Volume 34, Number 3

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1979

MARYLAND’S LGBT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012 VOLUME XXXIV, NUMBER 3 WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

GAY & GRAY

LGBT Seniors Stories and Resources

DANDY LION Photo exhibit challenges popular stereotypes of urban black masculinity

Lily Tomlin graces the Strathmore stage AIRS Oscar Night at Pazo BSCENE PHOTOS

Lobby Day in Annapolis Free Love Benefit

PAGE 2 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 3

letter editor’s

Aging, for me at least, is pretty surreal; sometimes I forget that I’m no longer a youth. But reality sets in whenever I realize there is an entire generation of people younger than me.

Certain universal concerns transcend generations, but there are priorities and pleasures I don’t immediately understand. Similarly, older generations face issues I can’t always appreciate.

Though there are still too many exceptions, more and more LGBT young people can walk out of the closet and into supportive arms of friends and family. But whoever imagines they’ll go back into the closet? Unfortunately, that is a reality facing many LGBT seniors as they begin to navigate new bureaucracies and housing environments.

Thankfully, there are groups, both national and local, that can address these issues. Check out our feature on page 12 and, while there, read a brief conversation with Marty Shayt. Marty is a Senior Volunteer with Gay Life who was first involved with the GLCCB at its start in 1977. His contributions to the GLCCB and Gay Life have been invaluable and his institutional knowledge is incalculable. (And on a personal note, it is an honor, and a pleasure, working with him!)

CONTENTS

8 outfront

outgoing

PAGE 5 COMMUNITY

PAGE 17 SPOTLIGHT

Out-of-the-closet sale!, FSLP wins award, Clergy for marriage equality, Black Pride expands board, MICA supports LGBT students and staff

By Rachel Roth

PAGE 7 DINING OUT

By Rachel Roth

Restaurant review by John Cullen with Marty Shayt

afterhours

Salt: An American Tavern

PAGE 8 COMEDY

The iconic Lily Tomlin graces the Strathmore stage.

By Frank Kaye

Dazzle, dine, and dance on Oscar Night with AIRS. DATEBOOK

Calendar of Events

PAGE 18 BSCENE

Lobby Day in Annapolis.

Photos by terra hiltner

Free Love Benefit for She’Baltimore.

PAGE 9 PHOTOGRAPHY

Photos by terra hiltner

Dandy Lion exhibit at Reginald F. Lewis Museum offers fresh perspective on Black male identity

FILM

A transgender Glenn Close in Albert Nobbs.

Film review by Jacki Randall

headlinenews PAGE 10 NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS

By Rachel Roth

Maggie Beetz

Editor

FEATURE PAGE 12

firstperson

LGBT Older Adults Find Support in Local Groups.

PAGE 15 TRANSMISSIONS

ON THE COVER

Radcliffe Roye, Untitled No. Three from the Sapologie in the Congo Series, 2011.

PAGE 4 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

Flying while transgender in the post-9/11 world.

By Terri Solomon

By Gwendolyn Ann Smith

241 W. Chase Street • Baltimore, MD 21201 Phone 410.837.7748 • Fax 410.837.8889 Email sales@baltimoregaylife.com

Maggie Beetz, Editor

M. Cory Burgess, Art Director cory@metroscapemedia.com

John Cullen, Frank Kaye, Jacki Randall, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Terri Solomon

Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published every other Friday in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2011. 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.

Sabre Chase, Advertising

Photographers

editor@baltimoregaylife.com

sales@baltimoregaylife.com 410.837.7748

National Advertising Rep.

Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863

Marty Shayt

Contributors

terra hiltner John Kardys

Newspaper Committee

Trevor Ankeny, Kelly D. McClain, Charlie Mumford, Terri Solomon

Senior Volunteer

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

outfront COMMUNITY

Out of the Closet Sale!

Enjoy shopping for treasures? Love finding a bargain? Everyone is encouraged to stop by the GLCCB’s indoor yard sale Saturday, February 25 to pursue the many tables of goodies. You’ll find oneof-a-kind items, multitudes of books, as well as practical purchase like seriously discounted school and office supplies.

There will be a door prize raffle for the first 35 people who attend, and two winners will receive $10 gift certificates to use at the yard sale.

This free event will include refreshments, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the GLCCB. The GLCCB (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland) produces Baltimore Pride, offers an array of services to the LGBT community, and publishes Gay Life.

“What better way to spend a Saturday morning than to go shopping for a great cause?” said GLCCB Board Secretary

Bud Beehler, who is organizing the event.

The GLCCB is located on the edge of Mt. Vernon and is accessible by light rail and metro. Street parking is abundant. ■

INDOOR YARD SALE TO BENEFIT THE GLCCB Saturday, February 25 • 8am-1pm The GLCCB • 241 W. Chase St. $10/table rental • FREE to the public BoardSecretary@glccb.org

LGBT Legal Group Wins Award Free State Legal Project was honored by the Brother, Help Thyself Foundation with the Billy Collison Award, January 28. This award is given to a “nonprofit that goes above and beyond, an organization that embodies the spirit of Billy, who was one of our champions at BHT.” “The GLCCB applauds Free State Legal Project’s receipt of the Billy Collison Award,” said GLCCB Director Gary Wolnitzek. “This award demonstrates the dedication of Free State Legal Project’s Board, volunteers, and, especially, Execu-

tive Director Lee Ann Hopkins in working to fulfill their mission.”

Free State Legal Project is the pro bono and reduced fee legal service for LGBT Marylanders who are experiencing discrimination or other difficulties stemming from their gender identity or sexual orientation. ■

FREE STATE LEGAL PROJECT 241 W. Chase St. 410.625.LGBT (5428) FreeStateLegal.org

Clergy Show Support for Marriage Equality On February 8, the Marylanders for Marriage Equality coalition released a web ad featuring local religious and faith leaders who support civil same-sex marriage in Maryland.

“From a Baptist minister to a Catholic nun, those voicing support for both religious liberty and marriage equality is growing,” said MacArthur Flournoy, faith outreach director for Marylanders for Marriage Equality. View the ad at MarylandersForMarriageEquality/video.

The February 2 Baltimore and WashingWWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

ton editions of the AFRO newspaper also include an op ed by Revs. Angela Bishop and Starlene Burns, entitled “Grant Marriage Rights, Not Rites,” explaining committed same-sex couples are not asking to marry in a church that does not embrace their belief or culture, but rather for a stateissued marriage license.

Clergy members also testified at the February 10 House hearing. More than 95 total people testified over 10.5 hours in support of the Marriage Protection Act (House Bill 438). ■ VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 5

outfront COMMUNITY

Black Pride Welcomes New Board Baltimore Black Pride is overhauling their board and welcoming new members for 2012.

According to President Carlton Smith, Black Pride wanted to move in a new direction by becoming more visible in the community in part through partnerships with established organizations including the GLCCB, Unity Fellowship Church, Marylanders for Marriage Equality, HRC, and the city and state health departments.

“We want to focus on more social justice issues affecting African Americans in the LGBT community and their allies including homelessness, health disparities, conversations about marriage and what that looks like in our community, as well as HIV/AIDS and why one third of African American gay and bisexual men are HIV positive,” explained Smith.

The board is also working with Connect to Protect, a Johns Hopkins University group focused on connecting youth with

local programs and events.

The full board now includes Chair Kevin Clemmons, Vice-Chair Meredith Moises, Secretary Tiffany Jackson, Treasurer Kim H. Walker, Attorney Angela A. Alexander and At Large Members Leroy Burgess, Joi Francis-Johnson, Jamal H.N. Hailey, Kevin Brown, Brandyn Taylor, Kimberli Largee-Simmons, and Rev. Sam Offer.

Black Pride is also partnering with the Center for Disease Control’s “Testing Makes Us Stronger” campaign, which will launch at an event at the Eubie Blake Center, March 8 at 6 p.m.

To learn more about Black Pride or to volunteer call 443.691.9669, email bmoreblackpride@yahoo.com, or visit BlackPrideBaltimore.org. ■

“TESTING MAKES USE STRONGER”

Thursday March 8 • 6pm Eubie Blake Center • 847 North Howard St. 410.225.3130 • EubieBlake.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

PAGE 6 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

DINING OUT

Salt Keeps Its Promise

BY JOHN CULLEN WITH MARTY SHAYT

Salt, “a New American Tavern,” occupies a renovated townhouse barely two blocks from the Pagoda in Patterson Park. The entrance (actually on Collington Avenue) separates a long bar with a few tables from a small dining room with about 10 tables. Overhead, clusters of contemporary large lighting fixtures that glow an otherworldly green stand out from tall ceilings against exposed brick walls and polished wood floors.

The menu is brief yet original (we recommend you review it online before trying for the first time). Twelve starters ($7-15) include eye-catching items like crispy boar belly with noodles and Ritz Cracker crusted fried smelt, while the nine entrees ($17-30) seemed less challenging. Some great fresh bread with an addicting spread of tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese had us nodding our heads in enjoyment while we read the menu. Marty and our friend JT finally decided on the mushroom and farro soup ($7) while John ordered the red snapper ceviche ($11). For our entrees, Marty decided on the signature coriander and pepper crusted tuna ($27), John for the pistachio and fig stuffed pork shank ($24) and JT with the filet mignon ($30).

The bowls of soup arrived steaming hot with bits of tomato, farro (a type of wheat kernel), root veggies, Swiss chard, and shaved Parmesan complementing the mushrooms in hearty broth; both Marty and JT ranked it a “Thumbs Up.” The ceviche arrived in a large stylish bowl with bit of snapper enhanced with clementine and lime juice, garlic, red onion, and cilantro; it was tangy and scrumptious and earned another “Thumbs up” from John.

Our entrees similarly earned praises.

Marty’s entree included two large chunks of tuna (which looked at first glance like beef filet) highlighted with a ginger soy glaze and served with a couple of unusual but delicious tuna filled pot stickers. John’s pork shank arrived deboned and with an interesting texture. It had a milder taste than expected, and was accompanied by polenta and broccoli rab.

JT’s filet mignon with a red wine sauce made a big impression. (He commented WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

that it compared favorably to the filet at the Prime Rib). With buttered Brussels sprouts and pot roast stuffed potato sticks (think a cross between a thick tacquito and a petite burrito), he felt that his entrée was worth the cost. Along with our entrees, we ordered a side of duck fat fries; while we aren’t impressed by the duck fat thing, the fries came with three different garlic dipping sauces and were awesomely good. (Both Marty and John’s portions were big enough that they took home some!)

For dessert, we shared “3 mini ice cream cones” (yup, exactly what it sounds like! Small cones with chocolate mint, pumpkin, and apple homemade ice creams) and cheese doughnuts (round golf ball size doughnuts with a soft cheese inside, a touch of salt outside, and sitting in a pool of caramel with some coffee ice cream). Both were intriguingly good. We particularly enjoyed the ice cream cones!

Service from the staff of young men was impressively responsive without being intrusive. Salt’s website asserts the goal of providing “fantastic food, wonderful atmosphere and excellent service.”

While it undeniably comes at a price, it’s obvious that Salt takes those goals very seriously. ■

SALT TAVERN

2127 E. Pratt St. • 410.276.5480 Open Tuesday – Sunday at 5pm Full bar • Vegetarian Options Reservations recommended • Street parking Email DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com and find past reviews at BaltimoreGayLife-DiningOut.info VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 7

outfront Photo by Greg Gorman

THEATER

Lily Tomlin Graces the Stage THE ACTRESS/COMEDIAN/LESBIAN PERFORMS AT STRATHMORE

BY FRANK KAYE When one recalls the most memorable performances of Lily Tomlin, the following may come floating to mind: Ernestine & Edith Ann from Martin & Rowan’s Laugh In; Violet Newstead from 9 to 5; Pat Kramer from The Incredible Shrinking Woman; Ms. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus. Or perhaps Tomlin’s hilarious role in the 1988 movie Big Business in which she appeared alongside the incomparable Bette Midler.

Tomlin will be showcasing many of her timeless characters to the delight of audience members at the Strathmore in Bethesda. Tomlin, who Newsweek credited with making “the one person show the daring, irreverent art form it is today” will perform to a sold-out crowd.

Her enduring and charismatic career has spanned the last five decades. Born in Detroit, Mich., Tomlin originally studied medicine before leaving college to become a performer. Throughout the late 1960’s, Tomlin made several small television appearances, before joining Rowan & Martin’s Laugh In in 1969. It was there in which Tomlin rose to national acclaim for her engaging and comedic characterizations.

On top of being an iconic comedian, Tomlin is also known for her candor regarding the fact she has been in a lesbian relationship with her partner Jane Wagner for over the last 40 years. It was in 1971, after viewing a Wagner-written after-school special that Tomlin invited Wagner to collaborate with her on a comedy album. Although Tomlin did not officially “come out” to the national press until recently, which many still regard as not a formal “coming out,” many around Tomlin were aware of her sexual orientation and relationship with Wagner. As Tomlin stated in an interview with Just Out in 2008:

PAGE 8 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

“Everybody in the industry was certainly aware of my sexuality and of Jane... In interviews I always reference Jane and talk about Jane, but they don’t always write about it.”

Even though Tomlin is well-known for her comedic portrayals, she occasionally dabbles in television and motion picture dramas. In the 1999 movie Tea with Mussolini, Tomlin played Georgie Rockwell, an openly gay archeologist who was entangled in the pre-World War II turmoil against the Fascists in Florence, Italy.

Tomlin is also known for her work in many feminist projects. Through her performance as Violet Newstead, the feminist and powerhouse character she created in 9 to 5, Tomlin pressed for gender equality through her characterization of a hardworking, middle-class mom and widow in the 1970’s. As quoted in MetroWeekly in 2006, “9 to 5 made people aware of equal pay for equal work. It hasn’t really happened, but it has come closer.” Tomlin’s character Violet echoed the voice of the people when she heralded the famous line, “I am your employee and as such I expect to be treated equally with a little dignity and a little respect!” It’s clear that an actress and comedian who, over the course of her career, has earned two Tonys, two Peabodys, six Emmys, a Grammy, the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards, and the Mark Twain Prize for American humor, has certainly garnered the respect of both her peers and audiences worldwide. ■

LILY TOMLIN

Sunday, February 26 • 7pm Music Center at Strathmore 5301 Tuckerman Ln. • 301.581.5100 Strathmore.org BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Fresh Perspectives on Black Male Identity On display now at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum is an exhibit that challenges popular stereotypes of urban black masculinity and explores the “sophisticated urban gentleman whose ‘swagger’ engages both African aesthetics and elements of European fashion.”

Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity, showcases work from 20 emerging local, national, and international photographers and filmmakers who present refreshing images of black men and celebrate the sophistication of the contemporary “Black Dandy.”

“A Dandy Lion is a gentleman of exceptional manners who consciously postulates

what it means to be black, masculine, and of quintessential style,” states Guest Curator Shantrelle P. Lewis Lewis.

Also on view is Global Dandy, a selection of 13 photographs from The Global Africa Project, featuring works that “explore cultural fusion as glimpsed through fashion, particularly through the selfstyling of eclectic dandies and fashionistas across the globe.” ■

DANDY LION: ARTICULATING A RE(DE)FINED BLACK MASCULINE IDENTITY On Display Through May 13 Reginald F. Lewis Museum • 830 E. Pratt St. 443.263.1800 • AfricanAmericanCulture.org

Hanif Abdur-Rahim, A Revolution in Etiquette ­– Connoisseurs of SWAG, 2010.

FILM

Albert Nobbs A REVIEW BY JACKI RANDALL Only rarely does a media tidbit materialize that piques my curiosity.

While seeking a news update, a sidebar showcasing Glenn Close in 19th century drag appeared.

Further investigation revealed a preview that evoked memories of the infamous 1928 Lesbian novel, Radclyffe Hall’s The Well of Loneliness. Predating said novel by some decades emerges Albert Nobbs, a poor soul who escapes the class brutality of poverty by transforming herself into a working man. Mind you, not an enterprising professional, but the sort of faceless menial whose memory wasn’t saved for posterity before the Titanic sunk.

Set in the era when wedlock is a detestable sin, and homosexuality a curse against god, this unassuming character grows into her facade with all its trappings, including sexuality. Estranged by necessity from

WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

physical familiarity, Mr. Nobbs is suddenly thrust into subjectifying intimacy by an incident from that greatest of perverts, nature. This is where our story catches fire.

Ms. Close’s three decades of performance afford an understated veneer to this fifteen year labor of love. At no time during the film’s two hour run was there any lag, as the events ran a good clip through emotions from hysterical to heart rending.

Only the most bloodless among us would fail to empathize with this character who brings to mind phrases as, ‘Anonymous was a woman’ and ‘Clothes make the man.’ For those who find this masquerade too incredible, one only has to pour over a handful of photos of Civil War soldier daguerreotypes before realizing cross-dressing was more widely practiced than you may suspect.

Multiply this by however many wars you care to, and then fold in the fact urgency negated spot-checking.

Take your sweetie to see this one, leaving one hand open to clutch while pondering our illusion of freedom.

I always did have a thing for those stiff old fashioned tux collars. ■

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 9

headlinenews NATIONAL

D

E

A

B C

G F

CA One Step Closer to A WA, Legalizing Gay Marriage

Beginner Yoga As LGBT individuals, our experience in the cyber-speed world around us becomes more integrated and fluid when we regularly create time to center, focus, and enjoy therapeutic activities that “re-boot,” strengthen, and support us. Join Registered Yoga Therapist Tim Hurley (Yoga Alliance Certified E-RYT-500) weekly for Gentle Hatha Yoga at a slower, more human pace and re-encounter your own natural state of integrity and harmony.

Sundays at 3:30pm (please arrive a few minutes early) Room 201 at The GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Cost is $9

www.glccb.org or call 410.837.5445.

A portion of the cost is donated back to The GLCCB PAGE 10 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

The fight for marriage equality has scored major victories in both Washington state and California. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire signed into law a measure that legalizes same-sex marriage on February 13. The law takes effect June 7, but according to the Huffington Post, opponents plan to file a challenge that could put the law on hold pending the outcome of a November vote. Opponents would have until June to collect 120,557 valid signatures to place a referendum on the November 2012 ballot.

In California, Proposition 8—an amendment that would limit marriage to heterosexual couples—was ruled unconstitutional by the 9th U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals. In a 2-1 decision, the San Francisco court ruled that the bill violated basic rights to equality with no demonstrated reason.

“Proposition 8 serves no purpose, and has no effect, other than to lessen the status and human dignity of gays and lesbians in California, and to officially reclassify their relationships and families as inferior to those of opposite-sex couples,” said Judge Stephen Reinhardt in the majority opinion. “The Constitution simply does not allow for laws of this sort.”

Same-sex marriage will remain illegal in California, as proponents of Prop. 8 fight the ruling. As a result, the issue will be passed on to still higher courts and eventually the U.S. Supreme Court.

Helps Same-Sex Couples B HealthCare.gov Find Insurance HeathCare.gov announced that the Health Plan Finder Tool has been updated so that partners, including same-sex couples, can now filter plans that offer coverage for all members of their family.

According to a press release from HHS, a portion of the LGBT community is disproportionately uninsured, including those without access to coverage through a spouse, domestic partner, or employer. This new filter helps address that issue by linking same-sex couples to carriers that provide benefits for their partners.

“In the past, many same-sex couples have faced challenges searching for health coverage that suited their needs,” said Steve Larsen, director of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight. “This tool will eliminate the guesswork, providing an enhanced resource for exploring insurance coverage.”

Defense Contractor Protects C U.S. Gay Employees from Harassment DynCorp International, one of the country’s largest defense contractors, is expanding its non-discrimination policy to include sexual orientation and gender identity. According to a press release from DynCorp, the decision was in large part due to a petition on Change.org. Tico Almeida, a civil rights attorney and founder of the organization Freedom to Work, started the petition after DynCorp announced a $150,000 settlement with a former employee who claimed that despite significant anti-gay harassment on the job—including being called homophobic slurs in front of managers—DynCorp officials did not step in to stop the abuse. While DynCorp’s new policy, which is effective immediately, is a big victory for LGBT rights in the workplace, Almeida has set his sights on another, more expansive goal: “An executive order outlawing discrimination at federal contractors on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is sitting at the White House,” he said.

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

BY RACHEL ROTH

US Mayors Join Push for Marriage Rights More than 75 U.S. mayors have joined in a project to support marriage rights for lesbian and gay couples, a move some hope will encourage President Obama to publicly announce his support for same-sex marriage.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Annise Parker of Houston, TX, Thomas Menino of Boston, Mass., Antonio R. Villaraigosa of Los Angeles, Cal., and Marilyn Strickland of Tacoma, Wash., Michael Bloomberg of New York, NY, and Rahm Emanuel of Chicago, Ill. are a part of the effort organized by Freedom to Marry (FreedomToMarry.org).

INTERNATIONAL

Judgment in D Landmark Hate Speech Case by European Court The European Court of Human Rights delivered a unanimous decision declaring language offensive to homosexuals “hate speech,” and not protected by freedom of expression laws.

In the case of Vejdeland v. Sweden, leaflets were distributed that stated gays and lesbians were “a morally destructive effect on the substance of society” and responsible for the developments of HIV and AIDS, and that “the homosexual lobby” tried to play down pedophilia.

ILGA-Europe welcomes this important judgment which for the first time deals with the hate speech towards homosexual people.

Russia’s Second Largest City Moves to E Vote on Gay “Gag Rule” The Russian city of St. Petersburg is close to passing a bill that would criminalize almost all activity related to defending or promoting LGBT equality. AllOut.org, an international LGBT rights group, is reporting that if the law passes, speech about gay and transgender issues will be akin to committing acts of pedophilia. It would also be a criminal offense to participate in any event, regardless of how small, related to the LGBT lifestyle. The publication of anything relating to LGBT rights or providing assistance or advice, like pamphlets leaflets, books, videos, or blogs would all be considered violations under the new law.

F Uganda Government Denies Backing Anti-Gay Bill Uganda’s government is distancing itself from a controversial anti-gay bill that calls for severe penalties on homosexuality. According to the AFP, the bill was introduced in parliament on February 7 by David Bahati. Last year, lawmakers voted to automatically pass the issue over to the new session because Members of Parliament (MPs) failed to debate it, and because of “widespread condemnation.”

Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda, but the proposed bill would introduce the death sentence for anyone caught engaging in homosexual acts for the second time, as well as for gay sex where one partner is a minor or has HIV. It also proposes to criminalize public discussion of homosexuality—including by rights groups—with a sentence of up to seven years in prison. In a statement released to the AFP, the government said that parliament had a right to debate the legislation, but that it “does not form part of the government’s legislative program, and it does not enjoy the support of the prime minister or the cabinet.”

G LGBT Advocacy Site Banned in Indonesia The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC) website has been banned in Indonesia because of its “pornographic elements.” An article in the Jakarta Globe states that reporters were able to access the site on mobile devices running on the Indosat and XL networks but not on Telkomsel and IM2, mobile phone operators.

Ricardo Indra, a Telkomsel spokesman, told the Globe that internet service providers block pornographic websites based on a list recommendations by the Communication and Information Ministry. According to the Globe article, the only Indonesian internet service provider refusing to ban IGLHRC.org is First Media.

SEE MORE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE AT WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM/NEWS WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 11

FEATURE

PRIME TIMERS OF BALTIMORE Photo by John Kardys

LGBT OLDER ADULTS FIND SUPPORT IN LOCAL GROUPS

BY TERRI SOLOMON

A new report from Caring and Aging with Pride, the “first national federally funded project to examine LGBT aging and health,” reveals some startling facts about our community elders (see Statistics at right).

Among the findings: “An alarming number report disability (47%), depression (31%), and loneliness (53%), with bisexual older women experiencing higher levels of stress than older lesbians and transgender older adults experiencing higher rates of disability, depression, and loneliness than non-transgender older adults.”

Involvement in community activities can have a positive impact on mental and physical health for LGBT elders (age 50+), and most participants reported at least moderate levels of social support which can “counteract the unique challenges that

PAGE 12 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

LGBT older adults face.”

This feature examines three local groups providing support to gay and bisexual men, lesbian and bisexual women, and LGBT Jewish individuals. It is worth noting that there are also national groups addressing the needs of LGBT elders, particularly Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders (SAGE).

Find more information at SageUSA.org.

PRIME TIMERS SOCIALIZE IN STYLE

The Prime Timers of Baltimore is a social club for “mature gay and bisexual men and the men who admire them,” according to their website. The group has been in existence for 15 years; before that, members were part of a joint Baltimore/Washing-

STATISTICS Nearly 1/2 of LGBT seniors have a disability, and nearly 1/3 report depression.

Most LGBT older adults (91%) engage in wellness activities.

Almost 2/3 have been victimized three or more times.

13% have been denied healthcare or received inferior care.

More than 20% do not disclose their sexual or gender identity to their physician.

About 1/3 do not have a will or durable power of attorney for healthcare.

Most needed services: senior housing, transportation, legal services, and social events.

ton, D.C. chapter.

“I was looking for a way of connecting with other men my age, and a friend encouraged me to join,” said Lee Fischer, current president of Prime Timers. “It’s a friendly group that’s very compatible because we are all facing the same issues as other men over 50.”

The club has a full social calendar of activities, including a monthly general meeting with a potluck dinner, mixer night at local bars, movie night and the popular dining out on the first Saturday of each month. Any activity involving food is popular with members, according to Fischer: “People really like the dinners, going out to restaurants, and potlucks.”

And members don’t just stay in town and socialize. The annual cruise is also well attended. This year’s two-week excursion, “The Big Apple to the Big Easy,” leaves from New York City and travels to St. Thomas, Antigua, Barbados, and Aruba.

Since Prime Timers is a national organization, members like Fischer who travel can also meet up with other Prime Timers in cities such as Richmond, Cleveland, and Minneapolis. The organization also has an annual convention; this year’s national gathering will be held in Columbus, Ohio in early October.

“I have made a lot of new friends, and there are many different places where I can connect with people,” said Fischer, speaking about the benefits he’s received from

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

active participation in the group.

But it’s not all fun and games for Fischer and his fellow members. Fischer, who became HIV+ at age 60, knows personally the importance of more serious matters such as health. Speakers have come to the Prime Timers periodically from health organizations such as Chase Brexton to lecture on concerns for older gay and bisexual men.

Social workers have also talked to the group about long-term health care.

For more information, visit their website at PtBalto.org or call Lee Fischer at 410.227.9788.

OWLS OF THE GREATER CAPITOL AREA PROVIDE SUPPORT TO WOMEN

About 35 years ago, a group of women from Baltimore, Silver Spring, and Washington, D.C. came together informally, to socialize and to support each other. They called themselves the OWLS—Older, Wiser Lesbians. Eventually, the group grew, developed by-laws and became a tax-free organization with 150 current members.

The OWLS provide social activities for their members, such as theme-night dinner parties at each other’s houses, service projects, and theater trips to Washington, D.C. and New York City. They also sponsor an annual fall crab feast at Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis and a heavily attended Thanksgiving dinner at the Candle Light Inn in Catonsville.

“We have known each other a long time,” said Mir (pseudonym used by request), current chairwoman. “Many people don’t have family to have Thanksgiving with, so we get together on the Sunday before the holiday.”

But providing social support for each other is not the only need the group meets.

“Health is very important as we get older,” Mir said, age 72. “We take care of each other a lot. Some members are not well, or handicapped, so we take care of them physically.”

According to The Aging and Health Report, the “lesbian, gay and bisexual older adults (age 50+) have higher rates of disability compared to their straight counterparts. They also “experience higher rates of mental distress,” with 1/3 of participants suffering from depression.

“Lesbians and bisexual older women report higher risk of cardiovascular disease and obesity than heterosexual women,” according to the report. Couple these health issues with the social isolation that can accompany LGBT elders, and it is clear that our aging community members benefit from organizations like the OWLS. “We care about the community, “said Mir, referring to the “hard-working wom-

WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

PROFILE

en” on the Board. “We want to make things happen and to keep the OWLS going. We laugh and tell everybody that if you are bored, it’s your problem, because there is so much to do here.”

For more information email info@ MetroOwls.org or visit MetroOwls.org.

JEWISH LGBT GROUP ADDRESSES THE SPIRIT

MARTY SHAYT 76, Senior Volunteer at the GLCCB and Gay Life

Marty was a member of the Finance Committee of the Gay Community Center of Baltimore (now the GLCCB) in the late 1970s. He currently volunteers at the Center two days a week, and contributes to the Dining Out column in Gay Life.

What does an older adult contribute to the LGBT community that youth or middleaged members don’t?

Knowledge and experience. Sometimes new people come in [to the Center] just realizing they are gay and they don’t know exactly what to do. I can sit down with them and say, “I had the same problem when I started, only it was worse because there were no organizations for gay people to go for information.” A senior citizen can help with what to look for in the gay community.

In your opinion, what are the biggest issues facing LGBT seniors today?

As you get older, you sometimes feel like life is getting you down, especially if you are single. Some get very depressed because they don’t have the benefit of a family like straight people or don’t have a partner. I don’t have a partner, but I have gay friends I travel with and go out with.

What do you think of LGBTonly retirement communities?

I looked into some that went bankrupt or were just starting to build.

I’ve been saying since I retired that I was going to Florida, and I’m continuing to look into it. I think it would be nice to be with gay people that I have things in common with. I do well with the straight community, and I’m involved in my synagogue, and various civic organizations, but I would really like to spend my retirement years in a community with other gay seniors.

■

Many LGBT older adults “attend spiritual or religious services or activities,” according to The Aging and Health Report (2011). And while some faith-based communities have a history of LGBT discrimination, many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have sought out, and been embraced by, welcoming religious and spiritual spaces.

“When we first got together 38 years ago, we had only two friends that were gay,” said Roz (last name withheld by request), age 67. “We read that there was a synagogue in Washington, D.C. that was welcoming, and that group told us that there was a gay Jewish group in Baltimore.”

Roz and her partner Betsy, age 74, belong to an informal Jewish group that meets for religious holidays, such as a Rosh Hashanah dinner, the Hanukkah meal, and a Passover sedar. In the past, gatherings have occurred at Temple Oheb Shalom in Pikesville, where “the Rabbi has been very nice to us,” said Roz. The group has a mailing list of 40-60 members, mostly middle-aged women, according to Roz. Members are generally Reform or Conservative Jews, although there have been a few Orthodox Jewish participants in the past. Considering Orthodox Judaism’s strong stance against homosexuality, it’s not surprising that, “most people who are very Orthodox are not out to others,” said Roz. The group is appropriately titled The Rainbow Chavurah (meaning “friendship group”), and it welcomes all Jewish lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals who want to celebrate in an accepting group. One member, Marty, “brought a woman to a function who didn’t know that such a place existed,” said Roz. For Roz and her partner, the greatest benefit of participation in the group has been, “being able to socialize during holidays that have meaning for us, with people who are just like us.”

For more information, contact Marty at 410-486-4107. ■ Want to read more? Visit BaltimoreGayLife. com for a link to The Aging and Health Report: Disparities and Resilience among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Older Adults.

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 13

firstperson TRANSMISSIONS

Clearing Things Up FLYING WHILE TRANSGENDER AND THE NEED FOR EXPLICIT LEGAL PROTECTIONS

BY GWENDOLYN ANN SMITH

Many years ago, a friend of mine came to me, frustrated. She could not grasp why we needed to spell out who was included in various non-discrimination bills.

Why did we need to spell out race, and gender, and religion, and disability, and sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression, and so on? Why not simply say that no one could discriminate against another person? Frankly, I might take it a step further: we should not even need to point out that one should not discriminate: that should be a given in a humane society.

Sadly, it seems that people always look for some way around it, some way to legally discriminate, some loophole that allows them to continue to do what they do. Sometimes, too, these things crop up when you least expect them. Perhaps while trying to keep people safe, you might accidently make discrimination the law of the land.

For example, last July, a rule took effect in Canada, barring transgender people from air travel.

This rule was implemented by the Ministry of Transportation as part of new Identity Screening Regulations, and is part of a much larger body of rules under the Passenger Protect Program.

Much of this program, including the use of “No-Fly” lists, would be familiar to any frequent travelers in the United Stated since the 11th of September 2001.

The rule itself states that “an air carrier shall not transport a passenger if... the passenger does not appear to be of the gender indicated on the identification he or she presents.” Other categories that would bar you from flight involve discrepancies with one’s identification, not resembling the photograph on their photo ID, or not appearing to be the age indicated on one’s identification paperwork.

More than just not being able to board a flight, there would be a fine of $5,000 for getting “caught” in any of the above situations.

Aside from the issues a pre-operative

PAGE 14 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

transsexual, or one who opts out of genital or other surgical reconstruction, it’s not uncommon to have discrepancies in one’s paperwork as you wait for the bureaucratic wheels to turn. If anything, this rule can ensnare a large number of transgender people, and disenfranchise many more.

I should also add that this bill did not require any formal legislation be passed to implement these rules. There was no public discussion period, nor even much notice until months after it was adopted.

The rule went on the books shortly after their federal election and comes from a conservative Member of Parliament, Minister for Transport, Denis Lebel.

What yet remains unclear is if this was a case of governmental bungling and unintended consequences, or a deliberate attempt to bar transgender people from airplanes. I’ve seen arguments for both sides, and the timing of the rule— coupled with the method in which it was enacted—does certainly raise eyebrows.

During the height of terrorist related hysteria in the United States, the REAL ID act also pushed for gender markers as one of its few identity signifiers, yet did not provide for any exceptions nor any way to change one’s gender marker. While it remains largely unimplemented, it could have led to a disaster for those who are transgender and had to deal with getting identity paperwork updated. It’s not too much of a jump to see how this could have affected us much like Passenger Protect is affecting transgender Canadians.

For what it’s worth, Maryse Durette, the Senior Advisor of Media Relations for Transport Canada states that her department “is not aware of any case of a transgendered or transsexual individual in possession of a medical document who has not been permitted to board an airplane since the publication of the Regulations.” Durette also claims that the rule does not prohibit transgender people from flying, provided they have

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

Artwork by Jacki Randall

WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

their paperwork in order. She may be right in this assumption, but the rule itself is deceptively unclear.

For this reason, I’m glad to see two recent clarifications to United States agencies that spell out their inclusion of transgender people, leaving no grey area: 1. For one, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has affirmed that transgender people can indeed deduct surgery and hormone costs from their taxes. While this was a change in the wake of the 2010 O’Donnabhain v. Commissioner ruling, it does fall in line with IRS procedure prior to the George W. Bush presidency.

2. Secondly, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has proposed several new regulations to make it clear that all their programs are inclusive of gender identity and sexual orientation. This is in the midst of its 60day comment period, after which these new rules will take effect.

Much like the above—and echoing the Passenger Protect rules—these are changes that have not come about due

to the working of Congress. Indeed, given the fractured state of our congress today (as well as election year shenanigans) it is unlikely we’ll see anything transgender-related hit the President’s desk in 2012.

But perhaps we will see more rights gained not so much by passage, but by individual government departments looking at how they can best serve all of us, and making it clear in all policies that transgender people are indeed included.

It’s important to be explicitly included, if only to keep us from falling afoul from intended or accidental foul ups such as Canada’s Passenger Protect Program.

Likewise, it’s important to see organizations like the IRS and HUD spell it out, lest someone think they can discriminate simply because it isn’t there. Anything else doesn’t cut it. ■

Gwen Smith sometimes needs it spelled out for her. You can find her on the web at GwenSmith.com

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 15

Building Community Since 1977 The GLCCB is proud to offer a wide range of free and low-cost programs, events, and services to the community. .

Unless otherwise noted, all events are held at the GLCCB located at 241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore.

For more information please visit www.glccb.org or call 410-837-5445.

WOMEN’S PROGRAMS

TRANSGENDER PROGRAMS

WOMEN OF COLOR

GENDER IDENTITY GROUP (GIG)

Meets 2nd, 4th, and 5th Thursdays at 7:30pm in room 202 For info contact WOC@glccb.org

Meets 2nd Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact GIG@glccb.org

WOMEN OUT AND ABOUT

GIG: Baltimore Trans-Masculine Alliance

A collective group committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors.

A social group for LBTQ women who want to meet new people while enjoying fun activities.

Meets off-site, dates and times vary For info contact BWOAEvents@yahoo.com

MEN’S PROGRAMS MEN LIKE ME

An open support group for adult men who love other men with the objective of empowering participants to take care of themselves and each other. Topics of discussion include coming out, homophobia, relationships, and more provided in a safe and supportive environment.

Meets 2nd and 4th Mondays at 6:00pm in room 201 For info contact MenLikeMe2glccb.org

A support group for transgender, gender queer, and anyone who varies from traditional gender expression.

A support group for FTMs.

Meets 4th Saturday at 6:00pm in room 202 For info contact BTMA@glccb.org

GIG: Tran*quality

A support group for MTFs Meets 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact Tranquility@glccb.org

GIG: SOFFA-T

A support and resource group for significant others, friends, family, and allies of transgender persons.

Meets 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 202

HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS

POZ MEN

A peer support group for men who are HIV+.

Meets EVERY Wednesday at 7:00pm in room 202 For info contact POZMen@glccb.org

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT PROGRAM SUFFICIENT AS I AM (SAIM)

A supportive group for youth and young adults 24 years of age and under. Youth are welcome to drop-in and try out this successful long running program that features discussion sessions, special events, guest speakers, and trips.

Meets EVERY Saturday at 12:00pm in room 201 For info contact SAIM@glccb.org

EXPRESS YOURSELF

A youth-led, artist facilitated art program for young adults 24 years of age and under.

There are weekly arts workshops, youth art exhibitions, and trips to local museums.

Artistic expertise is NOT required to join us and Express Yourself!

Meets EVERY Saturday at 3:30pm in room 101 For info contact Denise at dduarte@glccb.org or 410-837-5445 ext. 15

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS The GLCCB offers a wide range of community events including art shows, musical performances, variety shows, special events, and projects. For more info look for separate ads in the Gay Life newspaper or visit our website at

BEGINNERS’ YOGA

Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. Drop-ins WELCOME! $9.00 per person, per class EVERY Sunday at 3:30pm in room 201

HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING

FREE and confidential testing provided by the Baltimore City Health Dept.

EVERY Wednesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on 3rd Floor

RECOVERY PROGRAMS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Meets EVERY Monday at 8:30pm, Thursday at 8:30pm, and Saturday at 6:30pm in room 201

AA—POSITIVELY SOBER

an open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides a safe place for those with HIV or other health related issues. All are welcome.

Meets every Sunday at 6:15pm in room 201 For info contact jeffreysquibb@yahoo.com

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

Men’s Rap group for men in recovery.

The GLCCB is the publisher of

The GLCCB is the producer of

Meets EVERY Sunday at 11:30am in Room 201

www.glccb.org PAGE 16 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

outgoing E M A I L YOUR E V E NT INFO TO C ALENDAR @B ALT I MO R EGAY LI F E.CO M

¡VIVA BRASIL! Samba Dance Party: The Patterson becomes a Carnival street party.

Special performance by Batala DC followed with a samba dance lesson and a traditional Carnival show in full costume. $15-20. 7pm. Creative Alliance at the Paterson, 3134 Eastern Ave., CreativeAlliance.org I Am My Own Wife: The one-man show by playwright Doug the true story of transvestite Charlotte Von Mahlsdorf, lived as a woman despite an abusive father, imprisonment, the Nazi regime, and then the repressive Communist government in East Berlin. 3pm and 8pm. CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Baltimore Ave. Rehoboth Beach, DE 302.227.5620, CampRehoboth.com

Sunday, February 19 African History Month Family Concert: Celebrate African History Month with Sankofa Dance Theater. Pay tribute to the ancestors that are immortalized on the walls and in the halls of “The Eubie,” dance, drum and storytelling by Baltimore’s own leading ethnic dance company. $10. 4pm. Eubie Blake Center, 847 N. Howard St., SankofaDanceTheater.org

SPOTLIGHT

BY RACHEL ROTH

AIRS 11th Annual Oscar Night Why let Hollywood’s elite have all of the fun on Oscar night? Clooney, Pitt, and Streep have nothing on AIDS Interfaith Residential Service’s (AIRS) Annual Oscar Night.

For the last ten years, AIRS, an organization that provides programs and services for disabled individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS, has thrown a party to help raise money for all of the work they do.

Every year, proceeds from the event go toward one of the programs offered

by AIRS. This year, all of the money raised will benefit City Steps, their supportive housing program for homeless and unstably housed youth ages 14 to 24.

The event includes live entertainment, an auction, gourmet food, dancing, a red carpet runway, Academy Awards screening, a celebrity look-alike, plus a special performance by Darin Atwater, the composer and founder of Soulful Symphony. So put on your best “after 5” wear, eat, drink, dance, and watch the 84th Annual Academy Awards for a great cause.

Event Info AIRS OSCAR NIGHT

Sunday, February 26 • 6pm • $125 Pazo • 1425 Aliceanna St. AIRSHome.org

ABOVE: Students from the dance program at Carver Center for Arts and Technology pose as paparazzi at AIRS Oscar Night Baltimore fundraiser.

DATEBOOK Friday, February 17 Put a Spell on You! A Tribute to Nina Simone: Playwright Rosiland Cauthen presents a night of music, dance, spoken word, and media works honoring the “High Priestess of Soul.” $10-15. 7:30pm. Creative Alliance at the Paterson 3134 Eastern Ave., CreativeAlliance.org The Merchant of Venice: The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company uniquely presents William Shakespeare’s classic tale. Oliver’s Carriage House, 5410 Leaf Treader Way, Columbia, ChesapeakeShakespeare.com BSO Classical Concert: The Genius of Mozart: 23-year-old French piano sensation Lise de la Salle makes her BSO debut with one of Mozart’s most popular concerto$28-88.

8pm. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., BSOmusic.org

Saturday, February 18 Baltimore Frontrunners: Running/walking club for LGBT individuals and friends. Assemble 8:45am, run 9am. Reassemble for brunch 10am. Panera Bread, 3600 Boston St., BaltimoreFrontrunners.org Savor, Sip, Style: Turf Valley’s Luxury Home Show: Enjoy vendor showcases, food, wine & spirit tastings, and informative seminars. Plus, Father Leo Patalinghug – winner of “Throwdown! with Bobby Flay” – gives cooking demonstrations. Ticket grant admission to both days. $5-20. 11am-5pm. Thru 2/19. Turf Valley, 2700 Turf Valley Rd., Ellicott City, TurfValley.com The Kids Are All Right: The Gays Men’s Chorus of DC is joined by Pittsburgh-based creative and performing arts youth troupe, Dreams of Hope, who perform powerful songs and stories from LGBT youth and allies. $20-50. 8pm. Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C., gmcw.org/special-pages/the-kids-are-all-right WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

PFLAG Westminster-Carroll County General Meeting: Meeting features a screening of “You Should Meet My Son,” a comedy about a conservative mom who is horrified to discover that her only son is gay. Determined that he won’t go through life alone, she sets out to find him a husband. FREE. 5pm. Fellowship Hall, St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Corner of Bond & Green Sts., Westminster, PFLAGmd.org

Monday, February 20 PFLAG Columbia/Howard County Parent Forum: Support group and Q&A for parents of LGBT children. FREE. 7:30pm. Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, PFLAGmd.org

Slideluck Potshow Baltimore II: A visual extravaganza where artists and arts-appreciators gather around food, friends, and art for an unforgettable night. FREE. 5-8pm. Area 405, 405 E Oliver St., StationNorth.org/finalfridays The Ladies of LURe Present Lust: Dinah Shore give-a-way event, plus Dj Rosie, DystRuXion Dancers, and drink specials. 10pm. $5-7. Club Hippo, 1 W. Eager St., 410.547.0069, ClubHippo.com Bears of Maryland: The first official meet-up features a special performance by Bears of MD’s Mama Bear, Shawnna Alexander. $5. 9pm-Midnight. Quest Bar, 3607 Fleet St.

Saturday, February 25 MICAppella Fest: MICA’s 7th annual a cappella concert features their coed ensemble as well as talented guest singers from neighboring colleges. FREE. 8pm. MICA: Brown Center: Falvey Hall, 1301 W. Mount Royal Ave., MICA.edu FEST-OF-ALL Gala & Fashion Show: Sample some of the neighborhoods best food, the area’s favorite drinks, and check out the latest in fashion from local boutiques. $75-90.

7pm. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hgwy., HistoricFederalHill.org Residents Open House w/ Big in Japan: Celebrate the incredible, hand-picked artists who live and work at The Patterson with a building-wide house party. The studios are open upstairs, plus a group exhibit by residents and friends. Local rockers Big in Japan play two sets. FREE. 7pm. Creative Alliance at the Patterson, 3134 Eastern Ave., CreativeAlliance.org

Sunday, February 26 AIRS 11th Annual Oscar Night: See Spotlight

Ben Lee: In a music culture dominated by bands, Ben Lee turned heads by being one of the youngest singer/songwriters to make an impression on Australian music. 21+. $19.50. 8pm. Rams Head On Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis, RamsHeadOnStage.com

Lily Tomlin: (See article p. 8) Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln. North Bethesda, Strathmore.org

Tuesday, February 21

Tuesday, February 28

Mardi Gras North Masquerade Ball: Let the good times roll in Fell’s Point with food and drink specials. 10% of proceeds go to Tyanna Foundation, an organization that raises money for breast cancer research, services, education, treatment, and patient care for local breast cancer patients and survivors. 7-2am. Sláinte Irish Pub & Restaurant, Kooper’s Tavern, Woody’s Rum Bar and Island Grill, 1700-02 Thames St., FellsPointBars@gmail.com

PFLAG Baltimore County General Meeting: Support group and Q&A for parents of LGBT children. FREE. 7pm. Towson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. Lutherville, PFLAGBaltimore.org

Wednesday, February 22 BINGO! Come for happy hour, stay for Bingo. Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Enjoy drink specials, appetizers, and raffles all night. Hosted by Roger Dimick. Proceeds benefit GLCCB. 8:30pm. Club Hippo, 1 W. Eager St., 410.547.0069, ClubHippo.com Transgender Issues Working Group: Meets every other Wednesday. Registration required. FREE. 7pm. Equality Maryland, 1201 S. Sharp St., Contact Owen@EqualityMaryland.org Molten Chocolate Indulgence: Savor the most decadent chocolate imaginable. Enjoy silken chocolate cocktails paired with savory finger foods. Then, dive into some luscious chocolate fondue, complete with lots of good things for dipping. $35. 7-9pm. Chocolatea Cafe, 3811 Canterbury Rd., LiquidCulturebBltimore.com

Thursday, February 23 Make It Happen for Equality Maryland: It’s our time to make marriage equality happen in Maryland, and Equality Maryland has worked tirelessly for the cause, and now it’s your turn to support them as we head into the final push to secure marriage rights for all. $25-50. Corporate sponsorships available. 6:30-9pm. Jackie’s Restaurant/Sidebar, 8081 Georgia Ave. Silver Spring, EQMD.org/makeithappen The Science of Chocolate: Cocoa-ology: Enjoy chocolate specialties paired with wines and liqueurs and learn scientific and fun chocolate facts. 21+. $40-45. 7pm. Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St., MDSCI.org

Friday, February 24 First Treasures: Rare church treasures and artifacts on display, beginning with a reception. See rare paintings, never before seen documents, and more. 6-8pm. Reid Memorial Chapel, The First and Franklin Street Presbyterian Church, 201 W. Madison St. 410.728.5545, FirstFranklin.org Come Fly Away: The new Broadway musical featuring the seductive vocals of Frank Sinatra and 14 of the world’s best dancers makes its Baltimore debut. $59.90-80.45. 8pm. Thru 2/26. The Lyric Opera House, 140 W Mount Royal Ave., LyricOperaHouse.com

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County: A support group for LGBTQ teens and allies. RYA is a safe place to ask questions, find mutual support, and learn information pertinent to their lives. For more info, contact: rya_leaders@hotmail.com or call 410-280-9047. Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, PFLAGmd.org Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County: A support group for LGBTQ teens and allies. RYA is a safe place to ask questions, find mutual support, and learn information pertinent to their lives. Contact: RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com. FREE. 7:30-9:30pm.

Towson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. Lutherville, PFLAGBaltimore.org Parents of Transgender Kids Support Group: Support group and Q&A for parents of transgender kids. Meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month. Contact: cvhyde@gmail. com. FREE. 7:30-9pm. Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7246 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, PFLAGmd.org Cowboy Junkies: Canadian bluesy, folkish, country, rock band performs in Baltimore for two nights with special guest, Anais Mitchell. $56.60. 8pm. Rams Head on Stage, 33 West St. Annapolis, RamsHeadOnStage.com

Wednesday, February 29 BINGO! Come for happy hour, stay for Bingo. Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Enjoy drink specials, appetizers, and raffles all night. Hosted by Roger Dimick. Proceeds benefit GLCCB. 8:30pm. Club Hippo, 1 W. Eager St. 410.547.0069, ClubHippo.com

Friday, March 2 Jason Kissel: A program of classical music, along with selections of a lighter mood that is sure to delight the senses, both aurally and visually. Reception to follow. $5-15. 8pm. First & Franklin Street Presbyterian Church, 210 W. Madison St., Firstfranklin.org Paparazzi: Eye In the Dark: Hollywood meets Nollywood in this award-winning romantic suspense-filled film by Nigerian director Bayo Akinfemi. $7-12. 7:30pm. Creative Alliance at the Patterson, 3134 Eastern Ave., CreativeAlliance.org Wine Tasting: Get your weekend started off right with complimentary tastings of wines from around the world. Discounts on bottles included in tastings. FREE. 5-8pm. Fridays.

Spirits of Mt Vernon, 900 N. Charles St., 410.727.7270, SpiritsOfMtVernon.com VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 17

afterhours BSCENE

EQUALITY MARYLAND LOBBY DAY IN ANNAPOLIS ■ FEB. 13 PHOTOS BY terra hiltner

CARRIE EVANS

EQUALITY MARYLAND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

SULTAN SHAKIR

REV. CANDY HOLMES AND REV. DAVID NORTH

MARYLANDERS FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY

CANDACE GINGRICH-JONES

DAVID TURELY

MARYLANDERS FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY

REV. DR. JAMIE WASHINGTON AND REV. SAM OFFER

SEN. ALLAN KITTLEMAN ONLY REPUBLICAN TO ENDORSE BILL

outfront DELEGATE KEIFFER MITCHELL

COMMUNITY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

MICA Named “Premier Campus” for LGBT Students

GOV. MARTIN O’MALLEY

PAGE 18 • FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 1, 2012

DELEGATE BEN BARNES

The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) was recently designated a “Premier Campus” by Campus Pride, a national nonprofit organization working to create safer campus environments for LGBT students. MICA is fostering a supportive environment in part through two organizations: the Maryland Institute Queer Alliance (MIQA) and the Faculty

and Staff Queer Alliance (FASQA). In addition to their annual National Coming Out Day event in October, the groups raise awareness through the month of “Gaypril.” The month’s events include a Drag Ball, Queer Film Night, safe sex seminars, and a Day of Silence that recognizes those in the queer community that have been silenced. ■

BALTIMORE’S GAY LIFE NEWSPAPER

SEE MORE PHOTOS ON BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

SHE’BALTIMORE FREE LOVE BENEFIT ■ FEB. 14 PHOTOS BY terra hiltner

IRA-SHIRAY KIP AND LYNNEE DENISE

PRODUCER NICOL MOELLER (MIDDLE) WITH HOUSE OF RUTH VOLUNTEERS

WWW.BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM

VOLUME 34, NUMBER 3 • PAGE 19