PGN March 16-22, 2012 by The Philadelphia Gay News

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Family Portrait: Adam Hymans PAGE 25

Weigh It Forward participants weigh in at two months

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March 16-22, 2012

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Vol. 36 No. 11

Scouts blast Liberty City in latest court filing By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com

WOMEN ON THE SCREEN: More than 200 women and their supporters packed a screening of “Miss Representation” March 8 at William Way LGBT Community Center. Organized by Stimulus Productions, the documentary screening sought to bring attention to the far-reaching effects of the misrepresentation of women in the media. Photo: Scott A. Drake

In its latest effort to avoid eviction from a city-owned building, the BSA Cradle of Liberty Council this month filed a legal brief criticizing Liberty City Democratic Club’s indirect connection to the case. Liberty City is an LGBT Democratic organization in Philadelphia. Last year, the club sent a letter to U.S. Sen. Robert Casey, opposing a federal judgeship for City Solicitor Shelley R. Smith, alleging she mishandled the Scouts’ case. Last month, U.S. District Judge Ronald L. Buckwalter asked both sides to file updated briefs on the case, which has been held in abeyance for almost two years as both sides pursued an out-of-court settlement. Cradle’s brief includes a copy of Liberty City’s letter as an exhibit. Liberty City sent the letter because there are federal-judiciary vacancies in Pennsylvania, and Smith was believed to be a leading con-

Philly Councilman backs ‘Bully’ rating change

tender to fill one of the vacancies. The letter states that Smith “grossly mishandled and lost the [Scouts’ eviction] case, then failed to support an appeal, then proposed a sweetheart deal with the Boy Scouts.” The letter goes on to state: “Shelley Smith committed fundamental errors in the handling of the case. Those errors include rejecting early offers for pro-bono help, taking no discovery whatsoever from the national BSA, stating no objection to Judge Buckwalter’s potential bias based upon his [prior] board membership of the Boy Scouts and designating no expert witnesses for trial.” The letter also questions Smith’s ability to handle LGBT issues fairly and equitably if she were to serve as a federal judge. Cradle’s legal brief derides the views expressed in the letter. “These activists will settle for nothing short of complete victory over Cradle of Liberty, and have even attacked [Smith] for having the temerity to PAGE 22

Vote delayed on antigay marriage amendment

By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

A Philadelphia City Councilmember is rallying Philadelphians to join the ranks of Johnny Depp, Meryl Streep, Ellen DeGeneres and scores of others calling for a lower rating for a film about bullying. Councilman Jim Kenney this week sent a letter to the Motion Picture Association of America, pressing the agency to change its “R” rating for “Bully” to a “PG-13,” and is taking to the airwaves and Internet to enlist support from other Philadelphians. Kenney said he began working with film producers more than a year ago on a plan to get the documentary out to local kids. The film, directed by Lee Hirsch, is set to release March 30, but its current rating would make it inaccessible to those under 17 not accompanied by a PAGE 9

A committee of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives failed to follow through with a scheduled vote this week on a bill that would ban same-sex marriage in the state constitution. Rep. Daryl Metcalfe (R-12th), the chair of the House State Government Committee and prime sponsor of the measure, pulled HB 1434 from consideration Tuesday. Metcalfe told committee members he was delaying the vote because of the large number of amendments that have been submitted to the bill. Metcalfe did not return a call for comment from PGN. The measure would define marriage in the constitution as being between one man and one woman and prohibit PAGE 8

OPTIMIZING HEALTH: A new fitness center opened its doors in the Gayborhood last week. About 100 supporters turned out March 8 to mark the grand opening of the gay-owned-and-operated Optimal Sport 1315 with food, drinks and a performance by pole-fitness expert Alfie Sosa. Located at 1315 Walnut St., the gym joins another Optimal local at Sixth and Walnut, as well as two others in the region, and will offer a vast array of fitness equipment, as well as group exercise classes and personal-trainer options. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Judge hears Philly DOMA case By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A federal judge in Philadelphia heard arguments this week on a local case that could have significant implications on the federal ban on same-sex marriage. Both sides in Cozen O’Connor v. Jennifer Tobits came before Judge C. Darnell Jones II March 13 for a hearing that addressed myriad issues in the case,

including the state and federal Defense of Marriage Act. Cozen O’Connor, a firm based in Philadelphia, filed a suit to solicit a court ruling on whether it must provide death benefits of late employee Sarah Ellyn Farley to Tobits, her same-sex spouse. Tobits, a Chicago resident, sought the benefits following the 2010 death of Farley, whom she married in Canada four years previously. However, Farley’s par-

ents also claimed they were entitled to the approximately $41,000 in benefits, as they allege DOMA, as well as Pennsylvania’s similar statute, would prevent Cozen from recognizing the marriage. The Farleys have argued that the health plan is Employee Retirement Income Security Act-qualified, a federal mandate; however, ERISA does not define the word “spouse.” Shannon Minter, executive director of National Center for Lesbian Rights, which is representing Tobits, said DOMA should not come into play in this case, as the benefits being awarded are from a private company, not a federal entity. “The judge really seemed to understand the significance of what we view as the primary issue, which is whether DOMA prevents private employers from providing equal pension benefits to same-sex spouses,” Minter said. “He focused in on that issue and pressed the attorney from Cozen hard on that issue.” Jones engaged in a “lengthy and focused discussion” on ERISA with members of Tobits’ local counsel, Teresa Renaker and Susan Hoffman, whom Minter said are ERISA experts. “In ERISA cases, Teresa is usually representing employees and Susan representing employers, so to have them both taking the same position on this issue is very significant,” Minter said. “And I think the judge appreciated having their very deep expertise on ERISA.” Near the end of the four-hour hearing, an attorney for Cozen noted that, if the court finds that DOMA would not pre-

vent the firm from awarding the benefits to Tobits, the company would comply. Minter noted that the statement was “an interesting thing to say in open court” and could indicate “that they realize they may not be on the strongest ground.” As the constitutionality of DOMA is in question, this is one of the several cases that the U.S. House of Representatives’ Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group has intervened in, after the Obama administration announced last year it would no longer defend DOMA in court. In addition to the BLAG representative, Farley’s father was on hand, as was Tobits. Having Tobits in the courtroom was significant, said Tiffany Palmer, also a member of Tobits’ local counsel. “It puts a face to these really complicated issues,” she said. “This is a real person who lost her spouse. You can make an academic or legal analysis as much as possible, but at the end of the day, this is really personal for her.” Palmer added that the case highlights the challenges that the “patchwork” system of benefits for same-sex couples across the nation has created. “It’s very difficult when we have some states that recognize marriage, some that recognize civil unions, some that don’t recognize anything at all,” Palmer said. “It’s confusing to people trying to do estate planning and to employers. This is a very good example of why we need more clarification in the law, but also why people need to take steps to protect themselves as well.” ■

PA legislature passes voter ID bill By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

Now you can read your favorite local LGBT news site on your Android or iPhone/iPad Just go to epgn.com on your mobile device Also check out our digital “ﬂipbook” of the full print edition at issuu.com/philagaynews with issuu’s Android app.

Both chambers of the Pennsylvania legislature have approved a voter photo identification measure that critics say could discourage voter participation among already disenfranchised populations. The House voted 104-88 March 14 in favor of HB 934, which the Senate approved in a 26-23 vote March 7. The bill will now be sent to Gov. Corbett, who has pledged to sign it, making Pennsylvania the 16th state to require photo ID when voters head to the polls. Critics say the legislation will lessen voter participation among some populations, and Democrats have accused Republicans of using the measure to dissuade Democratic turnout at the polls. Rep. Babette Josephs (D-182nd Dist.) said that the “sole intent of this legislation is to keep as many seniors, minorities, low-income and urban residents from voting because these groups are more likely to vote against Republican candi-

dates. It is dangerous legislation and denigrates a constitutional right that millions of Americans have died to protect.” Republicans have said the measure would cost about $4 million to implement, while Democrats have put that figure closer to $11 million. State Sen. Larry Farnese, who voted against the measure, said the effort is not in line with the governor’s pledge to cut expenses. “When Gov. Corbett gave his budget address, he said that Pennsylvania still needs to make drastic cuts to everything from education to social services because of the weak economy,” Farnese said. “But the Republicans found [money] to require voters to show identification at the poles. What are their priorities? Are they using this legislation to keep the disabled, minorities and young voters away from the primary that is just seven weeks away?” Farnese went on to say that the legislation is a “solution in search of a problem that does not exist.” ■

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�� The Philadelphia

at the 23rd Street Armory SHOWCASING EXCEPTIONAL ARTISAN MADE FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS IN AN INTIMATE SALON ENVIRONMENT

NEW DOWNTOWN LOCATION!

March 23 - 25 This year we move down town to the historic 23rd St. Armory. Located at 22 South 23rd Street, it is convenient to 30th St. Station, major bus and trolley lines, and the Marketplace Design Center. Friday March 23 Preview Party with special guests from Antiques Roadshow & an auction benefitting CERF+ 6 - 9pm

AROUSING ANNIVERSARY: About 350 partiers raised a glass March 10 at Landmark Philadelphia to celebrate the second anniversary of the popular Arouse parties, including DJ Kash (from left), Stimulus Productions co-founders Morgan Levine and Amber Hikes and DJ Jovi Baby. Levine said Arouse has been a great opportunity for Stimulus Productions to “mobilize and gather a diverse group of queers and allies into spaces that are not historically queer-identified. We have loved the opportunity with Arouse to merge our passions for nightlife, nonprofits and community engagement over the past two years.” Photo: Tara Lessard NEWS

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C Spotlight on Debbie Spadefora and Noe Espinosa

PGN: The easiest? DS: Surprisingly, getting support from people. I go home from the gym and I post something on Facebook and within a day, I have 80-some people liking my status and supporting me, which is something I never thought I would have.

Participant: Debbie

Spadefora, administrative manager, Woody’s and Voyeur Age: 48

Starting weight: 339 Height: 5-foot-5 Weight lost to date: 30 pounds

PGN: Has anything surprised you? DS: The support, and the fact that I like having a trainer. I never wanted a trainer, but he’s been great. DEBBIE SPADEFORA Photo: Sarah Blazucki

PGN: Why did you agree to participate in Weigh It Forward? DS: It was a fantastic opportunity — it’s a do-or-die kind of thing for me. I’m diabetic and my doctor told me that if I didn’t change my ways that I would have to go on insulin. So, it’s a total win-win: I lose, they gain. PGN: What are you hoping to achieve? DS: I’m never going to be skinny, but I want to be healthy.

PGN: What’s been the hardest about this so far? DS: I guess the hardest is realizing that I still have limitations and I want to do so much more — realizing I still need to drop more weight before I can put stress on my knees.

PGN: And the food? DS: For my diet, I downloaded an app on my phone, myfitnesspal. It’s kind of like my bible. I log in everything. I cut out red meat and sodas — not that I drank a lot — [and] cut back on bread. I’m drinking more water, and one meal a day is a salad. I stay under my recommended calories, 1,560 per day. I don’t deprive myself of anything, but any time I lose a pound, it makes it easier to say no to that dessert. PGN: Do you think this is something you can sustain? DS: I do, absolutely. My goal is to get to a point where I can do three days a week at the gym to maintain. That’s a long way down the road, but that is my goal. PGN: What do you think will be the hardest part to sustain afterward? DS: Probably that it won’t be so public and

I am going to have to rely on myself. I’ll still have support from friends, but I have to dedicate myself to it. I just came from the doctor, and he said my cholesterol and blood sugar are down: Two thumbs up from my doctor on all the numbers. I’m so grateful for this opportunity: My trainer is awesome, he’s exactly what I need him to be. And everyone is incredible. I feel more positive, and energetic. Life’s good and getting better. I feel great, like I’m beaming. I talk about it all the NOE ESPINOSA time to people. Noe Espinosa, trainer, 12th Street Gym, 204 S. 12th St., www.12streetgym.com, certified personal trainer PGN: What has your plan for Debbie been? NE: We started cardiovascular exercise, little steps. She’s been afraid to walk long distances, so we started on the treadmill. Every time I see her, I make her feel better about exercising and working out. We started at step 1, and then have to go to 10. Before, it had been too much for her to walk a mile. PGN: Tell me more about the exercise. NE: After two weeks, we started to do body-weight workouts — push-ups and squats — to get some movement back to Debbie. She’s been doing the treadmill, 30-40 minutes of cardio, and one hour of weight training. We meet twice a week. On her own, she’s more secure and confident, and doing her own cardio on the treadmill. Right now, she can’t jog or run because of knee problems. I believe she’s doing cardio four times per week.

Dan Calhoun 19 lbs., $24/lb. Debbie Spadefora 30 lbs., $56.60/lb. Micah Mahjoubian 23 lbs., $122/lb. Franny Price 34 lbs., $39/lb.

PGN: What results are you looking for short-term? NE: She’s lost around 30 pounds, and we have until June 10 for the last weigh-in. I’m looking for her to lose another 30 pounds by June. It all depends on her: I’m here for support. But it depends on her eating habits and exercise. PGN: And long-term? NE: For her to be happy in what she’s doing. And to create a habit of exercising and eating well. I’m encouraging Debbie to keep doing the good work that she’s doing. You won’t see it from one day to another, but exercise is a habit. After the last weighin, I will be checking on her. She’s become very energized and happy and I would like to see that for a while. ■

Weigh It Forward IGH IT

WA D R

Track their progress as they weigh in every month. Community members will pledge money for every pound lost. The fundraiser beneﬁts Philadelphia Pride Presents, The Attic Youth Center and the William Way LGBT Community Center. If you’d like to pledge your support, visit www.epgn.com for a pledge form.

PGN: And for food?

Two months ago, Dan Calhoun, Debbie Spadefora, Franny Price and Micah Mahjoubian agreed to Weigh It Forward — for every pound of weight they lost between Jan. 10 and PrideDay, June 10, they would collect pledges to be donated to three nonprofit organizations. The funds raised will be distributed evenly among The Attic Youth Center, Philly Pride Presents and the William Way LGBT Community Center. In addition to the perpound donations, the four have raised $715 in flat pledges, bringing the amount raised to date to $7,000. Here’s their progress to date.

Weigh It Forward participants will host a meet-and-greet from 7-9 p.m. April 16 (postponed from March 21) at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., where you can meet the participants and representatives from the gyms/studios who are working with them: Fusion Cross Training, Move Forward Fitness, Optimal Sport Clubs and 12th Street Gym. To pledge support for a participant, visit www. epgn.com and click on “Weigh It Forward” to download a pledge form, send a pledge via PayPal to weighitforwardphilly@gmail.com or visit Spruce Street Video, 252 S. 12th St. Graphic: Sean Dorn and Scott A. Drake

Start: Jan. 10

Weigh-in 1: Feb. 10 17lbs.

Weigh-in 2: March 10

Weigh-in 3: April 10

Weigh-in 4: May 10

NE: I’m not a certified nutritionist, so I’ve advised her to eat well. She’s doing her own diet; she’s used it before. She’s eating salads, low sugar, low sodium and small meals.

FOR

PGN: What’s been your biggest struggle with your weight? DS: Food. I know what to eat and what not to eat. It’s a matter of, I have to think about it 24/7. I have 48 years of bad habits. And I will walk by the pizza place, and stop and get a slice without thinking about it. With this opportunity, I have no choice but to think about it because it’s so public.

PGN: Tell me about your workout plan. DS: I’m in the gym five days. I do at least 45 minutes of cardio those days — walk at least two miles, or try to do the bike. I work out on the machines for strength training three days a week, two of those days with Noe. I’m starting to work out with friends. And I’m just starting to work on lower body; I’d been doing upper body. I’ve cut my hours back at work to part-time to focus on this — it’s that important to me, and I’m not going to waste a good opportunity.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Weigh It Forward

LOCAL PGN

Finish line: Pride, June 10

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

LOCAL PGN

‘Shut Up & Dance’ turns 20 By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

along that often,” he said. “‘Shut Up & Dance’ has Dancers with the Pennsylvania Ballet been so imporare gearing up for a special anniversary tant to MANNA show to mark two decades of support- and to the whole ing the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood community of Nutritional Alliance’s mission, which has Philadelphians had a resounding impact on the HIV/AIDS h e l p i n g e a c h other and helpcommunity. The 20th annual “Shut Up & Dance” will i n g t h o s e i n be held 8 p.m. March 24 at Forrest Theater, need. And it’s been very special 1114 Walnut St. The event usually draws more than 1,000 to the dancers of people who generate over $100,000 for the Pennsylvania MANNA, which provides nutritional meals B a l l e t f o r s o to those with life-threatening illnesses — a long.” “Shut Up & far cry from the production’s humble beginPhotos: Scott A. Drake Dance” features nings. “The generations of dancers before us are original chorethe ones who put this together and took it ography from members of the Ballet, 28 of whom will dance in this from this small show at year’s show. The Troc that raised a few The styles will run thousand dollars to this the gamut, Hussey said, large, beautiful event that but much of it is “conis such a huge celebratemporary, raw and tion of life and raises so edgy.” much for an organization Amir Yogev is in his that has done such good third season with the for the community,” said ballet and will perform Ian Hussey, Pennsylvania in his third “Shut Up & Ballet member and this Dance” next week. year’s producing director. “My first year I Hussey, who is openly thought it was just gay, has been involved such a cool opportuwith the production for nity to give something a number of years — as back to the community a dancer, choreographer while still being able and production manager to perfect my artform — and said his “passion IAN HUSSEY (LEFT) WATCHES for the show” and what it AS YOGEV PREPARES A LIFT and extend it to places it doesn’t get to usually go,” represents inspired him to the out dancer said. “We rarely get to do take the lead on the anniversary event. “The opportunity to put together such a world premieres, and this is a whole evespecial event isn’t an opportunity that comes ning just of new works created by my peers, so it’s really exciting.” While participation is rewarding for the dancers, it comes with its challenges. Dancers rehearse on top of their full-time schedules with the ballet, meaning afterhours work and skipped lunches. “Right now, we’re in the middle of performances for ‘Messiah,’ which is a very big undertaking,” Yogev said. “You’re in rehearsal all day and it takes everything out of you. You’re really tired at the end of the day and sometimes you may be like, ‘Is this worth it?’ But in the past two years I’ve seen that you get to the day of the show and it is totally worth everything.” A number of “Shut Up & Dance” alumni have returned to take part in the 20th anniversary celebration, which Yogev said has fueled the energy around the production. “It really shows the history of ‘Shut Up & Dance’ and how much people have been dedicated to this throughout their careers and what a special place this show holds for everyone,” Yogev said. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased AMIR YOGEV DURING A WORK SESSION at www.mannapa.org. ■

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

LOCAL PGN

Green Party presidential candidate meets with Philly’s LGBTs By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A presidential candidate seeking to be the first woman — and first Green Party member — to occupy the White House will introduce her campaign to the local LGBT community next week. Dr. Jill Stein will host a meet-and-greet from 7-9 p.m. March 19 at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. Stein, a physician, is a resident of Massachusetts and ran for governor of the state in 2002 on a platform that included marriage equality, which the state legalized two years later. “I was really the first statewide candidate to come out swinging on behalf of equal marriage in the first state that supported it,” she said. Stein said the Defense of Marriage Act, the federal ban on same-sex marriage, is one of the main impediments the LGBT community is currently facing. “DOMA is a big obstacle that needs to be repealed,” she said. “President Obama has done a real disservice to the LGBT community by keeping it on the books and continuing to enforce it. It should be repealed. It’s a real slap in the face to the LGBT community.” If elected, Stein said she would “strongly advocate” for DOMA’s repeal as a “first order of business.” Stemming anti-LGBT hate crimes will also be a primary goal, she said. Having a president who is supportive of a comprehensive LGBT-rights model is a step in that direction, Stein noted. “We need to reverse the gay-bashing and the discrimination that is out there now,” she said. “We need a president who will go MARRIAGE from page 1

recognition of any form of same-sex union. The state already has a similar statute on the books. Rep. Babette Josephs (D-182nd Dist.), minority chair of the committee and prime sponsor of a bill to legalize same-sex marriage, applauded the delay. “I’m glad to see that Republicans are rethinking this dangerous amendment,” she said. “I will continue to fight this and any other attempt to write discrimination into our constitution.” Metcalfe said Tuesday he wanted to schedule a hearing on the bill before a vote, the timing for which is unclear. Equality Pennsylvania executive director Ted Martin said the measure is “far from dead.” “We have to watch this closely because a vote like this can be snuck in during highly tense times, like during the budget debate,” he said. “[Tuesday] was a good day, but we can’t rest on our laurels because this is not the end of this.” Martin speculated that the amendment

to bat for equality and for the respect and dignity of all members of the LGBT community in order to put an end to the hate-mongering and the fear-mongering that continues against this community.” One of the cornerstones of her presidential platDR. JILL STEIN form, Stein said, is health-care reform. “Everybody has a right to health care; that is a human right,” she said. “And that extends to everyone, including the gay, lesbian and transgender community, with appropriate and sensitive health care that provides for their needs, including mentalhealth needs. Right now we have a system that is in disarray and failing to meet the urgent health needs of all communities of people and bankrupting us in the process.” Stein will share her goals for the future of the nation’s health-care system with guests at the William Way event. “We’ll present the campaign and its key issues and have a chance to have informal dialogues and face-to-face discussions so people can inform me about the issues important to them,” she said. “I’m the only presidential candidate advocating for equal rights across the board, and that includes equal marriage, but also jobs, healthcare, getting students out of debt, bringing our troops home.” For more information on Stein, visit www.jillstein.org. ■ list was not the only factor in Metcalfe’s decision to preempt the vote. Equality PA and about two-dozen other LGBT and ally groups “carpet-bombed” committeemembers’ offices all weekend, Martin said, with phone calls, emails and faxes urging them to vote against the bill. While meeting with several Republican legislators Monday about the measure, Martin said he could hear the calls coming in to the offices. Other recent efforts by some Republicans may have also stymied the vote, Martin suggested. “This was just one more part of an extreme right-wing agenda,” he said. “I think members were tired of having to take these votes, these crazy votes. They had the ultrasound bill, the voter ID bill, abortion bills. It’s just one bad vote after another. I think Pennsylvanians should understand the craziness this legislature is talking about.” The Senate has defeated similar measures in the last two sessions, but the bill hadn’t been introduced in the House since 2006, when it was approved. ■

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Commish pledges LGBT support from police By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com The Philadelphia LGBT Police Liaison Committee got a visit from the city’s top cop last week. Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey was the guest speaker at the committee’s March 8 meeting at the William Way LGBT Community Center, and reviewed the department’s current and future plans for LGBT inclusion and sensitivity. The committee reported to Ramsey the success of its most recent LGBT diversity training, late last month, with the incoming class of freshman officers. Ramsey noted that the city’s Deferred Retirement Option Plan will claim 600 officers in 2014 and 2015, and that the mayor recently unveiled plans to hire 400 new officers in the coming years, so the training will be integral. “We’re going to have a lot of new people who are going to need this training, so this is a great opportunity to reach all of these new officers,” Ramsey said. “We have a gay community across the entire city, and the officers need to be aware of that, and they need to understand and recognize hate crimes and ensure that they’re being documented correctly.” An overview of hate-crimes law and procedure is currently included in police academy training and in occasional retraining for veteran officers, Ramsey said. In order to heighten awareness of LGBT issues among experienced officers, Ramsey invited the liaison committee to produce a condensed version of the video they present at their diversity training to be shown dur‘BULLY’ from page 1

parent or guardian. The MPAA chose the “R” rating by just one vote, based on the f-word being used a handful of times in the film. “I don’t think language should ever be an issue in censoring anything and it’s sad to say but this word is virtually meaningless nowadays,” Kenney said. “When I was young, that word meant something and was rarely used but sadly today kids and adults use it on a regular basis without the same impact. This rating is an adult reaction to the language.” Kenney said the film is “evocative” and can be a powerful teaching tool for bullies and those who face harassment in the classroom. “This may get through to young folks that this type of activity against people who are different, people who are outcasts or on the fringe, can be very, very hurtful and dangerous. It can lead people to suicide or cause problems for the rest of people’s lives,” he said. “And I think it can create empathy for those who are on the receiving end of this bullying.” Kenney’s letter to MPAA included data on local bullying — such as the more than 30,000 incidents of violence documented

ing roll-call training at the districts, which the committee pledged to create. Applications for the new class of police cadets, which the department sought to recruit from the LGBT community, are due March 16, and Ramsey noted the requirements this year were a departure from previous years. Applicants must now be over 21, have 60 college credits — or certain previous police or military experience — and have had their driver’s license for at least three years. The residency requirement was also removed, so recruits do not need to live in Philadelphia. However, “laterals” — those who are already working as police officers in other departments — can still only come from the state of Pennsylvania, which Ramsey said the department is working to change. “We need to expand our base as much as possible,” he said. “Other departments are doing it and it’s very competitive.” The committee raised the question of a Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit, which would be comprised of LGBT department members to raise awareness about the community within the force and serve as an outlet for the community. Ramsey spearheaded the creation of a GLLU when he was at the helm of Washington, D.C.’s department, but said Philadelphia’s police force is in a different position. “At that time, D.C. had a very serious problem within the police force in how people were being treated,” he said. “There was complaint after complaint, I had to have regular meetings with officers, they weren’t reporting hate crimes. It was just a really bad situation. Philadelphia just doesn’t have in the Philadelphia School District in the last five years — and called on the organization to help “change the environment in our schools so that no child should ever fear going to school.” Kenney is working with Philadelphia Safe Schools Advocate Kelly Hodge and the local Anti-Defamation League to get 10,000 local students out to view the film before the end of this school year — part of a larger national goal of having 1 million students view it in the coming months — an effort that would be greatly hindered if the “R” rating remains. “We can’t rely just on parents to take their kids to see this because a lot won’t,” Kenney said. “And in some of these situations, such as if there were a gay boy or girl who hadn’t come out to their family yet, how can we expect them to have to ask their parents to take them to see this? The kids need some independence, away from adults to be with each other and view this as peers. That’s how it’ll be most effective.” The effort to get the local students to see “Bully” will cost about $50,000, Kenney said, and an account for donations will be set up in the coming days. For more information or to donate, visit www.facebook.com/JimFKenney. ■

those same kind of issues.” With a slashed budget, Ramsey noted he will also have to be cutting specialized units like a GLLU. If, however, tensions were to rise like they did in D.C., he said he would consider working with officers to create such a group. Ramsey also took questions from committeemembers about ongoing issues such as the stalled plan for a police-operated surveillance camera at 13th and Locust streets. Commiteemember Rick Lombardo briefed the commissioner on the plan, which he said has been held up in the Managing Director’s Office, and Ramsey said he would look into the matter. However, he noted that the police camera system has been “disappointing.” “There have been problems with the wireless networking, with the wiring — a high percentage are just not working,” he said. “The program has been not good through-

out the city.” He said the department is relying more steadily on private surveillance cameras, especially those registered with the city. “The business and private cameras are playing a larger and larger role in fighting crime,” he said. “We’re relying more and more on the private cameras and if we have them registered, it’s so much easier for investigators. If a camera captured an incident or maybe an escape route, it saves us so much time if the cameras are mapped.” The commissioner and the committee also commended Deputy Commissioner Stephen Johnson, LGBT liaison, on his first year in the position, and the committee discussed organizational plans, such as growing its membership. Those interested in joining the committee can learn more at www.facebook.com/lgbtpoliceliaison. ■

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

EDITORIAL PGN

Creep of the Week

D’Anne Witkowski

The Utah Legislature

Editorial

Hoo boy, Scouts The Cradle of Liberty Council of the Boy Scouts of America recently filed a legal brief criticizing Liberty City LGBT Democratic Club for supporting efforts to evict the Scouts from a city-owned building it occupies rent-free. The brief was in response to Judge Ronald L. Buckwalter’s request to be updated on a case that has dragged on for nearly four years, with almost two years in Buckwalter’s court. For those who haven’t followed every twist and turn, the city took the Cradle of Liberty to court to evict members because it refused to comply with local antidiscrimination laws. Cradle of Liberty took the city to court alleging it was infringing upon the BSA’s First Amendment right to exclude gays from the organization. In 2010, a jury decided in favor of the city on two of the three issues the Scouts sued on, finding only that the city had violated Cradle’s constitution rights by allegedly asking it to repudiate the national BSA’s antigay policy. Since then, the city and the Scouts have been trying to negotiate a deal to sell the building to the Scouts. Though a deal had been announced — in which the Scouts would have bought the building for less than market value and agree to stop pursuing legal fees from the city — City Council didn’t approve it. Throughout the case, the Cradle has repeatedly tried to come across as the victim, using inflammatory rhetoric in an effort to bolster its position. In this latest filing, the Cradle accuses LGBT activists of having a “vendetta” against the council because it wouldn’t denounce the national anti-gay policy “from the highest mountaintop.”

It continues, “When Cradle of Liberty refused, the city used the only leverage it had and threatened to take away a benefit unless ... Cradle of Liberty cried ‘Uncle.’” By Cradle’s own admission, staying in a city-owned building rent-free is a “benefit.” The brief also calls former City Solicitor Romulo L. Diaz a “pawn” of LGBT activists. As to Liberty City, the Cradle submitted a letter the club sent to Sen. Bob Casey opposing consideration of City Solicitor Shelley Smith for a federal judgeship based on her handling of the Scouts case. Specifically, Liberty City’s letter claimed Smith “grossly mishandled and lost the [Scouts’ eviction] case, then failed to support an appeal, then proposed a sweetheart deal with the Boy Scouts,” and detailed “fundamental errors in the handling of the case.” The Scouts claim that Liberty City tried to “damage” Smith’s career. In truth, if the LGBT activists weilded such “power and influence,” wouldn’t Smith be out of a job already — if that was their goal? The brief further derides the LGBT activists, stating, “These activists will stop at nothing short of complete victory over Cradle of Liberty,” as though this conflict was a war, and accuses them of “McCarthy-like zeal.” Interestingly, the brief states that the Cradle expelled Greg Lattera in 2003, though asserts it was because he “went on television in his Boy Scouts uniform to promote a political agenda at odds with the National Boy Scouts.” Call it what they may, it’s a bit of a stretch to characterize coming out as “promoting a political agenda.” ■

Yes! Utah is on a fast track to becoming the first sex-free state in the country. I know, I know, a lot of people already thought it was, but the status was never official. Thanks to Utah’s legislators (dominated by Republicans. Surprise!), the dream could become reality. The Senate and House passed a bill that dismantles sex education in the state. It’s an incredible, groundbreaking bill that, among other things, absolutely forbids any discussion of homosexuality, premarital sex or contraception, even if kids ask about it. Teachers are not allowed to talk about such horrible, horrible things. It also allows schools to choose an abstinence-only sexeducation program, or to just say, “Fuck sex education,” and not teach it at all, leaving it up to parents. “I recognize that some parents do not take the opportunity to teach in their own homes, but we as a society should not be teaching or advocating homosexuality or sex outside marriage or different forms of contraceptives for premarital sex,” Sen. John Valentine (ROrem) told the Salt Lake Tribune. Damn straight (pun totally intended). For some reason, a lot of people are upset and are urging Gov. Gary Herbert to veto the bill. Will he or won’t he? Only his hairdresser knows for sure. For now, he’s saying his signature or veto depends on whether it’s “good policy for the state of Utah.” Uh, listen Herbert. The choice is obvious. The bill makes perfect 100-percent no-shit-Sherlock sense. Sign it! Everyone knows sex is a menace to society (especially the gay kind). It’s something that should not be happening under any circumstances besides a man married to a woman making a baby (not trying to make a baby, folks, but life-begins-atconception making only. Anything else is cheating. No freebies!). And yet, somehow, as the wise members of the early ’90s group LaTour once lamented, “People are still having sex.” And that was over 20 years ago! Why won’t sex just crawl back into its hole (or any other inappropriate metaphor)? The answer is deceptively simple: People be talkin’. That’s right. The Sex Problem in America is due to the Talkin’

About Sex Problem in America (Salt-N-Pepa, I’m looking at you). The key to solving any and all problems is to stop talking about them. If you don’t talk about it, it doesn’t exist. Voilà! It’s genius, really. Not everybody sees the wisdom, however. “What this bill is, is a mandate against reality,” Sen. Pat Jones (D-Salt Lake County) told her fellow lawmakers. Clearly she has never had an unintended pregnancy that she just pretended wasn’t happening so it would just go away. Other naysayers include the Utah Education Association. “Frankly, we see ... this as a need to protect children who may not have the opportunity to get the needed information on critical issues that are life saving in some cases,” the UEA’s Kory Holdaway told the Salt Lake Tribune. Ugh, that old “protecting children” argument. You know what we need to protect children from? Their evil sex-parts. Other forces also seem to be conspiring against Utah’s wise lawmakers, too: “If the goal is to prevent teen sex, however, Utah lawmakers may be working against their own ends. Research released yesterday by the reproductive health research organization The Guttmacher Institute found that receiving sex education actually delays teen sex.” The source for this info? LiveScience.com. Boo! The Utah legislature is already working on an abstinence-only science education bill. ■

Everyone knows sex is a menace to society (especially the gay kind).

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

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

OP-ED PGN

Israel, the gays and Equality Forum The last couple of years have seen proshould be. gressive LGBT people taking on issues Israel has some legal recognition of the other than equality, as well as bringing the LGBT community. It accepts marriage debate into the community. Israel and the equality from other nations, it was one of Palestinian cause has been a flashpoint. the first nations to accept gays in the military, has a gay tourism campaign, gives With Equality Forum in Philadelphia government funds to LGBT organizations poised to honor Israel this May, several and, when a hate crime happened at the progressive blogs have denounced the Tel Aviv LGBT Community Center, the organization and suggested the honor be prime minister, a conservative withdrawn. Their argument hawkish member of parliament is easy to appreciate: Israel’s (the Knesset), visited to assure oppression of the Palestinians the LGBT community that the and Palestinian state. Those government would not tolerate progressives might have a hate crimes against them. In the point, but that point is misleadMiddle East, and a nation with ing and downright anti-equality. a strong religious right-wing Full disclosure: I’m Jewish, itself, this is very progressive. but also have been a member Compare that with the of “Peace Now,” an organization that has often been at odds Palestinian state and culture. The culture is so hateful to with the Israeli government. LGBT people that any LGBT I’ve traveled throughout the activism is limited due to the Middle East, and was one of very possible chance of viothe first LGBT reporters to do lence. There is little if any a series on LGBT people living Mark Segal support within the Palestinian in Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, authority for any LGBT issues. Jordan and Israel. For those national readHate crimes against gay people hapers, those here in Philadelphia will tell you pen regularly and, in fact, many LGBT I have no appreciation of Equality Forum’s Palestinians move to Israel for safety. Then executive director. Several years ago, he there is the issue of honor killings. When a mass-emailed an obscene, graphic depicfamily believes it has been badly shamed, tion of me that crossed the line of decency. its members feel they have the right to We will never have a relationship. In conkill. This has happened with families clusion, I’m not a diehard who blindly sup- with gay children before. So by supportports Israel or Equality Forum. With that ing the Palestinians, one is supporting an stated, I think I’m in a good place to exam- anti-equality cause, if not supporting hate ine this issue fairly. crimes themselves. Here’s the fine print. Progressives are Israel should indeed be applauded for being the one place in the Middle East that right. Israel keeps the Palestinians under total control, using roadblocks, settlements is a relative safe haven for LGBT people. and blockades. All true. But at the same Our community’s first priority is for the time, the Palestinians refuse to recognize safety of our members. Can anyone state the state of Israel and house organizathat being openly LGBT in the Palestinian territory is safe? No, you cannot. ■ tions in the “Palestinian state” that have an agenda to wipe Israel off the map. I believe Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the it’s fair to say that Israel has the right to nation’s most-award-winning commentaprotect itself against people who are at tor in LGBT media. He can be reached at war with it. But for the LGBT community, mark@epgn.com. that should not be the issue. Here’s what it

Mark My Words

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Street Talk Should the media identify anti-LGBT hate-crime victims? “Only with the victim’s consent. Preferably, the victim will tell the police to keep their identity protected. The victim should Tanisha Glenn take that sales associate step. And the Yeadon police should respect their wishes. But if that doesn’t happen, the media should still ask for consent before publishing the victim’s name.”

“No. That just makes it easier for other haters to find the person. They become vulnerable to more Richard Hindman violence. It sales associate would also Lindenwold, N.J. discourage other victims from coming forward. Out the perpetrator — not the victim. This is just common sense.”

“It’s a publicsafety issue. I’m all for the media covering hate crimes, because that has a deterrent effect. But Gabriel Stemmer show some barrista sensitivity to Bella Vista the victims. For people’s safety, it should be kept anonymous — unless specified otherwise. Philly has a long way to go to be called an LGBT sanctuary.”

“No. That could expose the victim to continued violence, in any form. The media should exercise sensitivy and Anna Wolf discretion. condiment You don’t manufacturer want to Washington Square overly isolate West the crime. But obviously there’s a stigma [to being LGBT]. That’s what contributed to the crime being committed in the first place.”

Letters and Feedback In response to “Don’t victimize gay hatecrimes victims further,” March 9-15: Well said, Mark. Some folks think that gays should be satisfied with what they perceive as our victories and stop playing the “hate-crime victim.” I have also had arguments with folks who say that there is hate and there is crime, but there is no hate crime because it’s not illegal to have thoughts, be they hateful or otherwise. While I may agree with that, I feel that the moment a person’s hate spurs them to crime, hate crime does exist and should be charged as such. — Bob G.

Philadelphia Gay News

While I agree with everything you’ve written here, Mark, I wish the same outrage would take place when it involves a trans-

woman, whose names are always published and the story almost always focuses on and even gets lost with covering the victim’s gender change and improper pronoun usage, and they always disclose the victim’s born identity. The media usually turns trans victims into a joke. — April12345 In response to “Man with Clementi testifies,” March 9-15: When I was in college 65 years ago, roommates would not say, or do, anything to degrade or hurt each other. If you could not care for, or like, your roommate, you would simply make a change or get a single room. To say or do anything to hurt your roommate was just not done. It was about the worst show of a person’s character to degrade your roommate for any reason. — Jerry6

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Drink in the Excitement of Spring! UNCORKED! WINE, OBJECTS & TRADITION Opening April 28 in the Winterthur Galleries Raise a glass in toast to this fascinating exhibition! Come join us for a joyous celebration of objects and imagery created in response to society’s love of wine. For more information, please visit winterthur.org/uncorked. Presented by With Support from Bouchaine Vineyards, Gerret & Tatiana Copeland, Proprietors

34TH ANNUAL POINT-TO-POINT RACES Sunday, May 6 Join us at the Brandywine Valley’s premier spring event! This year the culinary arts will come hoof to hoof with elite horse racing as celebrity chefs serve up cooking demonstrations, tastings, and kids activities. Come for family fun, tailgate picknicking, an antique carriage parade, and more. Wristbands and tailgate spots on sale now. Visit winterthur.org/ptp.

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FLOWER POWER! Spring and summer are the perfect times to visit Henry Francis du Pont’s world-renowned garden. Savor showstopping blooms in the March Bank, Sundial Garden, Azalea Woods, and the Peony Garden. Stroll winding paths set against the majestic backdrop of du Pont’s 175-room former home. Narrated tram tours available. FAMILY FUN–EXPLORE A WORLD OF WONDER From delightful family programs like Terriﬁc Tuesdays to Enchanted Summer Day in our award-winning children’s garden, Winterthur offers excitement and exploration for kids of all ages. Consider a family or grandparent membership for free access all year! Photos: Pat Crowe, Jeannette Lindvig

Winterthur is nestled in Delaware’s beautiful Brandywine Valley on Route 52, between I-95 and Route 1, less than one hour south of Philadelphia. ��winterthur.org

PGN

Being bisexual “Old age is not for sissies,” said Bette Davis. If that is the case, and many believe it to be, then aging bisexuals are truly courageous. Bisexuals (young and old) have been underrepresented in research, media and the arts. For the most part, we are merged into the discussions of gay and lesbian aging. Issues confronting older lesbians and gay men do overlap with the experiences of older people who are bisexual, but only partially. Our aging services and community providers have bisexuals accessing services even if they don’t realize it. Bisexuals exist both as seniors and as caregivers of elderly parents: They also function as spouses, partners, parents, siblings, daughters and sons in their biological and logical families. Of significant importance is that bisexuals are rarely seen, Terri and there is little to no room for bisexuality within the older generation. When a bisexual falls in love, he or she sometimes begins to identify (publicly or privately) as lesbian, gay or hetero and thus becomes invisible as a bisexual aging person. For example, a woman with a male partner is presumed to be straight; if with a female partner, assumed to be lesbian; a woman or man alone, probably heterosexual. If she or he is in a “gay venue,” they are probably presumed to be gay, rather than bisexual. What behaviors would I, as an aging bisexual, have to engage in for other people to see me as bisexual? Should I walk into the room with a man and a woman on each arm? Should I have multiple partners? Maybe I could leave one partner for one of a different gender? (Interestingly, in this scenario people still might not read me as bisexual, but rather as having finally “finished” coming out or “gone straight.” Or, as in my case, “having gone to the other side.”) Visibility is priceless. Older people are presumed to lose both sexual interest and sexual functioning as they age. They are often perceived as inappropriate, senile and “dirty” (i.e., “dirty old men”) when they express their sexuality. Differences in sexual orientation are ignored entirely, and bisexual, gay or lesbian seniors may be driven underground and silenced. The pervasive invisibility of bisexuality has given us few or no role models, let alone an identity for who we are. The term bisexuality was not fully embraced until the gay-rights movement

was well underway and bisexuals were coming out as part of the pride movement. Many seniors have never heard the word bisexual. Everyone now over 50 became an adult when the American Psychiatric Association still listed homosexuality as a mental illness. The APA never officially classified or declassified bisexuality. Aging bisexuals often face a “double whammy”: society’s ageism and homophobia/biphobia — from both hetero and nonhetero individuals. Seniors who chose marriage and family during their younger years may be reconsidering their options and now identifying as bisexual. Others who have lived as lesbians or gay men may want to explore othersex attractions that they never lost or have rediscovered. In our own queer community, many gays and lesbians have a reputation for cutting off women and men who “go to the other side.” Non-gay folks often reject bisexual seniors as Clark “fence sitters” or for using heterosexual privilege and “passing” when convenient. In truth, to “pass” for straight and to have to deny your bisexuality is as painful as it is for gay, lesbian and transgender seniors to have to live in (or go back into) the closet. Along with affirming our own bisexuality, our LGBT community can affirm us in the followings ways (adapted from the Bisexual Resource Center): — Believe that I exist — bisexuality is a valid sexual orientation. — Don’t try and talk me into redefining my identity into something more comfortable for you. — Celebrate bisexual culture — we have a long, rich history and many daring voices who have expressed love beyond the monosexual confines. — Ask me, if appropriate, about my othersex relationships and my same-sex relationships — bisexuals live our lives in multiple ways. Some of us would like to talk about our relationships without feeling judged. — Speak up when bisexual people are being excluded or defamed. Our silence speaks loudly. ■

Gettin’ On

Terri Clark, MPH, CHES, prevention services coordinator for ActionAIDS, is cochair of the LGBT Elder Initiative. The LGBTEI is dedicated to supporting and sustaining the lives of LGBT older adults in the Delaware Valley. To comment on this article, suggest topics for future articles or for more information, visit www.lgbtei.org and watch for “Gettin’ On” each month in PGN.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Clementi case heads to jury By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com The fate of the former Rutgers University student accused of spying on Tyler Clementi is now in the hands of a jury. Testimony wrapped up Monday in the high-profile case against Dharun Ravi, charged with invasion of privacy and bias for allegedly using a webcam to view and disperse images of Clementi, his roommate, in an intimate encounter with another man. Both sides presented their closing arguments Tuesday after about two weeks of testimony, largely dominated by the prosecution. The state called about 20 witnesses, while the defense presented 10 witnesses in just a day-and-a-half of testimony. Ravi did not take the stand in his own defense. In the final day of testimony, however, the jury did hear Ravi’s hour-long interview with investigators, taped shortly after Clementi committed suicide Sept. 22, 2010. Ravi told investigators he set up the webcam not to spy on his roommate but because he thought Clementi’s guest was untrustworthy. Prosecutors say Ravi initially tapped remotely into his webcam Sept. 19, after Clementi asked for private time in the room, and saw the men kissing, later inviting other friends to watch. Two days later, he sent out a Twitter invitation directing followers to what he said would be a live feed of his room again, although the webcam malfunctioned. Defense attorney Steven Altman, whose closing argument was delayed several hours because he fell ill, told jurors that Ravi did not act out of malintent but rather reacted as a “scared kid” who did not know how to handle his roommate’s orientation. He suggested that Clementi did not feel intimi-

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dated by Ravi, as, after requesting a room�� change, �� he declined an offer from a resident assistant to �� spend the night in his dorm and instead invited his male companion over again. �� A number of Ravi’s classmates testified as char�� acter witnesses, asserting that the defendant was �� not homophobic. �� In her closing arguments, however, Middlesex �� County prosecutor Julia McClure countered that Ravi was “bothered” by Clementi’s being gay since before they moved in together. She said Ravi’s actions with the webcam were “deliberative” and calculated, not just a product of his immaturity. “There was no other reason than to expose their sexual orientation and their private sexual activity,” she told jurors. “It wasn’t a joke.” If convicted on the most serious charges, Ravi could face 10 years in prison. A native of India, Ravi is in America on a green card �� and conviction could also mean deportation. ■ ��

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Christie pledges $1 mil to keep �� antibullying law alive

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By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie last week announced the state would allocate $1 million toward its recently adopted antibullying law, which was on the brink of being wiped from the books. The state’s Council on Local Mandates in January moved toward invalidating the law because it constituted an unfunded state mandate, as it did not provide resources to school districts for implementation. The panel gave the state 60 days to rewrite the measure or locate funding before the law would be overturned. The proposed funding is outlined in a bill spearheaded by Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle, which was reviewed in a hearing in the Assembly Appropriations Committee Monday. Vainieri Huttle said she is “extremely pleased” with the proposed fix. “At the end of the day, the law has not changed, which means that our goal of protecting the countless students who are at the mercy of bullies day in and day out remains intact,” she said.

The law, considered to be one of the toughest in the nation, lays down stringent regulations on antibullying policies and reporting procedures at the district levels and also instates training, which is LGBT-inclusive, for educators. The Council on Local Mandates’ ruling was precipitated by a complaint from the Allamuchy Township Board of Educators, which contended that the training would have cost the district $6,000. In a news conference last week, Christie praised the aims of the law. “We know that students have the best opportunity to learn and achieve when they’re in an environment that’s safe and free from bullying and intimidation,” he said. “This legislation is extraordinarily important to meet those goals. That’s why we need to come together and fix it.” Steven Goldstein, chair of Garden State Equality, joined Christie in the news conference, noting that “in the rough and tumble of politics, it’s nice to see the governor and our Democratic leaders put kids first. This heroic fix that the governor and the leaders in both houses of both parties have engineered will save lives.” ■

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Obituary Aaron Bradley, Rutgers student, 28 By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Although life handed Aaron Bradley a seemingly insurmountable number of obstacles, friends and family say he conquered each through his endless store of courage and fortitude. A senior at Rutgers University and a former member of the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, Bradley, 28, died March 2 of an infection related to kidney failure. Bradley, who was blind from birth, had struggled with kidney problems throughout his life, having been born with end-stage renal failure. Bradley’s mother was 14 when she gave birth, and he spent years in the foster-care system and had two kidney transplants. He graduated from Overbrook School for the Blind and, in 2004, moved in with Trish and Andrew Maunder, the parents of a classmate. The Maunders were making plans to officially adopt Bradley before his death. Bradley did not allow his physical impairment to keep him from his goals. He attended Burlington County Community College before transferring to Rutgers, where he lived independently in a dorm at the university’s Camden campus. “Coming into this world as a blind human being has made me look at the world with other senses,” he described on his Facebook profile. “I take in the beauty of touch, smell, sound, vibes and the natural energy that people give off. The eyes only allow us to see the surface of what is reality, but allow your other senses to take you deeper. I try to do this all the time.” “He didn’t see himself as any different and, because of that, others didn’t see him as different,” said Josh Yoder, a friend from PGMC. Yoder said Bradley was a wiz at navigating the city using public transportation. Patrick Hagerty, another PGMC friend, noted that when Bradley was on a cruise with the Maunders, he waited until everyone was asleep and sneaked out to the ship’s nightclub. “He wanted to experience it himself, by himself,” Hagerty said. “He put tissues in the railing and tucked them under pictures to find his way back to the cabin.” On Rutgers’ campus, Hagerty said Bradley was a popular figure, as was his guide dog, Licorice,

whose toenails he once painted purple, his favorite color. Bradley was planning to enter the social-work field, and the university announced it would award him a posthumous degree. Trish Maunder said that, upon graduation, Bradley intended to earn his master’s in social work, and was particularly interested in working in the adoption field. “He lived through so many different scenarios himself, so much adversity,” she said. “He had an open heart and if he saw people struggling, he would lend himself to helping them.” Maunder said Bradley came out around the time he came to live with her family. “He came here and felt like he could now come out and embrace it and then just went out and joined everything,” she said. Singing was one of Bradley’s main passions. “He could focus in on the qualities of music and really hearing himself and others because he lived his life through sound,” Yoder said. In addition to the PGMC, of which he was a member from about 2004-08, he also sang with the Rutgers-Camden University Choir and the Rutgers-Camden Madrigals. A recording of Bradley singing his favorite song, “Defying Gravity” from “Wicked,” was played during his funeral last weekend. “Even though he died too young, he lived more in his 28 years than most people I know,” Yoder said. Memorial contributions can be made to the Aaron Bradley Fund through the attention of the Maunder Family, 408 Oldershaw Ave., Moorestown, NJ 08057, which will donate the money to a number of Bradley’s favorite charities. ■

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Aviance, others party for Equality PA

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By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

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Voyeur will be alight with stars from various sectors of the entertainment world this weekend for a birthday celebration with a benevolent focus. “Party Like a Pornstar,” which starts at 8 p.m. at the club, 1221 St. James St., will pay tribute to birthday boy and local adult film star and promoter Gunner de Medici while raising funds for Equality Pennsylvania. The night will feature performances by “American Idol” alum Erika Schiff, drag star Sherry Vine and P.A.K. — a trio that includes Kitty Meow, Power Infiniti and Kevin Aviance. Aviance, a popular performer in the New York City nightclub scene, was the victim of an antigay attack in 2006. De Medici said he wanted to use his birthday as a way to put the spotlight back on Aviance and the issue of hate crimes. “Kevin’s a friend of mine and he went through a lot after he was attacked,” he said. “He just launched his new album and I thought it’d be great for his fan base to see him again. Kevin’s really the posterchild for hate crimes and, with these sorts of crimes reoccurring so frequently recently, I also thought this was a great opportunity to get involved in this issue.” Schiff said several of her own gay friends have been victimized in recent weeks. Organizers sought a component that was making strides in the fight against anti-LGBT hate crimes, and found a good match with Equality Pennsylvania. “We want to give as much as we can to Equality Pennsylvania because they work so hard,” she said. “Ted [Martin, Equality PA executive director] is always in his car, running back and forth from Philadelphia to Harrisburg. They’re really an organization that’s out there working to get laws passed and to make things happen, so we’re really excited to be able to help raise money for them.” Organizers don’t have a specific fundraising goal but are hoping to pack the 1,800-person capacity club with supporters. The crowd is expected to be diverse, de Medici said. “Kevin has been a gay iconic figure since the ’80s and ’90s,” he said. “Even though he’s been out of the limelight for a while after the horrible incident in New York, he’s had five Billboard number-one singles so he’s popular too with the newer generation.” Doors open at 8 p.m., and the $20 cover includes an open bar until 10 p.m. VIP ticket-holders will get top-shelf open bar from 9-11 p.m. The live show begins at 11:30 pm. For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/ events/173683269400280/. ■

Now you can read your favorite local LGBT news site on your Android or iPhone/iPad Just go to epgn.com on your mobile Device Also check out our digital “ﬂipbook” of the full print edition at issuu.com/philagaynews with issuu’s Android app.

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News Briefing Challenge to Conshohocken LGBT ordinance dismissed A Montgomery County judge this week dismissed a legal challenge to Conshohocken’s LGBT civil-rights ordinance that was filed by the co-founder of an anti-LGBT group in the region. In a one-page ruling, Judge Bernard A. Moore said co-plaintiffs James D. Schneller and Philadelphia Metro Task Force lacked legal standing to pursue the claims raised in the legal challenge. The ordinance, enacted in April 2011, extends anti-bias protections to LGBTs in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodations and public education. Discriminators face up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine for each violation. Schneller wanted Moore to invalidate the ordinance because he said it would be harmful to children, foster the spread of diseases and infringe on protected religious freedoms. But Michael J. Savona, the borough

solicitor for Conshohocken, said neither Schneller nor Philadelphia Metro Task Force had legal standing to challenge the ordinance because they couldn’t demonstrate any adverse affects from it. Schneller couldn’t be reached for comment on Moore’s March 12 ruling. In a previous interview, Schneller indicated that he would appeal an unfavorable ruling to Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, which he has 30 days to do. Savona expressed agreement with Moore’s ruling. “I’m pleased that the court reached the correct result,” Savona told PGN. “I’m hoping Mr. Schneller will forego an appeal, and not waste any more of the borough’s time or money pursuing a case that the court has determined he doesn’t have any standing to pursue.” Mary Catherine Roper, senior staff attorney for the ACLU of Pennsylvania, expressed approval of Moore’s ruling. “The law is very settled that these ordinances are an appropriate way for local municipalities to protect their citizens,” Roper told PGN. “The outcome should never have been in question.” — Timothy Cwiek

ASIAC gets new space ASIAC moved to a new office earlier this month in an effort to make its services more directly accessible to the Asian com-

munity. The organization, formerly in North Philadelphia, is now located at 1711 S. Broad St., in South Philadelphia. “This will allow us to have better access to the Asian community in Philadelphia and a more streamlined approach to case management,” said executive director Kevin Huang. The office is located directly across from Health Center 2 and is within walking distance of the Tasker-Morris stop on the Broad Street Subway. Office hours remain the same.

Get ready to dine out In advance of next month’s international Dining Out for Life, organizers are staging a new contest to help spread the word about the fundraiser. Supporters of the effort, which began in Philadelphia more than 20 years ago to raise funds for HIV/AIDS causes, can submit a 60-second video explaining why they “dine out for life” to be entered for a threeday trip for two to one of the dozens of cities that participate in the annual fundraiser. The city with the most entries will also receive a prize. Full contest rules are available at www. diningoutforlife.com. Philadelphia’s Dining Out for Life, hosted by ActionAIDS, will be held April 26.

Roast a leader Equality Pennsylvania board president Adrian Shanker will celebrate his 25th birthday next month with a roast to raise funds for the LGBT-rights organization. The April 1 brunch, held at The Palace Center in Allentown, will feature roasts by Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan, Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski and other local politicos, as well as live music and a silent auction. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information, email aeshanker@gmail.com.

Nominate your hero Big changes are in store for Delaware Valley Legacy Fund’s upcoming HEROES event. The annual fundraiser, previously held in the fall, will this year be from noon-3 p.m. June 3 at Sofitel, also a new venue. The format for the party will also change, with this year’s event presented as a brunch buffet. Organizers are calling for submissions for the HEROES awards — which will be presented to an outstanding individual, youth, straight ally, nonprofit and corporation. Nomination forms can be found at www. dvlf.org. All nominations are due by March 31. ■ — Jen Colletta

Are you a community leader? Bia Vieira, longtime activist and vice president for community impact, Philadelphia Foundation Quincy Greene, founder, Educational Justice Coalition David Acosta, writer, poet, longtime HIV/ health activist, prevention coordinator for HIV programs at AIIDS Activities Coordinating Ofﬁce Joe Ippolito, founder/organizer of the Gender Reel multimedia festival Monica Bey-Clarke, author, entrepeneur, founder of My Family! books and products for LGBT families Sue Gildea, women’s commissioner, City of Brotherly Love Softball League

These people made the grade and were covered in PGN’s “Portrait” column by Suzi Nash. Every week, Suzi talks to people making a difference in Philadelphia. Has she talked to you yet?

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Pope denounces gay marriage lobby to US bishops

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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By Nicole Winfield The Associated Press

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VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI waded deep into U.S. campaign politics last Friday, urging visiting U.S. bishops to beef up their teaching about the evils of premarital sex and cohabitation, and denouncing what he called the “powerful” gay-marriage lobby in America. As debate over health-care coverage for birth control rages in the United States, Benedict said there was an urgent need for Catholics in America to discover the value of chastity — an essential element of Christian teaching that he said had been subject to unjust “ridicule.” Benedict has long championed traditional marriage between man and woman, as well as opposition to premarital sex and fidelity within marriage. But his strong comments to visiting U.S. bishops took on particular significance given the culture wars that have erupted in the U.S. this campaign season. U.S. bishops are currently locked in an election-year battle with the Obama administration over federal funding for birth control. In addition, bishops have been at the forefront of the campaign against same-sex marriage, with at least five U.S. states scheduling ballot measures on the issue in coming months. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the head of the U.S. conference of bishops and archbishop of New York, unsuccessfully lobbied against the legalization of gay marriage in his state. The 84-year-old pope acknowledged his comments might sound anachronistic or “countercultural,” particularly to the young. But he told bishops to not back down in the face of “powerful political and cultural currents seeking to alter the legal definition of marriage.” “Sexual differences cannot be dismissed as irrelevant to the definition of marriage,” he said. He also denounced what he called the failure of priests and bishops to instruct Catholics in core church teachings on human sexuality, saying many Catholics seem unaware that living together outside of marriage was “gravely sinful, not to mention damaging to the stability of society.” The entire Christian community, he said, must recover an appreciation of the virtue of chastity. “Young people need to encounter the church’s teaching in all its integrity, challenging and countercultural as that teaching may be; more importantly they need to see it embodied by faithful married couples who bear convincing witness to truth,” he said. Benedict said a weakened appreciation for traditional marriage and the widespread rejection of responsible sexuality had led to “grave social problems bearing an immense human and economic cost.” He didn’t elaborate on what the cost was. Groups of visiting U.S. bishops have been traveling to Rome for the past several months as part of bishops’ regular once-every-five-year visits with the pope and senior Vatican officials. ■

Philadelphia Gay News

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NEWS PGN SCOUTS from page 1

work with Cradle of Liberty and try to forge a compromise,” the filing states. “Rather than praising the city for reaching a compromise that preserves the city’s stated imperative of ending discrimination on city-owned property, with McCarthy-like zeal the activists instead use their power and influence to damage [Smith’s] career.” Lee Carson, co-chair of Liberty City, declined to comment on Cradle’s legal brief. John J. Rizzo, Casey’s press secretary, declined to comment on the letter. “I don’t have anything to say about the letter, because we keep private the names that are under consideration [for the judiciary],” Rizzo told PGN. “Not every applicant is comfortable with having their name out there. And it’s our policy to respect those wishes.” Rizzo said there are four federal-judiciary vacancies in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Casey and U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey are expected to jointly recommend candidates to President Obama in the near future. “When a name is ready to be submitted to the White House, Sens. Casey and Toomey will submit it,” Rizzo continued. “They have a good working relationship. They’re actively working through the process. And they’re hopeful to be able to recommend some names to the White House soon.” Then, it will be up to President Obama to make the judicial nominations, he said. Approval by at least two-thirds of the Senate is needed for confirmation of a nominee, Rizzo added. “Unconstitutional condition” In June 2010, a federal jury ruled that the city placed an “unconstitutional condition” on Cradle’s right to exclude gays by allegedly asking it to repudiate the national BSA’s antigay policy to avoid eviction. The city’s latest brief asks Buckwalter to overturn that verdict, emphasizing a recent Supreme Court decision allowing governments to condition subsidies on compliance with antibias rules. But Cradle wants Buckwalter to uphold the jury verdict, and to order the city to pay it more than $1 million in legal fees. An earlier attempt to settle the dispute by selling the property to the Cradle for $500,000 was abandoned after Philadelphia City Council declined to approve the deal. If the deal had been approved by City Council, Cradle would have dropped its attempt to collect legal fees from the city. Buckwalter has no deadline for issuing a ruling. Cradle says it has a right to exclude gays from its headquarters at 231-251 N. 22nd St. due to a Supreme Court ruling allowing the Scouts to set their own membership standards.

City officials, however, say that policy violates the city’s Fair Practices Ordinance, which forbids anti-LGBT bias on city-owned property. Vendettas and pawns Cradle’s brief also claims LGBT activists are pursuing the eviction due to a “vendetta” against Cradle, because Cradle didn’t repudiate the BSA’s antigay policy “from the highest mountaintop.” The brief continues: “When Cradle of Liberty refused, the city used the only leverage it had and threatened to take away a benefit unless and until Cradle of Liberty cried ‘Uncle.’ The city burdened Cradle of Liberty’s First Amendment right of expressive association and its right to be free from compelled speech.” Cradle’s brief also claims that former City Solicitor Romulo L. Diaz was used as a “pawn” by LGBT activist Arthur Kaplan and other members of the LGBT Working Group in their alleged attempt to change the BSA’s antigay policy. “The process that was orchestrated by Mr. Kaplan and his self-styled Working Group was an uncompromising campaign determined to end with Cradle of Liberty tossed from the headquarters that it had built and maintained for eight decades — a campaign in which [Diaz] became Mr. Kaplan’s pawn,” the brief states. Diaz declined to comment for this story, referring instead to his Scouts’ trial testimony. During the trial, Diaz testified that, as city solicitor, he was concerned that city taxpayers were subsidizing discrimination due to Cradle’s rent-free occupancy of the property. Diaz also testified that he recognized Kaplan to be a “passionate” advocate for the LGBT community, but he never felt overly burdened or unduly pressured by Kaplan to end the subsidy. Kaplan was out of the country this week and unavailable for comment. Cradle’s brief also reiterates Cradle’s position that it expelled Life Scout Greg Lattera in 2003 because of his alleged inappropriate behavior — not because of his status as a gay man. “The reason that Mr. Lattera was ultimately expelled was because he went on television in his Boy Scouts uniform to promote a political agenda at odds with the National Boy Scouts,” the brief states. In his trial testimony, Lattera acknowledged that he granted an interview to a local television station in 2003. He testified that he disclosed his sexual orientation during the interview as a matter of personal pride, not to promote a political agenda. Lattera’s appeal for reinstatement remains pending almost nine years after his expulsion, according to court records. ■

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Media Trail Priest who denied communion placed on leave Fox Baltimore reports a priest who denied communion to a lesbian at her mother’s funeral has reportedly been placed on leave. In March 11 letter, an archdiocese official said the priest was suspended for engaging in intimidating behavior. The archdiocese has already apologized to the woman for the priest’s actions at the February funeral in Gaithersburg. Barbara Johnson and her relatives, meanwhile, have asked the archdiocese to remove the priest. The archdiocese issued a statement after the funeral saying any action against him would remain confidential. Johnson’s family issued a statement March 11 saying the letter doesn’t pertain to the funeral, but they hope the action will ensure others won’t suffer the same treatment.

Judge: Ohio lesbian mother must share custody The Akron Beacon Journal Reports an Ohio judge has ruled that a lesbian mother must share custody of her 8-year-old biological daughter with her former partner. Franklin County magistrate Judge Kathleen Knisely found that evidence supports the claims of Julie Rose Rowell that she and biological mother Julie Ann Smith were life partners with an agreement to raise the girl together. The couple split in 2008 and Rowell filed a petition for shared custody in October of that year, alleging Smith refused to allow her contact with the child. Knisely found that Rowell was present for Smith’s insemination procedure, all doctor’s visits and the child’s birth.

Florida teacher with gay porn past gets job back Orlando’s WKMG 6 reports an education commission in Orlando has ruled that a South Florida educator can continue to teach, despite his past as a gay-porn star. Miami-Dade teacher Shawn Loftis was teaching as a substitute at numerous Miami-area schools when the school district began its investigation in January. Administrators at one of the schools where Loftis taught discovered he had been in the porn industry under the alias

Collin O’Neal. The commission said his past pursuits were not illegal and the school did not have the authority to dismiss him on that basis. Loftis also argued that he hoped to use his role as a teacher to help guide students away from making the choices he had made. The commission said Loftis can now apply to be a full-time teacher, but he will be on probation for two years.

KY House committee rejects bullying legislation Louisville’s WHAS11 reports a bill to protect students from bullying by their classmates has died in the House Education Committee because of concerns by some lawmakers that it would give “special rights” to gay students. The proposal by Rep. Mary Lou Marzian, a Louisville Democrat, failed to get the 15 votes it needed to pass the committee. The party-line vote on March 13 was 13 in favor, 10 against and three abstentions. Most of the Republicans who voted against the bill said a 2008 law sponsored by Democratic Rep. Mike Cherry of Princeton is a national model and is sufficient to protect students. But Marzian, who mentioned that Cherry was a sponsor of her bill, said hers was stronger because it specifies categories of students to be protected.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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GLAAD to hold anti-LGBT commentators accountable The Advocate.com reports the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation has launched an initiative to hold dozens of anti-LGBT pundits accountable for their statements, aimed at “educating the media about the extreme rhetoric” they espouse. The Commentator Accountability Project will target figures such as Brian Brown and Maggie Gallagher of the National Organization for Marriage, Family Research Council president Tony Perkins and Pastor Ken Hutcherson. “These activists have the right to recite their anti-LGBT talking points, but it is important to expose the questionable and often hostile rhetoric that passes as punditry when so-called ‘experts’ speak out against the lives of LGBT people on the air or in print,” GLAAD spokesperson Herndon Graddick said in a Monday press release. The project urges individuals to notify GLAAD when any of these antigay figureheads is quoted in local or national media at www.glaad.org/cap. “Hate is not an expert opinion,” Graddick said in the press release. “This project holds these so-called ‘pundits’ accountable for the extreme anti-LGBT rhetoric they continue to spread.” ■ — compiled by Larry Nichols

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

-BRATION

SAHR NGAUJAH AS FELA KUTI WITH THE CAST OF “FELA!” Photos: Monique Carboni and Tristam Kenton

Out director-choreographer brings award-winning musical to Philly By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is hosting the extraordinary story of legendary Afrobeat recording artist Fela Kuti in the Tony Award-winning musical “FELA!” March 20-25 at the Academy of Music. Directed by acclaimed out choreographer Bill T. Jones, “FELA!” debuted offBroadway in 2008 and has earned numerous accolades, including Tony Awards in 2010

for Best Choreography, Best Costume Design and Best Sound Design. Jones said that even though the show made a splash on Broadway, at first it was a challenge to sell The Great White Way on a show like “FELA!” “‘FELA!’ was an unknown quantity in the popular music world of Broadway,” he said. “He is very well known to a certain generation like myself. In the 1970s, we were very interested in his story. We knew his music. But he isn’t exactly what you would call Broadway-friendly. So in the

first half-hour of the piece we have to introduce who he was. We have to convince the audience that the music is worth their time. Then we have to learn something about the world that made him who he was and that is a challenge.” Fortunately the show and Kuti himself had high-profile fans in celebrities Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, who signed on as producers of the musical. “Everything helps,” Jones said when asked if celebrity support was key to the

show’s success. “Maybe it got the attention of certain people because they look to those folks as tastemakers. Fela Kuti is often sampled by hip-hop. One of our biggest fans was [Amir] Questlove [Thompson] from The Roots. Questlove was the one that got Jay-Z there and Jay-Z got Will Smith there.” Jones said he didn’t expect the acclaim the show has garnered. The awards and word of mouth are now bringing a new wave of theater-goers to see “FELA!” “I was gratified when it happened,” he

PGN FEATURE

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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said. “Stunned, actually. All modesty aside, “I don’t know, what was Bob Dylan about?” it is an exceptional show and Broadway has he asked. “What was the 1960s about with never seen anything like it before. So I was this notion of protest music? Is that the same glad that there was the recognition for the thing as doing protest songs on Broadway? show. I think now there are a lot of people I’m not sure. They tell me ‘South Pacific’ that are going because they heard of the was a protest against racism. Was ‘Hair’ a show. Initially, the off-Broadway audience protest against the mores of the 1960s? So knew him but now we’re in another phase of there are already precedents for this way of things. I would think they are coming now thinking. Fela comes from a culture where all because of the show itself. They heard about the stakes are higher. I won’t say what Africa the fabulous dancers and the general energy lacks in terms of democracy. Let’s just put it and innovation of the piece.” this way: When he stands up and criticizes Of course the dancing is going to be fab- the government, it’s not that his record sales ulous if the world-renowned Jones is over- will fall off. Literally, he could find himself seeing the choreography. Jones said he drew in jail for 10 years. And he was arrested 200 from a number of influences for the dance times and he had most of the bones in his routine in “FELA!” body broken. His hands were broken at one “The whole show is an act of imagina- point. But still the man would get up on stage tion,” he said. “It’s taking the reality of Fela’s and do this peculiar music that sounds like show and in some ways upping the ante. dance music. He said he was speaking for the There are African-inspired movements but people who couldn’t speak for themselves. it’s kind of PanHe was an enterAfrican. It’s not tainer and activnecessarily only ist of a very high Nigerian. We order.” have included Messages aside, some modernJones said the dance vocabus h ow ’s m a i n l a r y. T h e r e ’s goal is to be also tap dancing entertaining in it, something and that there that was never is something in on Fela’s stage, the production but I think it’s of “FELA!” for a natural for everyone, espeAfrobeat.” cially theaterUnderneath goers from the all the pounding LGBT commurhythms, colornity. ful fashions and “I was told excellent choBILL T. JONES Photo: Joseph Moran when we were reography is the story of a controversial artist and political on Broadway that many people — and the activist who used incendiary lyrics to openly man that told me was a Broadway regular attack the corrupt and oppressive military and a white gay man — thought it was an dictatorships that ruled Nigeria and much of African dance concert and [theatergoers] are Africa. interested in traditional musicals,” he said. “I think it does a good job of talking “And it was the gay community I thought about the world he was born into, his moth- he was speaking for and [he] didn’t think er’s world of post-independence Nigeria,” the show was for them. However when gay Jones said. “He does talk a great deal about people go to the show and see how much the oppressive military regime and he talks style is in the show and how sexy it is and about how his music was informed by the how beautifully it is designed, they are construggles in the United States at the time, the vinced. But they have it in their mind that Black Power struggles of the 1960s and how they are not so interested in an ethnic perhe adapted that for his own purpose, which former like Fela and they don’t want anyled him to have problems with the military thing that is too political. “When people come to the show I’d like dictatorship. He makes a lot of fun of the ‘mosquitoes,’ the slang term for soldiers. for them to come into a party. We’re not We have a lot of fun in the show with that there to lecture them. We’re not there to do play on the word. When you come into the anything more than expose them to a very theater, there are newspaper clippings from fascinating character who will be vivid in Nigeria and there’s a lot of translations that everything he does, from his sexuality to his need to happen. Fela only wrote in Pidgin use of marijuana to his take on justice and English. Therefore, we had to translate those injustice. We don’t want people thinking lyrics and we had to sometimes translate and they are going to come in to a lesson. It’s restate them in a language that makes sense a rollicking good time but it has a serious heart.” ■ to our ears instead of Nigerian ears.” When asked if American audiences will The Kimmel Center presents “FELA!” relate to the idea of music as a weapon against oppression and corruption, Jones March 20-25 at Kimmel’s Academy of said the show isn’t putting any ideas out Music, 240 S. Broad St. For more informathere that haven’t been around for a long tion or tickets, www.kimmelcenter.org or time. call 215-790-5800.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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NIGHTLIFE PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

They Say It’s Your Birthday There are a lot of bar birthdays and event anniversaries listed below. I never would have thought that March would be a big month for all that, but I guess it is. There’s so much happening in the next couple of weeks that you almost lose sight of the fact that it’s St. Patrick’s Day this weekend. But that’s OK — with the weather warming up, you don’t need to be Irish or a fan of silly green hats to find something fun to do.

for mesothelioma lawyers, I’m all for it. March Stimulus The March Stimulus party gets started at 10 p.m. March 16 at Finnegan’s Wake, 537 N. Third St. Look for the private entrance to the third floor, where you can hang with the hot go-go dancers and sexy shot girls while enjoying the amazing view. Special guest will be Ashley from Slumber Parties, the sex-toy company run by women for women. Check out products, ask questions or book a party and receive a special gift. Cover charge is $7 before midnight or $10 after. For more information, see www.stimulusphilly.com.

RuPaul’s Drag Racers These season four girls sure aren’t wasting any time hitting the road and getting to work! Two of them are making appearances in the area in the next few days. Milan hosts a “Night of Tabu’s Second Birthday Jim Kiley- Party Glamour” at 11:30 p.m. March 16 at The Raven, 385 West Don’t miss Tabu’s second Zufelt birthday Bridge St., New Hope. party, starting 8 p.m. Sharon Needles will be the March 16 at Tabu Lounge and special guest at the first-anniversary party Sports Bar, 200 S. 12th St. They’ll have of Mimi Imfurst’s Dollhouse Revue, 10 different drink specials on every floor and p.m. March 21 at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 a fundraiser for the William Way LGBT St. James St. Community Center in the lounge, featuring It’s good to see them making the most of Circus of the Stars, the Liberty City Kings, the exposure they get from the show. And as Notorious OMG and more. There’s a $7 long as they don’t start doing supermarket cover for the fundraiser but the other floors grand openings or late-night commercials are free all night long.

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St. Patrick’s Day Parties Of course March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day, so every bar will have something going on and there will be people dressed in green everywhere you go. Just remember that St. Patty’s Day is an amateur night that’s surpassed only by New Year’s Eve, which means there will be tons of people out there partying much harder than they can handle. So watch your step on the sidewalks and keep your cell-phone ready at all times: You never know what someone might start doing right in front of you that could make you the toast of Facebook in the morning. Rugby & Softball Bar Crawls Like your men (or women) hot, sweaty and athletic? I mean really athletic, like the ones who tear it up with their team and come home smelling like grass and sweat, not the ones who go to the gym a couple times a week and come home smelling like hand sanitizer and protein smoothies. If you do, then you’re in luck this weekend, because the city will be literally crawling with rugby and softball players! The ruggers of the Philadelphia Gryphons will host the Boston Ironsides in a match at noon March 17 at GW Pepper Middle School, 84th Street and Lyons Avenue. Both teams then will meet up at 9 p.m. at the Westbury for the traditional after-match drink up, after which they’ll crawl around the Gayborhood to Tavern, Woody’s and The Bike Stop. Meanwhile, the City of Brotherly Love Softball League will hold its annual spring training and skills day 11 a.m. March 17 at Palumbo Rec Center, 700 S. Ninth St. Afterward, the league is doing a bar crawl starting at 4 p.m., hitting Sisters, Tavern, the Venture Inn, ICandy and Tabu. The rugby crawl is free, so just show up if you want to hang with them. If you want to be on the CBLSL bar crawl, you’ll need to register by emailing barcrawl@cblsl. org. Then they’ll send you details including where the crawl starts and the planned schedule of stops. A donation of $15 to CBLSL gets you a cool T-shirt that will grant you magically delicious drink specials as well as free admission to certain

bars and dance floors along the crawl. QOTA Third Anniversary Queers on the Avenue celebrates its third anniversary from 6-9 p.m. March 21 at Paradiso, 1627 E. Passyunk Ave. There will be drink specials, lite fare and good times reminiscing over three years of great events. A portion of the proceeds from the night will benefit the South Philly Food Coop. JOCKS Second Annual Swimsuit Fashion Show If you liked the rugby and softball events, then you’re going to love this. Catch members of the Greater Philadelphia Flag Football League at JOCKS as they model hot new swimwear fashions for 2012. That’s right: football players in swimsuits. They’ll hit the runway at 9 p.m. March 23 at Venture Inn, 255 S. Camac St. Your $5 donation gets you one domestic bottled beer or Finlandia drink, plus music by Salotta Tee and fashions by Metro Men’s Clothing. All proceeds benefit the league. (Did I mention the football players will be in swimsuits?) ICandy’s First Anniversary Philly’s newest club is turning one year old and promising a star-studded VIP blow out like you’ve never seen before as with the debut a brand-new lounge. The fun starts at 6 p.m. March 24 at ICandy, 254 S. 12th St. To get on the guest list, visit www. clubicandy.com/TheList. Spring Pink Pub Crawl Last but not least, it’s time for the Spring Pink Pub Crawl, starting 9 p.m. March 24 at Tavern on Camac. Tickets are $25 for those dressed in pink or $35 for those who aren’t. The crawl will hit Tavern, Woody’s, Sumo and Voyeur. Your ticket gets you a drink at the first three venues and admission to Woody’s and Voyeur. Check out www. nightlifegay.com for more information. ■ Questions, comments or are you as excited as I am that Robyn is opening for Coldplay? Contact Jim at barcrawlr@gmail.com.

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PROFILE PGN

Family Portrait

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Suzi Nash

Adam Hymans: Love of history, linguistics and books “Don’t ask me where I am going but where I have come from.” — African proverb Adam Hymans is a man who knows where he is now, where he’s going and where he comes from. The self-described family historian has a rich history — and shared some of it with PGN this week. PGN: Where are you from? AH: I was born here, but I went to prep school, which would be the equivalent of high school, in Germany. PGN: What was growing up like? AH: My dad was a businessman and my mother was in publishing for a while. She later had some health issues that got in the way. My brother and I grew up in a multiethnic, multi-cultural household. We were always taught to value family history on both sides and it was a household where thought and creativity and curiosity were nurtured. My parents and grandparents always fostered a sense of wonder about the world. Education was a high priority in our house. I remember wanting to have a typewriter when I was about 7 years old. I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. PGN: What was your father like? AH: He was a sort of gentleman hobbyist. He was an avid outdoorsman and would take us fishing in Cape Cod every year. He also painted oil portraits and dabbled in a number of different creative endeavors. I get my artistic side from him. The whole family contributed to my sense of wonder and eagerness to learn by encouraging me with everything from chemistry sets and electronic kits to actively engaging me with outdoor activities and quests. For instance, I just returned from a birding trip. My grandmother was the one who got me into it. We both loved the intense observation of birds in their natural habitat that’s a part of the hobby. I was the one who inherited all of her old field guides. And when they saw that I had an artistic eye, they provided for me to take arts classes. So they were very nurturing and supportive throughout my upbringing. My father was the one who gave me my first pair of binoculars. PGN: You have a very interesting background. AH: [Laughs.] Yes, that’s certainly true! One of my passions is historical and cultural preservation and so I’m the natural archivist for the family. I’ve been the one to receive and collect all the family heirlooms and stories. My dad’s side of the family are Dutch Sephardim. Those were the Dutch and Belgian Jews of 16th century of Spanish and Portuguese origin. The Sephardim established the New World’s

oldest surviving Jewish community almost 400 years ago in South America and the Dutch West Indies. My ancestors also include Paul Hymans, who served as Belgium’s Foreign Minister between WWI and WWII and as first president of the League of Nations, which was the predecessor to United Nations. He also helped to establish the universal right to vote and compulsory education in Europe. When I said education has always been important in my family, I mean from way back! PGN: You’re not kidding! AH: And on my maternal grandfather’s side we are of Louisiana Creole, French Huguenot and African-American ancestry. My great-grandparents were freed black men and women and early graduates of color from Harvard’s Divinity and Business schools. Some of my family members established the first black-owned company to own a seat on the New York Stock Exchange and were founding investors in Essence magazine. And they were patrons of the arts, supporting a number of Harlem Renaissance painters like Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden.

and leadership, involvement in the arts. They were free people of color before the Civil War and leaders of the community. It really makes me proud to be a part of their history. The other object that I have — and I play with it all the time — is an ivoryhandled shoe horn that my great-grandfather used to use: He would hold it firmly in his hand as he told me stories or taught me lessons. As a kid, I pretended it was a magic wand. PGN: What was a favorite game as a kid? AH: I had a memory-card game that I loved. I still play a version of it today. When I was a kid I took an IQ test and scored really high and a lot of it was because I had such a good memory. Not quite photographic, but close. PGN: What was your first book? AH: Well, school was never over for us; when we came home we were to read additional books at home. So there were a lot, [but] I remember my least favorite! I did

PGN: Romare Bearden is the painter that Bill Cosby loves. His paintings were on the wall in the Huxtable house on “The Cosby Show.” AH: Yes, I remember. My grandparents and great-grandparents were into all of the action during the Harlem renaissance.

because German studies encompassed all the things I was interested in — political science, literature, films, diplomacy, etc. — in the German-speaking world. Knowing the language already from my school days there really helped. In fact I received an award from the German Consulate for work I did on the immigrant experience in Germany and endangered German dialects. The cultural anthropology focused on religion, the structure of beliefs, why people believe what they believe and the nature of the mystical experience across the ages. I think some of my interest for that came from being raised in a multi-ethnic family with three different religions. PGN: I didn’t even know there were endangered German dialects. AH: Sure, there is a standardized dialect that’s spoken over most of the region but, regionally, especially with older people, they may speak with a different dialect. I focused on the northern region, where they speak a dialect that’s closely related to Dutch, which my dad’s family speaks. The newer generation is not learning it so there’s a concerted effort to get out and record it so that it doesn’t disappear. When a language dies, so does a certain way of thinking and perceiving the world.

PGN: They probably knew my family! My great-grandfather founded the “First Negro Symphony” and my grandmother was a pianist in New York who taught Paul Robeson and W.C. Handy and had some connections with Billie Holiday and all the jazz greats of that time. AH: We should look it up! PGN: And you, like me, also come from a Native American background ... AH: Yes, my maternal grandmother’s side was of Eastern Cherokee, Lenape and Scottish ancestry, and they were native traditional and political leaders from 1730-1900. Some of them included traditional paramount chiefs Oconostota, Attakullakulla, Amatoya Moytoy and Moytoy II of Telico and principal chiefs General Stand Watie and Nimrod Jarrett Smith. So there’s a long tradition of leadership and service on both sides, which I hope to carry on. PGN: What’s your favorite family heirloom? AH: I have two: The first is a set of portraits from the early 1800s of my maternal fourth-great-grandparents on my mother’s father’s side. They were the ones who really instilled the value of achievement

PGN: What’s a favorite travel story? AH: There’s a place in Northern Germany where there are lots of blueberry fields. I went there with family and friends and we spent the entire day going through the ancient heaths picking blueberries and walking around past old houses with thatched roofs.

something, I don’t remember what, but my punishment was that I had to read “The Red Badge of Courage.” It was a big book and I had to read it cover to cover and do a report on it. I still don’t like the book but it did help me engage with literature. PGN: Where did you end up for college? AH: I went to Cornell University and started in linguistics with a thought of prelaw but then went into German studies and cultural anthropology. It was a good move

Photo: Suzi Nash

PGN: What languages do you speak? AH: I speak German, Dutch and of course English and, because of my linguistic days in school, I know some Sanskrit!

PGN: And what’s your day job? AH: I work with the Philadelphia Foundation, which is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations. We have funds that grew from Ben Franklin’s estate! I work helping connect funders with organizations and other funders to help them figure out where and when they want to give. PGN: How did you PAGE 39

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Outward Bound

TRAVEL PGN

Jeff Guaracino

Couples unite in historic Mexican wedding PGN Exclusive I always say that I travel to learn about myself and about other people. On a January trip, I met five extraordinary people. Here is their story, told for the first time to the American gay press. On Nov. 28, 2011, two same-sex couples, eight witnesses and one brave civil judge made Mexican history. The couples married, legally, in Cancun in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Patricia Viovelo, 40, and Areli Castro, 23, and Sergio Arturo Monje Cruz, 42, and Manuel Rexes Chale De La Fugute, 37, are modern-day gay pioneers. Tour operator Ron Kuijpers arranged our meeting in Cancun. Kuijpers is the owner of Gay Tours Mexico (www.gaytoursmexico.com) and the Mexican ambassador for the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association. He was also one of the eight witnesses at this historic wedding event. Kuijpers said they’d been planning the wedding since the Cancun gay Pride last summer, where they had met Jaime López Vela, the first person to be married in Mexico City, at a pool party. “We have been trying first through a gathering of a mass number of signatures to get the state government to approve the

same-sex marriage, but ... [the Four days after the secret government] put the whole ceremony, the group organized a press conference request on ice,” Kuijpers said. to announce what they had “We started together with done. After what they’d been some lawyers to study the through to be married, the state civil laws very carefully press conference was easy for and finally discovered a hole media savvy Viovelo, who in these laws.” owns a publicity company. She The loophole was that is now running for office in Mexican law didn’t state that a couple had to be a man and ARELI CASTRO Mexico and her wife, Castro, a woman: It was assumed a (LEFT) AND PATRICIA is a university student. marriage would be between The press conference was VIOVELO opposite-sex partners. risky. Under Mexican law, the Kuijpers continued, “With government has 15 business this knowledge, we found a civil judge who days to revoke a marriage license. Creating was willing to have the two couples marmore anxiety was that even their families ried. This happened totally secretly and we didn’t know about the marriages: They didn’t make any press publicity ’til three found out about them on TV. days after the wedding had taken place.” “This sent a shockwave through the Their search for a civil judge willing to political society from the Quintana Roo perform the ceremony took them all over state,” Kuijpers said. “But they haven’t Quintana Roo. On the outskirts of the state, taken any action to revoke the two weddings. Still some political parties are almost about two hours outside of Cancun, a lone split about what happened. But really, what judge agreed to perform their ceremony we have done is using the existing civil — and it almost didn’t happen. At the last laws and claiming the rights according to minute, the judge got nervous about the these laws. political statement this simple wedding “Yes this is very exciting news, although would make. The couples promised to help it is not yet 100-percent confirmed by the protect her job. (She is still a civil judge.) state government. But since the legal period Everyone was scared.

to oppose the same-sex marriage [has passed] ... there is no other answer possible then, yes, it’s legal,” Kuijpers said. “If they, at this point, would still oppose, they would violate a federal antidiscrimination law, which is in force in the whole of Mexico. [It] would [result] in a lawsuit against the two couples that got married. The Federal Human Rights Department has already agreed that in case of a lawsuit, they would be at the side of the two couples.” Though the two couples still await a final decision from the state government, there are plans in the works for more marriages. “We are planning to have a bigger group to get married at the same time somewhere,” Kuijpers said. The idea was to have multiple couples go to the civil judge and ask for a marriage in front of TV cameras. Though it was slated for February, it has yet to happen. If you’re planning a trip to Cancun, check out February’s “Outward Bound” column at www.epgn.com. If you’d like to get married in Cancun, visit Cancun Gay Wedding (www.cancungaywedding.com). ■ Jeff Guaracino is author of “Gay and Lesbian Tourism: The Essential Guide for Marketing” and co-chair of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Newly out, veteran comic hits Philly By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Veteran comedian Todd Glass is known as a comic’s comic: respected by his peers, from the top comedian in the business on down. He has performed with some of the biggest names in comedy and appeared on TV shows such as “Last Comic Standing” and “Politically Incorrect,” as well as made appearances on Comedy Central. Glass made headlines in January when, after more than 20 years in standup comedy, he came out, citing the the recent gay teen suicides as motivating his decision. “Truly what made me do it is that I knew it was good for my soul and who I was,” he said. “But that wasn’t enough to get me to do it, unfortunately. It was just with kids killing themselves I just thought, I have to do it. I can’t sit back. It just gives credence to the idea that it’s worth hiding. I would just keep watching these YouTube clips and go ‘OK I’m doing it.’ Then the day passes and it gets out of your head. I knew the many reasons that were good, but that was the reason that made me do it.” Glass said one of the reasons he wasn’t open about his orientation early on was because he didn’t want it to stymie his career. “That was one of my big concerns, that

it would affect my career,” he said. “But expect his act to change overnight. as time went on, not as much. A few really “Even leading up to this, I didn’t stop sayclose comedian friends, I would make jokes ing ‘girlfriend’ in my act,” he said. “I tried, with them: If my career ends, would you but saying ‘girlfriend’ makes it generic. It financially support me for the rest of my won’t change overnight but I’m sure in time it will. And when I talk about life? They would tell me, ‘It’s it, it won’t be like the generic not going to hurt you.’ I was jokes that every bad gay comic always a little scared about has done, the jokes that have that.” been out there for 100 years. Glass added that he wasn’t I remember one time I saw a concerned about how his peers gay comedian on stage and would react to his sexual orientation, but he was conhe was doing the old bullshit cerned about other people he’d generic gay jokes and a comeencounter as a standup comic. dian I was with lovingly said, “ I k n ow m y c i r c l e o f ‘You know, I bet if he told his friends, and most good comereal story it would be so fuckTODD GLASS dians could give a shit,” he ing interesting.’ And I thought, said. “That’s how you got to yeah, I hope I bring that to it be a good comedian. You’re creatively free when I am ready. It’s like people that talk and part of that is not judging other people. about their kids on stage. Some people do Most great comedians in history don’t care. the old kid jokes but then when Louis C.K. But it was more about the audiences. You’re comes along he talks about his kids in a naked up there. All I’ve got to do is get mad way that no one has ever talked about kids at an audience member and someone in the before — from an interesting perspective. back yells ‘fag!’ That was one of the main Twisted or not, it’s different.” ■ things when I was ready to do it. In other Glass performs March 21-24 at Helium words, if you’re an actor, you still deal with it but not on stage in front of people who all Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St. For more information or tickets, visit www.toddglass. aren’t coming to see you.” Despite coming out, Glass said he doesn’t com or call 215-496-9001.

Out writer’s life is an open book By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com

Out author and comedian Mark Brennan Rosenberg will swing through Philadelphia as part of a 45-city tour promoting his book “Blackouts and Breakdowns,” a collection of essays about his life, exploring the MARK BRENNAN up and downs of his ROSENBERG excessive drinking, cleaning up his act and getting sober. Rosenberg talked to PGN about the tour and his new book, “Eating My Feelings,” out later this year. PGN: How has your tour been so far? MBR: It’s been the craziest thing I’ve ever done. It’s so much fun and so much hard work. I still have 20 cities to go to. PGN: As your book “Blackout and Breakdowns” is about your struggles with alcoholism, why host your book event in a bar? MBR: Well, I know my audience: Gay guys and the LGBT community are more inclined to come to a setting that is more social than a bookstore. I was supposed to go on a Barnes & Noble book tour in 2010

and, one of the things they beat into me was that, unless you are a Jackie Collins or a celebrity author, it’s very, very difficult to get people to come to a book reading. So I tried to do something different and took it on the road like a band. It’s worked out. So far, so good.

PGN: Even though “Blackouts” is written as comedy, given the subject matter, do you find that there are some people who take the book too seriously? MBR: It’s comedy and it’s supposed to be entertaining. But my first book is about my alcoholism so it deals with a very serious subject matter in a more lighthearted way. I just got an email from a kid who was like, “I just finished your book and I went to my first AA meeting because I realized I had a problem. I realized that you, being as big a mess as you were, you could overcome your issues and maybe I can too.” And that is definitely not what the book was intended for, but when things like that happen, it’s a miracle and a wonderful thing. PGN: What are you enjoying most on the book tour?

MBR: I have a lot of people who have read “Blackouts and Breakdowns” because of Twitter and Facebook. So it’s been nice to put faces to names and see the people who have always been there. One thing that’s been amazing is each city we’ve been to has been so very different. When you live in New York for a long time, you kind of think that there’s nowhere else to go. But I’ve found that there are so many wonderful places to go and so many wonderful communities. I’ve been getting to know the people and what makes them tick. It’s been nice. PGN: What can you tell us about your upcoming book “Eating My Feelings”? MBR: It’s written in the same style of “Blackouts” but it’s all about food and body image. When I was very young, I was very overweight. My parents always told me I was fat because I had two brothers and two sisters who were very, very skinny. So I was the fat gay one, which was not fun. It’s about overcoming those obstacles and being a gay man living in New York and living up to the certain way that everyone thinks a gay man should look and act. Everyone has a relationship with food and how they view themselves in the mirror. A lot of people should be able to relate. ■ Catch Rosenberg 7 p.m. March 19 at Stir, 1705 Chancellor St. For more information, visit www.blackoutandbreakdowns. com or call 215-732-2700.

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

PGN

Worth Watching THE FIRST DANCE: Out tennis star Martina Navratilova is one of the cast members competing on the new season of “Dancing with the Stars,” premiering 8 p.m. March 19 on ABC. Photo: ABC/Rick Rowell

FROM PORNO TO ESCROW: Former gay adult-film star Fredrik Eklund is now a successful figure in the world of real estate, featured in the new reality series “Million Dollar Listing New York,” which follows three of Manhattan’s most ambitious real-estate agents as they give viewers an inside look into their aggressive, high-stakes world, 10 p.m. March 21 on Bravo.

WINNING SUITS YOU

BOUND AND DETERMINED: Special guest stars Pamela Anderson and Jennifer Tilly (pictured) judge the queens on a new episode of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” 9 p.m. March 19 on Logo.

Take a seat and ante up at Philly’s casino, brimming with 24/7 gaming action, dining and entertainment. Just minutes from Center City, on the city’s gorgeous waterfront. Go ahead, win a little.

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AW HAIL NO!: While informing Ted (Josh Radnor) of the history of the “Broath,” Barney (out actor Neil Patrick Harris) envisions himself in a skewed version of Julius Caesar — taking on ninjas, of course — on “How I Met Your Mother,” 8 p.m. March 19 on CBS. Photo: CBS/Cliff Lipson

PGN

Q Puzzle Rachel Has Two Daddies Across

1. With 32-Across, portrayer of one of Rachel’s dads 5. Take down a peg 10. Bone of the leg 14. Trucker’s rod 15. Runway walker 16. Go in only partway, at the beach 17. “It’s ___ a while” 18. Big name in Chinese history 19. Mail carriers at Hogwarts 20. Suntan spoiler 21. With 45-Across, portrayer of one of Rachel’s dads 23. Cruising, maybe 25. Cozy corners

26. Pull a boa behind you? 28. Least taxing 32. See 1-Across 36. Beginning to come? 37. Piglet’s pal 38. Taters 41. Kind of will 42. Seminal computer 45. See 21-Across 48. Classified rectangles 51. Part played by Nabors 52. Unexpected pleasures 54. Tickle a funny bone 58. Duet sung by Rachel’s two daddies 62. Current events in Corinth? 63. Poet Gidlow 64. Stay home for supper

65. State, in St. Lô 66. Actor Mapa 67. “I Got a Name” singer Jim 68. It was gauche, for Debussy 69. “The Bridge” poet Crane 70. Patton’s vehicles 71. Rachel’s TV show

Down

1. “Star Wars” villain with a big tongue 2. Bring to bear 3. They bother bitches 4. Low boggy land 5. Pt. of USA 6. Sex with the top on bottom? 7. Ike’s opponent 8. Medium meeting 9. Inventor Otis 10. Kurtz of “More

Tales of the City” 11. Overhead predator 12. “Spamalot” writer Eric 13. Monster’s loch 21. Streisand, for short 22. New Ager John 24. TV announcer Hall 27. Gore and Green 29. Canal traveled by New York ferries 30. Bear market order 31. Work the land 32. What the fruits did in the orchard 33. Sometime Capote associate Chaplin 34. Tender ender? 35. Elton John’s mother 39. Crankcase rod, or slang for your rod 40. Porking place?

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

43. What drawers do 44. Serious attention 46. Encourage the cast 47. Line of Todd Oldham dresses? 49. Do a private eye’s job 50. 1943 Bogart film 53. Range of the Rockies 55. “___ we meet again” 56. Like a metrosexual 57. Makeup maker Lauder 58. Positive reply 59. Stew in Sitges 60. Friendly opening 61. Wallet wad 65. Piece of work PAGE 37

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PGN ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

OUT & ABOUT The week ahead 215-898-3900.

Fri. 03/16 HOLLER! Giovanni’s Room hosts an open mic night 7 p.m. at 345 S. 12th St.; 215-9232960. Edwidge Danticat The author of “Create Dangerously: The Immigrant Artist at Work” hosts a reading at 7:30 p.m. at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; 215567-4341. Spirit of Uganda The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents a production celebrating the sounds and movements of East Africa, 7:30 p.m. at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.;

Hank 3 The country-rockpunk artist performs 9 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888. Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure Catch Keanu Reeves in his cinematic peak 9:45 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. Darby O’Gill and

Sat. 03/17 the Little People The 1959 children’s film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223.

Zoso The Led Zeppelin tribute band performs 8 p.m. at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; 215-572-7650.

Jodeci as the R&B flows 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

Sun. 03/18 The Man Who Would Be King The 1975 adventure film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223.

An evening with the music of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers & Bob Dylan featuring The Big Jangle and Kenn Kweder The rock band performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

Mon. 03/19

The Art of the Steal The documentary film is screened 4:30 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. The Legacy presents ... Good Guys vs. Bad Boyz Experience the best of Boyz 2 Men and

Groove Night Local musicians join forces to bring the R&B, soul, jazz and funk, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. Battle Royale The Japanese action film is

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CARNIVALE AT THE COLLEGE: The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents Dance Brazil, the world-renowned Afro-Brazilian dance company with a reputation for colorful costumes, acrobatic virtuosity and soul-stirring rhythms, March 22-24 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St. For more information, call 215-898-3900.

screened 8 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215-9226888. Lipstick Mondays A weekly drag show featuring a changing roster of queens, 9 p.m. at The Raven, 385 W. Bridge St., New Hope; 215-8622081.

Tue. 03/20 Unlabeled: The Acoustic/ Electric Open Mic for Up and Comers Sign up and play, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. TuesGAY Nights Lyrics Lounge and DJ June Rodrigues host a weekly night of music and performers for the LGBT community, 8 p.m., 6527

Roosevelt Blvd.; 215-533-5888.

Wed. 03/21 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. PGMC invitational rehearsals Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus hosts open rehearsals ahead of its March 21 auditions from 710 p.m. at Lutheran Church of the Holy Communion, 2111 Sansom St.; auditions@pgmc. org. The Psychedelic Furs The 1980s newwave band performs 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Thu. 03/22 Philadelphia Voices of Pride Cabaret (Songs from the Movies) audition Prepare two pieces of music from a movie (at least one up tempo) and go for it, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.; pvopcabaret @gmail.com.

SOULIDIFIED: MJB Edition The band performs a tribute to Mary J. Blige 9 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Fri. 03/23

Ralphie May The comedian performs 7:30 p.m. at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; 215572-7650.

Nerdist Podcast Live! A live taping of the podcast and standup comedy performances by hosts Chris Hardwick (“Talking Dead,” “Web Soup”), Jonah Ray (“The Soup,” “Web Soup”) and Matt Mira (“Attack of the Show”) 8 and 10:30 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888.

Sarah Vowell The author of “Unfamiliar Fishes” hosts a reading at 7:30 p.m. at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; 215-567-4341.

SOULIDIFIED: MJB Edition The band performs a tribute to Mary J. Blige 8 p.m. at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

OUR HAPPY PLACE: Out English author Jeanette Winterson comes to town for a reading from her latest book, “Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal?” 7:30 p.m. March 20 at Central Library, 1901 Vine St. For more information, call 215567-4341.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Opening DanceBrazil The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the Afro-Brazilian dance company, March 22-24 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900. FELA! The critically acclaimed musical tells the true story of the legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, March 20-25 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215790-5800. Memories of Prague The Philadelphia Orchestra performs March 22-24 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800. Symphonic Surfin’ Safari Peter Nero and the Philly Pops perform a Beach Boys tribute March 21-25 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800.

Continuing Collab: Four Decades of Giving Modern and Contemporary Design Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition that includes some of the finest examples of European, American and Japanese design, through fall 2012, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Doing Time | Depth of Surface Philagrafika hosts an exhibition exploring the architecture and stories of Philadelphia’s historic Holmesburg

Prison, through March 17 at The Galleries at Moore, 20th and the Parkway; 215-965-4027; thegalleriesatmoore.org. Eric N. Fausnacht Solo Gallery Show Twenty-Two Gallery presents original paintings and new silkscreens and painted furniture through April 8, 236 S. 22nd St.; 215-722-1911. From Asbury Park to the Promised Land: The Life and Music of Bruce Springsteen The National Constitution Center presents an exhibition giving a comprehensive look at The Boss’ entire career, with numerous items never before seen by the public, through Sept. 3, 525 Arch St., Independence Mall; 215-409-6895. Hope Street and Other Lonely Places Azuka Theatre presents the story of five individuals struggling to cope with love, loss and addictions both physical and emotional, through April 1 at The OffBroad Street Theater at First Baptist Church, 1636 Sansom St.; 215-563-1100. Van Gogh Up Close Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works by Vincent van Gogh, through May 6, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Zaha Hadid: Form in Motion Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of product designs by architect Hadid, who in 2004 became the first female recipient of the renowned Pritzker Architecture Prize, through March 25, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

Notices Send notices at least one week in advance to: Out & About Listings, PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 fax: 215-925-6437; or e-mail: listings@epgn.com. Notices cannot be taken over the phone. Q PUZZLE from page 35

BLASTING OFF!: The out singersongwriter Bitch celebrates the release of her new CD “Blasted!” with a performance 8 p.m. March 21 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. For more information or tickets, visit www.bitchmusic.com or call 215-222-1400.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

IT’S TIME TO PLAY THE MUSIC ... There’s something very appropriate about seeing last year’s excellent “The Muppets” ﬁlm at The Troc, considering the place can almost pass for the theater the Muppets call home. Catch one of the best ﬁlms of 2011 at 10 p.m. March 17 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St. For more information, call 215-922-6888.

Zoe Strauss: Ten Years Philadelphia Museum of Art presents a mid-career retrospective of the acclaimed out photographer’s work and the first critical assessment of her 10-year project to exhibit her photographs annually beneath a section of Interstate-95 in South Philadelphia, through April 22, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.

Closing A Grand Tour The Philadelphia Orchestra performs through March 18 at Kimmel’s Academy

of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800. Messiah The Pennsylvania Ballet performs an epic ballet that translates Handel’s world-famous libretto through March 17 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5800. On The Town The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the classic American musical, composed by Leonard Bernstein, set in New York in World War II, when three young sailors hit the town for a day’s leave in the big city, through March 17 at Harold Prince Theater, 3680 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900. ■

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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: 1800-662-6080 ■ 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

Health

AIDS Services In Asian Communities Provides HIV-related services to Asians and Pacific Islanders at 340 N. 12th St., Suite 205; 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; 12-6 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

■ 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 e-mail notices for activities and events.; www.gppn.org.

■ Philadelphia Police Department liaison — Deputy Commissioner Stephen Johnson: 215-683-2840 ■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 267-216-6606; 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

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.

■ 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.

■ Philadelphia Lesbian and Gay Task Force: 215-772-2000

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 12-1 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. Saturday; 1201 Locust St.; 215-985-9206.

■ National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association The Philadelphia chapter of NLGJA, open to professionals

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.

■ Meets daily 8:30-9:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m-

midnight and 11 a.m.-noon at the William Way Center. ■ Community meets 8 p.m. on Thursdays at Holy Communion Church, 2111 Sansom St. Gay and lesbian but all are welcome. ■ GLBT Alcoholics Anonymous meets 7 p.m. on Sundays and 8 p.m. on Wednesdays at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 100 W. Windsor St., Reading; 484-529-9504. ■ Living In Sobriety meets 11 a.m. Sundays at the William Way Center. ■ Night Owl meets 11:30 p.m. Sunday through Saturday at the William Way Center. ■ Stepping Stone meets 2:30 p.m. Mondays at the William Way Center. ■ Meets 5:30-6:30 p.m. daily at Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St; 215-985-9206. ■ Ties That Bind Us, a 12-step Alcoholics Anonymous meeting for BDSM, leather and alternative sexuality community, meets 7:30-9 p.m. in South Philadelphia. For location, call 800-581-7883.

Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)

■ Meets 7 p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday,

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at the William Way Center.

Emotional Support

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.

■ 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.

Al-Anon

■

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

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.

Professional groups

12-step programs and support groups

and students, meets for social and networking events; www.nlgjaphiladephia.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.

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 second Wednesday of the month at Paoli Memorial Hospital, Willistown Room, Medical Ofﬁce Building; 215-5452242; 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 6-8 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 Positivos, a group for HIVpositive Latino men who have sex with men, meets on first and third Tuesday of the month at 1205 Chestnut 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.; 215-3872885. ■ A support group for people recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS meets 6:30-8 p.m. at the Mazzoni Center; 215-563-0652 x 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; 215851-1898. 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. 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: n AIDS Delaware’s You’re Not Alone youth support group meets during the school year. Call 1-800-810-6776 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. Friday, at Hahnemann University Hospital, 245 N. 15th St.; call Troy for ﬂoor/ room number, 215-514-3065; www.oa.org. ■ Meets at 11 a.m.-noon at the William Way Center.

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, confidential HIV testing with Spanish/English counselors 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday 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.; 610586-9077. 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.

PGN PROFILE PORTRAIT from page 29

meet your partner? AH: I met my partner, Kilian, at a party full of people from around the world. Our first conversation together was in German. His father’s German and his mother’s American and he grew up in Germany and Austria, so right off the bat we had a strong cultural connection. One of the things we really enjoyed about each other was that we both came from intercontinental families. He understands me in a way that a lot of other people do not. People sometimes think of me as serious, but around him I’m a total goofball! PGN: I’m older than you and was lucky that being mixed was never a problem, though it could have its challenges. How was it for you? AH: It’s interesting: A lot of people assume that people of mixed race are a new phenomenon but my mom is from an old mixed-race family and my dad’s side is an old German-Dutch-Portuguese-Jewish family. So the family has been used to being a mix for a long time. For me, it has such a heritage attached that I don’t think

of it as new or trendy. I tend to speak more about ancestry than race but at times, for convenience sake, I’ll use broader terms because it’s easier for people to understand. I identify more with the history of my ancestry, on both sides. There are such great stories and history to pull from. PGN: Changing gears, what is your favorite bird? AH: Well, there’s an interesting bird called the gay — whoops — the gray catbird and, if you catch them at certain times, they actually sound as if they’re meowing like a cat, but at other times they have the most delightful whistles. They’ve also been known to imitate manmade sounds such as police sirens or machinery. They’re amazing creatures. I have to tell you, people watching — especially gay men — is very similar to bird watching! The individual quirks, the tribes that they form and the various rituals and calls that they make — I’ve often thought I might do an illustrated book on the male homosexual species and its habits! PGN: A favorite summer memory? AH: As a teenager, riding my bike through

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

the orchards and fields along the northern Rhine River with my friends, crossing the border into the Netherlands and having a genever (a smooth Dutch gin) and frietjes, which are Dutch French fries, and visiting an antiquarian book shop. PGN: What picture is set as the background on your computer? AH: A vintage Cornell sweater. PGN: Any paranormal experiences? AH: Several. We talked about them openly and positively growing up. My family taught us that our reality is a sort of “web” of interconnected “energy,” to use a modern term. Some people are born with the ability to sense or shape this web, especially if other people in their family have done so over generations. It’s not supernatural; rather, simply an aspect of the natural world that few people perceive. When you nurture that connection, funny things can happen! PGN: The most exciting or traumatic event you’ve witnessed? AH: My parents had a very ugly divorce

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because of an infidelity and, subsequently, difficult remarriages, which deeply affected me. I think that there was such a disruptive contrast between that experience and the supportive bubble in which I had previously been raised that I developed a creative tension that I’ve had ever since, though I think it helped foster a deep sense of empathy and compassion for the struggles of others. I think it also helped me determine what I value in relationships. PGN: Pet peeves? AH: Bad manners, mean and dismissive people and leopard print. PGN: Five things that make you happy? AH: Books — old books, great books, Facebook, any kind of book. A night with friends, cocktails and candlelight. Paintings, tweed ... and Sourpatch Kids. PGN: You certainly live a diverse life! AH: I’m lucky that way. ■ To suggest a community member for “Family Portrait,” write to portraits05@aol.com.

REALPGN ESTATE

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

Classifieds

Home of the Week

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

SALE

Havertown, PA 24 Bryan Street, 19083 Spacious brick colonial with open floor plan and plenty of flow. Entry Vestibule, Formal Living room, Large dining room that opens to Eat-In Kitchen with center island, 1st floor office w/ laundry. Family Room w/ FP, Finished basement and much more.

All real-estate advertising is subject to Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended, prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental and ﬁnancing of dwellings, and in other housing-related transactions, based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women, and people securing custody of children under the age of 18), and handicap (disability). PGN will not knowingly accept any real-estate advertising that is in violation of any applicable law.

REAL ESTATE

Featured property:

Beds: 3 Baths: 2.1 Square footage: 2,012 Age of Property: 66 years

REAL ESTATE

SALE

Open House - Sunday March 11 2:00-4:00pm Charming single home in private community in Lower Merion

5 Balwyn Place, Bala Cynwyd Newer kitchen & bathrooms, Central air, garage & more! Walk to shops and train

Price: $299,900 Real Estate Company: RE/MAX Preferred Realtor: Andrew J. Mariano

REAL ESTATE

SALE

Phone: (610) 325 – 4100 Direct: (610) 789 – 0982 E-mail: andy@andymariano.com

REAL ESTATE

SALE

PREVIEW OUR

STYLISH, NEW HOME DESIGN

Call Jacki Pearlman 610-662-6958

Open House Sunday March 18, 2012 Noon-1:30PM 301 Race St #517 - 1BR/1.5BA Condo

GREAT PACKER PARK LOCATION $269,000

THE DANIELA

2:00-3:00PM 250 S 13th St 4D - 1BR/1.5BA Condo

$265,000

Noon-2:30PM 753 S. Dorrance - 2BR/1.5BA House 540 Cypress St - 1BR/1.5BA House

STARTING FROM $389,000* Open Floorplan

$375,000 $374,900

1542 Christian St A - 2BR/2.5BA Townhouse-style condo $325,000 Search all Philadelphia area listings @ www.thephillyrealtors.com

Owner’s Suite with Balcony Garages and Driveways Abundant Closet Space Preserved Open Green Space 215.339.5390 | SALES@SIENAPLACE.COM MODELS OPEN: MON, TUES, FRI & SAT 11AM-5 PM SUN 12 PM-5 PM | CLOSED WED & THU

2301 HARTRANFT ST. BETWEEN PENROSE AVE. AND ST. 2301 HARTRANFT ST. BETWEEN PENROSE AVE.26TH & 26 ST. TH

Dan Tobey

The Curtis Center 1401 Walnut St. 8th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102

215.546.2700 Business • 267.238.1061 Direct 215.432.7151 Cell • 215.546.7728 Fax dtobey@cbpref.com • www.cbpref.com

Broker cooperation is warmly invited and appreciated. *Select models. Talk with a sales associate for details.

SIENAPLACE.COM *Select models. Talk with a sales associate for details.

REAL ESTATE

SALE

LARGE WEST MT. AIRY HOUSE FOR SALE 300 block W. Hortter St.: Modern. 3Brms, 2.5 baths. Fireplace. Front & back yards. Off-street parking, Skylight. Near regional rail. Central air/heating. Whole-house water softener. $250,000. Call 215-848-4000. _______________________________36-15 WATERFRONT LOTS Fantastic Prices $49,500.00. 10 Lot Subdivision. East Shore Virginia Navigable to Chesapeake Bay, Paved Roads, Landscaped. WON’T LAST! Ask for Hunting Creek (443)6148793. _______________________________36-11 DELAWARE! One Fam. Ranch Homes; Peaceful Setting; 55+ Community; Close to Shopping, Beach, Bay & I95. Low $100s; Low Taxes. Call 302659-5800. _______________________________36-11 Potter County: 4 acres with Pine Creek Frontage near Galeton. Utilities, standard perc, close to state forest and Ski Denton. $59,900. Owner ﬁnancing. 800-668-8679. _______________________________36-11

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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REALPGN ESTATE

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

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ROOMMATES PGN WILL NOT PUBLISH RACIAL DISTINCTIONS IN ROOMMATE ADS. SUCH NOTATIONS WILL BE EDITED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION. ___________________________________ GREATER NE PHILA. Have your own bedroom in a beautiful split level home with 2 gay men. House is 4 BR, 2 full baths, W/D, upper and lower decks, use of kitchen. Property is by Welsh & the Boulevard, 1 min. to 58 bus. We ask only that you be at least reasonably neat and employed. Rent is $600 + 1/3 utils. Contact Dave at 215-698-0215. _______________________________36-12 Owner has 1 BR avail. furn. $600 + 1/3 utils. 19th ﬂ Independence Pl. 267-519-0091. _______________________________36-14

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VACATION

RENTAL OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800-638-2102 Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com _______________________________36-11

REAL ESTATE

RENT

PGN

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. _______________________________36-10 RITTENHOUSE SQUARE AREA Studios & 1 Bedrooms - Call for Availability (215) 735-8050. _______________________________36-17

FRIENDS

MEN

WANTED

FRIENDS

VINTAGE PAPER STORE We buy your old photos/magazines. Have you got some old gay magazines or photos gathering dust in your closet (pun intended)? We’re looking to buy older (pre-1980) gay magazines, brochures, ﬁlm posters, printed information or photos. Please call Vintage Paper Store at 267-385-6292 or send us an email at vintagepaperstore1@gmail.com _______________________________36-15 WANTED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Any Kind/Brand. Up to $25.00/Box. SHIPPING PAID. Hablamo Espanol. 1-800-266-0702 www.selldiabeticstrips.com _______________________________36-11

SERVICES 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 _______________________________36-11 AIRLINES ARE HIRING Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888)834-9715. _______________________________36-11

MEN

TO BUY

MA$$IVE CA$H FLOW Returning Calls, No Selling, Tax Free. For proof leave message. 641-715-3900 Ext 59543#. _______________________________36-11

Truckdriver WM, 50, 5’10, 175 will serve top to bottom massage. 267-391-5787 evenings. _______________________________36-13

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. _______________________________36-19 Friendly WM, 6’1’, 210, 59 looking for big bud to appreciate smooth bottom. 215-732-2108 8-11 PM. _______________________________36-11 WM, NE Phila. If you’re looking for hot action, call 215-934-5309. No calls after 11 PM. _______________________________36-12 WM 65 ISO WM 18-30 FOR MUTUAL ENJOYMENT. COMPENSATION AVAILABLE TO SERIOUS CALLERS. CALL 610-418-1485 AND LEAVE CALL BACK NUMBER. _______________________________36-15

FRIENDS

BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITY

MASSAGE

MEN

BARRONS URBAN WAREHOUSE PARTY

MEN

P.A.N.G. (Philadelphia Area Nudist Group)

Saturday, March 17th, 2012 • TIME:11pm-6am

Saturday, March 18th, 2012 • TIME:3pm-6pm

- Always bringing in the Sexy Black & Latin Men For The NightMUST BE ON GUEST LIST TO GAIN ENTRANCE TO PARTY (PRIVATE EVENT: For More Information & to be put onto guest list email: badboi215@gmail.com)

Boys will Be Boys- Awaken Your Spirit w/ An Afternoon of Naked Socializing and Fun...

FREAKE FRIDAY Saturday, April 6th, 2012 • TIME: 11pm-6am

WEEKLY SPECIALS BUSINESS MANS 4HR LOCKER SPECIAL Monday thru Friday (8am-4pm)

A NEW Alternative Urban Party that will be sure to bring in the Sexy Members: $5.00 & Non-Members: $15.00 Black & Latin Men For The Night$12 LOCKER WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY * Special Guest Host: TONY MARTIN 4PM-12 MIDNIGHT * DJ David Dutch Check out our website for our HOT NEW WEEKLY * If YOU GOT IT FLAUNT IT: A WET Platinum Stroke Contest w/ Prizes SPECIALS & JOIN OUR e-mail List to get the latest * This event is sponsored by WET information on upcoming events... (PRIVATE EVENT: For More Information & to be put onto guest list email: badboi215@gmail.com) Don’t forget to visit the Adonis Cinema right next door!! 2026 Sansom St/ PH: 215-557-9319

And if you are in A.C., please check out:

10 South Mt. Vernon Avenue •Atlantic City, NJ 08401

OPEN DAILY! Sunday- Thursday 4pm to 4am Friday & Saturday 4pm to 6am www.brassrailac.com

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MASSAGE

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�� SALON AND SPA �� Looking for full time hospitality team mem�� bers.14,000 sq. foot salon and spa located in �� Newtown, Pa. Looking for full time hospitality team members to work at the front desk and in �� the operations ofﬁce. Medical, dental and 401 �� K available. Must be able to commute and have �� open availability because the salon is open 7 �� days ��a week from 7 am to 10 pm. Must reply

HELP WANTED

Deep Tissue, Sensual and Erotic Massage by handsome athletic man

Ask about the After Midnight Special.

Call Mario anytime 24/7 at 215-490-7353 B24

Man for Man Massage

�� PGN �� $0 TUITION CDL (A) �� Training & a JOB! Top Industry Pay, Quality �� Training, Stability & Miles! *Short employment �� commitment required. 800-326-2778 www. JoinCRST.com �� _______________________________36-11 �� Drivers: Sign On Bonus $2,000 - $7,500. Solo �� & Teams. 1 year�� OTR. High Pay & Beneﬁts. 877-628-3748 www.driveNCTrans.com �� _______________________________36-11 ��

HELP WANTED

with a resume. david@davidjwitchell.com FLEXIBLE HOMETIME! _______________________________36-12 Up to $.42/mile plus $.02/mile quarterly safety �� $ATTENTION! bonus. Daily Pay - New Trucks - CDL-A, 3 We�� buy Frac Sand trucking companies and months recent experience required. 800-414�� complete sand rigs. Must have tractors, 9569 www.driveknight.com �� blowers & pneumatic trailers. Call Now! 1_______________________________36-11 �� 800-397-2672. �� _______________________________36-11 �� Drivers - CDL-A. DRIVE WITH PRIDE. Up to �� $3,000 Sign-On Bonus for Qualiﬁed Drivers! �� CDL & 6mo. OTR exp. REQ’D. USA TRUCK �� 877-521-5775 www.usatruck.jobs DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT �� _______________________________36-11 TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND �� Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free �� lanes from Presque Isle, ME, Boston-Lehigh, Towing, All Paperwork Takn Care Of. 888�� PA. 800-277-0212 or primeinc.com 643-5496. _______________________________36-11 _______________________________36-11 ��

AUTOS

ADVERTISING E-mail us: pgn@epgn.com SALES REPRESENTATIVE WANTED ��

REAL ESTATE

SALE

��

Conrad Kuhn

Broker/Sales Rep. Since 1987 NJAR Circle of Excellence Sales Award 1991- 2011 Weichert President’s & Ambassador’s Clubs

Ofﬁce: 856.227.1950 ext. 124 Cell: 609.221.1196 www.conradkuhn.com Realtor856@aol.com Washington Township Ofﬁce 5070 Route 42 Turnersville, NJ 08012

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G12

I am just off of I-95, not far from Center City, Lower Bucks, and South Jersey. I specialize in Outcalls to Phila area Hotels.

215-313-1010 CERTIFIED

MASSAGE

��. Furness Flats. Large 2 bed, 1 bath. last unit left in this highly desirable building. Close to all Center City Hospitals. Low fees and taxes ................................��

for an energetic, self-motivated individual with outstanding �� communication skills. ��. New open style 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo Our ideal candidate must have polished sales skills with with low taxes and condo fees. Great small pet friendly building. experience in lead generation and cold calling, combined with .........................................................................�� a track record of closing the sale. �� Old Swedes Court. New Listing Large 3 QUALIFICATIONS: Bedroom 2.5 Bath with Garage, roof deck and hardwood floors. Low association fees in Queen Village ....................�� • Two years of successful sales experience, preferably in ��. NEW LISTING. print and/or online sales Large update 4 bd. 2 ba. with huge garden and wonderfully roof deck with city skyline views. • Strong verbal and writing skills .................................................................................�� • Excellent at relationship building �� • Ability to work independently and part of a team �� • Knowledge of local media market and/or LGBT community �� a plus�� • Computer literacy a must �� Salary/Benefits: Salary plus commission. Our benefits package includes medical and dental insurance, paid holidays, vacation and a casual work environment.

Handsome Certified Therapist

Qualiﬁed individuals interested in applying are encouraged to send their resume to dan@epgn.com.

6’, 195 lbs, Muscle Gives Sensual / Therapeutic Massage

PGN B-7

Collingswood . . . A Friendly Place . . . Parks, Porches, Main Street Our Beautiful Parks Are One Of The Many Reasons That Make Collingswood Such A Great Place To Live!

�� “George T. Sale Condo” Unique Garden level 1 bd, 1 ba. unit w/ private entrance.. Low fees & Tax PGN currently hasprice an 1 advertising position available Abatement. Lowest bd. in areasales ........................��.

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Call 215-432-6030

REAL ESTATE

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Tall, attractive, muscular Sensual/Erotic Massage I will tailor your massage to suit your needs...

Incall/Outcall

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

110 Coolidge Ave., Collingswood, NJ MLS#5186534

Price: $177,900

4 parks 3 lakes, walking trails 10 minutes to Center City via PATCO High Speed Line Award winning w/Top Rated restaurants Nationally acclaimed Collingswood Farmers Market Every Saturday morning - Quality neighborhood schools! Festivals, Arts Programs, & Entertainment Venues

All in a Walkable Community!

730 Haddon Avenue Collingswood, NJ David G. Donch 856-858-2200 Cell: (856) 220-6773 www.MainStRealty.com E-mail: daviddonch@yahoo.com

FOR SALE

SAWMILLS From only $3997-MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N. _______________________________36-11 ATTENTION DIABETICS With Medicare. Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful ﬁnger pricking! Call 888-856-1106. _______________________________36-11 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS WIN or Pay Nothing! Start Your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today! Contact: Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 888-779-3808. _______________________________36-11

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ADOPTION

A loving, educated, well traveled couple hoping to adopt a newborn. Home ﬁlled with love, laughter. Nearby extended family awaits. Please call: Lisa/Brian 1-888-939-8399 www. Lbadopt.info _______________________________36-11

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com March 16-22, 2012

PGN