Baltimore Gay Life September 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015 BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

Love it.

Former Charm City resident

returns to read from his hilarious tome

INTIMACY IDIOT at the Baltimore Book Festival

NEW GLCCB PREZ 13 SEAN ELIAS JOINS BALTIMORE 8 JABARI LYLES IRON CROW THEATRE 23 BOOK FESTIVAL

ALL ABOUT BALTIMORE. MORE APARTMENTS. MORE SERVICE. MORE CHARACTER. MORE PRIDE. Steadfastly committed to providing the ideal apartment living experience for ALL Baltimoreans. A diverse mix of 16 apartment communities in Baltimore City AND County — each with its own unique character and charm.

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

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T:4.75” S:4.25”

IN THIS GAY LIFE

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Proud to support the 2015 Baltimore Pride Festival.

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Departments LOCAL LIFE

OUR LIFE

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What's New at the Center

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Crossing T's

by Paul Liller

by Angela Wren

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10

10 Questions for GLCCB President Jabari Lyles

17 out-skirts

by Danielle Ariano

We Happy Trans

by Steve Charing

by Courtney Bedell Eckler

DOJ Investigators Hear from Community

19

19

Spiritual In-To-Me-I-See

by Steve Charing

HIGH LIFE

12

13

18

Intimacy Idiot Returns Home to Baltimore

by Frankie Kujawa

Theatre Spotlight: Iron Crow Theatre's Sean Elias

by Timoth David Copney

Team

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Bo Leslie

Comments: Final format, PDF Inks: Magenta, Yellow, Black Fonts: Apex Sans, Neue Haas Grotesk Text Std Images: vz_pri_g_k.ai

by Coach Maq Elé

Justin's HIV Journal

by Justin B. Terry-Smith

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The W.O.E. Report

by Wyatt O'Brian Evans

BETTER LIFE

21

For Your Personal Financial Reading Pleasure

by Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm

SOCIAL LIFE

22 Datebook

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by Rachel Roth

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

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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

MIND TRAVEL MEDITATION

Develop sense of self through stillness and meditation.

1st and 3rd Sundays – 2pm thehealingsanctuary444@gmail.com

Youth & Young Adult Programs

Great things are coming

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 - 7:30pm Meetup.com/silhouette

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

Men’s Programs

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BOOK CLUB

ello Gay Life readers!

Autumn is upon us, and with the turn of seasons comes another issue of our fine magazine! This month features an indepth interview with Jabari Lyles, the new GLCCB Board President (p. 8) by Steve Charing. We’ve also got a fun chat with former Charm City resident Isaac Oliver about his latest book, Intimacy Idiot and his upcoming appearance at this month’s Baltimore Book Fesitval (p. 12).

There’s plenty happening at our parent organization, the GLCCB, over the next few months. This fall will mark the return of the community-favorite OUTrageous event, slated for late October. The center will

Support

On the Cover

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 A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss a selected reading.

3rd Monday - 7pm

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

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

Thursdays – 6:30pm ASCA-Baltimore@hotmail.com ASCA-baltimore.tumblr.com

Dan McEvily, Editor

GAYLIFE

Social group for LGBTQ youth ages 18-25

Read it. Live it.

Saturdays – 4pm For more information on our programs, please contact Danny Carbo at dcarbo@glccb.org

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

Love it.

2013

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

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

Dan McEvily Editor

Former Baltimore resident and author of Intimacy Idiot, Isaac Oliver.

ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILD ABUSE (ASCA)

YOUTH GROUP

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also be relaunching its Pride In the Arts program, featuring works from local artists displayed prominently throughout the community center space. We’ve got several new programs in the works in the next few months, including an LGBT-friendly American Sign Language Class and an expanded youth program. Be sure to check back in October.

Have a safe September!

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, Paul Liller, Rachel Roth, Justin B. Terry Smith, Angela Wren, Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm

Photographers

John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Asia Kenney, Kristi Metzger, 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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LOCAL LIFE

WINNER! 2 0 1 3 T O N Y AWA R D

®

WHAT'S NEW AT THE CENTER

Autumn's in the Air by

SEPTEMBER 29–OCTOBER 4 • HIPPODROME THEATRE BaltimoreHippodrome.com • 800.982.ARTS

PAUL LILLER

H

ello friends!

Well, you can feel it in the air! Days are getting shorter, nights cooler, and soon the leaves will turn gold and red. Fall is upon us, and we sure are busy at the GLCCB! In a new world where (gay) marriage is now a right for all of us to enjoy, people often ask what the next step is for LGBT organizations. I have been asked many times if we are still needed. My answer is always a resounding yes. No matter what, there will always be members of our community who need help. The GLCCB is not a political organization. Our number one driving goal is to help those in our community who are in need. For some, that means having a space to gather for NA or AA meetings. For others, it means being able to attend Sistah’s of Pride or Mixed Company (two of our groups). Offering HIV testing through both the Baltimore City Health Department and University of Maryland helps fight the HIV and AIDS epidemic that has plagued the community for decades. In the last few months, we have received a surge in the number of homeless LGBT folks who come to the Center for Helping Hands, our clothing closet, and also to use the Cyber Center

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

to search for jobs and services.

The GLCCB is still a very much needed safe space for everyone to enjoy. With those services though, come an enormous cost to provide the help needed. Through grants, ad sales in Gay Life, and Baltimore Pride, the GLCCB brings in almost 75 percent of its needed funds. The rest is made up of generous donations from the community.

Please consider helping us thrive by making a donation to the GLCCB. This fall, we will be bringing back OUTrageous! All the details will be out soon, so keep your eyes peeled. This year is sure to be the best yet! If you have any questions or would like to be on the mailing list for the event, please contact me. Until next time, love one another, be kind to one another, and always remember, we are powerful when we are united!

With Pride,

Paul Liller Deputy Director

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

We have pride all year round Each person is unique and so is your health. That’s why we proudly support Baltimore Pride.

Visit kp.org/midatlantic to learn more.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc., 2101 East Jefferson St., Rockville, MD 20852 60352510_BaltPride_A_ad 7/24/15-9/7/15

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

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LOCAL LIFE

10 Questions for GLCCB President Jabari Lyles by

J

abari Lyles is a teacher, the outreach specialist at FreeState Legal Project and co-chair and education manager at GLSENBaltimore. Busy as he is, he has recently taken on an additional role: President of the Board of Directors for the Gay, Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB).

In doing so, Lyles becomes the fourth person to hold that position in the last 10 months. He graciously agreed to be interviewed so that the community would be more acquainted with him and to allow him to address the rate of turnover at the GLCCB, the center’s purpose, its finances as well his vision for the center.

What motivated you to join the GLCCB Board and ultimately agree to be its president?

I joined the GLCCB Board to work towards reifying its potential. After working in the local nonprofit and LGBTQ advocacy scene for some time, I became curious as to why, besides Pride, the GLCCB seemed nonexistent and hidden. It was particularly confusing, as a young, black, gay person in Baltimore, that I didn’t feel a connection to this center. I certainly knew this absence was not for lack of need.

Eventually, I learned about parts of the center’s history, the community concern it generated, and perhaps the reason why the GLCCB seemed to exist in the shadows.

Instead of continuing to condemn the organization, I saw an opportunity to make change from within. To me, continuing to neglect the center was continuing to neglect the people it could represent. I decided to apply to join the Board, with a specific focus on the GLCCB’s transparency and inclusion, work with people of color, youth and the transgender community.

I immediately took an active role on the Board and became heavily involved

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

STEVE CHARING

in the center’s operations and direction. I became impassioned with the idea of a community center that is truly community held, community-serving and communitybuilding—supported by an organization that has the trust and buy-in from the people we serve. To me, this is what a community center should always be. I agreed to be Board President because I believe in what the GLCCB can be, I believe in my community and I believe that I can lead with hope, love, knowledge and courage.

You have been working with several successful non-profits, such as GLSEN and FreeState Legal. What has been your experience at these organizations that you can bring to the GLCCB? I have worked with GLSEN Baltimore for nearly 10 years now, and for several years under the tutelage of the late, great Kay Halle, longtime social justice advocate and community servant. There was a bit of love

It's time for us to reboot! in everything that she did, and though small in stature, she was a force to be reckoned with. Although I am quite large, those who know me would agree that I approach my work with a nice balance of tenderness and intensity.

GLSEN is a fantastic organization that continues to show me the importance and impact of investing in young people, speak-

ing up for the victimized and refusing to negotiate safety and respect for all people.

FreeState expanded my understanding of LGBTQ issues and encouraged a more intersectional approach to my work. From my work with FreeState, I learned how race, gender and class, all come into play as one navigates systems: education, legal, or health care. Both organizations are well run, consistent and have a high sense of integrity and accountability to the community. All decisions are tied to the mission. Routines and expectations are firmly in place. I will bring all of these things, my approach and experiences to my work at the GLCCB. What do you see as your number one priority and why?

My number one priority is identifying appropriate, reliable and stable leadership at all levels. Effective leadership will add value and credibility to our organization, has been sorely needed, and will begin the process of mending the GLCCB’s relationship with the community. This includes assembling a dynamic and well-resourced board that reflects the diversity of our community, hiring an Executive Director who has strong executive chops with an authentic understanding of the needs and interests of the entire community, and reviving a Community Advisory Board to look to the people we serve for direction.

Over the course of the past 16 months there have been four different executive directors or interim directors serving in that capacity and four board presidents since November. How can you reduce the frequent turnover and create stability and thus, generate more confidence in the GLCCB? We need to be much better at setting our leaders up for success so they are best poised

Photo by Bob Ford.

to lead. That looks like: proper on-boarding and orientation, a reliable directory of resources, and open communication between board and staff leaders. I feel the first step is stepping back and clarifying and perhaps recalibrating our mission and purpose. It’s time for us to reboot.

The GLCCB is due to ask itself: Why are we here and what do we do? Who do we serve? How do we serve? We will surely find stability in this renewed sense of purpose.

What will be most important is how we listen to the community to answer these questions. At this critical junction in the center’s history, we are presented with an opportunity to recreate our organization in the community’s image.

My job will be to unify the right group of people who identify strongly with this mission who will realign and recommit, and who will move forward together with passion and cohesion. As your current President, I don’t intend on going anywhere so long as the people I serve will have me. I have a hands-on, bear-through-the-storm approach to this position; I don’t scare easily, and have advised a similar approach to my fellow board members.

The GLCCB has often been criticized for virtually disappearing once Pride is over. What can you and the board do to change that reputation? In other words, please explain how the GLCCB can serve the community year round.

Honestly, before joining the board, I was probably one of those community members that wondered what the GLCCB did when Pride wasn’t happening. I now know of the many amazing, wonderful services and opportunities that the GLCCB offers year round, that many people take advantage of, but are not well-known by the community.

One of our longest running and most

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During the past few years board members have assumed more of an oversight role rather than rolling up their sleeves to help in the operations of the center. Will you encourage a more hands-on role for the board?

Taking into account how much work has yet to be done, we simply cannot have it any other way. Willingness to get hands dirty is a requirement to join this board, and I’ve mentioned this during each interview with every new board member. We are certainly a working board in many respects; however, being a working board certainly does not absolve us of our governing duties.

Strategic delegation of tasks is how we will ensure strong action as a governing body, such as hiring a new executive director, and ways we act as individual working members, such as staffing an event. It is also important to note that I expect the duties and expectations of board members to vary as the needs of the organization change.

Money problems continue to beset the Center. What do you see as the best strategy to put the GLCCB on a better financial footing?

The money problems that beset the Center are multifaceted, are the result of missteps of many people, and thus require a multifaceted, multi-person solution. We must strengthen our financial oversight. This includes taking a concentrated look at who spends, how much is spent and why, and, how records are kept. We must (re)establish the Finance and Audit committees on our Board, and enlist the help of financial professionals to improve our accounting practices.

We must empower the Board, as chief fundraisers of the organization, to work closely with our development coordinator on a fundraising plan. We must always consider financial decisions ethically, legally, and with the community’s best interests in mind.

Most importantly, we must prove ourselves worthy of support from the community if we ever want individual giving to be a thing.

One of the biggest criticisms of the GLCCB has been its perceived lack of inclusivity of minorities and transgender folks in its governance. How will you change that perception?

This entire year, I have observed the

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GLCCB making strides towards becoming an organization that authentically represents people of color mostly in its programming and outreach decisions. We will continue to move in this direction. As an outspoken, strong ally of the transgender community, I will say that the we have a bit more work to do on trans* inclusivity and representation.

As current chair of the Programs and Outreach committee, I plan to work diligently on how the center works with and for these communities. I am specifically interested in transgender representation on our Board and staff and investigating how we can work with existing trans-focused organizations, such as Sistas of the T, Baltimore Trans Alliance, and Black Trans Men, Inc. As the first African-American in decades to hold the position of GLCCB board president, how will you go about trying to improve race relations within the LGBT community?

I firmly believe that my status as an AfricanAmerican Board President offers nothing different or extra to improve race relations within the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ racists will not learn or believe anything different by this positioning, I cannot tell them anything that hasn’t already been said, and in the end it will be up to them to work towards changing their damaging mindsets.

Minorities in positions of leadership do not an anti-racist society make. President Obama is ending his second term in office, yet black churches are being targeted by terrorists and unarmed black people are being killed by police. What I will do, as a Board President that condemns racism and approaches all work with a social justice lens, is lead this organization in a direction that visibly recognizes and works against racism in all its forms, intentionally works to uplift those who are most marginalized, encourages and eventually leads conversations about oppression, intersectionality, and authentically serving communities of color.

What would you like the community to know about Jabari Lyles?

I am a passionate public servant who finds true happiness and endless energy in working for positive change. I have over ten years of combined experience as an educator, program manager, outreach specialist, and LGBTQ activist. My interests include STEM education, urban education, queer theory, gender and sexuality studies, and educational technology.

I am a proud Maryland native, and I currently live in the Reservoir Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City. When I’m not working, I’m usually cooking, dancing, or spending time with those I love. I am outgoing, extroverted and approachable. I believe in my city, my community, and the great things that come out of working together. I am excited to work and grow with the GLCCB.

Insertion date: SEPTEMBER 1 , 2015 Size: 4.75” x 11.5" 4C NP

well-attended groups, Sistahs of Pride (formerly Women of Color), meets nearly weekly. During this past summer, we hosted 20 Youth Works hires who developed their very own homelessness support program called Helping Hands, which attracts regular patrons. We are hoping to expand our programs and outreach strategies to better support the community’s needs and to keep the community better informed. For more information on current programming, visit www.glccb.org/programs.

On view now

Last chance to see Marjorie Post’s spring and summer wear, through September 27. Fall and winter styles begin October 1.

Also, Don’t Miss September 13, 11am-2pm Family Picnic in Partnership with Rainbow Families DC October 8, 5:30-8:30pm Queer Self-Fashioning Lecture and Reception

Now open every Sunday Hours: Tues – Sun 10am – 5pm HillwoodMuseum.org 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington DC Free parking Sponsored by

HIL-0030_GayLife_4.75x11.5_Sept1_4CNP_v2.indd 1

8/25/15 1:05 PM9 GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

LOCAL LIFE

DOJ Investigators Hear from Community by

STEVE CHARING

K

en Jiretsu, a transgender man who has three special needs children, was in need of assistance from the Baltimore Police Department. One of his children, a 15 year-old son, had to be escorted to a hospital by police because of mental health issues. When the police arrived at his Baltimore home last February, the contingent included one female officer and eight male officers.

The female officer misgendered Jiretsu, repeatedly calling him Ma’am. He kept correcting the officer, explaining time and time again that he is transgender man and should be referred to accordingly.

The officer asked “How am I supposed to know,” according to Jiretsu, while the other officers laughed.

He asked the first set of officers to leave since they could not help and called 911 again to request different officers. Some of the same officers returned with a few new ones and the same situation occurred. This is one of the experiences that members of

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

the LGBT community shared with attorneys from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), which is in the midst of a civil investigation of the Baltimore Police Department “to see if there are broad systematic practices causing Constitutional rights to be violated.” The investigators are looking into police stops, searches arrests, uses of force, and discriminatory policies that may have violated the civil rights of citizens.

The DOJ investigation, which was launched on May 8 shortly after the unrest following the death of Freddie Gray who died from injuries sustained while in police custody in Baltimore, will include riding with the police, reviewing documents and files and speaking with citizens who have had encounters with the police.

“Our goal is to work with the community, public officials and law enforcement alike to create a stronger, better Baltimore,” said Attorney General Loretta Lynch when announcing the investigation.

Lynch indicated that if violations are found,

the investigation will result in a “court-enforceable agreement” to change the practices of the Baltimore Police Department.

Over 25 community members attended a meeting at the Chase Brexton Health Services Community Room on August 6. There were introductory remarks given by the DOJ representatives, which included the distribution of an “Incident Information Form” that requests details pertaining to a negative encounter with the police—in the past or should an incident occur in the future—to be submitted to the DOJ. The four DOJ attorneys present held separate one-on-one meetings with LGBT individuals who related their personal stories.

The attorneys listened to these accounts and recorded notes. A report will be issued, but one of the attorneys, Mike Songer, cautioned that it could take up to a year and a half for the report to be released.

The meeting with DOJ was arranged by Bryanna A. Jenkins, founder of Baltimore Transgender United. “We’re creating a new

Baltimore Transgender United founder Bryanna A. Jenkins arranged the meeting with DOJ Photo by Steve Charing

narrative getting community members to tell their own stories so they can save themselves and the community,” Jenkins explained.

Anybody who has relevant information regarding the conduct of Baltimore Police Department officers are urged to contact DOJ by email at Community.Baltimore@usdoj.gov or calling toll-free at 1-844-401-3733.

In addition, you may submit forms, which are being made available by community members on Facebook to: U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Special Litigation Section, 601 D Street NW, Rm. 5907A, Washington, D.C. 20004 Attn: DJ# 207-35-15.

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Must be 21 years or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start. ® Please play responsibly, for help visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC.

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HIGH LIFE

Intimacy Idiot Returns Home to Baltimore by

FRANKIE KUJAWA

“

Something that no one knows about me…

If you have a shirtless picture on Facebook, I’ve jerked off to it.” This is one of the first pages in Isaac Oliver’s hilarious tome, Intimacy Idiot. Since its release in June 2015, Oliver’s collection of uproariously funny essays have garnered much buzz readers and celebrities across the country. Intimacy Idiot chronicles Oliver’s encounters with love, infatuation resilience and self-acceptance. A Maryland native, Oliver will return to his home state later this month to entertain Baltimore residents live on stage at the Baltimore Book Festival. The festival, being held this year at the Inner Harbor, features hundreds of author appearances and book signings, 100+ exhibitors and booksellers and non-stop readings on multiple stages.

Gay Life recently sat down with Isaac to discuss his recent publication, his upcoming return to Baltimore and the fact he won’t be sharing crabs with Oprah anytime soon.

Congratulations on your fabulous book! Your book had me laughing out loud!

Thank you!

in Southwest Baltimore and then we moved to Catonsville. I spent most of my life in Catonsville. I went to Carver in Towson for high school. It’s a great place to be from.

Do you ever miss the realness of Baltimore?

I do. I mean it is (laughs) for a lack of a better word…charming. It is Charm City.

It’s completely delightful and diverse. I just feel like it has a lot of heart to it that is very specific to Baltimore. There are a lot of people from Baltimore here in New York and whenever we meet we go on for like 10 minutes about the things we love.

Are you excited to return for the Baltimore Book Festival?

Absolutely! I will be doing a reading on Sunday. I’m planning there to be there for the whole weekend. I’m going to come home and stay home with my parents. We go to Captain’s James Landing for crabs, but obviously we don’t go with Oprah.

Your book has garnered a lot of press and praise from many celebrities. Was there one who you were absolutely star-struck about hearing from?

Well, (pauses) all of them! (Laughs) I know Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Chris Colfer personally, so I was really touched and pleased to have support from them. I was definitely star struck by Rachel Dratch who I didn’t know personally. Megan Amram, who wrote Science for Her was also very complimentary.

It’s been lovely.

Your book has lots of small snippets and vignettes of your life.

How would you describe your writing style?

I try to let it go as it flows. I went to school for playwriting and I guess I have more of a focus and more attention to dialogue. I try to write as concisely as possible, which is definitely hammered in when you’re studying writing for the theater. A lot of the writers that I am inspired by are definitely concise. I try to keep it as conversational and fun and honest. It’s just straightforward and honest. I love language and adore playing around with it, but I try to keep it crisp and clear as well.

You’re originally a Baltimore native.

What area did you grow up in?

I wasn’t born in Baltimore but we moved to Baltimore when I was three. We lived for a few years in the city right on the outskirts

You mention in your book that when you were growing up you were pretty open about your sexuality.

(Laughs) There was no hiding it. I was truly the last person to know.

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

Do you think that it’s easier for LGBTQ kids to be who they are today?

Certainly without a doubt.

As someone who grew up drooling over many heartthrobs of the ‘90s, who is your current celebrity crush today?

Chris Pine. I love Chris Pine. I think he is such a dreamboat. And actually I have a Tumblr that’s called Mrs. Pine where I post photos of him from the internet when he’s out and about along with little captions that I write imagining myself as being his wife.

I’ve married myself to him on social media… which is a binding contract. But now I have a Tumblr and its just fun. It helps to keep the loneliness at bay.

Do you have any other upcoming projects or plans for the future?

I have been on tour all summer promoting the book and reading and doing signings. So

I have been a little busy with that. I’m sort of taking a little break for the moment to regenerate. I would love to develop the book into some type of TV project. The wheels are turning on that slowly, but surely. I would love to write another book. One of the great things that are coming out of my new book is that people have read it very quickly and they want to hear more. I pretty much have slept with everyone in my neighborhood, so I’ll have to move. (Laughs) I had a wonderful time writing it and a great publisher. It was hard work but it was really wonderful.

Baltimore Book Festival Presents Isaac Oliver, Intimacy Idiot Sunday, Sept. 27 • 4-5PM Inner Harbor Stage presented by Towson University www.baltimorebookfestival.com

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THEATRE SPOTLIGHT

Iron Crow Theatre's Sean Elias by

S

ean Elias, the newly appointed Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of Iron Crow Theatre, has the boundless energy of a zealot. He has a vision, a plan, and enough drive to power Hoover Dam. Iron Crow is Charm City’s premier venue for gay-centric theatre and espouses a total commitment to celebrating that segment of society in theatre that had been—for way too long—relegated to campy, demeaning portrayals of what straight society thought we were. So get a load of us now…

Sean grew up in a typical suburban setting, figuring out that he was gay by the time he was a freshman in high school. He discovered theatre and, with the support of his family, started on a path that led him to a degree in Musical Theatre and a Masters in Theatre Education. He had planned to be a Broadway star (like we all do), but

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

TIMOTH DAVID COPNEY

lacked the resolve to compete in New York as an actor. Sure, he found some work, had some success in cabaret and Off-Broadway productions, but wasn’t convinced that it was going to lead him where he wanted to be.

And then he met a guy and followed him to Baltimore. He got involved with the naissance of a theatre company that would make gaythemed theatre accessible to the city. Mind you, he’s been busy on a number of other fronts at the same time. Sean has a new position as a theatre teacher in a private school in Owings Mills, a gig as a member of a touring theatre company in the season to come, some other side work, and, oh yea, he’s now running that gay theatre. He’s determined to elevate Iron Crow Theatre to the next level.

Iron Crow prides itself on shining a light on the renegade, disenfranchised, outsidethe-box theatrical talent in Baltimore, and

Sean is going to make sure that happens. Under his leadership, Iron Crow will go through some restructuring, and a little refocusing of energies. Instead of a resident ensemble, the performers will be drawn from the local theatre community. Responsibilities will be more delineated, and members and supporters will be more able to concentrate on their strengths rather than being spread over areas that aren’t really suited to their talents.

Sean is one of those people who dives full-boar, head-first, hell-for-leather-in-it when he commits. He’s committed to guiding Iron Crow Theatre to be a more vibrant and important asset to the Baltimore theatre com-

munity, while giving voice to the queers, the renegades and the unorthodox. The company is not going to be much on display this season, choosing instead to use this time to focus on their mission and further define their brand.

But don’t take too long, Sean, and the rest of the Iron Crow team. We want to see you, follow you and help you celebrate both ‘the magic of theatre’ and the magic of Iron Crow Theatre, the champion of the queers, the artists, the LBGT community, the straights, the seniors, the millennials, and everyone in between. www.ironcrowtheatre.org

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

13

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®

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15

C R O S S I N G

So now that you have taken the least expensive transitional steps, will you start hormones and get electrolysis?

Next I will get three black dresses, two pairs of cute boots, and a mini-leather purse.

T's By ANGELA WREN

16

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

OUR LIFE OUT-SKIRTS

The Dance by

DANIELLE ARIANO

N

othing reminds me that I’m gay more than a straight wedding.

This past month Lindsay and I went to her friend’s wedding. It was an intimate, weekend-long affair with only fifty or so guests in attendance. We all stayed at the same lodge in Cooksburg, Pennsylvania. The bride and groom, both of whom had been previously married, had opted to keep things casual, which meant that the groom’s best friend acted as both the minister and the karaoke DJ. After a lovely ceremony in which the couple exchanged vows while silhouetted by the late afternoon sunlight that poured through two balcony doors, the reception got into full swing. Soon after, drunken adults began belting out “Sweet Caroline,”

I knew better than to ask Lindsay to dance because any form of dancing for her is akin to having her toenails removed with tweezers.

“Low Places” and a particularly ear piercing rendition of “Banana Boat Song,” better known as Day-O. While I stood watching the antics, the wife of one of the groom’s best friends approached me. I’ll call her Jen (because that’s what her name was and I don’t care enough to change it). When Jen was sober, she had not spoken to me, had not made eye contact with me, and had not acknowledge my existence, but after a few drinks she cozied right up to my side, and in a close talking fashion she proceeded to give me some unsolicited advice about my hair, i.e. it looked so much better down than it did up in a clip the way I’d worn it at the rehearsal dinner the night

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before. During her monologue, she leaned so close that I could smell the wine on her breath. I kept taking micro steps backward to reestablish a safe distance, but whenever I moved away from her, she moved closer.

Eventually the minister/DJ put on a slow song and all the couples slowly milled out onto the hardwood.

I knew better than to ask Lindsay to dance because any form of dancing for her is akin to having her toenails removed with tweezers, and this goes doubly for slow dancing, especially when we are the token gay couple at a wedding, so we stood idly on the sidelines with a few of the single people who were in attendance.

As Jen twirled around with her husband on the dance floor, she noticed Lindsay and I standing on the sidelines. “Oh c’mon!” she screamed from the dance floor, “it’s 2015.

Get out here.”

Oh, dear God no, I thought. We politely smiled and shook our heads. “It’s 2015 for Christ’s sake,” she screamed again.

We waved and retreated to the bar for a drink.

“How come you two weren’t dancing?” she asked when she found me back in the reception hall. My explanation about Lindsay’s shyness and discomfort at being the center of attention only seemed to confuse her.

“Huh,” she said. “So no dancing?”

“Nope.”

“Huh,” she said again. “Well can I ask you another question and you can tell me to go fuck myself if you want.”

I braced myself for what was coming.

“Sure.”

“So, like, which one of you is the guy?”

I stood momentarily dumbfounded.

Here we were (in 2015 according to this very woman) and I was being asked this question? Briefly, I considered telling her to go fuck herself, but some small part of me sensed that perhaps this was a teachable moment. The topic of gender stereotypes crossed my mind, but I figured that Jen was probably not the ideal audience.

“Well we don’t really work like that. Some couples kind of adopt those roles, but not

everyone and definitely not us.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.” I went on to explain that Lindsay and I are very much equals in our relationship and that both of us were about the same on the femme/butch scale that people like to use a gauge of gender roles.

We both like sports but we both can wear a dress when the occasion arises. We take turns mowing the lawn. I do most of the repair work around the house and she does the laundry. I do most of the cooking while she does the grocery shopping.

Jen was amazed. I looked at her and for a moment and felt kind of sorry for her. For the first time all weekend, I felt my anxiety over being different melt away. Being a lesbian was sort of freeing in a way. Lindsay and I didn’t automatically adopt certain culturally dictated roles. We figured out what we were good at and we went from there. I wondered what Jen’s life was like at home.

Was it assumed that she’d cook? She’d do the laundry? She’d care for the kids?

She stood staring at me, and for a moment I felt like what I’d said was really sinking in, like I’d taken that teachable moment and I’d used it for all that it was worth.

That’s when she leaned in a little closer and lowered her voice a little. “But I mean someone’s got to strap it on, right?”

Like I said, nothing reminds me that I’m gay like a straight wedding.

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 / SEPTEMBER 2015

17

OUR LIFE TRANSMISSIONS

We Happy Trans

by COURTNEY BEDELL ECKLER

I

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.

SunTrust Bank, Member FDIC. ©2015 SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust and How can we help you shine? are federally registered service marks of SunTrust Banks, Inc.

18

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

t’s September, the month of my birthday.

Historically on my birthday I indulged in lamenting how I was not born with the XX chromosomes that would have made my body match my mind. This would remind me of all the hardship that came with being born transgender. I would focus on the pain and suffering I felt growing up separated from my essential self. This is one of the reasons fall has always been a poignant time for me. As we all know, it’s a struggle to heal from deep emotional pain and although transition puts our gender right, there is often plenty of residual emotional scarring. A gender therapist told me that surviving a transgender childhood is not unlike surviving Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSS). Now granted, that sounds a bit dramatic but it really isn’t if you speak to many transgender folk who waited until adulthood to transition. As a result it’s easy to buy into the partyline that we transgender folk are tragic figures. There is of course plenty of pain, suffering and hardship to support this notion.

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote something that always resonated with me, “to be one’s self in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.“ Maybe I would add that it’s also the most difficult accomplishment. But I’m here to say that as a trans community we would be so much better off if we focus more on our blessings than our curses. And this begins with the fact that we live in a time where we are able to transition and live the lives we wish to lead.

We have the support of the medical profession which is ready to help us and a legal system that is beginning to give us a modicum of protection under the law. We live in a culture that has come a long way in accepting us and giving us support. Some may argue against this and of course the “haters are gonna hate.” But if one looks at how much has changed for us in the past 20 years, it’s impossible to deny that we are much better off. One of the most important changes is that kids are now transitioning at a much younger age, saving them from years of pain and hardship, which often produces a much healthier outcome after transition.

Focusing on the positive over the negative is not easy. But for me and for those who have already transitioned, the hardest part is over. Being transgender is no longer a prescription for living an unhappy life. I noticed a girl’s post on Facebook, where she posted how she hates being trans and trying to pass

as cis everyday. I understand her inclination to feel this way, but she has transitioned and now needs to get on with loving herself. As a community maybe it’s time to disabuse the public of the notion that we are tragic figures deserving of pity. This will only happen if we stop buying into this oursleves. It’s true that it’s unfair that we are saddled with our particular set of circumstances, but this is true for so many minorities. Nothing is to be gained by this kind of thinking.

If we project confidence and comfort in who we are, and if we expect others to believe in us and love us, they will respond. If we expect respect and acceptance, we are more likely to receive it. The web blog, “We Happy Trans” invited transgender folk to send in short videos describing their happy lives as transgender individuals. This is the kind of thing that will help change attitudes towards us. And what I am saying in this long-winded way is the old adage that we all heard as children. We have to love ourselves if we wish to be loved. And, of course accept ourselves if we wish to be accepted. It sounds very simplistic but people are basically followers and they will follow our lead. Let’s send a positive message out to the universe that speaks our truth—that we are for the most part happy healthy and productive Americans! And if we can do that the country will continue to follow our lead. These days on my birthday I like to focus on what an amazing, dynamic, beautiful, and powerful, community we happy trans have become.

I would like to add that what I have proposed above is said with respect, empathy, and compassion for those who have not yet found their way out of turmoil and unhappiness—and that my hopes and prayers are with them to find joy in who they are and in their lives!

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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JUSTIN’S HIV JOURNAL

Parenthood

by JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH

Y SPIRITUAL IN-TO-ME-I-SEE (SPIRITUAL INTIMACY)

Saying "YES" to the Presence of Love

by COACH MAQ ELÉ

A

few weeks ago, I was vacationing in Massanutten, Va. with my sorority sisters to celebrate our fifteen year anniversary. On our first morning in the home, I awoke to the smell of bacon, eggs and pancakes being prepared in the kitchen. It was such a delight to see that my sister Venus was preparing breakfast for my sisters and I, she even went as far as to accommodate my dietary needs. This was such a treat for me because I am usually the one preparing breakfast for everyone else.

While eating breakfast, I immediately thought about the goddess Venus, who symbolically represents love. What a demonstration of love it was for Venus to wake up before the rest of us and take the time to prepare breakfast. Although Venus was the one offering this demonstration of love, I had a choice on whether or not I was going to

receive it. Fortunately, I said “yes” to it and was not only gifted with a fabulous meal, I was provided with an opportunity to reconnect with my sisters. That is the power of love, on the surface it looks like you are receiving one thing, but in reality you receive so much more.

The catch is, you won’t know “the more” until you say “YES” to love’s presence in your life.

So my love, are you saying “YES” to the presence of love in your life? Or are you placing conditions on it; determining that it needs to look a certain way before you can say “YES?” Love can show up in your life, in a multitude of ways: a smile from a stranger, a good morning from your neighbor or an offer to purchase your morning coffee. Love is omnipresent…so say “YES” to love’s presence in your life!

BE-LOVED! ~Coach Maq

Coach Maq Elè is a certified Spiritual Life and the facilitator for the GLCCB group SILhouette (Spiritually In-Tuned Lesbians). For more information about Coach Maq and SILhouette please visit Maqele.com. To contact Coach Maq with your coaching questions email CoachMaq@baltimoregaylife.com.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

ES! Thank the gods that it’s back to school time!

Now that I have another son in high school, I’ve had to buy school supplies, talk to teachers, and email administrators. Even though I have to check homework every day, for me I don’t mind it. I actually enjoy it.

My son likes when I help him in his school work. He likes that I pay attention to what’s going on around him in the classroom and at home.

My other son is in college and he is starting to find out just how much work college is versus how much work high school was.

He is learning that there are more hours he has to put into his work to get better and better results. Both are gay, growing up, becoming stronger, and are learning about life.

I look at both of my boys (17 and 18 years old, respectively) and realize there is a lesson every day they have to learn and they will continue to learn well beyond their teenage years, little do they know. We are trying to instill in them a sense of pride that they have never felt before, not only a sense of gay pride but pride in themselves as human beings.

I often think how many other gay kids do not understand that they’re not entitled to many things that they think they should be getting. Rolling your eyes at someone, prejudging others based on their looks, thinking that you’re a reality show cast member from

the Bad Girls Clubs or Real Housewives of whatever the hell, is not going to get your far in life. It will just hold you back.

Seeing as how both of them are gay I want nothing to hold my boys back. They should be judged based on their character, education, and not based on the fact that they are feminine men; even though perception is everything in this world, I wish it wasn’t.

I’ve always believed that if you put in the work you should earn the rewards. Of course, we all know it’s not that simple, because it could take days, months or even years. I should hope that when this generation of gay youth grows up they understand what they need to do to be able to live the way they want to live. I wonder sometimes, is this a prime example of nature vs. nurture?

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

Photo by Don Harris, Don Harris Photographics, LLC © 2011. All Rights Reserved.

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

19

OUR LIFE

THE W.O.E. REPORT

Sex Behind Bars by

WYATT O’BRIAN EVANS

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ere’s a rather chilling reality: black men—vastly overrepresented within our prison system—make up a high percentage of HIV-positive inmates. And as a result, according to a Science Daily article entitled, “Sex Prevalent in Prison Incarcerated Black Men Report, Posing Challenges for HIV Prevention, Treatment,” these individuals pose an infection risk not only to other inmates—but to members of their communities once they’re released.

Currently, nearly 1.7 million persons are in the federal prison system. And at present incarceration rates, one in three black men will be in prison at some point in their lives.

“While sex is prohibited in U.S. prisons, sexual encounters are commonplace and few inmates express concern about getting or spreading HIV,” according to a study of incarcerated black men by Tawandra RowellCunsolo, PhD, Assistant Professor of Social Welfare Science at the Columbia University School of Nursing.

The study asked open-ended questions about sexual behavior; and according to many of the respondents, deprivations of prison life promote same-sex encounters.

Rowell-Cunsolo stated, “To prevent HIV in prisons and curb its spread once inmates are sent home, we need a better understanding of how black men perceive sexuality

while they’re imprisoned.”

According to the study, the latest advances in HIV prevention and treatment haven’t penetrated the U.S. prison system, where inmates already at high risk for developing HIV frequently lack access to basic prevention—and don’t get tested for the virus. RowellCunsolo continued, “These are people who can benefit from education and outreach while they’re in prison, but there’s also a much larger public health issue at stake here.

These are people who are going to come out of prison, and preventing the spread of HIV in prison becomes a large community issue once these men return home.”

Over the past ten years, prison-based HIV research has found that only about half of American facilities offer HIV testing. “There are some prison systems that distribute condoms or have a needle exchange program to prevent the spread of HIV, but for the most part this isn’t done because its seen as supporting behavior that’s explicitly against the rules in prison,” Rowell-Cunsolo stated.

She added, “That makes basic sex and HIV education really important. Some of these men have been incarcerated since before the AIDS epidemic hit the scene and they literally don’t know how it spreads or how to protect themselves.”

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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BETTER LIFE For Your Personal Financial Reading Pleasure... by

“

AMANDA WOODDELL WILHELM

Read the best books first, or you may not have a chance to read them at all.”

–Henry David Thoreau

Reading is one of my favorite pastimes.

Though, as Thoreau mentions in this quote, it is impossible to read every book. But it is possible to read a few that provide insight on personal financial planning, which can truly change your perspective on money management.

After polling my SC&H Group colleagues, they provided me with several of their favorite personal finance readings. These books offer high-level insights into the power behind effective personal financial planning, and provide viable strategies to assist one in achieving personal financial freedom.

A few of our recommendations include: The Millionaire Next Door

by Thomas J. Stanley

This book provides insight into the habits and characteristics of wealthy people. It reveals that most wealth is not accumulated by high incomes but rather by spending and saving decisions made throughout one’s lifetime.

The Money Game

by Adam Smith

Although this book was written in the 1960s, it offers an excellent historical perspective on the markets and investor psychology. The author, a non-industry observer, writes in a humorous tone throughout, but also makes numerous key points about the myths of Wall Street.

Simple Wealth, Inevitable Wealth

by Nick Murray.

A must-read for anyone interested in gaining perspective on the importance of long-term investment planning.

We suggest you order these books today, or perhaps seek them out at the upcoming Baltimore Book Festival.

When it comes to personal finance and wealth, knowledge is power. But it is impossible to read or know everything. If you have limited reading time—as most of us do—these three titles are a great start and will help to give you the insights needed to lay the foundation for long-term financial success.

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.

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GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

21

SOCIAL LIFE

Datebook

by

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

22

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

RACHEL ROTH

Mondays Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg. Fourth Mondays 7:30pm Contact info@ifcmd.org to confirm meeting location 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 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

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

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

Tuesday, Sept. 1

Spiritual Development with Rev. Sam Offer Every Wednesday 7pm Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore 4007 Old York Rd. UFCB.org

S.I.N. and Sinners Say “hi” to the boys.

Every Tuesday 9pm • No Cover.

Club Hippp • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

GEM: Gender Empowerment MD Every other Wednesday 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org

Showtune Video Madness Sing out Louise! FREE • Tuesdays 7:45pm.

Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

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

Showdown Trivia Competition Hosted by John Woods • 9:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Support Group for Transgender Adults Third Wednesday 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia hoctytransgroup@gmail.comf

PFLAG Baltimore Co. General Mtg. Fourth Tuesdays 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org

Thursdays

Parents of Transgender Kids Fourth Tuesdays 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com PFLAGBaltimore.org

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

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com

Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Thursday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.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

Saturdays

Fridays HIV Support: Just Between US Every Friday 11am-Noon Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org

Wednesday, Sept. 2 The Doobie Brothers & Gregg Allman w/Ruthie Collins • $45-100 • 6pm Pier Six • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com Game Night!

Every Wednesday 8:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Thursday, Sept. 3 WTMD First Thursdays Concerts in the Park Rain or shine • FREE • 6:30-9:30pm Canton Waterfront Park • Boston St. WTMD.org Hip Hop Night at Club Hippo Get your dance on every Thursday.

Reduced cover before 11pm.

Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Omega Thursdays Every Thursday 9pm-2am.

Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

Friday, Sept. 4 Intersection: The History of North & Charles A MICA M.F.A exhibition & reception.

FREE • Runs thru Sept. 20 • 5pm MICA: Fred Lazarus IV Center 131 W. North Ave. MICA.edu Detroit opens The suburbs will never be the same. $20 • Runs thru Oct. 3 • 8pm Fells Point Corner Theater 251 S. Ann St. FPCT.org Greater Tuna opens Texas’ third smallest town is CRAZY. $10-20 • 8pm Vagabond Players • 806 S. Broadway VagabondPlayers.org King & Queen of Pride Honoring Franz Fiddler and Brooklyn Heights • 10pm Club Hippp • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Friday Nights at the Aquarium Get in for half price! 5-9pm National Aquarium • 501 E. Pratt St. Aqua.org Levi & Leather Leather or Bear attire gets you a discount.

Fridays 8pm.

Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Saturday, Sept. 5 Free Yoga in Patterson Park Bring your own mat! FREE • 8-9am • Weekly Patterson Park CreativeAlliance.org Saturday Morning Yoga Enjoy an hour of zen every Saturday.

FREE • 10-11am Center Plaza • 100 N. Charles St. CultureFly.org

Karaoke Sing your heart out every Monday and Tuesday night.

Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Tuesday, Sept. 8 Five Weeks of Sticky Kicks Off Celebrate 5 years of Sticky Rice • 9pm Sticky Rice • Aliceanna St. BMoreSticky.com

Wednesday, Sept. 9

Friday, Sept. 18 National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day AIDS.gov Pride and Prejudice opens Jane Austen’s mastery of manners and morals. $19-59 CENTERSTAGE • 700 N. Calvert St. CenterStage.org

Saturday, Sept. 12

Saturday, Sept. 19

Saun and Starr The back-up singers take center stage. $12-18 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Unexpected Places 4/For Unexpected Ariels: While U Wait Outdoor aerial performances • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Several Species: The PINK FLOYD Experience $22-49.50 • 6pm Pier Six • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com

Monday, Sept. 21

SHE Productions Presents REHAB 2nd Saturday of Every Month. $5 • 9pm • 21+ Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Sunday, Sept. 13 Diana Ross In the Name of Love Tour • $40-100 • 6pm Pier Six • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com

Monday, Sept. 14

Sunday, Sept. 6 Drag Wars RuPaul’s Drag Race meets The Voice.

Every Sunday 9pm • $7-10 Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Tuesday, Sept. 15 Night OUT: Pride and Prejudice A night at the theater for LGBTQ community. $19-39 CENTERSTAGE • 700 N. Calvert St. CenterStage.org

Labor Day

Wednesday, Sept. 16

Men’s Naked Yoga Every Monday. $18.6:30-7:30pm Vitruvian Gallery, LLC 734 7th St., SE, 2nd fl. Wash. D.C. VitruvianGallery.com

Five Weeks of Sticky: Warfare Wednesday Celebrate 5 years of Sticky Rice. $5 specials • 11pm Sticky Rice • Aliceanna St. BMoreSticky.com

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

3rd Annual Best of Baltimore Student Film Festival Best student films from JHU, MICA, Morgan, UB & more. • $9-12 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

4-Play!

Baltimore’s comedy show about sexuality. $12-18. 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Rosh Hashanah

Monday, Sept. 7

Thursday, Sept. 17

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

Wednesday, 9/23 Yom Kippur Five Weeks of Sticky: First Class Blingo Celebrate 5 years of Sticky Rice • 11pm Sticky Rice • Aliceanna St. BMoreSticky.com

Friday, Sept. 25 Charm City Guardians: Unmasked, Unleashed and Undressed Presented by Gilded Lily Burlesque. $20-26 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Gallagher’s Reunion Ladies Event Monthly • 9pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Saturday, Sept. 26 Dogfest!

A doggone great day! $10 • 10am-4pm Baltimore Humane Society 1601 Nicodemus Rd. • Reisterstown DogFest.org

Baltimore Book Festival The 20th Annual Baltimore Book Festival features hundreds of author appearances and book signings, 100+ exhibitors and booksellers, non-stop readings on multiple stages, cooking demos by celebrity chefs, poetry readings and workshops, panel discussions, walking tours, storytellers and hands-on projects for kids, street theater, live music, and a delicious variety of food, beer and wine. The festival is produced by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts.

Baltimore Book Festival

Sept. 25-27 • 11am–7pm Baltimore Inner Harbor BaltimoreBookFestival.org

A Wild Evening with Halestorm Jagermeister Music Tour • $25-32 • 6:30pm Pier Six • 731 Eastern Ave. PierSixPavilion.com

Sunday, Sept. 27 National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day AIDS.gov

Tuesday, Sept. 29 Pics in the Park Feat. The Imitation Game • FREE • 9pm Center Plaza • N. Charles & Fayette St. GoDownTownBaltimore.com

Thursday, Sept. 30 POZ DC Happy Hour Mixer For HIV+ men. 7pm Green Lantern 1335 Green Court NW • Washington, DC HopeDC.org

GAY LIFE / SEPTEMBER 2015

23

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