Read it. Live it.
Love it.
Actress, writer, producer, and transgender advocate
to speak at Towson University
The Homo Poe Show B'More Proud LGBTQIA Leadership Summit Von Trapped
March 2014
BaltimoreGayLife.com
PAGE 2
MARCH 2014
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
IN THIS GAY LIFE
7
MARCH 2014
College Students to B'More Proud at Leadership Summit Over 200 Baltimore college students are expected to attend the 2014 B'More Proud LGBTQIA Leadership Summit at JHU on March 30. This year's theme is "Breaking Boundaries: The Intersections of Our Identities." By Steve Charing
15
The Queering of Poe The Iron Crow Theatre presents The Homo Poe Show, where a group of creative playwrights from Baltimore and beyond collaborate to create a rendition of Poe's works that you'll not soon forget. By Lyn Muldrow
Kyle Suib LOCAL LIFE
7
GLCCB News
HIGH LIFE
8
Von Trapped in D.C.
14
Dining Out: The Valley Inn
By Frankie Kujawa
By John Cullen with Marty Shayt
OUR LIFE
19
Family
By Courtney Bedell
20 Dedication to Mom By Justin B. Terry-Smith
BETTER LIFE
21
Navigating the Charitable Giving Landscape By Amanda Wooddell
REAL LIFE
16 National &
International News
By Rachel Roth
17
Baltimore News
SOCIAL LIFE
22 Datebook
By Steve Charing
But wait — there's more! Visit BaltimoreGayLife.com for additional Étude Atlantis features, including in Atlantic CityLouise Parker Kelley’s third installment of True Colors, the series that gives a behind-the-scenes look back at Baltimore’s LGBT movement over the past 35 years. BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
MARCH 2014
PAGE 3
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MARCH 2014
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
EDITOR’S LIFE
March Madness in Full Swing Hello once again, dear Gay Life readers and Happy March! Things have been quite hectic in the Gay Life/GLCCB offices. We’ve finally settled into our new digs at the Waxter Center—located at 1000 Cathedral St., just one block north of our previous 241 W. Chase home—and are madly preparing for the spring and summer months. One of the GLCCB’s big projects over the next few months will be organizing this summer’s Pride festival. The GLCCB board of directors and executive team are planning some big things for this year’s Pride—stay tuned to Gay Life and the GLCCB Facebook page for updates in the coming weeks! If you’re interested in participating in Pride this year as a performer, vendor, or volunteer, please email info@glccb.org.
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Another project that I’m excited about this spring is the upcoming 3rd Annual Charm City LGBT Film Festival being hosted by the Creative Alliance. Gay Life is once again a media sponsor for the film fest, and we will be dedicating our May issue to bringing you information on the selected films, special events, and interviews with directors and festival organizers. Be sure to check out the announcement on p. 8, and get a glimpse of some of the wonderful films that will be screened this year.
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ON THE COVER
Transgender actress and activist Laverne Cox. Learn more on page 22.
FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB • TWITTER.COM/GLCCB • YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB
Dan McEvily, Editor editor@baltimoregaylife.com
GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.
Love it.
1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410.777.8145 Phone 410.777.8135 Fax sales@baltimoregaylife.com www.baltimoregaylife.com
M. Cory Burgess, Art Director cory@metroscapemedia.com National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Contributors Courtney Bedell, Steve Charing, John Cullen,
Frankie Kujawa, Lyn Muldrow, Kelly Neel, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Justin B. Terry-Smith, Amanda Wooddell
Photographers John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Kelly Neel, Richelle Taylor, Jay W.
Magazine Committee Maggie Beetz, John Cullen, Doug Rose, Marty Shayt, Richelle Taylor, Matt Thorn
Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published monthly in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2014. All Rights Reserved. Gay Life is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Gay Life or its publisher.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
MARCH 2014
PAGE 5
GLBT Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland Serving the LGBT Community of Maryland for 35 years
1000 Cathedral St. • Baltimore, MD 21201 • 410.777.8145 • GLCCB.org
All programming is now located on the 3rd floor of the Waxter Center building at 1000 Cathedral Street. For more information on meeting locations please contact kneel@glccb.org.
Trans Programs
Women’s Programs
AKANNI
SILHOUETTE
A safe, respectful, confidential environment where all transmen can share their story and their journey. 2nd Wednesdays - 6pm vmillhouse@blacktransmen.org BlackTransmen.org
BALTIMORE TRANSMASCULINE ALLIANCE
A support group for trans* men (FTM). 3rd Thursdays - 6:30pm BTMA@glccb.org
TRAN*QUILITY
A support group for trans* women (MTF), but anyone who varies from traditional gender expression is welcome. 2nd & 4th Saturdays - 8pm Tranquility@glccb.org
Recovery ACCESS TO RECOVERY
Care-coordinators will offer recovery support services for LGBT individuals. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2-7pm Please contact Latif Karim at outreach.latifkarim@gmail.com
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all. Mondays - 7:15pm Thursdays - 8:30pm Saturdays - 6:30pm
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS 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 & SYPHILIS TESTING
FREE and confidential testing from the Baltimore City Health Dept. Wednesdays - 5-8pm
continued in next column u
PAGE 6
MARCH 2014
SILhouette (Spiritually In-tuned Lesbians) is a spiritual community of women who love women desiring to discover, embrace and live as their spiritual-authentic self. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays - 7pm
WOMEN OF COLOR
A safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors. 2nd, 4th, & 5th Thursdays - 7:30pm WOC@glccb.org Meetup.com/Baltimore-LesbiansOf-Color
Youth & Young Adult Programs RAINBOW YOUTH ALLIANCE BALTIMORE
A support, social, and discussion group for LGBTQ teens and allies ages 13-19, in partnership with PFLAG Baltimore. Tuesdays - 7-9pm RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/ RYABaltimore
MIXED COMPANY
(QUEER YOUNG ADULT GROUP) A discussion, support, and social group for young adult LGBT identified or questioning individuals and their allies. Tuesdays - 5:30-6:30pm Facebook.com/groups/GLCCB. mixed.co
Community Programs POZitive PEOPLE
A free, weekly, peer-led support group for HIV-positive individuals in the LGBT community. Wednesdays - 7-8pm POZpeople@glccb.org
BOOK CLUB
A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss selected readings. This months selection is Local Souls by Allan Gurganus 3rd Mondays - 7pm Facebook.com/ groups/139583666184199
The GLCCB is the publisher of Gay Life and the producer of Baltimore Pride
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
Area College Students to B'More Proud at Leadership Summit
LOCAL LIFE
BY STEVE CHARING
GLCCB Program Spotlight BY KELLY NEEL, GLCCB PROGRAM DIRECTOR The GLCCB is happy to announce the resumption of programming in their new home on the third floor of the Waxter Senior Center building on Cathedral St. In less than a month, each program has begun gaining their bearings and is settling in nicely at the new space. The move has been quite a transition from the multi-level 241 Chase St. building, to the vast, single floor space of the Waxter Center, however the new single-floor layout lends itself to a more cohesive and inclusive space. With its multiple office spaces and conference rooms, smaller groups such as Akanni, Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance (BTMA), POZ People, Rainbow Youth Alliance (RYA), and Mixed Company (a discussion and support group for LGBT young adults) are finding the new space to be a cozy fit. Rainbow Youth Alliance facilitator, Stephanie Baker, mentions that the new setting on the third floor is more private and makes the participants of RYA feel more safe and open to sharing. “The new space really feels like ours. We have a dedicated spot for our [program] storage and a room that suits our needs perfectly,” says Baker. For bigger groups and meetings, the third floor space also offers two rooms BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
dedicated solely to programming at the GLCCB. These spaces exclusively house programs like Silhouette, Women of Color, Tran*quility, Alcoholics Anonymous, and Narcotics Anonymous. In addition to the aforementioned programs, the largest of the meeting spaces will also house the GLCCB’s Gentle Beginners Yoga Classes, lead by yoga instructor Tim Hurley. The 90-minute classes, which have been on hiatus during the relocation process, will resume the first Sunday of March at its original time of 3:30pm. Also coming up this month, the GLCCB Book Club will be meeting on March 17 at 7pm to discuss their latest selection Local Souls by Allan Gurganus. To find out more information and join their page, search “GLCCB Monthly Book Club” on Facebook. Looking for a program that isn’t currently offered at the GLCCB? Let us know! We are always seeking enthusiastic facilitators with ideas for new additions to our programming schedule. If you have an idea for a new group you would like to see, please send a proposal via e-mail to info@ glccb.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
At least 200 undergraduate and graduate students from Baltimore area colleges and universities are expected to attend the 2014 B’More Proud LGBTQIA Leadership Summit on March 30. The day-long event whose theme this year is “Breaking Boundaries: The Intersections of Our Identities,” will take place at Levering Hall on the campus of Johns Hopkins University. B’More Proud is a collegiate network that promotes connections between lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexual and gender minority students and their allies throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. The first summit in 2010 was held at Towson University and drew approximately 160 students from 12 institutions of higher education. Since then, the event has been hosted at Johns Hopkins University in 2011 and at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in 2012. Each year, more institutions have participated, therefore increasing the number of attendees and impact in the Baltimore area. The goals of B’More Proud, according to Christianne Bharath, Programming Co-Chair, are “to raise awareness and increase the visibility of marginalized groups, foster student leadership and activism on their respective campuses, and offer opportunities to network and socialize with students of other campuses.” At the conference there will be several breakout sessions, a resources fair whereby organizations, companies and agencies offer information and answer questions, and entertainment at the end of the summit to allow participants to relax after an eventful day. Comedian Julie Goldman will be providing entertainment. In past summits there had been a wide variety of LGBT-related subject matter covered during the breakout sessions. While the planners are in the process of developing the topics and leaders for the upcoming summit, several have already been identified. They include: “True or False: Rumors
& Myths Around Sexual Health,” “Between Women: Leadership and Our Queer Identity,” “Advocating through the Media,” and “Queer Film Yesterday and Today.” Two excellent keynote speakers have already been selected. Author, performer and trans-bi activist Julia Serano will speak as will another activist Zach Wahls. Three years ago, Wahls gave a moving testimony to the Iowa House Judiciary Committee to support his two Moms when that legislature was considering a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. There is no charge to participants, and meals will be provided. To register as a participant, to host a breakout session, to volunteer or take part in the resources fair, visit bmoreproud.org.
2014 B’MORE PROUD LGBTQIA LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
March 30 • 10am-8pm • FREE Levering Hall Johns Hopkins University 3400 N. Charles St. T BMoreProud.org
MARCH 2014
PAGE 7
LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
ANNUAL CHARM CITY 3
RD
SAVE THE DATES
HIGH LIFE
KICK-OFF FILM MAR 26 FILM FESTIVAL MAY 29-JUN 1
MARCH 2014
GMCW Comes Alive with the Sounds of Von Trapped BY FRANKIE KUJAWA
IN THE NAME OF
WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME TOMORROW
GORE VIDAL: THE UNITED STATES OF AMNESIA
FREE FALL
VALENCIA
For full list of films & more info visit creativealliance.org
Proudly sponsored by Gay Life and Equality Maryland
CREATIVE ALLIANCE | 3134 EASTERN AVE. | BALTIMORE, MD 21224 | 410 276 1651 PAGE 8
ON STAGE
This month, the hills are once again alive with the sounds of wonderful music from the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C.’s (GMCW) production of Von Trapped. A parody based on the characters and songs from The Sound of Music, the production is a hilarious romp filled with vibrant costumes and glittering musical-mash ups that will answer that age-old question: how do you solve a problem like Maria? To help in our quest for the answer, Gay Life recently sat down with Cooper Westbrook, who stars in the lead role of Maria Von Trapp. “This performance has everything from rhinestones to roses,” says Westbrook. “We will be referencing quite a bit from The Sound of Music, however we will be putting a twist on many of the familiar songs. The costumes are absolutely amazing, and the audiences can expect a great time.” Like the character of Maria, Westbrook is no stranger to adventuring up the rocky hillside in order to achieve his dreams. “I grew up in a very small town that wasn’t a fan of the arts,” he says. “I was very lucky that I was able to go to school and earn my bachelor’s degree in musical theater. Acting was always a passion of mine. I was very lucky to have that out.” Westbrook’s tenacity and background came in handy when he learned that he would be playing the iconic role of Maria in this performance. “When I first found out that I was playing Maria, it was quite daunting. I thought ‘How do I compare to Julie Andrews?’,” he explains. “But that’s when I saw the script and really felt it’s so different from the original version. Maria is going to be a guy, and all of the characters are going to be men. So this is definitely something that’s never been seen before.” Like many performers who have come before him, Westbrook definitely leaves his mark on his version of Maria. “My version of Maria is quite different. For example, Julia Andrews didn’t have a beard,” he jokes. “That’s definitely one of the most distinguishing fractures from the original. We do incorporate the historical parts; however we don’t have it as accurate as the film version. Our version has a gay love story involved.” Westbrook’s performance as Maria pro-
Photo by Emily Pinna
vides a breath of fresh air into a familiar character which has such loving ties to many audience members. Director and choreographer James Ellzy is confident in Westbrook’s ability to endear himself to audiences. “Cooper has a simply lovely and pleasing voice,” Ellzy says. “Seeing him and the Captain together is as magical as the movie. Audiences are in for a real treat!” Every spring, the GMCW takes wellknown musicals and adds somewhat of a twist on each of them. Von Trapped, Ellzy explains, “throws what you’re used to on its head.” Similar to the original Sound of Music, the biggest star of the performances might be the iconic score that theater audiences and movie buffs have come to know and love. However, choosing a favorite song from Von Trapped is difficult for Westbrook. “It’s a Sophie’s Choice-type of question. However, I’d have to say that ‘Climb Every Mountain,’ at the end of the performance, is my favorite,” he says. “The entire Chorus comes in it. It’s just such a great connection to the movie. You will really see the energy come out in people both sitting in the audience, as well as on stage.”
VON TRAPPED
March 14-16 • 8pm • $30-50 March 18 • 3pm • $30-50 Lisner Auditorium • GWU 730 21st St. NW • Washington, DC W 202.293.1548 T GMCW.org
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
MARCH 2014
PAGE 9
HIGH LIFE
DINING OUT
The Valley Inn BY JOHN CULLEN WITH MARTY SHAYT In January of this year, the owners of the upscale Oregon Grille in Cockeysville re-opened another restaurant venture, the Valley Inn on Falls Road in Brooklandville, which had been closed for the past three years. The historic building, known as Brooklandville House, dates to 1832. The initial opening was limited to a re-furbished pub which has an attractive, clubby feel with a mix of booths and high tables with stools. Handsome handcrafted wood tables and wood paneling leave the pub—an extension to the original house—feeling much older than it really is. We were surprised to find it packed on a Thursday evening with a crowd of an upscale over 50 crowd. A formal dining room will be added this spring, and the current tables and booths in the pub appear to be in high demand, so making a reservation is a good idea! The current menu is limited with a half dozen starters (most $6-$15) and a dozen plates of sandwiches and wraps (most $10-$12), as well as some pricier entrees, including a crab cake ($18), crab imperial ($23), and a 8-ounce tenderloin ($34). We decided to start by sharing an order of the chicken drummettes, with a garlic parmesan finish, and included an awesomely good blue cheese dip that had us using our fingers get every last drop! The drummettes earned our “Thumbs Up!” (despite the small size of the pieces and
PAGE 14
MARCH 2014
the somewhat exorbitant price of with 9 drumettes for $12). Deciding what to order for our main course wasn’t easy. After considerable deliberation (and while Marty sipped on his $7 gin and tonic and Tom enjoyed his $4 wheat ale), Marty decided on the crab cake platter ($18), Tom opted for the valley burger ($12) and, John decided on the field & stream chef salad ($14). Marty was impressed with the crab cake (a mound of virtually solid crab meat), but was disappointed that it only came with coleslaw. In response to his request for some bread, he was given some cellophane upscale crackers. Tom and I mused at the price of $18 for the platter, while Marty opined that crab cakes tended to run pricey. Tom’s burger looked very good (and arrived cooked medium as requested) with cheddar cheese, fries and a pickle. Tom maintains that the $15 burger at the Towson Tavern is still the best that he’s had in greater Baltimore. John’s salad was impressive with the quality of the ingredients—it included a small mound of crab meat, some prosciutto, several big chunks of Valdeón blue cheese and some high class olives. He had trouble deciding between the blue cheese and raspberry vinaigrette. Our attentive and friendly waiter Kevin eliminated the dilemma by providing both. With great components, the salad left him with a good impression and feeling that the salad was worth $14. Our waiter tempted us with desserts, but we found the idea of $9 for a dish of ice cream discourage (it felt extravagant, no matter where it came from). The three of us decided to share an ice cream waffle sandwich ($6). What arrived wasn’t impressive looking, though tasty. The chocolate chip vanilla ice cream was good, but the waffle had been cooked hours before. However, sharing the limited portion was a little too good for our waistlines. All in all, we enjoyed our visit to the Valley Inn. Service was attentive, the atmosphere was congenial, and the initial menu offered up some good—though at
time pricey—options. It will be interesting to see how the new Valley Inn and its menu matures.
THE VALLEY INN
10501 Falls Rd. • Brooklandville W410.828.0002 Open 7 days a week for dinner Reservations recommended • Full bar Very limited vegetarian options Adjacent free parking Email DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com and find all prior reviews at BaltimoreGayLife-DiningOut.info.
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
HIGH LIFE
ON STAGE
The Queering of Poe: The Homo Poe Show BY LYN MULDROW
The macabre and often introspective works of Poe are known and heralded throughout Baltimore, woven in the tapestry of our city’s rich culture. While homage has been paid to the works of Edgar Allen Poe in the past, nevermore were they as bizarre, illuminating, and queer as The Homo Poe Show, running March 22–April 5. Put on by the illustrious Iron Crow Theatre, a selection of creative playwrights from Baltimore and beyond collaborated to create a rendition of Poe’s works that you’ll not soon forget. Inspired by some of Poe’s foremost pieces, including The Masque of the Red Death, the sensual and surprising menagerie of madness, lesbian plumbers, and
ghosts are sure to tantalize even the most discerning Poe connoisseur. Culminated by Steven J. Satta, Artistic Director and 15 year veteran of the stage, this imaginative collection of riffs was born out of a love for gay theatre and community enlivened productions. “I basically threw the idea out to a number of playwrights whose work I loved and who had a history with Iron Crow to see what they would create: Rich Espey, author of The Rainbow Plays; Megan Gogerty, author of Bad Panda; and Daniel Talbott, author of Slipping,” Satta says. “Their voices as playwrights were so different, I simply trusted that the material would be rich in variety.”
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One unique portion of the Homo Poe Show includes aerial performances by Mara Neimanis, Artistic Director of In-Flight Theater and protégé of aerial pioneer, Terry Sendgraff. The inclusion of aerial performance seemed to be a perfect fit for the show, according to Satta. “I’ve always imagined the party that is central to the story of Red Death to be a kind of bacchanal, with people hanging from the chandeliers,” he says. “It was that image that made me think this was the moment to put Iron Crow in the air.” Also included in the performance is a stirring original duet composed by Tony Byrd, masterful sculptures created by Tim Scofield, and enchanting original music created by John Somers. Edgar Allen Poe’s works are interpreted as overwhelmingly introspective, so where translating the macabre lens that typifies his literature could have been limiting, Satta and the amazing group of playwrights involved with the Homo Poe Show innovate. “The macabre is kind of an internal macabre, we realized, that doesn’t directly translate to the stage, unless you are doing ‘story theatre’ treatments of the actual texts of the stories,” Satta says. “As compelling as the central image of The Pit and the Pendulum is, it would most likely be boring to watch a pendulum swing over an inert body for a long period of time. What makes the story compelling is that Poe takes you into the character’s extremely active and horrifying thoughts as he is waiting to die, and then his relief at being saved.” Each piece from its respective play-
wright reflects internal strife in an overtly external matter. “The character’s fears and grief are personified—they become characters he struggles against.” Satta says of his own piece. “Rich Espey’s piece is built on the thematic elements of obsession and madness; he has created a real character in a surreal situation, where we see an internal obsession acted out in a bizarre, funny, and very theatrical way. Daniel Talbott’s piece is most like Poe in its form, as there is a narrator in direct address to the audience about his lost love. In that case, the dramatic action is the very act of telling the story. Megan Gogerty’s piece is a riff on The Raven, which involves a lesbian plumber. That’s all I’ll say, other than you are going to want to see it! ” If you have a hankering for theatre that is comical and moving, introspective and dark, you’ll delight at the variance of forms, stories, and styles as presented at the Iron Crow Theatre’s first ensemble devised piece, the Homo Poe Show. For more information about the show and other queer performances, visit their website, IronCrowTheatre.com.
THE HOMO POE SHOW
March 22-April 5 • 8pm • $18-23 (Sunday, March 30 • 7pm) Baltimore Theatre Project 45 W. Preston St. W443.637.2769 T IronCrowTheatre.com
MARCH 2014
PAGE 15
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS BY RACHEL ROTH
REAL LIFE
UNITED KINGDOM
MISSOURI KANSAS
MAINE RUSSIA
MARYLAND WASHINGTON, D.C.
IDAHO CALIFORNIA
BULGARIA
SOUTH AFRICA
Top court O.K.’s couple’s adoption IDAHO
Idaho’s top court granted adoption rights to the spouses of gay and lesbian couples. The unanimous decision reverses a lower court’s ruling and states, “a person’s gender or sexual orientation [is] not part of the legal criteria that allowed a minor to be adopted by an in-state adult resident.” Reuters reports that the ruling stems from an adoption petition filed last year by an Idaho woman shortly after her marriage in California to her same-sex partner, who has two sons.
Mizzou’s Michael Sam announces he’s gay MISSOURI
For the first time in history, an openly gay man will play professional football. Assuming of course, the University of Missouri defensive end Michael Sam is drafted in May. Sam, who came out to his college teammates before the start of the 2013–14 season, was this year’s Associated Press’ SEC Defensive Player of the Year and named a first-team All American player. Prior to his coming out he was projected to go in the third round, according to ESPN. com. However at least eight NFL execuPAGE 16
MARCH 2014
tives and coaches—who chose to remain anonymous - told SI.com that they predict his draft ranking will drop as a result of his coming out. NFL senior vice president of communications Greg Aiello praised Sam for his “honesty and courage.” In a statement on behalf of the NFL, Aiello said, “Michael is a football player. Any player with ability and determination can succeed in the NFL. We look forward to welcoming and supporting Michael Sam in 2014.”
Rights expanded for lesbian, gay couples NATIONWIDE
Since the Supreme Court ruled that DOMA was unconstitutional, a slew of state governments have stuck down samesex marriage bans. Hawaii, Kentucky and Virginia are the most recent to join the growing list of states recognizing gay marriages. Additionally, Court decisions are pending in Nevada, Utah and Oklahoma. The federal government is also expanded recognition of same-sex marriages in federal legal matters, including bankruptcies, prison visits and survivor benefits. In a memo to all employees, Attorney General Eric Holder announced; “It is the [ Justice Department’s] policy to recognize lawful same-sex marriages as
broadly as possible, to ensure equal treatment for all members of society regardless of sexual orientation.” Holder promised that married couples would be federally recognized regardless of whether or not it’s legal in their home state. In response to the announcement Republican Sens. Ted Cruz from Texas and Mike Lee of Utah introduced bill that would to ensure that the states that adhere to the ‘traditional’ definition of marriage receive the same level of regard as the 17 states that recognize same-sex marriage. “The Obama Administration should not be trying to force gay marriage on all 50 states,” Cruz said in a statement. “We should respect the states, and the definition of marriage should be left to democratically elected legislatures, not dictated from Washington. This bill will safeguard the ability of states to preserve traditional marriage for its residents.”
Ad represents gay families NATIONWIDE
Gay couples were featured on Super Bowl Sunday—in the commercials, that is. A Coca-Cola ad showed two men and their daughter at a roller rink. Their family outing was accompanied by a multilingual rendition of “America, the Beautiful.”
White House considering ENDA executive order WASHINGTON, D.C.
President Barack Obama is considering an executive order that would ban contracts with federal contractors who don’t have protections for employees. In an interview with Bloomberg News’ Al Hunt, White House counselor John Podesta said that issue is a one of the administration’s priorities. He said that, while Congress is urged to pass ENDA, the President is prepared to take action. “Well, what [the President] said in the State of the Union was he was going to require federal contractors to pay a minimum wage of $10.10,” he said. “The order that you’re talking about is under consideration at the White House. We’re looking at that.”
Maine court rules in favor of transgender student MAINE
Maine’s Supreme Court ruled last month that the school district of Orono violated state law by prohibiting a transgender student from using the girls’ bathroom at a public elementary school. According to the Bangor Daily News, the decision marks the first time an American court has ruled it unlawful to force a transGAY LIFE MAGAZINE
gender child to use the school bathroom designated for the sex he or she was born with rather than the one with which the child identifies, according to the Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders of Boston, which represented the girl and her family.
Senate to consider bill for discharged gay veterans WASHINGTON, D.C.
A bill has been introduced in the Senate that would grant honorable discharges to gay and lesbian veterans who were expelled under the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, which was overturned in 2011. The Washington Blade reported that Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, introduced the bill. According to the article, roughly 114,000 service members were dishonorably discharged because of their sexual identity.
Good Luck Charlie has Disney network’s first gay couple CALIFORNIA
For the first time in the network’s history, The Disney Channel featured openly gay characters on a January episode of the hit show, Good Luck Charlie. In June, Disney Channel announced
their plans for the episode saying, “like all Disney Channel programming, it was developed to be relevant to kids and families around the world and to reflect themes of diversity and inclusiveness.”
Kansas House passes bill allowing service refusal to gay couples KANSAS
The Kansas House OK’d a bill that aimed at keeping individuals, groups, and businesses from being compelled to help with same-sex weddings. According to The Kansas City Star, exemptions apply to individuals, groups, and businesses who cite religious beliefs in refusing to recognize a marriage or civil union, or to provide goods, services, accommodations, or employment benefits to a couple. Anti-discrimination lawsuits also would be barred. Individual workers and government employees also would get some protections. The bill now goes to the Senate.
ple’s freedom of expression and freedom to assembly. According to reports, those “organizing or participating in events, rallies and parades” face more severe punishments than those who break Russia’s ban on so-called homosexual propaganda.
New gay rights party to stand in S. African elections SOUTH AFRICA
A new political party in South Africa that supports gay rights will make its first appearance in the upcoming elections. Michael Herbst of the Equal Rights Party told AFP that violence against gays and lesbians can no longer be ignored. “We need a voice in parliament to protect women from being raped because people want to cure them from being lesbians,” Herbst said. “We need someone in parliament when boys are bullied at school because they are thought to be gay,” he said.
LGBT “propaganda” bill dies in parliament
Trans woman back in UK, after detention in men’s jail in Canada
BULGARIA
UNITED KINGDOM
Bulgarian lawmakers have thrown out a law that would have ended LGBTI peo-
A British trans woman who was detained in a Canadian men’s jail during a visa dis-
pute with the country has returned home. According to PinkNews.com Avery Edison—a stand-up comedian—is back “in her bed” thanks to an outcry for her release. After her story went viral, Internet outrage and legal help prompted Edison’s transfer to a women’s facility. Shortly thereafter she was granted permission to leave Canada altogether. Pink News reposts that Edison was attempting to enter the country for three weeks to visit her partner, but was denied entry due to overstaying her student visa in September. Edison live-Tweeted her detainment, writing; “Initial interviewing officer is telling another about my depression, keeps switching he/she. MY PASSPORT IS FEMALE.”
Activist arrested at Winter Olympics RUSSIA
Prominent Italian activist Vladimir Luxuria claims to have been detained by Russian authorities for several hours after carrying a rainbow flag saying “Gay Is OK” at Olympic Park during the Sochi Olympics. According to The Guardian, Luxuria sent a text message saying, “Help me I am detained. I am alone.” In 2006, Luxuria became Europe’s first openly transgender parliamentarian. She is also a former actor and TV personality.
BALTIMORE NEWS BY STEVE CHARING MARYLAND SENATE HOUSE
Transgender rights argued at Senate panel On February 4, advocates and opponents alike testified before the Maryland Senate’s Judicial Proceeding Committee ( JPR) regarding SB212, the Fairness for All Marylanders Act. Proponents of the bill, which would provide protections in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, outnumbered the opponents by four to one. Senator Rich Madaleno, D—Montgomery County, introduced the measure in January with 25 bill sponsors. At the hearing, he said, “It’s time for Maryland to pass this legislation.” On February 20, the JPR voted 8-3 to favorably report the bill to the Senate floor. Last year, the bill was killed in this committee by a 6-5 vote. The bill before the full Senate passed two readings and the final bill will be voted on the evening of March 3 at the earliest.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
SEN. RICH MADALENO
MARCH 2014
PAGE 17
REAL LIFE
BALTIMORE NEWS BY STEVE CHARING
BHT awards $75K in grants to non-profits
New website for trans youth launched
Brother, Help Thyself, Inc. (BHT) recently awarded over $75,000 in grants to 31 non-profits serving the LGBT community in the D.C./Baltimore region. Included among the grants were such Baltimore area organizations as: AIDS Action Baltimore, Audrey Herman Spotlighters Theatre, Equality Maryland Foundation, PFLAG of Carroll County Md., PFLAG of Howard County Md., and the Rainbow Youth Alliance. Hope Springs, a Baltimore-based AIDS awareness organization, received BHT’s Underdog Award. For more information about BHT, visit www.brotherhelpthyself.org.
A new website, trans*youth@md (TransYouthMd.wordpress.com), has been established to answer legal questions posed by trans youth and their parents. The site was created by FreeState Legal, Inc. in partnership with local Maryland chapters of PFLAG. FreeState provides legal services to low income members of the LGBT community. “Several parents of transgender youth approached FreeState, asking if we could create an accessible, easy to use resource that would guide trans youth and their families through the legal world of transitioning from one gender to another,” Aaron Merki, Executive Director of FreeState told Gay Life. “We developed the trans youth website in response to that request.” The website, which is still under development, offers such resources as laws about legally changing name and gender; the steps to change name or gender on official documents, like Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, and passports; rules about signing up for Selective Service if one
Free tax services offered Several organizations have partnered to provide free tax preparation services to low income members of the LGBT community. The FreeState Legal Project, Inc., which offers free legal services to the LGBT community; the Baltimore CASH Campaign, an organization that works to “increase the financial security of lowincome individuals and families;” Chase Brexton Health Care; and PNC Bank, which is funding the project, are providing this service.
“We viewed the project as particularly important this year, following the achievement of marriage equality because LGBT families may now be subject to different rules and benefits under federal and state tax laws,” Aaron Merki, Executive Director of FreeState Legal told Gay Life. Free tax services are available every Thursday through April 4 from 3:00 6:00 pm. at the First Floor Community Room, Chase Brexton Building, 1111 N. Charles St. in Baltimore. Those interested in signing up for free help filing 2013 taxes should contact FreeState at 410625-5428 for an appointment. Find more LGBT news online at
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MARCH 2014
FREESTATE LEGAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
AARON MERKI
is trans; and civil rights. “We anticipate adding information and materials on a constant basis, and continuing to develop this site into a more and more useful resource over time,” said Merki.
LGBT wedding expo in Frederick On March 16, Studio C Photography of Frederick, Md., presents “Over the Rainbow,” Frederick’s first LGBT Wedding and Fashion Expo. The show will feature over 30 gay and gay-friendly wedding vendors in all categories. There will be a fashion show with same-sex couples in wedding attire to include M. Stein Tuxedo, private designer dresses, gowns, and suits, and “Under A Hundred” budget-conscious ensembles. The Expo will be held in the Atrium at the FSK Holiday Inn, 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick, Md. from 1 to 4 p.m. There is ample free parking, and the Expo is conveniently right off I-270, I-70, and Rt. 15. “To date, LGBT wedding shows have been made up of vendors who are there to sell their services, which of course is the point; but not all of them are truly gay-friendly,” Susan Centineo, owner of Studio C Photography, told Gay Life. “This show promises vendors who have been screened and who are truly committed to providing red-carpet service for same-sex weddings, and we have added a same-sex fashion show to boot. It’s a must see!” Admission is free, and there will be drawings, raffles, and discounts for sameday bookings with vendors. You may RSVP in advance to qualify for a cash drawing. Email Susan at studiocphotos@ yahoo.com or call/text 240-446-6085. A few vendor openings are still available. GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
OUR LIFE
TRANSMISSIONS
Family
BY COURTNEY BEDELL A wise person once said, you can pick your friends, but you can’t pick your family. Truer words were never spoken. There are clearly times we all wish we could, and that’s partly why we in the community create our own LBGT families. But if you were lucky enough to have been born into loving and minimally dysfunctional family it can provide support during trying times. And by trying times, naturally I mean when changing one’s sex. Young people can especially benefit from support from their parents and family during this transition. More and more often, I hear stories of incredible parents who actually help their kids make the change instead of the blaming, shaming, or impeding their progress. In the past, kids were often kicked out but that is less likely these days. Sadly, there are still a surprising number of homeless transgender kids on the street. Family acceptance helps make the difference between a wonderfully positive life-affirming experience and a miserable and unhappy one. This is a time that should be filled with hope and promise for a new life. At first, most support comes from the trans-subculture by way of support groups and web blogs. Then, ideally before long you come out to the world outside the subculture and this is where family and friends becomes so important. Since parents are often the people we most need and receive acceptance, love, and nurturing from, we turn to them. We start out getting most of our self-esteem and sense of identity from our parents and family. This is why being accepted by them can help with feeling comfortable and authentic while adjusting to one’s new gender role. Most of us want to just live our lives feeling like natural women or men in the real world. I have seen some TS folk never break out of the trans-subculture and they are not usually the happiest campers. The most successful transitions that produce the happiest people are by those who embrace and are comfortable in world outside of subcultures. Otherwise, they often feel they are leaving one closet for another. When parents and siblings first address BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
us with the new and appropriate pronouns—she or he—it provides the strongest affirmation of gender. My mother and sister were very quick to adjust, but my brother lagged behind. Maybe it’s a bit tougher for men, especially in my brother’s case because we were inseparable as kids and I was a complete tomboy. My sister was a bit older, so she didn’t have as much influence on me as I would have wished. My brother and I built tree-forts and did other guy stuff since he was older and led our activities. So I gave him leeway and told him it was okay to take his time adjusting to my change. But, after a number of years he still celled me “he” and eventually I insisted he call me by the proper “she” pronoun that the entire rest of the world referred to me as. My brother became only person who seemed to reject my new identity. I was feeling very uncomfortable and strange going to work in a dress and being a woman in every way except when I would go visit my mom at my brother’s house and hear him call me “he.” Finally, I lost patience and called him on it and there were hurt feelings and I cried but we got through it and now he respects my insistence on the proper pronouns and thinks of me as his sister. My family has been incredible in supporting me in my woman- hood, especially my sister and mom who have provided the most important support and are still my most ardent allies. I urge anyone in transition not to underestimate the value of your biological family’s support. You know you will always also have the support and love of your LBGT family as well. That’s a given. MARCH 2014
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OUR LIFE
LaPlacaCohen Publication: Insertion date: Size:
Spring is
JUSTIN'S HIV JOURNAL
212-675-4106 BALTIMORE GAY LIFE MARCH 1, 2014 4.75" x 11.25" 4C NP
Fabulous
Dedication to Mom BY JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH
This month, I wanted to get more perspective on what is like being an AfricanAmerican/Black woman living with HIV, so I decided to try a few women who could share their stories. I started by posting on my Facebook page to see if anyone would be willing help me, and received no responses. I also belong to a Positive Parenting social media group, where I also posted, but again received no replies. I wondered what might be keeping everyone from being so hesitant to speak to me. I went through the proper channels, I assured anonymity, I gave out e-mail information for confidentiality reasons, but not one wanted to answer the few questions I had. I thought this issue was not going to go well at all until I thought about the one strong African-American/Black woman who has influenced my life greatly: my own mother. I’m going to tell you the story about how she found out I was HIV positive. It took some time for me to be comfortable about telling my family that I had HIV. When that time finally did come, I was at the Hippo nightclub here in Baltimore. I was there by myself and I saw a cousin of mine who identified as lesbian. We hung out that night and I told her about my status in confidence and she gave me her support. Weeks later I got a call from my family at my mother’s house. I said, “Hello.” It was my family and they were crying, and I didn’t understand why. My brother said, “Hey Justin what’s up?” I said, “I don’t know you tell me, why are people crying. Did someone die or something?” He replied, “Justin I need you to be honest with me, okay?” My brother has always been honest with me ever since I was born. I said to my brother, “Sure, of course what do you want to know?” He replied back, “We heard you had AIDS, is that true?” I replied, “Oh wow. No, it’s not true,
March is Orchid Month Our greenhouses full of orchids are more vibrant than ever before. Learn about Hillwood founder Marjorie Merriweather Post’s favorite flower through talks, workshops, and tours all month long. Now on view Don’t miss the special exhibition, Passion of the Empress: Catherine the Great’s Art Patronage
Where Fabulous Lives
For more information call 202.686.5807 or visit HillwoodMuseum.org 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington DC Free parking HIL-0025-GayLife_4.75x11.25_March1_v1.indd PAGE 20 MARCH 2014
1
2/19/14 2:46 PM
I do not have AIDS”. Technically I was telling the truth, I do not have AIDS. At the time of that conversation, my T-Cells had not been under 200 ever (and it has not since then). Now, my brother is a smart man, so he asked another question, “Do you have HIV?” I was cornered and I had to admit it to them. My mother was sobbing and I didn’t even know she knew about my status. Once I explained to her that HIV is not the death sentence that it once was back in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s, she began to see that it was my time to start living for me. Ever since I talked with her one-on-one about my status she has been one of my main supporters. She bought a copy of my HIV themed children’s book, I Have a Secret; she reads my HIV advice columns Just*in Time and Justin’s HIV Journal. She also gives money monthly to HIV clinics in the Washington D.C./Baltimore region, and supports me when do the AIDS 5K/ Walk in D.C. She has made peace with my HIV status and has thus supported me in almost every which way possible. Let me also point out that she didn’t know if she was going to be a grandmother until I adopted my son. She especially didn’t expect me to have any children, but now she’s a grandmother and happy. This month I dedicate this entry to my mother; a woman who has taught me to know and love my family history; a woman who has endured a lot in her past and came out stronger than ever; a woman who is strength and class; a woman who is my best friend.
Justin B. Terry-Smith is a noted HIV and gay civil rights activist and the creator of ‘Justin’s HIV Journal,” a popular blog in which he shares his trials and tribulations of living with HIV. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Justin resides in Laurel, Md. with his husband, Dr. Philip Terry-Smith and their son Londyn. Photographer: Don Harris. Don Harris Photographics, LLC, © 2011 All Rights Reserved.
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
BETTER LIFE
Navigating the Charitable Giving Landscape BY AMANDA WOODDELL, SC&H FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Many same-sex couples in the Baltimore region are seeking opportunities to give back to their favorite charities. While on the surface it may seem as simple as writing a check to the non-profit of your choice, there are actually many financial and tax implications to consider when giving back. Giving can extend well beyond just providing cash. Before we discuss the multiple giving options and their tax implications, it is best to gain a full understanding about the ‘rules of engagement’ when it comes to giving. First, all contributions must be made to a qualified charity, which is a tax-exempt organization designated under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). You cannot deduct gifts provided to individuals, political organizations, and political candidates. If you receive a benefit because of your contribution, such as merchandise or other goods and services, you can only deduct the amount that exceeds the Fair Market Value (FMV), the price at which property would change hands between a willing buyer and willing seller of the benefit received. It is also critical to maintain records of the contribution, whether it is a letter from the organization, a receipt or a copy of the cancelled check. Finally, for the deduction of a property worth $250 or more, you must have a bank record, payroll deduction record, or written acknowledgement from the charity. If you are donating non-cash items valued more than $5,000, you will need an appraisal from a qualified appraiser, and you cannot deduct volunteer hours and other services, such as legal and accounting assistance. Now that we have laid the groundwork for charitable giving overall, we recommend considering these three different approaches: ¡¡ Donating Appreciated Securities: You can deduct the FMV of the securities and not be subjected to the income tax on the capital gains and potentially the new net investment income tax. As a fairly common practice, both brokers and charities are familiar with this kind of giving strategy. Your donation is limited to 30 percent of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), as opposed to 50 percent, but what is not used in the current year is carried forward for 5 years. ¡¡ Consider a Charitable Trust: A charitable BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
remainder trust is a planned giving vehicle where you can irrevocably transfer assets to a trust. The trust provides an annual stream of income to you or other beneficiaries with the remainder going to a qualified charity. For example, there is the Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust (CRAT), where your named beneficiaries receive a fixed payment amount each year (an annuity stream) from the trust. Another option is the Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT), where the trust distributes a fixed percentage of the value of its assets each year to the donor or other named beneficiary. This percentage is based on the FMV of the trust’s assets, valued annually. ¡¡ Consider a Donor Advised Fund: Designed to provide a simple and less expensive alternative to private foundations, this charitable giving tool allows you to make an irrevocable, income tax-deductible contribution to an account, as well as advise the charity on how it should invest this asset. You can also recommend grants from your account to various charitable organizations of your choice – providing the opportunity to create a legacy of gifting to a number of different charities as opposed to a one-time gift. Charitable giving can extend well beyond the traditional approach of simply giving money to your favorite organizations. There are now multiple options that enable you to enjoy tremendous tax benefits, while also maximizing your investment into the charity. These options provide a clear benefit for the charity, while allowing you to take a more fiscally sound approach to giving, which extends beyond the fact that it just feels good to give back. Amanda Wooddell is a Manager at SC&H Financial Advisors, the Personal Financial Planning practice at SC&H Group, which is an audit, tax, and consulting firm based in Sparks, Md. To learn more about SC&H Group, visit www.scandh.com. Note: Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. and Triad Advisors, Inc. are unaffiliated entities. MARCH 2014
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SPOTLIGHT
SOCIAL LIFE
DATEBOOK BY RACHEL ROTH
Recurring & Ongoing Events
SUNDAYS Dog Hikes with the Doctor First Sunday of the month • 11am-Noon • $2 Baltimore Humane Society 1601 Nicodemus Rd. • Reisterstown BMoreHumane.org
Laverne Cox to Visit Towson University Actress, writer, producer, and transgender advocate Laverne Cox will be delivering a Pride keynote address at Towson University on March 12. Arranged by the University’s Center for Student Diversity, Cox will discuss her personal journey and how to advance transgender equity. Cox is known for her critically lauded portrayal of the incarcerated Sophia Burset in the acclaimed Netflix original series Orange is the New Black. Additionally, Cox has had guest starring roles on NBC’s Law and Order and Law and Order: SVU, as well as HBO’s Bored to Death. Her other independent film credits include Carla, 36 Saints and The Exhibitionists. Cox was named as one of the most influential trans people in America in the inaugural Trans 100 in 2013. She was named one of the top 50 trans icons by the Huffington Post in 2012. Cox was named one of Out magazine’s “Out 100” in 2010. Metro Source magazine named her one of the “55 People We Love” in 2008. Cox was the recipient of the AntiViolence Project’s 2013 Courage Award. As a transgender advocate, Cox continues to lend her voice to the cause of transgender visibility and equality. She is committed to telling diverse and three dimensional trans stories in the media. She travels the country speaking about issues that affect the trans community. She is also a regular contributor to The Huffington Post. Cox will deliver her speech at Towson University’s University Union at 7pm. Event organizers are encouraging attendees to arrive early.
AIN’T I A WOMAN: MY JOURNEY TO WOMANHOOD
Towson University • Univ. Union Wed., March 12. FREE • 6pm. W410-704-2051 T Events.towson.edu
PAGE 22
MARCH 2014
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
MONDAYS Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg. Second Mondays 3-4:30pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. IFCMD.info PFLAG Howard County Parent Forum Third Mondays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Women 55+ Monday evenings Chase Brexton Health Services www.bit.ly/SeniorPride
TUESDAYS Howard County PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Second Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Tuesday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.com Meditation Group Every Tuesday 6:15-7:45pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net PFLAG Baltimore Co. General Mtg. Fourth Tuesdays 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org 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 Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore City 1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays 7-9pm The GLCCB • 241 W. Chase St. RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/RYABaltimore Teen Program at JCC Second Tuesdays 6pm Owings Mills JCC 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. JoinTeens.org Trans Parents Forum, Baltimore Co. Third Tuesdays 7-9:30pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org
WEDNESDAYS Charm City Volleyball: Social Play Every Wednesday 6:30-9:30pm • $3-30 Mt Royal Recreational Center 137 McMechen St.
Living Well with HIV Support Group Every Wednesday 10:30am Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. Jacques.umaryland.edu/support.html Spiritual Development with Rev. Sam Offer Every Wednesday 7pm Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore 4007 Old York Rd. UFCB.org GEM: Gender Empowerment MD Every other Wednesday 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Men 55+ Wednesday evenings Chase Brexton Health Services 410-837-2050 ext. 2428 www.bit.ly/SeniorPride Support Group for Transgender Adults Third Wednesday 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia hoctytransgroup@gmail.com
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
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
Datebook
SATURDAY MAR. 1 Book of Mormon From South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone • $90–150 + fees • Thru Mar. 9 Hippodrome • 12 N Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com Importance of Being Earnest A comedy of class & courtship. $20–95 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 16 Shakespeare Theatre Company 7th St. NW • Washington, DC ShakespeareTheater.com The Places You’ll Go BSA’s annual “Expressions” fundraiser. $10-350 • 6:30pm • Thru Mar. 3 Baltimore School for the Arts 712 Cathedral St. BSFA.org Viva Brasil! Carnivale Dance Party • $13-18 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org La Señorita de Tacna/ The Young Lady from Tacna opens A tale of how tales are born. $20-42 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 9 GALA Hispanic Theatre 14th St. NW • Washington, DC GalaTheater.org Q Fest Feat. two original plays. $12-22 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 2 Baltimore Theater Project 45 W Preston St. TheaterProject.org Back Spin DJ Vince Christopher Mardi Gras Edition • 10pm • 21+ Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com
MONDAY, MAR. 3 Men’s Naked Yoga Every Monday • $18 • 6:30-7:30pm Vitruvian Gallery, LLC 734 7th St., SE • 2nd floor • Wash., D.C. VitruvianGallery.com
THURSDAY, MAR. 6 The Baltimore Dance Invitational Opening Night 2nd Annual Baltimore Dance Invitational. $12-22 • 6:30pm • Thru Mar. 9 Theatre Project • 45 W. Preston St. Collective-Dance.com Omega Thursdays Every Thursday 9pm-2am Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com
FRIDAY, MAR. 7 Five Course Love Opens A deliciously over-the-top musical comedy. $15-20 • 8pm • Thru April 6 Spotlighters Theatre • 817 Saint Paul St. Spotlighters.org
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Women’s History Month Celebration Highlighting the work of female composers. $12 • 5pm National Aquarium • 501 E. Pratt St. Aqua.org
SATURDAY, MAR. 8 SHE Productions Presents REHAB 2nd Saturday of Every Month $5 • 9pm • 21+ Grand Central Disco and Sapphos 1001 N. Charles St. Facebook.com/SheProductions
SUNDAY, MAR. 9 Miss Hippo 2014 Honoring Arya Sparxx • $7-28 • 6pm Club Hippo • 1 W Eager St. ClupHippo.com
SATURDAY, MAR. 15
MONDAY, MAR. 24
O’Malley’s March Annual St. Pat’s Day show! $20-25 • 7 & 9:30pm. The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
WYPR Presents An Evening with Krista Tippett Q&A and Book signing • $35-40 • 6:30pm MICA’s Brown Ctr. • 1301 W. Mount Royal Ave. WYPR.org
Women’s History Double Feature: Black Beauty Revolution in Film Enjoy films and dialogue with African American women filmmakers. $12-15 • 1pm Reginald F. Lewis Museum • 830 E. Pratt St. RFLewismuseum.org/main-calendar Hot Sauce Feat. Rich Morel • $10 • 9pm • Monthly Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com
SUNDAY, MAR. 16
Classic Conversations with Michael Kahn Feat. Phylicia Rashad • $35 • 7pm Lansburgh Theatre 450 7th Street NW • Washington DC ShakespeareTheatre.org
Ladies Verse Olu Butterfly, Ama Chandra & more. $12-17 • 6pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
MONDAY, MAR. 10
MONDAY, MAR. 17
National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day PWN-USA.org
Giant Monster Monday Movies & drink specials • 8pm-Midnight The Wind Up Space • 12 W North Ave. TheWindUpSpace.com
TUESDAY, MAR. 11 Night OUT: Twelfth Night A night at the theater • $19-39 • 8pm Centerstage • 700 N Calvert St. CenterStage.org
WEDNESDAY, MAR. 12 Ain’t I a Woman: My Journey to Womanhood Orange is the New Black star Laverne Cox will discuss her personal journey and how to advance transgender equity • FREE • 6pm Towson University, University Union 410.704.2051 • Events.Towson.edu Twelfth Night Opens Shakespeare’s most perfect comedy. $19-59 • 8pm • Thru April 6 Centerstage • 700 N Calvert St. CenterStage.org
FRIDAY, MAR. 14 PLACAS: The Most Dangerous Tattoo Opens Feat. work of playwright Paul Flores. $20 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 15 GALA Hispanic Theatre 14th St. NW • Washington, DC GalaTheater.org Von Trapped Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C.’s take on Sound of Music. $30-50 • 8pm • Thru March 16 Lisner Auditorium • GWU 730 21st St. NW • Washington, DC GMCW.org
TUESDAY, MAR. 18 HIV Vaccine Awareness Day AIDS.gov Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque du Soleil $50-175 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 19 Baltimore Arena • 201 W Baltimore St. BaltimoreArena.com
WEDNESDAY, MAR. 19 POZ DC Happy Hour Mixer For HIV+ men • 7pm Green Lantern 1335 Green Court NW • Washington, DC HopeDC.org
SATURDAY, MAR. 22 Workin’ the Tease: The Art of Baltimore Burlesque Opening night reception • 5pm The Lyric • 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. WorkinTheTease.com The Legwarmers Everybody Wang Chung tonight! $18.50 • 7pm • 21+ Rams Head Live! • 20 Market Pl. RamsHeadLive.com The Homo Poe Show A queer perspective on Poe’s works. $18-23 • 8pm • Thru April 5 Baltimore Theatre Proj. • 45 W. Preston St. IronCrowTheatre.com
TUESDAY, MAR. 25 Fresh Thoughts: Sustainable Seafood Dining Feat. PABU chef Jonah Kim. $79-99 • 6:30pm National Aquarium • 501 E. Pratt St. Aqua.org
FRIDAY, MAR. 28 Baltimore Bike Party The biggest party on two wheels! FREE • 7pm St. Mary’s • Seton Hill BaltimoreBikeParty.com
SATURDAY, MAR. 29 BIG’s Spring Musical Improv karaoke, comedy feat. guest musicians • $12-17 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Sing-A-Long-A Grease Sing and dance to the original film. $30-50 • 7pm Hippodrome Theatre • 12 N. Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com Modern Family Wills and Legacy Planning Workshop for unmarried and same-sex couples. FREE • 8:30am RSVP to AAMCFoundation@AAHS.org
SUNDAY, MAR. 30 Sue Nami Presents a Night of Broadway Hosted By Josie Foster • $8-40 • 7pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com
MONDAY, MAR. 31 Stoop Storytelling: Mistakes Were Made Everyone has a story • $18 • 8pm Centerstage • 700 N Calvert St. CenterStage.org Classic Conversations with Michael Kahn Feat. Richard Thomas • $35 • 7pm Lansburgh Theatre 450 7th Street NW • Washington DC ShakespeareTheatre.org
YOU CAN FIND GLCCB EVENTS ON PAGE 6
Have an event perfect for our readers? Send all the details to CALENDAR@BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
MARCH 2014
PAGE 23
OSCAR® is the registered trademark and service mark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Photo by Joan Marcus.
THE OSCAR ® -WINNING FILM NOW ON STAGE
ON SALE NOW!
APRIL 8 -13 • HIPPODROME THEATRE 410.547.SEAT • BROADWAYACROSSAMERICA.COM •HIPPODROME BOX OFFICE (M-F, 11A-3P) GROUPS 10+ SAVE! CALL 866.577.7469
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Due to the nature of live entertainment; dates, times, performers, and prices are subject to change. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. No exchanges or refunds. Tickets are subject to additional fees.