Philadelphia Gay News Honesty Integrity Professionalism
July 9 - 15, 2010
Weiss pleads guilty to tax-fraud charges
Central PA man sues state police for gay bias By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer A gay Central Pennsylvania man has filed a federal lawsuit against two police officers, whom he has accused of assaulting him because of his sexual orientation. In the complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Brian Keener, 46, contends that what started as a routine traffic stop left him with both physical and emotional trauma. Keener, a resident of Jacobus, a York County borough, was stopped by state police for not using his left-turn signal at about 1 a.m. Aug. 31, 2008. Keener noticed the car driving behind him shortly after he left Club XS, a gay bar in York, and said the trooper was behind him for several miles before pulling him over. The trooper, Brian Torkar, asked Keener to take a field-sobriety test after allegedly smelling marijuana in the car. Keener was asked to walk a straight line and said he passed the test, adding he had one beer while at the bar and did not smoke marijuana. But the trooper told him he failed and arrested him for driving under the influence. Prior to the test, Keener said Torkar, who joined the force in 1999, asked for his license but never asked him to present his registration or insurance cards. Torkar brought Keener to York Hospital to obtain a blood-alcohol test, but Keener, who had a previous DUI several years ago, said he
BRIAN KEENER AFTER HIS 2008 ARREST
was hesitant to undergo such a test and kept changing his mind. “The girl came to take my blood and I knew I’d had marijuana a week before and I knew it stays in your system so that would have been a DUI, so I chose not to give a blood test because I didn’t want that on my record,” he said. “So [Torkar] comes in and says, ‘You know what happens if you refuse,’ and it was basically you’ll lose your license for a year and it’s three days in jail, and I thought I’d rather deal with that, so I said, ‘OK I don’t want to give a blood test.” When Keener did eventually decide against the test, he said Torkar and trooper Sean Taylor. who has been with the state police since 1998, began attacking him. The complaint alleges that Torkar handcuffed Keener in the phlebotomist’s room and both he and Taylor clubbed him with their nightsticks, punched and kicked him and Tasered him several times, which the complaint contends is an “egregious and unconstitutional excessive use of force.” Center City attorney Jeffrey R. Lessin, of Jeffrey R. Lessin & Associates, P.C., who is representing Keener, said his client’s size makes the incident even more surprising. “It’s just so hard to believe. He’s 5-foot-5, roughly 150 pounds, and there’s two police officers there,” Lessin said. “He obviously wasn’t being violent or they wouldn’t have left him alone with a phlebotomist unhandcuffed.” Keener eventually had the bloodwork done, which the complaint states showed he was not intoxicated. Lt. Myra Taylor of the State Police Public Information Office said she could not comment on the case, as the litigation is pending. Taylor noted, however, that an internal investigation will be conducted once the case is adjudicated. Among the injuries Keener suffered were numerous facial fractures, nasal septal deviation, See KEENER, Page 12
Vol. 34 No. 28
By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer Local gay-bar owner Michael Weiss pleaded guilty last week to federal tax-fraud charges. Weiss, co-owner of Woody’s and the president of the board of Voyeur, agreed to a plea deal June 29, one week before his trial was set to begin. He pleaded guilty to corruptly PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM: Pioneering LGBT activist endeavoring to impede the due administraFrank Kameny (standing) rode past Independence Hall tion of the tax code and two counts of aiding in last weekend’s Fourth of July parade, along with activand abetting the preparation and filing of ist Randy Wicker (from right) and PGN publisher Mark false tax returns. He will be sentenced this Segal. Kameny and Wicker were among a handful of fall and could face 10-16 months in prison. demonstrators who protested outside Independence “We had some rather lengthy and seriHall on the Fourth of July 45 years ago, calling for LGBT ous negotiations with the government over rights in what came to be an annual event now signified this, and this was the result,” said Thomas by a historical marker at Sixth and Chestnut streets. Bergstrom, Weiss’ attorney, about the plea The group, along with the Philadelphia Freedom Band agreement. “It took a fair amount of time to and DC Cowboys, marked the first LGBT contingent ever get this done.” to be included in the parade. Photo: Scott A. Drake Weiss was indicted in January by a grand jury, which accused him of underreporting the earnings from the Palmer Social Club, a nonprofit after-hours club on Sixth and More holiday weekend photos Page 5 Spring Garden streets, on the club’s 2004 and 2005 tax filings by more than $1.6 million. At that time, Weiss served as the principal operating officer of the club and signed its IRS filings. A former club employee aided in the investigation and told investigators that Weiss used two separate electronic documents when tallying the club’s earnings: one with the correct amount and one with a lesser figure. As part of the plea deal, the club, which was also named as a defendant in the case, agreed to give up its tax-exempt status, which it has held for more than four decades. The club also consented to file corporate tax returns for 2004-09 and to pay all back taxes, penalties and interest. Weiss originally pleaded not guilty to the charges in February. He will be sentenced Oct. 15. Weiss and his brother Billy co-own the building in which Voyeur is housed, and that FABULOUS FOURTH: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway club also functions as a nonprofit under the was packed Sunday night for the annual Fourth of July moniker Mayfield Social Club. extravaganza — which this year featured performances The brothers purchased Woody’s from its by Philadelphia natives The Roots and The Goo Goo original owner, Bill Wood, in 2006. ■ Dolls — that culminated in the fireworks display in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo: Scott A. Drake
Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn. com.
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PGN 505 S. Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19147-1506 Phone: (215) 625-8501 Fax: (215) 925-6437 E-mail: pgn@epgn.com Web: www.epgn.com
Philadelphia FIGHT lassos money from weekend shows and a new grant
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The Gayborhood continues to reinvent itself as the area is feted for its 40th anniversary.
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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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News Briefing
Regional
Gov. nominee to meet with LGBTs Dan Onorato, the Democratic nominee for governor, will host a discussion with the LGBT community from 4:30-6 p.m. June 14 at the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. Those interested in attending can RSVP to Laura Wesolowski at laura. e.wesolowski@gmail.com or (215) 8218683 ext. 105. Donations will be accepted but are not required.
Fundraiser for AIDS legal group A screening that’s included in the upcoming LGBT film festival QFest will bring together movie-lovers and those supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS discrimination. Proceeds from the July 16 screening of “Madame X” — starring Lana Turner and John Forsythe — will go to benefit the Pennsylvania AIDS Law Project. The movie party will kick off at 6 p.m. with beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres, and the screening will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Digitas Health, 100 Penn Square East, 11th floor of the Wanamaker Building. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit www. aidslawpa.org.
Delaware LGBT Dems. show pride
SUMMER IN THE CITY: The local LGBT community was out and about last weekend throughout the region, some enjoying the sizzling summer sun and others looking for a cool respite from the heat. LGBT bowlers from around the country converged July 3 at Laurel Lanes in Maple Shade, N.J., for the annual Liberty Belle Invitational Tournament. A portion of the proceeds from the two-day, 22nd annual tournament went to benefit Mazzoni Center. The following day, LGBTs enjoyed a Fourth of July potluck feast in the air-conditioned William Way LGBT Community Center. Gay dance troupe DC Cowboys and LGBT marching band Philadelphia Freedom braved the elements to march throughout Center City in the Wawa Welcome America Parade! as part of the largest LGBT contingent in the parade’s history. Photos: Scott A. Drake
The Delaware chapter of the Stonewall Democrats will host its annual picnic and party from 5-7 p.m. July 24 at the home of Dr. James D’Orta, 123 Silver Lake Drive in Rehoboth Beach. The club will present awards to Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, who’s backed numerous pro-LGBT initiatives; Newark Sen. Dave Sokola, the prime sponsor of the state’s LGBT non-discrimination bill; and New Jersey resident and transgender activist Babs Siperstein, the first trans person on the Democratic National Committee and the co-chair of the National Stonewall Democrats Political Action Committee Board. Tickets are $35, or $60 for admission to the event and membership in the club. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or guests can mail a check, with their name, address and e-mail address included, to Delaware Stonewall Democrats, P.O. Box 1024, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. For more information, e-mail Larry Hooker at rehohook@comcast.net. ■ — Jen Colletta
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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Harrisburg, Reading get proud in central PA By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer Although June is traditionally considered Pride month in the LGBT community, gay pride will be rolling through several Pennsylvania towns this month too. Reading will host its Pride celebration July 18, while Harrisburg will stage the Pride Festival of Central PA on July 24. This will be the fourth year for the Reading festival, which will take place in Centre Park from noon-6 p.m. Donald Maher, director of marketing for the festival, said planning for this year’s event began just one day after last year’s festival, as organizers outlined how best to fuse both education and entertainment components into the festivities. This year’s celebration will stretch throughout the weekend, beginning with a screening of “Small Town Gay Bar” at 7 p.m. July 16 at Reading Area Community College’s Schmidt Training & Technology Center, Second and Penn streets.
Maher said he expects the documentary to resonate with Reading’s LGBT community. “Reading only has one gay bar,” he said. “While the film is set in the deep South, I think a lot of people in this area can relate to it. We want to use this film as a forum to look at the gay bar as a community institution and explore why it is that there’s only one gay bar in our area. We have an extremely rich history of gay bars — we had up to 10-plus gay bars at various times — but over the last few decades most have closed, so we want to take a look at that.” Organizers are also hoping to fuel discussions about the intersection of the LGBT and religious communities during a Pride in Interfaith Prayer Service, 7 p.m. July 17 at Calvary United Church of Christ, 640 Centre Ave., which will be open to individuals of all faiths. The Pride Night-Before Party will kick off at 10 p.m. at the town’s gay bar, Red Star Saloon, 11 S. 10th St. The Pride festival itself will feature headliner Thea Austin, who produced hits such as “Rhythm is a Dancer” and “I’ve Got the
Power,” as well as singer Tom Goss, DJ Evelyn and an array of drag queens and kings. About 2,500 people are expected to turn out for the event, which will also include nonprofit and food vendors, a Pride Idol competition for budding vocalists and a Pet Drag Show.
“It’s not only a destination for Pride, but it’s also a great chance to see Central Pennsylvania and visit where our capital is.” JEFF CLOUSER, Pride Festival of Central PA board president “Just like the ‘Small Town Gay Bar’ film, this is a small-town Pride festival. It’s in a lovely park and, hopefully if the weather holds out, it’ll make for a wonderful afternoon,” Maher said. “We have
a great after-party right after the festival, so this is a good chance for people to come up from the big city in Philly to see how somewhat smaller towns do Pride.” Philadelphians are also invited to head west for the Central PA Pride celebration the following weekend. Pride began 19 years ago as a picnic and has seen continued growth ever since, said board president Jeff Clouser. The event now includes a parade, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, and which will set off at 11 a.m. July 24 down Front Street. New to the parade are a dog drag competition — where LGBTs and allies can walk in the parade alongside their dressed-up pets — as well as a contest for Miss/Mr. Pride Parade, for those with the most over-thetop drag outfit. The festival will run from noon5 p.m. at Riverfront Park and is expected to draw about 5,000 people. LGBT dance troupe DC Cowboys, fresh off their appearance in Philadelphia’s Fourth of July parade, will headline the event, taking the stage at 3 p.m.
Clouser said that organizers decided to retain the two-stage format introduced at last year’s festival, giving a number of local talent the chance to perform. In addition to the entertainment, guests can peruse the offerings of the more-than100 vendors, receive HIV testing or visit the familyfriendly area. There will also be a series of LGBT events throughout the weekend, such as a joint concert by several local LGBT singing groups, 8 p.m. July 23 at 20 S. Second St., and pre- and postPride parties. “I think everyone will find something to do that’s geared toward them,” Clouser said. “It’s not only a destination for Pride, but it’s also a great chance to see Central Pennsylvania and visit where our capital is.” For more information about Reading Pride, visit www.readingpridecelebration.com. For more information about the Pride Festival of Central PA, visit www.prideofcentralpa.org. ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.
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National
Media Trail
Hawaii governor vetoes civil-union bill
Wisconsin court upholds marriage ban
By Rex Wockner PGN Contributor Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a civilunion bill July 6 that would have granted same-sex couples all the rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations of marriage under a different name. “I have been open and consistent in my opposition to same-gender marriage and find that House Bill 444 is essentially marriage by another name,” Lingle said at an afternoon news conference. “I am vetoing this bill because I have become convinced that this issue is of such societal importance that it deserves to be decided by all the people of Hawaii,” she said. “It would be a mistake to allow a decision of this magnitude to be made by one individual or a small group of elected officials ... There are issues that require the reflection, collective wisdom and consent of the people and reserves to them the right to directly decide those matters. This is one such issue.” Lingle went on to criticize the way the bill had been passed in the House of Representatives. “The legislative maneuvering that brought House Bill 444 to an 11th-hour vote on the final day of the session via a suspension of the rules — after legislators led the public to believe that the bill was dead — was wrong and unfair to the public they represent,” she said. “This is a decision that should [be made] by all the people of Hawaii behind the curtain of the voting booth.” Lingle said she felt “very comfortable”
with her veto, but added: “I would be surprised if this does not go on the next available ballot ... I would encourage lawmakers to do it ... so that we can all move on.” Lambda Legal and the American Civil Liberties Union promptly announced they would file suit over the veto. “We’re obviously disappointed that Gov. Lingle has, once again, used her power to deny the people of Hawaii their civil rights,” said Laurie Temple, staff attorney for the ACLU. “Luckily for the people of Hawaii, however, our constitution prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation. If the governor won’t honor her oath to uphold the constitution, the courts will.” Hawaii’s constitution bans same-sex marriage but not civil unions. Evan Wolfson, executive director of Freedom to Marry, called the veto “deeply disappointing” and said it “unnecessarily delays Hawaii’s journey toward fairness and equality.” “Gov. Lingle has rejected the will of the state Legislature and the advice of countless business and faith leaders and turned her back on the committed couples and Hawaii kin who have expressed their support for this measure,” Wolfson said. “Freedom to Marry urges the Hawaii state Legislature to overrule Gov. Lingle’s veto.” Equality Hawaii’s Alan Spector commented: “Today is a sad day for the thousands of Hawaii families who remain second-class citizens. We fail to see how the governor’s actions are in the best interest of Hawaii’s future and are nothing more than political maneuvering at the expense of people’s
lives. We’re disappointed and outraged.” National Gay and Lesbian Task Force executive director Rea Carey called the veto “a disgrace.” “Hawaii’s lawmakers passed this bill because it was about fundamental fairness,” she said. “The governor’s action today flies in the face of both common sense and common humanity. We urge the Hawaii Legislature to override this veto.” Same-sex marriage is legal in Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Washington, D.C. Five additional states have domestic-partner or civil-union laws that extend to samesex couples all the state-level rights and obligations of marriage: California, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington. Five other states extend limited marital rights to registered same-sex couples: Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland and Wisconsin. New York and Maryland recognize same-sex marriages from other states and countries. California recognizes same-sex marriages from anywhere in the world if they took place before Proposition 8 amended the state constitution in November 2008 to ban same-sex marriage, which had been legal for less than six months. A U.S. District Court judge will determine this summer if Prop. 8 violates the U.S. Constitution. The case will likely end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. Internationally, same-sex marriage is legal in Belgium, Canada, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and Mexico City. ■
NC mom pleased with decision on lesbians, kids The Associated Press ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A North Carolina mother says she hopes other gay and lesbian couples don’t have to suffer through her experience of having a Tennessee judge prevent her teenage children from living with her and her partner. “It definitely makes the victory a lot sweeter knowing that not only did we win the case, but for other gays and lesbians across Tennessee, those judges aren’t going to be able to say, ‘you’re not good parents because you’re gay,’ or ‘you can’t have your kids because you’re gay,’ or ‘you can’t stay together,’” Angel Chandler told the Asheville Citizen-Times. The so-called paramour clause was first imposed in May 2008 by Gibson County Chancellor George Ellis, prohibiting overnight stays by Chandler’s partner of more than 10 years, Mary Counce. The restriction was not requested by Chandler’s ex-husband and came despite an evaluation finding no
harm to their children, who are now 15 and 17 years old. Angel Chandler used to live in Gibson County, Tenn., but she and Counce now share a home in Black Mountain, N.C. “I just thought it was insane when the judge said I couldn’t stay in the house from 11 to 7,” said Counce, who has two college-aged children of her own. “If we could have been married, I wouldn’t have been a paramour, but how can we be married when it’s not allowed? It’s a Catch-22 and they love that. Bigots love that kind of stuff.” Chandler and Counce had maintained separate homes in order to comply with the custody agreement. But the two started living together again when that became a financial burden, effectively preventing the children from being able to visit. The appeals court in Jackson, Tenn., struck down Ellis’ ruling last year. Ellis issued a new ruling in March, but imposed the paramour clause again, stating, “A paramour overnight,
abuse of alcohol and abuse of drugs are clearly common-sense understanding that children can be adversely affected by such exposure ... ” In last week’s ruling, the appeals court said Ellis abused his discretion. “The record is devoid of any evidence whatsoever to support the finding that a paramour provision is in the best interests of the children. In fact, the record contains evidence demonstrating that a paramour provision is contrary to the best interests of the children,” the court wrote. Chandler said Ellis equated marriage with being a good parent. “He acted like a marriage certificate hanging on the wall equaled good parenting because that’s all he really cared about,” Chandler said. “[He thought] if you’re gay, you’re not good parents and the evidence didn’t matter. There was nothing rational or logical about it. It was all just basically bias and bigotry.” ■
MSNBC.com reports the Wisconsin Supreme Court has upheld the state’s constitutional ban on gay marriage and civil unions. In a 7-0 ruling, the court ruled June 30 that the 2006 constitutional amendment was properly put to voters in a statewide referendum. The court rejected a lawsuit that claimed the amendment violated a rule that limits referendum questions to a single subject. The lawsuit, filed by a voter opposed to the amendment, argued that gay marriage and civil unions were two different subjects. Justice Michael Gableman said both sentences “carry out the same general purpose of preserving the legal status of marriage in Wisconsin as between only one man and one woman.”
Lesbian runs for mayor of Oakland Oakland, Calif.’s KRON 4 reports out Oakland City Councilwoman Rebecca Kaplan announced June 30 she is running for mayor of Oakland in the November election. If elected, Kaplan, 39, who was elected to the City Council’s at-large seat in 2008, would be the first openly gay mayor of a major Bay Area city. Noting that Oakland has serious budget and crime problems, Kaplan said, “I want to provide for fiscal sanity and public safety at the same time and make it possible for everyone in the community to thrive.” Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums has not yet announced whether he will seek reelection this year.
Amtrak to launch LGBT campaign Advocate.com reports Amtrak has allotted $250,000 for a multimedia campaign targeted toward LGBT customers. The rail service, which is governmentowned and partially government-funded, has targeted other minority groups in the past. This, however, will be the first time that it will specifically reach out to this demographic. “We are always looking for new ways to reach potential passengers and this community travels a lot,” said Amtrak representative Karina Romero. Many other travel companies, including American Airlines, Expedia, JetBlue and Sweet Cruises, have already launched LGBT ad campaigns. ■ — Larry Nichols
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FIGHT to benefit from stimulus funds, more computers By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer Last week, President Obama unveiled a new public-computing project in Philadelphia that’s set to enhance computer access among disadvantaged communities, and a local HIV/AIDS service organi-
zation is among the partner organizations spearheading the effort. Philadelphia FIGHT will join forces with several city agencies and other nonprofits to implement the $6.4-million initiative. The project is one of 66 across the country that will benefit from a $795-million investment under
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The local initiative will create 91 new jobs and create or upgrade more than 75 computer centers throughout the city. The effort is expected to bring in 829 new computers and allow about 14,000 new users a week to have computer
access. Of the $6.4-million award, FIGHT will receive $1.4 million split equally between two years. Other partner agencies include the city’s Division of Technology and Parks and Recreation and the Free Library of Philadelphia. With the award, FIGHT will be able to expand its computer lab and staff in its AIDS Library, Institute for Community Justice and Youth Health Empowerment Project. Local businessman and philanthropist Mel Heifetz donated several computers to FIGHT several years ago, and the agency currently houses seven computers in its AIDS Library and two at YHEP.
currently provides HIV counseling and testing. FIGHT executive director Jane Shull noted that the award is especially meaningful in that it comes 10 years after the death of local HIV/AIDS activist Kiyoshi Kuromiya. Kuromiya was influential in establishing FIGHT’s Critical Path AIDS Project, which has provided free Internet access and other Web services to those with HIV/AIDS and organizations that serve this population. The city, citing its budget crisis in 2008, discontinued funding for Critical Path’s broadband Internet services, although the initiative still provides free website hosting and e-mail listservs for agencies with an HIV-related mission.
COWBOYS TAKE CENTER STAGE: About 100 people mixed and mingled with the DC Cowboys July 3 before the troupe’s performance at the William Way LGBT Community Center. The Cowboys, who were in town to march in the Fourth of July parade the following day, performed both at the center and later at The Bike Stop, and raised over $1,000 for Philadelphia FIGHT. Photo: Scott A. Drake
The grant will enable FIGHT to install new computers and replace several old ones so that it can offer 10 computers at the AIDS Library, six at ICJ and seven at Y-HEP. FIGHT also will now be able to hire three full-time and three part-time staffers with the award, enabling each of the three sites to have its own part-time staffer to oversee the computer centers. The agency will also be involved in establishing or growing computer centers at two-dozen local shelters or drug houses where it
“Kiyoshi believed the Internet should be widely available and that access should be free,” Shull said. “This project, which will enable low-income people all over Philadelphia to gain access to broadband and also to learn the skills they need to take advantage of it, will allow FIGHT to fulfill the mission that Kiyoshi called us to during his life, and that he urged us to continue after his death.” ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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Gallery pushes definition of queer art By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer AxD Gallery has joined forces with Philadelphia QFest to present “queerArt?,” a group exhibition featuring a wide range of works, mediums and styles from LGBTQ artists. For local artist Susan DiPronio, the exhibition is an opportunity to put something out there other than the performances for which she’s known. “For me, it’s really important because it will be the first time people will see what I write combined with the photographs. I otherwise do plays and performances and standup. But I’ve never really, until this past year, shown people what I write about these photographs. For me, it’s taking a big risk. This is a big opportunity for people who I’ve known for millions of years and have not seen my work. They haven’t gone to the Fringe Festival or the First Person Arts Story Slam. I’m pretty excited about that, but I’m also nervous.” Even though DiPronio is relatively new to displaying her photographs, she is not new to photography. “I’ve always taken photographs but mainly I’m a writer. I write autobiographical lyrical verse. My show was in the Fringe Festival last year and I always have something going on.” DiPronio’s work often combines media — visual, written and performance, with a focus on the written and visual. “I like to combine the two,” she said. “When I was a little kid, I always took photographs and I always wrote. It’s difficult for me to separate the visual from the text. So when you see my photographs, they have poems; some of them were written first, but most of them were influenced by the photographs.” Another photographer in the exhibition is J.D. Dragan, whose depictions of the male physique are featured in popular calendars and art galleries alike. He said the images the committee selected for the AxD exhibition have a unifying theme, which may have been intentional. “Three of the four shots that they chose are rear nudes. There are no frontal nudes. I don’t know if it was intentional or accidental. When I submit to show, I submit a great variety of poses and atti-
tudes that the models might present themselves in. I’m very open to people viewing what they or what their audience might feel comfortable viewing. The choice of rear shots could have been quite accidental. It could have been the ones they like the best.” Other mediums represented at “queerArt?” include a drawing by Israel-born artist Doron Langberg, who studied art at University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. While most artists featured have a number of works on display, Langberg said he’ll only have one piece in the exhibition. “My work is very large. It’s a 9-by-7-foot drawing with a lot of acrylic, ink, graphite and stuff like that. I categorize them as drawings, but basically they’re works on paper.” He added that his piece might require a bit of time and effort for people to fully appreciate it. “My work is very much figurative. All the images are taken from video I make, they’re sex videos. From those videos, I take images and composite them with other images, specifically ones that show an interior image, and put them all together with different references like patterns. The piece in the show has a lot of nature elements like foliage and water ripples. For me, the sheer amount of visual information is about creating this extremely enticing experience that you as a viewer will be very attracted to. You look at the piece and the sexual narrative reveals itself very slowly, almost creating this forced empathy toward something people wouldn’t empathize with.” Given his subject matter, Langberg appreciates how much exhibitions like “queerArt?” give him an opportunity to show people his work. “A lot of times, sexual and homosexual subject matter kind of causes a lot of issues for me in terms of showing my work. Having a space like that really is much more accepting of the subject matter. It’s a good opportunity to show work that is explicit but also in the right context for that kind of work.” Dragan said that exhibitions such as “queerArt?” are a boon for LGBT artists. “I think that the more opportunities that local artists have to be seen by the gay community and
the community in general, the better it is for all of us. I think the more we’re out there in front of everybody and visible, the better it is for our own standing in the community.” The “queerArt?” exhibition runs through Aug. 7 at AxD Gallery, 265 S. 10th St. For more
information, visit www.a-x-d.com or call (215) 6276250. ■ Larry Nichols can be reached at larry@epgn.com. BY SUSAN DIPRONIO
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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Editorial Politics, pride and progress Gay Pride events take many forms and iterations. It could be a parade and festival, it could be a fiveminute march in defiance of a ban, it could be a weeklong celebration with street closures, six performance stages, an international headliner and a live broadcast of a parade with 10,000 participants. The latter describes Toronto Pride, which took place over Fourth of July weekend, and which draws over 400,000 visitors annually and generates over $1 million in revenue for the city. One of the more interesting aspects of Toronto Pride is how integrated it — and gay rights — is into mainstream culture. The parade, which took place in the city’s gay village, was broadcast live on a local news station — and then rebroadcast again that night. In addition to the main parade, the event featured a Dyke March and a Transgender March. There was even an alternative Dyke March planned — because the original Dyke March had apparently become too mainstream. It was interesting to see the number of (seemingly) heterosexual couples who came to watch the parade and peruse the street fair. It was clearly the biggest event in town that week, eclipsed only slightly by Queen Elizabeth II’s visit. Another interesting aspect was the lack of police presence at the performances and street fair. There were probably more officers in the parade than assigned to work it. The event, however, was not without controversy, and was nearly derailed by a pro-Palestinian group with the moniker “Queers Against Israeli Apartheid.” After banning the use of the term “Israeli apartheid” in the parade earlier this year, Pride Toronto backpedaled, asserting that the city had the responsibility to enforce its antidiscrimination policy. In this case, free-speech rights came close to jeopardizing city funding. It can be a fine line for gay-rights activists and municipalities to walk. On the one hand, LGBT events are funded because of antidiscrimination policies; on the other, the city can’t be expected to support groups that are in violation of its own nondiscrimination law. Which sounds awfully similar to a case here in Philadelphia, involving a group that, as a policy, excludes gay participants yet occupies a city-owned building rent-free. To be sure, Canadian law differs from U.S. law, and Toronto is a far cry from Philadelphia. But in this, the two cities are similar. It would be nice if Philadelphia could learn something from Toronto’s tolerance and efficiency. ■
Tell us what you think Send letters and opinion column submissions to: pgn@epgn.com; PGN, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147; fax: (215) 925-6437. Please include a daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity, style and space considerations.
Creep of the Week
D’Anne Witkowski
Bryan Fischer You know, it’s really a shame that so many gays and lesbians spend so much time in closets when really it’s the bedroom they aren’t supposed to come out of. Granted, that’s still not a lot of space, but compared to a closet, it’s practically palatial. I mean, if you’re going to have to spend your entire life in hiding, it’d be nice to have enough room to lie down. And if it were up to the Traditional Values Coalition’s Bryan Fischer, you’d stay down. See, Fischer thinks that gays wouldn’t have so many problems if they’d just stay in their rooms and keep quiet. “You know, [homosexuals] always say, ‘Why do conservatives want to invade people’s bedrooms?’ The answer is we don’t,” Fischer said on his program Focal Point, which airs on American Family Radio. “You can do whatever you want in your bedroom, nobody is going to barge in, nobody is going to break down your door and arrest you in your bedroom.” Dude, ever heard of Lawrence v. Texas? You know, the case where cops barged in and arrested two men for having sex in their bedroom? Sure, the case overturned so-called
“sodomy” laws, but there are currently folks at work in places like Texas and Montana who are trying hard to bring back laws that criminalize homosexual sex. Of course, homos only bring it on themselves. “You’re sticking it in our faces, you’re telling us we have to accept this, we have to normalize this, we have to sanction this, we have to promote it, we have to endorse it. If you would take your sexual behavior back in the bedroom, nobody would be bothering you,” he said. That’s right, homos, go to your rooms! Like third-graders. Not that gays should be allowed to have children, though. “We should not have same-sex couples adopting children,” Fischer said. “You’re deliberately placing kids in a home with a missing parent. This is a terrible thing to do to a child.” He also thinks that single-parent households are “a mistake” and “a tragedy” that inflict harm on children. Yes, much better to let kids remain wards of the state. All you have to do is watch “Annie” to see that orphans actually have a lot of fun when they’re not mopping floors or saving stray
dogs from asshole kids who probably come from one-man-one-woman families. Not only does Fischer say gays shouldn’t have kids, he also says that because many gays don’t have kids, all they do is sit around and scheme about how to take over the whole world. “[T]hey do not have children to feed in the morning, they do not have children to take to school, they do not have children to take to soccer and Little League practice,” Fischer said. “They’ve just got time on their hands and that’s where they put it; they put it into pressing their political agenda.” That’s right. Gays are a bunch of conniving schemers plotting to snatch up foster kids to build their homo-sex army that will eventually take over and make the whole world one giant bedroom, with liberty and gay sex for all. In Fischer’s dreams, at least. ■ D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay since 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps of the world, she reviews rock ’n’ roll shows in Detroit with her twin sister.
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Mark My Words
Street Talk
Mark Segal
Remembering, making history We live, you no doubt have noted, in an instant world. There’s e-mail, cell phones and even instant coffee. And what is not instant is becoming very fast. Take travel: Any one of us could be almost anywhere in the world within 24 hours. Time is moving quickly. But history marches at its own pace. Wars can begin and end in a few days or can last a hundred years. Hostilities can last thousands. The history of the struggle for LGBT equality has been rather quick in the light of historic humanrights struggles. And if you were in Philadelphia this July 4th, you got to witness a milestone — history in the making. The first out organized gay-rights struggles took place here in Philadelphia in front of Independence Hall from 1965-69, organized by Frank Kameny. The only dispute to the claim that this was the first was a demonstration eight months earlier at an Army induction center in New York organized by Randy Wicker. But most agree that July 4, 1965 was the first fully organized demonstration for gay rights. The marches are immortalized with a Pennsylvania Historical Marker at Sixth and Chestnut streets. The plaque itself is somewhat historic since it’s the first government-approved historic placque in the nation recognizing the gay-rights struggle as U.S. history. On July 4, 1965, if you walked by Independence
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Hall, you would have seen scores of gay men and lesbians carrying signs demanding equal rights for homosexuals. That was the first time in history that gay people demonstrated en mass. It was similar to the activism for women’s and civil rights led by Susan B. Anthony and Martin Luther King Jr., respectively. This July 4th, the 45th anniversary of that first march, Welcome America and GPTMC came up with a great idea. Why not bring Frank back to Philadelphia and honor him by asking him to be in the parade that passes by Independence Hall? Kameny, now 85, agreed and, to bridge any gap there might be, we also invited Randy Wicker to join us. Wicker had also marched in those marches but couldn’t remember which years. During the parade, both Frank and Randy were amazed at how receptive the crowds lining the streets were to gay-rights pioneers. As they noted, things have changed. What they didn’t say was they helped make that change. As we arrived in front of Independence Hall, we decided that it was proper to salute those in our community who had contributed, and especially those early marchers. As the car passed in front of Independence Hall, Randy and I, sitting on each side of Frank, lifted him from his seat. And as he faced the site of those marches, held in front of Independence Hall 45 years ago to the day, he saluted those who historically brought the GLBT community to where it is today. ■
Should minority rights be subject to voter referendum?
Maurice Gooding furniture installer Southwest Philadelphia
Halimah Marcus grant writer West Philadelphia
“Yes. I do support voters’ rights, and government of the people. I just don’t like it when gay rights are trampled on. But that’s the way it is. The harder we push, the harder the right wing will push back. We have to learn to live with it.”
“Yes and no. I’m interested in opportunities for direct democracy. If the popular vote decided the outcome of the 2000 election, we wouldn’t have gotten stuck with George W. Bush. But the utopia idea of direct democracy is a false promise when the majority is often better organized and funded.”
Jason Olevski construction worker South Philadelphia
Nathan Wilson artist West Philadelphia
“No. I don’t trust the majority to act in an unbiased way when it comes to minority rights. There’s too much temptation in the privacy of a voting both to let your prejudices kick in. That invalidates the system.”
“Not when it comes to civil rights. Elected officials should be making these decisions rather than individuals. We elect politicians to interpret the laws, so let them do their jobs. Also, there can be a lot of obstacles placed in the voting process that skew the results.”
Mark Segal is PGN publisher. He can be reached at mark@epgn.com.
Letters and Feedback Dear Editor: All of us at Mazzoni Center would like to extend our sincere thanks to [U.S. Rep.] Chaka Fattah for his eloquent tribute to Dr. Walter Lear (1923-2010), one of our founding board members, which was entered into the Congressional Record on June 30, 2010. As we celebrate the Independence holiday, it is worth noting the contributions of an individual who was committed to social justice for all Americans. Dr. Lear was not only a committed physician and a dedicated public servant, but a passionate and outspoken health advocate for the LGBT communities, and a great Philadelphian. His leadership in helping to form the organization known as Lavender Health (now Mazzoni Center) back in 1979 was indica-
tive of his personal commitment to social justice and health-care access for all citizens. We are proud to continue the mission of expanding health-care access not only to Philadelphia’s LGBT communities, but to communities of color, to at-risk youth, to those affected by HIV/AIDS and anyone who faces barriers to quality, affordable health care. Representative Fattah’s public recognition of Dr. Lear’s contributions means a great deal not only those of us who knew him, but to the larger community of LGBT citizens in Philadelphia. We thank him for taking the time to recognize our dear friend. Sincerely, Nurit Shein Executive director, Mazzoni Center
In response to “Activists: High court ruling fortifies eviction case against Scouts,” July 2-9: Ah, yes, a belief in God. Both of the murderers of Matthew Shepard were Catholic, and their church of hatred and molestation tried to influence the jury and smear the prosecutor. And by the way, one of them was an Eagle Scout. Bottom line — some religions, or parts of them, are the curse of humanity. Remember Sept. 11? And why did Islam develop such a strain of hatred? Because, in large part, it was due to the murder of 4050 million Muslims during the crusades from 900-1500 A.D. Crusades that spun out of the partnership of corrupt kings and the Catholic Church, and the combination called the (anything but) holy Roman Empire. — Katie Murphy-ex Cath
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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KEENER From Page 1
left-eye hemorrhage, sciatic-nerve injury, temporomandibular joint disorder, tinnitus and teeth damage. He’s had to undergo a hernia operation, and his left eye is permanently pressed 4 millimeters into his skull, Keener said. Keener may need to have a root
canal and said his doctor said he could have traumatic glaucoma. Throughout the alleged attack, Keener said the pair repeatedly used homophobic slurs. “It was bad enough to be a punching bag, but then with every punch it was ‘you faggot,’ ‘you fucking queer,’ and then they said they’d fuck me while I was in prison. You hear about
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hate crimes, but I never expected something like this would happen to me.” Keener, who has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, said the mental trauma was even more debilitating than the physical injuries. “It’s been almost two years and I still have nightmares. It’s getting better. But for the first several months, I was completely paranoid, just practically afraid to go outside and just had irrational fears. By far the most long-lasting
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effects are emotionally and mentally.” The incident was further complicated when Keener was charged with several counts of aggravated assault and disorderly conduct, among other offenses, stemming from the incident in the hospital. “If it wasn’t bad enough that I was almost beaten to death, then I get these papers in the mail that said that this could carry a sentence of 20 years in prison, and I almost had a nervous breakdown. It was overwhelming,” he said.
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Keener chose to plead no contest — which does not amount to an admission of guilt — and was sentenced to six months in prison, but was released one month early for good behavior. Keener said he chose the plea to avoid a jury trial, as he was worried about the pervasive homophobic environment he’s seen in the region. “I knew that I hadn’t done what I was accused of, but I knew there was a chance I could go to prison for 20 years. People generally believe cops, and I was afraid I wouldn’t get a fair trial because of religious bias,” he said. “Religion can make people not see things clearly, unfortunately. Out in this area, [being gay] is basically criminalized behavior.” York City has a nondiscrimination law in place that is inclusive of sexual orientation and gender identity, but York County, where Club XS is located, does not. Steve Glassman, chair of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, said that although he was unfamiliar with the case, it sheds light on the need for statewide LGBT protections. “It certainly is one of many examples I’ve heard of allegations by LGBT people who feel that they have been profiled for being gay and have been mishandled by the police,” Glassman said. “I think this is one of the main reasons why we need to immediately pass a hate-crimes law, as well as a nondiscrimination law, in the state legislature, to ensure that the same protections that exist for other minorities with regard to profiling and harassment are in place for LGBT people.” Lessin said the case is still in the initial stages, and he expects the trial to begin next June. In addition to the monetary compensation he’s seeking in the suit — in excess of $200,000 — Keener said he’s hoping the case is will attention to the consequences of institutionalized homophobia. “Gay people don’t have rights, unfortunately. It’s terrible that it’s 2010 and it’s still like this. I’ve lived in New York, in L.A., where it’s widely accepted, and I just never thought of the possibility of something like this happening. This has not only affected my health and my emotional state, but now I have this felony on my record, which is going to affect my ability to get work, and my reputation has been tarnished all for something that’s not valid and not real.” ■ Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn.com.
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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Gayborhood Crime Watch The following incidents in the Midtown Village and Washington Square West areas were reported to the Sixth Police District between June 22-27. 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 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 17, complainant’s BMW, parked in a paid lot, 1305 Walnut St., had a watch and a gold and diamond bracelet taken without forced entry; keys were held by the attendant. Incident was reported June 22 to the 17th District. REPORT: Between 11 a.m. June 16 and 11:15 p.m. June 23, complainant’s 1994 Oldsmobile, parked at Juniper and Locust streets, had a window smashed and a flat-screen TV taken. This report was received by the DPR Unit via phone; police were not dispatched and no prints were lifted. REPORT: Between 6-8 p.m. June 22, complainant’s secured bicycle was stolen from the 200 block of South Eighth Street. REPORT: At 7:55 p.m. June 22, complainant’s iPhone was taken from her hand as she walked in the 400 block of South 10th Street by a male who fled south on 10th and then west on Lombard Street in a white Chevy Impala. The offender was described as a black male, in his early 20s, 5-foot-10, wearing a white T-shirt. REPORT: Between 6:30-9:30 p.m. June 23, complainant’s secured bicycle was stolen from 10th and Spruce streets. REPORT: On June 25, the garage door to a residence in the 1100 block of Lombard Street was left open while contractors worked and a bicycle was stolen from the open garage. Video showed a black male, in his late 20s, with a medium complexion, wearing a white T-shirt and black pants taking the bicycle at 11 a.m. REPORT: At 11 a.m. June 25, a male fitting the description of the theft above at 1100 Lombard St. was seen taking a purse from an unlocked car stopped in the 400 block of South Jessup Street while the owner went into a residence. The purse was later recovered with the cash missing.
REPORT: Between 6:45 p.m. June 24 and 10 a.m. June 25, the rear door of the Furniture and Bedding Center, 1024 Market St., was pried open with a car jack and a laptop was taken. The scene was processed for evidence by Central Detective Division. REPORT: Between 5:30-7:30 p.m. June 25, money was taken from complainant’s bag that was in an unlocked locker at Broad Street Fitness, 1315 Walnut St. ARREST: At 5 a.m. June 25, complainant left his 2002 Dodge running while he delivered newspapers in the 1000 block of Walnut Street. A black male, aged 30-40, wearing a white T-shirt and dark pants, took the car and drove north on 11th Street. At noon on June 26, 25th District police arrested a male operating the complainant’s vehicle in the 600 block of West Erie Avenue The 31-year-old alleged offender was charged with auto theft and related offenses. ARREST: At 12:55 a.m. June 27, complainant was in the 200 block of South 11th Street when a male snatched her purse and fled north on 11th. At 6:30 a.m. the same morning, a similar incident occurred in the 1000 block of Spring Street and the offender was arrested. Investigation led to this male being charged with the purse snatch on 11th Street. The 15-year-old alleged offender was charged with robbery and related offenses. ARREST: At 4:30 a.m. June 27, a window of the André Richard Salon, 1218 Locust St., was smashed with a brick. The complainant was awakened by the noise and called 911; at the same time, PATCO police officers heard the break-in and apprehended the offender running from the scene with a flat screen TV. The 42-yearold suspect was charged with burglary and related offenses. ARREST: At 7 a.m. June 27, complainant was sitting down and asleep in the 200 block of South 13th Street, when a male went into his pants pocket and removed a cell phone and wallet. The complainant followed the male, but stopped when he was threatened and called the police from a pay phone. Sixth District Officers stopped the 26year-old alleged offender in the 1300 block of Walnut Street; he was arrested and charged with robbery and related offenses. ■
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Out Money Jeremy Gussick Health planning and alternate decisionmakers Q: I’m a single woman in my 60s. If I was injured and unable to make decisions for myself, how can I make sure my wishes regarding my care and finances are carried out? A: This is such an important question to ask, especially for LGBT individuals and couples. Without advanced planning, you may have little or no control over who is making important decisions on your behalf. Here’s what you need to know to be protected.
Estate planning is mostly about putting mechanisms in place to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes once you are gone. Yet there is another aspect to the process that centers on appointing others to manage your affairs during your lifetime. What would happen if you became incapacitated and couldn’t handle your financial affairs? Who would act on your behalf to pay bills, watch over investments and deal with the paperwork that accompanies collecting insurance and other benefits? Or, who would make arrangements for your medical care and see that your wishes for were carried out? Without
advance planning, a court would make these critical — and highly personal — decisions for you. Fortunately, you can work with an attorney to make arrangements that allow your affairs to be managed by people you choose. The role of alternate decisionmakers Before you talk to a lawyer about naming alternate decisionmakers, you can save time by understanding the types of issues such individuals may be charged with addressing. For financial affairs, a power of attorney A power of attorney is a legal document that gives another person authority to act on your behalf with regard to legal, business or financial affairs. A big advantage of a power of attorney is that it can help prevent your loved ones from having to go to court to request guardianship over your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. This arrangement can also give the person you designate the ability to pay your debts, manage investment transactions and even make charitable gifts that could help reduce your estate taxes. The power-of-attorney agreement ends at your death unless you also name this person as the executor of your estate. It is important to update a power of attorney at least every five years — otherwise, some
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financial institutions may not accept the document as valid. And some financial institutions may not accept the document regardless of the date, so it is best to check with each institution you deal with regarding their policy. (In these cases, you may need to draw up more binding agreements via your financial advisor.) For medical concerns, healthcare directives The two most common forms of health-care directives are a living will and a health-care proxy. A living will is a document presented to an attending physician that explains the care you wish to receive (or avoid) in the event you are incapacitated by a terminal illness or serious accident. For instance, it can express your wishes for controlling pain, receiving nutrition or making lifesupport decisions. Alternatively, a health-care proxy allows you to designate someone — a proxy — to make medical decisions for you. Keep in mind that in some states you may be able to combine a healthcare proxy and a living will into a single document. Hospitals and nursing homes are required to ask about the existence of any such documents when you are admitted. In most states, a health-care proxy does not take effect until you can no longer make medical decisions for yourself; until then, only you can legally consent to
any treatment. In addition, you can always change or cancel the document as long as you are mentally alert. If you decide to make changes to any of these documents, be sure to do so in writing. A comprehensive health-care advance directive combines both a health-care proxy and living will into one document. Organizations such as AARP, American Bar Association and the American Medical Association have joined forces to create a simple yet comprehensive form. It is important to note that while health-care directives are not financial documents, it is quite possible that during a visit with an attorney to discuss financial and estate-planning affairs, such documents may be packaged with other estate-planning items. Planning creates peace of mind Informing loved ones and doctors about the types of alternate decisionmakers you would choose in a wide variety of situations can bring peace of mind to those most concerned with your well being. Though you cannot anticipate an unexpected health crisis, you can plan ahead to ensure that you and your finances are cared for in a manner that coincides with your intentions, even if you cannot make decisions for yourself. For more on whether a power of attorney and/or health-care directives are appropriate in your situation — and your state’s relevant laws — consult your attorney or financial advisor. ■ Jeremy R. Gussick is a financial advisor with LPL Financial, the nation’s leading independent broker-dealer,* and specializes in the financial planning needs of the LGBT community. He is active with several LGBT organizations in the Philadelphia region, including the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, the Greater Philadelphia Professional Network and the Independence Business Alliance. OutMoney appears monthly. If you have a question for Jeremy, contact him at jeremy.gussick@lpl.com. This article was prepared with the assistance of Standard & Poor’s Financial Communications and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. Consult your financial advisor or Jeremy Gussick if you have questions. LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. *Based on total revenues, as reported in Financial Planning Magazine, June 1996-2010.
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
International News Madrid celebrates gay pride Madrid Pride took place in the Spanish capital July 3. One of the biggest gay celebrations in Europe, the parade featured more than 30 floats from around the world. According to thinkspain.com, a double-decker bus representing gay, lesbian and bisexual families also formed part of the march, where same-sex couples of both genders could be seen celebrating with their children. Spain is one of seven European states that have legalized full gay marriage. According to the State Federation of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transsexuals, since the law was passed five years ago, some 20,000 same-sex couples have tied the knot. Most weddings have taken place in the country’s major metropolitan centers, in particular Madrid and Barcelona. The march left from the Puerta de Alcalá and finished in the Plaza de España, where Kylie Minogue performed a concert. Minogue said she was “touched” to be asked to perform. “For a long time now I have had a special relationship with the gay public and I am pleased that they are counting on me to celebrate such a special occasion,” she said.
Activist beheaded in Uganda A volunteer for the LGBT-advocacy group Integrity Uganda was found beheaded on a farm during a search for a missing priest. Searchers found the head of Pasikali Kashusbe in a pit latrine
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on the farm of Badru Kiggundu, the electoral commission chairman, in Makindye Sabagabo, Wakiso District. They were looking for the Rev. Henry Kayizzi Nsubuga, who disappeared last month after delivering a sermon supporting gay people. Judith Nabakooba, a police spokesperson, identified the head as that of Kashusbe, one of the workers on Kiggundu’s farm and a member of Integrity Uganda. Kashusbe, along with his partner Abbey, was a youth worker with Integrity Uganda, which mobilizes young LGBT people in activities to build community capacity to oppose homophobia. A mutilated torso found earlier in the week about half a kilometer from the farm is believed to be Kashusbe. The torso was that of a man and had no genitals.
Homophobic pol loses prez bid The homophobic right-wing P o l i s h p o l i t i c i a n J a r o s l aw Kaczynski has lost his bid for president. The election was called after the death of his twin, the late president Lech Kaczynski, in a plane crash in April. According to exit polls, interim president Bronislaw Komorowski will take office with 52.63 percent of the vote, while Kaczynski, chair of the Polish Law and Justice Party, won 47.37 percent. Both Kaczynski brothers have made a number of offensive homophobic remarks over the years, with Jaroslow saying, “The affirmation of homosexuality will lead to the downfall of civilization.” Lech had previously been the mayor of Warsaw and reached
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international notoriety for repeatedly banning gay-pride marches in the city. Jaroslaw, a former Polish prime minister who lost his post in 2007, was expected to continue his brother’s policies if he won the presidency.
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UK considers religious unions Britain’s government is considering allowing same-sex couples to include religious elements in civil-union ceremonies. Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone said the government will consider allowing hymn singing and religious readings in gay civil-union ceremonies during a review of gay-equality rights. The Church of England has already voiced its opposition. Earlier this year, Parliament removed the ban on same-sex unions in churches and other places of worship.
India opens first gay bookstore India now has its first allgay bookseller, Queer-Ink.com, an online bookstore, recently launched in Malad, a suburb of Mumbai. Owner Shobhna Kumar, a lesbian who has worked as a counselor, activist and HIV prevention speaker, describes her reasons for opening the store as “selfish” ones. “I could not get access to these books and Amazon would not deliver them. I think they wouldn’t get through customs, as they See INTERNATIONAL, Page 22
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offend Indian sensibilities. There are a few Indian online bookstores, but they take weeks to deliver. I figured other people must be in the same position.” Queer-Ink.com carries fiction, academic and health books, as well as works on parent-child dynamics, children’s titles and a host of magazines. Erotica is not for sale. “Gay people want role models, to see their lives reflected in fiction,” Kumar said. “I think one would hesitate to pick up books like this in a normal retail space, which is why I did it online.” Queer-Ink.com also serves as a community portal, complete with a calendar of LGBT events throughout the nation. Many of the events listed so far are discussion forums, as Kumar hopes to encourage people to “talk about queer issues.”
Deported footballer in hiding
Winner of the 2009 Paddy and Barry Epstein Communicate! Award for innovative programming in a small congregation
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Communion in the form of Consecrated bread, wine and grape juice. Gluten-free communion available upon request.
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS Human Rights and Human Rights Watch are petitioning the Moroccan government for a fair trial for the men and to protect their right to privacy. The groups are asking supporters to show their opposition to Moroccan authorities by sending an e-mail to petitionmaroc@hrw.org.
Cartoons draw Russian ire Protestant groups in Moscow are trying to shut down a cartoon channel because they claim it promotes homosexuality and religious intolerance. Channel 2x2 broadcasts Western cartoons like “South Park,” which some believe promotes “homosexual propaganda.” Vitaly Vlasenki, a spokesperson for The Consultative Council of the Heads of Protestant Churches
built a cult following in Russia despite gaining just 1.9 percent of the audience share in February. MTV in Russia also shows “South Park,” but has yet to receive any criticism from the Protestant group.
Trans meeting set for Berlin It was announced March 14 that the second meeting of the European Transgender Council will be held this year in Germany. The council, comprised of Transgender Europe, the Transgender Network Berlin and TransInterQueer Berlin, will meet May 2-4 in Berlin. Their last event was held in Vienna in 2005. Representatives from international activist groups and experts such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International are expected to attend
Cletus U., the gay Nigerian football coach who was denied asylum in Austria and deported, has reported that he is in hiding Congregation Beth Ahavah and fears for his life. According to LGBT Asylum wishes you a pleasant summer. News, Cletus contacted the Austrian newsmagazine Profil to report clandestinely on his situOur full service and events ation. He explained that he is in hiding in the slums of Lagos, schedule will resume in the fall. a seaside city in southeastern Nigeria. “The police can come at any Visit www.bethahavah.org for additional information, programming and directions time, beat me, imprison or kill, 615 North Broad Street, Phila., PA 19123-2495 because I am the way I am,” he Phone: 215.923.2003 E-mail: BethAhavah@rodephshalom.org said. Free secure parking: Cross Spring Garden at 13th St., left at next light, Mt. Vernon St. Parking lot entrance on left. The press generated by Cletus’ PAGE 15 asylum case has made his sexuality known internationally. Cletus had been living in Austria illegally for six years before filing for asylum on the grounds of his sexuality. His claim was denied, and he was arrested April 29 and deported May 5 to Nigeria. At the time of his arrest, Cletus was coaching a game for FC Sans Papiers, a soccer team and political organization devoted to garnering support for disenfranchised immigrants and refugees. Cletus also reported that his shoulder was injured during the arrest and still pains him. Cletus said he plans to return to Europe by way of Morocco. “It is better for me to perish in the desert or in the sea than here in Nigeria,” he said. ■ Larry Nichols can be reached at larry@epgn.com.
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JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Philadelphia Gay News
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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JULY 9 - 15, 2010
A ‘Top’ Gal
realistic about her less-successful stand on the soapbox [and say you’re films. “Everyone comes to the table gay]. We have a weird standard in the with the best of intentions and hopes public eye.” McGillis said she waited to come Kelly McGillis is this year’s recipi- it works out. You can’t blame any one person or thing. Sometimes it doesn’t out because she had children to proent of the QFest Icon Award, celebrattect. “When I moved from Key West ing a career that includes memorable gel.” One of those projects to live in [what I turns in the locally shot “Witness,” the learned was] a conmegahit “Top Gun” and the Oscar- was “The Monkey’s Mask,” a little-seen lesservative area, my winning drama “The Accused.” The kids really strugevent will be held 5 p.m. July 17 at the bian thriller based on Dorothy Porter’s novel, gled with what their Ritz East. friends and their On the phone from her home in in which McGillis was cast as a poetry teacher. friends’ parents Mohnton, Pennsylvania, McGillis [thought] of me and said she looks back on her career with Asked if the film helped my relationship. pride. “I always wanted to act, but it her to navigate her My daughter was a never occurred to me in my wild- sexuality on screen, cheerleader and she est dreams that I’d end up making she responded, “It was wouldn’t allow us movies,” she demurred. “I wanted to much more about working with Dorothy Porter, to go to a football be a New York theater actress!” game. As a parent, Her first film, “Reuben, Reuben,” than about my sexuality. I really liked the book. I I wanted to provide cast her as an ingénue and, while she a safe environment. made a striking first impression, it was fascinated that they was the opportunity, not the role, that were going to do a film MCGILLIS AS COL. GILLIAN That is why I never contemporary-lanfelt it was imporattracted her to the project. It wasn’t in DAVIS IN “THE L WORD” guage poetry. I don’t tant to say someuntil she made “Witness” in 1985 thing, because the opposite Harrison Ford that McGillis think the film works, but price of my children’s well-being was started to become a household name. to me [the project] was exciting.” Likewise, McGillis said her arc on too great.” That project got her a two-picture deal Showtime’s “The L Word” was also Even now, after coming out, with Paramount, and helped her get cast in “Top Gun” with Tom Cruise not influenced by her sexual identity. McGillis doesn’t understand the fasci“I would love to tell you I had honor- nation with her — or anyone’s — sexand Val Kilmer. “That’s the number-one thing I’m able motives, but I did ‘The L Word’ uality. “If I were a plumber, no one remembered for,” McGillis said with because I liked what the script had to would care.” She now lives in an openly gay an infectious laugh. “It’s amazing that say.” The actress had been living with a neighborhood, but resists holding her people still watch that film and they still enjoy it.” The actress describes woman for seven years at the time partner’s hand in public. “I don’t have the experience of making “Top Gun” she guest-starred on “The L Word” in to shove my beliefs down other peoas “a blast. It was like I was the only 2008 and was raising her two children. ple’s throats,” she explained. “I just girl at summer camp.” Fondly remi- She came out publicly in a video the have to be respectful of others.” following year when Actions, for the actress, do speak niscing about the a reporter asked her louder than words. “It’s how you live film, she confessed, a point-blank ques- your life, it’s not what you say about “I thought it would tion about her sexual your life. When are we, as a culture, be a fun movie that identity. going to get that? What I say has far no one would ever “I had one of less impact than who I am and how I see.” those moments of behave.” McGillis also truth,” she recalled. And McGillis is anxious to get back admitted she was “I thought, Do I say to acting in films, TV and theater. not psychically prethe truth or avoid After taking a decade off to raise her pared for “Top Gun” the question? And children, she has two projects in the to become such a big I chose to say the pipeline and is looking to do more. hit, and it was scary truth. It wasn’t a “It’s challenging now because that suddenly everyhuge thing. Anyone people think I’ve fallen off the face of one knew her name. who knew me had the earth,” she acknowledged. “But it’s “Fame for fame’s known about my exciting. I won’t do plastic surgery, or sake is not something sexuality for the last color my hair — that has made it more I ever aspired to,” she 15 years. It hasn’t difficult for me — but the trade-off conceded. “That kind of attention screwed MCGILLIS AND TOM CRUISE been a big secret. I is that I value my true self more than lived openly, but I ever before, and I am no longer willwith my head in a big didn’t choose to talk ing to sacrifice who I am to do what I way and I don’t think about it publicly. want to do. I can be who I am today, I dealt with it well, or gracefully. But There’s this whole weird thing and that’s the greatest act of courage I [the success] afforded me the chance to do theater and risky work that I in our culture — knowing every- could ever do — be who I am. It’s difthing about everybody in the media. ficult in our culture, especially in this wouldn’t have done otherwise.” McGillis is honorably candid and If you’re a postal worker, you don’t profession.” ■ By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor
A departure from the ordinary
Detour
KELLY MCGILLIS
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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Saved from the cutting-room floor “Deleted Scenes,” unspooling July 15 and 17 at By showing the “deleted” moments, audiences are ishable. It’s demonized and criminalized and, at the QFest, is the latest compelling and explicit roman- prompted to fill in the blanks and/or consider their same time, glamorized. The truth is right down the tic drama from the provocative queer writer/direc- own relationships. There are also numerous, deliber- middle. It is just a job. You think it should be more tor Todd Verow. The film chronicles the relationship ate continuity errors that Verow includes to keep the glamorous than it is, and it should be more dangerous between Wolf (Ivica Kovacevic) viewer off guard and at than it is, but really it’s not.” and Sean (Michael Vaccaro) attention. Ironically, where Verow through 24 chapters (plus an “What frustrates used to play the hustler in his alternate ending). These are me about movies these films, he now plays the john. the scenes that were “deleted,” days is the obsessions “I’m too old,” he deadpanned a title card advises, “because with continuity, and when asked about this role of length, denial, melodrama, believability and being reversal. “I am sort of the john believability, dubbing and able to identify with — the one that hires these sexual content.” a character, and charpeople, and to a certain extent, In a New York City café, the acter arc, and a threeexploits them by filming them. soft-spoken Verow explained act structure. So these For this movie, I did have an why he chose these criteria for were things I wanted to actor to play [the john], and his “Deleted Scenes.” attack,” he said. he did not show up, so I was “I was thinking in terms of In “Deleted Scenes,” forced into it, which was a my own films — reasons why the filmmaker breaks happy accident.” I cut things out. A lot of times, down narrative eleIt’s amusing to think Verow I’ll have really long sex scenes ments adroitly. He also was almost deleted from his that I’ve cut down. For this, I deconstructs his own own film. But he has plenty wanted to just keep them long, personal experiences of screen time, and much of so your mind sort of wanders. and demons. Based on it involves graphic, energetic I’ve always had a lot of technione of his past relationsex. “Deleted Scenes” may be cal problems because I’m not ships, the film includes the director’s naughtiest, most FILMMAKER TODD VEROW a recurring theme in “DELETED SCENES” erotic film since “Anonymous.” anti-technical perfection, so I amped that up even more.” Verow’s work — prosYet Verow insists he doesn’t Verow’s manipulation of time and narrative pulls titution. He speaks about this topic from experience, have any footage from his film. So there will be no viewers in, and forces them to think about the char- having worked in the trade in the past, “I think in deleted scenes on the DVD. ■ acters and their relationship in unexpected ways. films, traditionally, [prostitution] is treated as pun— Gary Kramer
An older, wiser Philly filmmaker Former Philadelphian Cheryl Dunye is receiving the Artistic Achievement Award for Directing at this year’s QFest on July 16, where she will also screen her new film, “The Owls.” Her intriguing, astounding drama concerns a group of lesbians who shared success years ago and now shares relationship angst and a terrible secret. In a recent phone interview, Dunye spoke about “The Owls” and how she — and queer cinema — have changed over the years. PGN: I love the term/title “Owl.” Where did
this film brings these people together to talk about this moment, and the changes that are happening.
is about young love or hooking up. I’ve done my comingout story. We are dealing with generational stuff here.
PGN: “The Owls” contains a comment about negativity
PGN: I was thrilled that you reunited V.S. Brodie and Guinevere Turner from “Go Fish.” How did you manage that? CD: The reunion happened by chance. I was originally trying to snag Silas Howard for the part, but Silas was unavailable. It was fortuitous that V.S. was visiting Guinevere and got tied in.
and angst as things “we rarely talk about in cinema or [in] our lives.” Why did you want to address this? CD: I think that there needs to be more images [of lesbians] at different ages in their lives. So much queer cinema
you hear it/come up with it?
PGN: You talk in/about the film being made as/by a collective. Can you discuss the genesis of this? CD: There were a whole bunch of us going through this stuff — maybe not the personal politics I wear on my sleeve; I’m an extrovert. But there are those who feel queer cinema has more to offer, and isn’t offering it. We got to talking and said, “Let’s do something.” We pulled together finances, equipment and wherewithal. We don’t have to wait for a studio, or be approved to make a film. We’re trying to make a different kind of cinema. I’m going back to where I came from. This is the next level of the Dunye-mentary, which I started so many years ago, with my shorts and “The Watermelon Woman.” ■
CD: I was at [lesbian bar] The Lexington Room
in San Francisco, and I started to chat up a cute 25-year-old bartender. She said, “Do you know what I hate the most? I hate it when a couple of owls come in and order Grey Goose martinis and leave me a dollar tip.” And I said, “What is an owl?” And she said, “An older, wiser lesbian, like you.” My eyes flipped!
PGN: Do you feel older and/or wiser? CD: We all represent a certain generation of
lesbian identity and a relationship to this new queer identity. And this film explores that. I think that the New Queer Cinema came out at a time when there were a lot of dykes and lesbians, and there was not a lot of representation. New Queer Cinema bridged the indie world. Now we are at another moment and I feel
FILMMAKER CHERYL DUNYE (LEFT) IN “THE OWLS”
— Gary Kramer
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Taking 50 years of sketch comedy on the road By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer
said, for her, it’s all about being in Second City, as opposed to seeing the gig as a possible steppingstone to bigger things. “We get to perform scenes that Tina Fey wrote and Steve Carell did,” she said. “So I think that if somebody is at Second City and their whole eye is on something that is going on after Second City, their time isn’t being well served. It’s pretty exciting to go out and represent this theater company that has produced these great people.”
The 42-year-old performer joined Second City three years ago, when she took the opportunity to enact a drastic career Second City, the long-running change. improvisational troupe, is hitting “I worked for a long time at the road to celebrate its 50th year a real job and then I auditioned at the forefront of comedy. for Second City several times Over the years, Second City has and finally got hired,” she said. been a breeding ground for per“I worked at a company called formers who would go on to be Morning Star. It does financial huge names in comedy — from analysis and financial data for Joan Rivers, John Belushi and Bill investors. I worked for 10 years Murray to Tina Fey, Jane Lynch there: five years in the customerand Steve Carell. service department and five years Out cast member Abby McEnany as a technical writer. It was definitely a shift.” She added that even though Second City is one of the biggest and best-known groups in the world of improv comedy, making the leap from the corporate world to the stage came with sacrifices. “Generally, it’s not enough [money] to live comfortably on, so everybody has little jobs whether it be teaching, coaching, waiting tables or temping. But this is what I do full-time. This has been my dream for so long and Second City SECOND CITY TOURING CAST ROB BELUSHI (FROM LEFT), was the job that I wanted. When I BROOKE BAGNALL, TIM RYDER, ABBY MCENANY AND RACHEL finally got it, I couldn’t believe it. MILLER Photo: Michael Brosilow It felt really right and I’ve never
regretted it.” When the Second City touring company pulls into town for a string of shows July 13-25, the group, which features Rob Belushi (son of Jim), Brooke Bagnall, Tim Ryder and Rachel Miller, will perform skits and sketches dating back to the ensemble’s early days. But will sketches written 50 years ago hold up to today’s standards? “ I t h i n k i t ’s d i ff e r e n t ,” McEnany said. “There’s one scene that was originally performed in 1960. The scene is the same but there are updates of the references in it. So it’s funny how something from 50 or 40 years ago still plays. It’s pretty incredible. We do a scene from 1960 and it works just great.” While McEnany and the other current castmembers help to write and create new sketches for Second City, the retrospective nature of the show means there is little room for their own work on this anniversary tour. “We are able to write our own material but all the shows we do in the touring company are sold
as a best-of Second City shows,” she said. “So it’s usually 80-percent archived, 10-percent improv and 10-percent original. But I’m not sure how many originals are going to be in the 50th anniversary for Philly yet.” McEnany added the 10 percent of improv is probably going to be the highlight of the show. “We don’t have the final running order yet, but there’s a really fun one that I’m positive that we’ll be doing that involves audience participation, which is really fun. Sometimes when I go to shows I’m like, ‘Oh God, I don’t want to get picked.’ But when you’re at a Second City show, the goal is to make the person participating look like the star. So it’s not very scary. It’s real fun and they’ll be taken care of.” Catch the Second City 50th Anniversary Tour July 13-24 at Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St. For more information, visit www.secondcity.com or call (215) 985-0420. ■ Larry Nichols can be reached at larry@epgn.com.
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
The Sporting Life
PAGE 29
Kevin Aldridge
Serve, set, spike! Volleyball makes me feel vertically challenged. I spike a Molten in v-ball about as well as I dunk a Spalding in b-ball. Of course, when minutiae hinder me from playing, I’m taking a sport (and myself) too seriously. For a lowmaintenance athlete like me, the Volleyball Association of Metro Philadelphia is the place to play. According to VAMP coordinator Tony Iero, the amateur league is organized for friendly competition. Open league play is on Wednesday nights at Ben Franklin High School, 550 N. Broad St., from 7-9 p.m. during September to May. A $25 registration fee entitles a player to a season of weekly volleyball and there is always room for new players. This season’s league had 50-60 registered players ranging from college age to 50 years old, with an average age of 33 or 34. Iero has played volleyball for several decades, making the rounds on the competitive circuit. Competition in tournaments and the Gay Games afforded him the opportunity to travel the country and abroad to destinations such as Amsterdam and Sydney. Taking a break from the fiercely competitive volleyball circuit, Iero turned
his attention to VAMP, which was founded about 15 years ago. Like most LGBT amateur sports organizations, the primary purpose was to provide a safe space where gay athletes could play and be out of the closet. (Most straight leagues shunned gay athletes.) VAMP was originally comprised of almost all gay men. Women eventually joined the league — and not just lesbians. Many gay men — somewhat predictably — were accompanied by straight female best friends. The league now also enjoys the membership of several heterosexual men and at least one opposite-sex couple. This ever-changing membership exemplifies the diversification of LGBT athletic clubs. The volleyball league is hardly the only club to welcome players of all orientations. As highlighted in this column in April, the Falcons soccer club has long fostered an environment of inclusion. Likewise, the Fins Aquatics Club welcomes and encourages swimmers of every ilk. Integration is the norm for urban sports organizations — and not just among the LGBT clubs. Philadelphia Sports Network — a mainstream Center City rec-
reational adult sports organization — actively recruits in the Gayborhood and in LGBT-owned establishments. Under the network’s auspices, the players of the co-ed dodgeball league don spandex and glitter and sport a trademark flare. You do the math. While there is marked progress, which should not be diminished, there is a level of acceptance and expression only found in LGBT organizations. The desire to play with other LGBT athletes — as well as the comfort to cavort around their own — sparked the creation of groups such as VAMP and maintains their prosperity. VAMP’s season begins in September. For more information, contact Iero at tiero@erols.com. For more competitive players, the North American Gay Volleyball Association is a well-organized network of leagues that competes in tournaments, in addition to the Gay Games and the Outgames. Philadelphia La Pateria, NAGVA’s local team, recently placed 13th out of 33 Division B teams at championships. Impressive for a roster of eight players from the entire city. For information, contact Tony Rodriguez at (215) 881-7501. Also, the Philadelphia
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PHILLY LA PATERIA AT THE 2008 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Photo: Courtesy of Tony Iero
Sports Network has four seasons of volleyball each year. More information can be found at www. philadelphiasportsnetwork.com. With all of the options available, no matter your skill and commitment level, you’ll find the group
that’s right for you. ■ Kevin Aldridge swims with the Fins Aquatics Club and competes in local triathelons and races. Kevin can be reached at kevincaldridge@gmail.com.
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
PAGE 30
Family Portraits There’s a cute little gay bar hidden off Rittenhouse Square. Formerly the Post, the current Stir, 1705 Chancellor St., is run by business partners Stacey Vey and Holly Johnson and is a friendly little spot worth checking out if you haven’t been there before. One of those responsible for the warm and friendly atmosphere is veteran bartender Angela Bibey, who keeps the drinks flowing and the conversation going during her “Ladies Happy Hour” from 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays. PGN: All right, let’s start with your nickname ... AB: [Laughs.] Yeah, they call me “Bibs” or sometimes “Tattooed Mom.” Actually, I think I have a few nicknames going! PGN: So, ace reporter that I am, I’m guessing you must have at least one of each. AB: Yes, two kids and a lot of tattoos. PGN: Which one is your favorite — tattoo, not kid ... AB: I have six butterflies on my right arm. It’s still a work in progress, but the whole arm is pretty much sleeved. There’s a blue butterfly on my wrist that is my favorite: I love the color it’s a beautiful deep blue. I have the word “Lucky” written on my wrist as well which I really like. PGN: What’s the connection with butterflies? AB: Actually, I think it has to do with the coming-out process for me. I was in my late 20s before I completely came to the realization that I was a lesbian. I think it was the idea of living in a cocoon for so long and then coming out and you’re free. PGN: Where do you come from? AB: I’m originally from a very small town in West Virginia. Hence the coming out so late! PGN: Tell me about the family. AB: My stepfather was a coal miner and my mom worked for a doctor’s office. PGN: So when all the recent coalmine incidents went down, did that strike a chord with you? AB: Oh, yeah. I went to school with the daughter of a coal miner who was killed, not in the most recent explosion, but in the one that happened a few years prior.
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Suzi Nash PGN: Any siblings? AB: My mom and my dad divorced when I was 7 and then she remarried the same year, so I have a half-sister from my stepfather; there’s nine years between us. And my dad was a bachelor for 25 years and eventually got married 15 years ago and had two kids, so I have a younger brother and sister who are about 30 years younger than me. PGN: You must feel more like an aunt than a sister. AB: Yeah, but I don’t see them that much. They still live in West Virginia so I only see them once or twice a year. PGN: What was life like in small-town West Virginia? AB: I just remember I always wanted to get out of there. I was your typical cheerleader, majorette in the band, etc., which kept me busy. And then I had my daughter when I was 17, so I had to grow up really fast. She’s 23 now. She’s coming to visit this weekend so I’m bringing her to work with me for happy hour on Saturday. That’ll be fun! PGN: I had to laugh when you said, “I was the typical cheerleader.” That’s not really a typical path for most lesbians! AB: That is funny. I wouldn’t say I look the cheerleader-type now, but it was fun at the time. PGN: So you had your daughter; did you get married? AB: Yes, and I have a son who’s 14. PGN: When did you get your first inkling that you were gay? AB: Honestly, I think when I was very young but I just never thought it was an option. I was from one of those towns where everyone knows everything you do. In middle school, one of our teachers got caught fooling around with one of the student teachers. It was the P.E. teacher who was married with kids and she was seen kissing the art teacher. It was a huge scandal. Down there in Bible-banger country, that was a big sin. I was about 10 and people made such a big deal out of it, I think if I’d even thought about being gay, that was enough to scare me off. The funny thing is that they’re still together, it must be about 30 years now.
PGN: I can see how that incident might scare a turtle back into its shell. AB: Yes, but I always wondered what it would be like to kiss a girl. When I finally did, everything changed. It put me on a completely different path. I was about 28. PGN: Definitely a late bloomer. AB: Well, I was trying to live the life I thought I was supposed to. PGN: So when you got married, was it difficult? AB: Not really, because I just thought that’s what was reality for me. It wasn’t a bad life; I just eventually figured out that there was a better choice out there for me. PGN: Was your husband cool about it when you came out? AB: Well, we broke up before I came out. I dated one or two boys after, but by that time I knew what I wanted. I suppose that it did have a lot to do with why we broke up. Once I’d had the experience of kissing a girl, I slowly started changing directions in my life. I refer to the last “serious” relationship I had with a guy after my marriage as my transitional boyfriend. He was very effeminate, no body hair, everyone thought he was gay! I’d be out on a date with him and we’d see a lesbian couple and I’d think, “Awww, I wish I was with a girl instead of him.” PGN: How did you leave West Virginia? AB: My husband got a job up
ANGELA BIBEY Photo: Suzi Nash
here in New Jersey. I’ve been in the area for about 16 years. PGN: What are some of the crazy jobs you’ve taken along the way? AB: I sold Mary Kay cosmetics, I’ve worked in different offices doing administrative work but I’ve always done restaurant work since I was 16 years old, serving, and then bartending for the last 10 years. PGN: School? AB: I went to college in Virginia for two years, but I didn’t finish. I didn’t like it and I didn’t want to waste any more money. PGN: Tell me about being a mother. AB: I don’t know, I was so young when I had my daughter, my parents half raised her, but there
is an amazing bond that you just can’t explain. Now that she’s older, we’re having the best time ever. PGN: How long have you been at Stir? AB: A little over a year. I do the Ladies Happy Hour on Tuesdays, which is more the ladies and gentlemen happy hour ’cause I usually have more guys than girls. We have happy-hour drink specials from 5-7 p.m. and it’s a lot of fun. Once a month, the Independence Business Alliance, which is the gay chamber of commerce, will have its women’s business networking during our happy hour. PGN: Any crazy customers? AB: Not at Stir, but I was working at a bar in Jersey and this guy
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
came in while we were super busy and was really rude. He kept leaning way over the bar and yelling for me while I was taking drink orders. I asked him to wait a moment and he got so belligerent that the bouncers ended up kicking him out. Well, it turned out it was a set-up. He was friends with someone in the kitchen and he was acting up on purpose so that everyone in the bar would be focused on him while his friend stole a whole bunch of food from the kitchen. The walk-in was in the back and, while he was being belligerent, the friend was throwing steaks and seafood over the back fence to another friend waiting with a car. PGN: What do you enjoy about bartending? AB: Probably the money! I just enjoy what I do. I should; I’ve been doing it for about 20 years now. I don’t know if you’ve heard the expression, but it gets in your blood. PGN: Is Stir the first gay bar you’ve worked at? AB: No, I worked a summer at Sisters back in 2006. Then I decided to change up and work in retail for a while.
Q Puzzle Best of the Bicons Across
1. Chef Traci Des ___ 8. Mystics 15. They’re often seen on slides 16. Joan of Arc, allegedly 17. “Blonde Venus” cross-dresser 19. Hot time for Colette 20. “Like, fer sure” 21. “Ben Hur” novelist Wallace 22. Birdbrain 24. Ins. letters 25. Pink Triangle Press publication 26. With 46-Across, an AfricanAmerican in Paris 31. Empire conquered by Alexander 34. Until now 38. Pub offering
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
PGN: What’s your specialty drink? AB: I pride myself on making the perfect martini. My specialty is that, 99 percent of the time, I have a perfect pour. I don’t use a measuring device, I can just eyeball it and it comes out right. Even with mixed drinks.
PGN: What Olympic sport would you want to compete in? AB: Well, I never played sports, but probably gymnastics. It would be fun to go flying through the air.
PGN: Do you believe in reincarnation? AB: Yes, absolutely. I’d love to do a past-life regression and learn more about it.
PGN: Favorite TV show? AB: I used to enjoy watching “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” when I got home at 3 in the morning.
PGN: I was once told that I was a famous Russian ballerina a few lives ago. It’s hard to believe, since I have no flexibility whatsoever. I was thrown out of ballet lessons at 6! AB: That’s funny! PGN: Do you have a partner? AB: Yes, her name is Laurie and she’s amazing. She’s kind, generous, loving — everything you could want. PGN: How did you meet? AB: We actually met at Sisters through some mutual friends. She’s a data specialist who works for a company that does training and job placement for low-income people who need help. 39. Ricky Martin and others 43. NBA position 44. Angelina’s Brad 46. See 26-Across 47. Eldest Brady boy 48. Sculptor Nancy 50. Supporter of bottoms 51. Dress with a flared bottom 52. Oater brawl site 54. Makes into law 55. “God Bless the Child” singer 59. Susan Feniger preparation 60. Sacred cup 61. Junior Vasquez is this kind of jockey 63. Cigar butt? 64. Hung beast of a simile 65. Sooner city 66. Milk component 67. A turnstile swallows it 68. New York gay magazine
Down
1. President before Abraham 2. Precious strings
PGN: Any pets? AB: I have a cat named Tina. He’s 7-and-a-half.
PGN: Who’s a favorite musical artist? AB: Tracy Chapman. I saw her at the Electric Factory years ago and she was amazing. PGN: Any hobbies? AB: I love to garden. I live in the city, so I can’t do it here, but I go to my girlfriend’s house in Jersey to practice my hobby. PGN: Ever been in a car accident? AB: Just a fender bender when I was a kid. Fortunately, nothing since then. It’s one of my biggest fears. I don’t even like to think about it. PGN: OK, I’ll move on ... Ever play any instruments? AB: I played the flute for years 3. Composer Ned 4. “Runaway” singer Shannon 5. “Suuure!” 6. Second starter 7. Foam at the mouth 8. 1862 Tennessee battle site 9. Command to one’s bitch 10. Like many independent films 11. Debussy’s “La ___” 12. Not straight 13. More like nelly? 14. Inverted e 18. Showing excitement 23. Duds in the bedroom 25. Made a mark in “Hollywood Squares” 27. Tin Man’s request 28. Swedish import 29. “Like ___ not” 30. Little black bk. listings 31. Mamas’ singing partners 32. Celia portrayer Perkins, on “Weeds” 33. Strike back 35. Langston Hughes’ “Danse
PAGE 31
and years. I gave it up in high school and sold my flute. About five years ago, I bought one off of eBay, but I haven’t really picked it up. It’s in my living room and I look at it every day but have only played it once or twice.
AB: I’m a little bit claustrophobic. The thought of crawling under a bed makes me crazy. I can’t even fathom it. Elevators are not favorite places to be, but I can take them. Anything smaller makes me uncomfortable.
PGN: When did you come out to the kids and family? AB: Well, it was a process, it definitely didn’t happen overnight. But I just got to a point in my life, especially by the time I reached 30, that I realized that I was finally an adult and that I could live my own life and not have to live like other people thought I should. And it turned out that everyone already pretty much knew. I remember when I told my dad, he said that not only did they all suspect it, they pretty much assumed I was gay. I guess I had changed a lot and apparently went a little extreme for a while trying to butch myself up a little bit.
PGN: Who would you contact in a séance? AB: My grandma, Shorty Belle. I don’t know why they called her that, ’cause she wasn’t short but she was the grandparent I was the closest to. She was my dad’s mom and she passed away a few years ago. She was cool, not a traditional grandmother. Very laidback. She was also around a lot when I was little and I was her first grandchild. Even though we never talked about it, I knew that she always accepted me.
PGN: Is that where the tattoos came in? AB: No, I started that when I was 17 and probably averaged at least one a year since then. It’s been one constant in my life. PGN: You’re obviously not afraid of needles. Any phobias? ___” 36. Alphabet statistic 37. Rims 40. Gentle blow 41. Presidential nickname 42. Like a crescent moon 45. It goes clang, clang, clang 47. Tickle pink 49. Large ISP 51. Singer DiFranco
PGN: Three sounds of summer you love. AB: I love the sound of the ocean. I love the sounds of birds and I love to hear a lawnmower in the distance on a nice summer day. Peaceful ... ■ To suggest a community member for “Family Portraits,” write to: Family Portraits, 505 S. Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 or portraits05@aol.com. 53. Shakespearean’s “Twelfth ___ ” 54. First name in talk 56. Suffix with switch 57. “Listen!” 58. River of northern France 59. Sound from a small pussy 62. Ill. clock setting
See SOLUTION, Page 41
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Offline Bruce Yelk It’s a beautiful day in the Gayborhood Philadelphia will kick off “There’s No Place Like Home,” a two-week celebration of the Gayborhood, starting 4 p.m. July 10 in front of The Independent Hotel, 1234 Locust St. Since Philadelphia’s LGBT community began migrating from west of Broad Street, near Rittenhouse Square, to its current location on the east side around 12th Street in the 1970s, the Gayborhood has become a desti-
nation for residents and visitors in search of culture, food and fun. The purpose of “There’s No Place Like Home” is to recognize and celebrate the contribution that Gayborhood business owners and organizations have made — and continue to make — to economic, civic and social development in Philadelphia. The celebration is a collaborative effort among the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, QFest, Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus, Midtown Village, Southwest Airlines, Wachovia, Finlandia, Philadelphia Gay News, Philadelphia Magazine, CBS3, The CW Philly 57 and numerous
community businesses. I’ve had the opportunity to help organize “There’s No Place Like Home” over the past few months and, above all else, this experience has taught me that the Gayborhood is much more than the sum of its parts. Throughout its history — and well into the future — this neighborhood has played a crucial role in the evolution of our local LGBT community. The physical space within and between Gayborhood establishments provided a “safe” environment for LGBT individuals to gather, socialize and share ideas over the last several decades. In the not-too-distant past, it
was dangerous to be openly gay — let alone be seen interacting with other gay individuals. Enclaves in metropolitan areas all over the country provided the only safe physical spaces in which a grossly marginalized and previously invisible population of gay men and women could be together and be themselves. Having a safe place to live, work and socialize gave LGBT individuals the opportunity to share ideas and build relationships. It is inside gay neighborhoods that we evolved from an invisible minority to a visible social group, to a viable demographic with political power, economic influence and social consciousness. Were
it not for the safe space provided by places such as Philadelphia’s Gayborhood, the contemporary LGBT community would be a dream — not our reality. With that in mind, I encourage every member of our community, as well as our allies, to participate in “There’s No Place Like Home.” In addition to the July 10 ribbon-cutting ceremony, a film screening of “Welcome to the Gayborhood” and the July 11 block party, don’t miss the following special events: — Opening Party at Q Lounge and Kitchen, 1234 Locust St.: On July 10, immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Q Lounge will host the opening party, which is free and open to the public. Stop by and enjoy a cocktail or a tasty treat from Q’s fabulous menu. — Gayborhood T-Dance at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St.: After the Gayborhood Block Party ends on July 11, head over to Voyeur for an afternoon tea dance. Nightlifegay.com hosts, as world-renowned DJ Roland Belmares spins his famous mix of uplifting dance classics and pop hits. — Closing Party at Woody’s, 202 S. 13th St.: At 9 p.m. July 24, one of Philadelphia’s most historic gay bars will host the official closing party for “There’s No Place Like Home.” In addition to these exciting parties and events, don’t forget to pick up your Rainbow Discount Card. They are available at the block party July 11, and at participating businesses in the Gayborhood. Cardholders will receive discounts from 30 participating local establishments throughout the two-week celebration of “There’s No Place Like Home.” For more information, visit facebook.com/visitgayphilly. I look forward to seeing you during “There’s No Place Like Home.” It’s an exciting, unprecedented event in the life of Philadelphia’s LGBT community, so get out and show your support. ‘Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer! ■
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
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Zavino pizzeria excels with simplicity
Photo: Scott A. Drake
By Larry Nichols PGN Staff Writer Open since January, the cozy but hip and comfortable Zavino, 113 S. 13th St., has quickly positioned itself to become the new hot spot for upscale pizza and casual wine sipping in the Gayborhood. The menu, much like the recipes, keeps things simple, with a handful each of small vegetable plates, pizza and other entrées. On the other hand, the wine selection goes on for days. They know our priorities so well. With every dish we tried, it became increasingly apparent that Zavino never goes overboard on ingredients — and never leaves dishes lacking for flavor. The fruit sodas ($5), available in lemon-lime, orange, strawberry or mixed berry, were a far cry from the corn-syrup-laden drinks most of us are used to — and a refreshing blend of real fruit and carbonated water. The seasonal summer salad ($6) was a pleasant mix of cucumbers, red onions and blackberries lightly dressed. The roasted red and golden beets ($6) were plump and garnished with just enough goat cheese and pistachios to keep the focus on the freshness of the veggies. The pasta with beef ragu ($10) was a great (and hearty) alternative to pizza. The well-seasoned sauce deftly walked the line between flavorful but not obnoxious in its spicing. But the pizzas are the stars of the menu at Zavino, and for good
reason. The perfectly fired crust and steaming tomato sauce creates the perfect vessel for house favorites such as the polpettini pizza ($13), with provolone and mini veal meatballs and the spinach pizza ($14), with goat cheese and garlic. A bit more off the beaten path — but well worth the trip — is the sopressata pizza ($13), with salami, mozzarella, olives and pickled onions, the latter of which gives the pie a pleasant flavor. Dessert options ($6 each) included panna cotta and pound cake with blueberries, the latter of which was understated. But even with the Spartan presentation (a generous slab of poundcake, fresh blueberries and whipped cream), a sugary sauce wasn’t missed too much. Whether you’re a pizza addict or weary of cheesy, Zavino has enough inventive charm and culinary skill to make anyone fall in love again with the tasty Italian staple. ■ Larry Nichols can be reached at larry@epgn.com.
If you go Zavino 112 S. 13th St. (215) 732-2400 www.zavino.com Open daily for lunch and dinner
PGN
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
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Community celebrates Gayborhood history, future By Jen Colletta PGN Staff Writer The Gayborhood has become home to countless LGBTs over the past several decades — whether t h ey a c t u ally lived there or not — and over the next few weeks, the LGBT community will celebrate the neighborhood’s storied history and look to its future. “ T h e r e ’s No Place Like Home” will pay tribute to the 40-year history of the current Gayborhood with two weeks of events that include a photo exhibition, screenings in conjunction with LGBT film festival QFest, restaurant and retail discounts and a block party on July 11. When the Gayborhood was just forming in the neighborhood that’s officially known as Washington Square West about four decades ago, a public LGBT street festival like this would have been unheard of, said Bob Skiba, archivist at the William Way LGBT Community Center. “We’ve certainly come very far,” Skiba said. “We started out as this fringe element living in the shadows, and we’re now a community that’s out and proud.” While the celebration recognizes 40 years of the Gayborhood, LGBT locales were in existence well before 1970 — but in much different forms than the modern gay establishments. Gayborhood pillar Tavern on Camac stands on the site of what is considered the oldest gay bar in the city, Maxine’s, a locale that opened in the 1930s and was popular with many LGBTs. “Maxine’s catered to the arts set in the town, so actors from the theaters and artists, but it was considered ‘bohemian,’ which was really code for gay. That was something everyone knew,” Skiba said. The growth of the gay presence in Center City began to become noticeable after World War II, Skiba explained. “After the war, the population was
more sexual minorities. “All of the big hotels were on Broad Street, so this was an entertainment area for men who were here for conventions and things like that, so strip joints and all-girl revue bars began popping up, especially on Locust Street,” Skiba said. “It’s strange for us now, because Locust is so sedate and upper-middle class, but throughout the ’60s it was really a red-light district. I saw a newspaper article in the Inquirer that referred to it as ‘Lurid Locust.’ Always in big cities when you have those kind of establishments, they attract other fringe groups, UNCLES PGN file photo like gay people.” Skiba noted that the gay bars that began to spring earning money. So lesbians, who up in the ’60s and early ’70s were had tiny incomes before, are now suddenly able to go out and go to bars. After World War II, this whole bar culture developed.” Members of the community largely began living on and around Spruce Street, both east and west of Broad Street — resulting in gay men coming to be called “Spruce Street Boys” — so LGBT nightlife was spread out across the main Center City thoroughfare. Throughout the ’60s and early ’70s, however, new developments east of Broad began to attract even really jumbled up. Men who lived out in small towns were suddenly going to big cities like Philadelphia to travel to Europe or elsewhere. And for the first time, since the men were gone, single women were out
A founder and Gayborhood original since 1979
did so in secret. “You really had to look both ways before you went in anywhere,” said Franny Price, who owns Spruce Street Video (now on 12th Street), which has been in business for more than 25 years. “Now you can walk anyplace without thinking anything about it, but back then you could be arrested at any time.” Skiba noted that many gay bars and clubs had side or back entrances — such as lesbian bar MAMZELLE’S IN 1985 Photo: William Way archives Rusty’s on Quince and The gay bars that did begin to open their doors, however, largely See GAYBORHOOD, Page 36
largely not gay-owned, but rather by those with organized-crime connections who often paid off police to safeguard their prostitution operations and their flourishing gay clientele.
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Gayborhood GAYBORHOOD From Page 35
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going on, where drag shows were. But we didn’t have fundraisers back then and actually didn’t have any nonprofits. There wasn’t a single gay nonprofit in America going back to the ’60s.” However, an incident that is considered by many to have fueled the modern LGBT-rights movement also helped to fuel the visibility of the local gay community. “A f t e r Stonewall [riots in New York City in 1969], the population was suddenly out,” Skiba said. “Suddenly bu s i n e s s e s started advertising as gayowned and operated, and that’s when this area saw some really dramatic changes.”
Walnut streets, where patrons had to walk up a back staircase and knock to enter, although police raids on such establishments, even up until the early 1980s, were common. Local Merchant Mel Heifetz, who owned a coffee house in the mid1950s at 20th and Sansom streets that had a large gay clientele, said that although L G B T nightl i f e wa s largely hidden from the m a i n stream, the bar scene was one of the Wo o d y ’s , few outw h i c h lets that o p e n e d THE FORREST AND US&AA BARS ON i n 1 9 8 0 , provided g a y s a n d QUINCE STREET Photo: William Way archives became the lesbians a first gay bar sense of community. in the city to have windows that “Were things closeted? Yes, but actually looked out onto the street, we knew where to go out, we knew and the restaurant renaissance that where the gay hot spots were, we hit Center City Philadelphia in the knew which bars to go to,” he said. 1970s and early ’80s was largely “Gay bars didn’t have the big neon attributed to the LGBT community, flashing lights, but the word of Skiba said. mouth spread where things were While the height of the AIDS epi-
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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Gayborhood demic in the late 1980s and early ’90s was thought to have been a death knell for many LGBT clubs and bars, the community continued to reinvent and reinvigorate the neighborhood, especially in the last few years. Bruce Yelk, director of gay initiatives for the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, said the slew of new Gayborhood establishments was one of the main motivating factors for holding the 40th-anniversary celebration. “We noticed that a lot of businesses have either recently renovated or changed or upgraded,” he said. “Pure became Voyeur, Bump became Q, Westbury was remodeled, J.R.’s Lounge opened [and
recently closed], Knock opened in the last few years and we knew that Tabu was going to be opening. And then in addition, there’s an amazing dining scene in that area that wasn’t there before. So it made us think, ‘Wow, we should do something to have a grand reopening of the Gayborhood.’” The notion of the “reopening” was met with some resistance from com-
Yelk said organizers reworked the event into more of a tribute to the continued growth and development of the Gayborhood. “ I t ’s a b o u t celebrating the vibrancy of the Gayborhood and showing how it’s thrived through the contributions of gay-specific businesses and gay-friendly WOODY’S IN 1985 PGN file photo businesses,” Yelk munity members — as the neighsaid. “Many gayborhood was never “closed” — so borhoods haven’t experienced that
same trend, so that’s what we want to celebrate.” Until July 24, 30 of those businesses will offer discounts and specials for individuals with a Rainbow Discount Card, which can be picked up at Woody’s, Tabu, Q and Tavern on Camac. Also throughout the duration of the celebration, the William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., will feature a retrospective photo exhibit of the Gayborhood. “There’s No Place Like Home” will kick off with a press conference featuring Mayor Nutter at 4 p.m. July 10 at 13th and Locust streets, followed by an opening reception at See GAYBORHOOD, Page 38
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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Gayborhood the Gay Games. Yelk said actors who appear in some of the QFest films may also be in From Page 35 attendance. A new batch of rainbow street signs will be Q, 1234 Locust St. installed this month on secondary streets in 16 At 6 p.m. that evening, bars throughout the locations in the neighborhood, adding to the Gayborhood will screen three-dozen signs already the new documentary in place. film “Welcome to the Skiba noted that Gayborhood,” in conthe signs demonstrate just junction with QFest, how far the Gayborhood which will run through has come in its 40 years. July 19. “Those signs say On July 11, the that we’ve contributed to Gayborhood will play the city, that we’re part host to a block party of the city and this city from noon-6 p.m. The is just as much ours as it festival, which will take is anyone else’s, and that place on 13th Street, this is something that the between Locust and city itself acknowledges. Walnut streets, and And while the signs Camac Street, between MAXINE’S AND VENTURE INN ON do show us a boundLocust and Spruce, CAMAC STREET PGN file photo ary for the Gayborhood, copious entertainment the gay influence on offerings and commuPhiladelphia has certainly gone well beyond nity-building activities. the Gayborhood. But it’s still a very imporLocal nonprofits will be on hand — many of tant statement.” which will host carnival-like games for guests For more information about “There’s No — as will previous Mr. Gay Philadelphia con- Place Like Home,” visit www.facebook. testants, who will be sitting atop a dunking com/visitgayphilly. ■ booth. Local drag celebs such as Brittany Lynn will perform, along with Howard Frankel, the Jen Colletta can be reached at jen@epgn. winner of last year’s vocalist competition at com.
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Comedian Margaret Cho co-stars in this episode in which Jane’s mother gets arrested. 9 p.m. on Lifetime. My Summer of Love Two lonely teen girls meet and fall in love in this film. 10 p.m. on Logo.
The Rachel Maddow Show Monday-Friday, 9 p.m. on MSNBC.
MONDAY RuPaul’s Drag Race A repeat of the season-two finale. 9:30 p.m. on Logo.
FRIDAY The Real L Word Natalie and Rose take off on a Valentine’s Day getaway. Whitney is offered a lead role in a film. 9 p.m. on Showtime.
True Beauty Out TV personality Carson Kressley hosts this reality competition, which is down to its final four contestants. 10 p.m. on ABC.
Anderson Cooper 360 A news-magazine show starring the TV personality. 10 p.m. on CNN.
TUESDAY Losing It With Jillian Michaels The bisexual personal trainer from “The Biggest Loser” helps people live healthier in this reality series. 8 p.m. on NBC.
Every Thursday 10 pm
SATURDAY The Beautiful People The comedic adventures of a young, gay Simon Doonan in suburban 1990s England. 10 p.m. on Logo. The Jaquie Brown Diaries Jaquie looks for an A-list lover. 10:30 p.m. on Logo.
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America’s Got Talent Twelve acts from the top 48 spots perform. 9 p.m. on NBC. My Life on the D-List Comedian Kathy Griffin gets honored by the HRC and travels to Washington, D.C. 10 p.m. on Bravo.
The Wanda Sykes Show The out comedian hosts this repeat of her weekly talk show with guests Gina Gershon and Wesley Snipes. 11 p.m. on Fox.
The Big Gay Sketch Show The gay sketch comedy series. 10 p.m. on Logo.
SUNDAY Drop Dead Diva
WEDNESDAY Chris and John Go To Camp
Proudly supporting Gay Pride!
A SECOND HELPING: Out comedians and Internet stars Jeffery Self (left) and Cole Escola (right) are back for a second season of quirky web-cam hilarity when their comedy sketch series, “Jeffery & Cole Casserole,” returns at midnight July 9 on Logo. Photo: Logo
In this reality series, two Canadian makeover experts spend the summer at an LGBT camp in Michigan. 8 p.m. on Logo. So You Think You Can Dance The top seven dancers compete. 8 p.m. on Fox. Modern Family Look for out characters Mitchell and Cameron in this repeat where they try to set Manny up on a date. 9 p.m. on ABC. The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Greene The film based on the underground comic strip. 9 p.m. on Logo. Top Chef: Washington, D.C. Chefs face off in this cooking competition. 9 p.m. on Bravo. THURSDAY Glee Out actress Jane Lynch stars in this repeat. 8 p.m. on Fox. SOLUTION, from Page 31
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Diversions Your guide to arts and entertainment
Theater
Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy The animal-themed show blending circus elements and Broadway theatrics runs through Sept. 5 at Trump Taj Mahal’s Xanadu Theater, 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City; (609) 4416150. Dora the Explorer The children’s TV character goes on a live-stage adventure, July 10-16 at Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe St., Bristol; (215) 785-0100. Fiddler on the Roof Walnut Street Theatre presents the award-winning musical, through July 18, 825 Walnut St.; (215) 5743550.
Music
Sting The singer performs at 8 p.m. July 9 at the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City; (609) 3171000. Furthur Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir perform with friends at 7:30 p.m. July 10-11 at The Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Ave.; (215) 5467900. Huey Lewis and the News The rock band performs at 8 p.m. July 10 at Caesars’ Circus Maximus Theater, 2100 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City; (609) 348-4411.
Sarazino The world music/dance artist performs at 8:30 p.m. July 15 at Kimmel’s Perelman Theater, 240 S. Broad St.; (215) 7905847.
PGN
Pick
ZOSO The Led Zeppelin tribute band performs at 7:30 p.m. July 14 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; (215) 572-7650.
Exhibits
All My Little Friends ArtStar Gallery hosts an exhibition of works by Ashley G. and Drew, through July 18, 623 N. Second St.; (215) 2381557.
Ancient Rome & America Wang Chung The National Constitution Les Miserables The rock band performs at 8 Center presents an Media Theatre for the p.m. July 10 at Sellersville exhibition of rare artifacts Performing Arts presents Theater 1894, 136 N. Main from Italy and the the popular musical, July St., Sellersville; (215) 257- United States, including 14-Aug. 8, 104 E. State St., 3000. excavated remains from Media; (610) 891-0100. Pompeii and Roman Jill Sobule busts of Julius Caesar and The Producers The out singer-songwriter Cicero, through Aug. 1, The Ritz Theatre Company performs at 7:30 p.m. July 525 Arch St.; (215) 409presents the Mel Brooks 11 at Sellersville Theater 6600. comedy about a scheme 1894, 136 N. Main St., to get rich off a Broadway Cleopatra: The Search Sellersville; (215) 257flop, through Aug. 7, 915 for the Last Queen of 3000. White Horse Pike, Haddon Egypt Township, N.J.; (856) 858- 311 and The Offspring The Franklin Institute 5320. presents an exhibition of The rock bands perform at 150 artifacts from Egypt, 8 p.m. July 13 at Festival The Second City 50th through Jan. 2, 20th Street Pier, 121 N. Columbus Anniversary Tour and the Parkway; (215) Blvd.; (215) 336-2000. The legendary improv 448-1200. troupe performs sketches Chris Isaak spanning its history, July Fowl Images The singer-songwriter 13-24 at Suzanne Roberts Twenty-Two Gallery performs at 7:30 p.m. July Theatre, 480 S. Broad St.; 14 at Keswick Theatre, 291 presents an exhibition (215) 985-0420. N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; of Eric N. Fausnacht’s portraits of domestic fowl (215) 572-7650. Three Sisters in a contemporary style, Temple University through Aug. 8, 236 S. Julio Iglesias presents a staging of 22nd St.; (215) 772-1911. Enrique’s dad performs at Anton Chekhov’s master 8 p.m. July 15 at The Mann work, through Aug. 1 at Inspiring Fashion: Center for the Performing Tomlinson Theater, 1301 W. Arts, 5201 Parkside Ave.; Gifts from Designers Honoring Tom Marotta Norris St.; (800) 838-3006. (215) 546-7900.
What could possible threaten the bond shared by one of literature’s most recognizable crime-fighting duos? We’ll find out when People’s Light & Theatre Company presents a play exploring the friendship between the brilliant and enigmatic detective, Sherlock Holmes (Peter DeLaurier), and his accomplished sidekick, Dr. Watson (Mark Lazar), in “The Secret of Sherlock Holmes,” through Aug. 8, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern. For more information, call (610) 647-1900.
Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of contemporary special occasion and eveningwear, through Sept. 6, 26th Street and the Parkway; (215) 763-8100.
against women, through July 16, 3401 Filbert St.; (215) 895-2548.
The Seventh Annual Marge Brown Kalodner Graduate Student Exhibition The Clay Studio presents an exhibition of new works, through Aug. 1, 139 N. Second St.; (215) 925-3453.
Pleasures and Pastimes in Japanese Art Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of costumes, masks and poetry exploring the ways in which leisure time was interpreted across all social classes in Japanese art, through fall, 26th Street and the Parkway; (215) 763-8100.
Ni Una Mas (Not One More) The Leonard Westphal College presents an exhibition addressing the global issue of femicide — targeted violence
queerArt? AxD Gallery presents an exhibition of works examining queer sensibilities, through Aug. 7, 265 S. 10th St.; (215) 627-6250.
Queer Voices Institute of Contemporary Art presents a group exhibition of queer art, through Aug. 1, 118 S. 36th St.; (215) 8987108. Self Portraits of People I Don’t Know Proximity Gallery presents an exhibition of miniature portraits by JoKa, through July 15, 2434 E. Dauphin St.; (267) 825-2949. Smooth Cartographies The Phillip and Muriel Berman Museum of Art at Ursinus College presents an exhibition of work from digital-media artist Greg Scranton using locative technologies, through Aug. 1, 601 E. Main St., Collegeville; (610) 409-3500.
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
Wired and Hazy SALT Art Gallery hosts an exhibition featuring the works of Chris Harford, Jill Allen, Thomas Pitilli, Sheila Delvin and Tim Ward, through Aug. 21, 212 Race St.; (215) 939-7426.
On the Waterfront Bryn Mawr Film Institute hosts a screening of the 1954 film starring Marlon Brando, 7 p.m. July 14, 824 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr; (610) 527-9898.
Film
Books
Blobfest 2010 A double feature of “The Blob” and “20 Million Miles to Earth” is screened at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. July 10 at The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; (610) 917-0223. Elena Undone QFest presents a screening of the lesbian film at 12:15 p.m. July 10 at Ritz East, 125 S. Second St.; (215) 925-2501. Funny Girl The film starring Barbra Streisand is screened at 7 p.m. July 10 at Gershman Y, 401 S. Broad St.; (215) 446-3021. The Goonies The 1980s adventure film is screened at 7:30 p.m. July 12 at Sellersville Theater 1894, 136 N. Main St., Sellersville; (215) 257-3000.
Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell The gay couple and stars of “The Fabulous Beekman Boys” host a reading and signing of Kilmer-Purcell’s new book, “The Bucolic Plague,” from 1-3 p.m. July 10 at Terrain at Stylers, 914 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills; (610) 459-2400. Aaron Powell The author of “Behind Concrete Doors” hosts a reading at 5:30 p.m. July 10 at Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St.; (215) 923-2960. Steven Raichlen The author of “Planet Barbecue: 275 Recipes, 53 Countries, 6 Continents of Great Flavor” hosts a book event at 7:30 p.m. July 15 at Central Library, 1901 Vine St.; (215) 686-5322.
Cabaret
Cabaret Red Light presents Lust The group performs a musical spectacular July 9-10 at Plays & Players, 1714 Delancey St.; (215) 735-0630. Lady HAHA and Friends West Coast comics Shawn Pelofsky and Courtney Cronin perform at 8:30 p.m. July 9 at Harlans at The Nevermore, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope; (215) 862-5225. Andrew Suvalsky The out jazz vocalist performs at 8:30 p.m. July 10 at Harlans at The Nevermore, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope; (215) 862-5225.
Etc.
Ben Bailey The comedian from “Cash Cab” performs July 9 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; (215) 496-9001.
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Craig Ferguson The late-night TV host and comedian performs at 8 p.m. July 10 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; (215) 572-7650.
Barbra-Palooza: Barbra Karaoke Voyeur hosts the all-Streisand event, 9:30 p.m. July 14, 1221 St. James St.; (215) 735-5772.
Kevin Brennan The comedian and writer from “Saturday Night Live” performs July 10 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; (215) 4969001.
Improv Comedy: ComedySportz World Tournament 2010 Over 100 comics from 20 cities compete at 6 and 9 p.m. July 15-17 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; (215) 222-1400. ■
First Person StorySlam The spoken-work performances start at 8:30 p.m. July 12 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; (215) 222-1400. LGBT Night with the Camden Riversharks Root for this New Jersey baseball team at 7:05 p.m. July 13 at Campbell’s Field, 401 N. Delaware Ave., Camden; (856) 831-0431.
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.
Kevin Hart The comedian performs at 8 and 11 p.m. July 9 at the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; (609) 317-1000.
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OUTDOOR CAFE
WE’RE THE KIDS IN AMERICA: The top 10 contestants of this season’s “American Idol” put the talents that got them on the show in the spotlight for the “American Idols Live” tour, which swings through the area at 7:30 p.m. July 10 at Mark E. Etess Arena, 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, and 7:30 July 11 at the Wachovia Center, 3601 S. Broad St. For more information, visit www.americanidol.com.
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PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
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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
JULY 9 - 15, 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
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
PAGE 45
Classifieds
With Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services and Personals
Mortgage rates drop to another low, 4.58 pct. By Alan Zibel The Associated Press
Mortgage rates have sunk to the lowest level in more than five decades, but consumers aren’t rushing to refinance their loans or buy homes. Mortgage company Freddie Mac said last Thursday the average rate for 30-year-fixed loans sank to 4.58 percent. That’s down from the previous record of 4.69 percent set the prior week and the lowest since the mortgage company began keeping records in 1971. The last time they were cheaper was the 1950s, when most long-term home loans lasted just 20 or 25 years. Rates have fallen over the past two months. Investors wary of the European debt crisis and the stock market have shifted money into the safety of Treasury bonds, driving down yields. Mortgage
rates tend to track the yields on long-term Treasuries. Last Wednesday, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note dropped to 2.95 percent. That was the first time it has fallen below 3 percent since April 2009, when the markets were beginning to recover from the financial crisis. But tighter lending standards and declining home equity have made it difficult for many borrowers to refinance. Many who do qualify have already done so over the past 18 months. Applications for mortgages rose nearly 9 percent two weeks ago from a week earlier, the Mortgage Bankers Association said last Wednesday. But they remain at only about half the level of early 2009 and a far cry from the refinancing boom of 2003-05, when home prices were soaring and borrowers were able to pull
equity out of their homes to pay for home renovations, boats and vacation homes. 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. “I expect to see pockets of re-fi activity versus an overall wave,” said Scott Buchta, chief mortgage strategist with Braver Stern Securities. “The problem is, for many borrowers, they don’t have the equity in their homes.”
If rates drop below 4.5 percent, Buchta said, that might spark a burst of refinancing activity. But it would be limited to people who refinanced or bought homes over the past year and have rates of 5 percent or higher. To calculate the national average, Freddie Mac collects mortgage rates on Monday through Wednesday of each week from lenders around the country. Rates often fluctuate significantly, even within a given day. Rates on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages fell to an average of 4.04 percent, the lowest on records dating to September 1991 and down from 4.13 percent a week earlier. Rates on five-year adjustablerate mortgages averaged 3.79 percent, down from 3.84 percent a week earlier. That was also the lowest on Freddie Mac’s records, which date back only to January
2005. Average rates on one-year adjustable-rate mortgages rose to 3.8 percent from 3.77 percent. The rates do not include add-on fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount. The nationwide fee for all types of loans in Freddie Mac’s survey averaged 0.7 a point. 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. In “no fee” mortgages, costs are often added to the loan amount, or the interest rate is higher. ■
Location! Location! Location! This week’s featured property
Beds: 4 Baths: 4.5 Cost: $500,000 Square footage: 3,096 Age of property: 20+ Realtor: Laurel Witts Real-estate co.: Weichert Realtor Phone: (856) 983-2888 Direct: (856) 768-6330 Website: www.5Bramfield.com
Magnificent 4-bdrm, 4-bath home, radiates serenity and blends beautifully with its natural surroundings. Nestled on 1.53 acres. Sleek, sophisticated and stylish. The kitchen is a masterpiece with lavish use of quartz, high-end Bosch appliances and hardware that blends culinary functionality with sublime design purity. French doors open to the incredible multi-level deck with 6-person hot tub, inground heated pool and pool house with kitchen area and full bath.
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5 Bramfield Ct., Medford, NJ
• 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.
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
PAGE 46
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
Real Estate 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 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 _______________________________34-28 ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY (55 plus) in Beautiful, Historic Smyrna, Delaware. New Single-Home Development near beaches & bay areas. Purchase prices from $99,900. CALL 302-659-5800. Visit www. bonayrehomes.com _______________________________34-28 Can’t Wait Until Fall! New York Land for Sale! Our Best Deer Tract: 97 acres Surrounded by Stateland- $119,995. Our #1 Camp Deal: 40 acres w/ Camp & Stream- $59,995. Our Best All-time Deal: 5 acres w/ Wilderness Cabin$19,995! Call TODAY and receive FREE CLOSING COSTS! Private financing offered. 800-229-7843 www.LandandCamps.com _______________________________34-28 WATERFRONT PROPERTIES 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 _______________________________34-28
PGN
REAL ESTATE
SALE
REAL ESTATE
SALE
REAL ESTATE
SALE
REAL ESTATE
SALE
Brett Bender ®
Now offering the Barclay 9 F&G
Magnificent 4 bdrm 4 bath home, radiates serenity and blends beautifully with its natural surroundings. Nestled on 1.53 acres. Sleek, sophisticated and stylish.Subtle and rich upgrades combine for a soothing yet avant-garde living experience.The kitchen is a masterpiece with lavish use of quartz , high-end Bosch appliances and hardware that blends culinary functionally with sublime design purity. French doors open to the incredible multi-level deck with 6person hot tub.,.inground heated pool and pool house with kitchen area and full bath.
5 Bramfield Ct, Medford, NJ 08055 or call for an appt: Weichert Realtor: ask for Laurel: 856-983-2888 Laurel Witts
Sales Assoc/Appraiser Where you always get the help you need!
Weichert Realtor
609-314-5670 Fax: 856-768-0052
By Appointment
210 W. RITTENHOUSE SQUARE PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103 OFFICE 215-546-0550 DIRECT 215-790-5513
$1,825,000
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JULY 9 - 15, ������������������ 2010 ���������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������� REAL ESTATE ����������������� �������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������� ������������ ������������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������� ������
SALE
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SALE
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
REAL ESTATE
PAGE 47
REAL ESTATE
SALE
SALE
605 N Atlantic Ave. Collingswood-Lumber Yard Condos
wood floors, stainless steel energy �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� efficient appliances, ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� formal dining room, ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 9 ft. ceilings, foyer, ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������� powder room and ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� new plush carpeting �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� in the bedrooms. ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Gorgeous master ����������������������������������������������������������������������������� bedroom that offers a California closet and full bath that has his and her sinks. Second Bedroom ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� is currently being used as a Den. Conveniently located on the 1st floor that overlooks the court����������������������������������������������������������������������� yard. Walk��������������������������������������������������������������������� to restaurants and shops in Historic Collingswood. Possible lease puchase option. ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� John Kennedy 856-428-9677, Ex. 252 Ninety Tanner Street • Haddonfield, NJ 08033 ��������
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SERVICES DIRECTORY
E-mail us: pgn@epgn.com
www.lvlrealtors.com • Email: jkennedy@lvlrealtors.com
Recreational Activities IN THE
Meeting Place
��� SERVICES DIRECTORYWASH WEST ���������������� WINNER
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1229 PINE ST $499,000
����������� ���������������������. 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 ................................�������������
Fabulous townhome in the heart of Wash West...2br/2b plus den plus large deck plus 25’ garden!!!
������������������������ “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. .........................................................................��������
2 fireplaces High ceilings. OPEN FLOOR PLAN....Be a neighbor in the most exciting location !!!
������������������� 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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������������������ this space: ������������������������������������� ���������������������� only $25 per
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week*
REAL ESTATE
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 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 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 NEW BOLD AREA 1600 Blk Jackson St. 2nd fl. 2 BR ultra modern apt w/garage. Call Villa Realty for more details. 215-271-0600. _______________________________34-30
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 Room for rent near 8th & Carpenter. Large hse, quiet st. W/D, garden, kitchen. $500/mo. Call 215-847-2793. _______________________________34-28 SOUTH PHILLY Furnished room in private home. Full house privileges. 1 block from Broad. Must be employed. $450/mo. utils incl. 215-551-7611. _______________________________34-30 51ST & CITY AVE. VICINITY Quiet neighborhood, N/S male, full time grad. or international student pref. Kit/laundry priv. Utils incl. Furnished. $375/mo. (Also room w/half bath, $395.) Call 215-878-5182. _______________________________34-28
Your ad dollars go further when Suzanne E. Petruzel, GRI you target your ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Sales Associate Cell 610-859-8030 audience VACATION
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Reach Over 40,000 Readers Weekly For As Little As $25.00 A Week.
Fox & Roach REALTORS®
At the Rittenhouse 210 W. Rittenhouse Sq. Phila, PA 19103 Office 215-546-0550 Dir. 215-790-5671 Cell 610-659-8030 suzanne.petruzel@prufoxroach.com
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 _______________________________34-28
CRC, CVE A, CRC, CVE ant
bility sability als 85
APRIL 25 - MAY 1, 2008
PAGE PAGE 48 110
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
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
SALE
SALE
“Twilight Open House” Thurs. July 8, 2010 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
- 15, 2010 APRIL 25 JULY - MAY9 1, 2008
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM 1109 Spruce St. New condo conversion. FHA approved for .035% down. Renovated 1 - 2 bedroom, 1 - 2 bath units. Close to Jefferson and Pa. hospitals. Low fees and taxes. ............................ ..................................................................$180,000 - $299,000
Open Houses - Sunday June 27, 2010
CONCIERGE LEGAL SERVICES
Noon - 1:00 PM
James M. Quesenberry, MA, CRC, CVE Disability Consultant
1109 Spruce St Unit. 1R. Deluxe bi-level 2 bedroom, 2 bath totally renovated unit. Deluxe Granite and S/S kitchen, large rear garden, close to Jefferson and Pa. Hospitals. ................................. ...............................................................................only $299,000 1:30 - 2:30 PM
bility
Social Security Disability Claims Appeals
215-629-0585 Suite 202 Oxford Valley Rd. Fairless Hills, PA 19030
1109 Spruce St. Units 2R and 3R. Best condo deal in Washington Sq. West. 1 bd., 1 ba. units. Low taxes and fees. Close to Jefferson and Penn. Hospital ............................................ ................................................................$180,000 & $225,000
Search all Philadelphia area listings @ www.thephillyrealtors.com Dan Tobey
The Curtis Center 170 W. Independence Mall , Suite L-44 Philadelphia, PA 19106
215.546.2700 Business • 267.238.1061 Direct 215.432.7151 Cell • 215.546.7728 Fax dtobey@cbpref.com
FOR SALE 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
FINANCIAL
SERVICES
CASH NOW! Get cash for your structured settlement or annuity payments. High payouts. Call J.G. Wentworth. 1-866-SETTLEMENT (1-866738-8536). Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. _______________________________34-24
SERVICES
this space: only $25 per week*
HELP WANTED Reach Over 40,000 Readers Weekly For LittleEsq. As $25.00 A Week. Call 215-625-8501 Today! Charles S. As Frazier,
Your ad dollars go further when you target your audience *when you run for a minimum of 8 weeks
Attorney at Law
• General Practice • Wills and Trusts • Living Wills • Powers of Attorney • Probate
Wayne, PA (610) 687-4077 cstar1@verizon.net
ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE From Home. *Medical *Business *Paralegal *Computers *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 888-220-3984 www.CenturaOnline.com _______________________________34-28 AIRLINES ARE HIRING Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified -Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888)349-5387. _______________________________34-28
BUSINESS
OPPORTUNITIES ch Over 40,000 Readers Weekly For As Little As $25.00 A Week. Call 215-625-8501 Today!
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. _______________________________34-28
ADOPTION ADOPT A nurturing, loving teacher hopes to adopt newborn. Financial security, unconditional love, extended family for your baby. Expenses paid. Denise @ 1-877-309-5298. _______________________________34-24
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PGN
SALON COORDINATOR Receptionist need for upscale center city salon. Please send or fax resume to salonthalia@aol. com or fax 215-625-3707. _______________________________34-29 TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED! MORE HOMETIME! TOP PAY! EXCELLENT BENEFITS! NEWER EQUIPMENT! Up to $.48/mile company drivers! HEARTLAND EXPRESS 1-800-441-4953 www.heartlandexpress.com _______________________________34-28 CDL-A Drivers: We Have More Miles, Just Ask Our Drivers! Your hard work earns a solid paycheck. Van and Flatbed Divisions. CDL-A, 6 mo. OTR, Good driving record required. Western Express 888-801-5295 _______________________________34-28 COMPANY Experienced OTR drivers and Teams. Consistent Miles, Excellent Health Benefits. 6 mo. OTR exp. & current CDL 888-463-3962 www. usatruck.jobs EOE M/F/H/V _______________________________34-28 Driver FB- Boyd Bros. Experienced CDL-A Drivers. We are loaded with freight! Sign-on Bonus! Top Equipment/Benefits. Flatbed Training Available. Lease Purchase Program. 800-543-8923. _______________________________34-28 Drivers - Hiring Regional Van Drivers. 41.5 cpm with 2 years experience. Great Benefits. Home EVERY Week. 1 year tractor-trailer experience required. Call 888-967-5487, or apply online at www.averittcareers.com. Equal Opportunity Employer. _______________________________34-28
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
PAGE 49
SERVICES & HOME IMPROVEMENT DIRECTORY this space: only $25 per week*
James M. Quesenberry, MA, CRC, CVE Disability Consultant
Your ad dollars go further when you target your audience
Social Security Disability Claims Appeals
215-629-0585 Suite 202 Oxford Valley Rd. Fairless Hills, PA 19030
*when you run for a minimum of 8 weeks
dunbar painting
I Work Alone To Ensure Job Quality!
Cell 215-715-7335 Interior/Exterior Painting • Plaster/Drywall Repair • Wallpaper Removal • Finish Carpentry • Old House Specialist• Excellent References - Photos of Work Available
DOUGLAS CONSTRUCTION • Complete Home Remodeling • Interior Design • Kitchen & Bath Specialists • Custom Interior renovations PAGE 106
Free Estimates Licensed & Insured
Douglas Morgan 215-462-1066
WINDOW TREATMENTS buy direct from manufacturer
WOODBLINDS • CELLULAR SHADES • SHUTTERS WOVEN WOODS • ROMAN SHADES VERTICALS FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE Residential Commercial
Highest Quality • Lowest Prices Guaranteed
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Expert Installation Philadelphia, PA 19147
Window Blind Factory (215) 755-4340 Reach Over 40,000 Readers Weekly For As Little As $25.00 A Week. Call 215-625-8501 Today!
nite. GWM couple ISO GWMs 18-40 yrs. for 1 on 1 and group sex. Stockings, pantyhose, etc. Starts 9 PM Sat. Call Sat. 7-8 PM 856910-8303, ask for Mark. _______________________________33-24 JULY 7”9 cut. - 15, 2010 GWM, Italian, top or bottom, Also into assplay, toys & water sports. Bi, straight, out of towners welcome. Day or night. Call Jeff at FRIENDS 215-850-7900. _______________________________33-18
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS ADULT PERSONALS
PAGE 50
FRIENDS
FRIENDS
LOOKING FOR ROMANCE Attractive GWM, warm, sensitive, caring, 48 y.o. with a smooth gymnast build looking for other GWM, 30-50, who is also in good shape. I live in NE Phila. I’m looking for guys who are also sensitive, caring with a fun personality. If this sounds interesting to you feel free to call me, David, 215-698-0215. _______________________________34-29
FREE ONE HOUR FOOT MASSAGE Your choice of deep tissue or sensual or a combination of both. By appt only. The catch? You must be between 19 and 25 and clean and in good physical condition. 267-337-2313. Please call between 11 AM and 11 PM. _______________________________34-28 Freak-ass white boy looking for young-ass straight actin’ black bottom. 215-416-4146 _______________________________34-30 GWM, 62, good body seeks other gay/bi men with good bodies. John, 570-640-8179. _______________________________34-29 Harrisburg area GWM, 68 seeks discreet oral. Slim to medium build. Straight or married. 717732-6666, leave message if not home. _______________________________34-31 You: XXX endowed. Me: nice white butt. Ready? 8-11 PM, 215-732-2108. _______________________________34-31 MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ GWM, 49, conservative, Italian, professional seeks friends/relationship with same, 35-55. Good sense of humor, solid core values a must, Call 732-763-1470. _______________________________34-37
MEN
Erotic Dungeon Master
6’, 165 lbs., 60 year old Master, greek active, french passive requires obedient slave for training, S&M, B/D, W/S, etc. Limits respected and expanded. Assistant Master wanted. Call Dave at 215-729-6670, day or evening. _______________________________34-34 609-345-8203 oceanhouseatlanticcity.com _______________________________34-39 Athletic older BJ expert to real men in PrincetonTrenton areas will take your load! No eves & no wknds. Lv msg 609-213-5013. _______________________________34-28 Attractive she-male looking for gay men or other she-males. Contact 484-636-6696. _______________________________34-29 Senior WM ISO WM wanting to receive oral pleasure. Call me at 856-672-0282, Walt. _______________________________34-28 GWM, 40’s looking for gay/bi males, 25-30, smooth, semi muscular for summer fun, possibly more down at the shore. Wildwood area. Call 732-850-6180. _______________________________34-29
MEN
MEN
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FRIENDS
BI
Single WM ISO bi M/F couple, any age or race for good times together. Dom female a plus. Oral, maybe more. Call 215-634-2652. _______________________________34-30
PGN
CERTIFIED Gay is our MASSAGE middle name.
��� Celebrate Pride Day 2010 on Sunday, June 13th. Mention this ad and get $10.00 off anything in the store priced $39.95 or higher!
Handsome Certified Therapist 6’, 195 lbs, Muscle Gives Sensual / Therapeutic Massage
PGN Home Improvement
Directory
Call 215-432-6030
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PGN Health Directory
B-7
JULY 9 - 15, 2010
ADULT PERSONALS PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
MASSAGE
MASSAGE
MASSAGE
CALL AUSTIN
6’2”, 185 African American Well Hung Top In Shape
• Full Body • Deep Tissue • Sensual
MASSAGE
Joe Sarge NYC! PORN-HUNK-DAD!
• Erotic
267-601-5172
R-1
Sensual Nude M4M Massage For DISCREET MEN ONLY Handsome, 48 yrs.old 5’-10”, br.hair; hz.eyes Nice Guy w/ Nice Package
OUTCALLS ONLY! Michael 609-238-6247 mrldj@hotmail.com
PGN FRIENDS
MEN
D99
FULL BODY MASSAGE BY HOT JOCK
Hot, Muscular, Defined, Smooth, Solid Pecs and Abs, with a Great, Warm and Friendly Personality. Offering a Deep Tissue, Erotic, and Swedish Style Massages.
Available NOW.
Sensual Full Body Massage Outcalls Only
Available 24/7
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Call or text Dale: 267-972-5804 D96
B-2
E-mail us: pgn@ epgn.com
PGN
Call NOW to Book for July 16th - 21st
MODELS
MASSAGE
Man for Man Massage Tall, attractive, muscular Sensual/Erotic Massage I will tailor your massage to suit your needs... Incall/Outcall Convenient to Lower Bucks, NE Phila. 15 mins from CC & S.Jersey Available to any Phila area Hotel G12
215-313-1010 MODELS
ESCORTS
ESCORTS
FRIENDS
FRIENDS
“My FLESH for YOUR Pleasure”
5’9..190..MUSL-BUTT!...FAT 8! MOUTH 4 RAW SERVICE! Use’em!!
*** 732 670 5172 *** Do it!!...
(pixxx @ “M4RN.COM”.. Search “JOESARGE”)
A-51
Gay is our middle name. FRIENDS
MEN
FRIENDS
MEN
MEN
MEN
PAGE 52
PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS
JULY 9 - 15, 2010