pgn Philadelphia Gay News LGBT NEWS SINCE 1976
Vol. 42 No. 35 Aug. 31 - Sept. 6, 2018
Family Portrait: Claris Park is on the Fringe PAGE 23
Attic Youth students have this school year in the bag PAGE 5
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM
John Waters’ “Hairspray” holding strong at 30 years PAGE 8
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Mazzoni defends ‘legitimate’ firing amid accusations
Homeless shelter seeks partial dismissal of trans lawsuit By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com In a court filing this week, attorneys for a Delaware County homeless shelter accused of wrongfully evicting a transgender woman urged a federal judge to dismiss a major part of the woman’s lawsuit. “Jane Doe” filed suit against the Life Center of Eastern Delaware County on Aug. 13, alleging the shelter violated her rights as a trans woman under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the federal Fair Housing Act. Doe resided at the Upper Darby shelter from January to March and said she was evicted after she complained of mistreatment due to her gender status. She hasn’t found stable housing since her eviction and spends much of her time at the William Way LGBT Community Center, according to her 31-page lawsuit. A major part of Doe’s suit contends the shelter should have made reasonable accommodations for her disability of gender dysphoria by granting her access to gender-appropriate facilities, including the female dorm and female restrooms. But in an Aug. 27 defense filing, attorneys for the shelter argue that gender dysphoria isn’t a protected disability under the ADA because it’s a “gender-identity disorder” and urge U.S. District Judge Juan R. Sanchez to dismiss all disability-related aspects of Doe’s lawsuit. Last year, in an unrelated case, a federal judge ruled that gender dysphoria could be considered an ADA-protected disability in certain circumstances. However, that case was settled prior to trial and the issue of gender dysphoria as an ADA-protected disability hasn’t been fully litigated. Doe’s attorney, Justin F. Robinette, told PGN he’ll “vigorously oppose” the shelter’s attempt to dismiss the disability portion of the suit. “ADA protections are very important, not only for my client, but also for the larger community. I’ll vigorously oppose any effort to minimize or eliminate those protections,” said Robinette. Doe is requesting an unspecified amount in monetary damages in addition to remedial measures at the shelter so that all trans residents are treated consistent with their gender identity. She also has requested a jury trial. Rufus A. Jennings, an attorney for the shelter, had no comment for this story. n
All-gay boy band bends the norms
By Kristen Demilio editor@epgn.com
HOMEWARD BOUND: Bebashi HYPE program director Michael Melvin (left) answered questions during the application process for housing at the Gloria Casarez Residence Aug. 28 at Bebashi. More than 50 young people ages 18-23 attended the session about the residence and the general guidelines for acceptance. The 30 one-bedroom apartments are expected to be filled over the winter. The application process continues through Sept. 15. For more information, email gloriacasarezresidence@ projecthome.org. Photo: Scott A. Drake
New LGBTQ residence targets young adults facing homelessness By Adriana Fraser adriana@epgn.com A local nonprofit housing organization is accepting applications for the first LGBTQ-friendly permanent housing residence for young homeless adults. Project HOME is nearing completion of the Gloria Casarez Residence at 1315 N. Eighth St. The four-story, 36,000square-foot building will include 30 one-bedroom units of affordable housing targeted to young adults (ages 18-23) who are homeless, have experienced homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, including those aging out of foster care. Project HOME provides housing, employment opportunities, medical care and education to homeless and low-income Philadelphia residents. For years, Project HOME had plans to build an affordable housing project geared toward at-risk LGBTQ youth. The nonprofit
organization raised $13.5 million from state grants, the city and private donations to build the facility and paid $1.7 million for the property, which will house the Gloria Casarez Residence, scheduled to open in January 2019. Carolyn Crouch-Robinson, Project HOME’s director of residential services, said youth are the “fastest growing homeless population in the United States.” “National data concluded that more than 40 percent of homeless youth in the country identify as LGBTQ,” she said. LGBTQ individuals have a history of, and continue to experience, discrimination when it comes to housing. We’re eliminating those barriers as much as possible.” The residence was named after Casarez for the work she did for the homeless population, Crouch-Robinson said. The civil-rights leader and LGBTQ activist also served as PAGE 15
Mazzoni Center officials blasted accusations of discrimination in the recent termination of its first director of diversity and inclusion and said they welcome an investigation into the matter. In a strongly worded statement to PGN on Tuesday, Mazzoni Center defended the termination of Kay Martinez on Aug. 20, one which prompted a walkout of nearly 50 employees and supporters, including director of the Mayor’s Office for LGBT Affairs Amber Hikes. “The reason for Kay Martinez’s termination was disagreement with the Mazzoni Center management team that resulted in unprofessional conduct that was inconsistent for someone in their role,” according to Mazzoni’s written statement. “We believe the facts, when communicated in the appropriate forum, will be obvious proof that we could not continue the employment of Martinez, a high-level director.” The position of director of diversity and inclusion was created by interim CEO Stephen Glassman with a salary of around $100,000. Martinez relocated from Massachusetts to begin working at Mazzoni Center in March. Martinez has since filed a complaint with the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations and publicly accused Mazzoni Center of wrongful termination, retaliation and discrimination. Martinez, who identifies as transgender and uses they/them pronouns, said that weeks after Lydia GonzalezSciarrino took over as CEO in April, their job description changed and was essentially downgraded. Martinez told PGN that GonzalezSciarrino lacked “LGBTQ and trans competency,” claiming the CEO misgendered them on their first day working for Mazzoni Center. “Gonzalez-Sciarrino took on an ally role once she became the leader of an LGBTQ organization. There needs to be a demonstration of a high level of LGBTQ competency, no matter who it is,” said Martinez. “I’m not saying this hetPAGE 18
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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
Resource listings Legal resources • ACLU of Pennsylvania: 215-592-1513; aclupa.org • AIDS Law Project of PA: 215-587-9377; aidslawpa.org • AIDS Law Project of South Jersey: 856-784-8532; aidslawsnj.org/ • Equality PA: equalitypa. org; 215-731-1447
• Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations — Rue Landau: 215-686-4670 • Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-7603686; ppd.lgbt@gmail.com • SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: 717-920-9537
• Office of LGBT Affairs — Amber Hikes: 215-686-0330; amber.hikes@phila.gov
Community centers • The Attic Youth Center; 255 S. 16th St.; 215-545-4331, atticyouthcenter.org. For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies.
If you live in Bucks County or maybe just out doing things, you can find a copy of PGN at these convenient locations: Bristol • Bristol News World, 576B Bristol Pike • Doylestown • Doylestown Bookshop, 16 S. Main St. • Siren Records, 25 E. State St. Levittown • Levitt Books, 7406 Bristol Pike • New Hope • Cornerstone Gym, 322 W. Bridge St. • Havana, 105 S. Main St. • John & Peters Place, 96 S. Main St. • Karla’s Restaurant, 5 W. Mechanic St. • La Chateau Exotique, 31A W. Mechanic St.• New Hope Lodge, 400 W. Bridge St. • Raven, 385 W. Bridge St. • St. Philips Church, 10 Chapel Road • Triumph Brewing Co., 400 Union Square Drive • Wishing Well B&B, 114 Old York Road •Newtown • Bucks Co. Community College, 275 Swamp Road • Quakertown • Adult World, 880 S. West End Blvd. • Warminster • Planned Parenthood of Bucks Co., 610 Louis Dr
• LGBT Center at the University of Pennsylvania; 3907 Spruce
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St.; 215-898-5044, center@dolphin.upenn.edu.
• Rainbow Room: Bucks County’s LGBTQ and Allies Youth Center
Salem UCC Education Building, 181 E. Court St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981 ext. 9065, rainbowroom@ppbucks.org.
• William Way LGBT Community Center
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1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220, www.waygay.org.
Health and HIV testing • Action Wellness: 1216 Arch St.; 215981-0088, actionwellness.org
• AIDS Library:
1233 Locust St.; aidslibrary.org/
• AIDS Treatment Fact line: 800-6626080
• Bebashi-Transition to Hope: 1235 Spring Garden St.; 215769-3561; bebashi.org
• COLOURS: coloursorganization.org, 215832-0100 • Congreso de Latinos Unidos;
216 W. Somerset St.; 215-763-8870
• GALAEI: 149 W. Susquehanna Ave.; 267-457-3912, galaei.org. Spanish/ English
• Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad
St.; 215-685-1821
• Mazzoni Center:
1348 Bainbridge St.; 215-563-0652, mazzonicenter.org
• Philadelphia FIGHT: 1233 Locust St.; 215-985-4448, fight.org
• Washington West Project of Mazzoni Center:
1201 Locust St.; 215985-9206
• Transgender Health Action Coalition: 215-732-1207
If you live in west Philadelphia or you’re hanging out there, you can find a copy of PGN at these convenient locations: Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut 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. • Saturn Club, 3430 Sansom St. • Saxby’s Coffee, 40th & Locust sts. • 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. •
Other
Or from a news box at one of these convenient spots:
• Independence Branch Library Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection: 215-685-1633 • Independence Business Alliance; 215-557-0190, IndependenceBusinessAlliance.com
• LGBT Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK • PFLAG: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833 • Philly Pride Presents: 215-875-9288
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News & Opinion
10 — Creep of the Week Editorial 11 — OUTPour Opinion Mark My Words Street Talk Transmissions
Berks County
Kutztown • Kutztown University, 15200 Main St. • Reading • Berks Aid Network, 429 Walnut St. • Dan’s at Green Hill, 2444 Morgantown Road • Reading Adult Center, 316 Penn St. •
Montgomery County • Collegeville • Adult World, 3975 Ridge Pike • Glenside Keswick Cycle, 408 N. Easton Road • Lansdale • Gwynedd Vet Hospital, 1615 W. Pointe Pike • North Wales • Adult World, 608 Upper State Road • Rosemont • Rosemont Station, Airdale Road & Montrose Ave. • Villanova • Villanova Station, Spring Mill Road near County Line Road • Willow Grove • Barnes & Noble, 102 Park Ave. • Wynnwood • Wynnwood Station, Wynnewood & Penn roads • Would you like to be on our distribution list?
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Columns
22 — Dining Out: Two new spots for the end of summer
Arts & Culture
21 — Feature: Out comedians on Netflix 25 — Scene in Philly 23 — Family Portrait 26 — Out & About 28 — Q Puzzle
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John Waters talks about the 30th anniversary of “Hairspray” and a local connection.
PGN 505 S. Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19147-1506 Phone: 215-625-8501 Fax: 215-925-6437 E-mail: pgn@epgn.com Web: www.epgn.com
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~ Young Heroes Award winner Ryan Snyder, page 14
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Creep of the Week: Cardinal Raymond Burke blames gays for priest pedophilia.
Kristen Demilio (ext. 206) editor@epgn.com
“One thing that I was fortunate about was that my school was really accepting. So immediately I had supporting staff and friends, which was helping in reaching out to different organizations in Philadelphia.”
Roasted octopus at Porta is a great way to hold onto those shore memories as summer wanes.
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Janelle Monae is one of the performers at Philly’s Made in America this holiday weekend.
Copyright © 1976 - 2018 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. © 1976-2018 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155
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LOCAL PGN
Attic gears up for new school year with bookbag event By Adriana Fraser adriana@epgn.com A local community organizer donated more than 100 backpacks to LGBTQ youth at a back-to-school event to motivate schoolchildren “to overcome discrimination through education.” LaTonya Myers organized her second bookbag giveaway event at The Attic Youth Center Aug. 24. She rallied members of the community to fund the backpacks, filled with school supplies and various hygiene products such as deodorant, shampoo and conditioner. Drea Young, founder of the Philadelphia-based entertainment company Nice Rack, hosted two open-mic fundraisers at the Toasted Walnut earlier this summer to raise money for the event. Myers was a foster child who found her way to The Attic, which, she said, provided a “safe space.” The backpack giveaway provided an opportunity to give back to the community that gave her everything, she said. “I didn’t have much growing up. I came from some of the same dangerous neighborhoods that some of these kids come from. I’m hoping that they see someone who was once in their footsteps who was able to prosper, come back and give back, and I want to motivate them to do the same,” Myers said. She started the backpack giveaway when she recalled her own experiences of going to school without any supplies. “I felt discouraged and uncomfortable to go to school.” The event featured speakers who provided encouraging words of support ahead of the new school year, as well as free haircuts and pizza donated by Pizzeria Cappelli, an LGBTQfriendly pizza place in the Gayborhood. Myers said the event was a community effort. Guest speakers and Attic members assisted with filling the backpacks. “I started this event in 2016 when I noticed that other bookbag events were geared toward
kids in specific communities, but none for the LGBTQ youth in the city,” Myers said. “I wanted to remind the youth that the LGBTQ community stands with them and will provide them with the support they need to have a successful school year.” Malcolm Kenyatta — the out Democratic candidate running for state representative in the 181st House District that primarily covers sections of North Philadelphia — was one of the keynote speakers of the event. Kenyatta told the audience, overflowing with preschool- to high-school-aged children, that “there’s a lot of different pressure pushing you to be some different version of whatever you’re expected to be. I think the most rebellious thing you can do is be yourself in a world that tells you you’re not supposed to be yourself in the way that you were made.” Wellesley Trainor, a trans-identifying Temple University student who works as a legal intern for the Philadelphia Innocence Project, shared his story of being directionless in high school and using education as a way to find success. “In my senior year of high school, I found myself homeless. I didn’t have any support from my family and I didn’t have many friends when I came out. I knew that the only way I was going to make something of myself was through education,” Trainor said. “Hopefully this will show these kids that you don’t have to have it all figured out at an early age.” Carter Cole, a trans man, brought his 6-yearold son to the event to get a backpack, but also used it as a way to spark conversations about his own identity. “This is a positive event and environment that I wanted to bring my son around so that I can help teach him to be more open-minded,” said Cole. “We haven’t had any talks about how I identify, and I wanted to bring him back to a place that I used to come to when I was a kid so that he can understand this part of me.” n
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
PGN has immediate openings
Advertising Account Executive Our account executives are responsible for maintaining and prospecting direct client and agency accounts. Key responsibilities include: • Prospecting clients from all types of businesses, non-profits, etc.; Working with agencies and clients who conduct business in the Trial-State area; Presenting client solutions; Closing sales contracts and managing post sales execution and follow up; Working closely with internal departments in order to maximize revenue and budget goals; Personally attending promotions and events involving your clients; Developing new business; Strategically managing complex accounts and or agencies; Creating proposals; Meeting revenue and activity standards; Negotiating annual advertising contracts; Securing meetings and presenting to groups; Client entertaining as needed including traveling; Engaging a team of marketing and other support services.
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LATONYA MYERS (THIRD FROM LEFT) AND OTHER SPEAKERS Photo: Mark McDowell
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LOCAL PGN
OUTFEST Still time for some IS OCT. 7 al fresco dining! PGN’S PREVIEW ISSUE IS OCT. 5
Take a bite out of it.
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, call 215-625-8501 (Issue date: Oct. 5; advertising/art deadline: Sept. 28)
Read PGN’s food reviews every second and fourth week of the month
- and check out our archive of past reviews on epgn.com.
LOCAL PGN
Judge denies defense motion to dismiss charges in trans-related murder case By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com A Philadelphia judge has denied a defense request to dismiss all charges against Matthew J. White, who allegedly murdered a trans woman’s boyfriend last year. The request was made Aug. 3 by defense attorney Eileen J. Hurley due to alleged evidence mishandling by the prosecution. On Aug. 22, during a brief court proceeding, Philadelphia Common Pleas Judge Barbara A. McDermott issued her ruling from the bench Aug. 22 during a brief court proceeding. The judge didn’t elaborate on her reasoning for denying the request. A jury trial for White has been scheduled for Sept. 17 at the Criminal Justice Center, 1315 Filbert Street in Center City. White is accused of murdering Barry Jones in the city’s Carroll Park section on Jan. 9, 2017. Jones was the boyfriend of Vivian Royster, a trans woman who’s expected to testify at his trial. A day before Jones’ murder, White allegedly burglarized the nearby residence of three trans women. According to court records, White was arrested by Philadelphia police on Jan. 15, 2017, after one of the trans women who was burglarized spotted his photo on Facebook. A total of five witnesses subsequently identified White as the person who either burglarized the trans women or killed Jones. White’s murder trial originally was scheduled to begin Aug 1. However, the trial was halted after the prosecution turned over evi-
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dence to Hurley shortly after 15 jurors (including three alternates) were selected. The evidence at issue includes a photo lineup shown to the three burglary victims and a notebook kept by a homicide detective. Hurley contends the evidence shows that multiple witnesses identified a tattoo under the left eye of the offender. Jones doesn’t have a tattoo or noticeable mark under his left eye. In an Aug. 2 court filing, Assistant District Attorney Danielle M. Burkavage asserted that she provided all evidence in the case to the defense as soon as she received it from police. “The commonwealth respectfully requests this court deny the defense’s motion to dismiss,” Burkavage wrote. Burkavage is no longer prosecuting the case because Hurley intends to call her as a witness in White’s upcoming trial. Burkavage has been replaced by Assistant District Attorney Chesley A. Lightsey. Hurley told PGN she’s also plans to call as witnesses homicide detectives William Kelhower Jr. and Joseph Murray, who allegedly mishandled evidence in the case. Meanwhile, White remains incarcerated at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility in Northeast Philadelphia. Hurley said her client continues to maintain his innocence. White, 34, is accused of murder, aggravated assault, burglary, reckless endangerment, possessing an instrument of crime and related offenses. He faces life imprisonment if convicted of all charges. n
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LOCAL PGN
Three decades later, “Hairspray” holding firm By Adriana Fraser adriana@epgn.com A local film festival is honoring filmmaker John Waters and the late performer Divine with a special screening of “Hairspray” for the movie’s 30th anniversary. The iconic film made discussions on race, body positivity and gay culture more palatable to mainstream audiences. “Hairspray snuck in and became mainstream,” the director told PGN. “It changed something. It made its point for gay marriage, integration and multiracial dating. It gave acceptance to fat girls. It’s one of the first movies that was for fat liberation.” John Waters’ most commercially successful film, “Hairspray,” premiered in 1988 and told the story of how racial discrimination, specifically through the lens of pop culture, shaped the lives of young people in the 1960s. The movie follows Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake) and her best friend as they audition for “The Corny Collins Show,” a popular Baltimore teenage dance show (based on the real-life Baltimore-based “Buddy Deane Show”). Turnblad becomes a hero when she fights fatphobia and makes it onto the show, where she champions racial integration on live television. “Hairspray” was inspired by “The Nicest Kids in Town,” a short essay Waters wrote in his book “Shock Value” (1981). The essay chronicles Waters’ love and obsession with the dance crazes and behind-the-scenes drama and gossip he saw on “The Buddy Deane Show.” The success of the movie spawned an equally successful Broadway play of the same name in 2002, as well as a
He added that “Hairspray” is a comedy hidden as “an activist movie in disguise” and is “the only radical movie that I’ve ever made.” “I try to always toe the thin line of what you can get away with and trying to push things that even I’m unsure of. The only way you change somebody’s mind is to make them laugh. You make them laugh, they’ll listen.” The Philadelphia Unnamed Film Festival — an alternative festival that primarily features horror and sci-fi films — will host the screening Sept. 5 at the Proscenium Theater. PUFF codirectors Alex Gardner and Madeleine Koestner chose the film as the retro screening to open the festival’s third year. The screening also couples as a fundraiser for the William Way LGBT Community Center, with 25 percent of ticket sales going to the center. One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the screening’s raffle, featuring autographed John Waters merchandise, also will go to William Way. The screening is taking place in collaboration with Cinema Ray, a nonprofit film organization. Allison Silverman, Cinema Ray president, said she wanted to honor the anniversary of Waters’ film as well as recognize the 30th anniversary of the death PAGE 13
“The only way you change somebody’s mind is to make them laugh. You make them laugh, they’ll listen.”
remake of the movie in 2007, which grossed more than $200 million internationally. The film “took what some people might consider a disadvantage and turned it into a style, and that’s what all of my movies are about,” Waters said.
T:10.125”
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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
EDITORIAL PGN EDITORIAL
Creep of the Week
D’Anne Witkowski
Cardinal Raymond Burke
Editorial
Moving forward Covering Mazzoni is a prime example of the challenges of journalism. When there are many people, each with so much conviction, they often refuse to communicate fully, or choose selectively with whom to communicate. It makes it difficult for a journalist to give a full picture. We’ve attempted to give all sides of this story and, from what we can see, there are four: The management, the disgruntled employees, the employees who are tired of the drama and tactics used by the disgruntled employees, and the most important side: the patients. The patients are what Mazzoni is all about. It’s about serving the community and its clients who rely on those services. Mazzoni is a treasured part of our community. It’s an institution we need to take pride in; after all, LGBT people built this community. It is a community where the patients need to be treated with respect. All work areas have conflict, and Mazzoni is no exception. It also has growing pains, and is recovering from a long-term management team that was stifling in its ways. The new team needs time to change those systems that brought down that leadership. During this time of change, the best and most professional thing any staffer can do is communicate, not grandstand. The process of communication between management and staffers is the place to air grievances and try to resolve them. Then, as in all workplaces, if you feel you are not respected or heard, rather than create a hostile workplace for others, there’s an option: It’s called the door — simply resign your position. As for the leadership, they need to act quickly to bring about change and not be afraid to replace people who are disruptive to the work environment at Mazzoni. The staffers have voted to unionize, which is good for both sides, as it brings employees and management to the table to negotiate a work agreement. That is where all communications should be taking place. The majority voted for this system. Now it is time to honor that and communicate. n
We want to know! If you are celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, adoption or other life event, we would be happy to help you announce it to the community. Send your contact information and a brief description of the event to editor@epgn.com.
Welp, child sex abuse in the Catholic Church is in the news again and wouldn’t you know it, the Catholic Church is trying to blame it on the gays. Again. A recent Pennsylvania grand-jury report found sex abuse rampant in the Church, something everyone who has ever delved into it has also found to be true. According to the report, some 300 priests preyed on children for decades while church leaders turned a blind eye to the literal hell on earth they were letting fester. There’s a reason why, in every Hollywood depiction of prison, there’s a child abuser, usually a sexual abuser, who gets shanked in the showers. After all, it’s easy to hate that guy. I’m not condoning violence; just pointing out that, as a society, we pretty much agree that child abusers are THE WORST. Unless they wear a black robe and a white collar. Then, instead of going to prison, you just get transferred to a new parish with brand-new parishioners to terrorize. There are many reasons why this is such a bad practice, but I would like to point out that by moving the priest away from his victim(s), the Church is essentially saying that the victims are the problem. The priest is the innocent here, seduced by the tender flesh of wicked children, as opposed to a very sick person guilty of the worst kind of abuse. And if you feel like you’re experiencing déjà vu, well, you are — in the sense that, yes, this has happened before. And it keeps happening. All over the world. But the Catholic Church knows just whom to blame. In an Aug. 16 interview with Thomas McKenna, president of Catholic Action for Faith and Family, Cardinal Raymond Burke says, “It seems clear in light of these recent terrible scandals that indeed there is a homosexual culture, not only among the clergy but even within the hierarchy, which needs to be purified at the root.” Now, it may sound like Burke is shining a spotlight on problems within the Church itself, something that really needs to be examined more closely, and would be examined more closely if the Church stopped trying to cover up its sexual-abuse epidemic. But, of course,
that’s not what Burke is doing here. He’s basically saying, “If we just get rid of all the gays who are mucking up each level of the hierarchy, everything will be just fine.” But, of course, it won’t. Rather than spend a second examining the institution to stop abuse, the Church once again seeks to change the subject. Look, all organized religion requires a great deal of suspended disbelief and magical thinking, a.k.a. “faith,” in order to work. Critical thinking is pretty much the antithesis to religious doctrine. Which is why the Church is seeking to capitalize on the gross mischaracterization that gay people are pedophiles in order to absolve its own sins. “I think it has been considerably aggravated by the anti-life culture in which we live, namely the contraceptive culture, that separates the sexual act from the conjugal union,” Burke tells McKenna. “The sexual act has no meaning whatsoever except between a man and a woman in marriage since the conjugal act is by its very nature for procreation.” Got that? Gays are a problem, but the whole thing has been made even worse by all of these whores on birth control having sex without making babies. Thank you for attending this TED Talk about sex by a man who supposedly has never had sex. Burke calls homosexuality “disordered,” and he’s not the only conservative Catholic calling for a purge of gays from the priesthood. However, Burke and the others are not making any distinction between “gay” and “pedophile,” a distinction that is, uh, really important because they are not one in the same. Unless, of course, your goal isn’t to keep kids safe from abuse, but is actually to CYF (cover your frock). n
Got that? Gays are a problem, but the whole thing has been made even worse by all of these whores on birth control having sex without making babies.
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
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Lazy Labor Day column This is the week that most columnists and personality work on his behalf. dread, since most of you are on vacation In my opinion, it certainly worked for squeezing out the last bit of summer. So Ronald Reagan when he was elected preswe sometimes let you in on our musings or ident because of his advanced age and his items that we’ve thought about but haven’t likable personality. Why? put on paper. Thus, this column. Like now, the country was One of the liveliest discusin a dire crisis. We had been sions in political debate, other through one turbulent crisis than the circus that is called after another. The country didn’t Trump, is with all that craknow what it stood for and its ziness and corruption in the leadership was thought to be out Republican Party. The year of touch and lost respect in the 2020 is going to be prime for a world. Democratic presidential candiRegardless of your thoughts date. Then comes the question: on him, and mine are very negWho? ative, Reagan came along and, Among the names that always in a sense, used PR and his own pop up is the former vice pressort of ageism in reverse to be ident, Joe Biden. Usually after a calming effect, as a grandfathat, you’ll hear someone say therly type who was pleasant something along the lines of, and just trying to pull the family Mark Segal back together again. “Well, isn’t he a little too old?” Plain and simple, anyone who Biden, while much more says that should be ashamed of themselves. youthful than Reagan, certainly has an That is ageist, and you are anything but a image of trying to pull us together. Just progressive. thought I’d toss this out there on a lazy Aside from that question is the question Labor Day weekend … n of qualifications. There is no debate on Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation’s mostthat. Strength of character — again, top award-winning commentator in LGBT media. You of his field. And then the most important can follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ question that can be asked of any candiMarkSegalPGN or Twitter at https://twitter.com/ date: Can he win? Here’s where his age PhilaGayNews.
Mark My Words
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Uninvited to Zion: LGBTQ folks are reclaiming their time with the black church Historically, houses of worship in black communities allowed us to keep our sanity as a people. Christianity has been the bedrock of black American liberation for more than 400 years. Black slaves adopted Christianity for survival and mobilization. So why was there no crusade in the ’80s or ’90s for black gay men and trans women when it came to the HIV epidemic? Theological and spiritual violence is
Transmissions
driven by fear, blame and disconnection, and it can also be a powerful incubator for social issues such as diversity, AIDS and LGBTQ discrimination. What happens at the crossroads of LGBTQ people of color and the black church when addressing the issues of HIV? HIV is not a public-health problem; HIV is a theological issue. In public health, we manage crisis; however, what PAGE 16 has always saved black
Gwendolyn Ann Smith
The Internet did not create trans people There is an irony: I have been an out trans woman for nearly 25 years at this point, having started on this path in 1993 and beginning my public transition in 1995. In all that time, so many around me viewed my transition — and, by extension, transgender people overall — as something new and previously unseen. This remains today, with people claiming that transgender identity and expression are part of a new “trend,” brought forth by the availability of content on the Internet discussing transgender lives. It is as if the notion of trans identities sprung forth, fully formed,
only as far back as the era of the Y2K bug and brightly colored iMac computers. The whole idea of transgender lives being some “trend” or “phase” that somehow didn’t exist prior to the turn of the most recent century is to erase a long and varied history that stretches back centuries. In my lifetime, I have had the good fortune to watch the transgender community grow. We used to be seen, but rarely. Our numbers were smaller then, as far as people who were able to grasp that they were transgender and PAGE 16 were able to access care.
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Street Talk What was the highlight of your summer? "I went to Brevard Zoo in Florida and interacted with the lemurs. They live on a separate island at the zoo. For an Laurie Heineman additional food-service worker fee, people New York City can visit them. They were so playful. One of them touched me with his tail. They look like small monkeys. It was the best 20 minutes of my summer. I highly recommend it to anybody."
“I traveled to Ireland. It was beautiful. The people were very kind. I drank lots of Guinness beer. We rented a car Edward Landin and I toured musician the countryMt. Airy side. While we were in the country, I saw a full rainbow for the first time in my life. It was magnificent.”
"For six weeks this summer, I participated in a workstudy program. I learned so much. The educational Jeff Olson component medical student was Society Hill invaluable. I feel better equipped to move forward in the helping profession. I have three more years to go, and then I'll be a doctor."
"I visited multiple cities in Germany. I stayed in Schönsee for two weeks at an 'intentional community.' Jeff Stingerstein That's a adjunct professor community Society Hill of people who want to live apart from mainstream society. It was a great experience. Everyone was very loving, welcoming and open-hearted."
Opinion A glimpse inside Mazzoni Center As an employee of Mazzoni Center, I can say the work environment there feels unsafe. Staff meetings are disrupted; staffers scream at management in the halls; others complain of bullying by coworkers; staff members “walk out” in the middle of the workday. I’ve heard speculation that Mazzoni Center canceled its annual staff outing out of retaliation — but in retaliation for what exactly remains unclear. The fact of the matter is, the last thing we needed was this planned outing. The setting felt to me even more unsafe than being at work — and that is saying a lot. I, for one, had no intention of going. I know others weren’t going to attend either. Had management decided to move for-
ward with the outing, they would have further stressed a workforce already on the point of breaking. That they did not gives me hope that they are beginning to listen. It’s a step in the right direction. Don’t get me wrong — they have miles to go, but every journey begins with a single step. We’ve heard the accusations: “You’re impinging on my right to free speech; you’re trying to silence me.” And why shouldn’t they be allowed to speak? After all, they’re just words, right? Well, it’s more than the words themselves — it’s the stridency in tone, it’s the emotion behind the words, it’s the threat of violence. Shouting can quickly escalate into physical violence. PAGE 18
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HAIRSPRAY from page 8
of Harris Glenn Milstead, the drag-queen performer better known by his stage name, Divine. He played Turnblad’s mother, Edna, in “Hairspray.” Divine died from cardiomegaly, or an enlarged heart, two weeks after the movie’s premiere in 1988. Waters had a close friendship with the performer. “It’s still shocking that [Divine’s] gone. He “was such a big part of my life,” Waters said. The director said he plans to reunite with his late friend in “Disgraceland,” the cemetery in Baltimore where Divine’s grave is located. Waters told PGN he nicknamed the location Disgraceland after he and some of Divine’s other close friends bought grave plots in the same cemetery. Elizabeth Coffey — who worked closely with the director during the early stages of his career — worked alongside Divine in Waters’ 1972 film “Pink Flamingos.” She described the performer as being the “beautiful man” who taught Ricki Lake how to walk in high heels. “He was a combination of brilliant, kind and sassy. He was a sweet man. He was a riot and he loved to have high tea,” said Coffey. “Ultimately, playing that character took a great toll on him. Being the character Divine had to be difficult, but he was so good at it.” n The 30th-anniversary screening of “Hairspray” takes place Sept. 5 at The Proscenium Theater at The Drake, 302 S. Hicks St. To purchase tickets, visit http://www. filmfreeway.com/PhiladelphiaUnnamedFilmFestival/ tickets.
Meet John Waters’ longtime ‘Dreamlander’ Elizabeth Coffey is one of John Waters’ original “Dreamlanders”— the cast and crew who regularly worked with the director. Coffey, who lives in Philadelphia, will take part in a Q&A following the 30th-anniversary screening of Waters’ “Hairspray” at the Proscenium Theater Sept. 5. Coffey was featured in Waters’ earlier films, including “Pink Flamingo” (1972) and “Female Trouble” (1974). Her ironically shocking cameo in “Pink Flamingos” where she — before having gender-reassignment surgery — flashed a perverted park flasher/ voyeur her penis caused the flasher to run away as she laughs. “The shock value was impactful,” she said. “Rather than being the joke, I got to make the joke. I got to win. I’ve always felt really good about that. It was all because of [Waters].” Waters told PGN that Coffey was “a brave actress who was a huge part of making ‘Pink Flamingos’ a hit in Baltimore when it first pre-
miered.” Coffey said the director, with whom she still remains close, helped to open the door for queer and transgender actors and performers. After “Pink Flamingos,” she starred in Waters’ “Female Trouble” (1974) but gave up acting after she was turned down for a role in Sidney Lumet’s “Dog Day Afternoon” (1975) because she “was too female for the role.” “I never auditioned for anything again. I worked with [Waters] again, but I never auditioned again because I knew there was no place for me. I would’ve been banging down doors that weren’t going to open,” she said. Coffey marveled at how times have improved for trans actors. “I’m extraordinarily proud that this is happening. People of the trans experience are finally getting a voice in front of the camera and behind the camera, and they’re not backing off in Hollywood.” n ~ Adriana Fraser JOHN WATERS AND ELIZABETH COFFEY
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YOUTH PGN
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
Philly gay teen Boy band breaks the mold: All five among Young members are gay Heroes Award winners By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com
By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com A Northeast Philadelphia teenager has been named a winner of the National Liberty Museum’s TD Bank Young Heroes Award, which this year is recognizing 14 young citizens for championing liberty and making positive changes in their schools and communities. Ryan Snyder, 17, is being recognized for founding a gay-straight alliance at his school, The Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush, in 2016. By 2017, the alliance had become the biggest in the city. Snyder has since helped other schools establish their own GSAs and reached out to city officials to ensure LGBTQ safety and inclusivity within Philadelphia schools. He has also raised around $2,000 for the Trevor Project. “One thing that I was fortunate about was that my school was really accepting,” Snyder said about his activism. “So immediately I had supporting staff and friends, which was helpful in reaching out to different organizations in Philadelphia.” Ryan added it’s more important than ever to support and maintain GSAs. “Obviously with the times changing, it’s more vital now, but it’s always been a super-important part of high-school life or even college life,” he said. “There have always been kids who have been coming out that have been rejected by their families or haven’t been sure about who they are. GSAs are a place to come together with kids who are just like you and explore what it’s like to be in a supportive environment.” With college on the horizon, Synder said he’s already started making plans to keep the GSA going at his high school after he leaves. “We were fortunate to identify someone to take over next year,” he said. “My main goal would be, since I’m starting college next year, to found another group of students at Temple University, where I’m going, to go out to high schools and middle schools and whoever else is interested, to help them start their own GSAs to give them a home away from home where they can get a bigger sense of community in their school environment.” n
Ever since the mid-1980s, when record execs and producers realized you can copy the Jackson 5 and New Edition blueprint and sell a lot of music-related products to teens, the boy band has become a recurring trend every decade. And every boy band since Menudo and New Kids on the Block has had pretty much the same story: There’s always a bad boy in the group. There’s always the guy who eventually is going to go solo. There’s the goofy, fun guy. And there’s always the one guy who is secretly gay until the group’s popularity fades. Now there is a new boy band on the scene looking to break that mold: All five members are openly gay. Echo V recently released its debut single, “Rainbow,” a high-energy pop/dance anthem that reflects the members’ decision to be out about their sexuality. The group members go by their first names only. Jay and Mike, who perform alongside Gama, Devin and Randy, said that each member was already a performer when he got the call to audition for the group in 2016. It was clear the group was going to be something different, Jay said. “I was already doing my own thing, but L.A. beats you down a little bit. I was doing a lot of collaborations when I found the group. I looked around the room and it was just obvious. The energy in the room was totally gay. That was a management idea.” Mike said he was working in musical theater when he heard about the opportunity to try out. “I could dance, and the 10-year-old in me was screaming because I grew up with all this stuff. So I
took a shift from the theatrical world to be more music-based. I brought up [my sexuality] before I even auditioned, and they told me everyone else happens to be gay. So it was perfect.” The gasoline fueling any boy band’s success is traditionally preteen and teen-
age girls. Jay and Mike said they are trying to reignite the heyday of the mega-successful boy bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s, but for a gay audience. “As a group, we decided we wanted to be marketed as a gay boy band to a gay demographic,” Mike said. “We also just learned over time that the female demographic is drawn to us as well. Sexy guys
singing? Why not? It doesn’t matter. They have fun with us.” “I feel like we’re trying to bring back NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys,” Jay added. “We can talk about One Direction and these other groups, but they didn’t really do the same thing that Backstreet Boys and NSYNC did. We’re trying to go back to those roots that we grew up with and our fans grew up with, just because a 16-year-old probably doesn’t know who NSYNC are.” As individuals, the singers don’t necessarily subscribe to the traditional boy-band archetypes. “We’ve all talked about this,” Jay said. “We all have five very distinct personalities. With all of us being gay, our archetypes don’t fit the traditional boy band. We don’t have a twink in the group. We don’t have a bear in the group. We’re all somewhere in the middle. We all sing. We all produce. We all write. But we don’t have any gay archetypes.” n Echo V’s debut single, “Rainbow,” is out now. For more information, visit http://echovmusicofficial. com/.
Photos: Chris Greenwell
YOUTH PGN
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
In transition: ‘I see a lot of hope for who I’ll become’ By Alexander Khan I never liked needles. The moments before a piercing always set my nerves aflame, and flu shots were scary enough to have me shaking the rest of the day. Despite this, 16 weeks ago I made the bold choice to take injections for my hormone therapy. I thought I’d have to get over this fear of mine to make sure I got my shot done every Tuesday, but when I went to injections training, I was surprised to find things much easier than I’d anticipated. The needles you actually inject into your body are much smaller than the ones used for vaccines or blood work, and they don’t even pinch if you’re careful with where you’re injecting. The hardest part of giving myself injections ended up being measuring the testosterone, not the needles. There were mornings during the first month on testosterone I woke up with a migraine bad enough to make me feel sick to my stomach for hours. No amount of over-the-counter painkillers could combat the way my body reacted to the initial change in hormones. It was awful, and at times made me want to stop all together. I remember reading a lot about hormone therapy when I first came out, and then again when I started therapy myself. People who’d been on testosterone for
months, or even years, made it seem like such a walk in the park. I’m not trying to discourage anyone from starting hormones — I would never dream of stopping myself now — but I want to let you know there’s a good chance it’s going to absolutely suck for some time while your body adjusts. The doctors warn you about a lot of things when you’re starting: how long it takes, the mood changes, lots of stuff. My doctor at Mazzoni Center warned me when I went in for my first appointment that it might be months before we see anything happen at all. Nearly four months later, I’ve only just started growing hair on my face. My little chin hairs make me the happiest, regardless of how slowly they’ve come in. My voice has dropped too; not as much as I’d like, but it definitely has gotten deeper. The most important thing about this whole thing is patience, really. If nothing happens in the first month, or two, or three, don’t get upset. Something will change; you just have to give it time. Everyone’s body is different, so what takes one person a month could take another person two. When I wrote the first article in PGN in March about my experience with Mazzoni Center, I hadn’t started on T yet, and I was worried about literally anything I could worry about. I’ve had two appointments since that article. In the time between
then and now, I started T at 0.3ml every Tuesday. The dose was then moved to 0.4ml every Tuesday, with the chance of moving up again to 0.5ml. It amazes me now, looking back, how fast so many things changed for me once I started actually working toward the things I wanted. I feel happier. There’s something inexplicably pure and joyful about celebrating milestones with people like me. I value being an inspiration to my trans friends who haven’t yet come out, or just haven’t gotten the chance to start their own hormone therapy. Everything about this experience has made me happy. A few years ago, I wrote about learning to accept firsts in stride. Being the first trans person to do something sounds like a goal I want to achieve. My final summer before college is already winding down and, looking towards the future, I see a lot of hope for who I’ll become. My next appointment with Mazzoni Center isn’t until mid-September — maybe by then I’ll have grown a beard or something cool like that. I’m excited to watch myself go through the stages of transition, and I’m proud of myself for sticking through everything that came with it. n Alexander Khan, 18, attends Drexel University, where he is majoring in history education.
said Crouch-Robinson. “Project HOME wanted to commemorate her legacy by having our first LGBTQ-friendly residence named in her honor.” The building amenities will include a community room with kitchenette as well as laundry, exercise, storage and bike rooms. The community room will open out to a courtyard sufficient to host indoor and outdoor events as well as programming for residents and the wider community. Eligibility requirements include a minimum monthly income of $400. Twenty-two of the 30 units will be subsidized by the Philadelphia Housing Authority, with eight units subsidized by the Office of Homeless Services. Rent will be calculated at a rate of 30 percent of a resident’s income. Added support will be provided for LGBT youth, Crouch-Robinson said. “There is no specification on sexual orientation or gender identity to apply for housing, but we are being intentional with providing support for LGBTQ youth who are in need. They will have access to education and employment services in addition to health and wellness resources,” she added. The Casarez Residence is accepting applications until Sept. 15. Applicants will ARTIST RENDERING OF THE GLORIA CASAREZ RESIDENCE be chosen by lottery. n
RESIDENCE from page 1
the first director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBT Affairs and the executive director of GALAEI, the Latinx social-justice organization, from 1999-2008, and was the founding member and community organizer of Empty
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the Shelters, a youth-led national housing-rights and economic-justice organization. Casarez died in 2014 at age 42, after battling cancer. “Casarez helped us to understand the needs of LGBTQ youth in the homeless system,”
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TRANSMISSIONS from page 11
What’s more, we were encouraged to hide even after transition, closing off the ability to grow a generational knowledge among other transgender people. Today, we see a vibrant and growing community, rallying under increasingly familiar banners and developing a culture of its own. I grew up watching one of the first hamfisted attempts to portray a transgender person in a sitcom, that of Jodie Dallas on “SOAP,” a gay may who was seeking a sexchange operation in the earliest episodes of the show. I was born a year after Dr. Harry Benjamin’s book, “The Transsexual Phenomenon,” hit bookshelves, a text that was in part influenced by Benjamin’s most famous patient, Christie Jorgensen. She was front-page news back in 1952. Dr. Benjamin’s roots go back much farther, as he studied under Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, who penned the book “Die Transvestiten” and pioneered the study of transgender people until the rise of Nazi Germany caused the
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destruction of his institute in Berlin. Hirschfield did not invent transgender people, but merely chronicled their stories and applied a name to what already had long existed. There are stories of historical figures long before then, though most are lost in the ashes of history. Suffice it to say that transgender people have likely existed for as long as there were people — and that we have had an uphill battle for acceptance for just about as long. It’s not so much an issue of transgender people having no history; it is that our history has been hidden in shadow. While the most blatant example of this is Hirschfeld’s going up in flames prior to World War II, it’s hardly the only case. In the 1970s and ’80s, as transgender people began to seek care at major universities, we were often discouraged from seeking out other transgender people — to the point of being denied treatment if you did. Likewise, trans people are no strangers to the ravages of antigay conversion therapy — an issue that has grown for transgender peo-
OUTPOUR from page 11
people is their ability to be mobilized through the rich traditions of the African-American church. But the black church has told an entire community of people that the very essence of who they are is an abomination. Black LGBTQ folks were forced to be silent and sit in this oppression. As a result, what does this mean to a young LGBTQ person when God has been the center of all African-American social-justice issues such as slavery, Jim Crow, civil rights and Obama’s presidency? LGBTQ people of color who go to religious institutions that don’t affirm them may define themselves as not worthy of love because the Supreme Being does not honor them, resulting in the subliminal message: Your life is of no value to anyone. Answer this: How, then, do I, as a public-health advocate, ask black queers to engage in protective-health measures? All the professional advice I would give is antithetical to what they have been taught by their religious institutions, communities, schools and families — that their lives have no value. This does not make sense. For far too long, we as public-health advocates (including myself) have been addressing the HIV epidemic all wrong. HIV is the result of when you (gay men and trans women) have been told, essentially, “You are no good and there is something immoral about you.” It is this religiosity and connection to the church that have granted black LGBTQ people the spiritual strength and power to continue existing in the United States of America. The black church must learn to stop stigmatizing gay men and trans people, and this religious institution serving as a vehicle to address all public-health concerns. The black church will say, “We can’t talk about that in church” or “Homosexual behavior is an abomination” or “Now is not the right time.” Well, when is the right time to talk about HIV? Tomorrow? Next week? Or in 20 years? No. The time for social justice, freedom and health equity in LGBTQ communities of color has always been now. Black LGBTQ people must use this strength to mobilize and march into Zion. n
ple while societal acceptance has grown for our gay and lesbian siblings. Which leads us back to today, when people are again attempting to suppress transgender people and our rights, claiming that this long history is but a modern “trend” forged of the Internet. I mentioned a couple of the scant examples of transgender identity I was able to learn of back in my youth, long before the easy access afforded by the Internet. That there was so little information did not change who I was, but only limited my ability to discover more about myself and move towards acceptance at an earlier age. If anything, this notion of a “trend” is very much a cart-before-the-horse situation. The Internet isn’t turning people transgender, but is allowing transgender people to understand earlier and better than ever before. We now have the ability to access more information than ever before, and this has fueled people being able to come out as transgender. One more thing: I knew, as a child, that my parents were likely unable to accept me
as a transgender person, so I kept my feelings well hidden. That I did not have a lot of access to resources likely played a part in this, but I know there are still plenty of trans people, especially trans youth, who are struggling with exactly how and when to come out to their parents. When they finally do gain the courage to do so, their “coming out” may seem to be out of the blue, and might be mistaken as a “phase” of sorts. If it does, understand that it isn’t that they have somehow magically become transgender; it’s that they have finally shared something they have kept private, and that they may have felt they could not share with you before. Indeed, they may have felt that you’d think they were only going through a “phase” brought on by a computer connected to a modem. n Gwen Smith helped create early Internet community spaces for trans people. You’ll find her today at www. gwensmith.com.
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E E N ENOU OUG NOUG GH IS H IS E H I ENOU NOU GH YOUTH PGN
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
The continued attacks by Donald Trump and Mike Pence towards LGBTQ people, women, people of color, and immigrants has gone uncontested by some members of Congress for far too long. Enough is enough. Human Rights Campaign Pennsylvania has been hard at work to elect pro-equality champions up and down the ballot this year, but we can’t do it without you!
Sign up to volunteer with HRC Pennsylvania at HRC.im/VolunteerPA
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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
The Philadelphia Gay News won seven Keystone Press Awards this year, an honor that not only recognizes professional excellence, but journalism that “consistently provides relevance, integrity and initiative in serving readers, and faithfully fulfills its First Amendment rights/responsibilities.” The Keystone Press Awards are sponsored by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association. PGN earned top honors in Division V for weekly publications with over 10,000 circulation in the categories of editorial, column, news photo and photo essay OP-ED PGN
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 4-10, 2017
Conversion therapy is child torture
Mark My Words
Transmissions
11
Street Talk
To the entire LGBT community: psychiatry put its hand in with aversion Let’s begin as a community to state the therapy, which uses the Pavlovian dog-like truth without putting lipstick on a pig. training to force us to be heterosexual with Personally, it sickens me when I see somea handful of horrific tortures. There’s the one from GLAAD or HRC on television electric-shock system, some connected to calling conversion therapy genetics, water treatment — “praying the gay away.” That hey, they had it before President is downright as truthful as a Bush — and then there were Donald Trump tweet, and might drugs of various types, some show how we attempt to soften of which stopped people from our message for consumption breathing before an antidote by the mainstream. Or, it might was administered. They lost a hide something very sad: our few on that one, but hey, better own attempt to not accept what dead than a fag. has been done to us as a collecNow comes conversion tive community for years — and therapy. But this one targets that, my friends, is torture. mostly children whose parents We use terms like hate are now trying to “save” them. crimes, pray away the gay … Almost all the types of torture but much that has been done to I’ve listed above have been “cure” LGBT is sheer torture. used in some of these converMark Segal sion camps … and others. ABC And yes, I’m even talking about the water torture. So once again, News investigative reporter let’s go back in recent history to make the Brian Roberts did one of the best onepoints and hopefully get us back on the hour reports on this practice on “20/20.” right track, as we are literally fighting to It showed corporal punishment, imprisonsave children’s lives. ment and lots more. For years, going back even before there I think you get the idea. It’s time to were lobotomies — oh yes, many lobotspeak out strongly. Say it loud, say it omies were performed on LGBT peoclearly: Conversion therapy is child torture. ple — society attempted to try and find n a way to “change” us, making us holy Mark Segal is the nation’s most-award-winning comheterosexuals. When threat of religion mentator in LGBT media. His memoir, “And Then and criminal justice began to fail, medical I Danced,” is available on Amazon.com, Barnes & science showed up with lobotomies. Then, Noble or at your favorite bookseller.
Gwendolyn Ann Smith
First place
What foreign land would you like to visit this summer? "Calcutta, India. There's such an amazing culture of spirituality there. I would find that very inspirational. The symbols Ennis Carter and art that executive director I would see Gayborhood in that city would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
"Morocco. It's so rich with history, and I'm a history buff. North Africa has been a hub for world history for a long time. Kitty Heite And I love project organizer MediterranWest Philadelphia ean food."
"Maldives. It's a little island off the coast of Indonesia. Surfing is great there. I love to surf. It's spiritually Benjamin Russell healing. photographer Surfing calms Old City my head down. I can't think of a better place to do it than Maldives."
"The Amalfi Coast in Italy. It's gorgeous. The scenery takes your breath away. There's nothing not to love about it. And it would Amanda Zullo be a relaxing attorney break from Queen Village my two toddlers and our recent Disney cruise in Alaska."
Mark Segal
Column: “Mark My Words: Obama made us cool; Conversion therapy is child torture; Glass half full of progress”
Transition the battlefield No matter how I put this, it feels like an understatement: We are living in increasingly frightening and dangerous times. This is especially true for those of us who are transgender. Sitting in a subcommittee right now in our House of Representatives is HR 2796, aka the Civil Rights Uniformity Act of 2017. I’ve written about this before. It would do nothing less than void protections for transgender people under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”), the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act and “any federal civil-rights law, and of any related ruling, regulation, guidance or interpretation of the various administrative bureaus and agencies of the United States.” Not apparently interested in waiting for HR 2796 to pass or fail, the Department of Justice — under “beleaguered” Attorney General Jeff Sessions — has filed a legal brief in Zarda v. Altitude Express claiming that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 doesn’t cover sexual orientation. While the brief doesn’t mention gender identity specifically, we can guess where Sessions’ DOJ might side. Oddly enough,
the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has filed its own brief, disagreeing with the DOJ. Meanwhile, a move by Congressmember Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) to ban health care for transgender military personnel and their families failed to pass in the House of Representatives, in spite of a pair of odd speeches in support by Congressmembers Steve King (R-Iowa) and Louie Gohmert (R-Texas). King conflated transgender troops to slaves forcibly conscripted and castrated in the Ottoman Empire and suggested that trans folks would join to somehow “game the system” for surgical care. Gohmert tried to draw a comparison between money spent for transgender care and that used to defeat “radical Islam,” as if one would take away from the other. While the Hartzler amendment failed, it apparently was not unnoticed by President Donald Trump, who took to Twitter for one of his now-infamous tweetstorm-cum-policy statements. “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow Transgender individuals to
serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military,” Trump wrote. “Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.” This is all nonsense. Military leaders responded with surprise, having apparently not been consulted on this policy. What’s more, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Joseph Dunford has stood in opposition, stating in a memo that there are “no modifications to the current policy until the president’s direction has been received by the Secretary of Defense and the secretary has issued implementation guidelines.” To date, no such implementation guidelines have arrived. Trump seems somehow unaware that there are already transgender troops in our military. While reported numbers have varied from as little as 250 to as many as 50,000, a study by the Rand Corporation in June 2016 estimated somewhere between 1,320 to 6,630 active-duty trans service members out of a total pool of 1.3-million service members. What’s more, this same
study noted that trans-related health care for these troops would cost somewhere between $2.4-$8.4 million per year. This is a drop in the bucket compared to current military spending. It is also a fifth of spending that the military currently doles out for erectile dysfunction medications to all troops, trans or otherwise. So we have a scattershot policy, dictated via social media without adequate consultation and not tethered in fact. Transgender troops are in no way bankrupting our armed forces, nor is there any evidence of them disrupting the service. Now, plenty have said that Trump’s tweets were nothing more than a distraction, something to steal the spotlight from news of the health-care bill and its failure, the increasingly dysfunctional administration or the continuing Russia probe. Maybe there is some truth to that, but I find myself considering that a distraction ceases to be a distraction when it is harming people. Trump’s insistence on attacking transgender soldiers, while his Department of PAGE 15 Justice and others attack
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Creep of the Week
Jen Colletta
Editorial
Fluidity of freedom
Editorial: “Yes we can; Fluidity of freedom; pgn Philadelphia Gay News One year later, what have we learned?” Vol. 41 No. 8
Feb. 24 - March 2, 2017
Day in the Life of: digital agency executives CJ and Jolin Bachmann PAGE 9
Morris dispute gets a call for a public hearing
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM
Tim Cain reopens the “Boys’ Entrance” with latest album
PAGE 2
Guilty plea in Maya Young murder
As Pride Month comes to a close and Independence Day approaches, freedom has been a hot topic. While the word itself often signifies a fundamental, innate tenet upon which this nation was born, recent times have shown just how fluid of a concept freedom is. Two years ago, the LGBT community was celebrating marriage equality becoming the law of the land. Freedom to many at that time meant the ability to finally wed their partners, to join their names on legal documents, to create a family with fewer burdens. But just one year later, 49 people were gunned down at an LGBT nightclub in Orlando. The LGBT community was forced to re-examine the basic freedoms the incident threatened: the ability to be oneself, and associate as a community, without fear of violence or death. Weddings and legal paperwork took an immediate backseat. That back-and-forth seems to have been a recurring theme throughout LGBT history; when one hard-fought victory is won, another can cripple the community. Harvey Milk was elected in a historic move for LGBT representation in government, only to be gunned down. AIDS funding would be boosted in one part of the country and lost in another. A trans woman of color would grace the cover of a national magazine
as record numbers of trans women of color become victims of violence. And LGBT rights flourish under a progressive president only to be quickly yanked back by his successor. Freedom is a contextual concept, one that evolves with our progress and our pitfalls. In times of community successes, freedom may seem to be a finite, attainable goal, while in times of extreme crisis, the freedoms we once coveted may seem luxurious. What that dichotomy shows is that, while little is out of reach, little should be taken for granted. Our country and community are at interesting pinnacles right now; we’ve experienced tremendous gains but also seen the work that has fallen by the wayside. As a country, we’ve rebounded from a crippling recession but many blue-collar workers are suffering the impacts of globalization. As a community, we’ve won marriage equality and many other rights, but our most marginalized — trans individuals, elders, youth — continue to face serious hardships. Embracing our potential should be tempered by acknowledging the many gaps that need to be bridged — and the many more that need to be traversed as the concept of freedom continues its evolution. n
If you’re a school administrator, teacher was doing? Well, or even a whole school district and you under Obama, want to assert your right to discrimithe Education nate against some of your students FOR Department took REASONS, you’re in luck! The Education students’ comDepartment under Betsy DeVos ain’t plaints about gonna stop you. (Unless you’re against serious issues, white Christians probably.) well, seriously, This is especially true if you want to dis- and investigated criminate against transgender students. The whether such Education Department recently dropped complaints were cases in Ohio and elsewhere involving “symptomatic of transgender students being harassed and a broader problem, in part by examining at denied bathroom access, basically saying, least three years of past complaint data.” “This isn’t our problem.” In other words, if a student complains You’ll recall that under Obama, the that he or she was sexually assaulted at Education Department issued guidelines to school, the Education Department felt like schools about how to handle transgender they should probably find out if this was students so that their dignity is respected an isolated incident or a pattern of wider and their right to an education is not tramabuse. pled. But under Trump and DeVos, the Under DeVos’ leadership, however, Education Department ain’t care. they’re so busy trying to find ways to make Needless to say, those who support trans education into a for-profit enterprise that students are alarmed by the department’s they can’t be bothered with systemic civshrugging off the issue. Shannon Minter of il-rights abuses at school. Ugh. Civil rights the National Center for Lesbian Rights told don’t make anybody rich. the Washington Post, “They have just sent Of course, the department claims that a message to schools that it’s open season this whole “don’t-look-into-civil-rightson transgender students.” complaints-too-deeply” policy is to alleIn other words, it’s a pretty clear signal viate a troublesome backlog of cases. And that the Trump administration has zero while it’s true that a backlog of cases is a interest in hearing problem, their solusome transgender tion isn’t to hire the But it’s not just trans kid bitching about personnel needed having to pee in a to get these cases students DeVos wants bucket in the janiexamined. Their tor’s closet or some- to abandon. Civil rights solution is to simply thing. Suck it up, are such a drag, after all. stopIn looking. buttercup, as Trump a press release, supporters like to What do they do besides Sherrilyn Ifill, pressay right before they ident of the NAACP get in the way of privatiz- Legal Defense and head out to protest against Shakespeare. ing America’s education Educational Fund, But it’s not just said the Education trans students system so that rich ass- Department was DeVos wants to abdicating its holes can get richer? abandon. Civil “responsibility to rights are such a protect the rights drag, after all. What do they do besides get and dignity of our nation’s vulnerable chilin the way of privatizing America’s edudren during the most crucial years of their cation system so that rich assholes can get lives, threatening not only to stall progress richer? The Education Department’s Office on racial, gender and sexual-orientation of Civil Rights is so over crybaby civequality in schools, but to undo it altoil-rights wanters. gether.” According to the Washington Post, the As is the plan, of course. MAGA ’til you head of the civil-rights office “has directed puke. n lawyers to narrow the scope of investigations into sexual assault and discriminatory D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian school-discipline policies.” living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow What does this mean and how does it differ from what the Obama administration her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
If you are celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, adoption or other life event, we would be happy to help you announce it to the community. Send your contact information and a brief description of the event to editor@epgn.com.
We want to know!
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First place
In light of National March, organizers reschedule Philly Pride
Trial for alleged murderer of trans woman postponed until December
Scott Drake
By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com
By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com
Photo Story/Essay: “2017 Philadelphia Women’s March” News Photo: “Not their president”
Philly gears up for LGBT conferences
Second place By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com
Two LGBT organizations planning conventions in Philadelphia were represented at a local business luncheon Tuesday. PHL Diversity hosted its 11th-annual Business Opportunity Luncheon for professionals to network and learn about new business initiatives for the city. Kim Reed of Reed Development Group moderated a panel with representatives from Health Professionals Advancing LGBT Equality, formerly known as the Gay & Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), and the True Colors Fund. GLMA Executive Director Hector Vargas and True Colors Fund Executive Director Gregory Lewis answered questions from Reed about their organizations. GLMA will bring its 35th Annual Conference on LGBT Health Sept. 13-16 to the Doubletree Philadelphia City Center, 237 S. Broad St. During this conference,
Jeremy Rodriguez
GLMA will educate health providers and others on the health needs of LGBT people and their families. Additionally, GLMA will report the latest research impacting LGBT health. Vargas noted this is the first time the organization will host its conference here. “Philadelphia is a great place for us,” he said. “There’s a very vibrant LGBT community here. There’s a health center that focuses on LGBT health — Mazzoni. There’s a lot going on in the political and advocacy sphere around LGBT health both in Philadelphia and in Pennsylvania.” Meanwhile, the True Colors Fund will bring its 40 to None Summit to the city in October. No location or exact dates had been finalized by presstime. During this two-day event, individuals addressing LGBT-youth homelessness across the country will meet up for sessions, performances, action-planning breakouts and networking opportunities. PAGE 13 “For us at the True
Investigative Reporting: “Exclusive: Brian Sims target of state ethics investigation”
NORTHERN NETWORKING: City Fitness hosted ConnX Feb. 21 at WeWork at Schmidt’s Commons. The traveling monthly social brings together members and supporters of the Independence Business Alliance, the region’s LGBT chamber of commerce. Guests enjoyed beer and wine and food from SNAP Kitchen while they networked and explored the co-working space at WeWork. Photo: Courtesy of Independence Business Alliance OP-ED PGN
Conversion therapy is child torture To the entire LGBT community: psychiatry put its hand in with aversion Let’s begin as a community to state the therapy, which uses the Pavlovian dog-like truth without putting lipstick on a pig. training to force us to be heterosexual with Personally, it sickens me when I see somea handful of horrific tortures. There’s the one from GLAAD or HRC on television electric-shock system, some connected to calling conversion therapy genetics, water treatment — “praying the gay away.” That hey, they had it before President is downright as truthful as a Bush — and then there were Donald Trump tweet, and might drugs of various types, some show how we attempt to soften of which stopped people from our message for consumption breathing before an antidote by the mainstream. Or, it might was administered. They lost a hide something very sad: our few on that one, but hey, better own attempt to not accept what dead than a fag. has been done to us as a collecNow comes conversion tive community for years — and therapy. But this one targets that, my friends, is torture. mostly children whose parents We use terms like hate are now trying to “save” them. crimes, pray away the gay … Almost all the types of torture but much that has been done to I’ve listed above have been “cure” LGBT is sheer torture. used in some of these converMark Segal sion camps … and others. ABC And yes, I’m even talking about the water torture. So once again, News investigative reporter let’s go back in recent history to make the Brian Roberts did one of the best onepoints and hopefully get us back on the hour reports on this practice on “20/20.” right track, as we are literally fighting to It showed corporal punishment, imprisonsave children’s lives. ment and lots more. For years, going back even before there I think you get the idea. It’s time to were lobotomies — oh yes, many lobotspeak out strongly. Say it loud, say it omies were performed on LGBT peoclearly: Conversion therapy is child torture. ple — society attempted to try and find n a way to “change” us, making us holy Mark Segal is the nation’s most-award-winning comheterosexuals. When threat of religion mentator in LGBT media. His memoir, “And Then and criminal justice began to fail, medical I Danced,” is available on Amazon.com, Barnes & science showed up with lobotomies. Then, Noble or at your favorite bookseller.
Mark My Words
Transmissions
Gwendolyn Ann Smith
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 4-10, 2017
11
the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has filed its own brief, disagreeing with the DOJ. Meanwhile, a move by Congressmember Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) to ban health care for transgender military personnel and their families failed to pass in the House of Representatives, in spite of a pair of odd speeches in support by Congressmembers Steve King (R-Iowa) and Louie Gohmert (R-Texas). King conflated transgender troops to slaves forcibly conscripted and castrated in the Ottoman Empire and suggested that trans folks would join to somehow “game the system” for surgical care. Gohmert tried to draw a comparison between money spent for transgender care and that used to defeat “radical Islam,” as if one would take away from the other. While the Hartzler amendment failed, it apparently was not unnoticed by President Donald Trump, who took to Twitter for one of his now-infamous tweetstorm-cum-policy statements. “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow Transgender individuals to
Vol. 41 No. 18 May 5-11, 2017 Family Portrait: Spotlight on Samy el-Noury
PA Supreme Court says SEPTA not bound by Philly antidiscrimination laws
PAGE 37
PAGE 2
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM Celebrations of Philly Black Pride
FINAL BOW: At the April 29 “Shut Up & Dance” performance, longtime producing director Ian Hussey announced he was passing the baton for next year’s show to Alexandra Hughes. The annual Pennsylvania Ballet production raised more than $161,000 for MANNA, which provides nutritional meals to the ill. Nearly 1,400 people packed Forrest Theatre for the 25th-anniversary performance. Photo: Scott A. Drake
D.A. candidates address crime, corruption, community
Larry Krasner Throughout his candidacy for district attorney, Larry Krasner has spoken about resisting the Trump administration, ending mass incarceration and standing up for civil-rights. During his 30 years as an attorney, he stood up for organizations such as ACT UP, Black Lives Matter and other organizations relating to LGBT rights, disabled people and immigrants.
PGN: There have already been nine transgender women of color murdered across the nation this year. If elected, what will your office do to combat violence against transgender individuals in Philadelphia, specifically women of color? LK: If and when there are incidents, I will have my supervisors and my prosecutors take those charges incredibly seriously. When I see violence involving a trans victim, to me, a red flag goes up immediately to see if this is a hate crime. I have been there when this Philadelphia Police Department wouldn’t take hate crimes seriously and, to me, that’s unacceptable. You have to have a police department that treats everybody equally and cares about everybody’s issues and that doesn’t consider certain people to be less than human. I think by using the office as a bully pulpit, being as serious as possible about properly prosecuting these cases, working with the police commissioner to
According to documents PGN exclusively obtained, a state commission is investigating Rep. Brian Sims following scrutiny about his travel reimbursements and speaking fees. PGN obtained a copy of an Ethics Complaint Form from a source whose identity we are withholding. The individual filed the complaint with the State Ethics Commission, contending Sims, the first LGBT person elected to the state legislature, violated the state Ethics Act. According to the Ethics Act, “No public official or public employee shall accept an honorarium.” A March 31 letter from the Ethics Commission, signed by Executive Director Robert P. Caruso, that was given to PGN states: “The Investigative Division of the State Ethics Commission has initiated a full investigation in relation to the complaint” that the individual filed. Caruso told PGN he was not permitted to comment on the investigation or the complaint. PAGE 28
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do police trainings around this issue or to make sure the trainings are adequate, I believe we could make a difference and make the situation better for trans people.
Endorsements
District Attorney: Larry Krasner City Controller: Alan Butkovitz
PGN: If elected, will you assist PGN in our ongoing efforts to settle all open-records litigation for access to Nizah Morris records? LK: The short answer is yes. I am a great believer in providing information to the press. However, when you ask a candidate what will you do when you are in office and that candidate doesn’t have all of the information, you’re basically inviting a candidate to make promises that may or may not be appropriate. Every bit of my instincts favors transparency but if I were to find something in the file that the mother or the father of Nizah Morris didn’t want revealed, then that is something I would have to look at. Assuming that the family of Nizah Morris wanted the information revealed and assuming the law permitted it, I would like there to be the maximum amount of transparency and I would like to assist in getting all information out PAGE 19 about that incident.
Superior Court Maria McLaughlin Carolyn Nichols H. Geoffrey Moulton, Jr. Commonwealth Court Ellen Ceisler Todd Eagan Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Lucretia Clemons Mark Cohen Leon Goodman Shanese Johnson Vikki Kristiansson Zac Shaffer Henry Sias Dan Sulman Stella Tsai Philadelphia Municipal Court Marissa Brumbach George Twardy
Street Talk
"Calcutta, India. There's such an amazing culture of spirituality there. I would find that very inspirational. The symbols Ennis Carter and art that executive director I would see Gayborhood in that city would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
"Morocco. It's so rich with history, and I'm a history buff. North Africa has been a hub for world history for a long time. Kitty Heite And I love project organizer MediterranWest Philadelphia ean food."
"Maldives. It's a little island off the coast of Indonesia. Surfing is great there. I love to surf. It's spiritually Benjamin Russell healing. photographer Surfing calms Old City my head down. I can't think of a better place to do it than Maldives."
"The Amalfi Coast in Italy. It's gorgeous. The scenery takes your breath away. There's nothing not to love about it. And it would Amanda Zullo be a relaxing attorney break from Queen Village my two toddlers and our recent Disney cruise in Alaska."
serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military,” Trump wrote. “Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.” This is all nonsense. Military leaders responded with surprise, having apparently not been consulted on this policy. What’s more, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Joseph Dunford has stood in opposition, stating in a memo that there are “no modifications to the current policy until the president’s direction has been received by the Secretary of Defense and the secretary has issued implementation guidelines.” To date, no such implementation guidelines have arrived. Trump seems somehow unaware that there are already transgender troops in our military. While reported numbers have varied from as little as 250 to as many as 50,000, a study by the Rand Corporation in June 2016 estimated somewhere between 1,320 to 6,630 active-duty trans service members out of a total pool of 1.3-million service members. What’s more, this same
study noted that trans-related health care for these troops would cost somewhere between $2.4-$8.4 million per year. This is a drop in the bucket compared to current military spending. It is also a fifth of spending that the military currently doles out for erectile dysfunction medications to all troops, trans or otherwise. So we have a scattershot policy, dictated via social media without adequate consultation and not tethered in fact. Transgender troops are in no way bankrupting our armed forces, nor is there any evidence of them disrupting the service. Now, plenty have said that Trump’s tweets were nothing more than a distraction, something to steal the spotlight from news of the health-care bill and its failure, the increasingly dysfunctional administration or the continuing Russia probe. Maybe there is some truth to that, but I find myself considering that a distraction ceases to be a distraction when it is harming people. Trump’s insistence on attacking transgender soldiers, while his Department of PAGE 15 Justice and others attack
Second place Jen Colletta
General News/Weeklies: “Lesbian couple turned away from PA bridal shop” pgn Philadelphia Gay News
LGBT NEWS SINCE 1976
Vol. 41 No. 18 May 5-11, 2017 Family Portrait: Spotlight on Samy el-Noury
PA Supreme Court says SEPTA not bound by Philly antidiscrimination laws
PAGE 37
PAGE 2
Honorable Mention Jeremy Rodriguez
General News/Weeklies: “City releases Gayborhood racism findings, recommends training”
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • PROFESSIONALISM Celebrations of Philly Black Pride
Fellowship awarded to GALAEI youth-program leader PAGE 8
PAGE 13
State agency: We’ll accept LGBT antibias complaints
Exclusive: Brian Sims target of state ethics investigation By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com
By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com Under proposed guidance posted on its website April 28, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission will investigate LGBTQ-related antibias complaints, despite the lack of an LGBTQ-inclusive statewide antibias law. The guidance notes that Pennsylvania’s antibias law covers sex discrimination, and multiple courts have ruled that anti-LGBTQ discrimination is a form of sex discrimination. However, neither the U.S. Supreme Court nor the Pennsylvania Supreme PAGE 28
FINAL BOW: At the April 29 “Shut Up & Dance” performance, longtime producing director Ian Hussey announced he was passing the baton for next year’s show to Alexandra Hughes. The annual Pennsylvania Ballet production raised more than $161,000 for MANNA, which provides nutritional meals to the ill. Nearly 1,400 people packed Forrest Theatre for the 25th-anniversary performance. Photo: Scott A. Drake
D.A. candidates address crime, corruption, community By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com The race for Philadelphia’s next district attorney is wide open. Seven Democratic contenders will vie for the nomination May 16, with one Republican running unopposed. The primary comes just weeks after current District Attorney Seth Williams was federally indicted on corruption and bribery charges. PGN spoke with all of the candidates about their vision for the District Attorney’s Office, and how the local LGBT community can be incorporated into those plans.
Larry Krasner Throughout his candidacy for district attorney, Larry Krasner has spoken about resisting the Trump administration, ending mass incarceration and standing up for civil-rights. During his 30 years as an attorney, he stood up for organizations such as ACT UP, Black Lives Matter and other organizations relating to LGBT rights, disabled people and immigrants.
“The point is that these issues of discrimination continue to arise, and they must be addressed in order for the Mazzoni Center to heal itself from the inside out.” Sims and Farnese called upon Mazzoni Center to reinstate Martinez. “We believe Kay Martinez should be fully reinstated; their support of Mazzoni staff that led to their termination is evidence of why they are needed,” they stated. “In our conversations with Mazzoni staff, it was clear that Kay was not only respected for their leadership in working to rectify the longstanding issues of failing to treat Mazzoni staffers of color equitably and respectfully but also needed because many of these same problems continued to plague this organization.” Mazzoni Center director of communications Larry Benjamin said Hikes, Kenney, Sims and Farnese had not reached out to management to discuss the Martinez firing. n
Adriana Fraser contributed to this report.
By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com
By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com
The race for Philadelphia’s next district attorney is wide open. Seven Democratic contenders will vie for the nomination May 16, with one Republican running unopposed. The primary comes just weeks after current District Attorney Seth Williams was federally indicted on corruption and bribery charges. PGN spoke with all of the candidates about their vision for the District Attorney’s Office, and how the local LGBT community can be incorporated into those plans.
sation of discrimination at Mazzoni Center. “The point is that these issues of discrimination continue to arise, and they must be addressed in order for the Mazzoni Center to heal itself from the inside out,” said Farnese. Hikes did not comment for this article. But Mayor Jim Kenney’s office issued a statement Monday to PGN expressing “serious concerns” about the Martinez firing. “It is very important to me that our LGBTQ community is safe and supported and I recommend to anyone who feels discriminated against to file a complaint with the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations (PCHR), as [Martinez] did. I commend the former director for taking this important step and I look forward to receiving PCHR’s findings,” Kenney said.
Exclusive: Brian Sims target of state ethics investigation
Under proposed guidance posted on its website April 28, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission will investigate LGBTQ-related antibias complaints, despite the lack of an LGBTQ-inclusive statewide antibias law. The guidance notes that Pennsylvania’s antibias law covers sex discrimination, and multiple courts have ruled that anti-LGBTQ discrimination is a form of sex discrimination. However, neither the U.S. Supreme Court nor the Pennsylvania Supreme PAGE 28
By Jeremy Rodriguez jeremy@epgn.com
erosexual, cisgendered Latina person has no business being there — it’s about her level of LGBTQ competency. I had to educate the CEO on what my pronouns were and how to properly use the they/them pronouns, and that displayed a very significant trans incompetency.” Martinez said that since filing the complaint to investigate their termination, they have been “taking time to heal from the traumatic experience” of working with the nonprofit. In Tuesday’s statement, Mazzoni Center officials said they welcomed an inquiry into the firing. “Kay’s employment was terminated for legitimate reasons, not unlawful discrimination, and we are confident an impartial investigation in the appropriate manner will fully vindicate our legitimate business decision.” Mazzoni Center officials previously have said they do not comment publicly on internal personnel matters. In a joint statement Aug. 23, state Rep. Brian Sims and state Sen. Larry Farnese said they are “fed up” with Mazzoni Center’s “inability to live up to the promises of transparency, accountability, and engagement made to us and members of our community.” The elected officials accused Mazzoni Center of discrimination that is preventing the organization from moving on from a series of internal scandals over the past two years. “Inclusion and ethnic diversity cannot be espoused as priorities within an institution while discrimination continues to be perpetrated that runs contrary to those policies,” they said in the statement. Farnese defended the statement in an email to PGN on Aug. 27, saying he was not commenting on the legality of the firing. “I view the statement we issued as a part of my job as an elected official: to hold accountable a nonprofit that received public funds to ensure they are meeting the obligations of their commitments to their employees, the community and the commonwealth.” But the state senator did reiterate the accu-
Fellowship awarded to GALAEI youth-program leader PAGE 8
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State agency: We’ll accept LGBT antibias complaints
What foreign land would you like to visit this summer?
Transition the battlefield No matter how I put this, it feels like an understatement: We are living in increasingly frightening and dangerous times. This is especially true for those of us who are transgender. Sitting in a subcommittee right now in our House of Representatives is HR 2796, aka the Civil Rights Uniformity Act of 2017. I’ve written about this before. It would do nothing less than void protections for transgender people under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”), the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act and “any federal civil-rights law, and of any related ruling, regulation, guidance or interpretation of the various administrative bureaus and agencies of the United States.” Not apparently interested in waiting for HR 2796 to pass or fail, the Department of Justice — under “beleaguered” Attorney General Jeff Sessions — has filed a legal brief in Zarda v. Altitude Express claiming that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 doesn’t cover sexual orientation. While the brief doesn’t mention gender identity specifically, we can guess where Sessions’ DOJ might side. Oddly enough,
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NOT THEIR PRESIDENT: Hundreds protested in Center City Monday against restrictive policies and positions coming from the new Trump administration. The “Not My Presidents’ Day” march and rally, planned to coincide with the annual federal holiday celebrating American presidents, included remarks from speakers about LGBT rights, health care, immigration, racial justice, women’s rights and more. Photo: Scott A. Drake
Philly Pride Presents confirmed to PGN the organization will reschedule its annual Pride Parade and Festival for the first time in its 29 years. Pride will now be held June 18 at Penn’s Landing so it does not conflict with the Washington D.C. National Pride March on June 11, the local event’s original date. “It’s a decision that had to be made because even some people who work with us are going to go to D.C.,” said the organization’s executive director, Franny Price. “It was a decision that we never wanted to make but it was a decision to save the Philadelphia Pride Parade and Festival and OutFest. We did not want to cause a conflict [with] the community [members] who would want to go to the march.” The National Pride March began as a Facebook event that grew to more than 31,000 confirmed guests and more than 109,000 guests designated as “interested.” Price said out of the previous 28 Philadelphia Pride PAGE 13 events, 25 have been held during
PGN: There have already been nine transgender women of color murdered across the nation this year. If elected, what will your office do to combat violence against transgender individuals in Philadelphia, specifically women of color? LK: If and when there are incidents, I will have my supervisors and my prosecutors take those charges incredibly seriously. When I see violence involving a trans victim, to me, a red flag goes up immediately to see if this is a hate crime. I have been there when this Philadelphia Police Department wouldn’t take hate crimes seriously and, to me, that’s unacceptable. You have to have a police department that treats everybody equally and cares about everybody’s issues and that doesn’t consider certain people to be less than human. I think by using the office as a bully pulpit, being as serious as possible about properly prosecuting these cases, working with the police commissioner to
According to documents PGN exclusively obtained, a state commission is investigating Rep. Brian Sims following scrutiny about his travel reimbursements and speaking fees. PGN obtained a copy of an Ethics Complaint Form from a source whose identity we are withholding. The individual filed the complaint with the State Ethics Commission, contending Sims, the first LGBT person elected to the state legislature, violated the state Ethics Act. According to the Ethics Act, “No public official or public employee shall accept an honorarium.” A March 31 letter from the Ethics Commission, signed by Executive Director Robert P. Caruso, that was given to PGN states: “The Investigative Division of the State Ethics Commission has initiated a full investigation in relation to the complaint” that the individual filed. Caruso told PGN he was not permitted to comment on the investigation or the complaint. PAGE 28
do police trainings around this issue or to make sure the trainings are adequate, I believe we could make a difference and make the situation better for trans people. PGN: If elected, will you assist PGN in our ongoing efforts to settle all open-records litigation for access to Nizah Morris records? LK: The short answer is yes. I am a great believer in providing information to the press. However, when you ask a candidate what will you do when you are in office and that candidate doesn’t have all of the information, you’re basically inviting a candidate to make promises that may or may not be appropriate. Every bit of my instincts favors transparency but if I were to find something in the file that the mother or the father of Nizah Morris didn’t want revealed, then that is something I would have to look at. Assuming that the family of Nizah Morris wanted the information revealed and assuming the law permitted it, I would like there to be the maximum amount of transparency and I would like to assist in getting all information out PAGE 19 about that incident.
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A jury trial for the alleged murderer of trans woman Diamond Williams has been postponed until December. Charles N. Sargent stands accused of stabbing Williams to death with a screwdriver, then dismembering her with an ax, depositing her body parts in a vacant lot in Strawberry Mansion in July 2013. Sargent told police he acted in self-defense after Williams became violent during a sexual encounter. Advocates for Williams dispute that claim. Sargent’s trial was scheduled to begin Feb. 27, but his standby attorney, J. Michael Farrell, recently was convicted of multiPAGE 13 ple felonies in
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MAZZONI from page 1
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Endorsements
District Attorney: Larry Krasner City Controller: Alan Butkovitz Superior Court Maria McLaughlin Carolyn Nichols H. Geoffrey Moulton, Jr. Commonwealth Court Ellen Ceisler Todd Eagan
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Lucretia Clemons Mark Cohen Leon Goodman Shanese Johnson Vikki Kristiansson Zac Shaffer Henry Sias Dan Sulman Stella Tsai Philadelphia Municipal Court Marissa Brumbach George Twardy
OPINON from page 11
Ask anyone who has ever been a victim of domestic violence. Perhaps unless you have been, you don’t get that. But ignorance is no defense. I have been the victim of domestic violence. And I can tell you, every time an employee is allowed to rage unchecked, I am taken back there: My ears ring; I feel every stinging blow; taste my own blood in my mouth; experience again the certainty: This time I will die. I have had more than a decade to process and release those feelings, those memories. I can only imagine how much more triggering and traumatizing it is for those for whom domestic violence is recent history or, worse, current reality. We talk a lot about safe spaces — and, for many of us, safe spaces are few and far between. If we are not safe at Mazzoni Center, where are we safe? Mazzoni Center owes us a safe work
environment — all employers owe that much to their employees. So, who is to blame? The failure to provide a safe work environment can be placed squarely on the shoulders of management, who often fail to act to protect employees, and SEIU Healthcare PA, the union that staff members voted to represent them in September 2017,who either cannot or will not hold bargaining-unit employees accountable for their conduct. Yes, management has failed us, SEIU has failed us, our former director of diversity, equity and inclusion has failed us — but the hardest failure to accept is the failure of our peers, our coworkers, to ensure we all feel safe at work, no matter our differences. n The author works at Mazzoni Center and wishes to remain anonymous.
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EMMA WILLMANN (LEFT) AND KATE WILLETT Photos: Mandee Johnson and Mindy Tucker
Breaking out: Queer comedians headline comedy specials By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Netflix’s “The Comedy Lineup: Part Two” dishes out a second helping of 15-minute sets by an eclectic mix of up-and-coming comedians performing in front of an intimate live audience. Two of the comedians featured in the Aug. 31 broadcast are Emma Willmann and Kate Willett, both of whom are out. An actress as well as a comedian, Willmann is a Maine native who left her small-town life to cut her comedy teeth in Boston and New York. She’s toured with Louis CK and has appeared on TV shows like “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” and “Crashing.” Willmann also co-hosts her own podcast, “Inside the Closet,” with fellow comedian and friend Matteo Lane. Willmann said that out of all her creative comedy pursuits, her podcasting duties are nearest and dearest to her heart. “I feel the most comfortable when I’m doing radio and podcasting because that’s just so fun,” she said. “When Matteo and I do our live shows, the amount of time you put into thinking about an hour-long standup set is like years. But he and I will
not talk for a week before and then just catch up on the show.” They say you can take the girl out of the country but you can’t take the country out of the girl. And Willmann would probably agree, because even though she’s become fully acquainted with the pace of city life and navigating the comedy scenes in two of the busiest and most competitive cities on the East Coast, she said that part of her mindset is “very rural.” “I’m a friendly person,” she said. “Being from Maine, even if something isn’t my community, I’ll still approach it like that because everybody in the town knows each other. So if anybody has a bad attitude, then they’re the town asshole and everybody knows about it. And you don’t want to be that person, so I feel like I have to be friendly. Even though I’ve never been robbed, I still don’t always lock my door, which is stupid. Or I’ve lost my wallet a few times in New York and it’s always been returned. I’m going to knock on wood. Being absent-minded and friendly probably comes from being from a small town, but it for whatever reason it hasn’t fucked me over yet in New York. What I grew up with was the same small-town
things all the time. So when I’m in the city, I look at everything with wide eyes, like What? There’s more than two restaurants and one blinking stop light? What’s going on here?” Willmann said she appreciates the creative breathing room performers get during increasingly frequent opportunities to perform outside New York City and Boston. “When I do a show in Maine, audiences will stay with the performer and the whole show so much more so than a New York or Boston audience,” she said. “There were comedians who would do a 10-minute set with maybe one joke at the end and people would laugh. If that was in New York, and a couple of minutes went by without somebody saying anything funny, the audience would be like, ‘Fuck this guy!’ or ‘Fuck this girl!’ They are more cutthroat in the city. There’s something nice about not having all that pressure and being able to explore stuff. It gives you a safer space to try something.” Comedian, actress and writer Kate Willett weaves her feminist views and her experiences as a bisexual into her insightful brand of comedy featured both in the Netflix special and more in-depth on her
2017 live comedy album, “Glass Gutter.” Like Willmann, she has traveled the world to perform, in her case at major international comedy festivals and opening for superstars like Margaret Cho. “When I open for Margaret, she has a ton of fans who have been following her for many, many years and I’m still trying to build that,” Willett said. She described the Netflix taping as a “big party” and said she was glad to see so much diversity among the performers. “I was pleasantly surprised to see that this group of people had so many women and queer people.” Willmann said she also enjoyed the experience and diversity featured in the taping, adding she doesn’t see that same level of diversity when she goes on the road. “I almost don’t even see any gay comedians when I go other places. There are feminine ones popping up in L.A. but you don’t see a ton of gay comedians. I feel like I do in New York, but it’s a newer thing.” n “The Comedy Lineup: Part Two” premieres Aug. 31 on Netflix. For more information, visit http://www. emmacomedy.com, https://katewillett.com or https:// www.netflix.com/title/80223138.
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Food and Drink Linked restaurants bring youthful energy to Center City Directory By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com
The Center City IHOP located at 1320 Walnut St. is now open 24 Hrs on FRIDAY and SATURDAY
THANKS FOR MAKING IT A IHOP DAY
LovasH Indian
They might be on opposite sides of the block but, as Porta (1216 Chestnut St.) and Brickwall Tavern (1213 Sansom St.) share a liquor license and you can enter one through the other, we’re reviewing these conjoined restaurants together. First up is Porta, an Italian restaurant that occupies a large space with high ceilings that used to be a furniture store. It quickly gained a reputation for turning out impressive pizza. But we’ll get to that in a minute. Things started off fresh and lively with the generously portioned housemade mozzarella ($12), which was super soft, mild and served with crostini. It paired nicely with the New Jersey heirloom tomatoes ($12), which were equally simple, robust and dressed with basil and olive oil. Things got pleasantly more complex with the pan-roasted day-boat octopus ($18), which is playfully plated to look like the octopus is trying to hide under a massive bush of fennel, along with potatoes and capers drizzled with olive oil and lemon. The herbaceous greens on the plate worked well with the tender roasted tentacles, giving the dish a lovely Mediterranean feel. The pasta menu has some surprises as well. The blossom russo is an elegantly presented dish in which the zucchini visually stood out. The zucchini purée that formed the foundations of the plate also added welcome flavor and color to the silky pasta presentation.
GRILLED OCTOPUS Photos: Larry Nichols
If you go Porta 1216 Chestnut St. 267-534-2135 www.pizzaporta.com
So does Porta’s pizza deserve the gush of accolades it has acquired so far? That’s a yes. This pie hits all the right spots, but doesn’t go overboard with the toppings. The Festivus pizza ($17) had just enough house-made sausage and mozzarella, along with red onion and red pepper, to allow the flavorful sauce and perfect crust to shine. Meanwhile, on the other side of the block, Brickwall Tavern aims to appease the comfort bar-food cravings of the youthful clientele. This is another large space, but Brickwall has bars and flat screens peppered throughout the restaurant, giving it a distinct sports-bar feel. This menu is full of cravable items that sometimes suffer from a lack of focus, mainly where side
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Mon.-Thurs.: noon-11 p.m. Fri.: noon-2 a.m. Sat.: 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Sun.: 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. dishes are concerned. On the other hand, the small plates have a lot of personality. The pierogies ($9) were a buttery, oniony hit. The crabby deviled eggs ($10) benefited more from the presence of Old Bay seasoning than from the crabmeat decorating the tops of them, but they were still tasty and solid. What the side dishes lacked in composition, the entrées compensated. We tried the “impossible burger” ($13), the vegan-burger substitute that is supposed to taste like the real thing. And does it ever. We couldn’t tell it from the real thing if we didn’t know. The housemade chips that came with it should have had more seasoning, even some more salt, to elevate them from plain. The mahi tacos ($15) had the same problem. The tacos themselves contained perfectly fried fish and were topped with crispy red cabbage, spicy harissa mayo, lime and sour cream. Now we’re cooking, right? And what was parked next to these tasty tacos? What was served up to be the Andrew Ridgely to the George Michael of the plate? Plain. Brown. Rice. Straight out of the pot, from the looks of it. Thank goodness there was a bottle of hot sauce on every table. But next time, just have the tacos go solo. While we are loathe to play favorites, and we hope that both of these energetic eateries thrive in their new digs, don’t be surprised if Brickwall stares at us while we’re living it up with its conjoined twin. n
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Claris Park: Taking the stage Pageants, princess dresses and sparkly shoes, oh my! Nope, it’s not the latest Miss America competition; it’s “Close Your Legs, Honey” — one of the two Fringe Arts Festival shows this week’s Portrait, Claris Park, is involved in this year. The show is described as “a new musical about ugly people in a beautiful world.” Park plays an 11-year-old glamazon fighting off pageant-wannabe Honey for supreme glory. A former Spiral Q member, actor, writer and director, Park is a multitalented young woman who is quickly making her mark on the Philadelphia theater scene. PGN: Tell me a little about Claris Park. CP: Well, I am a 22-year-old theater-maker in Philly. I graduated from Penn in 2017 and immediately jumped into an apprenticeship at Interact Theater. I just finished that a few months ago, so it feels like I’m just out of school, even though it’s been a year. I’m a military brat, so I kind of grew up everywhere. Most people have a hometown when they introduce themselves but there’s not really any place I call home. I’m also directing another show for the Fringe so it’s a lot of work, but a lot of fun! PGN: Where were you born? CP: I was born in L.A., and raised there till I was 8. Then we moved to New Jersey for a couple of years. Then I lived in Germany, then back to the States where we lived in Georgia, and then to Colorado, which is where I went to high school. Then I went to NYU for a year before transferring to Penn. So a lot of crazy moving around. My parents didn’t speak English in the house until I got to kindergarten because they wanted me to be fluent in Korean first. They said, “Oh, you’ll pick up English quickly as soon as you get to school!” So for the first five years of my life, I only watched Korean TV. PGN: I guess it worked. I understand you speak five languages. CP: I speak Korean, English and German fluently. When my dad was stationed in Germany, I was 10 and they kind of chucked me into a German school and said, “Have at it!” We were there for a couple of years, so I learned German. I also learned a little French and Spanish in school. I’ve been told that I used to speak Japanese when I was little. We had family that immigrated to Japan and we used to visit them quite a lot and I just picked it up. PGN: When did you realize that theater was going to be your life? CP: Not until my second year of college. I started off in pre-med and international relations. My big dream was to work with Doctors Without Borders, but at NYU I got a little shaky and decided I wasn’t quite into the pre-med thing. My parents said, “You don’t
have to do med school, in fact we encourage you not to. It’s a lot of work and stress.” So I transferred to Penn, still thinking about medicine, and my parents encouraged me to take theater as well, saying how much I loved it. I was like, “Really? I don’t remember liking it that much.” But I took a couple of classes and that put me on this path. PGN: So you act and direct. CP: Yes, I started directing films during high school in Colorado, but I did my first stage play at Penn. It was just one act, but I loved how bizarre you could take things on the stage, to be able to sit down with smart actors and discuss the direction we wanted and how far we should go. I still love that collaborative process. PGN: And speaking of bizarre, let’s talk about “Close Your Legs, Honey.” CP: Yes, it’s a bizarre but funny show about children’s beauty pageants. Most of the cast play 9-11-year-old pageant princesses. I get to play the mean girl, which I’ve never done before, so I’m really excited. PGN: What’s the other Fringe show you’re working on? CP: I’m directing a play called “A New Kind of Whole” written by Paige Zubel and Eleanor Safer. It’s a play that explores queerness and mental illness and how the two can intersect — the difficulties of navigating the world as a queer person with disabilities when it’s not something you normally see reflected in the community. It’s a two-person play and the main character interacts with a number of people along the way, including doctors and an acupuncturist, until she finds someone else who also has mental-health issues and they connect on a really deep level. PGN: Where will it be performed? CP: I like directing in odd performance spaces, so it’s going to be performed in the tiny apartment of one of our co-producers. It will be interesting to feel the dynamics of the show in such an intimate space. PGN: That’s great — most of my favorite Fringe shows have been in alternate spaces. I’ve seen a two-woman play done in the bathroom of a pizza joint, took a friend to see a show in the back of a Mac truck and have seen a dance troupe in a graveyard. What was an early sign that you were part of the LGBT community? CP: Up until I was about 10, my mother dressed me every day. It was weird because she would dress me one of two ways: It was either a frilly princess dress in tulle or like the kid of biker parents. There was never an in-between. And I was pretty comfortable as either princess or biker. I was good with the duality. But I went to a very conservative high school in Colorado and there were a lot of very religious people. Many of the teachers
were prescriptive in their beliefs and being queer was something just not spoken about. I’m still trying to catch up and figure things out. I’ve heard it can be a lifelong process and I’m looking forward to it, but it’s been a weird five years. PGN: Are you out to the fam yet? CP: I’ve had the conversation with my little brother and he was just like, “Yeah, of course. I don’t care. It’s 2018, what kind of asshole would I be if I wasn’t on board with my own sister being happy?” And I kind of had the talk with my dad, and he’s been supportive, but I haven’t had the time to fully explain to them all the different aspects of my queerness. It’s interesting, we all speak English, but at home I only speak Korean with my parents and I just don’t know how to describe any of this in Korean yet, but I’m researching it. I think my mom suspects but doesn’t know for sure. PGN: So what else is on the agenda for the year?
Five Acts,” and Theatre Exile’s “Among the Dead” in the spring PGN: What’s a favorite place you’ve lived? CP: I loved Germany because you were so close to everything. I love driving and road trips and with the open borders; we’d take a trip to a different country at least once a month. The castles there are amazing and all the rivers and forests along the way were beautiful. PGN: Something fun about a family member? CP: Well, my dad was my mom’s intern when they met. PGN: Most exotic food you’ve tried? CP: I’ve tried Korean silk worms. I’m not a fan — they’re dry and crispy. Pass. PGN: You couldn’t pay me enough to do what job? CP: Horse pooper scooper? I actually got pooped on by a bird on my way here. I had to stop and clean up. Yuck! PGN: If you were to write a book, what would the subject matter be? CP: I’m really into science fiction. I was an English major in college too and read a lot. I’d love to write a science-fiction/magical-realism book about post-office workers. Yeah.
PGN: Three objects you love and why? CP: I really like the Broken Button sculpture on Penn’s campus. It’s really bizarre and I like it. The second thing would be my ukulele. It got me back into music again. I’d taken a break from it for a couple of years, but it’s inspired me to start playing again. And finally, I have a very small painting that was done by the assistant director at Delaware Shakespeare Company. She’s really talented and over the summer she’d take prompts from different people on set and Photo: Cass Meehan create paintings for them. I asked her to do something CP: I’m working on something called with an Aspen tree. We had them in Colorado “The DJZ.” It was developed through the and I really loved them. She created a gorNaked Angels/The New School’s Issues geous painting that I wake up to each mornProject Lab and the Philadelphia Asian ing and it starts my day with a smile. n Performing Artists/Asian Arts Initiative’s For tickets to “Close Your Legs, Honey,” go to: https:// Mini-Residency Program. It is an interacfringearts.com/event/close-your-legs-honey-a-newtive theater piece exploring identity, solimusical. darity and collective liberation. I will also For tickets to “A New Kind of Whole,” go to https:// be in Inis Nua’s “Monster in the Hall” this fringearts.com/?s=A+New+Kind+of+Whole&post_ season, as well as Azuka’s “Bob: A Life in type=tribe_events.
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Novel set in the AIDS era is heartfelt and heartbreaking By Gary M. Kramer PGN Contributor Rebecca Makkai’s masterful novel, “The Great Believers,” opens in 1985 with Yale Tishman attending a memorial service for Nico Marcus — his first real friend in Chicago — who has just died from AIDS. Nico’s younger sister, Fiona, is the protagonist of the book’s alternating chapters, which are set in 2015. She is heading to Paris to look for her daughter, Claire, whom she has not seen in some time. The two narrative strands overlap, juxtapose and connect several times over the course of an absorbing 400-plus-page book. But the author also gives readers mini-cliffhangers at the end of almost every chapter. Readers may want to skip ahead to see what happens next. That is how good Makkai’s storytelling is. “The Great Believers” introduces several characters, all of whom are distinctive and engaging. Yale works as a fundraiser for the fictional Brigg Gallery at Northwestern University, where he seeks out art and donations. He is hoping to secure a collection of paintings from Fiona’s great-aunt Nora, a woman who lived in Paris in the 1920s and was a muse for several famous artists — and one not-so-famous one named Ranko Novak. Yale’s partner is Charlie, a Brit whose accent “contained a top hat and monocle,” and who publishes a gay newspaper. Their friends include Richard, a photographer; Julian, an actor; Terrance, Nico’s partner; Asher, a lawyer; and Teddy, a twink. The characters debate HIV testing and the false sense of security it provides. They attend parties, fundraisers and even ACT UP meetings. They also fade away in various ways. At one pivotal point in the narrative, a bombshell is dropped that forces Yale (and readers) to reexamine much of what has come before. In contrast, the Fiona storyline is focused on finding her daughter. Fiona has employed a private detective, and their efforts to locate Claire, which include breaking into an apartment, are exciting. These scenes provide a strong counterpoint to the Yale narrative. Makkai makes some connections between chapters — as when Yale and Fiona both attend art openings 30 years apart — but they never feel contrived. “The Great Believers” is emotionally connected as well. The author explores the issue of “worlds unraveling” — be it a group of gay men at the height of the AIDS crisis or a mother frantically searching for her lost daughter. She captures the despair of these
flawed but sympathetic characters. Yale is both selfless and self-destructive, and Fiona, who absorbs much of the survivor’s guilt from watching so many gay men die, also harbors a dark secret. Makkai shrewdly uses the two storylines to raise the question: “Do the dead control us, or do we control them?” as characters’ memories of departed loved ones influence their thoughts and actions. Even Nora, who recounts her romance with Novak, is not immune to how the heart plays tricks with memory and loss. The book also wisely incorporates many aspects of gay life into the story. There are subplots about characters with AIDS being denied health insurance. One sequence is set at the Chicago Pride parade. Another involves various characters participating in an ACT UP action. There is a vibrancy and an authenticity to these lives. When two men walk down the street holding hands, it does not go unnoticed by a straight man who mocks them, indicating a level of homophobia. “The Great Believers” also focuses on the strength of a mother’s love — not just Fiona’s determination to reconnect with her estranged daughter, but also the mothers who love and care for their sons whose lives are cut short by the ravages of disease. But what makes Makkai’s book so great are the perceptive moments sprinkled throughout the two narratives. There are observations about “competitive grieving,” and how people cope with the loss of friends. Or how a painting can be restored to prevent damage — the implication being that people are more fragile. The novel is of course sad, as several characters succumb to AIDS over the course of the story. And knowing these friends so well does not make their passing any less painful. Yet Makkai’s book is always moving; never soapy. There are powerful moments, a few surprises and very little tear-jerking. One of the best scenes in “The Great Believers” is an early one, when Yale attends an AIDS fundraiser and goes through all kinds of emotions, from crying and feeling love to experiencing jealousy and anger. As he gets drunk, he feels lust, self-loathing and more. It’s a terrific sequence that reveals much about his character and gets readers to care about him as he lives, loves and loses in the course of this sweeping novel. Fiona’s story is no less important, and her few scenes with Yale are especially poignant and moving. Makkai sucker-punches both the characters and readers throughout the book. Nevertheless, her novel is irresistible. n
CHERRY JUBILEE: Roots drummer and avid Prince fan Questlove hosts an evening of Screen/Play, where the 1986 Prince film “Under the Cherry Moon” is screened, followed by a live performance and DJ set by Questlove exploring the film’s brilliant soundtrack, 1 p.m. Sept. 2 at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. For more information or tickets, call 215-222-1400.
Theater & Arts Agnes Martin: The Untroubled Mind/Works from the Daniel W. Dietrich II Collection Philadelphia Museum of Art presents paintings and drawings exploring the ideas that shaped Martin’s minimalist art, through Oct. 14, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215763-8100. Arnez J The comedian seen on BET’s “Comic View” performs through Sept. 1 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215496-9001. Between Nature and Abstraction: Edwin Dickinson and Friends Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of 20thcentury American painter Edwin Dickinson’s inventive works, through January, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215763-8100.
Dave Attell The comedian seen on Comedy Central performs Sept. 6-9 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001. Design in Revolution: A 1960s Odyssey Philadelphia Museum of Art’s exhibition of pop art and psychedelia from the civilrights and anti-war movements, through Sept. 9, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. The Duchamp Family Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition highlighting the close-knit family of artistic innovators and the many connections linking their groundbreaking works, through August 2019, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215763-8100. Face to Face: Art by Women William Way LGBT Community Center hosts an exhibition of works by queer female artists living in Philadelphia,
through Aug. 31, 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220. Face to Face: Portraits of Artists Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition exploring how photographers helped craft the public personas of their creative subjects in this stunning collection of rare photographs from the museum’s collection, through Oct. 14, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. IN THE PUBLIC EYE: Philadelphia’s LGBTQ Community and the Media William Way LGBT Community Center hosts an archival and photographic exhibition examining the
relationship between the mainstream press and the community, through Aug. 31 in the John J. Wilcox Jr. exhibit space, 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220. Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn Walnut Street Theatre presents the musical based on the classic Universal Pictures film, Sept. 4-Oct. 21, 825 Walnut St.; 215-574-3550. It Shoulda Been You The Dramateurs present the premiere of their musical comedy, set in a world where nothing is what it seems, where religions collide, promises are broken, secrets are exposed and hope springs from the most unlikely
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.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS
ClymaXXX Dancers and DJ celebrate the kickoff of football season, 10 p.m. Sept. 7 at Boxers PHL, 1330 Walnut St.; 215-735-2977.
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
27
A show for the ages
Outta Town
MADE IN AMERICA: The summer-concert season ends in spectacular fashion with the Made in America Festival, the massive annual two-day concert curated by Jay-Z, returning to Philly this weekend with Nicki Minaj, out R&B singer Janelle Monae (pictured), Post Malone, Meek Mill, Diplo and a slew of other performers taking the stage, Sept. 1-2 at Benjamin Franklin Parkway. For more information, visit www.madeinamericafest.com.
of places — the Steinberg wedding, through Sept. 8 at The Barn Playhouse, 1700 Christopher Lane, Jeffersonville; 610539-2276. Modern Times: American Art 1910–1950 Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of American art epitomizing the early 20th century, through Sept. 3, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.
Music Get the Led Out The Led Zeppelin tribute band performs 8 p.m. Aug. 31 at Sellersville Theater, 24 W. Temple Ave., Sellersville; 215257-5808. Terry Bozzio The acclaimed Missing Persons drummer performs 8 p.m. Sept. 4 at Sellersville Theater, 24 W.Temple Ave., Sellersville; 215257-5808.
Ziggy Marley The reggae singer performs 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at The Mann Center, 5201 Parkside Ave.; 215546-7900. Back to Black: A Philly Tribute to Amy Winehouse The music of the late singer is performed by local musicians 8:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St.; 215-232-2100. Echoes The Pink Floyd tribute band performs 8 p.m. Sept. 7 at TLA, 334 South St.; 215922-1011. Glenn Hughes The classic-rock bassist and singer performs an evening of Deep Purple classics, 8 p.m. Sept. 7 at Keswick Theater, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside; 215-572-7650.
Nightlife Haus The ’90s club-kid dance party lights
up, 9 p.m. Aug. 31 at Tabu, 200 S. 12th St.; 215-964-9675. Mimi Imfurst Presents Drag Diva Brunch Mimi Imfurst, Bev, Vinchelle, Sutton Fearce and special guests perform 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 1 at Punch Line Philly, 33 E. Laurel St.; 215-606-6555. Gay Men Speed Dating A different way to meet people, 7-9:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at Boxers PHL, 1330 Walnut St.; 215-735-2977. Bearleasque The bear-themed burlesque show swats fish out of the river, 9 p.m. Sept. 7 at Tabu, 200 S. 12th St.; 215964-9675. Radical Self Love Burlesque A night of entertainment focused on empowerment, self-love and acceptance, 9 p.m. Sept. 7 at Front Street Dive, 10 S. Front St.; https:// radical3.bpt.me.
Gabriel Iglesias The comedian performs 8 p.m. Aug. 31 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Italian All-Night Splatterfest 7 Five classic horror films including “Tentacles,” “Black Sabbath,” “Shocking Dark,” “Contamination” and “The Black Cat” are screened 7 p.m. Sept. 1 at the Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-1228. Earth Wind & Fire The vintage R&B group performs 8 p.m. Sept. 1 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Simply Barbra Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Funny Girl Steven Brinberg performs a Barbra Streisand tribute 8 p.m. Sept. 1 at The Rrazz Room at the Clarion Inn & Suites New Hope, 6426 Lower York Rd.; 888-596-1027. Ken Jeong The comedian and actor performs 9 p.m. Sept. 1 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. n
By Scott A. Drake scott@epgn.com There is nothing that could possibly be said about Cher that hasn’t already been said. A consummate entertainer with Oscar, Emmy and Grammy wins, Cher has been a significant force in the evolution of pop music. She is also an LGBT icon from decades of danceable songs, her daughter-turned-son Chaz, her over-the-top costumes and the general good feelings and joy she brings to her shows. Cher’s most recent farewell shows during the Borgata’s 15th birthday bash (the first, coincidentally, was 15 years ago) is what many might describe as career highlights, which works well for the “Classic” name of this year’s tour. From television to movies to music, this show covers most of the ground from her start to almost where she is now. This incarnation includes a great collection of video clips and stills behind
AC ul t ure rts
and between numbers. One audience favorite was her tribute video duet with Sonny Bono from their very early years. “I Got You Babe” never sounded better. Other clips set the tone and introduced songs while the backup dancers filled the voids of costume changes, as in every song requires a different outfit. Many of her best well known songs are included, but the one thing many of us were hoping for was something from her upcoming album featuring songs originally done by ABBA. The album is a tie-in to “Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again,” in which Cher takes on the roll of Meryl Streep’s mother, even though they are only three years apart in real life. Sequins? Check. Feathers? Check. Flesh-tone body suit? Check. Elephant? Check. Grand entrance from the ceiling? Check. Yup, even at 72, this lady can entertain and mesmerize everyone, regardless of when you became a fan. n
Nightlife, Concerts, Art Exhibits, Readings, Cabaret, Films, Theater, Food, Books, Music, Sports and Travel
Because Life Is More Than Just Gay News
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1 Homer work 5 Patron of Wilde’s homeland, briefly 10 Stats on a stallion 14 Sammy once of the Cubs 15 Pirate’s stash 16 Parker of “South Park” 17 Leopold’s partner 18 Responds to yeast 19 “...a deer, a female deer...” 20 Musical in which Peppermint became the first transgender woman to originate a principal role on Broadway 23 In the loop, at a gay rodeo 24 Swiss miss, perhaps (abbr.) 25 As a bottom limit 28 Sea near the Caspian 30 Gives a butt-whuppin’ to 31 20-Across is based on the music of this all-female band 35 Anderson Cooper’s network 36 Edgar Box to Gore Vidal 38 Ambient rocker Brian
39 Start of a song title from 20-Across 42 More adept 44 Wife of Buck’s Wang 45 Blows one’s top 47 Where to vote against homophobic candidates 49 Elizabeth Perkins’ “Weeds” role 50 End of title 55 Maupin’s “___ of You” 56 “___ la vista, baby” 57 Pointing to it is the little hand’s job 59 “The thing,” to Hamlet 60 Fruity-smelling compound 61 Primal impulse 62 Welcome bedroom sounds 63 Nasty type 64 Went right with your stallion
Down
1 Subj. for some aliens 2 Honeypot lover 3 Fortune-teller’s opening 4 1972 Minnelli musical 5 Leather bands 6 Hot dish holder 7 Sat for “JustUsBoys” 8 Declare firmly 9 New Ager John 10 Moor jealous of his partner
11 Dentist’s mouth penetrator 12 Hard to penetrate 13 Melina’s “Providence” nickname 21 Some E.R. cases for Dr. Callie Torres 22 Webzine 25 Bend over 26 The sound of music 27 Deity identified with Diana 28 “Got ya!” 29 Legal matter 31 Seventh notes to Debussy 32 Gets hard 33 R.E.M.’s “The ___ Love” 34 Arrange by penile length, e.g. 36 “The Guardians” writer Castillo
37 Architect Maya ___ 40 Shots from Mauresmo 41 “__ Enchanted” 42 Tibet setting 43 Hairy embrace? 45 Of the season after Mardi Gras 46 Owner of an “arsonist” cow 47 Former “American Idol” judge Abdul 48 Winfrey of The Color Purple” 49 ___ del Sol 51 Class for future AZT makers 52 Cushiness 53 Went lickety-split 54 Likely to break the condom, perhaps 55 Cruising area 58 Checkers side
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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.
The Philadelphia Gayborhood is roughly centered at Locust and Camac streets. Look for the rainbow street signs at intersections and remember to be aware of your surroundings wherever you go. 1330 Walnut St. facebook.com/ boxersphl Sports bar with a TVs, pool table, brick pizza oven, sports specials
Toasted Walnut
202 S. 13th St. 215.545.1893 woodysbar.com Includes attached Walnut Street bars Rosewood and GloBar
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Chancellor St.
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Locust St.
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Quince St.
Latimer St.
12th St.
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Spruce St.
Pa. bars close at 2 a.m. unless they have a private-club license. Please drink responsibly.
Cypress St.
1342 Cypress St. 267.603.6960 A cozy, comfortable bar and lounge perfect for escaping the norm
Frankie Bradley’s
LGBT Community Center 1315 Spruce St. 215.732.2220 waygay.org A resource for all things LGBT
1320 Chancellor St. 215-735-0735 Resaturant, dance club, live performers and entertainment
West of Broad Street 1705 Chancellor St. 215.732.2700 stirphilly.com Fun two-bar lounge, DJ in the back, regular poker games and specials
Voyeur
1221 St. James St. 215.735.5772 voyeurnightclub.com After-hours private club; membership required
U Bar
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Stir Lounge
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DONATE YOUR CAR 877-654-3662 Fast Free Towing – 24hr Response – Maximum Tax Deduction – UNITED BREAST CANCER FDN: Providing Breast Cancer Information & Support Programs. ________________________________________42-32
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Adoption
Writer’s Block Rehab William Way
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VENTNOR, NJ House for sale in Ventnor NJ. 2 story 5 bedroom house, needs some repairs. Priced right. Call 215 468 9166. ________________________________________42-49 NY HUNTING CAMP SALE 5 Acres New Cabin: $39,995. 42 Acres Tug Hill Camp, Borders Sate: $69,995. Financing Available. 800-229-7843 www.landandcamps.com CHRISTMAS & ASSOCIATES ________________________________________42-32
For Sale
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Travel / Resorts
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The Attic Youth Center
255 S. 16th St. 215.545.4331 atticyouthcenter.org Safe space and programs for LGBTs age 16-23 weekday afternoons and evenings
1220 Locust St. 215.546.6660 Relaxing corner bar, easy-going crowd, popular for happy hour and window watching
Bar X 255 S. Camac St. Bar and dancefloor
Knock
225 S. 12th St. 215.925.1166 knockphilly.com Fine-dining restaurant and bar, outdoor seating, piano in back room
ICandy
254 S. 12th St. 267.324.3500 clubicandy.com Three floors with a total of six bars; dance floor, lounge and rootop deck.
ADOPTION – Loving, secure couple hopes to adopt a baby. Expenses paid. Denise & Nick. 1-800-401-1639. ________________________________________42-32
Wanted MALE NUDE ARTWORK WANTED For upcoming Nude Night Philly, Oct. 6th. Fighting breast cancer with nude art. nudenightphilly.com to apply. 267296-2055. _____________________________________________42-32
Wanted to Buy FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. (312) 291-9169; www. refrigerantfinders.com ________________________________________42-32
Friends Men WM, NE Phila. If you’re looking for hot action, call 215-934-5309. No calls after 11 PM. ________________________________________42-32 GWM looking for other GWM. 55, 5’8”, 184 lbs., looking for 40-60 years old for friendship, Merrill, 609-880-4865. ________________________________________42-32 Youthfully attractive, educated, very down to earth, kind/ caring, easy going/easy to talk to, empathetic WM, 60, looks 40’s, lean 5’7”, seeks boyishly good looking, THIN, smooth, clean shaven, versatile, affectionate, well-endowed (cut), INTELLIGENT, 135lbs. or less, 40’s Bi or GWM, for TRUE friend & ongoing (safe) fun, that includes: (DISCREET) erotic body contact/frot, safe mutual oral & long, passionate Fr. kissing at my place in NW Phila. burbs. Nothing more; nothing less. Serious/local inquiries only. OK to leave any kind of message, anytime at (484) 213-6987. ________________________________________42-32
Men’s Health and Fitness PENIS ENLARGMENT Gain 1 to 3 inches permanently & safely. Resolve ED. Licensed medical vacuum pumps, surgical & supplements. For free brochures/consultation call: Dr. Joel Kaplan 888978-HUGE (4843). www.getbiggernow.com ________________________________________42-38
Massage Therapeutic, Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage Therapy for Men. Located in Far Northeast Philly – 15 Year Experienced CMT. Specializing in Sore, Tight and Tense Muscles. Rates are $60/60 Minutes. Optional 90 Minute Massage Available. If interested, Text (Bob) at 410-7140822 or Email at conshie@hotmail.com. This is Not A Sex AD so please DO NOT ASK. I Remain Fully Clothed. _____________________________________________42-32
Helping you make your Home Dreams come true in Pennsylvania Buying or Selling Rentals Investments
Tavern on Camac 255 S. Camac St. 215.545.8731 Piano lounge with upstairs dance floor; Tavern restaurant below is open late.
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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206 S Quince St. 215.627.1662 Levi Leather men’s bar; pool tables, second floor sports; basement has enforced dress code Walnut St.
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The Bike Stop
200 S. 12th St. 215.964.9675 tabuphilly.com Sports bar with light fare and shows upstairs
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Tabu
Woody’s
1316 Walnut St. 215.546.8888 Festively lit women-owned bar complete with a “beer” pong table
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Classifieds
Guide to the Gayborhood
Boxers
Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
Chuck Snyder REALTOR®
The Condello Team
Fox & Roach, REALTOR®
904 Moore Drive Spring House, PA 19477 Bus 215.542.1770 Fax 215.628.4317 Cell 610.761.0932 Dir 215.642.2456
chuck.snyder@foxroach.com
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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2018
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Hookups = Visit www.squirt.org to hook up today SERVICES & HOME IMPROVEMENT DIRECTORY
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