PGN Nov. 16-22, 2012 by The Philadelphia Gay News

The National Dog Show returns to Philadelphia

12th Street Gym works out ownership change

Family Portrait: Kristen FarleyRambo

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Nov. 16-22, 2012

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Vol. 36 No. 46

LGBT liaison to retire from PPD

Senior site starts to take shape By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

After more than 35 years as a member of the Philadelphia Police Department, and about two as its LGBT point person, Deputy Commissioner Stephen Johnson will retire from the force later this year. Johnson, current director of the Internal Affairs Division, has served as the LGBT liaison since July 2010. As of presstime, a new liaison had not been named. Johnson’s retirement was announced at a press conference last Friday, in which the department unveiled a larger reorganization plan that included 36 command changes resulting from retirements, promotions and position restructuring. Of the department’s nine deputy commissioners, four, including Johnson, will leave by January. Deputy Commissioner Denise Turpin will assume their duties, including supervision of Internal Affairs. Police spokesperson Lt. John Stanford said that, as Turpin will take on Johnson’s IA role, there is a “good possibility” she could assume the LGBT liaison responsibilities, but that has yet to be determined. Johnson, 61, joined the PPD in 1977 and said the time felt right for retirement. “I made the decision a while ago with the reorganization and everything going on that this was an opportune time to get PAGE 13 out and seek some other

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER STEPHEN JOHNSON (FOURTH FROM LEFT) WITH COMMISSIONER CHARLES RAMSEY AND MEMBERS OF THE LGBT POLICE LIAISON COMMITTEE AT A MARCH MEETING

BUILT FROM A STRONG FOUNDATION: At the groundbreaking ceremony for the city’s LGBT-friendly senior-housing facility, Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld Fund president and PGN publisher Mark Segal (from left) introduced some of the LGBT movement’s earliest pioneers — Jim Fouratt, Randy Wicker, Michael Lavery, Ada Bello, Mark Horn and Michael Knowles. The group, whose work dates to 1958, took part in the symbolic shovel dig at the site, on 13th Street between Walnut and Spruce streets. The facility, named the John C. Anderson Apartments, is set to open in late 2013. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Scouts: Learning for Life down to 500 youth By Timothy Cwiek timothy@epgn.com A youth program that a local Boy Scouts of America council touted in court filings to avoid eviction from a city-owned building has severely dwindled in size. Learning for Life, which in its heyday reportedly served up to 60,000 area youth annually in a nondiscriminatory manner, is down to about 500 participants. “The in-school Learning for Life program was suspended at the conclusion of the 20092010 school year due to funding cuts,” the BSA Cradle of Liberty Council said this week, in a prepared statement. “Only the after-school, workplace-based Exploring program, which is part of the LFL program, continued in the fall of 2010.” The 500 youth in the remaining work-

PGN Pet Issue

place-based program are served by a fulltime Cradle staffer and about 100 volunteers, according to the statement. The city wants Cradle to vacate a cityowned building near the Ben Franklin Parkway, partly because it won’t accept gays in its traditional Scouting programs. But Cradle filed suit in 2008, claiming the city violated its constitutional right to exclude gays during the eviction attempt. In multiple court filings, Cradle trumpeted Learning for Life for imparting “life skills” to anywhere from 30,000-60,000 area youths in any given year. The vast majority of Cradle’s activities in the Parkway building were focused on Learning for Life, the filings noted. Now, with the program down to 500 youth participants, it remains unclear whether the building has been a help PAGE 16

National Dog Show Pet Scene in Philly PAWS Mutt Strut photos

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The countdown has officially begun to the opening of the nation’s largest publicly funded LGBT facility. Community leaders and elected officials from every level of government took part last Friday in a groundbreaking ceremony for the LGBT-friendly senior-housing project, which had originally been scheduled for last month but was postponed because of Hurricane Sandy. Located at 249-257 S. 13th St., the property will be home to 56 one-bedroom apartments for those 62 and over, and a portion of the units will be dedicated to low-income residents. The facility, spearheaded by the Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld Fund and Pennrose Properties, is slated to open in late 2013. “This project is not just about Philadelphia, it’s not just about Pennsylvania, it’s not just about the United States; it takes a village, it really does,” said Mark Segal, PGN publisher and dmhFund president, at the ceremony. The $19.5-million project is supported by city, state and federal funding. At last Friday’s event, the name of the new facility was unveiled: the John C. Anderson Apartments. Anderson, who served on Philadelphia City Council from the late 1970s-early ’80s, was a key proponent of the city’s gay-rights ordinance and himself was gay. He died in 1983. Mayor Nutter, who said it was Anderson’s influence that led him to a career in politics, announced the name selection. He said Anderson was “quite a charismatic person who played a central role in the passage” of the bill. “This person also played a tremendously important role in my life as well,” Nutter said. “I think of him every day. He was a guiding force in my public service. Now and then, you get to do something really nice, and this is it.” The community room that will be used for an array of functions was named after the late John Kelly. The announcement was made by state Rep. Mike O’Brien (D-175th Dist.), PAGE 6

Pet fashion show Bravo’s “LOLWorks” Pet events

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

LOCAL PGN

City sees firsts for Trans Day of Remembrance By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com With the Philadelphia community shaken by recent incidents of violence against transgender individuals, this year’s Transgender Day of Remembrance has taken on even more meaning. The occasion will be marked by a number of community events, including two new tributes. Mayor Michael Nutter will proclaim Nov. 20 Transgender Day of Remembrance. Gloria Casarez, the city’s director of LGBT affairs, said it appears this will be the first time the city is issuing a TDOR proclamation. “One of the goals of TDOR is to raise public awareness of hate crimes against transgender people,” Casarez said. “The events that have been done in Philly largely draw members of the LGBT communities, so I think having a city proclamation helps the issues to be more broadly recognized.” The draft proclamation available by presstime noted that Philadelphia “is committed to the safety and health of all people” and supports TDOR, which it calls “an opportunity for Philadelphians to come together to mark the passing of transgender and gender-variant individuals — as well as those perceived to be transgender

— who have been murdered because of hate.” The document notes that TDOR helps to raise awareness, publicly mourn victims and “reminds the general public that transgender people are their sons, daughters, parents, friends, partners and family.” Casarez said the proclamation takes on special significance this year as the community continues to grapple with the recent murder of Kyra Cordova, who, along with Stacey Blahnik and Nizah Morris, is named in the proclamation. “This year we lost at least one transgender person to violence, and we don’t know if Kyra was killed because she was transgender or not, but the fact is she’s a transgender person who was murdered, and her murder remains unsolved,” Casarez said. “That’s certainly something that tied us directly into TDOR this year.” Casarez plans to read the proclamation at TDOR events at The Colours Organization and William Way LGBT Community Center. And Drexel University will do its part to mark the day by raising the transgender flag 9 a.m. Nov. 20 at 32nd and Market streets. This is believed to be the first time the flag is being raised by a college or university in the region.

The flag, designed by Monica Helms, has become an international symbol for the transgender community. It includes two blue stripes, two pink stripes and one white stripe in the middle. Drexel alum Erica Deuso conceived of the idea during discussion with another recent alum. “[Her fellow alum] realized that there was an unmet need for recognition of transgender students. He reached out to me because of the work I do with the corporate community involving transgender rights,” said Deuso, a gender-transition liaison for a local Fortune 500 company. Deuso worked with Rebecca Weidensaul, associate dean of students at Drexel, on the flag-raising event. She said the administration and entire campus community have been supportive of the event. “They had agreed not only to raise the flag but to purchase it to be able to do a flag-raising each year,” Deuso said. “What has been amazing is the complete acceptance by those in the multicultural community at Drexel. The students, staff and faculty have really embraced it.” Deuso considers this a big step for inclusion on an academic level and hopes that, after this year, other schools like University

of Pennsylvania and Temple University will take similar steps. Deuso hosted an information session Nov. 8 in one of Drexel’s dormitory buildings to discuss transgender issues. “It is an open and interesting subject for a lot of people. There is still a lot of misunderstanding and fear. People fear what they don’t know,” she said. Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, Deuso is uncertain about the turnout for the flag-raising but said she hopes those who attend can walk away with a new understanding of what the day represents. “The best thing I can hope for is that people learn what the flag is, what is stands for and why we are raising it,” Deuso said. “We do need a day to represent those people who have lost their lives to ignorance and violence. The biggest thing we have to do right now is commemorate the day and that there were people who lost their lives for being who they are.” Elsewhere in the city, Colours will host a vigil for the day from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at 112 N. Broad St., in the second-floor conference room. William Way, 1315 Spruce St., will also host its annual TDOR event at 7 p.m. Nov. 20. Attendees can speak in memory of someone who passed away. ■

locations in Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA — AROUND THE GAYBORHOOD

12th Street Gym, 204 S. 12th St. • 13th Street Gourmet Pizza, 209 S. 13th St. • AACO, 1101 Market St., 9th floor • Action AIDS, 1216 Arch St. • Apt. & Townhouse Rentals, 304 S. 12th St. • ASIAC, 1201 Chestnut St., 5th floor • The Bike Stop, 206 S. Quince St. • Bioscript Pharmacy, 1227 Locust St. • Cafe Twelve, 212 S. 12th St. • Charlie Salon, 203 S. 12th St. • City Hall NE Entrance • Club Body Center, 1220 Chancellor St. • Com-Har Living Room, 101 S. Broad St., 14th floor • Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St. • Cut Salon, 204 S. 13th St. • Danny’s Bookstore 133 S. 13th St. • Dignity/St. Lukes, 330 S. 13th St. • Dirty Frank’s Bar, 13th & Pine sts. • The Foodery, 10th & Pine sts. • Fusion Gym, 105 S. 12th St., 2nd floor • Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St. • I Goldberg, 1300 Chestnut St. • ICandy, 254 S. 12th St. • Independent Hotel, 13th & Locust sts. • Mazzoni Clinic, 809 Locust St. • Midtown II, 122 S. 11th St. • More Than Just Ice Cream, 1119 Locust St. • Pa. AIDS Law Project, 1211 Chestnut St., 12th floor • Paolo Pizzeria, 1336 Pine St. • Parker Hotel Lobby, 261 S. 13th St. • Phila. FIGHT/Aids Library, 1233 Locust St., 5th floor • Phila. Family Planning Commission, 260 S. Broad St., 10th floor • Planned Parenthood, 1144 Locust St. • Sansom Cinema, 120 S. 13th St., basement • Santa Fe Burrito, 212 S. 11th St. • Scorpio Books, 202 S. Juniper St. • Sisters, 1320 Chancellor St. • Spruce Street Video, 252 S. 12th St. • Packard Apartments, 317 N. Broad St. • Safeguards lobby, 1211 Chestnut St. #610 • Salon K, 1216 Locust St. • Sansom Cinema, 120 S. 13th St. • Sante Fe Burrito, 212 S. 11th St. • Tabu, 200 S. 12th St. • Tavern on Camac, 243 S. Camac St. • Triangle Medicine, 253 S. 10th St., 1st floor • Uncles, 1220 Locust St. • Valanni, 1229 Spruce St. • Venture Inn, 255 S. Camac St. • Voyeur, 1220 St. James St. • Westbury, 261 S. 13th St. • William Way LGBT Community Center, 1325 Spruce St. • Woody’s, 202 S. 13th St. •

PHILADELPHIA — C.C. EAST OF BROAD

Bean Café, 615 South St. • Best Western Independence Park Hotel lobby, 215 Chestnut St. • Chocolate Works Condo lobby, 321 N. Third St. • Copabanana, 342 South St. • Dane Décor, 315 Arch St. • Famous 4th St. Deli, Fourth & Bainbridge sts. • Hopkinson House, 604 S. Washington Sq. • Hyatt Regency Hotel lobby, 201 S. Columbus Blvd. • Independence Place Condos, 241 S. Sixth St., lobby in both towers • Independence Visitors Center, Sixth & Market sts. • Old City Ironworks Gym, 141 N. Second St. • Nationality Service Center, 1216 Arch St. • Packard Apts., 317 N. Broad St. • PGN ofﬁces, 505 S. Fourth St. • Philadelphia Java Co., 518 S. Fourth St. • Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Filbert sts. • Strands Salon, 25 N. Third St. •

PHILADELPHIA — C.C. WEST OF BROAD

Adonis Cinema, 2026 Sansom St. • Art Institute, 1610 Chestnut St. • Art Institute, 1622 Chestnut St. • Art Institute, 2300 Market St. • The Attic Youth Center, 255 S. 16th St. • Bob & Barbara’s, 1509 South St. • Book Bin, 22nd & Market sts. • Dan Tobey R/E, 1401 Walnut St., 8th floor • Dr. Wakefield’s Office, 255 S. 17th St., Suite 2306 • Drexel Partnership, 1427 Vine St., 3rd floor • Latimer Deli, 255 S. 15th St. • L-2 Restaurant, 22nd & South sts. • MANNA, 12 S. 23rd St. • Marine Club Condos lobby, Broad St. & Washington Ave. • Metropolitan, 115 N. 15th St. • Safeguards Lobby, 1700 Market St., 18th floor • Sansom St. Gym, 2020 Sansom St. • South Square Market, 2221 South St. • Titan Room, 22nd & Market sts. • Touraine Building lobby, 1520 Spruce St. • U Do It Laundry, 15th & Spruce sts. • Wyndham Franklin Plaza Hotel, 17th & Race sts. •

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

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LEATHER HISTORY LESSON: Carter/Johnson Leather Library cofounder Viola Johnson (seated, right) and library organizers presented the traveling archival display at William Way LGBT Community Center during Leather Pride Weekend, which ran Nov. 8-12. Organizer Jen Victor said the weekend is on track to raise more than last year’s $10,000 total, which will be divided among local agencies. The fundraising is impressive, Victor noted, as the weekend’s main event at Voyeur took an attendance hit when a transformer outside the club blew. Victor said the club’s staff was “on the ball” and the event continued with back-up lighting. “We still raised over $10,000 so that really says something,” she said. “It was an amazing weekend.” Photo: Scott A. Drake NEWS

Crime Watch Gettin’ On Local News Briefing Obituary

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Contents

EDITORIAL/OP-ED

Creep of the Week Editorial Op-Ed Mark My Words Street Talk

10 10 11 11 11

Do you think PA will adopt an LGBT nondiscrimination law in the next two years now that there is an out lawmaker in Harrisburg? Poll results from our online survey as of Nov. 14:

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Gift Guide #1

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Art Director/Photographer Scott A. Drake (ext. 210) scott@epgn.com Graphic Artist Sean Dorn (ext. 211) sean@epgn.com Executive Assistant/ Billing Manager Carol Giunta (ext. 202) carol@epgn.com Philadelphia Gay News is a member of: The Associated Press Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Suburban Newspapers of America Published by Masco Communications Inc. © 2012 Masco Communications Inc. ISSN-0742-5155

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

LOCAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

12th Street Gym to change ownership By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com

Mayor Nutter walked by. “The community in this area has become far more diverse than it used to be,” he said. Gayborhood icon 12th Street Gym will “As there’s been a greater assimilation of the start a new chapter next month as its long- gay community into the larger community and into other areas of the city, the neightime owner departs the helm. Rick Piper is selling the venue to general borhood has become far more mixed, and manager Frank Baer, in a transaction that is the gym has become the same way. We’ve kept up the drumbeat of feeling honored to expected to be finalized in mid-December. Piper, who will celebrate his 65th birthday serve the gay community but we’ve worked next month, said he has considered selling to open the doors even wider.” Those efforts resulted in a venue that funcfor a number of years. “It was a perfect storm of things that made tions less like a gym and more like a community meeting place, Piper said. this seem like the right time,” he said. While members can utilize the equipment Piper bought the business in 1995. It originally opened in 1986 in a space that was once and fitness classes, they can also mix and mingle with others in the lounges, play ping occupied by the Camac Baths. Once he came onboard, Piper said the pong, relax on the sundeck or learn about the barrage of area entertainment, dining or nonprofit ventures — as 12th Street has aimed to partner with and promote a wealth of area businesses and organizations. “We’re very much a part of the heartbeat of this area,” Piper said. “When Frank and I talked about the sale, we had some real personal discussions about what this place is, and it’s really a center for community. And I mean that RICK PIPER (LEFT) AND FRANK BAER Photo: Scott A. Drake in almost the verb sense. Community is occurring here. You see people sitting in the café business got a much-needed overhaul. “It was worn out. It hadn’t been properly interacting who you know would never have maintained; it was in bad shape, the equip- contact otherwise. You see straight people, ment wasn’t up to date, and I saw a real busi- gay people, married people, strollers rolling ness opportunity there,” Piper said. “We got through, the mayor rolling through. There’s new carpeting, new equipment, did a lot of nothing else like this in the city.” By most accounts, Piper’s business model work. This complex can be either really cool and funky or it can be dumpy and beat-up, also included top-notch customer service and there’s a very short distance between the in every aspect of the club, which required hands-on leadership from him. two.” “Throughout the chain of command, everyPiper noted that 12th Street — which opened before the modern concept of a fit- one should reflect a very serious commitment ness club became popularized — is not the to our standards. I have this statement that I standard “big-box gym in a shopping center,” follow: I tell people what needs to be done, but is rather “a wonderful, interesting laby- show them what needs to be done, tell them rinth” that needs to be properly maintained, a what I showed them, verify it and correct it challenging task he said he believes he lived as needed,” he said. “It’s a five-step process that can apply to everything from making up to. “What you see today is partly evolution sure the floors are clean to the music being but at the beginning it was really a revolu- right. It’s been the toughest challenge and it tion,” he said. “It was a dramatic investment exists every day, and it’s something that will of money, time, energy and people, and the exist for Frank as well, but these standards should define the customer’s experience.” marketplace responded quite aggressively.” Baer, who was in the hotel industry before Since Piper took over, membership jumped becoming 12th Street’s general manager 14 from 1,400 to more than 4,000. While the venue has been dubbed by some years ago, said he shares Piper’s vision that as the city’s “gay gym,” and both Piper and the club should operate with a mind toward Baer are members of the LGBT community, hospitality. “People typically view a health club as the club’s membership base is reflective of a gym, where you can throw your weights the diversity that abounds in Center City. Members include gay and straight singles, around and sweat on the mirror and the couples and families, students, seniors and receptionist chews gum and drinks coffee,” city officials. Piper said he recently spotted a he said. “On our end, we view this from a gay couple embrace as they departed just as hospitality standpoint, where the receptionist

should handle the customers as they would at a hotel.” Piper said he’s had a number of offers from chain gyms over the years but, if he was going to sell, he wanted it to be to someone who was familiar with the club and its commitment to diversity and community, and someone who had a “vision and understanding of why this place works.” Baer, who’s been influential in developing the club’s Camac Center, a collection of 18 service providers that range from masseuses to acupuncturists, said he’s eager to bring the venue into its next stage while keeping it true to its roots. “It’s exciting to keep changing it and reformatting it,” he said. “We have a good base of members here who’ve been here for years and years, and we want to keep providing them what they expect but then also be willing to change as the neighborhood changes

and expectations of fitness change.” While the pair joked that Baer may eventually order treadmills of a different brand, they said members shouldn’t notice the ownership transition immediately. Piper is unsure what his next employment venture will be, but said he’s going to force himself, possibly unsuccessfully, to take some down time. “Contrary to my nature, I’m trying hard to finish this and catch my breath,” he said. “I’ve literally been at this 18 hours a day, about 355 days a year. It’s been intense but that’s been my choice because I care about this business. I think breaking that habit may be more of a challenge than I realize but I’m planning on taking a very long nap and, at least for the moment, trying to slow down. But I have a feeling that lying in a hammock and pondering the joys of retirement is not in my future.” ■

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

SENIOR SITE from page 1

a major supporter of the senior facility. Kelly, who was gay, was O’Brien’s best friend and best man at his wedding. He died of complications of AIDS in the 1980s. “This community room will bear the name of one who died forgotten for all those who died forgotten, who shall never be forgotten,”

O’Brien said. O t h e r g o v e r n m e n t l e a ders in attendance included U.S. Congressmen Bob Brady (D-1st Dist.) and Chaka Fattah (D-2nd Dist.), state Sens. Larry Farnese (D-1st Dist.), Mike Stack (D-5th Dist.) and Anthony Williams (D8th Dist.) and City Councilmen Mark Squilla, Bill Greenlee and

SHOW OF SUPPORT: A host of local dignitaries helped break ground at the site of the John C. Anderson Apartments Nov. 9. Supporters who took up the rainbow shovels for the event included the city’s Office of Housing and Community Development director Deborah McColloch (from right), former Mayor John Street, Wells Fargo Community Lending & Investment Vice President David Kautter, state Rep. Mike O’Brien, Councilman Mark Squilla, Mayor Michael Nutter, dmhFund president Mark Segal, union leader John Dougherty, U.S. Congressman Bob Brady, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency executive director Brian Hudson and Wells Fargo Community Development Manager Stephanie Wall. Photos: Scott A. Drake

LOCAL PGN

Jim Kenney. Former Gov. Ed Rendell partjokingly paid tribute to Segal’s “dedication, focus, passion and overall obnoxiousness.” “This community has been blessed by having a lot of great women and men to lead the fight for LGBT rights but you guys are, I know you know this, you’re fortunate to have Mark,” Rendell told the crowd of about 200. “Passion is important. Relentlessness is important. When you’re creating a movement, and that’s dedicated to increasing people’s rights and increasing opportunities like these wonderful senior apartments, you have to have someone with that passion, with that dedication, who’s willing to put it all out on the line. Mark’s done that and continues to do it and it’s a good thing for the community and a good thing for the city.” Brian Hudson, president of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, which provided tax credits expected to generate $11 million for the project — which were purchased by Wells Fargo — said it was clear the project had strong backing. “I got more phone calls on this one than any other [project]. My phone was just ringing constantly,” Hudson said.

MIKE O’BRIEN ANNOUNCES THE FACILITY’S COMMUNITY ROOM WILL BE NAMED IN HONOR OF JOHN W. KELLY, A CITY RESIDENT AND O’BRIEN’S BEST FRIEND WHO DIED OF AIDS.

He said the project demonstrates a smart use of resources and meshes well with PHFA’s mission of “providing safe and affordable housing for everyone. That’s exactly what we intend to do at PHFA. So I was very happy to be able to get this one done.” Before the project leaders lined up with the stretch of rainbowcolored shovels for the symbolic groundbreaking, Segal called onto stage a number of the community’s earliest activists — Randy Wicker, Ada Bello, Michael Lavery, Jim Fouratt, Mark Horn and Michael Knowles — who signed a glass panel that will be etched and affixed in the building.

Former Mayor John Street, under whose leadership the project began taking shape several years ago, noted that he just turned 69 and can relate to the worries that all seniors face. The facility will be one way to alleviate the particular challenges LGBT elders face, Street said. “When you start staring 70 in the face, you don’t want to have to worry about this kind of stuff, you just really don’t want to have to,” he said. “This is going to be a relief for some people. But even more so, it’s a shining example of where we ought to go in this city, this commonwealth and this country.” ■

REGIONAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Former Philly resident elected prez of national LGBT group By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com A former Philadelphia resident and past William Way LGBT Community Center employee was recently announced as the next president of a national LGBT grantmaking agency. Ben Francisco Maulbeck, 35, will assume leadership of Funders for LGBTQ Issues on Dec. 3. Since the New York City-based organization’s founding 30 years ago, Maulbeck will serve as its third president. Maulbeck, who worked at William Way as its director of programs and volunteers from 2000-02, credits the center for giving him the experience he needed to branch out in the nonprofit sector. “I believe community centers do important work in the front lines of the LGBT world,” he said. “At the time, there was only four of us on staff and it really was all hands on deck for everything. I really learned to be the jack of all trades.” Maulbeck previously served as board president of the Gay and Lesbian Latino AIDS Education Initiative from 1998-2002 and later as the board co-chair of the Community HIV/AIDS Mobilization Project from 200610. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Swarthmore College and his master’s in

BEN FRANCISCO MAULBECK

public policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. Maulbeck is also a published author and has had stories in a number of LGBT anthologies. The New Jersey native spent a lot of time in the city while he was in college. He said he found the diversity of the LGBT community in Philadelphia refreshing. “I met so many fascinating people and they were all very different from each other,” he said. Maulbeck currently lives in Brooklyn, but said he remembers well how local LGBT community members acted in concert with one another. “I miss that sense of community and inti-

macy and people just coming together and making it work,” he said. “Everybody just knows what is going on in the community and they know each other.” He left Philly several years ago for a job opportunity at Hispanics in Philanthropy. Maulbeck started off with HIP as the Northeast program manager, where he oversaw the Philadelphia HIP site as well as its New York and Washington, D.C., agencies. He later served as director of U.S. programs and, most recently, as the agency’s vice president. “The thing I loved about HIP was the opportunity to bring together people who were helping the grassroots organizations,” he said. “We worked with amazing grassroots Latino organizations and funders to help them.” Maulbeck was also impressed with HIP’s strong intersectional focus. “HIP made sure that funding is flowing through LGBT Latino communities,” he said. As the newly appointed president of Funders for LGBTQ Issues, Maulbeck is eager to maximize the agency’s impact. “I want to continue the organization’s work as thought leaders for bringing together funders who are supporting LGBT issues,” he said. “How can we have the most impact with our limited dollars?” According to Maulbeck, Funders recently

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released a report that found funders across the nation only provided $90 million to LGBT causes in 2010 — out of about $45 billion that is dispersed each year. He said he’s anxious to see that number increase. Maulbeck also hopes to bring in nonLGBT funders and funders of all sizes. “I plan on seeing how the funders connect with LGBT communities. If there is a funder for education, I want to see what they will do for the LGBT community, for example what they will do against bullying to make sure schools are a good place to be,” he said. Maulbeck said the LGBT and progressive victories in this month’s election give him hope. “We are seeing a shift of allies who support us and want to participate in the conversation.” Maulbeck said Funders has a “strong culture of collaborative leadership” that attracted him. He also noted that the agency, like HIP, takes an intersectional approach. “They have a great track record of embracing racial and gender justice and economic equality,” he said. “That really excited me.” Funders board chair Andrew Lane said the organization’s board and staff are “thrilled” to welcome Maulbeck. “We believe Ben will catalyze the transformation of LGBT issues within philanthropy, and we’re honored and excited to partner with him on our journey forward,” Lane said. ■

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

REGIONAL PGN

NAACP head on marriage equality in MD, elsewhere By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com During an Election Day blitz through Philadelphia last week, the head of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People predicted that marriage equality would win in his state of Maryland — and, a few hours later, voters proved him right. NAACP president and CEO Benjamin Jealous, a resident of Silver Spring, Md., was among the agency’s leadership that has been actively campaigning for marriage equality. While many NAACP leaders have long been community allies, the agency took a decisive step toward LGBT rights in May when its board adopted a resolution endorsing marriage equality. Jealous, 39, said the major impetus for the action was last spring’s success of North Carolina’s Amendment One, a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in the state. “When One won and coded discrimination into the constitution, we realized we could be facing a tidal wave of similar bills in other states,” Jealous said in an interview with PGN last week. “There were two things at stake: One was the issue of marriage equality itself, which of course is very important, and the other was the century-

long tradition of using our constitutions to expand rights and eviscerate discrimination. This trend gave women the right to vote, gave young people the right to vote, but this [constitutional amendment] actually constricted rights, encoded discrimination and reversed that trend.” The NAACP vote was a landslide, with only two of the board’s 64 members dissenting. Many media pundits speculated that the move would make huge waves among the heavily Christian African-American community, but Jealous said the backlash wasn’t widespread. He spent the day after the vote reaching out to black clerical leaders across the nation and said that, by a 2-to-1 margin, his contacts either agreed with the NAACP’s position or said it constituted a “contrast, not a conflict.” While Jealous said the organization was supported by a vast array of religious leaders, a wealth of media attention was given to one board member who resigned over the issue. “It was disappointing that some folks sought to make a name on this issue and take what I call the George Wallace road, which history has shown us — and which I wish they would have learned — doesn’t lead anywhere good. People who stand up against other people having the right to love

BENJAMIN JEALOUS IN THE PGN OFFICES Photo: Scott A. Drake

each other live to regret it.” Jealous said his own interracial parents married illegally and faced pervasive discrimination. He said he’s met a number of people who at one point supported anti-miscegenation

laws but have since seen their folly — the same direction in which he hopes marriageequality opponents are headed. “You just hope people are humble enough to learn from history, and this is one issue where you should line up on the right side of the issue or just keep your views to yourself.” Jealous has been a consistent advocate for Maryland’s Question 6. His work for NAACP and his status as a Maryland resident are not all that attracted him to the issue; he said he was brought up in a diverse, activist family that includes a brother who identifies as a member of the LGBT community. “It’s very personal,” he said of Question 6. “I grew up in a community of activists in Northern California that represented people who were active in the anti-war movement, in the civil-rights movement, in the gayrights movement, in the women’s-rights movement. That’s who was around the table every holiday. We very much believed this is a nation where freedom is the first and most important value, it’s sacred, and should extend to every individual no matter who they are or what they are — black, gay, what have you.” He said he and his brother were often bullied in their largely white town, and he was also able to get a fresh perspective on LGBT discrimination PAGE 14

First n time eo! sal

REGIONAL PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

ActionAIDS receives grant for prison program By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com A local HIV/AIDS service organization recently received funding to support its work in reducing the HIV/AIDS epidemic in former and current prison populations. The Jewish Healthcare Foundation awarded a $25,000 grant to ActionAIDS’ Prison Linkage Program. The award is part of the Minority HIV/AIDS Initiative and was dispersed on behalf of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. According to Kevin Burns, executive director of ActionAIDS, the grant will support enhanced skill training for ActionAIDS staff involved with the prison program. The training, expected to last four months, will include a focus on case management and care outreach, among other areas. The agency could receive additional grant money for the program pending the outcome of the training. The Prison Linkage Program was founded

News Briefing Assault trial postponed A federal prosecutor has requested a postponement in the trial of Kevin V. Hannig, who allegedly assaulted Kenneth J. Houck Jr. last year at the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia. The trial was scheduled for Nov. 19. But Houck, who is openly gay, continues to recover from his injuries at a federal medical center in North Carolina. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neumann Leverett 3d said in a Nov. 2 motion that Houck’s presence at the trial is “essential.” On Nov. 7, Judge William H. Yohn Jr. granted a continuance until 10 a.m. Jan. 22, 2013, in Courtroom 14B of the U.S. Court House, 601 Market Street. Hannig is charged with causing serious bodily harm to Houck, as well as aiding and abetting the attack on him, which allegedly took place Nov. 10, 2011. Houck, 37, was reading a gay novel inside his cell at the detention center when Hannig and another male allegedly attacked him, breaking his right-leg tibia and fibula bones. Hannig, 35, faces up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted. W. Chris Montoya, an attorney for Hannig, had no comment. Houck is slated to be released in 2018 after pleading guilty to one count of transporting child pornography.

in 1991 and assists those who are incarcerated and those being released from prison with accessing proper health care. “In prison, our clients have significantly higher infection rates,” Burns said. “In Philadelphia, prisons started to do routine checks when prisoners are brought into the system, which is a good thing.” Burns said the program raises awareness about HIV prevention and transmission and directs clients who are infected to resources to meet their individualized needs. “Our clients get very connected and we have a lot of time to connect with them while they are in prison,” Burns said. “We make sure that when going through the transition phase of being released, they get in touch with us immediately so we can work with them on housing and making sure we get their lives set up.” The program has been funded through the agency’s unrestricted funds and donations. It was also supported by a joint grant with Philadelphia FIGHT called Special Projects of National Significance that has ended. ■

Schneller continues Conshy challenge Anti-LGBT activist James D. Schneller has asked a Montgomery County judge to reconsider the dismissal of his legal challenge to Conshocken’s LGBT-inclusive antibias ordinance. Schneller filed the request Nov. 8, in response to last month’s dismissal of his case by Judge Bernard A. Moore. In his latest motion, Schneller claims borough officials discriminated against him as a Christian when enacting the ordinance, and retaliated against him for expressing his Christian views at council meetings. He’s seeking an unspecified amount in compensatory and punitive damages. Schneller, who lives in Radnor, has embroiled the borough in litigation relating to the ordinance for more than a year. The borough council has asked Moore to bar Schneller from filing additional challenges to the ordinance, but Moore hasn’t ruled on that request at press time. In a separate case, the borough council is seeking about $18,000 in attorney’s fees and costs from Schneller that were incurred while defending the ordinance. That case will be assigned to an arbitration board. Michael J. Savona, the borough solicitor, said borough officials are implementing the ordinance despite Schneller’s opposition. “We have no more concern that the court is going to disturb our ordinance,” Savona told PGN. “Council has moved forward, appointed members to the Human Relations Commission and we’re prepared to receive any complaints, should they be filed.” Schneller couldn’t be reached for comment. ■ — Timothy Cwiek

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

EDITORIAL PGN

Creep of the Week

D’Anne Witkowski

Peter LaBarbera

Editorial

Remembering, looking for justice Next week, LGBT and ally communities across the globe will come together to pay tribute to those who’ve lost their lives to hatred. International Transgender Day of Remembrance, marked Nov. 20, shines a light on the victims of anti-transgender violence, putting faces to what is often a faceless epidemic. By sharing the individual stories, the community can take steps to heal their personal losses but also open eyes about what it means to be transgender and mobilize to eliminate the ignorance and fear that leads to such violence. Philadelphia’s LGBT community will stage its own activities to mark the occasion next week, which will undoubtedly be rife with memories of victims such as Stacey Blahnik and Kyra Cordova, two transgender women murdered in the city in the past two years, or Nizah Morris, whose death nearly 10 years ago remains a mystery. Morris may be remembered for the unbridled energy she exuded whenever she took to a stage, Blahnik for the guidance she gave to the youth in the ballroom scene and Cordova for the fighting spirit she exhibited on behalf of herself and her community. Sharing personal memories of all three can be a healing tool for the loved ones left behind and can show the rest of the community that these three women meant much more than their murders. Remembering the victims should also spur action. Awareness-building is and will be a gradual process. But immediate movement can and should be taken for these three, and the multitude of other, transgender victims whose killers have yet to be brought to justice. The police department needs to be held accountable for its investigations. Even though the Morris case is nearing its 10th anniversary, have detectives looked into every possibility? Even though the Blahnik case appears to be stalled, what other avenues can investigators try to get information? Even though there is a reward for information leading to the capture and conviction of Cordova’s murderer, what else can the police be doing to find the killer? These questions need to be asked, and need to be asked repeatedly. The mainstream media should also feel the pressure. Will they run stories to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Morris’ death? Did they cover the candlelight vigil marking the second anniversary of Blahnik’s? Will they be there when the first anniversary of Cordova’s murder comes around in September? Again, these questions need to be asked for movement to happen. The LGBT community has never been one to forget or back down from an issue, so it shouldn’t forget or back down from getting answers in these three cases. When their stories are shared Nov. 20, it is important that those remembrances are not solely introspective, but rather used to motivate and mobilize for justice for those who’ve passed, and for the safety of those yet to come. ■

Remember that old saying about trying the same thing over and over and expecting different results being the definition of insanity? Well, if that saying is true, then I’ve got a live one for you. Peter LaBarbera of Americans For Truth About Homosexuality, a group that (surprise!) tells lies about gay people, issued an official declaration of insanity Nov. 8, just two days after LGBT equality won big at the polls. As you might recall, marriage equality won across the board Nov. 6 in Washington, Maine, Maryland and Minnesota (not to mention the fact that President Barack Obama was reelected). Not only was he the first president to openly support equal rights for lesbians and gays, he’s the first president to be reelected after publicly stating his support for lesbians’ and gays’ right to marriage. After such a scathing rebuke at the ballot box of antigay measures and arguments, have people like LaBarbera learned something important? Yes. According to LaBarbera, they aren’t being antigay enough. LaBarbera writes, “We need to stop conceding the moral high ground in a fearful bid to appear ‘tolerant.’One pro-family group, Protect Marriage Maine, asserted that ‘same-sex couples are entitled to respect’ — a claim at odds with historic Scriptural teaching.” Got that? LaBarbera is saying that marriage equality won in that state because “pro-family” folks are just too damn nice to the gays. None of this namby-pamby call for “respect” bullshit. Bring out the pitchforks! LaBarbera continues, “Sadly, there is a ‘passion gap’ or maybe a ‘boldness gap’ between LGBT activists and their overly defensive pro-family opponents. Many timid, guilt-ridden Christians make rotten culture warriors, while unapologetic ‘gays’ excel at it.” Ah, yes. Those poor, timid Christians too afraid to stand up to Big Gay. It’s truly heartbreaking. Then again, maybe gays are “unapologetic” in the fight for equal-

ity because they don’t have anything to apologize for. And maybe some of these “timid” Christians are beginning to realize that the War on Gays is not a worthwhile crusade. Maybe, just maybe, there are some Christians out there who are saying to themselves, “You know, maybe fighting against consenting adults who love each other and want to be recognized as a family isn’t the best use of my time here on earth. Maybe I should be helping to feed the poor and other stuff Jesus was into.” Of course, LaBarbera would probably respond to such an idea with, “Stop that crazy talk!” He writes, “Pro-family advocates must stop looking for shortcuts and return to their principled duty of educating citizens — especially brainwashed youth — on why homosexual behavior is wrong, unnatural, unhealthy and, most important, changeable.” In other words, “We need to double-down on the stuff that isn’t working.” Especially the exgay bullshit that no one with even a shred of professional credibility supports. The thing is, “returning” to the “principled duty of educating citizens” that gays are a disgusting mistake that nobody likes is returning to the helm of a sinking ship. The word is out: Just about everyone knows someone who is gay now. Gays and lesbians aren’t creatures lurking in shame in the shadows. LaBarbera and his ilk can’t dehumanize an entire group of people who have proven over and over again their very humanity. “While politics does not decide moral and spiritual truth, it is an indicator of the heart of our nation,” LaBarbera writes. And it looks like that heart is finally in the right place. ■

The word is out: Just about everyone knows someone who is gay now. Gays and lesbians aren’t creatures lurking in shame in the shadows.

D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay since 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps of the world, she reviews rock ’n’ roll shows in Detroit with her twin sister.

Correction In “Dems take top spots in PA” in the Nov. 9-15 edition, PGN incorrectly identiﬁed the percentages by which several elected ofﬁcials won their races. Congressmembers Bob Brady, Chaka Fattah and Allyson Schwartz won 85.1 percent, 89.4 percent and 69 percent of the vote, respectively. Congressmen Jim Gerlach and Mike Fitzpatrick both won 57 percent of the vote against Manan Trivedi and Kathryn Boockvar, respectively, while Congressman Patrick Meehan overtook George Badey 59-40 percent.

OP-ED PGN

LGBT Capitol miracle It’s magic time in Washington, D.C., and We know we also have the support of our LGBT media, bloggers and particularly Democratic leadership and the overwhelming majority of Democrats in the House and lobbyists like Human Rights Campaign Senate. OK, here comes the problem, and a are not feeling that magic. Most are tripsuggestion. ping over themselves to give what they From that scenario, you should devise believe should be the LGBT priorities for that the hold-up would be in the Obama administration’s second term. All their suggestions the House of Representatives, are worthy, but they all miss whose speaker is Congressman the Washington magic. They’re John Boehner. The speaker conlooking in the wrong place. trols all. If he wishes, legislation Let’s take a cue from the will make it to the floor and to Latino community. It’s the a vote. He does not necessarily other side of Pennsylvania have to have his name on the Avenue we should be focuslegislation. The point is, he has ing on — the U.S. Senate and the Republican votes and the authority to get it through the House of Representatives. The Latino community gets the House. And as magic season has game: Their lobbyists have a it, he’s very much aware of not only the future of Republicans focus and make it simple for in the House, but those around legislators to understand. For him who want his job. That, them, it’s the Dream Act. For us, it should be the Employment Mark Segal my friends, spells opportunity. Choose your partner and dance. Nondiscrimination Act. Anyone in for a fox trot with Congressman Magic time in D.C. happens rarely. It Cantor? comes every four to eight years and only Time for our friends at GOProud and when there is a true shift in the populace Log Cabin and people like Ken Mehlman that one of the political parties begins to to prove themselves. They should either, on look inward to try and find their deficiencies. That magic time usually runs from the their own or with a coalition of organizations, focus like a laser beam on ENDA and election to the end of the current congressional term, since the congressional leaderBoehner. If you guys don’t have the access, ship can count on the majority of outgoing then it’s time for you to stand your ground, members for their votes in trade for future as Latinos have with the Dream Act. Ken, assistance, and on current members looking raising money for marriage equality will for plum positions in the new Congress. not wash the blood off your hands, but ENDA is the only major part of our standing in front of the Capitol at a news priority list that is not accomplished. It’s conference fighting for nondiscrimination important, since most LGBT Americans are starts you on that path. Here’s the rub: We have about four still not protected in employment. Military weeks left of this Congress. Think that is servicemembers are; if you work for the not enough time? Remember the end of U.S. government you are. To our lobbyists in D.C., isn’t it time to use our political “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”? That’s all it took, capital for the rest of the people? just two years ago. ■ How to make it happen: It takes three Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation’s steps. First, ENDA must pass both the most-award-winning commentator in LGBT House and Senate, then be signed by the media. He can be reached at mark@epgn.com. president, whose support we already have.

Mark My Words

Op-Ed

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Street Talk Where is President Obama headed on LGBT issues? “If the community makes enough commotion, he’ll fall in line and do their bidding. I like the Adam Donnelly guy. I think trucking contractor he’s going Bristol. to change things. He’s hobbled by politics. But in my opinion, in his heart of hearts, he sincerely supports LGBT rights. He’s a good dude. If his constituency emphasizes the importance of LGBT rights, he’ll act on their behalf.”

“I don’t think he’ll take a leadership role on that issue. He won’t bring the issue up, unless it’s foisted on him. He’s got Daniel Donnelly real-estate agent bigger fish Bella Vista to fry. He already did a lot for the LGBT community in his first term. LGBT issues are too divisive for him to take the initiative on.”

“He’ll speak out more for same-sex marriage, partly because he doesn’t have to worry about being Samuel Handler re-elected. student Also, the South Philadelphia country is moving in that direction. Samesex marriage was supported by voters in four ballot initiatives this election. It’s not just an abstract theory. It’s reality.”

“In the next two years, Obama will pull back on social issues. He’ll focus on the economy, because that’s what’s on everyone’s April Melchior student mind. But in South Philadelphia the second half of his term, he’ll increase his efforts for LGBT rights. He’ll use his power to educate people and bring more public awareness to LGBT issues.”

‘A lot of my friends are being killed’ At a visit to an Obama campaign field office in Sarasota, Fla., the vice president singled out a woman who, it was reported, he thought had beautiful eyes. That woman is Linda Carragher Bourne. A pool reporter at the event did not catch what Bourne said to Biden, but we do know that Biden told her it was “the civilrights issue of our time.” Bourne made it clear afterward that what she asked of Biden was help for her daughter and others like her. Her daughter is Lorelei Erisis — Miss Trans Northampton/New England 2009. “A lot of my friends are being killed, and they don’ have the civil rights yet,” said Bourne. “These guys are gonna make that happen.”

Two weeks after the election is the 14th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance, held Nov. 20. I founded the event to help create a sense of history within the transgender community, and to point out just how prevalent anti-transgender violence is in our world. At our first event, we had about 30 known cases. Today, we know of thousands. To paraphrase Bourne, a lot of our friends are being killed. These deaths are happening all around the world, to people of all ages, all races, all genders. Not everyone killed in an anti-transgender violent crime is transgender-identified, either; all it really takes is someone perceiving you to be transgen-

der. Yet when I talk about these murders, understand that they are not abstract, happening in the far-flung reaches of the world. These are cases like that of Brandy Martell, who was killed in Oakland, Calif., in April, or 19-year-old Tiffany Gooden of Chicago, who was stabbed to death in August, or Deoni Jones, who was shot to death in Baltimore in February. These are our friends who are being killed. Now I suspect that many would call Vice President Biden’s comments to task. Not just those who may be transphobic, but I suspect many who would point to the larger community and its continued emphasis on same-sex marriage. One can

also point out continuing issues over race, religion and socio-economic issues as being civil-rights battles of our time. One could even point to the issue of women’s rights in the wake of an election cycle that brought us the phrases “legitimate rape” and “binders full of women.” I’m not saying that these are not important, even vital. Yet, when I consider that one of the third-party candidates for president took issue with transgender people even having the right to public accommodations, as transgender people still face health-care restrictions, as we’re still held up for public mockery and scorn, and yes, as we are still murdered at a rate greater that one person every two weeks, I would contend that PAGE 19 Vice President Biden

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Engagement Adrian Shanker and Brandon Pariser By Jen Colletta jen@epgn.com Wedding bells will ring next year for Bethlehem residents Adrian Shanker and Brandon Pariser. The couple got engaged Oct. 20 and is planning a 2013 wedding. Shanker, 25, is the board president of Equality Pennsylvania, and Pariser, 26, is a nurse. Both men are originally from Westchester County, N.Y. The pair met in April 2009 at a Pennsylvania Diversity Network fundraiser at Rainbow Mountain in East Stroudsburg. “I was staffing the fundraiser and when I met him, I knew he cared about the LGBT community, which was important. I knew he cared about the same issues I did,” Shanker said. Their relationship has been helped by healthy doses of “compromise and patience,”

Pariser said. Shanker added it’s also been helpful to have “a willingness to take a deep breath and think about what the other person’s needs are.” Their relationship reached

PARISER (LEFT) AND SHANKER

its next stage Oct. 20, when Shanker popped the question amid little fanfare. “In my true form as one of the least romantic people on the planet, we were on the couch, and I said to Brandon, ‘Hey, how about we get married,’” Shanker said. Pariser didn’t need a grand gesture, however. “I think we were both ready to take the next step,” he said.

The couple plans to legally wed in a state where it’s legal next year and hold a Jewish wedding ceremony in Pennsylvania. Shanker said he and Pariser see their pending nuptials as having significance beyond the personal realm. “It’s important that we make that public statement that says that our relationship and our love for each other should have the same respect from society that is given to our friends who are not members of the LGBT community,” he said. “Certainly, there’s no difference in the way we love each other whether we’re married legally or not, but there’s a difference in the way that our communities and society see us.” The couple also plans to apply for a marriage license in Northampton County and will display their rejection letter next to their legal marriage certificate at the local wedding ceremony. ■

OPENING THE GATES: The Philadelphia Zoo welcomed LGBT and ally animal lovers for its fourth annual Pride Day Nov. 11. About 215 community members participated, almost double last year’s attendance, according to Michael Pomante, development director at William Way LGBT Community Center, which helped organize the event. Pomante said attendees of all ages were delighted with Pride Day. “It was great to see the success of the day. A lot of people came up to get their tickets and they hadn’t been to the zoo in ages,” Pomante said. “People in their late 20s and early 30s that hadn’t been there since they were kids were thrilled.” Volunteers working the ticket table near the entrance (inset) were taking a class at Temple University that explores cultural diversity. Photos: Scott A. Drake

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

When a husband becomes a wife

Storytelling about our experiences as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people has become an important part of our culture. Our stories are passed from person to person and generation to generation. These stories contribute to the narrative of LGBT history and culture. They serve as models for people as they explore their gender or sexual identity. These stories help reassure others that they are not alone in their experiences, that others have had similar life experiences and have survived and thrived. Recognizing, understanding and accepting your sexual orientation or gender identity is a process that is one of the common bonds that tie the members of the LGBT communities Ed together. This experience and the stories about it know no gender, age, geographic, ethnic, racial, religious or socioeconomic boundaries or limits. We all have a coming-out story — even if that story is that we have yet to come out. For many people, coming to terms with their sexual orientation or gender identity is not a one-time experience: It happens over months, years and even over the course of a lifetime. This is what Christine McCready’s experience has

been. Since age 5, Christine has known that she is female, although she had a male body. Now 60, Christine lives her life as a woman. Her journey has included denial, depression, fear, therapy, acceptance and much support from loved ones. The bulk of that support has come from her wife of 20 years, Kathy. Christine spent the first 58 years of her life living either exclusively as a man or parttime as a man and part as a woman — a man at the office and a woman at home. After one failed marriage, years of therapy and some (not-sogentle) prodding from Kathy, Christine began physically transitioning to female five years ago. Bomba Like so many other couples, Christine (then Harry) was introduced to Kathy by a mutual friend. They dated for several months and their relationship grew too close for comfort. They were in love, but Harry could not risk the emotional pain of repeating the mistakes of the past. He knew he needed to tell Kathy about his gender identity or the relationship could not continue. Twenty-two years later, it has been Kathy who has been the main supporter and motivator of Christine’s struggle to

Gettin’ On

JOHNSON from page 1

endeavors,” he said. His last day hasn’t been decided but Johnson said it will be before January. Throughout his career, Johnson was assigned to a number of districts, put in time with the Highway Patrol Unit and was promoted through the ranks until his 2008 appointment as deputy commissioner, one of his proudest achievements. “Making deputy commissioner under Commissioner Ramsey was an accomplishment,” Johnson said. “He came from an outside department and he chose me from among the many candidates he could’ve considered, so I thought that was an honor.” Also among his list of successes was his appointment to supervise a detail at the 2009 presidential inauguration. Johnson was named LGBT liaison following the retirement of Chief Inspector James Tiano, who held the role for more than a decade. In terms of his LGBT work, Johnson said he doesn’t think he was in the position long enough to have “left a legacy.” However, LGBT liaison committee chair Franny Price said the deputy commissioner was a welcome addition to the team. “I really grew to like him a lot,” Price said. “We had such a wonderful liaison with Tiano that I didn’t know how someone new would work out, but I was amazed how I instantly liked him. We all grew fond of him and are going to miss him.” Price said Johnson was a reliable source of

information for and about LGBT victims and crimes that impacted the community. “I don’t think there was ever one issue that he didn’t follow through on as far as getting us answers,” she said. Committee secretary Rick Lombardo said Johnson took his responsibilities seriously. “He brought us to a higher level. With Tiano, we were at one place and I think [Johnson] took us to the next step for accountability,” he said. “There’s still a lot of distrust out there in the community, and he bridged that to a large extent. His integrity was second to none.” Lombardo said Johnson’s seniority at Internal Affairs was often helpful in securing information the committee requested, and he expressed hope that his replacement will hold a similar position. Johnson said he’s taking away his own lessons from the committee. “I was most impressed by how hard these people worked to create an environment of equality,” he said. “I was impressed by their dedication and their work ethic when it came to extending themselves to rectify situations of prejudice in our city.” Even though he is retiring from the department, Johnson said he is still eager to put his decades of police work to good use. “It’s too premature to talk about other employment opportunities but I definitely still want to work,” he said. “I have some vitality that I feel I can contribute to the work of law enforcement for some time into the future. I’m looking forward to the next challenge.” ■

live her life as a woman. Christine says that, for many years, it was difficult for her to believe that Kathy was fully accepting of her transitioning to female. Kathy’s explanation is simple: “Once you fall in love, it is hard to say, ‘Well, you are not Harry. I don’t love you anymore.’” Christine’s process was not easy. Some estimate that society’s acceptance and understanding of transgender people is 30 years behind acceptance of other sexualminority groups. The lack of visibility of trans folk in television, movies or books is just one measure of that lack of acceptance. The social atmosphere in which Christine has learned to understand, accept and live her true gender identity has been far less than welcoming. She felt she could not come out at work for fear of harassment. She waited until retirement to live full-time as Christine. Now, in her second career, she is accepted by her coworkers for her abilities and is comfortable in her own gender. Kathy and Christine live in rural Pennsylvania, in Amish country. Christine is out to friends and family. At work, she is Christine, and if someone questions her gender identity, she gracefully, honestly and humorously answers questions. She no longer faces the stress of hiding or living a double life. But even at 60 years of age,

her transition process will continue for years to come. One of the socially awkward experiences that remains is when Kathy and Christine introduce each other to strangers. They are legally married, but our language has not yet evolved to include terms that concisely and adequately describe their relationship; husband, wife, spouse or partner just don’t seem adequate. Most people are still getting used to husband and husband and wife and wife. And now Christine and Kathy’s story is part of the LGBT culture of storytelling. Hopefully their story will give others the confidence, courage and strength to successfully come out. And, for those lucky enough to meet and know them, their example and experience will help to change society’s understanding and acceptance. After all, they are just another couple that loves each other. ■

Ed Bomba is communications chair of the LGBT Elder Initiative. The LGBTEI fosters and advocates for services and resources that are competent, culturally sensitive, inclusive and responsive to the needs of LGBT older adults. To comment on this article, suggest topics for future articles or for more information, visit www.lgbtei.org or call 267-546-3448. Watch for “Gettin’ On” each month in PGN.

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as an adolescent. “When I was a child, there was a moment where the bullying shifted from being principally about race to being principally about my brother’s emerging orientation,” he said. “People who stood with us against the bullies when it was about race decided this time to sit it out and told me I should sit it out too and let it be his fight. I said, ‘Hell no. If you pick a fight with my brother, you pick a fight with me.’” That fight came to a head nationally last Tuesday, as voters in Maryland, Maine and Washington all sanctioned marriage equality, and residents in Minnesota defeated an antigay constitutional amendment. Even if the initiatives had been unsuccessful, Jealous said the efforts to push those movements forward have forged closer ties among activists of all walks of life. Shortly after NAACP’s marriage-equality endorsement, Jealous said LGBT leaders in New York City held a press conference at Stonewall Inn during which they called for support of the agency’s upcoming march to end racial profiling. While NAACP expected a crowd of 25,000, about 70,000 showed up, and Jealous said LGBTs were well-represented. Jealous said the unity of these movements sheds light that support for one another has been longstanding. He noted that NAACP has long backed the Employment Nondiscrimination Act, was a strong supporter of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Hate Crimes Act and has worked at the local level around the nation on LGBT issues. “That’s the beauty of this movement: People are rediscovering that we’ve been old friends for a long time,” Jealous said. “I think it’s forged conversations for people to recognize that, at the end of the day, there is no such thing as the gay community and the black community. That’s as ridiculous as believing that there’s a white community and a straight community. “I’d like to hear someone ask Bill O’Reilly, ‘How does the white community feel about the straight community’s position on this issue?’ You’d see his head spin trying to figure out how to divide himself from himself. “And yet, we allow people to push that ridiculousness on us when in reality, our communities are a continuum that’s interconnected the same way people are. The day we all understand that we all prosper when it’s all for one and one for all, that’s the day we start to put the most pernicious forms of discrimination in our society behind us forever. We’re building this grand coalition that architects of these movements like Bayard Rustin envisioned for us, and it’s paying off.” ■

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PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Obituary Michael McGonigle, film lecturer and expert, 53 Michael McGonigle, a film lecturer at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, died Nov. 9 from a heart attack. He was 53. McGonigle, born Dec. 2, 1958, graduated in 1976 from Walter Biddle Saul High School of Agricultural Sciences, where he was a member of the Future Farmers of America. He attended Temple University for one semester. He went on to serve in the United States Air Force. McGonigle previously worked for Theatre N in Wilmington, Del., and volunteered for LGBT film festival QFest. McGonigle was known for his love of films, energetic personality and collection of film soundtracks. According to Gary Kramer, publicity manager at Temple University Press, who knew McGonigle from a weekly film discussion group both were involved with, McGonigle always stayed true to his positions on films. “What I loved about him is that he always respectfully disagreed with you, but he never attacked you personally or insulted you about your opinions,” Kramer said. Kramer said McGonigle was a treasure trove of knowledge and was the only film lecturer he knew who could consistently fill rooms with 400 people for a discus-

sion. If the discussion group watched a movie about baseball, McGonigle would pitch in about his experiences in a gay softball league. If the film concerned a particular career, chances are McGonigle had the experience to back up most of his comments, Kramer said. Kramer joked that the d i s c u s s i o n g r o u p wa s apprehensive about discussing “Magic Mike,” as they were afraid to find out if McGonigle was once a stripper (which he was not). Franny Price, president of Philly Pride Presents, knew McGonigle from his time working at her store, Spruce Street Video. Price said McGonigle used to wait for a bus outside the video store and, when Price put together movie displays in the windows, he would talk about the films. “I turned to him and said, ‘Boy, you seem to know a lot about movies. Why don’t you work for us?’” she said. He worked parttime at the shop from 1989-98. Price said that when Spruce Street employees were bored, they would

throw out movie titles to McGonigle to see how much he knew. “He would tell us all the facts — who wrote the script, the directors, how long the movie was, if it was a remake,” she said. Price said McGonigle was strong-willed and stubborn, but she also called him a hero. She said that, when a store employee was thrown out of his apartment when his partner found out about his HIV status, McGonigle invited the employee to live with him. He also once saved a woman from a carjacker, she said. “He would aggravate you, piss you off, but he would give you his coat if you were freezing,” she said. “It always amazed me that people didn’t know about Michael. You could come into Spruce Street and he would give a customer an opinion on a movie and they would leave angry but what they didn’t know is if they were getting mugged in the streets, Michael would have been the one to save them.” McGonigle’s brother, John, said his brother’s bravery was evident from a

young age. “In 1974, my brother decided he wanted to tell everyone he knew that he was gay,” he said. John said he didn’t care and loved his brother no matter what. For those who did care, however, McGonigle always kept two works within reach — the Bible and the U.S. Constitution. “My brother wasn’t a political or religious person, he just wanted to make sure that if someone was going to quote, he wanted it to be exact. He took great joy in having people explain themselves,” he said. McGonigle loved his brother’s humor. “Talking with him was a laugh riot — he was subtle in his humor,” he said. Price added that McGonigle will be “truly missed.” Besides his brother John, McGonigle is survived by sisters Christine and Patricia, three nieces and four nephews, several in-laws and a number of great-nieces and nephews. Details on a memorial service were pending as of presstime. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 or at www.philamuseum.org. ■

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or a hindrance. Some activists maintain that Learning for Life is discriminatory because it’s overseen by Scouting officials who cannot be gay, atheist or agnostic. But Cradle’s statement stressed LFL’s nondiscriminatory nature. “Learning for Life focuses primarily on serving at-risk youths and does not discriminate on age, race, religion or sexual orientation,” according to the statement. Questions about Learning for Life were renewed last week after an April 2010 letter written by Cradle CEO Thomas R. Harrington came to light, in which he said LFL was suspended. “[F]unding for our organization remains a significant challenge,” Harrington wrote. “In fact, we have recently been forced to reduce some Cub Scout programming and suspend our Learning for Life programs, which adversely impacts on the youth of our community.” Harrington wrote the letter to U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond, who’s presiding over a case that seeks to recover money for investors swindled by a Ponzi scheme. Cradle is a defendant in that case because it may have inadvertently benefited from the scheme through a charitable foundation connected to it. There are no allegations that Cradle knowingly participated in the scheme. This week, Cradle clarified that Harrington’s letter was referring to the school-based component of Learning for Life — and its suspension didn’t go into effect until September 2010. In June 2010, Cradle attorney Jason P. Gosselin praised the school-based program in opening remarks to federal jurors in the eviction case. “The programs that the Boy Scouts, or that the Cradle of Liberty Council, administers are actually quite a bit broader than just Scouting,” Gosselin told jurors. “You’re going to hear about a program called Learning for Life. Learning for Life is administered by Cradle of Liberty Council, but it’s not Scouting. It’s actually a program that’s open to children in our area on a co-ed basis, both boys and girls, and it’s open to kids from kindergarten all the way up to high school. And in the Learning for Life program, they try to focus on things like discipline and life skills, the sorts of things that we want our kids to have so that when they go out into the world, they can be good and productive citizens.” It remains unclear whether Gosselin knew about Harrington’s

letter when he made the remarks. Gosselin couldn’t be reached for comment. In June 2010, jurors ruled that the city placed an “unconstitutional condition” on Cradle’s right to exclude gays during the eviction attempt. Questions to jurors focused on an offer made by the city, allowing Cradle to remain in the building rent-free if it repudiated the national BSA’s antigay policy. But jurors weren’t asked about another offer made by the city, allowing Cradle to remain in the building rent-free if it complied with local antibias rules. Cradle maintains that Gosselin’s comments to jurors about Learning for Life were irrelevant to the verdict. “Any reference to Learning for Life during the trial was in the context of the time period of the filing of the lawsuit, 2008,” Cradle said. “The verdict with regard to the building was decided on a set of facts of which the status of Learning for Life was not relevant.” According to IRS records, Harrington’s salary and benefits in 2010 totaled $263,951. Harrington couldn’t be reached for comment about the possibility of taking a pay cut so youth services can be restored at Cradle. But Cradle’s statement addressed Harrington’s salary in general terms. “Compensation for all staff members of the Cradle of Liberty Council is established annually by authorized volunteers who serve on the executive board of the council. These salaries and benefits fall within an approved salary-range chart which is established by the national council of the BSA and reviewed annually by outside audit firms to ensure that compensation is compliant with IRS Code, Section 4958.” The city’s effort to evict Cradle remains pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, where both sides are expected to file briefs shortly. The Ponzi scheme was run by investment manager Jospeh S. Forte, who swindled about $50 million from about 80 investors. In 2009, Forte, 56, pleaded guilty to bank fraud, money laundering and related counts and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Forte is expected to be released from a federal prison in Michigan in 2023. Litigation remains underway to determine if organizations that benefited from the scheme must return the money for redistribution to investors who were swindled. ■

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

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Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Gayborhood Crime Watch The following incidents in the Midtown Village and Washington Square West areas were reported to the 6th Police District between Oct. 29-Nov. 4. Information is courtesy of 6th District Capt. Brian Korn; Stacy Irving, senior director, Crime Prevention Service; Center City District; the Police Liaison Committee and Midtown Village Merchants Association. To report crime tips, visit www.phillypolice.com or call 215-686-TIPS (8477). INCIDENTS — At 10 a.m. Oct. 31, someone stole 25 boxes of floor tiles from a doorless room inside an office building in the 1300 block of Walnut Street. Security video showed a black male in his late 20s and a black male in his early 30s stealing the boxes.

— Between 9:45 a.m.-12:10 p.m. Nov. 2, someone entered an apartment in the 1300 block of Spruce Street without force and stole money, laptops, jewelry and a video camera. Central Detective Division processed the scene for evidence and latent fingerprints.

The teller recognized the suspect as a regular customer and positively identified him to investigators. An arrest warrant has been obtained. The suspect was described as a thin black male with a beard, 45 years old, 5-foot-7, wearing a black hoodie.

— At 5 p.m. Nov. 3, a woman had her handbag over the back of a chair inside El Vez, 121 S. 13th St., and discovered a wallet had been stolen. Security video showed it was taken by a white female, about 60, wearing a puffy jacket and jeans.

— Between 7:30-11 p.m. Nov. 4, someone stole a purse from an unlocked 2005 Honda parked in the 1200 block of Spruce Street. Sixth District Officer Sweeney attempted to lift fingerprints.

— At 11:10 a.m. Nov. 4 at TD Bank, 121 S. Broad St., a man handed the teller a note demanding money. No weapon was produced. The teller gave him money and he left, and she then sounded the alarm.

— At 11:30 p.m. Nov. 2, 6th District Officers Fererro and Hill observed an illegal narcotics transaction outside 13th and Walnut streets. Apprehended and charged with illegal narcotics sales was a 33-year-old suspect with a West Philadelphia address. Recovered were three packets of crack cocaine and a bag of marijuana.

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— At 1:15 p.m. Oct. 31, a woman took money from a tip jar at Zara Brow Bar inside the Gallery, 901 Market St. The complainant followed the suspect, demanding the money back, until Center City Officer DeLeon observed and took

the female into custody. The 18-year-old suspect with a West Philadelphia address was charged with theft, and the money was returned to the complainant. — At 2 a.m. Nov. 3, 6th District Officers Colon and Graner responded to a call of a burglary in progress at the Gallery, 901 Market St., where a witness informed the officers a female ripped the security grate from the Subway restaurant and was stopped by Gallery security. The 34year-old suspect with a Camden address was charged with burglary and related offenses. Recovered from the suspect was cash that was apparently from the store’s register. SUMMARY ARRESTS — At 12:30 a.m. Nov. 1, 6th District officers issued a citation for a summary offense outside 1200 Spruce St. — On Nov. 2, 6th District officers issued citations for summary offenses at 12:45 a.m. outside 1300 Chancellor St. and at 11:35 a.m. outside 1200 Chestnut St. — At 10:30 p.m. Oct. 31, 6th District officers issued a citation for a summary offense outside 1300 Chestnut St. ■

OP-ED PGN OP-ED from page 11

has a very valid point. In the last four years, we have seen this administration take great steps. Passport rules were eased, as well as immigration policies for transgender people. We saw the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Housing and Urban Development and other organizations speak out on behalf of transgender people. Title VII protections have been defined as transgender-inclusive. The administration has even appointed three transgender people into its own ranks. Over the next four years, in between battles over the economy, over possible Supreme Court nominations and over everything else that will cross their desks, I hope we will indeed see transgender rights considered even stronger by this administration. I hope to see more work done to�� help transgender people, including seeing a transgender-inclusive Employment Nondiscrimination Act signed by the president in the next four years. I want to see — and will see — transgender people served under the Affordable Care Act. And yes, I want to see more done by the Department of Justice and other federal agencies to bring attention to and strengthen laws against antitransgender violence. I would love to see our own government putting as much attention to these anti-transgender violent crimes as we do. I would love to see the Transgender Day of Remembrance — which was honored by the Department of Justice for the very first time last year — continue to be so recognized. I would even go so far as to say that I’d like to see President Obama proclaim the 20th of November as Transgender Day of Remembrance. What is really important, though, is that transgender civil rights be secured. A lot of our friends are being killed, and the most important right is simply the right to live. Let’s make that happen. ■

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Gwendolyn Ann Smith encourages you to go to a local Transgender Day of Remembrance event. You can find her on the web at www. gwensmith.com.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

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registered because they have not received their voter registration card from their election board. Solution: Make registration and absentee-ballot applications available online.

enfranchisement. It is equally beyond dispute that no-excuse absentee ballot voting—a system that allows a voter to receive an absentee ballot without providing an approved reason for doing so—is equally effective in making voting easier. Overall, almost 40 percent of Florida’s 11.9 million registered voters had already cast their ballots before Election Day. And that was only in one week of early voting. In California, a state that has allowed for permanent absentee ballot voting since 1993, the Secretary of State has reported that in every general election since 1993, between 20 and 30 percent of ballots cast have been absentee ballots. Solution: Pass early vote and permanent absentee ballot laws.

NO EARLY VOTING AND NO-EXCUSE ABSENTEE BALLOTS IN PENNSYLVANIA. It is now indisputable that early voting, when implemented in a thoughtful way, increases voter turnout. In Ohio and Florida we saw long lines due to the inaccessibility of early voting— �� were more interested in partisan politics than they were in voter

VOTER IDENTIFICATION In the absence of widespread voter fraud, which was admitted by the Commonwealth in the recent voter ID litigation, photo �� other than those newly registered are silly at best, and a veiled attempt to suppress elderly and low-income voters at worst. Solution: Repeal the Pennsylvania Voter ID law.

point

Lessons Learned From Election Day Four ways we can make voting easier

y the time the election was over on Nov. 6, the nation’s largest voter hot line, 1-866-MYVOTE1, had received over 125,000 calls. The lessons learned from voters calling into the hot line provide a road map for how state and local governments can make voting easier.

CONFUSION OVER POLLING LOCATION Ask most voters who only vote once every four years in a presidential election where their closest McDonald’s or Starbucks is and they will tell you. Ask them where their polling place is and they can’t. This is not their fault. Poll locations are not determined by distance, they are determined by political maps that these voters have never seen. Solution: In federal elections, make all state polling locations accessible to every registered voter in that state. VOTING REGISTRATION MISHAPS The largest breakdown in election administration lies in the systems each state uses to register its voters. There was a MYVOTE1 hot line hot spot in Philadelphia where hundreds of callers who believed they were registered did not appear on the voter rolls when they showed up to vote.

Voters waited in a long line at Trappe Borough Hall in Trappe, Pa. on the morning of the election. Stephen Battaglia/photographer

Registration in Philadelphia remains, as in most jurisdictions, a paper-based system which requires both the processing of paper applications and the printing of paper poll books. When large numbers of registrations come into the City Commissioner’s �� invariably do not get processed in time for the poll books to be printed. This causes voters who believe they are registered to enter poll locations where the poll workers insist that they are not. A more insidious impact occurs in the days just before election: hundreds of thousands of citizens do not know whether they are

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People

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The Philly DoGooders kickoff conference was held at the University of the Arts. Photo courtesy of Generocity.org

Let’s Hear it for Do-Gooders �� by Sheila Simmons

ecently I attended the kickoff of an awards campaign for do-gooders. Yes, there’s an actual name for people who pursue good deeds like some of us pursue the good life. Built around the Philadel�� Awards contest, the campaign is just one indication that “do-gooders”—many of whom have quietly fed the hungry and clothed the poor seemingly forever—are �� scene saw the addition of Generocity, which works to increase awareness and support for social good in the areas of animal rights, civil rights, sustainability, education and the arts. Next year former United Way employee

Dave Raible will be named its executive director. He lives by the words of Roberto Clemente: “Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don’t, you are wasting your time on earth.” But Raible says his mission at the awards contest cosponsor, Generocity, is “to bring the non�� by any means necessary.” You can’t get much more 21st century than YouTube; it is the founding organization and cosponsor of the national contest, which recognizes using video in ��cial good.” The Philadelphia winner receives $250,000 in in-kind assistance for their organization. David Gloss, one of the masterminds behind this campaign and a cofounder of the hip

�� tion Here’s My Chance, believes the millennial generation is less �� cially aware than previous ones. Indeed, an analysis by the New York Times of data from the American Community Survey of the U.S. Census Bureau found that nationally, applications for Teach for America increased 32 percent between 2008 and 2010, and that applications for AmeriCorps tripled during the same period. �� to not only do good, but to dogood well. So the campaign includes a MLK Needs Assessment Day on MLK Day, when experts from the United Way and Generocity will assess participating �� The campaign culminates in February with the Philadelphia doGooder Awards Night, which attendees are encouraged to attend in their good duds for “a night of fun, dancing, recognition, and Philly goodness.” Since there’s not a lot of money to be made in social causes, what do do-gooders get for their efforts? I couldn’t think of a better answer than the one given by Patsy Kirschner, a donor-turned-volunteer-turned-board member for One Simple Wish, which serves foster children. She cited “the ability to sleep better at night.” She said when she reviews the list of needs requested for foster children throughout the greater Philadelphia region—shoes, hats, coats—she’s assured that her eight grandchildren “don’t need another single game or toy.”

Gluten Grief

Is wheat the new enemy? by Dana Ricci Gluten became the newest nemesis in the healthy-eating community when a handful of celebrities began swearing it off �� gluten-free diet—one, of course, being weight loss. Unfortunately, that’s not always guaranteed. “There’s been a lot of misinformation out there about how this is the new way to lose weight,” says Jennifer Fugo, certi�� the Gluten Free School in Philadelphia. And here lies the problem: a gluten-free diet is not a weight-loss regimen. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, so eliminating it from one’s diet means cutting out most breads, pastries and pastas. And when you remove a lot of foods from your diet, it’s not uncommon to shed a few pounds. That’s where the weight loss thing comes from. However, if one cuts out gluten by substituting the gluten-laden items in their diet with products like gluten-free bread, pasta and sweets, it’s most likely making matters worse. The �� tutes are highly processed, and many of these products are loaded with sugar to compensate for the taste. Fugo says she has clients with pre-diabetic, metabolic and thyroid problems as a result. For example, while ginger snaps are usually one of the healthier cookie options, a company called Glow makes glutenfree ginger snaps that contain as much saturated fat as 10 McDonald’s chicken nuggets and

more calories than seven Nabisco ginger snaps. Yikes. Not to mention that plenty of junk food is gluten free, such as Burger King’s new french fries, Dairy Queen’s M&M Blizzards and Cheetos. But people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance have to cut out gluten. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that destroys the zilli of the intestinal tract and causes many health problems— all of which are ameliorated by a strict no-gluten diet. An intolerance is when the body reacts to gluten as if it were an invader, resulting in symptoms such as gas, diarrhea, constipation, mucous, headaches and mental fogginess. Gluten can take up to four days to clear the body. So why the recent increase in people needing to ditch gluten? Fugo has a few theories. It could just be that we now know more about it than we once did, and that gluten has always been the unknown culprit of certain health issues. Because wheat is more hybridized than it was 50 to 60 years ago, it’s possible that now more people react to it. Or maybe people are consuming more wheat than they once were. “Overexposure can cause the body to all of a sudden see that protein as an invader,” Fugo says. But going gluten-free can be healthy, if only because it can make you more aware of the foods you are eating, and thus can result in healthier eating choices. The detriment of the gluten-free diet, Fugo says, is that people focus on substitution products and forget that vegetables, fruits and many healthy protein sources are all gluten-free too. “It’s about balancing out your diet in a way that’s healthy and also gluten-free,” she says.

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Liberty City Press is a collaborative publication effort of the Philadelphia Multicultural Media Network.

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Pulse

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Celebrating Wildlife Conservation The Philadelphia Zoo’s Global Conservation Gala honors those who help preserve wildlife by HughE Dillon

The Philadelphia Zoo held its Third annual Global Conservation Gala at The Westin Hotel. Many of Philadelphia’s charitable people came out to support the event and the preservation of habitats and endangered species around the world. The program for the evening included the acknowledgement of several individuals who are leaders in the conservation movement. 1. The Keystone State Boys’ Choir performed several numbers for the guests that evening. 2. Maria Menounos (second from left), co-host of Extra TV, stands with the award recipients: From left: Carlos Garcia, who received the Philadelphia Zoo Global Conservation Prize as part of the Zoo Crew; Matthew Hamilton, whose family received The 2012 Conservation Impact Award; Girl Scouts Rhiannon Tomtishen and Madison Vorva, both of Ann Arbor, MI., have been campaigning to raise awareness of the human and environmental impact of the use of palm oil in the organization’s famous cookies, which is extracted from trees in which orangutans inhabit. HughE Dillon/Photographer N O V. 1 1 - 1 8 , 2 0 1 2

Liberty City Press is a collaborative publication effort of the Philadelphia Multicultural Media Network.

play

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Brandon Austin is a star forward on the Imhotep Charter basketball team. Sarah J. Glover/Photographer

Austin Still Open

Area hoops star still hasn’t made a college decision by Jeremy Treatman

at Chambers doesn’t know exactly what Penn State football coach Bill O’Brien is going through in the aftermath of the Jerry Sandusky sex-abuse scandal. But he has an inkling—at least when it comes to recruiting. Chambers, Penn State’s basketball coach and a former standout guard at Philadelphia University, lost his prize recruit, Brandon Austin, in July, just a couple of months after Austin had verbally committed to Penn State. O’Brien, of course, saw his top running back, his backup quarterback and two defensive stars leave school after NCAA sanctioning, as well as watching many recruits decommit or resume recruiting. PSU cannot play in post-season bowl games for the next four years. “We are doing the best we can,” Chambers said. Austin, a 6-foot-6-inch forward from Imhotep Charter, decommitted after seeing his stock soar over the summer. Austin said he did not leave Penn State because of the NCAA sanctions that crushed O’Brien’s football program, or the stigma of what happened this past year. “No, [the scandal] had nothing to do with it,” Austin said. That’s believable given that, since starring in AAU tournaments all summer, Austin has received offers or interest from UCLA, Ohio State, Baylor, Florida State, Rutgers, Georgetown, Xavier and Kentucky. According to Norm Eavenson, scouting associate for Bob Gibbons All Star Sports, Austin has become a top 75 recruit in the country. He was top 200 the year before.

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Locally, Temple University has been involved with Austin since he was in ninth grade. The Owls are hoping that Austin and Robert Vaux star Rysheed Jordan will come as a package. The two are friends and have reportedly talked about going to a school together. But it’s “way too soon for that [decision],” Jordan said. “I don’t know yet what is going to happen.” Austin has cut his list of potential colleges down to Texas, Providence, UConn and Temple. “It will be interesting to see what happens,” said Eavenson, who is based in the Philadelphia suburbs. “Brandon and Rysheed are among two of the best unsigned commits in the country. I know locally all the schools want them, and it would be a coup for Temple to get one or both of them.” Austin averaged 18 points last year and has gotten faster and stronger, according to Eavenson. Meanwhile, Imhotep is getting ready for its season. The Panthers have won two straight state titles in the AA category. This season, Imhotep has moved up to AAA and could see Archbishop Carroll, Neumann-Goretti, or both in the District 12 and state playoffs. Those games could be wars. Aus�� I players on his team. “We think we’re going to be pretty good,” said Imhotep coach Andre Noble. The Panthers have also garnered attention by agreeing to play Chester and St. Joseph’s Prep this season. “Everyone is asking about the games with Chester and Prep,” said Noble. “We can’t wait.”

St. Joe’s Prep Hoops Stars Successful coach sees his best backcourt yet Bill “Speedy” Morris has coached basketball for a long time at the high school and college levels. Overall, he has won �� matched in this area. And in that span, he concedes, in all his years at the helm at Roman Catholic and St. Joseph’s Prep, he has never had a backcourt at the high school level like the one he has now at the Prep. Seniors Miles Overton and Steve Vasturia are committed to Wake Forest and Notre Dame, respectively. Combined they averaged 28 points a game last year. “No question, as a tandem, this is the best,” said Morris. “It’s exciting to see these guys get scholarships to two great institutions. I would have maybe liked to see them go local so I could see them play more. But you have to be thrilled with the schools they picked.” Morris’s 1969 Roman Catholic team sent three starters to St. Joseph’s University: Jim O’Brien, Mike Bantom, and Mike Moody. Moody was the top player on the high school team, according to Morris. Banton played in the NBA for a decade and is a Big Five Hall of Famer. O’Brien be-

came a coach of the Boston Celtics and later the 76ers. But Bantom and Moody were forwards and thus cannot be compared to Overton and Vasturia. The two have the Philadelphia hoops world taking notice. “We knew this was a huge test for us,” said Lower Merion coach Gregg Downer, whose team beat St. Joeph’s Prep last year in a regular season game. “That’s the best backcourt around. We may play them this year one or two times, and I will �� how to stop those two kids.” Morris calls Vasturia a throwback, a hustler who can knock down shots all over the court and plays sound defense. Overton may be the most improved player in the area. Pundits say he has to improve defensively but the skills and work ethic are there. So are the genes. His father, Doug Overton, played for Morris at La Salle University and had a long NBA career. Vasturia’s dad was a Hall of Fame athlete at Penn State. “It’s an honor coaching Doug and Miles. But really it just means I’m getting old.” JT

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The National Dog Show returns to Philadelphia By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com

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The National Dog Show Presented by Purina and hosted by Kennel Club of Philadelphia returns for the fourth consecutive year and its 10th anniversary Nov. 17-18, at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks. The show, which features 2,000 purebred canines, gives the public an opportunity to interact with the dogs, learn about different breeds and talk with experts about owning a dog. Actor, author, canine aficionado and TV personality John O’Hurley hosts the show along with David Frei, who is an American Kennel Club-licensed judge. O’Hurley said the show made a splash on TV after NBC took a chance and started airing it. “We’ve been doing it for 11 years now,” he said. “It was a fluke, actually. It turned out to be a successful story of programming. The head of NBC just took home ‘Best in Show’ about 12 years ago and decided they had the space between the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and football. They had a two-hour slice of time and they had no idea what to do with it. So they used to throw on reruns of ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ and it was the biggest turn-off factor on television ratings. They scratched their heads about what to do with it. He took home ‘Best in Show’ one weekend, came in Monday and said, ‘We’re going to do a dog show.’ They almost laughed him out of the building. That’s how it all started.” O’Hurley noted the participants take the competition seriously, and it is a painstaking process selecting the winner, although there is a fun atmosphere to the event. “We have 2,000 of the best dogs in the country,” he said. “So it’s huge exposure for the breeders. By any means it’s the largest dog show in the world. I had to learn a lot about it. It celebrates the history of breeding. Some of these dogs, the breeds are 4,000 years old. Some of it is very serious. There’s always a sense of

competition. It’s a slow reduction process to the final seven dogs so there’s an excitement to that. All of the dogs and handlers have to stay for the entire run of the show, so backstage there’s 2,000 dogs and 15,000 people walking up and down the aisle. There’s a bit of a carnival-midway feel to it. You can interact with the breeders and ask questions. It’s one of the things that promotes responsible dog ownership.” “It’s dogs,” Frei added. “And even though there is competition in the ring, you can’t help but have fun with your dog. The show is pretty social. You have to be there for eight hours and you might only be in the ring for 15 minutes. It’s a good thing you’re among friends to do that.” Frei also said, unlike a pageant focused on humans, people tend to be better behaved with dogs around. “You put a dog in a room with seven people, all of those people will focus on the dog and everybody is happy,” he said. “They show a better side of themselves. You get 2,000 dogs in a room and people are just nicer. And what I’ve found out over 11 years is the dogs don’t care who wins. For them it’s a couple of really good smells and a chance to be with their owners. They pick up on the energy of the day. Dogs are always alert, which adds to the fun.” Frei said a misconception people have about The National Dog Show is that these are pampered animals owned by rich socialites. “I want people to hear that these are real dogs; they’re not dogs that get fluffed and primped up to go to dog shows. They don’t just sit around on cushions eating doggie bon-bons all week long. The rest of the week they are loving family pets that are stealing food off our counter and shedding on our dark clothes. Those are the stories that we try to gather up the day of the event. They are real members of the family. That’s the notion I try to get across in the telecast. The people involved are real people. They usually have other jobs during the week. They pack their

NATIONAL DOG SHOW CO-HOST JOHN O’HURLEY Photo: Mitchel Haaseth

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cars on Friday night and head to the next call the alma-mater factor. If you are sitting dog show. It’s a great family sport. You get at home with your Brittany, you want to see to do something with a dog that you love the Brittany and root for it. I think that’s the from your family. The people that are doing fun part of the show and how people watch it really enjoy it.” it.” O’Hurley added another misconcepBoth O’Hurley and Frei pointed out that tion that winning the dog show is all about the show isn’t just a massive dog pageant: It looks. also serves the purpose of raising awareness “I think they think it’s the cute factor and it about dog ownership and how dogs enhance isn’t,” O’Hurley said. “‘Why didn’t that dog peoples’ lives. win? It’s the cutest dog out there.’ Every dog “One of the big focuses is on therapy has a written specification of what that dog, dogs,” O’Hurley said about this year’s according to show. “We its history spotlight an of breeding, element of should look dog charl i k e . Yo u acteristics can’t tell every year. h ow g o o d David and the dog is I are both until you involved put your with therapy hands on it. dogs. Dogs That’s the are used to purpose of an enormous the judges. b e n e fi t i n The judges medical care have to be with kids extraorwith cancer, dinarily burn victims knowledgeand even in able on a psychiatric whole datacases as part A CANINE COMPETITOR STRUTS HIS STUFF base of of therapeudogs. Some tic care.” grouping of dogs, like the herding group, “We’re very involved with talking about will have 45 breeds and they have to know breed rescue and responsible ownership,” everything about that one group. Then when Frei added. “We want to make sure people the judges become good enough to be Best go about getting a dog for their family being in Show judges, there are 170 breeds that fully educated for what awaits them after are recognized, so they have to be versa- these dogs are done being cute 4-pound tile. It’s a very interesting skill set that these balls of fluff. They’re going to grow up judges have.” to be different kinds of dogs. You want to Frei noted, however, that viewers and make sure you’re equipped to handle it.” ■ attendees don’t have to be dog-breed experts “The National Dog Show Presented to enjoy the show. “People watch our show for three reasons. by Purina” takes place Nov. 17-18 at the First, they watch for the competition. Who’s Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, the best of the best? Anyone can judge from 100 Station Ave. in Oaks. The two-hour spethe outside of the ring: ‘I like this dog and cial airs Thanksgiving Day on NBC after here’s why.’ That’s the fun part of watch- the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. For ing at home. People are also watching for more information or tickets, visit http://nds. the entertainment. The third reason is what I nationaldogshow.com/.

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STRUTTING THEIR STUFF: Over 2,000 dog owners descended on FDR Park in South Philly Nov. 3 for Philadelphia Animal Welfare Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth annual Mutt Strut fundraiser. Hundreds more came to watch and check out the dozens of pet-related vendors, which included dog search-and-rescue trainers, health and wellness practitioners and an assortment of pet-care and toy vendors. At PAWSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largest fundraiser of the year, the organization brought in $98,000 in pledges and donations, and iced the cake by adopting out 8 dogs from their kennels. Contributions can still be made at pawsmuttstrut.org/paws/participants.asp. Photos: Scott A. Drake

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Philadelphia plays host to pet fashion show, benefits animal rescue By Angela Thomas angela@epgn.com It is no surprise that Philadelphia’s LGBT community loves its animals. Every year at Pride events, dogs take the spotlight and local adoption agencies get the word out about animal rescue. This weekend, a local animal-rescue organization will be recognized at a pet fashion show that is expected to draw high participation from the LGBT community. The Pet Support Phashion Charity Affair will start at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16 at Hyatt at the Bellevue, 200 S. Broad St. The event will spotlight and raise funds for Humane Law Enforcement for its charitable work to save animals from danger. Greta Russo, CEO of Lotus Event Designs, Inc., said she started the fundraiser last year to heighten awareness and support of Humane Law Enforcement. “I am a huge animal lover and had the opportunity to go on a drive-through with them,” Russo said. “I saw first-hand what they do, what they face and the frustration. Every day, they are out there rescuing animals from people who don’t care.” Russo said the agency’s efforts, and the issue of animal cruelty overall, don’t get enough attention. “You hear it on the news but not that much. You hear more about Britney Spears than you A PARTICIPANT IN THE do about an 2011 PET PHASHION animal that has CHARITY AFFAIR been burned to death. I wanted to bring animal cruelty more to the forefront of people’s mind,” she said. Last year’s successful show returns with a new theme. The inaugural show was themed Pets in the City, a takeoff of “Sex in the City,” while this weekend’s event is titled “Angels.” Russo said she picked the theme because the members of Human Law Enforcement, like angels, protect animals. In keeping with the theme, the event will include a series of drag performances paying tribute to “fallen angels” — late great pop divas. Russo said she has received substantial support from the LGBT community. “This year, we are hoping to get a lot more of the LGBT community in attendance. A lot of the LGBT community have pets more than they do children,” she said. The event will begin with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m., followed by the fashion show from 8:30-9:30 p.m. and an afterparty from 10-midnight. Special guests will include

District Attorney Seth Williams, Philadelphia Eagles safety Nate Allen, Pennsylvania Sen. Tony Payton Jr. and Fox 29 anchor Mike Jerrett. The Philadelphia Boys Choir will perform and Russo said a special celebrity guest will also take the stage. Drag performers include The Goddess Isis, Misty Maven, Porcelain and Omyra Ly n n . T h e drag queens will honor the likes of Whitney Houston, A m y Winehouse, D o n n a Summer and Aliyah. T h e EAGLES SAFETY NATE Goddess Isis ALLEN AND DOG SAM w a s c o n tacted a few months ago to perform at the event. “It sounded completely awesome and I was definitely on board,” she said. “I’ve always been an animal lover and have always had pets, so it seemed so natural to me.” Isis said her performance will honor not only late celebrities but also pets and animals that have passed. “It is going to be a pretty incredible tribute,” she said. The cats and dogs featured in the fashionshow portion of the evening all auditioned for the spots. “People came from all over, from as far as New York and Maryland. We have professionals and amateur dog models,” Russo said. Among the animal models are Bocker the labradoodle, who was featured in the movie, “Eat Pray Love”; Tuffy the Chihuahua, best known for his colored mohawk; and Moose the Bernese Mountain Dog, who visits schools for disabled children. A fashion show would be nothing without fashion designers. Russo said she has collaborated with some of the world’s top animal-clothing designers. Those featured in the show are Genny Perez, designer of Milou Couture and Conchita Couture; cat-clothing designer Ada Nieves; and Olga Zablinskaya, an internationally renowned groomer. Humanclothing designer Jackie Myles of Todd Anthony Couture will be on hand to outfit human models. Russo said the event is open to everyone and that she expects a big turnout. “It’s for everyone who loves animals — whether you own them or you work in the animal community. It is for everyone who has compassion for animals,” she said. For more information on the event, visit http://www.PetSupportPHL.com. ■

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Suzi Nash

Kristen Farley-Rambo: Going behind the glass for Gorillas 101 Philadelphia is the city of firsts — the first public school, the first scientific institution in America, the first penny newspaper (ours was free of course) and the first zoo. Last weekend, said zoo had its annual Gay Day celebration. Furry friends, fun and face-painting were all a part of the day. In between helping my friend corral her oh-socute twins, I took a moment to speak to one of the zoo keepers, the very-knowledgeable Kristen Farley-Rambo. PGN: Are you a Philly gal? KFR: No, I’m originally from Maryland. And now I live with my wife in South Jersey. PGN: What were you like as a kid? KFR: I was always busy with something, especially sports. Swimming was my biggest sport, and I played soccer and lacrosse. I was a good student, in fact a bit of a nerd. PGN: Did you have pets growing up? KFR: We had hamsters and cats ... a bird I think. I’m not a big bird person. PGN: What’s your role at the zoo? KFR: I’m the gorilla keeper. PGN: How long have you been at it? KFR: I’ve been here for over five years. I started out as an imbedded relief keeper in primate reserves, which meant that I was trained for all of the primates. I was everybody’s second-hand man. And then, after a few years, the gorilla position became available and I stepped into that role. PGN: How does one train to be a gorilla keeper? KFR: First and foremost, you need a degree. With the zoo field, it’s pretty wide open; you can get it in biology, animal science, even psychology majors are now starting to get looked at because of the animal-behavior aspect of zoo keeping. My degree is in biology. Once you have a degree, it’s more about what you do with it, finding internships and getting experience with animals. Even something like volunteering at a dog shelter or animal rescue helps. I interned at the Pittsburgh Zoo for a while before I came here. PGN: Were you always into animals? KFR: You know what, honestly I wasn’t until I became a zoo keeper. I’m sort of an anomaly. My experience with my coworkers is that most of them knew that they wanted to work with animals from a very young age. I liked animals, but didn’t realize it as a true passion until I moved to Pittsburgh after college for a relationship. I was looking for a job and my girlfriend at the time told me they were having a job fair at the zoo. I thought, That sounds like

fun. I thought I’d be more into the research aspect of it, but then one of the primate keepers got into a motorcycle accident and they needed someone to fill in temporarily. I stepped in and soon realized that it was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. PGN: What research were you doing? KFR: I was working with a breed and release program with barn owls. We were breeding them off premises and then teaching them how to survive in the wild in an attempt to re-establish the dwindling population. And then I started a real interesting study with male mandrills. As a general rule, male mandrills can’t live together — they’re too aggressive. They were using a drug which essentially chemically castrates them; it doesn’t physically do anything so it’s reversible, but it allowed us to see if we could suppress the hormones to rein in some of the aggression. PGN: I can think of a few humans that would be good for. [Coughs] Donald Trump [coughs]. So, I bet most people don’t realize that zoos are so much more than a place to see animals. KFR: Yes, zoos are a great place for people to see and learn about animals, but the animals are representations of their wild cousins. Most zoos have embraced that and have begun to get involved in conservation and education. It’s entertaining and fun to see animals, but we want to teach you about them and what you can do to help their cousins in the wild. And like you said, we’re so much more. We do research and health care and preservation and observation. Keeping animals is an ever-evolving field. Right now there’s a lot of research revolving around nutrition. PGN: What’s a favorite animal experience? KFR: I left for a few months to have a baby and when I came back, as I came in the building the girls [gorillas] heard my voice and all came down to greet me. That was really cool. Then a few weeks later my wife brought our son, Brody, to come visit and my dominant female Nne came over to the glass. We can’t bring any visitors behind the scenes because of disease transmission, but she came right up to the glass and looked at my son. Then she looked at me and turned her back to the glass and gestured as if she wanted me to put him on her back, which is how they carry their babies. It was so neat that she noticed and recognized that it was my son. PGN: So you’re married. When did that happen? KFR: We had a civil union in New Jersey in 2009. We’d been together for about five years. Amanda works evenings, which is

great for raising a child; we don’t have to do day care. PGN: How did you meet? KFR: Through a mutual friend. I was living in Maryland at the time and she was there for the college summer break. We got to be friends and one thing led to another. PGN: A favorite romantic moment? KFR: Our honeymoon, we went to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. At first, we were a little concerned about how we would be accepted but people couldn’t have been nicer. We were given the pink honeymoon wristbands and everyone was over-the-moon excited for us. The whole week was incredibly romantic. We had the über-intimate room on the beach front with a jacuzzi and everything. It was amazing and romantic and ... amazing! PGN: And the zoo seems like a very gayfriendly place, even before Gay Day. KFR: Oh yes. There are some who say you

the word. He was amazing and he was super into me and I was really into him but for whatever reason, I kept being drawn to Amanda. Finally it hit me, “You know what, I think I like women!” It was that simple. I went from believing I was straight to realizing I was gay and that was that. PGN: Family? KFR: We both have parents who are still married and wholly supportive of us. And I have a sister, 23 months younger than me. She moved here from Boston when she found out I was going to have a baby. She wanted to be close to her (now) nephew. PGN: What did your parents do? KFR: Growing up, my mom worked for a law firm. She worked nights, which was awesome because my sister and I were both into sports and she was able to come to every single one of our athletic events. We always felt very loved and supported and all of that. My dad is an economist, specializing in the healthcare industry. At one point, he was working with President Clinton when he was trying to get a healthcare reform bill passed. PGN: That’s cool. Your dad must be ecstatic after this election. KFR: Yes, yes. We all were.

have to be gay or crazy to work with animals, especially in a zoo setting. I’d say there is some truth to that. PGN: What was coming out like? KFR: You know for me it wasn’t a struggle at all. I didn’t date at all through high school. I was too busy with school and sports. Then in college, I started hanging out with Amanda and was really intrigued by her. At the same time, there was this guy who was perfect in every sense of

PGN: At the Amsterdam Zoo, they have special tours where they feature gay animals. Any action here? KFR: Well, we have seen some homosexual behavior in our bachelor gorilla troop. There are some theories that since it’s all boys hanging out, if they want sex they just get it wherever they can or that it’s mostly a dominance display. Like my older male, Louis, showing his dominance over a younger male, Kuchimba, in a social hierarchy way through sex. Homosexual behavior has Photo: Suzi Nash been very well-documented in the animal kingdom. I’ve read a lot about penguins. PGN: What do you do away from the zoo? KFR: We like to be outdoors a lot. I kept up with soccer for a while after college and I practice with the Philadelphia Fins. PGN: Okay, one random question: If you had your own talk show, who would your first three guests be? PAGE 38

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Bravo brings animal meme company to TV By Larry Nichols larry@epgn.com Anyone who spends time on a socialmedia website knows that one of the few omnipresent things on such sites are the ubiquitous cute and humorous cat memes. If you’re like us, most of them barely generate little more than a quick “meh”— but every once in a while, there’s one that gets us good, despite our perpetual jaded states. Anyway, most of these memes come from publisher ICanHasCheezburger.com, a Seattle-based company that is the center of the new reality show “LOLwork.” The show goes inside the office of company CEO Ben Huh and his eccentric staff as they attempt to make the world laugh by putting grammatically incorrect captions on cute photos of domesticated animals.

Will Sharick, the company’s openly gay content supervisor, talked to PGN about the business of being a pipeline for cute online humor. PGN: Is the content for your website created in-house or is it stuff that people send to you? WS: Most of it is user-submitted. We provide the tools and templates for people to submit their own photos or they can choose from a large collection CHEEZBURGER CONTENT SUPERVISOR WILL that we have in different librarSHARICK ON THE SET OF “LOLWORK” ies. People create the captions Photo: Bravo/Kevin P. Casey and then we look through it and put it up for voting. Then a lot PGN: How much of the material that is sent of times our community decides what is to you actually makes it onto the site? going to be popular. We do some content WS: We receive so many submissions every that is created at our office. day that we can’t feature all of them. We do schedule about 12-15 during business hours during the week. It is a smaller percentage of [what is submitted] but that’s what keeps people interested in trying to get featured on the front page. PGN: At what point does trying to get your pet to do something cute and entertaining for the camera turn into psychological abuse? WS: That’s an interesting question. I don’t think our users submit photos that would reach that category. At Cheezburger, we have very strict terms that are listed on our website on what is appropriate and what is not. But we hardly see that at all, if ever. I’m making sure that they are approving things on our website that fall within our terms. I don’t choose the things that get featured on the website, but I do enforce the rules. PGN: You have an episode coming up featuring a lesbian cat-themed wedding. How did that come about? WS: Two of our power users who really love the website and are on it a lot, they also happen to be two of my friends. I though it would be something fun to do for them. PGN: Does being immersed in all that animal cuteness desensitize you to anything adorable or funny that your own pets at home might do? WS: Absolutely not. PGN: What, if anything, would fans of the site be surprised to find out goes on behind the scenes at ICanHasCheezburger.com? WS: We get so many emails from our fans that want to know what it’s like to work at Cheezburger. Everybody thinks it’s such a wacky, quirky place to work and that we have a lot of fun and it is, but it’s hard to explain in an email. That’s why this opportunity is so exciting. We want to be able to give the viewers and fans of the website a look at what goes on behind the scenes at the office. ■ “LOLwork” airs Wednesdays at 11 p.m. on Bravo.

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COURT SUPPORT: Dave Killian (center) and seven other Philadelphia Liberty Tennis Association members presented a $500 check to the Althea Gibson Community Education and Tennis Center in North Philadelphia Nov. 11. The center’s mission is to offer a space where children feel safe from violence and negative influences and learn to become responsible, productive members of the community. PLTA uses the center during the winter months. Photo: Scott A. Drake

Baby, it’s cold outside, so a few of the outdoor groups are moving inside for the winter. Of course, sporting indoors is nothing new for wrestlers, bowlers and others, but if your sport of choice requires a field of some sort, well, frozen turf can hurt. Falcons soccer is now at a couple of new indoor homes. Practices are Tuesdays, 810 p.m. at Guerin Recreation Center, 1600 Jackson St., and Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. at South Philadelphia High School, 2101 S. Broad St., Room 420. If you’re thinking about giving soccer a try, it’s a great controlled environment in which to start. The practices are free to members, and non-members can get a discounted membership for the rest of the year for $25 at falcons-soccer.org. Interested members can also join in for $10 per practice. The battle of the blue and gray Since the Philadelphia Eagles have pulled a no-show this season, you might be going a little crazy wanting to see a great football game. Greater Philadelphia Flag Football League has just the thing. GPFFL finished its regular season and playoff games for the year and all that remains is a final match-up between the Navy Seals and the Steel Magnolias (the blue and gray). These two teams are dynamite in motion and this should be one helluva game. The championship starts at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at Columbus Park, 1200 Wharton St. Bring your pennants, pom-poms and snacks and check them out. Good luck to both teams! Running on empty? If you’re looking to catch an athlete for the winter, head to Chestnut Street the morning of Nov. 18 and take your pick from thousands. The Philadelphia Marathon runs through more neighbor-

hoods than the average person can name, but Midtown Village/the Gayborhood is where you’ll want to gather to watch. Not only is this the largest field for the Philly event with 30,000 participants, but thousands more are descending on our city to run in lieu of the cancelled New York City Marathon. Check www.philadelphiamarathon.com for street closures and times. After the run, stop by Tabu where Go! Athletes and I’m From Driftwood host the runners and chasers, with special guest Pennsylvania Rep.-elect Brian Sims. There will be beer, tequila and taco specials and some great athletes to rub elbows with. Go! Athletes works with current and former LGBTQ athletes to improve dialog among coaches, schools, educators and allies. I’m From Driftwood manages an online archive of LGBT stories from people spanning all ages, backgrounds and cultures. Watch the runners and hit the bar, whichever you choose. Just remember to get out and play! Short stops • Philadelphia Fins Aquatics Club weeknight practice has been changed to 7:15 p.m. to accommodate the high-school and middle-school swim teams. Check www. facebook.com/pages/Philadelphia-FinsAquatics-Club/96776385792 for other updates. • Sports and recreation contacts and website information is included in the PGN Community Bulletin Board every fourth Friday of the month on the inside back cover and can also be accessed at www. epgn.com. ■ Countdown to Gay Games IX: 630 days. If your team, league, group or organization has a game, practice, fundraiser or event for Get Out and Play, email scott@epgn.com.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

PET SUPPLEMENT PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Area animal events abound In honor of our pet issue and our two-, four-, six- or eight-legged friends and companions, we have compiled a list of events in the area catering to pet owners and animal lovers alike. So get out there and have some fun with the animal kingdom. by appointment

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and have plenty of photo opportunities. For more information, call 610-891-0100. Owls: Silent Hunters of the Night Chester County Department of Parks and Recreation hosts the free event to teach about owls of the area via slide shows, pellets and mounts, followed by a moonlit walk through the meadow to the forest edge as a guide calls in Pennsylvania’s Eastern Screech Owl, the nighttime hunter most likely to be seen and heard this time of the year, 6-7:30 p.m. at Warwick County Park, 191 County Park Road, Pottstown. For more information, call 610-469-1916. Free dentistry seminar Ayuda Community Center hosts a seminar to help pet owners understand some essential concepts in veterinary dentistry, 7 p.m. Nov. 19, 4400 N. Marshall St. For more information, call 215-329-5777. Microchip your cat or dog Protect your furry friend if lost by implanting a microchip in your pet at Art’s

Animals microchip clinic, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Nov. 20, 2171 MacDade Blvd., Holmes. The low-cost price includes registration of your pet’s microchip. No appointment necessary. For more information, visit www.mypetvaccines.com or call 570-2949149. Live Animal Discovery Weekend The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is celebrating its bicentennial this year and offering limited-time, behind-the-scenes tours of its worldrenowned collections Nov. 23-25, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The tours are normally open to researchers by appointment only. Attendees can go behind the glass in the Florence R. Foerderer Live Animal Center and meet some of the 100 animal ambassadors, including hawks, owls, falcons, opossums, skunks, alligators and a variety of turtles, tortoises, snakes and lizards. Keepers will be on hand to answer questions as they care for the live animals. For more information, call 215-299-1000.■

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PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

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FUN & GAMES PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Worth Watching GETTING ‘OVER’: Maroon 5, the day job of “The Voice” judge Adam Levine, promote its new album, “Overexposed,” as the musical guest on this week’s episode of “Saturday Night Live,” 11:30 p.m. Nov. 17 on NBC.

PASS THE PEANUTS: Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the classic special, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” 8 p.m. Nov. 22 on ABC.

MILLION-DOLLAR MAN: Named one of the world’s top designers, Martyn Lawrence Bullard (pictured) is a multiaward-winning Los Angelesbased interior designer whose A-list clientele includes Sir Elton John and David Furnish, Cher, Eva Mendes and Patti LaBelle, among many others. Watch him in action on the new season of “Million Dollar Decorators,” 10 p.m. Nov. 20 on Bravo. Photo: Bravo/Joe

SEEING PINK: Super pop star P!nk performs on a bill that includes Ke$ha, No Doubt, Christina Aguilera, Taylor Swift, Usher and many more on “The 40th Anniversary American Music Awards,” 8 p.m. Nov. 18 on ABC.

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Gay is our middle name.

PGN TRAVEL

Outward Bound

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Jeff Guaracino

So much more to do at The Out NYC The Out NYC hotel is still brand new to New York’s Hell’s Kitchen and, at less than a year old, is quickly carving out a distinct personality in the crowded New York City hotel scene. Since its grand debut in March, the city’s first straight-friendly urban resort is offering new amenities to complete your LGBT getaway. Here’s what’s new. The Spa The Spa is the resort’s new day spa, catering to creature comforts of discriminating gay men. The Spa’s signature treatment — appropriately named The Great Alexander — is a 60-minute visit to heaven. The Spa offers body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures and — a must for all gay men — grooming services (trimming and a sugar-hair removal). Completing the 5,000-square-foot spa is a well-appointed gym (better than most offered by chain hotels in major metropolitan areas), two hot tubs, cabanas and a steam room. To book an appointment, visit www.theoutnycspa.com. XL Nightclub XL is more than a nightclub: It is a special-event and performance space. While John Blair’s Saturdays is all about the music

PGN: In a city where Sunday brunch is legendary, what makes the brunch at KTCHN Restaurant different? DS: Execution. I believe our guests would agree. KTCHN Restaurant’s quality of food, paired with a truly fun atmosphere, makes it the ideal spot to grab a bite for brunch. On Sundays, the Haus of Mimosa drag duo joins us for brunch to add extra entertainment to the dining experience. KTCHN Restaurant’s do-it-yourself “Mary Bar” gives diners the chance to customize — and truly spice up — their Bloody Mary cocktails.

and dancing, midweek you’ll find Broadway Mondays, cabaret performances, comedy and entertainment. For a full list of entertainment, visit www.xlnightclub.com. KTCHN Restaurant The Out NYC is a very comfortable, affordable hotel with great deals and free Wi-Fi, but a boy has gotta eat! Oftentimes, restaurants seem to offer the same menu. Almost everything on KTCHN’s menu is tailored to the smart, urban LGBT crowd. Visit www.ktchnnyc. com to explore their fresh approach to the menu. To explain the venue’s take on dining, I spoke with Executive Chef Dale Schnell. PGN: What is your philosophy on your menu? DS: KTCHN Restaurant’s menu features composed dishes that are inspired by the seasons. PGN: What makes your menu good for a LGBT-dominated clientele?

THE SPA AT THE OUT NYC

DS: Many of our dishes take on a healthful approach by primarily featuring fresh vegetables and a protein. Starchy items are left to order as side options. PGN: Having worked in San Francisco, you seemed to flock to gay meccas. Can you recount this experience? DS: I was led to San Francisco after having worked in Sonoma for a year because I wanted to experience the food scene. I found San Francisco to be exciting, challenging and truly a great city.

PGN: Who has better pizza, New York City or Chicago? DS: I love New York and it is home, but Chicago has better pizza. Be sure to try the signature KTCHN Restaurant chocolate chip cookie, and bring home some of the special Out NYC bathroom amenities. They are better souvenirs than Tshirts! ■ Jeff Guaracino is the author of “Gay and Lesbian Tourism: The Essential Guide for Marketing” and the co-chair of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association.

“I lingered in the shadows of my mind to hide from forces I believed would conjure greater torrents of pathos in my life, as if my fate was to live in perpetual sorrow, and barebacking indiscriminately would keep fate at bay.”

Millennial Poz Aaron Stella

After 30 years of HIV/AIDS, the epidemic is impacting the next generation: the Millennials. Written by Aaron Stella, Millennial Poz gives a new voice to people with HIV/AIDS. Online and in print every second Friday.

Only in

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

OUT & ABOUT The week ahead Fri. 11/16 HOLLER! The open mic starts 7 p.m. at Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St.; 215-923-2960. Yellowcard The rock band performs 7:30 p.m. at Electric Factory, 421 N. Seventh St.; 800-745-3000. Wanda Sykes The comedian performs 9 p.m. at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-317-1000. Death Rides a Horse The Western film is screened 9:45 p.m. at

Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223.

Sat. 11/17 White Fang The 1991 film adaptation of the popular novel is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610917-0223. Amy Cook The out singersongwriter performs 8 p.m. at Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave.; 215-7399684. Mike and Marga Make Queer Comedy Comedians Mike Albo and Marga

Gomez perform 8 p.m. at Painted Bride Art Center, 230 Vine St.; 215925-9914. Diabolique Ball: Agony & Ecstasy 2012 The fetish event kicks off 9 p.m. at Shampoo, 417 N. Eighth St.; 215922-7500. The KIDD Show DJ Kidd Madonny will present the Philadelphia premiere of his circus-themed show 9 p.m. at Voyeur, 1221 St. James St.; 215-7355772. Wanda Sykes The comedian performs 9 p.m. at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Music Box, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-3171000.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS PGN

Sun. 11/18

Young Frankenstein The comedy film is screened 2 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223. Beats, Rhymes and Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest The documentary about the acclaimed hiphop group is screened 4:30 p.m. at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223.

Tired of eating at the same old dives? Thinking about hitting a new hot spot? We’ll tell you what we liked — and didn’t

Dining Out Read PGN’s food reviews every second and fourth week of the month

Only in

LAUGH ‘OUT’ LOUD: Comedians Mike Albo and Marga Gomez join forces to present an event called “Mike and Marga Make Queer Comedy,” 8 p.m. Nov. 17 at Painted Bride Art Center, 230 Vine St. For more information or tickets, call 215-925-9914.

Erin McKeown and Aiden James The out singersongwriters performs 7:30 p.m. at Tin Angel; 20 S. Second St.; 215-928-0978.

Conner Oberst The singer-songwriter known for his work with the group Bright Eyes performs 8 p.m. at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215790-5847. Pin-up Peepshow 2 The burlesque show celebrating the release of the 2013 Pinups for Pitbulls Calendar, 8 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888.

Mon. 11/19 Free Quizzo & Board Game Night Roll the dice, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400. The Goonies The ’80s comedy/ adventure film is screened 8 p.m. at the Trocadero Theatre, 1003 Arch St.; 215922-6888.

Lipstick Mondays A weekly drag show featuring a changing roster of queens takes the stage 9 p.m. at The Raven, 385 W. Bridge St., New Hope; 215862-2081.

Tue. 11/20 Open Mic: The Best of What’s Next Sign up and play, 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

South St.; 215545-4511.

Fri. 11/23 Aerosmith The rock band performs 8 p.m. at Ovation Hall, 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City. For more information or tickets, call 855-348-0500. B.B. King The blues guitarist performs 8 p.m. at House of Blues, 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N.J.;

609-343-4000. The Machine The Pink Floyd tribute band performs 8 p.m. at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave.; 215-5727650. Maxwell The R&B singer performs 8 p.m. at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J.; 609-3171000.

Wed. 11/21 W5 Blues Jam Local musicians get down 7 p.m. at World Cafe Live at the Queen, 500 N. Market St., Wilmington, Del.; 302-994-1400.

Thu. 11/22 Bob and Barbara’s Drag Show The outrageousness begins 11 p.m. at Bob and Barbara’s, 1509

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.

GET THE FOLK OUT, PART ONE: Amy Cook, the out singersongwriter whose music has been featured on “The L Word,” performs 8 p.m. Nov. 17 at Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave. For more information or tickets, call 215-739-9684.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PGN LISTINGS

Opening Dr. Doolittle The Media Theater for the Performing Arts presents the story of a veterinarian who can talk to animals, Nov. 20-Jan. 27, 104 E. State St., Media; 610-8910100.

The Lair Lantern Theater Company presents an adaptation of Pierre Corneille’s classic French comedy, through Dec. 2 at St. Stephen’s Theater, 10th and Ludlow streets; 215-829-0395.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Closing Charlie Murphy The comedian from “Chappelle’s Show” performs through Nov. 17 at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St.; 215-496-9001

Monty Python and the Holy Grail The comedy film is screened Nov. 2325 at Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville; 610-917-0223.

Learning from Frank Furness: Louis Sullivan in 1873 Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of drawings and furniture by the famed architect, through Dec. 30, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100.

Enchanted Exchanges: Chirps and Chatter ArtStar Gallery presents a solo exhibition by Jordan Elise Perme of Horrible Adorables, through Nov. 18, 623 N. Second St.; 215-238-1557.

The Music Box The Genesis tribute band performs “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway” 8 p.m. Nov. 16-17 at Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave.; 215-572-7650.

The Music Man Walnut Street Theatre presents the popular Broadway musical, through Jan. 6, 825 Walnut St.; 215-5743550.

Prokofiev’s Alexander Nevsky The Philadelphia Orchestra performs through Nov. 17 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-7905847. Problem Child Walking Fish Theatre Company presents a comedy about a couple trying to clean up their drug-ravaged lives and reclaim custody of their daughter (that’s right, it’s a comedy), through Nov. 17, 2059 Frankford Ave.; 215427-9255.

GET THE FOLK OUT, PART TWO: Out singer-songwriters Eric McKeown and Aiden James (left) team up for a show 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St. For more information or tickets, call 215928-0978.

A Taste of Paris The Philadelphia Orchestra performs a musical journey from French Impressionism to jazz, Nov. 23-25 at Kimmel’s Verizon Hall, 260 S. Broad St.; 215-790-5847. War Horse The dramatic story of a boy and his horse during World War I, Nov. 20-Dec 2 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad

Continuing St.; 215-790-5847. Cooking With the Calamari Sisters The all-singing, all-dancing, all-cooking hit musical comedy, through Dec. 2 at Society Hill Playhouse, 507 S. Eighth St.; 215-9230210. Cy Twombly: Sculptures Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of works from the Swiss sculptor, through March, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. The English Bride Theatre Exile presents the story of a series of interrogations after a bombing attempt on a flight out of London, through Dec. 2 at Studio X, 1340 S. Third St.; 215-218-4022.

Spellbound Dance Company The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the acclaimed dance company, through Nov. 17 at Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 rtmthanksgiving color 5x5.6_Layout■1 11/7/12 Walnut St.; 215-898-3900.

On My Honor: 100 Years of Girl Scouting The National Constitution Center presents an exhibition highlighting the history, contributions and traditions of Girl Scouts, including entrepreneurship, environmental awareness and civic engagement, through Dec. 31, 525 Arch St.; 215409-6895.

MAXING & RELAXING: Take refuge from the madness that is Black Friday with the smooth, soulful sounds of R&B star Maxwell, performing 8 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, N.J. For more information or tickets, call 609-317-1000.

10:04 AM Page 1

Thanksgiving Tradition

Presidential Artifacts The National Constitution Center presents an exhibition of artifacts from collections around the country, through Dec. 31, 525 Arch St.; 215409-6895. Ronaldus Shamask: Form, Fashion, Reflection Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of drawings and sketches by the fashion designer, through March 10, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215-763-8100. Shipwreck! Winslow Homer and The Life Line Philadelphia Museum of Art presents an exhibition of 33 paintings by the American artist, through Dec. 16, 26th Street and the Parkway; 215763-8100.

 

 

FUN PGN & GAMES

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Q Puzzle Debut Across

1. Force in “Milk,” for short 5. Ward of the state Mississippi 9. Office aides 14. Chalky white 15. Visitor at gay. com 16. One in a red suit 17. With 33-Across, Broadway debut of 51-Across 20. Made a profit of, in Mauresmo’s sport? 21. Scenery chewer 22. Quit, with “out” 23. Playful aquatic critter 24. Blackball 26. Brisk pace 27. Oats for a stallion, e.g. 28. Contrary response to “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” 29. Remove a slip?

30. Fireside chat prez 31. George Michael’s band 32. Trial balloon 33. See 17-Across 35. More like O’Donnell? 38. They cover your public hair 39. Syndicate 42. It’s just over a foot 43. Baby goats 44. Word after fish? 45. Eurythmics’ “Would ___ to You?” 46. Sub sinker 47. Michigan native 48. R. Mapplethorpe supporter 49. Muscle Mary’s pride 50. Wisconsin city 51. She made her Broadway debut when she was 19 years old 55. In-your-face 56. Lesbian couple with children 57. Estimate beginning 58. Fagged out

PORTRAIT from page 29

KFR: First, I would host Missy Franklin — she’s an Olympic gold medalist in swimming — because she is A) adorable and B) an amazing athlete. She’s only a high-school senior and as a young female athlete, she’s a role model for girls to look up to. After the Olympics, she turned down prize money and endorsements so that she could remain eligible to swim in college and get a college education, which is a great example for others to follow. Next would be our best friends, Samantha Nestor and Andrew Haneiko, for an episode on sperm donation and surrogacy. Andrew gave us the gift of sperm donation so that Amanda and I could start our own family. Sam is his wife, so it was a joint decision on their part. I would love the opportunity to be able to open people’s eyes to the possibilities that are out there for gay and lesbian couples (as well as those with fertility troubles) to start families. My third guest would be Ricki Lake and I would talk about her work to raise awareness and educate women about natural childbirth and midwifery. All too often, childbirth is viewed as a strictly hospital-based experience requiring drugs and medical intervention, and Ricki has done a wonderful job of bringing to light the various options available to women, and making us realize just how special and empowering childbirth can be. PGN: Something your son’s done to make you laugh? KFR: Well, a few weeks ago he was having a difficult time. He’s not talking yet so he gets frustrated because he can’t communicate what he wants. So for a few weeks he was just yelling — nonstop — for no reason. Then all of a sudden, he did a 180

59. Right on a map 60. Southern negative

Down

1. “Maude,” to “All in the Family” 2. Cut, like precious stones 3. Record, in Johnny Mathis’ day 4. Dinged up 5. Took to court 6. P-town clock setting 7. Non-Judy garland 8. Laurents, who directed the musical of this puzzle 9. McAn of footwear 10. Racket extension 11. Like Harvey Milk to Castro Street? 12. Get on one knee, maybe 13. Type of step 18. Lang. of the von Trapps 19. Blower 24. Elite Navy diver 25. Where the Pied Piper blew it

26. It can bear fruit 28. Norse bolt maker 29. Slippery swimmers 31. Roller coaster cry 32. Passing fancies 33. Trick 34. “West ___ Story” 35. Pride flag design 36. Enjoying a furlough 37. Many a place near Aspen 39. ___ Islands (Guam and others) 40. Bunker player 41. In need of some Astroglide? 43. Broadway request for Kate 44. Arizona city 46. Some degree of control 47. “Bali ___” 49. Too-too 50. Silence for Copland 52. Cold response 53. Vidal’s “Visit ___ Small Planet” 54. Apt. divisions

and now he finds everything funny. The other night, my wife and I were having dinner. We were just quietly talking and he just started cracking up, he sat there and laughed for almost a half-hour. It was hysterical; I love to hear his laugh. PGN: What was the hardest part of being a new mommy? KFR: Coming back to work. I don’t love being a working mom. I miss my son every minute of the day. I rush home as fast as I can to get some snuggles in before he has to go to bed. I thought I’d be fine with it. You’re not in zoo-keeping for the money or fame, you’re here because you love it. I mean these are my kids, too. To choose between my two families would have been hard, so I always thought coming back to work would be a breeze. Boy was I wrong. It’s so hard to tear myself away from my son. PGN: You spoke of your love of the animals but do you enjoy the people interaction as well? KFR: Yes, I really love talking to people who are interested in learning about the animals. I enjoy educating people. I especially love talking about the individual gorillas because they each have such distinct personalities. If I have work to do, I have to stop myself from coming out in the public areas because once I get started, I could talk about them for hours. PGN: What’s a favorite zoo story? KFR: They all eat food differently. Kivu, she’s a character, I don’t think she realizes that she’s a gorilla. She much prefers to spend time with us downstairs than interacting with the other gorillas. She’s quirky and does everything different. You

know how everyone has their own way of eating Oreos? She’s like that with carrots. When we give her round carrot slices, she takes a bite out of each one, leaving these half-moon carrot rinds everywhere. And she doesn’t like peanut shells, so if you give her a peanut, she breaks it open and takes the skin off and then she takes the skin and the shell and pushes it out of her room. She doesn’t want it anywhere near her. Oh, another funny guy is Louis, he’s our biggest gorilla. He’s huge and handsome, but he hates getting his hands or feet dirty. Unfortunately, the area where they shift from inside to out is always muddy. If it’s too muddy, he won’t come out and if he does cross over it, he immediately goes to the nearest dry spot and OCD-style proceeds to clean off his hands and feet until they’re immaculate. He also will clean his own room. He hates having poop in there. PGN: Well, doesn’t everybody? KFR: [Laughs.] You’d be surprised. Some of them love rolling around in it. But not Louis. It’s hilarious to see this humongous gorilla act like such a baby. PGN: How close do you get to them? KFR: We work with what’s called protected contact. We never go in with them but I get to physically interact with them through a mesh barrier. They’re just too big and strong for anything else. You’re not going to be dominant over a 450-pound silverback gorilla, plus they’re very territorial so we want to respect their space. But we do tons of training every single day. We do a lot of body presentation, which is training them to come to the mesh and present different parts for me to touch. I’ll ask them to open their mouths and other things that will help if they need to be seen by a

vet. I also get to scratch their backs and give them tummy rubs. But they call the shots; if they’re not in the mood for something, we don’t push it. But they generally love interacting with people. PGN: I’ve seen a few of the gorillas sit quietly and then suddenly turn around and scare people by the glass. KFR: Yeah, they can be really funny that way. I think they get a kick out of it. Louis in particular, he’s a 13-year-old boy full of testosterone and he loves getting a rise out of people. Sometimes, I’ll hear a big thump and then screams, and I know he’s suddenly banged the glass and startled everyone standing there. The more reaction he gets, the more fun he has. If he does it and no one reacts, he’ll stop until new people come around. Having different people there every day is like watching TV for them. They’re just as interested in us as we are in them. ■ To suggest a community member for “Family Portrait,” write to portraits05@aol.com.

PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Classifieds Real Estate Sale

Real Estate Sale

Real Estate Rent

Roommates

12TH & DICKINSON AREA Furnished Townhouse for rent: 3 levels. Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bath. Very Unique. 1500. mo plus util. (negotiable). Call 215 468-9166 after 6 pm. or 215 686 3431 daytime. ________________________________________36-49 HADDON TWP, NJ Safe, sunny 2 BR apt. 2nd ﬂ owner occ. duplex. 1000 sq.. ft., A/C, D/W, W/D, new carpet & paint. Pvt. ent. Close to speedline, bus, walk, bike to shops, parks, lakes, library. $900/mo. Call Brian, 12 PM-7 PM, 856-858-8620. ________________________________________36-48 HORSHAM 1 BR, 2nd ﬂ, private residence. Private entrance, W/D, $850 + utils. 215-675-0780. ________________________________________36-46

Rooms for rent in Salem, NJ. Small $600, MBR $700 and double, $800/mo. Includes utilities. Call 856-275-1001. ________________________________________36-47

For Sale

Men 609-345-8203 oceanhouseAC@yahoo.com ________________________________________37-05

Nibble on something you’ll soon fall in love with. LOVE CAKE is a delicious, very nearly, not quite, almost 100% ORGANIC ITALIAN APPLE CAKE. Taste our apple/cinnamon, w/belgium chocolate, w/bitchin’ hot Italian pepper. FREE CC DELIV, each cake 16 slices is shrink wrapped to maintain freshness. No Preservatives, Not Gluten Free. We bake/deliver daily until Thanksgiving. brooks.N’.mia’s bakery 11th Locust 215-887-3159. ________________________________________36-48 VIAGRA 100MG AMD CIALIS 20MG 40 Pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement! Discreet Shipping. Save $500. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-800-491-8509. ________________________________________36-46

Real Estate Sale

Travel and Resorts

Open Houses - Sunday November 18, 2012 12:00-2:30 PM

1808 Christian Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 3 Bedrooms, 2 full, 2 half Baths.$575,000

1834 Christian Street, B, Philadelphia, PA 19146 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths $310,000

12:00-2:00 PM

The Lenox Condominiums 250 S. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Condos from $165,000

424 S.11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 JUST LISTED! Totally renovated 4BR/2.5BA home nestled in the Washington Sq West $865,000

Search all Philadelphia area listings @ www.thephillyrealtors.com Dan Tobey

The Curtis Center • 1 401 Walnut St. 8th Floor • Philadelphia, PA 19102

215.546.2700 Business • 267.238.1061 Direct 215.432.7151 Cell • 215.546.7728 Fax dtobey@cbpref.com • www.cbpref.com

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 real-estate advertising that is in violation of any applicable law.

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

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

PGN

WATERFRONT

River Mills At Frenchtown

20 outstanding, new, luxurious, waterfront townhomes on the Delaware River by renowned builder, George Michael. The townhomes will feature �� For more information, contact

J. Victoria Baum ��

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Subject to errors, omissions, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. The purpose of this advertising is to solicit nonbinding reservations. The nonbinding reservation is not a contract and may be cancelled by the prospective purchaser at any time, without cause. Any money paid to the developer shall be refunded to the prospective purchaser upon request and cancellation of the nonbinding reservation.

PGN

PGN’S COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

Listings for everything you need. Click on the resource button on the home page to start shopping today!

only on epgn.com

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Help Wanted

Jewelry

Friends Men

Driver - $0.03 enhanced quarterly bonus. Get paid for any portion you qualify for: safety, production, MPG. CDL-A, 3 months current OTR exp. 800-414-9569 www. driveknight.com ________________________________________36-46 Drivers: CDL-A. Experience Pays! Up to $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! Tuition reimbursement up to $6000. New student pay AND lease program. Call or Apply Online! 877-5215775 www.USATruck.jobs ________________________________________36-46 CDL-A NO GIMMICKS! Just great pay, Miles, hometime & benefits. $.50/mile for Hazmat Teams. Solos start at $.36/mile. 1 yr. exp. req’d. 800-942-2104 Ext. 7308 or 7307 www.TotalMS.com ________________________________________36-46 Gordon Trucking, Inc. CDL-A Drivers Needed! ..$1,500 SIGN ON BONUS.. Refrigerated Fleet & Great Miles! Pay incentive & Benefits! Recruiters available 7 days/wk! EOE 866-554-7856. ________________________________________36-46 Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight lanes from Presque Isle, ME, Boston-Lehigh, PA. 800-277-0212 or primeinc.com ________________________________________36-46 Drivers- A. Duie Pyle Needs Owner Operators Regional Truckload Operations. HOME EVERY WEEKEND! O/O Average $1.84/Mile. Steady, Year-Round Work. Requires CDL-A, 2 Yrs. Exp. Call Dan: 877-910-7711 www.DriveForPyle.com ________________________________________36-46 Driver: CDL-A Van & Flatbed *New Pay Package! *Very New Trucks *Benefits After 30-Days *Great Miles, Pay *Dependable Hometime *Start Immediately! CDL Graduates Needed! 877-917-2266 drivewithwestern.com ________________________________________36-46

Jewelry bought, sold, repairs, estates, custom deisgn, 707 Sansom. 215-925-3822. ________________________________________36-49

LOOKING FOR ROMANCE Attractive GWM, warm, sensitive, caring, 48 y.o. with a smooth gymnast build looking for other GWM, 30-50, who is also in good shape. I live in NE Phila. I’m looking for guys who are also sensitive, caring with a fun personality. If this sounds interesting to you feel free to call me, David, 215-698-0215. ________________________________________36-49 BM, 60 looking for British gent, 35-45 for intimate encounters. 215-763-3391, 6PM-Midnight. ________________________________________36-49 WM, 66 ISO WM, 18-40 for mutual gratiﬁcation. Compensation offered. Page at 610-418-1485 w/call back no. or text to 6104181485@archwireless.net ________________________________________36-46 GBM, 28, 8 seeks Mexcian or Puerto Rican male for relationship. Leave message, 215-275-7698. ________________________________________36-46 WM, NE Phila. If you’re looking for hot action, call 215-934-5309. No calls after 11 PM. ________________________________________36-49

Adoption Pregnant? Considering adoption? Successful educated woman seeks to adopt & needs your help! Will be a loving FULL-TIME mom. Expenses paid. Lisa. 1-888977-2931 ________________________________________36-46

Gay is our middle name. Services EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV Certified. Call 888-220-3984. www.CenturaOnline.com ________________________________________36-46 AIRLINE CAREERS Begin here-Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified-Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-834-9715 ________________________________________36-46 MEDICAL-BILLING-TRAINEES NEEDED! Train to become a Medical Office Assistant. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training gets you Job ready ASAP. HS Diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed! 1-888926-7882 _______________________________________36-46 WET BASEMENT? 800-511-6579 Free inspection/estimate. Call today, don’t delay. No costly excavation, finished and unfinished, Lifetime transferable warranty. Financing available. PA Basement Waterproofing, Inc. PA001027. ________________________________________36-46

Friends Women Hi ladies, I am a GWF looking for a GWF, 35-45 who is honest, caring and must be for real. Love hugs and kisses. Life is too short; I don’t sweat the small stuff. So if you want to talk, call Joanie at 610-657-8640. ________________________________________36-47

PGN Massage David, 62, 6’, 200 lbs., educated. 215-569-4949. ________________________________________36-49 Massage on the Mainline. Affordable, professional. $60 per hour. Treat yourself! Appointments: 610-710-6213. ________________________________________36-46

Placing Classiﬁeds Liner Ads In Person: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, By Phone or on the Web: 24 Hours, 7 Days

Deadline for Line Advertising is Friday at 3 p.m. for the following Friday’s issue. You may place your ad via our secure voicemail system, fax or e-mail at any time, or on our Web site. Please have the following information ready to place your ad:

YOUR AD COPY • YOUR NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER • CREDIT CARD INFORMATION PHONE: 215-625-8501 ext. 200 OR 215-451-6182 (DIRECT) • FAX: 215-925-6437 • E-MAIL: don@epgn.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

All classified advertising must be in our office by 3 p.m. Friday for the next Friday’s paper. Ads arriving after that time will be held for the next available issue. PGN reserves the right to edit or rewrite ads as needed, to refuse any ad for any reason and to determine the final classification. Ads determined to be in bad taste, directed to or from persons under the legal age of consent or containing racially or sexually discriminatory language will be refused. We need your full name, mailing address and daytime phone number on the insertion order form for you ad. This information is confidential and will not appear in the paper. Any ads received without full information will be destroyed. Sexually explicit language will be edited or refused at the discretion of the management.

PAYMENT AND PLACEMENT

Classified ads may be placed online or by mail, fax, e-mail or in person at the PGN offices at 505 S. Fourth St., Phila. Phone, fax and e-mail orders are accepted with credit/debit cards only. A $10 minimum applies to all charges. If you are paying in person with cash, please have the exact change as we cannot make change at the office. All ads must be prepaid for their entire run. NO EXCEPTIONS! DO NOT SEND CASH THROUGH THE MAIL; IT’S NOT SAFE AND CANNOT BE GUARANTEED.

TERM DISCOUNTS - BASED ON THE NUMBER OF ISSUES PREPAID 4 weeks, 5% • 8 weeks, 10% • 16 weeks, 15% • 26 weeks, 20%

CANCELLATION POLICY

All PGN Classified ads are cancelable and refundable except for “FRIENDS” ads. Deadline for cancellation is 3 p.m. Friday. The balance will be credited to your credit/debit card. Checks take two weeks to process. The date of the first issue the ad appeared in, along with the classification, your name, address and daytime phone number is required to cancel your ad.

Handsome Certified Therapist 6’, 195 lbs, Muscle Gives Sensual / Therapeutic Massage

Call 215-432-6030

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PGN

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

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Saturday, November 17th, 2012 Time: 11pm-3:30am

STUDENT SPECIALS - Student Special Only Applies for

HAT TO EXPECT: • DJ David Dutch • Complimentary Food & Beverages • A Full House of Guys To Choose From & Soo Much More..

FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT: After Bar Special

Rooms go quickly and are on a 1st Come, 1st Served basis. So Check In Early if you want a room…

4 hour Lockers (8am – 4pm) Members/Students: $5.00 & Non-Members: $15.00

P.A.N.G. (Philadelphia Area Nudist Group)

Half Price Rooms (6am Sunday till 8am Monday) Members/Students: $12.50 & Non-Members: $22.50

Saturday, November 18th, 2012 TIME: 3pm- 6:00pm Boys will Be Boys- Awaken Your Spirit Join P.A.N.G. for an afternoon of Naked Socializing & More... For More Information On Group:www.phillynakedguys.com/

Guys Ages 18-27 Years Of Age, Day Pass Waived for Students Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday-

6hr Rooms (2am to 8am) Members/Students: $15.00 and Non-Members: $25.00 (Special Not Eﬀective During Party Nights)

SATURDAY: AFTERNOON DELIGHT SUNDAY RELIEF

MANIC MONDAY

5 for 5 ($5 Lockers for 5Hrs) Members/Students: $5.00 Non-Members: $15.00 (4pm to 12 )

Check out our website for our HOT NEW WEEKLY SPECIALS & JOIN OUR e-mail List to get the latest information on upcoming events.... Also, RENOVATIONS are being done, So swing by & Check Out The Transformation!

Don’t forget to visit the Adonis Cinema right next door!! 2026 Sansom St/ PH: 215-557-9319

PGN

12-step programs and support groups Al-Anon

■

Pennsylvania Al-Anon Alateen Family Groups: Events, meeting times and locations at pa-al-anon.org

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

■ Acceptance meets 7:30 p.m. on Fridays at

Episcopal Church, 22nd and Spruce streets.

■ Community meets 8 p.m. on Thursdays at

Holy Communion Church, 2111 Sansom St. Gay and lesbian, but all are welcome. ■ Early Night Out meets 5:30 p.m. daily at Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St., second ﬂoor; 215-985-9206. ■ GLBT Alcoholics Anonymous meets 7 p.m. on Sundays and 8 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 100 W. Windsor St., Reading; 484-529-9504. ■ Living Sober meets 8:30 p.m. Saturdays at the William Way Center. ■ No Other Way Out meets 11 a.m. Sundays at the William Way Center. ■ Night Owl meets 11:30 p.m. daily at the William Way Center. ■ Stepping Stone meets 2:30 p.m. Mondays at the William Way Center. ■ Sober and Gay meets 8:30 p.m. SundayFriday at the William Way Center. ■ Young People’s meets 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Mark’s Church, 1625 Locust St.

Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)

■ Meets 7 p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday,

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at the William Way Center.

Emotional Support

■ Pink and Blues, a free peer-run mental-health

support group for LGBT people, meets 7 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Luke and The Epiphany Church, 330 S. 13th St.; 215-627-0424. ■ Survivors of Suicide Inc. meets 7:30 p.m. on ﬁrst Tuesday of the month at 3535 Market St., Room 2037; 215-545-2242; www.phillysos. tripod.com. ■ Survivors of Suicide Inc., Chester County, meets 7:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at Paoli Memorial Hospital, Willistown Room, Medical Ofﬁce Building; 215-545-2242; phillysos.tripod.com.

HIV/AIDS

■ Strength In Numbers

Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ SINPhiladelphia.

Mondays: ■ Positive Brothers, a support group for men of color living with HIV/AIDS, meets 6 p.m. at 112 N. Broad St., 11th floor; 215-496-0330. Tuesdays: ■ A support group for HIV-positive men and women meets 1:30-3 p.m. at BEBASHI — Transition to Hope, 1217 Spring Garden St., first floor; 215-769-3561. bebashi.org. ■ Encuentros, a group for HIV-negative Latino men who have sex with men, meets 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month at 1201 Locust St. ■ “Feast Incarnate,” a weekly ministry for people affected by HIV/AIDS, meets 5 p.m. at University Lutheran Church, 3637 Chestnut St. Bible study follows at 6 p.m.; 215-3872885. ■ A support group for people recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS meets 6:30-8 p.m. at the Mazzoni Center; 215-563-0652 ext. 235. ■ Youth Outreach Adolescent Community Awareness Program’s Voice It Sistah, a support group for HIV-positive women,

meets 11 a.m. every ﬁrst and third Tuesday at YOACAP, 1207 Chestnut St., Suite 315; 215851-1898. Wednesdays: ■ AIDS Services in Asian Communities’ weekly volunteer work group meets 6-8 p.m. at 340 N. 12th St., Suite 205; 215-629-2300. ■ Project Teach, a peer-education and empowerment program for people living with HIV/AIDS, meets at Philadelphia Fight, 1233 Locust St.; ﬁght.org. ■ Positive Effect, for HIV-positive people 18 and over, meets 5-7 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at Camden AHEC, 514 Cooper St., Camden, N.J.; 856-963-2432. Thursdays: ■ A support group for HIV-positive men and women meets 6-8 p.m. at BEBASHI — Transition to Hope, 1217 Spring Garden St.; 215-769-3561. ■ Diversity, an HIV/AIDS support group for all infected or affected, meets from 7-9 p.m. at Arch Street United Methodist Church, 55 N. Broad St.; call Zak, 215-848-4380; azaklad@craftech.com. Saturdays: ■ AIDS Delaware’s You’re Not Alone youth support group meets during the school year. Call 800-810-6776 for meeting location and time.

Debtors Anonymous

■ Meets 7-8 p.m. Monday and Thursday at the

William Way Center.

Overeaters Anonymous (OA)

■ Open meeting, Tuesdays, 5:45 p.m., and

7 p.m. Fridays, at Hahnemann University Hospital, 245 N. 15th St.; call Troy for ﬂoor/ room number, 215-514-3065; www.oa.org. ■ Meets 11 a.m.-noon at the William Way Center.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

Community Bulletin Board Community centers

■ The Attic Youth Center: For LGBT and questioning youth and their friends and allies. Groups meet and activities are held 4-8 p.m. MondayFriday; case management, HIV testing and smoking cessation are available Monday-Friday. See the Youth section for more events. 255 S. 16th St.; 215-545-4331. ■ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center at the University of Pennsylvania 3907 Spruce St., 215-898-5044; center@dolphin.upenn.edu. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday.

and Allies Youth Center: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays: Doylestown Planned Parenthood, The Atrium, Suite 2E, 301 S. Main St., Doylestown; 215-957-7981; rainbowroom@ppbucks.org

■ William Way Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center: 1315 Spruce St.; 215-732-2220; www.waygay.org. Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Peer counseling: 6-9 p.m. Monday through Friday Library hours: 12-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 12-3 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Friday; 126 p.m. Saturday. Volunteers: New Orientation: First Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

■ Rainbow Room — Bucks County’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning

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

Key numbers

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

■ Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Peer Counseling Services: 215-732-TALK

■ AIDS Library: 215-985-4851

■ Mayor’s Director of LGBT Affairs: Gloria Casarez, 215-6862194; Gloria.Casarez@phila.gov; Fax: 215-686-2555

■ ACLU of Pennsylvania: 215592-1513 ■ AIDS Treatment Fact line: 800662-6080 ■ Barbara Gittings Gay and Lesbian Collection at the Independence Branch of the Philadelphia Free Library: 215-685-1633 ■ The COLOURS Organization Inc.: 112 N. Broad St., third floor; 215-496-0330 ■ Equality Pennsylvania: 215731-1447; www.equalitypa.org ■ Equality Forum: 215-732-3378

■ Mazzoni Center: 215-563-0652; www.mazzonicenter.org. Legal Services: 215-563-0657, 866-LGBTLAW; legalservices@mazzonicenter. org ■ Mazzoni Center Family & Community Medicine: 215-563-0658 ■ Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Philadelphia): 215-572-1833

■ Philadelphia Lesbian and Gay Task Force: 215-772-2000 ■ Philadelphia Police Department liaison — Deputy Commissioner Stephen Johnson: 215-683-2840 ■ Philadelphia Police Liaison Committee: 215-760-3686; ppd. lgbt@gmail.com ■ Philly Pride Presents: 215875-9288 ■ SPARC — Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition: 717-9209537 ■ Transgender Health Action Coalition: 215-732-1207 (staffed 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays)

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

S.A.R.A.

■ Substance Abuse – Risk Assessment; day and

evening hours; 215-563-0663 ext. 282.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous

■ Meets 7:30 p.m.Thursdays at All Saints

Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del.; 302-542-3279.

SEPCADD

■ Safe space to meet and discuss substance

abuse problems at the William Way Center.

Health

Alder Health Services provides LGBT health services on a sliding-fee scale; 100 N. Cameron St., Ste. 301 East, Harrisburg; 717-233-7190 or 800-867-1550; www.alderhealth.org. Anonymous, free HIV testing with Spanish/ English counselors, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 3439 N. Hutchinson St.; 215-763-8870 ext. 6000. HIV treatment: Free HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment for Philadelphia residents available 9 a.m.-noon Mondays and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215685-1803. HIV health insurance help: Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing available at 17 MacDade Blvd., Suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Office Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610586-9077. Philadelphia FIGHT provides HIV primary care, on-site lab services, clinical trials, case management, mental-health services and support groups for people living with HIV regardless of insurance status or ability to pay; 1233 Locust St., fifth floor; 215-985-4448; www. fight.org.

Anonymous, free, conﬁdential HIV testing Spanish/English counselors offer testing 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, 3439 N. Hutchinson St.; 215-763-8870 ext. 6000.

Health

AIDS Services In Asian Communities Provides HIV-related services to Asians and Pacific Islanders at 340 N. 12th St., Suite 205; 215-629-2300. www.asiac.org. Gay and Lesbian Latino AIDS Education Initiative Free, anonymous HIV testing from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1207 Chestnut St., fifth floor; noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Washington West Project, 1201 Locust St. 215851-1822 or 866-222-3871. www.galaei.org. Spanish/English HIV treatment Free HIV/AIDS diagnosis and treatment for Philadelphia residents are available from 9 a.m.-noon Mondays and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Health Center No. 2, 1720 S. Broad St.; 215-685-1803. HIV health insurance help Access to free medications and confidential HIV testing ■ Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Philadelphia GALLOP holds board meetings at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at 100 S. Broad St., Suite 1810; GALLOP also provides a free referral service; (215) 6279090; www.galloplaw.org. ■ Greater Philadelphia Professional Network Networking group for area business professionals, self-employed and business owners meets monthly in a different location throughout the city, invites speakers on various topics, partners with other nonprofits and maintains a Web site where everyone is invited to sign up for email notices for activities and events; www.gppn.org.

available by appointment at 13 S. MacDade Blvd., Suite 108, Collingdale; Medical Ofﬁce Building, 722 Church Lane, Yeadon; and 630 S. 60th St.; 610-5869077.

Mazzoni Center Free, anonymous HIV testing; HIV/AIDS care and treatment, case management and support groups; 21 S. 12th St., eighth ﬂoor; 215-563-0652. www.mazzonicenter.org. Mazzoni Center Family & Community Medicine Comprehensive primary health care, preventive health services, gynecology, sexual-health services and chronic-disease management, including comprehensive HIV care, 809 Locust St.; 215-563-0658. Washington West Project Free, anonymous HIV testing. Walk-ins welcome 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday except for noon-1 p.m. and 5-6 p.m., and 1-5 p.m. Saturday; 1201 Locust St.; 215-985-9206.

Professional groups ■ Independence Business Alliance Greater Philadelphia’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce, providing networking, business development, marketing, educational and advocacy opportunities for LGBT and LGBT-friendly businesses and professionals. Visit www.IndependenceBusinessAlliance.com for information about events, programs and membership; 215-557-0190; 1717 Arch St., Suite 3370. ■ National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association The Philadelphia chapter of NLGJA, open to professionals and

students, meets for social and networking events; www.nlgjaphiladelphia.org. ■ Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus A regional organization dedicated to promoting gay and lesbian tourism to the Greater Philadelphia region holds meetings every other month on the fourth Thursday (January, March, May, July, September and the third Thursday in November), open to the public; P.O. Box 58143, Philadelphia, PA 19102; www.philadelphiagaytourism.com. ■ Philly OutGoing Professionals Social group for gay, lesbian and bisexual professionals meets for social and cultural activities, 856857-9283; popnews19@yahoo. com.

Philadelphia Gay News www.epgn.com Nov. 16-22, 2012

PGN