PGN Aug. 12 - 18, 2016 by The Philadelphia Gay News

pgn Philadelphia Gay News LGBT NEWS SINCE 1976

Vol. 40 No. 33

Family Portrait: Shamus Hunter McCarty — stage struck at an early age PAGE 35

Aug. 12-18, 2016

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM

• Action Wellness nabs $325K in federal funding for re-entry programs

Beared Ladies Cabaret dig in at the Delaware Art Museum

PAGE 2

PAGE 33

Surgery policy lifted for PA birth-certificate changes

Lesbian couples challenge NJ insurance law

By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com

By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Four New Jersey women filed a federal lawsuit last week charging that a state insurance law regarding payments for fertility treatments is discriminatory against same-sex couples. New Jersey is one of 15 states that requires insurance providers to pay for infertility treatments. However, the wording of the state’s law requires that patients prove they are infertile through both medical documentation and by attesting to unprotected heterosexual sex. Erin and Marianne Krupa, of Montclair, and Sol Mejias and Sarah Mills, of North Bergen and Union City, respectively, were denied coverage by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield because of the language defining infertility. The company eventually agreed to pay for the Krupas’ infertility treatments, but has continued to deny payments for treatments for Mejias and Mills. In a statement issued this week, attorney Grace Cathryn Cretcher of Beranbaum Menken LLP, who is representing the couples, said their “goal in filing this case is to affirm that this most basic human hope — to experience the joy of bringing a child into the world — is one shared by New Jerseyans regardless of sexuality, and that the state’s interest in building strong families and strong communities is best served by protecting the ability of all its citizens to realize their dreams of becoming parents. Garden State Equality executive director Christian Fuscarino noted in a statement that New Jersey Sen. Loretta Weinberg and Assemblywoman Pam Lampitt have introduced legislation to rectify the language in the law. California and Maryland have adopted laws clarifying that insurance companies must offer benefits regardless of patients’ sexual orientation. “We look forward to working with [Weinberg and Lampitt] to ensure the language is as protective for same-sex couples as possible,” Fuscarino said. n

PRIDE 2.0: Participants at the second-annual Youth Pride cooled off with a water-balloon fight Aug. 6 at Palumbo Playground. The Mazzoni Center event featured free food, music, live performances and games for LGBTs and allies 23 and under. Youth Pride was conceived of last year as an alternative to Pride, which includes alcohol and often has adult themes. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Under an updated state policy, trans people born in Pennsylvania are now permitted to change the gender on their birth certificates without undergoing gender-confirmation surgery. The updated policy went into effect Aug. 8, said Philadelphia-based trans attorney Julie Chovanes. With valid identification, a $20 payment and a doctor’s verification that the person is transitioning, trans people may now change the gender on their birth certificate without a court order. The updated policy also per-

mits trans youth to change the gender on their birth certificate, with parental consent. In May, Chovanes filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of two trans people who wanted to change the gender on their birth certificate without undergoing gender-confirmation surgery. The case was settled on Aug. 8, the same date that the updated state policy went into effect, Chovanes said. “This settlement is another example of how the Wolf administration is trying to eradicate anti-LGBT discrimination,” Chovanes said. “I’m grateful there was such a quick resolution of the federal lawsuit. I also wish to thank PAGE 2

Human-rights leaders explore LGBT Philly By Paige Cooperstein paige@epgn.com Although not marked by a rainbow flag, Rittenhouse Square played an important part for LGBT people in Philadelphia. “It was a gay meeting spot in the ’60s and ’70s,” said Bob Skiba, archivist at William Way LGBT Community Center. “Gay people have always found ways to make public spaces their own, being visible and invisible at the same time.” He outlined the routes of the first Gay Pride parades in the city in the 1970s. They started at Rittenhouse and ended at Independence Hall, where early gay-rights protesters held Annual Reminder marches. Skiba led an hour-long tour Aug. 8 for about 50 representatives from humanrights agencies across the country. Another 50 were on a bus with William Way’s executive director, Chris Bartlett. They were in Philadelphia for the 67th-annual conference of the International Association of Official Human Rights Agencies. This year PAGE 21

OUT IN PHILLY: About 100 leaders of human-rights agencies around the country convened in Philadelphia this week for the 67th-annual conference of the International Association of Official Human Rights Agencies. This year’s event focused on LGBT issues. On Monday, the group members were given tours of Philadelphia’s LGBT sites by Bob Skiba, archivist at William Way LGBT Community Center, and center executive director Chris Bartlett. Photo: Scott A. Drake

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Motorcycle ride for AIDS research ends in Philly By Paige Cooperstein paige@epgn.com Actors from “Gilmore Girls” and “Sex and the City” among other notables will zoom into Philadelphia Friday (Aug. 12), concluding a motorcycle ride to benefit AIDS research that covered 1,200 miles and six states. Philadelphians are invited to a meet-and-greet with the celebrity riders at 2 p.m. at Kiehl’s Since 1851, a skin-care store inside the Shops at Liberty Place, 1625 Chestnut St. Attendees can buy a special hand cream, the proceeds of which will also go toward AIDS research. Scott Patterson, who plays Luke on “Gilmore Girls,” will be in attendance, along with Gilles Marini, known for playing Samantha’s steamy neigh-

bor in the “Sex and the City” movie; Grant Reynolds, host of a show on the Science Channel; and Ben Cohen, an activist and former professional rugby player. The seventh-annual LifeRide also made stops in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Vermont. Through a partnership with Kiehl’s, it has raised $1.6 million for AIDS research since 2010, funding eight cure-related projects. This year, Kiehl’s donated $150,000 to amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research. Another $25,000 is expected to come to the organization through sales of the hand cream, said Kevin Robert Frost, CEO of amfAR. Kiehl’s will also present a $5,000 check to Jane Shull, executive director of Philadelphia FIGHT. “Kiehl’s has stores all across the

country,” Frost said. “They literally turn over their stores to amfAR. It gives amfAR an opportunity to reach a demographic we don’t always have the opportunity to see. It’s a real boon for us.” Customers will see promotional materials about the work of amfAR and hear a brief description of the state of AIDS research today. “What is new is a lot of the scientific progress being made in the fight against AIDS,” Frost said. “We’re able to take that story on the road with us.” Money raised through the annual LifeRide has gone toward projects that focus on gene therapy and antibody therapy to combat HIV. “amfAR’s portfolio is very diverse,” Frost said. “We see that as a strength.” n

CERTIFICATE from page 1

the plaintiffs, John Doe and Jane Doe, for being willing to seek justice. And of course, I must thank Equality PA and National Center for Transgender Equality. Their policy work helped bring this about.” The lawsuit had been assigned to U.S. District Judge John R. Padova. “We’re going to notify [Padova] as soon as possible about the settlement, and request that the case be dismissed,” Chovanes said. She noted that many trans people will benefit from the updated policy. “Thousands of trans people born in the commonwealth will benefit from this new policy. I just hope

people realize that trans folks are like everyone else. I’m elated the Wolf administration did the right thing.” The state Department of Health issued this statement: “Gov. Wolf and his administration believe that all people throughout the commonwealth — regardless of sexual orientation, gender expression or identity — deserve to be treated equally under Pennsylvania law. The Department of Health updated its operational policy for individuals requesting a change to the sex listed on a Pennsylvania certification of birth to make clear that the commonwealth is inclusive and welcoming to all people.” n

Action Wellness gets $325K for re-entry programs Action Wellness this month received $325,000 in federal funding for its Philadelphia Linkage Program, which helps formerly incarcerated people connect with resources. The organization was one of seven to earn the grant for its work to improve the health outcomes for people aged 18-26 who come

from minority communities and have been formerly incarcerated. The grant comes through the Office of Minority Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In all, the office distributed $2.4 million in funding. “We are very excited to have the opportunity to continue and expand the successful

work we have accomplished through our Philadelphia Linkage Program, helping to connect clients with medical and social services upon release from jail and reducing barriers for clients to remain in care,” said Elizabeth Hagan, deputy executive director of Action Wellness. The Office of Minority Health said in a

news release that grantees found ways to coordinate among the criminal-justice, public-health, social-service and private sectors to address health-care access for the re-entry population, reduce disparities experienced by the population and reduce recidivism. n — Paige Cooperstein

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

News & Opinion

7 — Obituaries 10 — Creep of the Week Editorial 11 — Letters/Feedback Op-Ed Street Talk 14 — Anniversary Engagement 20 — Engagement Wedding 23 — News Briefing

Columns

8 — Thinking Queerly: Psychological health through everyday situations 12 — Out Money: Is Social Security enough? SERVING UP SUCCESS: Alan Gnani of Austin (left) and Ish Alejo of Kansas City, formerly of Philadelphia, competed in the finals of the B Division Doubles at the Philadelphia Open. Hosted by Liberty Tennis Association, a group for LGBT and ally tennis players, the tournament ran from Aug. 5-7 at Legacy Youth Tennis and Education Center. The tournament brought together members of the national Gay & Lesbian Tennis Association for play in several divisions, as well as social activities. Photo: Scott A. Drake

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33 37 35 38

— Feature: Bearded Ladies hit the dirt — Scene in Philly — Family Portrait — Out & About

Anthony Falatico and Dean Metzler celebrate 40 years together.

Editor

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Staff Writers Paige Cooperstein (ext. 215) paige@epgn.com

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~ Ethan Ake, GlaxoSmithKline scholarship winner, page 8

Arts & Culture

Creep of the Week: Vying for Creep of the Year, Donald Trump takes the weekly honors yet again.

“At the time, I felt like I was living two different lives on many planes. A life at home, a life at school, I was living a double life with my own sexuality. I was living an academic double life where it was what I wanted to be versus who I should be or who my parents wanted me to be.”

Greg Dennis (ext. 201) greg@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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Copyright © 1976 - 2016 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. © 1976-2016 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155

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FLIGHTS OF FANCY: The Manhattan Prairie Dogs trekked down to Dover, Del., for the annual Delaware Pride celebration Aug. 6. The Prairie Dogs were among the performers at Pride, which also included entertainment by Miss Delaware Pride Queen 2015, Siren, a host of drag performers and more. The free event was staged for the first time in conjunction with Delaware Comic Con, a comic convention, which prompted many Pride-goers to dress up for the occasion. Photo: Steve Newman

Neighbor balks at paying gay couple’s legal fees By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com Frank Charlton, who unsuccessfully sued a gay couple to have their security fence removed, maintains he shouldn’t have to pay the couple’s attorneys’ fees. According to a recent legal filing, Charlton maintained he reasonably believed the fence would reduce property values in the area, thus he didn’t sue the couple in bad faith. Keith Davis and David Ruth live in the Bucktoe Manor subdivision of New Garden Township, Chester County. According to court records, the couple and their two children have been targeted for antigay slurs and vandalism, and “Get Out Fags!” was spray-painted on their garage door. The couple built a 6-foot fence in 2014 for protection. But the next year, several neighbors, including Charlton, sued to have the fence removed, claiming it was an eyesore and too high. Protracted litigation ensued. But in June, Chester County Common Pleas Judge Jeffrey R. Sommer ruled in the couple’s favor. Charlton and other plaintiffs didn’t appeal to a higher court. Shortly after Sommer’s ruling, Davis and Ruth requested a court order that plaintiffs pay their attorneys’ fees, totaling $77,000. The men contend that plaintiffs objected

to the fence as a pretext to coerce them into leaving the neighborhood due to antiLGBT animus. But in a 26-page reply brief, attorneys for Charlton emphasize that he held a sincere belief the fence would lower property values in the subdivision. Charlton never intended to harass or annoy the DavisRuth family by filing suit, they wrote in the July 29 brief. “A concern regarding possible diminution of property values is valid and meritorious,” his attorneys wrote. They also point out that Sommer didn’t conclude that Charlton acted in bad faith. “While [Sommer’s] June 20, 2016, decision reaches numerous conclusions regarding the events at issue, there is no finding of fact that Frank Charlton’s conduct was in any way arbitrary, vexatious or in bad faith,” they stated. The attorneys also claimed the DavisRuth legal bill of $77,000 is unreasonable, because the plaintiffs’ legal bill was only $28,380. “[There] is nearly a $50,000 discrepancy between the legal services provided to the parties in the same case,” Charlton’s attorneys wrote. Plaintiffs Scott and Allison Bonne, Ryan and Kara Carpenter, Doug Semmell and Michael Lacinski have until Aug. 20 to reply to the couple’s request for the fees. Neither side had a comment for this story. n

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Key question in Morris case remains unanswered By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com A key question in the Nizah Morris case remains unanswered, though the answer could help resolve protracted litigation pending in Commonwealth Court. Morris, a trans woman, was found with a fatal head wound in 2002, shortly after a courtesy ride from Philadelphia police. Her homicide remains unsolved. In 2008, when supplying 33 Morris police documents to the Police Advisory Commission, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office acknowledged it was withholding additional documents. At the time, the PAC was reviewing the Morris case, and the D.A. provided some police documents because police claimed their entire Morris homicide file was lost. The documents provided to the PAC by the D.A.’s office included

witness statements, police-dispatch records and a 2003 PGN letter seeking access to Morris 911 tapes. The documents were accompanied by an April 11, 2008, letter from the D.A.’s Office, stating it was withholding additional documents due to “privilege, privacy and/or other grounds.” A copy of the D.A.’s letter is available at the online Morris archives created by the Slought Foundation. Last week, a spokesperson for the D.A.’s Office had no comment as to whether the agency still has documents withheld from the PAC in 2008, and whether they would be publicly identified. In 2015, during a Morris forum at William Way LGBT Community Center, D.A. Seth Williams declined to release a list of all Morris police records in the D.A.’s possession. In 2013, PGN filed an open-re-

cords request for police-dispatch records pertaining to a traffic stop in the Morris case. To date, it remains unclear whether the D.A. has responsive records. The case remains pending in Commonwealth Court. The D.A.’s Office recently ordered a copy of a transcript of oral arguments regarding the open-records case. The oral arguments were held in Philadelphia Common Pleas Court in April. Once the D.A.’s Office provides the transcript and other records from the case to Commonwealth Court, a briefing schedule will be issued. In 2013, after a 10-year review, the PAC took an unprecedented step of recommending state and federal probes of the Morris case. But so far, no state or federal agency appears to be investigating the case. n

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Obituaries Jack Veasey, writer, 60

Mary Seton Corboy, urban farmer, 58

Poet, playwright and journalist Jack Veasey died last month. He was 60. Veasey, who lived in Hummelstown, died July 15 at M.S. Hershey Medical Center in Harrisburg. Veasey was a native of Philadelphia, who grew up in Fishtown and attended Northeast Catholic High School. Veasey was managing editor of PGN from its founding in 1976 through 1979. His work at PGN won several awards from the Lesbian and Gay Press Association. Veasey more recently wrote several pieces for PGN’s LGBT History Month series about Walt Whitman. Over the years, he also wrote for Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Magazine, Philadelphia City Paper and other regional publications. Last year, Veasey published “The Dance That Begins and Begins: Selected Poems,” which featured his poetry from 1973-2013. He also published 10 other collections of poetry. Veasey is survived by his partner of 38 years, David Walker. n

— Jen Colletta

Mary Seton Corboy, the founder of a nationally renowned urban farm in Kensington, died Aug. 7 at age 58. Corboy, a native of Washington, D.C., worked as a chef at several local venues until realizing her dream of pioneering an urban-farming initiative. In 1997, Corboy founded Greensgrow Farms in Kensington with business partner Tom Sereduk. In a matter of years, the pair turned an abandoned lot, at 2501 E. Cumberland St., into a thriving urban farm, selling $5,000 in lettuce in their second year. Last year, total sales exceeded $1 million. The organization’s com-

munity-supported agriculture program brings locally grown products into members’ homes, and it also provides an onsite farmstand stocked with organic products from local farmers. Greensgrow operates mobile markets to bring healthy foods into underserved neighborhoods and also educational and outreach programs and a community kitchen. Corboy was profiled in 2011 book “The L Life: Extraordinary Lesbians Making a Difference.” In an interview with OutSmart about the book, Corboy detailed her work growing Greensgrow from a fledging organization that lacked indoor toilets

for its first five years. She told the magazine, “People used to say to me, ‘What is your official title?’ And I’d say, ‘Well, we really don’t have titles here. I think once we get indoor plumbing, then we can work on the titles.’” Corboy also talked

about her battle with cancer, which she willingly shared with others facing a health crisis. “I guess there is no cookie-cutter way of going through things; it’s going to be different for every person,” she said. “I’m proud to be a survivor, I’m proud to talk to other people and help other people that are going through it and see if some way my experience can make their experience a little easier.” Donations can be made in Corboy’s name to Greensgrow, 2503 E. Firth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19125 or at greensgrow. org/donate. n — Jen Colletta

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Social unrest, Donald Trump and your psychological well-being Among the most common topics I’ve been utilized almost solely for the purpose discussed with clients during typical of discussing matters relating directly to sessions are relationship issues, career day-to-day life, the people in it and vardissatisfaction, familial conflict, a poor ious experiences to discuss large-scale relationship to alcohol, drugs or food and issues that in no way relate to an argument issues relating to sex. However, with a spouse, a frustrating since June 12 when 49 peosituation with a friend or a big ple were senselessly killed at decision at work. In fact, it has Pulse Nightclub, a distinct shift become evident that, with the occurred in the types of topcurrent state of affairs in our ics being discussed during an country, discussing social and average client session. For a political matters has become period, it was just about Pulse: just as personal to people as processing the enormity of what discussing marital issues or happened, trying to fathom how ineffective coping skills. While someone could be armed with I cannot assume that my clients so much hate and pondering the represent the overall populaimplications of the tragedy for tion, I would feel comfortable the future of our communities betting that the shift I’ve noted and society in general. Soon, is one that could be echoed with the resurgence of the therapists’ offices across Kristina Furia in Black Lives Matter movement the country. The current politand the accompanying killical and social climates are ings, another wave of seemingly collective affecting each and every one of us, and it shock, fear, anger and sadness struck, and is becoming clear that these effects also therefore offered clients another socierelate to our psychological health and tal-level issue worthy of discussing during well-being. It is also apparent that we need personal-therapy sessions. Of course, there to see improvements within our country, has also been the ongoing political saga of not just sharply but quickly as well. As it relates to politics, my colleague, Hillary vs. Donald and the accompanying psychotherapist Amanda Lenox, pointed alarm in most people at the possibility of out, “We absorb [parts of] our leaders a Trump presidency; yet another topic all too emotion-inducing not to process aloud. so even people who have relatively good In other words, my clients have taken to mental health will experience decline using therapy sessions that had previously based on our leader [should Trump win].”

Thinking Queerly

In other words, a leader who fails to demonstrate a strong sense of character, an ability to emotionally regulate and an appropriate sense of empathy, among other positive attributes, will cause a ripple effect of negativity nationwide. For example, Trump’s distinct narcissistic personality (as characterized by his grandiose speeches and behaviors, his general disagreeability and shortage of empathy) will alienate many people but, worse than that, it will empower those inclined to some narcissistic tendencies to move into the realm of full-on, unapologetic narcissistic behavior. This, of course, will happen covertly and through the wires of communication that link to our unconscious selves. Or, in a similar vein, Trump, as we know, is incredibly quick to anger and all-but suffers a temper tantrum if he feels in any way insulted or demeaned. The consequence of this in a president? He is modeling for an entire country, our entire country, that it is acceptable to act out when we see fit and that there is little need to self-monitor emotional responses. For those of us who are well-grounded and self-aware, it is unlikely that we will be affected in the aforementioned ways; instead, we are more likely to deal with four difficult years where anger, cynicism and fear will be difficult to ward off within each of us. All of these states of being cause a decline in our physical and mental well-being over time in a variety of ways.

This decline includes increased stress levels, greater susceptibility to anxiety and depression and a negative shift in personal perception of experiences and the world in general in the long term. As it relates to physical health, a weakened immune system is characteristic of individuals experiencing strong, persistent negative feelings, which can morph into a whole array of other problems. So what is the message here? There are a couple. The first one is vote. Vote. Vote. The second is that an excellent antidote to the negative effects of the unique times we are facing is verbalization of your experience. Write. Write to a lawmaker, submit thoughts to a local newspaper. Dialogue. Talk with friends and loved ones who share similar thoughts and feelings, or finally schedule that first therapy appointment. There may be a long road ahead for us as a country, and therefore, for each of us as individuals; because of this grim notion, it is crucial that we continue to tend to ourselves and each other with the utmost of care, respect and empathy so that we find ourselves on the other side of this stronger and more resilient. Take good care. n Kristina Furia is a psychotherapist committed to working with LGBT individuals and couples and owner of Emerge Wellness, an LGBT health and wellness center in Center City (www. emergewellnessphilly.com).

Out teacher wins GSK scholarship By Eliana Berson intern@epgn.com After changing his career focus from medicine to education, Ethan Ake is now pursuing a doctoral degree, with the support of a local scholarship program. Ake was among several local recipients of the 2016 GlaxoSmithKline Opportunity Scholarship, awarded earlier this summer. The openly gay high-school teacher is currently working on his Ph.D. in education with a concentration in urban education at Temple University. Ake was born in Chicago and grew up in Edison, N.Y. Ake had a strained relationship with his father, tension that increased after his mother died of a brain aneurism his senior year of high school. In accordance with his father’s wishes, Ake started medical school but dropped out after accepting that it was not his passion. “At the time, I felt like I was living two different lives on many planes.” Ake said. “A life at home, a life at school, I was living a double life with my own sexuality. I was living an academic double life where it was what I wanted to be versus who I should be or who my parents wanted me to be.” He began tutoring at the Charter High

School for Architecture and Design and found his passion for teaching. He later accepted a position as a substitute teacher and eventually took a full-time job teaching science. Ake said he became interested in education policy and administration, which drove him to work for his Ph.D. He said he remains motivated to continue his own schooling in part thanks to his partner, who is also a teacher. “One of the things that I always told my students was that it’s hard to imagine that things change because you’re always looking through your life in the lens of the present, but there are opportunities that come along that you don’t expect,” Ake said. “There are people out there that are willing to make a positive impact on your life if you’re willing to let them. You don’t know what life has in store for you. It’s just amazing how quickly life turns if you’re open to the opportunities and you’re open to people helping you make those changes.” Stacey Ake was one of the people who changed his life. He encountered the professor during his freshman year of college and they quickly hit it off. “She became a mentor and a confidant for me. And she was the one who actually

encouraged me to be more open and aware of my feelings, and she was the one who eventually encouraged me to come out,” Ake said. “Over the years our relationship grew stronger and stronger and as I started moving further and further away from my father, she became sort of like a surrogate mother to me.” Ake left medical school in 2007, and became estranged from his father. He fell

back on his relationship with Stacey, who came up with the idea of an adult adoption. “The idea was that I could formally become her son,” Ake said. “It was a symbolic as well as a sort of practical move: The symbolic part obviously because it was emotional; it was like gaining a new mother. And the practical part was because we had started to share so much of our lives, she didn’t have any children of her own and she was married, and so it became sort of the next step in our relationship.” Stacey adopted Ake in 2010, and he changed his name to Ethan Stacey Ake. “Having a strong connection with my adopted mother made all the difference for me to develop emotionally and deal with challenges,” he said. Ake said he wants to have the same impact on his students that Stacey had on hers. Once he completes his Ph.D. program, he said, he’ll consider a number of career paths. “I’m thinking about either going into administration, being a principal and going down that track, being a teacher of teachers so to speak, or going into university life,” he said. “There’s a lot of options out there and I’m playing it by ear. But, I’m pretty optimistic about what the future holds.” n

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

EDITORIAL PGN

Creep of the Week

D’Anne Witkowski

Donald Trump

Editorial

Battle by battle An important victory in the fight for LGBT equality in Pennsylvania was won this week — and the lack of pushback around it is another cause for celebration. Per a settlement stemming from a lawsuit by two transgender individuals, the state has dropped its requirement that gender-confirmation surgery is required for one to change the gender marker on a birth certificate. Now, people looking to change the gender must produce just documentation from a physician that they’re undergoing a transition, $20 and valid identification. In the past, countless transgender individuals were barred from obtaining an accurate birth certificate because lack of health care, finances or other impediments prevented them from undergoing surgery. Without such documentation, they not only lacked legal recognition of their accurate identity but inconsistent documentation also presented logistical problems with employment, housing or even travel. That this development came with support from the state is important. Several years ago, this settlement may not have been possible under a Republican governor, but this decision was reached with

the backing of the governor and state Department of Health. The administration rightfully regarded the decision as a common-sense approach, yet it’s one that will positively impact transgender Pennsylvanians in all corners of the state. The lack of pushback points to the vital need to elect forward-thinking leaders who can make progress a reality. However, this was just one battle in the larger effort to ensure LGBT equality in the Keystone State. Pennsylvania remains the only state in the Northeast to lack basic nondiscrimination protections for the LGBT community. The analogy was made when marriage equality became legal that same-sex couples in Pennsylvania could get married on the weekend and fired on Monday. Likewise, this latest victory for trans equality could mean a person takes a few hours off work to update his or her birth certificate and is then fired upon returning to work. Each battle we win solidifies the need for overarching nondiscrimination protections for LGBT people. The time was long overdue for the birth-certificate rule to be changed, and it is just as long past for the state to protect its LGBT citizens from discrimination. n

marshal in a Pride Donald Trump made history at the parade. Republican National Convention by daring to utter a string of five letters: “LGBTQ.” Conservatives are by and large More specifically, he said, “Only weeks supporting Trump ago, in Orlando, Fla., 49 wonderful because they want a Americans were savagely murdered by an Republican, even a Islamic terrorist. This time, the terrorist targeted the LGBTQ community. No good, bat-shit crazy one, and we’re going to stop it. I will do everyappointing Supreme thing in my power to protect our LGBTQ Court justices. citizens from the violence and oppression of That’s not to say Trump didn’t anger a hateful foreign ideology. Believe me.” some with his LGBTQ reference in his con And people applauded, which prompted vention speech. Trump to say, “I have to say, as a Republican it is so nice to hear you cheer Alexandra DeSanctis, writing for the ing for what I just said. Thank you.” National Review, lamented that Trump The moment was kind of surreal. It was threw conservatives “under the bus.” also completely at odds with the Republican “Never has the party or its members Party platform, which even GOP apologists, questioned the right to life — or the very the Log Cabin Republicans, said was the humanity — of LGBT people in the way most antigay in history. Trump not-so-subtly implied,” she writes. So does Trump’s stated support of Lol. Wut? I’m not sure how closely LGBTQ people negate his party’s platform? DeSanctis has been following the decadesHas Trump gone rogue? long assault on LGBT people and their Um, no. And also, no. families being waged by the GOP, but she Let’s take a close look at what he said. apparently has a very different definition of What he’s vowing to protect LGBTQ peo“humanity” than I do. The right to love, to ple from is “a hateful share a consensual foreign ideology.” relationship Conservatives are by and sexual In other words, he’s with another human talking about “radical large supporting Trump being, to marry, to Islam,” and I believe parent, the right to because they want a that the applause he exist rather than be received was more declared crazy and Republican, even a batanti-Islam rather than and subshit crazy one, appointing dangerous pro-gay. Even if he jected to humiliating hadn’t referenced “therapy” and puniSupreme Court justices. foreign terrorists, tive laws — the GOP giving LGBTQ peois against all of those ple a shout out after the horrific Pulse night- things. It’s in their goddamn platform. club shooting in Orlando is literally the While antigay conservatives no doubt least he could do. It’s hardly a courageous bristled at Trump’s remarks and pro-gay stance. conservatives cheered, the fact of the matter Don’t forget that Trump isn’t pro-gay. is Trump is a phony who will say anything He isn’t pro-LGBTQ rights. For one thing, to get elected. A Trump presidency would he did not acknowledge the hateful antigay put the brakes on progressive momentum ideology that exists right here in America. If that has shepherded so many LGBT civanything, he pledged his support to that ide- il-rights gains. Sadly, Americans have a ology by selecting Mike Pence, a man with short historical memory — one need only a long and storied anti-LGBTQ record, as look at Trump’s “Make America Great his veep. Again” slogan for proof. He’s a man look Trump himself has said that he doesn’t ing backwards. n support marriage equality and that he would D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay since seek to appoint Supreme Court justices 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet (believe that would undo that landmark decision. it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps of the Granted, he changes his mind about almost world, she reviews rock and roll shows in Detroit everything on a rotating basis — he’s nothwith her twin sister and teaches writing at the ing if not inconsistent. But I highly doubt University of Michigan. that he’s all of a sudden going to be the

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OP-ED PGN

Op-Ed

John Fluharty

Street Talk

Politics is about addition Politics is about addition — not subtraction, and not division. If the Republican Party doesn’t realize this, we risk alienating an entire generation of new voters. Voters we desperately need. Two years ago, a Gallup Poll estimated that roughly one in five LGBTQ Americans identifies as a Republican. Admittedly, it’s an embarrassingly low number for our party, but it’s not an insignificant one. Despite decades of incendiary rhetoric and demonization, one in five LGBTQ Americans thinks of themselves as a conservative. It offered us a starting point. But today, we’re in a different era, and Republicans have more than just a starting point: We have an opportunity, and it comes at a moment when our party is in dire need of one. In the post-Obergefell era, millions of young LGBTQ families are forming across the country, rightfully taking advantage of their newly recognized constitutional right to marry. These LGBTQ families face the same obstacles and harbor the same worries for the future than traditional families do: They want to know that their children are safe in America. That they will inherit a prosperous country, that they won’t be taxed to death by an out-of-control federal government. They want to give their children a better life than they had. The Republican Party is in a position to offer them that, and if we want to build a winning coalition in 2016 and beyond, we must. We would hardly be starting from scratch. Groups like Pink Pistols — a pro-Second Amendment LGBT group — Log Cabin Republicans and Young Conservatives for the Freedom to Marry have already been hard at work taking an optimistic, inclusive conservative message to the LGBTQ community. They’ve demonstrated extremely effective ways to appeal to LGBTQ families on traditional Republican issues like freedom, national security — even on the importance of strong family values. The failure of our

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

What was the most powerful moment of the DNC?

party to capitalize on the inroads they’ve made would be a historic mistake — one that promises to set the GOP even further back among the next generation of voters. In June, a man who had committed himself to the cause of ISIS walked into a gay nightclub and massacred 49 innocent Americans. In the worst way possible, the LGBTQ community was reminded of the evils of bigotry and hatred that still permeate the darkest, most deranged corners of our society. The bar for Republicans was so low that our party’s leaders were lauded for merely acknowledging that the shooter deliberately targeted LGBTQ Americans. We are better than that. We must do better than that. Our party must explain to LGBTQ Americans why a strong national defense is in their and their children’s best interest. We must engage with them, championing the security, safety and dignity guaranteed by the Second Amendment. When tragedy strikes, such as in Orlando, we must not merely offer our condolences; rather, we must offer our solutions. We must prove to them that they are welcome on our team — that our party’s values are their families’ values. That they belong in the party that loves freedom, security and prosperity, and that will fight tooth and nail for their chance at a future defined by those ideals. Last month, Chairman Reince Priebus declared that, despite the chaos and division of the 2016 election, the GOP remains the party of the “open door.” That may be so — and if it is, victory on the campaign trail and a century of conservative leadership are only a ways off. But it remains to be seen, and to millions of LGBT Americans, it’s a dubious proposal at best. If the GOP is going to survive and thrive in the 21st century, it’s time to prove it. n John Fluharty is former executive director of the Delaware Republican Party.

"I actually saw Madeline Albright in person. She appeared to be a lady of great selfassurance. Someone said she walked Marc Britton so fast, like doorman a gazelle. I Queen Village felt really fortunate seeing her. A memorable experience and a highlight of the week for me."

"Michelle Obama talking about living in a house built by slaves. Her speech was unifying and inspirational. I also found Sean McGovern Tim Kaine pastry chef entertaining. Queen Village I really enjoyed his imitation of Donald Trump. It was very amusing. I never heard of Kaine before that."

"Chelsea Clinton walking on stage and starting her speech with such grace and calm confidence. She really Robert Miller showed us attorney that Hillary Gayborhood is a good mother and that we can trust her. Chelsea exuded a quiet dignity that was the antithesis of Trump's histrionics."

"Hillary Clinton's acceptance speech. It was a powerful speech. I really wish my mother were alive Christopher to hear it. Sikich She was teacher a feminist Queen Village through and through. Hillary reintroduced herself as somebody the country should be comfortable voting for."

Mark My Words is on vacation this week.

Letters and Feedback In response to “Trans birthcertificate suit settled,” Aug. 9, 2016: As it is now, copies of your PA birth certificates are free if you are a veteran. It is my hope the sex-indicator change will be free. I’m an honorably discharged veteran. When I went to complete the Change of Name on the Birth Certificate with the Department of Health in Harrisburg, it was free for me. I hope it is the same for the sex indicator. Thanks, Julie Chovanes.

— CSW — Briana Johnson

This sounds like a similar policy that has been present in New Jersey for some years. Anything else does not make any sense. Hopefully this will catch on and spread throughout the country. — Veronica Hamel Awesome! Thank you, Julie Chovanes. — Sheela Rose Love In response to “D.A. appeals Morris ruling in Commonwealth Court,” Aug. 5-11, 2016: Thank you again PGN and Tim Cwiek for

being the voice of those who would otherwise have none — and always with honesty, integrity and professionalism. — Rob In response to “Westboro Baptist Church greeted by huge counter-protest,” July 28, 2016: I was there! What a great turnout and a great event! — Fired, Aren’t I I first met Deja 15 years ago! So proud of

her and everyone today. — Alicia Claire Conquest With only four people, why does WBC even bother? It makes their “church” look ridiculous and their motives questionable. Even if they had their whole flock there, I think that’s only about 40 people or so, and I believe quite a few of those are children. I wish I knew where their money was coming from. I’d love to do what I could to cut their supply off. But to see how many people were there to protest WBC was excellent. n — Bryan Haley

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

PGN FINANCES

Keep the role of Social Security in perspective Q: One of my friends told me they’re not planning to save for retirement because they think their Social Security benefits will be enough to support them. Do you think that’s realistic in most cases? A: With life expectancy on the rise, and fewer and fewer people retiring with pensions today, many of us will likely need to increase our retirement savings in order to sustain our retirement desires. In my opinion, relying solely on Social Security to support your retirement income needs and wants will likely not be sufficient in many cases. Please share this article with your friend.

assistance.1 This includes elderly retirees and their families, disabled workers and their families and survivors of deceased workers. Contrary to what many think, Social Security was not designed to meet all the financial needs that arise from a person’s old age, disability or death. It was — and is — intended to serve as a supplement to private savings and privately funded retirement plans. So the more you can do yourself to save Jeremy for and invest for retireGussick ment, the better off you may be.

Out Money

If you’re counting on Social Security to provide you with a secure retirement, think again. Social Security benefits currently account for just over a third of the income of Americans 65 or older.1 What’s more, longer life expectancies and the aging of the population will put an increasing burden on the Social Security system, making your own retirement funding more important than ever. Social Security: Many things to many people Social Security is the general term that describes a number of related programs: retirement, disability and dependent and survivor benefits. These programs provide limited financial assistance to workers and their families when their normal flow of income shrinks because of retirement, disability or death. According to the Social Security Administration’s most current data, 64.2 million Americans now receive some type of Social Security benefit or

How much will Social Security pay? The exact amount of your Social Security benefit will depend upon your earnings history. You can obtain an estimate of your benefits at the Social Security Administration’s online estimator. You can also call the Social Security toll-free number at 800-772-1213 and request Form SSA 7004, the “Request for Social Security Statement.” Complete the form and send it back. You will receive a personalized estimate of your benefits, plus a statement showing your annual earnings. Like reconciling your bank statement, your Social Security summary of annual earnings should be verified against your tax-return statements, W2 forms or your own records. If there are any discrepancies, report them at once. How Social Security works Social Security contributions are paid by you and your employer. Your contributions were deducted from your paychecks since the day you started working and are matched by

PGN

an equal amount paid by your employer. These contributions pay for: • Retirement benefits — Collectible at any time after age 62 and based on the number of years you’ve been working and the amount you’ve earned. In some cases, your children and your spouse may also be eligible for benefits on your account, which now also includes samesex spouses who are legally married. • Survivor’s benefits — A kind of life-insurance coverage available to your spouse and dependents. • Disability insurance — Provides a monthly income in the event you are unable to work due to a disability. Eligibility depends on the number of “credits” you have earned and your age. • Medicare — Entitles you to medical benefits and coverage, including hospital insurance after age 65. When you retire determines what you get • Currently you can retire at normal retirement age (between 66-67 depending on when you were born) and receive full benefits. • Retire between 62-65 and receive a reduced benefit. • Continue working and delay the receipt of benefits, and get a bonus for each year of work past normal retirement age, up to age 70. “Delayed-retirement credits” currently amount to 8 percent annually in order to encourage later retirement. Changes in your monthly benefits Your monthly Social Security check may change to reflect the following: • Cost-of-living increases. • Eligibility for disability benefits after retirement, but before you reach normal retirement age.

Make the most of your benefits You must apply for Social Security benefits. • If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and your spouse’s benefit but your spouse’s benefit is greater, Social Security will pay your own benefit first, then add on a portion of your spousal benefit to equal the higher amount. Remember to apply for retirement benefits a few months before you want them to start. Some time is required to process all the paperwork, including your Social Security number, proof of age and evidence of recent earnings (W-2 forms from the last two years, or, if you’re self-employed, copies of your two most recent tax returns). • Reconcile your Social Security earnings report with your own records at three-year intervals. Report any discrepancies. • Bear in mind that “earnings limitations” (which change each year) may limit the amount you may earn while still receiving Social Security benefits. Those limitations end when you reach normal retirement age. • Keep Social Security records up to date if you change your name, in order to have your earnings credited properly. Regardless of your Social Security options, think of Social Security as only a small percentage of your total retirement plan and set aside a portion of your income on a regular basis. Saving and investing for your own retirement nest egg is a must. Working with a financial planner who specializes in retirement-income planning can help you determine how to best coordinate your Social Security filing strategy with your other retirement-income sources and investment assets. n Jeremy R. Gussick is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional affiliated with LPL Financial,

the nation’s largest independent broker-dealer.* Jeremy specializes in the financial planning and retirement income needs of the LGBT community and was recently named a 2015 FIVE STAR Wealth Manager as mentioned in Philadelphia Magazine.** He is active with several LGBT organizations in the Philadelphia region, including Delaware Valley Legacy Fund and the Independence Business Alliance, the Philadelphia region’s LGBT chamber of commerce. OutMoney appears monthly. If you have a question for Jeremy, you can contact him via email at Jeremy@ RetirementRefined.com. Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. 1Source: Social Security Administration, Fast Facts & Figures About Social Security, 2015. *As reported by Financial Planning magazine, 1996-2016, based on total revenues. **Award based on 10 objective criteria associated with providing quality services to clients such as credentials, experience, and assets under management among other factors. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. This article was prepared with the assistance of Wealth Management Systems Inc. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to substitute for specific tax or legal advice, or to provide specific recommendations for any individual. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Please consult me if you have any questions. Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by Wealth Management Systems Inc. or its sources, neither Wealth Management Systems Inc. nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall Wealth Management Systems Inc. be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscribers’ or others’ use of the content.

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WEDDING PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Queer Faith

Crystal Cheatham

Queer Faith explores how LGBT people are incorporating faith into their lives, and what steps faith communities are doing to open their congregations’ doors to the LGBT community. Crystal Cheatham discusses the intersections of faith and LGBT life each month.

Only in Online and in print every first Friday.

Engagement Arielle Catron and Mary McMullen By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Arielle Catron and Mary McMullen’s first date to meet up for drinks ended up lasting for more than six hours. “Within the first five minutes, I knew she was someone I wanted to be around for a long time,” McMullen said. The pair met at Sisters in 2012, after first talking online. “From her profile, I could tell she was definitely goofy and smart and fun and she lived up to all of that when we met,” Catron said. “She was really easy to talk to, just a really kind and fun person.” They talked for hours and played Quizzo; since Sisters closed, they’ve carried on their love of the trivia games at other Gayborhood locales like Tabu. Despite their shared passion for the game, Catron said they have a fair number of differences.

“It’s pretty much opposites attract,” she said. “But we complement each other.” Catron, 28, is a native of Collingswood, N.J., who moved to Philadelphia to attend Temple University. She earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work and currently works as the admissions coordinator at Widener University’s master of social work program. McMullen was born in San Francisco, and lived in South Jersey before coming to Philadelphia. She previously worked in University of Pennsylvania’s neuroscience research lab and is now pursuing a carpenter apprenticeship. The couple lives in Point Breeze. Instead of a formal proposal, they said they decided to take the next step and get married after careful consideration. “We were very lesbian about it,” Catron laughed. “We talked about it, analyzed where we wanted the relationship to go

ARIELLE CATRON (LEFT) AND MARY MCMULLEN Photo: Swiger Photography

and eventually just decided this is the right time. We’re so happy to be together and wanted to get married.” In the last four years, McMullen said she’s come to appreciate the support she and Catron provide for one another. “It’s really about being your partner’s biggest champion,” she said about the key to the couple’s success. “You have to support them even if they don’t believe in themselves. Whenever

I’m feeling down, Arielle’s there to pick me up and show me not to take things too seriously.” That teamwork has helped through the wedding-planning process, which the couple said has been stressful but fun. Having a hand from wedding planner Ashley Coleman of bASH Events — who was coincidentally bartending at Sisters when the couple met — has also been valuable. “Having Ashley as our wedding planner has been so helpful,” Catron said. “She’s made everything a lot of fun.” The couple plans to wed Oct. 2 at Awbury Arboretum. McMullen said she’s eager for the meaning the word “wife” conveys. “We already have built a life together — we live together and have three pets — but being able to introduce her as my wife instead of my girlfriend or my fiancée, I’m really excited about that.” n

Anniversary Dean Metzler and Anthony Falatico By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A chance run-in in a laundry room may not seem to be the start of a romantic tale, but for Dean Metzler and Anthony Falatico it spurred four decades of love. The Collingswood, N.J., couple celebrated their 40th anniversary last month. Metzler, 66, and Falatico, 81, met in 1976 in a common laundry area of their apartment building at 16th and Pine streets; Metzler lived in the back half of the complex and Falatico in the front. The couple took things slowly at first, waiting several years to move in together. “We would spend one night at one person’s apartment and the next at the other. We finally just thought, this is crazy,” Metzler laughed. “We were walking up and down Pine Street carrying our clothes for three years.” The couple lived in Philadelphia until moving to New Jersey in 1993. In their early years, even though the atmosphere for same-sex couples wasn’t what

it is today, the couple said they were fortunate to have been surrounded by supportive family and friends. “Both families were very understanding and loving to each partner,” Falatico said. “My family absolutely loved Dean and, without my even asking, when my parents passed away, Dean’s name was included in the obituaries. And this was many years ago.” Outside of family, they took part in a number of social activities to build community, Metzler added. Metzler joined theater and knitting groups, and together they took part in a couple’s club, volunteered for ActionAIDS and joined an Italian-language group. “That was how, if there was discrimination, we took the opportunity to come together, share interests and create a safe space way back when,” Metzler said. Their faith has also been an important unifier for the couple, Falatico added. “We both really have the same sense of values and our spiritual life is very important

ANTHONY FALATICO (LEFT) AND DEAN METZLER

to us,” he said. “We’ve both had good relationships in church life; Dean is a Lutheran and I’m a Presbyterian, and we’ve gone to church together.” Part of Falatico’s professional training is in church music; he’s played the organ, directed church choirs and has sung as a soloist at several Center City churches. Falatico, a native of Utica, N.Y., earned a bachelor’s degree at Westminster Choir College before moving to Philadelphia in 1959. He later received a master’s in music from Temple University and served as the director of music at Girard

College. He is now retired. Metzler grew up in Johnstown and attended Carnegie Melon University for architecture. He moved to Philadelphia after a stint in the Peace Corps and went on to build a career as an architect. He is also since retired. The couple was joined in a civil union July 29, 2001 — their 25th anniversary — in Vermont. They later had a religious ceremony with family and friends in New Jersey. They celebrated their 40th anniversary July 29 with dinner and reading cards and well wishes from family and friends. Falatico said Metzler’s positivity has helped make any challenges they’ve faced easier to navigate. “The best way to say it is Dean doesn’t have a mean bone in his body,” Falatico said. “He’s a great person: very understanding, very loving. And sure we’ve had our ups and downs, but nothing major.” Metzler said he most values Falatico’s humor, and how well they balance one another. “Everybody appreciates Anthony’s great sense of

WEDDING PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Celebrity wedding planner returns for expo By Paige Cooperstein paige@epgn.com Philadelphians can check out some new fashions for their big day when Your Wedding Experience returns to the city for the third time. The event, curated by out celebrity wedding planner David Tutera, comes to town Aug. 28 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. Bridesmaid dresses will be on display for the first time at the expo. The show will also feature pieces from Tutera’s line, Little Black Tux, which debuted this year. “We’ve embraced these wonderful tuxedos for women,” Tutera said. When he last brought his wedding event to Philadelphia in February, he told PGN that same-sex couples could look to the wedding wardrobe as a place to break the rules and create new traditions. Tickets to Your Wedding Experience, which includes more than 160 vendors, cost $15 for general admission or $89 for a VIP

experience that includes a chance to meet Tutera. “We’re always expanding the space with more vendors,” Tutera said. “As we’ve built this show, the vendors themselves have escalated their visuals.” He said it was important for engaged couples and their families to get a sense of what a vendors’ products — from photographs, flowers and cakes to event spaces and design — will look like. “It’s important that all our vendors are regional because the consumers are regional,” Tutera added. “We want them to see what’s in their own backyard.” Tutera had some advice for couples planning to get married in the fall or winter, especially in Philadelphia where inclement

weather can be a concern. He advised keeping the venues for the ceremony and the reception close together. Tutera also said couples can save money on flowers if they choose ones that are in season in their area at the time of the wedding. Leading up to the big day, Tutera said couples should feel free to embrace social media. In April, after he got engaged, he posted a “ring selfie” with his fiancé. The picture showed their hands together in close-up with Tutera’s tattoos visible. Their wedding hashtag is #DavidandJoeyTieTheKnot. “It’s a great way to get friends and family involved,” he said. “The essence of a David Tutera wedding really is about the couple. It should be intimate in how you orchestrate and tell the story.” “The more natural, the better, on every level of the wedding.” For more information, visit www.yourweddingexperience.com. n

LGBT Youth Supplement Read about the issues and ideas impacting local teens — from school bullying to campus safe spaces to legislative developments — written in their own words. The first-ever section created for and by LGBT youth appears twice a year.

Interfaith couples can find resources in Philly By Paige Cooperstein paige@epgn.com “Welcome” is the watchword for LGBT people in faith spaces. As queer-affirming congregations see more marriages of people with different religions, officials want to keep them engaged. PGN talked with a Jewish organization and a Christian church to find out what resources are available for LGBT couples who want to build a shared spiritual life across faiths. InterfaithFamily/Philadelphia Only 11 percent of LGBT Jews, including those who were single, had Jewish partners, according to a 2009 article in the Journal of Jewish Communal Service. Religious leaders say anecdotal evidence suggests LGBT Jews marry outside the religion more often than straight Jews. “If you have fallen away from your faith because you don’t feel accepted, you may not be as concerned with finding a Jewish partner,” said Rabbi Robyn Frisch, director of InterfaithFamily/Philadelphia. Her organization, part of a national nonprofit with eight community offices across the country, counsels couples in which one partner is Jewish while the other comes from a different religion. It has been an LGBTinclusive project since its inception in 2001. humor, and I appreciate that too. He’s a sociable person, and I can be but that’s not really my nature. He’s also a practical person; he’s the practical half of this equation.” Falatico said honesty has also helped them survive hard times. “It is difficult sometimes, but you have to never be afraid to say what you’re really

InterfaithFamily/Philadelphia offers a workshop called “Love and Religion” to provide space for couples to have conversations about their faith. The four-week course starts Sept. 6 and meets on Tuesday evenings. It costs $18 per couple. For more information, visit www.interfaithfamily.com/phillycouples. Interfaith couples interested in raising children can find additional resources at www.interfaithfamily.com/phillyparents. Frisch said InterfaithFamily also recommends clergy for life-cycle events, primarily weddings. The organization works with couples that want to build a Jewish home and with the Jewish community to encourage acceptance of interfaith couples. “Many of the couples say, ‘My parents were fine when I came out, but they had a hard time with me dating someone who’s not Jewish,’” Frisch said. “In the liberal Jewish community, your gender identity or sexuality should not matter in terms of what they do ritually. There are ritual boundaries for someone who is not Jewish at many synagogues.” Metropolitan Community Church For LGBT couples from different Christian backgrounds, Metropolitan Community Church has long been a safe haven. The Philadelphia branch opened 45 years ago. “When we started our church there was nowhere else for LGBT people to go,” said feeling. What a lot of people do is when they disagree or they’re not happy with something, they just don’t say anything, and that can cause problems,” he said. “You have to just find the way to talk, to say what you’re feeling.” “You also have to be open to let another person get to know you, the good side and

the Rev. Jeffrey Jordan. “There was no place for fellowship. Forty-five years ago, there was no community center. Forty-five years ago, there were no sports organizations. Either you were at a bar or you were at MCC.” Jordan said all Metropolitan Community Churches celebrate the sacrament, but they are not overly dogmatic. There is a big variety between the practices at each church’s location. Jordan said that makes it more welcoming to have individual congregations decide their spiritual paths. Starting in the 1980s at the church in San Francisco, a statue of Mary stood alongside a statue of Buddha. Some who had died of AIDS-related complications in the area practiced Buddhism, and their friends wanted to memorialize them. “At the beginning of the AIDS crisis, MCC was one of the only places where you could come and respectfully hold services for those who had died,” Jordan said. He noted some interfaith LGBT couples today in Philadelphia that include Christians and Buddhists. “As a Christian, I believe that Christ is my savior,” Jordan said. “However, I don’t necessarily believe that’s the only way. I hope that in some ways everyone would feel welcome in my church.” For more information, visit www.whosoevermccp.com. n the bad side,” Metzler added. “Which can be a little hard when you’re young,” Falatico interjected. “It is,” Metzler said. “Because you may not know yourself when you’re young, but over time it happens. You just have to be patient with your relationship, with your partner and with yourself.” n

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Study: Marriage equality lessens distress, isolation By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com A study released last month indicated the psychological value of legal recognition of same-sex marriage. The Williams Institute research, which began prior to last summer’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that brought marriage equality nationwide, found that LGB individuals faced less distress about their sexuality in states that sanctioned same-sex marriage than it those that didn’t. Participants in marriage-equality states reported less motivation to conceal an LGB identity, less vigilance and fewer feelings of isolation, as well as less difficulty “claiming” their LGB identity, than their counterparts in states without marriage equality. The study included 307 couples who were legally married and 50 couples with no legal recognition. While the research pointed to marriage equality’s impact on individuals’ acceptance of their identity, it also indicated that marriage can reinforce a couple’s commit-

ment to one another, leading them to report more positive feelings about their partner. University of Kentucky researcher Ellen D. B. Riggle said the study indicates the importance of the symbolic and logistical support provided by marriage equality. “We know that many same-sex couples who got married right after the laws changed had already been together in long-term, committed relationships for many years, or decades,” said Riggle. “For these long-term couples, the impact of the change in laws is more about the change in their environment and how much support they feel for their relationship within their communities and from institutions.” While legal recognition decreased participants’ anxiety about being LGB, the study also indicated that non-recognized long-term relationships had valuable benefits on well-being. “In fact, most of the indicators used in this study were not significantly different based on marital state or state recognition, which is consistent with previous findings,” the researchers wrote. n

LET THEM EAT CAKE: Bob Rodgers (left) and Jay Nieves sampled cake options at Isgro’s Pastries in South Philly June 30. The bakery, a Rodgers family favorite, will be creating the cake for the couple’s wedding this fall. The pair got engaged May 6. When deciding on the cake, Rodgers was focused on the taste and Nieves the aesthetic, the perfect recipe for a stress-free cake-sampling session. Photo: Scott A. Drake

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Wedding

Engagement

Kristen Kempf and Amita Mehta

David Alexander Jenkins and Pelle Hanæus

Kristen Kempf and Amita Mehta wed July 2 at the Centre Bridge Inn, along the banks of the Delaware River in New Hope. PGN featured the couple in last summer’s Wedding Issue, after Kempf staged a surprise proposal at 13th and Locust streets in the Gayborhood with the help of Paparazzi Proposal. Surrounded by 130 guests, the couple tied the knot in a ceremony that mixed their Hindu and Christian religions: Mehta was carried in and led by her father, while Kempf and her father walked down the aisle to a version of “Here Comes the Bride” featuring the sitar and tabla. Both of their mothers lit a fire, where they took their seven sacred steps in the Hindu tradition. “Kristen and I find ourselves using the words electric and magical to describe the day,” Mehta said. “We felt the collective energy from our friends and family as they all literally leaned into the ceremony, hanging on every word and action.” The couple hadn’t sought out the July 4 weekend date, but Mehta said “its significance of KRISTEN KEMPF (LEFT) AND freedom and equality was AMITA MEHTA an unforgettable backdrop to the day.” Mehta said she and Kempf, who have been together for more than 10 years, are surprised their relationship feels different after the wedding. “Having the official recognition and acknowledgement does give us that equal grounding of our union legally,” Mehta said. “What a confidence booster and sense of empowerment as a couple; we can achieve anything together.” The couple honeymooned in Dubai and Bali. n — Jen Colletta

By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Though they lived around the globe from one another, distance was no barrier for David Alexander Jenkins and Pelle Hanæus. Jenkins, who grew up in Horsham and later moved to Philadelphia, and Hanæus, of Sweden, will wed in the spring at St. Mark’s Church. The couple met last summer on an online dating site when they happened to both be in Stockholm, but didn’t meet in person until several months later in New York City. “Hopeful chats led to serious conversation, and we dared to think we might fancy each other and decided to meet,” Hanæus said. “We had dinner, lots of conversation and one great kiss; we clicked,” Jenkins said. Their first night as a couple, Jenkins tossed Hanæus a friendship ring over his shoulder. “That friendship shortly transformed into engagement over dinner and colorful crayons,” Hanæus described, as the two mapped out a cross-continental relationship. “I asked him to move to Sweden and to set up a life with me. He told me that was impossible without marriage and he would not leave his family, which is important to both of us,” Hanæus said. “‘What kinda gal do you think I am?’ he said!” Hanæus formally proposed in Philadelphia after a meeting with Jenkins’ parents. He presented Jenkins a letter about how his

DAVID ALEXANDER JENKINS (LEFT) AND PELLE HANÆUS Photo: John Berry

father taught him to tie knots as a child, likening their relationship to a strengthening rope of knots. He then gave him a diamond lovers’ knot bow brooch from the 1780s and a 13-carat sapphire ring made from an art-deco pearl clasp from Jenkins’ family’s collection. The couple will split their time between Philadelphia and Sweden. Jenkins is a model and philanthropist who regularly patronizes more than a dozen charitable organizations. Hanæus is an actor, a humanitarian and a founding member of Clowns Without Borders. The wedding-planning process has helped the couple learn more about one another as they incorporate their passions and tastes into the event. “He is very religious and loves baroque music, formal gatherings and large parties; he does noth-

ing half-way,” Hanæus said about Jenkins. Jenkins said Hanæus’ background and interests make him a “walking contradiction,” which he said he finds charming. He’s a “savior of the world hippy mixed with traditionally raised Swedish aristocrat,” Jenkins said. “He has a huge heart, he is a playful, jovial spirit who is also a man’s man so to speak. He battles his conservative and traditional background with life on the fringe.” After the wedding, the couple plans to have children, and Hanæus will continue to act and direct and, as Jenkins joked, will teach him “how to use a vacuum cleaner.” “I will continue to do what I do best: love, laugh, support and grow,” Jenkins said. “It seems the Hanæus family name will go on even through two queer kids like us.” n

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spotlighted LGBT rights for the first time and Rue Landau, executive director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, organized many of the week’s activities. Earlier in the day, the human-rights leaders heard from Dr. Rachel Levine, Pennsylvania physician general and a transgender woman, and David Johns, the out head of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. They also got a primer on gay-rights pioneers, from Henry Gerber in Chicago to Barbara Gittings and Frank Kameny in Philadelphia. The tour started in the Gayborhood. Fifty years ago, Skiba said, its location in Center City was not desirable. Prostitutes and drug dealers frequented the area and crime was high. Gay bars sprung up in the alleys and gay men were nicknamed Spruce Street Boys. Skiba said it was common for gay neighborhoods to develop in seedy parts of cities. He said Philadelphia first installed 63 rainbow street signs in 2003 as the Gayborhood became a cultural hotspot. Some streets have additional designations, naming portions of them after LGBT leaders. Landau pointed out “Gloria Casarez Way” on 12th Street near the mural painted to honor the first head of the Philadelphia Office of LGBT Affairs. “She was a great advocate,” Landau said. “She was also a lifelong friend of mine.” The two knew each other for 20 years, working on everything from fair housing to LGBT rights. Several times, Skiba hit on the importance of social change using the power of coalitions. He said activists first pushed for a gay-rights bill in Philadelphia in 1974. But it wasn’t until 1982, with the help of the African-American community, that the bill easily passed. Skiba also showed off the John C. Anderson Apartments, the first affordable LGBT senior-housing community in the country; Giovanni’s Room, one of the oldest LGBT bookstores in the country; and the location of the annual AIDS Walk at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Thomas H. Randolph, manager of the civil-rights division of the Human Relations Department in Kansas City, Mo., reflected on his first day at the conference. He said he learned some things about working with transgender individuals that he’d like to take back to his agency. “Based on what I saw here, we’ve got a way to go with the language,” he said. Black queer students can be their own experts, says White House official In his address earlier on Monday, Johns, of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans, said he would always remember the dates of the first White House Summit on African American LGBTQ Youth. It took place June 9-11. “Why will I never forget the dates?” he said. “Because what happened on the 11th? PAGE 27 The Pulse massacre in

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Youth group seeks dismissal of childabuse suit By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com

A local youth organization wants a Philadelphia judge to dismiss a civil suit alleging it harbored a same-sex child predator. The Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia stands accused of employing an alleged child molester, Percival Outland. The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office recently dropped all criminal charges against Outland, but parents of three of his alleged victims are seeking damages in civil court. According to their suit, Outland is “a gay man [who] who preys upon young boys.” Outland allegedly molested three boys between 2013-15 while employed at the club, according to the suit. The parents accuse the club of negligent supervision, negligent representation and other civil violations. They accuse Outland of battery and false imprisonment. Outland, a former counselor at the club, couldn’t be reached for comment. In a July 26 court filing, attorneys for the club asked that the plaintiffs’ suit be dismissed due to lack of evidence. “For reasons unknown, plaintiffs have

either failed or refuse to prosecute their cases,” attorneys stated in the filing. They go on to note that plaintiffs failed to produce key information during the discovery process, and that plaintiffs are precluded from introducing evidence at trial relating to the withheld information. Additionally, Common Pleas Judge John M. Younge recently fined an attorney for the plaintiffs $500 for allegedly not cooperating in the discovery process. As a result, the plaintiffs’ case has been severely eroded, and should be dismissed, according to the filing. “The plaintiffs are unable to meet their burden of proof at the trial of this matter,” the filing states. As of presstime, the request for dismissal of the suit remained pending. Neither side had a comment for this story. In 2015, Outland was charged by the D.A.’s Office with unlawful contact with a minor, corruption of a minor, indecent assault, simple assault and related offenses. But the D.A.’s Office eventually dropped the charges, and the criminal case against Outland was officially concluded May 31, when his bail money was returned to him. Last month, Outland, 40, filed a motion for expungement of his criminal record. n

News Briefing

On Aug. 4, Voyeur was ordered to provide discovery items to Forte within 20 days or face sanctions. Neither side had a comment for this update.

AIDS fundraiser slated Voyeur ordered to provide discovery items Philadelphia Common Pleas Court Judge John M. Younge recently ordered Voyeur Nightclub to provide discovery items in a civil case or risk sanctions. On Dec. 10, 2013, Nicholas D. Forte was assaulted outside Voyeur by Miguel Maldonado, a Voyeur bouncer, and Matthew M. Morris, a Voyeur patron. Forte’s injuries include a broken eye socket, a broken nose, a broken rib and multiple facial fractures. Forte filed suit in Philadelphia Common Pleas Court in 2015, seeking more than $50,000 in damages. Maldonado and Morris were convicted of multiple offenses stemming from the incident, and remain incarcerated in state prisons. Forte alleges that Morris and/or Maldonado were served alcoholic beverages at Voyeur while visibly intoxicated prior to assaulting Forte. Forte also contends Voyeur failed to warn patrons of dangerous conditions outside the nightclub, located at 1221 St. James St., according to court records.

The AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania will hold its annual summer-party fundraiser Aug. 19 featuring the 1968 film “Boom,” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. “Boom” was adapted from a play written by Tennessee Williams. A pre-movie party with food and beverages begins at 6 p.m. The movie begins at 7:30 p.m. Film historian Richard Barrios will introduce and discuss “Boom.” The event will take place at William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. “We always look forward to the annual summer-movie party,” said Ronda B. Goldfein, executive director of the law project. “It’s a time to come in from the heat, have a cold drink, enjoy a cool film and support a great cause. All year long, the AIDS Law Project provides vitally important legal services to people with HIV in Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. The movie party is a night to relax a little with our friends and supporters. “ Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased by calling 215-587-9377 or going to aidslawpa.org. n — Timothy Cwiek

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

locations in Philadelphia CENTER CITY — AROUND THE GAYBORHOOD

12th Street Gym, 204 S. 12th St. • 13th Street Gourmet Pizza, 209 S. 13th St. • AACO, 1101 Market St., 9th floor • Action AIDS, 1216 Arch St. • Apt. & Townhouse Rentals, 304 S. 12th St. • The Bike Stop, 206 S. Quince St. • Bioscript Pharmacy, 1227 Locust St. • Boxers PHL, 1330 Walnut St. • Cafe Twelve, 212 S. 12th St. • Charlie Salon, 203 S. 12th St. • Charlie was a Sinner, 131 S. 13th St. • City Hall NE Entrance • Club Body Center, 1220 Chancellor St. • Com-Har Living Room, 101 S. Broad St., 14th floor • Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St. • Cut Salon, 204 S. 13th St. • Danny’s Bookstore 133 S. 13th St. • Dignity/St. Lukes, 330 S. 13th St. • Dirty Frank’s Bar, 13th & Pine sts. • The Foodery, 10th & Pine sts. • GALAEI, 1207 Chestnut St. • ICandy, 254 S. 12th St. • Independent Hotel, 13th & Locust sts. • John C. Anderson Apts., 249 S. 13th St. • Mazzoni Clinic, 809 Locust St. • Midtown II, 122 S. 11th St. • More Than Just Ice Cream, 1119 Locust St. • Nationality Service Center, 1216 Arch St. • Optimal Gym, 1315 Walnut St. • Paolo Pizzeria, 1336 Pine St. • PAT@Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St. • Phila. FIGHT/ Aids Library, 1233 Locust St., 2nd floor • Planned Parenthood, 1144 Locust St. • Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Filbert sts. • Salon K, 1216 Locust St. • Scorpio Books, 205 S. Juniper St. • Spruce Street Video, 252 S. 12th St. • Square One, 249 S. 13th St. • Tabu, 200 S. 12th St. • Toast, 12th & Spruce sts. • Triangle Medicine, 253 S. 10th St., 1st floor • U Bar, 1220 Locust St. • Valanni, 1229 Spruce St. • Venture Inn, 255 S. Camac St. • William Way LGBT Community Center, 1325 Spruce St. • Woody’s, 202 S. 13th St. •

NORTH OF CENTER CITY

1 Shot Coffee, 1040 N. Second St. • 2601 Parkway Condos lobby, 2601 Pennsylvania Ave. • Barnes & Noble, 1700 N. Broad St. • Bebashi, 1217 Spring Garden St. • Beth Ahavah, 615 N. Broad St. • Bridgeview Place Condo lobby, 315 New St. • Colonnade Condos lobby, 1601 Spring Garden St. • Community College CCP Lambda, 1700 Spring Garden St. • Congresso de Latinos, American St. & Lehigh Ave. • Darling’s Diner, 1033 N. Second St. • Girard Vet, 28th St. & Girard Ave. • HIV Early Intervention Clinic, St. Joseph’s Hospital, 16th St. & Girard Ave. • Logan View Apts. lobby, 17th & Callowhill sts. • Northern Liberties Iron Works, 821 N. Second St. • One Day At A Time, 2532 N. Broad St. • Packard Apts., 317 N. Broad St. • Philadelphian Condos lobby, 2401 Pennsylvania Ave. • PYT Restaurant, 1050 N. Hancock St., at the Piazza • Sammy’s Place, 1449 N. Fifth St., 1st floor • SILOAM Ministries, 1133 Spring Garden St. • Temple University Student Activity Center, 1755 N. 12th St. • Vice Coffee, 1031 Spring GardenSty. • Welker Real Estate, 2311 Fairmount Ave. • Whole Foods Market, 2001 Pennsylvania Ave. •

SOUTH OF CENTER CITY

Bethel Community Home, 933-935 S. Third St. • Black N Brew, 1523 E. Passyunk Ave. • Essene, 719 S. Fourth St. • Famous 4th St. Deli, Fourth & Bainbridge sts. • Fuel, 1917 E. Passyunk Ave. • Jackson Place, 501 Jackson St. • Rockerhead Salon, 607 S. Third St. • Wedge Medical Center, 1939 S. Juniper St. •

UNIVERSITY CITY

Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St. • Bucks County Coffee, 3430 Sansom St. • Bucks County Coffee, 30 S. 33rd St., Rom. 113 • Christian Association, 3627 Chestnut St. • Drexel University, 4001 Walnut St. • Fresh Grocer, 4001 Walnut St. • Goodman Hall, 710 S. 42nd St. • International House, 3701 Chestnut St. • LGBT Center at Penn, 3907 Spruce St. • Metropolitan Community Church, 3637 Chestnut St. • Old Quaker Condos lobby, 3514 Lancaster Ave. • Oslo Hall, 510 S. 42nd St. • Penn Bookstore, 3610 Walnut St. • Sheraton Hotel, 36th & Chestnut sts. • St. Mary’s Church, 3916 Locust Walk • University of the Sciences England Library, 4200 Woodland Ave. • Wilson Hall, 708 S. 42nd St. • World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. •

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LOCAL PGN

Gayborhood Crime Watch The following incidents in the Midtown Village and Washington Square West areas were reported to the Sixth Police District between July 25-31. Information is courtesy of Sixth District Crime Analyst Officer Robert Savino. To report crime tips, visit www.phillypolice.com or call 215-686-TIPS. INCIDENTS — Between 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. July 29, someone ransacked bedrooms of a house on the 200 block of South 11th Street, stealing several items. — Between 12:15-12:50 p.m. July 29, someone removed window bars from a window to an apartment on the 900 block of Spruce Street and stole items. A Sixth District officer processed the scene with negative results. — At 9:30 p.m. July 30, a woman reported that an unknown person removed $40 from her pocket while she was inside ICandy, 254 S. 12th St. — At 10:40 a.m. July 30, a man snatched a woman’s iPhone from her hand on the 900 block of Spruce Street. He was described as black, in his late 30s, wearing a yellow shirt and a lanyard with an ID case and carrying a purple drawstring bag. — There were three reports of bicycle thefts July 25-31: outside 25 S. 11th St., in the 800 block of Pine Street and in the

1100 block of Pine Street. ARRESTS — At 4:40 a.m. July 27, Philadelphia Police working the DNC details arrested a 43-year-old man for criminal trespass inside the Lowes Hotel, 1200 Market St. — At 2:20 a.m. July 31, Sixth District Officer Coupas issued a summary citation to a 35-year-old woman for drinking from an open container of alcohol on the 200 block of South 13th Street. — At 3:45 a.m. July 25, Sixth District Officers Greider and Neal apprehended a 58-year-old man on the 800 block of Manning Street who has an extensive record and who had just allegedly committed a residential burglary on the 900 block of Irving Street. This arrest was made possible by an alert neighbor who observed the suspect access the victim’s house and promptly called police and later identified the man. NOTE: Only

some of the victim’s items were recovered from the suspects. The officers pursued the culprit east on Bonaparte Court, south on Ninth Street, east on Spruce Street, north on Darien Street and then east on Manning Street, where they caught up with him. If anyone has a property along this stretch, please check for the stolen items or for video of the chase. Police are looking for a red suitcase containing personal items and a laptop bag with HP and Mac Book Pro computers. n

O U T F E S T I S O C T. 9

40 years ago in PGN Pastor’s contract renewed, new board members at MCC Adapted from reporting by PGN staff The Rev. Don Borbe’s contract was renewed to serve as pastor with the Metropolitan Community Church, an LGBT-affirming religious institution, at the July 25, 1976, annual meeting in Center City. The contract came with an added provision that allowed him to work up to 20 hours per week outside the church, as long as it did not interfere with his church duties. Borbe held a side job at the HastyTasty Deli, which earned the nickname “the gay Vatican.” In his acceptance remarks, Borbe said he had also accepted a position from Hahnemann Hospital to be a “gay researcher.” The work required praying with gay patients who requested it. Three new board members were also elected at the meeting, including Marianne Van Fossen, Bill Schreiber and Jack Friel. Bill Howar, an active member of the church, was also chosen to represent the

Philadelphia congregation at the General Conference of the United Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches in Washington, D.C., in mid-August 1976. Rural Caucus blasts state House for condemning Gay Pride Week Adapted from reporting by PGN staff The Pennsylvania Rural Gay Caucus, a political-action group for those outside of Philadelphia and Allegheny counties, sent a response July 22, 1976, to state House members who condemned Gov. Milton Shapp for his proclamation recognizing Gay Pride Week. Below is an excerpt of the letter: “Never, in the annals of Pennsylvania history, has a people in peaceful pursuit of civil rights been so put down … From Penn’s treaty with the Indians, to the Underground Railway, to the magnificent melding of immigrant workers and farmers whose daughters and sons we are proud to be, to the women, poor and aged of today, those who felt oppression in this PAGE 27 state have found sup-

PGN’S PREVIEW ISSUE IS FRIDAY OCT. 7 The pre-OutFest edition of PGN has all the info about what’s going in Philly for OutFest weekend! From cover to cover, PGN will be your guide to help you celebrate being out and proud in the Gayborhood and beyond. To reserve ad space today, email greg@epgn.com or call 215-625-8501 ext. 211 (Issue date: Oct. 7; advertising/art deadline: Sept. 30)

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40 YEARS from page 26

port in its political leaders — until now. “We, as gay people, met with you, our legislators, on March 23 of this year. Then, you were attentive and friendly … We told you that the stigma of criminality applied to homosexuality threatens to shatter the lives of 1.2 million gay Pennsylvanians. We told you that in learning to accept ourselves, that in learning how to love one another, that in striving to stand tall against a great weight of oppression, we have found pride and happiness. “You were attentive on March 23, but, we now know, you did not listen.” n

Philadelphia Gay News epgn.com

Scott A. Drake

— compiled by Paige Cooperstein LGBT RIGHTS from page 21

Orlando. We went from the day before celebrating all of our babies to then having to talk about the consequences of them not having safe spaces.” Johns remembered the students hosting a dance party the night before news broke about the mass shooting at the LGBT nightclub on Latin night. “We are obligated to create safe spaces that affirm and support the cognitive, social and emotional development of our babies,” he said. “It is not enough for us to talk to them about the ability to read and write if we don’t honor that they need to be socially and emotionally whole, happy and healthy.” Johns shared the outcome of the first White House summit for black queer students with the 100 IAOHRA participants at the Loews Hotel. Beverly Watts, who spoke before Johns, said the event helps human-rights workers share information but also to maintain an open mind. “We must be evergreen and growing, which means we must continually learn,” said Watts, director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission. Johns said any adults who want to advo-

cate for young people should make sure to ask them what they would suggest as useful programs, policies or practices. He added social media like Twitter is a great way to create an “echo chamber” for ideas and expand the audience for them. “We found it really important to remind people that as long as there have been black people, there have been black gay people,” Johns said. “We often assume that when we’re talking about gay kids, they’re all white, and when we’re talking about black kids, they’re all straight. We wanted to highlight the importance of intersectionality.” Johns said young people have an easier time sitting in uncomfortable spaces and having uncomfortable conversations. Adults should look to young people as experts on their own experiences, he said. Johns noted many black students he’s met — whether gay or straight, transgender or cisgender — have all operated with a fascination for the idea of proving the world wrong. He said adults should pay attention to the emotional costs of such an outlook. For more information on the outcomes of the White House summit, Johns directed people to visit sites.ed.gov/whieeaa. n

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Dining Out Family Portrait Out & About Q Puzzle Scene in Philly PAGE 38

Bearded Ladies get planted for cabaret show By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Like Kermit the Frog once said, it’s not easy being green. But the Bearded Ladies Cabaret is set to dig in and do it anyway. Philadelphia’s renowned experimental cabaret company is taking its penchant for engaging, entertaining outdoors spectacles into a lush and fertile garden setting for a special performance Aug. 18 at the Delaware Art Museum. “Bitter Homes & Gardens” features singing and dancing flowers, ferns, vegetables and weeds, addressing what life is like for plants. Yeah, we know. It sounds like a heady concept and way too Discovery Channel for the genre-pushing and sometimes-ribald troupe, but John Jarboe, the group’s artistic director and founder, said it’s not that much of a stretch for them. “The Bearded Ladies are not your average cabaret show,” Jarboe said. “We create performative poison cookies — delicious, nostalgic and a little dangerous. So since we’re always playing with voice and identity, taking on the voice and identity of plant life, or trying to and failing at it, [it] feels like its in our wheelhouse. The premise of the show is that there’s a GMO corn, Jebediah Eatin-Good, who is touring around the country and there is a battle that is waged between the GMOs and the non-GMOs in the show.” The botanical-themed show is inspired by a popular magazine article, Michal Pollan’s

“The Intelligent Plant” in the New Yorker, which suggested that humans treat plants as “protagonists in their own dramas.” “That was kind of the seed for this whole project,” Jarboe said. “From that article, we began to talk about our relationship with plants, especially our relationship with plants in the city and about the food that we are eating. That article particularly talked about can we apply the word ‘intelligence’ to plants or not? In a very cerebral-centric world, what can we learn from how plants exist, structure things and communicate? If we put that on stage, how would we dramatize that?” This particular piece was created for performances at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s pop-up beer gardens, where it premiered last summer. “The piece really folds into their mission: bringing green space and awareness of the importance of green space into the city,” Jarboe said about PHS. “That’s something that the Delaware Art Museum [promotes]. It’s so gorgeous and they have this beautiful sculpture garden outdoors. We’re going to be performing among these beautiful sculptures. We’re trying, in the funniest and most ridiculous way possible, to ask the questions: What do plants want? What is their voice? Can we give them a voice? And if we could, what would they say? What would they com-

plain about? What would they want?” Don’t get worried by the intellectual and metaphysical nature of the source material; the Ladies are still going to find a way to inject their visual flair, biting social commentary and signature brand of humor into the show’s deep PAGE 34

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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and abstract thoughts. “Jebediah wants everybody to conform,” Jarboe said. “It’s going to be interesting. All of our pieces chance change with the socio-political context. Even though there are stories, a script and an arc, we adapt each piece to its location and its time. The political battle that is happening right now will become very present. But Jebediah is very pro-GMO, pro-pop-up garden, very nationalist and pro-American. He might be a Trump supporter. I’m not sure, we haven’t decided yet. Throughout the course of the cabaret, we get to the point where we pop him and make him into popcorn and eat him. Our work is very cartoony in this show. The costumes are huge. They barely fit into a car and transporting them is really hard. Our costume designers made these glorious plant sculptures that we wear out of moldable fabric. They’re really cool.” Jarboe also said the show will feature Bearded versions of classic songs by Bill Withers, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan and Faith Hill, as well as some originals. “There’s a three-person band,” he said about the show’s musical element. “The music has a very country vibe to it but it’s a bunch of different tunes. There’s

some Bob Dylan and some Joni Mitchell. There’s a RaeLynn song called ‘God Made Girls,’ which we’ve rewritten to be ‘God Made Plants’ because in my opinion it’s a very misogynist song about ‘girls have to serve their man.’ So we rewrote that to be about plants serving their man. There’s a bunch of popular tunes and then, as always, original arrangements.” Even though the outdoor show will contain somewhat-adult humor, families and young kids are welcome to attend. Jarboe said Bearded Ladies performances are meant to be fun and social learning experiences for everyone. “One of the things that the Beard tries to do everywhere we go is talk directly to the community and create a space where the community can laugh at itself and laugh at us and be in a room together,” he said. “That’s what they are bringing us there to do and what we are going to do there.” n The Bearded Ladies present “Bitter Homes & Gardens” 6:30 p.m. Aug. 18 at Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, Del. For more information visit, www.delart.org, www.beardedladiescabaret.com or call 302-5719590.

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PROFILE PGN

Family Portrait

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Suzi Nash

Shamus Hunter McCarty: All the world’s a stage I have often spoken with people about representation, the need to see ourselves reflected in the media around us to affirm that we exist and that we’re not alone. As a film-festival programmer, I usually find that in the movies, but I’m happy to expand my cultural horizon this week to include the world of theater. GayFest! is a 16-day festival that showcases LGBT actors, playwrights and subject matter. I spoke with a veteran of the festival, actor and director Shamus Hunter McCarty. A three-time Broadway World-nominated performer, McCarty will be directing “MMF,” which explores the consequences of love in a nontraditional relationship. PGN: So, with a name like that, I’m guessing you’re a nice Italian boy. SHM: [Laughs] Actually, I am! The funny thing is my mom is completely Italian and culturally I was raised Italian — a lot of yelling and hugs and lots of sauce. My dad is only one quarter Irish, but it was the one quarter that had the name attached! So they picked a name for me that would go with it; Antonio McCarty just didn’t go as well. PGN: Where did you grow up? SHM: My dad was in the Coast Guard and he played international rugby, so we moved around a lot before I was 6 but I grew up mostly in Lancaster. PGN: Dad played international rugby? SHM: Yeah, he’s retired from all that now and he’s a sales manager at a flooring company, but he had a really exciting life at one time, before we came around. I’m the youngest of three; I have two older sisters, Megan and Shandy. PGN: When I think of Lancaster, I think of horse and buggies and churning butter. SHM: True, we lived next to an Amish farm and that was hysterical. Our driveway was literally next to their pasture so there would be cows outside our front door every day. They were very friendly but odd; sometimes the matriarch of the family would show up at our door with a bushel of corn. My mom was a project manager and worked from home so the Amish mom would show up with produce and say, “My daughters need to go to the dentist. Can you take us now?” PGN: Were you friends with the kids? SHM: Yes. Amish play is very different than English play. [Laughs] We’d spend, like, four hours playing hide and seek in a barn, and then they’d say, “OK, let’s play with our toys!” They had little Amish dolls which they would pretend were working and that was fun to them. Of course we do the same thing in a way: We have simulated video games like FarmVille and other things like that.

PGN: Give me a Lancaster memory. SHM: Lancaster has a very distinct smell because of all the farming; it smells like fertilizer. You go nose blind to it after a while but whenever I go home, the first 30 minutes I’m like, “Oh God, what is this place?” but then it’s like, “Oh right, this is what home smells like.”

PGN: What were you like as a wee tot? SHM: I’d imagine awful. I think that comes with the territory as the youngest. My sisters would totally manipulate me. I distinctly remember being tricked into spending my life savings at 7 years old to buy a CD for one of them. But we were also very close and always had each others’ backs. PGN: Did they play dress-up with you? SHM: Please, of course! Though I think I insisted on it more than they did! I remember having one big fight with my sister Shandy because she wouldn’t let me play with her Barbie figurines. I needed them because I had a lot of action figures and I would stage shows with them, which I think is how my love of directing manifested itself, but I needed some female characters and she wouldn’t let me use hers. I’d have to sneak and nab them when she wasn’t looking.

PGN: What a trajectory! SHM: Yes, then in high school I became a stage manager and later started directing.

PGN: And currently you’re directing “MMF” for GayFest! and “SEX TALK” for the Fringe Festival in New Jersey. What kind of sex fiend are you? SHM: Ha! There is kind of a theme there. It’s really funny, I do find that sex and gender are at the forefront of a lot of my projects. It’s been somewhat unintentional but it makes sense given my aesthetic and ideas about the roles sex and gender play in society. I was a womenand gender-studies minor as an undergrad. PGN: Do you think growing up with sisters and a strong mother influenced that? SHM: Oh yes, like any gay man I worship my mother. When she was getting her associate’s degree in communications and journalism, she had a professor tell

PGN: Tell me about coming out. SHM: I think I’ve always known. By 6 I knew I was different, by 13 I knew I was at least bi, and by 14 I knew, Nope, it’s definitely boys. When I came out to my mom at 16 I said, “Mom I’m gay … ” and her response was, “Well, then why isn’t your room cleaner?” PGN: That’s great. How did your military/rugby rough dad respond? SHM: Good, we had our first moments of “This is weird and uncomfortable” where nobody knows how to respond but after that he was fine. They’ve met all my boyfriends, we do holidays together, it’s been fine. PGN: Tell me about your first time on stage. SHM: It was in fifth grade and I was in a show called “GB (which stood for geography bee) and the Magic of America.” I played the bee, stinger and all. I remember the day my teacher, Mrs. Smith, called me out into the hall. That never happened to me so in my head, I was like, OK, this is impossible, I didn’t do it, someone lied! Then she said, “We’d like to offer you the lead in the pageant” and I thought I’d died. A star was born and the next year I got to play the wizard in “The Magic of Reading,” so you know, I was hot stuff at New Castle Elementary School.

her not to try because women couldn’t be writers. When I was 10, she started writing for a local paper … just talking about it I get a little emotional because I’m so proud of her for having the guts to say, “Screw you” and pursue it anyway. I’m fortunate to have a lot of women as artistic mentors. Not that I don’t meet strong men, but I’m less interested in telling those stories. I feel that there are already plenty of stories about men saying, “Look at us overcoming our difficulties.”

PGN: How would you describe your style as a director? SHM: I think I’m an actor’s director. I like to think that I’m highly collaborative and I’ve gotten a lot of good feedback from this show, but they also want work so maybe they’re just saying nice things so I’ll hire them again! PGN: What’s the most difficult aspect of directing? SHM: At the level I am now, there’s always a certain amount of DIY: times where you just don’t have the budget or it’s just easier to do it yourself. Finding the balance of when to give up the reins is tricky, or knowing your limitations. On “MMF” we lost our scenic designer — no biggie, life happens — but I had to create something myself and I’m not a designer Then we got another designer, which was great but I’d already blocked out the show, so we had to redo everything. It’s like going backwards while trying to go forward. It can get tricky. PGN: What’s the biggest calamity you’ve had as an actor? SHM: I was doing an audition last month for a company I’ve been trying to get into for ages. The artistic director was there along with a national playwright and four lines into my monologue I went to straddle a chair backwards and brrrp, my pants split wide open! I haven’t heard from them yet … PGN: No lines blown? SHM: Of course! Last year I was on stage doing a fivepage monologue and I had a prop break right at the start. I looked down at it and when I looked back up I completely lost my place in the script. Totally blank. Fortunately the setup of the monologue implied that I’d already said it to one of the other characters off stage, so I turned to her and said, “Chloe, what did I say to you?” She was startled but said, “You were talking about the pigeons” and then I was back on track. That was one of the scariest moments I’ve had on stage. It was surreal. PGN: Speaking of surreal, you were in “A Clockwork Orange.” Did it give you nightmares? SHM: That was challenging for a lot of reasons. To start, we did it with masks on, which was cool because as a performer it gave me a little bit of PAGE 42

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Theater & Arts Bobby Lee The comedian seen on “MADtv” and “Premium Blend” performs Aug. 18-20 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215496-9001.

The National Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Editorial Contest is the only national competition recognizing the best in community journalism.

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SECOND PLACE Best Feature Photo “Singing with Pride” Scott A. Drake

THIRD PLACE Best Obituary “Obituary: Jacob Kaskey” Jen Colletta

THIRD PLACE Best Photo Essay “Philly Pride 2015” Scott A. Drake

HONORABLE MENTION

Best Performing Arts Story “New documentary focuses on ‘gaymer’ culture” Larry Nichols

Burlesque is Coming A burlesque tribute to “Game of Thrones,” starring Bella La Blanc, Cherie Sweetbottom, Dante the Inferno, Mina Corbeau, Moxie LaBouche and Xander Lovecraft, 9 p.m. Aug. 19 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.; 215-222-1400.

THE GOOD WITCH: Actor and singer Kristin Chenoweth, best known for roles like Glinda in the blockbuster Broadway musical “Wicked,” comes to the area to work her magic on stage 9 p.m. Aug. 19 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Muic Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J. For more information or tickets, call 609-317-1000.

quality replicas of favorite works from the museum’s collection to local neighborhoods through Nov. 1, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

celebrating more than 25 years of regional photographic programming through Sept. 11, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215340-9800.

Deon Cole The comedian and actor performs Aug. 18-20 at Punch Line Philly, 1004 Canal St.; 215-309-0150.

Lloyd Ney: Local Color The Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition of works by the American painter, sculptor, writer and artistic innovator known for pushing boundaries, embracing Modernism and stirring up controversy, through Sept. 11, 138 S. Pine St., Doylestown; 215340-9800.

Todrick Hall presents: Straight Outta Oz The Broadway actor, MTV star and “American Idol” finalist puts his twist on L. Frank Baum’s classic story 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; 215-5727650.

Embracing the Contemporary: The Keith L. and Katherine Sachs Collection Philadelphia Museum of Art features some of the most prominent European and American artists of the past 50 years through Sept. 5, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

Plays of/for a Respirateur Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an installation by Joseph Kosuth that includes a selection of his work, along with a group of seminal works by Marcel Duchamp, through the fall, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

Inside Out Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of large-scale, high-

Tête-à-Tête: Conversations in Photography The Michener Art Museum hosts an exhibition

Creative Africa Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of photography, fashion, sculpture and architecture by artists from Africa through Sept. 25, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-7638100.

Music Blink 182 The punk-rock band performs 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at BB&T Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 609-365-1300. Fishbone The alt/funk/ ska/rock band performs 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at Milkboy, 1100 Chestnut St.; 215925-6455. Darius Rucker The country singer performs

7 p.m. Aug. 13 at BB&T Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 609-365-1300. Belly The alt-rock band performs 8 p.m. Aug. 14 at Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St.; 215-232-2100. X The pioneering punk-rock group performs 8:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at Underground Arts, 1200 Callowhill St.; 215-9284004. Johnny Gill The R&B singer performs 8 p.m. Aug. 18 at Dell Music Center, 2500 Strawberry Mansion Drive; 215-685-9566. Goo Goo Dolls and Collective Soul The rock bands perform 7 p.m. Aug. 19 at Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing, 601 N. Columbus Blvd.; 215-922-1011. Black Sabbath The classic-rock band performs 8 p.m. Aug. 19 at BB&T Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, N.J.; 609-365-1300.

PGN ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

THE BOYS (AND GIRLS) ARE BACK IN TOWN: Late ’90s/early 2000s boy bands and pop singers 98 Degrees (pictured), O-Town, Dream and Ryan Cabrera team up for the MY2K Tour, which comes through Atlantic City 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk. For more information or tickets, call 609-3487000.

Nightlife Heat Wave Drink specials and dancing heat up this summer party 10 p.m. Aug. 13 at Tabu, 200 S. 12th St.; 215-9649675. Devil Drag Drag performers Zsa Zsa St. James, Lavinia Loveless, Champagne, Pilar Salt, MasoKiss and Tootsie Von Cuspid perform 10 p.m. Aug. 14 at Franky Bradley’s, 1320 Chancellor St.; 215-735-0735. Beth and Ralph’s Porn Stash Local gay comedians Beth Eisenberg and Ralph Andracchio watch odd porn clips and have some scintillating conversations with a panel of guests 10:30 p.m. Aug. 18 at Philly Improv Theater, 2030 Sansom St.; 267-233-1556.

The Golden Gurls Live Drag queens parody the classic sitcom 9 p.m. Aug. 19 at Tabu, 200 S. 12th St.; 215-9649675.

Outta Town Jerry Seinfeld The comedian performs 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. 98 Degrees, O-Town, Dream and Ryan Cabrera The boy bands perform 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-348-7000. Christine Martucci The out comedians perform 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at the Rrazz Room, 385 W. Bridge St., New

Hope; 888-5961027. Smokey and the Bandit The classic 1977 comedy film is screened 2 p.m. Aug. 14 at the Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-1228. Lady Antebellum The country group performs 8 p.m. Aug. 14 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. The Wailers The reggae group performs 8 p.m. Aug. 18 at World

Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. An’Letreece: I Will Always Love You The singer performs a tribute concert to Whitney Houston 8 p.m. Aug. 19 at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. Kristin Chenoweth The actor and singer performs 9 p.m. Aug. 19 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. 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.

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Beefsteak: Hard to Food and Drink Directory find, easy to love By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com New to Philadelphia, the recently opened Beefsteak, 3417 Spruce St., is a deliciously cruel tease. The latest addition to the veggie-centric fast-casual dining chain has no “beef” or “steaks” on the menu and it is buried in the lower levels of Houston Hall’s food court on the University of Pennsylvania campus, with no signs on the outside to lead anyone who doesn’t already know about it to. But we did find it, and dammit this place should be kept a secret that only college students should know about, even if the name kind of tricks carnivores.

“The name sparks a conversation,” executive chef Pat Peterson said. “The name started with the idea of vegetables being sexy. That’s the thought that led to the development of the restaurant. We were trying to think of a name that would cleverly and playfully express what we were doing. The beefsteak tomato has a very meaty bite to it and we thought that would be a nice play on words, and we use that product in the fantastic sandwich that we’ve got. The name shows our playfulness and gets everybody talking about us.” The sandwich namesake, the Beefsteak Tomato Burger ($4.99), has a thick slice of tomato taking the place of the burger patty, with onions, sprouts, herbs, capers and sea salt rounding it out. But the real draw to Beefsteak is its salads and bowls, ranging from the Naked Bowl ($7.99) with yellow squash, potatoes, mushrooms, broccoli and green beans, to the Kimchi-wa ($8.79) with corn, carrots, edamame, bok choy, kimchi and soy ginger. You can also choose your own combinations from the fresh and impressive selection of vegetables over a base of rice, greens, bulgur or quinoa. Then (carnivores, pay attention!), you can jazz up your bowl with a selection of sauces (black bean, garlic yogurt, cilantro or spicy tomato), meats (or meaty-ish) additions like chicken sausage ($2.99), avocado ($1.99), poached egg ($1.59) or salt-cured salmon ($3.99), and textual finishes like cucumber salad, seaweed salad, crispy onions or kimchi. It’s hard to get a combination wrong and most of the veggie, carb, protein and sauce mixtures work well together. The drink selections at Beefsteak are equally vibrant, PAGE 43 with options like lavender lemonade

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PORTRAIT from page 35

distance from the character. That being said, it brought up some of the hardest conversations I’ve ever had during a show: what it means to play a rapist and rape victim on stage, and even though we did it very broad — more suggested than literal — it also brought up a lot of heavy conversations after the show. People were offended and challenged. It’s not a show for everyone and sometimes they forget that when marketing a show. Though with this show you’d think people would know it’s not going to be The Muppets. PGN: You’ve been involved in Quince Productions’ GayFest! for some time. Why is it important to have this type of festival? SHM: One is that Quince is a place where Philadelphian artists can start. It can be hard to get auditions in this town if you didn’t go to UArts or Temple, etc. Rich Rubin, the founder of Quince, is not like that. He has an open call for every show. It’s wonderful and inclusive, and a place where many actors, directors and designers have started. It’s also a place where you can find a variety of LGBT stories. Other companies have done “queer” shows, but they’re usually about rich white males, which I find highly problematic. I mean, it’s old. What conversation are you creating with that, how are you informing, what are you bringing that’s new? One of the things I like about Quince is that they’re not afraid of alienating people in the sense that not all plays are for all people. They’re not afraid to do works that are controversial or that have to cater to everyone. And as a director, I appreciate that Rich allows you to tell the story in the way you want to tell it. PGN: What can people look forward to at the fest? SHM: The opening party is on Aug. 12, and then there is a whole wonderful slate of shows to follow. There’s comedy like “The Bang Group,” in from New York for their third GayFest! performance. There’s the serious drama “Wolves,” and the comedy “My Favorite Husbands,” “Harbor” by Tony Award

nominee Chad Beguelin and a lot of special events, as well as including pay-what-youcan previews. PGN: Tell me about your show. SHM: “MMF” is a really cool play. Rich and I read a few scripts and when I read “MMF” I knew it was the one. It’s about a triad relationship; I think some of the publicity says that they’re polyamorous, which they are, but within the triad they’re monogamous. It also speaks to bisexuality, which is not a subject often covered in Philadelphia theater. “MMF” is a play about relationships without labels. They talk about “we” and “us” but they don’t feel the need to label it. And I’m fascinated with the way labels change and evolve. Am I still gay, am I queer and what does it mean today? And the voices of the characters are super strong. They’re quick and kind of like the Italian side of me. I have big feelings and they’re really fast and fiery, much to the chagrin of my boyfriend. PGN: What’s his name? SHM: Artur Almeida. He owns Almeida Floral Designs in the Gayborhood. He’s Portuguese and amazing and so supportive. He’s always the first in the audience and cheers the loudest. For the last show I did, “SEX TALK,” he made us penis puppets that were plants that came up out of flower pots. We have two French bulldogs, Butters and Montega. PGN: I would think being Portuguese he’d be a little fiery too. SHM: No, he’s a passionate, soulful man, but very calm and smart about handling me. For “SEX TALK,” I had to make these sperms on giant poles for the show because, you know, it’s sex talk, and I asked if he would help do it while I was in rehearsal for “MMF” and he replied, “I would love to, but I feel like the last time you asked me to do something like this you came back and I had done it all wrong, so I’m going to go ahead and not do it this time.” [Laughs] I’m a crazy person and he’s adept at handling my failings that way! “I’ll help you when you can show me exactly what you want so I don’t disappoint you.”

PGN

PGN: Most unusual job? SHM: I worked as a standardized patient; that’s where you’re a mock patient to help train medical students. I had to pretend to be a 16-year-old with a potential STD and my first line was, “It really burns when I pee.” It went down from there. PGN: Special skills? SHM: I can wiggle my ears, I can do a basic cartwheel and I do a number of accents. PGN: A place (non-sexual) where you like to be kissed? SHM: Under the moonlight? Actually I like butterfly kisses, I appreciate those little nods of love. PGN: Any superstitious rituals? SHM: I have certain underwear and socks that I like to wear on audition days. And a few songs that fire me up like “Oscar Wilde” by Company of Thieves or “Really Don’t Care” by Demi Lovato. I had a teacher who said that she used to warm up her humanity before an audition, not just her voice or body. That way she goes into an audition as a person, not just a desperate actor. PGN: My fire-up song now is “Bang Bang” with Jessie J and Ariana Grande, but I have to be careful when I’m driving because I’ll crank it up and the next thing I know I’m doing 80 miles per hour! SHM: There are so many songs these days that have police sirens in the background that I’m constantly pulling over going, “Oh no, what did I do?” and it’s just the radio! Did I mention I’m a crazy person? n For more info about GayFest! go to: http://www.quinceproductions.com/gayfest.html. Shamus Hunter McCarty can be seen performing next month in “Animal Farm to Table” as part of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival and in his return to EgoPo Classic Theatre for “The Hairy Ape” at the Tennesee Williams’ Theatre Festival. In the spring he will return to the Eagle Theatre for “Peter and the Starcatcher.” To suggest a community member for Family Portrait, email portraits05@aol.com.

Q Puzzle In a Number of Performances Across

1. Da Vinci’s bridge 6. Rock Hudson’s “A Farewell to ___” 10. Vegetable dildo, for short 14. “The Seven Samurai” director Kurosawa 15. The African Queen, e.g. 16. Baldwin’s “The ___ Corner” 17. Provide food for 18. Brought forth fruit 19. Deli jarful 20. 56-Across played Mary Epps in this 2013 movie 23. Noise at the Roxy 24. Brunch entree 27. Semen may be evidence on this program 30. Faith in music 33. Like a stifling relationship 35. Hosp. worker 36. Express pleasure orally 37. Scroll for the cut 38. Sandy’s sound in “Annie” 39. 56-Across played Harriet Hayes in this 200607 TV series 43. It gets laid on some streets 44. Gather, after spilling one’s seed 46. Run-down neighborhood

47. Same-sex vow 48. “Let the Dead Bury the Dead” author Randall 50. Conductor Georg 51. “Beauty and the Beast” film frame 52. Meryl of _The Hours_ 54. “Star Trek” sequel, briefly 56. Actress in “a number of performances” 62. Gay-friendly area of London 65. Trojans’ org. 66. 8-Down had his last one in Paris 67. Think out 68. In stitches, to Edith Head 69. “Dirty Dancing” director Ardolino 70. Bow source in “Robin Hood, Men in Tights” 71. Little biker in a Gay Pride march 72. Satisfies fully

Down

1. Conference of the UCLA Bruins 2. “I’ve had better...” 3. Evening, in ads 4. E.M. Forster’s “Where Angels Fear to ___” 5. Pair of studs, e.g. 6. “Dancing Queen” band 7. Hoppers down under 8. Streetcar guy

9. Type of room at a bathhouse 10. Robert Goulet musical 11. Thurman of “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” 12. F, in the orchestra pit 13. Bowie collaborator Brian 21. Stallion’s sound 22. Doc for lions and tigers and bears 25. Kind of dancer or fruit 26. Tongue-lashing 27. Marcia ___ (“American Crime Story” role for 56-Across) 28. Abercrombie & Fitch buying binges 29. Little one 31. Lucy of “Charlie’s Angels” 32. “___ it goes” (Ellerbee line taken from Vonnegut) 34. 56-Across

played Abby in this 2015 film 40. Not in the pink 41. “The closet” opening? 42. TV newsmagazine with Anderson Cooper 45. Jim of “The Big Bang Theory” 49. PBS helper 50. Kevin of “American Beauty” 53. German Surrealist Max 55. Type of award for singers, e.g. 57. Overhead predator 58. Material for Philip Johnson’s Glass House 59. Prissy hissy 60. Enjoy the scenery at a gay bar 61. Discouraging words 62. Undercover agent 63. Cheer for Lorca 64. Left in the field

PGN BEEFSTEAK from page 41

and beet/apple juice (the staffers at Beefsteak highly recommend mixing the two together and they are absolutely right), to quench your healthy thirst. “What we tried to do is change the way the world sees vegetables,” Peterson said about Beefsteak’s culinary vision. “You can come in and have a really great-tasting meal that you’ll enjoy at a price point that you’ll enjoy. The quality of the food is great and what you just sat down and ate was actually one of the most nutritious meals you can eat.” Beefsteak is definitely making gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dining on-the-go convenient, tasty and affordable. If you are up for a healthy culinary treasure hunt, break out a map and a compass and find Beefsteak. n

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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

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

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

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Religion/Spirituality Arch Street United Methodist Church Services 8:30 and 11 a.m. at 55 N. Broad St.; youth/ adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m.; 5:30 p.m. prayer service; 215-568-6250. Calvary United Methodist Church Reconciling, welcoming and affirming church holds services 11 a.m. Sundays at 801 S. 48th St.; 215-7241702. Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church Services 11 a.m. and Spirit at Play, an arts-based Sunday school for children, 9:30 a.m. at 8812 Germantown Ave.; 215-242-9321. Church of the Crucifixion Inclusive Episcopal community holds services 10 a.m. Sundays and 6 p.m. Fridays at 620 S. Eighth St.; 215-922-1128. Church of the Holy Trinity Inclusive church holds services 8:30 and 11 a.m. Sundays at 1904 Walnut St.; 215-567-1267. Congregation Rodeph Shalom Shabbat services every Friday at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 10:45 a.m. at 615 N. Broad St. ; 215-627-6747. Dignity Philadelphia Holds Mass 7 p.m. Sundays at 330 S. 13th St.; 215546-2093, dignityphila@aol.com. Evangelicals Concerned Lesbian and gay Christian counseling; 215-860-7445. First Baptist Church Welcoming and affirming church holds prayer services 10:30 a.m. Sundays and community worship 11:30 a.m. at 123 S. 17th St.; 215-563-3853. First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia A liberal, welcoming and diverse congregation that affirms the dignity of all. Sunday services at 10 a.m., 2125 Chestnut St.; 215-563-3980, www.firstuuphilly.org. The First United Methodist Church of Germantown A sexual-minority-affirming congregation holds services at 10 a.m., summer services 11 a.m., Sundays, with lunch to follow, at 6001 Germantown Ave.; 215-438-3077, www.fumcog.org. Grace Epiphany Church A welcoming and diverse Episcopal congregation in Mt. Airy with services 9:30 a.m. Sundays at 224 E. Gowen Ave.; 215-248-2950, www.grace-epi.org. Holy Communion Lutheran Church ELCA Reconciling in Christ congregation worships 9 a.m. Sundays at 2111 Sansom St. and 11 a.m. at 2110 Chestnut St. in the main sanctuary; 215-567-3668, www.lc-hc.org. Living Water United Church of Christ An open and affirming congregation that meets for worship 11 a.m. on Sundays at 6250 Loretto Ave.; 267-388-6081, www.lwucc.org. Kol Tzedek Reconstructionist synagogue committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community meets at Calvary Center, 801 S. 48th St.; 215-764-6364, www.koltzedek.org.

Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia Services 1 p.m. Sundays at the University Lutheran Church of the Incarnation, 3637 Chestnut St.; 215294-2020, www.mccphiladelphia.com. Old First Reformed Church Open and affirming United Church worships at 11 a.m., summer services at 10 a.m, at 151 N. Fourth St.; 215-922-4566, www.oldfirstucc.org. Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral Progressive and affirming congregation holds services 10 a.m. Sundays with Holy Eucharist at 3723 Chestnut St.; 215-386-0234, www. philadelphiacathedral.org. Rainbow Buddhist Meditation Group Meets 5 p.m. Sundays at William Way. Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) Central Philadelphia Monthly Meeting worships 11 a.m., summer services 10 a.m, Sundays at 1515 Cherry St.; 215-241-7000, cpmm@afsc.org. St. Luke and The Epiphany Church Open and welcoming church holds fall liturgy 9 and 11 a.m. Sundays, summer sevices 10 a.m., at 330 S. 13th St.; 215-732-1918, stlukeandtheepiphany.org. St. Mary’s Church Diverse and inclusive Episcopal church celebrates the Eucharist 11 a.m. Sundays at 3916 Locust Walk; 215-386-3916; www.stmarysatpenn.org. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Welcoming and diverse congregation with numerous outreach and fellowship groups holds services at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday at Third and Pine streets; 215-925-5968; www.stpetersphila.org. Tabernacle United Church Open and affirming congregation holds services 10 a.m. Sundays at 3700 Chestnut St.; 215-386-4100, tabunited.org. Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church Sunday worship with nursery care, 10:30 a.m. and fourth Thursday of the month contemporary worship with Communion at 7 p.m. at 2212 Spruce St.; 215732-2515, trinityphiladelphia.org. Unitarian Society of Germantown Welcoming congregation holds services 10:30 a.m. Sundays at 6511 Lincoln Drive; 215-844-1157, www. usguu.org. Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration Welcoming congregation holds services 11 a.m. Sundays at 6900 Stenton Ave.; 215-247-2561, www. uurestoration.us.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

Community Bulletin Board 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. Groups meet and activities are held 4-7 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and 4-8:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday. Case management, HIV testing and smoking cessation are available Monday-Friday. ■ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center at the University of Pennsylvania 3907 Spruce St., 215-898-5044, center@dolphin. upenn.edu. Regular hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; noon-6 p.m. Saturday; noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Summer hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

■ ActionAIDS: 215-981-0088

■ 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. Activities held 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays.

■ William Way Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220, www.waygay.org. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Peer counseling: 6-9 p.m. Monday-Friday Library: noon-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Volunteers: New Orientation, first Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

Key numbers

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

■ Equality Pennsylvania: 215731-1447; www.equalitypa.org

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

■ Equality Forum: 215-732-3378

■ AIDS Library: 215-985-4851 ■ ACLU of Pennsylvania: 215592-1513 ■ AIDS Treatment Fact line: 800662-6080 ■ Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection at the Independence Branch of the Philadelphia Free Library: 215-685-1633 n The COLOURS Organization Inc.: 215-496-0330

■ LGBT Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK ■ Mazzoni Center: 215-563-0652; Legal Services: 215-563-0657, 866-LGBT-LAW; Family & Community Medicine: 215-563-0658 ■ Office of LGBT Affairs — Director Nellie Fitzpatrick: 215-6860330; helen.fitzpatrick@phila.gov

■ Philadelphia Police Department liaison — Deputy Commissioner Kevin Bethel: 215-6863318 ■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-760-3686 (Rick Lombardo); ppd.lgbt@gmail.com ■ Philly Pride Presents: 215875-9288 ■ SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: 717-9209537 ■ Transgender Health Action Coalition: 215-732-1207 (staffed 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays)

■ Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833 ■ Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations: 215-686-4670

Health

Anonymous, free, confidential HIV testing Spanish/English counselors offer testing 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 216 W. Somerset St.; 215-763-8870. ActionAIDS Provides a range of programs for people affected by HIV/ AIDS, including case management, prevention, testing and education services at 1216 Arch St.; 215-981-0088, www. actionaids.org. GALAEI: A Queer Latin@ Social Justice Organization Free, anonymous HIV testing from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1207 Chestnut St., fifth floor; noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St.; 215-851-1822 or 866-222-3871, www.galaei.org. Spanish/English HIV treatment Free HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment for Philadelphia residents are available from 9 a.m.-noon Mondays (walk-in) and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays (by appointment) at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215685-1821. HIV health insurance help Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays at 13 S. MacDade Blvd., Suite

Unity Fellowship Church of Philadelphia Diverse, affirming LGBT congregation holds services ■ Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of 2 p.m. Sundays at 55 N. Broad St.; 215-240-6106. Philadelphia University Lutheran Church of the Incarnation Welcoming congregation holds services 10:30 a.m. Sundays at 3637 Chestnut St. preceded by “Adult Forum: Sundays” at 9:30 a.m.; 215-387-2885, www.uniphila.org.

Board meetings at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at 100 S. Broad St., Suite 1810; free referral service at 215-6279090, www.galloplaw.org.

■ Independence Business Alliance Greater Philadelphia’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce, providing networking, business development, marketing, educational and advocacy opportunities for LGBT and LGBT-friendly busi-

108, Collingdale; Medical Office Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610-586-9077. Mazzoni Center LGBTQ counseling and behavioral health services, HIV/ AIDS care and services, case management and support groups; 21 S. 12th St., eighth floor; 215-563-0652, www. mazzonicenter.org. Mazzoni Center Family & Community Medicine Comprehensive primary health care, preventive health services, gynecology, sexual-health services and chronic-disease management, including comprehensive HIV care, as well as youth drop-in (ages 14-24) 5-7p.m. Wednesdays; 809 Locust St.; 215-563-0658. Philadelphia FIGHT Comprehensive AIDS service organization providing primary care, consumer education, advocacy and research on potential treatments and vaccines; 1233 Locust St.; 215985-4448; www.fight.org. Washington West Project of Mazzoni Center Free, rapid HIV testing. Walk-ins welcome 9 a.m.-9 pm. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday; 1201 Locust St.; 215-985-9206.

Professional groups nesses and professionals; 215557-0190, www.IndependenceBusinessAlliance.com. ■ National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Philadelphia chapter of NLGJA, open to professionals and students, meets for social and networking events; www.nlgja.org/ philly; philly@nlgja.org.

■ Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus Regional organization dedicated to promoting LGBT tourism to the Greater Philadelphia region, meetings every other month on the fourth Thursday (January, March, May, July, September and the third Thursday in November), open to the public; 215-8402039, www.philadelphiagaytourism.com.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 12-18, 2016

PGN