PGN Feb. 15-21, 2013 by The Philadelphia Gay News

Rounding up New York performing artists for Philly

Family Portrait: Laura Cheadle

PAGE 19

Olympian Johnny Weir to perform at Winter Pride

PAGE 23

PAGE 5

Feb. 15-21, 2013

Vol. 37 No. 7

PA LGBT Caucus doubles, poll numbers up

Married PA men sue for health benefits By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A Conshohocken steel worker and his husband filed suit in federal court this week after the employee was barred from adding his spouse to his health-insurance plan in a case that is thought to be the first of its kind in Pennsylvania. Bryce Ginther and Kit Kineef filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Feb. 11. Named as defendants are Ginther’s employer, ArcelorMittal, USA, the Steelworkers’ Health and Welfare Benefit Plan and the board of trustees of the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Fund. The case alleges a violation of the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 — which governs the implementation of many private-sector plans. Ginther and Kineef have been together for seven years and married May 15 in New York. The same day, Ginther requested to add Kineef as a dependent to his plan, which does not limit the definition of “spouse” as to only an opposite-sex partner. Ginther is an industrial electrician at ArcelorMittal’s Conshohocken steel mill, and is a member of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union. Kineef doesn’t have insurance, and Ginther began inquiring in early 2012 about adding him to his plan when they got married. Despite repeated requests, he did not receive an answer until March 22, at which time Arcelor’s senior KIT KINEEF (LEFT) legal counsel AND BRYCE GINTHER informed him that Photo: Valeri Stanton “federal law does not recognize civil unions” and that “anyone with whom a person might be party to a civil union is not eligible for the provision of spousal coverage under our ERISA benefit plans.” Once the pair was legally married and PAGE 17 Ginther notified the com-

By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com

HEART-Y FUNDRAISER: Larry Emeigh, Freddy Shelley, Matt McBride and Thomas Day braved the near-freezing temps in their skivvies to run as part of Team Tabu in Philadelphia’s first Cupid’s Undie Run Feb. 9 at Eastern State Penitentiary. The run was designed to put “some hilarity in charity,” and Team Tabu finished fifth overall in fundraising, generating $4,960 for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. Overall, the 400 participants raised $60,000. The event originated in Washington, D.C., in 2010 and has since spread to 16 U.S. cities and Sydney, Australia. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Sims sums up first weeks as lawmaker By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com On Sept. 8, 2011, Brian Sims announced his candidacy for state representative of Pennsylvania’s 182nd District. On April 25, 2012, Sims beat longtime incumbent Babette Josephs in a primary race that would ultimately make him the first openly gay elected state legislator in Pennsylvania. Sims was officially sworn in to the House in December and started attending his first legislative sessions last month. He said he’s now looking to follow through on his goals of create change by giving LGBTs a seat at the table. “What I said during the election was that it was not just about what you fight for, but about how you fight for it. I felt like I could fight for things in a different way,” he said. It has been almost a year since Sims’ campaign ended, but some of those early efforts still resonate with him as he enters his third month in the House. “I got a check in mid-February at a time when we were trying to raise money,” he said. “It was from a woman in Kentucky

and she wrote that she always thought her son would be the first openly gay president, but he died from HIV/AIDS in the 1980s.” Although he appreciated the sentiment, Sims said he sent the check back; however, a few weeks later, the check returned and had doubled in amount. “She wrote how she considered this to be an investment in the first gay president of the U.S,” he said. “It was one of those moments when I realized I wasn’t just running for the 182nd District. I wasn’t just running in Philly or Pennsylvania. I really was running for LGBT people nationally who felt they didn’t have a voice in politics.” Sims said he and his staff set out to meet people on all different levels and from all backgrounds. That experience, he said, helped him gain backing from some unexpected supporters and put him directly in touch with the needs of the district. “It was wonderful to meet all of the other supporters. Individuals should have a relationship with your representative,” he said PAGE 7 S i m s wa s i n b e d

Pennsylvania made big strides toward LGBT equality this week. Amid the announcement that there is unprecedented support for LGBT nondiscrimination in the state, lawmakers also kicked off the new session of the LGBT Equality Caucus, which has now more than doubled in size. In a press conference Wednesday morning in Harrisburg, caucus co-chair Rep. Dan Frankel (D-23rd Dist.) joined with other legislators such as co-chair Sen. Daylin Leach (D-17th Dist.), out Rep. Brian Sims and Equality Pennsylvania executive director Ted Martin to announce the caucus had grown from 26 members at its inception in late 2011 to the current 58 — and that it now has Republican members. “It is quite a remarkable evolution of the legislature, of this caucus and the issues that we are promoting, which are for equality for LGBT people in our state,” Frankel said of the caucus’ growth. “It is something that has long been due.” The new Republican members include out Rep. Mike Fleck, as well as Reps. Thomas Murt and Chris Ross.

LGBT EQUALITY CAUCUS MEMBERS REPS. BRIAN SIMS (FROM LEFT), STEVE SANTARSIERO, MIKE SCHLOSSBERG, DANIEL MCNEILL, MARK PAINTER AND KEVIN BOYLE AT WEDNESDAY’S PRESS CONFERENCE

Frankel, who has spearheaded the nondiscrimination bill in past sessions, said the caucus has worked hard to gain new membership and that the bipartisan support from lawmakers across PAGE 17

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

LOCAL PGN

Temple to address bullying By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com Temple University Beasley School of Law is gearing up for its annual conference, this year themed, “Bullying: Redefining Boundaries, Responsibility, and Harm.” The Feb. 23 event, which will run from 9:15 a.m.-6:15 p.m. in Klein Hall, 1719 N. Broad St., is sponsored by Temple Political & Civil Rights Law Review. The conference is open to the public and will include opportunities to earn five substantive and one ethics Continuing Legal Education credits. Temple Law’s first conference in 1997 focused on relationship recognition for same-sex couples, which was just beginning to get attention at that time. Nancy Knauer, Temple law professor and director of the university’s D.C. Law & Public Policy Program, said the conference is designed to examine timely issues. “The goal is to identify immerging issues in the area and then try and get as many national legal scholars and folks who are involved in the issue to come to Philadelphia,” Knauer said. Last year’s symposium drew 175 attendees — a figure Knauer hopes to double. The symposium was designed to take the attendee through the life journey of bullying — with workshops on bullying in elementary education, higher education, the

workforce and aging services. It will also include a panel that will discuss the future of bullying and what can be done about it. The event will feature more than 20 speakers, including federal policy director of the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network Shawn Gaylord, chair of Philadelphia Human Relations Commission Rue Landau, legislative counsel and administrative advocacy for the Human Rights Campaign Robin S. Maril and legal director of the Mazzoni Center David Rosenblum. Knauer expects the event to bring more than just an understanding of bullying. “What the symposium does is bring together individuals who have been working on various aspects of bullying and redefining bullying as behavior that is no longer acceptable and, in some instances, illegal,” she said. “We hope to make connections between these different aspects of bullying and hope that we will see what can be learned from bullying in the schools and apply it to the workplace and assisted living.” Registration fees vary. General registrant admission is $150, non-attorney admission is $50 and non-Temple Law student admission is $40. Temple Law students, faculty and staff have free admission, but the free lunch is not included. For more information on the symposium, visit www.law.temple.edu. ■

Center hosts first wellness festival By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com If you’re looking to make good on your New Year’s resolution for healthy life choices, look no further than the William Way LGBT Community Center. From 1-4 p.m. Feb. 18, the center will host its first-ever Wellness Fair. The event, which is sponsored by Optimal Sports Health Club, will feature free workout sessions and healthy-lifestyle vendors. The fair is open to the public and, according to development director Michael Pomante, could become an annual event. Pomante said community members have suggested the center host such an event. “We take a lot of community feedback, and people said it would be great to have a wellness fair and that William Way would be a great place to do it,” he said, adding that Optimal seemed the perfect fit for host. “They have done an amazing job these past two years to reach out to the center,” he said. “They are not only LGBT supporters, but also supporters of the center.” Optimal named the center its 2013 winter beneficiary, with a portion of the proceeds from new memberships in the four months leading up to Feb. 1 going to William Way. Pomante said interest in the fair has ballooned in the past few weeks. “The advertising has really blown up, especially on social media,” Pomante said.

“When we give people more detail, they get really excited.” Because this is William Way’s inaugural wellness festival, vendors were not charged for their space. The lobby of the center will be filled with tables, while low-impact fitness classes hosted by Optimal fitness trainers will be held in the ballroom and nutrition classes in the Philadelphia Room. “People can stop in whenever they want and if they’re interested in attending both a nutrition class and a fitness class, they can because they are held every hour,” Pomante said. Therapists who specialize in LGBT mental health and wellness will also be on hand to give free advice. Guests can also partake in raffles, such as for a three-month gym membership to Optimal and gift certificates to healthy restaurants. Pomante said the festival would also focus on preventative measures with the main message of “get healthy, get fit and get well.” The event also provides an opportunity for potential new members of the center to learn about the agency’s wellness work. Pomante anticipates up to 200 people will attend the event. “For those hours, the center will be booming and full of life,” he said. For more information, visit www.waygay.org. ■

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Contents NEWS

Gettin’ On Local News Briefing Obituaries

9 2 7 13,15

EDITORIAL/OP-ED

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

10 10 11 11 11 OUT IN OZ: Thunder Showers spread her magic throughout the sold-out crowd as Glinda the Good Witch at AIDS Fund’s GayBINGO Feb. 8 at Gershman Y. The “Wizard of Oz”-themed event included performances by the Bingo Verifying Divas clad in their best Oz attire and generated more than $20,000 for AIDS Fund, which supports area HIV/AIDS organizations. Photo: Scott A. Drake

What does Fat Tuesday mean to you? Poll results from our online survey as of Feb. 13:

4% 37% 30% 0% 30%

Repairs, Renovations and Remodeling

(215) 467-3335

Go to www.epgn.com to weigh in on this week’s question:

Pa. HIC #026545 Phila. Lic. #17895

“Our” Family Plumber for over 30 years

Triangle Medical General Practice Progressive HIV Care MARK T. WATKINS, DO REBECCA CALDER PA-C

(215) 829-0170

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

Party!! The beginning of Lent Spring is right around the corner Three more days till the weekend None of the above

Who should be doing more to end bullying?

505 S. Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19147-1506

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

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

Advertising Director Dan Calhoun (ext. 218) dan@epgn.com

Publisher

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

Jen Colletta (ext. 206) jen@epgn.com

Advertising Manager Greg Dennis greg@epgn.com Advertising Sales Representatives Brooke Lutz brooke@epgn.com Prab Sandhu prab@epgn.com

Staff Writers Angela Thomas (ext. 215) angela@epgn.com

National Advertising Rivendell Media: 212-242-6863

Larry Nichols (ext. 213) larry@epgn.com

Office Manager/ Classifieds Don Pignolet (ext. 200) don@epgn.com

Writer-at-Large Timothy Cwiek (ext. 208) timothy@epgn.com

Art Director/Photographer Scott A. Drake (ext. 210) scott@epgn.com Graphic Artist Sean Dorn (ext. 211) sean@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. © 2013 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

Out Olympian to skate at first Winter Pride By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Two-time Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir is gearing up for a trip back to the next Winter Olympics — but he’ll take some time out of training next week to participate in Philadelphia’s first Winter Pride. The out skater, a native of Coatesville who was raised in Lancaster County, said he’s looking forward to being back in the area. “I couldn’t say no to supporting my home state and also to supporting JOHNNY WEIR my community, the LGBT community, in my home state,” Weir said about the Winter Pride invite. “This community is so important to me and to my family and everyone around me, so I jumped at the chance to perform at Penn’s Landing and help ring in what’s going to be a very, very good time for everybody.” Weir, 28, made two trips to the Olympics and is a three-time U.S. National Champion and the 2008 World Bronze Medalist. He acknowledged that he is gay in his 2011 memoir, but said his own acknowledgement of his sexuality was an organic one. “I never lived in a closet so I didn’t have one to come out of,” he said. “My comingout process wasn’t much of a process and I almost feel bad saying that because I know it can be torturous. My husband was in the closet until a few months before we were married. I just never had to officially come out to anyone, I was accepted as I was and that’s a beautiful way to grow up.” But, Weir said he knows his experience was different than that of many LGBTs, which is why he’s eager to use his celebrity to affect change. “Me being publicly out — I never really thought there was a purpose to that — but I think it’s helped people find the strength to be themselves,” he said. “There are kids I’ve met at performances and even in other countries — in Japan, in Russia — and I shouldn’t call them kids, they’re 18, 19, 20, but they told me how much empowerment they got from seeing an out Olympic athlete performing who’s proud and happy and good at something. There’s fear or rejection and losing your livelihood that keeps people in the closet, but that I’ve been able to do great things has helped a lot of people.” Despite the acceptance he has experienced by fans and family, Weir said there are challenges for out figure skaters. “We’re usually judged by people who are more than twice our age and in a different generation with a different philosophy. Then there often isn’t money or sponsorships in

figure skating now for people who aren’t cookie-cutter, all-American; being gay doesn’t often go into what a big company is looking for. Figure skating is a beautiful sport but it’s not exactly supportive on all fronts, which definitely shocks people.” Some LGBT athletes heading to the 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia have expressed concern that anti-LGBT sentiments in the country could color their experiences there, especially after organizers recently nixed the proposed Pride House for LGBT athletes. But Weir said he has always seen a welcoming environment in the country. “Figure skating is the most popular sport in Russia and I’ve been accepted like a superstar there,” he said. “It’s hard to say what LGBT athletes there have to deal with but, the same as with any country, you have to be smart; you don’t need to be caught making love in a metro, whether you’re gay or straight. And even in someplace like New York you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and encounter someone who doesn’t like gay people. I’ve felt so secure in Russia and not oppressed at all; I wouldn’t be booed for being gay there, I’d be booed if I performed badly.” Weir made his first Olympic appearance in 2006 and again four years later. While the 2014 Games are still a year off, he’s already working toward a medal. “My eyes are strongly focused on the Olympics next year, and I’m working very hard to pursue that dream of competing in my third Olympics and winning a medal,” he said. “Whether on the ice or in the gym, I’m constantly working on improving myself so that, even at 29 at the next Olympics, I’ll be just as strong as I was at my first.” Once the Olympics are over, Weir said, he’s eager to continue his television career. He has served as a judge on two seasons of “Skating with the Stars,” guested on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and starred in his own reality show, “Be Good Johnny Weir.” He’s currently working on a treatment for a variety show he described as “where Sonny and Cher left off, with the humor of Jimmy Fallon, the news of ‘Dateline’ and the craziness of ‘SNL.’” Weir and husband Victor Voronov plan to eventually have a child, he said, and he’s looking into writing a children’s book. “I can’t wait to see what’s next. I hope I’m busy until I’m unable to walk anymore.” ■ Winter Pride runs from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 22 at Penn’s Landing. Organizers suggest arriving early, as the event will start promptly at 6. Weir will perform and receive the first-annual Winter Pride Award, and the Philadelphia Freedom Band will perform during the skating session. Free shuttles will run from a number of sponsoring bars in the Gayborhood, starting at 5:15 p.m. through 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20, which includes two hours of skating and skate rentals. For more information, visit www.phillypride.org.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

LOCAL PGN

We cordially invite you to attend

HRC

greater philadelphia region gala

Saturday, February 16, 2013 at Loews Philadelphia Hotel Purchase tickets at www.hrcphillydinner.org

LOCAL PGN SIMS from page 1

before midnight after his victory in the April primary, which he celebrated at Woody’s. “I remember that night, after I went home, I went right to bed,” he said. “It was just me and my dog and I figured I earned it.” Among his supporters on hand for the occasion were his parents, who both worked different polling stations that day. After the election was called a little after 9 p.m., Sims, his parents and his staff walked over to Woody’s to celebrate. “I was walking with my dad and when we went upstairs, he stopped me and grabbed my shoulders and he was crying and gave me this big hug. Being of an age where my parents could be actively involved was almost overwhelming,” he said. His next phase — settling into elected office — has been just as much a learning experience as the campaign, he said. Sims said after his freshman orientation, he felt more disoriented than oriented. “There are 30-40 different state departments that we have to deal with as a staff. We got mini presentations from all of them. The orientation was a crash course on how much you just don’t know.” Much of Sims’ job involves travel not only between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, but also statewide. He’s been making good use of SEPTA and Amtrak. He hasn’t had a car since 2007 but was issued one by the state to travel to hearings throughout Pennsylvania, which he plans to utilize to ensure he’s attuned to issues throughout the state. “When there is a hearing in Philly, everyone statewide comes because it is Philly, but if a state rep in Erie or Pittsburgh holds a hearing, barely anyone from Philly comes,”

News Briefing Human-relations panel appointed in Haverford Two years after enacting an LGBT-inclusive anti-bias ordinance, the Haverford board of commissioners this week appointed seven people to a panel that will investigate bias complaints. The ordinance bans discrimination in employment, housing, commercial property and public accommodations. It allows for penalties of up to $5,000 per discriminatory act. On Feb. 11, the following people were named to the panel: Richard H. Buxton, Mitchell S. Clair, Robert E. Courtney 3d, Steve Elkins, Florence D. Goff, Carol L. Hartz and Barbara Rittinger Rigo. The selection process was delayed, in part, because of a challenge to the ordinance by township resident Fred W. Teal. But Teal died Sept. 21 of natural causes.

he said. “Part of my race and win was being a quality liaison for Philadelphia statewide. We are balancing the train and driving.” Sims currently has one legislative assistant in Harrisburg and three staff members in his Philadelphia office — chief-of-staff Mason Lane, district office director Anna Aagenes and district coordinator Tim Keller. On a day-to-day basis, Sims and his staff are tasked with helping constituents with

SIMS IN HIS PHILADELPHIA OFFICE ON SOUTH 12TH STREET Photo: Angela Thomas

such issues as education funding, gun crime, taxes, civil rights, nondiscrimination, bullying and many other struggles. “It’s a full spectrum of issues. This is what I hoped for. I knew the issues we would deal with are statewide and nationwide issues.” When it comes to the House floor and the halls of Harrisburg, Sims said he has had nothing but positive experiences with lawmakers from both parties — which he Last month, anti-LGBT activist James Schneller filed a petition in Delaware County Common Pleas Court to succeed Teal as a litigant in the legal challenge. A Delaware County judge hadn’t ruled on Schneller’s request at presstime. Larry Holmes, a member of the Haverford board of commissioners, said the panel is “great for our township, and great for the commonwealth.” To his knowledge, there are no out LGBT people on the board. But, he said, all of the members are sensitive to LGBT issues. Mario A. Oliva, president of Haverford’s board, echoed Holmes’ sentiments. “We have a very talented group,” Oliva said. “They’re diverse, eager to serve and willing to learn.” The panel will soon be trained by the state Human Relations Commission in order to properly investigate bias complaints.

Judge denies request in Conshy case A Montgomery County judge last week denied a request by Conshohocken officials to bar James Schneller from filing additional legal challenges to the borough’s LGBT-inclusive antibias ordinance. Judge Bernard A. Moore issued the rul-

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

likened to the surprise some LGBT people experience in the coming-out process. “We all learned this when we ‘came out.’ Everyone around us was more supportive than we thought they would be. Most people have examples of those who didn’t, but I never had someone who was indifferent. The people around me have been more supportive than I thought, and that has been with the state House as well.” Sims, who has a background as a lobbyist in Harrisburg and as president of Equality Pennsylvania, said he is eager for the possibility of advancing civil rights in Pennsylvania in a bipartisan way. He noted that the LGBT Equality Caucus is gaining steam, with double the membership and new Republican representation. “Now, in just six weeks, I realize there is absolutely that room and that, the truth is, we are still struggling every day to see all of the opportunities of bipartisanship, and so I feel now, there is even more of an opportunity to do this.” Sims said he is eager to see the advancement of two LGBT-inclusive bills in the next year: anti-bullying legislation Pennsylvania Safe Schools Act and a statewide nondiscrimination law that includes sexual orientation and gender identity. The universality of discrimination LGBT people face hit home, Sims said, at last month’s presidential inauguration when he was in a crowd of foreign-born individuals. “There was something about hearing these people around me cheering for the same things I was cheering for, who could recognize that the same issues we face in immigration and with race are the same issues we face because of our sexual orientation and gender identity.” ■ ing Feb. 8, two days after hearing oral arguments on the matter. The judge also denied the borough’s request for about $1,300 from Schneller to cover legal expenses incurred due to Schneller’s latest court filings. Schneller, who lives in Radnor, is cofounder of Philadelphia Metro Task Force, an anti-LGBT group with about 75 members in the region. He wants the antibias ordinance declared null and void, partly on the basis that it violates protected religious freedoms. In an email, Schneller expressed optimism that his legal challenge of the ordinance will prevail in Commonwealth Court, where it remains pending. He’s been challenging the ordinance through various court filings since September 2011. Paul McConnell, president of Conshohocken Borough Council, had no comment for this story. In a related matter, the borough is seeking about $18,000 from Schneller for legal expenses incurred during an earlier part of the litigation. But an arbitration panel hasn’t yet been selected to rule on that request. Violators face a $300 fine and up to 90 days in jail. ■ — Timothy Cwiek

Every Wednesday night 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. you can get a free conﬁdential HIV test at

Philadelphia FIGHT

and receive free admission to Woody’s dance ﬂoor, a free slice of pizza from 13th Street Gourmet Pizza, and a chance to win great prizes.

Philadelphia FIGHT 1233 Locust St., 3rd ﬂoor

www.ﬁght.org 215.985.4448

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Federal inmate alleges denial of transrelated medical care Come see what’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

By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com Sabrina Jackson, a transgender inmate at the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia, says authorities are unfairly denying her access to hormone-replacement therapy. In a recent interview, Jackson, 27, said she received the therapy at Mazzoni Center prior to her July 2010 incarceration for unarmed bank robbery. Since her incarceration, authorities have prevented her from continuing the therapy, she said. In July 2012, the U.S. Marshals Service transported her to Mazzoni, ostensibly so she could continue the hormone therapy, she said. Upon arriving at Mazzoni, Jackson was told her medical appointment was “postponed.” Then, the United States Marshal Service took the position that there would be no more rides to Mazzoni, she said. At the time of the ride, Jackson was a pretrial detainee and technically in the custody of the USMS. But for the past 31 months, she has been incarcerated at the detention center, which is operated by the federal Bureau of Prisons. The BOP has a policy allowing transgen-

der inmates in its custody to access hormone therapy when authorized by a medical professional. Apparently, the USMS doesn’t have a similar policy. Dave Oney, a spokesperson for the USMS, said he didn’t know if the service had a policy relating to transgender inmates. “I’m checking with our Prisoner Operations Division to see what policies are in place to address these types of issues,” Oney said in an email. “I hope to have some answers for you shortly.” However, no answers were forthcoming at press time. Jackson questioned whether the ride to Mazzoni was given in good faith, noting that she heard one marshal tell another: “[Jackson] has got to be crazy. He can do that shit when he gets out. We’re not taking him.” After the incident, BOP officials allegedly told Jackson they lacked the authority to resolve the dispute, because they couldn’t tell the marshals what to do. Cynthia A. Smith, a spokesperson for the detention center, had no comment when asked if Jackson’s ride to Mazzoni was a ruse to enable the USMS to assert control over the matter. Smith also had no comment on whether detention-center officials unfairly excluded Jackson from the benefits of BOP’s transgender-friendly policy by shifting responsibility to the USMS. Jackson said she still hasn’t had any hormone therapy — even after her Jan. 7 sentencing, when the BOP clearly began to have custody over her. She said detention-center officials view her as a “headache,” and she expects to be transferred to another federal facility shortly. She doesn’t know where she’ll be sent, but expressed hope that the next facility will grant her access to hormone therapy. Her projected release date is Aug. 5, if she doesn’t commit any infractions while incarcerated.

She hopes to eventually undergo genderreassignment surgery, she added. Jackson also expressed a desire to pursue LGBT social-justice issues after she’s released. According to court records, Jackson has agreed to pay about $300 in restitution to the Sovereign Bank on Haddon Avenue in Westmont, N.J. She robbed that bank on July 9, 2010, and was arrested a few blocks away. David M. Rosenblum, legal director of Mazzoni, couldn’t comment on the specifics of Jackson’s case. But he said Mazzoni strives to accommodate everyone’s needs, including those who are incarcerated. “Mazzoni Center believes that everyone is entitled to good health care,” Rosenblum said. “Our practice about people being escorted via law enforcement is to make all necessary arrangements to assure safety for both staff and the escorted individual. We have had such circumstances in the past and have accommodated the individuals. Because we are bound by [federal privacy laws], I cannot confirm or deny that [Jackson] was ever a patient at Mazzoni Center.” In another matter, Jackson said she was allegedly raped at the detention center on April 2, 2012, by inmate James Miller. To the best of Jackson’s knowledge, Miller hasn’t been prosecuted. Smith, the detention-center spokesperson, said: “An investigation [of the alleged rape] was immediately conducted in collaboration with the FBI. The investigation portion of this case is complete, and was referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for possible prosecution.” Patty Hartman, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, said: “There are no assault charges filed against a defendant in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania named ‘James Miller,’ and we do not confirm or deny the existence or nonexistence of investigations.” ■

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Caring for the caregiver Many in the LGBT community have experience as caregivers. Some spent the ’80s and ’90s taking care of loved ones and friends who were sick and dying of AIDS. Now, those caregivers and younger generations are facing the reality of caring for our aging friends and loved ones. Caregiving is the act of taking care of a friend or loved one. For people over 65, most long-term care is provided informally at home. As baby boomers age and the number of older adults increases, more informal caregiving will be required. For a number of reasons, LGBT people are much more likely than others to be caretakers. Having few ties to biological family members, who might otherwise feel responsible for us as we age, means that our care will come from our “famiTheo lies of choice.” The stigma of HIV/AIDS and the legacy of that crisis have taught us to care for ourselves when no one else steps forward. And many LGBT people are expected to care for their aging parents when their biological families, who may not even acknowledge their same-sex partnerships, assume that LGBT people are free from other responsibilities. While many see the opportunity to assist others as a blessing, this good work is still work. Caregiving is stressful and time-consuming. It often requires stepping into unfamiliar roles, like the disorienting changes that adult children face as they begin to act as parents for their parents. The burden of these stresses can lead to reduced life expectancies for caregivers, especially if they are over 65. “Stress among caregivers is probably universal,” according to Neville Strumpf, Ph.D., an expert in geriatrics at the University of Pennsylvania. LGBT caregivers and people caring for LGBT older adults sometimes face double jeopardy. In addition to the stressful challenges of caretaking, unique questions and concerns arise about privacy and equality of treatment. Discrimination in laws governing marriage, domestic-partner benefits and family medical leave put many LGBT caregivers in a difficult position. Who has decision-making authority? Can I take time off from work to care for my partner? How can we pay for all of this? “Planning ahead and discussing these matters openly and honestly in advance of a crisis are key to avoiding pitfalls,” Strumpf said. These challenges are even more difficult for caregivers who are in the closet themselves, or who are caring for someone who is not out about their orientation or gender

identity. So what can be done to lessen the burdens of caretaking? Before you even find yourself in a caregiving situation, Strumpf recommends you “make some plans with regard to finances, wills, advance directives and other legal documents.” She also advised that you “have a sensitive primarycare provider who is familiar with your family structure and your preferences for care.” Other steps that caregivers can take to reduce the stresses of caregiving include seeking respite. Respite is a break from your caregiving responsibilities, the chance to take care of yourself so you are better able to care for your loved one. It might be as simple as a few hours to yourself for shopping, laundry and self-care. The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (215-765Schall 9040) can help you arrange for respite. Seek out resources and education. It’s unlikely that you are the first person to be confronted with a problem. Try the CARIE hotline (215-545-5728) to speak with someone who can counsel you about your options. If your loved one is experiencing dementia, try the Alzheimer’s Association’s hotline (800-272-3900) for up-to-date resources. Find support and remain connected outside the caretaking relationship. If you’re a believer, seek out an LGBT-friendly spiritual or religious group for support. If not, there are still many places to look. Free caregiver support groups, usually designed for those managing a particular disease or condition, meet all over the city on a regular basis. Try a simple web search.

Gettin’ On

For more information about caregiving, specifically with a focus on cognitive issues including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss, an LGBTEI Conversation, “The Aging Mind 101,” will be presented April 20. To register or to receive more information about the session, email your name and telephone number to info@lgbtei. org or call 267-546-3448. ■ Theo Schall is a master’s candidate at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice and an intern with the LGBT Elder Initiative. The LGBTEI fosters and advocates for services and resources that are competent, culturally sensitive, inclusive and responsive to the needs of LGBT older adults. To comment on this article, suggest topics for future articles or for more information, visit www. lgbtei.org or call 267-546-3448. Watch for “Gettin’ On” each month in PGN.

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

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.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

EDITORIAL PGN

Creep of the Week

D’Anne Witkowski

Aaron Klein

Editorial

Mission partially accomplished The Pentagon announced this week that it will move forward with the plan to grant some support and benefits to same-sex partners of military members. In a memo issued Monday, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta detailed 22 new benefits that will be extended to same-sex partners of military members and their children. The list includes such items as ID cards that will facilitate access to military establishments, inclusion in morale, welfare and recreational programs, youth programming for dependents, access to sexual-assault counseling, transportation to certain employers and schools and access to child care and legal assistance. The announcement of the rollout of the benefits brought Panetta’s time in office full circle — one of his first acts was to oversee the lifting of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and the benefits extension will be one of his last before retiring. Now that the military’s ban on openly gay servicemembers already seems like an archaic relic, it was past time that the military took the next steps to move its forces forward into the 21st century. But this shouldn’t quell the momentum for more progress. For instance, same-sex partners of military members still won’t have access to such benefits as housing allowances or health-care coverage. Panetta addressed these issues in his memo, noting that these benefits are, by statute, only available to “spouses,” and that the military is bound by the Defense of Marriage Act to interpret that as heterosexual spouses. Additionally, extending access to on-base housing and burial at national ceremonies to same-sex partners, Panetta said, constitutes “complex legal and policy challenges” and raises fiscal questions. And, although it was not mentioned in Panetta’s memo, open service by transgender members remains an issue that needs attention. This latest development is essentially the best that the military can do — for now. The demise of DOMA could very well occur this year with the much-anticipated Supreme Court ruling on the issue, but that shouldn’t mean the LGBT community and its supporters cool their heels and wait. This military milestone should provide even more fuel for activists seeking an end to DOMA. While civilians may feel somewhat disconnected from inequality in the military, discrimination is discrimination, regardless of the context. Panetta asserted in this week’s memo that “discrimination based on sexual orientation no longer has a place in the military.” That’s partially true — his leadership took the military much closer to that goal but, until LGBT military members are treated exactly as other service members, that accomplishment remains elusive. ■

All together now: “If I knew you were coming I’d have baked a cake. Unless you’re gay, unless you’re gay ... ” That’s the theme song of Sweet Cakes bakery in Gresham, Ore., which will not make you a wedding cake if you’re getting gay married because: Jesus. Granted, their website states three separate times that Sweet Cakes makes cakes “for ANY occasion.” Just not gay occasions, apparently. On Jan. 17, Sweet Cakes owner Aaron Klein told a potential lesbian customer that his business was not interested in her lesbian money and would not make a lesbian cake for her lesbian wedding. According to news reports, the lesbian’s heterosexual mother had gotten her own hetero wedding cake there for her hetero wedding. It’s the kind of referral many business owners would be happy to have. But not Klein, who, according to him, told the ladies he was sorry for wasting their time, or according to the ladies, told them they were “abominations unto the Lord.” Either way, he refused their business solely because they were gay. (Although, in the bakery’s defense, their homepage says, “NO BOX CAKES!” which could be interpreted as anti-lesbian). And so the couple filed a complaint with the state attorney general’s office because Oregon, unlike many states, includes sexual orientation in its nondiscrimination law, which says a business can’t deny “full and equal accommodations” to people just because the owner thinks God is telling him to. “I believe marriage is a religious institution between a man and woman as stated in the Bible,” Klein told The Oregonian. “When someone tells me that their definition is something different, I strongly disagree. I don’t think I should be penalized for that.” That’s how laws work, right? We pick and choose the ones we want and don’t want to follow according to what we “strongly disagree” with? Which means since I strongly disagree with the law against marriage equality in my home state of Michigan, I can totally just abracadabra be legally married to my wife because I said so. Not surprisingly, Klein’s refusal and the resulting legal action has received a lot of outrage both in favor of the baker and in favor of the lesbian couple. People are

all, “just go to a different bakery.” And, “I’m going to buy and eat all the Sweet Cakes cupcakes I can fit into my gay-hating mouth.” And, “you show ‘em, ladies! Stick it to the homophobes.” It’s true that there are plenty of bakeries in Oregon that would happily bake lesbians a cake as fast as they can. It’s also true that Klein is entitled to his opinion. But he isn’t entitled to break the law and discriminate based on sexual orientation, just like he isn’t entitled to refuse to make a cake for a Bat Mitzvah because he believes the Jews killed Jesus or something. And don’t try telling me it’s not the same thing, as if one is just exercising your First Amendment rights and the other is “real” discrimination. To make that claim is to devalue gay and lesbian people and sanction the discrimination they face. During a TV news interview, Klein told the reporter that he’d rather go out of business than make cakes for same-sex weddings. That certainly is his choice to make. And in a state with just laws, that is a chance a business owner who discriminates against gays and lesbians should have to face. Discrimination should have consequences. As for the Sweet Cakes supporters who are devouring pastries in a show of antigay solidarity, I could’ve sworn the Bible said something about gluttony. ■

On Jan. 17, Sweet Cakes owner Aaron Klein told a potential lesbian customer that his business was not interested in her lesbian money and would not make a lesbian cake for her lesbian wedding.

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.

OP-ED PGN

My Stonewall story

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Street Talk Should Obama resign as honorary president of the Boy Scouts?

It had never been asked of me like that perspective. For more than 40 years and in before and came as a complete surprise. I thousands of speaking engagements, I’ve was out doing business at our bank where told little. I thought I’d go into detail in the PGN staff has become very friendly my memoirs, but it’s getting a little late, so with the bank staff. While standing at here’s what I told him. “Yes. If he the teller, there’s a tap on my shoulder. The lights blinked — that was a sigtruly believes Michael, one of the gay staffers there who’s nal that there would be a raid — then the in gay rights, lights went on. I was in the back in his 20s, asks me to come over then he to his desk after I’m done. near the dance floor, where should put the younger people usually Sitting down at his desk he his money hung out. I was 18 and had just leans towards me and says, where his “Read in the Inquirer that you moved to New York from Philly. mouth is. I were at Stonewall. What was it Looking like the boy next door, like to think like?” The Inquirer story he was I got carded and was among the my president Michael Anders talking about was an interview first group to be let out. You see, has the I gave after the president menit was the older men who the butcher police might be able to blacktioned Stonewall in his inauguracourage of his South Philadelphia mail and thus were of interest tion speech. There have been a convictions. to them, and of course the drag lot of calls and interviews since He’s the president of all the queens and effeminate men who then. The first was with another people and should stand by they felt, until that night, they Stonewall vet and good friend, his beliefs — regardless of any could harass. I was of no use to or as he likes to say, sister, Jerry political flak he might get.” them. But ... Hose. We Skyped minutes after Mark Segal As I left, I met Marty the president spoke those words. Robinson, sort of the leader of But this was somewhat dif“No. That ferent. This was a young member of our The Action Group, of which I was one of would hurt community, and it felt different. It was that the four members. We had an important moment that made me understand the sigrole. After telling Marty what was hapall the boys nificance of what the president had done. pening, he disappeared and reappeared who have For me that moment was unreal; someone with chalk. What most people don’t realnothing to ize is that Stonewall was not just one night. was asking me to relive a historic event do with [the Marty realized it was a way to organize. that I was part of. For each of us, I can say antigay The four of us wrote on walls and the street we didn’t know it would be history and policy]. Most up and down Christopher Street: “Meet at we didn’t quite know the significance of people in Stonewall tomorrow night.” our actions. Michael asking the question the Scouts Eddie Roman I’ll save more details for that book I’ll triggered an avalanche of emotions ... it are good. It’s actuary someday write. We eventually became Gay became real to me. We sometimes are too just a small West Chester busy fighting for today that we seldom have Liberation Front; I’m still not sure exactly segment how that happened but, GLF, and to a lesser time to look back. And Michael’s question, extent Gay Activist Alliance, are the reasons his wording and that awestruck look on his that are ignorant. The few bad we now have what is called a community. face ... it’s overwhelming, and thanks to the apples shouldn’t spoil it for In the last few years, LGBT history has president, we, like the nation, are beginning everyone else. Obama should been a passion for me, and I thought the to appreciate what is Stonewall. And the stay there.” president has reached out to Stonewall vets. younger generation didn’t care. Our history My favorite example was when he met Jerry is what the foundation of our community is built on and will be the building blocks for and thanked him. Jerry, who was dressed the future. in a SAGE shirt, as he never wears a suit Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, and tie, not even to the White House. Mr. President, thank you for your words, and for Michael. ■ listening to Jerry, who is now, like me, an Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation’s LGBT senior activist. most-award-winning commentator in LGBT But back to Michael. I’ve always told To the Editor: just small details of that night from my own media. He can be reached at mark@epgn.com. On Thursday greeting-card stores, pharmacies and candy shops all over Pennsylvania were swarmed with last-minute shoppers snapping up candy and sweet treats for their loved ones. Florists were overwhelmed with bargain hunters left over If you are celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, adoption or other life from Christmas who are more than willing event, we would be happy to help you announce it to the community. Send your contact to spend $25 or more for a bouquet of roses information and a brief description of the event to editor@epgn.com. that will be wilted by Feb. 21. Lovers all over Pennsylvania celebrated their fondness and affection for one another, and wedding chapels from Philadelphia to Erie had people stampeding, two-stepping or just gently strolling to the altar to wed. Please include a daytime phone number. Send letters and opinion column I applaud the lovers and the couples Letters may be edited for clarity, style and submissions to: pgn@epgn.com; who are making the commitment to spend space considerations. PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA their lives (or part of their lives) together. 19147; fax: 215-925-6437. I applaud the couples who are celebrating

Mark My Words

“No. Obama didn’t create their antigay policy. He shouldn’t have to resign because of it. He does support gays Emily Rodriguez student in the Scouts. North Philadelphia He wants the organization to change. Obama can do more good inside the group than away from it.”

“No. It’s unfortunate that the Scouts ban gays. I’m 100-percent against their policy. But it’s a long Ashley Taylor American student tradition for Erial, NJ the president to hold that post. It’s better to have him in there, persuading people to change.”

Letters and Feedback VDay in PA

We want to know!

Tell us what you think

their honeymoons and anniversaries this year. I would like to be able to applaud the LGBT couples who are marrying right here in Pennsylvania. In some churches, I can do just that. However, in any county courthouse, or at any justice of the peace anywhere in Pennsylvania, I will have to wait for another Valentine’s Day. We deserve marriage equality, and we demand it. Why is it that important? Love does not concern itself with gender. Love does not care about sexual identity. Love is the reason for people to wed, or at least it should be. The love of one woman for another, or two men in love, is not an imitation of love. It is love. The unending sacrifices made by couples who care for and support one another is not a decision made lightly by either partner within a couple. PAGE 14 Gay men and lesbian

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

��

Check Off Your Holiday To-Do List Before Guests Arrive

��

Gen3 Electricians are trained to always respect your home & be mindful of your time, ensuring your 100% satisfaction. Schedule your appointment today:

��

Lighting Upgrades Extra Outlets Hang Chandeliers Ceiling & Bathroom Fans

215-478-6442

generation3electric.com

��

Licensed & Bonded PA015898

��

215-478-6442 G3EPGN.1112

��

� � � � � � � ��

��

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Obituary

Raymond Hill, Penn research coordinator, 27 By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Raymond Hill, a University of Pennsylvania clinical research coordinator, died suddenly Jan. 9 in San Francisco. He was 27. The cause is still under investigation, pending toxicology reports. Hill was a native and resident of Philadelphia, having grown up in the southwest section of the city and most recently living near 12th and Spring Garden streets. He attended West Catholic High School, where he was the valedictorian of his class. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Penn in 2007. Hill moved to California upon graduation and worked as a research coordinator at Standford Univeristy for two years before enrolling in Stanford Law School, where he served as president of the school’s LGBT group. He spent a year at the school before returning to Philly for a time. He went on to study at Georgetown University Law Center before entering a rehab program in Minnesota and eventually returning to Philadelphia.

H e ’d b e e n working at Penn since last summer, where he assisted the director of the Brain Behavior Laboratory in research on brain disorders such as schizophrenia, and coordinated the unit’s medical-legal practice that utilizes brain imaging for civil and criminal proceedings. Hill’s sister, Dottie Robbins, said her brother was known for his intelligence. “He just knew everything,” she said. “My mother and I took a trip to San Francisco in 2007 when he was living out there, which was just the best trip of our lives, and he showed us around and just knew everything. He told us this story that started with him explaining what a virus is and it became a two-hour lecture. And my mother and I were just waiting on every word because he could make things interesting and exciting. He could have done anything he wanted.” Martin Naradikian, Hill’s partner from

2004-09 who remained close friends with him, agreed that Hill’s intellect was unmatched. “He was quite possibly the most intelligent person I ever met. I fell in love with his mind,” Naradikian said. “And he was always argumentative; if he started a conversation with you, he would always see it through. I adored his passion.” During his time in California, Hill worked in the state Attorney General’s office and assisted in writing the report in which the AG declined to defend Proposition 8. Naradikian said Hill was “very passionate about politics. He loved talking about politics and the law.” Robbins noted her brother once commented that, just as some people like sports, politics was his sport. His love of the law, however, didn’t preclude him from having a lighter side. “He was goofy,” Naradikian said. “He’d make a random noise or a face. He was just a hilarious guy who liked to make everyone laugh. That’s what I’ll always miss, his goofiness and fun side.” Hill was also a constant resource for his loved ones, Robbins said. “He was so inspirational. He knew, no

matter what, what to say at the right time. He knew what you needed to hear and when you needed to hear it.” While Hill’s struggle with crystal-meth addiction did deplete some of his spirit, Robbins said, he was determined to try to overcome it. He was an active member of Crystal Meth Anonymous and chaired many sessions, sharing frequently. “Ray was a beautiful, amazing and aweinspiring human being,” Robbins said. In addition to Naradikian and Robbins, Hill is survived by his mother, Cass; brother, Jimmy Corkery; sister-in-law, Jenn Miller Corkery; brother-in-law, Tremayne Robbins; nieces Mariah and Shania Corkery; nephews Jordan and Colin Corkery; and great-nephew Gavin Robb. Memorial donations can be made to the Ray Hill Memorial Fund (www.facebook. com/rayhill.memorial?ref=ts&fref=ts). A visitation will be held 4 p.m. Feb. 17, immediately followed by a funeral service at the Church of St. Luke and The Epiphany, 330 S. 13th St., where Hill was a member. A reception at William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., will follow. ■

An intimate evening with nationally acclaimed singer, songwriter and recording artist

Eric Himan

in his only Philadelphia performance during his

Under the Ink U.S. Winter Tour!

Feb. 27 The Philadelphia Room at the William Way Community Center

Pre-show beverages: 6:45 - 7:15 p.m. Showtime:

7:30 p.m. sharp!

$20 for wine reception + performance $15 for performance only

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

PGN OP-ED LETTERS from page 11

��

women in committed relationships are aware of the opportunity they want afforded to them. For lack of any reason except discrimination, gay and lesbian couples are barred from marrying. We seek to change that. — David E. Moore Founder, Marriage Equality for PA Edinboro To the Editor: Marriage is an important covenantal relationship recognized and supported by the commonwealth, but in its laws and policies, Pennsylvania wrongly excludes lesbian and gay people from this recognition and support. Our neighbors north and south, namely New York and Maryland, support and allow marriage equality. Why do we deny this right to LGBT Pennsylvanians? Marriage offers many legal benefits and responsibilities that protect families. It also provides societal status and emotional benefits. Marriage offers 1,138 federal benefits and responsibilities, not including hundreds more offered by every state. In times of crisis, spouses have hospital-visitation rights and can make medical decisions in event of illness or disability of their spouse. Employers offer spouses sick leave, bereavement leave, access to health insurance and pension. The law provides certain automatic rights to a person’s spouse regardless of whether or not a will exists. Married couples in elder-care facilities are generally not separated unless one spouse’s health dictates hospitalization or special care. The dissolution of a marriage requires a determination of property distribution, award of child-custody support and spousal support. Absent divorce, there is no uniform system for sorting out the ending of a relationship. Married couples are permitted to give an unlimited amount of gifts to each other without being taxed. The law presumes that a married couple with both names on the title to their home owns the property as “tenants by the entirety.” A married couple, by statute, has creditor protection of their marital home. Many married people are entitled to financial benefits relating to their spouses, such as disability, pension and Social Security benefits. With marriage, a couple has the right to be treated as an economic unit and to file joint tax returns (and pay the marriage penalty), and obtain joint health, home

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Obituary

Paula Bickel, school bus driver, 59 By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com School bus driver and Gayborhood resident Paula Bickel died Dec. 6 from pancreatic cancer. She was 59. Bickel, who was born May 2, 1953, lived in the Gayborhood for the past 20 years. She was born in California and previously lived in New Jersey. Bickel graduated from West Deptford High School in 1971 and later worked as a nurse and also as a waitress at the Down Home Diner at the Reading Terminal. She was most recently employed by Walt’s Bus Service in Pedricktown, N.J., as a bus driver — a position she thoroughly enjoyed. “She loved the students that she picked up every day and they loved her back,” said Karen Gibbs,

Bickel’s partner. Bickel and Gibbs were together for 12 years and met at Gayborhood staple Sisters, where they were drawn to each other immediately. “She had a house in the Gayborhood and she asked me to come back to the house with her; I didn’t sleep with her on the first night, but I also never left that house,” Gibbs said. The meeting was perfect timing, as Bickel’s roommate was ready to move out. “She asked if I would like to move in and I said sure. I moved in and never moved out. [Bickel] always said we had a strong connection and

��

— Dug Swank Osterburg, Pa.

Streisand and oldies tunes. She was a huge sports fan and was true to her Philadelphia teams, including the Phillies and Eagles. Bickel was also a supporter of the local drag community and often attended drag events at various bars in the city. “She would always tip them really well,” Gibbs said. She was a frequent face in the Gayborhood, patronizing such bars as Key West Hepburns, Le Femmes and Sneakers that have since closed and more recent establishments such as the Venture Inn, Tavern on Camac and Sisters. Gibbs described Bickel as a very trustworthy individual, who was hard-working and got along great with others. “She was responsible and took great pride in being just that.” Bickel was also known for her

kind nature, she added. “She was a very kind, generous, loving and headstrong person,” Gibbs said. “She was tender and sweet. Her nickname was ‘Sweetness’ because of that quality.” Gibbs said Bickel would continue to live forever in her family’s hearts. In addition to Gibbs, she is survived by her daughter, Theresa Hilditch; grandsons John, Lukas and Zachary; siblings Mary Helen, Georgette, Scott and Joe. She was predeceased by her brother, Rich. A funeral service for Bickel was held at Landolfi Funeral Home in Paulsboro, N.J., and a celebration of life ceremony is pending. Memorial donations can be sent to any HIV/AIDS organization in the greater Philadelphia area. ■

��

LETTERS from page 14

and auto insurance policies. When a spouse dies, there is no need to prove ownership of every item for taxable purposes. A child who grows up with married parents benefits from the fact that his or her parents’ relationship is recognized by law and receives legal protections. Spouses are generally entitled to joint child custody and visitation upon divorce (and bear an obligation to pay child support). Parents should be judged on their ability to parent, not by their age, race, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. For adults, a stable, happy marriage is the best protector against illness and premature death. Studies on marriages have found that married people live longer, have higher incomes and wealth, engage less in risky behaviors, eat healthier and have fewer psychological problems than unmarried people. Research shows that unmarried couples have lower levels of happiness and well-being than married couples. To deny marriage to a class of people, namely to lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender Pennsylvanians, denies legal equality, which is a basis of our government. I strongly urge the citizens of this commonwealth to consider and support marriage equality in Pennsylvania.

history.” Gibbs was impressed with Bickel’s pride in her home. “She kept an immaculate home and it was always clean. She always had a beautiful garden, and sometimes I would come home and there would be new furniture or new flowers in the garden,” she said. Bickel was also a handy woman who could build things from random materials and was skilled at carpentry, Gibbs said. The two enjoyed many road trips, Bickel’s favorite of which was Rehoboth Beach, Del. Bickel and Gibbs would go to Asbury Park in New Jersey and Jimmy Johns, a famous roadside stand in West Chester. Bickel was a huge fan of out singer-songwriter K.D. Lang and went to see her live in concert with Gibbs, and also listened to Barbra

��

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

PGN

NEWS PGN CAUCUS from page 1

the state reflects that legislators and constituents are ready for Pennsylvania to move forward with LGBT equality. “It is an embarrassment quite frankly when we are completely surrounded by states who have equal rights for everyone in their community, including the LGBT community,” he said. Leach, who has introduced marriage-equality bills in the past, noted that while numerous municipalities have passed nondiscrimination ordinances, Pennsylvania needs a statewide measure. “Discrimination is legal in Pennsylvania. It is not only immoral but unsustainable,” he BENEFITS from page 1

pany, a human-resources official told him to contact UMR, a thirdparty administrator for self-funded health plans, for changes. UMR requested copies of Kineef’s birth certificate and Social Security card, which Ginther sent, but in September the agency issued him a letter denying his request. UMR said the denial was because “according to ArcelorMittal, same-sex marriage is not covered under your insurance.” There was no documentation of the plan’s provisions or information about an appeal procedure. The following day, Ginther contacted both UMR and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield about a review process but, despite numerous attempts, has yet to hear back from either company, according to the complaint. In October, he contacted the board of trustees of the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Fund for information on an appeal but also has yet to get a response. The couple is being represented by Jerner & Palmer, P.C., in Philadelphia, and Lewis, Feinberg, Lee, Renaker & Jackson, P.C., in Oakland, Calif. Attorney Tiffany Palmer said she believes the case is the first in Pennsylvania in which a married same-sex couple is seeking health benefits under ERISA. But, with more states legalizing same-sex marriage, Palmer said she expects these filings will become more frequent. “I think we’ll be seeing more and more of these cases developing because there are so many Pennsylvania couples who are now legally married in other jurisdictions, and they are going to begin requesting rights that they should be entitled to as a married couple in all sorts of different contexts, such as health insurance.” Julie Wilensky of Lewis,

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

said. Martin added that the time for LGBT equality could not come soon enough. “I am often called upon to speak about the state of LGBT Pennsylvania. As a representative from the state, I am often forced to painfully explain Pennsylvania’s bleak record on LGBT civil rights,” he said. Sims, however, predicted Pennsylvania could see the passage of hate-crimes and nondiscrimination legislation in the next 18 months. Sixteen states and Washington, D.C. have LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination laws that Sims said were the result of “proactive

actions to protect LGBTs. It is time that we do the same.” Sims thanked the new Republican members for their support of the caucus, calling them “genuine leaders” of the party. The caucus growth comes as Equality Pennsylvania unveiled the promising results of a recent poll, commissioned by CivicScience, on Pennsylvanians’ view on LGBT rights. The poll surveyed about 1,000 Pennsylvanians on three questions about civil-rights protections and discrimination. Findings included 48 percent of respondents strongly agreed that LGBT individuals should be entitled to the same civil rights

and protections as other minorities, with another 14 percent who somewhat agreed with that sentiment. When asked whether LGBT people should be protected against being fired for their sexual orientation or gender identity, 55 percent of Pennsylvanians strongly agreed and 14 percent somewhat agreed. About 63 percent of Pennsylvanians also strongly disagreed that hotels and other businesses should be able to refuse service based on an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, and 9 percent also somewhat disagreed. Martin said the poll speaks volumes about the readiness of

Pennsylvanians for LGBT-rights protections. “Pennsylvania will be one of the only states in the country where you can still be fired for your sexual orientation and gender identity. It is time to change that,” he said. “This poll says the public is way ahead of the legislature. The public in this poll and other polls shows support, and so this says that the public is perfectly fine with these issues.” Martin said the poll would hopefully also show legislators that they can vote for LGBT-inclusiveness without negative repercussions. “Their colleagues are with them and their citizens are with them,” Martin said. ■

Feinberg said the plaintiffs are primarily aiming to get Kineef health insurance. “We are seeking to have the plan enforced according to its terms; we’re not asking for any special rights,” she said. “It’s really just that the plan says a spouse is an

eligible dependent, so we would like Mr. Kineef to be recognized as a spouse as he should.” The complaint requests the court declare the defendants violated the plan, find that Kineef is an eligible dependent and enroll him in the plan retroactively to June 1. The

filing also requests that the court award attorneys and litigation fees and that the board be liable to Ginther for $110 per day from Oct. 29, when he began requesting documents for an appeal. The complaint will be served on the defendants summarily and

they will have 30 days to respond. In a statement to PGN, Ginther said his goal is simple. “I just wanted to be treated the same as my coworkers and have my spouse added to my medical benefits.” ■

��

AMY F. STEERMAN Attorney at Law

��

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

��

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

��

215-735-1006

��

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

FEB 26 – MAR 3 • ACADEMY OF MUSIC ON SALE NOW!

kimmelcenter.org/broadway Presented by

Kimmel Center for the performing arts

215.731.3333

FEATURE PGN

AC ul t ure rts

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

PAGE 28

Barcrawlr Family Portrait Out & About Outward Bound Scene in Philly Q Puzzle Worth Watching

Page Page Page Page Page Page Page

24 23 30 26 21 32 26

DAN FISHBACK (FROM RIGHT), MAX STEELE AND ERIN MARKLEY

Queer NYC performance arts come to Philly By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com

Philadelphia is getting a generous helping of New York’s queer performance-arts scene with “Round Up Holler Girl,” a threeperson performance at the Kelly Writer’s House Feb. 20. Dan Fishback, an ArtsEdge resident and a well-known performer in the East Village’s anti-folk movement, organized the show, which will feature performances by himself and fellow performance artists Max Steele and Erin Markley. Fishback said he set up the show to

expose Philadelphia to some of the performers popular in New York City’s queer performance-art arena. “I wanted to bring two of my favorite performance artists from New York City so people can get a sense of what kind of work is being made,” he said. “I’ve invited them to come and read work. Erin, Max and I are all performance artists and theater-makers and usually do things that are in between genres. It’s an opportunity to focus on ourselves as writers and for us all to investigate each others’ work on a literary level and not on a performance level.” Fishback said that so far he hasn’t seen

anything like New York’s queer performance-art scene in Philadelphia, but he’s been a little too busy to do any substantial searching. “I’m living in Philadelphia while on the residency but I’m not really ‘living’ here in a way. I haven’t really investigated the Philly scene as much as I want to. My very uneducated sense of the Philly queer performance scene is that it’s a lot of traditional drag. In New York, it is very theater-based. But I’m reconsidering my definition of these things. The queer performance scene in New York is more lively than it has been in a long time. Erin and Max and I have sort

of come up in the scene in our 20s over the past decade from a time where there wasn’t a lot of stuff going on. Now it feels like there’s a thriving performance culture.” All three performers agreed they take their performances seriously, but have elements of dark humor in them. “I’m on the obscure comedy side, but it’s also a little dark,” Markley said about her styles. “We all consider our work serious but also incorporating elements of tragic comedy,” Steele added. “There’s a certain amount of gravity in terms PAGE 20 of content.”

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

FEATURE PGN

WRITER’S from page 19

“The great thing about Max and Erin is they are both hilarious but they also both deal with serious stuff,” Fishback said. “Max’s stuff is often really erotic, but he always uses sexuality as a way to deal with larger issues about what human beings are and how our identity functions. Erin is one of the funniest performers you will encounter, but a lot of her work also deals with really heavy issues. I think all three of us straddle all those things. I think all three of us find it difficult to discuss anything without injecting some humor.” Another element the three have in common is rich backgrounds in the world of music and theater. Fishback is the creator of major works including “You Will Experience Silence” and “thirtynothing” and has also toured North America and Europe with his band, Cheese of Bread. Markley has taken her conceptual musical performances around the world. Steele is known for his go-go dancing gigs and his porno poetry zine, “Scorcher.” Fishback said all three artists draw upon their various artistic pursuits for their performance art. Added Matkley,“We all sort of mush it together. All of my theater shows have had music in them. I think we’re all attracted to the art forms we are attracted to because there are no rules. We can do all of the things we like to do all at the same time. Music is a huge part of all of our lives and so is writing and so is theater. All three of us are finding ways to do all the things we like to do and all of us have healthy disregard for the limits of genre.” “We’re all singers but I have a belt-y approach to it. It’s kind of classic. I will probably be doing some singing [in the show]. We’re all a very different kind of 21st-century diva. I’m not exactly sure of how to put my finger on exactly what that is.” Said Steele, “We’ve definitely done shows on the same bill a great number of times in the past. We’ve collaborated on projects together. We all tend to work in the same mix of venues in New York. Dan has worked for a long time as a musician in rock clubs. Erin and I performed in more disco or cabaret venues as well. We have a similar

STEELE, FISHBACK, AND MARKLEY mix of references.” Fishback said he hopes the Kelly Writer’s House will spark something artistically — either here or in New York. “I think we’re at a really exciting moment in queer performance and a lot of great stuff is going on all the time,” he said. “If that inspires anyone to take the cheap bus up and see some stuff, that would be great. I get the sense that there’s a lot of great stuff happening here as well that has a different flavor to it. It would be great for the two things to inform each other.” Steele said while New York is a hotbed for the kind of performance scene they all are a part of, it isn’t wholly unique to that area. “I think the big benefit of living in New York is having access to the people here,” he said. “You get to connect with artists and their work at a more developmental stage than you might be able to in other cities. But that being said, New York is an insane place to live. It’s often said that moving to New York isn’t what it used to be and that there are many other cities artists can go to and have a much more livable life. I don’t think New York is the only possible place you can do this kind of work. My reasons for living in New York are so that I can be around other artists whose work I admire. But it’s always a tradeoff. Living here is so expensive that you have to make some real concessions in order to stay here.” Markley echoes that sentiment that New York City is equal-parts hotbed and cruel mistress to the arts scene. “Nurture is a strong word but it definitely tolerates us,” she said about the city. “The underlying vibe of New York is like pulsating ambition, and I think it really runs through every industry. It doesn‘t matter if you‘re working on Wall Street or writing really ridiculous songs for an audience of 10. The ambitiousness is really present and I think we keep each other honest and on top of things in that way, because the more work you make, the more you learn about who you are and what you want.” ■ Catch “Round Up Holler Girl” 6 p.m. Feb. 20 at Kelly Writer’s House, 3805 Locust Walk. For more information, visit www.sas. upenn.edu/gsws/content/round-holler-girl.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

PGN

PORTRAIT PROFILE PGN

Family Portrait

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Suzi Nash

Laura Cheadle: Keeping the music alive in the family “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” — Plato Very true, according to singer-songwriter Laura Cheadle. Known for her soulful voice and energetic guitar, Cheadle blends many genres within and among her songs, giving rock/pop a soulful twist with a splash of blues. A consistent fan favorite, she was voted “Best Female Artist of 2010” by radio station 93.7 FM WSTW. A native of Pitman, N.J., Cheadle and her family are starring in an episode of the new reality show “America’s Next Family Band” and she has just released a song about equality, “It’s Not Okay.” PGN: You’re a Jersey girl. What was growing up like? LC: It was all about music. My father, Jim Cheadle, is a musician who was big in the Philly scene. He was part of the Philly International scene and was a staff writer with April-Blackwood Music. He was signed to Columbia Records at 19 to write songs and he wrote songs with producer Jerry Ross for a lot of R&B artists like Jerry Butler, Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes and The O’Jays. He’s even played and recorded with DJ Jazzy Jeff and Grover Washington Jr. PGN: That’s really cool. LC: Yeah, I grew up around all that. I remember being excited about getting to meet Boyz II Men when they first got hot. And I don’t know if you know the group the Soul Survivors, they had that song, [sings] “On the expressway, to your heart.” They were over at our house all the time because my dad played with them. PGN: When did you start performing? LC: I think my first time performing was with the Appreciation Choir, which my father created for the Persian Gulf War troops in the early ’90s. My twin brothers and I and a number of other kids sang and toured the country with the choir. My dad even produced a music video that was shown on VH1 and MTV. It was amazing, but Jersey keeps you very real and down to earth, which I liked. PGN: What was a good memory with the twins? LC: When I was about 10 I started playing the drums and we formed a band called — what else — Sibling, and we toured around the area. We played a lot of restaurants, churches, music venues, private parties, parades, you name it. It gave me a lot of confidence to perform, especially having my big brothers with me. They’re six years older than me.

PGN: So you were the Karen Carpenter of the group. LC: Yes I was, for sure. So you know she started out on drums too.

PGN: Were you out in high school? LC: Uh huh, yes. Actually I think I said I was bi at first, like we do. But by 12th grade I was totally out.

PGN: Yup. Love her. And what did your brothers play? LC: My brother Jimmy Lee plays lead guitar and my brother Nick plays keyboards.

PGN: Has it affected your music career? LC: Well, I went through a phase where I didn’t want to say anything, I just wanted the music to speak for itself, but it became so ... I mean, I’m the kind of person where it’s not my identity, I have a lot of male fans and I didn’t come right out and say, “Hey, I’m gay and that’s the only thing I am.” I didn’t hide it but I didn’t announce it either, but now I’m at the point where I just want to be completely, authentically me. It just doesn’t feel right if you’re not saying anything about it.

PGN: What was your favorite gig? LC: Definitely the 4th of July parade. Every year we’d ride a float and we had people in the back throwing candy and we’d perform for everyone. It was great, just the best time. It’s still my favorite holiday because I had so much fun. PGN: And when did you start to step out on your own? LC: Well, when I was about 16 I taught myself how to play the guitar. I’d just had my heart broken and it was the perfect vehicle for me to express my feelings and start writing songs.

PGN: Yeah, I actually called your manager to confirm that you were gay, and/or open about it, because I didn’t see anything referring to it on your website, but she confirmed that you were and informed me that she was too!

PGN: So who broke your heart? LC: You know I’ve never spoken about who or what the song was really about, but this is the perfect time! It was the first girl I was ever with. I was 15 and she kissed me [laughs], which I’m still mad about because now she’s straight. It was my first kiss — I don’t count guys — and I was so in love with her. We spent the whole summer together and then she got scared of being with a girl and just stopped talking to me. I was devastated. I never played the guitar but I taught myself and wrote a song called, “I Can’t be in Love with You.” It was on my first CD. The whole album was about the break-up with her and another girl that I dated that year too.

PGN: Was your gay uncle an influence? LC: Yes, he still is. But he was shocked when I came out. He said, “But you’re feminine!” [Laughs.] I said, “What does that mean?” He’s much older so I guess it was a generational thing.

PGN: What was a favorite experience onstage? LC: Opening for the Average White Band. PGN: “Cut the cake!” That’s awesome. LC: Yeah, it was exciting. It was a great match-up. The energy was really high and we must have sold 200 CDs that night. I opened for the Jonas Brothers, that was funny. They were very sweet. Not my audience, but fun. PGN: I understand you have a really unique playing style. LC: Well, I’m a drummer first, so when I play guitar I play it as if I’m playing drums; I’m very rhythmic and I don’t use a pick. I have small hands so I have really crazy chord positions. People are always coming up to me, “What are you doing?” I’m a real vibe person, so I just play what feels right for me. PGN: I read this quote, “When the audience least expects her to do so, Laura rises from her chair and dances, unabashedly shaking her hips and engaging the audience.” LC: [Laughs.] I can’t help myself, I have to get up and move. I’m a big punk music fan so I like to shake it.

PGN: Did she know the songs were about her? LC: Uh, yes. They both did. And now they’re both straight, married to guys now. I actually ran into one of them recently. PGN: What was your first “aha” moment realizing that you were gay? LC: I was 4 years old when I first told my mom I liked girls and that I was gay. Four. When I officially came out to her at 15 she said, “Oh, I know. You told me already.” I was really lucky; my parents are very hippielike and down to earth. My dad has a million gay friends and my mom has a gay brother so they were cool with it. I’ve met a lot of people where the family was not OK, so I’m very fortunate.

PGN: My family is really accepting too and people are always astounded to see them at gay events. Not as much nowadays but especially back a few years it was a lot more unusual. LC: Yeah, I try not to take it for granted. A lot of people still face rejection from their families.

PGN: Who were some of your other influences? LC: Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, Aretha Franklin. I like a lot of old R&B and blues. I was definitely born in the wrong time period.

LC: Yeah, I mean I have done all sorts of gay and Pride events. One reason I’m being more open about it is because of the reaction that I get from people at those events at seeing me onstage with my family. My father and brothers are in the band with me and people get really emotional that they’re so supportive. People will cheer and cry and really are moved by it. So we want to really spread the message of love and acceptance that way.

PGN: Well, something’s working for you. You were Photo: Suzi Nash selected as the very first Viewer’s Choice winner on 6ABC’s “Tuned In”; the radio station 93.7 WSTW voted you “Best Female Singer of 2009” and “Best Female Artist of 2010”; you have Sennheiser Microphones as a sponsor; and ICE jewelry has asked you to create a collection. Not bad. LC: It’s amazing. I’ve won a lot of fan-based contests. With 6ABC, people were writing every week to have us win. It was incredible. PAGE 32

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

NIGHTLIFE PGN

Love my way

Food & Drink

I hope you’re all recovered from the holidays because Philly is really heating up this month. Look at all the things there are to do in the next couple of weeks! And it’s all happening around the most polarizing holiday of all, St. Valentine’s Day. People either love it or they hate it, right? I’ve always thought Valentine’s Day was a little cheesy, but I don’t mind it. I’ll take any excuse to butter up my sweetie with candy and gifts so we can make out and I can shove my hand down the back of his pants! Oh, l’amour ...

Barcrawlr

SnowBrawl It’s too damn cold Jim Kileyfor Jell-O wrestling this time of year, but Zufelt leave it up to the ladies from Penn Jersey Roller Derby and Sisters to come up with a sexy solution: SnowBrawl! Check it out from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Feb. 15 at Sisters Nightclub, 1320 Chancellor St. The roller girls of your dreams will be wrestling in a snow-filled pool and competing for the title of Ice Queen! Cover charge is only $7. February Stimulus Deck yourself out in your hottest red and pink fashions for Stimulus at 10 p.m. Feb. 15 at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St. They’ll have four DJs, drink specials, the sexy shot crew and speed dating with a Stimulus twist! Cover charge is only $10. Be sure to RSVP to stimulusparty@gmail.com if you want to reserve your spot for speed dating.

“The ﬁnest of dining experiences”

CONTACT YOUR PGN AD REP TO BE INCLUDED IN THIS DIRECTORY:

(215) 625-8501 515 Rt. 38 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 856-662-3838 www.steak38cafe.com

Valentine’s Weekend Escape to the Poconos for a romantic getaway at Rainbow Mountain, Feb. 15-17 in East Stroudsburg. On Saturday night they’re featuring a special Valentine’s dinner with a live harpist. See www.rainbowmountain.com for more information. HRC Philadelphia Gala Dinner Join HRC Philly and special guests MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry and HRC President Chad Griffin for their 17th annual gala dinner, 6 p.m.-midnight Feb. 16 at Loews Philadelphia Hotel, 1200 Market St. See www.hrcphillydinner.com for details and tickets. Sticky & Sweet Dance Party Join SisterSpace of Delaware Valley for a night of dancing and mingling with sweet and sexy singles from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Feb. 16 at Stir Lounge, 1705 Chancellor St. They’ll have drink specials and DJ Ethel Cee. Cover is only $5. Lady Gaga Pre-Concert Party If you love Lady Gaga, then put a reminder

NIGHTLIFE PGN

in your phone for 10 p.m. Feb. 16 at ICandy, 254 S. 12th St. They’ll have drink specials, raffles for Gaga memorabilia and, OMG, they’re giving away Lady Gaga tickets! Cover charge is only $5. Ladies 2000 Winter Party Celebrate President’s Day weekend at the winter “40’n Up” party from 3-6 p.m. Feb. 17 at Top Dog, 2310 Marlton Pike (Route 70), Cherry Hill, N.J. Complimentary buffet, $1 power hour from 3-4 p.m., DJ Steve Singer playing the hits you love and tons of free parking. Cover charge is $10. PGMC Bachelor Auction and Tea Dance Warm up with the hot guys of the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus from 3-6 p.m. Feb. 17 at Woody’s, 202 S. 13th St., at their 10th annual bachelor auction and tea dance. Dinner dates with eight of the guys will be up for grabs, as well as games, raffle prizes, drink specials and great music. Cover charge is only $10, all of which supports the PGMC. Our Night Out Join ONO and this month’s co-host, Mazzoni Center, from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 17 at Sole Food in the Loews Philadelphia Hotel, 1200 Market St. Enjoy drink specials and hors d’oeurves while getting a preview of Elixir, the Mazzoni Center fundraiser coming in May. Queen of the Night Drag Benefit Join host Brittany Lynn from 9 p.m.-midnight Feb. 17 at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St., to see your favorite staff members from local bars turn it out in the best charity drag show in town! Tickets are $20 each, with proceeds benefiting Mazzoni Center. Honey Poo Poo’s Chic-Fill-A Fashion Show Be there from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Feb. 20 at Bob & Barbara’s, 1509 South St., to see what happens on the runway when Honey Poo Poo meets the Kartrashians (those aren’t typos). It’s produced by the Dumpsta Players and benefits The Attic Youth Center, so you know it’ll be a great time and a big hot mess! Suggested donation at the door is $1.99 but c’mon, dig deeper — it’s for the kids! Winter Pride Meet Olympic ice skater Johnny Weir at Winter Pride from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 22 at Penn’s Landing River Rink, Columbus Boulevard and Market Street. Tickets are $20, which covers two hours on ice and your skate rental. There will be entertainment, a shuttle to and from the rink and special after-parties all over the Gayborhood at The Bike Stop, Sisters, Tabu, ICandy, Westbury and Venture Inn. ■ Questions, comments, sweet ideas for Valentine’s Day? Contact Jim at barcrawlr@gmail.com or follow him on Facebook for links to back articles and totally bitchin’ classic-music videos!

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

TV &PGN TRAVEL

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Worth Watching

Outward Bound

Jeff Guaracino

Three perfect gay days in Rome Rome for the weekend? You bet! With the Pope’s stunning announcement of his retirement and spring upon us, now is an exciting time for a quick weekend escape to the Eternal City. Here are my tips for three perfect days in Rome.

ESCAPE FROM L.A.: Starting at the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, 11 teams race to their first destination on the premiere of a new season of “The Amazing Race,” 8 p.m. Feb. 17 on CBS. Photo: CBS/Robert Voe

WITCH MOUNTAIN: Richard Harris (center) plays gay wizard Dumbledore at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” 8 p.m. Feb. 16 on ABC. Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros.

I JUST WANTED A MARTINI BUT IF YOU’RE HIRING ... : Cosmopolitan executive editor Joyce Chang (from left), editor-in-chief Joanna Coles and senior editor Jessica Knoll put five candidates through a rigorous interview process before awarding one an editorialassistant position, on “The Job,” 8 p.m. Feb. 15 on CBS. Photo: CBS/David M. Russell

PARTY CASHERS: Even with threats on their family closing in, the Graysons put on a bold showing at their annual Labor Day bash on “Revenge,” 9 p.m. Feb. 17 on ABC. Photo: ABC/Colleen Hayes

Plan ahead of time Of course you can’t see all of Rome in just a weekend, but you certainly can see the historic center of Rome. To maximize your time and to avoid long lines, it is essential to have a game plan before you go. Every minute will count—and don’t plan on sleeping much. If this is your first visit to Italy, it pays to work with a travel agent or an incoming tour operator to help you find the A FLYERS FAN DJING AT best deals and THE COMING OUT BAR to plan your trip. Quiiky is the first and only Italian tour operator specializing in gay and lesbian travel. Quiiky, a five-year-old company affiliated with Sonders & Beach and a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, can arrange all or part of your trip. Be sure to ask about private tour guides, which while expensive, are a smart way to get lots of local knowledge and customized information. Visit quiiky.com. Adventurous travelers will find it easy to self-organize a trip to Rome too. You can buy most of your tickets online and in advance. There is also plenty of information online on the history of Rome and the historic attractions. Now with Google Maps and Google Images, you can almost map out and visualize your entire trip even before you leave. Stay in the center of it all There are a number of wonderful hotels in ancient Rome. For a quick trip, consider the 2nd Floor bed and breakfast (www.2floor.it). This cozy hotel has amazing views of the ancient ruins of Rome and is steps away from the Coliseum. The hotel caters to the LGBT traveler but is perfectly suitable for gay and straight guests traveling together. The charming rooms have free Wi-Fi and private baths and some offer small balconies. This hotel meets even the fussiest traveler’s needs and you can’t beat the affordable price. What makes the 2nd Floor an ideal choice for travelers with a short time in Rome is its Coming Out Bar on the first floor. Guests enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and Italian cappuccino and espresso. By midday, the restaurant is

bustling with a young lunchtime crowd and by evening, this is the spot for early cocktails. By 10 p.m., the restaurant becomes a small bar and dance club. The DJs play international and American music. (By coincidence, during my own three-day getaway last month, the DJ was wearing a Philadelphia Flyers hat.) While I didn’t see this hotel personally, Quiiky also recommends the Kolbe Hotel, a luxury hotel in the center or Rome. This four-star hotel is located in a historic building that dates back to the 15th century, with many rooms overlooking the Roman Forum. Visit www.kolbehotelrome.com. Eat, Pray, Love There are two things you can’t avoid when in Rome: eating and visiting a church. On Via San Giovanni, check out the casual Bisteccheria Pizzeria. For an authentic Italian meal, try Divin Ostilla Enoteca, a small wine bar. And the Coming Out Bar also offers an affordable menu of Italian classics. Rome’s number-one tourist attraction is the Vatican, a must-visit even for non-Catholics. There is the iconic Sistine Chapel and the treasures within the architectural marvel of the Basilica of St. Peter. If you plan enough in advance, you can arrange a visit to the necropolis underneath the Basilica, where the tomb of St. Peter is. It is best to use a local tour guide to help you set up this tour, and it could take up to four months. Visit www.vatican.va. The Coliseum is Rome’s second-mostvisited attraction and a gorgeous and surprisingly preserved wonder of the world. You can buy a two-day ticket that gives you access to the Coliseum and the Roman Forum, the political, religious and legal center of the ancient world, beautiful by day and by night. Getting there It pays to shop around for the best airfare deals to Italy. USAirways offers nonstop daily service to Rome from Philadelphia International Airport. You may find more competitive fares and a wider variety of in-flight amenities by leaving from Newark and JFK airports, in the New York City metro area. Once in Italy, it is easy to get from the airport to the city center. Take the Leonardo Express Train to Termini Station. Once there, follow the signs for the Metro and take Metro Line B. It is designated with a blue color. Take this line two stops to Colosseo Station. From there, it is a short walk to the 2nd Floor and other hotels. ■ Jeff Guaracino is the author of “Gay and Lesbian Tourism: The Essential Guide for Marketing” and the co-chair of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association.

FILM PGN

Negative ‘Side Effects’ By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor It’s a bit of a spoiler to reveal that the film “Side Effects” contains a surprise queer twist in which a lesbian couple tries to outwit the law. The reveal is really so “Deathtrap” — and has a more damaging side effect than the film’s “will they or won’t they get away with it?” plot. The lesbians are venal, their relationship more about financial benefit than any hint of love. When one character guesses that another woman “likes girls,” she uses that

ROONEY MARA IN “SIDE EFFECTS”

to her advantage, seducing the closeted gal and embroiling her in multiple crimes. She never acknowledges being queer herself — she uses sexuality to lure her coconspirator. It’s irresponsible that “Side Effects” writer Scott Z. Burns and director Steven Soderbergh equate sexuality with villainy. Moreover, the film’s lesbian scenes generate unintentional laughs. A flashback shows one of the women posing seductively, while other scenes feature teasing near-liplocks that come across as ludicrous. When the women do embrace and start to undress, their impending coitus is interrupted — but not before a few kisses and clinches are actually shown. The scene reeks of exploitation, not any true exploration of the characters. Their crimes have nothing to do with their passions. Rooney Mara, who stars in “Side Effects,” received considerable exposure and recognition for her portrayal of bisexual Lisbeth Salander in the American version of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” In that film, Rooney played a morally challenged character, but her violent behavior — which included exacting a nasty revenge on her rapist — was gratifying because the punishment she meted out fit the crime. Her sexuality was part of what informed her view of what she suffered as well as how she reacted; it was not simply dropped into the plot as a device to sensationalize the story. There is no reason gay and lesbian characters, of course, cannot be evil on screen. In fact, some of the best queer films feature villains. The lesbian classic “Bound,” directed by Andy and Lana Wachowski — Lana then still living as Larry — had lesbian lovers outwitting the mob, and it was sexy, stylish and satisfying as hell.

New Queer Cinema also offered great killer gay couples. Gregg Araki’s “The Living End” featured two angry HIV-positive lovers on the lam who go on a murderous crime spree to act up and lash out in an anarchic “fuck you” to the world. Tom Kalin’s “Swoon” was a vivid reimagining of the Leopold and Loeb “thrill-kill” case, where the lovers bond over their murder of a boy only to have the crime undo them. And, in 2009, there was the fabulous screwball conman comedy “I Love You Phillip Morris” that chronicled the great — albeit illegal — lengths a gay man (Jim Carrey) would go to be with the man he loves (Ewan McGregor). For some queer villains, the best way to show how much you love your partner is to break the law. Love isn’t the issue in “Side Effects,” which may remind viewers of the brouhaha 20 years ago when “Basic Instinct” portrayed bisexual Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone) as a murderous sociopath. The principle is the same with Soderbergh’s film. The LGBT community should be asking, “Why are the villainous characters lesbian?” In 2010, Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “Biutiful” featured gay Asian characters running a human-trafficking ring. The villains’ sexuality was not developed beyond being a symbol of their bad behavior, yet that issue went largely undiscussed. “Side Effects” might similarly skate by without deserved scrutiny. When protests happen — as when gay groups responded to Buffalo Bill, the serial killer in “Silence of the Lambs” — they can be effective in raising awareness of how queer characters are too often treated in film. William Friedkin’s “Cruising” also drew harsh criticism for the way the gay leather scene was portrayed. Even queer filmmakers can find themselves on the receiving end of backlash. Todd Verow’s daring1995 adaptation of Dennis Cooper’s “Frisk” provoked controversy, protest and, at a queer festival in San Francisco, a near riot — which is perhaps what a queer film about killing should do. But the outrage was directed more at the film’s realistic, fetishized sexual violence, not its same-sex nature per se. And remember, Charlize Theron won an Oscar for playing lesbian serial killer Aileen Wuornos in “Monster,” proving there can be great portrayals, done with artistic integrity, of bad queers. Hollywood has long featured queer villains. Hitchcock had plenty of gay killers (often played by gay actors) in films ranging from “North By Northwest” and “Psycho” to “Strangers on a Train” and “Rope.” Like the memorable queer villain George Macready played in “Gilda,” the sexuality of these characters was evident, but not determinative. It may have informed their sinister nature, but it was not the reason for their bad behavior. If only “Side Effects” had developed its femme fatales better, maybe viewers would root for them, rather than boo them. ■

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

MUSIC PGN

Out musician takes retro-pop sound on the road By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Self-described gay piano/popster Derek Bishop is embarking on a short tour with gay-fronted alternative country band The Paisley Fields, hitting town Feb. 16 at JR’s. Bishop admitted that he has a number of reasons to go on the trek besides getting his

music heard. “They are friends of mine and the’re very good about going out and touring to their Midwest roots,” Bishop said about The Paisley Fields. “I said to them, ‘If you’re going to do a tour of the East Coast and South, let me know because I have friends and fans all along.’ We thought it would be good to go somewhere warmer than it is in

New York.” Hopefully the snow won’t imprison them in the city before the tour starts. Bishop said he’ll be traveling lighter than he usually does for these road shows but he’s hoping to improvise a solution. “It’ll be different,” he said. “I’ll be going solo with a piano without a whole band but what I’m hoping to do each night is drag a

different musician from their band into my set — a drummer one night, a guitarist the next. I have plans for them that they might not be aware of. It should be fun.” Bishop’s debut album, “Resistance is Beautiful,” had been out for almost two years, but he said he’s still pushing to expose it to new listeners. “The great thing is that it hasn’t taken off so everywhere I go to promote it, it’s new to these people,” he said. “So it actually has a nice long span of finding new audiences.” Bishop is also planning to record a new album soon, which sonically will be a natural progression from the organic-pop sounds of his first album. “The last one felt like a greatest-hits-ofthe-1970s album,” he said. “I used instruments that were very of that time. I realized when I was playing the songs live, adding guitar added some oomph to them. I think this one is going to sound more early 1980s and upbeat. We’re definitely going for a more upbeat sound even if the lyrics are despondent and angry.” Bishop said that while he’s pursuing a more modern sound on his new album, he’s not fully buying into a lot of the technology that has become commonplace with artists of today. “I was a teenager in the 1980s when it was very synthy,” he said. “I played piano too and remember it feeling not as organic. Around 1986, people stopped playing keyboards and started using computers to play the keyboards. Today, there are some great acts that perform live and half of their instrumentation is coming through a laptop. I’ve got no problem with that. It gives you a much fuller sound, but I’d much rather be entertained by someone who is actually playing the instrument. You get more of their soul and more of the song. That’s what I wanted to do for myself. It becomes a little more cumbersome because when I want to do a show, I have to get a guitarist, a drummer and a bass player. But ultimately, when I listen to what we do, I couldn’t be more pleased.” ■ Derek Bishop performs 8 p.m. Feb. 16 at JR’s Bar, 2300 S. Croskey St. For more information or tickets, call 215-336-4020 or visit www.derekbishop.net.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

tioning women, 4-7 p.m. at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220.

OUT & ABOUT The week ahead Fri. 02/15 Peek-A-Boo Revue The burlesque troupe performs 8:30 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215222-1400. Penn Jersey Roller Derby Presents: SnowBrawl! Derby girls, wrestling and fake snow, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at Sisters Nightclub, 1320 Chancellor St.; 215-735-0735. True Romance The pulpy film is screened 9:45 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223.

February Stimulus: Fourth Annual Red and Pink Affair DJ Kash, Nikki E and more are back for the monthly LGBTQ dance party, 10 p.m.-2 a.m. at Voyeur, 1221 St. James St.; www.stimulusphilly.com.

Sat. 02/16 Real Genius The 1985 comedy film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223. A Penny for Your Thoughts A guided discussion on all issues impacting lesbian, bisexual and ques-

Alo Brasil The band plays Brazilian music to celebrate Carnival, 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400. Aaron Lewis The rock singer performs 8 p.m. at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. The Royal Comedy Tour Comedians Sommore, DL Hughley, Bruce Bruce and Tony Rock perform 8 p.m. at Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St.; (215) 204-2400.

Whoopi Goldberg The comedian performs 9 p.m. at The Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J.; 800- 843-8767.

Sun. 02/17 North by Northwest The 1959 Alfred Hitchcock film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus’ 10th annual Bachelor Auction and Tea Dance Places your bids 36 p.m. at Woody’s, 202 S. 13th St.; www.pgmc.org. Jill Sobule The singer-songwriter performs 7 p.m. at Tin Angel,

goes 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

SMOOCHES: Singer-songwriter Jill Sobule returns to the area, performing 7 p.m. Feb. 17 at Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St. For more information or tickets, call 215-928-0978.

20 S. Second St.; 215-928-0978. Anti-Social Comedy Tour Jim Norton, Amy Schumer and Dave Attell perform 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Aaron Lewis The rock singer performs 9 p.m. at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000.

Mon. 02/18 Free Quizzo & 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. Marsha Ambrosious The R&B singer performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

Top Gun The action film is screened 8 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888.

Hannibal Buress The comedian seen on Comedy Central performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

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.

Pentatonix The a-cappella group that won “The Sing Off” in 2011, which has two out members, will play 8 p.m. at Electric Factory, 421 N. Seventh St.; 215-627-1332.

Tue. 02/19 Open Mic: The Best of What’s Next Sign up and play, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Flyleaf The rock band

Bob and Barbara’s Drag Show The outrageousness begins 11 p.m. at Bob and Barbara’s, 1509 South St.; 215-545-4511.

Fri. 02/22 Lewis Black The comedian performs 8 p.m. at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-7905847.

Wed. 02/20 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.

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

Thu. 02/21

performs 8 p.m. at TLA, 334 South St.; 215-922-1011.

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.

RAGING ... NO BULL: The alwaysﬁery and politically charged comedian Lewis Black comes to Philadelphia with a new salvo of ribald commentary, 8 p.m. Feb. 22 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St. For more information or tickets, call 215790-5847. Photo: Clay McBride

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Opening Forever Plaid Media Theater presents the story of The Plaids, a classic 1950s all-male singing group returns from the Great Beyond to perform the show they never got to do when they were alive, Feb. 20-March 31, 104 E. State St., Media; 610-891-0100. It’s a Whartonful Life Penn students perform an original musical comedy parodying the MBA experience Feb. 21-23 at Zellerbach Theater, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900. Journeys to New Worlds Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of Spanish and Portuguese colonial art from the Roberta and Richard Huber Collection, Feb. 16-May 19, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Lady Gaga The pop singer performs 8 p.m. Feb. 19-20 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-389-9543. Mumford & Sons The folk-rock band performs Feb. 16-17 at Susquehanna Bank Center, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 856-365-1300. Office Bass: A Corporate Musical The Penn Glee Club performs the story of five misfit interns that find themselves working in the chaotic, corrupt and oftentimes hilarious world of corporate startups, Feb. 15-16 at Zellerbach Theater, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900.

Double Portrait Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works from designer Paula Scher and illustrator Seymour Chwast, through April 14, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. The Female Gaze: Women Artists Making Their World Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts presents more than 150 works from the Linda Lee Alter Collection of Art by women, through April 7, 128 N. Broad St.; www.pafa.org. The Mind’s Eye: 50 Years of Photography by Jerry Uelsmann The James A. Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition of iconic photographs from the famed photographer, through April 28, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215-340-9800. The Mountaintop Philadelphia Theatre Company presents a re-imagining of the events taking place the night before the assassination of civil-rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr., through Feb. 17 at Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St.; 215-985-0420. Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband Walnut Street Theatre presents the story of romance and scandal, through March 3, 825 Walnut St.; 215-5743550.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Closing American Idiot The rock opera inspired by the music of Green Day, through Feb. 17 at Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.; 215-7905800. Bad Cupid Cabaret Diversion Productions presents a raunchy, sexy cabaret for those who’ve had enough of the hearts, flowers, candy and cards filled with saccharine sentiments and cherubic cupids, through Feb. 16 at L2, 22nd and South streets; DiversionPr oductions@yahoo.com. Carmina Burana The Philadelphia Orchestra performs through Feb. 16 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847. Silent Night The Opera Company of Philadelphia performs the acclaimed new opera, through Feb. 17 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847. Rachel Feinstein The comedian seen on ”NBC’s Last Comic Standing” performs through Feb. 16 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001. ■

‘THE VIEW’ FROM HERE: Comedian, actor, talk-show host and longtime LGBT ally Whoopi Goldberg takes the stage to dish out some humorous wisdom, 9 p.m. Feb. 16 at The Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J. For more information or tickets, call 800-843-8767.

Ronaldus Shamask: Form, Fashion, Reflection Philadelphia Museum of Art presents HAVING A BALL: Pop wunderkind Lady Gaga ﬁnally brings the extravaganza known as her Born This Way Ball Tour to town, 8 p.m. Feb. 19-20 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St. For more information or tickets, call 215389-9543.

Robert Kelly The comedian seen on ”Louie” performs Feb. 21-23 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001.

Continuing Cy Twombly: Sculptures Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works from the Swiss sculptor, through March, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.

an exhibition of drawings and sketches by the fashion designer, through March 10, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215763-8100. To Fool the Eye 1812 Productions presents a romantic comedy about a poor hat maker drawn into the world of an eccentric duchess, through March 3 at Drexel’s Mandell Theater, 33rd and Chestnut streets; 215-895-2787.

Like us.

Win tickets, passes and other great stuff!

FUN & GAMES CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Q Puzzle Just another pretty face Across 1. Clinton of this puzzle’s quote 5. Teo of Notre Dame, who could also have said this puzzle’s quote 10. Leave a trail behind a boa? 14. Soft cheese 15. Big jugs 16. “Nurse Jackie” nurse 17. Ward of “Once and Again” 18. Final straw 19. Ready for plucking 20. Start of a quote 23. NYC arena 24. Slippery one 25. Loads of 29. Like some trigger fingers

34. Place for Young men? 35. Receiver of stolen goods 40. Skin moisturizer 41. More of the quote 44. A little more than bi45. Event for drawers? 46. Match a poker bet 47. Come slowly closer 49. That to Juan 50. Operates like a chickenhawk 52. Sings like Eazy E sang 54. Bucks, for example 55. End of the quote 60. Like a great review on Broadway 61. Causing

goosebumps 62. In a bit, to the bard 64. Steven’s opening 65. Moon of Uranus 66. Ice house (var.) 67. Cheeky 68. Rock-bottom 69. Sign gas Down 1. Tiny balls 2. Hot temper 3. Composer Boulanger 4. Big part 5. Card combos 6. In the hole 7. Verne captain 8. Old hat 9. “Where ___ Life That Late I Led?” (Cole Porter) 10. Griffin of game shows

PORTRAIT from page 23

PGN: Where is your fan base from? LC: My biggest fan base is in Philadelphia and New York, but it’s all over the world. We just toured London and have a following there. That was my first time in Europe and, wow, we had some great crowds. Off the stage I got to go see Stonehenge and the Roman baths, Shakespeare’s house. It was a great trip. People were so nice. I was out with my manager, Melanie Rice, and we went to a jazz club and then a gay bar. Melanie left and afterwards I realized that I didn’t have money to get back to the hotel. This guy gave me 60 pounds for a cab! Who does that? PGN: Nice. [Laughs.] Back to gay stuff ... Would someone be able to figure out your orientation from your lyrics? LC: I never say “he” or “she,” I just kind of keep it generic; however, on my new CD coming out, that all changes. I finally say “she” in the song. It’s not that I was avoiding it, I just liked to keep the songs so that anyone could take what they wanted from it. But my new song is also about a break-up and the generic “you” just wasn’t working any more! It was definitely “she.” PGN: Well, it’ll be interesting to see how the kids react if you do another Jonas Brothers-type concert. Though the kids these days seem to be so much more open. LC: It’s mind-boggling. I meet so many teenagers are they’re all, “Gay? So what?” I didn’t come out all that long ago but people weren’t quite there yet. It’s great. PGN: So what can you tell me about yourself outside of music? LC: I’m a vegan. I run 10 miles every single day. I’m single.

11. Garfield’s sidekick 12. Labium 13. Photographer Corinne 21. “_ ___ Yankee Doodle Dandy” 22. He knocked out many men 25. Fantasizes about a hottie 26. Funny Cheri 27. 1976 Jodie Foster film 28. Moo ___ pork 30. Half a cocktail 31. Notes Glenn can sing? 32. Mead base 33. Ass-kissers’ responses 35. First name in Follies 36. Art deco illustrator 37. Is left with 38. African

queen 39. Copland capability 42. Alpha, to the circumcized 43. It’s not a mistake at the Red Cross 48. Lingering in the closet 51. Stay put 53. One way to get to second base 54. Was a liver 55. Surfer’s ride 56. On the spot 57. Opera queen’s delight 58. Neckwear 59. Legal plea, briefly 60. Log Cabin member, for short 63. Woman who doesn’t date men

PGN: I don’t think I’ve run 10 miles combined! LC: Yeah, I’m a health nut. I love trying different vegetarian restaurants and Philly has a lot. Like my parents, I have a hippie mentality — I love being free and fun. But mainly I’m a family person. PGN: What was your favorite outfit as a kid? LC: Oh, I have a ridiculous story. When I was about 9, far too old for it, I would wear this lion costume everywhere, even when it wasn’t Halloween. I’d wear it to birthday parties, you name it. I was a little eccentric. PGN: Well, I hear you had an unusual beginning. LC: Yeah, I came out of my mother hand first. She had to have a horrible C-section so I always dedicate a song to her for the trouble I put her through just to have me. PGN: And what does she do? LC: She’s an elementary teacher. She keeps us together and is the only person that can make me belly laugh on a regular basis. She’s awesome. She even sings background on my CDs. PGN: What’s the best and worst thing about performing with your family? LC: The best is that it’s constant support. It allows me to be very confident and open. It’s not like we’re even working, it’s just like getting together and having a great time. There’s not really a worst thing, maybe the car rides if we’re fighting. But we’re really tight and I can’t imagine it any other way. We have a vibe you can’t explain. PGN: Do they go on the road with you? LC: Yes, they do.

PGN: And you get to party with your manager too. LC: Yeah, it’s great. I’ve worked with a lot of other management and it’s so uncomfortable, they want to use me and being gay as a novelty. They don’t get it and they think I like girls but that I still like guys because I’m feminine. I’ve encountered a lot of perverts at different record labels who were older than my father who tried to hit on me. It’s really nice working with someone who just lets me be myself. She doesn’t try to hide it or push it. She just lets me be me. PGN: You were voted Super Woman of NJ by South Jersey Magazine because of your work with American Foundation for Children with AIDS, Human Rights Campaign and other organizations. What super power would you like to possess? LC: I’d absolutely love to be able to fly. I feel like that would be the most freeing feeling in the entire world to just let yourself soar. PGN: What Pride events have you done? LC: I play New Hope Pride every year. I love working with them. I’ve played Allentown, Philadelphia a bunch of times, Ladies 2000. I try to do as many as I possibly can. The audiences are phenomenal. It feels like I’m at home. PGN: Tell me a little bit about the new reality show you’re going to be on. LC: It’s called “Next Great Family Band,” and it starts airing Sunday on the new Cozi TV network, which is an NBC affiliate. I was on the “10! Show” with the family and the producers saw the clip and asked us to participate. We were picked out of a nationwide search and they came and filmed at our house in South Jersey.

PGN: Was it fun? LC: Oh yeah, it was nice to get recognition on a national platform. As a musician, you work so hard, playing little clubs and bars and honing your craft. And I’ve always stuck to my guns; I’ve never changed my music or style of play or anything. I’ve always stayed true to myself. And it being a show that focuses on the family is perfect for us. Our segment will air Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. You get to meet me and the family and then it turns into a competition. Social media will play a big role in the show. People are encouraged to comment on their favorite bands on Facebook, Twitter and the show’s website and, based off of viewers’ comments, the judges will each choose a band to mentor the second half of the season. So I hope people will tune in and write about us! My dad always taught me: Don’t ever make it your goal to be famous, make it your goal to be respected. But we wouldn’t mind winning either! ■ For more information or tour dates, visit www.lauracheadle.com. To suggest a community member for Family Portrait, email portraits05@aol.com.

CLASSIFIEDS PGN

Classifieds Real Estate Sale

Real Estate Rent

BEAUTIFUL ADIRONDACK CABIN 5 Acres w/ Camp: $29,900 Nicely wooded Setting. Locations include: NY’s Southern Tier Adirondacks, Salmon River Region, Tug Hill Snow Country. Call for details: 1-800-229-7843. Christmas & Associates. ________________________________________37-07 WESTMONT NJ Charming house priced to sell. 2 minute walk to Patco speedline. English gardens and massive garage. Only $189,000 www.11lindisfarne.com ________________________________________37-08

12TH & DICKINSON AREA Furnished Townhouse for rent: 3 levels. Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bath. Very Unique. 1500. mo plus util. (negotiable). Call 215 468-9166 after 6 pm. or 215 686 3431 daytime. ________________________________________37-08 WILLOW GROVE, PA 3 bdr, top ﬂ duplex, WT inc $1,300 mo +utils, NWLY renovated, W/D in unit, wlk dis to shops, groc, and pub trans. Call Stephen 215-409-8741. ________________________________________37-07

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Real Estate Rent

Help Wanted

36XX BARING ST. 2 BR 2 sty apt., Conv. to pub trans, U of P, LR/DR, EIK, CT bath, A/C, W/D. No smoking bldg. 1 yr lease. $1500/mo incl. heat. Photos avail. Contact ljbmanagement@live.com ________________________________________37-07 34XX HAMILTON ST. Excep. 2 BR apt. First time avail. Lg sunken LR, large deck, galley kit, DR, A/C, cer. tile bath. Entire ﬂoor, 1000 sq ft. $1650/mo inc. heat & hot water. 1 yr. lease. Non smoking bldg. Photos avail. Contact ljbmanagement@live.com ________________________________________37-07 PASSYUNK SQUARE VICINITY 1 BR, $1200/mo, all utilities & basic cable incl. Close to shops, trans. & entertainment. Call Frank Jacovini, 215755-6700. ________________________________________37-11

Driver- $0.01 increase per mile after 6 and 12 months. $.03/mile quarterly bonus. Daily or Weekly pay. CDL-A, 3 months current exp. 800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com ________________________________________37-07 AVERITT OFFERS CDL-A DRIVERS A Strong, Stable, Profitable Career. Experienced Drivers and Recent Grads- Excellent Benefits, Weekly Hometime. Paid training. 888-362-8608 AverittCareers.com Equal Opportunity Employer. ________________________________________37-07 GORDON TRUCKING, INC. CDL-A Drivers Needed! Up to $3,000 SIGN ON BONUS. Refrigerated Fleet & Great Miles. Pay Incentive & Benefits! Recruiters available 7 days/wk! EOE. TeamGTI. com 866-554-7856. ________________________________________37-07 Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight lanes from Presque Isle, ME, Boston-Lehigh, PA. 800-277-0212 or primeinc.com ________________________________________37-07 Get up to $1,000 sign-on bonus and superior work/life balance with weekly hometime. Class A exp drivers for Milton terminal. 800-333-9291 www.veriha.com ________________________________________37-07 WANTED: LIFE AGENTS Earn $500 a Day, Great Agent Benefits. Commissions Paid Daily. Liberal Underwriting. Leads, Leads, Leads, LIFE INSURANCE, LICENSE REQUIRED. Call 1-888713-6020. ________________________________________37-07 Drivers- Pyle Transport (A Division of A. Duie Pyle) Needs Owner Operators. Regional Truckload Operations. HOME EVERY WEEKEND! O/O Average $1.85/Mile. Steady, Year-Round Work. Requires CDL-A, 2 Yrs. Exp. Call Dan: 877-910-7711 www.DriveForPyle.com ________________________________________37-07 Company Driver: Solo Regional & OTR Lanes. Competitive Pay. Great hometime. CDL-A with 1 year OTR and hazmat endorsement. Willingness to attain tanker endorsement within 30 days. 888-705-3217, or apply online at www. drivenctrans.com ________________________________________37-07

Adoption WE PROMISE To give your baby a life ﬁlled with love and happiness. Expenses Paid. Marygrace & Eddie (888)220-2030 ________________________________________37-06

Business Oportunity BE YOUR OWN BOSS Make Life Good. Net Over $60k Per Year. Investment Required $4,750. Huge Proﬁts. Call 1-888-748-7383. ________________________________________37-06

Help Wanted





CRST Offers the Best Lease Purchase Program! SIGN ON BONUS. No Down Payment or Credit Check. Great Pay. Class-A CDL required. Owner Operators Welcome! Call:866-403-7044. ________________________________________37-07 Owner Operators: $3,000 Sign-On Bonus. Excellent Rates & Paid FSC. Home Daily. 80% Drop & Hook. Great Fuel & Tire Discounts. L/P available. CDL-A with 1 year tractortrailer experience required. 888-703-3889 or apply online at www.comtrak.com ________________________________________37-07 $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS For exp’d solo OTR drivers & O/O’s. Tuition reimbursement also available! New Student Pay & Lease Program. USA TRUCK 877-521-5775 www.USATruck.jobs ________________________________________37-07

Travel & Resorts OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com ________________________________________37-07

711 Lawn Ave. Sellersville, PA 18960   

 





   

    

Open Houses - Sunday February 17, 2012 12:00-2:30 PM 3031 Cambridge St, Philadelphia, PA 19130 Totally rehabbed 2BR/1.5BA home in Art Museum Area. Perfect for ﬁrst-time home buyer. REDUCED! $224,900 936 N.30th St, Philadelphia, PA 19130 Just Listed! Beautiful 3BR/2.5BA home in Art Museum Area. $350,000 Search all Philadelphia area listings @ www.phillyrealestateagents.com Dan Tobey

1401 Walnut St. • 8th Floor • Philadelphia, PA 19102

215.546.2700 Business • 267.238.1061 Direct 215.432.7151 Cell • 215.558.1063 Fax dtobey@cbpref.com • www.cbpref.com

Lease opportunity! Prime location for your medical ofﬁce in Sellersville, PA near Grand View Hospital. Close proximity to other medical providers. Excellent location for medical, pharmaceutical or related ofﬁce use. Separate entrance. Space renovated in 2010--new carpeting and paint throughout premises. Lower-level space in 2-story building. Approximately 2,500 SF. Onsite parking at no additional cost. Gross lease including taxes and utilities--the very best deal in the area. $2500/month. First month rent and security deposit.

MLS # 6042319

Call Listing Agent. 215-628-2021 Virginia Scarano, REALTOR 215-641-2422 (direct) Prudential Fox and Roach 215-628-2021 (cell) The Karen Sandler Team

www.virginiascarano.com

Independently Owned and Operated Member of the Prudential Real Estate Afﬁliates, Inc.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Services

Friends men

SAWMILLS From only $3997.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1800-578-1363 Ext.300N. ________________________________________37-07

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. ________________________________________37-08 BM, 60 looking for British gent, 35-45 for intimate encounters. 215-763-3391, 6PM-Midnight. ________________________________________37-08 Attractive GWM, 37, friendly, sweet, caring, funny, naughtyboy, brutally attacked in prison. Every guy I ever loved has abandoned me. I’m so very lonely. ISO guys to write to me. I will reply to all. Kenneth Houck #06743-015, Federal Medical Center, PO Box 1600, Butner NC 27509. ________________________________________37-08 GBM 28 seeks Mexican, Puerto Rican, Brazilian for good times. 215-275-7698. ________________________________________37-07 Senior GWM ISO male, 40+, all races for platonic friendship. Phila. area only. PO Box 302, Merion Sta., PA 19066. ________________________________________37-09 Masculine WM in NE, nice looking, in shape 63, bottom, quiet type. Looking 4 masculine top only 4 possible LTR. Leave mesage. 215-264-1058. ________________________________________37-08 OLDER SEEKING YOUNGER Hispanic males: Mexican, Puerto Rican, South American, etc. Like reading, travel, TV, outdoors. Seeks someone for friendship & good times. Habla Espanol. 856-547-4163. ________________________________________37-09 I’m looking for a large build, burly WM, big ass bruiser. 215-732-2108 8-11 PM. ________________________________________37-10

For Sale EXP RELIABLE HOUSECLEANER Let me free up your valuable time by cleaning your house or apt. Weekly biweekly monthly. I have 10+ years exp. FREE estimates. Call Wayne 215-422-2654. Ref’s upon request. ________________________________________37-07 EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV Certified. Call 888-220-3984. www.CenturaOnline.com ________________________________________37-07 AIRLINE CAREERS Begin here-Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified-Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-834-9715 ________________________________________37-07 CAN YOU DIG IT? Heavy Equipment Operator Training! 3Wk Hands On Program. Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement Asst. w/National Certs. VA Benefits Eligible866-362-6497. ________________________________________37-07

Business Oportunity BE YOUR OWN BOSS Make Life Good. Net Over $60k Per Year. Investment Required $4,750. Huge Proﬁts. Call 1-888-748-7383. ________________________________________37-06

Legal Notice

Massage

IF YOU USED THE MIRENA IUD Between 2001-present and suffered perforation or embedment in the uterus requiring surgical removal, or had a child born with birth defects you may be entitled to compensation. Call Johnson Law and speak with female staff members 1-800-535-5727. ________________________________________37-07

Massage magic: make stress disappear! Professional LMT/affordable. Mainline location. 610-710-6213 for an appointment. ________________________________________37-07 David, 63, 6’, 200 lbs., educated. 215-569-4949. ________________________________________37-13

Handsome Certified Therapist 6’, 195 lbs, Muscle Gives Sensual / Therapeutic Massage

Call 215-432-6030

B-7

STAY WARM WITH US!!! DRY SUANA & STEAM ROOM ARE AVAILBLE...

IMPROVEMENTS BEING MADE TO WORKOUT AREA LATE NIGHT LOVING with THE MEN OF MAGNUM

Saturday, February 16th, 2013 Time: 11pm-3:30am WHAT TO EXPECT: • DJ David Dutch • MEN OF MAGNUM ENTERTAINMENT • Complimentary Food & Beverages • A Full House of Guys To Choose From & So Much More..

Rooms go quickly and are on a 1st Come, 1st Served basis. So Check In Early if you want a room…

BUSY TIMES FOR US:

These our are most popular days when people come-

SUNDAY RELIEF

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

MONDAY thru FRIDAY:

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

TUESDAYS

Hlf Price Rooms (6am-12 Midnight) Members: $12.50 & Non-Members: $22.50

WEDNESDAY &THURSDAY CRUISE

$12 Flat Rate for Licker Admission & Clothing Optional

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

Check out our website for our HOT NEW WEEKLY SPECIALS & JOIN OUR e-mail List to get the latest information on upcoming events.... Also, RENOVATIONS are being done, So swing by & Check Out The Transformation!

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

PGN

12-step programs and support groups Al-Anon

■

Pennsylvania Al-Anon Alateen Family Groups: Events, meeting times and locations at pa-al-anon.org

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

■ Acceptance meets 7:30 p.m. on Fridays at

Episcopal Church, 22nd and Spruce streets.

■ Community meets 8 p.m. on Thursdays at

Holy Communion Church, 2111 Sansom St. Gay and lesbian, but all are welcome. ■ Early Night Out meets 5:30 p.m. daily at Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St., second ﬂoor; 215-985-9206. ■ GLBT Alcoholics Anonymous meets 7 p.m. on Sundays and 8 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 100 W. Windsor St., Reading; 484-529-9504. ■ Living Sober meets 8:30 p.m. Saturdays at the William Way Center. ■ No Other Way Out meets 11 a.m. Sundays at the William Way Center. ■ Night Owl meets 11:30 p.m. daily at the William Way Center. ■ Stepping Stone meets 2:30 p.m. Mondays at the William Way Center. ■ Sober and Gay meets 8:30 p.m. SundayFriday at the William Way Center. ■ Young People’s meets 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Mark’s Church, 1625 Locust St.

Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)

■ Meets 7 p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday,

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at the William Way Center.

Emotional Support

■ Pink and Blues, a free peer-run mental-health

support group for LGBT people, meets 7 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Luke and The Epiphany Church, 330 S. 13th St.; 215-627-0424. ■ Survivors of Suicide Inc. meets 7:30 p.m. on ﬁrst Tuesday of the month at 3535 Market St., Room 2037; 215-545-2242; www. phillysos.tripod.com. ■ Survivors of Suicide Inc., Chester County, meets 7:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at Paoli Memorial Hospital, Willistown Room, Medical Ofﬁce Building; 215-545-2242; phillysos.tripod.com.

HIV/AIDS

■ Strength In Numbers

Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ SINPhiladelphia.

Mondays: ■ Positive Brothers, a support group for men of color living with HIV/AIDS, meets 6 p.m. at 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; 215-496-0330. Tuesdays: ■ A support group for HIV-positive men and women meets 1:30-3 p.m. at BEBASHI — Transition to Hope, 1217 Spring Garden St., first floor; 215-769-3561. bebashi.org. ■ Encuentros, a group for HIV-negative Latino men who have sex with men, meets 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month at 1201 Locust St. ■ “Feast Incarnate,” a weekly ministry for people affected by HIV/AIDS, meets 5 p.m. at University Lutheran Church, 3637 Chestnut St. Bible study follows at 6 p.m.; 215-387-2885. ■ A support group for people recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS meets 6:30-8 p.m. at the Mazzoni Center; 215-563-0652 ext. 235. ■ Youth Outreach Adolescent Community Awareness Program’s Voice It Sistah, a support group for HIV-positive women,

meets 11 a.m. every ﬁrst and third Tuesday at YOACAP, 1207 Chestnut St., Suite 315; 215-851-1898. Wednesdays: ■ AIDS Services in Asian Communities’ weekly volunteer work group meets 6-8 p.m. at 340 N. 12th St., Suite 205; 215-629-2300. ■ Project Teach, a peer-education and empowerment program for people living with HIV/AIDS, meets at Philadelphia Fight, 1233 Locust St.; ﬁght.org. ■ Positive Effect, for HIV-positive people 18 and over, meets 5-7 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St., Camden, N.J.; 856-963-2432. Thursdays: ■ A support group for HIV-positive men and women meets 6-8 p.m. at BEBASHI — Transition to Hope, 1217 Spring Garden St.; 215-769-3561. ■ Diversity, an HIV/AIDS support group for all infected or affected, meets from 7-9 p.m. at Arch Street United Methodist Church, 55 N. Broad St.; call Zak, 215-848-4380; azaklad@craftech.com. Saturdays: ■ AIDS Delaware’s You’re Not Alone youth support group meets during the school year. Call 800-810-6776 for meeting location and time.

Debtors Anonymous

■ Meets 7-8 p.m. Monday and Thursday at the

William Way Center.

Overeaters Anonymous (OA)

■ Open meeting, Tuesdays, 5:45 p.m., and

7 p.m. Fridays, at Hahnemann University Hospital, 245 N. 15th St.; call Troy for ﬂoor/ room number, 215-514-3065; www.oa.org. ■ Meets 11 a.m.-noon at the William Way Center.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

Community Bulletin Board Community centers

■ The Attic Youth Center: For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies. Groups meet and activities are held 4-8 p.m. MondayFriday; case management, HIV testing and smoking cessation are available Monday-Friday. See the Youth section for more events. 255 S. 16th St.; 215-545-4331. ■ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center at the University of Pennsylvania 3907 Spruce St., 215-898-5044; center@dolphin.upenn.edu. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday.

and Allies Youth Center: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays: Doylestown Planned Parenthood, The Atrium, Suite 2E, 301 S. Main St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981; 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: 12-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 12-3 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Friday; 126 p.m. Saturday. Volunteers: New Orientation: First Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

■ Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning

■ AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania: 215-587-9377

Key numbers

■ AIDS Law Project of Southern New Jersey: 856-933-9500 ext. 221

■ Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK

■ AIDS Library: 215-985-4851

■ Mayor’s Director of LGBT Affairs: Gloria Casarez, 215-6862194; Gloria.Casarez@phila.gov; Fax: 215-686-2555

■ 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.: 112 N. Broad St., third floor; 215-496-0330 ■ Equality Pennsylvania: 215731-1447; www.equalitypa.org ■ Equality Forum: 215-732-3378

■ Mazzoni Center: 215-563-0652; www.mazzonicenter.org. Legal Services: 215-563-0657, 866-LGBTLAW; legalservices@mazzonicenter. org ■ Mazzoni Center Family & Community Medicine: 215-563-0658 ■ Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833

■ Philadelphia Lesbian and Gay Task Force: 215-772-2000 ■ Philadelphia Police Department liaison — Deputy Commissioner Stephen Johnson: 215-683-2840 ■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-760-3686; 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)

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

S.A.R.A.

■ Substance Abuse – Risk Assessment; day

and evening hours; 215-563-0663 ext. 282.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous

■ Meets 7:30 p.m.Thursdays at All Saints

Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del.; 302-542-3279.

SEPCADD

■ Safe space to meet and discuss substance

abuse problems at the William Way Center.

Health

Alder Health Services provides LGBT health services on a sliding-fee scale; 100 N. Cameron St., Ste. 301 East, Harrisburg; 717-233-7190 or 800-867-1550; www.alderhealth.org. Anonymous, free HIV testing with Spanish/ English counselors, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 3439 N. Hutchinson St.; 215-763-8870 ext. 6000. HIV treatment: Free HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment for Philadelphia residents available 9 a.m.-noon Mondays and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215685-1803. HIV health insurance help: Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing available at 17 MacDade Blvd., Suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Office Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610-586-9077. Philadelphia FIGHT provides HIV primary care, on-site lab services, clinical trials, case management, mental-health services and support groups for people living with HIV regardless of insurance status or ability to pay; 1233 Locust St., fifth floor; 215-985-4448; www. fight.org.

Anonymous, free, conﬁdential HIV testing Spanish/English counselors offer testing 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 3439 N. Hutchinson St.; 215-763-8870 ext. 6000.

Health

AIDS Services In Asian Communities Provides HIV-related services to Asians and Pacific Islanders at 1711 South Broad Street; 215-629-2300. www.asiac.org. Gay and Lesbian Latino AIDS Education Initiative 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. 215851-1822 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 and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215-685-1803. HIV health insurance help Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing ■ Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Philadelphia GALLOP holds board meetings at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at 100 S. Broad St., Suite 1810; GALLOP also provides a free referral service; (215) 6279090; www.galloplaw.org. ■ Greater Philadelphia Professional Network Networking group for area business professionals, self-employed and business owners meets monthly in a different location throughout the city, invites speakers on various topics, partners with other nonprofits and maintains a Web site where everyone is invited to sign up for email notices for activities and events; www.gppn.org.

available by appointment at 13 S. MacDade Blvd., Suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Ofﬁce Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610-5869077.

Mazzoni Center Free, anonymous HIV testing; HIV/AIDS care and treatment, 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, 809 Locust St.; 215-563-0658. Washington West Project Free, anonymous HIV testing. Walk-ins welcome 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday except for noon-1 p.m. and 5-6 p.m., and 1-5 p.m. Saturday; 1201 Locust St.; 215-985-9206.

Professional groups ■ Independence Business Alliance Greater Philadelphia’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce, providing networking, business development, marketing, educational and advocacy opportunities for LGBT and LGBT-friendly businesses and professionals. Visit www.IndependenceBusinessAlliance.com for information about events, programs and membership; 215-557-0190; 1717 Arch St., Suite 3370. ■ National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association The Philadelphia chapter of NLGJA, open to professionals and

students, meets for social and networking events; www.nlgjaphiladelphia.org. ■ Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus A regional organization dedicated to promoting gay and lesbian tourism to the Greater Philadelphia region holds 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. ■ Philly OutGoing Professionals Social group for gay, lesbian and bisexual professionals meets for social and cultural activities, 856857-9283; popnews19@yahoo. com.

VM-13-18816_gaga_ad_philly_gay_news.pdf

CMY

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Feb. 15-21, 2013

1/23/13

4:50 PM

PGN