Baltimore Gay Life March 2015

MARCH 2015 BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

Love it.

“ You are not who

you think you are.

You are actually something bigger than that.”

PAYS HOMAGE 10 GMCW TO ANIMATION

QUEENS 11 QUEER OF QOMEDY

COMES 12 CHICAGO TO BALTIMORE

THE ALL-NEW

2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC® LEASE FOR

$419* PER MONTH FOR 36 MONTHS.

THE ALL-NEW

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4MATIC® LEASE FOR

www.mercedesofannapolis.com

$369* PER MONTH FOR 36 MONTHS.

**Lease based on total MSRP of ($44,025 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($37,325 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®), 36 monthly payments and 10,000 miles per year. First month’s payment ($419 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($369 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®), down payment ($3,499 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($2,725 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®), $795 Acquisition fee, tax, tags, title and $299 dealer processing charge due at lease signing. On approved credit. No Security Deposit Required. Available only to qualified customers by Mercedes-Benz Financial (where applicable to advertised lease) through 2/28/2015. Advertised lease rate based on a gross capitalized cost of ($44,025 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($37,325 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®). Includes destination charge and optional Premium Package1, Becker MAP PILOT®-pre wiring, and Becker MAP PILOT®. Excludes title, taxes, registration, license fees, insurance, dealer prep. and additional options. Total monthly payments equal ($15,084 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($13,284 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®). Cash due at signing includes ($4,713 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($3,889 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®) capitalized cost reduction, $795 acquisition fee, and first month’s lease payment of ($419 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($369 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®). Total payments equal ($21,332 2015 C300 4MATIC®) ($17,968 2015 GLA250 4MATIC®). Subject to credit approval. Expires 2/28/2015.

Mercedes-Benz of Annapolis 324 Sixth Street Annapolis, MD 21403 1.866.583.9862

Lease the All-New

2015 smart electric drive coupe with Battery Assurance Plus**

$139/month for 36 months*

MSRP $20,740

smart center Annapolis 324 Sixth Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21403 1.866.583.9862 | smartcarMaryland.com

*Available only to qualified customers through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services at participating dealers through 2/28/2015. Not everyone will qualify. Advertised 36 months lease payment based on MSRP of 20,740.00 less the suggested dealer contribution resulting in a total gross capitalized cost of $20,740. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect your actual lease payment. Includes Destination Charge, Air Conditioning and smart Entryline Radio. Excludes title, taxes, registration, license fees, insurance, dealer prep and additional options. Total monthly payments equal $5,004. Cash due at signing includes $434.00 capitalized cost reduction, $295 acquisition fee, first month’s vehicle lease payment of $139, and the one-month battery assurance plus lease payment of $80 plus tax.

No security deposit required. Total payments equal $5,299. At lease end, lessee pays for any amounts due under the lease, any official fees and taxes related to the scheduled termination, excess wear and use plus $0.25/mile over 0,000 miles and a $395 vehicle turn-in fee. Purchase option at lease end for $12,892.00plus taxes (and any other fees and charges due under the applicable lease agreement) in example shown. Specific vehicles are subject to availability and may have to be ordered. Subject to credit approval. See participating dealer for details. Please always wear your seat belt. Drive safely and obey speed limits. **With Battery Assurance Plus, the smart electric drive battery is rented separately on a month-to-month basis for $80 plus tax per month. Initial battery lease term is one month.

The maximum number of month-to-month renewal is for a total of 119 months. Subject to credit approval. See dealer for complete details.

For more information on Battery Assurance Plus, call 1-866 700-9853.

2

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

IN THIS GAY LIFE RuPaul's Drag Race season 7 begins March 2

13 SELF-ACTUALIZED

REALNESS

Departments LOCAL LIFE

REAL LIFE

23 Ladies Night by Courtney Bedell Eckler 23 Spiritual In-To-Me-I-See by Coach Maq ElĂŠ 24 The W.O.E. Report by Wyatt O'Brian Evans 24 out-skirts by Danielle Ariano 25 Crossing T's by Angela Wren

OUR LIFE

26 26

by Anthony Moll

22 22

Justin's HIV Journal by Justin B. Terry-Smith Spilling the Tea

Queer Queens of Qomedy by Kelly Neel

with Carlton Smith and Javius Cain

28 Datebook by Rachel Roth

9

From the GLCCB Executive Director

by Joel Tinsley-Hall

9

Board Profile: Chris Adkins by Kristi Metzger

HIGH LIFE

10

10 11

11

Desires Revealed in Iron Crow Theatre's Bobby Pritchard by Timoth David Copney When You Wish at GMCW by Frankie Kujawa Book Review: Rad American Women

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

12

12 14 20

Theatre Personality: John Desmone

by Timoth David Copney

Chicago at the Hippodrome by Frankie Kujawa National & International News by Rachel Roth Baltimore Local News by Steve Charing

BETTER LIFE

Tax Deductions by Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm Love Your Gut by Alicia Gabriel

SOCIAL LIFE

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

3

What is STRIBILD? STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day with food. STRIBILD is a complete single-tablet regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids.

Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain.

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

Ad Page 1

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health. STRIBILD is not approved for the treatment of HBV.

Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you: • Take a medicine that contains: alfuzosin, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafil when used for lung problems (Revatio®), triazolam, oral midazolam, rifampin or the herb St. John’s wort.

• For a list of brand names for these medicines, please see the Brief Summary on the following pages.

• Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepsera®).

What are the other possible side effects of STRIBILD? Serious side effects of STRIBILD may also include: • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do regular blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with STRIBILD. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD. • Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines.

• Changes in your immune system.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking STRIBILD. The most common side effects of STRIBILD include nausea and diarrhea.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

PALIO Date: 9.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_F_Del_GayLife_fi.indd

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? • All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines while taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

• If you take hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc).

• If you take antacids. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD. • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed.

Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Also, some medicines in STRIBILD can pass into breast milk, and it is not known if this can harm the baby.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

Del

STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used as a complete single-tablet regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

I started my personal revolution Talk to your healthcare provider about starting treatment.

STRIBILD is a complete HIV-1 treatment in 1 pill, once a day.

Ask if it’s right for you.

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PALIO Date: 9.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_F_Del_GayLife_fi.indd

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Patient Information STRIBILD® (STRY-bild) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

What is STRIBILD? • STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD is a complete regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

• STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

• Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them. Do not have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: • feel very weak or tired • have unusual (not normal) muscle pain • have trouble breathing • have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting • feel cold, especially in your arms and legs • feel dizzy or lightheaded • have a fast or irregular heartbeat 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) • dark “tea-colored” urine • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • loss of appetite for several days or longer • nausea • stomach pain You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time.

3. Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking STRIBILD. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

• Do not run out of STRIBILD. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone

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• Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider • If you stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: • adefovir (Hepsera®) • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral®) • cisapride (Propulsid®, Propulsid Quicksolv®) • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) • oral midazolam • pimozide (Orap®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifamate®, Rifater®, Rimactane®) • sildenafil (Revatio®), when used for treating lung problems • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) • triazolam (Halcion®) • the herb St. John’s wort Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, including: • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla®, Complera®, Viread®, Truvada®) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir (Atripla®, Combivir®, Complera®, Emtriva®, Epivir® or Epivir-HBV®, Epzicom®, Kaletra®, Norvir®, Trizivir®, Truvada®) STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old.

What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: • See “What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD?” • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems.

• Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine.

These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine.

PALIO Date: 9.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_F_Del_GayLife_fi.indd Trim: 9.75” x 11.25” (Non-Bleed Newspaper Ad)

Del Gay Life

The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: • Nausea • Diarrhea Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

• These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more information, ask your healthcare provider.

• Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • If you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B infection • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD. - There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

• If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take STRIBILD. - You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

- Two of the medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast milk. It is not known if the other medicines in STRIBILD can pass into your breast milk.

- Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements: • STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works.

• Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines: - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) - Antacid medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD - Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection, or high blood pressure - amiodarone (Cordarone®, Pacerone®) - atorvastatin (Lipitor®, Caduet®) - bepridil hydrochloride (Vascor®, Bepadin®) - bosentan (Tracleer®) - buspirone - carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®) - clarithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) - clonazepam (Klonopin®) - clorazepate (Gen-xene®, Tranxene®) - colchicine (Colcrys®) - medicines that contain dexamethasone - diazepam (Valium®)

- digoxin (Lanoxin®) - disopyramide (Norpace®) - estazolam - ethosuximide (Zarontin®) - flecainide (Tambocor®) - flurazepam - fluticasone (Flovent®, Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus®, Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) - itraconazole (Sporanox®) - ketoconazole (Nizoral®) - lidocaine (Xylocaine®) - mexiletine - oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) - perphenazine - phenobarbital (Luminal®) - phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) - propafenone (Rythmol®) - quinidine (Neudexta®) - rifabutin (Mycobutin®) - rifapentine (Priftin®) - risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) - salmeterol (Serevent®) or salmeterol when taken in combination with fluticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) - sildenafil (Viagra®), tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®, Staxyn®), for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). If you get dizzy or faint (low blood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last longer than 4 hours, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away.

- tadalafil (Adcirca®), for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension - telithromycin (Ketek®) - thioridazine - voriconazole (Vfend®) - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) - zolpidem (Ambien®, Edlular®, Intermezzo®, Zolpimist®) Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about STRIBILD. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about STRIBILD that is written for health professionals, or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.STRIBILD.com.

Issued: October 2013

COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, the STRIBILD Logo, TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. © 2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. STBC0112 10/14

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PALIO Date: 9.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 23164_pgiqdp_F_Del_GayLife_fi.indd Trim: 9.75” x 11.25” (Non-Bleed Newspaper Ad)

Del Gay Life

EDITOR’S LIFE

GLBT Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland Serving the LGBT Community of Maryland for 35 years

1000 Cathedral St. • Baltimore, MD 21201 • 410.777.8145 • GLCCB.org

All programming is now located on the 3rd floor of the Waxter Center building at 1000Women’s Cathedral Street.

For more Trans Programs Programs information please visit www.glccb.org.

BALTIMORE TRANSSILHOUETTE MASCULINE ALLIANCE Trans Programs SILhouette (Spiritually In-tuned Women’s Programs A support group for trans* men AKANNI (FTM).

A safe, respectful, confidential 3rd Thursdays - 6:30pm environment where all transmen BTMA@glccb.org can share their story and their journey.

TRAN*QUILITY 2nd Wednesdays - 6pm A support group for trans* women vmillhouse@blacktransmen.org (MTF), but anyone who varies from BlackTransmen.org traditional gender expression BALTIMORE TRANSis welcome.

MASCULINE ALLIANCE 2nd & 4th Saturdays - 8pm A support group for trans* men Tranquility@glccb.org (FTM).

3rd Thursdays - 6:30pm BTMA@glccb.org

Recovery

TRAN*QUILITY A support group for trans* women ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (MTF), but anyone who varies from LGBTQ-centered AA recovery traditional gender expression is groups, welcoming to all. welcome.

Mondays - 7:15pm 2nd & 4th Saturdays - 8pm Thursdays - 8:30pm Tranquility@glccb.org Saturdays - 6:30pm

NARCOTICS RecoveryANONYMOUS

Men’s Rap group for men in ACCESS recovery. TO RECOVERY Care-coordinators Sundays - 11:30amwill offer recovery support services for LGBT individuals.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2-7pm Please contact Latif Karim at outreach.latifkarim@gmail.com

Health & Wellness

BEGINNERS’ ALCOHOLICSYOGA ANONYMOUS LGBTQ centered AA recovery Gentle beginners’ yoga with groups, welcoming to RYT. all. $9 instructor Tim Hurley, Mondays 7:15pm Sundays -- 3:30pm Thursdays - 8:30pm Saturdays - 6:30pm

HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING FREE and confidential testing from NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS the Baltimore Cityfor Health Dept.

Men’s Rap group men in Wednesdays - 5-8pm recovery.

Sundays - 11:30am

Youth & Young Health & Wellness Adult Programs BEGINNERS’ YOGA MIXED COMPANY Gentle beginners’ yoga with

(QUEER instructorYOUNG ADULT GROUP) A discussion, support, and social Tim Hurley, RYT. $9 group for- young adult LGBT Sundays 3:30pm identified or questioning individuals HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING and their allies.

FREE andat confidential Tuesdays 5:30pm testing from the Baltimore City Health Dept.

Wednesdays - 5-8pm

PROJECT (MKP) RAINBOW group YOUTH Peer-support that is open to ALLIANCE BALTIMORE men of diverse race, background, A support, social, and discussion sexual, and gender expression who group for LGBTQ teens and allies consciously compassionately ages 13-19, inand partnership with challenge, mentor, and model the PFLAG Baltimore. type of growth that honors and Tuesdays - 7-9pm RYABaltimore@gmail.com celebrates the full-spectrum of the Facebook.com/groups/ mature male.

RYABaltimore 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays 6:45-8:45pm MIXED COMPANY Bmoi1000@gmail.com (QUEER YOUNG ADULT GROUP) A discussion, support, and

social group for young adult Community LGBT identified or questioning individuals and their allies.

Programs Tuesdays - 5:30-6:30pm

Facebook.com/groups/GLCCB. BOOK CLUB

mixed.co A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss a selected reading.

Coming Soon Facebook.com/ POZitive PEOPLE groups/139583666184199 A free, weekly, peer-led support group for HIV-positive individuals in the LGBT community.

Wednesdays - 7-8pm POZpeople@glccb.org

Community Programs

ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILD ABUSE (ASCA) BOOK CLUB

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

Dan McEvily, Editor

GAYLIFE

Read it. Live it.

Love it.

Dan McEvily Editor

editor@baltimoregaylife.com

Cory Burgess, Art Director

Community based self-help support A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals to discuss selected group designed specifically for adult readings.ofDue to snow cancellation survivors neglect, physical, sexual, last month, the abuse. selection will again and/or emotional be Local Souls

by Allan Gurganus Thursdays – 6–8pm 3rd Mondays - 7pm ASCA-Baltimore@hotmail.com Facebook.com/ ASCA-baltimore.tumblr.com groups/139583666184199

Baltimore Pride

Kristi is a fantastic writer and has written for our pages in the past. We’ve got other regular GLCCB news features that will be announced in the coming months, so keep checking back!

Finally, this month we’ve also got an exclusive interview with the iconic, multitalented supernova of drag showbiz, RuPaul!

Getting the chance to spend a few minutes chatting with Ru has definitely been a highlight of my time as editor of this magazine. I hope you enjoy!

Are we missing any great stories? Be sure to send them my way by emailing me at editor@baltimoregaylife.com.

Have a wonderful month!

FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB • TWITTER.COM/GLCCB • YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB

Support

GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.

2013

8

Hello once again Gay Life readers.

After the last few weeks of bitter cold and snowstorms, I’m sure everyone is more than ready for spring to arrive. To help you get ready for the lush rebirth that springtime brings, we’ve compiled an action-packed issue of Gay Life this month, including a few wonderful arts write-ups, a new regular column, and one very special exclusive interview!

March is bringing another packed month of theatre offerings, including productions from two of my favorite houses. First up, Chicago comes to the Hippodrome for a limited engagement during the first week of March (p. 12), while Iron Crow Theatre closes out the month with a new offering to Baltimore theatre—The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard (p. 10).

I’m also happy to announce a new, regular column to Gay Life—our GLCCB Board Spotlight (p. 9). Each month, Kristi Metzger, our newly elected Board Vice President, will interview members from the Center’s board of directors. It’ll give you a chance to meet the folks behind the scenes at the GLCCB.

Men’s Programs Youth & Young Adult Programs THE MANKIND

The GLCCB is the The GLCCB is the publisher of Gay Life publisher of Gay Life and the producer of Baltimore Pride and the producer of

continued in next column u

March Madness in Full Swing

Lesbians) is a spiritual community SILHOUETTE of women who love women SILhouette (Spiritually In-tuned desiring to discover, embrace and Lesbians) is spiritual-authentic a spiritual community live as their self. of love women 1stwomen and 3rdwho Tuesdays - 7pm desiring to discover, embrace and live as their spiritual-authentic self.

WOMEN COLOR 1st and 3rd OF Tuesdays - 7pm A safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all WOMEN OF COLOR A safe, confidential, and supportive colors. space for & LBTQ women of -all7:30pm 2nd, 4th, 5th Thursdays colors.

WOC@glccb.org 2nd, 4th, & 5th Thursdays - 7:30pm Meetup.com/Baltimore-LesbiansWOC@glccb.org Of-Color Meetup.com/Baltimore-LesbiansOf-Color

Love it.

1000 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD 21201 410.777.8145 Phone 410.777.8135 Fax sales@baltimoregaylife.com www.baltimoregaylife.com

National Advertising Rep.

cory@coryburgess.com Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863

Contributors

Danielle Ariano, Javius Cain, Steve Charing, Timoth David Copney, Courtney Bedell Eckler, Coach Mac Elè, Wyatt O’Brian Evans, Alicia Gabriel, Frankie Kujawa, Kristi Metzger, Anthony Moll, Lyn Muldrow, Kelly Neel, Rachel Roth, Carlton Smith, Justin B. Terry Smith, Joel-Tinsley Hall, Angela Wren, Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm

Photographers

John Kardys, Samatra Johnson, Asia Kenney, Kelly Neel, Eric Randolph, Richelle Taylor, Jay W.

Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published monthly in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2014. All Rights Reserved. Gay Life is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Gay Life or its publisher.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

LOCAL LIFE

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Board President

CHRIS ADKINS by

KRISTI METZGER

Photo by Steve Charing.

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FROM THE GLCCB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S DESK

Great Things Happening at the GLCCB!

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reetings Community. There are great things happening at the GLCCB. I want to use this month’s letter to share my excitement with you.

The GLCCB recently received two grants totaling more than $45,000. Gilead Sciences, an international biopharmaceutical company, recently awarded the GLCCB a grant that will fund an educational and awareness program for their drug Truvada. Truvada for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can “help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection when used together with safer sex practices.”

This partnership with Gilead Sciences is great for the Center and for our community.

The second much appreciated grant came from Brother, Help Thyself (BHT). BHT is a community organization that has been providing financial and other support to the Baltimore/Washington GLBTQ community since 1978. This grant will support the GLCCB in providing a six-week American Sign Language (ASL) course that will utilize computer technology. Our partnership with BHT is longstanding and held in high regard. More information on the PrEP activities and the ASL course will be forthcoming.

This month, the GLCCB welcomes two new groups to the Center. The Mankind Project is a non-profit organization with a purpose of “supporting the emotionally mature, accountable, and compassionate male role models that our communities need.” This organization has been around for nearly 30 years and states that close to 10,000 men attend peer-facilitated groups around the world each week. We are proud

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to have the Baltimore-area group at the GLCCB. We also welcome a new support group for adult survivors of child abuse.

More information on these two groups can be found in this month’s program calendar, and at GLCCB.org.

Planning is underway for the 40th annual Baltimore Pride celebration. Our community has come together in a special way to ensure the 40th year is one to remember.

Words cannot express my appreciation for the leadership of Paul Liller, our Pride Coordinator. He has volunteered countless hours to this year’s Pride celebration and there are still over five months of planning and execution to come. If you see him out and about, please thank him for his hard work, or better yet, buy him a drink. We will be reporting in more detail on upcoming Pride events beginning in April’s Gay Life.

Last, but certainly not least, a group of dedicated community members have been meeting and organizing in order to reestablish our youth programming. There will be two programs under this umbrella—the first called “Gettin’ the Gold” for those aged 12 to 17 years, and the second for those aged 18-25 called “What’s the Tea?” Much more information to come very soon.

I invite you to join me in my excitement for all the great things happening at the GLCCB! Joel Tinsley-Hall Executive Director Joel Tinsley-Hall can reached at (410) 777-8145 or at jtinsleyhall@glccb.org.

s a gay person working in social services I don’t have a choice but to deal with it. I’m on both sides. I can’t not exist.”

Chris is originally from Wichita, Kan. and joined the board in March of 2013. He was recruited by Mike McCarthy, who was the board president at the time. Mike wanted to bring someone with a strong social work background in and had found Chris through a mutual friend. Chris always had a strong interest in community work and had dedicated his career to LGBT work. He jumped at the chance to join the board and be involved with the GLCCB. What would you say your primary focus is when it comes to your work with the GLCCB? My work and expertise is all with LGBT issues.

Early on, I worked in foster care and primarily with youth. I worked with LGBT kids in foster care. There were lots of gay, trans, queer and questioning kids.

How did you get into that type of work early on? I went to a special high school for law, public and social services. There was a practicum requirement at the high school level.

I worked as a social work assistant during high school in Kansas. I saw a lot of abused gay and trans kids that ended up in the foster care system during that time. The abuse was pretty severe.

After graduation I started working at a shelter called Wichita Children’s Home. Kids could be placed there for 72 hours. Social services used it as a stopgap measure for placing kids into homes. It was very off the books.

I did lots of identifying and linking work to get these kids into proper homes. It was really tough. Most of the foster families were conservative and/or elderly retired people. They weren’t prepared for gender atypical youth. Kids with zero behavior problems were ending up in high level group homes because there was nowhere else for them to go.

What prompted you to leave

Chris Adkins Wichita? I had a real hard time with conservative Kansas culture. I left to go back to school and moved to Cleveland. I got my bachelor’s in Women’s Studies and Social Work at Cleveland State University. Everything I learned about doing social work I learned in Women’s Studies.

I double majored so I could get a job after school. It was a good solid education. In college I led the Gay & Lesbian Student Union and Social Work Student Club.

How did you end up in Baltimore?

While working on a double master’s at Boston University (in social work and public health), I had a friend that was living in Morocco. When he came back he tested positive for HIV and he totally freaked out and didn’t know what to do. The economy crashed in 2008 and it hit Boston hard. I ended up unemployed and flopping between friend’s houses. I had no direction. My friend started going to Chase Brexton and he said that they were looking for social workers. I submitted my resume, did a series of interviews and was hired within 30 days. I moved down here with nothing but two suitcases on the train. I left everything in storage.

How did you end up so passionate about social work? Part of the reason I’m so passionate is because I grew up dirt poor in a family of six kids. I passed really well for straight.

I had a bunch of friends who didn’t.

The level of shit they got, the level of physical abuse and torment they got as kids was awful. We ended up protecting each other. I had a friend who was thrown out of her home for being bi. She ended up battling addiction, homelessness, domestic violence and finally cancer. She lost that last battle.

Is there anything new on the horizon for you? I accepted a Ph.D. fellowship at Tulane. I’ll be working on LGBT Community Engagement.

I want to figure out what we can do to get mainstream providers to be culturally competent to cater to LGBT communities.

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

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HIGH LIFE Desires Revealed in Iron Crow Theatre's The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard

GMCW Brings Wishes to Life by

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FRANKIE KUJAWA

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nce upon a not-so-very long time ago, in a land not-so-very far away, a group of talented LGBT singers and performers were hard at work perfecting the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington’s (GMCW) upcoming performance of When You Wish.

The show, which will be presented at The Lincoln Theater on March 13 and 14, takes a nostalgic look at the world of animation paying homage to musical treasures from Disney, School House Rock and Saturday morning cartoons.

“The best animated movies have always played to children on one level and to adults on another,” explains When You Wish director John Moran. “We are serving up these memorable moments like a fine martini with a Meyer lemon twist.”

Performer Bryann DeSilva, whose character is based off a popular Disney villain, explains, “[The show can be described] in three words: extravagant, visionary, and fun! It’s a chance to reconnect with beloved childhood stories and songs via fantastic showmanship that only GMCW could pull off.” Performer Rob Garcia, who plays the Queen of Hearts in a big group number, adds “We’ll have dancers, costumes, videos, princes, drag queens, sing-a-longs, and of course, phenomenal singing.”

When You Wish will feature a full chorus of 220 singers and approaches these classic tales with a campy and sassy approach. “We have the most sophisticated theatrical and musical audiences who appreciate the surprise and wonder of our concerts,” Moran adds. “Let’s just say—we’re keeping it GAY!” When asked about why the LGBT community has such an affinity towards Disney classics, Moran laughs. “I’m tempted to say all the ‘happy endings.’ But the genius in the art of animation, combined with optimism, the ribbons of overcoming adversity, and the

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triumph of the underdogs are just a few of the factors which we identify.”

“We all see ourselves as princesses, while we’re actually the evil queens,” DaSilva hu-

[The show can be described] in three words: extravagant, visionary and fun! morously chimes in. “But I think it’s because people generally, and our community specifically, have faced many kinds of hardship: rejection, loss, evil stepmothers. And it’s nice to see an uplifting story where the good guy or girl wins.”

Garcia adds, “For gay men, I think you see lots of themes in the films that we as a community relate to such as bullying, identity issues, family issues,” Garcia added. “But there’s always a happy ending, reminding us that while our journeys might be tough, we can get by with a little hope and perseverance. And now, many of us can marry our own princes!”

Overall, the members of the GMCW are hoping that this will be an experience that many audiences will never forget.

“I hope audiences leave with a new way of looking at traditional musical theater, traditional stories, and traditional gender roles,” DaSilva said.

Grab your tiara, honey, for this is one performance you don’t want to miss!

GMCW presents When You Wish

Friday, March 13 • 8PM Saturday, March 14 • 3PM & 8PM The Lincoln Theatre 1215 U Street NW • Washington, D.C. GMCW.org

LYN MULDROW

ucked away in small town America lies a hotbed of bias and social conformity that serves to suffocate individuality and expression. Those who lie outside of clearly defined notions of normalcy have the burden of either embracing or encasing their true selves, in an all-familiar test of true desire. In The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard, said burden is eloquently illuminated as the result of a menagerie of poignant dreams that become the precursor to altered realities.

Having previously fled the stifling small town atmosphere many years ago, Marta’s lucid dreams of the late Bobby Pritchard and questions about his death prompt her return. Partner in tow, she makes the arduous journey back into the religious, decidedly rural town.

Marta’s encounters with family and their internal struggles with identity and sexuality serves to vindicate Bobby Pritchard’s untimely demise. While seeking to marry her partner in the church of her youth, Marta’s family and the tough decisions surrounding their upbringing, society, and sexual orientation acts as catalyst to an explosive revelation of something more.

Created by Rich Espey, Baltimore native and award-winning playwright, actor, and teacher, The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard serves as a powerful addition to an already impressive roster including Hope’s Arbor and Following Sarah, winners of Best Play in the 2006 and 2012 Baltimore Playwrights Festival respectively.

Put on by Baltimore’s queer theatre company, Iron Crow Theatre, The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard is one of many engaging productions put on by the company. Since 2010, the theatre has produced, re-imagined, and directed several amazing pieces of art to reflect the LGBTQ experience through the lenses of subversion and intrigue. Il-

luminating the work of over 100 local artists and reaching a growing audience of conversationalists looking to challenge the status quo, Iron Crow Theatre continues to push the envelope. Steve Satta, Artistic Director, directs and helps to bring this moving production debuting March 13.

For an engaging, introspective portrait of the intricacies surrounding queer life in small town America, The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard is a production not to be missed.

Iron Crow Theatre presents The Revelation of Bobby Pritchard

March 13–28 The Baltimore Theatre Project 45 W. Preston St. IronCrowTheatre.org/bobby

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

BOOK REVIEW

Rad American Women by

ANTHONY MOLL

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his week, a children’s book taught me who designed the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. And that’s okay. When author Kate Schatz began planning Rad American Women A-Z, a children’s A-to-Z book that examines a history of radical women in this country, she used social media to crowdsource an initial list of women to include. She was excited to find that the list included incredible women that she had yet to hear of, but who would soon become new heroines for her. This book offers that same sense of discovery to it its readers, young and old, of every gender.

As one might expect with a book that starts with Angela Davis and ends with Zora Neale Hurston, readers are offered a diverse and unflinching look at women throughout our history. Schatz’s selection includes women often ignored in the canon

Poppy Champlin’s Queer Queens of Qomedy Returns to Baltimore by

KELLY NEEL

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of women’s history. That includes, of course, women of color (over half of the women featured are WOC) and heroines across a broad spectrum of class, occupation, gender expression, and ability. Readers won’t find Amelia Earhart and Susan B. Anthony, about whom shelves of books celebrating their lives and works have already been written. Instead, the book makes room for radical role-models like Yuri Kochiyama, Temple Grandin and Kate Bornstein.

“The idea came when my daughter was about two, said Schatz. “We have a house full of great books, but I wanted her to have something more to read—something fun and bold but also educational and inspiring, to teach her about women’s history in a way she could appreciate once she was a little older. I couldn’t find the book I wanted, so I decided I’d try to write one myself.”

T

he Queer Queens of Qomedy (Q3) tour got its start back in 2006 when lesbian comedian and Q3 producer, Poppy Champlin, decided to take her comedy career into her own hands. She shopped her talents around to the major venues in an effort to book shows and see if she could sell out a room. She brought along two fellow lesbian comedians, created the first ever Queer Queens of Qomedy, and sure enough, Champlin and her other queens performed to a crowd of over 400, selling out the Birchmere in nearby Alexandria, Va. Nine years later, the show features a rotating cast of lesbian comedians from across the country, and is still going strong. On the bill for their stop at Timonium’s Magooby’s Jokehouse is Mimi Gonzalez, Julee Antonellis, and Poppy Champlin herself. Gay Life chatted with Champlin in advance of the March 22 show.

How did you first get into comedy?

I got into comedy when I was in college. I would get cast in the funny roles in the theater department and when I realized that making people laugh could actually be a career, and that totally set me on fire. I was totally into it,

Like many great children’s books, Rad American Women A-Z is charmingly illustrated. Miriam Klein Stahl, known for her cut-out style of portraits of radical figures, offers simple yet emotionally rich portraits of each of the 26 women, which alternate with short, biographical essays between. The result is a textual artifact that looks as bold as the stories it contains: a bright, beautiful children’s book with the courage to mention both United Farm Workers and the House Committee on Un-American Activities.

Reading, I couldn’t help but ask myself, what if we taught the young people in our communities an alternative to the publicschool fables of American history? What if they got more Wilma Mankiller and less Christopher Columbus? This book does this for children in the tradition of Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States.

Poppy Champlin

and comedy was just taking off in the early 80’s.

It was going to be a big scene and I wanted to get on board the comedy train and so I chased it. I chased it and grabbed that dragon’s tail and held on. And still am. I’ve been making a living through comedy since 1990.

Rad American Women A-Z is illustrated by the talented Miriam Klein Stahl Schatz and Stahl present a history that does not attempt to erase homophobia, or slavery, or the Red Scare, or Japanese internment camps, but instead surveys the women who marched and sang and refused in response to these ugly parts of the American story.

Rad American Women A-Z

Kate Schatz and Miriam Klein Stahl City Lights Publishers CityLights.com

How does your sexuality play into the material that you write? Have you been out your entire comedy career? I wasn’t always out. I didn’t come out onstage until 2001. I realized that I was sick of changing the pronouns in my act and pretending that I was straight. [Once I came out] I became a lot more comfortable with my sexuality and was able to write more specifically for the LGBT community and for myself and was [in turn] a lot happier with myself and my comedy. I’ve been able to add my singing into my act as well. I don’t know if I would’ve found that, had I been continually working for the straight crowd. By coming out I was able to use all of my talents, which I am grateful to the LGBT community for and [am] just happier to write specifically for them. However, I have plenty of material that is gender free.

You don’t need to just be gay, straight, bi, or anything to get the jokes!

Who are some of you biggest influences and comedy role models?

One of my biggest influences in comedy has Continued on Page 30

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

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HIGH LIFE THEATRE PROFILE

John Desmone by

Christophe Caballero (bottom left) with the men of Chicago

TIMOTH DAVID COPNEY

Photo by Paul Kolnik

W

hen you work in community theatre in Baltimore, or most anywhere for that matter, you need to have a good day job.

Doctors and waiters, techies and engineers, lawyers and day laborers. All have been seen on the stage, directed, done the music, built the sets, made the costumes, taught the choreography, called the lights. Because it is truly rare that we can find a way to integrate our love of the theatre and our need to pay the bills. But it happens. John Desmone has been doing it for years.

A fixture on the local theatre scene as a director and occasional actor for more than 40 years, John has an undergrad degree in Speech and Theatre. Not surprising considering his life-long love of theatre. After graduation he was still unsure about exactly what he wanted to do next. But when a cousin asked him to help out with her daycare business, he ended up doing ‘story time’ for the young charges. And that’s when he decided that teaching and working with kids was what he wanted to do. His skills as a performer were the perfect conduit for his talents as an educator. After getting a Masters in Teaching, he began a 38-year career in education, first teaching elementary school, and then moving up the administrative ladder to principal, and all along the way keeping active in local productions. More than 90 of them since moving to Baltimore.

John is no stranger to directing the straight dramas, but musical theatre makes him run. Tintypes, A Little Night Music, West Side Story, Hello Dolly, Crazy for You, Nine to Five, Li’l Abner. And dozens more. At theatres from one end of the artistic community to the other—Dundalk, Cockpit, Vagabonds, Towsontowne Dinner Theater, and most recently, Suburban Players—he shares his visions. And that’s just as a director. He’s just as adept on the other side of the foot lights.

Roger DeBris in The Producers. George in Of Mice and Men. El Gallo in The Fantasticks. He says that by also being a performer, he can better identify with the actors in his productions. He knows what they are going through, what they are trying to get to. It

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

makes it easier to help them achieve their best performances while allowing him to see his imagination come to life on stage.

John comes across as a quiet, thoughtful artist. There’s no hint of the nerves you see so often in directors. Maybe it comes from being an educator and administrative executive in the school system, where he honed his skills at coordinating huge projects while teaching—or maybe it’s because he’s firm and focused in his approach to mounting quality productions. They are oddly rather the same thing.

In any event, John Desmone is one of the best things about the Baltimore local theatre community. Let’s hope he sticks around for a long time. He makes our community better by just being here.

John Desmone is a fixture on the local theatre scene

Chicago Comes to Baltimore by

I

FRANKIE KUJAWA

f you can’t be famous, be infamous.

That’s just one of the many lessons to be learned in Chicago running March 3–8 at the Hippodrome Theatre. The beloved musical, which has enthralled audiences around the world, once again shows Baltimore some of that old razzle dazzle. Gay Life recently chatted with performer Chirstophe Caballero.

“The music is classic. I’ve been listening to it over and over again as long as I’ve been performing here, and I can’t really say I’m tired of it,” he said.

Caballero is making his eighth stint with the tour, having played many roles throughout his time with the production. For this tour, he is performing as a swing, playing more than one roles in the acting ensemble. In his case, Caballero is experienced and talented enough to fill in at a moment’s notice for many of the roles. “If someone in a principle role is out, I usually fill in for the ensemble that usually goes on as the understudy for that part,” he noted.

Caballero has enjoyed singing and performing as early as he can remember.

He began dancing when he was about 14 years-old.

“I came to New York right after high school to work with the ballet,” he said.

“From there, I ended up going on to do Fame the television show. I ended up working on Fame for three years as one of the contracted dancers.”

Caballero insists his foray into mu-

sicals was by total accident. After Fame finished, he moved out to Los Angeles where he worked on a few television shows. Ironically, the Broadway bug bit him while in Los Angeles.

“I crashed a friend’s Broadway musical audition for Jerome Robbins,” he remembers. “They were auditioning in all the big cities. So I went in for the audition and it led to my first Broadway show.”

Caballero believes the plot and themes of Chicago are still current for audiences today.

“We’ve witnessed criminals becoming celebrities because of their crimes.

These people start pandering to the press and it keeps our show relevant,” Caballero laughed. “The fact that it’s been on Broadway for 18 years says a lot about it.”

Joining Caballero in Baltimore is John O’Hurley—best known for his role as J. Peterman on television’s Seinfeld—and Roz Ryan, who holds a Broadway record of having played more performances of Chicago on Broadway and on tour than any other leading actress in the show’s 18 year run.

Chicago

Hippodrome Theatre 12 N Eutaw St. March 3 -8 • $25-125 +fees.

France-MerrickPAC.com

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“D

rag will always be revolutionary and it will always be counter-culture,” remarks RuPaul. “It breaks the fourth wall.

Everyone else is playing these roles in the matrix and drag has always been dangerous because it says, “I am not who I appear to be and, by the way, neither are you.”

Talk of revolution, theatrical constructs and simulated reality is par for the course when discussing drag with RuPaul Andre Charles—onetime Supermodel of the World and current World’s Most Famous Drag Queen. Ru speaks of the art of drag in an almost reverent tone, and for good reason—he’s made a helluva career out of it.

With 35 years in show business, Ru has been everywhere from downtown genderfuck gutterpunk to uptown glittery glamazon, and found success in almost every facet of the game— recording artist, actor, author, model, talk show host, media mogul—you name it, Ru’s done it (and done it well, darling).

As of late, Ru is perhaps best known as the head judge, mentor and producer of Logo TV’s RuPaul’s Drag Race. About to launch its seventh season on March 2, Ru called in to Gay Life to chat about the show, his upcoming album, and which iconic Baltimore queen would win the ultimate hypothetical Battle Royale “lip synch for your life.”

Drag Race is poised to launch a new set of queens into the drag universe on March 2. What can fans expect from the show in this seventh outing? The fans actually know what to expect. We have our brand and deliver it every single time. What changes is the ensemble of queens. They always add their own flavor to the mix and that’s what really makes it interesting. They have their own unique struggles. It’s the same struggle, really, but it’s also very unique to them, the way they tell their story.

The show is still going strong, with no signs of slowing down or jumping the shark. What do you

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attribute to the consistently growing success of the show after seven seasons? I love the art of drag. I love everything about it. I love the subtext of what drag is, which is to remind our culture that nothing in this life is to be taken too seriously and that we are all doing drag. That is what makes it really poetic.

The other producers on the show also love drag, and they love to use these queens as a medium to say so many things.

Things are said and revealed on this show that we have no way of controlling or knowing how it’s going to turn out, so that keeps it really, really interesting.

The show has become such a huge part of the drag industry. You have younger queens who have come up with the show, and develop their drag personas around getting on the show. It’s an interesting phenomenon. Yup. It’s a natural evolution and we’ve seen it with other reality talent shows where it changes the whole landscape of the business.

But it’s natural. Consumers get their content in so many different ways now, and entertainment is such a wide open frontier like the Wild West. We are rewriting the rules as we go along.

Originally the challenges on your show were crafted after elements from your own career—emceeing, singing, standup comedy—do you have a favorite challenge, or one that you feel truly defines the front runners in each season? I’ve gotta say the [celebrity impersonation challenge] Snatch Game. You have to be quick on your toes and understand what the challenge is. If you can understand what the challenge is, you are light years ahead of the competition. Year after year we’ve been doing it and most girls still don’t understand what that is. They really don’t.

There have been a handful of queens who really knock it out of the park, like Jinkx Monsoon and Pandora Boxx, who

SELF-ACTUALIZED

REALNESS

BY DANIEL MCEVILY

impersonate characters that are deeply embedded in camp and pop culture, but younger audiences may have never heard of before. The show seems to draw on a lot of “historical” gay and camp culture. What is the value of having those reference points in the show? If you know your past and you know your history, then you can conquer the future.

The future belongs to those who can remember their past. When I was 14, I knew who everybody was because of the Mike Douglas Show. That show would have Blondie on the same panel with a Moms Mabley or an Ella Fitzgerald. To be in show business, you have to know what came before you. To be a drag queen, you have to understand what you are satirizing in order to navigate your career.

How they approach Snatch Game is very indicative [of their future success]. Not only do they have to pick a personality that they can actually impersonate, but they have to speak in their voice in the context of Snatch Game. For most people, that is too many layers to interpret.

Do you still think there is still room for sociopolitical commentary in drag? Can drag still be revolutionary? Drag will always be revolutionary and it will always be counter-culture. It breaks the fourth wall. Everyone else is playing these roles in the matrix and drag has always been dangerous because it says, “I am not who I appear to be and, by

the way, neither are you.”

That is the most political thing in the world, because it is saying, “You are not who you think you are.

You are actually something bigger than that,” and that blows people’s fucking minds. Drag will never be mainstream, because mainstream is this collective dream that we are having. Drag is the antithesis of that.

You’ve hinted that you are working on some new music. Is there going to be a follow up to 2014’s Born Naked this year? Yes. There is a new album called Realness that is planned for a March 2 release. It’s all early ‘90s house music and it reunites me with my Supermodel producer Eric Kupper.

Are you planning on touring with the album? No, I am not. I want to and if I had the time I would. I am doing as much television as I can while the fire is hot. I will leave the traveling to my girls. I’m going to stay in L.A. and work in television and do my projects here.

Final question: if Babs Johnson from Pink Flamingos and Dawn Davenport from Female Trouble were lip syncing

for their lives, who would win? Wow. I’m going to have to say Dawn Davenport just because of that trampoline scene [in Female Trouble]. I’m sure she would pull that out, and that would totally win it.

And she would kill everybody for art so it would kind of be a moot point anyway. [Laughs] Exactly!

Want more of our exclusive interview with RuPaul?

Log on to BaltimoreGayLife. com to read the extended interview, and don’t forget to catch RuPaul’s Drag Race on LOGO, Monday nights at 9pm, beginning March 2.

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

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REAL LIFE CANADA POLAND

MICHIGAN

OREGON WASHINGTON, D.C.

SOUTH DAKOTA ISRAEL NEPAL ALABAMA

National & International News S.D. House looks to reverse nondiscrimination policy for high school trans athletes SOUTH DAKOTA

Lawmakers in South Dakota are pushing a bill that would impose a ban on transgender student-athletes. The measure, which has advanced out of a state House Committee by a vote of 10-2, would overturn a nondiscrimination policy agreed to by the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA) last year that allows students to participate in sports in a manner that's consistent with their gender identities.

According to ThinkProgress, he SDHSAA’s policy is among the most protective in the country, affirming of trans students wherever they may be on their journeys, relying on support from medical professionals who have experience working with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care, and guaranteeing “participation for all students regardless of their gender identity or expression” so that they can “compete on a level playing field in a safe, competitive, and friendly environment, free of discrimination.”

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Kate Brown to make history as next Oregon governor OREGON

When embattled Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber resigned amid a mounting ethics scandal involving him and his fiancée, history was made. His replacement, Secretary of State Kate Brown will become the first U.S. governor to take office who has previously identified as bisexual when she is officially sworn in. Brown has been married to her husband since 1997, but considers herself bisexual.

Brown wrote about her sexuality in an essay for “Out and Elected in the USA.” In the essay she described telling her parents about her sexuality and how her gay friends called her “half-queer.”

Marriage equality reaches parts of Alabama, KKK to protest ALABAMA

The status of marriage equality in Alabama remains in flux. On Feb. 9, Alabama became the 37th state to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples after the Supreme Court refused state officials’ request to stay a rul-

by

RACHEL ROTH

ing bringing marriage equality to the state.

Couples began receiving marriage licenses in many counties, including those containing major cities such as Montgomery, Birmingham and Huntsville. However, officials in 52 of the state’s 67 counties declined to process marriage requests from same-sex couples after Roy Moore, Alabama’s chief justice, urged probate judges not to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

A Mississippi faction of the Klu Klux Clan also issued a “call to arms in Alabama” asking for Klansmen to “leave their robes behind and take to the streets in protest.”

Obama seeks Social Security spousal benefits for same-sex couples WASHINGTON, D.C.

President Barack Obama’s budget for fiscal 2016 seeks a change to the Social Security Act that would allow same-sex couples to receive spousal benefits even if they live in a state that doesn’t recognize marriage equality.

Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., has indicated that she plans to reintroduce legislation that would amend federal code to help same-sex spouses access Social Security benefits.

Mich. same-sex marriages are valid

Nepal explores legalization of marriage equality

MICHIGAN

NEPAL

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder announced that the state will recognize 300 same-sex marriages that took place during a 24hour period following a judge's marriage equality ruling last year. "The judge has determined that same-sex couples were legally married on that day, and we will follow the law and extend state marriage benefits to those couples," the governor said in a statement.

Nepal could become the first Asian country to extend marriage rights to same-sex couples if its government accepts the recommendations of a committee that studied the issue. A translated copy of the recommendations obtained

by Washington Blade from gay Nepalese Parliamentarian Sunil Babu Pant, who founded the Blue Diamond Society, the country’s only LGBT advocacy group, notes the “positive international trends” towards homosexuality

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

LGBT mural spurs controversy at Canadian school CANADA

A school northwest of Edmonton is deciding what to do next after a student’s mural featuring two young men kissing was covered up. According to CBC News Edmonton, the principal and art teacher at Onoway Junior/ Senior High School approved the mural oneweek prior to it being displayed. The school says it received complaints so they covered the mural with a bulletin board. Students tore down the bulletin board in protest calling the kiss “natural.”

Israel, Canada relax surgical barriers for trans citizens’ legal recognition ISRAEL & CANADA

Both Israel and the Canadian province of Manitoba announced that their trans citizens will no longer be required to show proof of gender confirmation surgery to change their gender marker on certain legal identification. Officials from Israel and Manitoba

explained their new ID policy changes as a way to keep up with “modern times.”

Trans lawmaker announces bid for Polish presidency POLAND

Transgender lawmaker Anna Grodzka announced her bid to become the next president of Poland, breaking fresh ground in the conservative Catholic country. The 60-yearold told former filmmaker and publisher is backed by the Green Party. Grodzka transitioned in 2009 and was elected Poland’s first transgender Member of Parliament in 2011. Slovakia referendum to bolster ban on marriage equality, adoption fails A referendum in Slovakia that would have bolstered a ban on marriage equality and adoption by same-sex parents failed this past weekend amid low voter turnout.

Despite an endorsement by Pope Francis, only 21 percent of eligible voters cast ballots. Slovak law requires participation of at least half of registered voters for a referendum to be valid.

Spring is Fabulous March is Orchid Month Surround yourself with the warmth and fragrance of Hillwood’s greenhouse and enjoy hundreds of orchids blooming in concert.

Now on view Don’t miss the special exhibition, Splendor and Surprise: Elegant Containers, Antique to Modern

202.686.5807 HillwoodMuseum.org 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington DC Free parking

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015 2/19/15 12:22 PM 15

Insertion date: MARCH 1, 2015 Size: 4.75” x 11.25" 4C NP

and marriage rights for same-sex couples.

COMPLERA is a prescription medicine for adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before and who have no more than 100,000 copies/mL of virus in their blood. COMPLERA can also replace current HIV-1 medicines for some adults who have an undetectable viral load (less than 50 copies/mL) and whose healthcare provider determines that they meet certain other requirements. COMPLERA combines 3 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day with food. COMPLERA should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

Just the

one

for me

COMPLERA is a complete HIV-1 treatment in only 1 pill a day.

Ask your healthcare provider if COMPLERA may be the one for you.

Pill shown is not actual size.

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PALIO Date: 12.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Complera • File Name: 24057_pgitvd_Master_F_Gay_Life_Frank_fi.indd

Gay Life

COMPLERA does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS.

To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking COMPLERA. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids.

Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

It is not known if COMPLERA is safe and effective in children under 18 years old.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about COMPLERA? COMPLERA can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain.

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking COMPLERA, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health. COMPLERA is not approved for the treatment of HBV.

Who should not take COMPLERA?

Do not take COMPLERA if you: • Take a medicine that contains: adefovir (Hepsera), lamivudine (Epivir-HBV), carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Teril, Epitol), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), phenobarbital (Luminal), phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phenytek), rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin), rifapentine (Priftin), dexlansoprazole (Dexilant), esomeprazole (Nexium, Vimovo), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid), pantoprazole sodium (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), more than 1 dose of the steroid medicine dexamethasone or dexamethasone sodium phosphate, or the herbal supplement St. John’s wort.

• Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, unless recommended by your healthcare provider.

What are the other possible side effects of COMPLERA?

Serious side effects of COMPLERA may also include: • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your kidneys before starting treatment with COMPLERA. If you have had kidney problems, or take other medicines that may cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may also check your kidneys during treatment with COMPLERA. • Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: feeling sad or hopeless, feeling anxious or restless, have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself.

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Changes in liver enzymes: People who have had hepatitis B or C, or who have had changes in their liver function tests in the past may have an increased risk for liver problems while taking COMPLERA. Some people without prior liver disease may also be at risk. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with COMPLERA. • Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines.

• Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking COMPLERA. •

The most common side effects of COMPLERA include trouble sleeping (insomnia), abnormal dreams, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, rash, tiredness, and depression. Other common side effects include vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, skin discoloration (small spots or freckles), and pain. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking COMPLERA? All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or had any kidney, mental health, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. COMPLERA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how COMPLERA works.

Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines while taking COMPLERA without first talking with your healthcare provider.

• If you take rifabutin (Mycobutin). Talk to your healthcare provider about the right amount of rilpivirine (Edurant) you should take.

• If you take antacids. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA. • If you take stomach acid blockers. Take acid blockers at least 12 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA. Ask your healthcare provider if your acid blocker is okay to take, as some acid blockers should never be taken with COMPLERA. • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if COMPLERA can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking COMPLERA. • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Also, some medicines in COMPLERA can pass into breast milk, and it is not known if this can harm the baby.

•

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

PALIO Date: 12.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Complera • File Name: 24057_pgitvd_Master_F_Gay_Life_Frank_fi.indd

Gay Life

Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information COMPLERA® (kom-PLEH-rah) (emtricitabine 200 mg, rilpivirine 25 mg, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

What is COMPLERA? • COMPLERA is a prescription medicine used as a complete HIV-1 treatment in one pill a day. COMPLERA is for adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before and who have no more than 100,000 copies/mL of virus in their blood (this is called ‘viral load’). Complera can also replace current HIV-1 medicines for some adults who have an undetectable viral load (less than 50 copies/mL) and whose healthcare provider determines that they meet certain other requirements.

• COMPLERA is a complete regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. When used properly, COMPLERA may reduce the amount of HIV-1 virus in your blood and increase the amount of CD4 T-cells, which may help improve your immune system. This may reduce your risk of death or getting infections that can happen when your immune system is weak.

• COMPLERA does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

• Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others.

Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them. Do not have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

What is the most important information I should know about COMPLERA? COMPLERA can cause serious side effects, including: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take COMPLERA or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines.

Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: – feel very weak or tired – have unusual (not normal) muscle pain – have trouble breathing – having stomach pain with nausea or vomiting – feel cold, especially in your arms and legs – feel dizzy or lightheaded – have a fast or irregular heartbeat • Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who take COMPLERA. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis).

Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: – your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) – dark “tea-colored” urine – light-colored bowel movements (stools) – loss of appetite for several days or longer – nausea – stomach pain • You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you

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are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for a long time.

• Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and take COMPLERA, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking COMPLERA. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. COMPLERA is not approved for the treatment of HBV, so you must discuss your HBV with your healthcare provider.

– Do not run out of COMPLERA. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your COMPLERA is all gone.

– Do not stop taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider.

– If you stop taking COMPLERA, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking COMPLERA. Who should not take COMPLERA? Do not take COMPLERA if you also take any of the following medicines: • Medicines used for seizures: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Teril, Epitol); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal); phenobarbital (Luminal); phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phenytek) • Medicines used for tuberculosis: rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin); rifapentine (Priftin) • Certain medicines used to block stomach acid called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): dexlansoprazole (Dexilant); esomeprazole (Nexium, Vimovo); lansoprazole (Prevacid); omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid); pantoprazole sodium (Protonix); rabeprazole (Aciphex) • Certain steroid medicines: More than 1 dose of dexamethasone or dexamethasone sodium phosphate • Certain herbal supplements: St. John’s wort • Certain hepatitis medicines: adefovir (Hepsera), lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) Do not take COMPLERA if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, including: • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (ATRIPLA, STRIBILD, TRUVADA, VIREAD) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine or lamivudine (ATRIPLA, Combivir, EMTRIVA, Epivir, Epzicom, STRIBILD, Trizivir, TRUVADA) • rilpivirine (Edurant), unless you are taking rifabutin (Mycobutin) COMPLERA is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old.

What are the possible side effects of COMPLERA? COMPLERA may cause the following serious side effects: • See “What is the most important information I should know about COMPLERA?” • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking COMPLERA. If you have had kidney problems in the past or need to take another medicine that can cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may need to do blood tests to check your kidneys during your treatment with COMPLERA. • Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: – feeling sad or hopeless – feeling anxious or restless – have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself • Change in liver enzymes. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus infection or who have certain liver enzyme changes may have an increased risk of

PALIO Date: 12.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Complera • File Name: 24057_pgitvd_Master_F_Gay_Life_Frank_fi.indd

Gay Life

developing new or worsening liver problems during treatment with COMPLERA. Liver problems can also happen during treatment with COMPLERA in people without a history of liver disease. Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with COMPLERA. • Bone problems can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures).

Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the main part of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The cause and long term health effect of these conditions are not known.

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine.

The most common side effects of COMPLERA include: • Trouble sleeping (insomnia), abnormal dreams, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, rash, tiredness, depression Additional common side effects include: • Vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, skin discoloration (small spots or freckles), pain Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

• These are not all the possible side effects of COMPLERA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider.

• Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

• Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines: – Rifabutin (Mycobutin), a medicine to treat some bacterial infections. Talk to your healthcare provider about the right amount of rilpivirine (Edurant) you should take.

– Antacid medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA. – Certain medicines to block the acid in your stomach, including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid), or ranitidine hydrochloride (Zantac). Take the acid blocker at least 12 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA. Some acid blocking medicines should never be taken with COMPLERA (see “Who should not take COMPLERA?” for a list of these medicines).

– Medicines that can affect how your kidneys work, including acyclovir (Zovirax), cidofovir (Vistide), ganciclovir (Cytovene IV, Vitrasert), valacyclovir (Valtrex), and valganciclovir (Valcyte).

– clarithromycin (Biaxin) – erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab, PCE, Pediazole, Ilosone) – fluconazole (Diflucan) – itraconazole (Sporanox) – ketoconazole (Nizoral) – methadone (Dolophine) – posaconazole (Noxafil) – telithromycin (Ketek) – voriconazole (Vfend) Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking COMPLERA without first talking with your healthcare provider.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking COMPLERA? Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • If you have or had any kidney, mental health, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection.

• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if COMPLERA can harm your unborn child.

– There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

• If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take COMPLERA. – You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

– Two of the medicines in COMPLERA can pass to your baby in your breast milk.

It is not known if this could harm your baby.

– Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements: • COMPLERA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how COMPLERA works.

• If you take certain medicines with COMPLERA, the amount of COMPLERA in your body may be too low and it may not work to help control your HIV-1 infection. The HIV-1 virus in your body may become resistant to COMPLERA or other HIV-1 medicines that are like it.

How should I take COMPLERA? • Stay under the care of your healthcare provider during treatment with COMPLERA. • Take COMPLERA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.

• Always take COMPLERA with food. Taking COMPLERA with food is important to help get the right amount of medicine in your body. A protein drink is not a substitute for food. If your healthcare provider decides to stop COMPLERA and you are switched to new medicines to treat HIV-1 that includes rilpivirine tablets, the rilpivirine tablets should be taken only with a meal.

Keep COMPLERA and all medicines out of reach of children.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about COMPLERA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about COMPLERA that is written for health professionals, or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.COMPLERA.com.

BS Page 2

Issued: September 2014

COMPLERA, the COMPLERA Logo, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, TRUVADA, VIREAD, and VISTIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. ©2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. CPAC0133 10/14

PALIO Date: 12.17.14 • Client: Gilead • Product: Complera • File Name: 24057_pgitvd_Master_F_Gay_Life_Frank_fi.indd

Gay Life

REAL LIFE

Baltimore Local News by

STEVE CHARING

Long-time Baltimore and Washington-area DJ Mark Thomas

Students attending the 2012 B'More Leadership Summit at UMBC Photo by Steve Charing

Nate Sweeney will speak at Prime Timers meeting on March 8

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Mark Thomas (May 31, 1959–January 25, 2015) A long-time Baltimore and Washington, D.C.-area DJ, Mark Thomas died Jan. 25.

He was 55. The cause of death was not immediately available.

Thomas started his DJ career at The Hippo in 1980 and was a Baltimore and New York City resident when he died.

Chuck Bowers, owner of the Hippo, fondly remembered giving Thomas his start. Chuck Bowers, owner of the Hippo, fondly remembers giving Thomas his start.

“He would listen carefully to the work of other DJs at the time, listen to the music and become the best DJ he can be,” said Bowers.

“He was a handsome man, but his personality exceeded even that.” Bowers brought Thomas back to the Club Hippo for special events and last saw him during Pride 2014.

Thomas worked at various clubs in Rehoboth during those early years, including the Renegade and the Strand. Murray Archibald from Camp Rehoboth said, “From the Saint days, through the Strand years, and for twenty-five years of Sundance he was our music man.”

Thomas also played around the world in places like Mykonos, Greece, and Sydney, Australia.

“I have known Mark since he was 19 years-old when I took him under my wing,

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

some 36 years ago,” Lynda Dee, a Baltimore attorney and founder and President of AIDS Action Baltimore, said. “We have been the best of friends since that time. He was really more like a son to me. While I will never get over his loss, I am comforted by this sentiment which I received in a lovely sympathy card, ‘When I think of Mark, I remember all the people he made dance and be happy.’ What a beautiful legacy!”

Fellow DJ Jimmy P, a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. added, “Mark was a down to earth and really fun guy. He was one of the Saint’s stable of hugely talented DJ’s.

His favorite expression was ‘Doll’ this & that.

“Time and distance separated us but we reconnected through a music sharing group based in Fort Lauderdale and then through Facebook. I last chatted with him about two months ago. All I can say is: ‘Doll…you left your musical mark on many; you were a really great DJ, man and a good friend. Doll… you will be missed.’”

A Memorial Service for Mark will take place on his birthday, Sunday, May 31 at 4 p.m. It will be held at the City Café, 1001 Cathedral St., Baltimore, 21201 with music

by Sean Novak. May 31 would have been Thomas’s 56th birthday.

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Writing workshops to be held at the GLCCB

Valentine’s dance in Westminster highlights progress

The GLCCB will be hosting writing workshops on March 3 and March 10. Author Mike Warren will be leading the workshop sessions focusing on how to write and publish a book.

Warren, who has penned and selfpublished a number of novels, is the recipient of the Marilyn Brown/Slyce The Book Club King of Literature 2015 Award.

Among his works are: A Private Affair, Sweet Swagger, Sir Yes Sir, Just Make Him Beautiful, Timing is Everything and The Cool in You. “People will be surprised to learn that they can publish their own books and it doesn’t take a lot of money,” Warren said. “The only thing that a writer has to pay for to publish their own book is the fee for an editor to review and make corrections of their manuscript and a fee for a graphic artist to do their book cover, spine and back cover.

It’s that easy.”

A Baltimore resident, Warren is the father of five grown children and has been in a loving relationship with his partner for five years.

The free workshops take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the GLCCB’s third floor suite of the Waxter Center, 1000 Cathedral St., Baltimore 21201. For more information, call 410-777-8145.

Those attending the PFLAG-Westminster/ Carroll County Valentine’s dance on a frigid February 15 felt a warm sense of accomplishment while enjoying the music, decorations, refreshments and prizes. For the second year in a row, the chapter was successful in requesting the public school system in Westminster to display fliers from the event throughout the middle and high schools in the city.

While this may not be viewed by some as a significant breakthrough, consider that Carroll County is among the more socially conservative jurisdictions in Maryland. For instance, the state upheld same-sex marriage in a referendum in 2012 by a 52-48 percent margin; Carroll County voters opposed it by 56 to 44 percent.

The flier provided information about the dance and advertises that both LGBTQ and straight allies are invited to attend. At PFLAG’s request, Carey Gaddis, Supervisor of Community and Media Relations in the Carroll County Public Schools system, asked the schools in an email to allow the flier to be displayed.

“The email was sent to principals in middle and high schools was very nice and supportContinued on Page 30

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21

OUR LIFE

ALL TEA, NO SHADE: DISHIN’ WITH THE DUCHESS

Beating Those Winter Blues by

JUSTIN’S HIV JOURNAL

Do You Believe?

by JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH

W

hen someone is diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS there are many things that go through their mind­—I’m going to die early; my partner probably gave it to me; I probably need to go on medication. One of things that I believe people that are HIV-positive need in their life is a belief in something.

Whether you are a following the faith of Judaism, Catholicism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Taoism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Paganism, Celtic polytheism or Wicca it really shouldn’t matter, but you all believe in something. Having HIV and believing in something in my opinion helps me deal with stress and other obstacles.

I myself was raised a Christian, but I’m not a Christian anymore. I am Pagan— which is older than Christianity. Look it up!

When I became HIV-positive many people that I told asked me to pray to God to heal me, or told me, “praise God find you and keep you.” My response was to tell them that I’m not a Christian, and I didn’t need their help in finding Jesus.

I had wondered why so my African/Black Americans were Christian. After doing some research, I found that indoctrination during slavery in the United States and European colonization in Africa were the root reasons.

Before those events, most of my African

Justin B. Terry-Smith is a noted HIV and gay civil rights activist and the creator of ‘Justin’s HIV Journal,” a popular blog in which he shares his trials and tribulations of living with HIV. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Justin resides in Laurel, Md. with his husband, Dr. Philip Terry-Smith and their son Lundyn.

Photo by Don Harris, Don Harris Photographics, LLC © 2011. All Rights Reserved.

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

ancestors were polytheistic. Plus, I have other ancestors that were Spanish Jews and Middle Eastern. So knowing those points I find it a little discouraging when people assume I’m a Christian. All you really need to know is that I get my spiritual nourishment through my own means, and I’m happy with that.

Even on Facebook, people will comment on my posts with something like, “By the glory of God, he is blessing you.” I usually give them a virtual side eye. I’ll simply reply with a thank you or let them know I’m not a Christian. But you know what they say about assumptions? Let’s just say you will not be making one out of me.

CARLTON SMITH and JAVIUS CAIN

Hello family!

Can we talk? Honey, this winter has certainly given us an Arctic blast and forced hibernation! Well, I'm here to inform you that you don't need to go stir crazy in your homes. Life triggers many stressors in our communities and we all sometimes need resources when there is some form of crisis. This month, I’d like to introduce to you my colleague Javius Cain, who works at the Baltimore Crisis Center. Take it away, Javius!

S

pring is in the air! I don’t know about you, but after several days of subzero temperatures, I am excited for warmer weather and the blooming of beautiful, colorful flowers. Spring is the time of year when we tend to do a little “spring cleaning” in our lives and reaffirm the goals we set for ourselves at the beginning of the year. As we transition from winter to spring, many of us may still feel the effects of the dreadful “winter blues.”

These stressors in our lives can trigger events that may find us in crisis. Here is some information to help you, should you find yourself in crisis, to make a better and healthier YOU:

MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT

If you are dealing with the ebb and flow of life, Baltimore Crisis Response, Inc. (BCRI) is available to help you find a healthy balance in your life. BCRI operates 21 psychiatric beds in an in-patient dorm style environment which makes for a very relaxed atmosphere while you receive treatment. Case managers are also available to assist you in obtaining available resources. This may include: linkages to community mental health or substance abuse treatment, primary medical care, linkage to transitional/permanent housing, connection to vocational training and education, and other community resources. BCRI also operates a 10 bed residential detoxification unit for anyone struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Not every crisis requires inpatient treatment. As a result,

Carlton Smith and Javius Cain BCRI has a Mobile Crisis Team comprised of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers, to provide immediate assessment and treatment. Additionally, BCRI operates a 24 hour, 7 days a week Hotline Service staffed by trained counselors who provide suicide intervention, supportive counseling, and dispatching of emergency assistance. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need help with substance use counseling, please call BCRI hours a day, 7 days a week at (410-433-5175).

HIV SERVICES

Taking care of your sexual health is another resource available at BCRI through the No Wrong Door project. Anyone who enters the Crisis Response Unit and Substance Abuse Detoxification Unit is offered a free and confidential HIV test regardless of their risk factors. If you have questions or concerns HIV, STIs, or sexual health, you will have the opportunity to speak with a No Wrong Door staff person for counseling, assessment and/or education. If you are living with HIV/AIDS, you will be able to meet with the No Wrong Door Linkage to Care Specialist who will help you with referral to HIV services and primary medical care.

Javius Cain, LGSW is the No Wrong Door Outreach Specialist at BCRI providing HIV testing, counseling, and linkage to care for clients living with HIV in various mental health agencies in Baltimore City and Baltimore County.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

TRANSMISSIONS

Ladies Night

by COURTNEY BEDELL ECKLER

B

eing single on Valentine’s Day can be a bit lonely so this year, I decided on a diversion. I planned to conduct research on a piece I’m writing on transgender support in Baltimore by attending the Tranquility group at the GLCCB. Snow had been predicted, but only up to three inches. No biggie, I thought. As I headed out, the snow was still coming down hard and my car was covered in a few inches. I cleared it off while my legs in a short skirt shivered in the minus 15 degree wind-chill. At that instant, I considered blowing off my mission, but no journalist worth her salt lets a little thing like freezing her tits off get in the way of a story! As I made my way down I-83, an accident left us bumper to bumper. Thirty minutes later I finally got to the St. Paul Street exit and headed downtown. I had not yet been to the new GLCCB on Cathedral Street and the snow made it impossible to see the building numbers. I didn’t realize it was in the Waxter Senior Center, so I drove around the block three times futilely looking for it.

Finally, after numerous times driving past the Waxter Center, I saw someone come out of the building, and asked if they knew where the GLCCB was. It was nice to greet a friendly face after my ordeal, and of course she said this was the GLCCB and that Tranquility had been cancelled when nobody showed up. Ok, so I found the place and even if I had been on time, the support group was cancelled. The night had been a complete bust so I decided to just go home.

As I passed the “Bermuda Triangle” of bars—The Mt. Vernon Stable, The Hippo, and Grand Central—I thought I should at least have one drink. The Stable and the Hippo were both pretty much dead. Across Charles Street was the place that would redeem my night—Grand Central. It looked like there might have been a little activity, so I parked to check it out. As I walked in the doorman let me know that it was Ladies Night. This is when my night began to blossom.

Upon my arrival, there was only a handful of women, but the place began to fill up and within a half hour it was elbow to elbow. I met three women from Virginia Beach who had driven up just for this monthly Ladies Night and we toasted Valentine’s Day with

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

lemon drop shots. We became fast friends and when we made our way to the dance floor I started dancing and didn’t stop until closing time three hours later!

When I was young I had never been much of a dancer since I’d always felt a disconnect to my body—but that night I felt liberated, as if I had been dancing all my life! All I needed was that beat, along with the feeling of empowerment in being with all these amazing women who were free to be themselves. I danced with all sorts of women, none of whom seemed to care that I was a good bit older than they were. It was about having a good time in a space where women celebrated being women who love women. It was the best time I’d had in as long as I can remember.

You might ask what all this has to do with my being a trans-girl? I’ll tell you.

Spending this fantastic night out with the girls dancing like it was our last night on earth -- laughing, hugging, kissing, being a woman out with women -- it was the most joyous and liberating thing I had experienced, maybe ever! And the important part, the trans part, is that this night was only possible for me because I am a woman.

Courtney Bedell Eckler is the author of a Gay Life advice/insight column that covers all aspects of transgender life ranging from the practical aspects of transitioning, to employment, family, and social concerns. She hopes that, through the column, her insight, knowledge, and experience as a transgender woman will help others in their quest for wholeness. Have a question? Trying to solve a problem? Want some feedback? Let Courtney know about it by emailing advice@baltimoregaylife.com.

SPIRITUAL IN-TO-ME-I-SEE (SPIRITUAL INTIMACY)

Honoring Your Relationships

by COACH MAQ ELÈ

I

n December, I received a call that one of my sorority sisters had been murdered. I was overcome with emotion, because I had thought of her a few weeks prior to receiving the call, but I was too caught up in my life to take the time to reach out to her. Attending her funeral reminded me that my life is not guaranteed and that the lives of my friends and family are not guaranteed.

In honor of sister’s presence in my life, I made a personal commitment to myself to be more present in my life and to honor the relationships that the Universe has blessed me with. For me this means picking up the phone and calling someone when I think of them; actually calling someone on their birthday instead of sending them a Facebook message; and using good ole’ fashion snail mail to connect instead of an email.

Is there someone in your life you’ve been thinking about, and have not reached out to them? How would you feel if you heard that they were gone, would you be at peace with where you left the relationship? Do the people in your life really know what you are up to, or do they only know because of the status you post on Facebook?

I invite you to reach out to those you’ve been thinking about, but have

been “too busy” to reach out to. I invite you to call an old friend for lunch or dinner sometime next week. Most importantly, I invite you to remember that each day is a gift; tomorrow is not promised. Cherish each moment as an opportunity to give and receive unconditional love!

BE-LOVED! ~Coach Maq

Coach Maq Elè is a certified Spiritual Life and the facilitator for the GLCCB group SILhouette (Spiritually In-Tuned Lesbians).

For more information about Coach Maq and SILhouette please visit Maqele. com. To contact Coach Maq with your coaching questions email CoachMaq@ baltimoregaylife.com.

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

23

OUR LIFE

THE W.O.E. REPORT

To Disclose or Not to Disclose: Criminalizing HIV “T

by

WYATT O’BRIAN EVANS

o tell or not to tell.” That’s the thorny, nagging—and potentially life-altering decision an HIV-positive person must answer before having sex with someone.

And that’s the case even if the infected individual has an undetectable viral load, uses condoms, and practices the safest sex with his/her partner.

The Global Commission on HIV and the Law has stated that the U.S. leads the world with “thousands of prosecutions”—at least 32 states and two territories criminalize exposure to and/or transmission of HIV. And in at least 29 states, it’s a felony. None of the laws require transmission to occur.

ProPublica, the independent, non-profit newsroom, conducted an analysis of records from 19 states and stated, “Over the last decade, there have been at least 541 cases in which people were convicted of, or pleaded to, criminal charges for not disclosing that

they were HIV-positive. Defendants in these cases were often sentenced to years— sometimes decades—in prison, even when they used a condom or took other precautions against infecting their partners.”

Many law enforcement legislators and officials defend these laws. Jerry Vander Sanden, a Linn County, Iowa prosecutor made the following statement to ProPublica, “Shifting the burden of HIV disclosure from the infected person, who is aware of a known danger, to one who is completely unaware of their partner’s condition smacks of a ‘blame the victim’ sort of mentality. It would be like telling a rape victim that they should have been more careful.”

However, according to the media outlet, some health and legal experts believe that using criminal penalties to curtail the epidemic could backfire, thereby fueling the spread of HIV. “According to the CDC, 1.1

million Americans are currently living with HIV, but one-fifth of them don’t know it.

And studies show that about half of newlyinfected people got the virus from those who didn’t know they had HIV. So relying on a partner to know, let alone disclose, their HIV status is a risky proposition.”

ProPublica interviewed Scott Schoettes, the HIV Project Director at Lambda Legal, the national gay-rights advocacy group, who stated that the laws unfairly single out the infection, further stigmatizing and reinforcing misconceptions about living with the virus.

Wyatt O’Brian Evans is a journalist, radio personality (“The Wyatt O’Brian Evans Show,” PapiChuloRADIO.com), instructor, motivational speaker, and author of the new novel, Nothing Can Tear Us Apart— RAGE! (Gay/ethnic). You may visit Wyatt at his on line home, WyattEvans.com. Follow him at The Wyatt O’Brian Evans Official Fan Club on Facebook, and on Twitter at @MisterWOE.

OUT-SKIRTS

My Other Loves

by DANIELLE ARIANO

F

or Valentine’s Day this year, my wife Lindsay gave me a box full of individually wrapped bottles of beer. Each bottle had a heart shaped tag with a hand written note that was a clue as to the name of the beer.

One tag read: “Your BFF wrote ____.”

This one was easy. The beer was called Wyld.

Lindsay was referring to Cheryl Strayed, the acclaimed author of the best selling book Wild, which was recently turned into a movie starring Reese Witherspoon.

“I think this tag should say ‘girlfriend’, not ‘BFF’,” I said.

“Open the next one,” Lindsay said waving her hand dismissively.

Lindsay knows how much I love Cheryl.

I fell for her years ago, when I first read her essay, “The Love of My Life,” but I only started referring to Cheryl as my “girlfriend” after I met her this past summer at the Omega Memoir Festival (I didn’t want

24

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

to rush things). While she and I briefly conversed (i.e. I mumbled my way through several sentences about how much her writing meant to me), she emblazoned the title page of each of her books with a short note to me (and a heart!).

The way I feel about Strayed makes me understand what was going on with all of those screaming teenage girls in Beatles footage from the ‘60s. Fortunately, my 37 years on this earth have taught me a thing or two about self-control, so when I got my picture taken with her, I totally played it cool. Totally.

Lindsay is okay with my love of Cheryl because, she too, has her share of other loves: Sandra Bullock makes Lindsay swoon (she’s seen Miss Congeniality more times than I can count), she has a major crush on Lauren Holiday (the midfielder for the U.S. women’s soccer team), and you should have

Danielle (at right) playing it cool when meeting Cheryl Strayed

seen her big, cheesy grin when she got her photo taken with Mia Hamm a few years ago. I’ve never seen so many of her teeth.

Lindsay and I also have a couple of overlapping loves, like Jennifer Lawrence. When we first saw Lawrence wielding that bow and arrow in The Hunger Games, we both fell hard and fast And then later, when she laughed off her embarrassing fall up the steps at the Oscars? Well, be still our beating hearts.

“Don’t be jealous of Cheryl,” I said to Lindsay as I reached for the next wrapped bottle.

The tag read: “Valentine’s with me? _____ ___?” Inside was a beer called Lucky U. “What’s with the question mark after those blanks,” I asked, smiling at her. “It should be an exclamation point.”

Sure, Cheryl might be brilliant and Jen-

nifer might be tough and witty, but in my opinion, they aren’t even in the same league as Lindsay.

Besides that, neither of them bought me a box filled with delicious beer for Valentine’s Day. Lindsay knows me, and quite amazingly, she loves me anyway.

That, my friends, is the definition of lucky.

Danielle Ariano is a writer and cabinetmaker. Her work has been published by Huffington Post, Baltimore Fishbowl and North Dakota Quarterly. Ariano lives in Lutherville, Md. with her wife and their two dogs. When she is not writing or building, you can usually find her at the beach surfing. Follow her on Twitter @dariano19.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

CROSSING

I'm scared, mary. i'm afraid i might be transgender like you and i don't know what to do.

one: don't stress or panic. understand that you can only do what you can, when you can.

T's

darling, let me tell you the three most important rules of transitioning. They are...

BY ANGELA WREN

TWO: BUY YOUR TRANSITION GODMOTHER A SECOND DRINK.

BUY YOUR TRANSITION GODMOTHER A THIRD DRINK.

OKAY, what's the third rule?

Protect What Matters

Your Partner • Your Family • Your Wealth

Lee Carpenter

A Maryland attorney to the LGBT community • • • • •

Wills Trusts Powers of Attorney Advance Medical Directives Estate Administration

BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

FREE Estate Planning Seminar & Luncheon for the LGBT Community Sunday, June 14, 2015 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm Followed by a performance of Bernstein’s Candide

Learn about the basics of estate planning and the unique concerns of the LGBT community, presented by Semmes attorney Lee Carpenter.

SPACE IS LIMITED! RSVP by June 10th

410.783.8074 or MemberEvents@BSOmusic.org

25 South Charles Street, Ste 1400, Baltimore, MD 21201 410.576.4729 • lcarpenter@semmes.com BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

For tickets to Candide, contact Tim Lidard at 410.783.8016 or TLidard@BSOmusic.org GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

25

BETTER LIFE

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions by

AMANDA WOODDELL WILHELM

P

ossibly the only thing more painful than paying taxes is paying more than is necessary. Many taxpayers leave money on the table due to lack of understanding of the tax laws and more importantly, the deductions that are available to reduce their tax bill.

In the simplest of terms, a tax deduction allows for a reduction in your taxable income, thus decreasing the amount of tax you owe to the federal and state governments. There are numerous deductions available. However, many taxpayers are unaware of them or fully understand how to take advantage of them.

Below are a few tax saving tools that are frequently overlooked:

Love Your Gut

by ALICIA GABRIEL, CHASE BREXTON HEALTH CARE Reviewed by AMINA

CHAUDHRY, MD, CMO,

CHASE BREXTON HEALTH CARE

A

s kids, we made jokes about its functions. As adults, we may still joke, or we may try to pretend its functions don’t even happen. You know what we’re talking about: the colon.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month—so let’s all get aware.

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It affects people of all genders as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and is one of

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

Qualified Moving Expenses: If you moved more than 50 miles for job reasons, you may be able to deduct your out-of-pocket, unreimbursed relocation expenses. These include paying for movers, packing supplies, storage, and travel costs for family. Please note that this covers only one trip and does not include meals during travel.

Track Your Charitable Giving: Many of us donate to charities throughout the year but often lose track of receipts or fail to obtain proof to substantiate these gifts.

Now is the time to gather up these receipts, and develop better tracking mechanisms for future tax seasons.

the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. It is also one of the most easily prevented and detected cancers. In fact, regular screening of individuals 50 years and over could prevent 60 percent of colorectal cancer deaths.

Who is at risk? Everyone. Unfortunately, no one is immune to colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer affects all genders equally. Your risk increases as you get older.

In fact, more than 90 percent of the cases of colorectal cancer are among people over the age of 50.

Studies suggest your risk is also increased if you: have a close relative who’s been diagnosed with colon polyps or colon or rectal cancer; are genetically predisposed (genetic counselors can determine this); or have inflammatory bowel disease (not the same as Irritable Bowel Syndrome), ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease, or other certain bowel disorders.

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to an increased risk of colorectal cancer include lack of regular physical activity, low fruit and vegetable intake, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, obesity, alcohol consumption and tobacco use.

Miscellaneous 2 Percent Deductions: While many people deduct tax preparation fees, keep in mind that legal fees incurred for income preservation or tax planning are also deductible. Also eligible for deduction are your investment advisory fees incurred in the management of your taxable investments, union dues paid and other unreimbursed job costs.

Dependent Care Expenses: Many believe this only pertains to the costs incurred for the care of qualifying children.

However, if you pay for the care of an elderly parent (i.e., in-home nursing), you may be able to claim those costs as a credit against your tax liability. This is even more powerful than a tax deduction as a credit reduces your tax bill dollar for dollar.

While the deadline to file your personal income tax return is still a couple of months away, now is the time to gather your documents and schedule an appointment with an experienced tax professional. Reviewing your tax situation with your advisor can help uncover potential opportunities to save income

What are the screenings? Next time you want to end a conversation quickly, mention a colonoscopy.

Not many people jump at the idea of getting a colonoscopy. But, ask most people and you’ll find out that it really isn’t as bad as it sounds. It’s true, the prep is no fun but for some the stories are worse than the reality.

We said this before, but it’s worth repeating: It is estimated that as many as 60

To learn more about colorectal cancer, check out CDC.gov/cancer/ colorectal

tax by taking advantage of deductions.

Tax season can be a stressful time but, if you plan accordingly, keep all receipts, and think strategically about your tax situation, it is possible to reduce your tax burden.

Amanda Wooddell Wilhelm is a Manager at SC&H Financial Advisors, the Personal Financial Planning practice at SC&H Group, which is an audit, tax, and consulting firm based in Sparks, Md. To learn more about SC&H Group, visit www.scandh.com. Note: Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. SC&H Financial Advisors, Inc. and Triad Advisors, Inc. are unaffiliated entities.

percent of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented if everyone over the age of 50 were screened routinely.

One or more of the tests below are generally recommended, though other tests are available. Your provider will help you determine which is right for you. These can include: • High-sensitivity Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), for those with average risk, every year beginning at age 50.

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy, for those with average risk, every five years beginning at age 50. When done in combination with a high-sensitivity FOBT, the FOBT should be done every three years.

• Colonoscopy, for those with average risk, every 10 years beginning at age 50. That’s right: A colonoscopy is only every 10 years!

Your provider may recommend beginning screening at an earlier age if you have certain risk factors.

Should you get screened for colorectal cancer? Short answer: Yes. Longer answer: Make an appointment to chat with your provider about your risks and appropriate health screenings.

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW BALTIMORE HEBREW

CONGREGATION PRESENTS

a fabulous evening of

CLASSIC

05.07.15 | this event benefits |

BHC’S YOUTH COMMUNITY INCLUDING THE E.B. HIRSH EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER AND YOUTH EDUCATION

| honoring |

RONNIE AND ROBERT FOOTLICK

event chairs

BARBI HYMAN MARJORIE GOODMAN

sponsorship opportunities

ANNETTE SAXON ASAXON@BHCONG.ORG

information

4 4 3 - 5 2 4 - 0 2 8 4 . W W W. B H CO N G . O R G

Not everyone’s happily ever after involved a princess...

A sassy, campy, nostalgic review of music from the world of animation

March 13 at 8pm March 14 at 3pm (ASL) & 8pm Lincoln Theatre 1215 U Street NW

Tickets: 1-877-435-9849 or www.GMCW.org ASL tickets or groups of 10 or more: Call 202-293-1548 BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

27

SOCIAL LIFE

Datebook

by

RECURRING & ONGOING EVENTS

Sundays Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar Every Sunday 7am-Noon Jones Falls Expressway Holliday & Saratoga Sts. PromotionAndArts.com Dog Hikes with the Doctor First Sunday of the month 11am-Noon • $2 Baltimore Humane Society 1601 Nicodemus Rd. • Reisterstown BMoreHumane.org Metropolitan Community Church Services Every Sunday 9am and 11am MCC Baltimore • 401 W. Monument St MCCBaltimore.org League of Women Bowlers Every Sunday 4:30pm AMF Marlow Heights Lanes 4717 St. Barnabas Rd. • Temple Hill LeagueOfWomenBowlers2@verizon.net Rise Up, Honoring Women’s Spirituality Fourth Sundays 12:45-2:15pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net Westminster PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Third Sundays 7pm St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 17 Bond St. • Westminster PFLAGWCC.org Heterosexual Friendly Gay Brunch First Sunday Frederick’s on Fleet • 2112 Fleet St. FredericksOnFleet.com ASGRA Monthly Trail Ride First Sundays 10:30am • $25-30 Piscataway Stables 10775 Piscataway Road • Clinton ASGRA.org Charm City Volleyball: Competitive Play Every Sunday 10am-1pm • $7 Volleyball House 5635 Furnace Ave. • Elkridge VolleyBaltimore.org Service of Worship First Sundays 10:30am First & Franklin • 210 West Madison St. FirstFranklin.org Service of Worship Every Sunday 10am Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church • 1316 Park Ave. BrownDowntown.org

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GAY LIFE / MARCH 2015

RACHEL ROTH

Mondays Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg. Fourth Mondays 7:30pm Contact info@ifcmd.org to confirm meeting location IFCMD.info PFLAG Howard County Parent Forum Third Mondays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Women 55+ Monday evenings Chase Brexton Health Services Call 410-837-2050, ext. 2428 for details www.bit.ly/SeniorPride

Tuesdays Howard County PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Second Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Tuesday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.com Meditation Group Every Tuesday 6:15-7:45pm First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W. Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net PFLAG Baltimore Co. General Mtg. Fourth Tuesdays 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore City 1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays 7-9pm The GLCCB • 1000 Cathedral St. RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/RYABaltimore Teen Program at JCC Second Tuesdays 6pm Owings Mills JCC 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. JoinTeens.org Trans Parents Forum, Baltimore Co. Third Tuesdays 7-9:30pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org

Wednesdays Charm City Volleyball: Social Play Every Wednesday 6:30-9:30pm • $3-30 Mt Royal Recreational Center 137 McMechen St. Living Well with HIV Support Group Every Wednesday 10:30am Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. Jacques.umaryland.edu/support.html Spiritual Development with Rev. Sam Offer Every Wednesday 7pm Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore 4007 Old York Rd. UFCB.org GEM: Gender Empowerment MD Every other Wednesday 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Men 55+ Wednesday evenings.

Chase Brexton Health Services Call 410-837-2050, ext. 2428 for details www.bit.ly/SeniorPride Support Group for Transgender Adults Third Wednesday 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia hoctytransgroup@gmail.com

Parents of Transgender Kids Fourth Tuesdays 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com PFLAGBaltimore.org

Thursdays

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com

HIV Support: Substance Abuse & HIV Every Thursdays 2-3pm Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia 410.280.9047 rya_leaders@hotmail.com

Karate-Dō (LGBT-friendly classes) Every Thursday 5:30-7:30pm Johns Hopkins Homewood Campus Bob Remington — MDShoto@aol.com Csskshotokan.com

Fridays HIV Support: Just Between US Every Friday 11am-Noon Institute of Human Virology 725 W. Lombard St. IHV.org

Saturdays Baltimore Frontrunners Every Saturday 8:45am • Brunch 10am Panera Bread, 3600 Boston St. BaltimoreFrontrunners.org HOPE DC Monthly Brunch First Saturdays 11am Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro DC 1801 18th St. NW • Washington, D.C. HopeDCSocials-owner@yahoogroups.com In the Company of Women First Saturdays 10am-Noon First Unitarian Church of Baltimore 1 W Hamilton St. FirstUnitarian.net

DATEBOOK

Sunday, March 1 Rye’s Up Against Cystic Fibrosis Hosted by the Baltimore Bartenders’ Guild. $65. 6-9pm.

B&O American Brasserie • 2 N. Charles St. BMoreBarGuild.com

Monday, March 2 Spot Light Mondays — RuPaul’s Drag Race Drink specials & drag shows! 9pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Men’s Naked Yoga Every Monday 6:30-7:30pm • $18 Vitruvian Gallery, LLC 734 7th St., SE, 2nd fl. • Wash., D.C. VitruvianGallery.com Karaoke Sing your heart out every Mon. & Tues. night.

Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Tuesday, March 3 Chicago opens Broadway’s razzle-dazzle smash. $25-125 +fees • 8pm • Thru Mar. 8 Hippodrome Theatre • 12 N Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com

BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

Showtune Video Madness Sing out Louise! FREE. Tuesdays. 7:45pm Club Hippo • 1 W Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Wine Tasting FREE • Fridays 5-8pm.

Spirits of Mt Vernon Wine Shop 900 N. Charles St. SpiritsOfMtVernon.com

Showdown Trivia Competition Hosted by John Woods. 9:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Chocolate Happy Hour Weekly chocolate-fest • 6:30pm Ma Petite Shoe • 832 W. 36th St. MaPetiteShoe.com

Wednesday, March 18

Wednesday, March 4

Levi & Leather Leather or Bear attire gets you a discount.

Fridays 8pm Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

POZ DC Happy Hour Mixer For HIV+ men • 7pm Green Lantern 1335 Green Court NW • Wash., D.C. HopeDC.org

First Fridays First Friday of every month 6pm • FREE Eastern & East Ave. CreativeAlliance.org

Saturday, March 21

Neighbors Night at Marquee Lounge Every Wednesday 5pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Open Men’s Meeting Peer-support group that honors the mature male.

Every Wednesday 6:30-8:45pm • FREE GLCCB • 1000 Cathedral St., 3rd floor Bmoi1000@gmail.com Gay BINGO! Every Wednesday 8:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W Eager St. ClubHippo.com

Thursday, March 5 The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde • $15-$36 8pm • Thru Mar. 22 Chesapeake Shakespeare Company 7 South Calvert St. ChesapeakeShakespeare.com The Wild Purim Rumpus A night of masquerade and mischief. $7-13 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Exit, Stage Left opens Physical comedy hit comes to Baltimore. $12-22 • 8pm • Thru Mar. 7 Theater Project • 45 W. Preston St. TheaterProject.org Hip Hop Night at Club Hippo Get your dance on every Thursday.

Reduced cover before 11pm.

Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com Omega Thursdays Every Thursday 9pm-2am Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Friday, March 6 National Aquarium Hosts Women’s History Month Celebration Performances, exhibits and activities celebrating women • $12 • 5-8pm National Aquarium • 501 E. Pratt St Aqua.org

Saturday, March 7 Brooke Johnson is EXTRA ALIVE! Back with her hilariously cathartic, piercingly memorable one woman show. $23-28 • 8pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org Zodiac Saturdays No cover… if it’s your sign.

Every Saturday 9pm Club Hippo • 1 W Eager St. ClubHippo.com elektroschock First Saturday of every month 9pm. $6 cover • 21+ Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Sunday, March 8 Prime Timers General Meeting Feat. Nate Sweeney, Executive Director of the LHRC of ChaseBrexton • FREE • 6pm St. Marks Lutheran Church at St. Paul & 20th Sts. PTBalto.org

Monday, March 16 Giant Monster Monday Movies & drink specials • 8pm-Midnight The Wind Up Space • 12 W North Ave. TheWindUpSpace.com

Hot Sauce Feat. Rich Morel • $10 • 9pm • Monthly Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Sunday, March 22 Baltimore Cocktail Week For those interested in the service and hospitality industries. $15-35 • Thru Mar. 29 BaltimoreCocktailWeek.com Cocktail Contest and Launch Party Kick-off Baltimore Cocktail Week. $20 • 6-10pm Pen & Quill • 1701 N. Charles St. BaltimoreCocktailWeek.com

Thursday, March 26 Baltimore Bike Party The biggest party on two wheels!

FREE • 7pm St. Mary’s • Seton Hill BaltimoreBikeParty.com Burl-eoke!

Burlesque & Karaoke collide • $10 • 8pm The Brass Monkey Saloon 1601 Eastern Ave.

Friday, March 13 Brian Regan Live comedy tour • $45-55 +fees • 8pm Thru Mar. 14 Hippodrome Theatre • 12 N Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com REVIVAL A monthly hoedown • $6 • 21+ • 7pm Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower welcomes the “All Dressed Up: A Legacy of Cross-Dressing Men in Entertainment” exhibition this month. The showcase from Baltimore-based artist Ron Anthony features portraits of the city’s own Divine, Dame Edna, RuPaul and other entertainers.

Anthony’s whimsical oilbased marker drawings and paintings depict an array of international male entertainers in hilarious and colorful states of cross-dress, appearing in distinguished yearbook-style portraits. In “All Dressed Up,” Anthony seeks to question how minstrel shows of the past have influenced the style and dress of modern day entertainers. Through his work, he also explores the ways men of different regions, nationalities and backgrounds managed to escape the suit, earn their rights of passage and achieve a greater sense of freedom, pride and success through cross-dress.

“All Dressed Up”

Saturday, March 14 SHE Productions Presents REHAB 2nd Saturday of Every Month • $5 • 9pm • 21+ Grand Central • 1001 N. Charles St. CentralStationPub.com

“All Dressed Up” at Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower

HAVING AN EVENT?

Opening reception Fri., Mar. 6 Exhibit runs Saturdays 11am-4pm March 7–April 25 Free Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower 21 S. Eutaw St. BromoSeltzerTower.com

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Queer Queens of Qomedy

Baltimore Local News

Continued from Page 11

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been Lucille Ball. She was the first to show me that a woman could be funny and strong and carry a show, even though I wasn’t thinking along those terms when I was watching her.

I also loved the Three Stooges. They were just very funny and I like slapstick. As I grew older, I started following comedian Paula Poundstone; the way she does audience work is just fantastic. Joan Rivers was actually my biggest mentor. I learned her material and performed it and learned how to be a comedian, how to deliver a joke, and how to get applause. Then I ventured on my own and became my own person and I did take from all of those greats.

ive and basically directed the schools to allow these fliers to be left for distribution,” said Joy Fisher, the chapter’s new president.

“I think this is going to be a good year with the school board. There seems to be many allies in the group. This will be a slow and steady movement, but it is definitely a positive movement and it feels like we finally may have some folks who really hear us and understand the importance and need to support our LGBT children in the school system,” Fisher said.

What can show-goers expect to see at the upcoming performance?

It’s going to be me and Mimi Gonzalez, who is, as I call her now, the “Cuban stallion of comedy.” She’s a road dog and has been doing comedy for many years. She’s devoted to women’s rights and is politically active in her comedy and has some great insight into women’s issues.

I’m also bringing Julee Antonellis who is a new standup but certainly not new to being funny. She’s been in a sort of gender bender sketch performance group called All the Kings Men and she has some characters that

Mimi Gonzalez & Julee Antonellis are hysterically funny. I find her so much fun and that’s why I’m bringing her up to be the next great Queer Queen of Comedy. I’ll be headlining the show, so the audience will be getting a full 45-50 minutes of Poppy, which will include some of my songs as well as my crazy off-the-wall high energy. Just very fun and relatable comedy and it’s just gonna be a great, great, great, great, night. I hope everybody can make it out!

Queer Queens of Qomedy

March 22 • 5pm Magooby's Jokehouse 9603 Deereco Rd. Timonium, MD QueerQueensofQomedy.com Magoobys.com

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Chase Brexton’s Sweeney to speak at Prime Timers meeting Nate Sweeney, Executive Director of the LGBT Health Resource Center (LHRC) of Chase Brexton Health Care will be the guest speaker at the Prime Timers of Baltimore general monthly meeting on March 8. It will take place at 6 p.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church at St. Paul & 20th Streets.

Sweeney, 36, a former caregiver and administrator for senior citizen rehabilitation and nursing communities, will describe the recently announced Chase Brexton LHRC. He will also head the implementation of SAGECAP (Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders – Caring and Preparing) in Maryland.

SAGECAP aims to provide a welcoming community that helps caregivers navigate their own current and future needs by offering counseling, support groups, educational seminars, online resources, information about benefits and help for caregivers planning for their own future. The program is currently operating in Washington, D.C. and 17 states.

Also speaking at the meeting will be Bethany Henderson, Program Manager with SAGECAP. “Health subjects are a major concern for older persons and gay men have special issues,” says Ralph Welsh, President of Prime Timers of Baltimore, a group of older gay or bisexual men (and younger men who admire mature men). “When Chase Brexton offers assistance in this area, it is important to be aware of what is available.”

For further information, call 410-252-7239, or contact Prime Timers at info@ptbalto.org.

B’More Proud LGBTIA Leadership Summit on tap for March 28 For the second time, UMBC will be hosting the annual B’More Proud LGBTIA Leadership Summit—a conference consisting of LGBTIA students from area colleges and universities and allies. This year’s theme is “Growing Out: Developing Self, Campus, Community.” These summits began in 2010.

The 2015 summit seeks to achieve the leadership, networking, and educational goals of the B’More Proud Collegiate Queer Coalition with a special focus on the development of stronger student leaders, organizations, campuses, and ultimately, the queer community of Metropolitan Baltimore.

This conference aims to engage participants in skill-building, experiential exposure, and knowledge-sharing networking opportunities to strengthen them as individuals.

In doing so, individual participates may use these new skills, experiences, and connections to positively impact their respective institutions and the greater Baltimore community of which we are all a part.

The summit traditionally consists of guest speakers, a series of breakout sessions covering a wide array of subjects that involve queer leadership and relating to the theme for the current year’s summit; a resource area where LGBT and LGBT-friendly organizations and companies can provide information; and social activities that includes a dance. Meals are served thanks to sponsors from the private sector. In 2014, around 200 attended the summit at Johns Hopkins University.

This year’s summit takes place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Commons at UMBC, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore 21250. The planners are seeking volunteers, breakout session presenters as well as registrants from the area colleges. For more information and to register, visit BMoreProud.org.

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