Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
washingtonblade.com • vol. 41, issue 18 • april 30, 2010 • Still sharp after 40 years
To our readers:
With this issue, we reclaim and re-launch the Washington Blade, your
LGBTQ newspaper of record for more than 40 years. (See related
D.C. has marriage,
story on page 4.) But the DC Agenda remains part of our identity; the
Blade is back, and tucked inside, is the Agenda, our new local A&E
guide. Thank you to all of our readers, advertisers and those in the
so now what?
community who have supported us during the last 23 weeks. We are
grateful for the overwhelming support we continue to receive. We
Despite successes, that protect LGBT people from dis-
crimination, some of which were
pledge to continue the Blade’s long traditions of community service activists say ‘we have approved more than 30 years ago.
and award-winning journalism. With this as a backdrop, some
not overcome yet’ in the community wondered
whether the same-sex marriage
By LOU CHIBBARO JR. law marked the completion of the
lchibbaro@washblade.com LGBT rights movement within the
city, enabling activists to move on
When the weddings for same- to other causes and endeavors.
sex couples began in the District of But an informal Washington
Columbia on March 9, many in the Blade survey of local LGBT
community hailed the occasion as activists conducted over the past
the capstone of the city’s decades- two weeks shows that virtually all
Washington Blade photo by Michael Key
old LGBT rights movement. those contacted believe a wide
The District government’s enact- range of LGBT-related problems Aisha Mills, president of the
socialagenda ment of a same-sex marriage law and concerns remain on the agen- Campaign for All D.C. Families, said
Our popular Queery feature is back. in December and Congress’s deci- da of local advocacy groups. LGBT activists cannot ‘rest on our
Aiyi'nah Ford answers 20 gay questions. Page 40 sion not to stop it follows a long list laurels’ despite recent successes.
of existing city laws and policies Continues on page 26
2 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 3
4 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
LOCALNEWS
returns to print
The Washington Blade, the 40-year- Washington Blade’s commitment to
month, nearly all of the city’s well-known LGBT activists stayed away from City
Council Chairman Vincent Gray’s mayoral campaign kickoff event.
Activists following city politics are speculating that many LGBT city residents
are taking a wait-and-see posture on the mayor’s race and are not ready to take
sides. Fenty and Gray both have strong records on LGBT issues. Fenty signed the
old publication that served as the LGBT excellence in journalism made it a week- city’s same-sex marriage law in December, and Gray was a strong advocate for
community’s newspaper of record, has ly ‘must read’ for the LGBTQ community the measure in his role as Council chairman.
returned to newsstands after its former locally and even worldwide,” Naff said. Although he did not mention Fenty by name during the April 24 campaign kick-
parent company filed for bankruptcy and “This is the tradition we have tried to emu- off, Gray leveled strong criticism of the mayor’s leadership style, saying the
closed the paper in November. late with DC Agenda. We are thrilled that mayor’s office has alienated many city residents in his efforts to push through
Since the newspaper’s closing, former the Washington Blade is once again reforms for the city’s public schools and other programs.
Blade staff members had produced a new owned locally.” Gray said he supports school reform but promised to work more closely with
print and online publication under the “There are benefits to the brand recog- teachers, parents and principals.
name DC Agenda, which is owned by nition of a publication that was highly Also similar to the mayor’s opening campaign event, Gray did not mention
Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc. The trusted and respected for 40 years,” said LGBT issues. He chided Fenty for being a divisive force in the city, but did not
new company was founded by publisher Brown, a Blade employee for 23 years. mention that both he and Fenty received an equal amount of criticism from some
Lynne Brown, editor Kevin Naff, sales “The power, effectiveness and of the city’s ministers and socially conservative residents for allegedly dividing the
executive Brian Pitts and other former strength of the Washington Blade came city through their support of same-sex marriage.
Blade employees. from the spirit and intensity of those Gray told reporters after his kickoff speech before a large audience at the Historical
Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia has no who wrote the stories and worked with Society of Washington that he decided to limit the topics covered in his address to broad
connection with Window Media, LLC, the the local community,” she said. “We now themes dealing with his plans to unite the city. He said he would address a wide range of
Blade’s former parent company that shut- have the opportunity to both restore and other issues, including same-sex marriage, in future campaign appearances and events.
tered the newspaper and several other refresh a powerful, venerable news Among the few gay Democratic activists attending the kickoff were Paul Kuntzler, co-
LGBT publications it owned at the time of gathering institution and to make the founder of the Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, the city’s largest LGBT political group;
its bankruptcy filing in November. treasure trove of our vibrant gay rights and Stein member Christopher Fitzgerald. The club’s current officers were not present.
DC Agenda recently acquired all assets and liberation movement history acces- Stein President Jeffrey Richardson has said the club’s rules require the officers to remain
of the Blade, the nation’s oldest LGBT sible to the public. neutral until the club makes an official endorsement of a mayoral candidate.
newspaper, from a federal bankruptcy “It doesn’t get any better than this.” Other out gays attending the event were Ronald Collins, the City Council’s deputy
court in Atlanta. The purchase included the Naff and Brown said the decision to secretary; and Christopher Murray, the clerk of the Council’s Committee of the Whole,
Blade name, all trademarks and copyrights return to the Washington Blade name fol- which Gray chairs. Also attending was gay activist Kenneth Borden and D.C. Nightlife
and the entire 40-year archive. lowed a survey of readers, which showed Association Executive Director Skip Coburn, whose group represents gay and
The Washington Blade was founded in a solid majority in favor of restoring the straight bars and nightclubs in matters before the city. Coburn said he attended as an
1969 as a one-sheet newsletter distributed Blade name. observer and hasn’t made up his mind on which candidate to support.
in D.C.’s gay bars before evolving into an Naff said the new company is working David Meadows, a former Stein Club president and member of the D.C. Democratic
award-winning newspaper and web site with to restore online access to the paper’s State Committee, said he also attended as an observer and is neutral in the mayor’s race.
a national and international readership. electronic archive as soon as possible. LOU CHIBBARO JR.
“For more than 40 years the LOU CHIBBARO JR.
LOCALNEWS
Evidence fight continues
Pro-gay life insurance bill as Wone trial nears
becomes law in Virginia The judge presiding over the upcoming obstruction of justice
trial for three gay men implicated in the 2006 murder of D.C. attor-
ney Robert Wone will issue a final decision next week on wit-
nesses and evidence admissible in the trial, including evidence
Companies can about the sexual proclivities of the three defendants.
now offer benefits During an April 23 status hearing, D.C. Superior Court Judge Lynn
Leibovitz set a final pre-trial status hearing for May 5, at which time
to same-sex partners she promised to rule, among
other things, on whether
of employees the government can submit
By CHRIS JOHNSON evidence showing the defen-
cjohnson@washblade.com dants used sex toys, including
restraints, at their home.
A bill enabling Virginia compa- Joseph Price, Victor Zaborsky
nies to offer life insurance benefits and Dylan Ward are charged with
to the same-sex partners of obstruction of justice, conspiracy
employees became law earlier this to obstruct justice and evidence
month after Virginia Gov. Bob tampering in connection with the
McDonnell (R) signed the measure. stabbing death of Wone inside
The new law, approved by the Dupont Circle area house
Photo courtesy of Radio Free Asia
both chambers of the Virginia where the three defendants lived
General Assembly with unani- in August 2006. Robert Wone was stabbed to
mous votes, was enacted after Prosecutors have pointed death in August 2006.
McDonnell signed it April 7. to an autopsy report saying
Stacey Johnson, a McDonnell Wone appeared to have been “immobilized” when he was
spokesperson, said the governor stabbed three times in a guest bedroom at the house. They have
signed the bill into law because it since backed away from an earlier theory that Wone was immo-
passed with broad bipartisan sup- bilized from a paralytic drug, suggesting they may argue at trial
port in the House and Senate. that he was restrained before being stabbed.
“In addition, it will have no fiscal The defense has filed motions asking Leibovitz to bar the gov-
Photo courtesy of McDonnell’s office
impact on Virginia’s taxpayers,” she ernment from submitting evidence or witnesses showing that the
said. “The governor believes a Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has signed into law a bill that benefits crime scene was “cleaned” of blood stains; that Wone was sexual-
decision about who an employer same-sex couples. ly assaulted or immobilized by a drug; and that Wone may have
can extend life insurance coverage been bound by “restraints.” Another defense motion calls for barring
to should be made by the group Ebbin first introduced the bill action doesn’t have the same teeth the government from submitting evidence about the sex lives of the
policy holder and the insurer.” in the Virginia House in 2008. as an executive order. three gay men, including any S&M-related sexual activities.
Previously, state law permitted The legislation failed to pass that Ebbin said he believes Prosecutors, meanwhile, say they may file a motion seeking
Virginia residents to take out group year and again in 2009 before it McDonnell allowed the bill to to bar the defense from calling as a witness a cardiologist who’s
life insurance coverage only for a became law this year. become law because he didn’t expected to testify that a single stab wound to the heart could
legal spouse or a child under age Ebbin said he believes the bill want to oppose legislation that immobilize a person. The defense was expected to use the wit-
25. But the new statute, which succeeded this year because the provides for wider life insurance ness to counter the autopsy finding of no signs of a struggle or
takes effect July 1, broadens that insurance lobby worked hard to and because no controversy sur- movement by Wone when he was stabbed.
group of people to include anyone support it and the Virginia Family rounded the bill as it progressed Authorities have yet to charge anyone with the murder itself.
with whom a Virginia resident has Foundation didn’t obstruct its pas- to the governor’s desk. The trial is scheduled to begin May 10.
a substantial and economic inter- sage. He noted that a technical “So, I suspect that there wasn’t The men have pleaded not guilty and say they believe an
est, including a same-sex partner. change in wording that didn’t sub- consideration for him to oppose a intruder killed Wone after entering the house while they were
Del. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria), stantively change the legislation bill that passed nearly unanimous- asleep. Wone, a friend of the men, was spending the night at
chief co-patron of the legislation also contributed to the bill’s success. ly,” Ebbin said. “There’s the poten- their house after working late at his nearby office. Wone was
and the only openly gay member Previous versions of the bill tial for the bill to be overridden and married to a woman, and his family says he was straight.
of the Virginia General Assembly, allowed Virginia residents to desig- I’m sure he didn’t want any more LOU CHIBBARO JR.
said he was pleased the bill finally nate someone from “any other controversy — considering the
passed after it was first introduced class of persons” they wanted as a other controversies that he’s had in
three years ago.
“It’s exciting that after three
life insurance beneficiary, while the
enacted version changes this lan-
his first legislative session.”
Kelly Young, an Arlington, Va.,
Earline Budd honored
years of work, GLBT people will
be able to make their partners
guage to “any other person” with
whom the insured group member
resident who married his spouse
Bill Reinsmith in Vermont earlier for trans advocacy work
their beneficiaries,” Ebbin said. has an insurable interest. this month, encouraged Ebbin to Veteran D.C. transgender activist Earline Budd has been
“It’s long overdue, but it’s a step The legislation notably failed introduce the legislation in 2008 so named the 2010 recipient of the International Foundation for
forward nonetheless.” in the two previous sessions that he could provide life insurance Gender Education’s Trinity Award, which recognizes outstanding
Jon Blair, CEO of Equality when there were a greater num- to his partner through his company. work on behalf of the transgender community.
Virginia, said he wasn’t surprised ber of Democratic lawmakers in Although the issue is now moot “The Trinity Award honors our heroes: living transgender per-
that McDonnell signed the bill the General Assembly and a for Young and Reinsmith because sons who have performed extraordinary acts of courage and
when it came to his desk. Democratic governor. It passed Young is self-employed and love in service to the transgender community,” says a letter
“This is pretty much no-brainer during the administration of a Reinsmith’s company offer doesn’t announcing Budd’s selection for the award.
stuff,” he said. “Really, the only sur- Republican governor who’s not life insurance benefits, Young said “I know of no one more deserving of this recognition,” Denise
prise is that it didn’t pass earlier.” considered gay friendly. the passage of the legislation Leclair, a Foundation official, told Budd in the letter.
David Lampo, vice president of Upon taking office, McDonnell moves Virginia forward. Budd received the award at the organization’s annual conference
the Virginia Log Cabin Republicans, renewed an executive order pro- “It is still important, both eco- April 23 at the Alexandria Mark Center Hilton Hotel in Alexandria, Va.
attributed the success of the bill this tecting certain classes of people nomically and morally,” Young “I am always pleased at doing something that will continue to
year to its Republican chief patron, from discrimination in the public said. “It’s a small step forward for put the District of Columbia out front,” Budd said in an e-mail to
Del. Tom Rust (R-Fairfax). workforce, although he left out sex- LGBT equality in a state that LGBT activists. “This award tells me that with your continued
“Having a Republican patron ual orientation as one such class. doesn’t offer LGBT residents support I am doing something right. I really appreciate each of
made a very big difference, but we He later issued a directive saying much in the way of equality and you being in some way a part of my life and say thank you.”
all owe Del. Adam Ebbin a debt for the state shouldn’t discriminate lately has sent some weird sig- LOU CHIBBARO JR.
first proposing this bill,” Lampo said. against LGBT people, although this nals on LGBT issues.”
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 7
G a r d e n Wi s e
FINE LANDSCAPE AND GARDEN DESIGN
DC 202/543-3422 VA 703/243-5982
GARDENWISEINC.COM
JDUGHQZLVHZHOFRPHVWKHEODGHV¶VSULQJUHDZDNHQLQJ
8 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
NATIONALBRIEFS
Wedding DIRECTORY
The Palisades
Community Church
Celebrating
86 Years of Diversity
BriAN MerriTT Pastor
5200 Cathedral Ave., N.W. | Washington, D.C. 20016
202-966-7929
brianmerritt@mac.com | thepalisadeschurch.com
Washington Blade photo by Michael Key
W\T].0]\Sg3dS\baQ][
!'$##]T¿QS
PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990 PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990 PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990
PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990 PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990 PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1990
SAVE
D MONEY ON CAR INSURANCE,
NOT ON A HAIRCUT.
Your State Farmgot ® your
agent’s gottheyour
back with back
right coverage
witha the right coverage, and discounts
car insurance. to 40%
uptoday.
Call me
on car insurance. Call today.
statefarm.com ®
P060347 1/08
10 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
NATIONALNEWS
202-861-0077
2141 P Street, NW Suite 103 • Washington, DC 20037
E-mail: steveweinbergdc@aol.com
Licensed in DC, MD and VA
se
spou with the right documents.
Protect your partner
NATIONALNEWS
REB
BAT
AT E
Celebrate
C el ebr ate Ar
Arbor
bor Da
Dayy
by
by planting a shad
shadee tree!
tree!
W h e t h e r y o u w a n t t o re p l a c e s t o r m d a m a g e d t re e s o r
s i mply b e aut i f y you r ya rd, Casey Tre es a nd th e D i st rict
Department of th e Environment (D DOE) can h elp you
offset th e price of purch asin g and p lanting a tree with a
Rebate Terms:
$5
$50.00
0.00 rrebate
ebate
1) Purchase an eligible tree (no invasive species or ash) .
2) Plant the tree at a residence located in DC.
3) Complete and sign this rebate coupon. One tree per coupon*.
4) Submit coupon with tree purchase receipt to:
M: Casey Trees E: jwoodworth@caseytrees.org
1123 11th Street NW
Wa
W ashington, DC 20001 F: 202-833- 4092
Complete rebate guidelines, tree selection advice and planting instructions available at
w w w.casey trees.org.
125 BLADE0410
Mailing Addreess War
Ward
AT DE LUCA STUDIO Street Addrress Where Tree is Planted (if different from mailing addrress)
Front Yard
Treee Location
NATIONALNEWS
Already have the perfect location selected, but need a caterer? Our off-
site catering company, Monumental Affairs, will offer a 20% discount
for off-site events. Our experienced catering and event managers will
assist you in all aspects of planning your remarkable day.
You have our promise that no detail will be overlooked; not even the
honeymoon. When you book your special day at Hyatt you will receive
up to five complimentary nights* at any participating Hyatt Resort in
the United States, Mexico or Aruba.
For more information or to reserve space for your special day, contact
Serena Veevers at 202-719-8401 or serena.veevers@hyatt.com.
Shop, Dine & Celebrate
on Alexandria’s Historic Main Streets
Ranked as one of the top Arts Destinations by AmericanStyle magazine,
www.hyattregencywashington.com y 400 New Jersey Avenue, NW y Washington, DC 20001 Alexandria is nationally recognized for its early-American architecture,
Offer subject to meeting space and suite availability. Valid for new catering events booked between 04/30/10 and 12/31/10 hotels, boutiques, award-winning restaurants and historic attractions.
at Hyatt Regency Washington only. Offer must me mentioned at the time of booking and is not valid in conjunction with Go to VisitAlexandriaVA.com to plan your visit and find events, such as:
previously booked or held events. Hyatt reserves the right to withdraw from this promotion at any time without notice.
*Free honeymoon nights are based on an event minimum of $10,000. Visit hyattweddings.com for full details. The trade-
mark Hyatt ® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. © 2010 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. May 14-16: Mount Vernon’s Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
May 28-30: Mount Vernon’s Sunset Celebration
June 19-20: 29th Annual Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival
Mobile Web
703.746.3301 Ready Site
Alexandria
original
NATIONALNEWS
Tysons Galleria
1785M International Drive
McLean, VA 22102
(703) 848-2197
NATIONALNEWS
ROOFING CONTRACTOR
WE PUT YOUR LOGO... REPAIRS • NEW ROOFS • GUTTER CLEANING
ANYWHERE Sheet Metal
Roofing
Certified Applications
of General Tire &
Slate Tile Firestone Products
Gutters EPDM
Skylights Tin
Cedar Shake Copper
Shingles Built In Gutter
Chimney Restoration Roof Inspections
Affordable
Health Insurance
Plans for individuals, families,
small businesses and the self-employed
• Replace Expensive COBRA Insurance
• Choose your own doctors/hospitals
• Doctor Office Co-Pay Available
• Prescriptions, Disability, Life Call for
a FREE
• Preventive care benefits Quote!
• Fast, fair claims & great service
William J. McNamara
LOGOMOTION, INC 202.333.8325
robert safro logomotioninc.com Since 1993
We offer 25+ plans. We will help you
301.986.0585 choose the plan that works best for you.
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 21
22 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
INTERNATIONALNEWS
AMERICAN PLANT
Whatever your dreams or décor, American Plant American Plant is your source for:
s &RESH FABULOUS ANNUALS PERENNIALS TREES SHRUBS
offers everything from orchids and houseplants to
s )MPRESSIVE SELECTION OF INDOOR mOWERING PLANTS
seasonal plantings, trees, and shrubs. Our FOLIAGE INCLUDING ORCHIDS IN MANY VARIETIES SIZES
R E TA I L L O C AT I O N S
DISTRICTNEWS
DISTRICTNEWS
Licensed
Bonded
Insured Kenny
202-251-1479
DC Plumbers License # 707
Visa, Mastercard & American Express accepted
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 29
BY RAJIV JOSEPH
DIRECTED BY JOHN VREEKE
MAY 17– JUNE 13 IMPRESS FOR LESS
$20 SEATS FOR ALL FRIDAY NIGHTS!
Offer applies to first dates, double-dates, and definitely blind dates.
WELCOME BACK
washingtonblade
Asbury United
Methodist Church
926 11th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
www.asburyumcdc.org
Rev. Dr. Louis Shockley,
Senior Pastor
Regular Sunday
Morning Services
8:30 AM and 10:30 AM
202.745.7000 | www.wwc.org
32 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
VIEWPOINT washingtonblade
Vol. 41, Issue 18
Address: 1810 14th St., N.W.,
up to the HRC board. ited pool of donors. The LGBT coming days and weeks, pres- PUBLISHER
Critics demand answers Asked by DC Agenda’s Chris movement is in desperate need suring them to act now.
LYNNE J. BROWN
lbrown@washblade.com ext. 8075
as time runs short for Johnson if he regretted the regret- of consolidation, something I’ve It’s true that the Obama admin- EDITORIAL
table “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” rally advocated for several years. istration has advanced LGBT Editor
Congress to act last month featuring Kathy Griffin, Unfortunately, it’s an idea that is equality via various rule changes KEVIN NAFF
knaff@washblade.com ext. 8088
Solmonese said that Griffin anathema to those in power. and executive orders, including the News & Multimedia Editor
JOSHUA LYNSEN
By KEVIN NAFF approached HRC with the idea As for Solmonese, he and his recent letter sent to HHS endors- jlynsen@washblade.com ext. 8086
and the organization felt it was bet- organization often sound out of ing hospital visitation rights for Features
JOEY DiGUGLIELMO
HRC president Joe Solmonese ter to be a part of it than not. touch with the average LGBT citi- LGBT couples. It’s also true that jdiguglielmo@washblade.com ext. 8081
took it on the last week at a panel Another kerfuffle erupted when zen. There is a palpable and grow- HRC doesn’t get the credit it Sr. News Reporter
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
discussion among LGBT move- Sarvis said he was excluded from ing anger with President Obama deserves for pushing behind the lchibbaro@washblade.com ext. 8079
ment leaders moderated by Sirius a key White House meeting related and the Democrats in Congress scenes for those changes. News Reporter
CHRIS JOHNSON
XM radio’s Michelangelo Signorile to “Don’t Ask” repeal. Several HRC and HRC would be wise to recog- But with wide Democratic cjohnson@washblade.com ext. 8083
in Washington. staffers reportedly attended the nize it and respond appropriately. majorities in both houses of Staff Photographer
MICHAEL KEY
In the studio with Signorile meeting; it appears that Sarvis Solmonese, for example, should Congress and a supportive mkey@washblade.com
were Rea Carey from National wasn’t invited because he had have apologized for the Griffin rally Democratic president, the bar was PRODUCTION
Gay & Lesbian Task Force, Mara publicly criticized the administra- — it was a sorry exercise in star- set much higher. If ENDA dies, as Creative Director
Keisling from National Center for tion’s handling of the issue. fuckery that had no place in the many are predicting, and “Don’t ROB BOEGER
rboeger@washblade.com ext. 8074
Transgender Equality, Aubrey Americablog’s John Aravosis, who serious debate over “Don’t Ask, Ask” repeal is delayed by endless WEB
Sarvis from Servicemembers was in the audience, angrily Don’t Tell,” a law that has studies there will be a reckoning in Project Manager
Legal Defense Network, blogger denounced Sarvis’ exclusion from destroyed the careers of 13,000 the movement in 2011. We CHEVROCK
chevrock@washblade.com
Pam Spaulding and former the meeting during the radio event. brave American service members. haven’t heard a peep about
Clinton administration official You can’t fault HRC for having We have listened to the many repealing the Defense of Marriage SALES & ADMINISTRATION
Sr. Acct. Executive
Richard Socarides. Solmonese White House access, but exclud- promises made by Democrats since Act, something Obama repeated- BRIAN PITTS
joined by phone from London, ing experts from key meetings 2006, supported them with money ly and emphatically promised to bpitts@washblade.com ext. 8089
Acct. Executive
where he was stranded by the smacks of either petty turf wars or and votes and waited patiently for do during his campaign. The JERYL PARADE
Icelandic volcano ash cloud. appeasement and pandering to an Obama to tackle the economy, Uniting American Families Act jparade@washblade.com ext. 8072
Marketing Sales Executive
No one on the panel asked administration looking to retaliate health care and other priorities and other high-profile legislative DION JORDAN
Solmonese the question that against its critics. HRC shouldn’t before getting around to LGBT con- priorities remain in limbo. djordan@washblade.com ext. 8084
Classified Advertising
many audience members were have played along and instead cerns. But time is running out. The Meanwhile, too many of our PHILLIP G. ROCKSTROH
buzzing about: Why was he in insisted on bringing Sarvis. Democrats will lose seats in both so-called “activists” are too con- prockstroh@washblade.com ext. 8092
London during this critical period There were several questions houses come November, giving cerned with currying favor, pre- For distribution, contact Lynne Brown
for securing the final votes to related to how closely the LGBT them a handy excuse to avoid serving access and pursuing at 202-747-2077, ext. 8075
repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”? movement’s many groups work LGBT issues until after the 2012 administration jobs to stand up to Accounting services provided
by Martin & Wall, P.C. C.P.A.
Was the Senate Armed Services together. Spaulding noted that elections. And if the Republicans a president and a party that take Distributed by MediaPoint, LLC
Committee holding a British she routinely receives multiple manage to retake the House, as LGBT support for granted. The All material in the Washington Blade is pro-
retreat that we don’t know about? press releases on the same some are predicting, then we’re LGBT movement is nearing a tected by federal copyright law and may not
be reproduced without the written consent
Turns out he went to London to issue from a slew of organiza- really out in the cold again. crossroads. The strategy of align- of the Washington Blade. The sexual orien-
meet with movement leaders tions parroting the same mes- There’s still time to repeal ing closely with the Democratic tation of advertisers, photographers, writers
and cartoonists published herein is neither
there and attend the Stonewall sage, something I can attest “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and to Party must pay off in the next few inferred nor implied. The appearance of
dinner — at a donor’s expense. happens with regularity. The pass the Employment Non- months. Otherwise, names or pictorial representation does not
necessarily indicate the sexual orientation
There were plenty of barbs sent assembled leaders assured the Discrimination Act this year, but new leadership and of that person or persons. Although the
Solmonese’s way, including a audience that they do, in fact, both will require public support new strategies will Washington Blade is supported by many
fine advertisers, we cannot accept respon-
pointed question from Get Equal’s work closely together. For a from Obama and his behind-the- need to emerge sibility for claims made by advertisers.
Robin McGehee, who asked if moment it seemed they would scenes lobbying of reluctant and prevail.
Unsolicited editorial material is accepted by
Solmonese and HRC’s David join hands and sing “Kumbaya.” moderate Democrats. Obama the Washington Blade, but the paper cannot
Smith would resign if key LGBT leg- But they all missed the obvi- needs to be on the phone with take responsibility for its return. The editors
Kevin Naff is editor of reserve the right to accept, reject or edit
islative priorities are not achieved ous point that the movement has Sens. Jim Webb (D-Va.), Robert the Washington Blade. any submission.
this year. Solmonese responded too many organizations, leaders Byrd (D-W.Va.) and other Reach him at
knaff@washblade.com. A single copy of the Washington Blade is avail-
that his continued employment is and egos chasing the same lim- uncommitted Democrats in the able from authorized distribution points, to any
individual within a 50-mile radius of Washington,
D.C. Multiple copies are available from the
Washington Blade office only. Call for rates.
FEEDBACK
If you are unable to get to a convenient free
distribution point, you may receive a 52-week
mailed subscription for $175 per year. Checks
or credit card orders can be sent to
Re: “Rematch in Maryland” were provided with domestic went with my husband to see the “pure and simple” and that the real Phil Rockstroh at prockstroh@washblade.com.
(editorial by Kevin Naff, April 16) partner Benefits in FY 2010 by movie “Precious.” My hesitation, reason for this lack of recognition is Postmaster: Send address changes to the
Gov. Martin O’Malley deserves regulatory changes implemented based on reviews and synopses much more nuanced, with perhaps Washington Blade, PO BOX 73647 Washington,
DC 20056. The Washington Blade is pub-
support from Maryland’s LGBT by the O’Malley administration. that I read, was my belief that the one factor being the criticism that lished weekly, on Friday, by Brown Naff
community. In addition, O’Malley has directed film would be too depressing and “Precious” received from some Pitts Omnimedia, Inc. Individual Subscriptions
are $175 per year for 52 issues (only $3.37
As we approach the gubernatorial Maryland state agencies to respect negative. The only reason I quarters that the film was racist per issue mailed to you USPS). Rates for
election of 2010, I believe the LGBT and implement Attorney General agreed to see it is that my hus- due to its very limited and negative businesses/institutions are $350 per year.
Periodical postage paid at Washington, D.C.,
community needs to assess the Doug Gansler’s recent opinion that band wanted to see it and since I portrayal of African-American and additional mailing offices.
progress that has been made during state law should recognizing out-of- love my husband I went along. life. That type of criticism may just Editorial positions of the Washington Blade
O’Malley’s term as governor and sup- state same-sex marriages. I disagree with Enszer’s conclu- make “Precious” too hot to handle are expressed in editorials and in editors’
port him for his re-election bid: I ask LGBT Marylanders to review sion that “racism, pure and simple” for some LGBT organizations. notes as determined by the paper’s editors.
Other opinions are those of the writers and
O’Malley signed domestic part- the advances made under Gov. is the reason that those associated Overall I enjoyed the film “Precious,” do not necessarily represent the opinion of
ner bills into law in 2008 and O’Malley’s administration and sup- with “Precious” are not recognized if you can use the word “enjoy” for such the Washington Blade or its staff.
2009. Without these bills, LGBT port his bid for re-election in 2010. — by our national LGBT organizations. a disturbing piece, and recommend To submit a letter or commentary: Letters
Marylanders would be without Judd Vickers, Cambridge, Md. Personally I don’t have such a defin- that people make the effort to see it. should be fewer than 400 words; commen-
taries should be fewer than 750 words.
important relationship protections. itive conclusion for this lack of Perhaps then they can draw their own Submissions may be edited for content and
Also, a bill specifically protecting Re: “’Precious’ deserves recognition but I leave open the pos- conclusions regarding the lack of length, and must include a name, address and
phone number for verification. Send submis-
LGBT students was signed into praise from LGBT groups” (op- sibility that racism may be a factor. national LGBT group recognition of sions by e-mail to knaff@washblade.com.
law by O’Malley in 2008. ed by Julie Enszer, April 16) However, I do believe that your this film and its associates. — Charles ©
2010 Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc.
Maryland state employees It was with hesitation that I conclusion in and of itself is just too Gravitz, Silver Spring, Md.
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 33
INSIDELGBTWASHINGTON
‘ ’
Spring is an expensive season in D.C. are our own LGBT candidates run- are based in D.C. and serve peo-
Summer means the The very short season that we have ning for office who want and need ple here. While I will continue to
beach, flip-flops — and here in D.C. known as spring brings
our support. David Catania run- lend my name to invites for a
ning as an independent for D.C. national candidate or to someone
an end to fundraisers Council; Jim Graham and Clark running for office from another
literally dozens of invitations each Ray running as Democrats for the state or city if people feel it is use-
By PETER ROSENSTEIN Council; and Dana Beyer running ful, I will focus on helping organi-
week to fundraising events. for the Maryland Legislature. This zations like SMYAL, MetroTeen
I am ready for summer to year we even have a few gays of AIDS, Whitman-Walker Clinic, and
begin. From the time I finished my literally dozens of invitations Kutcher, millions more can get it. the Republican persuasion run- Us Helping Us, among others, and
short three-year teaching career, I each week to fundraising events. Every LGBT candidate from ning for D.C. Council. And then local candidates like Catania,
have viewed summer as begin- They seem to multiply like rab- around the nation has a friend in there are some local and national Beyer and Ray who will have a
ning on Memorial Day and lasting bits year to year. If your bank D.C. that is raising money for them. straight candidates who will have direct impact on the lives of people
until Labor Day. Like many others account allows, you could be out I know how important it is but there an impact on our lives who need living here in D.C. That will have to
in D.C., I often complain about the every night of the week to one or are times I think it would be nice to our money. Those of us in the suffice until I win the lottery.
hot, humid summers but this year more fundraisers ranging in cost live somewhere like Akron so I LGBT community must have an So I look forward to Memorial
we all got to complain about the from $25 to thousands for feder- wouldn’t have to hear about all this. aura that suggests we all have Day and moving into summer. Then
long, cold, snowy winter. al political candidates and non- I know who is running in San money trees growing in our living like so many other Washingtonians,
It seemed we went from snow profits. Between the politicians Antonio and San Diego but am rooms or gardens. and members of the LGBT
on the ground for much of March to and all the organizations asking sure they don’t have the slightest Over the years I have been as community in Baltimore and
80-degree temperatures by Easter for donations it seems that pro- idea who is running here in D.C. guilty as anyone when it comes to Philadelphia, I will start spending
Sunday. It was great seeing the kids fessional fundraisers believe the They often see us only as the pot sending out invites to fundraisers my weekends in Rehoboth Beach
participating in the White House LGBT community in Washington, of gold at the end of their rainbow. and asking people for money. where I can at least wear shorts
Easter Egg Roll wearing shorts and D.C., is made of money. I know the importance of giving Between the political candidates I and sandals to the
T-shirts instead of the down jackets Today we don’t print many invi- money to candidates from across support, my ARTS in ACTION weekend fundrais-
they had to wear last year. tations anymore. You are invited to the nation and I follow the Victory events, and other organizations it ers. But more
But one of the main reasons part with your money by e-mail, Fund endorsement list to see who got to the point that some friends, on Rehoboth in
that many of us in the LGBT evite or on Facebook. Facebook has a chance to win. Springtime in when I reached them on the another column.
community look forward to sum- has made inviting people to an D.C. brings invites from SLDN, phone, would simply ask, “who or
mer is the end of the formal D.C. event so easy. Just one click and Whitman-Walker Clinic, Victory what now, and how much?”
fundraising season. The very thousands of people get your Fund and the Capital Area Gay & So now I have begun to limit the Peter Rosenstein is
a D.C.-based LGBT
short season that we have here event announcement. Then Tweet Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, invitations I send out to events for rights and Democratic
in D.C. known as spring brings about it and, if you’re Ashton to mention just a few. Then there organizations and candidates that Party activist.
VIEWPOINT
‘ ’
Obama biography de-gayed by author
Remnick’s 600-page ‘The Bridge’ is a first draft of history
College in 1979 is discussed as
openly gay and an early influ-
Bayard Rustin’s. Rustin was an
openly gay founding strategist
‘The Bridge’ ignores ence. This calls to mind Bill of the civil rights movement. It
president’s ties to that writes gays out. In the past, this Clinton’s autobiography, a de- was Rustin who studied in
gayed classic, in which Clinton India Ghandi’s non-violence. It
LGBT community has been accepted. Today, perceptive mentions an openly gay friend at was Rustin who counseled
Oxford in the 1960s but some- King before the march across
By CHARLES FRANCIS readers ask, ‘Why the omission?’ how fails to mention David the Pettus Bridge: “There is
Mixner, a key player in his rise to only one answer, the people
The bridge in David Remnick’s passing, no mention that he is Carolina Obama events. Obama the presidency. Steve Hildebrand, who believe in non-violence
biography of Barack Obama, “The gay or was among the first “early said, “I strongly believe that the gay deputy national cam- are not now going to retreat.”
Bridge” ( Knopf, 2010) is the money” Obama supporters. African Americans and the LGBT paign director for the Obama Years later, in 1986, it was
Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, a There is no mention of a gay community must stand together campaign, is mentioned several Rustin who spoke to students
holy site for the Civil Rights issue in the presidential cam- in the fight for equal rights.” times, but never identified as gay about the direct line from
Movement. Here, Rep. John Lewis, paign such as “Don’t Ask Don’t Sounds like a bridge to me. or a bridge to a vast gay commu- Montgomery to Stonewall.
Martin Luther King, Jr. and brave Tell,” now at a roiling boil. There “The Bridge” omits the uproar nity in historic transition. Bayard Rustin could make
marchers were gassed and beaten is no mention of the Matthew caused by Rick Warren’s selection “The Bridge” cites James that connection. James Baldwin
by Alabama troopers, decades later Shepard Act signed into law by for the inaugural invocation. Baldwin 10 times, even in the lived that connection. In
revisited by Barack Obama. President Obama in 2009. Remnick writes, “For the inaugural frontispiece, without mentioning remarks, Barack Obama has
No significant strand in Remnick does report Alan Keyes ceremony, Obama had invited Baldwin as a black and gay voice made the connection, too, and
Obama’s rise to the presidency slimed Mary Cheney in 2004. Rick Warren to give the invocation, in the civil rights movement. It that is maddening for a lot of
is omitted from this nearly 600- “The Bridge” does not cover a gesture to mainstream evangeli- was a cruel time: according to people who supported him. But
page book, except one. “The President Obama’s historic dec- cals, but surely the most moving Gore Vidal, President Kennedy David Remnick’s
Bridge” has been thoroughly de- laration in 2008 that he would be performance on the podium, joked about Baldwin as “Martin “bridge?” It is
gayed. In another decade, with a “fierce advocate” for gay and besides Obama’s own somber Luther Queen.” not there for
another presidency, this might be lesbian Americans. The book address, was the final benedic- “The Bridge” is a first draft of gay Americans.
a typical criticism. With this pres- examines the heated South tion.” How do you not mention the history that writes gays out. In
idency, it is a lapse. Carolina primary contest controversy about this selection, the past, this has been accepted.
Charles Francis is the
There is no mention of the between candidate Obama and given Warren’s support for Today, perceptive readers ask, founder of the Kameny
role gays, their votes or their Hillary Clinton. There is no refer- Proposition 8 in California? “Why the omission?” Papers Project.
money played in the campaign. ence to “ex-gay” Rev. Donnie Lawrence Goldyn, a professor There are lots of spirits Reach him at
ccfrancis@aol.com.
David Geffen? He is cited in McClurkin’s role in South of Obama’s at Occidental associated with Selma. One is
34 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 35
36 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
Tired of giving
your money away?
Take a look below to see how much home
your rent payment affords you!
Rent Payment Home you can AFFORD
$999 or less $160,000 or less*
$1200 $220,000
$1640 $300,000
$2050 $375,000
$2570 $450,000
$2850 $500,000
$3150 $550,000
$3700 $650,000
$4200 $729,750
In real estate –
the perfect plan
is the easy part.
Adapting to the reality of the mar-
ket, adjusting midstream, and
gliding in to settlement is the sign
of an experienced agent guiding
informed consumers.
WELCOME HOME –
WASHINGTON BLADE!
Congratulations to Lynne, Lou
and the whole staff. I’m out and
proud to support you in whatever
venue you have going.
Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth was in arts & entertainment
town for last week’s Whitman-Walker
Clinic fundraiser. Photos, PAGE 52
‘The family
I never had’
Local LGBT students benefit from year for tuition, books and living expenses.
“It’s really about giving them the support they
Point Foundation scholarships need to be successful,” says Vince Garcia, Point’s
scholar relations and selections program director.
By JOEY DiGUGLIELMO “It’s about helping them move beyond whatever
forms of marginalization they’ve encountered.”
Anyone struggling with an inferiority complex would That varies, of course, from scholar to scholar.
do him- or herself a favor by staying away from the For Gill, who came out at 15, just a year after mov-
local Point Scholars, recipients of Point Foundation ing to the U.S. with his family, it was a rough start.
scholarship money for LGBT young people. They’re a “My family told me I was financially cut off if I moved
group of staggering overachievers who’ve accom- out and I knew I couldn’t live there so there
plished a lot for their age, often in the face of adversity. was this constant back and forth about
India native Harjant Gill, 28, is working on a Ph.D. my sexuality,” he says. “And their
at American University studying anthropology, unwillingness to even discuss the
migration and gender. He’s gay and also a filmmak- topic. High school was very bad.
er who’s made a handful of shorts and documen- I never went to class because I
taries that explore issues like cultural identity, homo- was worried about getting
phobia, alienation, AIDS and more. beaten up, so as a result, my
Lesbian Kelsey Phipps spent six years working for GPA was very bad.”
the late Sen. Edward Kennedy as a policy adviser but Phipps came out at 16
quit to go to law school at Georgetown University. and had a girlfriend her
And Los Angeles native Joe Goldman, a junior senior year of high school
political communication major at George Washington in Washington state.
University, got involved in Israeli and global warming She’s reluctant to say
issues at age 12 before taking up LGBT rights causes how bad it was initially
shortly after he came out at 14. Since then he’s because she’s at a
interned for Equality California, the California League point now where her
of Conservation Voters, for several elected officials in parents have come a
his home state and on the presidential campaigns of long way and have
Hillary Clinton and later Barack Obama. even invited her pres-
All three and a handful of others in the D.C. area ent girlfriend to their
have benefitted from Point Foundation scholarship house for holidays.
money and opportunities for mentoring from the “They really are coming
Foundation, started in 2001 by partners Carl along and trying to have a
Strickland and Bruce Lindstrom, the latter a gay relationship,” she says.
entrepreneurial success (he co-founded what “Before my mom would just
became Costco) who’d been exiled from his evan- hang up if anybody except
gelical family upon coming out. me answered the phone.”
There are 67 current scholars and 75 alumni. This Goldman says he’s
year’s crop of about 38 new scholars, to be announced one of the lucky ones.
in June, will have been selected from more than 4,000 His parents were sup-
applicants. The Foundation, which has 10 full-time portive. So why does he
staffers, operates with a $3 million-plus endowment need the aid?
supplied from a bounty of corporate sponsors, individ- “I’ve been marginal-
ual gifts, bequests, benefits and fundraisers. That’s up ized by our laws just like
substantially from the initial 2004 endowment of all of us have,” he says.
$100,000. Most scholars are in the program multiple HARJANT GILL, 28, is one of the Point Foundation's
years. The average scholar receives about $9,300 per Continues on page 50 D.C.-area scholarship recipients.
57 Million iPhone
users equal a lot
of spending power
WELCOME BACK
WASHINGTON BLADE!
FREE POOL
Call today to find out EVERY WEDNESDAY
PW’s now has BUZZTIME ELECTRONIC TRIVIA and BUZZTIME Texas
how to bring them Holdem. Interactive electronic trivia, players can compete against other
players or teams and be ranked against other players nationwide.
into your business
(877) 792-2080 Sundays
• Happy Hour All Night
• Games on the Big Screen
Mondays
• Buzztime Trivia contest
equalitycommunications.com
and 50 Cents Off Bottles
and Drafts
• Games on the Big Screen
Tuesdays
• Happy Hour All Night
Wednesdays
• Free Pool, 50 Cents Off
Bottles and Drafts
Thursdays
• Karaoke in the
Show Lounge
Fridays
• Alternating Weeks,
1st and 3rd DJ,
2nd and 4th Drag Show
Saturdays
• Karaoke
• Drag Bingo 3rd Sat.
of Every Month
SOCIALAGENDA
friday, april 30
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT THE DC CENTER,
1810 14th St. N.W., at 8 p.m. for a night of
queer spoken word and poetry. Everyone
is welcome and encouraged to come pre-
pared to share your work. This event is
free and open to the public.
EQUALITY FORUM arrives in Philadelphia
this weekend with a packed schedule of
panel discussions on the LGBT movement,
parties and more. Visit equalityforum.org for
a full schedule of events. Blade editor Kevin
Naff joins Obama administration officials
Photo courtesy of youthpridedc.org
and GLAAD’s Jarrett Barrios for a Saturday
tastic dining panel on the White House at 1 p.m. YOUTH PRIDE was rained out last weekend, but is rescheduled for Saturday from
BYT PRESENTS: CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN noon-5 p.m. at 23rd & P streets, N.W.
II: A COSMIC DISCO JOURNEY with DJ
Shea Van Horn (Mixtape), DJ Cale (BYT) upstairs bar at EFN Lounge, located at
at the Black Cat, 1811 14th St N.W., sunday, may 2 1318 9th St., N.W.
starting at 9:30 p.m. MAMMA MIA FLASH MOB WITH DRAG BINGO at Nellie’s Sports Bar, 900
BOWEN McCAULEY DANCE AND THE U St., N.W., hosted by Shi-Queeta Lee,
saturday, may 1 DC COWBOYS DANCE COMPANY. Join every Tuesday starting at 8 p.m. Free to play.
YOUTH PRIDE, rescheduled from last the DC Cowboys for a dance “flash mob” SIA performs at the 9:30 club, 815 V St.,
weekend, takes place in the P Street of Mamma Mia. All you have to do is learn N.W., at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25; visit
Beach area (23rd & P streets) from the steps to the Mamma Mia choreogra- 9:30club.com for information.
noon-5 p.m. featuring a diverse lineup of phy via online tutorials. The public is invit-
musicians, speakers and other perform- ed to take part in these flash mob dances wednesday, may 5
ers. The Infatuation dance at Fly Lounge that will be performed live. 1 p.m. at THE TOM DAVARON SOCIAL BRIDGE
follows from 5-9:30 p.m. Visit youthprid- Dupont Circle and a second flash mob 3 CLUB will meet at 7:30 p.m., at the
edc.org for more information. p.m. at Ballston Common Mall, 4328 Dignity Center, 721 8th St., S.E. (across
JAM is returning to Mova Lounge with a Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA. Online tutorial from Marine Barracks) for social bridge. No
tastic rooms very special session, Cherry Jam, to ben- of Mamma Mia can be found here on You partner needed. Visit lambdabridge.com.
efit The Cherry Fund. Drink specials, Tube: http://tinyurl.com/yb65gks Each Wednesday at the Green Lantern is
prizes and music by DJ Gemz. No cover MARK KNOPFLER brings his “Get Lucky” POZ WEDNESDAY. Starting at 8 p.m.,
but donations accepted for The Cherry tour to Warner Theatre, 13th Street between POZ mixers provide a supportive atmos-
Fund. The Jam begins at 9 p.m. at Mova E&F streets, N.W., at 7:30 p.m. Tickets phere for those who are HIV positive and
Lounge, 1435 P St. N.W. range $75.50-105.50; call 202-783-4000. those who want to help eradicate the stig-
CODE, returns to Motley Bar above EFN ma surrounding HIV. The Green Lantern
Lounge, 1318 9th St., N.W., for its monthly monday, may 3 is located at 1335 Green Ct., N.W.
installment. Gear, rubber, skin, uniform or Country-Western dance lessons at GENERAL PROGRAM WEDNESDAYS
leather dress code will be strictly enforced. Remingtons, 639 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E. 7-8:30 p.m. at the Vajroyogini Buddhist
Music provided by DJ Shea Van Horn. (half block west of Eastern Market Metro) Center,1803 Connecticut Ave., N.W., 2nd
Admission is $10. Code is an 18+ event. from 8:30-9:30 p.m., $5 per person, per floor, $12. How can we learn to love with-
There will be an open bar from 9-10 p.m. lesson (dance class participants should out pain? Through these teachings, we will
WHO’S BAD, “the world’s greatest wear boots or shoes with leather soles). learn to enjoy our relationships and in turn
Michael Jackson tribute band,” per- benefit others. For more information visit
forms at 9 p.m. at Ram’s Head Live, 20 tuesday, may 4 meditation-dc.org, call 202-986-2257 or e-
Market Place at Power Plant Live in down- Volunteers will be assembling safer sex mail info@meditation-dc.org.
tastic spa town Baltimore. Tickets are $16.50; call kits and enjoying great drink specials at
410-244-1131. Motley, 7-10:30 p.m. Motley is the thursday, may 6
THE POINT FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL
WASHINGTON, D.C., RECEPTION is
held from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Human
Rights Campaign’s Equality Center,
1640 Rhode Island Ave., N.W. Tickets are
Waterfront $75. See related story on page 33.
hotel with JOHNNY BLAZES performs live at the DC
Center. Johnny Blazes’ show is an evening-
monumental views. length performance that blends cabaret arts
with theater to create a semi-narrative series
of vignettes. The performance will begin at 8
p.m. in the DC Center Activity Room, 1810
14th St. N.W. Tickets $10 now or $15 at the
door. Light refreshments will be served. Visit
thedccenter.org for more information.
FINAL CAPITAL PRIDE GENERAL MEET-
ING will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Volunteer
sign-up, mixer and raffle. The meeting will be
held at the Madison Hotel, 1177 15th St., N.W.,
near Farragut North and McPherson Square
1330 Maryland Avenue, SW Metro stations. That evening, the full schedule
Washington, D.C. 20024, USA of events and the headlining act for Capital
Call (202) 544 8588 Pride’s 35th anniversary celebration, “You Ain’t
to learn more or visit
www.mandarinoriental.com/washington. Seen Nothing Yet!” will be announced.
Volunteers interested in being a part of Capital
Photo couresy of siamusic.net
Pride’s 35th anniversary celebration are
SIA performs at the 9:30 club next week. encouraged to attend. Visit capitalpride.org or
call 202-719-5304 for information.
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 43
2 0 3 3 M S T R E E T, N W | 2 0 2 5 3 0 3 6 2 1
W W W. M S T R E E T B A R A N D G R I L L . C O M
21
“Available for Private Parties”
Book Online www.MStreetBarAndGrill.com
or Thru www.OpenTable.com
44 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
THEATERAGENDA
No lie: This play is a good time
Michael Kahn directs Corneille is a lawyer from the ‘The Liar’
provinces), he hires likable wise-guy Through May 29
superb cast in ‘The Liar’ Cliton (Adam Green) as his valet Shakespeare Theatre
and sets straight away to wooing the Company
By PATRICK FOLLIARD city of light’s lovelier ladies — name- Lansburgh Theatre,
ly fair Clarice (Erin Partin) whom he 450 7th Street NW
While Shakespeare’s plays were mistakes for her sidekick Lucrece 202-547-1122
often penned and performed for (Miriam Silverman), leading to all www.shakespearetheatre.org
England’s elite, they were also sorts of farcical confusion.
intended for the masses. The bard’s As Dorante, Conn is convinc- Colleen Delaney is terrific as a
more common contemporaries ingly pathological — he lies speed- pair of identical — but very differ-
understood and appreciated his ily and with relish. And while many ent — twin servants, Isabelle and
work, regularly flocking to the Globe of his untruths are harmless, a few Sabine; and David Sabin fares
Theatre to catch his latest tragic do land him in some very sticky sit- well as the liar’s clueless father.
romance or suspenseful gore fest. uations; but alas, he’s not both- Staged by STC’s gay artistic
How fitting then that the ered, after all, this world class pre- director Michael Kahn, “The Liar” is a
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s varicator’s credo is “The unimag- tight, fun-loving production with a
(STC) spring offering “The Liar”— ined life is not worth living.” very fine, on point cast. Designer
David Ives’ ridiculously (in the And Ives’ pun and anachro- Alexander Dodge has wittily set the
good way) rhyming adaptation of nism-filled script written entirely in Parisian scene with an outsized blue
Pierre Corneille’s 17th century verse only adds to the madness. and white sign (Place Royal) and
comedy — is so fabulously fun For instance, Cliton gives Dorante enormous topiary poodle. Murrell
Photo courtesy of Shakespeare Theatre Company
and accessible. With Ives’ jokes the goods on Lucrece’s father Horton’s grand period togs succeed
and Michael Kahn’s unswerving “Perander. Rich as God. A Tuscan in flattering corseted ladies and Michael Kahn’s direction makes ‘THE LIAR’ a crowd pleaser.
direction, the production is indeed villa. Ski place in Gstaad.” booted swashbucklers (although the
a crowd pleaser. Per usual, STC regular Aubrey closest thing to a sword fight is an otherwise. In the program, Ives the world — past and present.
The quick-paced romp’s title fib- Deeker is excellent as Philiste, a amusingly staged duel between describes his gargantuan task as a But mostly, “The Liar” is a good
ber, Dorante (Christian Conn), level-headed gentleman who, like Dorante and his handsome foil “translaptation, i.e., a translation with time. And while you won’t find STC’s
arrives in Paris armed with some the audience, isn’t fooled by Alcippe, played by Tony Roach. heavy dose of adaptation.” He adds staid audiences picnicking in the
introductions, a bit of dash, and a Dorante for a moment. Deeker It’s tempting to term “The Liar” as that he writes what “Corneille would stalls or razzing the actors like the
whole lotta imagination. Passing eases comfortably into Ives’ fun spring fluff, but the great labor have written today but in English.” In rowdy patrons at Shakespeare’s
himself off as a war hero (when, in sometimes dizzying verse and that obviously went into updating the addition, the comedy expresses Globe, they’re definitely enjoying
fact, Dorante like his creator plays with the language. Similarly, classical source material demands some keenly perceived views on themselves just the same.
1 7 T H & R H O D E I S L A N D AV E . , N W
202 872 1126 W W W. B B G W D C . C O M
MAY EVENTS
THURSDAY, MAY 6TH 50% OF ALL PROCEEDS
DONATED TO
AMERICAN
BUFFALO
“AMERICAN
BUFFALO is one
of the best
American plays.”
–The New York Times
Beat Memories
The Photographs of Allen Ginsberg
May 2 – September 6
D
D
D
Allen Ginsberg, Peter Orlovsky, 1955, gelatin silver print, Howard Greenberg Gallery,
New York © 2010 The Allen Ginsberg LLC. All rights reserved.
Larry’s Lounge
2009 Most Pet Friendly Establishment in DC
Corner of 18th & T St, NW
Every Wednesday 4-8pm On the National Mall from 3rd to 9th Streets at Constitution Avenue NW. Admission is always free.
Monday – Saturday 10 – 5, Sunday 11 – 6 Phone: 202-737-4215 T D D : 202-842-6176
www.nga.gov | www.facebook.com/NationalGalleryofArt | http://twitter.com/ngadc
48 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
times integrating many muscle 10 minutes of light calisthenics and
FITNESSAGENDA groups into one exercise or com-
pound exercises at a time.
multi-muscular movements.
CC and FT have been around
Functional training cannot be for longer than you think. Yoga and
a clean house
a clean mind
satisfaction guaranteed
services provided in DC, VA and MD
commercial and residential
licensed, bonded, insured
free estimates
703.892.8648
www.acleaningserviceinc.com
50 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
DCAGENDA
802 Devon Place (Old Town, Alexandria) 1111 Powhatan Street (Old Town, Alexandria) 316 E Custis Ave (Del Ray, Alexandria)
$535,000 $535,000 $549,900
Walk to Braddock Road Metro and the This delightful brick end unit boasts 2 fire- Large windows allow light to stream in from all
shops & restaurants of Slaters Lane from this places, charming built-ins & three freshly sides highlighting the neutral paint colors,
gorgeous townhome with refinished hard- painted levels with hardwood floors. A cozy wood floors & baseboards. 2BR, bright living
wood floors. Highlights include a beautiful main level den looks out to glorious trees. room, separate dining room, large kitchen &
updated kitchen, stunning bath renovations, Walk out from the updated kitchen and din- enclosed porch allow for plenty of space. Relax
an inviting lower level plus a fabulous deck overlooking the garden. One ing room to a lovely, enclosed garden. Plus, walk to the shops & restau- outside in the expansive green backyard-the perfect retreat! Leave the car in the
stoplight to DC & convenient to Del Ray and downtown Old Town! rants of Old Town, Del Ray & Slaters Lane! driveway & walk to "The Ave" & its bustling boutiques & restaurants!
1597 COLONIAL TER N 1390 V STREET NW #504 1451 N ST NW #4 2405 20TH ST NW #1104 2125 14TH ST NW #416
LD LD LD LD LD
SO SO SO SO SO
For additional listings, map search, custom brochures, neighborhood data and more, please visit our new website
www.JeffAndJosephGroup.com
Our listings on average sold for 97% of the original sales price in 22 days compared to 89.7% and 50 days for the competition.
52 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
Buying? Selling?
We know what we're doing!
Gale Storm Team
571.236.9329 • info@gayrealtors.us.com 7817 ROSWELL DR,
www.gayrealtors.us.com FALLS CHURCH
Completely Remodeled w/ Wood Floors, Granite,
Wetbar & more. 4BR 2.5 BA $569,900
n
Tow
OPEN SUNDAY 1-4 PM oric
Old
t
His
Dayna Blumel
& Kerry Adams
703.587.7841 ®
blumeladams@gmail.com
www.blumeladams.com
DEENNY
NNY H ORNER
EVERS & CO. Real Estate, Inc.
703.629.8455 (c) 202.464.8400 (o) Denny@DennyHorner.com
56 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
SOCIALAGENDA
The skinny on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’
Mystique on being Morgan McMichaels, as seen via
“RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked.”
be JuJu, Pandora, Raven and
Morgan McMichaels.
voted off Logo’s hit Was it as confrontational as the
cameras made it appear? Blade: Bebe Zahara Benet
show and the need for Mystique: It was actually worse won the first season yet other
‘big girl’ role models than the viewers saw! The camera
crews missed a lot of it when it was
performers such as Ongina
and Shannel seemed to get
By TYRONE FORD happening but at this point I don’t more attention. Why do you
Special to Washington Blade have any issues about it. feel that is?
Mystique: Well the winner
Mystique Summers Madison Blade: After your elimination, really is under lock and key and
from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” whose who were you pulling for to win? has to do what the show says.
real name is Donté Sims, compet- Mystique: Well the person I It’s almost better not to win
ed for top queen in season two of wanted to win was already elimi- because then you can travel
the Logo reality series but was nated — Pandora Boxx. I really feel and get booked and just do
eliminated in the third episode. Pandora should have stayed but your own thing.
This self-proclaimed “pageant you never really know what the
queen” from Bedford, Texas judges were looking for or wanted. Blade: How much of what the
wants you to know that big girls audience saw was spin created
can do everything skinny girls can Blade: Casting calls have by the producers?
and she recently made a stop in begun for the third season and it Mystique: There is a lot of
Washington, D.C. to prove it. A looks like several of D.C.’s drag per- editing of course. It’s sometimes
curvaceous beauty, Mystique formers are submitting tapes. What two or three days of footage con-
Summers Madison brought her is your advice to applicants? densed down to one hour. So
own brand of “charisma, unique- Mystique: The best advice I when it was edited, the storylines
ness, nerve and talent” and left an can give would be to stay true to can be skewed to make the story
impression on many of the view- yourself. Go on the show as “you” smoother.
Photo courtesy of Mystique
ers that the most important part of and leave the same way because
being a performer is to stay true MYSTIQUE SUMMERS MADISON competed on season two of you shouldn’t change who you are Blade: How much do the con-
to one’s self. The Washington ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race.’ to try and win a competition. testants actually interact with
Blade talked to Mystique about RuPaul?
RuPaul’s show, her competitors need to have a psychological eval- ing to Raven when you had to Blade: The first season of Mystique: The amount of
and how it feels to represent “big uation before they would cast you. “Lip sync for your life” to “I Hear “Drag Race” didn’t include the interaction the viewers see on TV
girls” everywhere. You Knockin’” by Wynonna Judd. “Untucked,” behind-the-scenes is about how much we actually
Blade: What exactly was How do you feel you handled the show. Do you feel this was a interacted with Ru.
Washington Blade: How did involved with that? What did they elimination? good addition to your season?
Donté Sims, aka Mystique ask you to get evaluated for? Mystique: After the lip sync, Mystique: I think they came Blade: You said on the show
Summers Madison, land a spot Mystique: [Laughs] Well, I had RuPaul needed to think about up with the idea of “Untucked” to that you represented all the “big
on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”? to sit down with a psychologist and the decision so she was gone for show how catty things behind the girls” out there. Do you feel there
Mystique: I had been doing I guess I got the seal of approval. about 20 minutes and then came scenes really were. I know it was is a stigma attached to the full-
drag for five years and there was a Although, [laughs] I still don’t under- back and I was the one to go. brought on for my season but I figured drag performers?
casting call in Dallas for the first stand how I managed to get it. Honestly, it was [like] a big sigh don’t know if it will be brought on Mystique: Well, I went on the
season but I decided to wait and of relief because I was able to for the next one. They cast such show just as myself and I was
see what the show was all about. Blade: What was it like meet- get back to real life and commu- strong personalities this season classified as representing the
Then, when there was a casting ing the other contestants for the nicating with the real world. so they kind of knew there would “big girls” because I said it once
call for the second season, I went first time? be drama and wanted to catch it and it just caught on. I received a
for it and submitted my paperwork Mystique: I’m used to Texas Blade: Things got pretty heat- on film because they knew it lot of e-mails and Facebook
and video and they got back to me pageant drag, which is more ed with a few of the contestants would bring in the viewers. messages from different people
about two months later. makeup and costumes. When I prior to your elimination. At one thanking me for showing that the
met the rest of the contestants it point it looked like the wigs were Blade: There is going to be anoth- big girls can be sexy and that it
Blade: Two months is a long was more female realness. going to come off and punches er spin off show called “RuPaul’s took a lot of courage to compete
time to wait, what was the next thrown. Let’s talk for a minute Drag U.” Will you be involved? against the skinny girls. If I’m
step in the process? Blade: You were eliminated in about your “I’m from Chicago!” Mystique: No, the performers helping other people out there
Mystique: Well ... all applicants this season’s third episode, los- interaction with fellow contestant from my season on “Drag U” will then I think that’s great.
april 30, 2010 • washingtonblade.com 57
www.inspot.org
All STD/HIV testing Information
60 washingtonblade.com • april 30, 2010
FULL BODY WAXING for Men & Women at Qi Spa-
FLOORING
bladeclassifieds 3106 M St, NW www.qispadc.com. Please call
(202) 333-6345 for waxing, massage, skincare... GREEN, ECO-FRIENDLY HARDWOOD FLOOR
REFINISHING Specializing in all areas of wood
floors, installations, dust-free sanding and refin-
COUNSELING ishing. Call 202-468-2660 for a free estimate!
MASSAGE LGBTQ AFFIRMING THERAPY AT DUPONT METRO.
ONLY $55 PER HOUR SPRING INTO WELL- Individuals, couples, families, adolescents. Over 15 years
NESS with body work to heal your winter aches & serving the community. Mike Giordano, LICSW. BEACH RENTAL/DE
pains. Relaxing & rejuvinating, Swedish, deep tis- 202/460-6384, mike.giordano.msw@gmail.com, REHOBOTH BEACH: Contemporary 2br/2ba
sue & pressure point techinques. Adams Morgan www.WhatIHearYouSaying.com condo w/ balcony overlkng pond in pool/tennis
/ Dupont RON 202-641-1078 court complex nr Arena's Cafe (Rte 1), about 7
COUNSELING FOR GAY MEN. Individual/couple mins to beach/town. Sleeps up to 6, min. $600 to
INDULGE YOURSELF WITH RELAXING, deep tis- counseling with volunteer peer counselor. Gay Men's max. $850/week. Inquiries: shaughn40@msn.com
sue massage. Feel the stress leave your body. CMT Counseling Community. 202-265-6495. gaymen-
with 15 years experience. Located in Logan/Dupont scounseling.org. No fees, donation requested.
Circle. www.DCMassageTherapist.com. Visa, MC.
David (202) 213-9646 Lic#MT410 INDIVIDUAL THERAPY FOR the gay & lesbian
HOME
community. Relationships, grief, anxiety, transi- SALE/DC
N.ARLINGTON CMT - Enjoy your massage in a pri- DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE AND STRETCHING tions, careers. Jonathan Kirkendal (202) 550- SE/DC - DETACHED SINGLE FAMILY, 4 bedroom,
vate, in-home studio. Great location. Clean, quiet, dis- BY CMT, 17th/Kalorama next to HT, 7days/wk till 3589. www.dclpc.com. 3.5 ba, open living spaces, gar. $428,900 1015
creet. mymassagebygary.com - 301-704-1158 11pm, 4 hand option avail, Tim 202.957.1559. Anderson Pl SE. Sat/Sun 11-5 202.344.5030.
GREAT TOUCH! Full sensual body massage by PROFESSIONAL MALE MASSAGE THERA- LEGAL SERVICES SE/DC - NEW SINGLE FAMILY, 4 bedrooms, 3.5
Latin Male. Swedish, deep tissue. Relieve stress! PIST Reduce stress, increase flexibility and FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM Representing the GLBT baths, 3 finished floors, large open living areas,
Parking available. In/out. 703-401-9093. prevent injuries. Swedish, Deep Tissue, community for over 25 years. Family adoptions, estate One-car gar. $398,900. 1526 Mississippi Ave SE,
Sports, Stretching. Call Trace 202-246-0724. planning, real estate, immigration, employment. (301) Open Sat/Sun 11-5 202.610.5606.
ITALIAN JOCK Give full body massage. Masculine, VISA/MC LIC#MT375 891-2200. Silber, Perlman, Sigman & Tilev, P.A. &
muscular, VGL masseur, offers, full-body, Swedish, Kirstin Gulling, Of Counsel. www.SP-Law.com
sports, deep tissue massage on a table, near fire- FURNISHED HOUSING/DC
place, including stretching. See my photos on EMPLOYMENT LAW ATTORNEY - Wrongful
www.massagem4m.com/jockguy. Located down- Discharge, Sexual Harrassment, Contract Review,
town, parking available. Brian 312-961-7724. Whitleblowers. The Law Office of Carl Roller
(202) 531-2777, www.carlroller.com
adult
MASSAGE SILVER SPRING Spanish/Irish,
160 lbs, 5'10" great shape, beach tan, strong
soothing hands. Full-body erotic experience,
masculine energy. Stress release. Comfortable
studio, private home. $70/hr. Days/evenings,
metro. BRUNO (301) 580-2716.
COLDWELL BANKER DUPONT COLDWELL BANKER DUPONT COLDWELL BANKER DUPONT COLDWELL BANKER DUPONT
202-387-6180 202-387-6180 202-387-6180 202-387-6180
“The most tools, the most technology, the most leads, the best working environment. Sound interesting?
Call me to discuss the advantages of Coldwell Banker. We offer more so our agents can do more for our clients.”
Kevin McDuffie, GRI, Managing Broker
kmcduffie@cbmove.com • 202.439.2435 (c) • 1606 17th Street NW cbmove com
THE UNDENIABLE
VALUE EVENT
20% OFF THRU MAY 9
Featuring:
Wyatt Chair 33”w x 33”d x 32”h special orders in fabric from $1420, NOW: $1136, Lillian Console 44”w x 14”d x 32”h $995, NOW: $796,
Pazzo Mirror 38” diameter $795 NOW: $636, Geo 8’ x 10’ Rug in berry $1550 NOW: $1240
Save 20% on all* special order upholstery (handcrafted in North Carolina), tables/storage, linens, lighting, rugs,
accessories & wall art. *VSQ QSHIVR XS XVEHMXMSREP WIPIGX JVSQ LYRHVIHW SJ WX]PIW WM^IW ÁRMWLIW JEFVMG
PIEXLIV
options: all delivered in approximately 6 short weeks.
1526 14th Street NW (P & Q Streets) Washington, DC 202.332.3433 M-F 10am to 8pm, Sat 10am to 6pm, Sun 11am to 6pm Convenient daily parking from 10am - 6pm
*exclusions: in-stock, stock options plus & love programs / mgbwhome.com