Pgn010314 by The Philadelphia Gay News

A winter with no discontent

Family Portrait: John Cibenko, nurse on a mission

Morris advocates continue call for state investigation

PAGE 25

PAGE 29

PAGE 5

Jan. 3-9, 2014

��

Vol. 38 No. 1

Person of the Year: D. Bruce Hanes This past summer, 174 same-sex couples were granted marriage licenses in Montgomery County, the first time that such licenses were ever issued in the state of Pennsylvania. The couples, and the rest of the community, largely had one man to thank: D. Bruce Hanes. Hanes is the Montgomery County Register of Wills whose decision to grant licenses to same-sex couples made national headlines and sparked an ongoing lawsuit. While the legal impact of his decision will play out in the courts over the coming months, Hanes’ gutsy move has already fueled new waves of discussion and debate about the constitutional issues involved in prohibiting same-

sex couples from marrying — and has given new hope to Pennsylvania couples seeking full equality in the Keystone State.

Coming to the decision Hanes, 66, is a native of New Orleans who has lived in Montgomery County for more than four decades. He and his wife of 42 years, Rosemary, live in Elkins Park and have two adult daughters. Hanes attained his law degree from Temple University and taught real-estate law there, as well as served as assistant attorney general for the state Department of Justice, before entering private practice.

Rosemary said Hanes has been active in politics since moving to the area, serving as a committeeperson and later co-chair for Cheltenham Township, experiences that inspired him to seek public office. He made two unsuccessful bids for countywide office before being elected in 2007 as Montgomery County’s Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans’ Court, the first Democrat to ever be elected to the office, and one of five Dems that year who shook up the longheld Republican-controlled Montgomery County government. Hanes was reelected in 2011. Rosemary said her husband’s six years in office were relatively without controversy.

But that all changed this past summer. I n J u l y, a f ew weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court found a key portion of the federal ban on same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional, a lesbian couple from Montgomery County approached Hanes’ office to ask if he would issue them a marriage license. The issuing of marriage licenses to same-sex couples, without a state law allowing PAGE 8

Person of the Year runners-ups

Bail reduction denied in Gayborhood attack

PAGE 9

By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A judge last week refused to lower the bail for a former Voyeur staffer accused of attacking a gay man last month. At a preliminary hearing Dec. 27, Judge Patrick Dugan rejected a request by Julia Theobald, defense attorney for Miguel Maldonado, to reduce the bail for her client. Bail is currently set at $50,000, and Maldonado would need to post 10 percent of that amount to be released. Maldonado, 32, remains incarcerated at the House of Corrections in connection with the Nov. MORRIS (LEFT) AND 10 attack on MALDONADO N i c k F o r t e near Voyeur. His co-defendant, Matthew Morris, 27, posted the requisite $5,000 Dec. 8, the day after their arrest. At last week’s proceeding, Theobald argued that Maldonado, a father of two, was needed at home. Neither defendant was present in the courtroom, but Maldonado’s wife was. Dugan gave no reason for his denial. Both men are charged with aggravated and simple assault, robbery, conspiracy, theft, receiving stolen property PAGE 12

TURNING BACK THE PAGES: Ed Hermance and Arleen Olshan celebrated the 40th anniversary of Giovanni’s Room Dec. 28 at the store. Giovanni’s Room, the nation’s oldest LGBT bookstore, opened its doors in 1973, and Hermance and Olshan took over its operation in 1976. Olshan departed in 1986, and Hermance announced last year that he plans to sell the business and building this winter. About 50 people turned out for the anniversary party, which was complete with champagne and snacks. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Favorite photos of 2013 PAGES 20-21

Psych exam scheduled for alleged Williams killer By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com A man accused of murdering a transgender woman this past summer will undergo a psychiatric evaluation today. At a Dec. 24 hearing, Municipal Court Judge James DeLeon granted a continuance in the case of Charles Sargent and scheduled the defendant for a mental-health evaluation on Jan. 3. An attorney will be present during the evaluation, which will be con-

ducted by an unnamed party. Sargent, 44, is charged with the July murder of transwoman Diamond Williams, as well as with possession of an instrument of crime and abuse of a corpse. At a Dec. 17 preliminary hearing, Sargent’s attorney, J. Michael Farrell, asked Judge Teresa Carr Deni to grant Sargent a psychological evaluation in order to decide if he is competent to stand trial. Farrell did not respond to a request for comment.

Sargent has also been charged with making terroristic threats for allegedly threatening to kill his girlfriend if she contacted law enforcement about his alleged involvement in Williams’ murder and dismemberment. Williams had reportedly gone to Sargent’s Strawberry Mansion home for a sexual encounter. It is unclear what led to her stabbing. Sargent has been held at CurranFromhold Correctional Facility since his July 20 arrest. ■

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN

locations in Pa. outside of Philadelphia � ��

Allentown • Allentown Brew Works, 812 Hamilton St. • Candida, 247 N. 12th St. • MCCLV, 930 N. Fourth St. • Stonewall, 28-30 N. 10th St. • Annville • Lebanon Valley College, Sheridan Ave. • Ardmore • Ardmore Station, Anderson Ave. near Coulter Ave. • Bethel • Adult World, 341 Midway Road • Bethlehem • LGBTQ Services Lehigh U, 25 Trembley Dr. • Bloomsberg • Bloomsberg University LGBTA Center, 400 E. Second St. • Bristol • Bristol News World, 576B Bristol Pike • Bryn Mawr • Bryn Mawr College, Canaday Library • Bryn Mawr Station, Morris Ave. near Bryn Mawr Ave. • Fox & Roach Realty, 763 Lancaster Ave. • TLA Video, 761 Lancaster Ave. • Chester • Harrah’s Chester Casino, 777 Harrah’s Blvd. • Widener University, 1 University Place • Collegeville • Adult World, 3975 Ridge Pike • Devon • Devon Station, Devon State Road & Lancaster Pike • Doylestown • Doylestown Bookshop, 16 S. Main St. • Siren Records, 25 E. State St. • East Stroudsburg • Rainbow Mountain Resort, 210 Mt. Nebo Road • Easton • La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. • Gibson • Hillside Campground, 1 Creek Road • Glen Mills • Imago Dei MCC, 1223 Middletown Road • Glenside • Keswick Cycle, 408 N. Easton Road • Harrisburg • 704 Strawberry Café, 704 N. Third St. • AIDS Community Alliance, 100 N. Cameron St. • Brownstone Lounge, 412 Forster St. • Liquid 891, 891 Eisenhower Blvd. • Midtown Scholar Bookstore, 1302 N. 3rd St. • MCC of the Spirit, 2973 Jefferson St. • Stallions, 706 N. Third St. • Haverford • Haverford Station, Haverford Station Road near Lancaster Ave. • Kutztown • Kutztown University, 15200 Main St. • Lancaster • Downtown Books, 227 N. Prince St. • Sundown Lounge, 429 N. Mulberry St. • Tally Ho Tavern, 201 W. Orange St. • Lansdale • Gwynedd Vet Hospital, 1615 W. Pointe Pike • Lehighton • Woods Campground, 845 Vaughn Acres Road • Levittown • Levitt Books, 7406 Bristol Pike • Malvern • Malvern Station, King St. & Warren Ave. • Media • Unitarian Universalist Church, 145 W. Rose Tree Road • The Media Theater, 104 E. State St. • LGBT Alliance Group, Delaware Co. Campus, Penn State Univ., 901 Media Line Road • Moosic • 12 Penny Saloon, 3501 Birney Ave. • Narberth • Narberth Station, Haverford & Narberth avenues • New Hope • Café Europa, 11 Market Place • Cornerstone Gym, 419 York Road • Eagle Diner, 6522 York Road • Havana, 105 S. Main St. • John & Peters, 96 S. Main St. • Karla’s Restaurant, 5 W. Mechanic St. • La Chateau Exotique, 31A W. Mechanic St. • Havana Bar & Grill, 105 S. Main St. • The Raven, 385 W. Bridge St. • Sandbar, 90 S. Main St. • Triumph Brewing Co., 400 Union Square Drive • Wildﬂowers, 8 W. Mechanic St. • New Milford • Oneida Campground, 2580 E. Lake Road • Newtown • Bucks Co. Community College, 275 Swamp Road • North Wales • Adult World, 608 Upper State Road • Paoli • Paoli Station, North Valley Road & Lincoln Highway • Plains Township • Twist Bar, Fox Ridge Plaza, Rte. 315 • Quakertown • Adult World, 880 S. West End Blvd. • Reading • Berls Aid Network, 429 Walnut St. • Reading Adult Center, 316 Penn St. • Rosemont • Rosemont Station, Airdale Road & Montrose Ave. • Spring Grove • Atland’s Ranch, RR6, Box 6543 • Swarthmore • Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave., Parrish Hall • Temple • Naughty But Nice, 4502 N. Fifth St. • Upper Darby • Honor Box, 69th Street Station • Villanova • Villanova Station, Spring Mill Road near County Line Road • Warminster • Darkanyu, Bux Mont Unitarian Church, Street Road at Rt. 611 • Planned Parenthood of Bucks Co., 610 Louis Dr. • Wayne • Central Baptist Church, 106 W. Lancaster Ave. • Stafford Station, Old Eagle School & Crestline roads • Wayne Station, N. Wayne & West Ave. • West Chester • Chester County Books, 975 Paoli Pike • Williamsport • Peachies, 144 E. Fourth St. • Willow Grove • Barnes & Noble, 102 Park Ave. • Wynnwood • Wynnwood Station, Wynnewood & Penn roads • ��

�� locations outside of Pennsylvania DELAWARE

Wilmington • AIDS Delaware, 100 W. 10th St. • Crimson Moon, 1909 S. Sixth St. • Rehoboth Beach • Canal Side Inn, 34 Sixth St. • Double L Bar, 622 Rehoboth Ave. • Proud Bookstore, 149 Rehoboth Ave. • Rams Head Inn, 35006 Warrington Ave. • Rigby’s Bar & Grill, 404 Rehoboth Ave. • Shore Inn, 37239 Rehoboth Ave. •

NEW JERSEY

Asbury Park • Georgie’s, 812 Fifth Ave. • Paradise, 101 Asbury Ave. • Atlantic City • Oasis, 32 S. Tennessee Ave. • Ocean House, 127 S. Ocean Ave. • Pro Bar, Resorts Casino, 1133 Boardwalk, 13th floor • Ritz Condo lobby, 2715 Boardwalk • Bordentown • Shoppe 202, 202 Farnsworth Ave. • Camden • Honor Box, PATCO Ferry Ave. Station • Cape May • Sunshine News, 7 Gurney St. • Cherry Hill • Unitarian Church, 400 N. Kings Hwy. • Andriotti’s Viennese Café, 1442 E. Route 70 • Collingswood • Honor Box, PATCO Collingswood Station • Honor Box, PATCO Ferry Ave. Station • Egg Harbour City • Red Barn Books, 1204 White Horse Pike • Galloway • Pride Alliance Stockton College, 101 Vera King Farris Dr. suite 240 • Gloucester City • Red Barn Books, 600 Rt. 130 South • Haddonfield • Honor Box, PATCO Haddonfield Station, PATCO Westmont Station, PATCO Woodcrest Station • Hammonton Club Revolution, 19 N. Egg Harbor Rd. • Highland Park • Pride Center of NJ, 85 Raritan Ave. • Lambertville• Body Tech, 80 Lambert Lane • Lebanon • GLBT of Hunterdon Co., 126 Petticoat Lane • Lindenwold • Honor Box, PATCO Lindenwold Station East • Honor Box, PATCO Lindenwold Station West • Morristown • Gay Activist Alliance, Unitarian Church, 29 Normandy Heights Road • Oaklyn • Sacred Green Earth, 511 Whitehorse Pike • Princeton • LGBT Center, Princeton University, 246 First Campus Center • Somerset • The Den, 700 Hamilton Ave. • Stratford • White Horse Books, 906 White Horse Pike • Vineland • J&J News, 729 N. Main St. • West Berlin • Red Barn Books, 597 Route 73 North • Williamstown • Book Bin, 3852 S. Black Horse Pike •

NEW YORK Blooming Grove • Help Inc., 48 Sylvan Trail • New York City • Lesbian and Gay Services Center, 208 W. 13th St.

All of these locations are now visible on a zoomable Google Map at

http://www.epgn.com/pages/where_to_find WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION ON THIS LIST? Contact Don at don@epgn.com or 215-625-8501 ext. 200 to arrange for delivery of complimentary copies.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT INTRODUCING PARX LUCKY HOUR!

EVERY FRIDAY • 7PM – 9PM Roll into the weekend with the best happy hour in town! Get lucky drink specials! $2 Pinnacle “You Call Its” at 360 and Jax Bar. $5 “The BFF” Martinis at Parxgrill Bar. Get lucky slots! $50 free slot play winner selected every 60 seconds!

CONKLIN’S COMEDY NIGHT

WEEKEND WARM-UP

THIS WEEKEND AT 360

A night full of big laughs, good drinks & tons of fun hosted by the ‘Man of a Thousand Voices’, Joe Conklin!

EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT • 8PM Jumpstart your weekend at 360!

Visit parxcasino.com/comedynight for tickets.

JANUARY 2 • ONE HOT MESS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 • UNDERCOVER, GOODMAN FISKE & DJ ERIC VANDERSLICE

JANUARY 9 • AMBERLAMPS

PARXCASINO.COM •

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 • JUMPER & DJ SEV ONE

Visit parxcasino.com/calendar for full schedule.

MANAGEMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OR CANCEL THESE PROMOTIONS AT ANY TIME. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. VISIT XCLUB FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, RULES AND REGULATIONS. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1.800.GAMBLER

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Read about the issues and ideas impacting local teens — from school bullying to campus safe spaces to legislative developments — written in their own words. PGN’s ﬁrst-ever section created for and by LGBT youth hits stands Jan. 31 and returns quarterly.

Only in Special Supplement Appearing Quarterly

LGBT Youth Supplement

Ever wonder how other LGBT people spend their 9-5? From bankers to bartenders, educators to entrepreneurs, our community is represented in all workforces — and here’s your chance to get on-the-job look at a day in their lives.

Only in

Day in the Life Of:

NEWS

Online and in print every third Friday of the month.

Tired of eating at the same old dives? Thinking about hitting a new hot spot? We’ll tell you what we liked — and didn’t.

Only in Read PGN’s food reviews every second and fourth week of the month

Dining Out

We’re all getting older. For LGBT seniors, being out in the golden years can pose a whole new set of challenges. Each month, Gettin’ On brings you insights on aging, from legal issues to sexual health.

Only in

Gettin’ On

CELEBRATING CULTURE: A packed audience took part in the Dec. 28 Kwanzaa Celebration at William Way LGBT Community Center. The annual observance featured the celebration of Nguzo Saba, the seven principles of Kwanzaa, along with a wealth of live entertainment, including song, drag and spoken-word performances. The event was sponsored by a group of LGBT organizations and supporters, including William Way, The Colours Organization, Men of All Colors Together, Black Gay Men’s Leadership Council, Philadelphia Black Gay Pride, The Attic Youth Center, House of Blahnik, Unity Fellowship Church, Beta Phi Omega, Rasta Boi, Adodi, Empowering Word Ministry and A New Direction Ministries. Photo: Amber Hikes

Online and in print every third Friday of the month.

Crime Watch International Local Media Trail News Briefing Obituary Out Law Wedding

18 23 5 22 6 17 19 16

Contents

EDITORIAL/OP-ED

Creep of the Week Editorial Letters/Feedback Mark My Words Street Talk

10 10 11 11 11

The staff of Philadelphia Gay News wishes all of our readers, friends and advertisers the happiest and healthiest 2014! PGN 505 S. Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19147-1506

For advertising inquiries: advertising@epgn.com or 215-625-8501 ext. 218.

Art Director/Photographer Scott A. Drake (ext. 210) scott@epgn.com

Phone: 215-625-8501 Fax: 215-925-6437 E-mail: pgn@epgn.com Web: www.epgn.com

Advertising Manager Greg Dennis greg@epgn.com

Graphic Artist Sean Dorn (ext. 211) sean@epgn.com

Publisher Mark Segal (ext. 204) mark@epgn.com Editor

Jen Colletta (ext. 206) jen@epgn.com Staff Writers Larry Nichols (ext. 213) larry@epgn.com Angela Thomas (ext. 215) angela@epgn.com Writer-at-Large Timothy Cwiek (ext. 208) timothy@epgn.com

Advertising Sales Representatives Prab Sandhu prab@epgn.com National Advertising Rivendell Media: 212-242-6863 Office Manager/ Classifieds Don Pignolet (ext. 200) don@epgn.com Executive Assistant/ Billing Manager Carol Giunta (ext. 202) carol@epgn.com

Philadelphia Gay News is a member of: The Associated Press Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Suburban Newspapers of America Published by Masco Communications Inc. © 2014 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155

The views of PGN are expressed only in the unsigned “Editorial” column. Opinions expressed in bylined columns, stories and letters to the editor are those of the writer, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of PGN. The appearance of names or pictorial representations in PGN does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that named or pictured person or persons.

LOCAL PGN

Morris advocates: D.A.’s office abusing its discretion By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com Advocates for Nizah Morris say local prosecutors are abusing their discretion by ignoring critical evidence in the case, and they continue to push for a state probe in the matter. The advocates point to a state law permitting Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane to investigate a homicide if it’s shown that local authorities are abusing their discretion. Morris was a transgender woman who became a homicide victim in 2002, shortly after entering a Philadelphia police vehicle. The case remains unsolved. Advocates for Morris say the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office is ignoring a key discrepancy in the case, involving a purported cellphone conversation between Sgt. Michael Dougherty and Officer Elizabeth Skala. Dougherty told the D.A.’s office in 2003 that he gave Skala permission to give Morris a courtesy ride during a cellphone conversation, minutes before Morris was fatally injured. But Skala told the Police Advisory Commission in 2006 that she only spoke to Morris and her dispatcher about the ride, prior to embarking on it. Skala said it wasn’t necessary to get permission from a supervisor, because the ride only lasted three blocks. The D.A.’s alleged failure to pursue this discrepancy constitutes an abuse of discretion, Morris advocates contend. The advocates also point to evidence in their possession — including 911 audio transmissions, patrol-activity logs, computerized time-response logs and the Morris police report — which the D.A.’s office says it doesn’t have. The time-response logs verify that Morris wasn’t taken to a hospital for more than an hour after the first 911 call was placed on her behalf. The 911 transmissions conflict with Dougherty’s claim that he gave Skala permission for the ride. The patrol-activity logs show that Skala and two other responding officers failed to document the ride. The police report cites Morris’ transgender status, yet concludes she was simply a drunk person, not a crime victim. “It’s imperative for Attorney General Kane to look into the Morris case,” said former state Rep. Babette Josephs. “We have all this evidence that’s highly incriminating of the police. And the D.A.’s office apparently could care less about reviewing it. It’s an untenable situation, and we urge Ms. Kane to promptly intervene.”

Joseph C. Peters, a spokesperson for Kane, had no comment for this story. Morris advocates also blast the D.A.’s office for failing to account for dozens of evidentiary items that appear to be misplaced, though they were documented in a 2003 court filing. The misplaced items include surveillance tapes along Walnut Street — where the injured Morris was found — and a search warrant for AT&T cellphone records. The D.A.’s office refuses to comment on the missing evidence, nor will representatives say what safeguards, if any, have been instituted to avoid future evidentiary losses. Efforts for a state probe received a boost in April, when the Police Advisory Commission recommended that Kane review the Morris case. But in May, Lawrence M. Cherba, director of the state Attorney General’s Criminal Law Division, told the PAC that a probe of Morris’ death wasn’t in the office’s jurisdiction. “However, we are referring your inquiry to the [Philadelphia] District Attorney’s Office and requesting the District Attorney to advise or assist you,” Cherba stated in a May 23 letter. No further assistance was provided by the D.A.’s office, prompting Morris advocates to renew their pleas for Kane’s involvement. The Justice for Nizah committee, which was formed in August, is gathering endorsements from various groups for a state probe. The ACLU of Greater Philadelphia and the Jewish Social Policy Action Network recently announced their support for a state probe into the Morris case. Other groups contacted for support include Lambda Legal, the National Center for Transgender Equality and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Typically, Kane must petition a judge for approval prior to initiating a homicide probe on the grounds that local prosecutors are abusing their discretion. But in 2011, the D.A.’s office reportedly allowed the Police Advisory Commission to review its entire Morris file, aside from internal staff memos. If the D.A.’s office provides Kane with similar access, judicial approval may not be necessary for a preliminary review to take place. The next meeting of the J4N committee will be held 6 p.m. Jan. 13 at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. The public is invited to attend. ■

Philadelphia Gay News

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

LGBTEI teams up to produce Alzheimer’s series By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com

The LGBT Elder Initiative will team up with the Alzheimer’s Association for a free three-part series to engage and discuss those interested in the disease. The Alzheimer’s Series will begin at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Alzheimer’s Association, 399 Market St. The series will continue at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 13 and March 13 at the same location. The first program will cover the topic of warning signs and medication for Alzheimer’s, while the second will focus on memory loss and the medical aspects of cognitive issues as one ages. The third event will center on dialogue and communication with those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and with those who are taking care of someone with the disease. The events will feature discussions led by those who have Alzheimer’s and by caregivers. LGBTEI communications chair Ed Bomba said the series is part of the initiative’s attempt to ensure the LGBT community has access to resources on aging. “Nobody talks to us about the cognitive issues as we age and the possibility of dementia and Alzheimer’s,” he said. “We need to look out for our friends and know what to look for.” Bomba said that, two years ago, the LGBTEI received feedback from the community asking for more information and programs based around cognitive issues. In April, the organization hosted an Aging

Is ANXIETY affecting your intimate relationships?

News Briefing Philadelphia Institute for Individual, Relational & Sex Therapy We are a counseling, therapy and training center dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families work through life’s unique challenges.

Sexual performance? Communication? Fighting? We can help with: the Process of Coming Out, Feeling Isolated and Alone, Finding, Creating & Maintaining Healthy Relationships, Healthy Sexual Expression, Anxiety and/or Depression, Coping with Past Trauma, Issues with Relationships (Work, Friends or Family), Living with or Supporting Someone with HIV/AIDs At PhIIRST, we provide a safe, supportive space to help you explore healthy options and ﬁnd greater happiness in your life.

225 S. 17th Street, Suite 2200 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia

267.519.0241 www.PHIIRST.com

Judge dismisses Siloam appeal Philadelphia Common Pleas Judge Idee C. Fox has dismissed the appeal of Siloam, an AIDS agency that requested permission to demolish the old Church of the Assumption. Siloam argued that demolition of the church was necessary because it was a drain on its resources and a hardship to maintain. But on Dec. 20, Fox dismissed Siloam’s appeal after state Commonwealth Court determined that Siloam no longer owns the church. In July 2012, Siloam sold the church to developers John Wei and Mika He, according to court records. Siloam continues to operate in an old Catholic rectory adjacent to the church,

Minds conversation that motivated the organization to pair with the Alzheimer’s Association to create continued programming. Alzheimer’s Association associate director of diversity Raul Mux said the organization is eager to get its message out to the LGBT community with the assistance of the LGBTEI. “Since last year, we started a collaboration with the Elder Initiative and they’ve been very helpful to work with and have helped us to reach our target community,” he said. “This will be the first opportunity we have to reach out to the LGBT community with this series.” Mux said in the long term, the Alzheimer’s Association is looking to develop a support group for the LGBT community. And this initial series will help fuel conversation about Alzheimer’s disease and other aging issues among the community, he said. “This will increase awareness about warnings signs of Alzheimer’s. As people age, they develop symptoms related to aging of the brain and sometimes those might not necessarily be a disease, it might be just the brain slowing down.” Bomba said empowering the community with resources is vital. “It is so important that we know what to look for and what is available to help us should we need care, medication and/or face issues of memory loss. People need to know about the resources available.” For more information, visit www.lgbtei. org. ■ which is located at 1123 Spring Garden St. Neighborhood activists want the church preserved as an architectural icon, citing its connection to local saints Katharine Drexel and John Neumann. But the city contends the church is unsafe due to multiple structural problems. Andrew S. Ross, an attorney for the city, was asked if the city wants the church demolished, due to the contention that it’s a public-safety hazard. “We are in the process of reinspecting the exterior and interior of the structure, and will take appropriate action based on the findings of the inspection,” Ross told PGN. Wei and He had no comment for this story

Arguments set in DP case Arguments are scheduled in the case of Bradley A. Ankney, a mathematics teacher who’s suiing his employer for domesticpartnership benefits. Ankney is employed by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, an educational-services provider based in Homestead, near PAGE 12 Pittsburgh.

HEALTH PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Make a healthy resolution and get covered this year You can’t turn on the TV or radio anymore without hearing about the Affordable Care Act , with people taking a stand either for or against the legislation. While we have been talking about it for many years now, the crux of the law is going into effect this month, when many previously uninsured (and, in some cases, uninsurable) people will begin to receive health-insurance coverage. The purpose of the law is to insure as many Americans as possible, with the hopes of improving the overall health outcomes of the country. With more than 40million Americans uninsured to date, this is a daunting task. However, we know that lack of access to health care is one of the leading causes of poor health. LGBT Americans are over twice as likely to not have health insurance, so our comDr. munities are affected to an even greater degree. I work at Mazzoni Center, where we provide care to people regardless of their insurance status. In fact, about 35 percent of our patients do not have health insurance, and we are able to care for them through a combination of grants and donations. However, there is a limit to what we can do in our office. Although it is affordable to treat common outpatient illnesses like colds and flu, STDs, menstrual disorders and depression, more serious conditions require more expensive testing and clinical specialty referrals that are not covered by

those grants. For example, a simple Xray can cost $150 (at a discount) and an MRI will run over $1,000! Are you young and healthy? Do you wonder why you, of all people, should examine your options, and potentially enroll in a plan that will cost you a fewhundred dollars a month? Here are the three main reasons why that answer should be yes!

On Being Well

Robert Winn

1. It’s the law. Starting in 2014, all Americans are now required to prove they have health coverage. The penalty for not having it is a hit on your taxes at the end of the year. So, you won’t feel that impact right away, but you will come 2015. Many people will qualify for Medicaid (nocost) or subsidized healthcoverage (lower-cost) plans. Going to www.healthcare.gov is a good place to start, and to see if you qualify for a subsidized plan.

2. Young, healthy people keep costs down. If you are young and healthy, and you buy into an insurance plan, it keeps the price lower for everyone. In that way, sicker people don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for coverage. Because “preexisting” conditions are no longer a reason an insurance company can deny you or charge you more, we all pay the same rate. The only way to reduce that rate is to have more people in the plan, including healthy people.

3. You never know what can happen. You may think that, because you are healthy today and not in immediate need of health care, insurance is something you can safely avoid. But far too often, I see young folks come into our office without insurance, and they wind up having expensive medical needs. For instance, I treated a 23-year-old man a few years ago with testicular pain — he figured it was just a normal pain, but it turned out to be cancer. He needed surgery and radiation therapy, costing tens of thousands of dollars. Thankfully, he qualified for Medicaid, which covered the costs. However, if he had to pay out of pocket, it would have financially ruined him. I frequently see young women with abnormal periods who need further testing than what I can provide in our office. Although I can refer them to other locations for testing, it usually costs thousands of dollars and, in most cases, is beyond what they can afford out of pocket. Health insurance is the key to protecting against those “just-in-case” scenarios. When looking at plans within the new Affordable Care marketplaces, it’s important to remember that health insurance is not free, and it doesn’t cover 100 percent of your health-care costs (except Medicaid). You will have a monthly premium to pay. There will be co-pays for doctor’s visits and prescriptions. Sometimes that’s a flat-dollar amount, sometimes it’s a percentage of the bill (if this applies to you, make sure you find out the cost before you get a test!). Some plans have deductibles, which means you

Philadelphia Gay News Haute Mexican? Haute Mexican! After ten successful years in northeast Philadelphia, Paloma is serving to-die-for French-Mexican cuisine in Bella Vista. ��

a semifinalist for the 2011 James Beard Foundation awards 763 South 8th Street (corner of 8th & Fulton) www.palomafinedining.com www.facebook.com/palomarestaurant 215.928.9500

pay all costs up to that amount before the insurance kicks in. Usually, the higher the deductible, the less expensive the monthly premium is — which is fine, unless you get sick. If you are a person who needs frequent medical care, a highdeductible plan is not for you. So where do you start? It’s important to visit the www.healthcare.gov website to find out if you qualify for free or discounted health care. You can also call 800-318-2596 for information. To learn more about how the health-care law specifically affects LGBT Americans, you can also visit www.strongfamiliesmovement.org/lgbt-health-care-guide or www.out2enroll.org. If you are a current patient or client at Mazzoni, we have a dedicated ACA patient navigator on staff to help walk you through the process. You can reach her by phone at 215-5630658 ext. 332. Let’s face it: No matter our age or fitness level, we all get sick once in a while. Some of us get really sick and need to utilize the health-care system a lot. The only way to make sure that you can access the health care you need, when you need it, is to be insured. On a brighter note, if we all went for routine check-ups and age-appropriate screenings, many diseases could be prevented, or at least caught early enough to treat. So ask your friends and family about their plans for health coverage in 2014. Let’s keep each other healthy! ■ Dr. Robert Winn is medical director at Mazzoni Center.

epgn.com Craig T. Wakefield, DDS is happy to welcome

ISAAC BAR, D.M.D. to the dental practice!

• Cosmetic dentistry • Veneers • Crowns • Whitening • Implants

High quality dental treatment and preventive care

Dr Bar is a participating provider with most insurances including United Concordia, Delta Dental, Aetna, Metlife, and Guardian.

Medical Towers Building • Suite 2306 255 S. 17th St., Philadelphia, Pa 19103 (215) 732-8080 • cwakefielddds@msn.com Proudly serving the LGBT community and PWA for over 20 years. • Evening hours available.

PERSON PGN OF THE YEAR

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

POY from page 1

such, has rarely been done, except for such cases as 2004’s action by San Francisco’s then-mayor Gavin Newsom and similar actions in New Mexico. Rosemary said her husband let her know he was considering the request. “We did discuss it. He let me know he was talking about it with his colleagues and researching the law,” she said. “He wanted to

them all the freedom, independence, happiness and rights” that the constitution “purports to grant to them.” And with that, the marriage floodgates opened.

Love and marriage Same-sex couples began arriving at Hanes’ office the morning of July 24. He granted four licenses that day, with the first issued to Pottstown residents Loreen Bloodgood and Alicia Terrizzi. In the ensuing days, couples came from across the county, and the state, to apply for licenses. “Oh, you could just see how it impacted t h e m ,” s a i d Joan Nagel, First Deputy Register of Wills, Clerk of Orphans’ MARION LEARY (LEFT) AND LARA KELLY RECEIVED C o u r t . “ S o A MARRIAGE LICENSE FROM HANES IN JULY many people have been waitmake sure the decision he made ing so long to have the opportunity to do this. Our office sees was backed up by law.” After extensive consultation every day how important it with county attorneys, Hanes is that they have the rights determined he would grant the of spouses, in so many difrequest — and not in a calcu- ferent ways — for state purlated political move or protest, but poses, for IRS purposes, for rather as a matter of fulfilling his Social Security purposes. It’s really a huge impact.” job responsibilities. Shapiro added that the joy “We spent a lot of time talking about it before he made the emanating from the couples announcement, discussing it was contagious. “It was unbelievably from both a moral standpoint and a legal standpoint,” said Josh meaningful. It literally Shapiro, chairman of the Board of brought a tear to my eye,” Commissioners of Montgomery he said. “It was amazing to County. “For Bruce, it was about see people, some of whom doing what he thought was right, I know and some of whom not about the politics of the I don’t know, who love their partners the same way I love moment. I admire him for that.” In a July 23 statement, Hanes mine and who wanted to enjoy the cited a number of sections of the same rights and benefits my wife constitution that he believes the and I enjoy, be treated as equal in state ban on same-sex marriage Montgomery County. It brought a violates, adding that, as a public terrific sense of pride to me and to official, he is tasked with uphold- our team.” While there was jubilation ing the state and federal constitution. He also noted that his finding around Hanes’ decision, it did took into account the SCOTUS set off a media firestorm — and ruling and the decision days before attracted protestors to his office. Rosemary said her husband by Attorney General Kathleen Kane to not defend the state law knew his decision would draw against a legal challenge because attention, but he wasn’t quite she found it “wholly unconstitu- expecting the level it received. “He was not prepared. People tional.” In his release, Hanes mentioned told him, ‘There will be repercusthat the initial couple backed out of sions,’ but he had no idea that it applying for the license but that he would be as big as it was and conwould have issued it and “wished tinue as long as it has,” she said.

“He was most concerned about the negative repercussions because in the first two days, his office was filled with people protesting his decision. But, soon after, that died down and the responses were good.” Lynn Zeitlin and Gabriela Assagioli, together since 2000, were issued a license the same day that a number of the protestors assembled at Hanes’ office. The couple said Hanes and his staff were warm and welcoming and made sure the couples were shielded from the protestors. “We thanked him and took a picture with him,” Zeitlin said about Hanes. “He was definitely a presence there; he wasn’t hiding in his office. He was very much involved in the process. The whole atmosphere in the office was set by him and was very welcoming.” Rosemary noted that one couple who received a license from Hanes later returned with a wedding cake for the whole office. “ T h e h e a r t f e l t , p o s i t iv e responses have been touching,” she said. “So many people he’s spoken to have said they’re glad he made the decision he did. Even people he had worked with prior are now coming forward, and it’s been nice to have them feel com-

SEN. DAYLIN LEACH LEADS SUPPORTERS IN THANKING HANES AT AN AUGUST MARRIAGE-EQUALITY RALLY IN NORRISTOWN

tics. The state asked for a writ of mandamus to compel Hanes to stop issuing licenses. Through the end of the summer, both parties fired off a series of legal filings before meeting for oral arguments in early September in Harrisburg. On Sept. 12, Judge Dan Pellegrini granted the writ, shutting down Hanes’ operation. The atmosphere at the office immediately reflected the change, Nagel said. “We all felt very good while the applications were able to be taken,” she said. “I feel kind of sad that we’re not doing it anymore.” Hanes appealed the decision in September to the state Supreme Court. He maintains the case should have been originally heard by the state top court and that the health department did not have standing to bring the suit in the first place. Pellegrini’s ruling did not include a determination of the constitutionality of the state ban, or a finding on the — Lynn Zeitlin validity of the 118 licenses that were issued and comfortable enough now to approach pleted. Several-dozen of those him. I have to say, one of the first couples subsequently filed their people who contacted him was a own suit in state court, requesting woman who’s 90 who called and a determination about the legality said, ‘Congratulations for the of their licenses and the constitudecision you made.’” tionality of the marriage ban.

“We thanked him and took a picture with him. He was definitely a presence there; he wasn’t hiding in his office. He was very much involved in the process. The whole atmosphere in the office was set by him and was very welcoming.”

Legal wrangling But, not everyone was pleased with Hanes’ action. As soon as he began issuing the licenses, the clock seemingly began ticking for the state, led by a Republican governor, to respond. After about three-dozen same-sex couples received licenses, the administration finally made its move on July 30 — with a lawsuit led by the Department of Health, which compiles marriage statis-

Measuring the impact While marriage equality existed for just 51 days in Pennsylvania’s third-largest county, its impact is likely longer-lasting. Among the already-visible effects of Montgomery County embracing marriage equality was that the very unusual development elicited a wealth of media coverage — and ensuing public debate — from all corners of the Keystone State.

Newspaper articles detailed the constitutional issues Hanes raised in easy-to-understand terms, and television stations carried images of and interviews with samesex couples and their families, who put a public face to the legal issues. Political pundits, both experienced and amateur, opined on the possible ramifications of Hanes’ decision, allowing for full and fruitful debates at town-hall meetings, on television newsmagazine programs and in the blogosphere about Pennsylvania’s law — which also, in some cases, allowed advocates to highlight the state’s lack of an LGBT nondiscrimination measure. Hanes’ action also put public officials such as Gov. Tom Corbett on the spot. While Corbett was already a known opponent of same-sex marriage, the governor and his administration made two high-profile comments on the topic when talking about the Hanes case — first in an August filing in which the administration likened same-sex marriage to marriage between children, then when the governor himself compared marriage equality to incest during an interview on the earlier remarks. Both instances sought to enhance discussion about the inanity of the arguments against same-sex marriage. And the outcome of the two cases relating to Hanes’ decision will also have an untold effect on the marriage-equality movement in the state. When Pennsylvania does eventually become a marriage-equality state, Shapiro said, Hanes’ groundbreaking leadership will have been key in laying the foundation. “Marriage equality will come to Pennsylvania, period,” Shapiro said. “The question is how long it will take. But Bruce Hanes’ actions here in Montgomery County have

PERSON PGN OF THE YEAR

only served to speed up equality coming to Pennsylvania. I don’t know how long it’s going to take to happen, but I do know for sure it’ll happen.” Staying objective Throughout all of the media attention surrounding his case, Hanes himself has remained pretty quiet. In his conversations with PGN, Hanes made sure to focus solely on the constitutional issues at hand and leave his personal views on the marriage-equality debate out of the discussion, a tactic he has taken in all of his other interviews and public appearances. Rosemary said that was intentional — and indicative of her husband’s approach to most issues. “Every time something comes up with this, he’s still kind of surprised and always says it’s not about him. He says, ‘Take the focus off me and put it on what we’re trying to do here. This is an equality issue. You can say things about me, but get to the idea behind it of what needs to be done,’” she said. “He’s always thought the law should be used to handle all of society’s problems. You read the law, see what it says and, if it doesn’t help us, work to change the law. That’s how he addresses issues. There are times when the law is not helping people, and if you are in a point or at a spot or in an office where you can do something about that, to get laws into effect that will help people, then he thinks that’s what you should do.” While Hanes’ decision has been commended as courageous, Assagioli noted that she believes his commitment to the basic issue of fairness, at the root of the debate, is so strong that the decision was natural for him. “I think he saw with great clarity the injustice and I think once you see there’s injustice, a lot of times it becomes clear what you need to do,” she said. “You don’t waver at all because you have such a conviction. He hasn’t wavered at all.” In the fall, Hanes was honored with the OutProud Friend Award at OutFest and has been welcomed buoyantly at a number of LGBT events. Rosemary said the acknowledgment is unusual for her otherwiseunassuming husband. “He’s really kind of low-key in some ways, so this is not the kind of thing you would expect he would do,” she said. “He’s not the person who wants to be at the head of any march. But, if he can do that through legal methods, that’s his way. That’s just him.” ■

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

2013 Person of the Year runners-up Attorney General Kathleen Kane

Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane made waves this past summer when she declined to defend the state’s ban on samesex marriage. In July, Kane announced that she would not defend the state law against an American Civil Liberties Union lawsuit challenging its constitutionality. Kane was among a number of state officials named as defendants in the suit. In front of an audience of LGBT and ally supporters July 11 at the National Constitution Center, Kane said equality is the essential meaning of a Democratic society. “Without this equality, our society would never have achieved desegregation of our schools, marriage equality between interracial couples and women would still not be able to vote or hold office,” Kane said. “Denying equality is the very definition of discrimination.” Kane said she could not ethically defend the state’s ban when she believes it to be “wholly unconstitutional.” “Who represents you?” she questioned the audience. “Who is it in this commonwealth that stands up for your rights, your constitutional protections and, in thinking of that, I thought the only person who has that duty and responsibility is the office of the attorney general. And as attorney general, I choose you.” Equality Pennsylvania executive director Ted Martin, whose organization endorsed Kane in 2012, said Kane is on board with the issues important to the LGBT community. “She is on our side and in support of our issues and unapologetic about it,” he said. “With her, we have an ally and friend in office.” Kane was released as a defendant in the ACLU suit and the defense of the law was left to

the governor’s attorneys. She has since requested to be released from a number of other pending challenges to the law. Martin said Kane’s stance was a unique and courageous one for an attorney general. “Anyone who says they believe something is unconstitutional and in a position like she is, is a good thing,” he said. “It educated people on the lives of LGBT people and things like this help to move that conversation, and that is a real result.”

Kathy Padilla and Jordan Gwendolyn Davis

Philadelphia last year adopted an LGBT-equality law that included first-of-its-kind transgender-specific provisions — and local activists Kathy Padilla and Jordan Gwendolyn Davis were integral in pressing for those groundbreaking measures. Councilman Jim Kenney introduced the LGBT Equality Bill in the spring and Council adopted it in a 14-3 vote. Mayor Michael Nutter signed it into law in May. The legislation gave tax-credit incentives to businesses that offer employee health plans that include same-sex partners and children and to companies that provide trans-inclusive health care. It also mandated genderneutral bathrooms in all new city buildings and overhauled the city’s health-care plan to ban any discrimination against non-union transgender city employees. Padilla and Davis were among

the activists who met with Kenney to ensure the legislation was transinclusive. Kenney said although he was worried the transgender protections could affect the legislation’s passage, talking with trans leaders such as Padilla and Davis convinced him those provisions were needed. “Honestly, when I first started out, I was skeptical about getting it done and getting it passed, but the more and more I understand about the discrimination they faced and what they went through, the more meaningful the legislation became,” he said. Kenney said he met Padilla at a social event and the two began talking about the potential for the LGBT Equality Bill. Legislative aide Chris Goy got the ball rolling on the legislation, with Padilla and Davis joining the team. Kenney said there were up to 20 meetings to get the bill structured. In addition to Davis and Padilla, a wealth of people worked to bring the legislation to fruition — including Michael Williams, Gloria Casarez, Rue Landau, Reynelle Stanley, Adrian Shanker, Harvey Hurdle, Chris Labonte, Joe Grace and the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and the city Law Department. Davis and Padilla, as well as Dane Menkin and Dolan Kneafsey, shared their stories of living as out trans individuals before City Council. Kenney said the real-life experiences people like Padilla and Davis detailed were invaluable in laying the foundation for the legislation. “Life is hard, LGBT life is harder and life for transgender individuals is the hardest,” Kenney said. “We look at all the acceptance of gay men and women today with marriage equality and nondiscrimination, but there is still that barrier for trans people to get over simple things like using the bathroom. Those things we take for granted.”

Quincy Greene QSpot celebrated its third year of providing a safe and accepting space for LGBT youth in 2013, and the program’s continued success and evolution continued to be made possible by its dedicated founder and leader, Quincy Greene. The monthly program is held from May-December and allows

youth the opportunity to socialize and take part in skill-building activities. It originally met at Broad Street Ministries but, earlier this year, its continuance was in jeopardy as the church asked for a rental fee. The program has never had any direct funding and relied instead on private donations. Greene undertook a search for a new venue and was able to

secure discounted space from the William Way LGBT Community Center, which hosted the final four QSpot events of the year. Brian Green, program director of Family Planning Council’s SafeGuards program, noted that Greene ensures a security guard is present at all events so the youth feel protected. To contend with costs, Greene was influential in spearheading the launch of the monthly Q-ued Up, a social to raise funds for the program. He also was one of 15 performers who took the stage in “A Night of Legends,” a fundraising concert in the summer. Despite the financial challenges, Green said Greene has fought hard to make sure LGBT young adults had a productive and positive place to socialize. “It gives them somewhere to go that is not a bar,” he said. “There may be pressure at other venues for youth to drink or do drugs or do things that are negative so part of the environment of QSpot is to provide a safe spot where they are not bullied or throwing shade at each other.” In addition to keeping the program going, Greene has become a role model for the youth he serves, Green noted. “He comes across in a way that is genuine and caring but still engenders respect,” Green said. “These youth look up to him and he can mentor them in a way that a lot of adult leaders try to do, but they don’t have the same connection that he is able to garner with them.” ■

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN EDITORIAL

Creep of the Year

D’Anne Witkowski

Tony Perkins

Editorial

New beginnings With the New Year upon us, we are in the most opportune place to look both backward and forward — to use the lessons of 2013 to build a game plan for LGBT equality in 2014. And the outlook from this vantage point is bright. Last year we were showered with LGBT victories, both in Pennsylvania and across the nation. Most notable was the momentous U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned a key provision of the federal Defense of Marriage Act. The trickledown effect of that ruling was felt by the day — from federal agencies revising policies to New Jersey legalizing same-sex marriage to the SCOTUS ruling being mentioned in a number of new legal challenges to Pennsylvania’s ban on marriage equality. Also in the Keystone State, legislation to ban conversion therapy for minors surfaced for the first time in the Senate and was reintroduced in the House. And the long-stalled effort to include sexual orientation and gender identity as classes protected from discrimination saw new traction: The legislation was introduced in both chambers with record bipartisan support, and last month Republican Gov. Tom Corbett came out in support of the bill. Pennsylvania also saw its first full year with out Reps. Brian Sims (D182nd Dist.) and Mike Fleck (R-81st Dist.) in office, and the Doylestown mayoral election was won by Ron Strouse, who will be the state’s first openly LGBT mayor. At the city level, Philadelphia adopted sweeping LGBTreform legislation that offered first-inthe-nation tax credits for companies offering trans-specific health-care and

domestic-partnership coverage. Elsewhere in the country, the number of marriage-equality states more than doubled, and the federal Employment Nondiscrimination Act saw the most progress in years. But 2013 wasn’t all rosy. Locally, a trans woman was murdered and a number of LGBT-related homicides remained unsolved. A woman was raped in the Gayborhood and, days later, a gay man was attacked and robbed in almost the same spot. At least two transgender students in Pennsylvania were forced to take on their school administrations for discriminatory policies. Pennsylvania claimed the unenviable title as the only Northeast state without marriage equality, let alone an LGBT nondiscrimination measure. Nationwide, LGBT people continued to face harassment, discrimination and violence, and internationally, countries like Russia and Uganda ramped up their targeted efforts to silence the LGBT-rights movement. So, what did we learn? Well, first, victory is absolutely possible. And once we attain one victory, other goals are more easily accomplished. And the more we put a public face on the LGBT community, the more mainstream support the LGBT-rights movement receives. Yet, no year will be all highs — lows are expected, but the LGBT community is resilient and, in 2013, fought back aggressively against each setback. So here’s to hoping our 2013 wins propel us into 2014 with new energy, empowerment and excitement for what is sure to be another banner year for LGBT rights. ■

As 2013 draws to a close, it seems like all anybody wants to talk about is ducks. Well, let me tell you, I really don’t care about Phil Robertson and what he thinks about gay people. I have never seen “Duck Dynasty” and, up until now, the show has played no role in my life except when I’d occasionally ask myself, “What the fuck is ‘Duck Dynasty?’” But then Robertson had to open up to a reporter at GQ and say, “It seems like, to me, a vagina — as a man — would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me. I’m just thinking, there’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes!” This, in addition to saying that being gay is a sin and likening it to bestiality, angered a lot of folks. Then on Dec. 22, Robertson reportedly said in his defense, “I am just reading what was written over 2,000 years ago.” You tell ’em, Robertson. In fact, I believe it was Moses who said, “Thou shalt tap a woman’s beaver, not a man’s ass.” The fact is, equality for lesbians and gays has taken some super-huge steps forward in 2013. And there’s nothing a reality-show quack can say to stop it. There are, however, professional bigots who we saw a lot of in 2013 and who we can expect to see plenty more of in 2014 — which means, as long as there is money to be made hating gay people, the Family Research Council’s Tony Perkins will be sitting pretty. Perkins was Creep of the Week not once, not twice, but three times in 2013. Runners-up: Pat “I wish I had a puke button to click on Facebook whenever I see a photo of gay guys kissing” Robertson and Dave “Gays lie to get health care for all of their AIDS buddies” Agema, scoring two Creep Weeks each. Congrats, fellas. Perkins could have certainly racked up some more Creep Weeks but I felt it only fair to give other haters a chance. Still,

it might seem unfair to choose Perkins as this year’s Creepstakes Winner since he is, after all, a professional at all things antigay. But hey, the man works hard all year, full-time, trying to make life worse for LGBT people. That takes a heart of gold. And I mean that literally, not metaphorically, in that Perkins likely has a hunk of some kind of metal behind his rib cage, not an actual human heart. And he can probably afford to get it gold-plated. A rundown of Perkins’ Creep-complishments this year: Making an argument against gun-control legislation by saying that the United States needs more gay sex-control legislation instead; throwing a hissy fit after the Defense of Marriage Act was overturned, claiming that the Supreme Court had hijacked the nation; and declaring that gays should neither have cake nor eat it at their “counterfeit” weddings, especially if that cake was made and supplied by Betty Crocker herself. So congrats to Tony Perkins on being 2013’s Creep of the Year! Your prize is a year’s supply of penis-shaped cakes so that you can eat a dick all through 2014. And hey, I don’t want to offend you, so I’ll use only Duncan Hines. Enjoy! ■

The fact is, equality for lesbians and gays has taken some super-huge steps forward in 2013. And there’s nothing a realityshow quack can say to stop it.

D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay since 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps of the world, she reviews rock ’n’ roll shows in Detroit with her twin sister.

We want to know! If you are celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, adoption or other life event, we would be happy to help you announce it to the community. Send your contact information and a brief description of the event to editor@epgn.com.

OP-ED PGN

Predicting positivity For the last two years, I’ve predicted the LGBT movement of today is the civilin this very spot on this very week that rights movement of our time, mentioning the next year would be a good one for the the Stonewall Riots in his last inaugural address. LGBT community. And they have been. Yes, I feel strongly about how much the So, before we go any further, let me once president has delivered to this community, again, for the third year in a row, say that and I’ll go a little further. He’s next year will be a good one for done it for the right reasons. It’s the LGBT community. not political; for him, it’s perWhat I base that prediction sonal. Mr. President, in my eyes on, I’ll leave to the end of this you deserve to be called a gay column, but let me first put this activist. That is not a title I give out there: Many people think of 1939 as the golden year of out easily to non-LGBT people, film — “Gone with the Wind,” but you, sir, have done more “Wizard of Oz,” “Mr. Smith than many LGBT people themselves. Goes to Washington,” etc. Well, 2012 and 2013 might similarly OK, let’s move on. We had a be considered turning points in victory in the Supreme Court in 2013 and a hint that when one the struggle for LGBT equality. of the state marriage-ban cases We are so advanced that many gets to the Supreme Court, and of our youth have no idea of the struggle our seniors went they will, we have a chance for through; they just expect equalMark Segal equality to be national. ENDA has passed the Senate, and the ity. That is an incredible statement about the psyche we have created. votes are most likely there in Congress, There is almost no area on the path to but Majority Leader John Boehner will not equality where we haven’t made gains. allow it to come up for a vote. This legislaGranted, some items might be in stall tion might not be as glamorous as marriage mode, but they are not failures; rather, but, hey, people are still being fired, people are still being tossed out of their apartcelebrations waiting to happen. And there should be no doubt that President Obama ments, people are still being denied service ... millions of people! and his administration need to get a lion’s We have proven we are a force. All it share of the credit. Here’s a fact that we takes is a strategy and us not expecting don’t like to point out and, therefore, is instant gratification. The road to equality is controversial: One of the reasons we may not achieved overnight, but we are on that have lost Proposition 8 in California was road and traveling above the speed limit. that our community did not work with the African-American and other minority com- And we now have a lot more friends, family and allies on that road with us. munities. When Obama took on marriage equality and campaigned on it as part of This is going to be a great year! ■ his re-election, that started a conversation Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the in the black community. The president further made it a point to support every statenation’s most-award-winning commentawide equality issue in the nation. Maryland tor in LGBT media. He can be reached at and Illinois are equality states thanks to mark@epgn.com. the president. He has stated repeatedly that

Mark My Words

Thinking Out Loud

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Street Talk Who’s your LGBT-rights hero of 2013? “Pope Francis. I like that he said a person’s sexual orientation is none of his business. It’s a refreshing change from Taylor Goerlach the other server popes who’ve West Philadelphia been so negative. I think Pope Francis will bring welcome changes to the church. He seems open to dialogue.”

“Lady Gaga. She’s very pro-LGBT. And she’s appealing to so many people. I feel she’s a good person Nyema Grandison to help the student cause. I West Philadelphia wouldn’t go out of my way to buy her music but I do listen to it on the radio.”

“The LGBT folks in Russia. They’ve been dealing with intense discrimination and social oppression Scott Lean and yet candy-store they haven’t owner Havertown turned violent, which I find admirable. I applaud Barack Obama for sending openly LGBT former athletes to the Russian Olympics.”

“Ellen DeGeneres. She’s fabulous. I absolutely love her. She’s not over the top with Kristen her LGBT Wrightbartender activism. West Philadelphia She helps everyone. She’s generous to people from all walks of life. She doesn’t discriminate at all.”

Abby Dees

My wish for 2014 My partner and I recently had the privilege of spending a few days in Big Sur, the jewel of the California coast. With meandering creeks and ancient redwoods on one side and a huge expanse of Pacific Ocean on the other, we wanted to do nothing but sit and soak it in. The awesomeness (and I mean that in its original, non-Kardashian sense) defied words. Though there are few places grander on earth, Big Sur reminded me that moments of appreciation for life’s gifts are available all the time, if I’d only summon the comparatively paltry energy to seek them out. It’s not the view itself, but the willingness to see it. In the midst of our gee-whizz reverie, we got an email from someone we both love very much, who described in detail his

regret about the lost opportunities of his life. We ondered how he would have felt if he were sitting there with us, watching the sun go down. Would it be as bad? It’s not that we didn’t take his sadness seriously — we did. Our hearts ached for him and if we could have magically changed the past, we would have. But here we were, with dramatic proof that regardless of every hurt and insult, for most of us it is possible to make the choice to stop, breath and experience beauty. It’s there for the taking. Our friend still possessed the power of choice, and much more too: security, health, freedom and the love of people in his life. Though much still lies ahead of him, I sensed that he could only see the past, which I do not deny was marked by injustice and pain. I know, though, that

he is blessed this very moment. My only wish for him is that he could feel it every once in a while, as Traci and I did in Big Sur, and we vowed to stop and notice more often, even when we’re not in places that practically hit you over the head with something to be grateful for. Since I’m supposed to be writing an LGBT column, I’ll now try to share what this has to do with our community: We are nowhere near where we know we should be when it comes to civil rights. In some places in the world, we’re even going backwards (Russia, India — I’m talking to you). Many of us are isolated in unsupportive communities or shunned by the people we love. We should be fighting any urge to rest on the laurels of our amazing victories of 2013 (DOMA, ordinary people voting

for equality). Gratitude for what’s good, however, is something else entirely. To everyone, every day, whomever summoned the courage to stand up for justice when things appeared hopeless, I’m grateful to you for the freedom I often take for granted. To every parent who chose to embrace your LGBT kid even if you didn’t understand the LGBT part, I thank you for tilting the universal scales a little more towards love. No matter what 2014 brings, may we all feel blessed, loved and awed by the simple beauty of life. ■ Abby Dees is a civil-rights attorneyturned-author who has been in the LGBTrights trenches for 25-plus years. She can be reached through her website: queerquestionsstraighttalk.com.

PGN NEWS

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

��

�� AMY F. STEERMAN Attorney at Law

Concentrating in Planning for Lesbian and Gay Couples • Probate • Wills • Living Wills • Powers of Attorney

215-735-1006

1900 Spruce Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 www.amysteerman.com

��

MALDONADO from page 1

and reckless endangerment. At about 2 a.m. Nov. 10, Forte was walking in the 200 block of South Camac Street when Maldonado allegedly approached from behind and struck him in the head with a flashlight, rendering Forte unconscious. Morris then allegedly pummeled Forte while he was on the ground and stole his belongings. Forte suffered a number of broken bones in the incident. It is unclear if robbery was NEWS BRIEFING from page 6

He seeks to add his male domestic partner to his healthinsurance plan, but AIU refuses to do so. In August, Ankney filed suit, contending AIU’s health-benefits policy violates Allegheny County’s ban on sexual-orientation discrimination. But in September, AIU asked Allegheny County Common Pleas Judge Christine A. Ward to dismiss Ankney’s case, claiming it’s meritless. Arguments on AIU’s request will be held 9:30 a.m. Jan. 15 in the City-County Building in Pittsburgh. Sara J. Rose, an attorney for Ankney, expressed optimism that her client would prevail in the dispute. “We are confident that the judge will reject the AIU’s claim that it is permitted to base employment benefits on marriage, even though that condition results in gay men and lesbians being denied health insurance and other valuable ben-

the motive for the attack. A detective on the case said Maldonado has been terminated from his position as a Voyeur bouncer after about six months on the job. Maldonado had been arrested a number of times in the past for offenses such as assault, drugs and weapons charges. The next proceeding is 8 a.m. Jan. 14 in Room 903 of the Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St. ■ efits for their partners,” Rose told PGN. William C. Andrews, an attorney for AIU, had no comment for this story. The AIU employs about 2,000 workers in 42 suburban municipalities in Allegheny County. It receives funding through federal, state, county and private grants. — Timothy Cwiek

MCCP changes worship hours The Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia is changing its hours in the New Year. Starting Jan. 5, the LGBTaffirming church will hold worship services at 11 a.m. Sundays instead of 1 p.m. Worship will still be held at 3637 Chestnut St. For more information, call 215294-2020 or email mccphila@aol. com. ■ — Jen Colletta

��

PGN

��

� ��

� � � � ��

��

Gay is our middle name.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN

JAN 14 - 19 â&#x20AC;˘ ACADEMY OF MUSIC Broadway Philadelphia is presented collaboratively by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and The Shubert Organization.

kimmelcenter.org/broadway 215.731.3333

PGN

epgn.com

Check Us Out Online

Scene in Philly Cartoons Columns & Back Archives Entertainment Listings in

Out and About Meetings, Team Sports, & Support Groups on our

Community Bulletin Board

Find a PGN anywhere in the Greater Philadlephia Region epgn.com/pages/ where_to_ďŹ nd Zoomable interactive Google map of locations you can pick up a PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN LOCAL

Wedding John Pcsolar and Alan Sandman By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com Travel has always been a theme in John Pcsolar and Alan Sandman’s relationship — and, this past fall, the Philadelphia couple fittingly headed to the West Coast to tie the knot. Pcsolar, 57, and Sandman, 68, met in 1989 at the U.S. Airways baggage claim at Philadelphia International Airport, and sparks immediately flew. “Well, Alan had a great coat from Boyd’s that I noticed and I said, ‘Nice coat, nicelooking guy,’” Pcsolar said. Twenty-four years later, the pair married Nov. 27 at the Beverly Hills Court House in California. Pcsolar, a dairy microbiologist for QC Laboratories, and Sandman, a psychiatrist and associate medical director at Community Behavioral Health, traveled along the turnpike between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh for several years to each other before they moved in together 17 years ago in Philadelphia. The couple had a very long engagement. “He asked me to marry him 18 years ago and according to him I declined,” Pcsolar joked. “But when the Defense of Marriage Act was struck down, we said, ‘DOMA is down’ and it just became a question of when.” After New Jersey legalized same-sex marriage in October, Pcsolar said they knew they could just cross the bridge to marry, but wanted to do so in the nation’s mostpopulous state. “It is the biggest state and it has the most weight of law — it was a legal question for me and I felt it would be harder to rescind if our marriage was done in California,” he said. The couple also has family in California, including their son and daughter-in-law.

Although their engagement was long, Pcsolar said the wedding was the complete opposite. “It was very ‘ z i p - z i p .’ We were walk-ins. We had picked up our marriage license the day before and were told we had 90 days to get married and we couldn’t get an appointment with anyone, so we came in as walk-ins in the courthouse. It was a quick ceremony — maybe seven to eight minutes.” A close friend served as a witness to the ceremony and documented it on camera. Pcsolar said reaction from friends and family has been overwhelmingly positive. “When they heard, it was more of a reaction of, ‘OK, that is good, about time.’” Pcsolar said the pair’s capability to spend time together and apart is one strength that they have, and was demonstrated during their honeymoons, where they went to separate places. “We are not joined at the hip. That is pretty much why we took separate honeymoons. We are great together but if we need to be separate, we do our own thing,” he said. Pcsolar said he and Sandman have learned to embrace their differences and celebrate their similarities. “We learned that we have to share. We are polar opposites. I have to do his things and he has to do mine. We are like opera and football,” he said. Pcsolar said Sandman possesses qualities that continue to make him smile. “He is smart, good-looking, damn good at what he does and he is so incredibly kind to me.” ■

Scott Drake Photos — Philadelphia’s #1 LGBT event photographer, wishing you all the very best in 2014!

251 S. 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 • (215) 437-3214

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Obituary Dennis Clegg, business manager and Fins member, 44 By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com Dennis Clegg, a longtime member of the Philadelphia Fins Aquatic Club, died of a heart attack Dec. 21. He was 44. Clegg was born in Korea but lived in several places throughout the world, including Iceland and Greenland. He lived in Philadelphia for about 15 years with his partner, Frank Beatrice, whom he met 12 years ago. Beatrice said he was immediately drawn to Clegg’s kindheartedness. “I was impressed by his warmth and generosity,” he said. “He would do anything for any of his friends.” Clegg was a business manager for the Center for Health Behavior Research at the University of Pennsylvania for six years. Clegg was active in the LGBT sports scene, previously serving as a board member for the Fins Aquatic Club and also as a representative for the steering committee of

Team Philadelphia, the umbrella organization for all Philadelphia LGBT sports teams. Spartans Wrestling Club founding member Michael LoFurno met Clegg when they both served as representatives for their respective clubs on the steering committee about 10 years ago. LoFurno said Clegg was a calm and hardworking member of the committee and the Fins. “He was kind of quiet but he had a wry sense of humor, which I appreciated. It was subtle and he was extremely thoughtful,” LoFurno said. “He was communicative of the organization and Team Philadelphia and also volunteered for several fundraisers that the Fins did.” LoFurno said Clegg was always the first to volunteer to conduct outreach for Team Philadelphia and the Fins. Before his sudden death, Clegg had put in a number of vol-

unteer hours for the Gay Games 2014 in Cleveland. Beatrice said Clegg was a member of the Fins long before the two met and said he was very dedicated to the club and to the sport of swimming. “He was treasurer for a couple years. He would help with fundraising events, trips to other cities. He loved it,” Beatrice said. “He grew up always swimming. He came home from school one day and said he wanted to participate in swimming; it wasn’t something that his parents forced him into.” Fins president Bob Breitel said Clegg was a great swimmer who contributed both his skills and leadership to the club. “He was a longtime teammate,” he said. “The Fins have been around for 25 years now and he has participated in a lot of swimming meets, including past Gay Games and International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics

meets. He was a valued teammate.” Breitel said Clegg was an integral part in making sure the club paid tribute to its 25year history. “Since I was new and when I began to serve on the board, he wanted to make sure that the board had the perspective of the 25 years that the Fins had been around,” he said. “He wanted to make sure we were upholding the values of the team and made sure we understood the history. He brought a good historical perspective to the team so we could carry that forward.” Clegg is survived by Beatrice; his mother and father, Mary Ellen and Milton Clegg; and his sister Emmy. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Philadelphia Firefighters Union Hall, 415 N. Fifth St. Memorial contributions can be made to the Fins at P.O. Box 60145, Philadelphia, Pa. 19102, or to the American Heart Association at 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 700, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103. ■

��

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Gayborhood Crime Watch The following incidents in the Midtown Village and Washington Square West areas were reported to the 6th Police District between Dec. 16-22. Information is courtesy of 6th District Capt. Brian Korn; Stacy Irving, senior director, Crime Prevention Service; Center City District; the Police Liaison Committee and Midtown Village Merchants Association. To report crime tips, visit www. phillypolice.com or call 215686-TIPS (8477). INCIDENTS — Between 11 p.m. Dec. 17 and 7:30 a.m. Dec. 18, someone pushed open the glass doors of the Caribou Cafe, 1126 Walnut St., and ransacked the interior. Nothing was reported missing.

— At 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17, a man reported that he passed out in the 100 block of South Juniper Street and, when he awoke, his watch and some cash were missing. — Between 1:45 p.m. Dec. 18 and 11 a.m. Dec. 19, someone stole a 1998 Jeep Cherokee from outside 900 Spruce St. — Between 10 a.m. Dec. 15 and 1 a.m. Dec. 21, someone stole a handgun from inside a man’s bedroom in an apartment in the 900 block of Pine Street while he was out. During this time, two roommates were at home, but don’t know how the gun went missing. There was no illegal entry into the premises.

NON-SUMMARY ARRESTS

charged with illegal narcotics sales, and a quantity of narcotics pills and cash were recovered.

narcotics sales, and a quantity of narcotic pills and cash were recovered. SUMMARY ARRESTS

— At 3:55 a.m. Dec. 17, 6th District Officers Macchione and Crichton arrested a male outside 900 Spruce St. who was wanted on a warrant for probation violations. The 37-year-old suspect was charged with escape.

— At 8:35 p.m. Dec. 20, a woman struck someone in the head with a can of beer outside the Westbury Bar, 261 S. 13th St., and then fled into the Parker-Spruce Hotel. Sixth District Officers Keller and Rossi responded and apprehended the suspect, a 48-yearold woman with a Germantown address who was charged with aggravated assault and related offenses.

— At 10:45 a.m. Dec. 20, the 6th District Narcotics Enforcement Team observed a male outside the Gallery, 1001 Market St., engaged in illegal drug activity. The 40-year-old suspect with a Hunting Park address was

— At 11:35 a.m. Dec. 21, the 6th District Narcotics Enforcement Team observed a male outside 936 Market St. engaged in illegal narcotics sales. The 50-yearold suspect with a Germantown address was charged with illegal

— At 4:35 p.m. Dec. 16, SEPTA Police arrested a man at 1234 Market St. for failure to appear for court. The 32-year-old suspect was charged with contempt of court.

— On Dec. 18, 6th District officers issued citations for summary offenses at 11:05 a.m. outside 200 S. Juniper St. and 299 S. Juniper St., and at 5:10 p.m. and again at 6:55 p.m. outside 1300 Walnut St. — At 4 a.m. Dec. 20, 6th District officers issued a citation for a summary offense outside 236 S. 13th St. — At 9:10 p.m. Dec. 22, 6th District officers issued a citation for a summary offense outside 1201 Chestnut St. ■

��

LEGAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

N.J. trans birth-certificate bill NEVER GET INTO A COLD CAR AGAIN ****REMOTE STARTER SPECIALS*** one step closer Very few people know the ramifications, you are still bound by Pennsylvania birthconsequences and freedoms that come with certificate laws. Thankfully, for transgena birth certificate. der people born in the state of New Jersey, Let’s say for a minute that you are a relief may soon be a reality. transgender person — an individual who On Dec. 19, the New Jersey state Senate was born the wrong gender. You’ve seen passed bill A4097 by a vote of 21-11. The bill, sponsored by Senate Health a doctor and received hormone-replacement therapy, opting not to get gender and Human Services Chairman Joseph F. reassignment for your personal reasons. Vitale and Senate Majority Leader Loretta The day you’ve been waiting Weinberg, previously passed for has finally come where you through the state Assembly get to update your legal docuin June by a vote of 43-27. It mentation to reflect who you would require New Jersey to are. Perhaps you hire a lawyer issue amended birth certificates to help you navigate the arduto transgender individuals who ous and antiquated laws of have received hormone-replacement therapy, as opposed to legally changing your name, or you seek out the assistance only those who have underof one of our local nonprofits gone gender-reassignment like Mazzoni Center. You get surgery, allowing thousands of citizens the ability to correct an affidavit from your doctor their birth certificates for the that confirms your hormonetime. This will put New replacement therapy, in order Angela first to change your records with the Jersey’s process on par with Giampolo many other states and that of U.S. State Department. And yet, when it comes time to change the federal Department of State, the ultimate form of identification — your Department of Veterans Affairs and Social birth certificate — you are unequivocally Security Administration. Bill A4097 also unable to do so without undergoing genincludes language that will allow minors to der-reassignment surgery. have their birth certificates amended with The birth certificate is where all forms of the consent of their parent or guardian. identification originate and it is considered This will be a huge step towards protecting to be the gold standard of documentation. transgender youth from potential bullying Without one, it becomes next to impossible and harassment. The legislation has now been sent to to obtain a driver’s license, passport or Gov. Chris Christie to be signed into law. state-issued identification card. If you are It is unclear at this time whether or not transgender, things quickly become tricky. Christie will exercise his right to veto the Additional steps are necessary to prove that you are who you say you are, and with bill. While Christie, an observant Catholic, has sided with most Republican and cona variety of requirements to update the servative viewpoints on LGBT issues, he different forms of documentation, many stunned everyone when he didn’t exercise transgender people are left in a difficult his right to appeal and block same-sex situation where their various forms of ID do not match up. marriage for New Jersey back in October. For example, as it stands in Pennsylvania If Christie does not block the bill and it passes, this could inspire legislators in and New Jersey, if a transgender person other states (cough, cough, Pennsylvania) who has not undergone gender-reassignment surgery gets a driver’s license, he to follow suit and allow all transgender or she has to submit all of the documencitizens the ability to amend their birth certation required of anyone, as well as a tificates. signed affidavit from a doctor stating the It may seem like a novel concept, but gender because, otherwise, the license transgender individuals and youth should would default to the gender marker on the be allowed the same protections and freedoms granted to all citizens. ■ birth certificate. But then, when they present their license and birth certificate to a Angela D. Giampolo, principal of potential employer, the gender markers do Giampolo Law Group, maintains offices in not align, outing them as transgender. Pennsylvania and New Jersey and specialBirth-certificate laws are particularly izes in LGBT law, business law, real-estate unique because the laws of the state you law and civil rights. Her website is www. were born in follow you, regardless of the giampololaw.com and she maintains two state you may be living in when you wish blogs, www.phillygaylawyer.com and www. to change your birth certificate gender lifeinhouse.com. Send Angela your legal marker. In other words, if you were born in Pennsylvania but now live in Minnesota, questions at angela@giampololaw.com.

617 South 24th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146

CAR AUDIO • CAR ALARMS • IPOD INTEGRATION

215-545-5293 email: GK@allthatjazzphilly.com

HID LITES • GPS • TINT • LOGO VANITY PLATES & KEY CHAINS

Triangle Medical General Practice Progressive HIV Care

Out Law

Philadelphia Gay News

MARK T. WATKINS, DO REBECCA CALDER PA-C

(215) 829-0170

253 S. 10th St., 1st Floor Philadelphia

Repairs, Renovations and Remodeling

(215) 467-3335 Pa. HIC #026545 Phila. Lic. #17895

“Our” Family Plumber for over 30 years JEFFREY E. GOLDMAN, ATTORNEY AT LAW SPECIALIZING IN PARTNERSHIP AND EMPLOYMENT LAW Proven track record of recovering millions of dollars for wrongfully treated employees!* Experience litigating: • Partnership & business disputes • Non-competes • Executive compensation • Employment discrimination • Real Estate Litigation Jeffrey E. Goldman, Esq. 100 S. Broad St. Suite 1330 Philadelphia, PA 19110

Also handle: • Wills, Living Wills, Trusts and Powers of Attorney

Jeff.Goldman@verizon.net

*Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Put 18 years of experience to work for you!

FAVORITE PHOTOS PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Favorite photos of 2013 I like out there for all to see, I have come up with 10 (and another 10 runners-up). I hope some of these were your favorites also.

1 By Scott A. Drake scott@epgn.com Five years ago, Favorite Photos of the Year premiered and, ever since, has became an annual favorite feature. I expect it is partly because there are some fun pictures, and some poignant pictures, but more likely it’s because people get to see their friends and themselves again in this anthology. And, of course, it reminds us of just how much happens in a year. The past year was no different and, while I would love to put all of the photos

1. Hold My Hand. Hands-down, our favorite photo of the year. You don’t need the context to appreciate the simplicity of this shot: Two anonymous hands, two anonymous people who could be anyone at all are holding hands during the marriage-equality rally on Independence Mall the day the Defense of Marriage Act was struck down, with the rainbow flag in the background in between. The photo spread from that event was one of our favorites for the year as well. We’re calling for this to be one of the photo award-winners next year, as well as the next two.

2. Braving the Elements. During a snowstorm on Jan. 25, Rosalind Pichardo (left), sister of murder victim Alex Martinez, and their mother braved the elements over a three-day campout on Allegheny Avenue to raise awareness of city violence. It is humbling whenever I think of what some people are willing to do to make things right or better. These ladies showed a lot of passion and a lot of love for their lost brother and son. Taking inventory of what is important should begin with who is important to us.

3. Respecting Our Elders. I am always touched at some point during the annual Kwanzaa celebration. Unity, Selfdetermination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith are the seven principles, and we would all be wise to learn to practice these more in 2014. This photo is of one of the youth recognizing one of the elders with a rose during the January 2013 celebration.

Community Night Out at Citizens Bank Park. Sadly, our friend Angela Giampolo did not get the ceremonial-pitch duties due to lackluster ticket sales, which were also due to lackluster 3 Phillies’ playing. At least Max had the good horse sense to root for the home team so he wasn’t traded off to some farm league.

4. Scene in a Philly Window. Scene in Philly is my freelance page and not news- or feature-related, so there’s frequently a photo there that I really like. Occasionally a whole page one week will grab me because it’s themed for a holiday or special event. Last summer, I happened into U Bar during a Friday happy hour and found that these guys were regulars for that weekly time slot and took this fun shot of them as window dressing. A dozen hot guys. What’s not to like? Thanks, fellas! 5. Max. Max made it into my sports column “Get Out and Play” last summer when it was time to promote the annual

FAVORITE PGNPHOTOS

6. Spinetingler. Just a really fun photo of Christopher Rice reading from his latest novel “The Heavens Rise” at Giovanni’s Room shortly after OutFest. Rice liked the photo so much, he tweeted it immediately after it hit the PGN website. I personally love Rice’s writing and I’m saddened at the thought that Philadelphia will likely lose this haven for literary lovers in the next few weeks. Will someone please step up and take the bookstore helm? I promise to keep buying books there for the rest of my days.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

7. Follow the Leader. David Torres was one of a handful of people PGN recognized in 2013 as an emerging leader. Getting to meet a wide assortment of people during a year one of 6 is the perks of this job, and when I get to be creative beyond a simple headshot, well, this is what you get. A trooper for grinning with this domino idea, it was an instantly popular picture and we’re glad to include it as one of our favorites. 8. Topping Out. The John Anderson Apartments rolled onward from the late 2012 groundbreaking to nearcompletion in 2013. This photo was the topping-off moment when the last boards were brought to the roof in June. If you didn’t get to see this happen in person, you missed out on a pretty great sight. A lot of that had to do with the three hot construction guys involved. 9. Dyke March. There is not much that will get the adrenaline rushing like hundreds of dykes and allies roaring and hollering their way through Center City streets unchecked. This shot was taken on 13th Street near Woody’s, which oopsed when they put up a playground in the middle of the route. The

10. Remembrances. For the second year in a row, I found myself pulling photos from my personal archives to wish fond memories for friends taken away too soon. Five photos in the past 20 months are more than enough to break anyone’s heart. In 2013 there were three friends: Desiree, Julian and Shawn.

8 Dyke March was one of 17 (yes, 17) unique events that I covered during the four days of Pride events June 6-9. I’m exhausted just recalling that weekend.

11-20. Also-likes. The flag-waver at the rainbow flag-raising at City Hall, Alice Hoagland at QFest, the Haring family at 10 the “We the Youth” mural rededication, Santa’s arrival at Philly AIDS Thrift, the Cupid Undie Run, a second daddydog plea, “Shut Up and Dance,” Robert Drake, Spartans wrestlers and the Club Philly towel guys — all are part of my personal favorites for a wide selection of reasons, whether funny, sexy, heartwarming, hearttugging, cute, beautiful or just plain great composition. During 2014, tell us which photos you like as they hit the paper and the website, and next year we’ll include which photos were readers’ favorites as well. Thanks for reminiscing with us, and we hope you’re having a great New Year! ■

Also-likes

Photos: Scott A. Drake

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

��

PGN

Fairness West Virginia lobbies for the rights of the state’s LGBT community.

Media Trail

��

Advocates laud Conn. insurance bulletin The Boston Globe reports a New England gay-rights organization is praising Connecticut’s Department of Insurance for informing insurers they must pay “covered expenses” for treatment related to a patient’s gender transition. Boston-based Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders on Dec. 26 lauded the agency’s Dec. 19 bulletin for bringing health insurers into alignment with state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination against transgender people in a health-care setting. The agency also stated gender dysphoria is a legitimate medical condition, occurring when someone is intensely uncomfortable with his or her biological gender and wants to be the opposite gender. In 2011, Connecticut enacted legislation banning discrimination against transgender people in employment, public accommodations, housing, credit, public schools, state contracts and other areas. GLAD said the Department of Insurance determined the law should also apply to health-insurance practices.

W. Va. town expands anti-bias law

��

Huntington’s Herald-Dispatch reports the West Virginia town’s City Council has added sexual orientation and veteran status to an ordinance that prohibits discrimination such as denying employment. The fairness ordinance already bars discrimination based on race, religion and other personal identifiers. The council voted 11-0 Dec. 23 to amend the ordinance. Fairness West Virginia member Justin Murdock says the vote indicates that Huntington is becoming a more progressive city.

N.M. eyes new tourism According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, towns and cities in New Mexico are expecting a jump in tourism from same-sex couples who can now get marriage licenses in the state. Officials are planning a media blitz and gay and lesbian wedding expos in hopes of selling New Mexico as a wedding destination for same-sex couples. Brad Malone, chair of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce and innkeeper of La Posada de Taos, says six couples have already booked rooms for planned weddings this year. He says the town will run advertisements in major media markets to let same-sex couples know New Mexico now allows them to get married. The New Mexico Supreme Court last month ruled it unconstitutional to bar samesex couples from getting marriage licenses.

Rights group sues over same-sex bens The Houston Chronicle says a gay-rights group has filed a federal lawsuit meant to preserve Houston’s extension of benefits to legally married same-sex spouses of city employees. New York-based Lambda Legal filed the suit Dec. 26 on behalf of three municipal workers to maintain the extension of healthand life-insurance benefits. Lambda’s Kenneth Upton says, “This case is about equal pay for equal work.” Houston Mayor Annise Parker, who is gay, announced the expanded coverage last month. The action flouts an opinion issued in April by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott that said local governments and school districts that offer same-sex domestic-partner benefits are violating the state constitution. A state district judge has since imposed a temporary order that halts Houston’s samesex coverage. The policy will be the focus of a court hearing scheduled for Jan. 6. ■ — compiled by Larry Nichols

Philadelphia Gay News ��

We love to get picked up.

PGN

International Pope ‘shocked’ by gayadoption bill Pope Francis was reportedly “shocked” by proposed legislation to allow gay couples to adopt children in Malta. Maltese Bishop Charles Scicluna said the pope encouraged him to speak out against a bill that that would permit adoption by same-sex couples and would also allow for civil unions. The legislation is expected to come up for debate in the coming months. The pope’s reported reaction is drawing ire of LGBT supporters, who commended his position earlier this year on LGBT rights. Pope Francis said the Catholic Church should place less emphasis on opposing LGBT rights and abortion, stating this summer, “Who am I to judge a gay person of goodwill who seeks the Lord?” Last month, the pope was named Person of the Year by LGBT publication The Advocate.

Pro-gay-marriage bill defeated in Israel A bill aimed at blocking discrimination on religious grounds and allowing for civil marriage regardless of race, sex, citizenship and religion has been defeated in Israel. The Freedom of Religion and Conscience Bill, sponsored by Knesset member Zahava Gal-on of the Meretz Party, was recently rejected by a 56-21 margin in its preliminary reading in the Knesset. The bill was submitted as a Basic Law, one of a set of laws that form the constitutional underpinning for Israeli legislation. Speaking of her disappointment, Gal-on said: “Israel has undergone many crises as a result of the existing vagueness in this area.” She added: “The lack of clear boundaries between the public realm and the realm of freedom of conscience and religion threatens the viability of Israel as a democratic state, as well as its Jewish character.” Before the vote, Gal-on criticized Finance Minister Yair Lapid, who she claimed avoided the larger issues facing the LGBT community. She commented on Lapid’s dogged pursuit of equal tax credits for same-sex male couples, which passed their first reading in the Knesset Dec. 23. Same-sex marriages are recognized in Israel, but must be conducted overseas

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

as only religious authorities — Jewish, Christian, Muslim or Druze — can perform marriages, and none offer gay couples the chance to marry.

Coca-Cola under fire for Irish ad Coca-Cola has found itself in hot water after the company omitted a gay-marriage scene, which is part of a European campaign, from a TV ad to be broadcast in Ireland. The ad campaign, titled “Reasons To Believe,” featured a scene with two men getting married in the Dutch, Norwegian and British versions, but that clip was deleted from the Irish version. The Coca-Cola ads do include different images depending on the country they are being shown in.

India: Gay-sex ban will be harmful Gay-rights activists and health workers in India have warned that the Supreme Court’s ruling earlier this month criminalizing gay sex will undo the recent progress made towards fighting AIDS in the country. Earlier this month, India’s highest court upheld a colonial-era law that criminalizes gay sex, reversing a landmark 2009 New Delhi High Court Order that had legalized same-sex sexual activity. Activists fear the ruling may lead to an increase in HIV infections, as gay and transgender people may be too afraid to seek counseling, treatment and sexualhealth advice. “This law has made us all criminals,” said transgender activist Lakshmi Tripathi, who added the law will stop many people from approaching doctors or health clinics for prevention or treatment for HIV. “How can I go to an HIV/AIDS clinic?” continued Tripathi. “If I did, I can be hauled into jail for my lifestyle, for violating the law.” Health activists say that before the law was overturned in 2009, non-governmental organizations that ran AIDS-intervention centers faced the threat of police raids. UNAIDS revealed last month that the number of organizations providing HIV services to gay and transgender people rose more than 50 percent in India while homosexuality was decriminalized. Ashok Row Kavi of the Humsafar Trust, a group working with the gay community, said: “After the 2009 ruling, we saw a jump in gay men, bisexuals and transgenders coming to public health centers on their own, seeking medical advice or treatment. They felt it was safe to do so. Our big worry now is that they may stay away from health centers out of fear.” ■

— compiled by Larry Nichols

Upcoming Special Issues Jan. 24: Legal Issue Feb. 14: Love & Lust March 7: LGBT Wedding Issue March 28: Summer Travel April 18: Home Improvement April 25: Summer Concerts May 2: Northern Liberties Issue May 16: Visit Bucks County May 23: Summer Reading

June 6: Pride Only in

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

��

A C ul t ure Winter Preview 2014 rts

FEATURE PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PAGE 35

Barcrawlr Best-sellers Family Portrait Out & About Q Puzzle Scene in Philly Worth Watching

Page Page Page Page Page Page Page

31 36 29 34 30 27 28

All the hot events for the cold months ahead By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com

With the holidays (and the familial obligations that come with them) behind us, it is now that glorious time of year when we want to go out but don’t really want to be outside. This time of year, the best entertainment is almost always indoors — unless you can afford lift tickets and skis. With that in mind, we gathered a list of events to keep us all warm and excited while the winter months have their way with us.

Books

Ranson Riggs The author of “Hollow City: The Second Novel of Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children” hosts a reading 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; 215567-4341. Stephen Jimenez The author of “The Book of Matt: Hidden Truths about the Murder of Matthew Shepard” hosts a reading 7:30 p.m. March 11 at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; 215567-4341.

Classical/Opera/World Music

Radu Lupu Joins Yannick The Philadelphia Orchestra performs Jan. 30-Feb. 1 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800.

All Rachmaninoff The Philadelphia Orchestra performs Feb. 13-15 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847.

Comedy/Humor

Brian Regan The comedian performs 7 and 9:30 p.m. Jan. 11 at Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800. Sinbad The comedian performs 8 p.m. Jan. 18 at Tropicana Showroom, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J.; 800-843-8767. Jim Norton The comedian performs Feb. 14-15 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609317-1000. Lisa Lampanelli The comedian performs 8 p.m. Feb. 16 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609317-1000. Ralphie May The comedian performs 9 p.m. Feb. 22 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609317-1000. Amy Schumer The comedian performs 8 p.m. March 7 at

Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave.; 215-572-7650.

pany Feb. 20-22 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900.

Wanda Sykes The out comedian performs 8 p.m. March 27 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave.; 215-572-7650.

Doug Elkins Choreography, Etc. The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the contemporary dance company March 6-8 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900.

Jerry Seinfeld The comedian performs 8 p.m. April 5 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Lewis Black The comedian performs April 25-26 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609317-1000.

Dance

Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the acclaimed dance company Jan. 16-18 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900. Gabrielle Revlock The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the comedic Philadelphia choreographer Jan. 24-25 at Harold Prince Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900. Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the high-octane dance com-

Ax, from Bach to Strauss The Philadelphia Orchestra performs Feb. 6-8 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847.

Exhibits

Ronaldus Shamask: Form, Fashion, Reflection Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works from the experimental filmmaker Feb. 1-April 27, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. In a Relationship: Art, Science & Medicine The James A. Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition of works by Richard E. Goldberg, M.D., joined by works from renowned sports photographer Howard Schatz and stained-glass artist Kenneth Leap, Feb. 8-April 13, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215-340-9800. Paul Evans: Crossing Boundaries and Crafting Modernism The James A. Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition of works from the designer and craftsman March 1-June 1, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215-3409800. Treasures from Korea: Arts and Culture of the Joseon Dynasty, 1392-1910 Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition devoted to art of the celebrated Joseon dynasty March 2-May 26, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.

Ainadamar Opera Philadelphia performs the Spanish production Feb. 7-16 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215790-5847. The Sounds of Simon and Garfunkel Peter Nero and the Philly POPS perform Feb. 7-9 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800.

Philadanco The dance troupe performs April 17-19 at Perelman Theater, 260 S. Broad St.; 215790-5800.

AMY SCHUMER (from left), THE PIXIES, RASTA THOMAS’ BAD BOYS OF DANCE, WHERE CHILDREN SLEEP

Where Children Sleep The James A. Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition of photographs by James Mollison March 15-June 29, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215-340-9800. PAGE 26

PGN FEATURE

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

SOWE - TACO TARTARE

PREVIEW from page 25

Patrick Kelly: Runway of Love Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of ensembles by the designer April 27-Nov. 30, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

StT. JAMES PEPPERONI PIZZA

REVEL - CALIMARI

FIRE AND ICE SHAKY BEEF SALAD

FIRE AND ICE WILTED WATERCRESS

Music

PENNSYLVANIA 6 YELLOWFIN TUNA TARTARE

��

Photos: Scott A. Drake

‘s Dining Out

A rainbow of flavors, every second and fourth week

In This Moment The gothic-metal band performs 6:30 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215-922-6888. The Smithereens The rock band performs 8 p.m. Jan. 17 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215222-1400. Christine Havrilla and Gypsy Fuzz The out singer-songwriter performs with her band 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St.; 215-9280978. Stone Sour The rock band performs 7 p.m. Jan. 19 at TLA, 334 South St.; 215-922-1011. The Pixies The alt-rock band performs 8 p.m. Jan. 24 at The Electric Factory, 421 N. Seventh St.; 800-745-3000. Jay-Z The rapper performs 8 p.m. Jan. 29 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-389-9543. Janelle Monáe The R&B singer performs 9 p.m. Jan. 31 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Goo Goo Dolls The rock band performs 8 p.m. Feb. 1 at House of Blues, 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-3434000. 3 Doors Down The rock band performs an acoustic show 9 p.m. Feb. 7 at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Chris Pureka The out singer-songwriter performs 8 p.m. Feb. 12 at

Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St.; 215-928-0978. Skinny Puppy The industrial duo performs 8 p.m. Feb. 13 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215-922-6888. Bob Weir & RatDog The jam band performs Feb. 14-15 at Tower Theatre, 19 S. 69th St., Upper Darby; 610-352-2887. Buckcherry The rock band performs 8 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888. Justin Timberlake The pop singer performs 8 p.m. Feb. 25 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-389-9543.

Pentatonix The vocal group with out members performs 8 p.m. March 30 at The Electric Factory, 421 N. Seventh St.; 800-745-3000. Miley Cyrus The pop singer performs 7 p.m. April 22 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-389-9543. Cher The pop icon performs 7:30 p.m. April 28 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-3899543.

Theater

We Will Rock You The story of iconic rock band Queen, Feb. Jan. 1419 at Kimmel’s Academy

50 Shades: The Musical The musical inspired by the wildly popular books, Jan. 30-31 at Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.; 215-7905800. The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess The classic opera is performed Feb. 18-23 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847. Why Do Fools Fall in Love? Media Theatre presents the story of a bachelorette party where four ladies reveal the details of their love lives Feb. 26-March 30, 104 E. State St., Media; 610-8910100.

Robin Thicke The singer performs 8 p.m. March 2 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Arcade Fire The rock band performs 7:30 p.m. March 17 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-3899543. H.I.M. The U.K. rock band performs 8 p.m. March 15 at TLA, 334 South St.; 215922-1011.

JANELLE MONÁE (clockwise from top left), CIRQUE DU SOLEIL — MICHAEL JACKSON: THE IMMORTAL, WE WILL ROCK YOU, CIRQUE ÉLOIZE CIRKOPOLIS Arsenic and Old Lace of Music, 240 S. Broad Walnut Street Theatre presSt.; 215-790-5847. ents the classic dark comedy Gary Numan March 11-April 27, 825 The new wave/synthpop pio- Driving Miss Daisy Walnut St.; 215-574-3550. neer performs 8 p.m. March Walnut Street Theatre 23 at the Trocadero Theatre, presents the story of the Cirque Éloize Cirkopolis 1003 Arch St.; 215-922stage adaptation of the The circus-dance show runs 6888. award-winning film Jan. 16-Feb. 2, 825 Walnut St.; March 11-16 at Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.; Mindless Self 215-574-3550. 215-790-5800. Indulgence The electro-rock band perTribes The Phantom of the forms 8 p.m. March 23 at Philadelphia Theatre Opera TLA, 334 South St.; 215Company presents the The thrilling classic horror 922-1011. story of a deaf man and story runs March 19-April his family who talk a lot 13 at Kimmel’s Academy Dream Theater but hardly ever listen Jan. of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; The hard-rock band performs 24-Feb. 23 at Suzanne 215-790-5847. 8 p.m. March 27 at Tower Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Theatre, 19 S. 69th St., Broad St.; 215-985-0420. Cirque du Soleil — Upper Darby; 610-352-2887. Michael Jackson: The Diary of Anne Frank Immortal Marc Silver Band Media Theatre presents The pop icon’s work is celThe out singer-songwriter the story of the Frank ebrated by the circus theater performs with his band 8:30 family hiding from Nazis troupe March 25-26 at Wells p.m. March 28 at Tin Angel, Jan. 29-Feb. 16, 104 E. 20 S. Second St.; 215-928State St., Media; 610-891- Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-389-9543. 0978. 0100. PAGE 28

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

TV &PGN MUSIC

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Indie N.Y. dance band to invade Philly

Worth Watching SPRINGFIELD AFTER MIDNIGHT: Out heavymetal singer Rob Halford gueststars as himself in an all-new episode of “The Simpsons,” 8 p.m. Jan. 5 on Fox. Photo: Fox

Photo: Howard Mclaren

SISTERS ARE DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES: The new reality series “Blood, Sweat & Heels” follows a group of up-andcoming movers and shakers in New Yorks elite circles of real estate, fashion and media, premiering 9 p.m. Jan. 5 on Bravo. Photo: Bravo/Alex Martinez

POWER RANGER: “Killer Women” stars Tricia Helfer as Molly Parker, a Texas Ranger committed to finding the truth and seeing justice served, premiering 10 p.m. Jan. 7 on ABC. Photo: ABC/Bob D’Amico

PEOPLE PERSONS: Kat Dennings (left) and Beth Behrs from “2 Broke Girls” host “The 40th Annual Peoples Choice Awards,” 8 p.m. Jan. 8 on CBS. Photo: CBS

By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Brooklyn-based indie dance band Cold Blood Club is taking its show on the road and will make a Philly stop Jan. 10 at Milkboy. The eight-member group features bisexual singer Kendra Jones, who shares vocal duties with the band’s main songwriter. “The other singer is Tom Stuart,” Jones explained about the group’s setup. “He’s the guitarist and the songwriter. Tom writes all the music. Before we started recording the LP we are working on now, he had already had all the music figured out. I have some creative input sometimes but Tom is the brains of the operation.” While Stuart is the creative force, Jones rather reluctantly said her role is to be the muse and focal point of the music. “I hate saying this because it makes me sound like such an asshole but as far as the attitude and the voice of the band, I’m pretty confident in saying I drive that and then Tom builds around that and makes it complete,” she said. “Everybody else does their part but I think of my creative input as being the inspiration for that. Oh, God, I sound like such an asshole!” With technology allowing dance groups to sound big with minimal man- or womanpower, it’s rare to see an independent group with such a healthy roster of performers. But Jones said the goal of this group is to

function like a family. “From the beginning, even when it was me, Tom and another singer, Brad, who has gotten married and started a family, we just wanted the band to feel like a family thing,” she said. “We weren’t looking in the paper for musicians to come together. Everybody who has worked on this project, we’ve known each other for a while. Even the newer people come to us from some kind of connection. In terms of the number of us, each one of us brings something different musically. Tom is a big fan of layering sounds and making songs sound as big and full as possible. It happened naturally. We kept meeting people that were cool and interested in what we were doing. We tried them out and that’s how we ended up how we are.” While they are at work on a full-length album due out sometime later this year, Cold Blood Club is also doing gigs to win over fans one show at a time. “We like to fucking party and have a good time and we want to connect with the audience,” Jones said about the group’s live shows. “We’re going to be up there dancing and having a good time and want to make sure that the audience is doing the same. I guarantee you will dance.” ■ Cold Blood Club performs 8 p.m. Jan. 10 at Milkboy, 1100 Chestnut St. For more information or tickets, call 215-922-6455 or visit www.coldbloodclub.com.

PREVIEW from page 26

Walnut St.; 215-898-3900.

Misc.

RuPaul’s Drag Race: Battle of the Seasons Queens from all seasons of the TV show perform 10 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215-922-6888.

Peek-A-Boo Revue: Valentine’s Day Show The neo-burlesque group performs 8:30 p.m. Feb. 8 at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-9941400.

The Bearded Ladies: Marlene & the Machine, A German Expressionist Cabaret The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the experimental cabaret group Feb. 7-8 at Harold Prince Theatre, 3680

Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stonestreet The actors from “Modern Family” host a live Q&A 8 p.m. April 3 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave.; 215-5727650. ■

PROFILE PGN

Family Portrait

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Suzi Nash

John Cibenko: On a mission to break down borders “Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it.” — David Star Jordan (1851-1931), educator, author, peace activist This week’s Portrait is certainly doing it. Named Nurse of the Year by the New York Times for his humanitarian service, Jefferson University Hospital nurse John Cibenko spends most of his free time overseas working with Doctors Without Borders, helping perform joint replacements for poor patients in Nepal and teaching patient protocols to Kenyan nurses. PGN: Tell me a little about yourself. JC: I’m originally from the Bucks County area. I went to Council Rock High School. PGN: Any siblings? JC: I’m the youngest of four — two sisters and a brother. PGN: Tell me about growing up there. JC: We had a typical upper-middle-class upbringing. I played sports and did theater, I sang in the choir and participated in a number of clubs. I was pretty wellliked by everyone. I was a friend to many and friend of those who didn’t have any friends. PGN: What sports did you play? JC: I played tennis, rugby and soccer. PGN: What do the parents do? JC: My dad works in health-care administration and my mom was a stay-at-home mom. PGN: Where did you get your humanitarian gene? JC: It was always instilled in me from a very young age. My parents were both very religious so we would do a lot of things with our church groups. PGN: What’s the first volunteer gig you ever remember doing? JC: Volunteering at a homeless shelter in North Philly around the holidays. They had a pancake breakfast and we were one of the families that helped put it on. I was in charge of pouring the orange juice and waiting and clearing tables. PGN: Rugby’s a rough sport. What was your worst injury? JC: I played for the Gryphons team here in Philadelphia and, for a while when I lived in D.C., I played for the Renegades. I fractured my ankle playing for them and, after that, I decided no more rugby for me. [Laughs.] It’s hard to recover from injuries as you get older and that sport is very demanding! There’s no padding and I just don’t want to risk it.

PGN: Now that you’re not playing rugby, what do you do in your spare time for fun? JC: I love spending time with friends and family. My nieces and nephews are very important to me. I also volunteer in various soup kitchens in our area. Someone was listening to all the work that I’ve been doing around the world and they asked me, “But what do you do in your own community?” I’ve been challenged now to do something locally, so I’ve started working at two soup kitchens and a clinic. PGN: So tell me a little bit about your job and some of the volunteer work you do. JC: Well, I just got back from doing some work in Vietnam with Operation Walk Chicago. It’s a nonprofit organization that does total joint replacements for people in third-world countries. We also go to hospitals and teach them how to do the work after we leave. I was there for 10 days. I also do work with Cure International and Doctors Without Borders. PGN: What place surprised you the most? JC: Vietnam. It was my most recent trip and the most poignant. It was astounding to see how much that country still is reeling from the war that we fought there. It was very powerful to go there and work on patients who were affected by the actions of the country where I come from. At the end of the week, we had a little ceremony with all the patients that we worked on. One of them got up and said, “You’ve really changed my mind about how I felt about Americans and what America is.” Even though that was not our intention, it was like, “Wow, it’s pretty cool that we’re doing this.” I realized how much our actions as a country affect people all over the world. It made me more thoughtful over every-day decisions. I realize that my beliefs do count, my vote does matter. It really does. In the grand scheme of things, we do make a difference. PGN: I think of all the people who died in Iraq when we went after Saddam Hussein after Osama bin Laden attacked us ... what the repercussions will be for years there. JC: Yeah, we’ve been out of Vietnam for 37 years and that country still is affected by it every day. It was interesting to learn their view of us. PGN: What other places have you been? JC: Gosh, all over the place. I’ve been to East Africa, South Africa, Botswana, Western Africa, Ghana, Northern Africa, Ethiopia doing joint replacements, and Southeast Asia, Indonesia, South America, Central America and Russia. PGN: Scariest moment abroad? JC: When I was still in high school, my

mother and I did a trip to Kenya. I’d always wanted to work in an orphanage there so when I was a junior, my mother took me over with our church group. It was scary because we went right after the U.S. Embassy was bombed in Nairobi. It was a very intense period of unrest in the city, a frightening feeling in the air. That was the first time I had done a humanitarian mission overseas. The situation could’ve gone either way, but it was a good trip because afterwards I felt that if I could survive that, I could do anything! PGN: Who was a patient, either here or abroad, who really moved you? JC: Gosh, there are so many. PGN:[Laughs.] How about you pick two? JC: Well, the first would again be from this last trip to Vietnam. There was a guy who was carried in by his wife. She’d been carrying him for the last 10 years. In Vietnam, people usually take someone to the hospital to let them die, unlike here where we go to

out of the hospital on his own. The second was when I lived in Kenya. I stayed there for a little less than two years working in a children’s orthopedic hospital. There was a patient named Kevin whom I got really close to. He had spina bifida and couldn’t walk. He’d been in a wheelchair his entire life. He developed tuberculosis in his spine and there wasn’t much we could do for him, but learning about his every-day life after I got close to him and seeing how hard it was for him really made me empathetic. Even though I’ll never really know what it feels like to be disabled or in a wheelchair, through Kevin I got a pretty good idea and it’s helped me to relate to my patients better. PGN: What was a fun memory from your time living in Kenya? JC: It was a great time. Learning to be very creative in the way you treated the patients, having a good deal of autonomy and being able to think for yourself. Really truly making the decisions on your own and building relationships with the other staff members, the other nurses. Teaching was a ton of fun too. I love to teach. PGN: I’d imagine there was a lot of music. JC: Oh, yes. There was lots of music, lots of dance, a lot of artistic expression. I met a ton of artists there, got to dance with the Masai tribe members. We went up to a really remote part of Northern Africa where I was the first white person a lot of the people there had ever seen. [Laughs.] That was pretty cool!

the hospital to get well. So people there associate the hospital with death or something negative. He wasn’t doing so well and she was having back problems and having a hard time carrying him, so he assumed his wife was taking him to the hospital to die. Little did he know, she was taking him to us so he could have an operation that would change his life. It was so touching to be a part of it and watch the whole story unravel. He did very well and wound up walking

Photo: Suzi Nash

PGN: So going back to you, were you good at the game “Operation” when you were a kid? JC: No! That game frustrated me! [Laughs.] It’s actually harder than doing a real operation! I like playing Battleship and a card game named Rack-O. I played canasta with my grandmother and Parcheesi.

PGN: Wow, I forgot all about Parcheesi. I used to love playing that as a kid. I’ll have to see if I can find one. JC: Yeah, it’s great. And of course I also played Jenga. We played that a lot in Africa. One of the tribes nearby was really good at making things, so we taught them how to play Jenga and they started making their own games

PAGE 30

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

FUN PGN & GAMES

Q Puzzle Goodbye, Mr. Chips Across 1. Breaks for Heather’s mommies 5. They circle Uranus 10. Slugger Ruth 14. “Houston, we have a problem” 15. Deuce follower, for Mauresmo 16. Traditional apple tree spot 17. O’Toole’s role in a 1962 movie 19. Ron Howard film with Ellen DeGeneres 20. Shop with an anvil 21. Cumming on the stage 23. Sexual ending 24. “Chicago” producer Meron 26. Come and go 28. Last word of a fairy tale 31. Comrade, in Quebec 33. “If ___ nickel for every time ...” 35. “If you’d been

any prettier, it would have been ...”, with 45-Across 37. “Survivor” adjective 38. Letters after CD 39. The late great O’Toole 41. The “A” in GPA 42. One with a gifted tongue 45. See 35-Across 48. Indian lute 49. “Just kidding!” 50. Remove a slip? 51. “The Sound of Music” song 53. Satisfy fully 55. Sibling, in brief 56. “That smarts!” 58. Head bones 62. Mekong River country 64. Source of this puzzle’s quote about O’Toole 66. Bottoms’ description of tops? 67. Like crystal 68. Slightly 69. Where to see sweaty athletes 70. Drag queen

PORTRAIT from page 29

out of the acacia wood and selling them. If you go over there now, you can buy African Jenga games made out of acacia, you know, those beautiful trees with the thorns you think of when you picture the African Sahara. PGN: I read that you once made 27 trips overseas in one year. JC: No, possibly in one year’s time, but most likely from one year into another. I just got back from London, where I was speaking at a symposium, and that was trip number 12 for this year. PGN: A random question. What was the most mischievous thing you did as a child? [Laughs.] I can’t let you completely be a golden boy here. JC: My brother and I and two of our friends almost burned down the woods across from our house! We were playing with fire and it was the middle of the summer so all the little twigs and things were dry. Some of the nearby brush caught fire and we had to run home and call the fire department. It was contained, and I think it probably would’ve just burned out on its own, but we got scared. We got in bigtime trouble for that one. [Laughs.] I guess you could call that mischievous. PGN: Oldest piece of clothing you own? JC: I had meningitis when I was an infant, they didn’t expect me to live. I was in an incubator for about two weeks and my foot was the only thing my mother was allowed to touch. My mother kept the sock that I was wearing and I have it to this day.

___ Lettuce 71. Itches Down 1. Testicles 2. Clumsy come-on 3. Type of sci, in college 4. William, who played with George Takei 5. Bloody queen 6. Dedicated poem 7. Chaplin spouse 8. Cores, to Atom Egoyan? 9. Get to second base, perhaps 10. One ruled by a queen 11. Ethiopia’s capital 12. Kim Carnes sang about her eyes 13. Word after “penis” 18. “I don’t see it” 22. Neet competitor 25. Arsenic’s old partner 27. Letter on a key 28. Kinky coifs 29. Pensacola

people 30. Warhol subject 32. “Let’s make it a threesome!” 34. Hot-tub buildup 36. Listener-sponsored org. 37. La leader 40. Small salamanders 43. Road top 44. Bite it 46. Like bell-bottom jeans 47. Sunken passage 49. Kidman of “The Hours” 52. Chew (on) 54. Capital of Ghana 55. Fruit flavor for gin 57. Pay attention to 59. “Six Feet Under” character 60. Persian Gulf land 61. Computes the bottom line 63. IRS info 65. Young chap PAGE 35

PGN: Who would you want to take to the prom? JC: Tim McGraw! Or Ricky Martin. PGN: Muy caliente! Hey, do you speak any languages? JC: English! I can actually understand a little Swahili, but I don’t really speak it. PGN: You came from a religious family: Was coming out hard? JC: It was. It still is in some ways. Being brought up as a Christian, you’re taught that being gay is wrong, it’s not biblical. So when you have certain feelings, it’s a real struggle inside. You have to deny everything you’ve been taught your whole life. [Sighs.] It was really tough. I actually came out to my parents because a relationship that I was in had ended. I was despondent and didn’t know who to turn to. I was hurting on the inside because of the break-up and I was having conflict within myself: Is this right? I’ve always felt this way but do I choose this, what should I do? They were very loving through the whole thing. They may not completely understand or accept it, but I’ll always be their son. It’s still hard for me, though, because all my siblings are married and having children already and I’m not there yet. Sometimes I think, Gosh, if I were straight I would probably already have my own family, so it’s bittersweet. PGN: Well, there’s still plenty of time for that. It sounds like now you’re just a little bit busy. JC: There is a lot of good that I have done in my life and I am still a Christian person, though it can be difficult considering the

rhetoric of the church sometimes. But I’m gay, so what the heck! PGN: When did you come out? JC: I’ve known since about fourth grade, when I had a crush on my gym teacher, but I came out to the family about nine years ago. When my first relationship ended, I didn’t know who to turn to, it seemed like the end of the world. I had to tell my parents because I wasn’t in a safe place, I had thoughts of ... well, you know, ending it. I needed to get help and I did. PGN: Did you hear a lot of antigay rhetoric at the church when you were a kid? JC: Not really, it was never specifically addressed. I just knew it was “wrong.” And that the Bible was against man lying with man, that sort of thing. But I have to tell you, the church my parents went to is full of very loving people, they are not judgmental at all. In fact, they helped me through when I was having suicidal thoughts. I wouldn’t wish that anguish on anyone — whether you were gay, straight or whatever. But I got through it, and here I am! PGN: And now that you’re an out proud gay man, wearing nail polish with your scrubs, what advice would you give? Or just as a man who’s traveled the world? JC: Humility is important. I don’t always possess as much as I should, but going on these trips really teaches you to put other people before yourself, and that’s really something that I’ve made as a goal for myself. Sometimes I probably should take care of myself a little bit more, but I find

such joy in helping others. When you find something that makes you so happy, you should do it. PGN: When you come back from a place where people have so little, do you find that you appreciate more, or do you get frustrated at how little other people appreciate what they have? JC: A little of both. [Laughs.] I find myself saying, “Bless their little hearts for they don’t know!” It’s funny, when you do a lot of traveling you really realize how influential we are. There really is United States and then there’s the rest of the world. There’s no Europe, Asia — there’s the U.S. and then everything else. It’s tough when I’m places and see that they don’t have the opportunities that we have, some of the resources that we have and some of the every-day conveniences that we enjoy. That being said, our way is not always the best way. With us, everything’s forward, everything’s progressive, we are always in a rush to get ahead, we don’t take the time to set things aside. I sometimes feel sorry for people when I see them acting like that and think, You haven’t seen the world, you haven’t seen the way other people think about things, this is all you know. We are the most powerful, but we’re not always the most efficient. There’s still a lot we can learn from other countries. PGN: Perhaps that’s where some of that humility quality could help us. JC: Indeed! ■ To suggest a community member for Family Portrait, email portraits05@aol.com.

NIGHTLIFE PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Promise of a new day It’s the dawn of a new year and hope My resolutions for this year? That’s is in the air! easy: Continue to remove all unnecesLast year went pretty well for me, all sary drama (and drama queens) from things considered. Lord knows it wasn’t my life, and keep trying to be worthy without its challenges, but there were of my husband’s love and affection. He some pretty sweet moments is still way too good for me, as well. For those keeping and I truly don’t deserve him. score, I did finally get my Oh yeah, and maybe house in order and the proget a dog. Happy New Year, ducers of “Hoarders” did not everybody! come calling, thank goodness. Songbird Concert And my 10-year-old Canadian The first edition of Josh marriage is finally recognized in my home state of Schonewolf’s weekly singing New Jersey! I also managed competition at Tabu comes to its ultimate conclusion to achieve a couple of professional milestones that I’d been at 9 p.m. Jan. 3 at Adrienne working towards for a very Theater, 2030 Sansom St. long time. The Songbird competition Jim Kiley- saw 16 crazy-talented vocalThat balanced out some of compete in “American the more difficult moments, Zufelt ists Idol”-esque fashion for top like losing a few very dear honors. Now see the winfriends to age and illness. It’s ner, Jo Stones, headline a concert a worn-out cliché, but it’s true that life featuring six of his top competitors: goes on, and that it’s a banquet where Rob Anthony, Lobster Bisque, Jordan most poor suckers are starving to death. Szenicer, Stephanie Brown, Madelaine Treasure your family, chosen or blood, Novak and Luci Rising. Tickets are only and cherish your friends. They’re what life is truly all about. $12 and will be available at the door.

Barcrawlr

A Less Stupid Twelfth Night Gay Fantasia Some people think that Shakespeare, if not done right, can be a little inaccessible to mainstream audiences. If you agree, then be there at 8 p.m. Jan. 3 at Curio Theater, 4740 Baltimore Ave. It’s one of your last chances to catch “Gender Comedy: A Less Stupid Twelfth Night Gay Fantasia.” It’s a queer take on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” with robots, gender-benders and cruel drunks thrown in for good measure. Tickets are only $25 for adults or $20 for students and seniors. Show closes Jan. 4 so don’t miss it! Free to Love Film Festival Enjoy a classic collection of early queer cinema at 5 p.m. Jan. 11 at the International House, 3701 Chestnut St. “Pink Narcissus” is one of the first films in a month-long festival showcasing cinema of the sexual revolution. Featured films will cover gay, straight and other themes from a defining time in our cultural history. Tickets are only $9 and are available online, along with more information about the entire

schedule, at www.ihousephilly.org/calendar. RuPaul’s Drag Race Battle of the Seasons If you’re a fan of “Drag Race,” then you have to catch the Battle of the Seasons when it comes to town at 9 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Trocadero Theater, 1003 Arch St. One or two of Ru’s girls come through town on a pretty regular basis, but you don’t often get a chance to see this many of them at once, live on stage, with none other than Michelle Visage playing host! The lineup (subject to change) for this amazing show is Sharon Needles, Alaska Thunderfuck, Manila Luzon, Pandora Boxx, Ivy Winters, Carmen Carrera, Mimi Imfurst and Phi Phi O’Hara. Tickets are $29.50 for general admission or $75 for a VIP meet and greet. For more info and tickets, check out www.thetroc.com. ■ Questions, comments, sad that Sharon and Alaska broke up? Me too! Contact Jim at barcrawlr@gmail.com or follow him on Facebook for links to back articles and some totally bitchin’ retro music videos!

Congratulations We want to know! If you are celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, adoption or other life event, we would be happy to help you announce it to the community. Send your contact information and a brief description of the event to editor@epgn.com.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN

Food & Drink

�� Looking for a new way to reach out to customers? Try Food and Drink Directories in PGN. CONTACT YOUR PGN AD REP AT (215) 625-8501

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

COLOR Come see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new at your local, non-corporate, gluten-free historic queer bookshop! Browse, chat, and support the oldest continuously operating LGBT book store in the USA!

10% most hardcovers, over 5 million books and 3 million eBooks available at queerbooks.com email: giovannis_room@verizon.net 345 S. 12th St. Philadelphia, Pa 19107 215-923-2960 Mon-Sat 11:30 - 7, Sun 1 - 7

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

York Road, New Hope; 888-5961027.

OUT & ABOUT The week ahead Fri. 01/03 Raymond the Amish Comic and Earl David Reed The comedians perform 8 p.m. at Sellersville Theatre 1894, 24 W. Temple Ave., 215-257-5808. The Thing The sci-fi horror film is screened 9:45 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. Sing-a-Long Sound of Music Sing along with the film 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Sun. 01/05

Sat. 01/04 Eleanor’s Secret The award-winning animated film about a magic library is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. Big Shot The Billy Joel tribute band performs 6 and 9 p.m. at Sellersville Theatre 1894, 24 W. Temple Ave., 215-257-5808. Sherry Vine The drag performer brings her NSFW show 8 p.m. to the Rrazz Room, in The Ramada New Hope, 6426 Lower

Love Story The drama film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223.

Mon. 01/06 Free Quizzo and Board Game Night Roll the dice, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy The hit comedy is screened 8 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215-9226888.

Lipstick Mondays A weekly drag show featuring a changing roster of queens takes the stage 9 p.m. at The Raven, 385 W. Bridge St., New Hope; 215862-2081.

Tue. 01/07 Burlesque Battle Royale A burlesque show, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at Tabu, 200 S. 12th St.; 215-964-9675. Comin’ Home The Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia performs 7:30 p.m. at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-7905800. The Chris and Tommy Good Time Folk Rock Show The blues/rock/ pop trio performs

is mobile

Now you can read your favorite local LGBT news site on your Android or iPhone/iPad Just go to epgn.com on your mobile device

Also check out our digital “ﬂipbook” of the full print edition at issuu.com/philagaynews with issuu’s Android app.

CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF: Highﬂying glam comedian Pam Ann lands in New Hope Jan. 10-12 at the Rrazz Room, in The Ramada New Hope, 6426 Lower York Road. For more information or tickets, call 888596-1027.

8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215222-1400.

Wed. 01/08 4W5 Blues Jam Local musicians get down, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-3171000. Potty Mouth The punk band performs 9 p.m. at Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad St.; 267- 6394528.

Dirty Dozen Brass Band The jazz band performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

Bob and Barbara’s Drag Show The outrageousness begins 11 p.m. at Bob and Barbara’s, 1509 South St.; 215545-4511.

Thu. 01/09

Fri. 01/10

Eaglemania The Eagles tribute band performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215222-1400. Upright Citizen’s Brigade The comedy troupe performs an evening of improv 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. The Burlesque Show The new event kicks off 9 p.m. at the Borgata Hotel, Casino &

St.; 215-7322220. Cold Blood Club The dance band with out members performs 8 p.m. at Milkboy, 1100 Chestnut St.; 215922-6455. My Life in 19 Inches Five Minute Follies alum Craig Liggeons stars

in his epic oneman show spanning 40 years in the life of a TV addict, 8 p.m. at the Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St.; 800838-3006. Patti LaBelle The R&B singer performs 8 p.m. at Caesars Atlantic City, 2100 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City; 609-3484411.

Wedding Open House An opportunity to meet with wedding professionals, 5-8 p.m. at the National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.; 215-4096600. Love Comes First by B. Proud The William Way LGBT Community Center hosts an exhibition of black-and-white photographic portraits of LGBTQ couples in longterm committed relationships, 6-8 p.m., 1315 Spruce

HEY, SOUL SISTER: Inﬂuential and legendary R&B singer Patti LaBelle comes to the area 8 p.m. Jan. 10 at Caesars Atlantic City, 2100 Paciﬁc Ave., Atlantic City. For more information or tickets, call 609-348-4411.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Opening Greg Proops The comedian performs Jan. 10-11 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001. The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron? Robert Dubac presents a clever combination of theater and stand-up comedy, Jan. 9-12 at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe St.; 215-785-0100. Pam Ann The comedian performs Jan. 10-12 at the Rrazz Room, in The Ramada New Hope, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope; 888596-1027. Tchaikovsky Week 1: Symphony No. 4 The Philadelphia Orchestra performs Jan. 10-12 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847.

Continuing Barbarism A queer, gender-upending multimedia exhibition through Jan. 31 at Fleisher Art Memorial, 719 Catharine St.; 215-9223456.

Doylestown; 215-340-9800. Live Cinema/Fiona Tan: Inventory Philadelphia Museum of Art presents a multiprojection installation inviting viewers to consider museum collections, as well as the human compulsion to capture the transience of time and lived experience, through March 23, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Marc Newson: At Home Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of furnishings by the influential designer through April 20, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. The Surrealists: Works from the Collection Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of the Museum’s unique collection of great masterpieces and lesserknown works of the movement through March 2, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.

Closing Cirque de la Symphonie The Philadelphia Orchestra performs through Jan. 4 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800.

GETTING BENT: All-female punk band Potty Mouth is on the road in support of its debut album “Hell Bent,” performing 9 p.m. Jan. 9 at Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad St. For more information or tickets, call 267639-4528.

From Philadelphia to Monaco: Grace Kelly, Beyond the Icon James A. Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition tracing the unique path Grace Kelly took from Philadelphia to Monaco through Jan. 26, 138 S. Pine St.,

Disney on Ice Animated characters come to life on skates through Jan. 6 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-3899543. Elf: The Musical Walnut Street Theatre presents an adaptation of the comedy film through Jan. 5, 825 Walnut St.; 215-574-3550.

Notices Send notices at least one week in advance to: Out & About Listings, PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 fax: 215-925-6437; or e-mail: listings@epgn.com. Notices cannot be taken over the phone.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Gender Comedy: A Less Stupid 12th Night Gay Fantasia Curio Theatre Company presents the world premiere of the new comedy by Harry Slack through Jan. 4, 4740 Baltimore Ave.; 215-525-1350. Jersey Boys The Tony Award-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons hits the stage through Jan. 5 at Forrest Theatre, 1114 Walnut St.; 215-923-1515. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Media Theatre presents the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical through Jan. 4, 104 E. State St., Media; 610-891-0100. Léger: Modern Art and the Metropolis Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of 160 works and a multimedia exhibition of important paintings by the French painter Fernand Léger through Jan. 5, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Tom Rhoades The comedian performs through Jan. 4 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001. ■

SHE GROWS ON YOU: Drag performer Sherry Vine delivers outrageous entertainment in New Hope when she performs 8 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Rrazz Room, in The Ramada New Hope, 6426 Lower York Road. For more information, call 888-5961027.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

BOOKS PGN

Best-sellers Information is courtesy of Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St.; 215-923-2960; www.queerbooks.com. Ten-percent off most hardcover in-store sales.

��

Photos: Scott A. Drake

’s Get Out and Play All the action with Philly’s jocks

Every other week in PGN

Men’s Books 1. “A Warning in Blood” by Joseph R.G. DeMarco (Lethe, $18 pb, $6.99 ebook). Dru is not a commonplace vampire — he’s an Inquisitor, chosen by the elders of a most sanguine and secret society to investigate sedition and punish treason among the undead. From the posh clubs of Philadelphia to hidden monasteries in the Alps, bloodlines are being drawn and Dru’s fortitude will be tested as he discovers a warning in blood. 2. “A Visit to Priapus and Other Stories” by Glenway Wescott (U. of Wisconsin, $26.95 hb, less 10 percent in the store). The autobiographical story is about a literary man, frustrated in love, who puts aside his pride and makes a date with a young artist in Maine. 3. “The Heavens Rise” by Christopher Rice (Gallery, $26 hb, less 10 percent in the store; $12.99 ebook). New York Times-bestselling author Rice brilliantly conjures the shadowed terrors of the Louisiana Bayou — where three friends confront a deadly, ancient evil rising to the surface — in this intense and atmospheric new supernatural thriller. 4. “Love Lost in Translation: Homosexuality and the Bible” by T. Renato Lings (Trafford, $28.44 pb, $3.49 ebook). Systematically examines the biblical stories and passages that are generally assumed to deal with, or comment on, homoerotic relationships, combining meticulous scholarship with an accessible style to provide a much-needed infusion of essential learning into a subject that affects millions of Bible readers today. 5. “Local Souls” by Allan Gurganus (Liveright, $15.95 pb, $16.09 ebook). With the meteoric success of “Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All,” Gurganus placed himself among America’s most original and emotionally engaged storytellers. If his first comic novel mapped the late 19th-century South, “Local Souls” brings the twisted hilarity of Flannery O’Connor kicking into our new century. 6. “The Uncensored Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde (Belknap, $12.95pb, $9.39 ebook). The classic restored in its uncensored version, including graphic gay content. 7. “Little Penis: Oh, the Places You’ll Grow! A Parody” by Craig Yoe (Cider Mill, $9.99 boards). This finger-puppet parody book continues the story of Little Penis, and this time, he’s ready for new heights, great sights and some positive vibes!

8. “Baton Rouge Bingo” by Greg Herren (Bold Strokes, $16.95 pb, $9.99 ebook). Bomb threats, murder, a tiger, animal rights, missing money — all in a day’s work for Scotty Bradley, P.I.! Men’s DVDs 1. “Behind the Candelabra,” directed by Steven Soderbergh (2013, 118 min., $19.98). Oscar winners Michael Douglas and Matt Damon star as the legendary Liberace and his young lover. 2. “Out in the Dark,” directed by Michael Mayer (2013, 96 min., $24.95). One fateful night in Tel Aviv, Palestinian student Nimer meets Roy, an Israeli lawyer, and the two fall in love. As their relationship deepens, they are both confronted with the harsh realities of a Palestinian society that refuses to accept Nimer for his sexual identity, and an Israeli society that rejects him for his nationality. 3. “Old Dogs and New Tricks, Seasons 1 & 2,” directed by Leon Acord (2011/2012, 109 min., $19.95). Does (sex) life end for gay men as they approach 50? That’s the question explored by this comedic, fastpaced series. 4. “Solo,” directed by Marcelo Briem Stamm (2013, 76 min., $24.95). Two young men in Buenos Aires meet and begin an erotic, intimate relationship, but secrets from their past are revealed, threatening their love in this taut Argentinean drama. Spanish with English subtitles. 5. “Men to Kiss,” directed by Robert Hasfogel (2012, 83 min., $19.95). Earnest is a banker who finds his work and personal life thrown upside-down after he meets and quickly falls in love with Tobi, a flighty, high-energy performance artist who lives for Berlin’s wild nightlife. German with English subtitles. 6. “Yossi and Jagger,” directed by Eytan Fox (2002, 71 min., $19.95). Based on a true story of the love affair of two Israeli officers in a remote army base on the Israeli-Lebanese border. 7. “Bridegroom,” directed by Linda Bloodsworth Thomason (2013, 82 min., $19.95). On May 7, 2011, Shane Bitney Crone tragically lost the love of his life, Tom, to an accident. Because they weren’t married or prepared for the unexpected, Shane lost all legal claim to Tom after he died. Tom’s family banned Shane from the funeral and he was unable to say goodbye. 8. “Waterberry Tears,” directed by Adrian Aldaz (2011, 89 min., $24.95). An intimate coming-of-age story about Goyo, a gay teenager in an immigrant Mexican family from the trailer homes and grape fields of a California migrant farming community. English and Spanish. Women’s and Trans Books 1. “Queering Anarchism: Essays on Gender, Power and Desire,” edited by Martha Ackelsberg, et al. (AK, $19.95 pb, ebook). Brings together a diverse set of writings ranging from the deeply theo-

retical to the playfully personal that explore the possibilities of the concept of “queering,” turning the dominant, and largely heteronormative, structures of belief and identity entirely insideout. 2. “Perfect Peace” by Daniel Black (St. Martin’s, $14.99 pb, $9.99 ebook). When Perfect Peace turns 8, her mother tells her, “You was born a boy. I made you a girl. But that ain’t what you was supposed to be. So, from now on, you gon’ be a boy.” From this point forward, his life becomes a bizarre kaleidoscope of events. 3. “The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For” by Alison Bechdel (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $25 hb, less 10 percent in the store). A “rich, funny, deep and impossible to put down” (Publishers Weekly) selection from all 11 “Dykes” volumes. Here too are 60 of the newest strips, never before published in book form. 4. “Best Lesbian Erotica 2014,” edited by Kathleen Warnock and Sarah Schulman (Cleis, $15.95 pb, $10.69 ebook). Warnock has taken the series to new heights of ecstasy with the 2014 entry, which is sensational, sensual and really smart smut. 5. “Homestead” by Radclyffe (Bold Strokes, $16.95 pb, $9.99 ebook). Tess Rogers grew up in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, but she always knew one thing to be true — one day, 600 acres of prime farmland would be hers. Then she discovers not even that truth can be counted on. 6. “Letters Never Sent” by Sandra Moran (Bedazzled Ink, $16.95 pb, $8.95 ebook). In 1931, Katherine Henderson leaves behind her small town in Kansas and the marriage proposal of a local boy to live on her own and work at the Sears & Roebuck glove counter in Chicago. There she meets Annie, a bold, outspoken feminist who challenges Katherine’s idea of who she thinks she is and what she thinks she wants in life. 7. “Nevada” by Imogen Binnie (Topside, $17.95 pb). The darkly comedic story of Maria Griffiths, a young trans woman living in New York City trying to stay true to her punk values while working retail. When she finds out her girlfriend has lied to her, the world she thought she’d carefully built for herself begins to unravel, and Maria sets out on a journey that will most certainly change her forever. 8. “The Summer We Got Free” by Mia McKenzie (Black Girl Dangerous Press, $14 pb). At one time a wild, young girl and a brilliant artist, Ava Delaney changes dramatically after a violent event that rocks her entire family. Once loved and respected in their community and in their church, the Delaneys are ostracized by their neighbors, led by their church leader, and a 17-year feud ensues. ■

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Classifieds Real Estate Sale

Real Estate Sale

Help Wanted

Heavy Equipment Operator Training! Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. 3 Weeks Hands On Program. Local Job Placement Assistance. National Certifications. GI Bill Benefits Eligible. 1-866-362-6497. ________________________________________38-01 Regional Owner Operators for dedicated run hauling plate glass needed. All Miles Paid! Also need regional stepdeck and RGN Contractors. Contact Daily Express 800-669-6414. ________________________________________38-01 Drivers- CDL-A DRIVERS NEEDED. Now hiring solos & teams in your area! Small Company, BIG Benefits! Top Pay for Hazmat. CDL Grads Welcome. 888-928-6011 www.Drive4Total.com ________________________________________38-01 Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight lanes from Presque Isle, ME, Boston-Lehigh, PA. 800-277-0212 or driveforprime.com ________________________________________38-01

Start the New Year with a Great Career by Joining our Team. Class A Professional Drivers Call 877-457-1313 for more details or visit SuperServiceLLC.com ________________________________________38-01 NEED CLASS A CDL TRAINING? Start a CAREER in trucking today! Swift Academies offer PTDI certified courses and offer “Best-In-Class” training. *New Academy Classes Weekly *No Money Down or Credit Check *Certified Mentors Ready and Available *Paid (While Traning With Mentor) *Regional and Dedicated Opportunities *Great Career Path * Excellent Benefits Package. Please Call: (866) 271-7613. ________________________________________38-01 WANTED: LIFE AGENTS Earn $500 a Day; Great Agent Benefits; Commissions Paid Daily; Complete Training; Leads, Leads, Leads; NO LICENSE NECESSARY TO APPLY. Call 1-888-713-6020. ________________________________________38-01

Placing Classiﬁeds Liner Ads In Person: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, By Phone or on the Web: 24 Hours, 7 Days

Deadline for Line Advertising is Friday at 3 p.m. for the following Friday’s issue. You may place your ad via our secure voicemail system, fax or e-mail at any time, or on our Web site. Please have the following information ready to place your ad:

YOUR AD COPY • YOUR NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER • CREDIT CARD INFORMATION PHONE: 215-625-8501 ext. 200 OR 215-451-6182 (DIRECT) • FAX: 215-925-6437 • E-MAIL: don@epgn.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

SECLUDED HISTORICAL DISTRICT OF LUMBERTON Beaut. rest. 1870’s home, 3 BR, 1.5 BA, 30 mins to Phila. 3 ﬂoors, all new HVAC, screened porch, 3/4 acre, mod. kit & baths, beaut. details. $285,000. 609-784-8324. _____________________________________________38-10 VENTNOR, NJ House for sale in Ventnor NJ. 2 story 5 bedroom house, needs some repairs. Priced right. Call 215 468 9166. ________________________________________38-01 TURNKEY FAMILY CAMP FOR SALE Beautifully Finished Cabin on 5 Acres, Woods and Nice Lawn, Quiet County Road, Stocked Fishing Pond & Guest Cabin. On Snowmobile Trail. Only $69,995. Call 800-2297843 Or visit www.LandandCamps.com ________________________________________38-01

For Sale SAWMILLS from only $4897.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N ________________________________________38-0

Autos Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Your vehicle donation will help US Troops and support our Veterans! 100% tax deductible. Fast Free pickup! CALL 1-800-617-8320. ________________________________________38-01

Services AIRLINE CAREERS Begin here - Get FAA approved Aviation Technician training. Financial Aid for qualiﬁed students. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-888-834-9715. _____________________________________________38-01 All real-estate advertising is subject to Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended, prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental and ﬁnancing of dwellings, and in other housing-related transactions, based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women, and people securing custody of children under the age of 18), and handicap (disability). PGN will not knowingly accept any real-estate advertising that is in violation of any applicable law.

All classified advertising must be in our office by 3 p.m. Friday for the next Friday’s paper. Ads arriving after that time will be held for the next available issue. PGN reserves the right to edit or rewrite ads as needed, to refuse any ad for any reason and to determine the final classification. Ads determined to be in bad taste, directed to or from persons under the legal age of consent or containing racially or sexually discriminatory language will be refused. We need your full name, mailing address and daytime phone number on the insertion order form for you ad. This information is confidential and will not appear in the paper. Any ads received without full information will be destroyed. Sexually explicit language will be edited or refused at the discretion of the management.

PAYMENT AND PLACEMENT

Classified ads may be placed online or by mail, fax, e-mail or in person at the PGN offices at 505 S. Fourth St., Phila. Phone, fax and e-mail orders are accepted with credit/debit cards only. A $10 minimum applies to all charges. If you are paying in person with cash, please have the exact change as we cannot make change at the office. All ads must be prepaid for their entire run. NO EXCEPTIONS! DO NOT SEND CASH THROUGH THE MAIL; IT’S NOT SAFE AND CANNOT BE GUARANTEED.

TERM DISCOUNTS - BASED ON THE NUMBER OF ISSUES PREPAID 4 weeks, 5% • 8 weeks, 10% • 16 weeks, 15% • 26 weeks, 20%

CANCELLATION POLICY All PGN Classified ads are cancelable and refundable except for “FRIENDS” ads. Deadline for cancellation is 3 p.m. Friday. The balance will be credited to your credit/debit card. Checks take two weeks to process. The date of the first issue the ad appeared in, along with the classification, your name, address and daytime phone number is required to cancel your ad.

PGN does not accept advertising that is unlawful, false, misleading, harmful, threatening, abusive, invasive of another’s privacy, harassing, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, hateful or racially or otherwise objectionable, including without limitation material of any kind or nature that encourages conduct that could constitute a criminal offense, give rise to civil liability or otherwise violate any applicable local, state, provincial, national or international law or regulation, or encourage the use of controlled substances.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

ADONIS CINEMA “THE ONLY ALL MALE ADULT THEATER IN THE CITY”

2026 Sansom St (located 3 doors up from Sansom St Gym)

215-557-9319

Friends Men LOOKING FOR ROMANCE Attractive GWM, warm, sensitive, caring, 48 y.o. with a smooth gymnast build looking for other GWM, 30-50, who is also in good shape. I live in NE Phila. I’m looking for guys who are also sensitive, caring with a fun personality. If this sounds interesting to you feel free to call me, David, 215-698-0215. ________________________________________38-10 Big tool BM top needs ginger boy bottom : Scottish or Irish men. Must be uncut for docking. Please call 6 PM to 2 AM weekends only, 215-763-3391. ________________________________________38-10 WM, NE Phila. If you’re looking for hot action, call 215-934-5309. No calls after 11 PM. ________________________________________38-02 Real nice white butt looking for big thrill. I’m 6’1”, 210, 59. Call me at 215-732-2108 8-12 PM. ________________________________________38-03

Massage

OPEN 24hrs A Day /

David, 64, 6’, 200 lbs., attentive. 215-569-4949. (24/7) ________________________________________38-12

7 Days A Week

3 Small Theaters with Video & Dark Room Area

wishes you a Happy New Year.

THE BIGGER, BETTER & CLEANER CLUB IN THE CITY...

SEASONS OF CHANGE

Saturday, Jan. 11th • Time: 11pm-3:30am WHAT TO EXPECT: • DJ David Dutch • Complimentary Food & Beverages • A Full House of Guys To Choose From & So Much More ROOMS: Members: $25.00 & Non-Members: $35.00 LOCKERS: Members: $18.00 & Non-Members: $28.00 ROOMS GO QUICKLY!!!C HECK IN EARLY!

P.A.N.G.(Philadelphia Area Nudist Group) Sunday, Jan. 12th • Time: 3pm-6am

BOYS WILL BE BOYS- AWAKEN YOUR INNER SPIRIT JOIN PANG FOR: • An Afternoon of Naked Socializing • Complimentary Food & Beverages & So Much More For More Information On Group:www.phillynakedguys.com/

BUSY TIMES FOR US:

These our are most popular days when people come-

SATURDAY AFTERNOON DELIGHT 4 Hour Lockers (8am - 4pm) Members: $5.00 and Non-Members: $15.00

SUNDAY RELIEF

Half Price Rooms (6am Sunday till 8am Monday) Members: $12.50 and Non-Members: $22.50

MONDAY thru FRIDAY:

Business Mans Locker Special (8am to 4pm) Members: $5.00 and Non-Members: $15.00

TUESDAYS

Half Price Rooms (6am till 12 Midnight) Members: $12.50 and Non-Members: $22.50

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY NIGHT CRUISE

$12 Flat Rate for Locker Admission & Clothing Optional (4pm-12 Midnight) Check out our website for our WEEKLY SPECIALS & JOIN OUR e-mail List to get the latest information on upcoming events....

Don’t forget to visit the Adonis Cinema right next door!! 2026 Sansom St/ PH: 215-557-9319

PGN

Men Delco Dudes A men’s social and support group meets 7-9 p.m. the ﬁrst Wednesday of the month at Unitarian Universalist Church of Delaware County, 145 W. Rose Tree Road in Media; delco.dudes@uucdc. org. Gay Married Men’s Association Meets 7-9 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at the William Way Center; www.gammaphilly.com. Men of All Colors Together Meets 7:30 p.m. the third Friday of the month, September through June, at the William Way Center; 610-277-6595; www.MACTPhila.org. Men’s Coming Out Group, N.J. Meets 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at The Pride Center of New Jersey; njwarrior@aol.com. Men of Color United A discussion/support group for gay and bisexual men of color meets 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday at 112 N. Broad St., third ﬂoor; 215-496-0330. Men of Standard Provides a place for gay men of color 21 and older to share issues of concern. Meets 7-9 p.m. Thursdays at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St., Camden, N.J.; 856-963-2432. Philly Dads An association of gay and bisexual fathers supporting each other meets 7:30 p.m. the fourth Friday of the month at the William Way Center; 215-668-5239.

Parents/Families Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Bucks County Meets 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at Penns Park United Methodist Church, 2394 Second Street Pike, Penns Park; 215-348-9976. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Chester County Meets 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at the Unitarian Fellowship of West Chester, 501 S. High St.; 484354-2448. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Collingswood, N.J. Meets 6:30-9 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at the Collingswood Public Library, 771 Haddon Ave.; 609202-4622; pflagcollingswood@yahoo. com. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Media Meets 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Unitarian Universal Church, 145 Rose Tree Rd.; 610-3682021. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Philadelphia Meets 2-5 p.m. the third Sunday of the month at the LGBT Center at the University of Pennsylvania, 3907 Spruce St.; 215-572-1833. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Princeton, N.J. Meets 7:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month in the George Thomas Room at Trinity Church, 33 Mercer St.; 609-683-5155.

activities and outings. Planning meetings held monthly; 215-6002864; www.phillyfamilypride.org.

Trans Evolutions A drop-in support group for anyone on the transgender spectrum meets 6 p.m. Thursdays at 21 S. 12th St., eighth floor; 215-563-0652 ext. 235. Mazzoni Center Family and Community Medicine Primary health care and specialized transgender services in a safe, professional, nonjudgmental environment, 809 Locust St.; 215-5630658. T-MAN People of color support group for transmen, FTMs, butches, studs, aggressives, bois, genderqueer and all female-born individuals with gender questions meets 7:30-9:30 p.m. Mondays, second floor, 1201 Locust St.; 215-834-9063; tmanphilly.com. Transhealth Programming Committee Meets 5 p.m.the second and last Sundays of the month at the William Way Center. Transhealth Information Project Sponsors a weekly drop-in center from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Fridays at 1207 Chestnut St., fifth floor; 215-851-1822. Transgender Health Action Coalition Peer trans health-advocacy organization; 215-732-1207; www. critpath.org/thac. 1201 Locust street 4th floor. WeXist FTM support group meets 7-9 p.m. the second and fourth Friday of the month at the William Way Center; first hour is open, second hour is for people assigned female at birth who have gender issues; 267-250-1548. Young, Trans and Unified Support group for transgender and questioning individuals ages 13-23 meets 7:15 p.m. Thursdays at The Attic Youth Center; 215-545-4331.

Women Hanging Out With Lesbians A group in Central Pennsylvania that organizes activities such as concerts, camping, golf, picnics, hikes, plays and game nights in nonsmoking environments; http://groups.yahoo. com/group/howlofpa/. Lesbian Community of Delaware Valley Social group meets monthly for activities for gay women of all ages in Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties; http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/LCDV/. Lesbian Couples Dining Group of Montgomery County Meets monthly; 215-542-2899. Mt. Airy Lesbian Social Club For lesbians in the Philadelphia area ages 35-plus; www.meetup.com/ mtairylesbiansocial/. Queer Connections Social group for women in their 20s meets weekly; http://groups.yahoo. com/group/queerconnections/.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Wilmington, Del. Meets 7-9 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1502 W. 13th St.; 302-654-2995.

Sistah 2 Sistah A social/support group for lesbians of color, ages 13-24, with weekly social events, open discusson and monthly movie/discussions, 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays, 112 N. Broad St., third ﬂoor; 215-496-0330.

Philadelphia Family Pride Advocacy, support and social network for LGBT families offers play groups, monthly kids and teen talk groups,

Women Coming Out Support Group Women who consider themselves gay, lesbian, bisexual or questioning and

are at any stage of the coming-out process are welcome. Ages 18 and over. Meets 7:30 p.m. ﬁrst Tuesday and third Thursday of the month at the Pride Center of NJ.

Youth 40 Acres of Change Discussion group for teen and young adults meets 6-8 p.m. Thursdays at The COLOURS Organization Inc., 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; 215496-0330. GLBT Group of Hunterdon County Social and support groups for youth, teens and young adults, as well as parents and family members, meets at North County Branch Library, 65 Halstead St. in Clinton, N.J. Schedule at www.glbtofhunterdoncountyofnj. com; 908-300-1058. HAVEN For GLBT, intersex, questioning, queer and allied youth ages 14-20; meets 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley, 424 Center St., Bethlehem; 610-868-2153. HiTOPS A safe-space support program for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth, meets 2:30-4:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays at 21 Wiggins St., Princeton, N.J. Call Connie at 609-683-5155 (day); hitops.org. Main Line Youth Alliance Meets from 7-9:30 p.m. Fridays at 106 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne; 610688-1861; info@myaonline.org. Mountain Meadow For youth with GLBTQ parents. Monthly programs for ages 8-16, family programs and parent coffee groups. Residential program offered in August, 1315 Spruce St.; 215-7721107. PRYSM Youth Center For youth ages 14-20. Meets 6:308:30 p.m Wednesdays at center, 126 East Baltimore Pike, Media; 610357-9948. Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s LGBTQ and Allies Youth Center For ages 14-21; meets 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays at Salem UCC Education Building, 181 E. Court St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981 ext. 9065; rainbowroom@ppbucks.org. Social X Change Social activity group for LGBT youth of color ages 13-23 meets 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays at 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; 215-496-0330. Space to be Proud, Open, and Together Open to all LGBTQ queer youth and allies, ages 14-21, the SPOT meets Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Planned Parenthood of Chester County’s West Chester office, 8 S. Wayne St.; 610692-1770. Young, Trans and Unified A support group for transgender and questioning youth ages 13-23 meets 7:15 p.m. Thursdays at The Attic Youth Center. You’re Not Alone A group for gay, lesbian and bisexual youth that meets during the school year; sponsored by AIDS Delaware, 100 W. 10th St., Suite 315, Wilmington. Call 800-810-6776 for more details. Youth Making a Difference For GLBTQ African-American and Latino youth ages 14-24. Meets 5-7 p.m. every Tuesday at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St.; 856-9632432.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

Community Bulletin Board Community centers

■ The Attic Youth Center 255 S. 16th St.; 215-545-4331; atticyouthcenter.org. For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies. Groups meet and activities are held 4-7 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and 48:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday. Case management, HIV testing and smoking cessation are available MondayFriday. See the Youth section for more events.

■ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center at the University of Pennsylvania 3907 Spruce St., 215-898-5044; center@dolphin. upenn.edu. Regular hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; noon-6 p.m. Saturday; noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Summer hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

■ ActionAIDS: 215-981-0088 ■ AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania: 215-587-9377 ■ AIDS Law Project of Southern New Jersey: 856-933-9500 ext. 221 ■ AIDS Library: 215-985-4851 ■ ACLU of Pennsylvania: 215592-1513 ■ AIDS Treatment Fact line: 800662-6080 ■ Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection at the Independence Branch of the Philadelphia Free Library: 215-685-1633 ■ The COLOURS Organization, Inc.: 215-496-0330 ■ District Attorney LGBT Liaison: Helen “Nellie” Fitzpatrick, 215-6869980, helen.fitzpatrick@phila.gov

■ Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning and Allies Youth Center 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays: Salem UCC Education Building, 181 E. Court St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981 ext. 9065 rainbowroom@ppbucks.org.

■ William Way Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220; www.waygay.org. Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Peer counseling: 6-9 p.m. Monday through Friday Library hours: noon-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-3 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Friday; noon-6 p.m. Saturday. Volunteers: New Orientation: First Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

Key numbers

of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833

■ Equality Pennsylvania: 215731-1447; www.equalitypa.org

■ Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations: 215-686-4670

■ Equality Forum: 215-732-3378

■ Philadelphia Lesbian and Gay Task Force: 1-877-pride-2000

■ GALAEI: A Queer Latin@ Social Justice Organization: 215-8511822 ■ LGBT Elder Initiative: 267-5463448; info@LGBTEI.org ■ LGBT Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK ■ Mayor’s Director of LGBT Affairs: Gloria Casarez, 215-6862194; Gloria.Casarez@phila.gov; ■ Mazzoni Center: 215-563-0652; Legal Services: 215-563-0657, 866-LGBT-LAW; Family & Community Medicine: 215-563-0658 ■ Parents, Families and Friends

■ Police Department liaison — Deputy Commissioner Kevin Bethel: 215-686-3318 ■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-760-3686 (Rick Lombardo); ppd.lgbt@gmail.com ■ Philly Pride Presents: 215875-9288 ■ SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: 717-9209537 ■ Transgender Health Action Coalition: 215-732-1207 (staffed 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays)

Health

Anonymous, free, conﬁdential HIV testing Spanish/English counselors offer testing 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 216 W. Somerset St.; 215763-8870. ActionAIDS Provides a range of programs for people affected by HIV/AIDS, including case management, prevention, testing and education services at 1216 Arch St.; 215-981-0088; www.actionaids.org. GALAEI: A Queer Latin@ Social Justice Organization Free, anonymous HIV testing from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1207 Chestnut St., fifth floor; noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St.; 215-851-1822 or 866-222-3871; www.galaei. org. Spanish/English HIV treatment Free HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment for Philadelphia residents are available from 9 a.m.-noon Mondays (walk-in) and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays (by appointment) at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215685-1821. HIV health insurance help Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing

■ Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Philadelphia Board meetings at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at 100 S. Broad St., Suite 1810; free referral service at 215-6279090; www.galloplaw.org. ■ Greater Philadelphia Professional Network Networking group for area business professionals, selfemployed and business owners meets monthly in a different location throughout the city; www. gppn.org; 215-922-3377. ■ Independence Business Alliance Greater Philadelphia’s LGBT

11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays at 13 S. MacDade Blvd., Suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Office Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610-586-9077. Mazzoni Center LGBTQ counseling and behavioral health services, HIV/ AIDS care and services, case management and support groups; 21 S. 12th St., eighth floor; 215-563-0652; www. mazzonicenter.org. Mazzoni Center Family & Community Medicine Comprehensive primary health care, preventive health services, gynecology, sexual-health services and chronic-disease management, including comprehensive HIV care, as well as youth drop-in (ages 14-24) 5-7p.m. Wednesdays; 809 Locust St.; 215-563-0658. Washington West Project of Mazzoni Center Free, anonymous HIV testing. Walk-ins welcome 9 a.m.-9 pm. Monday-Friday, 1-5p.m. Saturday; 1201 Locust St.; 215-985-9206.

Professional groups Chamber of Commerce, providing networking, business development, marketing, educational and advocacy opportunities for LGBT and LGBT-friendly businesses and professionals; www. IndependenceBusinessAlliance. com; 215-557-0190; 1717 Arch St., Suite 3370. ■ National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Philadelphia chapter of NLGJA, open to professionals and students, meets for social and networking events; www.nlgja.

org/philly; philly@nlgja.org. ■ Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus Regional organization dedicated to promoting LGBT tourism to the Greater Philadelphia region, meetings every other month on the fourth Thursday (January, March, May, July, September and the third Thursday in November), open to the public; P.O. Box 58143, Philadelphia, PA 19102; www.philadelphiagaytourism. com; 215-840-2039.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Jan. 3-9, 2014

PGN