celebrate the victories of the last 40 years and rally together to continue the fight for LGBT equality! This year brings on a wealth of new corporate sponsorship, as well as many new vendors from retail, food and other businesses. Please make sure that you not only take some time to check them out while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at Pride, but that you continue to support them throughout the year. They all have signed on to support our community. This year marks a return to the Mount Vernon neighborhood for the Block Party and Druid Hill Park for the Festival. We heard the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice, and honored the request to return home. This year, in order to avoid the beer gardens that were largely unpopular in 2014, we compromised with the city and have a wristband policy

instead. The $5 wristband allows those 21 and older to drink within the perimeter of the event without being in a beer garden, and helps keep our community safe. If you purchase the limited edition Baltimore Pride shirt for $25 (see p. 20 for details), you get a free wristband each day (with proper ID). The wristbands are not required to enter, or enjoy the festivities, but are required if you wish to drink. Baltimore Pride 2015 is sure to be the best year ever, and I hope that you enjoy the festivities as much as we have enjoyed putting them together. Please take the pride you share this weekend out into the world and share it with others. Love one another, be kind to one another and always remember: we are powerful when we are united! Happy Pride!

Paul Liller GLCCB Deputy Director

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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PRIDE WEEK EVENTS PRIDE INTERFAITH SERVICE

TUESDAY, JULY 21 • 7PM

Grace United Methodist Church

CORNER OF NORTH CHARLES STREET AND NORTHERN PARKWAY

FREE The Interfaith Fairness Coalition of Maryland (IFCMD), the state’s oldest interfaith group focused on working for the full inclusion of all sexual and gender minority (SGM) people in faith communities, hosts its annual Pride Interfaith service at Grace United Methodist Church. The service will combine music, ritual and speakers from multiple faith traditions. This year’s theme, “Faith Never Stands Still: Embracing Sexual and Gender Minorities,” is particularly fitting in light of the Supreme Court’s decision last month to extend marriage equality to every state and U.S. Territory. For more information, contact Bill Palmer at w.j.palmer@gmail.com or (443) 421-9090.

PRIDE PANEL ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION & GENDER IDENTITY TUESDAY, JULY 21 • 6:30PM

Enoch Pratt Free Library

400 CATHEDRAL ST.

FREE Join author Joe Wenke and some of the contributors to the timely new book, THE HUMAN AGENDA: Conversations About Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity as they share their personal and professional stories along with their profound commitment to freedom and equality. Panelists include fashion model and trans activist Gisele Alicea and hip-hop artist Y-Love.

Y-LOVE

THE STORY OF MY NAME PROJECT RECEPTION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 • 7–9:30PM

Red Emma’s

30 W. NORTH AVE.

FREE

FREESTATELEGAL.ORG/ THE-STORY-OF-MY-NAME-PROJECT

An evening reception honoring stories of recognition, identity and truth, FreeState

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Legal’s The Story of My Name Project is an exciting opportunity for Maryland-based transgender and gender non-conforming folks who have gone through the name change process.

TWILIGHT ON THE TERRACE FRIDAY, JULY 24 • 7–11PM

Gertrude's Restaurant

PRIDE PARADE

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 2AM

CATHEDRAL STREET FROM MONUMENT STREET TO CHASE STREET

1525 RUSSELL ST.

RAIN OR SHINE! Come and join cowboys, community organizers, the King and Queen of Pride, leather daddies and maybe a float or two at the 2015 Baltimore Pride Parade. The Parade kicks off at the corners of Monument and Cathedral streets in Mount Vernon, and travels four blocks north up Cathedral Street to Chase Street. Parade participants can compete for one of four Pride Parade Trophies: Best Car/Motorcycle; Best Float; Best Walking Groups; and Best Overall Contingent. The GLCCB and Pride Committee are thrilled to welcome Club Hippo owner Chuck Bowers as the Baltimore Pride 2015 Grand Marshall.

HIGH HEEL RACE

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 3PM CATHEDRAL STREET FROM READ STREET TO EAGER STREET

Who said you had to wait for the fun to begin? Don’t bother showing up fashionably late, you can watch madness unfold minutes into the Block Party at the race that must be seen to be believed. Men, women, queens, and everyone in between can try their luck running approximately two blocks up Cathedral Street for the honor of being crowned the 2015 High Heel Race winner!

Horseshoe Casino

FREE The party continues after the Baltimore Pride Block Party winds down over at Horseshoe Casino. With over 2,200 of the newest, hottest slots, including more than 150 video poker machines, Horseshoe has a game for everyone. Shuttle bus service will be available to and from the Mt. Vernon Pride site.

PRIDE FESTIVAL

SUNDAY, JULY 26 • 11AM-6PM

BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART

$100 Start Pride weekend in style! Hosted by Gertrude’s Restaurant at the Baltimore Museum of Art, the tenth annual Twilight on the Terrace benefit cocktail party will kick off a full weekend of Pride events. Attire for the event is garden-party; guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a four-hour open bar, a silent auction, music, dancing and art.Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, music, a four-hour open bar, and dancing.

BLOCK PARTY AFTER-PARTY

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 3:30PM

DRUID HILL PARK IN NW BALTIMORE

PROJECT HEALTH YOUTH ZONE

RAIN OR SHINE! The Pride festival is held in beautiful Druid Hill Park. The festival features many regional and local performers, vendors, the Lady Lisa Memorial Drag Stage, a Family Zone, and plenty of fun for the whole community to enjoy. An estimated 5,000 celebrants come out annually for the fun and festivities.

FISH FRY DRAG SHOW

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 2–8PM

SUNDAY, JULY 27 • 7:30PM-2AM

CHARLES & BREXTON STREETS

Grand Central Nightclub

FREE Project Health Youth Zone is a fun, safe, alcohol-free social space intended for youth and young adults ages 13-24, and one that has become an essential component of Baltimore Pride festivities over the past five years.

PRIDE BLOCK PARTY

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 4-10PM CATHEDRAL STREET, BETWEEN BREXTON & EAGER STREETS

RAIN OR SHINE! Following the parade, fun will be had by thousands as the streets of Mount Vernon are transformed into a “nightclub without walls” at the 2015 Baltimore Pride Block Party! Hosted by Shawnna Alexander, Baltimore’s Queen of Comedy, and former Miss Gay Maryland Tatiyanna Voche’, the block party will feature a score of regional artists throughout the evening, leading up to our 2015 Pride headliners, Ts Madison, Cazwell and the legendary diva of disco, Martha Wash.

1001 N. CHARLES ST.

$15

FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/867107370050279

End Pride weekend with a bang as Baltimore’s Queen of Pride, Brooklyn Heights, plays host to RuPaul’s Drag Race favorites Latrice Royale and India Ferrah. Doors open at 7:30pm, with a meet-andgreet at 8pm and main show at 10pm.

LATRICE ROYALE

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

STEPHANIE RAWLINGS-BLAKE Mayor 250 City Hall, 100 North Holliday Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202

July 25, 2015 Welcome to Baltimore Pride 2015! This year we celebrate 40 years of Baltimore Pride, and over the past four decades, the celebration has evolved from a small rally of activists to become Maryland’s largest LGBTQ festival. Each year, Baltimore's LGBTQ community puts on a fabulous party, and we have much to celebrate in 2015! Last month’s Supreme Court ruling declared marriage equality the law of the land, affirming that same-sex couples have the right to marry and live their lives the same as any other American. In Baltimore and across the nation, we rejoice that gay and lesbian Americans can now express their love and commitment through marriage, and enjoy the legal benefits that the federal government provides only to married couples. I have always been an enthusiastic supporter of our LGBTQ community, and a champion for equal rights in every community. And I was thrilled and honored to perform Baltimore’s first official same-sex marriages at midnight on New Year’s Day 2013, as well as an unforgettable mass wedding on a glorious June afternoon in Druid Hill Park. These were proud, historic moments for our city, the result of so many committed people working tirelessly for equality, and I will always cherish those memories. Baltimore Pride is about more than just tolerance—it’s a celebration of our welcoming, inclusive spirit that makes Baltimore an inviting place for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. In the 40 years since the first Pride festival, our country has come a long way. Join me in celebrating the individuality, diversity, and PRIDE that make Baltimore unique. We have much to celebrate in 2015. Please accept my best wishes for an awesome Pride weekend. Sincerely,

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Mayor City of Baltimore phone: 410.396.3835 fax: 410.576.9425 e-mail: mayor@baltimorecity.gov

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

SATURDAY, JULY 25 IN MOUNT VERNON

BLOCK PARTY MAP

ATM IS AT PNC (1100 N. CHARLES ST.)

GLCCB INFO BOOTH & VOLUNTEER CHECK-IN

MAP LEGEND NOTE: The parade travels north on Cathedral, from Monument to Chase.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

FOOD ENTRANCES

Note: Each entrance will have first aid and security checkpoint

INFORMATION

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

SATURDAY PRIDE BLOCK PARTY IN MOUNT VERNON

ENTERTAINERS

SATURDAY BLOCK PARTY LINEUP

(SEE MAP OF MOUNT VERNON ON PAGE 16) 4:00–4:40 PM 4:40–4:50 PM 5:00–5:30 PM 5:30–5:45 PM

DJ Rosie BlackOutBaltimore DJ Arturo Drag Revue Jordan Sinclair — Miss Gay Maryland USofA 2015 Jazmen Diamond — Miss Gay Maryland United States 2015 Brooklyn Heights — Baltimore's Queen of Pride 2014-2015 5:45–6:10 PM Constance Alex George 6:10–6:20 PM Shawnna Alexander 6:20–6:30 PM Franz Fiddler — Baltimore's King of Pride 2014-2015 6:30–7:00 PM Vodkatrina 7:00–7:20 PM Drag Revue Sabrina White — Miss Gay America 2002 Danielle Revlon Sasha Renée — Miss Gay Maryland 2015 India Ferrah 7:20–7:30 PM Troy Koger — Baltimore's Voice of Pride 7:30–8:00 PM DJ Joey 8:00–8:20 PM Ts Madison 8:20–8:30 PM Tatiyanna Voché 8:30–9:00 PM Cazwell 9:00–9:30 PM Martha Wash

DJ ROSIE

DJ DjRosieHicks.com Rosie “DJ Rosie” Hicks is a Baltimore native and well-known figure in the LGBTQ community as a popular Resident DJ at several clubs in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., including Club Hippo, Baltimore, and Cobalt, DC. Winning the title of “Best DJ” in the 2012 reader’s poll for the Washington Blade, Rosie continues to entertain crowds of all ages and backgrounds, but has a strong love for performing at events benefiting members of the LGBTQ community, their friends and allies. She has DJed for thousands of people during her 13 year career, including Baltimore Pride 2011 through 2014.

JORDAN SINCLAIR

Drag Entertainer Miss Gay Maryland USofA 2015 After years of taking a break from the stage, Jordan Sinclair is back and better than ever. A Texas native, Jordan saw his first drag show at the Rose Room in Dallas and currently resides in Washington, D.C. Jordan is the current Miss Gay Maryland USoA and competed at the national finals Dallas, Texas this past May.

JAZMEN DIAMOND

Drag Entertainer Miss Gay Maryland United States 2015

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Jazmen will be celebrating her 25th year in drag this October 31 and is the current Miss Gay Maryland United States 2015.

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS

Drag Entertainer Queen of Baltimore Pride 2014-2015 Brooklyn has been performing the art of female impersonation full time for almost four years, and lives in Baltimore, Md. with his two biological children (both boys!). Brooklyn is the current Queen of Baltimore Pride, a former Miss New Face of Baltimore, and can be seen performing and hosting around Baltimore in weekly and monthly performances.

CONSTANCE ALEX GEORGE

Singer CAGMusic.com Constance shot to fame with her first music video titled “Take Me Away.” In 2010, the video topped the charts and was also nominated for the best video of the year by SilverBird and NTA2. She is the founder and CEO of Clex Records Inc. Performing a blend of R&B, contemporary Christian and Afro-Pop, all of Constance’s songs are composed by her and performed by her very own group. Ever since the success of ‘Take Me Away’ followed by ‘My Destiny’ and ‘I’ll Be There’, Constance has been performing across various states and cities, in concerts and at various events.

SHAWNNA ALEXANDER

Drag Entertainer Miss Shawnna has held several titles including former Queen of Pride, Entertainer of the Year, Miss Gay Baltimore, Miss Hippo, Miss Stage Coach, Baltimore Apollo Amateur Winner, Miss Club Phoenix, a three-time City Paper Drag Performer of the Year, and is a two-time ARGIE (Drag Performer of the Year) winner.

FRANZ FIDDLER

Drag Entertainer King of Pride 2014-2015 Fashioned from a classically trained violinist and LSD (aka lead singer disorder), Franz Fiddler is one of the last active drag kings of the late Charm City Boys, and current King of Baltimore Pride. Fanning the flames of professional faggotry for five years and counting, HE knows how to walk tall and carry a BIG bow... All fabulous-ity (and innuendo), always intended.

VODKATRINA

DJ Soundcloud.com/vodkatrina Learning to DJ in the clubs in front of a live audience, Vodkatrina has been packing dance floors for over four years. Her mixes are a fun variety of club, 90’s jock jams, Motown, pop, mash-ups, and crazy surprises all over. Resident DJ at Grand Central & SHE Production’s monthly party Rehab, you can occasionally find Vodkatrina throwing down some tunes at The Ottobar as well. Oh yeah, and she really likes vodka.

DANIELLE REVLON

Drag Entertainer Danielle Revlon knew that she wanted to be an entertainer at an early age. Beginning her entertainment career in 2004, she quickly became a recognized name throughout the DMV area, and has held several pageant titles, including Miss International Plus 2008, Miss Unlimited at Large 2012, and Miss National ICON at Large 2013.

SASHA RENÉE

Drag Entertainer Miss Gay Maryland 2015 A proud West Virginian now residing in Hagerstown, MD, Chas (a.k.a. Sasha Renee), Sasha has been blessed to provide his talents, not only as one of the featured performed at The Lodge Night Club in Boonsboro, Md. and a member of the Frederick Divas, but many charitable organizations such as Positive Influence, A.R.E., Hagerstown Hope and A Little Song Little Dance. Titles Sasha has earned include Miss Gay Pride Las

Vegas, Miss DC Capital City Pride, Miss Deer Park Lodge, Miss Queen of Hearts, Miss Altlands Ranch and Miss Western Maryland. He was recently crowned Miss Gay Maryland America 2015 and will compete in October for Miss Gay America.

INDIA FERRAH

Drag Entertainer RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 3 Cast, National All American Goddess 2008-2009 and Vegas show host.

PRIDE PARADE

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 3:30PM

CATHEDRAL STREET FROM MONUMENT STREET TO CHASE STREET

RAIN OR SHINE! Join hundreds of proud Baltimoreans for the 2015 Pride Parade. The Parade kicks off at the corners of Monument and Cathedral streets in Mount Vernon, and travels four blocks north up Cathedral Street to Chase Street. Parade participants can compete for one of four Pride Parade Trophies: Best Car/Motorcycle; Best Float; Best Walking Groups; and Best Overall Contingent. The GLCCB and Pride Committee are thrilled to welcome Club Hippo owner Chuck Bowers as the Baltimore Pride 2013 Grand Marshal. Bowers, who recently celebrated his 70th birthday, has spent nearly forty years as the owner of the iconic Club Hippo and has donated sizable amounts of money to LGBT nonprofits, including Baltimore Pride and its sponsor, the GLCCB. In addition, he has allowed other organizations to hold fundraising events at the club. Early in the 1980’s when the AIDS crisis began, Bowers was one of the first to help raise money to fight the disease. In May, Bowers announced that the Hippo will be closing its doors in fall 2015 after 43 years. He has been the sole owner for the last 37 years.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

BALTIMORE PRIDE DANCE STAGE

SATURDAY HEADLINER

CAZWELL

BY COREY LACEY

SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 4–8PM

CHARLES AND EAGER STREETS The BMC is a dance music driven, community based organization, designed to serve as a forum for DJs, those within the industry and also for the fans of these artists as they seek to get dance music to the masses and help support local artists. Advocates of dance music, BMC hosts events, workshops and networking events to unite the dance community and build a voice for the underground,. The BMC produces and promotes both their own and other’s events while utilizing its resources to give back to the community through charitable programs, events and contributions in order to better serve the dance music community.

LONNIE FISHER

As founder of Ultraworld Productions, Starscape, and Sonar, Lonnie Fisher has been involved in the dance music scene for over 20 years both as a promoter and a DJ.

THE WETSTEPPERS

The Wetsteppers are two of Baltimore’s finest DJ’s, Jess Rabbit and Jake Amora. This tag team’s sound is composed of a unique fusion style integrating booty popping trap, breakbeats and throwback hip hop tunes that are sure to keep the crowd moving and the party hyped.

SILICONE SHAKERS

The Silicone Shakers are a veteran DJ duo comprised of Colby (Brother Pinch) and Ryan Patrick. While mainly spinning House and Tech House, they aren’t afraid to mix it up to get the crowd on their feet.

DJ POWERLINE

A native of Baltimore, DJ Powerline is returning for a second year at Baltimore Pride to make you dance. His sets are made up of Electro House and Baltimore Club infused with nerdy and pop culture references.

COSMOS CREW

Cosmos Crew Entertainment is a interactive abstract live art performance troupe thriving in the Baltimore and DMV nightlife scene. Six years in the making, Cosmos Dolls entertain the masses, and motivate the crowd with captivating dancers, visual artists, crowd interactions, extreme costuming, and other visual performance arts.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

Have you traveled to Baltimore in the past? If not, what are you looking forward to seeing in the area besides performing for Pride? Honestly, I’m just looking forward to performing in Baltimore! I really love the vibe in Baltimore, and Baltimore people are music people so they tend to really get down and have a good time.

ueer hip-hop artists existed since the rise of hip-hop in the early 1980s. One such artist, Cazwell, is a music veteran beginning his career as one half of the duo Morplay with female MC Crasta Yoknown. Since then, Cazwell amassed a significant fan base thanks to his risqué videos and the proliferation of social media. A few of his popular hits like “Ice Cream Truck,” “No Selfie Control,” and “I Seen Beyoncé at Burger King” received between 200,000 to 4 million YouTube views each. Cazwell is multitalented, with DJ mixtapes, modeling gigs and an underwear design collection available online. Cazwell will perform live at the Baltimore Pride Celebration on Saturday, July 25. Currently on his Summer of Ratchet Tour 2015, Gay Life interviewed Cazwell in anticipation of his upcoming performance.

Can you tell me more about your rehearsals. How long do you spend going over routines to prepare for a show? Rehearsals? [Laughs] Well, I have dancers that I rehearse with all the time, but generally speaking, budgets seem restricted, so I can’t always fly dancers with me. I’m pretty uncontrived on stage, so I typically don’t have much of a rehearsal.

How was performing for Nashville Pride Festival? I know the area is predominately known for its love of country music so I’m curious to hear about your experience. I loved performing in Nashville. It was the first Pride I did after they made it legal for all gay marriage in the U.S. to be acknowledged, plus it was my birthday, so it was a special day! Yes, people of Nashville do love their country music, but gay pride is different and they are expected to get gay.

I don’t know if you’re aware, but your entire catalog is on TIDAL. As an artist, what is your opinion of streaming services? I think Jay took a big chance, but who knows if it will pay off. I honestly think that TIDAL is just too expensive. Everyone wants the best quality sounding music, but no one wants to pay $20 for it when they can get it for free. And all the exclusive content eventually hits YouTube so people on a tight budget don’t really see the benefit.

You mentioned in an interview with Out & About Nashville your admiration for Azealia Banks. Are there any other current LGBTQ hiphop artists you admire or you recommend listening to? Yeah. Mykki Blanco is sick; so is Le1f ! Everybody should check out Dai Burger and Cakes Da Killa. There’s a lot of great gay music out there right now. Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies you wouldn't mind sharing with us? I’m pretty good at papier-mâché. When are you releasing your next single? In other interviews, you mentioned possibly a video for “The Biscuit.” Yes! There is a video for “The Biscuit” definitely coming out this summer. We’re just finishing up the final details of the video. After your tour ends, what’s up next for you? More travel? Well, I’m always touring. That’s never going to stop [laughs]. I’m just constantly dropping videos about every three months and working on some new songs. I’m also busy pushing my Ice Cream Truck underwear line that I created with Geoffrey Mac! Cazwell.com Twitter.com/CazwellNYC

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

SATURDAY HEADLINER

MARTHA WASH M

artha Wash, the Queen of Clubland, twirls into Baltimore this month as she performs at this year’s Baltimore Pride Festival. The two time Grammy nominated artist is best known for her work as part of the singing duo, The Weather Girls. Wash also provided the vocals for Black Box’s “Everybody, Everybody” and “Strike It Up” as well as lead vocals on C+C Music Factory’s No. 1 hit “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now).” Wash is also noted for spurring legislation for making vocal credits mandatory on CD’s after being denied proper credit and royalties in the early 1990s. Wash recently chatted with Gay Life about her upcoming performance, her views on the recent Supreme Court decision, and her reaction to the loss of a Baltimore gay landmark. To start, what was your initial reaction when you heard the news of the recent decision by SCOTUS to legalize same-sex marriage throughout the United States? I said great! That’s what the community was fighting for all this time and it should have been like that all along. It’s taken a lot of time and it’s finally here. I was speaking to someone about [the ruling] last night. It seems that there are a few states holding out. You have the Supreme Court rule like this, and then you have have these other states that are in essence saying to the Supreme Court, “We’re not going to follow your ruling.” They are basically saying that “We are going to do what we want to do,” but at the same token some of these places want to go before the Supreme Court to get their own rules and laws passed. It’s kind of a slap in the face and almost like, well what does the Supreme Court know, but when it’s your turn you want them to be on your side and pass your laws. It’s kind of crazy for lawmakers to say, “What does the Supreme Court know?” and “We’re going to do what we want to do.” And they can decide not to abide with what their ruling is. What can I say about the United States…we’re a trip! In a 2014 Rolling Stone article, RuPaul mentioned that there was a direct correlation between your career and the struggles that many face within the LGBT community. Ru said that your “story speaks to disenfranchised people.” Do you feel that this is one of the many ways that you connect with people of the LGBT community? I never really thought about it like that. My position has always been from the fans that

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

INTERVIEW BY FRANKIE KUJAWA

have followed me all these many decades. In school I knew some guys that were gay, and we would hang out sometimes. More so, I would say it was after I started singing with Sylvester. We were playing a lot of gay clubs and that’s when I became immersed. They are still my biggest fan base and I’ve always appreciated that. They’ve followed me through the highs and lows of my career and I’m right there for them. I’ve always said I don’t care who you love. That’s none of my business. It’s all about love. There’s so much hate in this world that we need to focus on loving one another. How do you feel when you hear people refer to you as a gay icon in the LGBT community? I accept it. I’ve always accepted it. Look, people put labels on you for all kinds of stuff. I’ll take it! Obviously, as one of The Weather Girls, you are known for your hit song, “It’s Raining Men.” I have to ask, which would you choose: Tall or blonde? Oooh. Tall. Dark or lean? Dark. Rough or tough? Tough. Strong or mean? Strong. You once said that if you hadn’t gone into singing you would have become a kindergarten teacher. Do you ever regret your decision? I don’t think I would have made a great kindergarten teacher. I like children, although I don’t have any. I have nieces and nephews. I’m ‘Auntie Martha,’ but I don’t know if I would be able to last. In a way, I’m glad that I didn’t do it because teachers nowadays need combat pay. [Laughs]

Are you looking forward to performing at Pride in Baltimore? Oh yeah! I’m not looking forward to the heat, though. [Laughs] It’s been a hot minute since I’ve been to Baltimore Pride. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing some old friends in the audience. So, you’ve been to a few Baltimore Prides before? Oh yeah! Many, many times over the years. Is The Hippo still in business? Actually, it’s closing this summer. Oh my goodness! After all these decades? There have been some good times at The Hippo. I’ve been there off and on for many years. I’m sorry to hear that. Is there anything you hope to accomplish while you’re here? I’m just happy to be there after so long. I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve recently been working with Linda Clifford and Evelyn Champagne King. We have come together and recorded a single called “Show Some Love.” We are going under the name First Ladies of Disco. We have been promoting the single. Hopefully there will be some new music going on. It’s under my label, Purple Rose Records. I may let people hear a little bit of it at the show, although Linda and Evelyn won’t be there. The song is really good. And if people want to purchase it they can find it on iTunes or Amazon. And I’m sure you’ll want to take one more twirl on the dance floor at The Hippo. [Laughs] Absolutely! MarthaWash.com Twitter.com/Martha_Wash

Photo by Luke Jones.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT: The GLCCB (1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD)

Baltimorepride.org/tshirt Pride Block Party & Festival

* Wristbands do not entitle purchasers to free or discounted drinks within the footprint. Wristband wearers must present band to purchase alcohol within the footprint. Must be 21 years old to receive free wristband with purchase of shirt. Anyone under 18 may purchase the shirt, but will not receive a wristband. A valid state or federal identiďŹ tcation must be presented to receive wristband.

We have pride all year round Each person is unique and so is your health. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we proudly support Baltimore Pride. Visit kp.org/pride to learn more.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc., 2101 East Jefferson St., Rockville, MD 20852 150408_BaltPride_A_ad 6/15/15-7/28/15

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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SATURDAY HEADLINER

TS MADISON T

s Madison is an African American male to female pre-operative transsexual actress, producer, director, recording artist, entrepreneur and adult entertainment executive. She is also known for being outspoken and advocating for human rights relating to the lesbian, bisexual, gay & transgender community. Once cited by the Huffington Post as a “trans viral sensation,” Madison took social media by storm in 2009 when she created a YouTube channel and began conducting self-interviews talking about issues in the transsexual adult services industry. In 2011, she made a guest appearance on the season finale of Kandi Koated Nights. The edgy, over-the-top and unpredictable night web show is the brain child of business mogul, singer, producer and songwriter Kandi Burruss. Madison’s controversial appearance left audience members and viewers in awe of her direct and outspoken opinions regarding the LBGT community. In December 2013, she was interviewed by the internet magazine Examiner.com. The successful multi-media maven talked about lifestyle, plastic surgery, music and turning

WELLS FARGO

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a job into a multi-faceted business empire. She also launched a collection of T-shirts and other merchandise customized with some of her well known catchphrases. Capital Records personally requested that Madison do a funny video on Vine for activist and songwriter Mary Lambert. In an effort to promote Lambert’s new single “Secrets,” the record label believed Madison’s personality and sense of humor would help “Secrets” reach the desired fan base. True to the praise by the Huffington Post, Madison definitely ignited a sensation when her Vine video “She Got A Dick,” went viral globally. The video caught the attention of comedian Daniel Tosh, and was featured on his American television series Tosh.0. 2015 has been a great professional year for Madison. In May, she hosted the Gay Pride events in Springfield, Missouri and Toronto, Canada. Madison also made a cameo appearance in Milan Christopher Gordy’s music video “Is You Mad Or Nah.” The video also featured Ethiopian rapper Lola Monroe. WeHoConfidential.com did a very color-

ful, upbeat and energetic feature story about Madison. The West Hollywood based gossip magazine crowned her a “Transsexual Goddess.” In July 2014 Madison made a guest appearance on RuPaul’s What’s The Tee podcast where she discussed pop culture, fashion and beauty advice with RuPaul and his cohost Michelle Visage. Notsafe4wrk. com branded Madison as a “Marketing Genius” in their September cover story of her. In October, stand-up comedian and musician Jonny McGovern interviewed her for the season finale of his popular web show Hey Qween. She currently hosts her own web series titled Wait A Minute through World of Wonder Productions. In this web series she gives her opinions on controversial gay issues. In early 2014, Madison signed a record deal with High Kicks Entertainment. In June, French cultural magazine Les Inrockuptibles interviewed Madison about lifestyles and issues affecting the transgender community. TsMadison.com Twitter.com/TsMadisonATL1

T-MOBILE

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

SUNDAY, JULY 26 AT DRUID HILL PARK

FESTIVAL MAP

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

SUNDAY HEADLINER

STEVE GRAND

inger-songwriter Steve Grand remembers the first time he realized how powerful music could be. At a young age, riding in the car with his dad, listening to the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and the Beach Boys, he saw how a song could transport someone through time and space to a moment in the past. “He could tell you what shirt he was wearing, the name of the girl he was dating, and what the weather was like,” he says of his dad’s musical reminiscences. “That’s what first sparked my interest in songwriting. It was the first time I encountered music’s unique ability to provide a temporary escape from reality.” It’s a feeling he’s now given countless people himself with 2013’s release of “All American Boy,” his debut single. The song became a smash, viral hit, thanks in part to the self-produced and self-financed video, which went from zero to a million views on YouTube in a matter of days, all without the help of a label, a manager, or an agent. The imagery was pure Americana—campfires, American flags, country roads, whiskey, and hunky, shirtless men. But there was a twist. The song and video (now with close to 4 million views and counting) both depict a situation familiar to many people—an unrequited crush of someone out of reach, that burning desire for someone you can never have. It’s a universal truth, but Steve’s story

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was even more affecting, because he was telling that story from the perspective of a gay man who had a crush on a straight man. It’s not something that has ever been depicted in music quite so overtly. While he loved his family and his musical upbringing, as a young man who figured out that he was gay after a stint at summer camp when he was in eighth grade, Steve says he felt like many gay teenagers do: alone and confused. Looking around for public role models in music, he found few. Though his parents now accept his sexuality and support him, his religious upbringing didn’t offer any solace, either. “I was 18 or 19 and I realized, hey, there’s really a deficiency here. The world is rapidly becoming a more accepting place. If we really are all the same and we really are all equal, there ought to be more artists who are open about who they are and even sing about it,” he says. While it’s become more common for celebrities to come out casually, without the fanfare or announcements on covers of magazines, Steve says it’s just as important as ever. “While people say this is no big deal anymore, who cares? You know who cares? The kids who are still really struggling with this. The kids who feel like they would still rather be dead than live life as a gay person,” he said. “I’m thinking about them all the time when I’m doing these things because

deep down we all just want to be loved, we want to experience love, we want to give love, we want to take in love, and we want to feel valued and understood.” He knew that gambit for “All American Boy” would work: no one had ever seen or heard anything quite like it before. “What made the story impactful was the apparent dichotomy of a same-sex love story set against a very Americana backdrop—old cars, whiskey, American flags, and friends by a campfire,” he says. Pegged as a “gay country artist” by the media—something of a misnomer—within a week, the video had made all the gay blogs, Buzzfeed ran a post about the video, and he’d appeared on “Good Morning America.” Later, he was interviewed by the revered Larry King for his online show. With his full-length album, recorded with producer Aaron Johnson (who produced The Fray) in Los Angeles in the spring of 2014, co-writing a few songs with Itaal Shur, (who also helped to pen the Grammy winning song, “Smooth” by Rob Thomas and Santana), coming in March, fans will have even more to be inspired by. “It’s going to take them to many more places. The album follows an arc—each song is a plot point on that arc, and I think a lot of things in life follow an arc.” The journey is told through Steve’s clear, soaring voice, and his emotionally uplifting,

hook-filled songs including “Stay,” “AllAmerican Boy,” “Whiskey Crime,” and “Say You Love Me.” The piano and guitar-driven tracks are instantly timeless and familiar; their sound is a tip of the hat to other American singer-songwriters like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. “There is nothing all that different about my music just because I’m gay,” he says. “My music explores dimensions of the human experience: Love, loss, hope, regret, triumph—themes that have been explored by artists since the beginning of time. None of these experiences are unique to any group – they are universal themes because we all feel them, regardless of what our sexual orientation or gender identity may be.” Twenty years later, like his cartoon inspiration, Steve Grand is making music with his fingers, creating new memories for them with his songs. While he knew that “All American Boy” would gain a lot of attention, Steve says, “I didn’t realize how deep the emotional impact was going to be, until I started getting emails from people really saying ‘I’ve been waiting my whole life for someone like you.’” Nearly a year and a half later, he says, “that’s never stopped. People are still watching the video every day and being moved by it.” SteveGrand.com Twitter.com/SteveGrandMusic

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

PRIDE FESTIVAL AT DRUID HILL PARK

ENTERTAINERS LAST TO FIRE

SUNDAY MAIN STAGE LINEUP

(SEE MAP OF DRUID HILL PARK ON PAGE 22) 11:30–12:15 PM 12:15–12:30 PM 12:30–1:00 PM 1:00–1:30 PM 1:30–2:00 PM 2:00–3:00 PM 3:00–3:30 PM 3:30–4:00 PM 4:30–5:00 PM 5:00–5:30 PM 5:30–6:00 PM

Interfaith Fairness Coalition of Md./ Faith Communities of Baltimore Troy Koger — Baltimore's Voice of Pride Raydioo Parks Landing Constance Alex George Steve Grand Billy Winn Brinjal and the Aubergine Dancers Last to Fire Ms. D'z a.k.a. Deezy Julia Weldon

Band LastToFire.com Last to Fire is a soul/funk/rock band from Baltimore that has been playing since 2012. Their music features soulful vocals and funky trumpet leads with a rock foundation. The five-member group of Jason Palumbo, Evan Ponter, Chad Yan, Alex Appelbaum and Logan Goodspeed released their five-track debut EP in 2014, with a follow-up EP release in June 2015. With support from people like 98 Rock’s Matt Davis, host of the Noise in the Basement Show, the Last to Fire show calendar always has something booked. Find a live show near you!

DEEZY

RAYDIOO

Singer Raydioo.com Raydioo is a multi-genre energetic artist. At eight, Raydioo developed his voice and passion for music in the Maryland State Boys Choir, where he served for six seasons as lead alto in the Chapel Choir. In 2009 Raydioo was the lead vocalist in singing group “Destin’d”, leader of the group he created and produced live concerts and recordings. Shortly after the group’s last concert in 2010, he pursued a career as a solo artist. After the release of his first contemporary gospel studio album, “Ready4War,” which he wrote and produced, Ray was inspired to take risks and push the envelope a little further. Gearing up for the release of his new secular album, “Cotc,” Raydioo strives to add a voice to thee LGBT community in hopes of equality and is ready to share his truth.

CONSTANCE ALEX GEORGE

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BILLY WINN

Singer BillyWinn.com Billy Winn is a singer, songwriter, recording artist, and performer from Washington D.C., who has captivated audiences across the East Coast with his energetic dance shows and powerhouse talent. Since debuting as a performer in 2012, Winn has shared the stage with the likes of Emeli Sande’, Cher Lloyd, Blake Lewis, and Icona Pop. In 2014, Winn gained his first Top 20 single on the Billboard Dance charts with his song “Future X Boyfriend”. Following the success of “Future X Boyfriend”, Winn released the double-single “Cruel Intentions / He Won’t Do”, which has gained notable attention since its release in February 2015. Now with release of his remix EP “The Remixes / The Revisit / The Unreleased” Winn intends to expand his reach even further. He describes his music as “Electro/Pop with a sexy urban edge,” noting artists like Prince, Aaliyah, and Janet Jackson as some of his biggest influences.

BRINJAL AND THE AUBERGINE DANCERS

Band NinaAmaya.com/brinjal-band.html Brinjal is based in Baltimore, Maryland, and plays a lively mix of songs from Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Armenia, Israel, the Faerie Kingdom and more. World Music band Brinjal plays pulsing and lyrical songs from nations real and imagined, with a large dose of the exotic rhythms and enchanting melodies of the Middle East. The exotic rhythms and unusual tonal scales of this danceable music fascinate young and old.

Singer MsDzmusic.com Ms.D’z, a.k.a. Deezy, first came unto Baltimore’s rap scene in 2008 when she joined a local rap group TRP (Trait Razor Productions). In 2013, Ms.D’z left the group to explore a solo career, but still gives her respect to Trait Razor for bringing her so far into the game. In 2015, Ms.D’z reinvented her image by publicly coming out in her music. Deezy brings back the essence of Hip-Hop by rapping over beats that have an old school hip-hop feel to it, but she also keeps up with the current trends in today’s music.

LADY LISA DRAG STAGE SUNDAY, JULY 26 • 5PM

DRUID HILL PARK

The Lady Lisa Drag Stage (LLDS) has been an integral part of the Pride festival for many years. The stage got its name from a wonderful person who decided to battle fate to keep this tradition alive—Miss Club Phoenix 2005, Lady Lisa. Lady Lisa (born Alicia Wright) was a biological self-identified heterosexual female. An ally of the LGBTQ community, she was a longtime volunteer for the GLCCB’s Pride events and supported many other LGBT events and functions. After funding was cut for this performance outlet, Lady Lisa took it upon herself to keep it going.

JULIA WELDON

Singer A self-taught, nationally touring musician, Julia Weldon’s possessing personality and captivating music crosses bridges and divides. With unfailing fingers, she tells stories that feel both intensely personal and widely universal. Unapologetically herself, Weldon’s songs grab you— asking you to pull up a chair, pour yourself a whiskey, and stay a while. “Light Is a Ghost” is the recent follow up to the Brooklyn indie-folk-pop artist’s 2008 self-titled debut. Produced by Saul MacWilliams and featuring Adam Christgau on drums, the album showcases Weldon’s storytelling, voice, and unmistakable charisma.

Sadly, on Sept. 10, 2010, we unexpectedly lost this ally to a massive heart attack, just a few short months after undertaking the task of raising funds and producing the Drag Stage at Pride in 2010. The show continued on and will be back at Pride 2015 for another amazing set. The process of booking an army of performers, coordinating tables, chairs, tents, and finding a willing DJ to brave the heat is a daunting task, but the current LLDS Committee has tried to give it their all in an effort to emulate the determination of its namesake. As the group moves back to Druid Hill Park this year, they hope everyone will stop by to see what the LLDS has to offer. You definitely won’t be disappointed!

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015 QD_NYC_Pride_Guide-2015-0417.indd

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

Join the many faith communities of Baltimore who are working together toward the healing, reconciliation and liberation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer individuals among us in

Celebrating

40 years of Baltimore Pride Communities Faith of Baltimore with

PRIDE Participating Communities Ames Memorial United Methodist Church Baltimore Hebrew Congregation Beit Tikvah Synagogue Bethesda United Methodist Church Bolton Street Synagogue Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church Center for Conscious Living Christ Catholic Church of Baltimore Dickey Memorial Presbyterian Church Dorsey Emmanuel United Methodist Church Faith Presbyterian Church First and St. Stephen United Church of Christ First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ

First Unitarian Church of Baltimore Govans Presbyterian Church Grace United Methodist Church Holy Comforter Lutheran Church Interfaith Fairness Coalition of Maryland Light Street Presbyterian Church Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community Maryland Presbyterian Church Memorial Episcopal Church Metropolitan Community Church Mt. Vernon Place United Methodist Church Old Otterbein United Methodist Church Second English Lutheran Church

Spiritual Empowerment Center St. Athanasius Catholic Church St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church St. Charles of Brazil Parish St. Ignatius Catholic Church St. John United Methodist Church St. Mark Lutheran Church St. Matthew Catholic Church St. Michael the Archangel NEW Catholic Church St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church The Open Church of Maryland Unity Fellowship Church-Baltimore

Learn more about us on Facebook 28

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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Focus on what’s truly important to you. When your bank is dedicated to your financial well-being, you can spend more time on the things that matter most. Stop in, call 800.SUNTRUST or visit suntrust.com.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

When the community works together, the community works A vibrant community depends on the participation of its members. The more diverse their backgrounds, experience and skills, the more unique their contributions to the community can be. Bank of America supports the GLCCB for celebrating individuality while supporting the common goals that bring progress to everyone. Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local Life’s better when we’re connected®

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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THANK YOU The Board and staff of the GLBT Community Center of Baltimore (GLCCB) wish to thank the following individuals and businesses for their support of Baltimore Pride. Dallas Abramson Shawnna Alexander Misty Barfly Victoria Blair Ryan Boffen Chuck Bowers Cory Burgess Steve Charing Club Hippo COMMAND MC Don Davis Mike Dilks Franz Fiddler Jackson Gilman-Forlini Grand Central Nightclub Jamal Hailey

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Brooklyn Heights David Jonas John Kardys Chuck & Greg King Corey Lacey Kevin Lowry Mt. Vernon Stable & Saloon Demetrius Mallisham Gilbert Morissette The ShipMates Club of Baltimore Star Track Baltimore Tavern on the Hill Rik Newton-Treadway Joe Palumbo Hillary Prins David Sugar

Ernie Thornton Tatiyanna Voché’ Waxter Center Rich Wertman Chris Weis Jay Willets In Memoriam Elliott Brager Ada Buffet Krystina Devyne Lady Lisa Erica Meadows Treasure Revlon Vanity Starr

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

HORSESHOE BALTIMORE PROUD SUPPORTER OF BALTIMORE PRIDE

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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OUR LIFE TRANSMISSIONS

I Forgive You, Caitlyn by COURTNEY BEDELL ECKLER

ow remiss would I be if I, a transgender columnist, didn’t address “Dame Caitlyn’s” Vanity Fair spread? Ever since the Bruce Jenner/Diane Sawyer revelatory (sort of, but not really) coming out interview, people have asked me if I thought Caitlyn would be an asset or a liability to the transgender community. In recent years transgender women and men have had an ever-increasing presence in the media followed by an unprecedented level of acceptance. To wonder what effect Caitlyn’s transition may have on the public’s view of us is a valid question. My feeling is that she is both an asset and a liability. There are aspects of her public transition and her recent approach to womanhood that are cringeworthy while other aspects skew more to the positive side. Her involvement in reality TV pre-transition has already set her up as an exploiter of her own personal life. Now she is exploiting her transgender identity for profit. Maybe she figures she will make news either way so why not control it and make some scratch along the way, to help pay for the facial surgery and her planned GRS. Fair enough? Maybe. There are critics of Caitlyn that say she has set transgender women back decades because her pursuit of glamour says to the world that being a transgender woman is all about beauty. A feminist trans friend said Caitlyn has sent us back to when women were defined by—and only existed for— beauty. She explained that she takes issue

because it has taken trans women decades to disabuse the public of the notion that we are essentially men in drag and that being transgender is only about physical appearance. Don’t get me wrong—drag is great fun—but drag is not about gender identity, it’s entertainment. I absolutely don’t mean to diss drag performers, but their journey is not the same as that of transgender women trying to survive in a hostile world. That Caitlyn looks great, especially for her age, there can be no doubt! And there is clearly nothing wrong with looking beautiful. But, she is wealthy and has had the benefit of extremely expensive plastic facial feminization as well as body sculpting surgery. She uses top Beverly Hills makeup artists and was shot wearing designer clothes. Having Annie Lebovitz shoot her Vanity Fair spread didn’t hurt either. But her very expensively acquired beauty sets the bar very high for other trans-women who will now be compared physically to Caitlyn as an ideal we might be expected to aspire to. She is reinforcing the age-old notion that womanhood is first and foremost about beauty and that being a transgender woman is about glamour and clothing. Fortunately, we have activists like Laverne Cox and Janet Mock who, although they are clearly attractive women, focus on trans-issues more than on physical appearance. As much as it pains me, I’ve decided I have to give Caitlyn a pass for her recent choices. She was after all, a child in the fifties when wives vacuumed the living room in a dress and heels and in Cait’s formative years that was her frame of reference. So, I extend her some latitude for this “early transition hyper-feminine stage” because although she is 67 chronologically, in her head

and in her estrogen-charged body she is the equivalent of a tween twirling in a princess gown. And what young trans-girl didn’t put on a full-skirted dress and twirl? I know I did; I just didn’t get to do it in Vera Wang like our dear Caitlyn. And most of us who transitioned as adults went through a hyperfeminine stage during our own condensed period of “puberty” as we were developing our sense of style. I wore short tight skirts, heels, and lots of eye make-up. But I got over that pretty quickly when it dawned on me that woman don’t typically dress that way— unless they’re “working girls.” Bottom line is that any positive attention paid to transgender folk in the media helps foster understanding and acceptance and Caitlyn has brought us a huge amount of attention. Every day we are becoming more commonplace and less of a curiosity so we need positive role models now more than ever. A positive effect of Jenner’s media attention is that straight guys who always admired Bruce as a sports hero will now see that if even a great athlete and “regular guy” like him can be transgender, then maybe not all trans are “psychos” and “fags.” Caitlyn was articulate during the Diane Sawyer interview and appeared to have her head on pretty straight so her interview was probably more positive than negative. It remains to be seen what else she has planned beyond her E! reality show, Call Me Cait premiering in late July. She is reportedly working on a new $75 Million deal to extend the reality show another season. I don’t think I could turn something so profoundly personal as one’s gender transition into hard cash. It seems a little like prostitution. But then again, if I were in Cait’s spiked heels I might just go for the cash too!

WANT TO READ BACK ISSUES OF GAY LIFE? Visit us online at BaltimoreGayLife.com to view our digital archives and web-only content.

Courtney Bedell Eckler is the author of a Gay Life advice/insight column that covers all aspects of transgender life ranging from the practical aspects of transitioning, to employment, family, and social concerns. She hopes that, through the 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.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

OUR LIFE OUT-SKIRTS

So Cute and So Bad by DANIELLE ARIANO

might wake at 3 a.m. to find that your pup has escaped from his crate and has eaten not one, but two pairs of underwear and half a bra (a Victoria’s Secret bra, mind you), prompting you to take him to the Pet E.R. where they will induce vomiting in an attempt to avoid having the pup become blocked up, which would require emergency surgery. After the vomiting has occurred, the vet tech will come into the room and lay out all of the pieces of the vomit encrusted undergarments so that you can piece them together in order to gauge whether more vomiting needs to happen. If you have read all of this, and you are not dissuaded from getting a puppy, I highly recommend that you spend a week walking around your house saying “No” and “bad dog” and “no bite” a minimum of one thousand times in a day. If you are still somewhat sane at the end of this time, you just might be okay with a puppy. As for Lindsay and I, we were never really sane to begin with, so we haven’t really lost anything with our little addition, and maybe we’ve gained something. Just a little something.

Danielle Ariano is a writer and cabinetmaker. Her work has been featured in North Dakota Quarterly and on Huffington Post and Baltimore Fishbowl. She lives in Lutherville, Md. with her wife and their three dogs. When she is not writing or building, you can usually find her at the beach surfing. Find out more at www.danielleariano.com or follow her on Twitter @dariano19.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

IPV/A Has Enrolled in College by

ecause we are slightly insane, my wife Lindsay and I decided to get a third dog. If you’re wondering why anyone would do such a thing, I can assure you that I have asked myself this same question many, many times in the two plus months since I picked up our new pup’s tiny, trembling body and put him in my car to bring him home. Puppies are a lot of work. This is the clichéd warning that gets tossed around to non-dog owners when they are thinking about getting a pup, but I have to tell you, this phrase is not adequately alarming. It gets used so often that it has lost all meaning. Even for me, a person who has had several puppies over the course of her lifetime, the words, “Puppies are a lot of work,” had become an empty mantra, a thing akin to all the responses I uttered in church as a kid. But this puppy, who we’ve named Sully, has restored my understanding of these words. He has breathed new life into them. If you’re not sure what I mean, allow me to explain. Puppies want to chew everything: rugs, floors, cabinets, table legs, baseboard and even the wall. Yes, the wall. They pee and poop in the house. They don’t know their name and thus do not respond when you call them. They think that shoes are the best toys ever made and continually seek them out despite the fact that you’ve bought them three hundred other toys. They try to bite your toes. They love to dig holes in the yard. They think that rabbit turds are the tastiest snack. They firmly believe that 4:30 am is a suitable time for breakfast. They have teeny, tiny bladders, so when they are not peeing in the house they have to go out a lot. A lot. If you are lucky like us, you just

THE W.O.E. REPORT

s a journalist, I’ve made domestic violence and abuse within the LGBTQ community, generally referred to as Intimate Partner Violence and Abuse (IPV/A), my signature issue. As well, I conduct IPV/A seminars and workshops across the country. And, IPV/A is the overarching theme of my latest novel, Nothing Can Tear Us Apart—RAGE! I want to make you aware of a recent University of New Hampshire (UNH) study that states that more than 40 percent of LGBTQ college students experience intimate partner violence and abuse in their current relationships. But before examining this illuminating study, let’s have a “refresher IPV/A-101 course.” The National Coalition of AntiViolence Programs defines it as “a pattern of behaviors utilized by one partner (the abuser or batterer) to exert and maintain control over another person (the survivor or victim) where there exists an intimate, loving and dependent relationship.” Research suggests that a greater percentage of LGBTQ individuals are living in fear of an abusive partner than previ-

WYATT O’BRIAN EVANS

ously thought. Each year, between 50,000100,000 lesbians (or more) and as many as 500,000 (or more) gay men are battered, and about one in four LGBTQ relationships/partnerships are abusive in some way. Abusers use fear, guilt, shame, intimidation and threats to wear you down and keep you under his or her ‘thumb.’ Now, back to the study, written by Katie Edwards, assistant professor of psychology and women’s studies and faculty fellow at the Carsey Institute, and Kateryna Sylaska, a UNH doctoral student in sociology. The brief is based on a survey of 391 college students in same-sex romantic relationships across the U.S. The study’s key findings: Four in 10 LGBTQ college students in the sample reported experiencing intimate partner violence and abuse or perpetration within a current relationship. More than one third of victims told no one about the abuse—a rate that is higher than what is generally found among heterosexual college students. This is due to stigma. The most common reason for not revealing the abuse was the perception that it was “no big deal” or that it was normal, or they justified the abuse because the partner was drunk or annoyed. Most frequently, victims turned to friends when revealing the abuse, followed by family members. Only 9 percent turned to formal support systems, such as counselors. The majority of victims said that friends were both the most helpful and least helpful as sources of support. The authors added, “Widespread efforts are needed to raise awareness about intimate partner violence among LGBTQ college students.” IPV/A certainly has taken its seat on campus.

Wyatt O’Brian Evans is a journalist, radio personality (“The Wyatt O’Brian Evans Show,” PapiChuloRADIO.com), instructor, advocate/ motivational speaker, and author of the new novel, Nothing Can Tear Us Apart—RAGE! (Gay/ethnic). You may visit Wyatt at his on line home, WyattEvans.com. Follow him at The Wyatt O’Brian Evans Official Fan Club on Facebook, and on Twitter at @MisterWOE.

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From RAINBOWS to CHAKRAS

HOW COLORS CAN SHIFT YOUR ENERGY by COACH MAQ ELÈ

ith July being Baltimore’s Pride, we are sure to see a flood of rainbows all over our Charm-ing city! Serving as a symbol of pride, acceptance and unity, the colors in the rainbow also represents the seven chakras. Chakras are energy centers located at various points along the meridians of our bodies. Each Chakra vibrates at a frequency equivalent to the frequency of the colors in the rainbow; you remember ROY G BIV don’t you? If not, here is a refresher for you.

RED (ROOT CHAKRA)

The root chakra sits at the base of your spine. This chakra governs all areas of your life related to stability, such as familial ties and financial matters. If you find yourself challenged in feeling grounded then wearing red in the lower part of your body (socks, pants, and underwear) can support in shifting your vibration.

ORANGE (SACRAL CHAKRA)

The sacral chakra is right below your belly button. This chakra governs your creativity and sexual energy. If you are experiencing any hindrances in either of these areas, surrounding yourself with the color and scent of orange can support you in raising your vibration.

YELLOW (SOLAR PLEXUS)

GREEN (HEART CHAKRA)

The heart chakra is located in your heart. This chakra also vibrates with the color pink.

BLUE (THROAT CHAKRA)

The throat chakra is located in your throat. This chakra involves self-acceptance and speaking up for yourself. If you have a challenge with allowing your voice to be heard or speaking negatively then wearing a blue pendant necklace, such as Lapis Lazuli, can support you in balancing your throat chakra.

B:4.75” T:4.75” S:4.25”

INDIGO (THIRD EYE)

The third eye is located between your eyebrows. This chakra governs your internal vision/imagination. This is the seat of how you see and experience your world. If you find yourself stuck unable to imagine or dream, try placing indigo-colored artwork around you or wearing an indigo scarf.

VIOLET (CROWN CHAKRA)

The crown chakra is located at the top of your head. This chakra governs the connection to your Creator. If you feel disconnected from your Creator, try burning a violet candle while meditating or praying. If you would like more detailed information about the Chakras, I recommend the book True Balance by Sonia Choquette. In the meantime, happy energy shifting! BE-LOVED! ~Coach Maq

Proud to support the 2015 Baltimore Pride Festival. S:5”

The solar plexus chakra is located in your stomach. This is the seat of your personal willpower. Surrounding yourself with the color yellow or even images of the sun can support you tapping into and expressing your power!

If you find yourself emotionally unavailable, then wearing pink and/or green will support you in opening your heart to love. Carrying a rose quartz crystal is supportive in attracting love into your life!

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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 Maqele.com. To contact Coach Maq with your coaching questions email CoachMaq@baltimoregaylife.com.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

C R O S S I N G

A serious note from Angela Wren regarding this month’s comic

And let’s not even talk about capturing the vibrancy of the transgender flag in muted tones either.

How does one draw dynamic rainbow flags in a black and white comic strip for our special Pride issue?

When I started this strip, I don’t think I fully envisioned how to capture a transwoman’s journey through womanhood.

T's By ANGELA WREN

I may not be able to do this scene justice.

Hot ’n horny hookups.

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GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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OUR LIFE

HIGH LIFE

JUSTIN’S HIV JOURNAL

ROUND-UP:

HIV Pride

Baltimore Summer Theatre

by JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH

hile currently doing research in my doctorate program, I’m finding HIV to be more intriguing than ever before. Recently, I did a web search for ‘HIV Pride,’ to uncover the answer to whether POZ folks are proud of being HIV positive or merely unashamed. It led me to ask, “Are being proud and unashamed mutually exclusive when one is positive?” Well, here’s my two (personal) cents: I’m absolutely not ashamed that I’m HIV positive. My thought is that the more one finds shame in their HIV status, the more fuel is given to the stigma of HIV which, in turn, may lead to an increase of new HIV infections. If one is ashamed of their own HIV status, how can that person be open about their status? One could possibly say that being unashamed and ‘HIV proud’ might be in cases of disclosing one’s HIV status to potential sexual partners and they might be more compliant with their medication. I know that acknowledging my own status makes me feel more in control of my own health. It also makes me feel as though I need to disclose my status so that others can do the same. I’ve been doing HIV work for over 10 years and I’ve seen HIV-positive friends die because they did not acknowledge their status. They went into a place of denial and didn’t take care of themselves at all. Would they still be alive today if they

Justin B. Terry-Smith MPH 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. Presently Justin is working towards earning his Doctorate in Public Health. Visit his main Web site at www. justinbsmith.com. He welcomes your questions at jsmithco98@hotmail.com. Photo by Don Harris, Don Harris Photographics, LLC © 2011. All Rights Reserved.

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were unashamed and HIV proud? No one can say for certain, but I have a strong feeling they very well may still be with us today. I have several shirts that I sometime wear that are emblazoned with terms of awareness like ‘HIV Positive,’ ‘HIV=,’ and ‘Got AIDS?’ I wonder if I wear them because I’m simply not ashamed, or if I indeed have some sense of pride that I’m HIV positive. I usually only wear them at speaking engagements or HIV/ AIDS events and meant to start a dialog so people will remember to get tested and protect themselves from being infected. While doing my research, a friend and fellow HIV activist Mark S. King’s blog article popped up. He was at Atlanta Pride asking the question, “if HIV is nothing to be ashamed of, is it something to be proud of ?” So I’m going to pose the same question to all of my readers and maybe it will start a respectful dialog virtually. What is your answer to the question, if HIV is nothing to be ashamed of, is it something to be proud of ?

by TIMOTH DAVID COPNEY

altimore is a great place to be in the summer. Orioles, ArtScape, ethnic festivals, Fourth of July fireworks, and plenty heat. But there is nothing hotter than the action going on in the local theatre scene. We’ve already had sensational productions from DCT’s Addams Family, Spotlighters’ Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris, and Vagabond’ Side by Side by Sondheim. And that was only the beginning. With a mid-summer smorgasbord of exceptionally ambitious productions, this summer should prove again why Baltimore is home to some of the best locally produced productions to be found anywhere. Spotlighters will give us Altar Boyz, a foot-stomping, rafter-raising, musical comedy about a fictitious Christian boy-band on the last night of their national ‘Raise the Praise’ tour. The Boyz are five all-singing, all-dancing heartthrobs from Ohio: Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham (the Jewish one). Runs July 10–August 2. Spotlighters.org Cockpit in Court will premier Thoroughly Modern Millie. This tunefest takes you back to the height of the Jazz Age in New York City, when “moderns”—including a flapper named Millie Dillmount—were bobbing their hair, raising their hemlines, entering the workforce, and rewriting the rules of love. Runs July 17–August 2. bit.ly/CCBCMDMillie One of the most anticipated summer events is The Baltimore Playwrights Festival. I’m especially looking forward to Commander, the tale of what might happen when we have our first gay presidential candidate. With a script by Mario Correa, Catch it July 10–19 at Vagabond. And in August they’ll be bringing Tying The Knot to the stage at Fells Point

Corner Theatre August 14–23. When a young, successful guy tells his Mother he’s getting married to a girl—even though he’s gay—he hilariously underestimates her reaction as she tries to get him back to the ex-boyfriend she’s convinced is the right match for him. Kudos to this venerated theatrical showcase for bringing us two gay-themed efforts. BaltPlayFest.org/events A newcomer to the summer season this year is the Baltimore Parity Festival. The brain-child of Brad Norris and Alicia Stanley, founders of Cohesion Theatre, this innovative initiative spotlights works by female playwrights. In collaboration with several local companies, the readings take place the whole month of July. CohesionTheatre.org/parityfest Stillpoint Theatre is offering Bat Boy The Musical, an indie-type fringe musical with a great pop score about a half-boy, half-bat kid who’s thrust into the spotlight in a small town in West Virginia. This cutting edge company is rapidly building a reputation for outstanding shows and this rarely performed piece should only solidify their place in the theatre community. Runs July 30–August 22. StillPointeTheatre.com September Song Theatre is making it under the wire for the summer season when they open their take on the venerable story of a nanny with supercalifragilisticexpialidocious powers. Mary Poppins features the delightful Katie McIntyre Sheldon in the title role. Runs July 31–August 8. SeptemberSong.org Summer 2015 promises to deliver another stellar season of quality entertainment for Baltimore audiences. So go buy tickets and support our local theatres and talent.

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

SOCIAL LIFE

Datebook

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

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

RACHEL ROTH

Mondays Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg. Fourth Mondays 7pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. info@ifcmd.org 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 Call 410-837-2050, ext. 2428 for details 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 Parents of Transgender Kids Fourth Tuesdays 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com PFLAGBaltimore.org Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com 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

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: Discussion Group for Men 55+ Wednesday evenings. Chase Brexton Health Services Call 410-837-2050, ext. 2428 for details www.bit.ly/SeniorPride Support Group for Transgender Adults Third Wednesday 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia hoctytransgroup@gmail.com

Thursdays HIV Support: Substance Abuse & HIV Every Thursdays 2-3pm Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org 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

DATEBOOK

Wednesday, July 1 Gay BINGO! Every Wednesday 8:30pm. Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Thursday, July 2 The Band Perry $35-65 • 6pm Pier Six Pavilion • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com WTMD First Thursdays Concerts in the Park The kick-off features Kopecky, Marah, Strand of Oaks. FREE • 6:30-9:30pm Canton Waterfront Park • Boston St. WTMD.org 98 Rock the Dock Summer Concert Series Feat. Baltimore’s hottest local bands. FREE • 6pm Hard Rock Cafe Baltimore • 601 E. Pratt St. HardRock.com/Cafes/Baltimore

Friday, July 3 Search for the C-Word: A Burlesque Quest Through Charm City $19-25 • 8pm Creative Alliance at The Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Saturday, July 4 AVAM’s July 4th: Visionary Pets On Parade! Dress your pet & strut your stuff. FREE • 9:30am American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Highway AVAM.org

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

A Monumental Bicentennial Restored Washington Monument reopens! FREE • 8:30am-5pm Mount Vernon Place 600 Block of N. Charles St. PromotionAndArts.org Red, White, & Bar-B-Que All you can drink, dine, and dance! $30-50 • 2-7pm Horseshoe Casino • 1525 Russell St. HorseshoeBaltimore.com Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration Live music and fireworks • FREE • 7-10pm Inner Harbor • 100 Light St. PromotionAndArts.org

Saturday, July 11

Thursday, July 23

Saturday Morning Yoga Enjoy an hour of zen every Saturday. FREE • 10-11pm Center Plaza • 100 N. Charles St. CultureFly.org

AVAM’s Flicks From The Hill Feat. Labyrinth • FREE • 9pm American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Highway AVAM.org

In the Mix: Luminate Edition Get your glow on. 10pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Friday, July 24

Thursday, July 16

Super Art Fight The Greatest Live Art Competition in the Known Universe • $12-18 • 8pm Creative Alliance at The Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Sunday, July 5

Slightly Stoopid w/Dirty Heads & The Expendables $30-40 • 5:30pm Pier 6 Pavilion • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com

Drag Wars RuPaul’s Drag Race meets The Voice. $7-10 • Every Sunday 9pm Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

AVAM’s Flicks From The Hill Feat. The Truman Show • FREE • 9pm American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Highway AVAM.org

Monday, July 6

Friday, July 17

Saturday, July 25

Karaoke Every Monday and Tuesday night. Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Artscape America’s largest free arts festival. FREE • 11am-9pm • Thru July 19 Mount Royal Ave. & North Charles St. Artscape.org

Pride Dance Party Feat. DJ Kidd Modonnay • 8pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Tuesday, July 7 S.I.N. and Sinners Say “hi” to the boys. • Every Tuesday 9pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Wednesday, July 8 Cirque du Soleil Presents Varekai Tales of the forest descend from the sky. $35-150 • 7:30pm • Thru July 12 Royal Farms Arena • 201 W. Baltimore St. RoyalFarmsArena.com

Thursday, July 9 AVAM’s Flicks From The Hill Feat. Jaws • FREE • 9pm American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Highway AVAM.org

Friday, July 10 THROWBACK: A 90s Hip Hop w/Curators of Hip Hop & Nonchalant. $9-15 • 8pm Creative Alliance at The Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Sue Nami Presents Bitch Perfect $9-36 • 10pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

Miss New Faces Presented by Dimitria Blackwell • $7 • 10pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Saturday, July 18 Jill Scott w/BJ The Chicago Kid • $32-122 • 7pm Pier Six Pavilion • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavillion.com

Sunday, July 19 Magooby’s Goes to the Dogs Benefitting Baltimore Humane Society and Jasmine’s House • $12 • 5pm Magooby’s Joke House 9603 Deereco Rd. • Timonium Magoobys.com

Monday, July 20 Giant Monster Monday Movies & drink specials • 8pm-Midnight The Wind Up Space • 12 W North Ave. TheWindUpSpace.com

Baltimore Pride 2015 Opening Party Presented by Brooklyn Heights • 10pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Gallagher’s Reunion Ladies Event Monthly 9pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Pics in the Park Feat. The Princess Bride • FREE • 9pm Center Plaza • N. Charles & Fayette St. GoDownTownBaltimore.com 2nd Annual Charm City Ukulele Festival Charm City celebrates that most charming of instruments • $17-23 • 8pm Creative Alliance at The Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Thursday, July 30 AVAM’s Flicks From The Hill Feat. Big Fish • FREE • 9pm American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Highway AVAM.org

Friday, July 31 Ladies Night w/Dj Rosie • 9:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Wednesday, July 22

Baltimore Bike Party The biggest party on two wheels! FREE • 7pm St. Mary’s • Seton Hill BaltimoreBikeParty.com

Christmas in July Bingo Benefiting the Women’s Housing Coalition. 8pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Noches Acústicas Romantic, sexy, late-night performances with Alma Saldaña • FREE • 9:30pm Marquee Lounge • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

ArtScape Artscape is America’s largest free arts festival, attracting 400,000+ attendees over three days. Artscape features 150+ fine artists, fashion designers and craftspeople; visual art exhibits on and off-site, including exhibitions, outdoor sculpture, art cars, photography and the Janet & Walter Sondheim Prize; incredible live concerts on outdoor stages; a full schedule of performing arts including dance, opera, theater, film, experimental music and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; family events such as handson projects, demonstrations, competitions, children’s entertainers and street theater; and a delicious, international menu of food and beverages that is available throughout the festival site. Artscape’s total economic impact on Baltimore City is $25.97 million.

ArtScape

Friday, July 17–Sunday, July 19 Free Mount Royal Ave. & Cathedral St. Artscape.org

GAY LIFE / JULY 2015

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