PGN Aug. 11 - 17, 2017 by The Philadelphia Gay News

pgn Philadelphia Gay News LGBT NEWS SINCE 1976

Vol. 41 No. 32 Aug. 11-17, 2017

Family Portrait: David Ramos caters to all tastes

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM

Summer Weddings Issue: including the latest LGBT community weddings and engagements PAGES 15-32 PAGES 15-32

PAGE 35

Phillip Keene leaves his sky-high job for television sleuthing PAGE 33

By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com

N.J. woman charged in wife’s murder

A national LGBT civil-rights organization launched a grassroots campaign to accelerate LGBT progress in the country ahead of the 2018 elections, focusing specifically on Pennsylvania and five other states. The Human Rights Campaign last month unveiled HRC Rising, an effort to organize against the presidential administration and support pro-LGBT equality candidates. In a statement, HRC President Chad Griffin noted this initiative as the largest grassroots expansion in the organization’s 37-year history. “Our grassroots army of over 3million has proven that, even in the face of unprecedented challenges, we can make incredible progress and defeat the hateful politicians who’ve been emboldened by Donald Trump when we organize and mobilize,” Griffin said. “The power and determination of the 10-million LGBTQ voters and our allies across America will only continue to grow stronger in the face of discriminatory attacks on our rights and freedoms.” Senior Vice President for Policy and Political Affairs JoDee Winterhof spoke with PGN about why Pennsylvania was selected for this campaign. Winterhof noted Pennsylvania’s status as a swing state in presidential elections and the goal for it to swing toward a pro-equality president in the future. She added that Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey (D) has a pro-LGBT stance. “It’s obviously an important race,” Winterhof said of Casey’s 2018 race. “He has been a leader for the LGBTQ community and we want to see him re-elected. There are opportunities locally in the state and in municipalities.” Winterhof said HRC has been meeting with Equality Pennsylvania, the state’s LGBT-advocacy organization, to determine specific mobilization strategies. John Dawe, Equality PA’s managing director and interim chief professional officer, said he’s unsure what the relationship between HRC and Equality PA will look like, but is confident the joining of the respective state and national focuses of the organizations will be beneficial. “One of the things that this brings to the table is the ability for us to partner with a really wellknown organization in the fight PAGE 27

A New J e r s e y w o m a n allegedly shot and killed her wife on Sunday. M o u n t Holly police responded to a residence in the 100 block of Mill Street, where they found Felicia Dormans, 29, with a gunshot wound to the face. She was pronounced dead on the scene. Police arrested Laura Bluestein, 28, at the home. According to the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, Bluestein said she was married to Dormans. They are listed as married on social media. Prosecutor’s Office Public Information Officer Joel Bewley told PGN a relative of Bluestein’s came to the police station to report a possible assault at the women’s residence, prompting the police to investigate. Bewley could not disclose if there was any history of police calls for the residence. The motive for the shooting remains unclear. An autopsy was scheduled for Aug. 8. Bluestein was charged with first-degree murder, possession of a weapon and tampering with evidence. She is being held at Burlington County Jail, and prosecutors will petition for no bail at an upcoming detention hearing, Bewley said. According to Facebook, Bluestein is originally from Philadelphia and Dormans is from Northampton. n — Jen Colletta

HRC launches initiative to advance LGBT progress in PA

RALLYING THE TROOPS: Mayor Jim Kenney welcomed participants at an Aug. 3 rally in support of transgender military members and veterans. Organized by the Office of LGBT Affairs, the event was a pushback against President Donald Trump’s plan to ban transgender service members. In addition to city officials, LGBT military members addressed the crowd of about 50. For more coverage, see page 5. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Woman safe after abduction that began in Gayborhood By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com A man who purported to be driving for a car-share service allegedly abducted and robbed a Havertown woman last week after picking her up in the Gayborhood. Upper Darby police said 31-year-old Brittney Lough ordered a Lyft around 4 a.m. Aug. 2 on the 1200 block of St. James Street, in the city’s Gayborhood, before she went missing. Police located the victim hours later and she was safe and uninjured. According to reports, police said Lough was out celebrating her sister’s 21st birthday. Upper Darby Police Department Superintendent Mike Chitwood told PGN Wednesday afternoon that the two women went to LGBT bars Woody’s and Voyeur prior to the abduction. Michael Weiss, who operates Voyeur and Woody’s, said he had not heard about the incident early last

Wednesday morning and was unavailable for comment this week. The two women used the ride-sharing app to call a driver after drinking heavily, investigators said. Police said they stopped at a Sunoco gas station on West Chester Pike in Upper Darby where the driver asked Lough’s sister to buy him water so he could take medication. She went into the store and the vehicle, with Lough inside, was gone upon her return, police said. Chitwood noted to PGN that there is surveillance footage of Lough’s sister entering and exiting the store, bottle of water in hand, but there is no footage of the driver’s car since he did not pull the car all the way into the parking lot. Lough was asleep in the backseat. Police said the driver took Lough’s money, phone and other valuables by force before throwing her out of the car in Northwest Philadelphia. Lough called law enforcement from a nearby 7-Eleven store and Philadelphia PAGE 27

PGN LOCAL

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Resource listings Legal resources • ACLU of Pennsylvania: 215-592-1513; aclupa.org • AIDS Law Project of PA: 215-587-9377; aidslawpa.org • AIDS Law Project of South Jersey: 856-784-8532; aidslawsnj.org/ • Equality PA: equalitypa. org; 215-731-1447

• Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations — Rue Landau: 215-686-4670 • Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-7603686; ppd.lgbt@gmail.com • SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: 717-920-9537

• Office of LGBT Affairs — Amber Hikes: 215-686-0330; amber.hikes@phila.gov

Community centers • The Attic Youth Center; 255 S. 16th St.; 215-545-4331, atticyouthcenter.org. For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies. • LGBT Center at the University of Pennsylvania; 3907 Spruce

St.; 215-898-5044, center@dolphin.upenn.edu.

• Rainbow Room: Bucks County’s LGBTQ and Allies Youth Center

Salem UCC Education Building, 181 E. Court St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981 ext. 9065, rainbowroom@ppbucks.org.

• William Way LGBT Community Center 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220, www.waygay.org.

Health and HIV testing • Action Wellness: 1216 Arch St.; 215981-0088, actionwellness.org

• AIDS Library:

1233 Locust St.; aidslibrary.org/

• AIDS Treatment Fact line: 800-6626080

• COLOURS: coloursorganization.org, 215832-0100

• Congreso de Latinos Unidos;

• Philadelphia FIGHT: 1233 Locust

• GALAEI: 215-851-

• Washington West Project of Mazzoni Center:

216 W. Somerset St.; 215-763-8870

1822 or 866-222-3871, www.galaei.org. Spanish/English

• Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad

St.; 215-685-1821

• Mazzoni Center:

1348 Bainbridge St.; 215-563-0652, mazzonicenter.org

St.; 215-985-4448, www.fight.org

1201 Locust St.; 215985-9206

• Transgender Health Action Coalition: 215-7321207

Other • Independence Branch Library Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection: 215-685-1633

Woman dies in beach accident A Texas woman vacationing in Ocean City, Md., suffocated to death in what appears to be an accidental beach cave-in. A passerby found the body of Ashley O’Connor, 30, July 31 on the beach, with only her hand visible. Investigators said O’Connor was walking along the beach around 2 a.m. that day and may have fallen into a hole, and the sand caved in around her. Investigators said it is unclear how the hole was created, but they don’t suspect foul play. According to a fundraising page, O’Connor recently married her wife, Janet, and the two had started a painting business. To contribute to a memorial fund for O’Connor’s wife, visit www.gofundme. com/in-memory-of-ashley-oconnor. n — Jen Colletta

State agency supplements Morris case file By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com A state agency last week added four documents to a case file relating to PGN’s appeal for Nizah Morris 911 recordings from the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office. The state Office of Open Records added the documents to the case file on Aug. 4, at PGN’s request. Morris was an African-American trans woman found with a fatal head wound in December 2002, shortly after a police “courtesy ride” in the Gayborhood. Her homicide remains unsolved, and the D.A.’s Office says it has an “open” investigation. In March, OOR approved an affidavit of non-existence submitted by the D.A.’s Office regarding Morris 911 recordings in its “possession, custody or control.” But PGN contends the D.A.’s affidavit is defective. On April 12, PGN filed an appeal in Philadelphia Common Pleas Court, where the dispute remains under consideration by Judge Abbe F. Fletman. On July 18, Fletman ordered OOR to file a “certified record” in the case, which is a compilation of documents generated when OOR handled the case. On July 31, OOR filed a certified record, but omitted four documents generated from February-April. Justin F. Robinette, an attorney for PGN, said Fletman is entitled to review a complete certified record in the case.

“We’re very grateful that a complete certified record has been filed with the court,” Robinette said. “It’s crucial that the court has all of the evidence at its disposal before rendering a decision. “The Nizah Morris case is a challenge to our conscience,” Robinette added. “It really cries out for transparency. Having a complete certified record moves us a step closer to that goal.” PGN objects to several aspects of the D.A.’s affidavit of non-existence. For example, the affidavit contains the phrase “I personally searching” when referring to a search for Morris 911 recordings. Also, the affidavit doesn’t acknowledge a prior OOR ruling that Morris 911 recordings are in the D.A’s “possession, custody or control.” Those recordings were supplied to the D.A.’s Office by PGN in 2009, after the paper received them from a private citizen. Additionally, the affidavit states the D.A.’s Office “exhausted a significant amount of time” due to prior mediation with PGN. But OOR-sponsored mediation was supposed to be confidential; PGN contends the D.A.’s reference is inappropriate. Moreover, the affidavit claims OOR needs to be protected from “unreasonable burdens” caused by PGN. But OOR never has expressed a need for such protection. To the contrary, OOR recently filed a legal paper stating that, as a neutral agency, it has “no interest” in the outcome of PGN’s appeal. n

• Independence Business Alliance; 215-557-0190, IndependenceBusinessAlliance.com

• LGBT Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK • PFLAG: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833 • Philly Pride Presents: 215-875-9288

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.

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

News & Opinion

10 — Creep of the Week Editorial 11 — Letters/Feedback Mark My Words Street Talk

Columns

7 — Out Money: Where to live out retirement? 8 — Thinking Queerly: The loss of a pet family member

Arts & Culture CHAPTER ONE: Tequila was the topic of the night at the first Writer’s Block Rehab School July 11. Operators of the new Gayborhood establishment — which fuses bar, restaurant and lounge — taught students in its first-ever educational session about the origins of tequila, how it’s typically made and its many variations before they dove into a Don Julio tasting. The participants also learned how to make a cocktail with tequila while sampling snacks. Writer’s Block will host its next class in September, focusing on gin. For more information, search for the venue on Facebook. Photo: Scott A. Drake

33 35 37 38 41 42

— Feature: A perfect landing for gay actor — Family Portrait — Scene in Philly — Out & About — Comics — Q Puzzle

“Everyone who works for the City of Philadelphia is a public servant, and the public deserves to know we will take their complaints about any city service seriously. This data will show residents in an easily accessible, online format how the city handles complaints against police officers.” ~ Mayor Jim Kenney, on putting complaints about the police online, page 6

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Creep of the Week: Surprise! It’s the Creep in Chief again!

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

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Show some love! The semi-annual wedding issue has a fresh batch of engagements and some new and interesting wedding ideas here and abroad.

Editor

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

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Scott A. Drake (ext. 210) scott@epgn.com 267-736-6743 Graphic Artist Sean Dorn (ext. 211) sean@epgn.com

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Brittany Farrell — an African-American lesbian, mother and activist — is one of the many impassioned voices in the sobering documentary “Whose Streets?”

Copyright © 1976 - 2017 Copyright(s) in all materials in these pages are either owned or licensed by Masco Communications Inc. or its subsidiaries or affiliate companies (Philadelphia Gay News, PGN, and it’s WWW sites.) All other reproduction, distribution, retransmission, modification, public display, and public performance of our materials is prohibited without the prior written consent of Masco Communications. To obtain such consent, email pgn@epgn.com Published by Masco Communications Inc. © 1976-2017 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155

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LOCAL PGN

Community shows support for LGBT veterans

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com More than 50 people showed their support for LGBT veterans in the City Hall courtyard at a rally last week. The city’s Office of LGBT Affairs hosted the demonstration Aug. 3, one week after President Donald Trump tweeted his intent to ban transgender people from serving in the military. Director of LGBT Affairs Amber Hikes said the purpose of the event was to send a message that “government-sanctioned discrimination has absolutely no place” in Philadelphia or in the country. “We are here for one purpose only and that’s to wrap our loving arms around our trans brothers, sisters and siblings,” Hikes said. “So I ask that we take the time to lift each other up, show all the love that we can and listen to the voices of our service members and our veterans. Today, we need to make sure that love is louder than hate.” Mayor Jim Kenney said Trump’s tweets were a targeted attack on trans service members and commended the Coast Guard and the Pentagon for continuing to allow their service. He added that Philadelphia would “not stand for government-sanctioned bigotry and blatant transphobia.” Kenney said he was 8 in 1968, during the Vietnam War, and “it seemed the world was coming to an end.” However, he said, the country “got through that” despite obstacles. “We’ll get through this and we’ll get through this presidency, whether it’s four years or shorter — hopefully,” Kenney said to laughs from the audience. “And we’ll be better off for it and we will understand our liberty is precious and it applies to every single American and every person

who lives in our country. Thank you to all LGBTQ veterans and thanks to all veterans for their desire to serve our country and serve the people in this country.”

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Getting involved in the fight Greg Seaney-Ariano, a Navy vet, noted a few resources to get involved with the fight for equality. This included OutServeSLDN, an LGBT organization offering legal services and advocacy for LGBT military members. Seaney-Ariano encouraged individuals to contact the organization’s legal department to become a plaintiff in a potential lawsuit regarding transgender service. He also noted the Facebook group, OutServe-SLDN Delaware Valley, where individuals can mobilize and make announcements, and the OutServeSLDN’s 2017 LGBT Military Community Conference Oct. 19-21 in Washington, D.C. Dr. Remolia Simpson, who served six years in the U.S. Army, spoke about My Brother’s House. Simpson, who is gay, is the executive director of the residential housing and faith-based counseling facility. She said she is partnering with the city to open My Brother’s House, the “first LGBTQ house for homeless vets.” She has been talking to people in the business district and receiving guidance from the mayor’s office and the sheriff’s department. “If anyone is interested in learning more, please go to mbhouse.org and you’ll get more information,” Simpson said. “Please contact me if you can guide me [if you are] interested in helping with anything.” Veteran stories PAGE 9

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LOCAL PGN

Civilian complaints against police to be posted online By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com Information regarding closed-out civilian complaints of Philadelphia police misconduct will be posted online beginning in November, city officials announced last week. The information will be posted on the police department’s website. It will include a brief narrative of the complaint, the district in which the complaint occurred, complaint classification, investigative finding, Police Board of Inquiry determination, reference numbers and any additional information determined by the police commissioner or his/her designee to be appropriate. The new policy is embodied in an Aug. 1 executive order issued by Mayor Jim Kenney. Kenney hopes the move will improve police-community relations in Philadelphia, according to a city press release. Currently, people who seek information about closed-out civilian complaints have to visit the Internal Affairs Unit in Northeast Philadelphia and review the case file. “The release of this data

[online] is a common-sense reform that I hope will serve to increase community-police trust,” Kenney said in the release. “Everyone who works for the City of Philadelphia is a public servant, and the public deserves to know we will take their complaints about any city service seriously. This data will show residents in an easily accessible, online format how the city handles complaints against police officers.” But access to “independent” Internal Affairs probes of police misconduct — probes that Internal Affairs initiates regardless of whether a civilian also files a complaint about the incident — will remain more limited. The Nizah Morris incident was the subject of an “independent” Internal Affairs probe that ended in 2005. Morris’ mother, Roslyn Wilkins, filed a civilian complaint against police in 2003. But, 14 years later, the complete Internal Affairs investigative file for the Morris incident remains publicly inaccessible — though a summary of its findings is available. Ronda B. Goldfein, chair of the city’s Police Advisory

Commission, called the new online policy “a step in the right direction.” “Making this information easier for the public to access is a good thing,” Goldfein said. “We still need more work on how these complaints are investigated and whether discipline actually occurs if warranted. But increased access to appropriate information is certainly a step in the right direction.” Police Commissioner Richard Ross Jr. issued this statement: “In the city’s continuing movement toward greater transparency, today Mayor Kenney issued an executive order, which will, among other measures, allow public access to citizen complaint information through the Police Department website. I wholeheartedly support these provisions, as I too am fully committed to growth in the area of transparency and disclosure.” The online postings will begin Nov. 1, and information regarding closed-out civilian complaints dating back to 2014 will be posted in early 2018, according to the city’s press release. n

UPenn launching study of antiHIV meds By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com A local university is participating in a study on anti-HIV medication, and offering participants compensation for their time and travel. The University of Pennsylvania HIV Prevention Research Division will provide participants with Truvada, a daily oral pill, and Cabotegravir, an anti-HIV drug that can be injected once every eight weeks. Currently, health organizations only recommend Truvada for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), which has been shown to prevent HIV transmission. Nineteen research facilities across the country aim to measure whether Cabotegravir works as effectively as Truvada. The study, entitled “Give PrEP a Shot,” is open to healthy cisgender men who have sex with men and healthy transgender women who have sex with men. All participants must currently be HIV-negative and between the ages of 18-50. They will receive free and confidential HIV counseling and brief physical exams, in addition to compensation for time and travel. Each participant will receive Truvada and Cabotegravir, one of which will be a placebo. Dr. Ian

Frank, a professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, said that half of the participants will receive a real Truvada pill while the other half will receive a real Cabotegravir. Frank said at least 4,500 participants nationwide will be included in this study. While he said the university is looking for at least 70 participants in Pennsylvania, the number could increase depending on the study’s needs. Frank added that this is the first time the university conducted a large-scale study to see whether an alternative to Truvada would be effective in preventing people from becoming HIV-positive. Frank noted that he hopes the study will bring about support for HIV-prevention measures other than Truvada. “In the perfect universe, everybody does beautifully,” Frank said. “Nobody gets infected. Everybody takes their medication the right way and we wind up having two preventative strategies to prevent people from becoming HIV-infected and individuals have options. I think that would be the best outcome from the trial.” Visit phillyvax.org/outreach to sign up for the study or call 1-866448-7366. n

FINANCES PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Add housing decisions to your list of retirement priorities Q: My partner and I may wish to downsize and move to a smaller home when we retire. But we’re also very comfortable in our current home, even though it’s a bit large for our needs. How do we decide to stay or move into something smaller? A: Thanks for this great question! Most retirees need to deal with this housing dilemma — some right away, while others hold off. Evaluating your options in a calm, thoughtful manner will hopefully help you make a comfortable, confident decision.

ments you’ll want to incorporate into your retirement lifestyle choices. • Proximity to family/friends — If you value family and friends above all else, then proximity to your loved ones likely will be a key factor in your location decision. • Availability of health care — If fitness and good health are things you value strongly, then you’ll want to live in an area where quality health care and a variety of recreational activities are available.

Where and how you choose to live out your retirement years could be one of your most important decisions. Choosing whether to relocate or to stay rooted in your hometown, to remain in your current home or to trade down to a smaller residence are important questions that involve a host of lifestyle and cost-of-living issues.

• Small town vs. city living — Do you prefer the sense of community you get from living Jeremy in a small town or rural area or the hustle and bustle of city Gussick do life — with its cultural opportunities, restaurants, shopping and public transportation — better fit your style?

Out Money

Making a move Selling your existing home and relocating to a more affordable house or condominium may be a reasonable option if you have considerable home equity and the shift won’t negatively affect your lifestyle. To help sort through your own lifestyle preferences, make a list of your values — those things that are important and meaningful in your life — and then determine your highest priorities. Those are the ele-

• Climate — Although weather is no longer the prime consideration for today’s retirees, it does play a role in the location-decision process. Some people may yearn for year-round sunshine, while others enjoy the richness of a four-season climate. Ideally, you should consider these and other lifestyle factors before you examine the financial implications of your location decision.

Financial considerations The cost of living is a big factor to consider when researching a retirement location — particularly for retirees who rely on a fixed monthly income. When researching new locations, remember to investigate the overall housing costs in the desired area. For example, real-estate values and property taxes typically vary considerably by locale. Be sure to check the rates for property taxes as well as income and sales taxes and compare them to where you currently live. You may be surprised to discover that states with no income taxes — such as the traditional retirement haven of Florida — often make up the difference with higher property and sales taxes. Decision time Deciding on retirement living arrangements involves a host of issues that you will need to weigh carefully. In making the decision, give yourself plenty of time and do as much research as possible. Stay in your current home: If your lifestyle needs will best be met by staying put, consider the financial implications of that decision. For instance, if the mortgage on your home is paid off, your housing expenses will probably be much lower than you’d find in a different living arrangement. Since you may be in this house for another 20 years or more, consider investing in some home improvements, such as insulation, a second bathroom or even converting a large sin-

gle-family home into a two-family home for rental income. Sell your home: This decision depends greatly on whether you need to raise money from the sale of your home. If your expected income from Social Security, pensions and other sources falls short of your requirements, then you probably have little choice but to tap your home equity. Selling your house may provide enough cash to defray your new housing costs and potentially provide additional funds to use as you please. Note that married couples can exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains from the sale of a primary residence (single homeowners can exclude $250,000)1. This rule can be beneficial for retirees who own highly appreciated residential property, as long as they have owned and used the home as a primary residence for at least two out of the last five years. Choose a new home: If you decide to relocate, or if you stay in the same location but sell your home, you will need to decide what type of replacement housing is best suited to your needs. Should you buy a single-family home? Rent an apartment? Buy a condominium? Buy into a retirement community? These and a growing array of options are available to today’s retirees. Shop around and compare features and costs against your personal requirements and budget. In the end, no matter where you choose to live — from Maine to Montana, in PAGE 26 a house or an RV —

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MENTAL HEALTH PGN

Grieving your pet when your pet is your child While it is becoming increasingly com- mourn for as long as we need to. There mon for LGBTQ couples (and singles) to often seems to be a standard that people have actual human children as opposed to should quickly move past the loss of a pet just furry ones, it is no less true that, both or that it isn’t appropriate to grieve that historically and presently, we queers love loss the way we would the loss of a perour animals as if they are our son. But the truth is that the children. They are our children. unconditional love given by The singular problem with a cat or a dog, as well as the this is that no parent should constant companionship they have to mourn the loss of a provide, is more than most child. As pet moms and dads, humans can give us. Adjusting though, we have no choice. If to the absence of that love and we’re lucky, we get 10 or 15 companionship takes time and years with our babies and then no societal pressure or norm we are forced to say goodcan change that. If it’s been a bye. Even though we know to couple of months since your expect it, this knowledge does pet passed away and you still nothing to ease the pain when need to have a good cry about the time comes. it every couple of days, then In having lost a pet of my you should have that cry. If own recently, as well as witit’s been a year and you find Kristina Furia yourself still missing your nessing several community members dealing with similar departed pet, you should allow losses, it begged the question: How best yourself that emotional experience. To to mourn a pet? While, like most other truly heal, we must allow for all of our matters pertaining to psychological and feelings to be felt, no matter what the emotional health, there is no one-sizetimeline. fits-all method for coping with losing a Another valuable way to honor and beloved pet, there are some ways to aid facilitate the grieving process is to engage the process. in a ritual of sorts to honor the life of First, and perhaps most importantly, your pet and your unique relationship. we must not deny ourselves the right to When people die, we have funerals. Why

Thinking Queerly

not have a service to acknowledge the life and death of your animal? The reason we have funerals for people is primarily to assist the living in honoring and grieving their loss. The same can be true when it comes to your pet; it might just need to look a little bit different. Gather together your loved ones — human, canine and feline alike — and have a service at your home or someplace your pet loved to

Adjusting to the absence of that love and companionship takes time and no societal pressure or norm can change that. go (the dog park, perhaps?). Ritualistic behaviors during times of grief are immensely cathartic and no one should be denied that catharsis simply because the loss is of an animal instead of a person. Similarly, memorializing your pet is an incredible way to find comfort. For example, in your home, you may want to display a favorite photo of you and your pet alongside their collar and perhaps their ashes. For some people, especially

earlier in the grieving process, the daily physical reminder might be too hard and that’s OK too. These days, there are all sorts of options for memorializing your beloved pet that a quick Google search will reveal. Things like planting a tree in their honor, photo books and creating art or a gemstone that includes your pet’s ashes are a few examples. Find what feels right for you and do it — even if it’s a bit of an expense. Keep with the theme that you deserve to mourn fully. Lastly, while I do recommend getting a new animal somewhere after the 30-60-day mark — so as not to get stuck in your grief and because every animal offers us something uniquely their own, which can offer great comfort — if it doesn’t feel right or if it feels too soon, trust and honor your feelings. Again, there is no timeline for this except your own. For all of you mourning a pet, take good care and be kind to yourself. For those of you with pets that are alive and well, appreciate them every single day. Pets are truly one of life’s best blessings. n

Kristina Furia is a psychotherapist committed to working with LGBT individuals and couples. She operates Emerge Wellness, an LGBT health and wellness center in Center City (www.emergewellnessphilly.com).

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LOCAL PGN VETS from page 5

Aronda Smith-Benson, a lesbian U.S. Army veteran who served in Desert Storm, said her goal is to build a coalition to “make sure every veteran is treated accordingly [and] every service member is treated accordingly.” She added that she will open a women’s veterans’ center in South Philadelphia. “My reasoning for opening a women’s veterans’ center is because there was a void. Something was missing. That’s what we have to do, fill a void. Oftentimes, we can’t wait on government. Government is a process. It takes time. So we have to make sure we’re moving along and we’ll continue to march for the things we believe in and the things we should be supporting.” Dante Austin, who helped organize the event along with the Office of LGBT Affairs, also spoke on his experiences as a gay member of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard from 2009-16. “I know how hard it was for me being gay, and being gay and being trans in this country are very different,” Austin said. “It’s a whole different kind of struggle. So I commend you on your service. But more importantly, you’re not just fighting wars overseas. You’re fighting wars in this country every single day. You’re fighting a war on poverty. You’re fighting a war on homelessness. You’re fighting a war on bathroom bills. That’s the kind of stuff that they’re fighting for in this country.” Former Army Captain Sue Fulton spoke as president of SPARTA, an LGBT group advocating for transgender military service. She noted that she spoke with transgender service members who woke up to Trump’s tweets last week. She said they are concerned and alarmed “but they are not afraid.” “They have raised their right hand,” Fulton said. “They have sworn to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies — foreign and domestic. They have put their lives on the line to stay true to that mission. They defend our freedoms every single day. They defend the freedoms of the people who hate them. They defend the freedoms of the people who would fire them. And they are courageously living their lives as their true selves with integrity. They are the bravest people I know.” Fulton introduced Evelyn Rhynedance, an active-duty transgender woman in the Special Forces. “I’m grateful for the privilege that I have had to serve with the best soldiers in the world,” Rhynedance said. “We’ve been able to do some amazing things in some remarkable places. We were able to do that because we all raised our hands and we all came together for a reason. There are thousands of people like me who are going to keep raising our hands and doing those things.” The crowd chanted “Thank you” for Rhynedance’s service. n

Get Out and Play

Scott A. Drake

Philly is known as a sports city, and that’s no different for the LGBT community. Scott A. Drake keeps readers up to date on the LGBT sports news they need to know — from game highlights to team registration deadlines to social outings.

Only in Online and in print every last Friday.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

EDITORIAL PGN EDITORIAL

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Creep of the Week

D’Anne Witkowski

Donald Trump

Editorial

On love and marriage PGN’s semi-annual Wedding Issue is among the staff favorites. We get the opportunity to hear local couples gush over the moment they decided to take the plunge, get a front-row seat to their wedding plans and be inspired by the challenges and obstacles they’ve overcome to get to that important moment. As always, the batch of couples who contacted PGN to share their happy news did not disappoint. They recounted stories of love at first sight, of serendipitous meetings, of love blossoming from friendship. No matter their beginnings, all the couples we interviewed offered insight on their keys to success and provided inspiration for those looking for love. In a time when bad news seems to be everywhere, sometimes it’s these stories we should be focusing on. Even in this edition of PGN, we had to carry terrible news of loss and violence; the irony of the front page of our Wedding Issue featuring a story about a woman who allegedly killed her wife was not lost on us. However, the juxtaposition may tell an important tale: Even amid negativity, there is good. In the past few months, the country has taken a dark turn to the extent that many Americans have never seen. Just this week, fears of nuclear war — fueled by an unstable leader — are spreading. Our country’s status as a global leader continues to be questioned, and divisions about basic issues like the tenets of American freedoms deepen by the day. By the same token, life continues to go on. Despite the maelstrom that is America right now, our country continues to churn, our community continues to thrive and goodness continues to flourish. It’s undeniably easy to get bogged down by the bad news of the day; as people who work in the news industry, we unfortunately know this all too well. That’s why it’s important to make a point to find time in our day to focus on the positive, to make room in our news feed for noon-doom-and-gloom stories, to herald the progress that is still possible despite challenges. As we found this week, good news is definitely not at a premium; we just have to be open to seeking and celebrating it. n

Tell us what you think

At 8:55 a.m. July 26 Donald Trump gender people has tweeted: “After consultation with my been unrelenting Generals and military experts, please be in the past few advised that the United States Government years. Having lost will not accept or allow … ” the battle against For nine long minutes, there was no folmarriage equallow-up tweet. In fact, some members of the ity, keeping trans Pentagon initially feared that Trump was folks out of public about to declare war. restrooms became It turns out that Trump was declaring the new right-wing war, only it wasn’t on North Korea. It was obsession. And on transgender troops right here in the since they couldn’t United States. keep gays and lesbians out of the military, He followed his initial tweet with two they’ve moved the goal posts again and put more that read, “… Transgender individtrans troops in the crosshairs. And they see uals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Trump as their political savior. Military. Our military must be focused on And Trump, who loves to be fawned decisive and overwhelming victory and over, is more than happy to sacrifice trans cannot be burdened with the tremendous troops if it means that the religious right medical costs and disruption that transwill stick by him and his total failure of a gender in the military would entail. Thank presidency. As Alex Wagner pointed out in Slate, you.” Yes, he really ended the third tweet with trans troops are already serving. Wagner “Thank you,” you know, like a commandwarns that if Trump’s tweets become poler-in-chief does when he’s singled out a icy, it would result in “a horrifying witch vulnerable minority in his own country’s hunt.” “The military will be tasked to delve into military and fired them, opening them up the private lives of for scorn and ridiAnd Trump, who loves to cule. our armed forces to Since this radiidentify trans troops be fawned over, is more cal policy change, — who were, just a than happy to sacrifice we’ve seen many year ago, encouraged different responses: trans troops if it means to serve openly,” everything from Wagner writes. that the religious right will “Such a purge of “The military spends more money stick by him and his total transgender individon Viagra than it uals from the ranks does on trans health failure of a presidency. would represent care” to “Uh, we’re an unprecedented the generals and military experts and we attempt to socially engineer a military that weren’t told shit about this” to “Trump finally is open to all Americans who can is a draft dodger who should be thankful meet its high standards.” there are people willing to volunteer for the Imagine being a trans troop member, open and brave and serving your country. armed forces.” In fact, as of July 31, the Pentagon had And the president of the United States pubreceived no formal guidance regarding licly declares you an enemy. Trump, of course, cannot meet and never trans troops, according to ABC News. And until that happens, well, nothing really has met the military’s high standards, or happens. the high standards of the presidency, for So is Trump’s tweet just a meaningless that matter. He can’t even meet the most temper tantrum? Hardly. basic standards of human decency. Trump Note that President Obama lifted the ban is a failure and a fraud. Lashing out against on trans service members. Conservatives Americans who are dedicated to this counwere not happy. The Family Research try and willing to risk their lives for it, Council’s Tony Perkins, for example, when Trump is neither, is beyond shamelamented back in December that “femiful. n nists” and “the left” were emasculating the D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian military’s culture “of manhood and mascu- living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been linity.” writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow The right-wing demonization of transher on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.

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.

OP-ED PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

The power of no

Street Talk

You might have noticed that this sumtwo road trips: Pigeon Forge, Tenn. mer has been slightly different for me, (Dollywood), and Asheville, N.C., to but that comes after five years of constant see Biltmore. Then we did a drive along motion. People keep saying they can’t keep the Oregon and California coasts, from up with me and asking when I’m going to Portland to San Francisco, and spent three slow down. Well, that question has been days in San Fran to meet up with friends. answered this summer. All thanks to the power of that Jason, who has a profound word “no.” meaning in my life and seems In the next couple of weeks, to know how to motivate me, I’m taking another trip that I’ve somehow got me to appreciate wanted to do for several years how having what I might call but always put off since there a lazy summer would give us were more important things to more time for us and what we do: traveling to upstate New enjoy — strange road trips. York to visit the gravesite of So, to make this work, it Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von became apparent that my schedSteuben, simply to place flowule would need to be limited. ers on this gay American hero’s Thus, new words came out of grave. It’s time for a gay activist my mouth: Starting in June, to pay homage to him in person. when people called asking for Coming this fall, I’ll be back my involvement in new projin action, with a big BUT; I’ve ects, speaking engagements or Mark Segal learned something new so don’t meetings, they heard me say, be surprised if I run off and “Sorry, I’m not making any more appointdo something with what I just didn’t see ments until September.” They then would I could have before: time. That all said, say, “Well, when in September can we there are about six projects already on my meet?” And I’d reply, “No, sorry, I’m not agenda … so, let’s see how successful I am even scheduling until September; if you’re at this new empowerment. n still interested in my involvement, call me back then and make an appointment.” Mark Segal is the nation’s most-award-winning comSaying “no” was really liberating and mentator in LGBT media. His memoir, “And Then empowering. I Danced,” is available on Amazon.com, Barnes & Thanks to that, Jason and I have had Noble or at your favorite bookseller.

Mark My Words

Letters Editor: From the time of the Revolutionary War through to the present day, transgender people have served in the armed forces of the United States of America. Most of these people did not seek or want any special attention during their period of service. However, many of these people were known to be transgender by the other soldiers, sailors and Marines whom they served with, and whom they often died alongside. You see, Mr. President, bullets or bombs, IEDs or mortars, radiation or shrapnel, don’t care who they wound, maim and kill. When a transgender person, or a gay, lesbian, bisexual, Q or heterosexual member of the military is killed, they die, just the same way. The members of their unit grieve, their families are devastated. If they are churchgoing as I am, their pastors and congregations also suffer the loss. In the United States of America, we have an all-volunteer military. I suppose some people join the military for the educational opportunities it can offer, others because they noticed some weakness in their character and feel the military can help them overcome that. For many, it is their sense of gratitude

of wanting to give back to the land of the free and the home of the brave. But all people who volunteer for military service know that they will be the first people to be in harm’s way. Because that’s what serving in the military is about: being on the front line, being the person who serves and protects the rest of us. Personally, I’m surprised and impressed with the number and quality of the people who choose to serve in our military. I’m especially impressed when I consider the brutal bigotry and prejudice that was often a feature of our military in the past. The work of eliminating prejudice and making it possible to use all of the talents from all the diverse communities in these United States goes on. That work will continue long after you and I are dust. Before I close this letter, I want to share one more thought with you. Your Twitter-announced military transgender policy has weakened our military, and so, our country. You have planted the seeds of new prejudice in the military and singled out a group for discrimination. How dare you? — Bobbie Burnett, Virginia

Should Pennsylvanians have the option of a non-binary birth certificate? "Yes. I realize some state officials might oppose it but I support that option, definitely. A nonbinary option Mercedes wouldn't Broughton have to be on teacher Society Hill every birth certificate issued in Pennsylvania but a birth certificate with that option should be available to someone who specifically requests it."

"Yes, I'm totally open to that possibility. I'd like to see [the option] implemented correctly to minimize any unnecessary Meredith hurdles. Montgomery It's only marketing researcher South Philadelphia right for the government to recognize the rights of everyone, including the transgender community."

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Feedback In response to “Dr. David Williams: Hope and healing, from the operating room to the pulpit,” Aug. 4-10:

In response to “DOJ argues civil-rights law does not protect sexual-orientation discrimination,” Aug. 4-10:

Wonderful story about a wonderful man.

So much for Trump being a friend of the LGBT community.

— Darth Vader In response to “PGN seeks complete case file in Morris open-records request,” Aug. 4-10: The tenacity and commitment that Tim and PGN have shown to accountability and justice in this matter is unparalleled. Bravo! — Kathy11

— KevinMSH In response to “Philadelphia Asian & Queer provides support and social interaction,” July 21-27: There was an Asian/Pacific Islander LGBT organization called Tea Time in Philadelphia briefly from 1991 until October of 1994. There’s been nothing

since. PAQ is a welcome addition to the city’s community! — ilCorago In response to “N.J. woman charged in wife’s murder,” Aug. 7: So sad. Prayers for strength, guidance and compassion for all involved. — Alicia A. MillerWilliams

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Engagements Peter Andrew Danzig and Richie Sklar By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com As actors in Philadelphia’s theater community, Peter Andrew Danzig and Richie Sklar only met each other in passing at auditions. Sklar, 27, said he was intimidated by Danzig’s high confidence but thought he was “a very handome man.” Meanwhile, Danzig, 33, saw Sklar in a play and thought his performance was very engaging and noted finding him “adorable” and “attractive.” Little did they know they would each meet their future husband at a friend’s party in December 2015, when Danzig spotted Sklar enter a room with a bag of ice. “He walked in and my best friend said, ‘Put your eyes back in your head’ because he walked in and I was like, ‘Oh my god, this guy is gorgeous,’” Danzig said. “My jaw dropped and I just stared. We started talking that night. He asked me [about] some of my favorite things and I said, ‘I love ‘Sailor Moon’ and then he’s never left my side since.” “That’s what did it,” Sklar joked, noting their mutual love for the anime cartoon. A week later, Danzig invited Sklar to a

friend’s show at the Walnut Street Theatre so the two could hang out. “I didn’t actually know if we were on a date or if that was just something I imagined in my head,” Sklar said. After the show, the two men walked under the stars in Rittenhouse Square. They sat on a bench and Danzig asked if he could kiss Sklar, which the latter obliged. “And it was at that moment when I realized that we were, in fact, on a date,” Sklar laughed. “We go back to that bench pretty regularly just to spend a romantic date night and we always go back to where we had our first kiss,” Danzig said. “It’s very romantic.” Danzig said he was “the most unromantic guy in the world” until he met Sklar. “I don’t know about love at first sight but when you meet somebody, there’s just something there,” he said. “Our comfort was pretty amazing from day one and about seven months later, we moved in together — the best decision we could’ve made. We just clicked naturally.” Sklar added that he never saw himself getting married but knew right away that he would marry Danzig one day. He noted

that, from a “logistic point of view,” their relationship progressed quickly. “It definitely moved very quickly but I’ve never felt pressured,” Sklar said. “I never felt like it was moving too fast. It definitely felt like we were moving at the right pace and everything felt right, like we were making all of the right decisions and steps in time.” In November, Danzig proposed to Sklar on top of the big rock in New York City’s Central Park. “I wrote him a letter in the card as opposed to getting down on one knee so

he could understand how I felt and why I wanted to spend my life with him and then he looked at me, and I got down on one knee and proposed,” Danzig said. “[The card] had this beautiful note inside and I started to tear up a little bit,” Sklar said. “I looked over and he was on his knee and he had the ring and I said, ‘Yes.’ It was the most amazing moment of my entire life.” The two will get married in front of family and friends April 29, 2018, in Bensalem and look forward to adopting a child in the next few years. “I really look forward to watching Richie evolve as a person,” Danzig said of the future. “I look forward to seeing what he’s going to become over our lifetime and his potential. I’m sure he’ll be an amazing father and husband. It’s kind of cool to spend your life with your best friend. I’m excited to see where that goes.” Sklar is also looking forward to married life. “Something totally changed as soon as I met Peter,” Sklar said. “I suddenly could see being married, owning a home and having children. I felt like all of those things were in reach.” n

Rich Henderson and Andrew Kothlow By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com As flight attendants, Rich Henderson and Andrew Kothlow board planes every day — but one flight three years ago proved to be quite out of the ordinary. Henderson was working a flight headed to Nashville, when a certain passenger caught his eye as he was boarding in Charlotte. Henderson said he didn’t realize Kothlow was also a flight attendant until he saw the “crew” tag on his luggage. “The guy I was working with kept telling me, ‘Go talk to that guy,’” Henderson recalled. “I thought he was cute but I hadn’t been flying very long so I didn’t know if I should but the guy kept egging me on.” Luckily for Henderson, Kothlow was seated in an exit row. “I did my typical exit-row briefing and made sure to give special attention to Andrew and started chatting with him a little, but I’m kind of awkward so my flirting wasn’t the best,” Henderson joked. Another coworker took over an additional section for beverage delivery to free up Henderson to chat with Kothlow. “I had had a long week at work and was trying to get home and

he kept flirting and coming back for conversation; he was almost waking me up each time,” Kothlow laughed. “He seemed cute and funny but wasn’t the best flirter, but he was really trying hard so I decided to give him my number.” Kothlow, 34, jotted his number on the back of his boarding pass and invited Henderson, 28, to call him if he was ever in Nashville; Henderson called within the hour, having forgotten he had a layover in the city that night. The pair went to dinner and out to see the sights in Nashville that night and have been together since. Henderson, originally from Boston, had been living in Washington, D.C., when the pair met, and Kothlow, from Kentucky, was in Nashville. Their first year of dating included a lot of traveling. “We would travel to different cities on weekends, depending on wherever we happened to be for work,” Kothlow said. “Neither of us were in the same city at the same time so it couldn’t be, ‘Hey, come to my house and we can hang out’; it was more, ‘I’ll be in St. Louis this weekend, do you want to meet me there?’ A lot of the first year was spent vacationing.” “After a year of bouncing back and forth, we realized, Well, if

we’ll fly across the country to hang out just for a day to see each other, we probably really like each other,” Henderson laughed. He eventually moved to Philadelphia and Kothlow crashed at his studio apartment for a few months before the pair decided to make it official with their own place. They now live in South Philadelphia. Last year, they started talking about taking the next step. The couple decided to take advantage of the lack of constraints same-sex couples have when it comes to engagement traditions, creating their own challenge: the Proposal Wars. “There aren’t rules about how it’s supposed to be done and we decided we liked both aspects: planning an engagement and also being asked, so we both wanted to experience

both sides of a proposal,” Kothlow said. “We decided to both plan separate engagements and whoever asked first, the other person would have 30 days to respond with their own proposal. I loved the process; it was a fun experience to see both sides of it.” Kothlow ended up popping the question first. He invited Henderson to Nashville to meet up with friends and suggested a date, including a wine tasting and trip to Centennial Park, where they went the night of their first date. He proposed in front of a Parthenon replica at the park, and two friends — one who photographed the proposal and another who came toting champagne — popped out of the bushes right after. “I was very impressed,” Henderson said. “Afterwards, we went out to a gay bar in Nashville and his friends threw us a surprise engagement party, which was a really nice celebration.” A week later, the two had been flying and hadn’t gotten to see each other, so Henderson suggested they meet up and fly back to Philly together. When the plane touched down in Philadelphia, Henderson, with the help of his coworkers, made sure Kothlow was the last off the flight — and before he deplaned, Henderson knelt in the aisle and presented Kothlow a

boarding pass on which he had written a proposal. The pair will wed this fall at an airplane hangar in North Carolina. Despite their common career, the couple said they also have a lot of distinct interests and personality traits, which help them strike a good balance in their relationship. Kothlow said Henderson’s humanitarian nature is among his favorite qualities in his future husband. “He’s the type of person who’s actively trying to better the world he lives in, which is a trait I really love about him. He doesn’t see a problem in the world that he can’t fix,” he said. “And his sense of humor is amazing; he’s hilarious.” For Henderson, Kothlow’s work ethic and devotion to his loved ones stand out. “One of the things I love most about Andrew is how dedicated and committed he is to anything he does,” he said. “He puts his heart and soul into everything, whether it’s work, family or friends. I’ve never seen anybody care so deeply about people he loves the way Andrew does. “And he’s probably a close second to me with his sense of humor,” laughed Henderson. “Oh, he’s got jokes,” Kothlow replied. n

PGN WEDDING

Engagement Tommy Berner and Anthony Reto By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com Though Anthony Reto won a game of “Words with Friends,” it was Tommy Berner who won Reto’s heart six years later with 26 words of his own. Berner said it wasn’t easy proposing — as Reto was unintentionally interrupting him as he tried to get out the right words

during a trip to Greece last month. Finally, Berner pulled out a ring from his pocket and said, “What I’m trying to ask you is if you’ll spend the rest of your life with me and make me the happiest guy in the world.” “Absolutely Tommy, 1,000-times yes,” Reto said through tears. In 2011, the two were paired up to play the online word game; they hadn’t yet met in real life but became friends on Facebook because of their number of mutual friends. After several attempts to beat Berner, Reto finally prevailed. “I was basically kicking his ass the entire time,” Reto said with a laugh. Reto, 27, sent Berner, 39, a teasing message about being named the reigning champion, to which he replied, “Well, I guess I owe you a drink.” Both were newly single and went into the initial date without many expectations. “We went to some bars in the Gayborhood and had a couple of drinks and then after that, it was kind of one of those things where we were like, ‘OK, when are we going to hang out again?’” Reto said.

“As soon as we left each other that night, we couldn’t wait to hang out again,” Berner said. “It was pretty immediate.” Now, the couple owns a French Bulldog named Pierogi and frequently travels together; among their destinations, they have visited Puerto Rico, Athens and Mexico. This love for travel came into play when Berner started planning his proposal to Reto in December. The pair went to the island of Mykonos in Greece on July 4. To Reto’s surprise, Berner booked a private yacht with a full crew waiting with champagne upon their arrival. After two hours on the Aegean Sea, the captain pulled into a cove. Berner told Reto how much he loved him and reminisced about the past six years. “We are very ‘lovey’ with each other but I was on a boat in Mykonos with champagne in my hand, music blasting. I was ready to party. He kept looking at me and kept being like, ‘Babe, you know how much I love you.’ I was like, ‘Dude, why are you being so sentimental? I know you love me. Knock it off,’ and that’s exactly what I said to him,” Reto said. “He was like, ‘No, I’m really trying to tell you that I love you,’ and then he pulled a ring out and I think I said, ‘Oh my God’ about 30 times before I even said ‘Yes’ to him because I was so taken aback by it.” The couple tentatively scheduled their wedding for summer 2019, but aren’t in a rush to walk down the aisle. “I want to live in this excitement for a little bit,” Berner said. “I think a lot of people overlook the excitement of the engagement because they’re looking forward to the wedding. This is a brand-new chapter for us and I think we want it to be an actual chapter, not just a page in a chapter.” Both men consider their relationship to be effortless. Reto said the past six years have not felt like “work” at all. “The past six years have been the most wonderful years of my life. I’ve really found myself. We both lift each other up and make each other better.” Berner added that Reto is the one person with whom he always consults when it comes to work or personal matters. “We complement each other very nicely from a yin and yang perspective,” Berner said. “So if I’m feeling very tense or stressed with work, he’s my ride or die — completely that person that will help reel me in, and I would like to think that I do the exact same thing for him.” “Absolutely,” Reto responded. ■

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

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Wedding Kate Hinchey Wise and Celeste Hinchey Wise By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com On the night of the 2016 presidential election, Celeste Hinchey Wise and Kate Hinchey Wise were in different parts of the country but stayed in communication throughout the night via text. Celeste was in Colorado entertaining friends at an election party while Kate was in New York City at the Javitz Center, where Hillary Clinton would have delivered her victory speech. The couple, who met at Temple University in 2010, were already planning to move to Amsterdam together and talked about marriage prior to the election. After the results came in, the women knew they should move fast. “I got a text message that Hillary Clinton had called Donald Trump to concede and I immediately asked Celeste to marry me, because I knew that if we were going to go to Amsterdam, there were not any State Department protections that we were going to be granted if she was just my girlfriend,” Kate said. Celeste said the text was surprising but it was where both of their hearts already were. “Even though it wasn’t a typical way to ask, it was still so full of love and I can

feel the love coming Design; rentals, furacross more than the niture and detailing fear,” Celeste said. from Modern Relics “That was what we Rentals; makeup by wanted to focus on. Elegance Artistry; That despite everyand hair by Courtney thing going on that Thornton. night, we wanted to “It was a blessing focus on each other, that I will never be our love and creating able to repay those something beautiful vendors for,” Kate out of that.” Photo: Amanda Swiger/Swiger Photography said. “That team The two planned came together and a small elopement ceremony for Jan. 2, made this special, beautiful day that we before Trump’s inauguration. Kate asked got to celebrate with 25 of our friends and Amanda Swiger of Swiger Photography to family.” be a witness but Swiger suggested the day Celeste said she and Kate never expected should be “beautiful.” Her friend eventually to have a ceremony this “elaborate and planned a styled shoot for the day of the beautiful.” ceremony. “Amanda and her team seriously pulled Eventually, Kate and Celeste had all off a miracle for us in offering all of this,” aspects of the ceremony — which was Celeste said. “She taught me that kindness themed red, white and blue — donated can extend so much further than the small to them free of charge, from the brides’ social circles that you have and that comdresses to the venue. The donations plete strangers can go above and beyond, included photos from Swiger Photography, make you feel really special and give you Jessa Rachael Photography and Amanda an experience that you’ll always remember. Walker; venue space from Studio 239; And for that, I am forever thankful.” Celeste’s gown from Bella Bridesmaids; The couple has spent their first eight Kate’s gown from Ashe B. & Co., by Olia months of married life with Kate in West Zavozina; flowers from Bloomsbury Floral Philadelphia and Celeste in Los Angeles.

They will move to Amsterdam Aug. 15, where the two women will pursue master’s degrees at separate universities. They have been keeping the romance alive by using Facetime and writing letters. Kate said Celeste believes in her hopes and dreams, adding she feels lucky to have her. “The moment we were holding hands and about to be married, she was the most serene and beautiful I have ever seen her,” Kate said. “I just couldn’t stop sobbing because she was mine. She was finally mine after seven long, long years. She was choosing me forever.” Celeste called her wife, to whom she refers as “Katie,” her “biggest advocate.” “[She] believes in me often before I believe in myself,” Celeste said. “Originally, we were just going to go to Amsterdam for her grad-school program but she was the one who actually encouraged me to apply. Katie helped me get a grad-school application in at the last minute [and] get into an awesome grad program in Amsterdam as well, and has helped me every step of the way in getting me up to speed because she has been planning this for a long time.” Celeste and Kate plan to have a wedding ceremony May 30, 2020, where they will renew their vows in front of their friends and family. n

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Engagement Todd Murdock and David Smith By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com A mutual friend introduced Todd Murdock and David Smith to each other during an Eric Jaffe show at Tavern on Camac. Prior to this meeting, the two had only met in passing. “You know that one random person on Facebook you see you have way too many mutual friends with and you’re like, ‘How do I not know you?’” said Smith, 32, with a laugh. “That’s kind of what this started as.” “I think we both went to Tavern alone and we left together,” said Murdock, 28. “Then we spent the rest of the night together, met up with friends and the rest was history.” Since that day in May 2016, one of the most defining moments came when Murdock met Smith’s 14-year-old son, Brendan, who lives in Pittsburgh. Smith said Brendan had never met anyone he dated before, and he trusts Murdock to be in his son’s life.

“Whoever I bring into my life permanently, I want them to be there and not ever leave for stability for [Brendan],” Smith said. “[Murdock] met [Brendan] for the first time in April for his birthday and it was absolutely certain to me at that point that this is the person I need to spend the rest of my life with because look how he interacts with my son. He was instantly in step-dad mode. It was just perfect.” Murdock is the youngest of five children and noted he did not have any experience in a step-parent role. He was happy that Brendan took a liking to him and said he now receives the occasional Snapchat from Smith’s son. “Being able to build a relationship with somebody so important to him and somebody that he brought into this world is truly incredible because he’s such an energetic, creative, very openminded 14-year-old,” Murdock said. “It was just a remarkable experience to be able to talk to him about stuff and hear the things he

was going through. To think that I would be able to bestow wisdom on a teenager was a really cool experience in that he respects me the way that he does and the way that he looks up to both of us.” Murdock took an extra stride toward “step-dad mode” when he proposed to Smith July 26. Smith previously said one of his favorite nights with Murdock was when they saw “Mamma Mia!” which

inspired Murdock to take Smith to that same theater, the Academy of Music, to see “Wicked.” On May 20, their one-year anniversary, Murdock gave Smith the tickets with plans to propose two months later. “There was just something about it that felt like the perfect timing,” Murdock said. “For us, we aren’t in a rush to jump to get married but it was the next step in our life planning. It felt like the appropriate time for me and clearly for him as well.” Murdock pulled Smith into the middle of Broad Street and proposed. Smith said he was slow to react at first and joked that he thought Murdock was going to break up with him after seeing him get emotional in the street. “I had no idea what was going on,” Smith said. “Until he got down on one knee, it didn’t actually click. I was just like, ‘Oh my God. Wait a minute. I know what this means.’ Then I look around and our entire friend group was across the street and everybody

was on Facetime and everybody was watching. It was emotionally one of the most fulfilling moments of my life.” The couple tentatively scheduled their wedding for October 2019. Murdock recalled the moment when they first said “I love you,” when Smith referenced Greek mythology. “[Smith] told me a story about Zeus,” Murdock said. “When man was created, he felt that man was too powerful when they had four legs, four arms, two heads and they were united as one so he split them in half and that when those two halves find each other [and] that when they’re together, it’s God-like. There’s something about that statement that struck me to the core about the power of what love feels like. “Every single day has become a day that I wanted to repeat over and over. I can’t remember a time without him,” he added. “I don’t ever want to have that again in my life.” n

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Varied entertainment career leads gay artist to photography By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Eugene Coates has worn a lot of hats: dancer, singer, actor, exercise instructor and photographer. For the latter title, Coates is currently traveling internationally as a fashion photographer, and is also looking to build his wedding portfolio, particularly for same-sex couples. “Every photographer has their own style and method of operating, but being a member of the LGBT community and photographing same-sex weddings, I believe that I can bring a little extra sentiment, emotion and sensitivity to the photography,” Coates, 46, said about his wedding work. “Love is love in all forms but the truth of the matter is that we are different and this special day for the couple should be documented/captured as such.” A same-sex wedding in New Hope is among his five wedding shoots; the others were captured in Japan, Denmark, Los Angeles and Estonia. Traveling has long been a part of his trade. The Philly native, who grew up in West Oak Lane, earned a bachelor of fine arts from University of the Arts and went on to dance for Philadanco! and Koresh

A SAME-SEX WEDDING COATES PHOTOGRAPHED LAST YEAR IN NEW HOPE Photo: Eugene Coates

Dance Company. He performed and choreographed in Atlantic City and spent time as an actor in Los Angeles before moving

to Japan, where he worked as a singer and dancer at Universal Studios for four years. Coates recently completed six contracts as a principal singer for Norwegian Cruise Line, for which he also served as a diversity-casting associate. Locally, Coates teaches a “Madonna’Licious Cardio Groove Class” at 12th Street Gym, a self-developed group-exercise concept he has also led onboard Norweigan ships and at other local gyms. He was introduced to photography in 2009, when he got a Canon as a birthday gift and was bit by the “shutter bug.” “To this day, I have the same camera that is on its original settings,” Coates said. He nicknamed his camera Naomi Ciccone — in tribute to Naomi Campbell and Madonna. Coates started experimenting by photographing friends, family and coworkers, developing techniques based on trial and error, he said. The post-editing process is where he can really leave his mark on the images, Coates noted, adding he also tries to put his subjects at ease to ensure the most genuine photos. “Before I start the photo shoot with my clients, I talk with them and get to know their personality so we are both comfort-

able with each other before shooting,” he said. “I pride myself on capturing random moments that my clients don’t know I’ve captured until after my editing process. Capturing their personality is key for a successful photo shoot.” Coates’ background performing on cruise ships and as a fashion photographer has helped him build a portfolio infused with diversity. He has photographed around the globe — Australia, New Zealand, Israel, India, Japan, Singapore, Germany, Denmark, Estonia, Sweden, Finland and Italy. “It’s been great to experience different cultures, styles and beauty in all shapes, sizes and colors,” he said. Coates is looking to tap into his two decades of experience in the entertainment industry for his work mentoring and advising local aspiring entertainers, while continuing his wedding and other special-events photography. He also has another goal he’s looking to check off his bucket list: “[I’m] patiently waiting to photograph a feature story for a high-fashion magazine in the future like Vogue, Elle or Cosmopolitan!” n For more information, visit www.eugenewaltercoates.com.

Travel company talks LGBT exotic wedding locations By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Destination weddings have always been tantalizing for couples looking to make their special day extra special. And honestly, given how crazy and sometimes dismal things have been looking on a social and political level at home, who can blame anyone for wanting to take their impending nuptials to sunnier pastures? To that end, we reached out to Megan Velez, vice president of product at Destination Wedding Travel Group, which is home to GayDestinationWeddings.com, to find out where couples are going to take their vows. PGN: What are the most popular destinations for LGBT weddings? MV: Couples are looking for outside-the-box locales for their celebration by working with destination-wedding experts that can help guide them to find exactly what they’re looking for. It’s been exciting to see the diversity and creativity of couples’ chosen destinations. With same-sex marriage becoming

globally accepted, places like South Africa, New Zealand, Spain and Ireland are becoming popular choices for LGBT couples. Sandy beaches will also always be a favorite, so it’s no surprise that Mexico and The Bahamas continue to be favorites. PGN: What are some of the hottest trends for gay and lesbian couples planning their weddings? MV: While this is the age for the LGBT community to celebrate marriage equality, we’re finding that most weddings, whether they are LGBT or not, are following the same trends: Expect to see customization and personalization with things like monograms, specially made favors and other details that speak to the couple’s personalities. We’ve also seen LGBT couples choosing to ditch traditional ceremony standards; for example, we had a couple who opted to “walk down the aisle” in a spiral circle of chairs for their intimate celebration so they could feel closer to all of their loved ones.

PGN: Has the shifting political landscape of LGBT rights domestically and internationally had any effect on how people plan their weddings? MV: The changing political landscape of marriage equality has influenced the overall growth of LGBT weddings, but we would also credit it to the increase in same-sex wed-

ding inspiration in the media, as well as across social-media platforms. Even if couples have been together for years, they are now taking this step, as there is a desire to celebrate among family and friends. PGN: What are people most interested in having you do for them when they reach out to

your company? MV: With our site, they are guaranteed that the destinations are highly vetted and welcoming to all couples, so our first hope is to serve as a resource that will guide them in selecting the location of their dreams for their big day. Couples these days are busier than ever, so most come to us with the hope that we’ll take the lead on booking their travel and celebration details, from start to finish. PGN:How do you go about staying on top of what people are looking for in a wedding? MV: We make sure the line of communication between our customers and ourselves is always open; we welcome feedback of any kind to ensure we have a firm grasp on their needs. We also stay on top of wedding trends throughout the year by monitoring social media, as well as the media. n

ASHLEY AND ANGELA’S DESTINATION WEDDING IN CANCUN Photo: Courtesy of Destination Wedding Travel Group

For more information, visit http://www.gaydestinationweddings.com/.

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HRC from page 1

for LGBTQ equality,” Dawe said. “So we’re looking forward to having those resources alongside us as we continue working on [these issues].” Winterhof said locals can also get involved by texting “Rising” to 30644. Additionally, HRC is hiring a state manager to organize these strategies. The full-time position, a description of which can be found at http:// bit.ly/2fo6xGk, will last approximately through the end of November 2018. Winterhof noted the importance of early organizing. “We really are committed to figuring out how to work earlier in states and not just show up in those last three or four months [before an election] and mobilize our members and supporters,” Winterhof said. “If a person hasn’t been a volunteer before in an election, we want them to do that this time. We really want to mobilize down to the grassroots level.” In addition to Pennsylvania, HRC will also target five other states with large numbers of HRC members and supporters: Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio and Wisconsin. n LYFT from page 1

police picked up and interviewed her. They returned her home later that morning. Chitwood told PGN this week that the Upper Darby Police Department questioned a Lyft driver who was assigned to the two women that evening. According to Chitwood, the women requested a ride using the app but got inside the wrong car. The Lyft driver canceled the ride when he could not find the women. Philadelphia police did not have an update on the case when PGN called. Police describe the suspect as a black man with an accent and between the ages of 25-30. His vehicle was described as a black four-door car, possibly a Nissan. Anyone with information regarding the suspect is encouraged to call the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686TIPS or email tips@phillypolice.com. n

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It’s a nice day for a ‘sick’ wedding By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com If the idea of the typical traditional white wedding — the long dress, the crisp tuxedo and a flock of doves being released at sunset — bores you to tears, it turns out you are not alone. A lot of people are looking for something off the beaten path for their special day, and chances are they will find almost everything they need to fit the bill at the Lovesick Wedding Expo, Aug. 13 at World Cafe Live. The brainchild of wedding DJs Tom Wright and Jon Holmes, Lovesick has for seven years been bringing together creative, quirky and under-the-radar wedding vendors and artisans, as well as booze and burlesque performers, under the same roof for a wildly entertaining wedding expo that is gay-friendly and guy-friendly. “We tried to look at what makes traditional ‘bridal shows’ inherently not friendly to all kinds of folks that are getting married,” Holmes said. “We tried to look at the show from top to bottom. That goes right from not referring to it as a bridal show, not having it be bride-focused and making sure that things that might appeal to men or same-sex couples are more universally accepted. It’s vendor education and also the types of vendors that are there. The atmosphere is welcoming to just about anybody, but historically those two groups of people that have historically been left out from traditional bridal shows.” Holmes said Lovesick’s popularity has grown over the years as couples started bucking the conventions of the textbook wedding ceremony. “We’ve noticed a shift in younger couples not making assumptions that they have to do conventional things,” he said. “There are these assumptions that you have to wear white or walk down the aisle to classical music or follow these common tropes. There are a lot of younger folks who are

starting to question that and looking for resources the might fall slightly outside of the mainstream. I think that a lot of folks come expecting something radically different and really we’re just trying to cater to people who are thinking slightly outside of the box and outside of those mainstream

concepts that are consistently pushed on them.” Holmes said couples of all stripes are able to find creative and unique local vendors to fill the majority of their wedding needs at the Lovesick Expo. “We try to be as inclusive as possible and that dictates the way the show looks and feels,” he said. “Anyone who has been to a traditional show is going to see and experience something different, and that’s right down to the type of music that is played, the live performances, the giveaways and, most importantly, the vendors. We’ve tried really hard to collect vendors that might not feel represented in the mainstream wedding world and are trying to connect with couples that are trying to do something a little more unique and different. When you’ve got everyone from a brewery to glass blowing to onsite tattoos and burlesque, that’s a pretty diverse group of people. That’s a thing that sets us apart the most.” n Catch the Lovesick Expo 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 13 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. For more information, visit http://lovesickphilly. com.

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Actor finds soaring success on detective drama By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Out actor Phillip Keene, who portrays Buzz Watson on the TV police drama “Major Crimes,” might be between seasons, but he isn’t sitting around idle. “Major Crimes” is a spin-off of “The Closer,” and between the two series Keene has been playing the civilian electronic-surveillance expert who works for the LAPD in the ensemble drama for a combined total of 13 seasons. Not bad for someone who didn’t start off pursuing an acting career. In fact, Keene began working for Pan American World Airways as a flight attendant shortly after graduating high school. And his love for Pan Am never waned as he has amassed one of the largest collections of the airline’s memorabilia — which has grown to include over 3,500 items like matchboxes, posters, uniforms and tableware. Keene talks fondly of his days in the friendly skies. “I worked for Pan Am for the last four years of the company’s existence,” he said. “That was a huge thing for me, having nothing more than a high-school education. But I did speak another language so I met all the requirements. It had been a dream of mine to live in Europe and I was able to realize that through my job. I was based in London and at one point commuted from Amsterdam to London because it was cheaper to live in Holland. Some people have a two hour-drive to work; well, I had a 45-minute fight. It was a really long day for me but I loved it.”

After Pan Am folded, Keene moved to California, where he worked another odd string of jobs at a modeling agency, a local gym, a travel agency and a stint as a makeup artist. He also attended UCLA, double majoring in history and art while taking acting classes on the side. By chance, a friend, who worked in the entertainment industry, set him up with an audition for “The Closer.” Keene said that jumping into the deep end of the acting pool with the highly acclaimed and seasoned acting veterans in the show’s cast was intimidating, to say the least. “It was terrifying for me in the beginning,” he said. “I mean, to be working with Kyra Sedgwick and J.K. Simmons and G.W. Bailey and Tony Denison. These are some pretty heavy hitters and there I was. I had two tiny speaking parts before that. I was a little green but they loved the mistakes in the beginning. Everybody was very supportive of me so I was always appreciative of that.” Over the years, the ensemble drama started focusing on the lives of the supporting characters in the cast including Buzz, who slowly but surely became a more prominent member of the cast. “I really like what they’ve done,” Keene said of Buzz’s character arc. “With ‘The Closer,’ it was pretty much a single POV through Brenda’s eyes. The PAGE 34

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KEENE from page 33

rest of us were really just supporting her, which was fantastic. But now that we’ve got ‘Major Crimes’ going into our sixth season, everybody’s storylines have been fleshed out. Last year, I was really happy with the development of my character in particular, in that they gave him more to do by becoming a full-fledged reserve officer and then a stand-in reserve detective, which you will see this season when I step in for one of our detectives that is out on bereavement leave. I love the fact that they gave me more to do in the sense that they allowed Buzz to open up this cold case of the murder of his father and his uncle that was going on for so long. He was able to — through the help of his colleagues — solve this case and bring the perpetrators to justice.” The chemistry among the cast of characters is one of the strong suits of both “The Closer” and “Major Crimes.” Keene said the camaraderie you see on screen is reflective of how well the actors get along off screen. “It’s even better,” Keene said of the cast’s behind-the-scenes chemistry. “Some of us, we’ve gone on vacations together even after we’ve done a season with 21 episodes. The day after we wrapped shooting for the last season — we had just spent 10-and-a-half months together — and almost all of us got together on an airplane and flew down to Naples, Fla., to participate in a Sunshine Kids event, which is a charity that we all support that helps kids with cancer. I have to say, we really do love spending time with each other. We joke around on set all the time. That chemistry that you see on screen is real because we really do get along with each other. If we’re not in each other’s homes or celebrating birthdays or things like that, you can generally find us having lunch or shopping together, you know, doing all the normal things that people do.” Even though his work on “Major Crimes” takes up a lot of his time, Keene says he also devotes time to diversifying his performance skills. “What I’m doing on Sundays right

now is I’m taking an improv class at The Groundlings in Los Angeles,” he said. “If I’m not actively working on our set or on our show, I’m always trying to do something to hone my skills or gain some new ones. I came at this so late that I feel like I still have a lot of catching up to do. So I’m always trying to feed my mind and acquire some new skills, whether it’s reading a play or reading more history or taking a class. I’m always trying to do something like that.” The Groundlings is known far and wide as an incubator of comedic talents and Keene said that, if the right opportunity to do something other than a TV drama comes up, he’s game. “I would certainly entertain the idea of doing a sitcom or a soap just because it’s a different world entirely,” he said. “I’d love to see if I can handle that. Stage work? Fortunately, I’m working a lot and that’s great. But it also prevents me from entertaining the idea of a six-week rehearsal process and then taking that onto the stage. If I do find myself with an extended amount of time off, I’d certainly love to do a play.” n “Major Crimes” can be seen on TNT.

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Family Portrait

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Suzi Nash

David Ramos: Cooking up success at Feast Your Eyes “If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” -J.R.R. Tolkien Fortunately, this week’s Portrait, David Ramos of Feast Your Eyes Catering, has a fine appreciation for all three. A handsome former military man who can cook is a catch — but, sorry guys, he’s taken. PGN: You’re from a large family. What would your mascot be? DR: Ha! Yes, I’m one of six children. I’d say a blue crab since I grew up in a small town in Maryland. Our backyard was the Potomac River and we grew up fishing and eating crabs. PGN: Where in Maryland? DR: It’s a tiny little town called Issue, about as far south as you can get in Maryland before plunging into the water. The only thing that put us on the map was that we had the first F4/F5 tornado to hit Maryland and it pretty much wiped out the entire area. PGN: What was it like growing up there? DR: It was very conservative and closedminded. I, of course, was in the closet the whole time I lived there. I don’t think there was any open LGBT community there. PGN: What’s your background? DR: My father’s side is Mexican and my mother’s side is very old-school Southern Maryland, Hamilton background. I got the blue eyes from my mom and my sisters got the beautiful Latina genes, big brown eyes and olive skin. PGN: Was there much of a Latina community in Issue? DR: [Laughs] None at all! It was a very white Catholic and Baptist community. My parents divorced when I was 1 so I didn’t grow up with my dad. There were three of us, then my mother married James Richmond when I was 2. I call him my dad. He was a very inspiring person, the longest-running superintendent in Maryland’s history. He won the Superintendent of the Year award several times and even spoke at the Nobel Peace Prize awards ceremony. My bio dad got remarried as well and had three great girls. They’re my best friends.

PGN: What’s a Southern dish you learned from your mother? DR: Oh man! Stuffed ham! It’s kind of scary to look at, but it’s delicious. You take a ham shoulder, make little slits and stuff in collard greens, wrap it in cheesecloth and boil it. I went to a French culinary school and found that a lot of Southern recipes go hand in hand with French cuisine. PGN: Do you collect anything? DR: I love old cookbooks, especially from the 1950s, that Betty Crocker era with gelatins and Jell-O molds and kind of bland food. The way they spoke to women in the pages was awful but it’s captivating and part of our history: recipes to “treat your man to the dinner he deserves after working hard all day!” PGN: What prompted you to join the Coast Guard? DR: I went to culinary school, Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, S.C., and I was working as a sous-chef and living a beach-bum kind of life. I was partying a lot, maybe too much, so my brother-in-law, who was in the Coast Guard, told me that they were looking for chefs and I bit, hook, line and sinker.

you’re in the middle of the ocean, there’s no one there to help you, no rescue. I was on the fire team so I donned my gear and ran to the engine room. I was a boundary man, which meant I went straight to the fire and tried to cool down the walls so it wouldn’t spread. At the same time, we were experiencing 20-foot swells so it was pretty terrifying. I remember after the fire was out, laying in my rack, which was only a foot-and-a-half wide, and thinking, What in the hell am I doing? I’m a chef, why am I putting out fires and firing guns? But by the next day, the camaraderie on board was even tighter having gone through the ordeal and I was fine. The Coast Guard was amazing. I got to travel around the world and cook for dignitaries and government officials from all different countries. PGN: Did you ever get fired at? DR: No. Never ever, not even with the drug missions. The Coast Guard is not known for having big fire fights; mostly we come across small boats filled with drugs and once we surround them with helicopters and boats with

PGN: What was the hardest part? DR: Definitely boot camp. I was a little older than most so it was difficult, but because of my culinary schooling, they sent me straight to A school and gave me my choice of billets. I’d never been to the West Coast before so I chose San Diego. I took the two-week government per diem and drove across the country by myself, zig-zagging up and down the country.

PGN: A fun family vacation? DR: Our big family vacation was going up to Bethany Beach each summer. My dad would golf and Mom would paint. PGN: Was she an artist? DR: For her day job, she worked for the health department, but she was also an amazing portrait artist so my early childhood was filled with lots of nude bodies.

PGN: What was your most harrowing moment? DR: It was in Alaska in the Bering Sea. We’d just gotten off our details and were trying to play cards when an alarm went off. When

PGN: You came out to family, self or your shipmates? DR: [Laughs] I came out to the world. I’d always felt I had to put up a façade, especially in the military. But once I came out, I wanted everyone in the universe to know. The first person I told was the girl I’d been dating, Janice, and she took me to my first gay bar, Mo’s. Her brother had come out not long before. I met a guy from West Hollywood and we instantly hit it off. It was during Pride in San Diego and we spent the weekend together. PGN: The fates were welcoming you to Gaydom! DR: Yes! The next weekend I went to visit him. I told him about my idea for 19 Below and he hired me to cater for his real-estate company. It was the birth of my company and modern-day me. I stayed in California for a while until a friend of mine invited me to come work in Denver, Colo., which to this day is the most wonderful place I’ve ever lived. PGN: Really? DR: It was a small town, but the LGBT population is very tight-knit and like family. People are kind and it’s beautiful everywhere. And it’s where I met my husband!

PGN: What did you do? DR: I was assigned to the Coast Guard cutter “Chase.” We did migrant work, drug interdiction and search and rescue. I was the personal chef for the commanding officer and ran the galley. I did the menu planning, ordered inventory, but then two years in I became the trigger man on the 11-foot-long, 25-mount cannon and sunk drug boats. PGN: What? DR: Yeah, my captain knew I was interested in playing with the guns and offered me a position on the cannon. We’d go after these self-propelled semi-submersibles, what we called “go-fasts.” We’d take the crew off, confiscate the drugs and sink the boat in the middle of the ocean. It was funny, I’d be up on the cannon wearing a camo flack jacket and black-and-white checkered chef pants.

lot of event planners don’t know much about food and a lot of chefs aren’t good with people. I’m handy with a knife, but I’m also good with clients so I wanted something that would combine both skills. I actually came out of the closet the day that I got out of the military. They’d just repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and San Diego had a big gay scene so it seemed like the perfect time.

cannons pointed at them, most don’t put up a fight. It was mostly people who needed a way out of poverty, a way to feed their families, running the drugs. They were not with cartels, they were not scary, evil people. We had to protect our country from drugs coming in, but at the same time it was depressing knowing once they got caught, their future was probably not going to be very bright. PGN: What did you do after the Coast Guard? DR: I started a catering company, 19 Below. A

PGN: How did you meet? DR: I propositioned him. We were both waiting for an Uber — I’d seen him in the bar — and when my car pulled up I ran up to him, opened the contact list on my phone and said, “Here, I’m taking you out to dinner tomorrow Photo: Suzi Nash night.” He gave me his number and I did. It’s been an amazing ride ever since. It’s only been a year, but it feels we’ve known each other forever. When he got a job in Philly, there was no question that I’d be moving here with him. When you know, you know. PGN: With all your moves, which place was the most surprising? DR: Definitely Alaska. We have a vision of Alaska being a beauPAGE 42

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Southern-fried weirdness on display in ‘Claws’ By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor This weekend, the queer-inclusive TNT show “Claws,” about the female crew of a Florida nail salon, wraps up its first season. This fabulous — and fabulously entertaining — comedy-drama concerns Desna Simms (Niecy Nash), the salon owner who tries to unhook herself from the clutches of the Dixie Mafia, who are making her launder their pill-mill money. The show is created, produced and written by the openly gay Eliot Laurence, who said in a recent phone interview that part of his inspiration for the show was “the crazy things that come out of Florida.” In fact, he explained that when he was in talks with TNT about the show, he mentioned that “Manatee County [where ‘Claws’ is set] had three unrelated penis-fighting incidents.” He recalled that the network’s response to that was, “‘Go! Dig deeper.’ They were game for it.” But it was not just the southern-fried weirdness that appealed to Laurence. He added, “Female empowerment is also a sweet spot for me. I knew I wanted to do a story set in a nail salon, as nail art is such a gigantic industry. It is creative and bizarre, so that was appealing. I knew I had a show when I got the pill-mill clinic idea.” Laurence further acknowledged that “Claws” has “powerful gay DNA. It owes a lot to great gay dramatists,” citing the Southern Gothic of Tennessee Williams — the Dixie Mafia kingpin is named Uncle Daddy (Dean Norris) — John Waters and Spanish bad boy Pedro Almodóvar, whose films often feature odd groups of women who come together as friends. As such, Desna is surrounded by her besties Jen (Jenn Lyon), Polly (Carrie Preston) and Quiet Ann (Judy Reyes), the latter a lesbian. The characters all subvert expectations. Desna has a va-va-voom body, but is more maternal than sexual; Polly looks like a good girl, but she has a tracking device on her ankle from her recent stint in prison; and Quiet Ann looks thuggish, but is actually quite the heartbreaker. Laurence explained his approach to creating his eccentric characters. “I love peeling away the layers of a character’s onion and being surprised — finding empathy where you didn’t expect it, or the opposite. I like tones that are hard to pin down, things that are sad and funny at the same time. Life is like that. It veers from hilarity to tragedy in five minutes. That’s vivid and makes the work feel alive.” As for the cast’s diversity, he admitted, “It seems like we were mercenary about it. It can look like a Benetton ad — we have one of everybody! But it wasn’t so linear. It was about grabbing the finest actors we could and adjusting stuff within the character to make it fit. I’m all about having a hugely diverse cast and crew. We got

lucky.” Nevertheless, it took time. Laurence wrote the show in 2012-13, and even after it was approved for production, it took six to seven months to cast everyone. But once “Claws” started up, it has been full-steam ahead. The 10-epsiode season, which is absolutely binge-worthy, has what Laurence described as “novel-like intricacy and depth. There’s a pulpy quality to the show.” In talking about his decisions regarding the characters and their story arcs, Laurence observed, “Janine [Sherman Barrois, the showrunner] and I wrote the story on our own and assembled the writers. We figured out how the characters and

ELIOT LAURENCE storylines cross and where to heighten them. We talk about the lives, the dreams the characters have, writing down the best stuff and making sure it all makes sense. “TNT has been so brave with us,” he added. “Some of the stuff we come up with at 3 a.m. doesn’t look as good in the light of day. But Gladys (Jane Adams) is a wild character, and they have been supportive of her and her nuttiness.” While there are some plot twists worthy of soap operas — one character, presumed dead, came back to life mid-season — Laurence emphasized that he grounds the characters in relatable circumstances. He cited an early episode in which Polly didn’t want the other women in the salon to know she doesn’t have a car. “She tells these outrageous fabrications,” Laurence related, “then you see her walking home, and she is ashamed. We balance the outrageous with the human.” These qualities are also evident in Desna, who is often seen sacrificing herself, and rarely getting the breaks she deserves. When asked about building the show around such a strong but suffering heroine, Laurence noted, “It’s about me being a mama’s boy and having a great relationship with my mother. It’s about how sacrificing and how tender these women are. It’s an appealing archetype, but the bad mother is fascinating to me as well.” n Fans old and new will get a sense of “that dark motherhood stuff” Laurence promised when “Claws” returns for Season 2 in 2018.

Theater & Arts Anna Drezen The stand-up comedian and writer for “Saturday Night Live” performs 8:30 p.m. Aug. 12 at Good Good Comedy Theater, 215 N. 11th St.; 215-399-1279. Around the World in 80 Days Hedgerow Theatre presents the global adventure story through Aug. 13, 64 Rose Valley Road, Media; 610-5654211. Broadway Dreams Summer Concert: #ComeTogether Tour 2017 The Kimmel Center presents a performance serving as musical-theater training for local aspiring performers and their Broadway teaching artists 3 and 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at Perelman Theater, 300 S. Broad St.; 215-893-1999. Gina Yashere The comedian performs through Aug. 12 at Punch Line Philly, 33 E. Laurel St.; 215-6066555. Guys and Dolls Bucks County Playhouse presents the legendary musical through Aug. 12, 70 S. Main St., New Hope; 215862-2121. Jon Lovitz The comedian seen on “Saturday Night Live” performs through Aug. 12 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001. La La Land in Concert The award-winning film is screened, with the score performed live

HOT FUNK IN THE SUMMERTIME: Nine-time Grammynominated out saxophonist Dave Koz (pictured) brings his “Side by Side” summer tour, featuring funk singer/ bassist Larry Graham Jr. (Sly & The Family Stone), to Philly 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at Dell Music Center, 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive. For more information or tickets, call 215685-9560.

by the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at The Mann Center, 5201 Parkside Ave.; 215546-7900. Night of the Living Dead The classic horror film is screened 8 p.m. and midnight Aug. 12 at TLA, 334 South St.; 215922-1011. Other Desert Cities Bucks County Playhouse presents the award-winning play by Pulitzer nominee Jon Robin Baitz about Brooke Wyeth, who is returning to her parents’ Palm Springs home toting an explosive, aboutto-be-published tellall memoir, Aug. 18Sept. 2, 70 S. Main St., New Hope; 215862-2121. UHF The ’80s comedy film is screened 8 p.m. Aug. 14 at The Trocadero Theater, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888.

Wicked The Broadway musical based on the popular book set in the land of Oz returns through Aug. 27 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.; 215-893-1999. Wild: Michael Nichols Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition exploring the work of the legendary photographer, artist, technical innovator and ardent advocate for preserving natural habitats through Sept. 17, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100. Witness: Reality and Imagination in the Prints of Francisco Goya Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works by the artist who witnessed decades of political turmoil and social upheaval as court painter to four successive

rulers of Spain through Sept. 6, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100. The Woodmere Annual: 76th Juried Exhibition An exhibition featuring works in a wide variety of media from regional artists through Sept. 4 at the Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Ave.; 215-247-0476.

Music Roger Waters The classic-rock artist performs the music of Pink Floyd 8 p.m. 7:30 Aug. 11 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-3899543. Graceland presents Elvis Live in Concert Graceland marks the milestone 40th anniversary of Presley’s passing with its U.S. debut of an all-new concert production featuring

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

St., Phoenixville; 610-917-1228. Donna McKechnie The Tony Awardwinning Broadway/ cabaret singer performs 7:30 p.m. Aug. 12 at The Rrazz Room, 385 W. Bridge St., New Hope; 888-5961027.

SING US SOMETHING GOOD: Legendary R&B singer Chaka Kahn is set to heat up Atlantic City when she performs an evening of her greatest hits 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at The Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk. For more information or tickets, call 800-843-8767.

The King on the big screen accompanied by a live orchestra 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at The Mann Center, 5201 Parkside Ave.; 215546-7900. Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey The R&B singers perform 7 p.m. Aug. 16 at Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.; 215-3899543.. Jimmy Buffet The beachinfluenced singer performs 8 p.m. Aug. 17 at BB&T Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 609-365-1300. Rumours The Fleetwood Mac tribute band performs 8:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at TLA, 334 South St.; 215-9221011. John Mayer The guitarist and singer performs 7 p.m. Aug. 18 at BB&T Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 609365-1300.

Nightlife Lovesick Expo A booze- and burlesque-themed wedding expo, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 13 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400. Latice at L’Etage A comedy showcase featuring local talent 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at L’Etage, 624 S. Sixth St.; 215-5920656. Big Brothers Big Sisters Happy Hour A happy hour to recruit and raise money to support Big Brothers Big Sisters, 6-8 p.m. Aug. 18 at Boxers PHL, 1330 Walnut St.; 215-735-2977.

Outta Town Retro Futura Tour Howard Jones, Paul Young, English Beat, Men Without Hats, Katrina and

Modern English perform on this classic ’80s alternative pop and rock concert 8 p.m. Aug. 11 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. The Revolution Prince’s legendary backing band performs his hits 9 p.m. Aug. 11 at Resorts Superstar Theater, 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City; 800-3346378. Saturday Night Fever The disco-era blockbuster film is screened 2 p.m. Aug. 12 at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge

United We Rock Tour 2017 Rock bands Styx and REO Speedwagon perform 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Clambake The film starring Elvis Presley is screened 2 p.m. Aug. 13 at the Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-1228. Kool & The Gang and The Commodores The R&B/funk groups perform 8 p.m. Aug. 13 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Leonardo Martinez The singer makes his New Hope debut 8 p.m. Aug. 17 at The Rrazz Room, 385 W. Bridge St., New Hope; 888-5961027. n

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

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Charles Busch sheds his skin in New Hope By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor Charles Busch is going to be naked. Not literally; more like emotionally. The actor/playwright — famous for his shows and films “Psycho Beach Party” and “Die, Mommie, Die!” — often performs on screen in drag. But for his Aug. 19 cabaret show at the Rrazz Room at the Clarion Hotel in New Hope, Busch may perform out of drag. Fans will have to attend to find out. PGN chatted with Busch about his upcoming show. PGN: You titled this show “Naked and Afraid.” I’m guessing this is because you’re not performing in drag. What prompted that decision? CB: I’ve been performing in drag for about 40 years, and I’ve been doing cabaret work for about five. It seemed odd I’ve been in drag for cabaret shows, but I’m introduced as Charles Busch and I’m not playing a character. I’ve been telling true stories about my life and adventures and singing Sondheim and Bachrach; I never understood why I was in drag, but people knew me for doing that. I’ve been experimenting out of drag, but gender is so fluid. If I’m not in drag, can I still be theatricalized? It is performance. My version of naked is someone else’s version of drag. I’m an androgynous person in life. The admirers who want to see me in drag won’t be disturbed. I always straddle the fence between male and female. PGN: Can you talk about expressing yourself in female form? CB: I used to be very glib about why I did drag, or what it means to me. I’ve come to truly appreciate and begin to understand the profundity of what the feminine me is. So, in a certain sense, I don’t have to be in full drag to tap into it; it’s like crossing into another room. I’ve become so aware of the essential androgyny of who I am that it doesn’t matter what I’m wearing — I can still express the feminine in me. I’m both masculine and feminine. In cabaret work, I feel very comfortable not completely hitting the feminine button, but in a play or a movie, I’m much more playing a regular female character, which is what I do best. PGN: What is the appeal of cabaret for you? CB: What I love about cabaret, unlike movies or theater, is how personal it is. The most successful cabaret performers have a persona close to who they are. Everything is dialed up a bit for theatrical purposes. So [for] my performance style, I dial up the femme a bit more. My singing voice is light. It’s not like I’m going to be Brian Stokes Mitchell. I have an androgynous nature. There’s not much adjustment that needs to be made.

PGN: Can you describe how you build your act with comedy, ballads and stories? CB: I really am a storyteller, and that’s what I’ve been as an actor-playwright, and that’s what I bring into the world of cabaret. I choose songs that strike a bell with me, and I find an anecdote that illuminates that song. I’ve chosen songs that I feel some kind of personal connection to or that are very “actable.” I never choose a song because a woman sings it, or a man does. I never choose songs

about a man singing about his love for a woman. I’ve sung woman songs — “My Man Done Left Me” — and I still want to do that out of drag because that’s my experience as a gay man. Sometimes it’s hard for me to come up with an “up” tune, because I like songs that loan themselves to a dramatic monologue. My introductions are my up tunes. It’s 30 percent of me talking, 70 percent singing. Back in the early ’90s, I did cabaret and was convinced my audience was strictly there to see me being campy and funny. So I could at best get away with two dramatic songs. This time around, I discovered the audience responds to me being more vulnerable and human so they respond to the dramatic songs. I’m funny in between. I live my life for the anecdote. I throw myself into things because it will make a good story after. PGN: Do you gravitate to songs of strength and vulnerability? CB: I tend to put things in a dramatic context. There are different tones. My Kurt Weill song is kind of a victim song, and I rewrote the lyrics so it’s more a revenge song. “The Rainbow Connection” is a song of hope. The Sondheim song I do, “There Won’t Be Trumpets,” is a new song. It’s about searching for a hero who can change our world, which is something we’re all hoping for. PGN: How do you account for the longevity of your career? CB: I want to keep learning. If I could just keep improving and getting better, then good things will happen. I do keep reinventing myself. n

PGNOUT DINING

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

New eatery puts hummus in the spotlight By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com

PLAN YOUR WEDDING AND RECEPTION

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HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 5 TO 7PM

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Can you remember when hummus wasn’t everywhere? Twenty or so years ago, back in the VCR, Walkman and mix-tape days, anyone who knew what the tasty and versatile chickpea puree was had to go on a quest to find it or, God forbid, make it themselves. Today it’s everywhere from convenience stores and bars to football games and upscale restaurants, and for a good reason. Who doesn’t like or love hummus in some way, shape or form? Even though hummus has achieved almost maximum culinary exposure in the states, we’d fathom to guess that a lot of people get their hummus fix via some form of grocery aisle or as snack or appetizer at a restaurant. But Hummusology, 1112 Locust St., is here to show people a different side to the tasty food staple. The chefs at Hummusology traveled all the way to Tel Aviv, Israel where there are hummusiyas at almost every corner, to learn how to make Israeli-style hummus using authentic ingredients that are distinct to that region and culture. So when you come to Hummusology, hummus isn’t the appetizer, it’s the main

course — served up in warm, comforting doses with savory toppings that bring extra excitement. We tried the two most exotic offerings. The Tomato and Eggs Duet ($12) is made with shakshuka, a spicy African tomato sauce, and a generous helping of hummus topped with paprika, olive oil, green sauce and tahini. The tomatoes are an inspired pairing, bringing a robust brightness to the hummus, and the tahini adds a creamy richness to the plate. The Shroomed Hummus ($11) is on the earthier end of the spectrum, with sautéed and warm chickpeas. The Go Hard or Go Home ($11) is in the middle ground of the flavors expected from hummus, with fava beans, chickpeas and a hard-boiled egg complementing the dish. Hummusology put a lot of work in the garnishes too. The baked pita bread, Israeli salads, olives and pickles — all house-made — round out your meal in excellent fashion. Another side item you should definitely try are the burekas ($10), fluffy and crisp puff pastries filled with either potatoes or cheese. If all you know about hummus is what you see on party platters or in the refrigerated aisle at the store, make your way to Washington Square West and study up on Hummusology. n

If you go Hummusology

1112 Locust St. 215-592-6505 www.hummusology.net Mon.-Sun.: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

6426 Lower York road • New Hope, pa 18938

the

At t h e C L A R I O N h Ot e L • N e w h O p e

This saTuRday aT 8pm

TONY Award Winner of Broadway’s Original “A Chorus Line”

DONNA McKECHNIE Same Place:

www.TheRRazzRoom.com 888-596-1027

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Tony Nominee

CHARLES BUSCH

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Tony Nominee of Broadway’s Fun Home

BETH MALONE:

Naked and Unafraid Tom Judson, Mus. Dir.

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Another Time

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KINSEy SICKS

Things You Shouldn’t Say

An Intimate Evening With

ALEX NEWELL

(Star of TV’s GLEE)

NATALIE DOUGLAS

To Nina: A Tribute To NINA SIMONE

PGN

Food and Drink Directory

1846 South 12th Street at the Corner of 12th & Mifflin

(215) 551-7111

Catering Available - Delivery All Night Long

www.KeyPizzaOnline.com “Serving your Philadelphia neighborhood a variety of fresh quality food since 1989”

The Center City IHOP located at 1320 Walnut St. is now open 24 Hrs on FRIDAY and SATURDAY

THANKS FOR MAKING IT A IHOP DAY

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

PORTRAIT from page 35

tiful, pristine wilderness but it’s pretty grim in the cities like Dutch Harbor. There isn’t much culture other than meth and fishing. It’s very dirty and really hard to have a healthy lifestyle up there. It was too cold to exercise, it was hard to find decent food, it was the opposite of everything I thought it would be. But the biggest culture shock for me was moving to West Hollywood. I was 27, but having just come out I was a baby gay immersed in this beautiful LGBT population. It was wild. I remember going to the Abbey and they had a curtain you could stick your hand through and touch whatever anatomy you wanted, male or female. Pretty wild stuff for a small-town boy. I went to my first Pride wearing khaki pants and a buttoned-down shirt while people were walking around with assless chaps! I quickly learned to adapt and that’s where I started becoming myself as a gay man in the world. PGN: I read you had one job that wasn’t so serendipitous. DR: Serendipity Catering. Yes, about a week after working with them I realized that they were owned and operated by Scientologists and that my sales team were all Scientologists. I’m very open to all religions and I grew up in a faithful house but it was a very cold and weird environment. There was no warmth or camaraderie, nobody helped each other and it was very dog-eat-dog. If someone sneezed and you said “God bless you” you were corrected. You were instructed to say “Shush!” or to tell the person to stop it. PGN: I guess you’re not supposed to get sick in Scientology. DR: I have no idea. It was very uncomfortable. They would leave Scientology books on my desk. I told the owner, “I appreciate you thinking of me, but it’s not for me” and she told me, “That’s nice but you’re still going to have to read them.” I wasn’t there too much longer. PGN: Now you’re with Feast Your Eyes. What’s the coolest event you’ve done with them? DR: There have been so many in a short amount of time. I’d say the Penn Alumni event. It was a big event; it was an 18-hour day with a gala and a picnic and all sorts of things. It was cold and rainy but everyone was in a great mood and we got it done. We’ve also been doing a lot of work with the LGBT community, gay weddings and events, and now that I’m here we’ll be doing even more outreach to the community. We had these cute little ring boxes that we handed out at Pride to everyone and are looking forward to finding other ways to get involved. The owners, Lynn and Skip, are very supportive and now that they’ve opened Front and Palmer we have room for big events too. PGN: What’s Front and Palmer? DR: Feast Your Eyes bought and renovated a barrel factory in South Kensington, just 10 minutes from Center City. It’s a really cool

PGN

space, very chic-industrial, and it can hold 350 people for cocktails or 250 for a sitdown event. It was voted one of America’s Top-45 wedding venues by brides.com. PGN: I read you do food styling. I did a commercial once for Wonder Bread and they brought in about 200 sandwiches just to find the perfect one for a single shot. Then the stylist positioned each piece of lettuce just so and painted it. DR: … with glycerin. Oh yeah, we did an ad for a bread company too. The scene was supposed to be “two kids run up as Mom is making sandwiches. They each grab one and take a big bite.” Well, the little actress, who played JonBenet [Ramsey] in the telemovie, refused to eat lettuce and said she didn’t like the bread. So we had to build a sandwich with all the lettuce, tomatoes, etc., showing for the camera, but the piece that she was supposed to bite into had to have it removed. We ended up crafting about 70 of them. But the most bizarre part was finding just the right slices of bread. We went through an entire garage-full. PGN: Because you need to use the actual bread sold in stores, correct? DR: Yes, so they bring you cases upon cases of bread to find the perfect piece. We’d open each loaf and check and measure each piece, the center crevice, the thickness and color. It was the longest six hours of my life. The saddest part is that with all the homeless shelters in Denver, they just throw the rest away. PGN: Silly questions. What’s the longest line you ever stood in? DR: The Dumbo Ride at Disney World. My poor dad, Jim, stood with me and by the time we got to the front, I didn’t want to go on it anymore. He pretty much dragged me onto the ride. Wait, change that: The longest line was at the Bonnaroo music festival. There were 80,000 people trying to get in and only one entrance opened. It took nine hours to get in! It was ridiculous. PGN: Worst etiquette breach? DR: Talking, texting or just dicking around on your phone during dinner. It’s so rude. If you have to take a call, excuse yourself, then come back and put the phone away. PGN: Ever have to fire anyone? DR: Yes! And it was kind of funny. At the Boulder Marriott, an expensive light fixture on the fourth floor was broken and there were black streaks on the ceiling. We were trying to figure out what the hell happened. An hour later, I was looking at Facebook and one of the guys I’d hired, a beautiful-looking guy who was a gymnast, had posted videos of himself doing back handsprings up the hallway. He did a flip and broke the light and scuffed up the ceiling. Later he tried to deny it but I was like, “You posted it on Facebook with the caption, ‘Oops, I just broke the light!’” It was so dumb, we had to let him go. n To suggest a community member for Family Portrait, email portraits05@aol.com.

Q Puzzle Old and Dribbling Across

1. Simians on Roddy McDowall’s planet 5. Like a woman without a woman 10. Anthropologist Margaret 14. “Pandora’s Box” heroine 15. “Dallas Voice,” for example 16. A lot, maybe 17. “Dancing With the Stars” cohost Andrews 18. Playful swimmer 19. Express the success of a lover’s caress 20. Pro team of 40-Across 23. At once, to the Bard 24. Emulated Kerouac’s “On the Road” 28. With 48-Across, position of 40-Across 31. It takes balls to make them in NFL

games 34. Trumpet blast 35. Sea eagles 36. “My Fair Lady” song 38. Butt 39. X-ray unit 40. Oldest player in the WNBA 41. Stonewall Jackson’s country (abbr.) 42. Shoshonean tongue 43. Geneticist’s study 44. Bearing 45. Deal with 47. Dick, for short 48. See 28-Across 49. Lively wit 51. Commuter plane trips 53. College team of 40-Across, briefly 59. Dorothy Gale’s home 62. Not spelled out 63. “Nurse Jackie” protrayer Falco 64. Straddling 65. Place for a G-string 66. Actor Rip

67. Fourposters for foreplay, for some 68. Will and Grace shared one 69. Aspen vehicle

Down

1. They have foamy heads 2. Like a virgin 3. Director Kazan 4. Catches some rays at South Beach 5. Ohno of Geert Blanchart’s sport 6. Pressure to come out of the closet? 7. Makes a pick 8. Drag queen’s application 9. Billy Bean boo-boo 10. Bear, e.g. 11. “The Name of the Rose” author 12. Astronomical altar 13. Pride’s place 21. Stuff for a blow job? 22. Dressed

like a judge 25. “Desperate Housewives” star Cross 26. Rubber 27. Supply partner 28. Go over 29. Mounts the soapbox 30. Committed to penetration? 32. Sheila Kuehl’s “The Many Loves of ___ Gillis” 33. Goes either way, at home 36. California has a big one 37. Woolf’s “___ Dalloway” 40. Stiff-upperlip type 44. Minuteman shot them off 46. Ranking

suit, or criminals in suits? 48. Fam. docs 50. The bottom line 52. Navel unlikely to collect lint 54. “Zami: A New Spelling of My ___” 55. Trojans’ org. 56. Clay Aiken, almost 57. Land of Emma Donoghue 58. Tickle pink 59. British sitcom “Ab ___” 60. Did an encore of “Food, Glorious Food”? 61. Member, in slang

FILM PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

New Ferguson-based doc is timely look at nation in crisis By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor

attempt to keep the memorial site for Brown going after there has been an effort to end it. Perhaps the most emotionally stirring moment Brittany Farrell — an African-American les- in the film is seeing the citizens’ reactions to bian, mother and activist — is one of the many the disappointing decision handed down by the impassioned voices in the sobering documen- grand jury that Wilson would not be indicted. tary “Whose Streets?” which opens Aug. 11 at The filmmakers also depict the rioting that happened in the city over time as waves of the Ritz at the Bourse. Directors Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis anger erupted in the city. Scenes of businesses chronicle social justice and Black Lives Matter being burned or store windows being broken activism in Ferguson, Mo., in the wake of the are disturbing, but they vividly express the tragic shooting of unarmed African-American reactions African-Americans in Ferguson have teenager Mike Brown by 28-year-old white towards the relentless discrimination and racpolice officer Darren Wilson. The film is largely ism that exists in their community. When one observational, with remarkable video footage woman says that a business can be rebuilt, but from camera phones and/or from YouTube a life cannot be replaced, her anger is palpable showing how protesters mobilized — and, more and righteous. The protests that importantly, were are organized to treated — in the unify the commuaftermath of the nity and give voice Aug. 9, 2014 killto the suffering ing of Brown. are also rousing. The film There is a signifiincludes intercant event staged views with a on a highway in handful of fasciwhich Farrell and nating subjects. others block trafDavid Whitt, who fic. The protest created Copwatch results in Farrell to record police getting arrested. activity, is feaher tured in a particu- BRITTANY FARRELL IN “WHOSE STREETS?” Watching being led away in larly potent scene in which he displays the large rubber bullets handcuffs while her fellow protesters badger and casings for all of the chemical weapons, the police asking what Farrell is being charged like tear gas, that he has collected during with is compelling. While the filmmakers show protests. Tef Poe, a local hip-hop artist, also Farrell meeting with an attorney about her case, expresses heartfelt messages about how his as well as her reading a particularly condemning passage of the police report against her, community is affected by police violence. But it is Farrell whose story really resonates, “Whose Streets?” never reveals the outcome of as she describes her commitment to activism that particular situation, which is frustrating. saying, “As soon as [my] community was at However, viewers are privy to other key war, my future didn’t matter.” She put her edu- moments in Farrell’s life, from her girlfriend cation on hold and emphasized that she wanted Alexis Templeton proposing to her to her to teach her 6-year-old daughter to think for daughter’s concern that her mother may be shot herself, resist and participate in democracy. by the police for her activism. What makes Watching Farrell chant, “We will continue to these and other scenes resonate is how Farrell fight for our rights and what we believe in … explains her outlook. She says she challenges we have nothing to lose but our chains” is truly the “ideas of normalcy … If you are not questioning normal, you are not paying attention.” inspiring. The important lessons shared in “Whose When she later describes how “liberation” Streets?” are delivered with urgency, taking motivates her, it is cathartic. viewers onto the streets as police attack peo- “Whose Streets?” will certainly appeal to ple on their own front lawns, insisting they viewers interested in social justice, activism stay inside their houses. Another video has an and accountability. It may even get their blood African-American woman justly arguing with boiling as scenes depict discrimination and cops at 10:30 p.m. when they try to enforce racism. But the film is cogent in this era of Ferguson’s midnight curfew 90 minutes early. “disrupt and resist.” The importance of “Whose Another scene features an African-American Streets?” may excuse the film’s flaws of not woman who just wants to get to her car being creating enough of a narrative or lacking in told by the police that she must go back and out detail about many of the interesting subjects featured. There may have been a rush to get the of her way. Folayan and Davis show these and other pow- film out in the wake of Trump’s election. But erful scenes that have taken place in Ferguson, it is a timely reminder of a national crisis. It is such as peaceful protests and candlelight vigils. also a testament to the necessity of speaking These moments form a mosaic that shines light truth to power and standing up for one’s rights on the stories largely uncovered by the media. and against oppression, as Farrell eloquently One particularly poignant episode involves an shows. n

Are you between the ages of 13 and 25? Do you care about LGBT issues? Do you enjoy writing?

If you answered yes to all of those questions, we want to hear from you! Email editor@epgn.com by Aug. 1 for more information on how to contribute to our LGBTQ Youth Supplement — written completely by and for LGBTQ and ally youth. No writing experience is necessary.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

Real Estate Sale

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

F R E E E S T I M AT E S

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 11-17, 2017

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Expires August 31, 2017.