SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1979
MARYLAND’S LGBT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012 VOLUME XXXIV, NUMBER 1 WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Thousands gather in Baltimore January 25-29 for the
Creating Change Conference
+
Dining Out’s 2011
Golden Eleven Award Winners Guide to Baltimore LGBT
Nightlife
Carrie Fisher discusses her one-woman show
PAGE 2 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 3
letter editor’s
This month is really all about “Change.” Not only does the New Year inspire improvement and growth, but also this month we have the 24th Annual Creating Change Conference descending on Charm City, and with it some 3,000 LGBT activists in tow (see p. 12). But there is even more change here at Gay Life. It is with much regret that we must say goodbye to our account manager, Scott FitzPatrick. Scott has been both an asset and a friend these last nine months, but he leaves us for other pastures. Scott was awarded money to return to school fulltime, an opportunity he cannot pass up. While Scott will be greatly missed, we are happy to welcome Sabre Chase to fill his shoes. As the latest addition to the Gay Life team, Sabre brings with him ongoing community involvement, genuine enthusiasm, and lots of new ideas. Welcome Sabre!
CONTENTS
7 outfront
outgoing
PAGE 5 COMMUNITY
Baltimore’s LGBT Community Center, Yard Sale, and Gay Bingo Discounts for Conference-goers.
PAGE 16 SPOTLIGHT
Charm City Kitty Club presents Hot and Bothered with special guests J Pope and more. By Rachel Roth
PAGE 6 DINING OUT
The Best of Dining Out’s 2011 Reviews By John Cullen with Marty Shayt
DATEBOOK
Calendar of Events
By Rachel Roth
THEATER
Iron Crow Presents Sunrize: The Musical, a loving satire of the great divas of contemporary musical theater.
By Kristi Metzger
afterhours PAGE 18 BSCENE
PAGE 7 THEATER
Carrie Fisher sits down with GL to discuss Wishful Drinking and being a gay icon. By Frank Kaye
A Toast to Del. Mary Washington at Gertrudes at the BMA Photos By Jay W.
Gay Bingo at Club Hippo
MUSIC
Local indie singer Amij headlines action-packed show.
Photos By Terra Hiltner
By Deb Hopkins
headlinenews PAGE 8 NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS By Rachel Roth
FEATURES PAGE 12
Maggie Beetz
Editor
ON THE COVER
PAGE 4 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
24th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change
firstperson
By Terri Solomon
PAGE 15 OP ED
Princess Leia herself, actress and author Carrie Fisher, brings her one-woman show, Wishful Drinking, to the Hippodrome Theatre.
Gender Identity Matters: Reflections on the importance of gender anti-discrimination laws
Photo by Michael Lamont
By Mark Patro
ALSO: Baltimore’s LGBT Nightlife Guide PAGE 10
241 W. Chase Street • Baltimore, MD 21201 Phone 410.837.7748 • Fax 410.837.8889 Email sales@baltimoregaylife.com
Maggie Beetz, Editor
M. Cory Burgess, Art Director cory@metroscapemedia.com
John Cullen, Deb Hopkins, Frank Kaye, Kristi Metzger, Mark Patro, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Terri Solomon
Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published every other Friday in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2011. 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.
Sabre Chase, Advertising
Photographers
editor@baltimoregaylife.com
sales@baltimoregaylife.com 410.837.7748
National Advertising Rep.
Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863
Marty Shayt
Contributors
Jay W Photos Terra Hiltner
Newspaper Committee
Trevor Ankeny, Bud Beehler, Kelly D. McClain, Terri Solomon
Senior Volunteer
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
outfront COMMUNITY
In Town for the Creating Change Conference? Conference attendees that bring a friend and show their conference badge get buyone-get-one-free entrance to Gay Bingo! Club Hippo hosts Gay Bingo on Wednesday night starting at 8:30pm. Proceeds benefit the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). There are also special games, a jackpot game, and pull tab games all available at $1 each. Pizza slices and snacks are also available at $1 each. This is a popular and fun activity that always promises to entertain.
GAY BINGO! Wednesday, 8:30pm • $20 Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. 410.547.0069 • ClubHippo.com While you’re in town, stop by the GLCCB, located in the Mt. Vernon neighborhood.
WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Accessible by Charm City Circulator (free bus) and the Light Rail ($). Visitors are encouraged to come Friday evening 6pm-8pm!
THE GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. • Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm 410.837.5445 • Glccb.org
Indoor Yard Sale to Benefit the GLCCB Whether you want to call it an “Out of the closet sale” or even a “Drag it out of the closet sale,” the GLCCB’s indoor yard sale is sure to be filled with fabulous treasures, one of a kind items, great bargains and of course, lots of fun. Mark your calendars and come join the fun!
INDOOR YARD SALE TO BENEFIT THE GLCCB Saturday, February 25 • 8am-1pm The GLCCB • 241 W. Chase St. $10 table rental • FREE to the public To rent a table, contact boardsecretary@glccb.org
VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 5
outfront DINING OUT
THEATER
Dining Out Reveals the 2011 “Golden Eleven” Awards Photo by Michael Wakefield
BY JOHN CULLEN WITH MARTY SHAYT
After another great year of dining out in and around Baltimore, and sharing their experiences with us, reviewers John and Marty compiled their 2011 Golden Eleven Awards. These awards highlight some of their most notable experiences of 2011.
BEST PIZZA!
KYRO (Mt. Vernon)
After trying a good amount of pizza in 2011, Marty’s hands-down favorite was the pizza at Kyro in Mt. Vernon.
900 Cathedral St. • 410.545.5112 KyroPizza.com
BEST PRESTO-CHANGO! WATERSTONE BAR AND GRILLE
(Mt. Vernon)
The conversion of the former lesbian bar, Coconuts, into a wonderfully attractive café with tasty Mediterranean inspired food and a welcoming attitude had our companion exclaim “This is a gem!” Runner up? Feast@4 East was a former doctor’s office!
311 W. Madison St. • 410.225.747 WaterstoneBarAndGrille.com
NICEST OWNER! CHAZZ (Harbor East)
Chazz Palminteri, co-owner and star of stage, film and TV was gracious and charming during an hour interview he gave us. His insights about playing a character on Modern Family mistaken for being gay impressed us to no end.
1415 Aliceanna St. • 410.522.5511 ChazzBronxOriginal.com
BEST “HOME STYLE” ITALIAN!
EMPORIO GRANO (Hampden)
Not to be confused with its tiny namesake on the Avenue, Emporio Grano impressed
Sunrize Highway us with its casual Italian ambience, delicious food, and exceptionally friendly staff.
3547 Chestnut Ave. • 443.438.7521 GranoPastaBar.com
BEST VIEW IN BALTIMORE! GRANDVIEW PENTHOUSE (Hampden)
While we haven’t dined yet at the new “Grandview Penthouse” (which replaced “Dizz Grandview”), you can still enjoy the spectacular “for miles” view of Baltimore for the cost of a sandwich and a soft drink under $10!
3838 Roland Ave. • 410.467.4040 GrandviewPenthouseRestaurant.com
BEST DESSERT! FRESHII (Charles Village)
The frozen Greek yogurt is wonderfully unlike any we’ve ever had, and the $5 portion is big enough for two to share. (Freshii’s soups and salads earned our thumbs-up too!)
3113 St. Paul St. • 410.467.3737 Freshii.com
BEST RESTAURANT NAME! MR. RAIN’S FUN HOUSE (Federal Hill)
On top of the incredibly quirky and intriguing American Visionary Art Museum, the restaurant name is fittingly quirky and intriguing.
800 Key Highway • 443.524.7379 MrRainsFunHouse.com
BEST LENTIL SOUP! CAFÉ TROIA (Towson)
FEEDBACK?
Contact us by emailing DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com PAGE 6 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
We’ve seen that lentil soup can vary widely from one restaurant to another. This un-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
Iron Crow Presents Sunrize: The Musical BY KRISTI METZGER
The Iron Crow Theatre Company is hosting their 2012 fundraiser on Saturday, February 4 with a one-night-only performance of Sunrize: The Musical. Sunrize is a female character that was created by and is performed by the Iron Crow’s very own Associate Director Joseph Ritsch. Sunrize Highway is a loving satire of the great divas of contemporary musical theater. Sunrize has been wowing audiences across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. New York Newsday says, “You’ll laugh so hard tears will roll down your face.” “Amazing…Hilarious,” was stated by Time Out New York. “I hurt the next day from laughing so hard,” said Carrie Hill who caught the show about two years ago. I had the exciting opportunity to work my way into Joseph Ritsch’s busy performance schedule to chat with him about the upcoming show in Baltimore.
GL: So, tell me about your character, Sunrize. What inspired the creation and how would you describe her? Joseph Ritsch: I’ve been doing Sunrize for about 12 years now. I was hired to do my own show at Lucky Cheng’s in New York City. I had been doing some drag with a dance company, but I didn’t have a specific character. As a theater artist I’ve always been interested in Liza and Shirley MacLaine. I wanted to make it somewhat autobiographical. I grew up on Long Island. I wanted to do this genre of entertaining leading lady. As I worked at Lucky Cheng’s I worked on this character and, about a year into it, I wrote a full-length piece and have done touring versions for about ten years
now. I have written original monologues about Sunrize about her life to string together the Broadway songs. She thinks she’s much more talented than she is.
What can people expect from Sunrize: The Musical? I consider her a female character that I play. I think that’s important because the word drag has so many stereotypes about it. It’s got a lot of great music in it. It’s a really fun night out.
How did you get into theater? I started pretty early. I started in high school and just finished my MFA at Towson. I have a BA in theater. I did some dancing in undergrad.
Tell me a little more about the Iron Crow Theatre Company. It started with Steven Satta, our artistic director. He teaches acting at Towson. We had done a project with University of Baltimore for gay pride called “Gay Expectations” about two summers ago. He really wanted to work with a group of artists. We’ve had our first full season, currently in the middle of our second season, and we’re planning the third. The company is committed to LGBTQ artists. We’re a queer theater company. We focus on original work from queer artists. ■
SUNRIZE: THE MUSICAL Saturday, February 4 • 8pm • $25 Theatre Project • 45 West Preston St. 410.752.8558 TheatreProject.org or IronCrowTheatre.com Wine reception with hors d’oeuvres and dancing to follow BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
THEATER
Carrie Fisher Brings Wishful Drinking to Baltimore Running from January 31 to February 12 at the Hippodrome Theatre, Carrie Fisher’s acclaimed show, Wishful Drinking, will delight audiences with riotous laughter and fierce honesty. This onewoman performance highlights the true and enthralling life of Fisher, who reminisces on her memories growing up as the child of two celebrity icons in Los Angeles. As daughter of ‘50s crooner Eddie Fisher and actress Debbie Reynolds, the tumultuous life of Fisher began early as a toddler. It was at this time that scandal erupted in the form of Fisher’s father falling wildly in love and in turn leaving Reynolds and his family, for the glamorous Elizabeth Taylor. Taylor, at the time, was the widow of Eddie’s best friend, Mike Todd. These anecdotes and more come up in Wishful Drinking.
WISHFUL DRINKING
Jan 31-Feb 12. 8pm. $35-70 Hippodrome Theatre 12 N. Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com
MUSIC
No stranger to Hollywood and tabloid gossip herself, Fisher’s bold wit and wry humor allows for a retelling of some of Hollywood’s most salacious stories. “I’m making fun of the stuff that’s not funny,” she said. Fisher continues to explain that by sharing her points, the show has demanded reflection and perspective on her life. Audience members will be captivated with Fisher’s raw performance as they journey with her through her complex Hollywood youth, rise to fame (cue the Star Wars main theme), and her struggle with bipolar disorder. “Performing is a lot easier than writing. Writing can feel like homework,” said Fisher who thoroughly enjoys the audience interaction in her shows. “I wish I could bring more people on stage.” Fisher’s sense of humor and honest persona in Wishful Drinking has won her legions of gay fans throughout the years. Upon being asked her reaction to having been considered by many as a ‘gay icon,’ Fisher responds: “Icon? Icon makes me [sound] old!” She recounts that her first three kisses were all gay men, as well as the fact she
Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann
BY FRANK KAYE
was once married to one. In Wishful Drinking, Fisher discusses her marriage to casting agent Bryan Lourd, father of her 20 year-old daughter, Billie. Fisher at one time believed that it was she who had ‘turned’ Lourd gay, only to realize
Amij Brings “Fusive Soul” to Music Fans in Baltimore BY DEB HOPKINS
Local indie singer-songwriter, producer and drummer Amij will be headlining an actionpacked show on January 28, at Rams Head Live. Amij released her debut album Peace in Chaos in 2011 with two captivating sold out performances at the historic Blues Alley in Washington, D.C. She has created a buzz on WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
the music scene on the east coast as well as the mid-west. Peace in Chaos is a heartfelt collection of originals that fuse heavy rock and R&B with hints of jazz, neo-soul, and classical, which is why it appeals to a wide range of fans. Amij’s unique musical focus is to transcend current distinctions in music, creating a sound she calls, “Fusive Soul.” The lyrics illustrate a journey of awareness, acceptance, and change. “Peace in Chaos represents the calm within the storm,” she explained. Her vision is to work through her music to positively affect the issues she is most passionate about. She has partnered with organizations that work to prevent animal neglect
years later that he was who he was, and on some level she knew. When asked who she would turn gay if she had the ability, Fisher laughed: “Any CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
and cruelty, domestic violence, and human trafficking, and plans to donate a portion of her proceeds to these important causes. This album not only showcases Amij’s abilities as both a vocalist and drummer with impeccable technical chops, she also wrote, arranged, and co-produced all of the tracks, collaborating only on a few songs. ■
AMIJ AND VC7 WITH OVER N OUT, CHRISTOPHER WILSON BAND
Saturday, January 28 Doors at 7pm • Show at 7:30pm $12, all ages Rams Head Live • 20 Market Pl. 410.244.8854 • RamsHeadLive.com VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 7
headlinenews NATIONAL
Activists Aim to Ease Birth A Transgender Certificate Revisions In New York, a group of transgendered men and women are fighting to make it easier for people to change their genders on birth certificates. The BBC reports that under current law, gender can only be amended on birth certificates if a person has undergone “convertive surgery.” Birth certificates are required to apply for public benefits, register for school, marry, and for a host of other circumstances. This has become problematic for transgender individuals who attempt to obtain government-issued identification, especially when their expressed gender does not match the one listed on the birth certificate. Three transgender people sued the state in 2011 because of the roadblocks they encountered when they tried to obtain government-issued documents. “Having something as simple as government recognition of our authentic gender identity goes a long way in promoting health, wellness, and safety,” Masen Davis, executive director of the Transgender Law Center in San Francisco told The BBC.” Opponents of the current law argue that gender is “the contents of a person’s mind and soul,” not in their genitalia. “Recognition of our gender is really a matter of basic human dignity,” Davis added. New York isn’t the only state facing this problem. In 2011, the Transgender Law Center in California successfully pushed for passage of legislation ending surgery as a requirement to obtain a new birth certificate. On a federal level, in 2010, the U.S. State Department issued new guidelines for changing gender in passports stating that “sexual reassignment surgery was no longer a prerequisite.” Under the guidelines, if an applicant has “certification from an attending medical physician that the applicant has undergone appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition,” they will be given a passport that reflects their new gender.
B Gay Marriage is Top Priority for NJ Democrats
Reach the local gay market... Advertise in Gay Life! Email us at Sales@BaltimoreGayLife.com to place your ad today!
Beginner Yoga With Yoga Therapist Tim Hurley
Sundays at 3:30pm (please arrive a few minutes early) Room 201 at The GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Cost is $9 www.glccb.org 410.837.5445 A portion of the cost is donated back to The GLCCB PAGE 8 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
New Jersey Democratic legislators have vowed to make gay marriage the top priority in the new session of Congress—which started on January 10. An article on Newsmax.com reports that Senate Democrats argue that marriage equality is a civil rights issue, and that current civil union law—passed in December 2006—isn’t working. The article states that the current state law is meant to give LGBT couples the same rights that straight married couples enjoy. Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver, however, says the two are not equal. “Civil unions send a message to the public that same-sex couples and their families are not equal to married couples in the eyes of the law,” Oliver told Newsmax.com. “It sends a message that same-sex couples are not good enough to warrant equality. This is the same wrong message we heard from segregation laws.” In 2009, a marriage equality bill was defeated 14-20. Certain lawmakers, however, have changed their position, and Senate President Stephen Sweeney is confident he now has the votes to pass it. Sweeney, who abstained to vote in 2009, has pledged to vote in favor of the legislation. He also told Newsmax.com that both Democrat and Republican Senators have reversed their position on gay marriage. But even if a marriage equality bill passes in congress, it will likely be vetoed by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Sweeney did not indicate if he could secure enough voted to override a veto, but did say that Democratic legislators are ready and willing to do whatever it takes. “We’ll work to do what we have to do. We’re going to work toward an override if necessary,” he said.
C Santorum Challenged on LGBT Rights Republican Presidential candidate Rick Santorum continues to reaffirm his stance on the LGBT lifestyle. At a campaign stop in New Hampshire, he suggested to students at a private school that an imprisoned father is better than a gay dad. LGBTQNation.com reports that Santorum was questioned repeatedly about his position on gay marriage during his speech at Dublin School, which runs from 9th to 12th grade. “Marriage is not a right,” Santorum told the students. “It’s a privilege that is given to society by society for a reason … We want to encourage what is the best for children.” Santorum also said it was critical for children to have both a father and mother and that even an imprisoned father was preferable to a same-sex parent. Citing an anti-poverty expert, Santorum said, “Even fathers in jail who had abandoned their kids were still better than no father at all to have in their children’s lives.” LGBTQNation.com reports that the audience—half students and half local residents—reacted with snorts and applause. This isn’t the first time Santorum has been confronted about his beliefs. The Washington Post reports that he was “aggressively heckled” at a campaign stop in the parking lot of a Manchester, N.H. restaurant. He also sparred with college students in Durham, N.H. The Washington Post reports Santorum “shrugged off the heckles” stating, “I come from southwestern Pennsylvania. I represented a district that had more steel workers in it than any other district in America. This is nothing. This is cake. Steel workers, those are serious folks. This is no problem.” In the January 10 primary, he finished in a disappointing fourth, tying with Newt Gingrich.
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
BY RACHEL ROTH
D
F
A
G Former Child Actress Comes Out
C
B G
Kristy McNichol—the former child and teen star of Family and Empty Nest—revealed to People Magazine that she is a lesbian. In one of her first public statements in years, the Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning actress said her decision to open up about her private life was a matter of timing. “[I am] approaching 50, and want to be open about who I am.” McNichol also wanted to send a message to LGBT youth. Her publicist Jeff Ballard told the magazine that she is very sad about kids being bullied. “She hopes that coming out can help kids who need support,” he said. “She would like to help others who feel different.”
INTERNATIONAL
D grounds of sexual orientation,” he said. “We resolved homosexuality is not going to be recognized at law, but the issue we are still discussing is discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation.” According to Newsday, Mwonzora went on to say that, while homosexuality was not going to be recognized by law, discrimination of gays and lesbians in housing and employment would not be tolerated. “Discrimination on the basis of one being gay should not be condoned and as Copac we are still to discuss that issue,” Mwonzora said.
E
A
Victory Predicted for D Likely Marriage Equality in Washington State The Associated Press is reporting that the Washington legislature is “on the verge of having enough support to approve gay marriage.” The AP contacted all 49 senators and, through polling, discovered that more lawmakers are now firmly supporting gay marriage than opposing it. Currently at 22-18, and the measure needs just three more votes to pass the Senate. The House is expected to pass the bill. If Washington legalizes gay marriage, it will become just the seventh state to do so.
E Law Seeks Protection for Religious Beliefs Lawmakers in Tennessee are proposing legislation that would protect students who speak out against homosexuality, as long as their religious beliefs warrant it. TheDailyActivist.com reports that the new bill is “top priority” for the Family Action Council of Tennessee, an ultraconservative collective of Republicans. The group’s December newsletter said that they aim “to make sure [the law] protects the religious liberty and free speech rights of students who want to express their views on homosexuality.” The Tennessee Equality Project, an LGBT advocacy group, says that the legislation “will allow students to hide their irrational biases behind an extreme religious belief.” Tennessee Equality Project official Chris Sanders told TheDailyActivits.com that “this kind of legislation can send a message that it’s ok to hate and we’ll even give you religious sanction for it.”
F
Chicago Cardinal Apologizes for Anti-LGBT Remarks
Chicago Cardinal Frances George apologized for likening the church’s clash with the gay rights movement to the anti-Catholicism of the Ku Klux Klan. Despite the apology gay rights activists gathered in protest outside Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, Ill. on January 8. “It is totally inadequate,” Andy Thayer, co-founder of the Gay Liberation Network, said to The Chicago Tribune. George, when asked about next summer’s pride parade and whether or not it would disrupt Sunday services, had replied, “You know, you don’t want the gay liberation movement to morph into something like the Ku Klux Klan, demonstrating in the streets against Catholicism.” Some, however, are satisfied with the Cardinal’s apology. Joe Murray executive director of the Rainbow Sash Movement—a group of gay and lesbian Catholics who believe they should receive Holy Communion—believed George was sincere. “We asked for an apology, and we got an apology,” said Murray.
WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
B
C
Jamaican A New PM an Ally Newly elected Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has called to end discrimination against LGBT people. Simpson Miller, the first female prime minister, said in a recent election debate that “No one should be discriminated against because of their sexual orientation.” She also said that she would be open to appointing a qualified gay person to her cabinet. A 2006 article in Time called Jamaica one of the “most homophobic places on earth.”
B
Zimbabwe Charter Excludes LGBT Rights
Homosexuality will not be recognized in Zimbabwe’s new charter, Newsday reports. The issue of gay rights has been a contentious one during the drafting of the new constitution, with the former ruling party Zanu PF openly opposing them and declaring they would never see the light of day. But Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe (Galz) Director Chesterfield Samba feels their mission is misunderstood. “Galz is in no way advocating for same-sex marriage in its submission to [the charter],” Samba said. Zimbabwe’s Constitution Select Committee (COPAC) co-chairperson Douglas Mwonzora said the select committee, resolved not to recognize gays and lesbians in the new constitution. “We have sat down as the select committee and finalized some of the outstanding issues that were parked, like freedom of choice and discrimination of people on
C
Tel Aviv Voted Best Gay City
GayCities.com, a travel site specializing in LGBT clientele, has named Tel Aviv the “world’s best gay city.” GayCity.com calls Tel Aviv “the city that never takes a break,” and says the LGBT life is “perhaps the most vibrant in the Middle East.” The site also reports that “rarely a month goes by that Tel Aviv isn’t celebrating some musical or cultural event,” adding that “huge dance parties” host local and European DJs each weekend. They also credit the democratic tradition of Israel, because the gay community enjoys political freedom unparalleled in other middle-eastern countries.
D
Pope Calls Gay Marriage Threat to Humanity
Pope Benedict XVI warned diplomats from nearly 180 countries that gay marriage is one of several threats to the traditional family unit that “undermines the future of humanity itself.” According to the Daily Mail, the pontiff argued that children need to be raised in a “proper setting” and that “pride of place goes to the family, based on the marriage of a man and a woman.” He continued: “Policies which undermine the family threaten human dignity and the future of humanity itself. The family unit is fundamental for the educational process and for the development both of individuals and states.” ■
VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 9
Baltimore LGBT After a long day, Creating Change conference-goers and locals alike can find LGBT spots where they can drink, dance, relax, and mingle. Many quality establishments are found in the Mt. Vernon “gayborhood” (including many of the city’s most delicious and welcoming restaurants!) but LGBT bars can be found all over. From leather to lesbian, these fun and friendly places will be happy to welcome you. Call ahead for specials, or just pop in to check out the LGBT Baltimore bar and club scene.
Mt. Vernon A
Drinkery
203-207 W. Read St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-225-3100
Named the best bar in Mount Vernon by Baltimore City Paper in 1999 and Best Gay Dive Bar in 2005, The Drinkery is a dark, loud and friendly neighborhood bar with karaoke and great 2-for-1 Happy Hour deals. B
Grand Central
1001-1003 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-752-7133 www.centralstationpub.com
Nestled in the heart of Mt. Vernon, Grand Central has established itself as the cornerstone of trendy, upscale nightlife in Baltimore city. Grand Central has three distinct areas: The Disco (Baltimore’s best high-tech, industrial dance floor), The Pub (with a pool parlor and karaoke), and Sappho’s (an exclusive ladies lounge). C
Hippo
1 W. Eager St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-547-0069 www.clubhippo.com Established in 1972 in the heart of Mount Vernon, the Hippo has been a cornerstone in the gay and lesbian community in Baltimore, and greeting all those who love and support us. Their motto “Where everyone is welcome” stands true to this day. Whether you want to dance the night away, relax in the video bar, or enjoy a cocktail and a pool game in the saloon, Hippo has something to suit everyone’s mood! Gay Bingo every Wednesday night at 8:30 benefits the GLCCB. D
Triple L & Leon’s
227 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-539-4850 www.leonsleatherlounge.com
Located just two doors down from the GLCCB, Leon’s Leather Lounge (Triple L) is the newest leather/levi bar in the heart of Mt. Vernon. On Tuesday nights at 8:30, patrons can enjoy an all male revue, hosted by Ada Buffet. Attached to Triple L is Leon’s of Baltimore, Maryland’s oldest gay bar where Happy Hour and great times never sleep! PAGE 10 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
E
Waterstone Bar & Grille
311 W. Madison St. 410-255-7475 www.waterstonebarandgrille.com
Formerly Coconut’s, this lesbian-owned bar and restaurant offers Mediterranean Cuisine, as well as wines and specialty drinks in a upscale atmosphere which caters to all.
Midtown F
Baltimore Eagle
2022 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21218 410-524-3333 www.thebaltimoreeagle.com
Like many big cities, Baltimore has its own Eagle, a bar focused on the leather and Levi-wearing segment of the gay community. Weekly nights include bare chest night, dollar draft night and jock gear night. Each month, Baltimore Eagle hosts a Full Moon underwear night as well. G
Gallery
1735 Maryland Ave. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-539-6965 This friendly, casual bar and restaurant is welcoming to both men and women. Dinner is served MondaySaturday, 6-8:30pm.
Downtown H
Club Bunns
608 W. Lexington St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-234-2866
This fun club caters largely to the African-American community and plays the latest hip-hop hits. I
Port in a Storm
4330 E. Lombard St. Baltimore, MD 21224 410-534-0014 www.myspace.com/atportinastorm One of the few lesbian-centric bars in Baltimore, Port in a Storm is known for its very affordable drinks and
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
Nightlife Guide MAP COURTESY VISITBALTIMORE.COM SEE TRANSPORTATION INFO AT CHARMCITYCIRCULATOR.COM
ever-popular pool tables. In 2007, Baltimore City Paper named it the Best Lesbian Bar. J
Ziascos
1313 E. Pratt St. Baltimore, MD 21231 410-276-5790 Ziascos is a lesbian-owned bar and lounge conveniently located on the Charm City Circulator’s orange line.
Federal Hill K
The Rowan Tree
1633 S. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21230 410-468-0550 www.therowantree.net
The Rowan Tree provides its patrons with an environment that welcomes people of all walks of life and
WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
lifestyles. The nightspot has a full-service, oversized lounge/bar, a separate lounge and game room, daily drink specials and promotions, and is rentable for private parties.
Highlandtown L
Quest
3607 Fleet St. Baltimore, MD 21224 410-563-2617 This neighborhood gay bar attracts locals with its great Happy Hour specials, 4-8pm daily and all day Thursdays. The jukebox has a huge selection and karaoke happens monthly.
For more Baltimore happenings check out our Calendar of Events (p. 17) VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 11
24th National Conference on LGBT Equality
CREATING CHANGE Largest annual gathering of LGBT rights activists and allies takes place in Baltimore on January 25-29, 2012 BY TERRI SOLOMON
S
ue Hyde, director of The National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, took some time to talk to Gay Life about the weekend’s speakers, panelists, and programming. It’s a full schedule that includes some big names, and some lesser-known activists from around the world. Benjamin Jealous, president and CEO of the NAACP, is the opening plenary speaker on Thursday night, January 26. Jealous’s administration sponsored and hosted a panel on LGBT issues at the 2011 NAACP Annual Convention in Los Angeles, as well as launched the LGBT Task Force of the NAACP, chaired by Julian Bond. “We’re very excited to have Mr. Jealous, a new and very energetic leader. It was an easy choice for us,” said Hyde. “We respect his work bringing the NAACP into a more active support of LGBT people and families. We have in Mr. Jealous a strong ally.” A Maryland resident, Jealous is also a “hometown guy,” Hyde said. “We thought that too was important in our choice.” Jealous also has an adopted brother who is gay. Speaking of local connections, Baltimore City Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake will be present at Thursday’s welcoming reception at 7 p.m. First Lady Katie O’Malley is scheduled to speak at the opening plenary later that night. On Friday, National Gay and Lesbian
PAGE 12 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
Joel Simpson
Benjamin Jealous
Daniel Baer
Sharon Brackett
Val Kalende
Sue Hyde
Meredith Moise Nisha Ayub
Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey will deliver her annual State of the Movement address. This address will “recognize key advances and progress made in the past year and discuss challenges in the year to come,” said Hyde. Saturday’s plenary event features a panel on international LGBT issues. While the conference has always had workshops on these issues, according to Hyde, this will be the first year featuring a plenary session devoted to this timely topic. “In the positive wake of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s address in which she said, ‘LGBT rights are human rights,’ this is a great opportunity for folks to learn more about how we as activists can support colleagues around the world,” she said. Cary Alan Johnson, executive director of the International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission, will moderate the panel. Panelists include: Nisha Ayub, who works with transgender communities through the Pink Triangle Foundation of Malaysia; Joel Simpson, founder of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination in Guyana; and Val Kalende, a Ugandan activist and co-founder of the only lesbian organization in the country. Hyde is also expecting the participation of Daniel Baer, the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Department of State, and the Director of the Bureau of Democracy, Hu-
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
man Rights and Labor. According to Hyde, Baer is the highest-ranking openly gay official in the Department of State and has been a leader in the expansion of LGBT human rights worldwide, under Secretary of State Clinton. Creating Change will also have its first federal Lobby Day this year. There are over 100 people registered for the event, which will take place on Thursday, January 26 in Washington, D.C. The Lobby Day begins with training sessions at the conference, followed by a bus trip to Washington, D.C. for Capitol Hill visits. “Members of our staff from public policy and government were excited about the proximity of this conference to Washington, D.C., and wanted to create an opportunity for Creating Change attendees, especially those who live far away from our capitol, to visit with elected representatives,” said Hyde.
Spirituality during times of change Lest you think Creating Change will be all speakers, panels, information and network building, think again. Even the busiest activist needs some time for reflection. Rev. Meredith Moise heads the Spiritual Needs subcommittee, which has planned a variety of spiritual and religious programs for the conference. On Friday, there will be Jum’ah prayer (Islamic prayer service) during the day, and Shabbat (Jewish service) in the evening. Sunday’s interfaith service will have participants from around the nation. Moise will be involved, possibly doing the welcome. “We are working in conjunction with the Practice Spirit, Do Justice cohort, which is the Welcoming Resources wing of the Task Force. Their mission is to broaden the faith perspective of the LGBT movement, to provide resources for congregations to become open and affirming, and to spread the LGBT message in faith communities,” said Moise. Practice Spirit, Do Justice is a curriculum and set of workshops and trainings focused specifically on building the political power of faith-based activists. Launched at Creating Change 2011 in Minneapolis, the successful program will have 35 sessions at this year’s conference. “We believe that the capacity of faithbased activists working alongside LGBT activists will strengthen us and put us in a much better position to counter some of the anti-LGBT religious rhetoric in this country,“ said Hyde. “This meets an important need and attracts people who do work within faith-based communities.” There will also be clergy on call during the conference, and those interested in re-
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ceiving pastoral counseling can go to the Local Hospitality Table between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. This service is provided by Maryland Faith for Equality, an interfaith organization that promotes LGBT civil rights advocacy. “Creating change is vulnerable, courageous work. When we are claiming our truth, we can feel alone and unsure of the path we are taking. None of us can do this work alone. This is a service to help you focus on your truth and support your journey,” states the organization.
A little hospitality goes a long way We’re not called Charm City for nothing! According to local planning committee cochair Matt Thorn, there will be six hospitality suites in the Hilton Baltimore, each designed for “like-minded individuals who want to stay close to the hotel, mingle, eat, and enjoy some programming.” For example, on Friday night in the Trans Suite, Michelle Farrell will be showing her autobiographical film, Unraveling Michelle (2008). The Youth Suite is sure to have activities to attract budding teenage activists, while the Health and Wellness Suite will focus more on education. The other suites are Bisexuality, People of Color, and Elder/Differently Abled, proving that there’s something for everyone here. Thorn and his committee have raised about $15,000 to provide food, resources, programming, and a welcome bag to the expected 3,000 attendees. Another way to show our Baltimore pride and to make participants feel welcome in our town is at the Hospitality and Information Table. Sharon Brackett leads the Local Hospitality and Information Committee, and is prepared to welcome visitors to the Hilton Baltimore with open arms. “This is the help desk of Baltimore. It will be staffed by Baltimore-savvy volunteers who will also have a computer and Internet access,” said Brackett. “We will be helping folks with everything from city information and public transit to nightlife to crab cakes.”
Volunteering for Creating Change Although Creating Change is right around the corner, it’s not too late to give your time to this worthy cause. As an added bonus, those who can volunteer for four hours each day receive free admission to the conference, a $275-375 savings. Matt Thorn, who oversees the Volunteer Committee, has about 350 volunteers to date, and would like to reach 400 by
conference time. Last minute volunteers need to attend the January 22 training. More information can be found online at CreatingChange.org. “This is a conference where we expect over 3,000 people from around the world. Volunteering gives you the ability to have a hand in what is going on,” said Thorn. “It’s hard to describe the size of it. Once you are in it, it’s a whirlwind of what is involved.”
Host committee chairs live and learn (before the conference even begins) As anyone who has ever worked on a committee already knows, its hard work, because you are responsible for producing something impressive, something almost larger than the sum of all its parts, and you do the hard work trusting that the cause is worth-while and the work will pay off. For Rev. Meredith Moise, Matt Thorn, Rev. Sam Offer, and Sharon Brackett, much of the hard work has already been done, and they have faced challenges and reaped rewards in the months leading up to the conference. “Sometimes it’s like herding cats because you have so many people doing so many things,” said Moise. Brackett echoed that sentiment. “We’ve had to get people from Baltimore and around the state all moving in the same direction,” she said. “We had a large group of people who didn’t know each other very well, and once we started to trust each other, we could be productive.” The challenges for Thorn were more in describing the scope of the conference to be to the public. “This will be my first Creating Change conference, although I’ve been to similar ones in the past. For a lot of people in Baltimore, it will be their first as well,” he said. “Relaying to the public that this is a massive thing, with 3,000 LGBT individuals was challenging. It’s going to be eye-popping for people.” And the rewards? They range from “the establishment of new, marvelous friendships and finding support and energy in unexpected places” (Brackett) to “the connections I’ve made with people as we’ve rallied together and created relationships” (Thorn). “Working with various activists and being able to view a significant change in Baltimore has been most rewarding,” said Moise. “Visitors may come in and have heard a lot of negativity about our city, but I think people will come away from this conference really loving Baltimore. At the end of the day, I am confident that our city will show its best side.” ■
GLCCB Partners with Youth of the Rainbow for Creating Change! GLCCB is partnering with Youth of the Rainbow to provide their LGBT youth a voice at The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s National Conference: Creating Change. Denise R. Duarte, the GLCCB artist in residence, a Master of Fine Art in Community Arts program candidate at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in collaboration with MICA, will facilitate the project. Youth of the Rainbow, a local non-profit, was founded in July, 2011, to provide life skills as well as employment development for LGBT youth. Youth of the Rainbow will conceive, design and create a LGBT issue-based multi-media mural to be unveiled at Creating Change. The mural will serve as a platform of expression for the youth regarding the LGBT issue priorities that impact their lives. Creating Change will also be hosting a Youth Hospitality Suite during the conference. The GLCCB Creating Change art project was funded by MICA’s Student Affairs Community Service Fund. ■
Xbox 360 games needed! The Youth Hospitality Suite at The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s National Conference: Creating Change will focus on providing a safe and welcoming space for LGBT youth Thursday through Saturday, January 26–28, 2012. Local volunteers are working to provide items needed to make the space a festive retreat. They need Xbox 360 video games among other items. Contact Denise at GLCCB if you would like to donate youth orientated materials and Xbox 360 video games: 410-837-5445 ext.15 or dduarte@glccb.org. The conference is free to youth 16 years and younger. Baltimore youth 16+ years can attend the conference for free if they volunteer for four hours per day. Register to volunteer at www.creatingchange.org/ volunteer. ■
VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 13
firstperson OP ED
Gender Identity Matters BY MARK PATRO, PFLAG PRESIDENT BALTIMORE COUNTY
Editor’s Note: The following editorial was written in response to Bill 3-12 introduced by Baltimore County Councilman Tom Quirk on January 17. Also known as “An Act Concerning Human Relations” this bill aims to protect people from discrimination in the areas of Public Accommodations, Employment, Housing, Education, and Finance on the basis of “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression.” All of us have an identity and most of us do not question where it came from. It’s just something we grew into. My bedroom was painted blue when I came home from the hospital. Yours may have been pink. I don’t know for sure, but this was pretty standard in the 1950s when I was born. It still is for most of us. Some of us might have had a yellow or green bedroom because our parents, or most likely our mothers, had learned something of stereotypes. What does this have to do with identity you ask? My point is that we have different kinds of experiences. You know this because you read and you have had some life experiences of your own. You have met boys who turned out as if they grew up in a pink bedroom. My three sisters and brother grew up in the standard identity that matched their bodies and their sexual orientation matched the expectations that society, school, church, family, and peers placed on them. As I grew up I realized that my sexual orientation was different than my siblings’. My identity formed in a different way than the others in my family. I had a perspective that they could not comprehend. When I was old enough to learn that some girls wore boys’ clothes and that some boys wore girls’ clothes, I learned that there was a kind of identity that I didn’t understand. Many folks have attempted to convince me or those like me that my orientation was actually a preference that I chose. It turned out they were wrong. But even though I had my own personPAGE 14 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
al experience with “being other,” it was difficult for me to understand completely the need for someone to transition their gender. I was, after all, “normalized” in a heterosexual-body-gender-matching society. Later, when I actually listened to the first transman I heard talk about his female-to-male journey, I still wasn’t sure I understood the scope of his experience—completely. I’m still not sure I do now. But if we are going to live in a multicultural society we are going to have to receive multiple perspectives as well as transmit our single perspective. My attempt to understand transgender people was clouded by the existence of men who wore costumes on stage while lip-synching. And then there were other men who were married to women, but seemed to enjoy wearing feminine clothing to enhance their erotic experience during sex. I met other boyish-men who got off on wearing a skirt for the shock value. To me it seemed similar to the performance Syd Vicious perpetrated on our static western culture of the late 1970s. At that time I was not aware that people of one gender really wanted to physically change their bodies to match their gender, until John Money famously was performing “sex change” surgeries at a local East Baltimore hospital in the early 1980’s. The journey those patients were on was not about clothing, costumes, or performances. It was about aligning their physical being with their spiritual gender. Of course there is controversy and confusion when it comes to people who transition. Some believe it’s about the clothing. Some even believe one gender wears the clothing of the other in order to pass in the bathroom of the other gender—a ludicrous argument that implies that all men are predators. But centering your whole being on clothing sounds more like a costume queen (male or female) than is does about becoming who your psyche and spirit tell you who you ought to be. So now we fight over whether we want to be possessive of our “private space” or share it. Who knows what the outcome will be. Some will fight tooth and nail to divide the community over “what we can get” vs. “we want all of it NOW!” And BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
still others will focus the argument on what the majority will lose instead of what the minority will gain. Whether this is fair doesn’t matter, its politics. We live in a political world. If gender were not defined in a binary fashion this would be less of an issue. We understand that orientation exists on a continuum. Why is it so difficult to understand this about gender?
We as a community need to accept that men (and this goes for women transitioning the other way too) who find it necessary to transition are not men, they are women and as such should have the right to use the women’s restroom, and it should be codified in law. ■ Mark Patro is the president of the Baltimore County chapter of PFLAG.
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VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 15
Building Community Since 1977 The GLCCB is proud to offer a wide range of free and low-cost programs, events, and services to the community. . Unless otherwise noted, all events are held at the GLCCB located at 241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore. For more information please visit www.glccb.org or call 410-837-5445.
WOMEN’S PROGRAMS
TRANSGENDER PROGRAMS
WOMEN OF COLOR
GENDER IDENTITY GROUP (GIG)
Meets 2nd, 4th, and 5th Thursdays at 7:30pm in room 202 For info contact WOC@glccb.org
Meets 2nd Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact GIG@glccb.org
WOMEN OUT AND ABOUT
GIG: Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance
A collective group committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors.
A social group for LBTQ women who want to meet new people while enjoying fun activities. Meets off-site, dates and times vary For info contact BWOAEvents@yahoo.com
MEN’S PROGRAMS MEN LIKE ME
An open support group for adult men who love other men with the objective of empowering participants to take care of themselves and each other. Topics of discussion include coming out, homophobia, relationships, and more provided in a safe and supportive environment. Meets 2nd and 4th Mondays at 6:00pm in room 201 For info contact MenLikeMe2glccb.org
A support group for transgender, gender queer, and anyone who varies from traditional gender expression.
A support group for FTMs.
Meets 4th Saturday at 6:00pm in room 202 For info contact BTMA@glccb.org
GIG: Tran*quality
A support group for MTFs Meets 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact Tranquility@glccb.org
GIG: SOFFA-T
A support and resource group for significant others, friends, family, and allies of transgender persons. Meets 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 202
HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS
POZ MEN
A peer support group for men who are HIV+. Meets EVERY Wednesday at 7:00pm in room 202 For info contact POZMen@glccb.org
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT PROGRAM SUFFICIENT AS I AM (SAIM)
A supportive group for youth and young adults 24 years of age and under. Youth are welcome to drop-in and try out this successful long running program that features discussion sessions, special events, guest speakers, and trips. Meets EVERY Saturday at 12:00pm in room 201 For info contact SAIM@glccb.org
EXPRESS YOURSELF
A youth-led, artist facilitated art program for young adults 24 years of age and under. There are weekly arts workshops, youth art exhibitions, and trips to local museums. Artistic expertise is NOT required to join us and Express Yourself! Meets EVERY Saturday at 3:30pm in room 101 For info contact Denise at dduarte@glccb.org or 410-837-5445 ext. 15
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS The GLCCB offers a wide range of community events including art shows, musical performances, variety shows, special events, and projects. For more info look for separate ads in the Gay Life newspaper or visit our website at
BEGINNERS’ YOGA
Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. Drop-ins WELCOME! $9.00 per person, per class EVERY Sunday at 3:30pm in room 201
HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING
FREE and confidential testing provided by the Baltimore City Health Dept. EVERY Wednesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on 3rd Floor
RECOVERY PROGRAMS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Meets EVERY Monday at 8:30pm, Thursday at 8:30pm, and Saturday at 6:30pm in room 201
AA—POSITIVELY SOBER
an open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides a safe place for those with HIV or other health related issues. All are welcome. Meets every Sunday at 6:15pm in room 201 For info contact jeffreysquibb@yahoo.com
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
Men’s Rap group for men in recovery.
The GLCCB is the publisher of
The GLCCB is the producer of
Meets EVERY Sunday at 11:30am in Room 201
www.glccb.org PAGE 16 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
outgoing
Charm City LGBT Film Festival: Check out seven of the best queer filmmaking of the past year and a free film just for youth. $5-25. 11am. Thru 1/21. Creative Alliance at The Patterson, 3134 Eastern Ave., 410.276.1651, CreativeAlliance.org
Saturday, January 28
Charm City Tribal: The skilled and fiery Charm City Tribal bellydancers, with headliner Belladonna, team up with Kallisti Tribal, Nikki Murphy, Rashelle Celestin, and Naadirah for the Bloody Hearts Ball. $15. 8pm. Thru 1/22. Hamilton Arts Collective, 5440 Harford Rd., HamiltonArt.org
Amij and VC7: (See article p. 7). $12. 7pm. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Pl., 410.244.8854, RamsHeadLive.com
Telling: Baltimore: Seven Baltimore area military veterans and family members— including a DADT veteran—take the stage in a live performance of their own words, transcribed and scripted from interviews conducted by playwright Jonathan Wei of The Telling Project. $15-20. 7:30pm. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MarylandHall.org
Vibrant Youth Open House: The Holistic Wellness Spa & Boutique hosts an open house. Donations benefit BARCS and Recycled Love. FREE. 12-4pm. Apothecary Wellness, 1200 Light St., Apothecary-Wellness.com
E M A I L YOUR E V E NT INFO TO C ALENDAR @B ALT I MO R EGAY LI F E.CO M
SPECIAL GUEST
J POPE SPOTLIGHT
BY RACHEL ROTH
Charm City Kitty Club Presents Episode 2: Hot and Bothered Ten years ago, a “bunch of queer women” in Baltimore wanted to create a space devoted to promoting lesbian, queer, and trans artists. Now, the Charm City Kitty Club is celebrating a decade of boundary-pushing performance art in, what “Kitty” Lilia Rissman calls, a “sexy fun time.” In this second of three “Episodes,” the CCKC recounts their awkward years. “We wanted something really fun and playful [like] remembering the hot and bothered times of our queer adolescence,” Rissman said. To get into the teen spirit prior to the show, the audience can take part in speed dating. “This is a totally new feature,” Rissman explained, “[but] it is part of a new initiative to make the cocktail hour before the show more social and interactive.” Episode 2 also features J Pope, Funk Friday, and Dandy Vagabonds—who spent the past year traveling the world, training in acrobalancing and acrobatics. Adding to the collective spirit of the CCKC is a performance from emerging bicycle performance artist, Gabby Viggo & Get Your Bearings. Episode 1 debuted in October and told the story of the birth of the CCKC and Episode 3 will premier in May.
Event Info
CHARM CITY KITTY CLUB: HOT AND BOTHERED
Saturday, January 28 • 8pm • $10-15 • Creative Alliance at The Patterson 3134 Eastern Ave. • 410.276.1651 • CreativeAlliance.org
DATEBOOK Friday, January 20 Charm City LGBT Film Festival: Sample some of the best queer filmmaking of the past year. The festival features nine films—2 on Friday, 7 on Saturday—and a free film just for youth. For information on showings, ticket packages and the films being screened visit CreativeAlliance.org. $5-25. 7pm. Thru 1/21. Creative Alliance at The Patterson, 3134 Eastern Ave., 410.276.1651 Wine Tasting: Get your weekend started off right with complimentary tastings of wines from around the world. Discounts on bottles included in tastings. FREE. 5-8pm. Fridays. Spirits of Mt Vernon, 900 N. Charles St., 410.727.7270, SpiritsOfMtVernon.com Generous Company’s Gumbo: Three new plays from WordBRIDGE Playwrights Laboratory, followed by receptions with the Playwrights, cast and crew. Part of a series of 16 new theatrical works in various stages of development. FREE. 8pm. Thru 1/21. Theater Project, 45 W. Preston St., TheatreProject.org Baltimore Restaurant Week Begins: The culinary event of the year. Enjoy a threecourse dinner for $20.12 or $30.12. Select venues offer two-course lunches for $15.12. For participating restaurants visit: BaltimoreRestaurantWeek.com Eclipse! at Club Orpheus: Dance to a mezmerizing light show with video projectors, lasers and strobes. 9pm every Friday. 18+. Club Orpheus, 1003 E. Pratt St., ClubOrpheus.webs.com
Saturday, January 21 Baltimore Frontrunners: Running/walking club for LGBT individuals and friends. Assemble 8:45am, run 9am. Reassemble for brunch 10am. Panera Bread, 3600 Boston St., BaltimoreFrontrunners.org WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Tuesday, January 24 PFLAG Baltimore County General Meeting: Support group and Q&A for parents of LGBT children. FREE. 7pm. Towson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1710 Dulaney Valley Road, Lutherville, PFLAGBaltimore.org Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County: A support group for LGBT and questioning teens and their allies. RYA is a safe place to ask questions, find mutual support, and learn information pertinent to their lives. Contact: rya_leaders@hotmail.com. Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, 410.280.9047, PFLAGmd.org Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County: A support group for LGBT and questioning teens and their allies. RYA is a safe place to ask questions, find mutual support, and learn information pertinent to their lives. Contact: RYABaltimoreCounty@ gmail.com. FREE. 7:30-9:30pm. Towson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1710 Dulaney Valley Road, Lutherville, PFLAGBaltimore.org Parents of Transgender Kids Support Group: Support group and Q&A for parents of transgender kids. Meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month. Contact: cvhyde@ gmail.com Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, PFLAGMD.org
Wednesday, January 25 24th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change: (See article p. 12). Thru 1/29. CreatingChange.org. BINGO! Come for happy hour, stay for Bingo. Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Enjoy drink specials, appetizers, and raffles all night. Hosted by Roger Dimick. Proceeds benefit GLCCB. (Buy-one-get-one-free for Creating Change attendees; see p. 4). 8:30pm. Club Hippo, 1 W. Eager St., 410.547.0069, ClubHippo.com
Charm City Kitty Club: Hot and Bothered: (See Spotlight.)
Sunday, January 29
Matt Nathanson: VH1’s You Oughta Know artist takes a break from his would tour with Kelly Clarkson to perform in the Charm City. $20. 6:30pm. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Place, RamsHeadLive.com, MattNathanson.com
Tuesday, January 31 A Night OUT: “Skull in Connemara”: Enjoy an evening of theater an cocktails, specifically engineered for the LGBTQA community. Tonight’s preview: In a flyspeck of a town in Ireland’s fabled West, four lonely, lovable misfits dig for the truth. $10-30. 6:30pm. Centerstage, 700 N. Calvert St., CenterStage.org Carrie Fisher: Wishful Drinking: (See article p. 7) $35-70. 8pm. Thru 2/12. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St., France-MerrickPAC.com
Wednesday, February 1 BINGO! Come for happy hour, stay for Bingo. Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Enjoy drink specials, appetizers, and raffles all night. Hosted by Roger Dimick. Proceeds benefit GLCCB. 8:30pm. Club Hippo, 1 W. Eager St., 410.547.0069, ClubHippo.com Libations for Lovers: Bartender Andrew Bernstein crafts cocktails perfect for Valentine’s Day, and answer your questions about spirits for home entertaining. Guests will enjoy tasting pours of all three drinks, accompanied by an array of bar snacks. Event is limited to 40 people. $25. 6pm & 8pm. The Wine Market, 921 E. Fort Ave., LiquidCultureBaltimore.com Voices Out Loud: A Celebration of Bayard Rustin: Celebrate the 100th birthday of the ‘unsung prophet’ of the civil rights movement with spoken word by top DC area poets Chris August and Regie Cabico, music and documentaries chronicling the life of Rustin. FREE. 5:30-8pm. National Museum for Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, Washington, DC, CivilRights.org
Thursday, February 2
Transgender Issues Working Group: Meets every other Wednesday. Registration required. FREE. 7pm. Equality Maryland, 1201 S. Sharp St., Contact Owen@ EqualityMaryland.org
Fiddler on the Roof: Relive the glorious “Tradition” of the musical theater with this Tony Award winner. $91-146. 7:30pm. Thru 2/4. The Lyric, 140 W. Mt Royal Ave., LyricOperaHouse.com
Thursday, January 26
The Chocolate Affair: The area’s best restaurants, caterers, and chocolatiers share their gifts during an incredible hors d’oeuvre reception and dessert buffet with a chocolate-inspired dinner. All done in thanks for your support of Health Care for the Homeless. $150-1,500. 6pm. Baltimore Waterfront Marriott Hotel, 700 Aliceanna St., ChocolateAffair.org
Lobby Day for Job Protections and Safe Schools: Participate in the first-ever Creating The Change Day, focused on federal employment nondiscrimination protections and safe schools. Training from leading experts. FREE. 9am-6:30pm. Register: kintera.org/AutoGen/Register Hilton Baltimore, 401 W. Pratt St., TransgenderEquality. wordpress.com Night Sweats: A pay-what-you-can preview of multi-media, collaborative theatre exploring irrational fears. 8pm. Thru 2/4. EMP Collective, 306 E. Redwood St., EMPCollective.org
That Pretty Pretty; or, The Rape Play Battle: Sheila Callaghan’s antic revenge story blends fantasy, feminism, and satire with gonzo bouts of sex and violence, this dark, dark, dark, comedy will shake audiences out of their theatrical doldrums. Pay-whatyou-can dress rehearsal. Thru 2/18. 8pm. The Strand Theater, 1823 N. Charles St., 410.874.4917, Strand-Theater.org
Friday, January 27
Friday, February 3
Under Cover: Examine the continuously shifting definitions of shelter and privacy and how surveillance of the overexposure of personal information helps dissolve the boundary between public and private space. FREE. 10am-5pm. Thru 3/11. MICA, Fox Building’s Decker Gallery, 1303 W. Mount Royal Ave., MICAUnderCover.com
Shadow Puppet Workshop with Nana Projects: Participants of all ages create shadow puppets based on traditional shadow puppet techniques from around the world. FREE. 12-4pm. Maryland Art Place at Power Plant Live! 8 Market Pl., MDArtPlace.org
Poetry of Frank O-Hara: The never-before-seen silkscreen print exhibition and poetry readings of Baltimore-born artist, poet, curator and critic Frank O’Hara. FREE. 6pm. Thru 2/29. Load of Fun Gallery, 120 W. North Ave., loadoffun.net
Nick Carter: The Backstreet Boys might not be back, but Nick Carter is. Baltimore has been selected as only 1 of 6 intimate club performances in celebration of the 2/2 release of I’m Taking Off. $30. 8pm. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Pl., RamsHeadLive.com
SHORTS: A Concert of 16 Dances: Designed with the MTV generation in mind, the 5-minute numbers let the audience experiences a wide range of dance “hor d’oeuvres” to appease all taste buds. $12-15. 8pm. Thru 1/28. Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St., TheatreProject.org
THE BI(G) LIFE: Riffing on memoir, savvy in their cultural critique, and laced with humor, these two thirty-minute original solo thesis performances explore unique intersections of race, gender, size and sexuality $5. 8pm. Thru 2/5. Georgetown University: Davis Performing Arts Center, 3700 O St., NW Washington, DC, PerformingArts.Georgetown.edu
The GalHause Revue’s Big Show: The annual burlesque event showcases performances ranging from classic and subdued to outrageous and shocking. $5. 8pm. Thru 1/28. The Gateway: BBOX, 1601 W. Mount Royal Ave., MICA.edu
Wine Tasting: Get your weekend started off right with complimentary tastings of wines from around the world. Discounts on bottles included in tastings. FREE. 5-8pm. Fridays. Spirits of Mt Vernon, 900 N. Charles St., 410.727.7270, SpiritsOfMtVernon.com VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 17
afterhours BSCENE
FUNDRAISING TOAST FOR DELEGATE MARY WASHINGTON ■ JAN. 7 PHOTOS BY JAY W
2011 “Golden Eleven” Awards
Carrie Fisher
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
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1220 E. Joppa Rd. • 443.901.0270 GloryDaysGrill.com
MOST IMPRESSIVE CHICKEN! BAHAMA BREEZE (Towson)
With thin layers of fried chicken breast PAGE 18 • JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 2, 2012
sandwiching multiple layers of garlic mashed potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and melted cheese, the “Buttermilk Fried Chicken” ($12) left us envious and drooling. (Ahem… This award is not about Marty’s favorite waiter!)
100 E. Joppa Rd. • 410.821.7090 BahamaBreeze.com
BEST BRUSCHETTA MARTY NEVER TRIED! GIANNI’S (Arbutus)
John never found a bruschetta that he could get excited about before his buddy Tom maneuvered him into trying it at Gianni’s. Three huge chunks of Italian bread heaped with diced tomatoes, celery, red onion, a bit of fresh basil and drizzled with olive oil made for a life changing moment!
3720 Washington Blvd. • 410.242.4555 GiannisItalianBistro.com
Republican presidential candidate and their families. And they would all come out at once.” She quickly recanted only to retort. “Actually, [Dick] Cheney. I’d choose Cheney.” Through the world-wide tour of her show, Fisher has been able to visit countless cities. Her favorite city? “London!” Fisher exclaimed. “I have lots of friends there.” Fisher recounted her recent trip across the pond, in which she celebrated many nights out on the town. “It was twelve gay guys and me. Among us we had Stephen Fry and Rupert Everett. We had a few great nights.” Fisher, who spent time in Baltimore while filming the made-for-TV-movie Liberty in 1986, is also quite excited to spend the duration of her show’s two week run here in town. “There are a lot of my father’s relatives there. I really hope to meet up with cous-
ins once I’m back in town.” Fisher also explained how she enjoys the historical, old feel of Baltimore, which is a contrast to the modern feel of Los Angeles. On top of currently performing Wishful Drinking, Fisher found time to publish Shockaholic in November 2011. It continues the tradition as one of her most candid memoirs to date. “My daughter liked it,” Fisher explained. “She felt this one was more emotional.” It’s in Shockaholic that Fisher describes the process of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatments, which she receives to help combat her bipolar disorder. Even with a hectic tour, Fisher is still finding time to work on new material. “I’m working on a travel book to China to see the ice festival.” Fisher also explains that she currently isn’t planning any more memoirs about her life any time soon. “I’m taking a break.” ■ BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER
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VOLUME 34, NUMBER 1 • PAGE 19