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AUGUST 22 - SEPTEMBER 4 VOLUME XXX, NUMBER 17 WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
IN THIS ISSUE
PAGE 4: 28TH ANNUAL BALTIMORE SUMMER ANTIQUES SHOW PRESENTS OVER 550 INTERNATIONAL DEALERS, 60 ANTIQUARIAN BOOK DEALERS
PAGE 30: HE’S 2 SEXY: STEVE COOGAN PLAYS IT STRAIGHT (KINDA) IN THE IRREVERENT AND OUTRAGEOUS OUTFEST AWARDWINNER, HAMLET 2
PAGE 37: GREAT PROSTATE CANCER CHALLENGE RAISES AWARENESS AND RESEARCH FUNDS
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PA G E 2 •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
• PA G E 3
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WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURES
PAGE 30 – PENCIL ME IN Calendar. By Maddy Dwertman
PAGE 12 FIERCE Schools the Community: Organizer Glo Ross tells the story of FIERCE’s fight for safe space for queer youth of color on New York City’s West Side Piers
PAGE 37 Great Prostate Cancer Challenge Raises Awareness and Research Funds: An Interview with Dr. Sanford J. Siegel
PAGE 30 – FILM He’s 2 Sexy: Steve Coogan Plays it Straight (Kinda) in the Irreverent and Outrageous Outfest Award-winner, Hamlet 2. By Brandon Voss
PAGE 32 – DINING OUT The Dogwood. By John Cullen and Marty Shayt
PAGE 33 - THEATRE
241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 Phone: 410.837.7748 Fax: 410.837.8889 Email: editor@baltimoregaylife.com Brian Flottemesch President of GLCCB Maddy Dwertman Editor
NEWS
On the Stage
PAGE 5 – LOCAL NEWS
PAGE 36 - MUSIC
28th Annual Baltimore Summer Antiques Show Presents Over 550 International Dealers, 60 Antiquarian Book Dealers; David Spellman Named Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2008; HERO Announces 21st Annual AIDSWALK Maryland. Compiled by Maddy Dwertman
History Repeats. By DJ Alex Funk
HEALTH
PAGE 7 – NATIONAL NEWS
If I Have Back Pain, Can I Practice Yoga? By Kelly D. McClain
Gay Man Likely to be Elected to Congress; Ballot Wording Finalized in California Marriage Battle; Ellen, Portia Get Married; Neil Patrick Harris Wants to Represent 'Normal' Gays; Indonesian Transgender Woman Wins U.S. Asylum; Ballot Wording Change OK'd in California Marriage Battle;Minter: Calif. Ruling Changed More than Marriage Law; Cyndi Lauper: I had to Come Out as Straight. Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley.
CDC’s New Infection Figures Show Increase in HIV Infection Highest among Youth
PAGE 9 – INTERNATIONAL NEWS
PAGE 10 - ORGANIZATIONS
President Defends Gay Rights in Draft Ecuadorean Constitution; Panama Legalizes Gay Sex; Dutch Cabinet Ministers Join Gay Pride; Big Turnout for Rainy EuroPride; Homophobic Outburst Ups Attendance at Belfast Pride: Fewer Czech Gays are Entering Registered Partnerships. By Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley.
Service & Support Organizations for LGBT Youth Compiled by Jerome J. Woodchuck
PAGE 29 – DO AS I SAY
OPINIONS
Gender & Sexuality 101. Compiled by Shayna Robinson
editor@baltimoregaylife.com
COMMUNITY & COLUMNS
Friends in Low Places. By Miss Prudence Worthington
PAGE 40 - Q SYLLABUS PAGE 41 - COMMUNITY CALENDAR
PAGE 18
Michael Nguyen Art Director
PAGE 39 –FIND YOUR FEET
Testing One’s Medals. By Gwendolyn Ann Smith
PAGE 44 - POSTAGE
sales@baltimoregaylife.com
LHAC: The Incredible, Priceless Benefits of Having a Good...Good...Good Girlfriend or Boyfriend. By Marvelous Marva
National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media 212-242-6863
FOR FUN
Now What? By Casondra Rawls
PAGE 28 – Q PUZZLE
Can’t Stand Out to be Counted By Rev. Irene Monroe
The Eyes Have It
Coming From Where I’m From. By Nicole Bettis
PAGE 42 – HOMOSTROLOGY
IMHO: I’m in No Shape for Physical Fitness. By Mario Fernandez
By Marry Elaine
Children of Gay Parents are Affected by Homophobic Comments. By Trevor Ankeny
PAGE 43 – QUOTE UNQUOTE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
PAGE 45 – PICKUPS
art@baltimoregaylife.com
Sales
CONTRIBUTORS Trevor Akkeny Nicole Bettis John Cullen Marry Elaine Mario Fernandez Alex Funk Bill Kelley Jerome J. Woodchuck Marvelous Marva Rev. Irene Monroe
Casondra Rawls Shayna Robinson Glo Ross Marty Shayt Gwendolyn Ann Smith Braondon Voss Rex Wockner Prudence Worthington Spencer Young
Gay Life is a publication of the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Baltimore. Gay Life is published every other Friday in Baltimore, Maryland, with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyrighted 2008. 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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By Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley A Place for Missed Opportunities
PAGE 46– BSCENE Christopher Peterson’s Eyecons by Jay W
PAGE 17 - EVENTS Sundance 2008--The Great Dance of the Sunshine Rainbow
VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM. August 22 - September 4, 2008
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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LOCAL NEWS 28th Annual Baltimore Summer Antiques Show Presents Over 550 International Dealers, 60 Antiquarian Book Dealers rt and antique aficionados from across the country and around the world will celebrate the final days of summer at the 28th annual Baltimore Summer Antiques Show, August 2831 at the Baltimore Convention Center. Guests will have the unique opportunity to view and purchase from the collections of over 550 international dealers drawn from the United States, Canada, France, Italy and England all in one place, all at one time. Showcased collections of fine art, jewelry, silver, porcelain, American folk art, decorative accessories, furniture, glass, textiles and more ranging from the antiquities to the 20th century will line aisle after aisle at the largest summer antiques show in the nation. The show also includes a 60dealer Antiquarian Book Fair offering rare books, first editions, fine manuscripts, autographs and unusual bibliographical material.
A
“I love the combination of the antique dealers and the book dealers. Most of our shows are segregated to book and paper. The Baltimore Show is an exciting opportunity for people to see things that they might not ordinarily notice. We get to see a lot of beautiful antiques that we wouldn’t necessarily be exposed to. Antique customers can see the books. It’s a very good mixture that helps everyone…. It makes for a richer show and certainly much more of a destination,” explained Molly Sacamono of Royal Books, a rare bookstore in Midtown Baltimore that specializes
in rare film books and first edition film sources along with first editions of modern literature and books on the arts. Dealer Susan Tillipman of the Annapolis-based online business These Old Jugs (www.theseoldjugs.com), who will bring art pottery, Japanese prints and decorative museum banners to this year ’s show, also extolled the distinguished quality of the show. “The Palm Beach Show Group just does it right. Whether you buy something or not, some of the things you see are museum-worthy. The show is truly a feast for the eyes.” Adding to the event’s cultural experience, the Baltimore Summer Antiques Show will once again present an educational lecture series that is free to the public as well as show attendees. The lecture series, which debuted in 2007, includes presentations on a wide variety of topics by respected dealers and industry experts.
First edition, first printing of Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote with American insert movie poster from the classic 1961 film based on the same book from Royal Books in Baltimore, MD (32 W. 25th St.). Book is unfaded and unread copy of the title novella and three short stories: “House of Flowers”, “A Diamond Guitar” and “A Christmas Memory”. Valued at $6500. For additional information on Royal Books, visit www.royalbooks.com.
The incredible diversity of dealers combined with the solid quality of items as well as educational programming makes the Baltimore show a significant event for guests and exhibitors alike. The Baltimore Summer Antiques Show is open Thursday 12-8 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tickets ($12) are good for all show days. For additional information, visit www.baltimoresummerantiques.com.
David Spellman Named Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2008 David Spellman of Baltimore has been named Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2008. He is sponsored by ShipMates of Baltimore.
David Spellman (Photo: www.boyjeff.com)
The 2nd annual Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack contest was held Saturday, August 16 at Club Phoenix (1 W. Biddle St.) Produced by Hooker ‘N Boys, this year’s contest was judged by Paul Bohli (Maryland Mr. Drummer 2000), www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
Steve Buettner (Maryland Mr. Leather 2007), and Henry James (International Community Bootblack 2006), with Jason Sentz (Maryland Leatherboy 2006) as judges’ boy. The event included the contest as well as workshops presented by Henry James and Eric Crouse (Mid-Atlantic Community Bootblack 2007). As
Mid-Atlantic
Community
August 22 - September 4, 2008
Bootblack, Spellman looks forward to raising awareness of boot blacking in this Mid-Atlantic region as well as assisting with fundraising. He will represent the region at the International Community Bootblack (www.leathersir.com) contest this October in San Francisco. Others who supported this year’s event inlcuded, Chained Desires, F.I.S.T., and C.O.M.M.A.N.D.
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LOCAL NEWS HERO Announces 21st Annual AIDSWALK Maryland The Health Education Resource Organization, Inc. (HERO, Inc.) will conduct the 21st Annual HERO AIDSWALK Maryland 2008 on Sunday, September 21. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Baltimore’s Patterson Park at the corner of Lynwood and Eastern Avenues.
and a strong support structure, HERO offers the resources people need to overcome the challenges they face. By participating in AIDSWALK, you will play a key role in supporting area families in the most underprivileged communities throughout the Baltimore area.
HERO, Inc. is Baltimore’s oldest and largest private, non-profit, community based social services organization focusing on individuals living with HIV/AIDS. HERO advocates for and provides direct care to individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and other related conditions such as: poverty, domestic violence, mental health issues, substance abuse, homelessness, legal problems, unemployment, isolation, inadequate support and lack of education. HERO also provides prevention and health education to the community about HIV/AIDS and associated conditions.
Teams are encouraged to walk together in AIDSWALK. Teams can be formed from work groups, social and service clubs, neighborhood organizations, businesses, churches or schools. Teams should choose a team name, make a banner, lace up their walking shoes and join in.
Since 1983, HERO, Inc. has provided Baltimore City and Maryland HIV/AIDS support services. This year’s AIDSWALK theme is “The Family Reunion”, with a focus on family relationships and the strength that comes from strong families and support systems. HERO, Inc. uses a holistic approach to assist clients, realizing that treating only a client’s HIV/AIDS will not yield successful results. By working with clients and their families to provide access to affordable and safe housing, substance abuse treatment, job training
www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
July 25 - August 7, 2008
A community is only as strong as the children that compose it, the churches that worship in it, the schools that teach it, the workers that make it, the government that leads it and you that WALKS it! HIV/AIDS is a disease that affects all of us and all of us need to be a part of fighting it. For more information, call 410-6851180 x265 or visit www.heromcrc.org and click on AIDSWALK. The new interactive website will allow you to download pledge sheets and Team builder kits, preregister, invite your teammates to join you and have your sponsors donate through a secure Pay Pal connection. Volunteers are also encouraged to help out both before, during, and after the walk.
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NATIONAL NEWS by Rex Wockner with Bill Kelly
Ballot Wording Finalized in California Marriage Battle
Gay Man Likely to be Elected to Congress
California Attorney General Jerry Brown's rewording of the title and summary of the ballot measure that would amend the state constitution to re-ban same-sex marriage is good to go. Activist opponents of marriage equality opted Aug. 11 not to appeal the rewrite to the state Supreme Court.
An openly gay man won the Democratic primary in Colorado's 2nd Congressional District Aug. 12 and is considered a shoo-in to win the general election in November. If he does, Jared Polis, 33, will become the first openly gay man elected to Congress who was out when elected for the first time. U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., holds the female distinction in that regard. "At the Millennium March on Washington in 2000, Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin told hundreds of thousands of LGBT people gathered on the National Mall, 'If you dream of a world in which there are more openly gay elected officials, then run for office ... and you will live in such a world,'" said Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund President Chuck Wolfe. "I thought of that quote this evening when I learned that Rep. Baldwin and Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) will be joined by another openly gay colleague in the United States House of Representatives." Wolfe called Polis' likely win in the heavily Democratic district an important gay milestone. "It sends an unmistakable signal that voters are willing to consider gay people as leaders at the highest level of government, and brings us closer to the American ideal of a truly representative government," he said. In his victory speech, Polis introduced his partner, made reference to being gay, and said, "I always worried that that would get in the way
Jared Polis of Colorado is considered a shoo-in to become the sixth openly gay person elected to the U.S. Congress, and the first openly gay man elected to Congress as a nonincumbent. Campaign photo
Gay leaders and opponents agree the changed wording makes it more likely the amendment will fail at the polls Nov. 4.
(of) giving back and contributing to our society."
The measure originally was titled: "Limit on marriage. Constitutional amendment." And it was summarized, "Amends the California Constitution to provide that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."
A millionaire who made his money in online ventures, Polis spent $5 million of his own funds in the primary campaign.
But afterward, the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, and weddings began on June 16.
If elected, he will fill the seat of Rep. Mark Udall, who is running for the U.S. Senate.
Brown then retitled the measure: "Proposition 8. Eliminates right of same-sex couples to marry. Initiative
Polis would become the sixth open gay to serve in the House of Representatives, following in the footsteps of Baldwin, Frank, and former Reps. Gerry Studds, D-Mass., who is deceased, Steve Gunderson, R-Wis., and Jim Kolbe, R-Ariz. Frank, 68, is now the powerful chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Frank told the Denver Post, "We are reaching that point where among Democratic voters sexual orientation of a candidate is not a factor." He also said that once he's no longer the only gay male congressman, he won't feel as much pressure to be a role model and plans to start smoking cigars in public again. "I can start indulging some bad habits," Frank told the Post. "Let the young gay people find someone else to emulate."
www.glccb.org Services. Groups. Events. Our calendar is now online.
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July 25 - August 7, 2008
constitutional amendment." And he summarized it: "Changes California Constitution to eliminate right of same-sex couples to marry. Provides that only a marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California. Fiscal Impact: Over the next few years, potential revenue loss, mainly sales taxes, totaling in the several tens of millions of dollars, to state and local governments. In the long run, likely little fiscal impact to state and local governments." Opponents of same-sex marriage filed suit over the changes, saying they were not fair or impartial. But a Sacramento superior court disagreed and a state appeals court later rejected an emergency appeal. "The Attorney General did not abuse his discretion in concluding that the chief purpose and effect of the initiative is to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry," Superior Court Judge Timothy Frawley determined. "The Attorney General's title is an accurate statement. ... It is not argumentative or inherently prejudicial."
Ellen, Portia Get Married Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, 50, and actress Portia de Rossi, 35, got married Aug. 16 at their home in Beverly Hills. They are the biggest names to tie the knot since the California Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage took effect on June 16. Reports said 19 people attended the ceremony, including both women's mothers. De Rossi's mother came from Australia for the wedding. DeGeneres wore white pants and a white vest. De Rossi wore a big pink dress. DeGeneres had announced their engagement on her TV show the day after the Supreme Court's May 15 ruling. "Yesterday, if you haven't heard, the California Supreme Court overturned a ban on gay marriage," she said. "So I would like to say right now for the first time, I am announcing I am getting married. ... I'm so excited. If I'm this emotional now just saying it, I can't imagine how that's gonna be, but it's something that I've, of course, we've wanted to do, and we want it to be legal and we're just very, very excited." In a September 2005 interview with The Advocate, de Rossi said: "I ran into Ellen (again) at a photo shoot about a year ago and she took my breath away. That had never happened to me in my life, where I saw somebody and (experienced) all of those things you hear about in songs and read about in poetry. My knees were weak. It was amazing. And it was very hard for me to get her out of my mind after that. And then when I saw her again that night (at the VH1 awards show) we started talking and that's that. We just were kind of supposed to be together. That's my side of the story. I really, really hated all the pain I put (then girlfriend) Francesca (Gregorini) through, and I really didn't want to hurt her. But I just couldn't ignore the feelings I had for Ellen."
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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NATIONAL NEWS Neil Patrick Harris Wants to Represent 'Normal' Gays Openly gay actor Neil Patrick Harris from TV's How I Met Your Mother tells Out magazine in its September issue that he wants to be a role model for normal gay people.
Gay actor Neil Patrick Harris. GLAAD photo
"I'm striving to be an example of normalcy," Harris said. "Because I'm noticed as an actor, people are aware of what's happening in my life. ... I'm a big proponent of monogamous relationships regardless of sexuality, and I'm proud of how the nation is steering toward that. Then you can look around and say, 'I really deeply feel like I'm in love with this person, there are people who feel the same thing, and those models are normal.' The 'normal' couples were sort of in the shadows for the past 15 or 20 years because you sort of needed other people to come forward and speak out." In a more lighthearted moment, Harris told Out he thinks CNN anchorman Anderson Cooper is dreamy and is not a candidate for outing.
"He's dreamy. Just dreamy," Harris said. "I've been a fan of his since season 1 of The Mole. I just thought he was so cool when he talked in this cool, low, secret-agent voice—'If you can accomplish this task...'" Harris continued: "Listen, no one can tell anyone how big their steps should be or when they can take them. You can take issue with someone making overtly denying statements, and you can take issue with people straight-up presenting themselves as someone that they're not—because I think that's kind of shady and not very stand-up. But you can't fault someone for going through the process at their own time." In May 2007, Out put two models on its cover holding pictures of Cooper and Jodie Foster in front of their faces above the words, "The Glass Closet: Why the Stars Won't Come Out and Play."
Indonesian Transgender Woman Wins U.S. Asylum A 42-year-old transgender woman from Indonesia won asylum in the U.S. based on Indonesia's treatment of transgender people, the Jakarta Post reported Aug. 11, citing activist reports. Michelle Saraswati, who was a man named Michael Setiabudi until 2006, has been in the U.S. since 1998, remained in the country illegally when his work visa expired in 2001, and, as a gay man, lost an asylum claim in 2005. Saraswati then reapplied for asylum as a transgender woman in 2006 and won her case at the San Francisco Immigration Court. The Post said Saraswati convinced the court that Indonesia lacks legal protections and employment opportunities for transgender people.
Ballot Wording Change OK'd in California Marriage Battle California Attorney General Jerry Brown's rewording of the title and summary of the ballot measure that would amend the state constitution to re-ban same-sex marriage got a green light from Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Timothy Frawley on Aug. 8. The measure originally was titled: "Limit on marriage. Constitutional amendment." And it was summarized, "Amends the California PA G E 8 •
Constitution to provide that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." But afterward, the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, and weddings began on June 16. Brown then retitled the measure: "Proposition 8. Eliminates right of same-sex couples to marry. Initiative constitutional amendment." And he summarized it: "Changes California Constitution to eliminate right of same-sex couples to marry. Provides that only a marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California. Fiscal Impact: Over the next few years, potential revenue loss, mainly sales taxes, totaling in the several tens of millions of dollars, to state and local governments. In the long run, likely little fiscal impact to state and local governments." Opponents of same-sex marriage filed suit over the changes, saying they were neither fair nor impartial. The court, however, disagreed, finding that "the Attorney General did not abuse his discretion in concluding that the chief purpose and effect of the initiative is to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry." "The Attorney General's title is an accurate statement of the primary purpose and effect of the measure," Frawley ruled. "It is not argumentative or inherently prejudicial." Opponents of the proposed amendment cheered the ruling, while proponents denounced it and
filed an appeal. Both agreed the new language will make the measure more likely to fail on Nov. 4.
Minter: Calif. Ruling Changed More than Marriage Law The California Supreme Court's May ruling legalizing same-sex marriage did much more than that, says Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California marriage case. In an Aug. 2 interview with Los Angeles journalist Karen Ocamb, Minter said: "The fundamental-rightto-marry part of the holding was extremely significant, but the court's holding that sexual orientation is a suspect classification was stunning -completely unprecedented. I think it will forever change the legal landscape for LGBT people in the country; it's going to have a huge impact on courts in other states and, ultimately, on the federal courts. We are now living in a different legal world because of what the court did." The court's determination means that any discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally subject to the strictest level of scrutiny by California courts, which makes it dramatically harder for any level of government to defend itself in any arena where gays, lesbians and bisexuals are not treated the same as heterosexuals. A government now has to prove it
August 22 - September 4, 2008
has a specific "compelling interest"— rather than a mere "rational basis"— when it treats GLB people differently in any way. In another interview, with the Palm Springs gay magazine The BottomLine on Aug. 1, Minter said that if the California ballot measure to amend the state constitution to reban same-sex marriage fails in November, it will be a "crushing defeat" for gays' opponents. "If we defeat this proposition, as I believe we will, that victory will resonate across the country," he said. "Not only will marriage in California be secure, but we will have demonstrated that efforts to politically exploit anti-gay bias no longer work. We have a chance here in California to deal a crushing defeat to the anti-gay forces that have caused incalculable damage to our community for years. This is our opportunity to make a difference that will go down in history books as a critical turning point." Minter also talked with The BottomLine about his 1996 sexchange operation. "I have been struck by how much more immediate 'unearned' credibility and respect I get as a completely average-looking man than I did as a visibly masculine-appearing woman," Minter said. "The difference is stark—whether it is service in a restaurant or on a plane, or appearing in court."
Cyndi Lauper: I had to Come Out as Straight Pop singer Cyndi Lauper told The Times of London on Aug. 2 that she had to come out as straight. "My sister was gay, my best friends were gay, so I figured I had to be gay," she said. "So I did everything they did. I tried kissing girls. But it didn't feel right for me and eventually I was forced to come out as a heterosexual." Lauper also launched a broadside against George W. Bush. "When I hear people like George Bush talk about the gay community being anti-American it makes my blood boil," she said. "The guy who saved the White House, one of the heroes who crashed that plane on 9/11, was gay—the rugby player Mark Bingham, who died on United 93. And does Bush ever mention that? ... That gay guy saved his lousy ass."
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS by Rex Wockner with Bill Kelly
Homophobic Outburst Ups Attendance at Belfast Pride
President Defends Gay Rights in Draft Ecuadorean Constitution
A recent homophobic outburst from British MP Iris Robinson, who is married to Peter Robinson, leader of the regional government in Northern Ireland, was credited with upping attendance at the Aug. 2 Belfast gay pride parade to around 4,000 marchers, despite bad weather.
President Rafael Correa has defended a new draft Ecuadorean constitution that grants same-sex couples the rights of marriage, El Telégrafo reported Aug. 1.
During a recent Grand Committee debate in Parliament, Mrs. Robinson was quoted as saying, "There can be no viler act, apart from homosexuality and sodomy, than sexually abusing innocent children."
The document faces a popular vote Sept. 28. Speaking in the city of Monteverde, Correa said: "Jesus of Nazareth never preached hatred, homophobia or segregation; instead he knew to say, 'Love one another.'
She later said she meant the comparison to be the other way around. Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. Photo: Presidencia de la República del Ecuador
"It is false that (the draft) is recognizing as family the union of homosexuals. What we are doing is recognizing the dignity of all people without discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, etc."
there's been so much talk about moral incompatibilities between the new constitution and the Gospel, sometimes utilizing falsehoods, that we also can talk with equal force about the profound incompatibility of the
"Let's hope, now that
Panama Legalizes Gay Sex Panamanian President Martín Torrijos Espino signed a decree July 29 repealing a 1949 law that criminalized sodomy under penalty of a $500 fine or jail time. The move followed protests by the gay group New Men and Women of Panama and other human-rights defenders, local media said. The decree, issued by the Ministry of Health and also signed by Health Minister Rosario E. Turner, said the ban was at odds with the Panamanian Constitution and international human-rights treaties Panama has signed. It also said the law conflicted with the Health Ministry's policy to "maintain respect for the sexual preferences of each person, without the existence of any type of discrimination" in the operation of its sexually transmitted diseases programs. According to Amnesty International, 11 nations in Central America, South America and the Caribbean continue to ban gay sex—Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint
social situation—of that inequality, of that existing social injustice—with the Gospels," Correa said. A poll released Aug. 5 found that 47 percent of citizens plan to vote for the constitution and 31
Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. All of the countries are former British colonies.
Dutch Cabinet Ministers Join Gay Pride Several members of the Dutch Cabinet took part in the Aug. 2 gaypride boat parade on Amsterdam's canals. Education and Culture Minister Ronald Plasterk, who is responsible for gender equality, told Radio Netherlands Worldwide that gay matters are "important social issues" and that he was representing "the entire (governing) coalition." "We encourage people to dare to be themselves and live the way they want," he said. A record 80 boats joined the fourhour parade, including entries by the city police, the mayor, the armed forces, several political parties, and gays from the Netherlands Antilles in the Caribbean.
percent plan to reject it. A "yes" vote of more than 50 percent is needed for the document to take effect. The poll questioned 1,160 citizens nationally and had an error margin of 4 percent and a confidence level of 95 percent.
In addition to serving in the British Parliament, Mrs. Robinson also is a member of the Northern Ireland Assembly. The parade began at Customs House Square and ended at City Hall.
Big Turnout for Rainy EuroPride About 450,000 spectators and 45,000 marchers turned out for the rain-drenched EuroPride parade, held this year in Stockholm Aug. 2. Marching groups included the dominant Church of Sweden, 80 businesses and six of the seven political parties represented in Sweden's Parliament. There were a record 152 floats. The Stockholm Fire Department took part for the first time. "We are bad at pluralism in the fire brigade," Fire Chief Jan Wisén told EUobserver.com. "Statistically, it is not plausible that none of them are gay. Sadly, the fact that none has come out signals that they feel the fire brigade environment is not accommodating to gays, and we have to change that." The department has 400 members. A wide variety of other EuroPride events took place over 10 days. Next year's EuroPride will be in Zurich, Switzerland.
About half a million people turned out for the festivities.
www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
Mrs. Robinson also reportedly said, in June, that homosexuality is "disgusting, loathsome, nauseating, wicked and vile."
August 22 - September 4, 2008
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Tom Hartley, joined the procession, calling it "the real face of 21st-century Belfast." "This is our city at its most diverse and this is one of the most creative communities we have in Belfast," Hartley told The Observer.
Fewer Czech Gays are Entering Registered Partnerships Not as many same-sex couples are taking advantage of the Czech Republic's registered-partnership law as was the case in 2006 when the law came into force, the newspaper Právo reported Aug. 4. From July 1, 2006, to the end of that year, 235 same-sex couples tied the knot, but in the first half of 2008, only 105 couples have done so. The report also said the largest number of same-sex unions have occurred in Prague, male unions have outnumbered female unions, and there have been nine same-sex divorces. The Czech Republic has a population of about 10 million.
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ORGANIZATIONS
Service & Support Organizations for LGBT Youth Compiled by Jerome J. Woodchuck
AIRS Youth Initiative Program Who are they? AIRS (AIDS Interfaith Residential Services) provides comprehensive supportive housing services to enhance quality of life, emphasizing self-sufficiency for low-income and homeless individuals and families living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS and other disabilities. What do they do? The Youth Initiative Program (YIP) provides rental assistance, utility allowance, case management services, bus passes, laundry tokens and education to low-income young adults 18 to 24-years-old living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS. Case managers and education mentors also work with individuals to create an Individual Service Plan focused on increasing education and job skills to obtain living wage employment.
How do I get in touch? For additional information about AIRS, YIP and other programs, visit www.airshome.org or call 410-576-5070.
Gender Spectrum Who are they? Gender Spectrum is a national education, consulting and training organization that promotes the welfare and understanding of transgender andgender variant people of all ages, especially children. What do they do? Gender Spectrum will hold its second annual conference, the Gender Spectrum Family conference, for gender variant and transgender children, their families, loved ones and medical and mental health providers at the Washington State Convention
and Trade Center in Seattle, Washington, Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31, 2008. This year marks the second year of programs, family activities and workshops on the topic of gender variance and children. In addition to the Gender Spectrum Family conference, Gender Spectrum also produces Gender Odyssey, a conference for transgender adults. Gender Spectrum maintains two of the nation's only support groups for families of gender variant and transgender children in conjunction with Children's Hospital & Research Centers in Oakland, California and Seattle, Washington. How do I get in touch? For more information about Gender Spectrum and the Gender Spectrum Family conference, visit www.genderspectrum.org.
GLSEN Baltimore Who are they? GLSEN Baltimore is a chapter of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Locally, GLSEN centers its attention on the Metro Baltimore area. Nationally, GLSEN works to ensure safe schools for ALL students, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. What do they do? There are over 40 Chapters around the country, which work closely with the national staff of GLSEN to implement programs, and to keep national staff informed of local events. The work that chapters do covers a variety of subjects and issues, from public policy to teacher training to supporting students and educators around the country. How do I get in touch? Contact GLSEN Baltimore at 410542-0472 or glsenbaltcommittee@ comcast.net.
The MPowerment Project Who are they? The Mpowerment Project is run by a “core group” of 10-15 young gay men from the community. These men, along with other volunteers and paid staff, design and carry out PA G E 1 0 •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
all project activities. What do they do? The MPowerment Project promotes safer sex, delivers appealing informational literature on HIV risk reduction and distributes condoms at places frequented by young gay men. The group also organizes social and non-social events for skill-building, discussions, workshops and entertainment for young gay and bisexual men ages 14-24 in the Baltimore City area. How do I get in touch? Contact Joyell Arscott at 410-7061909 or Jamal Hailey at 410-706-4162.
Rainbow Youth Alliance Who are they? The Rainbow Youth Alliance (RYA), affiliated with Howard County PFLAG, is a support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth (up to age 22) and their allies. What do they do? RYA organizes social trips, gay youth summits, community service, movie nights and guest speakers on health and education for youth in and around Howard County. How do I get in touch? Email rya_leaders@hotmail.com, call 410-290-8292 or visit www.infowebpage.org/rya. Upcoming events? Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.
SAIM Who are they? SAIM (Sufficient As I aM) is a program of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB) for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth and young adults 24-years-old and younger. What do they do? Primarily an open support group for LGBT youth and young adults, SAIM offers a safe space for youth to address issues of sexuality, coming out, relationships and family. It
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provides youth opportunities to assist one another, access the support of adult facilitators and receive needed referrals. How do I get in touch? Visit www.saim.us or call the GLCCB at 410-837-5445 x10. Upcoming events? Meetings are every Saturday from 12:30-3 p.m. in Room 201 @ the GLCCB (241 W. Chase St., Baltimore, MD).
SMYAL Who are they? SMYAL (Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League) is the only Washington, DC metro area service organization solely dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. What do they do? SMYAL’s mission is to promote and support self-confident, healthy, productive lives for LGBTQ youth as they journey from adolescence into adulthood. To fulfill its mission, SMYAL concentrates its commitment and energy on five focus areas: (1) Life Skills & Leadership Development; (2) Counseling & Support; (3) Health & Wellness Education; (4) Safe Social Activities; and (5) Community Outreach and Education. SMYAL also provides gender-specific health and leadership programming; safe school training and education; individual and group counseling; and HIV/STD prevention education, counseling and testing, as well as safe and fun social activities. How do I get in touch? Community members who are interested in supporting SMYAL's work by becoming volunteers or making a contribution can contact Andrew Barnett at andrew.barnett@smyal.org or 202-546-5940, ext. 110. Youth who want to learn more about SYMAL’s programs can contact Leandrea Gilliam at leandrea.gilliam@smyal.org or 202546-5940, ext. 116. More information about SMYAL is also available at www.smyal.org Upcoming Events? SMYAL is holding a summer fashion show for youth ages 13-21 on Saturday, August 23 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Human Rights Campaign Equality Forum (1640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Washington, DC), near the Farragut North and Dupont Circle metro lines. Community members and supporters can join SMYAL for their 11th Annual Fall Brunch on Sunday, September 28, hosted by the Mandarin Oriental (1330 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC), near
the L'Enfant Plaza and Smithsonian metro stations. The event begins with a Silent Auction Reception at 11 a.m. and continues with a Brunch Program at 12:30 p.m. For more information or to buy tickets, contact Kelly Simon at kelly.simon@smyal.org or 202-5465940 ext. 109.
The Trevor Project Who are they? The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBTQ youth. The Trevor Project also provides lifesaving guidance and vital resources to parents and educators in order to foster safe, accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, at home and at school. What do they do? The Trevor Project is currently in the midst of launching its new social marketing campaign, I’m Glad I Failed. The campaign advertisements feature four young people with stories about how intolerance and harassment led them to attempt suicide, and how glad they are that those attempts failed because their lives have since changed for the better. The Trevor Project is hoping to maximize exposure of the campaign during National Suicide Prevention Week (September 7 - September 13). I’m Glad I Failed seeks to educate LGBTQ youth about The Trevor Helpline as a resource they can count on to offer hope and someone to talk to 24/7 without judgment; and also open the eyes of straight youth to the life-shattering consequences of being intolerant of and disrespectful toward their LGBTQ peers. How do I get in touch? For more information about The Trevor Project, visit www.thetrevorproject.org. If you need help, hotline counselors are available 24/7 @ 1866-4-U-TREVOR.
We don't debate, or simply tolerate; we celebrate your sexuality and spirituality!
Sundays 9 AM
Traditional Celebration
10 AM Hospitality Time - Community 11 AM Praise Celebration & Family Service Metropolitan Community Church of Baltimore - (410)NOW-MCCb Cb 401 W. Monument Street (at Eutaw) www.mccbaltimore.org
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or most youth, August signals last-minute summer vacations, back to school preparations, sports tryouts, expanded opportunities. In the shadows of this “back to school” hype, LGBTQ youth, especially LGBTQ youth of color, are systematically kicked out of homes, pushed out of schools and ushered out of other safe spaces as access to resources and opportunities shrinks. “At-risk youth” has become a common buzz word in public policy and social service arenas, and LGBT youth are increasingly recognized as part of this “at-risk” population. Virtually absent, however, are discussions around and avenues to community building and empowerment. Threatened by attacks to safe public space in New York City’s West Village, LGBT youth of color came together in 2000 to form FIERCE (Fierce Independent Educated Radicals for Community Empowerment), a membership-based community organization cultivating the leadership and power of LGBTQ youth of color . Drawing connections between issues of displacement, violence and safe public space, Glo Ross, lead organizer with FIERCE, shares the story of their fight for political power and the recognition of LGBT youth of color as legitimate community stakeholders in public discourse and public space. Reframing what we commonly think of as “queer or LGBT issues” while redefining LGBTQ youth as agents, this oral history of FIERCE is not conclusive “coverage”. Rather, it is part of a broader conversation about the lived experiences of LGBT youth as they forge new avenues of struggle and resistance. FIERCE members will continue to speak in the next issue of Gay Life. We also invite LGBTQ youth to join the dialogue by writing in with their stories.
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Historically, the West Side Piers, and particularly the Christopher Street Pier, have been, ever since the Stonewall Rebellion back in 1969, a place where the LGBT community has gone to create community, to build space, to network and access resources. In particular, in the 1980s, it became a space for LGBT youth and youth of color to come and be with each other and to even live. And, for a while, most of these youth had no other support than the service organizations here in New York, like discussion groups and support groups. The founding members of FIERCE essentially believed that a lot of the services available to LGBT youth are necessary, but desired a space to actually build our political power and make change in the everyday lives of our community, especially in response to the redevelopment of the Christopher Street Pier. In 1998, the City Council passed an act that made the West Side Waterfront from Battery Park, which is at the tip of Manhattan, where the World Trade Center buildings used to be, up to 59th Street, into a publicprivate partnership called the Hudson River Park Trust (HRPT). It was mandated that this entity would need to generate money through private commercial means, or privatized redevelopment. The first pier they started to redevelop was the Christopher Street Pier. When they reopened it, there was this nice brick fountain and Astro Turf and pretty plants which looked nice and was great. But, in that whole planning process around developing that pier, not one time was the LGBT community, as covert stakeholders, ever approached and told: "This is a space you use, so how can we come from a community-centered process and honor your needs of why and how you use this space in its redevelopment?" That wasn’t done. We were not acknowledged in the redevelopment process. With the redevelopment of the pier also came a heightened police presence. The 6th Precinct, which is the local police precinct in the West Village, took its orders from "quality of life" policies that were instituted during the Guliani era. He was the mayor here in New York at the time. These policies criminalized non-violent acts around survival…homelessness or loitering or sex work.
August 22 - September 4, 2008
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The theory behind the quality of life laws is something called the “broken window theory”. It goes something like this: “A broken window of the school that’s in your neighborhood signifies disruption in the common order of things and necessarily will encourage other acts of disobedience or acts against public good. So imagine that broken window now being broken into more and street kids going into that window to smoke pot and then imagine then them dealing pot.” It’s just this intense fear of urban violence that starts from something as small as a broken window, something as small as a person sitting on a stoop, something as small as someone walking around with condoms in their pocket and assuming that they’re doing sex work. So it’s taking these small individual acts and justifying harsh criminal punitive measures because of what could happen. It’s sort of like preemptive criminalization of people. So now you have this great pretty pier that has skyrocketed everyone's property value and you need the police to keep all of the brown people out and all of the young people out, especially because they don’t live there legitimately in terms of paying rent, owning a business or owning a house. So there were police measures that backed up redevelopment of the waterfront. They were really trying to cleanse the area of things that signify people of color and LGBT communities, which equals crime, which equals the devaluation of property, which equals all of these crazy things. In addition, the HRPT had put a $25,000 fee for any of the service vans doing medical services or counseling services that were parked there prior to the pier being redeveloped. Any funding that these organizations got would be wiped out by that fee. It was just ridiculous. We were also dealing with a group of residents in the West Village who were actively organizing against the
presence of LGBT youth of color. This group was trying to pass approval through the local governing structure called the Community Board, which is like a step down from City Council. They were going to the Community Board and proposing measures such as arming the park patrol. Nowhere in New York and nowhere in the nation, I think, are the public park patrol armed. They were proposing to put a blockade on Christopher Street every night to keep people from walking off of the pier, which at this point, after redevelopment, closed at 1 a.m. So there was this new curfew that people in our community hadn’t had to deal with before. At 1 a.m. the park closed down, park police came in and pushed you out…ushered you out, telling you to keep moving. You had this massive group of people walking off the pier down Christopher Street trying to go back home…if they were safe, trying to find the nearest train. This was seen as an illegitimate force. We were called trash. We were called leftovers. We didn’t have a legitimate stake in this community according to those residents. Our time was over. They were saying, "Now is time for cleanliness and order and tourist destination New York." FIERCE's response to all of this was: "Alright. We see your point that people exiting the pier off Christopher street is noisy, but if we walk down 3 streets into the NYU area, we see white frat boys drunk on the sidewalk, throwing up, clogging the street, publicly intoxicated, and the policing practices that went on in that community as opposed to those in the LGBT community of color hanging out on Christopher Street and the pier were completely different. One of the things that we did was a survey of LGBT youth about police violence and how safe they felt with the police and if they felt they were targeted for their actucontinued on page 14
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al perceived gender or because of their race. That was a little minor campaign off the general overall campaign for safe space that we were trying to preserve for our community in the West Village. We also began to mobilize around the Community Board meetings, first with 100 people, then 200, then 250 people in support of FIERCE at the next meetings. We put forth our proposal to eliminate the 1 a.m. curfew. We said, “The only reason why you’re complaining about noise and massive amounts of people walking down your street is because you have a pier that closes at 1 a.m. If there was no curfew, you would have people coming in and out as they please. You wouldn’t have a massive group of people walking to the train or wherever at the same time.” We also proposed eliminating the $25,000 fee for the service vans. By the end of our campaign we had won a lot of victories. We got the HRPT to waive the $25,000 fee for the service providers and we also got added outreach workers to the pier. We were reeling off of that campaign. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the curfew to extend. We got a 4 a.m. curfew that was supported by the Community Board, but the City Council members came in and shifted that whole proposal into more outreach workers, so we’re still working around the curfew issue. But, what we pulled out of that experience is that we built a name for ourselves. People recognized the political power of LGBT youth. We put ourselves in a position to brainstorm creatively on what our next step would be, how we would use our momentum after that campaign to push for more victories and to move our community forward. One thing that came out was the need for a new drop-in center. There used to be a drop-in center in the West Village for LGBT youth, but the local elected officials had closed it down. So we decided we needed another one. Before we could even get that strategy off of the ground, we got wind that the pier that is directly south of the Christopher Street Pier, Pier 40, was set to be redeveloped. It’s a huge pier, 1.5 million square feet. Currently it’s used as main income generator for HRPT at $5 million a year. It is also a very big sports area, like soccer fields, baseball diamonds. It's a huge pier compared to the Christopher Street Pier. We learned that the Related Company, which is a development company that develops luxury condominiums and is known for displacing communities of color in cities like Miami and Los Angeles, was proposing to turn this pier into a $100 million entertainment complex that would house the Cirque du Soleil Headquarters, high end boutiques and high end restaurants and shops. There was this huge public hearing that happened about a year and half ago and everyone in the community, for the most part, was saying this development project was negatively going to impact our communities. And FIERCE was there. We went to speak and at first people were like, “What are you doing here? You’re the Christopher Street Pier people, You’re not the Pier 40 people.” We were in a sea of soccer kids and soccer moms and baseball teams because they would lose the fields if this development project went through. But, we were saying that any development that happens on this pier that prioritizes profits over the needs of the community is going to negatively impact everyone in the community, including LGBT youth. We began reframing LGBT youth as a stakeholder in the community. And from that place, we began creating PA G E 1 4 •
alliances with the West Village residents, with other stakeholders in the West Village. Through that we were able to pass through the Community Board a working group recommendation that said: 1. Private development is not the way to develop this pier; and 2. Any development that happens on this pier needs to respond to the needs of LGBT youth. We learned our lesson with the Christopher Street Pier. We learned that development decisions get made without the input of the most disenfranchised communities that the development would impact, especially the ones with the least access to voice, money and power. So now we had a great opportunity to say not only what we don’t want in this development, but to say what we do want, to be proactive. So we surveyed LGBT youth from all over New York about what services they wanted on the pier. We decided that we wanted a center. And that’s how we walked into the meeting with HRPT and its Vice President. We talked a little bit about our ideas and they essentially said to us,
40!” and everyone raises their hand. And then he’s like, “Raise your hand if you want more fields on Pier 40!” and everybody’s like, "Yea!” And then he’s like, “Raise your hand if you want an LGBT center on Pier 40” and everyone’s like, “Yea!” And we’re just standing their like, “Oh my god!” We were so shocked. It really spoke to the alliancebuilding that we were able to do to build our political power in the West Village and it was something that we wouldn’t have been able to do if we hadn’t built our political power in the Christopher Street Pier campaign. Since that rally, Related’s proposal has been put on hold. It doesn’t look like they’re going to go through with it. There will be another public hearing in September with this non-profit developer that is proposing this new idea around having more schools there and we’ve been meeting with them to see what it would look like to get our center there. But one of the biggest challenges face is really fundamental. It’s the course we need private money to good, like public good can’t just be
that we still idea that of fund public provided by
FIERCE’S PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN FOR THE “SPOT” ON PIER 40 (CREDIT: KIAN GOH)
"Okay, you have some ideas. Put them on paper. Put them together." So we did. We met with the architect and compiled all of our research and all of our surveys and we made a recommendation for 18,000 square feet of an LGBT center called the SPOT (Safe Place to Organize Together). We put in all the different services that it would entail, all the GED training, job training, a garden, a kitchen, performance space, art space, a recording studio, all the things people had put in these surveys that we have actualized. We’ve said what it would actually look like and what we would need in order for it to be developed this way. We put together this document last winter and submitted it to the HRPT and worked with a group of soccer moms and referees and parents that were leading the organizing around beating back the Related company’s plans. We made the most unlikely allies—the residents in the West Village. The soccer moms were saying, "We don't want Related." And we were saying, "We don’t want Related." At a rally that they had in February on Pier 40 with a bunch of West Village residents, one of the dads, a soccer coach in the league, was like, “Raise your hand if you want a school on Pier
August 22 - September 4, 2008
the city’s money. Public good can’t be provided through tax payers money. It needs to be privatized in order for it to work well and for it to benefit people. We say, "No, that’s not true. You can fund public good by public money and that makes way for accountability.” The community has less control over what a public-private partnership can do because they are a private entity. And there’s very limited roles for accountability and community voice that’s taken into play. We've also come to the discussion that displacement and issues around gentrification and development are necessarily queer issues, especially when space and the right to space and the right to safe space are conditional on your identity and your access to power and to resources. One of things that FIERCE has been able to highlight is that connection or intersection between the decisions that are made around development and this trend of gentrification and putting it over the needs of people and how it impacts people based on their gender identity and their sexuality, and their race and their economic status and their citizenship. Different identities and issues are coming up in our work and it’s really exciting because it is so reflective of how complex this all is, of how complex our work and our lives are. -GL
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E VENTS Sundance 2008—The Great Day of the Sunshine Rainbow n Saturday and Sunday, August 30 and 31, the Rehoboth Beach summer season will once again end with what for many Rehoboth Beach visitors and residents alike, has become a Labor Day tradition—Sundance 2008. Now in its 21st year, the event has truly become a labor of love that involves hundreds of community members and visitors and raises a great deal of money for Sussex County AIDS Council and CAMP Rehoboth.
O
The first night of Sundance, Saturday, August 30, from 7-10 p.m., is the auction. The evening includes a cocktail buffet by Edible Art Foods, an open bar and some 500 auction items in both a live and a silent auction. Auction items will include art, furniture, airline tickets, dinners at fine restaurants, weekend getaways and more. The second night of the Sundance weekend, Sunday, August 31, from 8 p.m.-2 a.m., is the dance. Under the direction of co-producer and artist Murray Archibald, the Sundance Production Team Captains and their volunteers will transform the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center into a world class dance club. With lights by Paul Turner and music by Mark Thomas, the evening will truly be the “great day of the sunshine rainbow” show.
“It has become one of the most successful fundraisers in the area,” says event co-producer Steve Elkins. “Last year, we cleared over $150,000 thanks to the efforts of our many sponsors, supporters, hosts, auction donors, and volunteers.” Since its first year, Sundance has relied on a host committee to pay for the event, which allows 100% of the money raised from ticket sales and auction items to go to the benefactors. Over the years, the addition of sponsors, supporters and an evergrowing host list has made the event a tremendous success. All the money raised at Sundance goes to support the work of local organizations. This year, 50% of the money raised will be donated to Sussex County AIDS Council (SCAC) and 50% to the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center. Tickets for Sundance 2008 are $45 per night or $80 for both events and are available through CAMP Rehoboth, Lambda Rising Rehoboth, or on the Sundance Web site, www.sundancebenefit.com. For more information about Sundance, to purchase tickets or to contribute to the auction, call CAMP Rehoboth at 302-227-5620.
What are you thinking? editor@baltimoregaylife.com Stephen D. JohnSon RealtoR® Columbia Sales Office 10805 Hickory Ridge Road Columbia, MD 21044 Voice Mail: 410-715-7891 Fax: 410-730-7186 stephen.johnson@longandfoster.com stephen@longandfoster.com
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OPINIONS transmissions Testing One's Medals by Gwendolyn Ann Smith s with every four years, the Olympics are upon us. We get to see showmanship during opening ceremonies, feats of athletic prowess, and, presumably, a certain level of good sportsmanship worthy of word-class competitors. This year, with the games being held in Beijing, there is an additional level of controversy around China's human rights record, not to mention the quality of their air.
A
There is one more thing going on this year, something which has been a part of the Olympics for decades: sex testing of athletes. Indeed, there is even a laboratory in Beijing, designed for use during the Olympic
games. There, specialists will work to determine the gender of athletes at the games. To quote Professor Tian Qinjie, "Suspected athletes will be evaluated from their external appearances by experts and undergo blood tests to examine their sex hormones, genes and chromosomes for sex determination." This is nothing new for the Olympics, with gender-based controversies dating back to the 1930s. It was after the Mexico City games of 1968 that gender testing was formalized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), in the wake of anabolic-steroid enhanced competitors raising questions about the
It’s a busy world, to say the least. Whenever we find ourselves multi-tasking - whether out of choice, necessity, or habit - our bodies, minds and emotions race in many directions at once. For many of us, this high-speed, chronically stressful engagement begins the moment we awaken until we collapse back into bed at night. We can’t sustain this level of constant busy-ness without experiencing negative consequences, and often we find ourselves feeling scattered, depleted, and breathless. It’s important to create time to slow down and re-center ourselves regularly in order to return to a place of physical, mental, emotional, and subtle balance. Hatha Yoga practice links deep, regular, soothing breathing with gentle, fluid, mindful movement to return body, mind, emotions, and spirit back to a place of balance and wellness. Join Certified Yoga Instructors Tim Hurley and Kelly O’Neal each week at the Center for Gentle Beginner Yoga and enjoy the priceless benefits of feeling balanced, centered, and deeply relaxed. Classes are held on Sundays at 3:30 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. (please arrive a few minutes early) in Room 201 at the Center. Classes cost $9.00 each, and a portion of that cost is donated back to the Center. For more information, check the Programs link at www.glccb.org or call 410-837-5445.
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In recent years, Santhi Soundarajan, representing India, was stripped of a silver medal at the Asian Games of 2006. These games are an important precursor to Olympic competition Soundarajan failed a gender test. She had lived her entire life as a woman, and was presumed to be intersexed—but the media and the games stood by a flawed result that labeled her a male. In another recent case, Edinanci Silva, representing Brazil, competed in Atlanta, Sydney and Athens. She had been born with ambiguous genitalia, but had surgery in the 1990s to live and compete as a woman. After a judo win in Sydney, her gender was questioned when the athlete used an incorrect pronoun numerous times in a press conference. Silva did get checked, and was proven to be chromosomally female. I should add that transsexuals are allowed to participate--a relatively liberal policy that permits transsexuals to compete in their preferred gender some two years post surgical.
Take a deep breath…
Breathe easy.
nature of their genders. This has also led to humiliation and even attempted suicide when a competitor was dealt the career-numbing blow that was a question about gender.
After the 2000 games in Sydney, the IOC has decided that universal sex testing of athletes was a waste of time, and both this and their decision on transsexual athletes seemed to pave the way for a very progressive view of gender on the part of the Olympics. The 2008 games seem to be a step backwards—and while they intend to only test those who are suspected, the very creation of such a facility raises questions long before they're even asked. The thing is, this fancy laboratory in Beijing is only testing chromosomes, nothing more. A swab of the inside of the mouth is going to tell you of the absence or presence of a "Y" chromosome which does not itself give a complete picture of a person's gender. In spite of what a majority of people might think, gender is not as simple as a chromosome. It is chromosome tests that have been used to keep transgender people off the altar, including the famed Little V. Texas case where a transwoman's gender was linked to her chromosomal makeup—even though the court never had a chromosome test done on Ms. Littleton.
August 22 - September 4, 2008
So many want to assume that the "Y" is what makes a man. No amount of information about intersexuality, let alone transgender conditions, seems to change what seems a simple answer to many. Meanwhile, "XX" and "XY" do not remain the only answers to sexuality, let alone gender. I don't know my own gender makeup, as far as chromosomes go. I've never felt the need to have them tested. I suspect I probably am "XY", but in the end this does not matter to me. I know I am a woman, and no pair of chromosomes will tell me differently. Given that there are a lot of women in this world with "Y"s in their bodies only strengthens my feeling that chromosomes don't make the final determination of gender. Really, what does? Gender is one of those few things where we really end up having to rely on the integrity of the individual. Chromosomes are imperfect. Outward appearances—the very thing that led to the IOC's 1968 decision to pursue gender tests—lie. Legal documents hardly ever tell the full story. The ability to procreate does not cover those who cannot for any number of other reasons. Ultimately, you are left with only one true method: The word of a trusted individual. This is not an easy answer when one is trying to keep people honest in a competition, especially in a world where people prefer black and white answers to the spectrum that is gender identity and expression. In our all-too-real world, we've seen Hitler's Germany send in male athletes as women as well as eastern bloc competitors who were pumped so full of performance enhancing drugs, including a liberal dose of steroids, at least one was left unsure about his own gender. The Olympic games should be competitive, but they should also err on the side of trust. Given a liberal stance on gender in recent years, this laboratory will test the suspected flies in the face of trust, and casts a seed of doubt over every competitor of any gender competing in these games. Gwen Smith prefers dry erase markers to gender markers. You can find her on the web at www.gwensmith.com.
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LHAC
(Let’s Have A Conversation)
The Incredible, Priceless Benefits of Having a Good…Good…Good Girlfriend or Boyfriend without question, that this introduction is that of someone who is extra special in my life... lol...with whom my relationship is extremely strong. We have an incredible bond and understand each other completely.
by Marvelous Marva start by saying that the relationship I am referring to is one that is platonic... yet involves possessing a love for each other that is just as strong. A relationship with someone that is seemingly closer, but different in ways... and more intimate than the one we can share with our siblings... husbands.... wives or parents.
I
This is a relationship that two people ride together... one that weathers all storms... a relationship that without much effort goes easily, willingly through the thick & the thin…the good & the bad... the ups & the downs...together! And through it all, over the years, the relationship continues to strengthen. The trust in this person becomes one that you rest so naturally easy in... that it’s like betting on what you know you yourself would do. It doesn’t get better than that! I have always and hope to continue to find life fascinating... (smile)… forever keeping the little girl in me alive with the dreams, hopes and wishes I can still have & believe in within my own mind and in my private world. It keeps me sane and happy in its own way. Without this coping mechanism in today’s ugly world, I imagine I would be miserable as hell to life’s often sad reality... So I believe in magic! Anyway, one of the wonderful things to have is a good, good, good girlfriend or boyfriend.... Why do I say “good” three times? Hummm... I think because I want it understood
We accept each other for who we are... what we are... and the way we are in spite of our differences. We are free to be ourselves under any circumstances. We never have to think about putting on masks to be something or someone we are not. We are completely exposed inside and out.... Most importantly, we know each other and are okay with the entire package. This level of acceptance, I imagine, is sought after by most people in our lives that we care about.... But there’s always some reason that we just can’t completely please people. There’s always somewhere that we fall short. We never get a perfect score from them... and we try so hard at times only to feel: “I missed it by that much.” We feel it because that is what regular (so to speak) people, friends, relatives etc. cause us to feel... But not your good, good, good boyfriend or girlfriend... lol. They’re with you no matter which medal you bring home... and even if you come home without one. How about they’re with you even if they have to come pick you up ‘cause you can’t get home... Lol. Did I mention 4a.m. in the morning on a work night? Yep... They’re right there. The most wonderful thing about having a good, good, good girlfriend or boyfriend in your life... is you are always a winner in whatever you do, don’t do, can’t do... whatever. It is the easiest relationship to have because there is no work in the areas that are so common in most relationships. You know that they are with you... no matter what... and I mean no matter what. Yeah, it’s crazy at times... especially for us who can be extremist every now & then... because we will walk through both the gates of hell or the pearly gates. Yeah... I know. That’s deep... which is why we must be careful of perpe-
Now What? by Casondra Rawls There are miles and miles of justice to go before we get to the realness of it all. We keep fire in our veins just to keep the road lit in the dark so we can see. We are usually divided more then we know by letting the “beautiful” judge the “ugly”. Where do people get off thinking that they are better? Although they are not the beholder, they think they are. So what is this fire of self injustice that burns for miles and miles on dark roads without unity? Will it be the divided, the beautiful and the so called ugly? Now what? Think about it.
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OPINIONS SPEAKING OUT! Can’t Stand Out to be Counted Globe. “Their job [on the census] is not to count only those things that they wish existed and then refuse to count the rest. How can you make public policy when you don’t have accurate information?”
by Rev. Irene Monroe very 10 years the U.S. Census Bureau, now metaphorically, comes knocking on our doors. But when the census surveys arrive in 2010 at married households of same-sex couples in Massachusetts, we will be reclassified as unmarried, as same-sex partners if it’s a childless household, or as single-parent families if we have children.
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But same-sex couples in Massachusetts will not be alone in this battle to be counted; so, too, will those in California. “To completely whitewash us out of existence is hurtful, discriminatory and shameful,” said Molly McKay of Marriage Equality USA, a California-based group that advocates for same-sex marriage to the Associated Press “It’s like the federal government is trying to say that we don’t exist.” And believe it or not, the Census Bureau, unlike our present administration, says it doesn’t care who you’re sleeping with or what your sexual orientation is. It just wants to know your relationship to the head of the household. But with the Bureau’s intent on acquiring up-to-date information about every member of a given demographic group, LGBTQ households will not only be misrepresented; our households will also be made invisible when it comes to proportionally distributing the allocation of federal funds that help lawmakers make appropriate policy decisions. “This is such nonsense,” Arline Isaacson, co-chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, told the Boston PA G E 2 0 •
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But Issacson is not alone in asking this question. So, too, did Senator John F. Kerry in an e-mailed statement he sent to the Globe: “If we don’t have an accurate census, how can we sensibly provide federal, state and local resources? The census should be above political influence.” This “separate and unequal treatment” of same-sex households is just another example of the 1,100 plus federal rights, privileges and protections denied us. And this denial is due to restrictions imposed by the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) that explicitly forbids federal government agencies from recognizing same-sex marriages. “It really should be what you say you are, not what I perceive you to be,” Steven H. Murdock told the Associated Press. But, the agency director added, “We have some limitations. This particular act limits us in regards to this issue.” DOMA has two main provisions: No state (or other political subdivision within the United States) need treat a relationship between persons of the same sex as a marriage, even if the relationship is considered a marriage in another state. The Federal Government may not treat same-sex relationships as marriages for any purpose, even if concluded or recognized by one of the states. In 1996, DOMA was passed into law. By 2006, 25 states adopted amendments to their state constitutions prohibiting same-sex marriage, and another twenty states enacted statutory DOMAs. In the 2000 census, same-sex marriage was not an issue because it did not begin in Massachusetts until May 17, 2004, and in California until May 15 of this year. And, with the possibility of not a single one of our marriages showing up in the 2010 Census, these households are not only discriminated against, but also devalued as a vital component and
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COMING FROM WHERE I’M FROM by Nicole Bettis A lot of us have questions about relationships, coming out and family issues, but we just don’t feel comfortable talking to the people in our circle. Fears of being judged and mistreated are enough to stop any of us from seeking the advice we need. I know. I’ve been there. I didn’t have a space where I was free to ask whatever I wanted and receive great feedback, but you do. This article is dedicated to you. You can ask absolutely anything you want from “how to tell her you like her” to “where to tie the knot.” You can even write in anonymously. It’s totally up to you. There are no limits. In each issue you will receive advice from yours truly and maybe even realize that there is someone else out there in your exact situation. If I haven’t been there, I know someone who has, and, coming from where I’m from, that means a lot.
“I’m in a relationship and I love my girlfriend but I keep finding myself thinking about someone else. What do I do?” Anonymous, 25, female Baltimore, MD A part of being human is always wondering “What if?” Your thoughts are normal and you shouldn’t feel bad about having them. The thing is, if you feel yourself wondering about the “what if?” more often than not, maybe it’s something you should explore. As long as you are open and honest with everyone included in the scenario, especially yourself, things should work out fine.
“I have been gay for 15 years and I have never been with a man, but lately I’ve been feeling like something is missing. I think I want to… see what a heterosexual relationship is like. Is this normal?” Tiffany 35, female Harford County, MD We should all know by now that there is no such thing as normal. There are way too many different types of people for one to be classified as “the normal one”. Just because you were one way for a certain amount of time doesn’t mean that you HAVE to be the same way
forever. People grow and change every day. Find out where your feelings are coming from and go with what feels right to you.
I’m not homophobic but my son recently came out of the closet and I don’t know how to deal with it. I didn’t raise him to be this way. What do I do? Anonymous, 47, male Baltimore, MD I think that is wonderful that you’ve even taken the initiative to find out how to handle the situation; so many parents just give up. First of all, I think that you should know that “coming out” is extremely hard, especially when there is a possibility of losing someone close. As parents, we have certain expectations for our children, but what we fail to realize is that, when it comes down to it, they are their own people and they may or may not share your opinions and views. Listen to him, without judgment. Your son has put a great deal of trust in you, so don’t let him down. He needs you more now than ever.
My boyfriend gets upset a lot and he says it’s because he’s stressed. The only thing is that when he gets mad, he puts his hands on me. I love him but I can’t be his punching bag. Anonymous, 22, male Baltimore, MD You are exactly right. You cannot be his punching bag, no matter how mad he is. Let him know that! Clearly you want to be with him, but your safety comes first. Things like this start out small, but quickly escalate to levels unimaginable. You are a person, with feelings, and if he can’t respect that, he doesn’t deserve you. Email any questions or comments to nikki@baltimoregaylife.com. Nicole is a full time tudent majoring in Professional writing. Swimming, biking and practicing yoga are a few ways that she likes to spend her free time. She believes in being good to the environment and stopping to smell the roses
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contributor to American life. “This is discrimination plain and simple. If the census bureau said they weren’t going to count black couples or Mexican couples it would be thrown out immediately and people would be brought to court,” stated a blogger on Mercury News. Although Obama does not support same-sex marriage, in a statement on his campaign Web site on LGBTQ civil rights, he says that we, the American people and perhaps not him, should “fully repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits currently provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples.”
against repealing DOMA. And, just last month, McCain stated on ABC News that he “…voted for the Defense of Marriage Act, which clearly indicated the unique status of a marriage between man and woman. I will continue to support that. I will continue to have my position.” The 2000 Census estimated that there were approximately 9,000 same-sex couples in Massachusetts. Today there’s an estimate of approximately 11, 000 same-sex marriages in Massachusetts, and the number is growing. In a 4-to-3 decision, the California Supreme Court this May ruled that a “separate and unequal” system of domestic partnership for same-sex couples is blatantly discriminatory and unconstitutional. It stated in its ruling: “In contrast to earlier times, our
IMHO McCain, on the other hand, is
I’m in No Shape for Physical Fitness
o as I sit my fat ass on the couch again for another night of Olympic watching, I marvel at the vast amount of male pulchritude on display. Everywhere you look there are bulging biceps, six packs galore and tiny, trim waists. And these are on the Chinese volunteers!
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I kid, of course. But I am blown away by all of the musculature on display. I can’t begin to choose my favorite body type among the wide of athletes. Is it the trimby Mario Fernández variety waisted, broad-shouldered, slightly toned diver’s body? Or is it the ripped washboard abs of Michael Phelps and other swimmers? Perhaps it’s the defined biceps and rippling hamstrings and calves of the gymnasts. It’s a veritable feast for homo eyes, I tell you. Of course, I tell you this as I use my stomach for a dinner TV tray. Women refer to their breasts as a rack; I refer to my stomach as a plank. Just an additional, slightly round surface on which to balance dinner plates, martini glasses and sleeping dogs. So it’s only natural as I’m regaled and overwhelmed by youthful physiques engaged in strenuous physical activity on TV that brings to mind that once, a lifetime ago, I was buff. Back in the days of Olivia Newton John and the “Physical” video, I danced, sweated, gyrated, grape-vined, slid and climbed thousands of steps in several aerobics classes each week. I played tennis twice a week and rode 25 miles on the NCR trail on a regular basis. I used to think that working up a sweat was a good thing and that a good workout got the blood flowing and released the endorphins in the body. Now the thought of sweating automatically conjures images of sticky discomfort and chafing thighs. At my age, these are not pleasurable activities. PA G E 2 2 •
state now recognizes that an individual’s capacity to establish a loving and long-term committed relationship with another person and responsibly to care for and raise children does not depend upon the individual’s sexual orientation, and, more generally, that an individual’s sexual orientation—like a person’s race or gender—does not constitute a legitimate basis upon which to deny or withhold legal rights.” In other words, the times have changed, and the 2010 census should reflect this change by allowing our households to be counted. A native of Brooklyn, Rev. Irene Monroe served as a pastor at an African-American church before a Ford Fellowship took her to Harvard Divinity School for a doctorate.
ATTENTION! Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the GLCCB or Gay Life. We welcome your letters and opinions. Submissions should include a name, address and phone number for verification and may be edited for content and length. Send submissions by e-mail to editor@baltimoregaylife.com or fax to 410.837.8889 or by mail to Editor, 241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.
I’m always afraid that the chafing thighs, especially during a Baltimore summer heat spell, could be downright dangerous. Dangerous as in the spontaneous combustion that you read about in those magazines at the supermarket checkout lane. I can see the headline now in The Baltimore Sun, “Timonium Man Spontaneously Combusts. Chafing Thighs Suspected.” I’ve never been thin. Well, not totally true. I’m told that I was a very picky eater until I had my tonsils removed at age six. Apparently, I found my appetite then because I have certainly enjoyed food since. As I hit puberty, I was in shape but classified as “husky.” Husky…that’s a term that only fags of a certain age will remember. Then came the 80s and early 90s and I aerobicized like Jane Fonda on speed. I will admit to the occasional headband and spandex shorts (and no, I didn’t pack a sock, bitches!). I followed every exercise trend: step classes, racquetball, tennis, weight training, spin classes, every kind of yoga, Pilates, trail biking, walking. All to feel better and, more importantly, to look better. Because as we all know, if you want to get laid, you gotta look good, especially if you’re a homo. Somewhere along the line, it no longer became important to me to be physically fit. I don’t know if it was the emotional detritus of one failed romantic relationship after another or just the constipation of middle-age. Middle-age just creeps on you without warning and before you know it, you are on the fast track to Bermuda shorts and black socks with sandals. The typical signs of middle-age never much bothered me. When my hair began to thin, I buzzed it. I figured that there were much worse things that could fall off. Not to mention that I would never need to pack combs, brushes, shampoo, conditioner and a blow dryer when I traveled. Think of all the extra rubbers and lube that I could pack now when I was headed off to Fire Island and P’Town! Of course, they don’t tell you that when you stop growing hair on the top of your head, you start growing it in other less than desirable places. Like in your nose and in your ears. And these hairs sprout like Jack’s beanstalk. They grow like kudzu or bamboo, several feet a day. I swear that I trim and trim and overnight, there’s a new hair long enough to crochet a scarf with growing out of my nose or ears! They also don’t tell you how your body changes. That once trim stomach now has a zip code of its own. It precedes me when entering a room. I avoid going by the bathroom mirror in profile; it looks like I’m carrying sextuplets. If I sleep on my stomach, my face doesn’t touch the pillow. I’m tired of my nephew always asking why I keep hiding his basketball under my shirt. I never minded being a fruit; I just never wanted to be pear-shaped. With all due apologies to Jennifer Saunders, there is a thin man inside of this body just screaming to get out (and it’s just the one, bitches!). The Olympics have reminded me that it’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good. When bending over to tie my shoes is the most aerobic thing I do, it’s time to start taking care of myself. So I have resolved to start exercising and watching my diet. It’s time to get into a thong. I don’t know whose thong yet, but someone’s thong! E-mail Mario at mfernandez@baltimoregaylife.com.
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trators.
with exposure is extremely difficult.
You know at the end of the day we all just want to be loved... and when given this type of love, understanding and acceptance, the overwhelming feeling of being free can sometimes have you go to any lengths for & with this person. What’s even more amazing is that it doesn’t even matter. We don’t keep score.... It’s all quite natural.
For me, I must have a woman that I can learn from, be inspired by and all that other good stuff... and hopefully have her allow me to bring some exciting things to her life.... I would love for her to be intriguing and adventurous... and of course loving & caring. Yeah, I know it sounds kinda like a big order, but really it’s not. I just want to dream and be a part of someone else’s dreams... attempting to turn them into realities... and enjoy the ride. I want to live this life... all of it... and not miss a moment of enjoyment with her.
I must share all the fabulous things that come with having a good, good, good girlfriend or boyfriend... There can come a time when we do not see eye to eye on an issue…. It could be something small, but if we are not mindful and our individual personalities kick in and override the love and trust for each other, we can find ourselves looking through tainted glasses... which may cause a glitch in the relationship. And if we do not remember all that our relationship has been built on, it could slowly diminish... which is crazy. I think this happens because evil spirits lurk in this world... and their goal is to destroy anything that is beautiful, pure and good. I also think this can happen because we are all human and not flawless...which is where acceptance kicks in again. We must always remember that when we set ourselves up for perfection in another human being... we just set ourselves up to be disappointed. A good, good, good girlfriend or boyfriend knows that we are not perfect and loves us in spite of it.... In fact, they seemingly like & love us more because of it (smile). Knowing that they themselves also possess flaws of some sort... they too do not want to feel rejection... and also want & need acceptance of who they are... you know... that thing we all want from those we love! Too often, we just don’t admit it. I wish everyone could experience having a good, good, good girlfriend or boyfriend in their life.... It’s the greatest!
Questions & Answers Marva, Why is a beautiful, intelligent, successful woman like yourself single? —Sharon H., Owings Mills, MD. You flatter me Sharon.... Thank you for the compliments. Ummm... I think there are a few reasons why I’m single... lol. I think one is that the more you are honest with yourself and find out about who you are and are enjoy growing in life even when it’s difficult to do so... hooking up with someone who is so full of just surface personality and terrified
ATTENTION
Second is, I have to say that I am selective as far as the women I am attracted to. Not only do I need her to be smart, supportive, loving & caring.... but also attractive. Yes I said it: I need to be able to have a physical attraction to her... lol. I will not apologize for my flavor of woman...(smile). But seriously, sometimes I just have to shake my head at how fortunate many of the more masculine lesbians are in having very attractive partners. For some reason, I cannot seem to bump into any here in Maryland... who are attracted to me...which is why I am now open to searching outside of this state and country. I’ve even considered dating outside of my race, which is another topic for discussion. Finally, my last relationship lasted eight years and I do think that time span can have a toll on one... I needed to both grieve and recover from it... and it did not happen overnight. I did not want to get involved with anyone while in that process.... It would not have been fair. Having allowed myself the time to completely heal from that relationship, I am now better than I’ve ever been and feel fantastic in all areas... and I’m extremely excited about new love and all it has to offer. I have grown and cannot wait to meet, and fall in love with the woman who I hope will be my wife. Yeah, Sharon, I do get a bit anxious at times, because I prefer being in a relationship... but I believe that it will happen without prior notice.... So, in the meantime, I’m just making sure that I’m ready for her when she gets here... & just waiting for her to show up! (Smile) Marva! Email me with any questions or comments at Marvelousmarva@baltimore gaylife.com.
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OPINIONS Children of Gay Parents are Affected by Homophobic Comments by Trevor Ankeny I wake-up in the morning to my favorite radio station as always. This morning something is different. My daughter is already awake and standing by my bed. The morning crew on the radio station begins reading a letter from a listener that mentions a homosexual agenda and having to protect our children from the homosexuals. I look at my daughter. She looks at me. She is only eight; however, she already knows about her father. She does not ask anything. She just continues to look at me. I see the confusion in her face. Why would my favorite radio station read this letter? Why does someone feel the need to write to a radio station about this matter? What is my daughter thinking? I feel anger and frustration, but I do not want these emotions to show. As the day goes by I keep thinking about the issue. Certainly children of gay parents must be affected by homophobic comments. Many people feel that homosexuals as parents are inferior and unable to be good parents. Although most of us value free speech, abusing free speech by using extremely hateful rhetoric can be harmful to the children of gay parents. Many homophobic individuals say their goal is to protect children, but when they make these homo-hostile comments, have they considered that they are referring to some child’s father or mother? Last year, members of The Westboro Baptist Church came to Baltimore, Maryland to protest the showing of a play at the Baltimore School for the Arts. Protestors stood in the street wielding signs that read “God Hates Fags”. In attendance were many gay individuals, some of whom were parents that attended with their children. I cannot help but wonder: How do these children feel when they read or hear such comments? Emily Hansen, a child of gay parents, wrote, “I think the hardest part about this is that people tell me not to take people’s comments personally. But I do. Every time. They are personal. This is my family.” Children of gay parents often find it difficult to ignore homophobic comments. Likewise, gay parents find it difficult not to feel hurt by such comments. Though most realize the comments are directed at a group and not at
them personally, they still have a stinging effect. Simple derogatory comments can have the same effect. Hearing another child say “that’s so gay” or using the term “faggot” truly hits home with most gay people and oftentimes with children of gay parents. The negative connotation is understood. As a result, the children of gay parents may feel the need to defend their families, which in turn could result in being teased or in fighting. On the other hand, they may feel the need to withdraw and may harbor resentment toward their peers, their parent(s) or themselves. We can only speculate as to the depth of the damage that is caused by homo-hostile comments. As a result of society’s attitude toward gay parenting, many gay parents feel the need to protect their children from homophobic comments. To protect their children, gay parents often utilize a variety approaches. Some may attempt to live a “closeted” lifestyle. Some may attempt to limit their children’s interactions with others. Others may attempt to create a strong loving home environment to counteract the negative views outside the home. These types of protective measures may have some degree of success; at the same time, they also present their own challenges and have long-term effects. As a gay father, I find myself in a difficult place. I believe there is a need for children to understand the world in which they live so that they may function within that world. As a result, I want my daughter to understand the hatred that may be displayed towards me as her gay father, and indirectly towards her as a child of a gay father. In spite of my attempts to create a loving home environment, I still find myself subconsciously protecting my daughter from speech that I think would hurt her. I find it extremely difficult to find the correct balance without being overprotective. The American Psychological Association submitted a brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit noting the following: “…The relevant scientific research has been remarkably consistent in showing continued on page 28
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that lesbian and gay parents are as every bit fit and capable as heterosexual parents. And their children are psychologically healthy and well-adjusted…” Some may still argue that being raised by gay parents is not the optimal home environment. Certainly there are good and bad examples of children who have been raised by parents, homosexual or heterosexual. Being raised by gay parents does not correlate or equate to dysfunctional children. The children of gay parents are no different from other children. They want to be accepted like other children. They want to
chase their dreams like other children. They love their parents like other children, and sometimes hate their parents like other children. Having a gay parent changes none of these things. It only changes the look of their family. As a child, it may be difficult to hear and deal with negative homophobic comments. As a parent, it may be difficult to watch a child struggle through this. However, there is always hope that one day a child will not have to hear his or her father or mother referred to as unsuitable or as an abomination, but rather, just as a parent.
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QPUZZLE "The Eyes Have It"
Across
Down
1 Longtime lesbian couples often do this 5 Sexologist Shere 9 Greet Lou Sheldon 13 It's for skin care 14 Word on a drag queen's bottle 15 Tennessee Williams' Summer and Smoke heroine 16 Queer Eye guy 19 Agnes Moorehead role 20 Spits four-letter words 21 Emulates Ted Casablanca, perhaps 24 Writer of "I’ve Got My Eyes on You" 26 Broadway director Mantello 28 One who tickles you pink 29 Stud site 32 Paul Lynde relationship to Elizabeth Montgomery, on Bewitched 34 Question variety for an Advocate poll 36 Future queen of Star Wars 37 Drag queen's shoe 41 Cain's "closet" role 42 With 55-Across, song by 24-Across dedicated to 16-Across? 45 ACT UP founder Larry 46 Lesbian Beach 50 Baum's good witch 55 See 42-Across 58 Org. that may include bears 59 Mosque head 60 Words that come after "come" 61 Where one sleeps with privates 62 Mr. Right-now 63 Material for Philip Johnson's Glass House
1 What a knight takes to go clubbing? 2 Part of Liberace's style 3 Alfred Douglas' title 4 Explorer from Lorca's land 5 Land in a song by Peter, Paul, and Mary 6 Variety, but not of Hollywood 7 Seaman 8 Loving words from an optometrist? 9 Pain in the butt 10 Society's problems, like racism and homophobia 11 Nemesis of Tinkerbell 12 Comes out with 17 Words threatening a butt-whupping 18 Like Marlene Dietrich 22 Hosp. worker 23 "Get out!" to Orton, with "off" 24 Costume designer Beaton 25 International Gay Bowling Organization button 26 Mo. before August 27 Ready to go in 30 Word used in dating 31 Poppycock 33 Area for Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders 35 Scrape by, with "out" 37 Building covered with triangles 38 Team for Dr. Tom Waddell 39 Rhoda production co. 40 Fore-play? 43 Like family 44 AfterEllen.com and AfterElton.com 46 'N ___ (boy band) 47 Go up and down 48 You may feel it at a gay bar 49 Biographies, to Baudelaire 51 Chain with fruit syrups 52 Lesbian porn star Hartley 53 Rub out 54 Hathaway of The Devil Wears Prada 56 Singer Sumac 57 What Richard Simmons helps you to burn
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DO AS I SAY
Friends in Low Places
by Prudence Worthington
t seems it is time again that I address you on matters small and large regarding gracious living. I do hope you are following my sage advice. You may have guessed that a woman of my social acumen has a great deal of friends and a broader circle of acquaintances. This, of course, comes with a price, for when you’ve lived as long as moi, you realize that into every day a little rain must fall. Especially painful is the “rain” provided by the coterie one engages. I’m reminded of the old adage: “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” Anyone over the age of 21 should realize that the distinction of “friends” and enemies can be a fine line.
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The topic of my treatise revolves around the exploits of my dear friend and constant companion, Traxie Muldoon. As you know, Traxie and I have been steadfast friends since we were young school girls at Miss Porter’s. This exclusive brand of education prepares many a young woman with the essentials needed to lead a charmed life. I must confess, however, that being raised to belong to a polite society that no longer exists has its pitfalls. Poor Traxie has been dealt an even worse hand, so to speak. Traxie Magdelin Muldoon, of the Chicago Muldoons, had all the advantages of any well-bred family in spite of her coming from the “new rich” class. Her mother was pedigreed but married her father as the old family money was evaporating. Dear daddy’s fortune was made as bootlegger and later as a numbers man. Apparently, Irish and mafia don’t mix so well and, to this day, no one knows where poor Mr. Muldoon’s body rests. Sweet Traxie suffered the same fate as her mother. She always married men similar to daddy and now finds herself a widow 3 times with barely a penny. Consequently, when not relying upon the kindness of strangers, she has taken up residence with me, her oldest and dearest friend. I assure this is barely a strain upon our relationship. Dear Traxie’s socially benevolent soul takes her far and wide in a party whirl which provokes much discussion. She has been complaining of the stories surrounding her comings and goings which have been rather discreet of late, I must confess. As a result, the lamb has taken to seclusion and is constantly unburdening her weary soul upon me. Being the charitable sort, I commit these stories to paper with the hope of helping you, dear readers, traverse the rocky terrain of etiquette in these troubling times. If you recognize any of these behaviors within yourself, I propose an immediate path of reform.
Lay off my reputation girls. Traxie had been intentionally avoiding the lime light and hoped to stay out of the gossip columns. She limited her public appearances, gentleman callers and all social activities to the most wholesome of natures. Following all this genteel behavior, it came as a great shock when she discovered the broadcast of numerous speculative depravities attributed to her, in which she had no part. It seems the ladies had no actual stories to discuss so they merely fabricated their own. I suppose the lesson here is to keep your mouth shut. Just because our president is passing off stories as truth doesn’t mean you should try the same.
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Can a girl get some help over here? While Traxie is a high spirited gal, she is never one to abuse her acquaintances, but the beau monde would have you believe otherwise. Let me make this clear: There is no dignified way to yell “stay away from my boyfriend” across a hotel lobby. Why this unprovoked verbal assault was launched at Traxie, those present will never know. Within hours she was portrayed as a trouble-making husband thief. I assure you, her taste in men should be enough to prove the accusations false. I therefore ask, my dears, do the insane ever receive blame for their crimes? I suppose loyalty has completely fallen out of style with you people. Why dispense forgiveness like Pez when the misplaced blame won’t get you any closer to heaven?
Where would you like the knife? Traxie arrived home from one friendly dinner party feeling much better having talked at length with a confidante about her recent break with a beloved gentleman caller. A few weeks later, the very same “friend” was seen about town with the former love interest. Really, the body was barely cold! Remarkably, some thought this was acceptable behavior, but they didn’t hasten to inform her about it. If you haven’t the good taste or common sense to stay away from your friends former paramours, then follow this simple rule: If it feels wrong, it is girls!
It’s my party. Make me cry if you want to. I’m afraid, dear readers, the bad behavior continues. Sweet Traxie took it upon herself to host a party for a much beloved friend. As hostess, she arranged the guest list, flowers, food, libations and staff. It seems everyone had a stellar time except my dear friend Traxie. Amidst the revelry and songs around the piano she overheard not one, but three groups of guests sabotaging her reputation. It is difficult enough to have one’s intimates inform you of gossip, but to catch them creating it (while drinking one’s booze) is especially painful. Traxie hasn’t been the same since. If I have mortified you sufficiently, then you already possess the good disposition and breeding of one who is worthy of loyal friendship. Should you find your behavior similar to the villains in these tales, you have much to amend in your character. To summarize, one must be a good friend to have good friends. Gossip, like fire, is hard to extinguish once it is blazing all over town. The people you engage may be the ones you grow old with and wouldn’t it be nice to know someone will push your wheelchair years from now? My kittens, be good to your friends and defend their reputations, and do remember, life will be a dream if you do as I say.
Prudence P.S. You may forward enquires regarding today's ever-changing etiquette to prudence@baltimoregaylife.com.
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PENCIL ME IN FILM Friday, August 22 – Sunday, August 24
Thursday, August 28 Thursdays in the Park
Native American Pow Wow The Baltimore American Indian Center presents the 24th Annual Pow Wow in Patterson Park (400 S. Linwood Ave., Baltimore MD). Come enjoy cultural presentations, art, clothing, food, dancing and much more! For additional information, visit www.baic.org.
Saturday, August 23 & Saturday, August 30 Elle @ The Genie Room Firefly Entertainment presents Baltimore’s premiere women’s night. Exclusively feminine. Innovatively unique. You won’t want to miss this weekly women’s party from 9 p.m. til 1 a.m. at the Genie Room @ The Kasbah (2324 Boston St., Baltimore, MD). $8 b4 11 p.m. For additional information, visit www.myspace.com/fireflyent.
Saturday, August 23 Treasures from the Vault Come check out Baltimore International Film Festival’s award-winning films from the 1970s and ‘80s. A 22-year-old filmmaker struggles to discover his raison d’etre in “About That Time” (1973). A man battles a refrigerator that is trying to run his life in “Refrigerator” (1983). An endless round of octogenarian birthday parties, insipid poetry readings, boring meals and confrontations with no-nonsense nurses make a “wild goose” determined to escape from his nursing home in “The Wild Goose” (1973). Screenings start at 3 p.m. at the Southeast Anchor Library (3601 Eastern Eve., Baltimore MD).
Wednesday, August 27 Taboo—Last Wednesdays Firefly Entertainment continues to bring us Taboo: Last Wednesdays at the 13th Floor @ the Belvedere (1 E. Chase St., Baltimore, MD). Deep house, hip-hop, lounge all night. $5 b4 11 p.m. For additional information, visit www.myspace.com/ fireflyent.
Thursday, August 28 Cabaret @ Germano’s Tratorria Baltimore’s premier cabaret at Germano’s Trattoria (300 S. High St., Baltimore, MD) features performers from the worlds of theatre, popular song, jazz classical music & opera each and every Thursday. Branda Lock and Rebecca Bux present “Why Do Guys Have All the Fun?” Singing songs from The Great American Song Book traditionally sung by men, this duo promises an entertaining evening. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. ($10 music fee; $15 food/drink minimum). With sell-out crowds, be sure to make reservations and arrive early. For additional information, visit www.germanostrattoria.com or call 410-752-4515.
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Join Queen Anne’s County art council from 7-9 p.m. for another free Thursday in the Park at Chesapeake Exploration Center (Chester, MD). Bobby & the Believers bring audiences an evening of hot Motown and much more. For additional information, call 410-758-2520.
He’s 2 Sexy: Steve Coogan Plays it Straight (Kinda) in the Irreverent and Outrageous Outfest Award-winner, Hamlet 2 by Brandon Voss
Thursday, August 28 – Sunday, August 31 Baltimore Summer Antique Show The 28th Baltimore Summer Antique show takes over the Baltimore Convention Center (1 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD). Come check out the largest summer antiques show in the nation and see the offerings of 550 exhibitors from across the country and around the world. Dealers will showcase a diverse collection of fine art, jewelry, silver, porcelain, folk art, furniture, glass and more. The show also includes a 60 dealer antiquarian book fair offering rare books, first editions, fine manuscripts, autographs and unusual bibliographical material. Back by popular demand is the free lecture series open to the public. For additional information, visit www.baltimoresummerantiques.com or call 561822-5440.
Thursday, August 28 – Sunday, August 31 Staunton Theater Festival In association with American Shakespeare Center, the City of Staunton Virginia presents the premier Staunton Theater Festival. Featuring 15 theater companies, this four day, five venue festival is well worth traveling to. When you arrive in downtown Staunton, Virginia, in the fabled Shenandoah Valley, either as a player, a participant or as a tourist you will quickly discover that you have happened upon a special place. Full Tilt Theater Company from Bath England will inaugurate the annual festival with a special rousing radical “theater event”, including the bard’s Comedy of Errors—An Identity Affair. For additional information, visit www.stauntontheaterfestival.com.
Thursday, September 4 Women’s Law Center Happy Hour Raise a glass for the Women’s Law Center of Maryland! Join WLC from 6-9 p.m. for a special happy hour at Mad River Bar & Grille (1110 S. Charles St., Baltimore, MD). Tips given to guest bartenders will be given directly to WLC. Make a $10 donation to WLC at the door and receive a wristband for 1 free drink and $1 off drinks all evening. For additional information, call 410-321-8761.
Steve Coogan in Hamlet 2 ith the queer premise of an offbeat high school drama teacher putting on a controversial musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy featuring song titles like “Rock Me Sexy Jesus” and “Gay as the Day is Long”, is it any wonder why Hamlet 2 earned the Audience Award at July’s Outfest Film Festival in Los Angeles?
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“Although the reaction to the movie has been very enthusiastic from virtually everyone, the reaction of the gay community has been extra enthusiastic,” says Steve Coogan, who plays failed actor-turned-failing teacher Dana Marschz alongside stars like Amy Poehler, Catherine Keener, David Arquette and Elisabeth Shue. “It doesn’t surprise me that the gays have responded so well. Aside from the fact that it’s about theater, creativity and passion, I think the reason the film has resonated is because Dana is a very emotionally open person. You don’t often get a protagonist like that in a film: someone who wears his heart on his sleeve.” “And there’s a gay in it,” adds out director and co-writer Andrew Fleming, referring to the resident class queen played by Broadway’s Spring Awakening alum Skylar Astin. Yet despite common stereotypes of small-town drama teachers, Fleming (who wrote Hamlet 2 with Pam Brady, a longtime collaborator of South Park duo Trey Parker and Matt Stone) decided to make Dana heterosexual, though certainly far from butch.
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“I didn’t want to make Dana gay because I didn’t want it to become just about him being gay,” continues Fleming, who first came to LGBT filmgoers’ attention as writer and director of the 1994 comedy Threesome before co-writing and directing The Craft and Dick. “But those theater guys, even when they’re straight, still have this kind of flamboyance where they’re like, ‘I don’t care what people think of me.’ So we were definitely going for that fem-het thing.” “The two of us did not want him to be that super camp, limp-wristed thing that I’ve seen done to death and find a bit tiresome,” says Coogan, a British comedian best known stateside for his roles in Night at the Museum, Tristam Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story and, most recently, Tropic Thunder. “But we didn’t want to go the other way either. We did want him to have a feminine quality. He’s what you call a 100% metrosexual.” Coogan explored a similarly honest yet respectful balance of masculine and feminine traits when he played Lisa Kudrow’s gay stepbrother in Don Roos’ 2005 film Happy Endings. “Sometimes if a straight actor plays a gay man, he thinks that he has to have no feminine qualities at all to avoid the stereotype, and that’s not truthful,” he observes. “Obviously you don’t want to be seen as prejudice or homophobic, and I think actors panic about that. I’ve seen straight actors playing gay, and they don’t do anything overtly gay apart from the fact they’ve got a boyfriend.”
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It’s safe to say that Coogan’s Dana acts stereotypically gayer than most modern gay characters, even after the filmmakers took him down a nelly notch. “There was a plotline where the kids think that he’s gay for a while, but it just felt like a cliché,” reveals Fleming, who also describes a shot but ultimately scrapped threesome scene with Dana and the characters played by Keener and Arquette: “It’ll be on the DVD extras.” Fittingly, Coogan, though secure in his own heterosexuality, has comfortably indulged himself from a very young age. “I was never into sports; I was into film, television, acting and being characters, and I also liked to play in the Wendy house,” he shares. “You’re probably going to tell me I’m a closet gay now, but I’m not! But I wonder whether people thought I was gay, because when my brother would go off exploring, I would prefer to sit with my mum and her friend and listen to them gossip. I like to think I’m still in touch with my feminine side. If you’re hung up on being perceived as a red-blooded heterosexual, then you probably won’t be a very good actor; you have to be open to all aspects of your personality. I really don’t give a damn about being perceived in a macho way.”
people might view his sexuality, his body—described in Hamlet 2 as a fine swimmer’s build while he rocks a wifebeater as “Sexy Jesus”—is another story entirely. “Although I talk about my art and everything, the truth is that the first thing I think about when I see myself on screen is that my face looks fat,” admits Coogan, who watched his diet during filming but ate a giant bowl of pasta the moment they wrapped. “Even though I’m not as trim as I should be—and I’m not particularly proud of this—there’s a narcissistic streak that I’m very aware of. I try to perfect that unstudied look—when you go out in the evening looking like everything was just thrown on, but of course there’s a lot of careful thought that has gone into it.” Coogan suggests that the same metrosexuality showcased in Hamlet 2 appeals not only to his queer fan base, but also to his significant other. “You know the girls who hang around with gay guys because they have a certain commonality of taste? Well, I said to my girlfriend, ‘Look, you should be really pleased that I like furniture, design and clothes— and yet you can have sex with me.’” Hamlet 2 (Focus Features) is in theaters today, August 22.
Though not concerned with how
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DININGOUT The Dogwood by John Cullen and Marty Shayt nside the entrance to the street level “Dogwood Deli”, an inconspicuous, long, sloping ramp leads you to a delightful upscale yet casual restaurant called “The Dogwood”. Owners Galen and Bridget Sampson, former executive chefs for the old five-star “Hampton’s” restaurant, have created a modern stylish restaurant infused with inspiring culinary and social aspirations. There’s a concerted effort to leverage locally grown and organic ingredients providing the freshest provisions (with suppliers listed on the menu!) while their “Chefs & Hosts in-the-Making Institute” provides no-tuition training and a boost up to people recovering from addiction, homelessness or incarceration. In surprising contrast to what the nondescript entrance would suggest, oversized graphic photos of vegetables on light green walls, a mix of tables topped in granite or heavy white linen, a handsome long wood bar and twinkling small lights hanging from the tall ceilings can make it easy to forget you’re in the former large basement of the “Hampden Theater” (which shut down in 1976). The young friendly staff and the watchful presence of Galen and Bridget also have us quickly feeling like long time customers.
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The menu is printed daily, allowing for changes according to what local suppliers can provide. Appetizers and “small plates” range from $7-$13. Marty opts for a Baltimore style “Crab Soup” $9—he’s really pleased with lots of crabmeat evident on top of a spicy tomato broth that’s full of veggies. On a first visit, John tries an unusual Cucumber Gazpacho ($7)— pureed cucumber (instead of the usual tomato base) was overwhelmed by too much sweet mango. On a second try, the soup had wonderfully evolved—grated cucumber with a tart edge now contrasting nicely with bits of mango and avocado. We also twice tried “Crispy Eggplant Strata” ($10). The first time, we were wowed by the contrast of crunchy toasted polenta with sautéed eggplant, but on a second visit, the polenta isn’t toasted and, while tasty, lacks the punch of the earlier version. (We guess that the emphasis on local seasonal produce that can change daily probably would provide a challenge to any kitchen staff.) A guest orders a “Grilled Piazetta” ($10) and is delighted by the small pizza with organic ripe purple heirloom tomatoes, basil and lots of PA G E 3 2 •
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gooey mozzarella. Entrees range from $16-$25. Marty tries a vegetarian Mousaka ($17) and praises his large serving of roasted eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and red quinoa tabouleh in a curry carrot ginger sauce (though he had to send it back to be heated up). John goes for the “Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin” ($21) and is so delighted that he ordered it again on a second visit. Served with grilled polenta, chowchow and a plum sauce, it is wonderful and he highly recommends it. One of our guests tried Roasted Halibut ($25) which was served with risotto and a garlic crème sauce which he praised highly. (Marty and John got a taste and we both thought it was delicious too!). Desserts range from $5-$7. A “Peach & Blueberry Shortcake” ($7) inexplicably arrived with not-so-ripe plums instead of peaches. (Owner Galen immediately popped up, apologized and offered a replacement.) Lime Crème Brulee ($6) was a disappointment—the crème was tangy and smooth, but the caramel topping was too burnt. Marty and John did much better with locally made “Sylvan Beach” ice cream and sorbet. Marty’s Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream ($5) was awesome and the portion was enough for two! John was delighted with his Mango Sorbet with fresh blackberries ($6). A few variations in results seem worth it when the goals are so high. Between the much enjoyed food, pleasant yet casual dress atmosphere, and friendly yet great service, this is a place we’ll want to return to. (A crowded dining room on summer week nights suggest that other folks have reached the same conclusion!) BASICS: The Dogwood (Hampden), 911 36th St., 410-889-0952, www.dogwoodgourmet.org; Open: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Mon - Thurs, until 10 p.m. on Fri & Sat, closed Sunday. Reservations are a good idea. Free parking in large lot directly behind the restaurant. Yes, Dogwood now has a liquor license! Later, take time to stroll around 36th St. (aka “the Avenue”) and check out the many wonderful shops & restaurants. Feedback or suggestions? Email us at diningout@baltimoregaylife.com. Missed a review and wish you could find it? Visit http://hometown.aol.com/ gaylifediningout/.
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THEATER
James Davis as Juliet in the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s upcoming allmale production of Romeo and Juliet, directed by David Muse. (Photo: Scott Suchman)
ON THE STAGE 1984
Maria/Stuart
Runaways
August 27 – October 5 Catalyst Theater Company, DC 202-494-3776 www.catalysttheater.org
Through September 14 Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, D.C. 202-393-3939 www.woollymammoth.net
Through August 23 Maryland Ensemble Theatre, Frederick 301-694-4744 www.marylandensemble.org
All Shook Up Through August 24 Toby’s Dinner Theatre of Columbia 410-995-1969 www.tobysdinnertheatre.com
bare the musical Through August 31 Theatre Project, Baltimore 410-752-8558 www.barethemusicalinbaltimore.com
Doubt: A Parable August 27 – October 5 Everyman Theatre, Baltimore 410-752-2208 www.everymantheatre.org
Helena Troy Through August 31 Spotlighters Theatre, Baltimore 410-752-1225 www.spotlighters.org
Jerry Springer: The Opera Through August 31 Studio Theatre, D.C. 202-332-3300 www.studiotheatre.org
Kosher with Salsa Through August 30 Fells Point Corner Theatre 410-276-7837 www.fpct.org
The Matchmaker September 10 – October 5 CenterStage, Baltimore 410-332-0033 www.centerstage.org
Rabbit Hole Through August 31 Olney Theatre Center 301-924-3400 www.olneytheatre.org
Resurrection
Trumbo August 27 – September 28 RepStage, Columbia 410-772-4900 www.repstage.org
Viva la Vivienne! September 8 – September 24 Everyman Theatre, Baltimore 410-752-2208 www.everymantheatre.org
West Side Story
August 29 – October 5 Arena Players, Crystal City, VA 410-728-6500 www.arenastage.org
Through August 24 Toby’s Dinner Theatre of Baltimore 410-995-1969 www.tobysdinnertheatre.com
The Road to Mecca
What’s a Little Death
September 3 – October 12 Studio Theatre, D.C. 202-332-3300 www.studiotheatre.org
September 4 – September 14 Theatre Project, Baltimore 410-752-8558
Romeo & Juliet September 9 – October 12 Shakespeare Theatre Company, D.C. 202-547-1122 www.shakespearetheatre.org
Rooms a Rock Romance Through September 7 MetroStage, Alexandria, VA 703-548-9044 www.metrostage.org
Caroline Reck stars in 3 Hands Clapping’s production of What’s a Little Death on stage at the Theatre Project (45 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD) September 4 through 14. www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
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MUSIC History Repeats
by DJ Alex Funk s there room for quirky commercial music these days? It does seem that the industry has pushed us to take all these mainstream artists so seriously. Just how seriously should we really take Britney? I want there to be more quirkiness in pop music; we live in a quirky world, let the music reflect it. Let the music be retrospective, introspective and just a bit silly. I'm gonna need more cowbell.
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Chromeo – Fancier Footwork (2008) Turbo/Vice/V2 Recordings
I love an album that defies easy placement into a single genre category. I love a band that can roll with hip-hop superstars, indie rock scenesters, and European techno giants and seem perfectly at home with each of them. Chromeo is this band. The production duo consists of PThugg (Patrick Gemayel) on keys, snyths, and talk box and Dave 1 (David Macklovitch) on guitar and vocals. The album Fancy Footwork was released about a year ago. The deluxe edition, a 2-disc set with bonus remixes, singles, etc., was released earlier this summer.
by DJ Alex Funk
This album is a celebration of the synth-based electro-funk sounds ranging from Hall and Oates style smooth soul out to Prince-style poppin' fresh funk—but don't think this album is all retro. The beauty of the album is that while it's steeped in a tradition of 70s and 80s funk pop, the whole sound pays tribute to the genre while bringing it into the light of modern electropop sensibility. Here vintage Moog synths and meaty vocoded guitar riffs are stacked miles high and soaked in effects. In some cases to great effect—“Intro” and “Tenderoni” are truly masterworks of pop production with arena-rock chanting layered with bubbling synths in the former and tight groovy call and response programming on the latter. In other cases, the production comes off as a bit crude and heavy-handed, notably “Outta Sight” and “Opening Up”. There are two ballads on the album which are hands-down brilliant. “Momma's Boy” is a perfectly told story, executed flawlessly from quiet start to raucous end. “100%” is a tip to Discovery-era Daft Punk/Romanthony and very welldone indeed. The overarching theme here is: Don't take it all so seriously. It's just pop music. The bonus disc is a mixed bag, but there are some real gems in here— especially if you have a taste for modern electronic dance music. “Needy Girl” and “Rage” and “You're So Gangsta” are hit singles from their 2004 album She's in Control—no complaints here. The remix tracks worth a listen here are MSTRKRFT's mix of “Tenderoni”, Crookers' and Laidback Luke's mix of “Fancy Footwork” and Yuksek's mix of “Bonafied Lovin”. These four tracks are what's happening in dance clubs all over the world right now: Out the door with the “mash-up” sound of hip-hop beats with some Aerosmith sample over it, and in with a new kind of up-tempo dance style with energy like house music, dirt like hip-hop, funk like a Parliment track… Some call it “blog house”; some call it “fidgit”; some call it “indie dance”... I call it a relief.
The new baltimoregaylife.com
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make what is now the larger Chesapeake Urology. Back in March of last year, one of my younger associates, Dr. Van Zighl, who is a marathoner, came and suggested that we put on a run. We did and it was the most successful first-time event of its kind. We had over 1100 runners and raised $130,000, of which $105,000 went to prostate cancer researchers through the American Urological Association Foundation, urology’s national association, which has its headquarters in Linthicum, Maryland. That’s an incredible turnout! …Kelly Dees of Charm City Run, who organized the race for us last year, bet I’d have 300 runners. I bet 1,000. I won dinner at Ruth’s Kriss.
Great Prostate Cancer Challenge Raises Awareness and Research Funds
Other than raising funds for research, what else do you hope to accomplish through the Challenge?
An Interview with Dr. Sanford J. Siegel
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hesapeake Urology Associates, Maryland’s premier urology group, continues to advance research into a cure for prostate cancer with the second annual Great Prostate Cancer Challenge. Although prostate cancer affects men, and disproportionately African-American men, at rates even higher than those of breast cancer among women, public awareness of the disease remains low. The Great Prostate Cancer Challenge is a three-tiered initiative that includes free community prostate cancer screenings, a benefit concert with Patti Labelle at Pier 6 on Saturday, September 6, and a 5K Run/1 Mile Walk on Sunday, September 14 at St. Joseph Medical Center. All proceeds will be provided to the American Urological Association Foundation for prostate cancer research and awareness.
Dr. Sanford J. Siegel, President and CEO of Chesapeake Urology Associates, spoke with Gay Life about how the Great Prostate Cancer Challenge started, disproportionate rates of prostate cancer among AfricanAmerican men and how the community can help build awareness to increase prostate cancer survival rates through early detection.
How and when did the Great Prostate Cancer Challenge start? Let me start with a little background on Chesapeake Urology. Chesapeake Urology is the largest urology practice in Maryland and the second or third largest in the country. We have over 300 employees, of which forty-four are physicians. We have four women that are part of Chesapeake Urology, which is a large number for a urology practice. We do both adult and pediatric urology and treat both men and women. We have fellowship-trained urologists who do
The event seeks to raise money for research and to increase awareness of the disease. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer behind skin cancer, and the second leading cause of death due to cancer behind lung cancer. If we make men more aware of this disease and raise money to find the cure and provide screening opportunities, we can save lives. One thing about runs is that they are not ethnically diverse and they do not engage the African-American community. What is significant about the African-American community and this disease is that they get it more frequently than whites. If you’re African-American, you have a 60 percent greater chance of getting prostate cancer. 200,000 men will get prostate cancer this year and 29,000 will die. As the population ages, these numbers will only increase. If you find it much earlier, it is much more curable. Our goal is to raise money for prostate cancer research, to raise awareness of this disease in all communities and to provide screening opportunities, especially for men in the African-American community
and those that cannot afford to be screened or to get care. It is a very controllable and ultimately curable cancer if caught in the early stages. Screenings should begin in AfricanAmerican men at age 40 and in Caucasians at 50, unless there is a history in their family. Then even Caucasians should be screened at 40. When African-Americans get this disease, they usually get it at a higher grade and a higher stage because they usually present later than whites. But, if you screen early and catch it at an early stage, they cure rate becomes equal to whites. Our vision is to do for men and prostate cancer what women and Susan Komen have done for breast cancer. So far this year, we have screened 150 men. We have screenings scheduled for 7 other churches in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. If someone is diagnosed with prostate cancer, he can receive free work-up and free treatment with funds through the Tobacco Restoration Fund. University of Maryland has a fund that pays for breast cancer and cervical cancer and Johns Hopkins University receives money that covers prostate cancer. Has research yielded any explanation regarding the higher rates of prostate cancer among African-American men? Genetics is the major factor, but research suggests that environment may also play a role. You mentioned that early detection is critical. Do you feel inequitable access to resources and the expense of screening and treatment also contribute to the higher incidence of and mortality from prostate cancer among African-Americans? Economics, I’m sure, does deter some men from seeking health care. As I mentioned, however, there are funds designated for free treatment if an individual takes the step to be screened and is diagnosed.
their regular training and then go on to specialize in minimally-invasive laparoscopic and robotics procedures, urologic oncology, infertility and incontinence…. I’m originally from Baltimore. I went to George Washington University for my undergraduate degree, Maryland Medical School and then Temple University in Philadelphia for training. I moved to Baltimore in 1985 and took my first partner in 1991. I merged two practices in 1999 and that became Chesapeake Urology. In 2004, we merged two other practices to
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PROSTATE CANCER - continued from page 37
Awareness is critical. A lot of individuals have misperceptions about rectal exams. As I’ve been learning how to maneuver my way through different communities to raise awareness of the disease, one thing that has been mentioned that I find interesting is homophobic fears surrounding screenings for prostate cancer. So, it may be that men, and perhaps a greater number of African-American men, do not get rectal exams because of ideas about masculinity and sexuality. We need to change perceptions about examinations and about what it means to “be a man”…and this should be to do what you have to do to take care of yourself, take care of your family and stay around. You’re also doing a benefit concert at Pier 6 with Patti Labelle. How did this partnership emerge? Again, runs are not very ethnically diverse and because this is a predominantly African-American disease, I wanted to find a way to engage the African-American community. Patti Labelle does a lot of benefit concerts. She is loved here in Baltimore and she can bring in the demographic I’m looking to reach— African-American males between the ages of 40 and 70. Concert attendees will all get bags
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with information about prostate cancer and other medical things. They’ll get educated, made aware and entertained at the same time. Senator Benjamin Cardin, Rep. Elijah Cummings, Rep. Gregory Meeks from New York, Mayor Sheila Dixon and other members of Maryland legislator, as well as prominent leaders in the religious community, will be at the concert. Do you anticipate this year being larger than last? We’ve already raised over $250,000. I want to net over $300,000 for research. We hope to have 3,000 people at the run, fill Pier 6 for the Patti Labelle concert and screen 1,000 men. For additional information or to register for the Great Prostate Cancer Challenge, visit www.gpccbaltimore.com.
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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HEALTH Find Your Feet...
by Kelly D. McClain
If I have back pain can I practice yoga? Yes. Yoga is an excellent way to stretch your spine for healing and comfort achieved with consistent practice. As stated on spinehealth.com, “yoga helps ease lower back pain by gently stretching and strengthening the muscles of the lower back and legs and increasing blood circulation, which in turn brings healing nutrients to the injured tissues.” If you suffer from back pain and have not begun to practice yoga, start out in a beginner’s class where you will learn to perform the poses in a gentle way. Your spine is made up of 33 irregularly shaped bones—the vertebrae. There are five regions consisting of the following, from the top downward: seven in the cervical spine (neck); 12 in the thoracic spine (upper back); five in the lumbar spine (lower back); five in the sacrum; and four in the coccyx (tailbone). Regular movement of the muscles associated with these bones improves your posture and promotes a strong, supple spine. Your vertebrae allow you to bend in six directions: front, back, left side, right side and with a twist on each side. If you bend forward and cannot reach your toes the first time, be encouraged to practice and soon you will touch the floor. Consequently, when I teach Uttanasana, or Standing Forward Bend, I instruct you to begin standing with your feet hip-width apart and feet parallel to each other. Raising your arms, inhale. As you exhale, bend at your hips while lengthening your spine and reaching forward. I emphasize drawing your torso out of your lower back as you lengthen, without curving your upper back, to create space where your breath reaches those muscles and helps them heal.
Try It Yourself… Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Draw your arms out in a “T” position with the palms facing up toward the ceiling. Inhale and lift your knees up into a 90° angle. As you exhale, allow gravity to tug on your knees as they gently come down to the floor on the left. The further your knees come to the floor, the deeper the stretch, so listen to your own body to
CDC’s New Infection Figures Show Increase in HIV Infection Highest among Youth The National Youth Advocacy Coalition (NYAC) responded to the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) latest report indicating that there are an estimated 40% more people living with HIV in the United States than previously thought. These new figures were gathered by the CDC using improved technology and methodology. The CDC’s report shows the largest population representing new HIV infection is young people aged 29 and under. This finding indicates that existing public education efforts surrounding HIV prevention must be updated to become more relevant and effective at reaching youth.
determine how far it feels safe to go. Deepen the pose even further by turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold for 3-5 deep breaths. Inhale. Bring your knees back to center and exhale. Repeat on the right.
Benefits… 4Provides healing to injured back muscles. 4Speeds time to recover from an injury. 4Helps maintain a regular level of daily activities and avoid disability. 4Helps massage inner organs and increases elimination in digestive track.
“The National Youth Advocacy Coalition applauds the Center for Disease Control for providing the most accurate information on the status of our country’s HIV epidemic, but we are extremely concerned about the implications of these new numbers,” said Greg Varnum, NYAC’s acting executive director. “These latest figures clearly show that Americans aged 29 and under are not adequately or effectively engaged by existing methods of public education around HIV prevention and the importance of HIV testing. In this electronic era of MySpace, Facebook, Sidekicks and text messaging, NYAC will be taking a leading role in delivering public health messages to Gen Y through the technologies they use every day.”
“Abstinence-only education has distorted young people’s perception of their need to be tested, and those who want to truly reach the younger demographic must modernize awareness efforts to more effectively utilize social marketing, online, and wired strategies so youth understand that HIV testing is a critical component of HIV prevention.” The CDC report indicates that 34% of new HIV infections are among people ages 29 and under, more than any other age group. African Americans, who comprise 13% of the U.S. population, accounted for 45% of new HIV infections. These latest figures show the critical importance of expanding the work NYAC and other organizations have undertaken to increase awareness of HIV prevention and testing among youth, and in particular, youth of color. During the last budget cycle, Congress opted out of increasing funding for CDC’s HIV prevention efforts despite numerous calls from health advocates for them to do so. The National Youth Advocacy Coalition, the social justice organization working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth to build the capacity of the LGBTQ youth movement, has been a CDC funded capacity building agency for a several of years. “You Know Different”, NYAC’s most recent social marketing program to increase awareness of the need to be tested among LGBTQ youth of color, was the recipient of the 2006 Public Relations Society of America’s Silver Anvil Award. More information about NYAC and the “You Know Different” campaign can be found online at www.youknowdifferent.org.
“The data regarding the infection rate of young people is conservative at best,” continued Varnum.
Remember: Check with your doctor before performing any exercise. Yoga is non-competitive. Work at your own ability level and be sure to respect your body and its limitations. Use props and ask your teacher for modifications. Kelly D. McClain is a registered yoga teacher (RYT) currently teaching Beginner's Yoga on Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. at the GLCCB. Send your questions or requests for more information at HaYoga.Kelly@yahoo.com. Also, visit Tim Hurley, RYT at the Center on Sundays at 3:30 p.m.
www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
• PA G E 3 9
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QSYLLABUS Gender & Sexuality 101 Drifting Toward Love: Black, Brown, Gay, and Coming of Age on the Streets of New York Adolescence is a time to explore our identity and to find space—psychological, emotional, and physical—where we fit in and feel safe to be ourselves. But for gay youth of color, there are extraordinary barriers to finding that space, and increased risks including the likelihood of drug abuse, assault, HIV infection and other STDs, homelessness and more.
4Black Sexual Politics (2004) by Patricia Hill Collins 4Borderlands (1987) by Gloria Anzaldúa 4Brother to Brother: New Writings by Black Gay Men (1991) edited by Essex Hemphill 4The Chelsea Whistle: A Memoir (2002) by Michelle Tea 4Close to the Knives: A Memoir of Disintegration (1991) by David Wojnarowicz 4Corpus Delecti: Performance Art of the Americas (2000) by Coco Fusco 4Crush (2005) by Richard Siken 4Disidentifications: Queers of Color and the Performance of Politics (1999) by Jose Munoz
In his acclaimed new book, Drifting Toward Love: Black, Brown, Gay, and Coming of Age on the Streets of New York, Kai Wright follows the lives of three young gay men of color and the trials they experience on their way to adulthood.
4The Ethical Slut: A Guide to Infinite Sexual Possibilities (1997) by Dossie Easton and Catherine Liszt
Due to their youth and sexual orientation, young men like those in Wright's book are what policymakers and social services agencies would call "at-risk" youth. Demographically they rank among those most likely to experience a wide array of social ills such as suicide, drug addiction, HIV infection, dropping out of school and hate crimes. Homeless service providers have long estimated that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth account for between 20 to 40 percent of homeless youth. And, in 2007, the New York City Health Department found that in the last six years new HIV diagnoses have doubled among gay teens ages 13 to 19.
4The First Man-Made Man: The Story of Two Sex Changes, One Love Affair, and a Fur by Migdalia Cruz
Wright believes that these statistics obscure more fundamental realities about the lives of young gay men of color. It is their search for life's basic emotional necessities: homes that provide more than shelter, a space where they can genuinely talk about their lives, and love that drives them to "risky" behavior.
4Feminism is for Everybody: Passionate Politics (2000) by bell hooks
4The Gender of Racial Politics and Violence in America: Lynching, Prison Rape & the Crisis of Masculinity (2001) by William F. Pinar 4Gender Trouble (1990) by Judith Butler 4GenderQueer: Voices from Beyond the Sexual Binary (2002) edited by Joan Nestle, Clare Howell, Riki Anne Wilchins 4Giovanni’s Room (1956) by James Baldwin 4Go the Way Your Blood Beats: An Anthology of Lesbian and Gay Fiction by African-American Writers (1996) edited by Shawn Stewart Ruff 4The History of Sexuality (1978) by Michel Foucault 4In a Queer Time and Place: Transgender Bodies, Subcultural Lives (2005) by Judith Halberstam 4Infants of the Spring (1932) by Wallace Thurman
4As Nature Made Him: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Girl (2006) by John Colapinto
4Intimate Matters: A History of Sexuality in America (1988, 1997) by John D’Emilio and Estelle B. Freedman
4The Big Sea: An Autobiography (1940) by Langston Hughes
4Loving Her (1974) by Ann Allen Shockley
TEXTS
continued on page 42 PA G E 4 0 •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday August 22 Sarah Donner Live @ Read St. Books 229 W. Read St. Baltimore, MD http://www.myspace.com/ readstreetbooks 8 p.m.
Saturday August 23 Andrew Kasab Live @ Read St. Books 229 W. Read St. Baltimore, MD http://www.myspace.com/ readstreetbooks 8 p.m.
GIG: Baltimore TransMasculine Alliance GLCCB, Room 202 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.myspace.com/btma 6 p.m.
GIG: Tran*quility GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.transmaryland.org 8 p.m.
Movie & Game Night Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-8:30 p.m.
New Image (Narcotics Anonymous) LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6-7:30 p.m.
Sufficient As I aM (SAIM) Youth & Young Adults 24 & Under GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 12:30 p.m.
Volleyball Out for Fun War Memorial Park Martinsburg, WV Email HOTTT@nationwide.com for details 3 or 4 p.m.
Sunday August 24 Alcoholics Anonymous
GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 6:30 p.m.
Beginners Yoga with Tim Hurley, RYT
Boyds, MD 20841 www.al-anon.orgwww.opendoormcc.com 7:30 p.m.
Dual Recovery Anonymous
GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 $9/person 3:30 p.m.
Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Living Sober (AA)
Chesapeake Squares
Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church 100 W. Washington St. Shepherdstown, WV 25443 3 p.m.
Club Square Dance Waxter Center 1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.chesapeakesquares.org 8-10 p.m.
Narcotics Anonymous Sunday Men’s Rap GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.na.org 11:30 a.m.
Sailaway Pride Night Weather Rail Bar Loews Hotel 126 West St. Annapolis, MD 5-9 p.m.
Social Activity (Varies) Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 1-6 p.m.
Monday August 25 Alcoholics Anonymous GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 8:30 p.m.
Men Like Me GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 menlikeme@glccb.org 6 p.m.
Tuesday August 26 Alcoholics Anonymous LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Boyds Al-Anon Open Door Metropolitan Community Church 15817 Barnesville Rd.
Consumer Planned Activity Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 4-6:30 p.m. & 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Positive Influence LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Pre-natal Yoga Lifeline Power Yoga 111 Allegheny Ave. Towson, MD 21204 www.lifelinepoweryoga.com Suggested Donation 1:30 p.m.
Rainbow Youth Alliance, Columbia Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday August 27 Beginners’ Yoga with Kelly D. McClain, RYT GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 $9/person 7:15 p.m.
Gay Bingo (to benefit GLCCB & Aids Action) Club Hippo 1 W. Eager St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-547-0069 8:30 p.m.
Power Inside Women’s Rap Power Inside Office 325 E. 25th St., 1st floor
www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
Baltimore, MD 21218 3-4:30 p.m.
Rapscallion Radical Art Collective 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 www.rapscallionart.org 7 p.m.
‘Tini Lounge Happy Hour GG’s Restaurant & Martini Bar 41 N. Potomac St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 4:30-10:00 p.m.
Thursday August 28 Alcoholics Anonymous GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 8:30 p.m.
Community Triangle Dinner Out Café Italia 935 Pennsylvania Ave Hagerstown, MD 21742 240-420-6677 6:30-9 p.m.
JUMP (Just Us Making Progress) Confidential HIV Support Group The Portal 2419 Greenmount Ave., Suite 1 Baltimore, MD 21218 410-235-5241 www.theportalbmore.org 7-8:30 p.m.
Support Group for Individuals with Mental Health Issues Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Women of Color Group GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 7:30 p.m.
Friday August 29 Vote Yourself a Farm Live @ Read St. Books 229 W. Read St. Baltimore, MD http://www.myspace.com/ readstreetbooks 8 p.m.
Saturday August 30 Movie & Game Night Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-8:30 p.m.
New Image (Narcotics Anonymous) LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6-7:30 p.m.
Sufficient As I aM (SAIM) Youth & Young Adults 24 & Under GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 12:30 p.m. Volleyball
Out for Fun War Memorial Park Martinsburg, WV Email HOTTT@nationwide.com for details 3 or 4 p.m.
Sunday August 31 Alcoholics Anonymous GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 6:30 p.m.
Living Sober (AA) Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church 100 W. Washington St. Shepherdstown, WV 25443 3 p.m.
Narcotics Anonymous Sunday Men’s Rap GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.na.org 11:30 a.m.
Sailaway Pride Night Weather Rail Bar Loews Hotel 126 West St. Annapolis, MD 5-9 p.m.
Social Activity (Varies) Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 1-6 p.m.
Monday September 1
Alcoholics Anonymous GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday September 2 Alcoholics Anonymous
Gay Bingo (to benefit GLCCB & Aids Action) Club Hippo 1 W. Eager St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-547-0069 8:30 p.m.
‘Tini Lounge Happy Hour GG’s Restaurant & Martini Bar 41 N. Potomac St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 4:30-10:00 p.m.
LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Thursday September 4
Boyds Al-Anon
Alcoholics Anonymous
Open Door Metropolitan Community Church 15817 Barnesville Rd. Boyds, MD 20841 www.al-anon.orgwww. opendoormcc.com 7:30 p.m.
GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.aa.org 8:30 p.m.
Dual Recovery Anonymous
Confidential HIV Support Group The Portal 2419 Greenmount Ave., Suite 1 Baltimore, MD 21218 410-235-5241 www.theportalbmore.org 7-8:30 p.m.
Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chesapeake Squares Club Square Dance Waxter Center 1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.chesapeakesquares.org 8-10 p.m.
Consumer Planned Activity Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 4-6:30 p.m. & 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Positive Influence LGBT Community Hall 40 W. Church St. Hagerstown, MD 21740 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Pre-natal Yoga Lifeline Power Yoga 111 Allegheny Ave. Towson, MD 21204 www.lifelinepoweryoga.com Suggested Donation 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday September 3 Beginners’ Yoga with Kelly D. McClain, CYT GLCCB, Room 201 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 $9/person 7:15 p.m.
August 22 - September 4, 2008
• PA G E 4 1
JUMP (Just Us Making Progress)
Support Group for Individuals with Mental Health Issues Hearts & Ears 10 W. Biddle Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 www.heartsandears.org 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Women of Color Group GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 7:30 p.m.
Confidential HIV/STI Testing & Counseling GLCCB Tuesday, Wednesday 5-8 p.m. 241 W. Chase St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-837-5445
HERO Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-4 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1734 Maryland Avenue Baltimore, MD 21201 410-685-1180
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Q SYLLABUS- continued from page 40
4The Matter of Images: Essays on Representations (2002) by Richard Dyer
4We Are Everywhere: A Historical Sourcebook of Gay and Lesbian Politics (1997) edited by Mark Blasius and Shane Phelan
4Messiah (1954) by Gore Vidal
4Words to Our Now: Imagination and Dissent (2005) by Thomas Glave
4My Gender Workbook (1997) by Kate Bornstein
4Written on the Body (1994) by Jeannette Winterson
4Rolling the R’s (2005) by R. Zamora Linmark
4ZAMI: A New Spelling of My Name (1996) by Audre Lorde
4Rubyfruit Jungle (1973) by Rita Mae Brown 4The Sacred Hoop: Recovering the Feminine in American Indian Traditions (1986) by Paula Gunn Allen
FILMS
4Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality (2000) by Anne Fausto-Sterling 4A Small Gathering of Bones (2003) by Patricia Powell 4Stone Butch Blues (1993) by Leslie Fienberg 4Tendencies (1994) by Eve Kosofsky-Sedgewick 4Thereafter Johnnie (1991) by Carolivia Herron 4This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color (1981) edited by Cherríe Moraga and Gloria Anzaldúa 4Transgender Rights (2006) by Paisley Currah, Richard M. Juang, Shannon Minter 4Twentieth-Century Medical Revolution (2008) by Pagan Kennedy
4The Boys in the Band (1970) 4Boys Don’t Cry (1999) 4Carmelita Tropicana: Your Kunst is Your Waffen (1994) 4The Celluloid Closet (1995) 4Cruel and Unusual (2006) 4Gendernauts (1999) 4Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) 4The Killing of Sister George (1968) 4Licensed to Kill (1997) 4A Litany for Survival: The Life of Audre Lorde (1995) 4Looking for Langston (1989) 4Paris is Burning (1990) 4Pink Flamingos (1972) 4Starrbooty (2007) 4Tongues Untied (1989) 4Venus Boyz (2001) 4The Watermelon Woman (1996)
HOMOSTROLOGY by Marry Elaine
VIRGO
(August 23 - September 22) It is a though you walked down the aisle with yourself. My, how much strength your self-knowledge has gained! My how much strength you have gained from self-knowledge! Can you let yourself inspire you as much as you inspire others? As you touch yourself gently, prepare for another year with yourself; wonderful in that you will be more alive than ever.
LIBRA (September 23 - October 22) Your follow-through is amazing, and your self-diagnosis couldn’t be more right. While stillness can be peace, sometimes it can be disappointment. Experiencing things you never have is the perfect remedy for any too-quiet you have sensed lately. Open your senses and take it take it take it.
As you move into new thresholds of self-sufficiency, do not hold back from self pleasure. Ascertain what drives you and what you drive towards. Return to your priorities and stick to them.
ARIES (March 20 - April 19) You often strive to be dependable for others—or is it needed by others? This week, when you want to look out, look in. Can you depend on yourself? What are your needs? You have a keen ability to take in data and conjure answers: Make sure you are entering things into life-sustaining equations before you find solutions. Look for a heartbeat in all your thoughts and put aside those without one or several.
TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)
(October 23 - November 21) Sometimes defensive and offensive can be like chicken and the egg. From where do you operate? Do you have room in you to heal? Do you have room in you to know what needs healing? Lick wounds this week.
Ooooo you make such good decisions! Your sparkly eyes dilate when they focus too long on just one thing. Now that you are flitting about, your vision becomes clearer, new modes of independence are possible, new silver linings on new clouds are visible. Visit your lovers; they miss you like rain. Soak up all the dewy love there is for you.
SAGITTARIUS
GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)
(November 22 - December 20) Ignore the neck and shoulders bullshit and focus on emanating from your gut. Strengthening and stretching (particularly your middle) can nourish in you a knowledge that you have enough room to handle what is going on. You might not need to flee. What are other options? You really are capable inside them. Old habits want to come back but cannot. Your cells vibrate towards reordering: Rebirth.
Make sure your actions match your words match your sentiments. When there is no need to withstand pain, avoid it. Do not back down from the work it takes to create lather. No matter how alluring the smells, the lather should wash you over with feelings of strength. Three words that are different from each other: weak; safe; relaxed.
SCORPIO
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19) Your levelheadedness can sometimes dilute the severity of the situation. You have a tendency (which i would like you to combat) to focus on symptoms and not underlying causes; empirical data and not intangible truth. Allergic reactions require your attention right now: Figure it out and detoxify.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18) Your generosity of spirit inspires those around you. Your energy and abundance is mirrored back at you: Sparks fly and mutual support becomes infinite. PA G E 4 2 •
PISCES (February 19 - March 19)
August 22 - September 4, 2008
CANCER (June 21 - July 22) Do not abstain so much as reframe/go elsewhere. Do not lower expectations so much as celebrate gratitude. Write a 5 item list when you wake and a 5 item list right before sleep. Any title, any items. Reflecting does not have to mean chastising. Be as gentle and as honest towards yourself as you are towards those you nurture.
LEO (July 23 - August 22) Repetitive whispers becomes repetitive screams. What is your objective? Not for this week, for this year. No more wire hangers: Be sure not to damage your young. Marry Elaine is very psychic and a huge fag. Email her at letspretendweremarried@baltimoregaylife.com.
• G A Y L I F E • www.baltimoregaylife.com
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QUOTE UNQUOTE "I'm striving to be an example of normalcy. Because I'm noticed as an actor, people are aware of what's happening in my life. ... I'm a big proponent of monogamous relationships regardless of sexuality, and I'm proud of how the nation is steering toward that. Then you can look around and say, 'I really deeply feel like I'm in love with this person, there are people who feel the same thing, and those models are normal.' The 'normal' couples were sort of in the shadows for the past 15 or 20 years because you sort of needed other people to come forward and speak out." —Gay actor Neil Patrick Harris from TV's How I Met Your Mother to Out magazine, September issue. "Mmmmmmmm. Anderson (Cooper). He's dreamy. Just dreamy. I've been a fan of his since season 1 of The Mole. I just thought he was so cool when he talked in this cool, low, secret-agent voice -- 'If you can accomplish this task...' Listen, no one can tell anyone how big their steps should be or when they can take them. You can take issue with someone making overtly denying statements, and you can take issue with people straight-up presenting themselves as someone that they're not -because I think that's kind of shady and not very stand-up. But you can't fault someone for going through the process at their own time." —Gay actor Neil Patrick Harris from TV's How I Met Your Mother to Out magazine, September issue. "If you notice, since Britney started wearing clothes and behaving, Paris is out of town not bothering anybody anymore—thank God—and evidently, Lindsay Lohan has gone gay, we don't seem to have much of an issue (with the paparazzi)." —Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton to KNBC-TV, July 31. "Police chiefs shouldn't get involved in everyone else's business when it comes to their personal life. It's inappropriate." —Lindsay Lohan in a video response posted at TMZ.com, Aug. 1. "The fundamental-right-to-marry part of the holding (in the California marriage case) was extremely significant, but the court's holding that sexual orientation is a suspect classification was
BY REX WOCKNER WITH BILL KELLEY "I have been struck by how much more immediate 'unearned' credibility and respect I get as a completely average-looking man than I did as a visibly masculine-appearing woman. The difference is stark -- whether it is service in a restaurant or on a plane, or appearing in court." —Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California marriage case, to the Palm Springs gay magazine The BottomLine, Aug. 1. Minter had a sexchange operation in 1996.
"In recent years, some in our community have reached out to embrace the parallel struggle of trans people for gender equality. It is a bit of an awkward fit, of course, because the lesbian and gay struggle has been one centered on our freedom to express our love and lust, whereas the trans struggle is one of gender expression." —Gareth Kirkby, managing editor of the Ottawa, Ontario, gay newspaper Capital XTRA!, in a July 16 editorial.
stunning -- completely unprecedented. I think it will forever change the legal landscape for LGBT people in the country; it's going to have a huge impact on courts in other states and, ultimately, on the federal courts. We are now living in a different legal world because of what the court did." —Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California marriage case, to journalist Karen Ocamb, Aug. 2 in Beverly Hills. "I don't have much patience—particularly for people in my party, the Democratic Party—that are arguing for separate institutions (such as civil unions for gay people) as somehow equal. That's not audacity. That's not authenticity. That's not about conviction. That's about accommodation and political posturing. And I'm done with that." —San Francisco mayor and probable gubernatorial candidate Gavin Newsom to journalist Karen Ocamb, Aug. 2 in Beverly Hills. "If we defeat this proposition (on marriage in California), as I believe we will, that victory will resonate across the country. Not only will marriage in California be secure, but we will have demonstrated that efforts to politically exploit anti-gay bias no longer work. We have a chance here in California to deal a crushing defeat to the anti-gay forces that have caused incalculable damage to our community for years. This is our opportunity to make a difference that will go down in history
www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
books as a critical turning point." —Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California marriage case, to the Palm Springs gay magazine The BottomLine, Aug. 1. "We are proud to join NO on 8 and Equality California to protect the freedom to marry for all Californians. For years, PG&E has advocated for equality and fairness in the workplace, and across California. In that same spirit, PG&E is honored to be a founding member of the Equality Business Advisory Council and urge our business colleagues to join us as we work to guarantee the same rights and freedoms for every Californian." —Nancy McFadden, senior vice president of public affairs for Pacific Gas and Electric Co., announcing a $250,000 contribution to the campaign to defeat the effort to amend the California Constitution to re-ban samesex marriage, July 29. "We've ridded our state laws of the last vestige of discrimination against same-sex couples, and we once again lead the way for equality for all people." —MassEquality Executive Director Marc Solomon on July 29 after the Massachusetts Legislature overturned a 1913 law that prohibited people from other states from getting married there if the marriage wouldn't have been allowed where they live. The bill, signed into law by Gov. Deval Patrick on July 31, effectively lifted a ban on marriages by samesex couples from most other states.
August 22 - September 4, 2008
"When I hear people like George Bush talk about the gay community being anti-American it makes my blood boil. The guy who saved the White House, one of the heroes who crashed that plane on 9/11, was gay—the rugby player Mark Bingham, who died on United 93. And does Bush ever mention that? ... That gay guy saved his lousy ass." —Singer Cyndi Lauper to The Times of London, Aug. 2. "I have already said that it was slander and lies." —Haiti's new prime minister, Michèle Pierre-Louis, when asked if she's gay by Radio Caraïbes, July 30. "I was born in a small logging town on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State at Olympic Memorial Hospital. My family and I enjoyed spending vacations at Olympic National Park, where our favorite spot was the Olympic Hot Springs. I was able to finish high school one year early due to credits earned through Olympic Community College in Bremerton. I then attended college in Olympia, the capital of Washington State since 1889, where I belonged to a club that spent weekends hiking in the Olympic Mountains. I earned my way through college by working at the Olympic Boat Center, knowing more about boats than cars due to my upbringing in this Olympic environment. Upon graduation, I moved to the community of Bellingham, where I lived on Olympic Drive, until I moved near Seattle, where I enjoy having guests stay at its premier hotel, the Olympic Four Seasons." —Northwest Bears member Brendan McDonald in a letter to U.S. Olympic Committee lawyer Carol Gross after she forced the group to change the name of its annual camping trip, which had been called "Kamp Kodiak 2008 'Olympic Village'." Gross said the USOC has "exclusive right to control all commercial use of Olympic imagery and terminology in the United States."
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POSTAGE RE: Anti-Discrimination is a Good Thing, right? In the letters to the editor in the August 21st edition of Gay Life, Cecil in Charles Village accuses Equality Maryland of sitting on its hands while a critical deadline in the fight to keep Montgomery County's transgender anti-discrimination law slipped by. Nothing could be further from the truth. Equality Maryland did everything within its power, contributing funds and supporting the challenge with staff time and other resources, to help the transgender community, as volunteers challenged those collecting signatures wherever they could be found, then went signature by signature through petitions collected by that handful of (mostly misled) people seeking to overthrow the law via a ballot referendum. One key point: The Board of Elections repeatedly refused to tell anyone but the petitioners when it had ruled on the validity of signatures—and the judge hearing the case upheld as lawful their despicable conduct. That is the ONLY reason a challenge was not filed within 10 days, as required by law. Due process denied. Erin, Reservoir Hill
What are you thinking? editor@baltimoregaylife.com
SERVICE
DIRECTORY
ACCOMMODATIONS Baltimore Tremonts 222 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410-561-8886
ACCOUNTING Heiffner & Associates 6706 German Hill Rd. Dundalk, MD 21222 410-285-3920 AUTOMOTIVE Meineke Car Care Center 7604 Harford Rd. Parkville, MD 21234 410-665-0710 Tate Mini of Annapolis 25 Old Mill Bottom Rd. N. Annapolis, MD 21409 410-349-2131 BARS / NIGHTCLUBS Baltimore Eagle 2022 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-685-3219 Club Hippo 1 W. Eager St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-576-0018 Club Phoenix 1 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-837-3906
CHORUSES
New Wave Singers PO Box 2012 Baltimore, MD 21203 410-558-4692 CHURCHES Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore 320 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 20201 410-547-5486 First & St. Stephen’s United Church 6915 York Rd. Baltimore, MD 21212 410-377-5224
St. John’s of Baltimore 2640 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 410-366-7733 COMPUTER / TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING Computer Handyman of Maryland 443-827-0433 CONSTRUCTION Laurence Construction David Meltzer 6999 Reiserstown Rd., Suite 1 Baltimore, MD 21215 410-764-7100 NLT Construction 9216 Liberty Rd. Randallstown, MD 21133 410-922-6475
First Unitarian Church 1 W. Hamilton St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-685-2330
COUNSELING / THERAPY Patti Desert, LCSW-C Singular Pathways 208 E. Melrose Ave. Baltimore, MD 21212 410-435-3755
Metropolitan Community Church of Baltimore 401 W. Monument St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-669-6222
Laura June, Ph.D. Belvedere Towers, Suite 105A 1190 W. Northern Pkwy. Baltimore, MD 21210 410-235-7899
Memorial Episcopal Church 1407 Bolton St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-669-0220
Jeff Klug, LCSW The Rotunda, Suite 108 711 W. 40th St. Baltimore, MD 21211 410-241-4215
St. Bernadette Parish 801 Stevenson Rd. Severn, MD 21144 410-969-2785
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Samuel J. Kelly, LCSW-C Ellen Schwartz Patterson, LCSW-C The Shell Building, Suite 108 200 E. Joppa Rd.
Towson, MD 21286 410-583-8846 Robin Richardson, LCSW-C The Rotunda, Suite 412 711 W. 40th St. Baltimore, MD 21211 410-261-3323 Women’s Growth Center 5209 York Rd. Baltimore, MD 21212 410-532-2476 FINANCIAL SERVICES Yoshiko Hayakawa First Financial Group 401 Washington Ave., 6th floor Baltimore, MD 21204 410-828-5400 x4178 FITNESS Mt. Vernon Fitness 1016 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21201 www.mvfit.com FRAMING Fast Frame of Bel Air 1431 Rock Spring Rd. Bel Air, MD 21014 410-836-0017 HEALTH / DENTAL Chase Brexton Health Services 1001 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-837-2050 Dr. Samuel Westrick 3100 St. Paul St., Suite 5 Baltimore, MD 21218 410-243-5544
August 22 - September 4, 2008
HEALTH INSURANCE Trey Ellison III Alliance for Affordable Services Baltimore, MD 443-468-6171 JEWELERS Craig Coyne Jewelers 8113 Main St. Ellicott City, MD 21043 410-243-5544 LEGAL SERVICES Law offices of Constandin Alivizatos 111 S. Calvert St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410-385-5397 Lynda Dee, Attorney at Law 201 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-332-1170 National Adoption and Surrogacy Center Hilary Neiman, Esq. 30 Courthouse Square, Suite 106 Rockville, MD 20850 301-340-7228 Mark Scurti Hodes, Pessin & Katz, PA 410-938-8718 www.hpklegal.com Zavos Law Group Washington, DC Baltimore, MD 443-570-6205 LOCKSMITHS Robert’s Key Service 217 W. Read St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-728-7484
MORTGAGE SERVICES Marva J. Laws American Financial Resources Bel Air, MD 410-734-6688 1-888-553-5513 marva@afronline.com Richard Pazornik SunTrust Mortgage 410-561-4139 www.suntrustmortgage.com/rp azornik NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Hearts and Ears 10 W. Biddle St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-528-0444 PHARMACIES Mount Vernon Pharmacy 900 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-539-8030 Park Avenue Pharmacy 1535 Park Ave. Baltimore, MD 21217 410-225-0800 Real Estate Nancy Corporon RE/MAX Advantage Realty 8815 Centre Park Dr. Columbia, MD 21045 410-740-1200 Stephen Johnson Long & Foster Real Estate 10805 Hickory Ridge Rd. Columbia, MD 21044 410-715-7891
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David Ostrowski & Pat Stokeley Long & Foster Real Estate 410-931-6300 www.DaveMovesMd.com RESTAURANTS / CATERING Café Boheme 401 E. Pratt St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410-347-9898 Sascha’s 527 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410-539-8880 Spice Company 4 W. University Pkwy. Baltimore, MD 21218 410-235-8200 Synagogues Beth El Congregation of Baltimore 8101 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, MD 21208 410-484-0411 THEATRES Hippodrome Theatre France-Merrick Performing Arts Center 12 N. Eutaw St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410-547-SEAT Toby’s Dinner Theatre of Baltimore 5625 O’Donnell St. Baltimore, MD 21224 410-995-1969 Toby’s Dinner Theatre of Columbia 5900 Symphony Woods Rd. Columbia, MD 21044 410-995-1969
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MARKETPLACE PICK-UPS
Employment.
I go to Mt. Vernon Fitness every weekday at 6 p.m. and jog on the treadmill next to yours whenever you’re there, even if there’s no one else there. I would like nothing more than to tell you how much I want to be by your side forever. What would you say if I told you? You’d probably think I’m crazy, which is why I’m writing here.
Love Candles? I'm looking for Fun People to join my team- Be in Business FOR Yourself, NOT By Yourself. Call laurie 571-723-3053.
For Sale AnTIqUE FURnITURE FoR SAlE Various pieces of furniture in good condition, including corner cabinet, farm table, chest of drawers, small desks. Pieces available for pick-up in Baltimore. Call 954-6557498.
—Shy Jogger
House for Sale
House or Apartment for Rent
5905 MARlUTH AVE. Northeast (Belmar) -Elegant Victorian converted from 3 bedrooms to 2, means a spacious 22' x 15' Master Bedroom. 2-tier deck, covered patio, exquisitely landscaped double-lot w/living pond, garden shed, raised vegetable beds. Large, charming eat-in kitchen, whirlpool tub, cac, detached 400sf office. $287,000. Call David Lidz, 410-903-9489, Advantage Realty, LLC, 301-7451620.
WHITE MARSH FoR REnT 3 bedrm/2.5 bath townhouse w/ 2 car garage. Beautiful end of group townhouse with many upgrades: hardwood flrs, vaulted ceilings, 2 fireplaces, deck, kitchen w/corian counters, the list goes on! $2100 per month. 410-344-1110
oRTHWood BEST BUy! Sparkling and spacious newly renovated 3BR 21/2 BA townhouse. New gourmet kitchen with birch cabinets, granite & S/S. New hardwood floors and premium carpet. Fam Rm with recessed lights, berber carpet. CAC. Act fast! $189,923. RE/MAX Allegiance broker: 202-338-8900. Agent direct: 443-827-1059. RESERVoIR HIll Live large in this 4,200 s/f Architectural Digest quality renovation. Soaring ceilings. LR with custom wood burning fireplace. Large loft overlooking light-flooded two-story great room. Open kitchen with premium granite, Bertazonni range, work island, breakfast bar and wine cooler. Palatial Master suite with vast closets, spa shower with body sprays, Kohler whirlpool tub, double vanities. Huge deck. Two care OSP. Act fast! $437,923. RE/MAX Allegiance Broker: 202-338-8900.
EVERyonE WIll loVE THIS 1BR In lAURAVIllE. 2nd floor, detached house, nearly new appliances, refinished floors, extra room, 12 windows. $799/mo includes heat, water, satelitte TV. Small pet(s) welcome. References! Call 410-404-9411.
We sat across from each other on the #10 coming from the Harbor last Friday around 8:30. You: brown hair, black pants, black flip flops, neon lime green t-shirt. Me: brown hair, white-t, jeans, bright blue sneaks. We were both buried in newspapers for most of the ride, but kept stealing glances when the other wasn’t looking. I must admit I was hoping we would exit at the same stop. You got off at Gay & North. Hope I bump into you again. —Bus Buddy I was riding in a silver Solara this morning and you were talking on the phone at Eutaw and Franklin. We
stared for a second and you blew a kiss at me as the light turned green and my ride drove away. We came back around the block and you were gone. Drop me a line if you read this, cute construction girl. Tell me what I looked like and maybe you can have a kiss. —Missed Kiss We used to work together and I left you stranded on a bad note. I heard a mutual friend mention your name last week, couldn’t help but think about how nervous I used to be every time you’d drop in on a tutoring session. I should have told you then how I felt. Instead, I awkwardly checked you out. I still have your number in my phone, but can’t ever seem to dial. If Mr. Right stops being so right, my number is the same. —Embarrassed Ex-Employee Grand Central. Friday, August 8th. We talked for hours over gin and tonics before my ex walked in and started arguing. I left without saying goodbye. Sorry. I don’t have your number. I’d love to take you out.
HoUSE FoR REnT Beverly Hills/Lauraville, 3 bedroom restored porchfront cottage, hardwood floors, fenced back yard, lovely older neighbor. Would prefer a 2-3 year commitment. $1200/mo. Susan @ 443-600-1158, suekssl@aol.com.
Massage BRAd'S SpECIAl ToUCH A hot full body/full satisfaction massage in your home, hotel, or my NEW waterfront studio. Guys or couples. Visa/MC. 443-6950141, or www.specialtouchmassage.com GREAT MASSAGE Swedish or sensual, by attractive guy with awesome hands. Incall/Outcall, reasonable rates, 15 years experience. Craig 410-336-8956 or Craiginbaltimore@comcast.net
It’s easy to place your Market Place ad.
Call us at 410.837.7748 We’ll do the rest! 25 words for $20! 25¢ per word after that. Box it or add a graphic for $5 more. www.baltimoregaylife.com • G A Y L I F E •
August 22 - September 4, 2008
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—No Longer Caught Up
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August 22 - September 4, 2008
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August 22 - September 4, 2008
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