PGN July 2 - 8, 2010 edition by The Philadelphia Gay News

Philadelphia Gay News July 2 - 8, 2010

Honesty Integrity Professionalism

Vol. 34 No. 27

Activists: High court ruling fortifies eviction case against Scouts By Timothy Cwiek PGN Writer-at-Large

HOPING FOR HOUSING: About 100 people participated in a protest outside City Hall June 30 to draw attention to the city’s HIV/AIDS housing crisis. During the demonstration, organized by ACT UP, protesters called on Mayor Nutter to direct city funds to housing initiatives for those with HIV/AIDS and work to eliminate the growing waiting list for HIV/AIDS housing. In a report released this week by ACT UP, the group found that the city’s current wait list for housing funded by the Housing Opportunities for People With AIDS stands at more than 200, a 30-percent jump in the last six months. About a dozen activists were invited into City Hall during the protest to discuss their concerns with Doug Oliver, the mayor’s press secretary. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Buoyed by this week’s Supreme Court decision affirming the right of a California university to deny funding to a student group that discriminates against gays, city attorneys were preparing legal papers to block a local Boy Scouts of America council’s permanent occupancy of a city-owned building. On June 23, after an eight-day trial, eight federal jurors said the city violated the Cradle of Liberty Council’s free-speech rights by asking the group to renounce BSA’s antigay policy as a condition of remaining inside the building. But jurors rejected the Scouts’ other claims that city officials engaged in “viewpoint discrimination” and treated them differently than other tenants when seeking their eviction.

Lancaster Co. mulls LGBT protections, nondiscrim. agency By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer More than 150 people turned out Tuesday night for a meeting of the Lancaster County commissioners to discuss the effort to expand the county’s nondiscrimination law to include LGBT protections. Also addressed at the meeting was the announcement made the previous day by the two Republican members of the threemember commission that the county’s human-relations commission, established 46 years ago to investigate and adjudicate discrimination cases, could be eliminated to cut costs. Currently, the commission only accepts cases involving race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age and disability, although the city of Lancaster’s human-relations commission does include sexual orientation as a protected class. Stephen Glassman, chair of the state human-relations commission, explained that prior to 1991, the city and the county of Lancaster operated a joint human-relations commission, but when the city moved to incorporate sexual-orientation protections, the county split and formed its own com-

mission that would not accept LGBT-discrimination cases. Glassman noted that the commission’s longstanding resistance to enhancing LGBT protections stands in stark contrast to the effort that’s quickly progressing through the Doylestown Council in Bucks County, which would provide a host of LGBT protections, such as inclusion in the nondiscrimination ordinance and the establishment of a domestic-partner registry. Glassman said the vast majority of those in attendance at the Lancaster County meeting supported the LGBT nondiscrimination ordinance, with only a handful of guests speaking out against such a measure, citing mainly religious reasons. “The room was completely filled, with standing-room-only, and there were people out in the lobby and in the parking lot, and virtually everyone except a very small group were either LGBTs or allies,” Glassman said. Anyone wishing to offer testimony was permitted to do so, and about 50 people spoke at the meeting, which lasted until 11:30 p.m. See LANCASTER, Page 15

Five days later, in a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court denied an appeal from a Christian group that wants continued funding from a university, even though it violates the university’s anti-bias policy covering religion and sexual orientation. In the case, Christian Legal Society vs. University of California’s Hastings College of the Law, the court said the Constitution protects the group’s “discriminatory practices off campus, [but] it does not require a public university to validate or support them.” In Philadelphia, the local BSA council wants a federal judge to allow them to remain at 231-251 N. 22nd St. permanently, even though the council refuses to comply with the city’s anti-bias policies covering sexual orientation and religion. The council filed a motion renewing that request on Monday. See EVICTION, Page 8

Ball club, tennis team to welcome LGBTs By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer

UNFURLING THE FLAG: Phillip Prillman, facilities coordinator at the William Way LGBT Community Center, affixes a new rainbow flag outside the center on Spruce Street last month. The flag, which was donated by local LGBT choir Voices of Pride, replaced the former outdoor décor, which was faded with age. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Earlier this year, the Philadelphia Flyers joined such major-league teams as the Phillies and 76ers in hosting an LGBT night for their fans, and two more sports clubs are following their lead this month. The Camden Riversharks will host their first Gay Pride Night at the July 13 game at Campbell’s Field, while local tennis team the Philadelphia Freedoms will welcome the LGBT community to its OUT With the Philadelphia Freedoms at their July 12 match at Villanova University. Stefanie Harms, Riversharks group sales assistant, said the team also hosts such theme nights as Irish Pride Night, Jewish Heritage Night and Health and Wellness Night, and the LGBT event was a natural extension of this effort. “The gay community in this area is a large group, and we have yet to reach out to them before this season, so it was about time,” See SPORTS, Page 15

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Celebrating Philadelphia’s “Gayborhood” July 10 through 24, 2010

Mark your calendar for these not-to-be-missed events: Southwest Airlines’ “Grand Reopening” Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Saturday, July 10, 4:00 p.m. ��

Wachovia’s “Gayborhood” Block Party Sunday, July 11, 12:00 noon-6:00 p.m. ��

For more information about the “Gayborhood” celebration and the Rainbow Discount Pass, visit facebook.com/visitgayphilly and visitphilly.com. ��

Philadelphia QFEST July 8-19, 2010

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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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PHILADELPHIA NEWS PHILADELPHIA GAY GAY NEWS

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News 10 10 11 7 5 7 5 11

Editorial Letters Mark My Words Media Trail News Briefing National News Regional News Street Talk

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

Hillary Clinton marks pride

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

Mark My Words

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The Secretary of State recognizes Gay Pride Month in the capital.

A reunion of NYC Pride Parade pioneers makes a memorable moment.

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Detour Comics Diversions Meeting Place Portraits Q Puzzle Scene In Asbury Worth Watching

Editor Sarah Blazucki (ext. 206) sarah@epgn.com

Staff Writers Jen Colletta (ext. 215) jen@epgn.com

25 24 27 22 23 19 29

Larry Nichols (ext. 213) larry@epgn.com Writer-at-Large Timothy Cwiek (ext. 208)

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Columns

Classifieds Directories

mark@epgn.com

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

Philadelphia QFest is back for its second year with 120 ﬁlms spanning the lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, queer, questioning, intersex (and token straight) gamut. Some of the festival highlights are included this week; in subsequent weeks, we will have interviews and our annual rainbow thumbs-up, thumbs-down evaluation of the ﬁlms.

CDs Crime Watch Out Law

Mark Segal (ext. 204)

Advertising Sales Representatives David Augustine (ext. 219) david@epgn.com

Family Portraits: David Devan

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emails

CDs

Diversions

Out Law

Mothers, daughters of reinvention

Agog, a option to Goo Goo for July 4th

Same-sex family adoptions

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Poll results from our online survey as of June 30:

When was the last time you were tested for HIV? 18% Within the past 3 months 12% Within the past 6 months 20% Within the past year 22% A few years ago 28% Never

Events: diversions@epgn.com News/story ideas: editor@epgn.com Letters/Opinions: editor@epgn.com Distribution: don@epgn.com

Advertising Director Tami Sortman (ext. 218) tami@epgn.com Advertising Manager Greg Dennis (ext. 201) greg@epgn.com

21 6 13

30 32

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

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

Worth Watching

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Where have you never celebrated July 4 but want to?

National Advertising Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Office Manager/Classifieds Don Pignolet (ext. 200) don@epgn.com Executive Assistant Credit/Billing Manager Carol Giunta (ext. 202) carol@epgn.com Philadelphia Gay News is a member of: The Associated Press National Gay Newspaper Guild Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Published by Masco Communications Inc. © 2010 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155

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

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News Briefing

Regional

DC Cowboys hold fundraiser for FIGHT

MOBILIZING THE COMMUNITY: Mazzoni Center employees Rashita Hurst (from left), Kamilah Clarke, Jake Cook and Calvin Austin conducted free HIV tests and pre- and post-testing counseling with locals who stopped by the Mobile Testing Unit during HIV Testing Day June 27. Mazzoni parked the unit outside Philadelphia AIDS Thrift on Bainbridge Street on Sunday, where individuals took HIV tests and received information about HIV prevention and local services. Photo: Scott A. Drake

IBA, PNC to offer LGBT business award By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer At its annual meeting last Tuesday, Philadelphia LGBT chamber of commerce Independence Business Alliance announced a new award program that seeks to fuel the growth of local LGBT businesses. The PNC LGBT Business Award Program, sponsored by PNC Bank, will provide a $5,000 grant to one IBA member that can be used for a multitude of purposes, such as marketing or training, to enhance the growth of a local LGBT-owned small business. The application process will launch in September and the award is expected to be handed out in the first half of next year. Bill Gehrman, IBA president, said the new program was a natural byproduct of IBA’s growth — including a 60-percent increase in membership from this time last year — and was made possible by PNC’s support. “We’ve been very happy with where IBA’s been going, but we’ve been thinking about what our next phase could be, and the business award program rose to the top as something we thought would really directly impact our member businesses,” which now amounts to 166 local companies, he said. “We approached PNC with a few things we were thinking of doing after the new year and asked if they’d be interested in extending their partnership with us, and they loved the idea of the award program. So this came out of IBA’s board looking to our future and PNC rising to the table and stepping up for us.” Jean Canfield, director of client and com-

munity relations at PNC, said the company was introduced to the chamber by founding IBA board member David Huting, a PNC vice president of wealth management, and has worked closely with it since then. “We’ve had a great relationship with IBA since they’ve been in existence since 2007. We’ve found it to be a great partnership and it’s a very well-run chamber of commerce,” Canfield said. “When they came to us with the idea for a small-business award, we thought it’d be a great next step in the evolution of our relationship with this chamber. As bankers, we understand that small business drives the economy, so an award for an LGBT small business seemed to make a lot of sense to us.” Canfield said that while PNC has not yet made a multi-year commitment to the program, she anticipates that it will continue to fund the award beyond its inaugural year. Gehrman noted that while the grant amount isn’t too large, it’s enough to help a small business reach its incremental goals and solidify the strength of the LGBT business community. “Running a business is complex, and there are a lot of different factors involved. I know that $5,000 isn’t a whole lot and isn’t going to change the whole way someone does business, but we’re hoping it’s an investment for a business to help them in any small way in reaching their next level of growth. Whether it’s reaching a new market or expanding the number of employees, it’s good for the entire community for us to be able to foster the economic development and growth of a business in the community.” To apply, businesses must be IBA mem-

bers from the local region who’ve been in business for at least three years. Applicants must submit a condensed version of a business plan, explaining what the money would be used for, and a committee comprised of IBA and PNC representatives, as well as individuals from a third-party educational institution, will select the winner. In addition to the $5,000 grant, Gehrman said IBA and PNC are also evaluating the possibility of both agencies providing a slate of in-kind services to the winning business. Also at the meeting, the IBA general membership approved the election and reelection of several new officers and members of the board of directors. Gehrman was reelected as president, while Evan Urbania was elected as the first vice president, Richard Horrow as the second vice president and David Schellenberg as the secretary — all three of whom had previously served as officers, but in different roles. Richonda Pelzer was reelected as treasurer, and board member Jeanne McIntyre was elected as the member-atlarge. Megan Smith, J. Michael Williams and Christine Hahn-Profitt were newly elected to the board, while Stuart Alter, Stephen Facenda, Brent Friedman, Conrad Kuhn, James McManaman and Schellenberg were approved for reelection. Board members serve two-year terms. For more information about IBA, visit www.independencebusinessalliance.com. ■

Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn. com.

Gay dance troupe the DC Cowboys, who will be in town this weekend to perform in the Fourth of July parade on Sunday, will stage a special performance the night before to raise funds for local HIV/AIDS service organization Philadelphia FIGHT. The all-male troupe will perform its country line-dancing routines from 5-7 p.m. July 3 at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., and also at a meet-and-greet after-party at The Bike Stop from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. Tickets to both events are $10, or $5 just for The Bike Stop event. Tickets are on sale at the center, FIGHT, 1233 Locust St., and The Bike Stop, 206 S. Quince St.

Gayborhood celebrates history The Gayborhood will host a two-week celebration later this month that pays tribute to the growth and progress of the area that has united the local LGBT community for several decades. “There’s No Place Like Home” will feature an array of events and parties from July 10-24. Meryl Levitz, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, noted the celebration “recognizes the efforts of the business owners, nonprofit organizations, public officials, residents and visitors who invested time, passion and resources to make the Gayborhood a dynamic, thriving city enclave.” The celebration will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Nutter at 4 p.m. July 10 at 13th and Locust streets, followed by a reception at Q Lounge & Kitchen. The following day, area vendors and organizations will participate in a street festival and block party from noon-6 p.m. in the Gayborhood. Throughout the celebration, which will coincide with LGBT film festival QFest, community members can use the Rainbow Discount Card, which can be picked up at several area LGBT bars, for discounts and specials at local businesses. For a full list of events, visit www. facebook.com/visitgayphilly. ■ — Jen Colletta

PGN

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Out bar owners purchase Uncles By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer The co-owners of Tavern on Camac recently purchased another longtime Gayborhood locale. Stephen Carlino and Dennis Fee signed a sale agreement at the end of last month for Uncles, whose owner, Mort Wernik, died last spring. The pair filed the application for a liquor license last week, and the sale will be finalized once the state approves the application, which Carlino said could take anywhere from two to seven months. Residents who live within close proximity to the bar will have 30 days to comment to the state on the license application, as does the Washington West Civic Association, but Carlino said he doesn’t anticipate any objections. Carlino said he and Fee, who were married in California in 2008, have been thinking about

purchasing the 26-year-old establishment, at 1220 Locust St., since Wernik’s passing. “Unfortunately Mort passed away and after he did, we contacted the estate last summer about this possibility and then it’s taken a while for them to get done what they needed to do and for us to hammer out an agreement,” he said. “I’ve always wanted a little corner bar, and I’ve always liked Uncles a great deal. It’s a real nice bar with a real nice clientele.” Carlino said he frequents Uncles but joked that he’s “going to have to find a new favorite bar because I don’t like to drink in my own bars.” He added he doesn’t plan to make any major changes in the near future. “People keep asking what I want to do with it, and really the first thing I want to do is just leave it alone,” he said. “I want to get in and see how it runs and what seems to work and what doesn’t

work, and then over time maybe start making some changes.” He noted that the name will likely stay the same, but didn’t rule out a name change further down the line. “It is my plan to keep it as ‘Uncles’ for now,” Carlino said. “I have bounced around some different names with people, but I think for now we’re going to leave it as Uncles. It’s been Uncles for 25 years.” He also hopes to retain the current staff. “I know pretty much all the staff there, so it is my intention to ask them all to stay on. That doesn’t mean there won’t be some changes in the future, if some people might leave because I’m not the former owner and it’s a new ballgame, but I do want to ask them to stay on and give us a chance.” ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.

Gayborhood crime watch The following incidents in the Midtown Village and Washington Square West areas were reported to the Sixth Police District between June 6-20. Information is courtesy of Sixth District Capt. Brian Korn; Stacy Irving, senior director, Crime Prevention Service; Center City District; the Police Liaison Committee and Midtown Village Merchants Association. REPORT: Between 1-7 a.m. June 6, complainant’s secured bicycle was stolen from the 200 block of South 13th Street.

Services Directory

REPORT: At 3:40 p.m. June 14, outof-town complainant’s unattended

cell phone was taken from a table in Starbucks, 1201 Walnut St., by two males who fled west on Walnut Street and north on Camac Street. The offenders were described as 16-year-old black males, one wearing a white T-shirt and khaki shorts, the second with short hair. REPORT: At 10:35 p.m. June 14, out-of-town complainant’s cell phone was taken from a table outside 1111 Locust St. by a male who ran to a waiting silver vehicle on Quince Street, fleeing north. The alleged offender was described as a black male, 5-foot9, with a thin build, wearing a gray shirt and jeans. ARRESTS: On June 15, Sixth District Narcotics Enforcement Team set up surveillance in the area for illegal narcotic sales. At 2:20 p.m., plainclothes officers observed an illegal narcotics transaction outside the Parker Spruce Hotel, 261 S. 13th St. The 21year-old suspect was charged with illegal sale of marijuana. The 33year-old alleged buyer was charged with possession of marijuana. REPORT: Between 3 p.m. June 15 and 7 p.m. June 18, complainant’s 2001 Honda, parked in the 900 block of Spruce Street, had a window smashed and a GPS taken. This report was received by the

DPR Unit via phone; police were not dispatched, therefore no prints were lifted. REPORT: Between 10 p.m. June 18 and 10:30 a.m. June 19, complainant’s secured bicycle was stolen from the 1300 block of Spruce Street. REPORT: At 2:05 a.m. June 20, complainants were walking at Eighth and Spruce streets when two males accosted them from the alley next to the Greek Orthodox Church. One of the males had a handgun and demanded everything they had. The complainants fled and nothing was taken. The offenders were described as white males, 150 pounds, both wearing black masks over their faces; one was 5-foot-9, and the other was 5foot-10 and wearing a black shirt. REPORT: At 4:05 a.m. June 20, complainant, who had fallen asleep on the front steps of his residence in the 1100 block of Spruce Street, was awakened by a male going through his pockets. The offender took a wallet and cell phone and fled on foot, heading west on Spruce. The suspect was described as a black male, 20-30 years old, 5-foot-9, with a stocky build and a dark complexion, wearing a black T-shirt with white writing and jeans. ■

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National

Media Trail Cops ID suspect in Pride shooting The San Francisco Chronicle reports a suspect in the deadly shooting during the city’s gay pride event is a 20-year-old man who may have known one of the victims. Police Lt. Lyn Tomioka says Ed Perkins of San Francisco is in custody on suspicion of murder. Perkins was arrested at the scene after 19-year-old Stephen Powell was shot multiple times and two others suffered wounds at a street party in the Castro district June 26. Police have recovered a handgun. Police do not suspect the shooting was a hate crime.

Court: Schools can enforce antibias rules

STATE PRIDE: Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton delivers opening remarks June 22 at an event at the Department of State celebrating LGBT Pride Month. AP Photo: Drew Angerer

Report examines high LGBT smoking rates By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer The American Lung Association this week released a report on what motivates so many LGBT individuals to smoke cigarettes, and urged increased national action to curb the disproportionately high rates in the community. “Smoking Out a Deadly Threat: Tobacco Use in the LGBT Community” analzyed data from 42 health surveys conducted last year on respondents’ sexual orientation, and also included information from the six states that have published health reports referencing LGBT tobacco use: Arizona, California, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington. All of the state reports found smoking rates higher among gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals than in their heterosexual counterparts. The report noted that virtually no data was available about the prevalence of smoking in the transgender community. The complete data review found that gay men on average were between 1.1 and 2.4 times more likely to smoke than straight men, while lesbians had between 1.2 and 2 times the odds of smoking compared with heterosexual women. Bisexuals, however, reported the highest smoking rates. The state surveys found that between 3040 percent of all bisexuals reported that they

smoke, while the ALA estimates that about 20.6 percent of Americans were smokers in 2008. While there was little data about smoking among youth, the report cited one study that found that lesbians and bisexual teen girls were nearly 10 times more likely to smoke than heterosexual girls, while there was no difference among gay or bisexual vs. heterosexual boys. “Tobacco use is the number-one cause of preventable death,” said Chuck Connor, ALA president and CEO. “Any group that has higher-than-average smoking rates is likely to also suffer from illnesses and death at higher rates.” Bill Blatt, ALA’s director of tobacco programs, noted that while LGBT individuals are exposed to some of the same smoking risk factors as heterosexuals — such as having family and friends who smoke — the LGBT community might also be influenced by other elements. Stress and depression can lead one to begin smoking, and Blatt said research has shown that homophobia and the social stigma associated with being gay often cause higher levels of stress in LGBT individuals. Additionally, the report noted that tobacco companies were some of the first corporations to tailor advertising specifically to the LGBT community, and that the LGBT population is significantly less likely

The Washington Post reports universities may insist that officially recognized student organizations accept all students who want to join, the Supreme Court ruled June 28, and that such a requirement does not violate the constitutional rights of a religious group that wants to exclude gays. The court divided 5-4 in ruling that a university’s nondiscrimination policy does not unfairly target faith groups. In an opinion by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the court said the Christian Legal Society may not both seek official recognition from the University of California’s Hastings College of the Law and ask for an exception from its policies. Hastings, located in San Francisco and the oldest law school in the California system, has nearly 70 recognized student organizations.

than the heterosexual one to have access to healthcare, which could impact ability to seek treatment and smoking-cessation programs. Gloria Soliz, facilitator of the “Last Drag” LGBT smoking-cessation program in California, said the nightlife culture in the LGBT community has also fueled the smoking prevalence. “I work with a lot of people who came out in the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, which were decades where one was likely to come out in the gay bar. For many, bars were the only perceived safe places to come out. Bars promoted smoking and they would start to smoke to fit in, and learned to cope with the stress of being closeted or the social stigma by continuing to smoke,” she said. Soliz said smokers who are attempting to quit should think ahead when choosing their nighttime activities. “I tell people they need to plan ahead when they go out for social occasions and that, in the next few months, they may choose to stay away from friends who smoke or do other things besides going to the club at night. I had three ladies in the program who said, ‘You don’t understand, that’s what we do.’ The bar culture has normalized tobacco use within the LGBT community. Smoking doesn’t make a person gay, nor does it need to be a part of the LGBT community. If all

The Allentown Morning Call reports the suspect in the recent fatal stabbings of four people in Northampton had been released from state prison about two months ago after serving more than 15 years stemming from a 1992 third-degree-murder conviction. Michael E. Ballard, 36, was arraigned June 27 on four counts of criminal homicide in the stabbing deaths of his former girlfriend, her father, her grandfather and a neighbor. Ballard was jailed in 1991 for the death of Donald C. Richard, a registered nurse who was stabbed and had his throat slashed in his Allentown apartment. Ballard told authorities Richard made sexual advances toward him while showing him an apartment for rent. ■

See SMOKING, Page 15

— Larry Nichols

Murder suspect used ‘gay panic’ in ‘91 case

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Supreme Ct. nom pledges impartiality By Steven R. Hurst The Associated Press

PGN

Gay is our middle name.

President Obama’s Supreme Court nominee, Elena Kagan, pledged to be a model of impartiality and restraint as a Senate panel opened confirmation hearings Monday. Kagan appears on track for confirmation by the Democraticcontrolled Senate, making her the third woman on the nine-member court. But she faced a grilling by Republicans who suggest she’d let liberal views color her rulings. The Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, expected to last a week, is being closely watched for clues to Kagan’s judicial philosophy — and any potential gaffes that could throw her nomination off track. As expected, she avoided controversies in her brief opening statement. She said the court must ensure that “our government never oversteps its proper bounds or violates the rights of individuals.” But, she added, “the court must also recognize the limits on itself

EVICTION From Page 1 At press time, the council had no comment on the ramifications of the Supreme Court ruling. But when questioned about the possibility of an out-of-court

and respect the choices made by the American people.” She billed herself as a consensus-builder for the ideologically polarized court and said she’d strive to emulate retiring Justice John Paul Stevens — the man she’s been chosen to succeed — by “listening to each party with a mind as open as his ... to render impartial justice.” Kagan, who would be only the fourth woman to serve on the court, would not likely change the ideological makeup of the divided bench, since she would replace the liberal Stevens. But she would add relative youth to the liberal wing of the court, which became more conservative during George W. Bush’s presidency. The 50-year-old Kagan now serves Obama as solicitor general, the country’s top lawyer who represents the government in cases before the Supreme Court. She brings a stellar legal résumé to the job, with the exception of never having served as a judge. Her background includes edu-

cation at Princeton, Oxford and Harvard. She served as a clerk under liberal Supreme Court icon Thurgood Marshall, worked in private practice, taught at and became the first woman dean at Harvard Law School and served in the White House under former President Bill Clinton. The deep partisan divide over the court — and Kagan’s fitness to serve there — was evident in the senators’ opening statements. Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont, the Judiciary Committee chairman, called Kagan’s views “well within the legal mainstream.” Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, the panel’s top Republican, countered that her “career has been consumed more by politics than law.” Kagan is likely to field queries from senators on a wide range of legal issues as well as her decision as Harvard Law School dean to bar military recruiters from the campus career services office because of the Pentagon’s ban on openly gay soldiers. ■

settlement, the council said on June 29: “As always, the Cradle of Liberty Council remains open to discussing reasonable settlement proposals with the City of Philadelphia.” U.S. District Judge Ronald L. Buckwalter hadn’t entered a judg-

ment on the verdict at press time. City attorneys have up to 28 days to appeal Buckwalter’s judgment, once it is entered, according to federal rules of civil procedure. Thomas W. Ude Jr., senior staff attorney with Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, said the Supreme Court ruling strengthens Philadelphia’s position against the Scouts. “It does strike me that there are very strong parallels between the policy that the Supreme Court held was constitutional and the policy that the city of Philadelphia was seeking to enforce with respect to its property,” Ude told PGN. “The [California] case is very directly on point.” He said the Scouts prevailed on a claim very close to that of the legal society. “It involves a legal question that is very similar — if not identical — to the question answered by the Supreme Court in the Christian Legal Society case.” Amara S. Chaudhry, director of legal services for Mazzoni Center, agreed with Ude. “I think the holding in the Christian Legal Society case virtually guarantees Philadelphia’s success on appeal against the Scouts,” Chaudhry told PGN. “The cases are very similar. The ruling in CLS strongly dictates that a group that discriminates is not entitled to a public subsidy that would facilitate that discrimination.” ■

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JULY 2 - 8, 2010

Editorial

Scouting limbo Last week, the jury in the Boy Scouts case challenging the city of Philadelphia’s effort to evict them from a city-owned building handed down a mixed verdict, with the city prevailing on two points, the Cradle of Liberty Council on one. In this case, the council alleged that the city was violating its First and 14th Amendment rights — free speech and equal protection — both of which the jury found to be not true. On the third question, whether the city placed an “unconstitutional condition” on the Scouts council by attempting to evict them because they refused to comply with local antidiscrimination laws, the jury ruled in favor of the Scouts. Since the June 23 verdict, the Supreme Court has handed down a ruling in a California case that found a university could withhold official recognition of a school group if it did not allow all students to participate. In this case, “Christian Legal Society vs. Martinez,” University of California’s Hastings College of the Law refused to recognize a Christian legal group that affiliated with the national CLS, which barred gays and nonbelievers from holding officer positions in the chapter. The school has a blanket “all-comers” policy, requiring groups to allow all students. With official recognition, the groups receive small grants from student activity and university funds, access to office space and meeting rooms, use of the school name and logo and access to an e-mail address. In the majority opinion, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wrote, “CLS, it bears emphasis, seeks not parity with other organizations, but a preferential exemption from Hastings’ policy.” In a concurrence, Justice John Paul Stevens wrote, “A free society must tolerate such groups. It need not subsidize them, give them its official imprimatur or grant them equal access to law school facilities.” The court’s ruling in this case could have a significant impact on the local Boy Scouts case — even after the jury’s verdict — as the judge has not yet entered judgment on the verdict. There are several ways the case could be resolved. First, the jury, judge and lawyers for the Scouts have all said the city was attempting to evict the Scouts on an unconstitutional basis — and that the city could evict them for a constitutional reason. With the Hastings ruling in hand, the judge could dismiss the Scouts case in its entirety and the city could begin the eviction process anew. Or, the judge could order the city and Scouts to work out a reasonable lease agreement. If he were to enter judgment in the Scouts’ favor, he could require the city to pay the council’s legal fees (an estimated $860,000), full or in part, and/or bar the eviction permanently. Now, the community awaits his decision. ■

Letters Pride successes, appreciations To the Philadelphia LGBT community: Tradition dictates that we make a disclosure to you concerning the results of our 22nd Annual PrideDay Parade and Festival. Philly Pride Presents is in a different posture than any other community group because we serve to coordinate those events, as well as serve the community as an umbrella organization in June (PrideDay) and October (Outfest). Our ﬁnancial viability is essential as we present the two largest networking events every year, giving you, the community, access to our variety of community groups, and giving those groups access to each other. June 13 was a wonderful success despite the brief rainstorm (lasting about an hour). We had more vendors (groups/businesses) than ever at 135, and more paid attendance than ever. The parade was longer and more involved than previously, and

we hope that all those trends continue into the future. The entertainment was better than ever, and Frank Moore “Prince,” Raven and Jennifer Coolidge (whom everybody refers to as Stiﬂer’s mother) just brought down the house. Mainstream news coverage (TV, radio, newspapers) was exceptional, as was our extensive coverage by PGN. Gate proceeds, alcohol sales and vendor fees permitted us to pay all our expenses and provided the seed money for Outfest 2010. We even have enough to replace our antiquated 1998 computer! The help from Congressman Brady and the Philadelphia Traditions Fund to pay the onerous burden of police services from the city was essential to our economic success. We also had rain insurance — which we buy every year — and it appears that it may indeed pay off this year. The disappointments were minor and not ﬁnancial: The Benjamin

Tell us what you think

Franklin Bridge had a power failure, which prevented the rainbow lighting effects we were promised (they are scheduled for next June — and we already have a pink bridge for Outfest, as the entire month of October is devoted to the Susan G. Komen breast cancer events), and Penn’s Landing’s antiquated electrical system kept shorting out our rainbow sky puppets (we will have a generator for Outfest). So, all in all, on behalf of the Philly Pride coordinators — we need more, by the way; come and join the board, (215) 875-9288 — and executive director Franny Price I would like to thank our community groups and the members of the LGBT community for making our event the success that it was. We couldn’t have done it without you! — Chuck Volz Senior adviser Philly Pride Presents

Send letters and opinion column submissions to: pgn@epgn.com; PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147; fax: (215) 9256437. Please include a daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity, style and space considerations.

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

Mark My Words

Mark Segal

Pioneers reclaim Pride

This year, Gay Pride seems to be going on and on — especially for those of us who marched or helped plan the first Gay Pride March in New York City on June 28, 1970. While we knew its historic importance at the time, we often think that others have forgotten us, the reasons for that first march or its true significance. Last Sunday proved to be a catharsis for many of us. On the 40th anniversary of the first parade, those of us who marched, marshaled or planned that event marched as a group with the banner “Original Marchers June 28, 1970.” As we gathered at our assigned spot in the parade — first section, seventh group — we were a small group of 10. Many have died in the 40 intervening years, others have moved far away. In front of us was a very large group from Delta Airlines, which included a car decked out like a Delta plane, pilots and flight attendants pushing food carts. Behind us was a contingent from Kiehl’s skin products. The irony of sandwiching us, the original anti-establishment, anti-corporate people, in between two major corporate sponsors was obvious. As our little group of older men and women waited to march, we watched as the other two groups in front and behind us put on their matching outfits with logos, put their props in order and filled their pockets and carts with items to give away to the crowds. We looked at each other in our regular marching clothes — jeans and a comfortable shirt — and prepared to carry our banner. Then, the organizers asked us all to prepare to march. Each group got in “march order.” For us, that meant just unfolding our banner and holding it up. As we did so, something amazing happened. Even before we started to walk, people came over and wanted to shake our hands and say thank you. It was almost too much to bear. Our group had been fighting the good fight for 40 years and, in most cases, barely got a thank-you. It was overwhelming. By the time we had walked out of 40th Street onto Fifth Avenue, the cheers were overwhelming. The

organizers of the parade, “Heritage of Pride,” who are known for running a tight ship and were worried about our conforming to their standards, were gracious enough to realize that this was important and allowed us the unusual favor of marching at our own pace, which also enabled the crowd to read the banner. Those of us who marched looked at each other as people yelled out, “Thank you!” or tried to get through the police lines to shake our hands. Entering Christopher Street, our home, the crowd was immense and the cheers were deafening. We decided to make the point clear on what this march/ parade was about. So, at the Stonewall, we stopped the parade and arranged ourselves with our banner in front of the building. That one gesture stated it all. That night, the Gay City News top story was “Take Back Pride.” To its credit, Heritage of Pride even appreciated the emotion in that moment. Barbara Gittings once said I was the baby of the pioneers. For me, that means I ﬁt in between both groups: pre-Stonewall and post-Stonewall. These groups have had their differences over the years. And, at times, I’ve been on one side or the other, but in recent years, I’ve attempted to build a bridge. So it’s with great honor that this Sunday, I’ll be in a car with Frank Kameny and Randy Wicker (both pre-Stonewall) with a banner on each side stating “Gay Pioneers” in the Fourth of July parade that passes by Independence Hall. Our history and struggle are beginning to be recognized and accepted. How sad it was that the New York Times used a photo of a lesbian pole dancer as its graphic for Sunday’s New York Pride. The photo didn’t represent a majority of this year’s marchers, let alone the march’s history. Gay Pride is about the struggle for equal rights. How appropriate that we pioneers and founders attempted this year to make that point. Take note, New York Times, Gay Pride is a remembrance of the struggle for equality. Our work is not done and this photo makes that point clearly. Simply put, would the Times use a similar graphic for the Puerto Rican, Irish or other group’s parade? No question mark needed here. The answer is no. While we’re very proud of how far we’ve come, we realize there is still work to be done. ■ Mark Segal is PGN publisher. He can be reached at mark@epgn.com.

PAGE 11

Street Talk What does Independence Day mean to you?

Jason van der Brand company co-director Washington Square West

Jason Tomaselli selling supervisor Washington Square West

“Definitely staying in Philadelphia and seeing the fireworks. I never miss them. I don’t think there’s a better place to be than Philadelphia on July 4th. The holiday began here, and it should be celebrated here.”

“It means spending time with family and friends, when I can. Not so much because I’m celebrating a holiday, but because people are off from work and can get together. July 4th isn’t my favorite holiday, but it’s a time for togetherness.”

Bill Budd singer-songwriter South Philadelphia

Bonnie Williams home organizer Darby

“Having gratitude for being able to say whatever I want, and hoping that everyone appreciates the First Amendment and continues to fight for it. Some people want to take it away.”

“I’m a free spirit. I truly lead my life to the beat of a different drummer. I was raised in a fundamentalist Christian home, and I’m so glad I had the freedom to choose something else. That’s what July 4th means to me.”

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 12

NJ researcher examines lesbian health, seeks more subjects

“Our” Family Plumber for 30 Years

By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer A researcher in New Jersey seeks women who are in relationships with other women to participate in a research study about the health of same-sex couples. Dr. Charlotte Markey, an associate professor of psychology at Rutgers University-Camden, is spearheading the study, which examines how the relationships influence healthy behaviors, with a focus on eating habits and body image. “In looking at relationship literature, there’s always gender difPAGE 15 ferences, but it’s unclear if these differences are due to the individual or to the partner,” Markey explained, noting that married men often report healthier eating habits and longer life expectancies than non-married men. “Academically speaking, the next logical step was to see what happens if we have someone whose partner is of the same sex.”

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The study, which is being funded by the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association and by Rutgers, will include 70 couples, about half of whom have already signed up to participate. The couples must have been in an exclusive relationship for at least six months, although cohabitation is not necessary. Participants will spend about an hour and a half at the Rutgers Camden campus, where they will separately fill out surveys about their personalities, eating behaviors and relationship, have their weight and height recorded and together work on a short health task. In exchange for their participation, each couple will receive $100. Markey said there is a dearth of information on same-sex couples, but she is eager for studies like hers to heighten awareness and understanding of the community. “As far as I know, this is really new. There is very little research in general about LGBT relationships. There are so many misperceptions

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among the general public about this community. I’m hoping that, in a small way, this research will contribute somehow to a greater social understanding of diverse relationships. The time is right: This is the civil-rights movement of the current generation. This is what we need to do because people have different relationships and they’re equally healthy, and to say that, we need to back up what we’re saying with research.” Markey has also applied for additional funding to expand the study to include same-sex male couples. Earlier this month, researchers in Massachusetts released a study that found gay men tended to be slimmer and more concerned with their bodies than straight men, while lesbians reported higher rates of obesity than heterosexual women. Markey noted that her study is focused not necessarily on discovering such trends but rather looking at their motivating factors. “What’s interesting to me as a psychologist is not that we see these trends, but why we see them. And that’s the crux of this study now. We want to see if it has something to do with the partners, or with the community they’re involved with. If we’re going to [help] people so that they’re not so concerned about their bodies — or also are not overweight — we need to know where this is coming from, and that’s what we’re hoping to do.” For more information or to sign up for the study, visit www. HealthDevelopmentLab.com. Those interested will be directed to a short survey to determine eligibility and, if eligible, will be contacted by a researcher. The researchers are looking for couples who have availability to visit the campus in late July or August. ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.

Gay is our middle name.

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

Out Law

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 13

Angela D. Giampolo

Adoption for same-sex couples: a patchwork quilt Deciding to start a family is an exciting and significant move for many couples. However, same-sex couples face unique legal hurdles with respect to adoption. There are several forms of adoption available to LGBT parents. The first is individual adoption, where an unmarried person adopts a child who has been placed for adoption by his biological parent. This can be executed through a child-welfare agency, public agency, private state-authorized agency or private agreements between parties. The more frequent forms of adoption include second-parent adoption and simultaneous adoption. The former allows a same-sex partner to adopt his/her partner’s biological or adoptive child without affecting the first legal parent’s rights. Simultaneous adoption is where a couple jointly adopts a child to which they have no biological link. It is important to note that states that recognize civil unions or domestic partnerships may grant stepparent adoptions similar to married heterosexual couples. The following states explicitly We Can,and a discussion offerTogether both stepparent secgroup for people dealing ond-parent adoption: California,with emotional, mental and addictive Colorado, Connecticut, District of problems, will meet at 7 p.m. at The Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, TheMassachusetts, Trans-Health Nevada, Information New Hampshire, Jersey,center Project will holdNew a drop-in New York, Oregon, for all trans personsPennsylvania, from 7-11 p.m. Vermont and Washington. oor; A few states, including Florida, Mississippi, Nebraska, The Humboldt Society, a gay and Oklahoma, Utah andclub, Virginia, lesbian naturalist will meet have enacted thatWilliam specifi- Way at 7:30 p.m.laws at the cally prohibit gay individuals or Ties from Thatadopting. Bind Us,This a 12-step couples can cause grave issues, as the existence of a legal parental relationship is important to ensure the safety and stability of families. Without one, a child has no claim for financial support, inheritance rights, Social Security benefits or health insurance. Worse yet, a child may be denied essential medical care in an event of emergency if the legal parent is harmed or unavailable. If you’re in a state where adoption is not an

option, it is essential to execute a will with a nomination of guardianship clause, create a co-parenting agreement and sign a form authorizing medical consent. New Jersey has been progressive in furthering LGBT couples’ rights to adoption. For example, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 9:3-43, any person may adopt and secondparent adoptions are permitted as well as simultaneous adoptions. While the trial court in “In Re Adoption of Two Children by HNR” did not permit the samesex partner to adopt the children without affecting the mother’s rights, the Appellate Division reversed the dismissal and found the adoption served the best interests of the child and granted the adoption while the preserving mother’s rights. The case “Matter of Adoption of a Child by J.M.G.” dealt with unmarried persons attempting to adopt. Generally, adoption terminates the legal parent’s rights. However, the court found the stepparent adoption could be applied as an exception to couples that were not married and therefore would allow the legal parent to maintain his/her rights. The court held that to discontinue the legal parent’s rights would fly against the child’s best interest and, ultimately, public policy. It is still important to estab-

lish legal rights to your children prior to the dissolution of a relationship. In “A.F. v. D.L.P.,” the court found that while the plaintiff-partner took care of the child while her partner worked, and she even made monetary contributions for child care, it wasn’t enough to establish partial custody or even visitation rights because the plaintiff-partner was not recognized as a “psychological parent” to the child, but rather more like a nanny. Similar to New Jersey, Pennsylvania permits secondparent adoptions by same-sex couples. Although second-parent adoption is similar to and arguably indistinguishable from stepparent adoptions, the courts of both states have ruled that these two methods are different because the adopting partner is not in fact a “spouse” under the statutes. Second-parent adoption ensures that the children of a same-sex couple will be eligible to receive the health-insurance benefits from the other parent, inheritance rights and the right to child support from the other parent, among other rights. It is important to keep in mind that whether in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the cost of adoptions can vary widely. Privateagency adoption fees can be as expensive as $40,000 with

state-agency adoptions costing much less. A number of factors affect cost, including the type of adoption, the type of placement agency or facilitator and the child’s age and circumstances. For same-sex couples where both partners are seeking to adopt the child, New Jersey is much less costly because it is one of only two states (along with Maine) that allows simultaneous adoption by same-sex couples. This means that both partners can apply to adopt the child together, whereas in Pennsylvania only one partner can adopt and then the other partner must go through a second-parent adoption. Although expensive, there are resources available to help defray the costs of adoption. For example, federal tax credits and exclusions, state tax credits, reimbursement for adoption costs, federal and state subsidies, employer benefits, adoption loans and grants and subsidies and reimbursements for children with special needs are just a few. After understanding the legal landscape of adoption in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the next crucial steps involve select-

ing an agency and talking about adoption with friends and family. Either your attorney or the agency you’re working with will explain the in-depth procedures, including petitioning for adoption, criminal background checks, the home study, the submission of support letters from family and neighbors for the adoption and, finally, a hearing with a judge. Many states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey and, more importantly, courts, have realized that parents’ sexual orientation is fundamentally irrelevant to their parenting skills. However, if you’re considering adoption, until the legal landscape of how adoption laws are applied to LGBT couples becomes more uniform and clear, it is important to take proactive steps and be well-informed. ■ Angela D. Giampolo, principal of Giampolo Law Group, maintains offices in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and specializes in LGBT law, business law, real-estate law and civil rights. Her website is www. giampololaw.com and she maintains a blog, www.phillygaylawyer.com. Send Angela your legal questions at angela@giampololaw.com.

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PAGE 14

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

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By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer A transgender woman was attacked last month after leaving a bar in the Gayborhood. At about 3 a.m. June 13, the woman, Neicy, and a friend were walking down 12th Street after leaving Uncles bar on Locust. When the pair approached Lombard Street, they noticed a man following them, and he made contact at the corner of 12th and South streets. “The guy walked up to me and was trying to talk to me, and I just told him I was alright, and then he just hit me,” Neicy said. “And then he was attacking me.” Officer Tanya Little said the assailant grabbed the victim’s pocketbook during the attack and made off with about $80. Neicy was identified by male pronouns in the police report. Police arrested 25-year-old Jovan Pressley later that day and charged him with simple assault, receiving stolen property, theft by unlawful taking and robbery with inflicting serious bodily injury. After the attack, Neicy, who said she’d never met the suspect, contacted local trans activist Jaci Adams, who convinced her to go

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to Presbyterian Hospital for her injuries. “When I first saw her before the hospital, her lip was swollen and she was in so much pain. At first we thought it was just a swollen lip, but it turned out he did more harm and damage than you could have seen,” Adams said. The attack left Neicy with a broken jaw, and she had to have a tooth extracted and root canal. Although the cause for the attack is unknown, Adams said it could have stemmed from Neicy’s being transgender. “These young girls these days are really, really passable, so it could’ve been a situation that the guy didn’t know at first, but nine times out of 10, a guy in this neighborhood knew what he was dealing with, and being rejected by her might have made him feel some type of way and that ended up happening,” she said. Adams noted that the staff at the hospital was “exceptionally polite” to Neicy, as were the police from the LGBT liaison’s office. “People’s compassion toward trans people is real, and they do really want to see a brighter day for trans people,” Adams said. “Nobody knows why she got beat

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up, but she didn’t deserve a broken jaw. No one does.” Pressley, who is in prison after failing to post $350 bail, faced a preliminary hearing June 29 at the District Court at 11th and Wharton streets, which the victim and her sister attended. The Police Liaison Committee also made an effort to communicate the community’s support with the attendance of committee members Adams and Irene Benedetti and vice president Rick Lombardo. During the hearing, an additional charge of aggravated assault was added to the violations Pressley faces, and Lombardo said the judge was respectful of the victim’s gender identity. “I come from the days where people got ridiculed in court, but the judge addressed [her] as ma’am, so we’ve really come a long way,” he said. The next hearing is July 20 at the Criminal Justice Center. Pressley has been arrested three times for public drunkenness in the past two years — including two arrests since April — and also has faced charges such as harassment and disorderly conduct. ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.

E-mail us: pgn@ epgn.com

PGN

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

SPORTS From Page 1 said Harms. Adam Lorber, Riversharks general manager, noted that the team was an active supporter of the Plays and Players’ production of “Take Me Out” — about the intersection of the LGBT and sports communities — this spring, which he said motivated the club to do its part to bring the two closer together. “A few months ago, we had one of our coaches speak to the audience at the play and it just kind of triggered this idea and got us thinking about why we hadn’t ever done something like this before,” he said. Larry Felzer, who spearheads local LGBT outings like the Phillies’ Gay Community Days, which will be held this year on Aug. 23, applauded the

LANCASTER From Page 1 Even most of those who were against extending nondiscrimination protections to LGBT people were also opposed to abolishing the commission. Glassman said that if the county’s human-relations commission, which last year handled 150 cases, were to be dissolved, the state agency would have a difficult time contending with the new batch of county complaints. “The PHRC is overwhelmed with cases,” he said. “We’ve suffered significant staff cutbacks and budget reductions over the last two years. Our staff caseload is four times the national average, with 125 cases per investigator,

SMOKING From Page 7 members of the community were to become nonsmokers, I’d like nothing better than to have worked myself out of a job.” Blatt noted that effectively reducing the rates of smoking within the LGBT community requires more than just each individual’s commitment to quitting. “LGBT community members are in every part of the population, but they’re an invisible minority,” he said. “Like other groups that

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

Riversharks for taking the initiative and reaching out to the LGBT community. “They realize that this is a market,” Felzer said. “Gay people like sports too, and that’s something that they appreciate.” At the Riversharks game, the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Choir will sing the national anthem to kick off the game, and a yet-tobe-determined member of the LGBT community will throw out the first pitch. Harms said the team is also inviting other LGBT entertainers to the field for performances before and during the game, and will recognize the night on the scoreboard. The team is also offering specials for gay-owned or gayfriendly businesses, such as ad space in the monthly newsletter, marketing tables at the game and highlights on the screen, depend-

ing on the number of tickets the company is able to sell. In addition, the Riversharks might paint the bases in rainbow hues. Harms said the Philadelphia community should make the short trip over to Jersey to show its own colors. “This is a chance to show their pride, meet other members in the community and enjoy a fun night at a minor-league baseball game,” she said. “If they have never been to our ballpark, coming out for the Philadelphia skyline and Ben Franklin Bridge view is more than enough reason to visit.” Lorber said the Riversharks offer their fans more than just baseball. “We’re not just about sports, we’re also about entertainment. We bring people onto the field for different things; we have times where you can meet play-

which is simply unwieldy. We’re not in a position to accept other cases without letting Lancaster County know that we would be very delayed in the investigation, adjudication or settlement.” Glassman also noted that local human-relations commissions often have a better connection to the county’s residents than the state panel. “We’ve always been supportive of local commissions, because they’re more familiar than the state commission at the local level with employment opportunities, business entities, public accommodations, educational institutions, landlords or housing. There is a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents at the local level that they don’t have with the state

government,” Glassman said, adding that residents who file with the state commission would also have to travel to Harrisburg as the case progresses. “These 150 cases that were filed could have come to the state, but people chose to file in Lancaster County, which indicates that they want to stay close to home. Obviously there are greater remedies when you come to the state government, but when you forego that to stay local, that should tell you something.” The commission scheduled a public hearing on the potential dissolution of the human-relations commission for 9:15 a.m. July 28 at 150 N. Queen St., Lancaster. The discussion on LGBT protections will continue once the commission’s future is decided. ■

are disproportionately affected, LGBT populations need targeted efforts to reduce smoking rates and ultimately save lives. This can’t be resolved overnight. We need a focused collaborative effort.” Blatt said the federal and state governments need to include questions about sexual orientation and gender identity in public-health surveys to better examine the issue, and he noted that the ALA has recommended such a mandate to the Centers for Disease Control and all state health departments. The report also recommends

state and local tobacco-control programs ensure that their smoking-cessation programs and those who staff them are sensitive to the needs of LGBT individuals, and seek input from LGBT agencies in their disparity-reduction and intervention plans. Blatt said the organizations that represent the LGBT community typically “haven’t seen tobacco use as a priority,” which needs to change in order for the community to achieve tangible progress. To view the full report, visit www.lungusa.org. ■

What’s going on? Check out Diversions.

PGN

PAGE 15

ers. We’ve got a carousel, and a rock wall and do fireworks every Friday night, and we have a great view of Philadelphia. We look at the Riversharks as an oasis. There’s three hours where you can just sit in your seat and not worry about anything else and just be entertained at a very reasonable cost.” For more information or to purchase tickets for the Riversharks game, which are $11, contact Harms at (856) 831-0431 or

SHarms@riversharks.com or visit www.phillygaydays.com. The game begins at 7:05 p.m. The Freedoms match, also billed as Billie Jean King Night in honor of its out owner and tennis legend, will start at 7 p.m., and tickets are $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.philadelphiafreedoms.com. ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.

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PAGE 28

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

THE YEARS OF A

A departure from the ordinary

Detour

Klown John Leguizamo brings new show to Philly By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer Actor, author and jack-of-all-trades performer John Leguizamo is back with his latest in a long line of oneman shows. “Klass Klown,” which runs through June 30 at Suzanne Roberts Theatre, finds the actor taking the audience on a trip through his long and colorful career. And what a roller-coaster ride that has been. Leguizamo has come about as close to doing it all as any actor can get in his more-than 20 years in the business. He’s appeared in blockbusters (“Ice Age,” “Romeo + Juliet,” “Moulin Rouge!”), gangster flicks (“Carlito’s Way”), horror films (“The Happening,” “Land of the Dead”), campy comedies (“To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar,” “The Pest”), popcorn action movies (“Spawn,” “Collateral Damage”), and just about

every other genre under the sun. In “Klass Klown,” Leguizamo opens up about his triumphs, mistakes and the misadventures he’s experienced in his personal and professional life, from the New York theater scene of the mid-’80s, where he started out, to where he is today. Leguizamo talked to PGN about his career and the creative process that goes into his outrageously funny solo show. PGN: In one of your books, you describe yourself as “a horrible example of how to have a successful career.” What would you have changed? JL: At this point, I wouldn’t change anything because it got me to write this show that I’m doing right now. If I had gotten it all right, I wouldn’t have written this show. There were so many things that I shouldn’t have turned down, things I should have turned down and people I

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

should have fired a long time ago. PGN: Given you’ve worked in television, movies and theater projects across many genres, don’t you think that you are the envy of about 99 percent of your peers? JL: I know. Dude, I’m still grateful. I know the percentage of SAG members that actually work. What is it, like 6 percent or something like that? It’s a low number. In that aspect, I’m grateful. Everybody is jealous of somebody. PGN: Who are your influences and inspirations as a performer? JL: I have my heroes and it’s Richard Pryor, because he talked the rawest about himself. He started that kind of thing. And then I would say Eric Bogosian brought the sex and the anger into it. Whoopi Goldberg brought in the poetry and the ghetto. And Lily Tomlin was the first to actually make it more of a play. And I just took a little bit of everybody and made my own hybrid version of that. PGN: How much of what you do as a performer pulls from your experiences and background in theater? JL: Most of it. I started acting in Lee Strasberg’s class and with Herbert Berghof. All we did was plays. That’s how you learn to act, in plays. Even my writing was influenced by reading plays, especially Eugene O’Neill. He’s one of my big influences. “A Long Day’s Journey Into Night” was always an extremely self-revelatory piece. It’s one of those exposés on yourself. That’s always been the high bar that I wanted to reach. I did improv live in New York at the First Amendment Theater. And that stayed with me pretty much into my film career. I always try to improv, rewrite and think like a playwright. What is the character arc? Where is it going? What are the scenes? PGN: Does any of the show fall back on your comedy-club roots? JL: The show is a strange hybrid. It’s a play. It’s a drama. It’s stand-up comedy. It’s performance art. This time, I’m doing something a little different in my show. It’s got more of a play in it. If I do say so myself, it’s getting very masterful. PGN: With the show being semi-autobiographical, do you ever get apprehensive about putting so much of your business out there? JL: Every fucking day. Every single

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time. And my wife is coming to see it in Philadelphia. So are some friends. I’m trying not to find out when they’re coming so I can just be. I’m trying to keep my eyes on the road and not look around and do what I have to do as an artist and not worry about the consequences. I’m pretty foolish but I can’t help myself. PGN: How long do you have to workshop a show like this before it’s ready to go? JL: Time equals quality. The real nature of art is time equals quality. The longer I do it, the better it gets. I started writing this show eight years ago and I’ve been doing it on and off three or four. I did it like an improv at colleges. I’d drink a lot and I’d go on stage with my index cards. Then I’d have to run home and try to write before I fell asleep because I was drunk. That’s how I started, and then it started developing into more-solid pieces. Last year, I started really performing it seriously. PGN: Do you prefer doing a show like “Klass Klown” over movies or television? JL: This is the more-satisfying thing as an artist, actor and performer. Nothing has ever come close to capturing who I really am and what I can do but the stage and what I’ve done. PGN: Which role do you think you’ll be more remembered for: Chi-Chi Rodriguez or Sid the Sloth? JL: Oh, wow! There’s also “Carlito’s Way” and “Spawn,” and then my stage shows. I can tell who the people are in the audience by what they hoot and holler at. That’s how I can tell who’s in my house. I can tell there are young people because they hoot and holler at “The Pest” and “Super Mario Bros.” And I can tell there are more hoodie types when they holler at “Carlito’s Way.” I can tell where the women and the gay people are because they holler at “To Wong Foo.” And that’s how it goes. PGN: Which of your films are you the most proud of? JL: I’ve got to say “Where God Left His Shoes” is some of my best work and closest to who I am, and that’s why I’m really proud of it. It wasn’t seen by many people but it was one of the finalists at Tribeca Film Festival.

PGN: Are there any of your films that you’d like to burn every copy of? JL: Oh yeah. I would say “A Pyromaniac’s Love Story,” “Street Hunter,” “Lies and Alibis” and “Collateral Damage.” PGN: When you were doing these films, did you know that they were going to be bad going in, or was it not apparent until after they were done? JL: I was naïve back then. I always thought that because I do what I do and I write, I can fix anything. I had a naïve young-punk mentality. I knew they weren’t good but I thought I could fix them somehow. I thought I could rewrite my part and help them rewrite the rest. I couldn’t. PGN: Is that why you decided to become a producer? JL: I thought if I took hold of my career through producing, it could help a lot. And it has helped a lot. I’ve learned so much about the business that I never would have learned otherwise by just being an employee. It might have taken me to the next level. PGN: Having worked with many, many top Hollywood stars, is there anyone you haven’t worked with who’s on your wish list? JL: I would love to work with Meryl Streep, Glen Close ... I really dig Mark Ruffalo. Jeremy Renner is pretty great. I think there’s some great talent out there

that I’d like to work with. PGN: Do you think actors and actresses today have more control over their careers than they did when you started out? JL: Nope. The potential for performers to have more control over their careers is at a cusp right now. It’s a real possibility with technology and the Internet. It’s about to happen, but it has not happened. Musicians have tried more than actors because it’s much more expensive for an actor to put a ﬁlm together than it is anything else in the world, more than an album, theater or anything else. The business is changing for the worse. The only movies they want to make are those dumb sequels or something that was a TV show. It’s the worst it’s ever been. The independent market dies because the investment banks and the money dried up in America. PGN: Is there anything you haven’t done in your career that you would like to do? JL: I want to write and be in a movie like I do in my plays. That’s in reach. ■ Philadelphia Theatre Company presents “Klass Klown” through June 30 at Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St. For more information or tickets, visit leguizamo.ning.com or call (215) 9850420. Larry Nichols can larry@epgn.com.

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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

Offline

Bruce Yelk

Find ‘fireworks’ on July 4 In popular culture, “fireworks” can refer to a spectacular display of love or excitement. Though it usually describes a romantic connection, we can all experience fireworks during times of joy — a joy that can occur while you spend quality time with friends and loved ones. With July Fourth on the horizon, I hope each of us has the opportunity to experience fireworks — in every sense of the word. Here is a list of upcoming events to make this July Fourth the best ever. On June 26, one of the LGBT community’s most successful sporting organizations, the City of Brotherly Love Softball League, will host its annual bingo fundraiser at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the action beginning at 7. Food, soft drinks and beer will be available for purchase, and great prizes have been donated by local LGBT businesses. Tickets are $20; e-mail joincblsl@aol.com to reserve a spot. Visit www.cblsl. org to learn more. Jumping ahead to the July Fourth holiday, Philadelphia will host its annual Wawa Welcome America! celebration. The week is packed with events; view the full schedule, including parades, festivals, concerts and outdoor film screenings, at www.welcomeamerica.com. As a preview, here are details for three fireworks shows during this year’s celebration:

I now pronounce you wife and wife ... PGN is happy to publish your wedding/civil union/commitment ceremony announcement. E-mail information to editor@epgn.com or fax us at (215) 925-6437.

— 8 p.m. June 26 at Penn’s Landing: concert featuring Morris Day & The Time, followed by fireworks on the Delaware River — 8 p.m. July 3 at Penn’s Landing: concert by the Philadelphia Orchestra, followed by fireworks on the Delaware — 8 p.m. July 4 at Eakins Oval on the Ben Franklin Parkway: concert by The Goo Goo Dolls, followed by fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art For women looking to get out

of the city over July Fourth without breaking the bank, look no further than New Hope! Over the holiday weekend, Diane Lusk and Ladies 2000 will host the “Ladies STAYcation” at the Nevermore Hotel, 6426 Lower York Road. Beginning July 2, Lusk will kick off a weekend of dinners, dancing and parties in celebration of our nation’s birthday. Special events include a T-dance at 5 p.m. July 3 with DJ Michael DeCero and a cabaret show later that evening. Ladies 2000 guests will receive a discounted room rate of $119 at the hotel. For more information, visit www.ladies2000.com. For guys who want to get away without flying away, Rehoboth Beach, Del., and Asbury Park, N.J., have huge July Fourth events on tap. In Rehoboth, gays can enjoy the annual Love party, benefiting CAMP Rehoboth (www. camprehoboth.com). The main dance party, at the Convention Center, 229 Rehoboth Ave., is “July4Love4all.” Kicking off at 8 p.m. July 4, DJ Joe Gauthreaux will spin classic anthems and pop hits. In addition, there are several “Love” events all weekend, including the “LottoHEART” benefit, a live-auction game show. Visit www.sundancebenefit.com for more information. Not to be outdone, Asbury Park also has an exciting slate of activities planned for the holiday. Local promoter Shep Pettibone will present three nights of dancing and entertainment at Paradise, 101 Asbury Ave. July 2 is the “Friction” dance party and “Follies” show with Victoria Lace and Lady Marisa. On the 3rd, DJ Drew G will spin a red, white and blue-themed dance party. On July 4 is Pettibone’s famous poolside Silver T-Dance, featuring DJ Chris Padilla. For more information, visit www.paradisnj.com. To view a listing of gay events in Asbury Park this July Fourth, visit www.gayasburypark.com. I hope my recommendations provide the spark to get your fireworks going. If you have events for my July 9 column, e-mail me at byelk@nightlifegay.com. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer! ■

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

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Out writer brings ‘Phreak’ show to Philly By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer “My mother is always scared that whenever I go somewhere that people are going to come after me,” out writer and performer R. Dale Smith said about his semiautobiographical one-man show, “Jesus Phreak.” In the show, Smith acts out a parable about a cynical church pianist who finds himself starting to believe in God even as the wider church excludes him for being a “mixer,” someone who wears clothes made of two different materials. (Apparently, this is a violation of Biblical law in the book of Leviticus. No more cotton-poly blends for us.) The 39-year-old, who is well versed in religion, grew up in rural Virginia, where he played the piano at his small country church. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in English from James Madison University and a master’s in Biblical studies from Union Theological Seminary in Richmond. He is now an adjunct professor of religious studies at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. Needless to say, Smith knows his Bible. “The cloth verse I use for the show [Leviticus 19:19] is close to another verse [Leviticus 18:22] that is often used to argue against homosexuality in general, as well as against gay marriage and gay ordination,” Smith said. His idea for the show was to explore gay issues through Biblical metaphors — and be able to speak to both gay and non-gay

R. DALE SMITH IN “JESUS PHREAK”

audiences. “I think by having it in metaphor, when it comes up in the second act of the show, there’s 30 seconds where I can see confused looks on people’s faces,” Smith said. “But then a light goes off and they get it. Because I never say the word ‘gay,’ I think the more moderate to conservative people in the audience are able to ride along with it. They can remain engaged and the walls don’t go up. In addition to keeping more conservative audience members from shutting down, the metaphor raises the question of, if we, as a culture, are willing to dismiss some rules from the Bible, such as the rule against wearing two different kinds of cloth, why do we hold onto other rules, such as the ones supposedly against homosexuality?” Still, Smith’s mother’s worries aren’t exactly unreasonable. But

the performer said he’s been surprised at how open audiences, even in some of the more conservative areas of the country, have been to his show. “When it was first being produced for a play festival, the director took me aside one day after rehearsal and said, ‘You may just want to prepare yourself for people walking out at some point during the show.’ Because midway through the show, the gay issue comes up. But that has never happened. I’ve always had an enthusiastic response from audiences, which has been great.

“Something that has surprised me is that shows in more conservative areas have drawn larger audiences on the whole than shows in more liberal areas. People in more liberal areas may hear about the show and go, ‘I’m OK with gay people in churches, so this show will have nothing new to say to me.’” He added that any negative reactions to the show haven’t been face to face. “I have gotten some bizarre emails from people that obviously haven’t seen the show but have stumbled upon the website,” he said. “They will send me these strange notes about how I’m going to hell and taking people with me, but the audience [members] themselves have been very open.” Smith said that “Jesus Phreak” appeals to both gay and straight audiences regardless of their faith. “Because the show is about more than being an outsider/being gay [and] because it is also about a bumpy/comic faith journey filled with many theological questions, I think even the most liberal and accepting people will find themselves engaged and challenged by it. It explores the question of what it means to be a person of faith, and the question of how one becomes a person of faith, just as

much as it explores what it’s like to feel excluded by a faith tradition. And it does so throughout with humor.” Smith performs “Jesus Phreak” at 7 p.m. June 27 at Trinity Memorial Church, 2200 Spruce St., followed by a discussion and wine and cheese reception. For more information or tickets, visit www.trinityphiladelphia.org. ■

Books Magazines CDs & DVDs for your summer vacation MON. - SAT. 11:30 - 7p.m. SUNDAY 1:00 - 7p.m. email: giovannis_room@verizon.net

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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Outward Bound

Saddle up and welcome the DC Cowboys to the City of Brotherly Love and a spectacular Fourth of July celebration!

✮

with

✮

First, join us at the William Way Community Center at 5 p.m. for a rousing show, food, drinks and some one-on-one time with the entire DC Cowboys organization.

✮

Later, at 11 p.m., join us at The Bike Stop for another show and some social time on their ﬁnal night before they make LGBT history performing in Philadelphia’s July Fourth parade. Your $10 ticket gets you into both events – or $5 for The Bike Stop event only.

✮ Sizzling sex appeal ✮ Rugged good looks ✮ Brokeback meets Broadway

✮

The DC Cowboys dance company is an all-male, performing arts organization for gay men in the Washington, DC–metropolitan area founded in 1994 by Kevin Platte.

Our special thanks to these groups who helped make this happen:

Jeff Guaracino

BYOFC—Bring Your Own First Class

✮

Join Philadelphia FIGHT and the DC Cowboys for two AIDS fundraising shows and welcoming parties on Saturday, July 3.

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

✮

Tickets are available through Philadelphia FIGHT, William Way Community Center and The Bike Stop. For more information, call Mark Seaman at 215-525-8628.

I am on a plane at least once a month and, to be honest, I have been a bit spoiled in this recession as fewer people have been traveling. I was upgraded to first class almost every time I flew — even on overnight flights to Europe. Well, the U.S. economy is recovering and more people are traveling — that’s a good thing — but this week on my trip to France, I was “downgraded.” That’s right, even though I offered American Airlines 50,000 of my coveted points, plus $700, I was stuck in crowded coach class. Ah ha, no fear. First, class is a state of mind, and I have devised the BYOFC — Bring Your Own First Class — threestep system.

your own amenity kit at home and bring it with you. Pack these items in your carry-on luggage and be sure they are easily accessible before and after you put your bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The Sharper Image and online retailer TravelSmith both offer a great selection of practical and affordable items.

Choose your seat wisely First, it is essential to carefully select your seat. A best bet before choosing your seat is to visit www.seatguru.com, an independent website that is the authority on airline seating, in-flight services and airline information. The site will help you choose a seat that suits your comfort. Whether you prefer an aisle seat, a window seat or the exit row for the privileged few, Seat Guru will give you a complete description. It will warn you of exit rows that don’t offer extra legroom and tell you the rows that do. It will tell you seat width, pitch and if it has a power port for your laptop.

BYO pre-flight cocktail and food While technically against the rules, those mini-bar-sized spirits can fit neatly into the TSA regulation-sized plastic bag. In fact, four Absolute bottles are a perfect fit. To have your own spirits on hand is especially nice when those in first class are being offered a preflight cocktail. Simply purchase your favorite mixer from the airport concession stands and violà. Don’t forget to pack your favorite snacks, too. Even in first class, airlines are becoming increasingly stingy and offering fewer menu items. While you can’t heat anything up, you can enjoy your favorite snacks — just like in first class. I go to the grocery store before every trip and stock up on the mini-sized, low-calorie snacks. Sometimes an airport merchant will have a cheese and cracker platter for sale. There is nothing more civilized than enjoying a cocktail and cheese just minutes after take-off. ■

BYO amenities Flying in comfort is totally up to you and what you prefer. You can replicate the first-class amenity kit easily. Most standard first-class amenity kits include a blanket, eye mask, tissues, lip balm, socks and a pen. These products are now sold online and at the airport. You can also make

Jeff Guaracino is a vice president of the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation and author of “Gay and Lesbian Tourism: The Essential Guide for Marketing.” He has learned to how to find the best deals and travel resources out there for our community. If you’re traveling locally, check out visitphilly.com.

PGN WWW.EPGN.COM

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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Professional Portraits “ I l ove i t ! I l ive i n t h e Gayborhood and everything I could ever want is within a fiveblock radius. This place, Naked Chocolate, theater, music, good food, even a Tiffany’s ... not that I would ever go there, but still. I could live here for the rest of my life and have access to everything I wanted.” So says Alan Robarge, a new Philadelphian who’s been here a scant six weeks. His enthusiasm about the city is infectious and his ability to meet so many new friends in such a short time is impressive. I met up with Robarge at Absolute Abstract and spoke with him about his life, his work as a psychotherapist and what makes him a proud new Philadelphian. PGN: Where are you from? AR: I moved here from Denver, Colo., but I was born in Ohio. I’ve lived in several places from New York to Chicago. PGN: Where in Ohio were you born? AR: Rising Sun, Ohio. A small town, population 500. I left when I turned 18 to move to New York. People ask me if it was culture

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

Suzi Nash

shock and I tell them that, being who I am, it was culture shock living in a town with 500 people for 18 years. PGN: What was family life like? AR: My mother was a schoolteacher for 30 years — she retired last year — and my father worked as a machinist in a spark-plug factory. He passed away when I was 14. I have a sister who’s three years older than me. PGN: Did she treat you like a dress-up doll? AR: [Laughs.] She wasn’t really around, so I self-initiated dressing up! We actually have pictures of me in a slip and a wig. I also remember going over to my cousin’s house and getting all excited about painting her Barbie doll head. You know, those oversize Barbie heads that came with a make-up kit. PGN: And how did machinist dad take to seeing his son in a slip? AR: I was an entertainer from the start, and I was young enough that they thought it was funny. I would lip sync to old K-tel

albums. PGN: Where did your urban flair come from? AR: I have no idea. Probably a past life! PGN: What’s your best memory from back in rural Ohio? AR: [Long pause.] I just remember it being boring. Not my childhood — I had a good upbringing — but the place was boring. I think I managed to stay engaged through artwork. I was always painting and drawing and had several art projects. I enjoyed pursuing creative things. PGN: Where did you go when you left? AR: I thought I left to go to school in New York, but I really left to be gay and I spent a lot of time discovering what that meant. PGN: How did you decide how and where to figure things out? AR: Somehow, through television and the media, I figured that New York was the place where I could be myself. I had been non- or asexual for 18 years and, in New York, I came into my gay identity

ALAN ROBARGE Photo: Suzi Nash

and looked to find myself. I transferred schools a lot. I started at Fordham and, for a period, I think I went to a new school every semester. And then I dropped out of school altogether so I could go gay full-time! Eventually, I went back to school. PGN: What did you study? AR: I started out with liberal arts, pursuing a business track, then I went to Parsons School of Design, some marketing art program and then a host of others. I eventually graduated years later from the Columbia College of Chicago with a degree in nothing. Technically, it was a bachelor of arts degree in an undeclared major, but I like to call it a degree in nothing. PGN: What was one of the most exciting things you remember about New York? AR: I’d go dancing at the Roxy every Thursday night for the Disco Interruptus parties. We’d wear costumes and, on Saturday nights, everyone would wear their wildest outfits. I felt like every night was Halloween, every night was Carnivàle. It was the early ’90s and I felt like something special was going down and I was a part of it. It was a vibrant time. PGN: What was your worst outfit? AR: Probably a plain shirt and pants. I had read New York magazine all throughout high school and knew I always wanted to move there. My mother would run into people in downtown

Rising Sun and they would tell her that I’d mentioned that I was going to school in New York. She’d come to me and say, “Alan, why are you telling people that?” and I’d say, “Because I am.” And then we’d go into a “No, you’re not/Yes, I am” thing. From reading New York magazines, I was aware of the club scene but when I first moved there, I was out for a walk one day and stumbled upon a club and, even though I was in my plain old street clothes, I figured I’d check it out. They wouldn’t let me in! That’s when I figured out I needed to get hip to get through the velvet rope. One night I wore some spandexy pants and a glitter shirt and this guy thought I was European. When I spoke English he was surprised and it made me feel good to create such a mysterious aura. PGN: Do you remember your first kiss? AR: It was profound and exciting, but it also instantly connected to years of unacknowledged shame, so it had a bitter sweetness. Because even though the experience was wonderful, it was scary because it was the beginning of touching the edges of that shame that was buried deep inside. PGN: Was that the start toward getting involved in your current career as a psychotherapist? AR: Not really. During that time, I managed the guilty feelings I had. Years later, I met a man in Chicago and we had a wonderful, passionate beginning that ended abruptly and left me torn apart.

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

That triggered an incredible grief that cracked me open and made me confront my inner homophobia and other things. I came to the phrase, “I hate myself” and with the help of a good therapist, discovered a truth that was shocking and difficult to digest, but that led me eventually to the work that I do today, which is cultivating self -worth and selfkindness. PGN: Where did you study? AR: Initially the work found me, which sounds esoteric but it’s the truth. In studying acting, I learned about power dynamics, text, subtext, motivation, body language — and they’re all foundational pieces of how I work as a therapist: uncovering truths amid the drama. I was going to therapy myself at the time and with friends, our conversations would naturally turn to healing talk. Or I’d be on a bus, and someone would say, “I don’t know why I’m telling you this but ... ” I started to think about work as a therapist as a result of my natural ability to engage people, as well as my own desire to explore who we are, what’s the meaning of life, why are we doing certain things, etc. I studied contemplative psychotherapy at Naropa University in Boulder, Colo., which is based on Buddhist psychology and I got a degree in counseling psychology from Regis University in Denver.

Q Puzzle Rainbow Flag Across

1. Arnaz, whose in-laws had Balls 5. Whitman’s leaves 10. Cry of Dorothy 14. “Baseball Tonight” channel 15. Zellweger of “Chicago” 16. Not outstanding 17. Sites for three men in a tub 18. Cancel out 19. Chelsea Pines and others 20. ___ Red (Type of cock) 23. Weapon of Caesar’s day 25. Actor Bentley 26. Scenic view 29. ___ orange (Cut fruit, perhaps) 31. ___ yellow (“Cock-eyed Optimist” color) 32. “The African Queen” author 33. Poles for your first mate? 37. “Hollaback Gir l” singer Stefani 38. Where to meet Judy Garland, in a movie 40. Moisten one’s boxers 44. Where to find It. 45. Maupin stories 50. ___ green (Patty Shehan

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PGN: What is your clientele like? AR: It’s across the board: men, women, gay, straight, all types of people. They seem to break down mostly into two categories: the people who have had a life crisis or transition and have to go to a therapist because they need immediate help, and then the type of people who think everything is fine but just want more out of life. They feel something is missing and want to examine their lives. Therapy is a transitional process. You have one foot in the old life, of who you were, and one foot in your new life, who you are becoming. It’s managing the anxiety of letting go. A lot of times, acknowledging sexual orientation can be the change that brings you to that point — sometimes it’s women coming out of a marriage, sometimes it’s business owners or artists starting a new enterprise. It’s about trying to deepen and understand a new life. Psyche represents the butterfly in Greek culture, and so there’s a lovely analogy of the transformation from the caterpillar to the butterfly. The only people I don’t work with are couples or children. PGN: So what made you choose Philadelphia? AR: I researched it on the Internet. I liked the urban vibrancy of the city. I visited some cities in Connecticut, but that definitely wasn’t for me. area) 52. ___ blue (hearing some Billie Holliday songs) 54. Undisturbed 55. Least sweet 56. ___ violet (straight guy in a gay bar) 60. Tops a cupcake 63. Stiff-upper-lip type 64. Sea bottom captain 68. Russian singing duo 69. Reviewer Roger 70. Like McKellen’s Magneto 71. Years ago 72. Study stations 73. Six feet under

Down

1. Some, on the Somme 2. Gaydar, for example 3. Losing gladiator’s plea 4. Like a muscle Mary 5. Cap and gown wearer 6. Keep getting 7. Lennox of the Eurythmics 8. Dr. for the children’s hour? 9. VSucceed at pitching 10. Giving a piece of your mind 11. Carpenter’s tool 12. Hr. part 13. Meas. of a braggart? 21. The NBA’s Magic on scoreboards 22. Gardner of Hollywood

Philadelphia is such a great city. The biggest test was in my body. I came to visit and just wanted to see if the place felt right to me, and instantly I knew I could live here. It was a good fit. PGN: What personality traits have gotten you in the most trouble? AR: I can be loud ... at inopportune times. PGN: Really? You come across as mild-mannered. AR: Well, apparently my voice can be booming. In grade school, I was always being sent to stand in the corner. I would ask the teacher why I was being punished when everyone in the class was talking, and she’d tell me, “Yes, but your voice carries!” [Laughs.] PGN: Any pets? AR: I have a Jack Russell terrier named Liza. We go to Washington Park every day and she’s a great icebreaker. People will stop me and tell me how cute she is and start up conversations. We also like to sit on the benches and people watch. PGN: What profession, other than yours, would you most and least want to try? AR: If I had the body for it, I would love to be a dancer. I really respect dancers and love the visual images they create. What would I not want to pursue? 23. Castro Street, on BART 24. Hanging spot 27. Threesome for Michelangelo 28. Objectivist Rand 30. Mouth-to-mouth pro 31. CBS show in which semen may be evidence 34. Shake it 35. Small amount 36. Gang’s territory 38. Bessie of the blues 39. Sailor’s rear 40. Inflation meas. 41. Come quickly 42. Saucer pilots 43. On the table 46. Set straight 47. Serve up some whoppers 48. Print measures 49. Army NCO 51. Gave a breast to 53. Official decrees 57. End of a Beatles song title 58. Naysayers’ words 59. Sulu’s star ship captain 60. Simpson case judge 61. When repeated, a 1953 Cole Porter musical 62. Lister’s abbr. 65. She had no heterosexual parents 66. Jenny portrayer on “The L Word” 67. Like the gray mare

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Being a machinist! PGN: What book would we find on your nightstand? AR: “Momma and the Meaning of Life” by Irvin Yalom. I’m reworking my relationship with my mutha! PGN: What do you like about what you do? AR: I develop a relationship with my clients. It’s a one-on-one professional relationship designed to develop and improve their mental health and emotional well-being. Our talking is the foundation for them getting to know themselves better. PGN: Is it ever scary? What do you do if someone is suicidal? AR: That’s an intense question. My answer is that there is an official protocol that has to be followed; once those have been enacted and I know that there is no imminent danger or active intent to harm, I can discuss the fact that suicidal thoughts and questioning the meaning of life is normal. There is a difficult and dark side of self-discovery and I value the mythical approach, which says that there is a natural process of death when the caterpillar turns into the butterfly. It’s not a literal death, but a psychic transformation that can be so painful that suicidal thoughts can be informing that something needs to change.

See SOLUTION, Page 37

PGN: How does it make you feel? AR: I think I’m hardwired to receive the intensity of people’s emotions. It’s what I do and I’m honored by the honesty of meeting someone in that place. I’ve worked with rape survivors in Denver at a program called RAAP [Rape Assistance and Awareness Program] and I’m trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which is a technique to release trauma from the body. It could be any trauma, from a car accident to sexual assault or covert incidental trauma. That can be something like, my parents would fight and though it was never directed at me, it was so scary that I’m now anxious all the time. It can be touching, it can be sad, it can be uplifting, but it’s something I always consider a privilege. I grow from the process too. [Laughs.] I don’t know how you are going to fit everything from playing with Barbie doll heads to mythological death processes in one article! PGN: It’s my specialty! ■ Alan Robarge can be reached at www.alanrobarge.com or (215) 983-9407. To suggest a community member for “Professional Portraits,” write to: Professional Portraits, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 or portraits05@aol.com.

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

Tabu’s bar menu has ups, downs By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer

Published the 2nd and 4th week of every month.

Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar, 200 S. 12th St., has a winning Gayborhood location, an excellent vibe and an attentive staff. However, the menu has some challenges to overcome before it can fully live up to its potential. T a b u does a great job with traditional b a r fa r e . The crabcake sliders ($8.95) w i t h Louisiana mayonnaise had a great flavor and consistency that even crab snobs from Maryland couldn’t fault. And we could eat Tabu’s wings (10 for $7.95) all day, every day. Every flavor the bar offers is excellent, from the safe-but-savory bourbon-glazed wings to varying degrees of hot buffalo-style wings, all of which compliment how crispy and well cooked the juicy wings are. The baked macaroni and cheese ($8.95) hit all the right comfort-food spots. We were initially worried about the peas, thrown into the mix with bacon, but the dish was tasty and solid. The hangar steak sandwich ($8.95) is a nice-enough alternative to a hamburger, with tender beef and caramelized onion on a baguette. Some of the dishes disappointed, not because they were bad, but because a quick trip to the spice rack would have gone a long way. The Cajun-battered cauliflower ($5.95) was a prime example. Putting “Cajun batter fried” in front of anything raises hopes and expectations that whatever healthy morsels underneath will be magically transformed into something decadent. Instead, we were instantly transported back

to a time when we were threatened with no dessert to finish our veggies. The big portions of cauliflower fought the batter every step of the way, to the point that even the spicy Parmesan dipping sauce couldn’t rescue it. Likewise, the freshness of the fish tacos ($9.95) with corn salsa

TABU Photo: Scott A. Drake

was undermined by a severe lack of spice or lime. A dish that simple could have easily been among the best selections of the night, but it just fell short. Tabu won us over with dessert, which was a white-chocolate raspberry cheesecake. It was so good that it made us suspicious. (It wasn’t made in-house.) Tabu did a bang-up job on presentation. Let’s hope they keep the secret of where they buy, lest we go right to the source to buy whole cheesecakes. Stay focused on the basic bar grub and the action on the abundant flatscreens and you won’t be disappointed. ■ Larry Nichols can be reached at larry@epgn.com.

If you go Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar 200 S. 12th St. (215) 964-9675 www.tabuphilly.com Open daily 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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Riots, love and gay directors grace new indie films By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor A trio of films with queer themes and/or by queer filmmakers opens at Ritz Theatres today. The movies range from an important historical documentary to an exquisite melodrama and an ambitious literary adaptation. “Stonewall Uprising” is a useful, if superficial, addition to the numerous histories of the 1969 Stonewall riots. The film, incredibly well edited by co-director Kate Davis, effectively uses the few extant photographs from the event along with recreations and images — such as newsreels and clippings — from the era. Interviews with participants in the riots and other talking heads flesh out the portrait. It’s all done in a traditional documentary approach, neither fancy nor stodgy. The film is loosely based on David Carter’s excellent book “Stonewall,” and the book’s trajectory — setting the stage, describing the riots and discussing the aftermath — provides the documentary’s narrative arc. But if the disturbing background information — that life was restrictive and difficult for lesbians and gay men in the 1960s — is beaten to death, too little is told about the efforts of queer activists to combat it and police harassment. The second half of the film chronicles the riots themselves — and the sense of rebellion and how the violence felt justified after so much anger and repression. This is the film’s greatest strength. When an interviewee sheds a tear recounting his experiences at the riots, it is quite moving. “Stonewall Uprising” may not be the definitive portrait of the riots, but it tells an important story that needs to be told and retold. Tilda Swinton gives a virtuoso performance in “I Am Love,” a sumptuous, enthralling Italian romantic drama. Written and directed by Luca Guadagnino, this story of a bourgeois Milanese family trying to hold on to the past is a truly sensory experience. From the fantastic pulsing John Adams score and the swirling camera that practically eavesdrops on the characters’ lives to the textures and aromas of the clothes, food, skin and snow, viewers will be completely enveloped by this decadent, insular world. Emma (Swinton) is the wife

of an industrialist who is grappling with unexpected love. First, she chances upon a note from her daughter Elisabetta (Alba Rohrwacher) confessing her passion for a female teacher. She is quietly devastated by the news, and Swinton is remarkably affecting in this moment — just watch how her face conveys multiple conflicting emotions. Yet, Emma cares enough about her daughter that this revelation — which she is asked to keep secret — actually brings the women closer. Moreover, Elisabetta’s clandestine love unexpectedly prompts Emma to act on her sudden attraction to Antonio (Edoardo Gabbriellini), a chef who is also her son Edoardo’s (Flavio Parenti) business partner. As the relationship between Emma and Antonio develops — a scene of her eating one of his dishes is an intense highlight — and the characters start having romantic fantasies, “I Am Love” induces all kinds of swooning. Guadagnino creates an intimacy that is infectious: Every touch, every smell is palpable. Moreover, scenes of Emma “chasing” Antonio through San Remo or reacting to a terrible tragedy are simply mesmerizing. “I Am Love” is a truly exceptional film. Queer filmmaker James Ivory’s “The City of Your Final Destination,” adapted from the Peter Cameron novel, is a handsomely produced but languid, soporific drama. In the opening moments, Omar (Omar Metwally) is sinking in quicksand. It’s an apt metaphor for his life, which is slipping out of his control. He is hoping to write a biography of the late, obscure novelist Jules Gund, to secure his Ph.D. and a teaching job, but Gund’s estate declined his request for authorization. Egged on by his demanding girlfriend, Deirdre (Alexandra Maria Lara),

SOLUTION From Page 35

Omar heads to Uruguay to meet with Gund’s gay brother Adam (Anthony Hopkins), wife Caroline (Laura Linney) and mistress Arden (Charlotte Gainsbourg) to see if they will change their minds. Ivory deliberately allows viewers to develop a sense of the mysterious Gunds, much like Omar does. The initial impressions are intriguing as they provide many telling details about manners and each character’s sense of decorum and discretion. A discussion about art or money suggests something far larger than the subject at hand. Yet when an accident — clumsily telegraphed by sinister music — lands Omar in the hospital, Ivory loses control of his film. Deirdre arrives in Uruguay and her character locks horns with Omar and the Gunds as she pushes them to resolve their matter quickly. She’s a symbol, of course, and a clunky one. “City” is best when little happens slowly, allowing viewers to sink into the rhythms of the story.

TILDA SWINTON (AS EMMA RECCHI, LEFT) AND ALBA ROHRWACHER (ELISABETTA RECCHI) IN “I AM LOVE”

When Ivory hurries the film, the dramatic tension evaporates and the characters exert little emotional pull. There’s an emptiness here that is enervating. Only a coda piques any interest. Nevertheless, Metwally makes Omar appealing, and Linney looks severe and acts her brittle best as

the icy Caroline. And Hopkins gives a relaxed performance as Adam: His affections with his lover are nicely handled. Ultimately, “The City of Your Final Destination” is less than the sum of its parts. It is as if Ivory set a gorgeous table, but failed to put any real food on it. ■

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 38

Meeting Place A community bulletin board of activities, facilities and organizations

Community centers ■ The Attic Youth Center: For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies. Groups meet and activities are held from 4-8 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays; case management, HIV testing and smoking cessation are available Monday through 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, Summer hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. ■ Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning and Allies Youth Center: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays: Doylestown Planned Parenthood, The Atrium, Suite 2E, 301 S. Main St., Doylestown; (215) 348-0558 ext. 65; rainbowroom@ppbucks.org. ■ William Way Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center: 1315 Spruce St.; (215) 732-2220; www.waygay.org. Peer counseling: Monday through Friday, 6-9 p.m. Library hours: Mondays 3-9 p.m., Tuesdays 3-6 p.m., Wednesdays 3-9 p.m., Thursdays 3-9 p.m., Fridays 3-9 p.m., Saturdays noon-6 p.m., Sundays noon-6 p.m. Volunteers: New Orientation: First Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.; Volunteer Velada, third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

Health Anonymous, free, confidential HIV testing Spanish/English counselors offer testing 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 166 W. Lehigh Ave.; (215) 763-8870 ext. 6000. AIDS Services In Asian Communities Provides HIV-related services to Asians and Pacific Islanders at 340 N. 12th St., suite 205; (2215) 536-2424. Gay and Lesbian Latino AIDS Education Initiative Free, anonymous HIV testing from 9:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursdays at 1207 Chestnut St., fifth floor; (215) 851-1822 or (866) 222-3871. Spanish/English. HIV testing Free, anonymous testing and counseling is offered from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment at AIDS Resource, 520 W. Fourth St., suite 2A, Williamsport; (570) 322-8448.

Key numbers

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, conﬁdential HIV testing available at 17 MacDade Blvd., suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Ofﬁce Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; (610) 586-9077. Mazzoni Center Free, anonymous HIV testing; HIV/AIDS care and treatment, case management and support groups; 1201 Chestnut St.; (215) 563-0652. www. mazzonicenter.org. Washington West Project Free, anonymous HIV testing. Walk-ins welcome 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; 1201 Locust St.; (215) 985-9206.

Casarez@phila.gov; Fax: (215) 686-2555

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

■ Mazzoni Center: (215) 563-0652; www. mazzonicenter.org

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

■ Mazzoni Center Family and Community Medicine: (215) 563-0658

■ AIDS Library: (215) 985-4851

■ Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): (215) 572-1833

■ ACLU of Pennsylvania: (215) 592-1513

Men

Boys Night Out A social gathering for gay men, meets at 7 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday at Iron Hill Brewery, 30 E. State St., Media; BurbBoysNiteOut@aol.com. Delaware Valley 40-plus Club for Men Social group meets every other month; (215) 587-9933. Gay Married Men’s Association Meets at 8 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at the William Way Center; (215) 483-1032. Men of All Colors Together Meets at 7:30 p.m. third Friday of the month September through June at the William Way Center; (610) 277-6595; www.MACTPhila.org. Men’s Coming Out Group, N.J. Meets at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at The Pride Center of New Jersey. Men’s Coming Out Group Meets at 7 p.m. Thursdays at Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St.; (215) 563-0652 ext. 219. Men of Color United A discussion/support group for gay and bisexual men of color meets from 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday at 112 N. Broad St., 11th ﬂoor; (215) 496-0330. Men of Standard Provides a place for gay men of color 21 and older to share issues of concern. Meets 7-9 p.m. every Thursday at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St., Camden, N.J.; (856) 963-2432 ext. 211; ruberte_ j@camden_ahec.org. Philly DADS An association of gay and bisexual fathers supporting each other meets at 7:30 p.m. fourth Friday of the month at the William Way Center; (215) 668-5239.

Parents/Families

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Bucks County Meets at 7:30 p.m. third Thursday of the month at Penns Park United Methodist Church, 2394 Second Street Pike, Penns Park; (215) 598-8005. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Cape May, N.J. Meets at 2 p.m. third Sunday of the month in the Maruchi Room of Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital, 2 Stone Harbor Blvd.; (609) 861-1848. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Chester County Meets at 7 p.m. ﬁrst Tuesday of the month at the Unitarian Fellowship of West Chester, 501 S. High St., West Chester; (484) 354-2448. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Collingswood, N.J. Meets from 6-8:30 p.m. fourth Monday of the month at the Collingswood Public Library, 771 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, N.J.; (856)345-9112; pﬂagcollingswood@yahoo.com. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Philadelphia Meets from 2-5 p.m. third Sunday of the month at the LGBT Center at the University of Pennsylvania, 3907 Spruce St.; (215) 572-1833. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Princeton, N.J. Meets at 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month in the George Thomas Room at Trinity Church, 33 Mercer St.; (609) 683-5155. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Wilmington, Del. Meets at 7 p.m. second Thursday of the month at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 13th and Rodney streets; (302) 654-2995.

■ AIDS Treatment hot line: (215) 5452212

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

■ Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection at the Independence Branch of the Philadelphia Free Library: (215) 685-1633

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

Philadelphia Family Pride Advocacy, support and social network for LGBT families offers play groups, monthly kids and teen talk groups, activities and outings. Planning meetings are held monthly; (215) 844-3360; www. phillyfamilypride.org.

■ Philadelphia Police Department liaison — Chief Inspector James Tiano: (215) 685-3655

Gender Rights Advocacy Association of

■ The COLOURS Organization Inc. 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; (215) 4960330.

■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: (215) 600-0627; ppd.lgbt@gmail.com

■ Equality Advocates Pennsylvania: (215) 731-1447; (866) LGBTLAW

■ Philly Pride Presents: (215) 875-9288

■ Equality Forum: (215) 732-3378

■ SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: (717) 920-9537

■ Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Peer Counseling Services: (215) 732-TALK ■ Mayor’s liaison to LGBT communities: Gloria Casarez, (215) 686-2194; Gloria.

■ Transgender Health Action Coalition: (215) 732-1207 (staffed 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays, and 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays)

Trans

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010 New Jersey A transgender civil-rights group meets first Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. at The Pride Center of New Jersey. Interweave New Jersey An organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Unitarian and their allies meets every third Sunday at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 401 N. Kings Highway, Cherry Hill, N.J.; (856) 667-3618. Oasis Meets 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays at 1201 Chestnut St.; (215) 563-0652 ext. 509. Mazzoni Center Family and Community Medicine Primary healthcare and specialized transgender services in a safe, professional, non-judgemental environment, 809 Locust St.; (215) 563-0658. Renaissance Transgender Assoc. Meets at 8 p.m. third Saturday of the month at Into the Woods office complex in King of Prussia; (610) 975-9119 box 5; and 7:30 p.m. first Thursday of the month at the William Way Center; www.ren.org. T-MAN People of color support group for transmen, FTMs, butches, studs, agressives, bois, genderqueer and all female-born individuals with gender questions meets 7:30-9:30 p.m. Mondays, second floor, 1201 Locust St.; (215) 834-9063; tman215@aol.com.

Queer Connections Social group for women in their 20s meets weekly; (215) 468-1352; queerconnect@yahoo. com. Republican Lesbians Meetings held at 7:30 p.m. on first Monday of the month at The Pride Center of New Jersey. South Jersey Lesbians of Color Meetings are the first and third Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at The Starting Point, 215 Highland Ave., Suite C, Westmont, N.J.; (856) 824-0881; e-mail: SJLOC-owner@yahoogroups.com. Women’s Coffee House for Lesbians A group for lesbian and bisexual women meets on first Saturday of the month at 7 p.m. at The Pride Center of New Jersey. The Womyn’s Village The first womyn-owned and operated thinktank targeting black African, Asian, Latina and Native American LBT and two-spirited womyn. Meets at 5 p.m. on third Thursday of the month at COLOURS Organization, 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; (215) 765-0121; the_womyns. village@yahoo.com.

Youth

Transhealth Programming Committee Meetings are at 5 p.m. second and last Sundays of the month at the William Way Center.

40 Acres of Change Discussion group for teen and young adults meets from 6-8 p.m. Thursdays at The COLOURS Organization Inc., 112 N. Broad St., 11th ﬂoor; (215) 496-0330.

Transhealth Information Project Sponsors a weekly drop-in center from 7-11 p.m. Tuesdays at 1201 Locust St.; (267) 549-6497.

Drop-in Group For gay, lesbian and bisexual youth; meets at 11 a.m. Saturdays at AIDS Delaware, 100 W. 10th St., Suite 315, Wilmington, Del.; (302) 652-6776.

Transgender Health Action Coalition Peer trans health-advocacy organization meets at 5 p.m. second and last Sundays of the month at the William Way Center; (215) 732-1207; www. critpath.org/thac. WeXist FTM support group meets from 6-8 p.m. second Friday of the month at the William Way Center; ﬁrst hour is open; second hour is for people assigned female at birth who have gender issues; (267) 2501548; www.wexist.org. Young, Trans, and Uniﬁed! Support group for transgender and questioning individuals ages 13-23 meets from 7-8:30 p.m. every Thursday at The Attic Youth Center; (215) 545-4331 ext. 24.

Women

African Asian Latina Lesbians United Social-issues discussion group meets fourth Thursday of the month at The Pride Center of New Jersey. Bucks County Lesbian Alliance Meets monthly for social events; http://buckscountylesbianalliance.org. Expressions Women’s Space Lesbian singles, family and coming-out groups meet at 1538 Church St.; (215) 535-3600. Lesbians and BiWomen in Heterosexual Marriages A support group meets at 7:30 p.m. on third Wednesday of the month at The Pride Center of New Jersey. Lesbian Community of Delaware Valley Social group holds monthly meetings and activities for gay women of all ages in Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties; P.O. Box 962, Phoenixville, PA 19460; http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/LCDV/; marichikogirl@yahoo.com. Lesbian Couples Dining Group of Montgomery County Meets monthly; (215) 542-2899. Lesbian Social Network of South Jersey 1,000-member social group for lesbians holds monthly activities in South Jersey and surrounding area; www.LSNSJ.com. Lesbians with Breast Cancer A support group meets from 6:30-8:30 on second Wednesday of the month at Gilda Club Delaware Valley, 200 Kirk Road, Warminster; (215) 4413290.

HAVEN For GLBT, intersex, questioning, queer and allied youth ages 14-20; meets from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley, 424 Center St., Bethlehem; (610) 868-2153. HiTOPS A safe-space support program for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth, will meet from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at 21 Wiggins St., Princeton, N.J.; (609) 683-5155. Main Line Youth Alliance Meets from 7-9:30 p.m. Fridays at 109 Lancaster Ave., Wayne; (610) 688-1861; info@myaonline. org. Mountain Meadow For youth with GLBTQ parents. Monthly programs for ages 8-16, family programs and parent coffee groups. Residential program offered in August; 1315 Spruce St.; (215) 772-1107; inquiries@mountainmeadow.org. Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s LGBTQ and Allies Youth Center For ages 14-21; meets 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays at Doylestown Planned Parenthood, The Atrium, Suite 2E, 301 S. Main St., Doylestown; (215) 3480558 ext. 65; rainbowroom@ppbucks.org. Social X Change Social activity group for LGBT youth of color ages 13-23 meets from 6-8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at 112 N. Broad St., 11th ﬂoor; (215) 496-0330. Space to be Proud, Open, and Together Open to all LGBTQ queer youth and allies, ages 14-21, the SPOT meets Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Planned Parenthood of Chester County’s West Chester ofﬁce, 8 S. Wayne St., West Chester; (610) 692-1770 ext. 108 or thespot@ppccpa.org. Teen Support Group Drop-in group for teens and adolescents meets Thursdays from 4:30-6 p.m. at 1201 Chestnut St.; (215) 563-0658 ext. 319. Youth in Transition A support group for transgender and questioning youth ages 12-23 meets from 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays at the The Attic Youth Center. Youth Making a Difference For GLBTQ African-American and Latino youth ages 13-24. Meets from 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Wednesday at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St., Camden, N.J.; (856) 963-2432 ext. 205; gibbs_ d@camden-ahec.org.

Send submissions to pgn@epgn.com or fax (215) 925-6437 PGN Meeting Place, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

Meeting Place is a public service. Submissions must include a phone number for publication. Complete Meeting Place listings of all Parent/Family, Professional, Recovery, Recreation, Religion, Sports, Men, Women, Trans, Youth groups can be found online @ www.phliagaynews.com and www.epgn.com

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

Mombian

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 39

Dana Rudolph

How marriage bans teach children marriage isn’t necessary Parenting took center stage in the closing arguments of the California Proposition 8 case on June 16. Attorney Ted Olson, by most accounts, made a superb argument for marriage equality. There was one point he left out, however, that is worth exploring. Attorney Charles Cooper, speaking for the defenders of the same-sex marriage ban, argued that marriage should be limited to opposite-sex couples in order to “channel naturally procreative sexual conduct into stable and enduring unions,” and “to minimize what I would call irresponsible procreation.” He was unclear, however, as to how allowing same-sex couples to marry would dissuade opposite-sex couples from doing the same. He spoke only of the “very important and very negative social implications” when children “are born into the world without this stable, enduring marital union, raised and responsibility taken for the offspring by both of the parents that brought them into the world.” Olson did a stellar job refuting Cooper’s claim. He pointed out Cooper’s lack of evidence about the impact of same-sex marriages on opposite-sex ones, and noted that nearly 40,000 children in California were living in

households headed by same-sex couples. While Olson spoke generally of the legal and emotional benefits to children in same-sex headed households, however, he neglected to speak of how having married parents conveys certain things to children about the meaning of marriage itself — and what the long-term impact of that is on the institution of marriage. The majority of the children of lesbian and gay parents will be straight. They will grow up to have the same “procreative sexual conduct” Cooper wants to channel. Will they be more likely to “channel” that into marriage if they see their parents raised them successfully without marriage, or if they see their parents got married in order to declare their love and for the rights and stability that marriage provides? No matter what the outcome of the case, same-sex couples will continue to raise children. Open lesbians began seeking custody of children from previous opposite-sex relationships back in the 1970s. The term “gayby boom” dates from a Newsweek article in 1990. That’s a moving train of history that cannot be stopped. The danger isn’t just to the millions of children with lesbian or gay parents. If their friends and classmates see that same-sex couples are raising happy and healthy children without marriage (as valid academic studies continue to show), they, too, may begin to wonder if marriage is needed for

successful child rearing. This argument also answers the question of why domestic partnerships or civil unions won’t do. They provide some or all of the rights and benefits of marriage, but they will not — by definition — show children what it means to be “married.” Instead, they will convey that an alternative is acceptable. This is not to say that everyone will or should regard marriage as necessary. That is a personal choice faced by each person. The sweeping exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage, however, takes it away from the realm of personal choice and makes the statement that it isn’t necessary for an entire group of people. That, as I see it, is far more damaging to the institution. The ultra-right often claims that its anti-LGBT actions are

done to protect children. They cannot, in this case, have their wedding cake and eat it too. If they believe that marriage is the best place for rearing children, then they must agree it is the best place for same-sex couples to raise theirs as well — or they must assert that same-sex couples shouldn’t raise children at all. Many on the right do believe that — but such a belief, even more than marriage bans, is ceasing to have widespread appeal. Far more states allow same-sex couples to adopt or do secondparent adoptions than to marry. Still, Dr. Gary Segura, professor of political science at Stanford University, testified in the Prop. 8 trial that as fewer states are able to challenge samesex marriage via voter initiatives, gay and lesbian adoption will become “the new front line.”

I think it will be a harder sell than marriage initiatives. Even Arkansas, the latest state to institute an adoption ban, had to frame it as a ban on unmarried couples rather than on same-sex ones — and a state circuit court judge overturned it in April. (The state is expected to appeal.) If the Prop. 8 case has shown us anything, it is that the ultraright is running out of credible witnesses and logical arguments for limiting same-sex couples’ right to marry or parent children. It may still take time to achieve full equality — but when we do, it will strengthen the institution of marriage, not destroy it. ■ Dana Rudolph is the founder and publisher of Mombian (www. mombian.com), a blog and resource directory for LGBT parents.

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 40

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

worth watching: Queer TV you can always see:

The Wanda Sykes Show The out comedian hosts this repeat of her weekly talk show. 11 p.m. on Fox.

SUNDAY Daytime Emmy Awards Regis Philbin hosts. Cher, Barry Manilow and Marie Osmond are The Rachel Maddow Show scheduled to appear. 9 p.m. on Monday-Friday, 9 p.m. on MSNBC. CBS. The Ellen DeGeneres Show Monday-Friday. 3 p.m. on NBC.

FRIDAY Michael Jackson History: The King of Pop Interviews and documentary footage of Michael Jackson. 8 p.m. on BET. Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration The star-studded 2001 concert featuring the Jackson 5, Britney Spears, Whitney Houston and more. 8 p.m. on TV One. Party Down Megan Mullally (“Will & Grace”) stars in this comedy series about Hollywood caterers with dreams of making it big. Out actress Jane Lynch stars in the season finale. 10 p.m. on Starz. SATURDAY The Beautiful People The comedy series based on the writings of out fashion critic Simon Doonan. 10 p.m. on Logo. The Jaquie Brown Diaries The new comedy features a TV journalist trying to claw her way to fame. 10:30 p.m. on Logo.

Drop Dead Diva Comedian Margaret Cho co-stars and Paula Abdul guest stars in the repeat of this dramedy’s secondseason opener. 9 p.m. on Lifetime. MONDAY Behind the Music Jennifer Hudson is profiled. 8 p.m. on VH1. How I Met Your Mother Out actor Neil Patrick Harris stars in this repeat with Carrie Underwood guest starring. 8 p.m. on CBS. RuPaul’s Drag Race The remaining queens must put together three different looks. Tatum O’Neal guest judges. 9 p.m. on Logo. True Beauty Out TV personality Carson Cressley hosts this reality competition. 10 p.m. on ABC. TUESDAY Losing It With Jillian Michaels The bisexual personal trainer from

“The Biggest Loser” gets her own series. 8 p.m. on NBC America’s Got Talent The auditions continue. 9 p.m. on NBC. The Big Gay Sketch Show The gay and irreverent comedy series. 10 p.m. on Logo. WEDNESDAY America’s Next Top Model Repeats of the previous season featuring out fashion experts Miss J. Alexander and Jay Hernandez. 8 and 9 p.m. on CW. So You Think You Can Dance The top nine dancers compete. 8 p.m. on Fox. Modern Family Look for out characters Mitchell and Cameron in this repeat where the family heads to Hawaii. 9 p.m. on ABC. Top Chef: Washington, D.C. Chefs compete in this cooking contest. 9 p.m. on Bravo. THURSDAY Glee A repeat of the musical comedy. 8 p.m. on Fox. Legally Blonde The comedy film starring Reese Witherspoon. 9 p.m. on Lifetime. So You Think You Can Dance The elimination round. 9 p.m. on Fox.

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PAGE 41

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NORTHERN EXPOSURE: Comedian Kathy Griffin heads to Alaska to do a show and hang out with exPalin sperm donor and Playgirl cover boy Levi Johnson, whom she takes to a gay bar, on the new episode of “My Life on the D-List,” 9 p.m. June 29 on Bravo. Photo: Matt Hage/Bravo

Food & Drink

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 42

Diversions

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

Your guide to arts and entertainment

Theater

Black Pearl Sings! InterAct Theatre Company presents Frank Higgins’ musical drama set in the Depression as two women struggle for acceptance in society, through June 27 at The Adrienne, 2030 Sansom St.; (215) 5688079. Dreamgirls The hit musical about an up-and-coming girl group in the 1960s runs through June 27 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; (215) 893-1999. Fiddler on the Roof Walnut Street Theatre presents the award-winning musical, through July 18, 825 Walnut St.; (215) 5743550. Jesus Phreak Trinity Memorial Church presents R. Dale Smith’s comic one-man show about a gay man coming to faith, 7 p.m. June 27, 2212 Spruce St.; (215) 732-2515. Klass Klown Philadelphia Theatre Company hosts the oneman show starring John Leguizamo, through June 30 at Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St.; (215) 985-0420. The Musical of Musicals: The Musical Independence Studio on 3 presents a pastiche of elements from big-name musicals, through June 27, 825 Walnut St.; (215) 5743550. Respect: A Musical Journey of Women Society Hill Playhouse presents an exuberant musical that recounts the journey of women in the 20th century with popular music, through June 27, 507 S. Eighth St.; (215)

923-0210. Sunday in the Park with George Arden Theatre Company presents Stephen Sondheim’s Pulitzer Prizewinning musical, through July 4, 40 N. Second St.; (215) 922-1122.

Music

50 Cent The rapper performs at 8 p.m. June 25 at House of Blues, 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City; (609) 3458652. Phish The jam band performs at 8 p.m. June 25 at the Susquehanna Bank Center, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; (856) 365-1300. Weird Al Yankovic The comedic musician performs at 8 p.m. June 25 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; (215) 572-7650. Travis Sullivan’s Bjorkestra The jazz orchestra performs at 9 p.m. June 25 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; (215) 222-1400. Sugartown The monthly night of lady DJs and rockers features out band The Shondes, Post Post, Filmstar, DJ Lil Sis and Rachel Tension, 9 p.m. June 25 at Tritone, 1508 South St.; (215) 545-0475. Otep The out poet performs with her eponymous metal band at 7 p.m. June 26 at The Blockley Pourhouse, 3801 Chestnut St.; (215) 2221234 and at 7 p.m. July 1 at Hangar 84, 20 S. Sixth St., Vineland, N.J.; (856) 6926283. Adam Lambert The out singer performs at

8 p.m. June 26 at Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City; (609) 317-1000. Almost Queen The Queen tribute band performs at 8 p.m. June 26 at Sellersville Theater 1894, 136 N. Main St., Sellersville; (215) 2573000. Melissa Ferrick The out singer-songwriter performs at 7:30 p.m. June 27 at Sellersville Theater 1894, 136 N. Main St., Sellersville; (215) 2573000. Dave Matthews Band The rock band performs at 8 p.m. June 30 and July 1 at the Susquehanna Bank Center, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; (856) 3651300. Soulidiﬁed Soul artists past and present team up to perform at 9 p.m. June 30 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; (215) 222-1400. Adrian Belew The prog-rock guitarist performs at 8 p.m. July 1 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; (215) 222-1400.

Exhibits

Ancient Rome & America The National Constitution Center presents an exhibition of rare artifacts from Italy and the United States, including excavated remains from Pompeii and Roman busts of Julius Caesar and Cicero, through Aug. 1, 525 Arch St.; (215) 409-6600. Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt The Franklin Institute presents an exhibition of

ANOTHER SWEET SHOW: This month’s edition of Sugar Town, the monthly night of lady DJs and rockers, features a number of acts with out members, including The Shondes (pictured), Post Post and DJ Lil Sis. Filmstar and Rachel Tension round out the bill. Catch the show at 9 p.m. June 25 at Tritone, 1508 South St. For more information, call (215) 545-0475. Photo: Will Haddad

150 artifacts from Egypt, through Jan. 2, 20th Street and the Parkway; (215) 448-1200.

College presents an exhibition addressing the global issue of femicide — targeted violence against women — through July 16, 3401 Filbert St.; (215) 895-2548.

East Meets West AxD Gallery presents an exhibition of works inspired by the culture of Japan, Queer Voices through July 3, 265 S. 10th The Institute of St.; (215) 627-6250. Contemporary Art presents a group exhibition of queer Inspiring Fashion: art, through Aug. 1, 118 S. 36th St.; (215) 898-7108. Gifts from Designers Honoring Tom Marotta Philadelphia Museum of Smooth Cartographies The Phillip and Muriel Art presents an exhibition of contemporary special Berman Museum of Art at occasion and eveningwear, Ursinus College presents through Sept. 6, 26th Street an exhibition of work from and the Benjamin Franklin digital media artist Greg Parkway; (215) 763-8100. Scranton using locative technologies, through Mimesis Aug. 1, 601 E. Main St.; The Clay Studio presents Collegeville; (610) 4093500. an exhibition of works by Molly Hatch, through June 27, 139 N. Second St.; Thomas Hucker & (215) 925-3453. Thomas Huang Wexler Gallery presents Ni Una Mas (Not One an exhibition of works by More) the two furniture artists, through June 26, 201 N. The Leonard Westphal

Third St.; (215) 923-7030.

Opera

Orphée and Eurydice The Opera Company of Philadelphia performs the mythical tale, 8 p.m. June 25 at Kimmel’s Perelman Theater, 260 S. Broad St.; (215) 790-5847.

Film

Bob’s New Suit The New Hope Film Festival presents the world premiere of a film about a daughter in a 1960s working-class family coming to terms with her transgender identity, 6 p.m. June 26 at Stephen J. Buck Auditorium, 180 W. Bridge St., New Hope; www.newhopefilmfestival. com. The Deer Hunter The classic 1978 film is screened at 2 p.m. June 27 at The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; (610) 9170223.

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2010

PGN

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

Pick

Beetlejuice The gothic comedy film is screened at 8 p.m. June 28 at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; (215) 922-6888. Dazed and Confused Bryn Mawr Film Institute hosts a screening of the 1993 stoner film, 7 p.m. June 29, 824 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr; (610) 527-9898. Lifeboat Bryn Mawr Film Institute hosts a screening of the 1944 Alfred Hitchcock film, 7 p.m. June 30, 824 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr; (610) 527-9898.

Books

Lawrence Schoen Moonstone Arts Center hosts a multimedia tribute to the poet, 4-7 p.m. June 27, 110A S. 13th St.; (215) 735-9598. A Celebration of Light: Honoring Poet Lucille Clifton Moonstone Arts Center hosts a book event with the sci-ﬁ author, publisher, psychologist and expert in the Klingon language, 7:30 p.m. June 25, 110A S. 13th St.; (215) 7359598. David Taylor The author of “Soul of a People: The WPA Writers’ Project Uncovers Depression America” hosts a discussion at 7:30 p.m. June 29 at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; (215) 686-5322. Out poet and front woman Otep continues to tour behind her blistering new album, “Smash the Control Machine,” when she hits the area twice this week with her eponymous metal band, 7 p.m. June 26 at The Blockley Pourhouse, 3801 Chestnut St.; (215) 222-1234, and 7 p.m. July 1 at Hangar 84, 20 S. Sixth St., Vineland, N.J.; (856) 692-6283. For more information, visit www.otep.com.

Cabaret

Sherry Vine The New York-based performer takes the stage at 9 p.m. June 26 at Harlans at The Nevermore, 6426 Lower York Road, New

PAGE 43

Hope, (215) 862-5225. Full House: A Series of Cabarets Quince Productions presents a series of cabaret shows through June 27 at Red Room at Society Hill Playhouse, 507 S. Eighth St.; (215) 923-0210. Mrs. Miller’s Coffee, Me or Tea Party Bob and Barbara’s hosts the comedic talents of Mrs. Miller, 11 p.m. June 30, 1509 South St.; (215) 545-4511. Drag Show Bob and Barbara’s hosts Miss Lisa Lisa and a rotating cast of drag talent, 11 p.m. July 1, 1509 South St.; (215) 545-4511.

Etc.

City of Brotherly Love Softball League Annual Bingo Fundraiser The William Way LGBT Community Center hosts the bingo fundraiser from 6-11 p.m. June 26, 1315 Spruce St.;

joincblsl@aol.com. Scene The monthly LGBTQ dance party runs 9 p.m.-2 a.m. June 26 at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St.; www.tlbtbproductions.com. Aries Spears The comedian from “MADtv” performs June 30-July 2 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031

Notices Send notices at least one week in advance to: Diversions, PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147; fax them to (215) 925-6437; or e-mail them to diversions@epgn. com. Notices cannot be taken over the phone.

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

PAGE 30

Classifieds

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

With Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services and Personals

Mortgage rates at lowest point since mid-1950s By Alan Zibel The Associated Press

U.S. mortgages are cheaper today than they’ve been in a halfcentury. If only most people had the job security, the credit score and the cash to qualify. The average rate for a 30-year ﬁxed loan sank to 4.69 percent this week, beating the low set in December and down from 4.75 percent last week, Freddie Mac said last Thursday. Rates for 15year and ﬁve-year mortgages also hit lows. Rates are at their lowest since the mortgage company began keeping records in 1971. The last time they were any cheaper was the 1950s, when most long-term home loans lasted just 20 or 25 years. Almost no one expects falling rates to energize the economy, though. Sales of new homes collapsed in May after an enticing

tax credit expired. “As long as prospective homebuyers are still concerned about their jobs and financial well-being, many will be reluctant to take the plunge, even though affordability has never been better,” said Greg McBride, senior financial analyst with Bankrate.com. Rates have fallen over the past two months as investors have become nervous about Europe’s debt crisis and the global economy and have shifted money into safe Treasury bonds. The demand has caused Treasury yields to fall. Mortgage rates track those yields. While mortgages are getting cheaper, low interest rates hurt Americans who are trying to save. Puny rates for savings accounts and CDs are especially hard on people who are living on fixed incomes and earning next to nothing on their money. Americans normally rush to refinance when rates plummet.

But refinancing activity now amounts to less than half the level of early 2009, when longterm rates hovered around 5 percent, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Besides, many people who want to refinance — and are able to — have already done it, said Michael Fratantoni, vice president of research and economics at the trade group. And refinancing costs can total several thousand dollars. “Rates haven’t dropped low enough to justify a second refinancing,” Fratantoni said. “The group of people who could potentially benefit is much smaller than it was 15 months ago.” Another factor: Many Americans owe more on their mortgages than their homes are worth and can’t refinance through the usual channels. The Obama administration has launched programs to help borrowers refinance

if they owe up to 25 percent more than their home’s value and have their loans guaranteed by mortgage giants Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. About 291,000 homeowners have participated as of March — a small fraction of the estimated 15-million homeowners who are “underwater” on their mortgages. And in Nevada and Florida, where home prices have fallen 50 percent or more from their highs, neither record-low rates nor government help can rescue homeowners. “It’s not the desire to refinance. It’s the ability to refinance,” said Chris Brown, a loan officer with Trinity Mortgage Co. in Orlando, Fla. Refinancing is generally considered worthwhile for homeowners who can shave at least three-quarters of a percentage point off the rates they pay now and plan to stay in their homes

for a long time. Besides the fees for the mortgage broker or lender, there are fees for title insurance, a new appraisal, document processing and other charges. And in “no fee” mortgages, costs are often added to the loan amount or the interest rate is higher. To figure the national average, Freddie Mac collects mortgage rates each Monday through Wednesday from lenders around the country. Rates often fluctuate, even within a given day. Rates on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages fell to an average of 4.13 percent. That was the lowest since at least 1991 and down from 4.2 percent a week earlier. Rates on five-year adjustablerate mortgages averaged 3.84 percent, down from 3.89 percent a week earlier. That was also the lowest on Freddie Mac’s records, which date to January 2005 for those loans. ■

Location! Location! Location! This week’s featured property

761 Old State Road, Berwyn

Beds: 4 Baths: 2 Cost: $585,000 Garage: 2 car Realtor: Gigi & Steve Miller Real-estate co.: Prudential Fox & Roach Phone: (610) 527-0900 Gigi’s cell: (610) 745-4909 Steve’s cell: (610) 715-2319 Website: www.steveandgigi.com

Check your ad

PLACING ADS Using voicemail? Please be sure to have the following information ready when you call: • Your ad copy • The type of style you want • Desired abbreviations • American Express,Discover, MasterCard or VISA information • Your name and mailing address

California Contemporary with separate hot-tub room and an ofﬁce off the kitchen! Lots of space, great views, award-winning TE Schools. Artist retreat among the trees.

• Daytime telephone number Having all this information ready will speed your order and help to avoid errors. Phone calls can only be returned during business hours. For more information, see the coupon page in this section.

Philadelphia Gay News assumes responsibility for errors in classified ads only when notified by noon the Tuesday after the ad first appears. To receive credit for errors, please notify PGN by then. Credit only will be extended in the form of additional advertising space. Any cash refunds, for any reason, are subject to a $10 service charge. PGN will publish no classified ad — in any category — that contains sexually explicit language. Obviously excluded are traditional four-letter words that relate to sexual activity. Other words may be excluded at the discretion of the publisher, who reserves the right to edit or rewrite any ad that, in his opinion, violates this policy or its intent.

JULY 8, 2010 MAY 12 -- 7, 2009

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PHILADELPHIA PHILADELPHIA GAY GAY NEWS NEWS

Real Estate

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REAL ESTATE

SALE

WATERFRONT OASIS!! Burlington County... Beautiful Framingham model on the navigable Rancocas Creek. This stunning home has been meticulously maintained & improved by its current owners. Beautifully updated Kitchen with Subzero Refrigerator. Great room addition with fireplace on back of home overlooking a multi-level deck, in-ground pool, beach volleyball court, hot tub. Huge Master bedroom with sitting area and 2nd story deck. All this and just a 9-iron away from the Robert Trent Jones designed Rancocas Golf Course! A Truly Must See! Call Joseph for a personal tour of this magnificent home at 609-209-1403. _______________________________34-29 HUGE EAST FALLS COLONIAL 5 brs 3+ baths, huge double lot. $649,500. www.henryave.com Jon Christopher, Cell 267-342-1856, Citizens Premier Real Estate O 215-396-0500 x3539. _______________________________34-27 WYNDMOOR Within walking distance of Chestnut Hill, on highly desirable street, extraordinarily restored & updated 156 yr old Italianate-style gem offers sweeping vistas & streaming sunlight in every direction; Gourmet kitch w/granite; bedrm balconies; 7 BRs; 8 FP, 2 offices; 1 yr hm warranty. $2,485,000. Call Linda Baron, Prudential Fox & Roach – 215-850-0158 or 215-542-2200 x344. _______________________________34-27 WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM Free On-Line Directory. Top Gay & Lesbian Realtors in Philadelphia. _______________________________34-40 VENTNOR, NJ, FACING THE BAY House and Adjacent Lot (inground swimming pool). 1st floor 3 bedrooms, bath, living room, dining room, kitchen, laundry room and deck. 2nd floor 2 bedrooms, bath, efficiency kitchen, living room, dining area and deck. Central Air. Corner Property. Call 215-468-9166 evenings only. $675,000.00. Also property for rent1500.00 month plus utilities. _______________________________34-29 Central Adirondack Lake 47 Acres w/1000’ Frontage, Fully Approved & buildable. Gorgeous setting. List Price was: $229,995. REDUCED TO: $149,995! Call 800-229-7843 www.landandcamps.com _______________________________34-27 Cameron County, PA: 2.6 acres with trout stream frontage and state forest land frontage. Open and wooded, perc, great recreational area! $39,000. Owner financing. 800-6688679. _______________________________34-27 Great Land & Spectacular Oceanfront- Surf & turf, the best of all worlds at OCEANVIEW on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Spectacular 1 to 4 acre lots, many with deepwater frontage on the mainland overlooking pristine oceanfront island less than 2 miles away. Each lot includes deeded ownership in private oceanfront parcel with crashing surf. Sun, sail, swim, fish, clam, and play on your private island during the days and dine at nearby quaint restaurants at night. May remind you of the Jersey shore many years ago. Unique opportunity makes these lots available at prices last seen in 1986! Waterfront lots $100,000, pond lots $65,000 and view lots at $40,000. Every lot has DIRECT Ocean Views. Owner (757)665-4410, email: oceanlandtrust@yahoo.com or http://Wibiti. com/4XRV _______________________________34-27

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�� REAL ESTATE ��

SALE

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SALE

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E-mail us: pgn@epgn.com

�� . 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 ................................�� “George T. Sale Condo” Unique Garden level 1 bd, 1 ba. unit w/ private entrance.. Low fees & Tax Abatement. Lowest price 1 bd. in area ........................��. �� . New open style 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo with low taxes and condo fees. Great small pet friendly building. .........................................................................�� Old Swedes Court. New Listing Large 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath with Garage, roof deck and hardwood ﬂoors. Low association fees in Queen Village ....................�� . NEW LISTING. Large update 4 bd. 2 ba. with huge garden and wonderfully roof deck with city skyline views. .................................................................................��

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REAL ESTATE

SALE

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RENT

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. _______________________________34-29 RITTENHOUSE SQUARE AREA Studios & 1 Bedrooms - Call for Availability (215) 735-8050. _______________________________34-31 GAYBORHOOD ONE BEDROOM Beautiful One bedroom in Washington Square West (heart of Gayborhood) with carpet, bathroom, laundry in basement. Available June 1st, pets okay with deposit, all utilities extra. Call Leah Franqui at 215 564 7656 ext 23. _______________________________34-30 NEW HOPE APT. FOR RENT One bedroom apt. near New Hope. Quiet, private central location. Garage, deck, pool, jacuzzi, direct tv, laundry room, private entrance. 215-794-1390 or 215-870-0040. _______________________________34-27 SOUTH PHILA. TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT Live on a gay street. Rent a row house in back of St. Agnes Hospital in South Philly 1 blk from pub. trans. 19XX blk. of S. Chadwick St. 1 BR, 1 BA, 3 floors, fin. bsmt. W/D, C/A/heat, patio. Avail. 7/1/10. $800/mo. + utils. 717589-7828, eves. _______________________________34-28 COLLINGSWOOD APT. FOR RENT Victorian charm. 2nd & 3rd floor 3 BR, E/I kit w/dw, w/d in basement, 1st floor entry. Walk to downtown and Patco. Exc credit & refs. 609-932-4387. _______________________________34-27 WEST MT. AIRY Large, bright 1 bedroom, HW flrs, gas F/P, patio, dog run, laundry facil. $875/mo. incl. all utilities. Avail. immed. 215-233-5303 for appointment. _______________________________34-28 WEST. MT. AIRY Sale or lease. Partially renovated warehouse. For retail off space or commercial use. 5000 sq. ft. 215-233-5303 for appointment. _______________________________34-28 MT. AIRY BUSINESS DIST. PRIME LOCATION 3500 sq. ft. corner. 215-233-5303 for appointment. _______________________________34-28

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. _______________________________34-29 FLORENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ Share townhouse with GM. Pvt. BR. Near Riverlink rail line. Pet friendly. $500/mo. Call Dave, 609-306-7846. _______________________________34-28 NORTHERN CHESTER COUNTY Beautiful 200 y.o. restored farmhouse. 3rd ﬂoor is one large room with private bath, internet access, cable and all utils. incl. Asking $575/mo. + $300 sec. dep. Call 610-731-4530. _______________________________34-27

VACATION

RENT

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 _______________________________34-27

FOR SALE WWW.FUNMARRAIGE.COM Spice Up Your Date Night! _______________________________34-27 2 life size kneeling Blackamoor cast bronze or metal ﬁgures, 40 years old. $5000. 6 ft. glass tabletop, $200. Can be used separately. 8 repro Beidermeir chairs, 40 years old, $1500. shirldru1@comcast.net or 484-994-7097. _______________________________34-29

BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITIES ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy All for $9,995. 1-800-460-4027. _______________________________34-27

CRC, CVE A, CRC, CVE ant

bility sability als 85

APRIL 25 - MAY 1, 2008

PAGE PAGE 32 110

PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS CLASSIFIEDS

LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY AMY F. STEERMAN Attorney at Law

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

215-735-1006

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

William A. Torchia, Esquire ESTATE & TAX PLANNING GENERAL PRACTICE williamatorchiaesquire.vpweb.com 118 South 21st Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215-546-1950 Fax: 215-546-8801

HEALTH DIRECTORY

RC, CVE

CONCIERGE LEGAL SERVICES

James M. Quesenberry, MA, CRC, CVE Disability Consultant

bility

Social Security Disability Claims Appeals

215-629-0585 Suite 202 Oxford Valley Rd. Fairless Hills, PA 19030

8, 2010 APRIL 25 -JULY MAY 21,-2008

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JULY 2 - 8, 2010

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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS

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PAGE 34

JULY 2 - 8, 2010

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JULY 2 - 8, 2010