121130

U.S.
diplomats hope to
derail draconian measure
By CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com
U.S. ofcials offered a different account
about the status of a draconian anti-
gay bill in Uganda this week, saying
the legislation had yet to move out of
committee and disputing earlier media
reports and State Department comments
by saying the panel is incapable of
removing the infamous death penalty
provision from the legislation.
In an email to the Washington Blade on
Tuesday, an informed source at the U.S.
Embassy in Kampala said the bill is still in
committee. That contradicts media reports
on the bill which imposes a penalty
of life in prison for homosexual acts
that indicated the Legal & Parliamentary
NOVEMBER 3 0 2 0 1 2 VOL UME 4 3 I SSUE 4 8 OUR COMMUNI TY, OUR STORI ES SI NCE 1969 WASHI NGTONBL ADE. COM
Advocacy group looks
ahead to new mission, goals
By MICHAEL K. LAVERS
mlavers@washblade.com
Equality Maryland executive director Carrie
Evans decided to stand along the side of the
stage at the Baltimore Soundstage shortly
after midnight on Nov. 7 as Gov. Martin
OMalley, gay state Sen. Rich Madaleno
(D-Montgomery County) and others ofcially
proclaimed the referendum on Marylands
same-sex marriage law had passed. She
said in a post-Election Day interview in D.C.
it was the best vantage point to look out at
everyone who had played a role in the long
ght to secure marriage rights for same-sex
couples in the state.
I was crying like a baby, Evans told the
Washington Blade. Youd see every person
out there whose been a part of this in some
way, shape or form. Everybody out there was
crying and hugging and kissing. We will never
experience this moment again, ever. And I
just wanted to absorb it all.
Election Day capped off a long and often
tumultuous effort for Marylands same-sex
marriage advocates that began in 1997
when three lawmakers introduced the rst
bill that would have allowed nuptials for
CONTI NUES ON PAGE 20
In 2009, Ugandan President YOWERI MUSEVENI vowed to veto an anti-gay bill if the countrys parliament passed it.
PHOTO BY RUSSELL WATKINS/DEPARTMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT; COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA
Still Recovering
Gay residents assisting in
cleanup one month after
Superstorm Sandy decimated
parts of New Jersey, New York.
PAGE 11
Md. won marriage,
now what?
Keeping the Faith
Local gay Catholic group
Dignity/Washington marks
40-year anniversary as Vatican
remains staunchly anti-gay.
PAGE 35
02 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 WASHI NGTONBLADE. COM
202.745.7000 j www.whitman-walker.org
Bet Mishpacah Community Education Group Cornerstone Community Te DC Center/HIV Prevention Working Group
Food & Friends GLMA HealthHIV Heart to Hand, Inc. HIPS Human Rights Campaign IAPAC NMAC N Street Village
NovaSalud, Inc. Promising Futures SMYAL START at Westminster Washington AIDS Partnership Te Womens Collective
couuuNtTv PAaTNsas
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1
WORLD AIDS DAY
Candlelight Vigil
j:oo ru j ouroNT ctacts
WASHI NGTONBLADE. COM NOVEMBER 30, 2012 03
merrifieldgardencenter.com
Fair Oaks 703-968-9600
12101 Lee Hwy., Fairfax,VA
Merrifield 703-560-6222
8132 Lee Hwy., Merrifield,VA
Gainesville 703-368-1919
6895 Wellington Rd., Gainesville,VA
Karla Steinbach will sign nutcrackers you
purchase or bring from your collection
Gainesville: Nov. 29, 4 8 pm
Merrifield: Dec. 5, 12 3 pm
Fair Oaks: Dec. 5, 4 8 pm
STEINBACH NUTCRACKER EVENT
Beautiful Ornaments & Dcor
Custom Wreaths & Centerpieces
Festive Ribbon & Merrifield Bows
Live, Fresh Cut and
Everlasting Trees and Greens
Holiday Plants
Wonderful Gift Ideas
And So Much More!
Discover the Magic of the Holiday Season
HOLIDAY DECORATING CLASSES DEC. 1 AT 10 AM
Fair Oaks: Decorate with Holiday Greens Gainesville: Decorate Your Home for the Holidays
Holiday Happenings at Merrifeld Garden Center
Visit the Real
Santa Claus at our
Merrifeld location!
Also visit our Fair Oaks
and Gainesville Santas
See our website for the full schedule
Holiday hours: Mon. Sat. 8 am 9 pm, Sun. 9 am 7 pm
mgcblade11-29-12.indd 1 11/26/2012 12:38:05 PM
REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must be submitted within 24 hours of the date of
proof. Proof will be considered fnal and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24 hours of
the date of proof. Revisions will not be accepted after 12:01 pm wednesday, the week of publication.Brown naff pitts
omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) is not responsible for the content and/or design of your ad. Advertiser is
responsible for any legal liability arising out of or relating to the advertisement, and/or any material to which users
can link through the advertisement. Advertiser represents that its advertisement will not violate any criminal laws or
any rgihts of third parties, including, but not limited to, such violations as infringement or misapporpriation of any
copyright, patent, trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety right, false advertising, unfair
competition, defamation, invasion of privacy or rights of celebrity, violation of anti-discrimination law or regulation,
or any other right of any person or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the
washington blade) and to hold brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) harmless from any and all
liability, loss, damages, claims, or causes of action, including reasonable legal fees and expenses that may be incurred
by brown naff pitts omnimedia llc, arising out of or related to advertisers breach of any of the foregoing representations
and warranties.
A D V E R T I S I N G P R O O F
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 04.06.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: JERYL PARADE (jparade@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
IMAGE/LOGO REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS ADVERTISER SIGNATURE
By signing this proof you are agreeing to your contract obligations with the
washington blade newspaper. This includes but is not limited to placement,
payment and insertion schedule.
CosmetiC, Family, iV sedation, implants
TSAKNIS DENTAL
in-house periodontist Call today hablamos espanol www.dentalbug.com
john tsaknis, dds iman ayoubi, dds indra mustapha, dds, ms riChard Fordjour, dds
703 d st., nw, washington, dC 202.628.1288 1221 mass. aVe., washington, dC 202.628.7979
CEREC (same day crown)
Cleanings
Composite White Fillings
Digital X-Rays (low radiation)
Emergencies
Full & Partial Dentures
Implants
Invisalign
IV & Nitrous Sedation
Nightguards & Mouthguards
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral Surgery/TMJ
Pediatrics
Periodontics
Root Canal Therapy
Veneers, Crown, Bridge
Whitening
ClINICal INSTRuCTORuNIV. MaRylaNDDENTal SChOOl aCaDEMy OF gEN. DENT. aMERICaNDENTal aSSOC. hISPaNICDENTal aSSOC. aMERICaNDENTal SOCIETy OF aNESThESIOlOgy
Richardson to take new
post in administration
By LOU CHIBBARO JR.
lchibbaro@washblade.com
Jeffrey Richardson, who has served as
director of Mayor Vincent Grays Ofce of
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender
Affairs since early 2011, will leave that post
on Dec. 3 to become director of Serve
D.C., which is also known as the Mayors
Ofce on Volunteerism, according to a
spokesperson for the mayor.
Its a signicant promotion to go from a
smaller ofce, the GLBT ofce, to the Serve
D.C. ofce, said Pedro Ribeiro, director
of the Mayors Ofce of Communications.
Ribeiro told the Blade the position of
director of Serve D.C. recently became
vacant when Gray appointed outgoing
director Patricia Evans to another city job.
He said the mayors ofce has yet to
ofcially announce the mayors decision to
appoint Richardson to the Serve D.C. post.
We were looking for the most qualied
person to run that ofce and Jeffrey t that
bill very well considering the work hes
done for the city and for the community,
Ribeiro said. We thought he was a
fantastic candidate and well deserving.
Richardson couldnt immediately be
reached for comment.
According to Ribeiro, Gray is expected
to name Richardsons replacement at the
GLBT Affairs Ofce within a week or two,
adding, We dont want to leave that
ofce vacant.
Richardson, who is gay, is a social
worker by trade and has worked for
non-prot organizations providing social
services programs in the District. At the
time Gray named him as director of the
GLBT Affairs ofce, shortly after Gray took
ofce as mayor, Richardson was serving his
second one-year term as president of the
Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, the citys
largest LGBT political group.
The GLBT Affairs Ofce has a staff of
three, including the director. Serve D.C.
has a staff of 18, according to Reed Baylin,
a grant and nance assistant at the ofce.
The Serve D.C. website describes itself
as the District of Columbia Government
agency dedicated to promoting service
as an innovative, sustainable solution to
the challenges we face as a community
and a nation.
The site says the agency engages
District communities by building
partnerships and organizational capacity,
serving as the local lead for national
volunteer and service initiatives, and
providing and promoting meaningful
service opportunities throughout the year.
In addition, Serve D.C. is charged with
coordinating volunteer support for the
citys emergency preparedness program
and works with the D.C. Commission
on National and Community Service to
administer a federally funded community
service grants program.
Jeff Richardson did a great job as director
of the Ofce of GLBT Affairs and I congratulate
him on his appointment to head Serve D.C.,
said D.C. gay activist Peter Rosenstein. The
mayor has made a great choice in appointing
Jeff to this new position.
Gray names gays
to tness council
In a separate development, Gray on
Tuesday announced at a news conference
that he has appointed 17 people to serve
on his newly created Mayors Council on
Physical Fitness, Health and Nutrition.
Among the appointees are D.C.
Department of Health director Dr. Saul
Levin, who is gay and who will serve as
chair of the commission. Also named to
the commission were Mike Everts, owner
of the D.C.-based FIT Personal Training
Gym; and Chuck Haney, owner of the
Dupont Circle bicycle store The Bike
Rack. Both men are gay.
Everts and Haney joined Levin and
the other members of the commission in
discussing their commitment to help D.C.
residents improve their health and physical
tness during a commission meeting
on Monday following the mayors news
conference announcing the appointments.
washingtonblade.com
04 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 LOCAL NEWS
JEFFREY RICHARDSON, director of Mayor
Vincent Grays Ofce of GLBT Affairs, is moving
to another job as of Dec. 3.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
Mayor Grays GLBT liaison steps down
CAGLCCs Guenther,
prosecutors negotiating
after arrest
By LOU CHIBBARO JR.
The disposition of a misdemeanor
charge of unlawful entry led earlier this
month against the head of the Capital Area
Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
is under negotiation between prosecutors
and the defense attorney, according to
D.C. Superior Court records.
The records show the two parties in the
case agreed at a Nov. 20 status hearing to
a brief continuance to further negotiate
the outcome of the charge against Mark
Guenther, 42, who has served as executive
director of CAGLCC for more than two years.
News of Guenthers arrest on Nov. 7
on the unlawful entry charge was rst
reported by LGBTQ Nation.
According to a D.C. police arrest
afdavit, Guenther allegedly entered a
male neighbors apartment at 3 a.m. on
Oct. 26 without permission.
The complainant awoke at 0300 hours
to nd the defendant standing over him
at his bedside, the afdavit says. The
complainant yelled at the defendant,
asked him what he was doing, and told
him to get out of his apartment, it says.
The afdavit says Guenther ed the
second oor apartment through the front
door and the complainant heard him close
the door to his own apartment, which is
located across the hall in an apartment
building on the 1400 block of Chapin
Street, N.W.
It says the complainant told authorities
Guenther sent him an email at 9:42 a.m.
that same day admitting to entering the
complainants apartment and apologizing
for doing so.
Court records show Guenther pleaded
not guilty to the unlawful entry charge at
an arraignment on Nov. 7, two days after
the complainant identied Guenther to
police from a photo presented to him by a
police investigator.
Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo
released Guenther on his own recognizance
and issued a stay-away order prohibiting
him from engaging in threatening,
abusive, harassing, or stalking behavior
toward the complainant, court records
state. The judge scheduled another status
hearing for Dec. 13.
Under D.C. law, a conviction for a
misdemeanor charge of unlawful entry
could result in a maximum sentence of up
to 180 days in jail or a ne up to $1,000.
There is no required minimum sentence
for the offense, allowing judges to hand
down a sentence of probation with no jail
time or ne.
None of the public court or police
records say how Guenther gained entry
into the complainants apartment or how
he obtained his email address. The public
records make no mention of a forced entry.
The complainant reported he has seen
the defendant on a weekly basis for over a
year as they reside in the same apartment
complex, the afdavit says.
Court observers say negotiations
between prosecutors and defense
attorneys in criminal cases are usually over
a plea bargain offer made by prosecutors.
Such an offer usually, but not always,
involves a promise to lower the charge or a
promise to ask the judge for a more lenient
sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
Guenther, the complainant, and the
United States Attorneys ofce, which is
prosecuting the case, have declined to
comment on the case.
Guenthers attorney, Meaghan Hearn of
Ackerman Brown, said Guenther would not
be issuing any statements at this time. Ernesto
Santalla, president of CAGLCC, declined to
comment on specics of the case.
The Executive Director of CAGLCC
serves at the pleasure of the Board of
Directors, he said. Santalla added that
CAGLCC has no internal policy that calls
for the executive directors dismissal in the
event of a misdemeanor conviction.
D.C. gay business leader charged with unlawful entry
MARK GUENTHER, executive director of
CAGLCC, was arrested earlier this month after a
neighbor accused him of entering his apartment
and standing over his bed at 3 a.m.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY PETE EXIS
REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must be submitted within 24 hours of the date
of proof. Proof will be considered fnal and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24
hours of the date of proof. Revisions will not be accepted after 12:01 pm wednesday, the week of publication.
Brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) is not responsible for the content and/or design of
your ad. Advertiser is responsible for any legal liability arising out of or relating to the advertisement, and/or any
material to which users can link through the advertisement. Advertiser represents that its advertisement will not
violate any criminal laws or any rgihts of third parties, including, but not limited to, such violations as infringement
or misapporpriation of any copyright, patent, trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety
right, false advertising, unfair competition, defamation, invasion of privacy or rights of celebrity, violation of anti-
discrimination law or regulation, or any other right of any person or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff
pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) and to hold brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington
blade) harmless from any and all liability, loss, damages, claims, or causes of action, including reasonable legal fees
and expenses that may be incurred by brown naff pitts omnimedia llc, arising out of or related to advertisers breach
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
ADVERTISER SIGNATURE
No security deposit required. Monthly payment of $299, based on $32,795 MSRP of 2013 S60 T5 FWD, includes destination charge. Monthly payment of $449, based on $42,095 MSRP of 2013 C70 T5 FWD, includes destination charge. Monthly payment of $399, based on $35,245 MSRP of 2013 XC60 3.2 FWD, includes
destination charge. Monthly payment of $449, based on $40,595 MSRP of 2013 XC90 3.2 FWD, includes destination charge and application of $1,500 Volvo Allowance. Lessee is responsible for excess wear and mileage over 10,000 miles/year at $0.25/mile. *Safe+Secure Coverage Plan excludes tires. Ofer ends 12/3/12.
DARCARS VolVo
of RoCkVille
2010 ACURA TSX TeCH PkG 4-Dr, Auto, 18K, Nav, BlueTooth, CD, Leather. Stk #P8464....................................$24,977
2009 ACURA TSX 4-Dr, Auto, 71K, Detailed, Good Condition. Stk #323004A. ............................................................$16,477
2010 AUDi A4 2.0T PReMiUM 4-Dr, CVT Transmission, 32K, White. Stk #E0054. ..................................................$24,377
2002 BMW 3 SeRieS M3 2-Dr, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Manual, 55K, Silver. Stk #P8417A. ......................................................$17,977
2012 BMW X3 28i Sport Utility, 6-Cyl, 8Auto, 16K, Gray/Panoramic Roof. Stk #P8393. ..........................................$39,177
2008 BMW X5 3.0si Sport Utility, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Auto, 47K, Nav, Loaded. Stk #N0077. ..............................................$29,477
2007 CHRYSleR SeBRiNG ToURiNG 4-Dr, 4-Cyl, 4-Spd Auto, 37K. Stk #P8443. ............................................$10,977
2012 HoNDA ACCoRD Se 4-Dr, Auto, 24K, White/Ivory Leather. Stk #N0088. .........................................................$18,977
2009 iNfiNiTi eX35 JoURNeY Sport Utility, 6-Cyl, 5-Spd Auto, 49K. Stk #P8414. ................................................$25,977
2012 iNfiNiTi G37 SeDAN JoURNeY 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, Auto, 24K. Stk #E0038. ..............................................................$28,977
2008 JAGUAR XJ XJR 4-Dr, 8-Cyl, Auto, 10K, Very Rare Car. Stk #227221A. ...............................................................$41,977
2010 leXUS eS 350 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Auto, 23K, Silver. Stk #N0124. ............................................................................$25,977
2011 leXUS iS 250 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Auto, 46K, Nav System. Stk # N0111. .............................................................$27,977
2010 leXUS lS 460 4-Dr, 8-Cyl, 8-Spd Auto, 31K. Stk #N0117. .........................................................................................$47,977
2010 leXUS RX 350 Sport Utility, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Auto, 15K. Stk #P8446. .........................................................................$36,977
2009 MiNi CooPeR ClUBMAN S 2-Dr, 4-Cyl, Auto, 32K. Stk #272530B. ................................................................$19,977
2011 MiNi CooPeR HARDToP 2-Dr, 4-Cyl, Manual, 28K. Stk #N0039. ......................................................................$16,977
2010 MAZDA3 MAZDASPeeD3 SPoRT 4-Dr, 6-Spd Manual, 27K, Nav, Loaded. Stk #P8281A. .................$19,977
2010 MeRCeDeS-BeNZ C-ClASS C300 SPoRT 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, Auto, 12K, Multimedia, Nav. Stk #P8465. $29,977
2009 MeRCeDeS-BeNZ C-ClASS 3.0l SPoRT 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, Auto, 18K, BlueTooth, CD. Stk #P8466. .....$24,977
2007 MeRCeDeS-BeNZ C-ClASS 2.5l SPoRT 4-Dr, 6-Cyl, Auto, 64K, Detailed. Stk #P8231A. ...............$15,977
2008 SUZUki GRAND ViTARA lUXURY Sport Utility, 6-Cyl, Auto, 75K, Red Metallic. Stk #P8383. .............$12,977
2010 ToYoTA RAV4 lTD Sport Utility, 4-Cyl, 4-Spd Auto, 11K. Stk #P8448. .................................................................$23,977
2003 VolkSWAGeN GTi 2-Dr, 4-Cyl, 5 Automatic, 63K, Silver. Stk #323011A. ............................................................$8,977
2009 VolkSWAGeN TiGUAN Se w/leATHeR Sport Utility, 4-Cyl, Auto, 73K. Stk #N0121. .........................$16,977
2009 VolVo C70 2-Dr, 5-Cyl, Auto, 42K. Stk #P8457. ...............................................................................................................$25,977
2002 VolVo C70 2-Dr, 5-Cyl, 5-Spd Auto, 50K. Stk #277908A. .............................................................................................$9,977
2006 VolVo S60 2.5l TURBo, 4-Dr, 5-Cyl, Auto, 40K, Silver Metallic. Stk #P8468. ................................................$15,977
4-Dr, 6-Cyl, Auto, 84K,
Alabaster White.
Stk# P8345B.
$12,977
06 MeRCeDeS-BeNZ C-ClASS SPoRT
4-Dr, 6-Spd Auto, 18K,
Sunroof, Heated/Cooling
Seats, BlueTooth.
Stk # P8242B.
$21,977
12 kiA oPTiMA eX
4-Dr, 6-Cyl, 6-Spd Auto,
37K, Black.
Stk #N0127.
$14,977
11 DoDGe AVeNGeR HeAT
2-Dr, Auto, 62K.
Stk #N0122.
$17,977
05 foRD THUNDeRBiRD 50
TH
ANNiVeRSARY
2012 VolVoS 14 LEFT AT PHENOMENAL PRICES. CALL FOR SAVINGS.
SAFE+SECURE COVERAGE PLAN* / 5 YEAR WARRANTY / 5 YEAR WEAR & TEAR / 5 YEAR SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE / 5 YEAR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
ViSiT DARCARSVolVo.CoM foR MoRe DeTAilS
DARCARS VolVo PRe-oWNeD
See oUR eNTiRe iNVeNToRY @ DARCARSVolVo.CoM
DARCARS VolVo
15401 Frederick Road, Rockville, MD 1.888.824.9165
LARGEST VOLVO INVENTORY IN MARYLAND AND DC!
Eagle gets 4-month
reprieve on move
The D.C. Eagle, one of the citys oldest gay
bars, can remain in its current location at 639
New York Ave., N.W., until March 30, four
months beyond an initial Nov. 30 deadline
set by the developer of a high-rise ofce
building that will displace the Eagle and other
businesses in the area.
Eagle manager Carl Domer told the Blade
this week that the bar continues to search for
a new location in D.C. and is hopeful that the
popular leather-Levi establishment will have
found a suitable building prior to March 30.
Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner
Alexander Padro, who chairs the ANC with
jurisdiction over the area where the Eagle
is located, said ofcials with the Douglas
Development Corporation agreed to his request
that the Eagle and a few other businesses in the
footprint of the planned ofce building be given
more time to nd a new location.
They graciously agreed to extend the Eagles
departure date to give it a little more breathing
room to nd a new place, said Padro. We were
able to convince them to adjust their schedules
so they werent putting in an unnecessary earlier
departure date for them.
Another Eagle manager, Ted Clements, told
the Blade last month that the hoped for new
location would be the fourth home for the
Eagles since its founding 41 years ago.
Weve been in a four-block radius for the
past 40 years, he said.
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
GAYLAW honors
Blades Chibbaro
GAYLAW, the LGBT Bar Association of the
District of Columbia, is scheduled to hold its
annual awards celebration next week. This
years honorees include Washington Blade
senior news reporter Lou Chibbaro Jr.
Chibbaro has covered the lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community
in Washington, D.C. with distinction for more
than 30 years as a reporter for the nations oldest
LGBT newspaper, the Washington Blade, the
organization said in a release announcing the
honor. Throughout his distinguished career,
he has covered the LGBT communitys most
momentous stories, including the AIDS crisis,
anti-LGBT job discrimination, hate crimes, and
presidential politics.
Im honored to be named one of the
recipients of the GAYLAW award and especially
thrilled to be included among the other two
chosen for the award, Chibbaro said.
The other honorees include Maryland
Gov. Martin OMalley, who signed the states
marriage equality law earlier this year then
fought for it to be upheld at the ballot; and
Lisa Mottet, director of the Transgender Civil
Rights Project at the National Gay & Lesbian
Task Force since 2001. GAYLAWs annual
business meeting and awards celebration
will be held Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m. at the Womans
National Democratic Club in D.C.
STAFF REPORTS
Shutdown of GLLU website raises questions
LGBT activists and ofcials with the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department have given conicting accounts of the reason
behind the shutdown earlier this month of the volunteer operated website of the departments Gay & Lesbian Liaison Unit.
D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier has disputed claims by some LGBT activists that she shut down the site, saying through a
spokesperson that the site closed after its longtime volunteer operator stepped down.
But the sites operator, Sterling Spangler, told the Blade that Lanier and other MPD ofcials rejected his request that they
recruit another volunteer to run the site, which some in the LGBT community viewed as the GLLUs ofcial website.
Spangler, a former GLLU volunteer, told the Blade he has operated and maintained the website since 2003. He said the
site was housed on an outside server independent of the MPDs website and that its domain name was purchased and set
up by Matt Ashburn, another GLLU volunteer, shortly after the GLLU was rst created by former D.C. Police Chief Charles
Ramsey.
Activists, including Spangler, say the site although run by volunteers became the de facto ofcial GLLU website in
2006, when Harvard Universitys Kennedy School of Government named the GLLU the winner of its prestigious Innovations
in American Government Award, which came with a $100,000 grant.
According to Spangler and other activists, at that time, the ofcial MPD website didnt have a page or section devoted to
the GLLU. Spangler said as many as a half dozen or more GLLU volunteers from the LGBT community helped maintain the
website, GLLU.org.
Spangler noted that the GLLU.org website was paid for entirely by funds from the Harvard grant. The grant requires the
GLLU to have a website for carrying out the grants mission of reaching out to the LGBT community on police related issues.
Spangler, who served as manager of the website until October of this year, said things changed when newly elected Mayor
Adrian Fenty named Lanier as the new police chief in early 2007. Lanier quickly moved to decentralize the GLLU by creating
afliate members in each of the departments seven police district.
While activists didnt object to the afliate members they complained that the new chief was cutting back on resources
and personnel for the central GLLU ofce in Dupont Circle. Spangler said Laniers changes and the subsequent decision
by Sgt. Brett Parson to leave the GLLU to work as a street patrol supervisor resulted in the website withering on the vine.
I couldnt get anyone to give us content for the site, he said. After a while the site looked ridiculous because it was so
out of date. And I wasnt sure the community cared anymore.
Under Laniers tenure, the MPDs ofcial website added special pages for the GLLU and the departments three other
special liaison units.
But to the amazement of many LGBT activists, high-level MPD ofcials disclosed earlier this year that they had not been
aware of the GLLU.org site or of the Harvard grant and about $49,000 in grant funds that remained in an account hosted by
the non-prot charitable gay group Brother Help Thyself.
Brother Help Thyself became the duciary agent for the grant funds in 2009 after another group linked to Harvard ceased
operating, according to Mark Clark, the Brother Help Thyself treasurer.
Clark said Harvard informed the GLLU in 2006 that an independent, non-prot group had to serve as custodian of the
funds under rules established by Harvards grants program.
Spangler said after more than 10 years as a volunteer, and after he determined the MPDs top brass wasnt interested in
the website, he informed GLLU interim supervisor Sgt. Matt Mahl in late summer or early fall of this year that he planned to
step down from his role of operating the website.
I dont know who he contacted, said Spangler. But when he got back to me he said MPD has decided to discontinue
the website.
Much to his amazement, Spangler said investigators with the departments Internal Affairs Unit contacted him for
information about the grant funds and informed him that Lanier ordered an investigation of the use of those funds.
Police spokesperson Gwendolyn Crump told the Blade this week that the investigation concluded there was no
misconduct from any member [of the department] and no evidence of misuse of funds.
Spangler said he learned later through police sources that it was Chief Laniers decision to close the website based, in
part, on budgetary issues.
But Crump, in a statement sent to the Blade, disputed Spanglers claim.
Chief Lanier did not shut the site down, she said. That website was maintained by a volunteer who is no longer able to
maintain the site. All four units of the Special Liaison Division are represented on MPDs website.
Spangler considers Crumps statement misleading, saying MPD ofcials could easily recruit another volunteer to operate
the website. He said the grant funds, which total slightly more than $49,000, could be used to pay for the websites operation
as well as more community outreach efforts by the GLLU.
MPD ofcials, meanwhile, have not said what they plan to do with the $49,000 in grant funds, which remain in a Brother
Help Thyself bank account. Spangler says he remains hopeful that Lanier will reconsider her decision not to arrange for a
volunteer or MPD staff person to operate the website.
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
washingtonblade.com
06 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 LOCAL NEWS
A volunteer says D.C. Police Chief CATHY
LANIER and other police ofcials lost
interest in keeping the GLLU website active,
a claim disputed by MPD.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY STROTHER GAINES
REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must be submitted within 24 hours of the date of proof.
Proof will be considered fnal and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24 hours of the date
of proof. Revisions will not be accepted after 12:01 pm wednesday, the week of publication.Brown naff pitts omnimedia
llc (dba the washington blade) is not responsible for the content and/or design of your ad. Advertiser is responsible
for any legal liability arising out of or relating to the advertisement, and/or any material to which users can link through
the advertisement. Advertiser represents that its advertisement will not violate any criminal laws or any rgihts of third
parties, including, but not limited to, such violations as infringement or misapporpriation of any copyright, patent,
trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety right, false advertising, unfair competition,
defamation, invasion of privacy or rights of celebrity, violation of anti-discrimination law or regulation, or any other right
of any person or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) and
to hold brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) harmless from any and all liability, loss, damages,
claims, or causes of action, including reasonable legal fees and expenses that may be incurred by brown naff pitts
omnimedia llc, arising out of or related to advertisers breach of any of the foregoing representations and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
Slim ft suit, modern ft dress shirt. Fall-Winter 2012 Collection
Brian Lehman, Communications Manager
Rowing, TV, Fashion
Philosophy on Life: Be who you are and say what you feel because those who
mind dont matter and those who matter dont mind. - Dr. Seuss
For more information, please email us at info.georgetown@gmail.com
NFL player admonished for faggot tweet
CLEVELAND Cleveland Browns linebacker and former Texas Christian
University star player shocked fans this week when he used on his Twitter page
anti-gay epithets aimed at followers he disagreed with.
Rookie Tank Carder was unapologetic for calling a follower a faggot, later
tweeting I dont agree with being gay or lesbian at all according to gay
sports site OutSports, prompting rebukes from across the web, his team and a
gay former fellow-TCU football star.
As a public gure and a representative of both TCU and the NFL, your words
have power, especially for young athletes who happen to be gay, read an open
letter to Carder by former TCU linebacker Vince Pryor who set the schools single
game sack record in 1994, after coming out as gay to his teammates. When I
was an athlete at TCU, I lived in fear for many years over what would happen if my
coaches or teammates learned that I was gay.
Supremes expected to decide on taking up marriage
WASHINGTON After postponing a decision earlier this month, the U.S.
Supreme Court is expected to decide whether to take up key cases related to
extending marriage rights to same-sex couples.
One case, Hollingsworth v. Perry, formerly Perry v. Schwarzenegger known
colloquially as the Proposition 8 case will decide whether or not to strike
down Californias voter-approved Proposition 8, which ended same-sex marriage
in that state, as recommended by an appeals court.
In addition, the court will decide whether to hear ve cases challenging
the Defense of Marriage Act the law barring the federal government from
recognizing same-sex marriages performed abroad or in states where it is legal.
A decision on whether the court would hear the cases was expected sometime
Friday. Visit washingtonblade.com for updated news.
AP ban on using homophobia causes uproar
NEW YORK The Associated Press has caused controversy by barring the use
of the word homophobia by its journalists.
The AP releases the style guide used by a large number of newspapers and
outlets, including the Washington Blade. The style guides latest iteration bars
writers from using editorially homophobia, Islamophobia, and ethnic
cleansing, among other terms, according to an interview with AP Deputy
Standards Editor Dave Minthorn in Politico, who said the term suggests a
knowledge that we dont have, saying anti-gay is a more neutral term.
However, bloggers like Americablogs John Aravosis took the AP to task over
the change.
I dont know anyone who uses the term homophobia to mean that someone
is clinically insane, or mentally unstable, or whatever other pretzel AP would like
to tie itself into over this word, Aravosis wrote.
St. Louis passes LGBT protections
ST. LOUIS Despite last minute opposition from the National Rie Association
and other conservative groups, the St. Louis County Council voted 4-3 Tuesday
to add disability, sexual orientation and gender identity to nondiscrimination
protections for employment, housing and public accommodations.
According to left-leaning political blog Think Progress, the ordinance was
nearly scuttled by a last minute effort by the NRA urging members to pressure
Council members to vote against the bill because the original law has for 13 years
prohibited the discharge of a rearm in any vehicle, boat or building in St. Louis
County. Think Progress points out that the proposed changes would not have
affected those provisions in any way, whether or not the amendment passed.
washingtonblade.com
08 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 NATI ONAL NEWS
First N.H. transgender
ofcial resigns post
Newspaper uncovers
Laughtons criminal
past, prison time
A New Hampshire Democrat who
earlier this month became the rst openly
transgender person elected to a state
legislature in the country said on Tuesday
she plans to resign after her criminal
history came to light.
Stacie Laughton, who would have
represented portions of Nashua in the
New Hampshire House of Representatives,
announced she will step down after the
Laconia Daily Sun reported over the
weekend that she pleaded guilty in July
2008 to conspiracy to commit fraudulent
use of a credit card and identity fraud and
falsifying physical evidence related to a
police investigation into the allegations.
A judge ordered her to serve a 12-month
sentence with four months suspended in
the Belknap County House of Corrections.
Laughton served slightly more than four
months in the jail before her November
2008 release.
The Laconia Daily Sun reported her
probation ended in Nov. 22, 2010.
New Hampshire law states a convicted
felon cannot seek or hold public ofce
from the time of his sentence until his
nal discharge. Laughton received two
concurrent suspended 10-year sentences
for good behavior in connection with the
two other charges.
The Nashua Patch reported on Tuesday
the New Hampshire Attorney Generals
ofce had already begun an investigation
to determine whether Laughton was
eligible to serve in the House.
Im extremely disappointed,
Laughton told the newspaper after she
discussed the controversy with gay New
Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray
Buckley and her lawyer. He [Laughtons
attorney] said given the magnitude of this,
it will cost a lot and I dont have a very
strong argument.
Buckley and Mara Keisling, executive
director of the National Center for
Transgender Equality, were among those
who applauded Laughtons election after
she and two other Democrats defeated
two Republican candidates.
Former state Sen. Maggie Hassan on Nov.
6 defeated Republican Ovide Lamontagne
to become New Hampshires next
governor; while former Congresswoman
Carol Shea-Porter and Ann McLane Kuster
beat incumbent U.S. Reps. Frank Guinta
and Charlie Bass respectively.
Democrats on Nov. 17 nominated
state Rep. Terie Norelli (D-Portsmouth)
to become the next speaker of the N.H.
House after the party regained control of
the chamber.
I respect Stacies decision not to be
seated in the New Hampshire House and
am condent that the new Democratic
House majority will stay focused on the
work they were sent there by voters to do:
move New Hampshire and our economy
forward, Buckley said in a statement
the New Hampshire Democratic Party
released late on Tuesday.
Laughton, a Nashua selectman, stressed
she does not plan to step away from the
public eye once she formally steps down.
Im going to stay involved and
continue my activism and the advocacy
work Ive done, she told the Nashua
Patch. Im very bold and not afraid to put
myself out there, despite my past. I wont
stop serving my community in whatever
capacity I can.
Im going to stay involved and continue my activism and the advocacy work Ive done, said STACIE
LAUGHTON. Im very bold and not afraid to put myself out there, despite my past. I wont stop
serving my community in whatever capacity I can.
Scan here and see more.
FREE
LEATHER RECLINER!
W/ ANY 3 PC SET LEATHER
PURCHASE*
FREE
FABRIC RECLINER!
W/ ANY 3 PC SET FABRIC
PURCHASE*
*Not applicable to other promotions
NEXT DAY DELIVERY ON ALL IN-STOCK ITEMS
American
& Italian
Leather Sofas
from
$
799
CUSTOMIZE, DONT COMPROMISE, ONLY AT HAMILTONS
Just
30
Days!
HAMILTONS
SOFA & LEATHER GALLERY
ROCKVILLE
11711 PARKLAWN DR.
N. of White Flint Mall, at Nichols, on Ln.
301-881-3900
LEESBURG VILLAGE
LEESBURG SHOPPING CTR.
Bldg.1602 (behind Wegmans)
703-319-8000
FALLS CHURCH
5857 LEESBURG PIKE
(Next to Panera) NEW LOCATION!
703-820-8000
CHANTILLY
SHOWROOM & CLEARANCE CTR.
4060 Walney Rd.
703-766-8000
WWW.HAMILTONSOFAGALLERY.COM
CUSTOMIZED
SOFAS
from

$
499
www.hami l tonsofagal l er y.com
ROCKVILLE 11711 Parkl awn Dr. N. of Whi te Fl i nt Mal l at Ni chol son Ln. ........................... 301-881-3900
LEEsbuRg Vi l l age at Leesburg Shoppi ng Center #1602 (behi nd Wegmans) ....................... 703-319-8000
FALLs CHuRCH 5857- B Leesburg Pi ke (Next to Panera) NEW LOCATION! ........................ 703-820-8000
CHANTILLY sHOWROOM & CLEARANCE CTR. 4060 Wal ney Rd. ................................ 703-766-8000
*Not applicable to other promotions
Living Room SaLe
AreAs widest selection of brAnd nAme living room And fAmily room furniture,
including customizing or immediAte delivery... At HAmiltons, luxury living costs less!
Save an
additional
10
%
with thiS ad*
FRee
leatheR
ReclineR!
w/ any 3 pc Set
leatheR puRchaSe*
3-pc Genuine italian
leather Sectional
$
2799 Genuine leather Sofa w/2 adjuStable headreStS $1459
loveSeat $1399 armleSS chair $799
hamiltonS apartment collection
Sofa
$
799 loveSeat
$
759 chair
$
599
3-pc Genuine italian leather Sectional
w/ 2 reclinerS & adjuStable headreStS
$
3259
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: SPEC SALES REPRESENTATIVE: BRIAN PITTS (bpitts@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
Laser Liposuction
Contouryourbodyandshrinkskininoneeasyoffceprocedure
Oralsedation,localanesthesia,FASTRECOVERY
Gynecomastia(chest),abdomen,lovehandles
F.U.E.HairRestorationalsoavailable!
Calltodaytoscheduleyourcomplimentaryconsultation!
DR.DEAnJAbS,M.D.,PH.D.,F.A.C.S.
Board certified pLastic surgeon
301-493-4334
www.smartlipobethesda.com
the smartLipo center
I Bethesda, md I
Gay man among dead;
LGBT youth center
forced to relocate
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Allison Galdorisi
and her wife Claire were inside their home
on Hett Avenue in the New Dorp Beach
section of Staten Island when Superstorm
Sandys storm surge began inundating their
neighborhood shortly after 7 p.m. on Oct. 29.
The couple opened their front door
after they heard a noise and saw two feet
of water outside their house. The surge
had risen to four feet before Galdorisi and
her wife left through a back window they
could not open the front door because of
the water. The couple, who clipped their
cell phones to their shirt collars and held
a ashlight above the oodwaters as they
waded through them, climbed over a
neighbors fence before walking to nearby
New Dorp Lane.
Galdorisi and her wife reached dry land
at Hylan Boulevard, which runs the length
of the South Shore of Staten Island.
The water was so strong, the current,
Galdorisi told the Washington Blade
from Staten Island on Monday afternoon.
There was so much debris.
Nearly a month after Sandy devastated
the New York and New Jersey coastlines,
the storms aftermath remains clearly
visible in the most affected areas.
A pile of debris that had once been a
house remains on the corner of Cedar Grove
Avenue and Maple Terrace in New Dorp
Beach a few blocks away from Galdorisis
home and in the same area President
Obama toured with New York Gov. Andrew
Cuomo, local Congressman Michael Grimm
and other ofcials on Nov. 15. Dozens of
cars that had been submerged remain
abandoned along the side of streets, while
boats that came to rest on beaches and in
adjacent marshes are visible from Hylan and
Father Capodanno Boulevards.
Wayne Steinman took one nal look
at the water across the street from
his townhouse on Father Capodanno
Boulevard in the Midland Beach section
of Staten Island before evacuating to his
husband Sal Ianullos parents home in
Brooklyn around 2 p.m. on Oct. 29. The
tide was already high, but he told the
Blade the water was still contained on
the beach where it belonged.
Up to six feet of water inundated the
couples home a few hours later the
water shattered three large windows at
the front of the house as it owed through
the rst oor. The surge also tore the shed
and air conditioning unit from the outside
wall the latter has not been found.
The couple found some furniture that
had been in their living room in their front
yard when they returned the next day. Their
deck looked like what Steinman described
as toothpicks scattered about.
The power of it was intense, he said.
I do have some neighbors who lived
through it and did not evacuate. And
the best way to describe it is a tsunami.
It wasnt just water rising and then going
away; it was a force of moving water.
Nine of the more than 40 people who lost
their lives during Sandy in New York City
were in Midland Beach. This gure includes
David Maxwell, a 64-year-old gay man who
lived alone in his Mapleton Avenue home
after his partner moved into a local nursing
home after suffering a stroke.
A man and his 13-year-old daughter
drowned when the surge washed away
their Yetman Avenue home in the
Tottenville section of Staten Island. The
New York Daily News reported the family
decided not to leave after someone broke
into their home after they evacuated
during Hurricane Irene that struck New
York City in August 2011.
On nearby Manhattan Street, Margie
DelGesso and a group of other women
were gutting her house that had up to
six feet of water in it at the height of the
storm. She is currently living with a friend
in another part of Staten Island.
They were talking about how bad it
was going to be, DelGesso told the Blade
while talking in front of her damaged house.
I would never think I was going to have
six feet of water in my house. I didnt even
bring my furniture up, which I did last year.
I brought a lot of furniture up for Irene. And
this year I was like, nah, Im all right.
A group of women who call themselves
Operation Chocolate Chip Cookie
served pasta and meatballs, homemade
turkey soup, potato and egg sandwiches,
cookies, cupcakes and hot coffee they
were able to brew with a generator the New
York Police Department donated from a
tent they set up at a nearby intersection as
DelGesso and her neighbors gutted and
repaired their damaged homes. They have
volunteered in other storm-devastated
Staten Island neighborhoods.
Were just hitting different parts of the
island that have been impacted by this
tragedy, South River, N.J., resident Pam
McClellan, who grew up on Staten Island,
told the Blade before she and other
volunteers offered this reporter pasta,
bread and three boxes of cookies and
cupcakes to bring back to D.C. We nd
places to set up shop. Well get as many
people as we can. We got a good group
of girls, a good group of friends who are
just willing to help out.
Volunteers offering clothing, food and
other donated items to storm survivors
from makeshift distribution centers
along the street remain a common
sight throughout many Staten Island
neighborhoods several remain along
Midland Avenue in Midland Beach.
Members of a Brooklyn motorcycle club
continue to distribute these items on
Cedar Grove Avenue in New Dorp Beach.
Galdorisi said they stopped a looter while
on patrol a couple of weeks ago.
The Ali Forney Centers drop-in center
for homeless LGBT youth in Manhattans
West Chelsea neighborhood that ooded
during the storm has relocated to the
nearby LGBT Community Center.
A fund established to help the organization
raise money for a second drop-in center that
is scheduled to open in Harlem early next
year has thus far raised more than $250,000.
Gay MSNBC anchor Thomas Roberts and
his husband, Patrick Abner, were among
those who attended post-Sandy fundraiser
for the Ali Forney Center at a Manhattan bar
earlier this month.
Carl Siciliano, the groups executive
director, told the Blade he expects it will
cost more than $400,000 to recover what
was lost in damaged drop-in center and to
move into the new Harlem space.
To have our drop-in center reduced,
to have smaller spaces and all of that is
difcult for the kids, he said. The basic
needs are the same as they were right
before the hurricane that theyre not being
met. Theyre like in a constant state of
crisis. By virtue of our space being totally
destroyed, in a lot of ways we became
the focal point of how LGBT folks were
understanding how our community had
been hurt by Sandy, although we certainly
werent the only ones who were badly hurt.
Bailey House [an organization that offers
housing for people with HIV/AIDS] was
badly hurt as well, so in a way it generated
a lot more support for us than normal, but
the kids are in a constant state of crisis so
theres not nearly enough resources for
them. It just escalates it.
CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
washingtonblade.com
NATI ONAL NEWS NOVEMBER 30, 2012 11
Superstorm Sandys surge destroyed homes
along Cedar Grove Avenue in Staten Island, N.Y.
WASHINGTON BLADE PHOTO BY MICHAEL K. LAVERS
1 month later, Sandy victims still struggling
First-of-its-kind lawsuit
invokes consumer
protections
By LOU CHIBBARO JR.
Four gay men and two mothers of gay
men led a lawsuit in a New Jersey court
on Tuesday charging a Jewish counseling
organization with committing fraud by
falsely promising to convert the men
from gay to straight through a controversial
practice known as conversion therapy.
An attorney with the Southern Poverty
Law Center, which is representing the
plaintiffs, said the lawsuit is a rst-of-its-
kind case seeking to invoke a state anti-
fraud statute to stop an organization and
its counselor-therapists from performing
the therapy.
The lawsuit charges the Jersey City, N.J.,
based Jews Offering New Alternatives
for Healing (JONAH); its founder Arthur
Goldberg; and an afliated counselor who
performs conversation therapy on the
groups clients, Alan Downing, with violating
the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act.
JONAH prots off of shameful and
dangerous attempts to x something that
isnt broken, said Christine P. Sun, deputy
legal director for the SPLC. Despite the
consensus of mainstream professional
organizations that conversion therapy
doesnt work, this racket continues to
scam vulnerable gay men and lesbians
out of thousands of dollars and inicts
signicant harm on them.
JONAH, Goldberg, and Downing
engaged in unconscionable practices,
deception, fraud, false pretenses, false
promises, [and] misrepresentations
against the plaintiffs in agrant violation of
the fraud statute, the lawsuit charges.
It argues that virtually all established
metal health experts, including leaders of
the American Psychiatric Association and
the American Psychological Association,
have called conversion therapy harmful to
the mental health of patients and ineffective
in changing someones sexual orientation.
Despite these ndings, which are based
on longstanding scientic research, JONAH
subjected the four gay clients to a form of
therapy that caused them to suffer emotional
and psychological distress, depression, and
for one of the plaintiffs, thoughts of suicide,
according to the lawsuit.
In a statement released Tuesday morning,
SPLC said JONAH was formerly known
as Jews Offering New Alternatives for
Homosexuality. The statement says JONAH
founder Goldberg, a former Wall Street
executive and attorney, was convicted
of three counts of mail fraud and one
count of conspiracy to defraud the federal
government before he founded JONAH.
The statement says Goldberg was ultimately
disbarred from being an attorney.
Neither Goldberg nor another JONAH
spokesperson could immediately be
reached for comment on the lawsuit.
According to the JONAH website,
JONAH works directly with those
struggling with unwanted same-sex
attractions (SSA) and with families whose
loved ones are involved in homosexuality.
SPLC attorney Sam Wolf said the lawsuit
also represents the rst time former
patients of a group conducting conversion
therapy and their parents are seeking
a refund of the fees they paid for the
therapy and reimbursement of the costs
of conventional psychotherapy treatment
needed to reverse the harmful effects of
the conversion therapy.
Three of the four former JONAH clients
who are plaintiffs in the case Benjamin
Unger, Chaim Levin, and Sheldon Bruck
were raised in Orthodox Jewish families,
Wolf said. He said the fourth plaintiff,
Michael Ferguson, is Mormon as is
defendant Downing.
Unger, Levin, and Bruck currently live in
New York City. Ferguson, a former New
York City resident, currently lives in Salt
Lake City, Utah.
Also named as plaintiffs in the case are
Levins mother, Bella Levin, and Brucks
mother, Jo Bruck. The suit says the two
mothers were harmed, among other
things, for having to pay the fees for their
sons conversion therapy sessions, which
came to thousands of dollars.
In Brucks case, the suit says Jo Bruck
should be compensated for having to pay
for legitimate mental health services that
her son required to overcome damage
caused by defendants treatments.
The lawsuit provides a glimpse into some
of the specic techniques the JONAH
counselors used in their effort to convert the
gay plaintiffs into heterosexuals, claiming
the techniques instead were damaging to
the mens self-esteem.
JONAH counselors instructed at least
three of the gay plaintiffs to remove
their clothes during a therapy session
while standing in front of a mirror, for the
stated purpose of boosting their sense of
masculinity by admiring their bodies, the
lawsuit says.
During a private session in or about
October 2008 [for] then-teenaged Levin,
Downing initiated a discussion about Levins
body and instructed Levin to stand in front
of a full-length mirror and hold a staff, the
lawsuit says. Downing directed Levin to say
one negative thing about himself, remove an
article of clothing, then repeat the process.
Although Levin protested and expressed
discomfort, at Downings insistence, Levin
submitted and continued until he was fully
naked, the lawsuit states.
Downing then instructed Levin to touch
his penis and then his buttocks. Levin,
unsure what to do but trusting in and relying
on Downing, followed the instructions,
upon which Downing said good and the
session ended, says the lawsuit.
The suit says JONAH counselors
often claimed that a main cause of male
homosexuality is the failure of mothers to
maintain appropriate boundaries with
their sons.
On one occasion, Downing instructed
plaintiff Unger to beat an efgy of his
mother with a tennis racket as though
killing her, and encouraged Unger to
scream at his mother while beating her in
efgy, the lawsuit says.
The suit calls on the Hudson County, N.J.,
Superior Court to declare that the acts of
defendants constitute multiple instances
of unlawful practices in violation of the
Consumer Fraud Act and to order the
revocation of JONAHs business license.
The lawsuit also asks the court to
permanently enjoin the defendants and
JONAHs ofcers, directors, founders,
managers, agents, servants, employees,
representatives, independent contractors
and all other persons or entities directly
under their control, from engaging in,
continuing to engage in or doing any acts or
practices in violation of the Consumer Fraud
Act, including, but not limited to, the acts
and practices alleged in this complaint.
Rep. Speier introduces resolution
condemning conversion therapy
U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) introduced a resolution into the House of
Representatives on Wednesday declaring that efforts by mental health practitioners to
change someones sexual orientation or gender identity or expression are dangerous
and harmful.
It is the sense of Congress that sexual orientation and gender identity or expression
change efforts directed at minors are discredited and ineffective, have no legitimate
therapeutic purpose, and are dangerous and harmful, the resolution states.
Congress encourages each state to take steps to protect minors from efforts that
promote or promise to change sexual orientation or gender identity or expression,
based on the premise that homosexuality or transgender identity is a mental illness or
developmental disorder that can or should be cured, the resolution states.
Speier introduced her non-binding resolution one day after the Southern Poverty Law
Center led a lawsuit in New Jersey on behalf of four gay men and two parents against a
New Jersey based counseling group that performs conversion therapy. The lawsuit charges
Jews Offering New Alternatives for Healing (JONAH) with committing consumer fraud by
falsely claiming the gay men could change their sexual orientation from gay to straight.
Lets get this straight, Speier said at Capitol Hill news conference called to announce
the introduction of her resolution. Being gay, lesbian, transgender is not a disease that
can be cured or a mental health issue that can be treated. Sadly, not everyone gets this,
she said.
A quick Internet search will bring up some 80 practitioners and groups that promise to
help individuals to become heterosexual, she told the news conference. Gay conversion
has become a multimillion dollar industry.
Speier said she and her staff were investigating whether some of these practitioners
and organizations, most of whom are unlicensed, were being paid to perform conversion
therapy on patients who pay them through federal programs such as Medicaid or
TRICARE, a federal medical program that assists military veterans.
In my cursory investigation, I have found two additional instances of so-called mental
health professionals that advertise these services and appear to be eligible for federal
dollars, she said. This morning, I sent letters of inquiry to Medicaid and TRICARE to
determine if these instances reect systemic weaknesses that allow federal taxpayer
dollars to go to harmful, illegitimate medical services.
Also speaking at the news conference were Sheldon Bruck and Jerry Spencer, who
described themselves as gay men and survivors of conversion therapy. Bruck and his
mother are among the plaintiffs in the lawsuit led on t heir behalf by the Southern Poverty
Law Center against the New Jersey based JONOAH group.
Spencer, 23, said his conservative Catholic parents pressured him into undergoing
conversion therapy when he was 14 and the therapy lasted more than ve years before
he chose to end it.
It was all a scam, he said. But before he came to that realization, the therapy resulted
in deep emotional scars both for him and his family.
Im telling my story to help others, he said. This industry preys on gay people and
their families.
Speiers ofce said Reps. Ted Deutch (D-Fla.) and David Cicilline (D-R.I.) signed on as co-
sponsors for the resolution. Speier said she couldnt immediately determine which House
committee would be assigned to consider the resolution. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.),
who is gay, has said he doesnt expect the Republican-controlled House will pass any
LGBT supportive bills or resolutions over the next two years. LOU CHIBBARO JR.
washingtonblade.com
16 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 NATI ONAL NEWS
Gay men, parents sue ex-gay therapy group for fraud
and warranties.
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 10.26.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: BRIAN PITTS (bpitts@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Keep your promise to protect each other.
Wills & Trusts
Powers of Attorney Living Wills
Partnership & Prenuptial Agreements
Lawrence S. Jacobs/McMillan Metro, PC
(240) 778-2330 (703) 536-0220
www.PartnerPlanning.com
Serving the LGBT Community
in DC/MD/VA since 1983
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
A Commitment to Excellence
Our offce is committed to the elimination of dental disease while
providing a delicate balance between esthetics and functional
harmony. Please call today to schedule your appointment.
Offce Hours Monday-Thursday 8AM-4PM / Friday Select Dates
Joseph p. Yalch, Jr., D.D.S., ChArtereD
General DentistrY
1747 Penn. Ave., NW, WDC 20006
202.296.3626 dryalchdental.com
Washingtonian Magazines Top Area Dentist Academy of General Dentistry, Fellow
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry DC Dental Society
American Dental Association
Metro accessible RED, ORANGE, and BLUE lines. One block from The White House
and warranties.
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 04.06.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: JERYL PARADE jparade@washblade.com
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Serving Our COmmunity fOr 31 yearS
3 0 1 . 8 9 1 . 2 2 0 0 S P- L aw. Com
7 0 0 0 C a r rol l av e nue S ui t e 2 0 0 ta koma Pa r k md
ATTORNEYS AT LAW DC|MD|VA
A DV I C E M E D I AT I O N L I T I G AT I O N A P P E A L S C O L L A B O R AT I O N
Silber, Perlman, Sigman & tilev, P.a.
FAMILY | ESTATE PLANNING | EMPLOYMENT | IMMIGRATION
COMPLEX LITIGATION | CIVIL RIGHTS | LGBT | ADOPTION | BUSINESS
Affairs Committee had reported out the
bill last week.
Additionally, the embassy source, who
asked not to be named, said that the
committee can only compile a report on
the bill for recommendations to the bill,
and cant make changes to it. That means
the panel cant take out the death penalty
provision for aggravated homosexuality,
which media sources reported was removed.
An earlier version of the bill dened
aggravated homosexuality as someone
with HIV engaging in homosexual acts,
having homosexual sex with a minor or
the repeated offense of homosexuality.
Nicole Thompson, a State Department
spokesperson, afrmed on Tuesday when
speaking with the Washington Blade that the
legislation had yet to pass in committee.
As with all domestic legislation, its up
to the Ugandan Parliament to determine
whether or not to move forward with a
bill, Thompson said. The bill is currently
in committee and has not yet reached the
full parliament for consideration.
On Monday, Victoria Nuland, a State
Department spokesperson, afrmed
media reports that the bill had passed
committee, saying during a daily press
brieng, Our understanding is that a
version of the bill has now passed the
committee in Uganda. Thompson on
Tuesday said Nuland may have misspoke
when making those comments.
Thompson referred questions about
whether the committee has authority to
make changes to the legislation or take
out the death penalty provision to the
Uganda government. Additionally, she
said she couldnt answer questions about
expectations for the timing of when the
bill might pass out of committee and be
taken up by the full parliament.
Advocates have said the vote could
happen as soon as this week, but are
hoping action is delayed beyond Dec. 14,
when the legislative session ends.
Additionally, Thompson articulated
previously stated concerns that the United
States has with the legislation.
The United States shares the concerns
of several members of Ugandas civil society
and the Ugandan governments own human
rights commission, which determined
the anti-homosexuality bill violates both
Ugandas constitution and its obligations
under international law, Thompson said.
Beyond that, we have serious concerns
about the negative impact of the bill on
public health interests in Uganda, including
our concerns that it would undercut
Ugandas ability to ght HIV/AIDS infection
and the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Thompson added, We just note that
as President Obama said in reference to
the same anti-homosexuality bill in his
comments during the National Prayer
Breakfast, it is unconscionable to target
gays and lesbians for who they are.
Following talks that Assistant
Secretary of State for African Affairs
Johnnie Carson had with high-
prole leaders over the weekend in
Uganda, Thompson said diplomatic
outreach to the Ugandan government
continues, although she wasnt
immediately sure whether these talks
involve Carson or other diplomats.
Even if Assistant Secretary Carson
hasnt spoken with them beyond that
I think right now hes in the Democratic
Republic of Congo our diplomatic
ofces, theyre on the ground in Uganda,
Thompson said. Even though Im not
there, I can pretty assuredly say that this
is an issue of ongoing and continual
dialogue between our government and
the government of Uganda.
Thompson declined to comment on the
response that Ugandan ofcials offered to
U.S. ofcials, saying, We generally dont
provide a play-by-play on our diplomatic
exchanges, so I cant tell you exactly what
the Ugandans said to him. But this is an
issue that is of great concern, of course,
to the U.S. government because that
doesnt embody the principles that we
extol across the globe, and they dont live
up to the universally accepted standards
for human rights.
In 2009, the Washington Blade
reported that Carson met with President
Yoweri Museveni about the bill and later
had conversations about it on the phone.
On both occasions, the State Department
said at the time Museveni had pledged
to block the bill from becoming law and
would veto it if it came to his desk.
New HRC TV ad features Morgan Freeman
Acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman provides the voiceover for a new TV ad that began airing this week asserting the country
has delivered a mandate for full equality in the wake of victories for same-sex marriage.
The 39-second ad, produced by the Human Rights Campaign, is titled Dawn of a New Day. Numerous gay couples are
shown as well as images of American icons, such as the Statue of Liberty and the U.S. Constitution. Also shown are civil rights
leaders, including activists in the womens suffrage movement and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Freedom, justice and human dignity have always guided our journey toward a more perfect union, Freeman says. Now
across our country, we are standing together for the right of gay and lesbian Americans to marry the person they love. And with
historic victories for marriage, weve delivered a mandate for full equality.
The ad was seen on NBC prior to the start of Meet the Press on Sunday. It comes in the wake of victories for same-sex
marriage on Election Day when three states legalized same-sex marriage and Minnesota rejected a measure restricting
marriage to one man, one woman. The ad also airs days before the U.S. Supreme Court will decide at a Nov. 30 conference
whether to take up litigation challenging the Defense of Marriage Act and Californias Proposition 8.
In a blog posting announcing the ad, HRC President Chad Grifn reected on the victories for marriage equality over the
course of the past year, which also saw President Obama concluding his evolution to come out in support of same-sex marriage.
This year proved to be a pivotal turning point in the movement for marriage equality and now we press onward with renewed
vigor and public opinion squarely on our side, Grifn wrote. While we celebrate, we most remember that we ght until full
equality has reached every single person in every corner of this vast country.
CHRIS JOHNSON
washingtonblade.com
18 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 NEWS
Freedom, justice and human dignity have
always guided our journey toward a more
perfect union, actor MORGAN FREEMAN
says in a new TV ad created by HRC.
PHOTO BY DAVID SIFRY; COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA
Uganda again considering kill the gays bill
CONTI NUED FROM PAGE 1
Shop, Dine & Celebrate
On Alexandrias Historic Main Streets
Enjoy our independently owned shops and national retailers. Visit with Santa
and Mrs. Claus. And stroll our decorated and illuminated main streets. To find
unique holiday shopping and memorable events, or to make restaurant
reservations, go to VisitAlexandriaVA.com.
703.746.3301
Visit us online for a complete calendar of events and
sign up for our free Access Alexandria e-newsletter.
2012, Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association. All rights reserved.
Thru Dec. 16 Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Thru Dec. 23 Santa Claus is Coming to Old Town
Nov. 30 - Dec. 16 Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market
Nov. 30 - Dec. 16 Little Theatre of Alexandrias A Christmas Carol
Nov. 30 A Christmas Marketplace
Dec. 1 - 24 The Christmas Attics Holiday Advent Calendar
Dec. 1 42
nd
Annual Campagna Center Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
Dec. 1 The Campagna Center Holiday Designer Tour of Homes
Dec. 1 Soldiers Christmas
Dec. 1 Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Dec. 7 Holiday on the Avenue in Del Ray
Dec. 8 Christmas in Camp Open House
Dec. 8-9 Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours
Dec. 10 Kwanzaa Celebration Program
Dec. 16 Holiday Favorites with the Colonial Handbell Ringers
Dec. 31 First Night Alexandria
Download
Your Free
Alexandria
Holiday Shopping
Guide Online!
Chester Simpson Photography
No matter what you are going through, there are others who have
been there. Sharing and listening can make a big difference!
Whitman-Walker Health
Offers Peer Support for people who are HIV+.
whitman-walker.org/peersupport
Recent diagnosis
Loneliness
Life stressors
Relationships
For more information:
Our trained volunteers can provide individual and group support.
Groups include:
Newly Diagnosed Long Term Survivors
Individual sessions provide support for issues relating to:
Call 202.797.3580 or e-mail PeerSupport@whitman-walker.org
Peer support services are free, yet donations are welcome.
and warranties.
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 11-05-10 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: JERYL PARADE (jparade@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
ATTORNEY AT LAW
PERSONAL INJURY PROBATE
WILLS/ POAs CIVIL LITIGATION
CONSERVATORSHIPS GUARDIANSHIPS
2141 P STREET NW SUITE 103
WASHINGTON DC 20037
E-MAIL steveweinbergdc@aol.com
LICENSED IN DC, MD AND VA
SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR 30 YEARS
Steve Weinberg
202-861-0077
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Reach your dream of having a child.
301.421.0085 surrogacyplus@gmail.com surrogacyplus.com
gays and lesbians.
Equality Maryland and the American
Civil Liberties Union in 2004 led a lawsuit
on behalf of Lisa Polyak and Gita Deane
and eight other same-sex couples and a
gay widow who sought the right to marry in
the state. Baltimore Circuit Court Judge M.
Brooke Murdock in 2006 found Marylands
same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional.
The Maryland Court of Appeals a year
later upheld the prohibition on nuptials
for gays and lesbians.
State lawmakers in 2011 narrowly
defeated a same-sex marriage bill,
but legislators approved it in February.
OMalley signed the law on March 1.
Evans said Equality Maryland, the
Human Rights Campaign, the ACLU
and other organizations that had fought
for the same-sex marriage bill knew
opponents would almost certainly collect
enough signatures to force a referendum
on the issue. The coalition that eventually
became known as Marylanders for
Marriage Equality formed before the
legislative session ended in April.
Weve won in the Baltimore trial court,
got excited but we knew we had to go to
Court of Appeals, lost there, Evans said.
[We] went to the legislature, couldnt
even really celebrate after that because
you knew it was going to referendum. We
had our little woohoo, but knowing this is
going to referendum and being able to
nally say This is it, were done.
Evans, who took the helm of Equality
Maryland last December, said her
organization contributed more than
$200,000 to Marylanders for Marriage
Equality. The campaign ultimately raised
nearly $6 million, but she said Equality
Marylands contribution is remarkable
considering her organization nearly closed
its doors in the summer of 2011 in the
wake of former executive director Morgan
Meneses-Sheets termination.
Im so proud because 12 months ago
Equality Maryland was pretty much broke
and struggling, said Evans. Not only
have we come out of that and had a good
2012 budget for the organization, we
raised over $200,000 for the campaign,
which is amazing.
Advocacy groups in other states have
had to re-evaluate their agenda once
same-sex couples won the right to marry.
Love Makes a Family of Connecticut,
which spearheaded the passage of the
states same-sex marriage law, disbanded
in 2009 after then-Gov. Jodi Rell signed
the measure. It took effect in Oct. 2010.
MassEquality also re-evaluated its
mission after lawmakers in 2007 rejected
a proposed referendum on amending the
state constitution to ban nuptials for gays
and lesbians. Massachusetts same-sex
marriage law took effect in 2004.
There were town halls that were done
all over the state to ask people should
MassEquality continue to exist, should
we change the resources and the political
power and the reputation, the expertise
we had developed and leverage it to a
multi-issue agenda that would basically
lift up the other existing LGBT groups
throughout the state, Kara Suffredini, the
groups executive director, told the Blade.
The conclusion was yes: We have all the
resources, we have all this political power.
Yes, lets use it to leverage other groups.
And thats what weve done since.
Since the same-sex marriage debate
ended in Massachusetts, MassEquality
has worked with the Massachusetts
Transgender Political Coalition to
advocate on behalf of a trans rights bill
Gov. Deval Patrick signed into law last
November. The group has also worked
with the LGBT Aging Project to address
health disparities among LGBT elders
and the Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian,
Bisexual and Transgender Youth (BAGLY)
to address homelessness among LGBT
youth and bullying.
MassEquality has a seat on a commission
state lawmakers created earlier this year
to study the issue of homelessness among
young people.
Obviously marriage equality is an
issue that garners a lot of attention and
resources, said Suffredini. Once its
done, there is plenty else to do and it was
not difcult for us to gure out what else
there was to do.
Same-sex couples have been able to
legally marry in the Hawkeye State since the
Iowa Supreme Court in 2009 unanimously
struck down the ban on nuptials for gays
and lesbians. Voters in 2010 removed three
of the justices who backed the ruling from
the bench. Opponents failed to unseat a
fourth on Nov. 6.
Just because you have marriage, it
doesnt mean you stop being vigilant,
Donna Red Wing, executive director
of One Iowa, told the Blade. Here in
Iowa if we dont maintain a Democratic
Senate majority at this time, we might see
marriage on the ballot. And so we need to
really make sure that we not only continue
to hold back the forces working against us,
but that we do the work that needs to be
done across the state and thats putting a
face and a voice to what it means to be
gay and lesbian or bi or trans in Iowa.
Equality Maryland sets post-marriage agenda
Equality Maryland executive director CARRIE EVANS

WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
washingtonblade.com
20 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 COVER STORY: LOCAL NEWS
D.C. event features Mayor
Gray, other ofcials
Hundreds of people gathered at the
Metropolitan Community Church in
Northwest Washington on Tuesday to
commemorate the annual Transgender
Day of Remembrance.
It is a special day today that we think
about our transgender brothers and
sisters, those that are no longer on this
planet and those who remain in this room
who stand on the front lines ghting every
day, said Rev. Abena McCray of Unity
Fellowship Church D.C. We honor you.
Brian Watson of Transgender Health
Empowerment honored Mayor Vincent
Gray and Lisa Mallory, director of the
D.C. Department of Employment
Services, for their work on behalf of
trans Washingtonians. He specically
applauded the Gray administration for
nominating Earline Budd and Alexandra
Beninda to the citys Human Rights
Commission, launching the countrys rst
publicly-funded campaign to combat anti-
trans discrimination and implementing
the Project Empowerment employment
initiative for trans Washingtonians.
More than 70 people have graduated from
the program since it began in Sept. 2011.
It is the right thing to do, said Gray
after he and Mallory accepted their
awards. This symbolizes too that it is
time, it is time for us to make sure if were
going to call ourselves one city, than
everybody in the District of Columbia will
have a place to be able to enjoy life in one
city in the District of Columbia.
Gwendolyn Ann Smith organized the
rst Transgender Day of Remembrance as
a way to honor Rita Hester, a trans woman
murdered inside her Boston apartment in
Nov. 1998.
The D.C. event was one of dozens
of Transgender Day of Remembrance
commemorations, candlelight vigils and
other gatherings held across the United
States and around the world.
A group of trans activists gathered
at the White House earlier in the day to
discuss what Budd described as the
crisis and issues of discrimination facing
the transgender community. Gray also
declared Nov. 20, 2012, as Transgender
Day of Remembrance in D.C.
We come to remember and honor the
life and love of those loved ones and friends
and family that weve lost, said Jeffrey
Richardson, director of the Mayors Ofce
of GLBT Affairs. The sorrows still with us.
The pain stays with us, but we also must
celebrate the resilience, the connectedness,
the love that exists within our community.
Metropolitan Police Department
statistics indicate there have been nine
reported bias-related crimes based on
gender identity and expression in D.C.
from January through October, compared
to seven during the same period in 2011.
Those who gathered at Metropolitan
Community Church also paid tribute to
Deoni Jones, who was stabbed to death
at a Northeast Metro bus stop in February.
Her mother, Jadean Jones, noted she
became a receptionist at a Southeast D.C.
hair salon after graduating from Project
Empowerment.
That was his title, but JaParker (Deoni
Jones birth name) always did their hair
and make-up, said Jadean Jones. Im
going to support yall all the way to the
end because I knew what my son stood
for and what he meant.
Nation marks Trans Day of Remembrance
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
P090102 04/09 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL
Get discounts up to 5-40
%
If your economy needs some stimulation,
Ill show you how to make your car insurance
dollars work harder. Like a good neighbor,
State Farm is there.
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

washington national
cathedral presents
Cathedral Choir and Orchestra
under the direction of Canon
Michael McCarthy with
Gillian KeithJulia Mintzer
Rufus MllerNathan Berg
Tickets start at $25. Special
discount packages and student
pricing are availableonline at
www.nationalcathedral.org or
call (202) 537-2228 today!
Theres no better setting for music at the heart of the
Christmas season than the National Cathedral!
Friday, December 7, 2012, 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 8, 2012, 4 pm
Sunday, December 9, 2012, 4 pm
Messah
g.f. handel
Pressing ahead for
gender identity rights
The civil rights team that had success in
Howard and Baltimore counties will press
ahead in 2013 to secure gender identity
rights in Maryland. Gender Rights Maryland
the states only civil rights organization
exclusively representing trans persons and
the Howard County and Baltimore County
chapters of PFLAG announced last week they
will continue the alliance they formed this past
year in passing gender identity and expression
legislation in two Maryland counties.
The alliance will mark the second year of
cooperation between the organizations that
resulted in the passage of comprehensive
anti-discrimination protections for trans
and gender non-conforming persons in
Howard and Baltimore counties in 2012. The
organizations plan to take the measures to the
Maryland State Legislature and to the Prince
Georges County Council for passage in 2013.
PFLAG Howard County is proud to have
been an integral partner in the successful
passage of comprehensive legislation in
Baltimore and Howard counties, said PFLAG
Howard County president Matt Thorn. We
stand unwavering with our brothers and
sisters in the ght for gender identity and
gender expression non-discrimination. The
transgender community has stood steadfast
with the gay and lesbian community in
the quest for marriage equality and it is
fundamental that the LGB and ally community
stand by the trans community in the pursuit
of comprehensive non-discrimination laws on
the state level.
Added Mark Patro, PFLAG Baltimore
County chapter president, Following
the tremendous success that these three
organizations had working together with other
friends and allies in Howard and Baltimore
counties, PFLAG Baltimore County is making
a commitment to remain part of this alliance
and to continue our work for trans rights and
protections in the state of Maryland.
We welcome all allies, including those
allies who worked for these causes in previous
years, to join our alliance in moving these
issues forward, said GRMD Executive
Director Dana Beyer.
This team has been instrumental in
persuading legislators to take action on the
issues surrounding trans rights, said Sharon
Brackett, board chair of GRMD. Our alliance
with PFLAG and the results we have achieved
together has secured protections to over a
million more Marylanders including many
thousands of trans or gender non-conforming
persons in Maryland. Now is time to make
sure that all Marylanders have a common set
of rights.
Book of Life reading
for World AIDS Day
As part of the World AIDS Day
commemoration tomorrow, Celebration of
Community will host a reading of the Book
of Life a compilation of names of those
lost to HIV/AIDS collected in Baltimore over
more than 15 years, along with music and
remembrances of people who have died in
the past year. It will take place from 4 to 6:30
p.m. at the Metropolitan Community Church
of Baltimore, 401 W. Monument St.
Anyone wishing to read names from the
book, and share names of their own may
do so. Short biographies of individuals who
have died since December 2011 to be shared
during the program are requested. To submit
biographies or for more information call 443-
421-9090.
Estate planning with
FreeState Legal Project
Even in the wake of achieving marriage
equality in Maryland, LGBT individuals and
families need to take special care to protect
their assets, property and relationships
through small estate planning. The FreeState
Legal project provides legal services, including
small-estate planning services to the low-
income LGBT community members who
cannot access the existing service providers.
FreeState will hold a Will Power Party at the
GLCCB, 241 West Chase St. in Baltimore on
Dec. 11at 6:30 p.m. Low-income LGBT families
and individuals will be able to consult with an
attorney and begin the process of planning for
their futures.
If there is a question as to whether an
individual or family qualies as low-income,
they should contact FreeState Legal Project in
advance at 410-625- 5428. Income verication
will be requested in order to complete the
offered legal services. STEVE CHARING
washingtonblade.com
22 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 NEWS DIGEST
WA M U . O R G
DailyDose-Blade.indd 1 6/27/11 11:35 AM
WHAT'S JOHNNY HAVE TO
SAY ABOUT IT?
Introducing a New Weekly Column
By Openly-Gay Olympic Figure Skater
JOHNNY WEIR
EXCLUSIVELY in the
NOTE: Special advertising discounts for gay-owned
and gay-friendly businesses (Call 703-532-3267)
ALSO in the Falls Church News-Press:
Exclusive weekly columns
by Wayne Besen ("Anything But Straight") and
Equality Virginias "OUTstanding Virginian" and "Gay Science" author
Nicholas F. Benton.
Johnny Weir (right) with Falls Church News-Press owner-editor Nicholas F. Benton
Local News. Global Perspective.
One of the Nation's Finest General Interest Weekly Newspapers
Cabaret night is AIDS Action benet

The Creative Alliance hosts a cabaret to benet AIDS Action Baltimore and to
honor World AIDS Day tonight at 8 at the Creative Alliance at the Patterson (3134
Eastern Ave.).
The music includes Broadway, pop, rock and original songs sung by talented
local vocalists. The show also includes readings from the pandemic. AIDS
Action Baltimore founder Lynda Dee speaks with Johns Hopkins Hospitals AIDS
researchers about options moving forward with AIDS treatment.
Tickets are $20. For more information, visit creativealliance.org.
UMD plans AIDS Day events
The University of Maryland School of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, School
of Social Work and the Ofce of Interprofessional Student Learning and Service
Initiatives (ISLSI) host a full day of activities to honor World AIDS day today starting
at 11 a.m.
Activities include condential HIV testing and services, the Facing AIDS photo
campaign and Living Ribbon.
All activities are free. For times and more information, visit umaryland.edu/
worldAIDSday.
New Wave Singers give Feast benet show
New Wave Singers of Baltimore perform Saturday night at 8 in honor of World
Aids Day and to benet Moveable Feast at the First Unitarian Church (1 W.
Hamilton Street).
Moveable Feast is an organization that provides food to people who are
suffering from AIDS and are not mobile. Half of the proceeds from the concert
will go to the organization.
Tickets are $20 for adults and for kids 17 and under, admission is free. For more
information, visit newwavesingers.org.
Poetry reading slated for Sunday afternoon
The annual Cave Canem poetry reading at Enoch Pratt Central Library (400
Cathedral St.) hosts writer Kwame Dawes and several other local poets on Sunday
from 2-4 p.m.
Dawes writes poetry, ction, non-ction and plays and was a winner of the
Pushcart Prize in 2001 for his poem Inheritance. He was born in Ghana but
spent most of childhood in Jamaica.
This event is free. For more information, visit prattlibrary.org.
ADAM COOLEY in Creative Alliances production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Cooley returns for the
Alliances cabaret night tonight.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE ALLIANCE
washingtonblade.com
24 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
Change A Life.
Change the World.
Become a foster or adoptive family.
Call the Prince Georges County
Department of Social Services
301-909-2300
Visit us at
Saturday, December 1
st

11 AM - 3 PM
1000 H Street NW, Washington, DC
Grand Hyatt Hotel
1529 B 14TH ST NW WASHINGTON DC | 202.319.0136
www. uni ver sal gear. com
BEDASHING
through the snow
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Take the guesswork out of your
insurance. Whether its your car,
home, life, or more, I can help you
feel good about your coverage, as
well as the price youre paying.
GET TO A BETTER STATE
.
CALL ME TODAY.
I deliver both.
1101258
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company,
State Farm Indemnity Company, State Farm Fire and Casualty
Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL
State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or
WI), State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed
in NY and WI), Bloomington, IL
State of
Insurance.
Jonna S Wooten LTCP, Agent
8148 Electric Avenue
Vienna, VA 22182
Bus: 703-560-7804
www.jonnawooten.com
Gay couples now faced with
prenups, divorce, alimony
By SUSAN SILBER
As an attorney whos been active in the
LGBT community for 35 years, the results of
Marylands election were profound and dem-
onstrated that long arc towards justice that
Martin Luther King, Jr. so eloquently spoke
of (the arc of the moral universe is long but it
bends towards justice).
I was reminded of when I rst became a
lawyer, and being gay automatically rendered
you unt by many peoples standards. Being
gay made it difcult, if not impossible, to get
a security clearance for work with the federal
government. Let alone that there were no le-
gal structures to create and end our relation-
ships, or to protect our families, other than
what we could creatively cobble together into
a patchwork of legal structures with a limited
foundation and framework.
As a long-time Marylander, I watched the
slow and steady progress, small steps chip-
ping away as we have fought for equality
for our families. It took a little over 10 years
from when we expanded the statewide anti-
discrimination act in 2001 to include sexual
orientation protections against discrimination
in housing, public accommodations, lending,
and employment, until we nally secured mar-
riage equality this year. Its interesting to note
that every state that has granted marriage to
its residents, also had an anti-discrimination
statute rst. Its gratifying to know all of those
incremental steps along the way, including
passing the hate crimes act, health care ad-
vanced medical directives, burial decision
rights, inheritance and transfer tax exemp-
tions, helped build to our success.
While there is much to celebrate with our
historic win, including the pervasive and over-
arching feeling of inclusion and equality in
knowing that a majority of our neighbors un-
derstand the value of our families, we also en-
ter a new territory unfamiliar to our community.
As we contemplate marriages and all their cel-
ebration and joy, we also need to pause and
ask ourselves some questions. Lets start with
a basic one should we get married? Its an
age-old question that straight couples have
had to ask themselves, but our community
has often not had this decision. Of course, we
made serious and long-term commitments to
our partners and families. But now we must
consider the legal aspects of choosing to get
married as well. Are we prepared to divide our
property, which might be considered mari-
tal property, upon separation and divorce?
Am I willing to pay my partner alimony if we
divorce? If we choose to end our relationship,
are we prepared to go through the neces-
sary divorce process? Should we enter into
prenuptial agreements that customize the
legal arrangement by a formal contract? For
example, should we promise to use collab-
orative procedures if we break up? Legalizing
our relationships puts our outlaw break-ups
now within the purview of the potentially ad-
versarial court system.
Because of the Defense of Marriage Act,
we are now stuck in an inherent legal con-
tradiction: We will be legally married and re-
ceive most of the benets that straight mar-
ried couples receive from the state, but our
marriages will not be recognized by the fed-
eral government, as DOMA denes a spouse
as one of the opposite sex. This can trigger
numerous problems and are worth consid-
eration before marrying. It creates signicant
inequities that burden all same-sex couples
(for example, tax implications, lack of Social
Security spousal benets, or standard health
insurance coverage as an employment bene-
t), but some of these issues have the poten-
tial to create immediate harm for individual
families. Some examples:
Immigration. Marrying a same-sex
spouse residing in the U.S. could result in the
denial of the granting or an extension of a non-
immigrant visa. The marriage could be viewed
as the non-resident spouses intent to remain
permanently in the U.S. The federal govern-
ment wont recognize the marriage for any
benecial purposes, but will recognize it to
deny the non-resident their visa.
Needs-Based Public Assistance. If you
or your partner are receiving public assis-
tance and you choose to marry, then the
spouses income will be included in deter-
mining eligibility.
Adoption. Aside from DOMA, there are
other possible implications. For example, if
you want to adopt a child, particularly inter-
nationally, your marital status could keep you
from having a child placed in your home.
Many countries will not permit adoptions to
gay couples, and if you are married, you would
not be able to submit an adoption application
as an individual.
Maryland will begin issuing marriage licens-
es in January of 2013. As you begin to think
through what this might mean for you or other
loved ones, I also encourage you to visit the
Equality Maryland website, where weve at-
tempted to answer some of your questions
(http://www.equalitymaryland.org/).
There is a lot of unchartered territory for
us to gure out together over the next few
months. I encourage couples considering
marriage to think through the implications,
and to talk to an attorney if you want to clarify
what marriage will mean for you.
ADDRESS
PO Box 53352
Washington DC 20009
PHONE
202-747-2077
E-MAIL
news@washblade.com
INTERNET
www.washingtonblade.com
PUBLISHED BY
Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc.
PUBLISHER
LYNNE J. BROWN
lbrown@washblade.com ext. 8075
EDITORIAL
EDITOR
KEVIN NAFF
knaff@washblade.com ext. 8088
FEATURES & MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
JOEY DIGUGLIELMO
joeyd@washblade.com ext. 8081
SR. NEWS REPORTER
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
lchibbaro@washblade.com ext. 8079
NEWS REPORTER
CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com ext. 8083
NEWS REPORTER
MICHAEL LAVERS
EDITORIAL INTERNS
ERIN DURKIN
PHOTO EDITOR
MICHAEL KEY
mkey@washblade.com
MANAGER, DIGITAL INITIATIVES
PHIL REESE
preese@washblade.com ext. 8078
CREATIVE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
JAMES M NEAL
jneal@washblade.com ext. 8074
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
RICHARD W.C. SKIPPON
rskippon@washblade.com
SALES & ADMINISTRATION
SR. ACCT. EXECUTIVE
BRIAN PITTS
bpitts@washblade.com ext. 8089
ACCT. EXECUTIVE
JERYL PARADE
jparade@washblade.com ext. 8072
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION
PHILLIP G. ROCKSTROH
prockstroh@washblade.com ext. 8092
MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR
STEPHEN RUTGERS
srutgers@washblade.com ext. 8077
For distribution, contact Lynne Brown at 202-747-2077,
ext. 8075. Distributed by MediaPoint, LLC
All material in the Washington Blade is protected by federal copyright lawand
may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Washington Blade.
The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists
published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or
pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of
that person or persons. Although the Washington Blade is supportedby many
ne advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertis-
ers. Unsolicited editorial material is accepted by the Washington Blade, but
the paper cannot take responsibility for its return. The editors reserve the right
to accept, reject or edit any submission. Asinglecopy of theWashingtonBlade
is available fromauthorizeddistribution points, toany individual within a 50-mile
radius of Washington, D.C. Multiple copies are available fromthe Washington
Blade ofce only. Call for rates. If you are unable to get to a convenient free
distribution point, you may receive a 52-week mailed subscription for $175 per
year or $3.50 per single issue. Checks or credit card orders can be sent to Phil
Rockstroh at prockstroh@washblade.com. Postmaster: Send address chang-
es to the Washington Blade, PO BOX 53352 Washington, DC 20009. The
Washington Blade is published weekly, on Friday, by Brown Naff Pitts Om-
nimedia, Inc. Individual Subscriptions are $175 per year for 52 issues (only
$3.37 per issue mailed to you USPS). Rates for businesses/institutions are
$350 per year. Periodical postage paid at Washington, D.C., and additional
mailing ofces. Editorial positions of the Washington Blade are expressed in
editorials and in editors notes as determined by the papers editors. Other
opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opin-
ion of the Washington Blade or its staff. To submit a letter or commentary:
Letters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer
than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and
must include a name, address and phone number for verication. Send
submissions by e-mail to knaff@washblade.com.
2012 Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc.
Marriage in Md.: Celebrations and considerations
26 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 VI EWPOI NT
washingtonblade.com
V O L U M E 4 3 I S S U E 4 8
EDI TORI AL CARTOON
Susan Silber is an attorney who practices in D.C. and
Maryland with Silber, Perlman, Sigman & Tilev. She is
a board member of Equality Maryland. Reach her at
silber@SP-law.com.
Criticism disappointing
after hard-fought campaign
By REV. DELMAN COATES
As a visible advocate and local sup-
porter of Marylands Civil Marriage Pro-
tection Act, I congratulate everyone who
took part in the historic victory for mar-
riage equality in Maryland. It was a long
road and everyone who shared a person-
al story, asked a neighbor to vote, made
a donation, or came out on election day
was crucial in achieving this historic victo-
ry. Thanks and congratulations also go to
the brave individuals, committed advo-
cates and elected ofcials who have been
involved in this battle for many years.
As Marylanders reect upon the kind
of leaders poised to provide visionary
leadership in the future, they will remem-
ber those who demonstrated courage
during the marriage equality battle this
year. Marylanders need champions who
are not ashamed to take bold and prin-
cipled stances, even when it is not popu-
lar. Public and visible support by elected
ofcials for Question 6 is a barometer for
the kind of leaders committed to being
public advocates for policies that will
benet all people.
It is with that in mind that I have been
particularly impressed with the advoca-
cy of Del. Heather Mizeur. As a leading
voice in support of Question 6, I worked
closely with Del. Mizeur on this issue and
witnessed rsthand her vocal and visible
advocacy in all communities across our
state. Since my work on this issue began,
I personally observed her tireless dedica-
tion to this cause. She fought for years
to persuade skeptical colleagues in An-
napolis, and she pushed them to endorse
marriage equality when they thought civil
unions were enough. She spoke at church-
es and house parties, and organized rallies
and door knocking campaigns. This issue
is personal for her and her wife, and her
actions indicated to this advocate how se-
riously she took this cause.
In the weeks following victories for
marriage equality across this nation, I
was quite disappointed to see a quote
from Josh Levin in your prole of Del.
Mizeurs potential run for governor calling
into question her work ethic, resolve and
commitment on Question 6. I am not na-
ve enough to think any single individual
was solely responsible for this win. It was
indeed a collective effort. But to use such
a high moment to take such a low blow
is really quite unbecoming and is a distor-
tion of the facts. Rather than attempting to
impugn the record of someone who was a
very visible and vocal advocate for equal
rights for gay and lesbian Marylanders, the
real question is where were other potential
gubernatorial candidates on this issue?
Were they visible and vocal public advo-
cates for marriage equality, or were they
just silent supporters who did not want
to offend potential voters who disagreed
with the issue? I and many others will be
wondering whether people like Levin will
hold other potential candidates for gover-
nor to the same standard, or were his com-
ments merely an attempt to play politics
by pulling someone else down?
It seems to me that Marylanders will
look back on this year and will consider
public advocacy on Question 6 as a lit-
mus test for the next pool of candidates
for the states highest ofce. Del. Mizeurs
work on Question 6 and her commitment
to a better Maryland are models for the
rest of us that I nd inspiring. Let us use
this victory to foster civility in our society
to make our world a better place.
Rev. Delman Coates, Ph.D., is senior pastor of Mt.
Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, Md.
Defending Del. Mizeurs marriage advocacy work
To use such a high moment to take such a low blow is
really quite unbecoming and is a distortion of the facts.
Mark Lee is a local small business manager and long-
time community business advocate. Reach him at
OurBusinessMatters@gmail.com.
washingtonblade.com
VI EWPOI NT NOVEMBER 30, 2012 27
OUR BUSI NESS MATTERS
D.C. Council member
ignores residents, frets
over licensing objectors
Its not clear that D.C. Council member
Jack Evans knows who his constituents are
anymore.
His lack of familiarity with the prevailing
sentiment of residents new and not that he
represents was apparent in his public com-
ments regarding pending D.C. Council al-
cohol licensing reform initiatives, as reported
by Washington Post city hall scribe Tim Craig
last week.
Evans frets that the now widely acknowl-
edged necessity of nally xing the Districts
out-of-balance liquor licensing system has
somehow swung too far away from resi-
dents. Which residents, he doesnt specify.
Perhaps Evans has forgotten the nearly
2,500 constituents, residents and local pa-
trons who recently bombarded his inbox.
They were outraged over the ability of only
a handful of people comprising an infamous
Gang of 5 license protest group to con-
tinue their ongoing seven-year-long licens-
ing battle against Hanks Oyster Bar. The
well-respected establishment is located in
Evans domain.
The emails and online messages he re-
ceived pleaded for both the Council mem-
bers help with chef/restaurateur Jamie
Leeds battle to reopen the full outdoor din-
ing area at her popular neighborhood eatery
and to repair a system that allowed a sudden
protest-forced patio closure to occur at all.
Instead, the Ward 2 Council member has
suddenly announced that he no longer sup-
ports even the timid and inadequate reforms
in a bill that bears his name as a co-sponsor.
Its a startling ip-op, especially in light of
his having happily touted a vibrant nightlife
as central to the citys future only the previ-
ous week at a black-tie birthday celebration
for D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray. The party was
held at a new nightclub south of Dupont Cir-
cle in northwest Washington, also in Evans
district. Incredulously, Evans claims credit for
helping the business cut through the regula-
tory process, allowing the venue to open in
a timely manner.
Evans represents D.C.s center-city dis-
trict stretching from Georgetown to the U.S.
Capitol. It encompasses core commercial
areas and the largest number of alcohol-
licensed hospitality and nightlife enterprises
in Washington.
His Ward 2 area includes many of the
most rapidly developing residential areas in
a quickly growing city. The ward experienced
the highest population growth in D.C. in re-
cent years, requiring a reconguration to
equalize its population with other districts.
As chairman of the Councils Committee
on Finance and Revenue, Evans understands
how critical hospitality businesses are to the
Districts nancial foundation. But instead of
championing regulatory reform and support-
ing meaningful measures to repair the rules,
Evans is wringing his hands over the over-
wrought bluster of an incessantly whining tiny
cadre of obstinate objectors.
Worse, he ignores that it is the current
broken system that allows only protesting
groups to participate in the process. Instead
of advocating that all voices should be heard
in the open forum provided by elected Ad-
visory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs)
that already enjoy legal standing, Evans
appears willing to preserve outdated regu-
lations that permit tiny ad hoc groups and
small self-proclaimed citizens associations to
directly intervene in licensing matters.
Manipulating the process to impose
restrictions inconsistent with citywide op-
erating rules is their tactic and trademark.
These unrepresentative groups utilize co-
ercive threats of licensing delays with con-
comitant huge costs and revenue losses to
force surrender to their demands. The re-
sult is a patchwork of irregular restrictions
creating competitive disadvantages and
consumer inequality.
You have to feel sorry for Evans colleague
and companion Council member Jim Gra-
ham. While also desiring to keep the unruly
paper tiger of an always-angry uber-minority
at bay as best he can, Graham engaged in a
months-long conscientious effort advancing
legislative discussion toward restoring com-
mon-sense fairness and order to a regulatory
scheme clearly run amok.
It must be frustrating for Graham, seated
on a dais with Evans and other Council mem-
bers twisted in knots trembling over what
dwindling reform opponents might opine.
Wisdom, Council members: good stead
accrues in respecting a thoughtful majority of
fair-minded citizens clamoring for leadership
on these issues.
Weve long tired of watching you agonize.
Were angry that you dont have cause to care
or possess the courage of conviction.
Most of all, we cant comprehend why
youre lled with such fear of so few.
Did Jack Evans learn nothing from Hanks battle?
VolvoCars of NorthAmerica, LLC. eIronMarkis aRegisteredTrademarkof Volvo. Car shownwithoptional equipment. Pleasevisit www.volvocars.com/us/safeandsecureor your local Volvoretailer for details ontheVolvoSafe+SecureCoveragePlan. Nosecuritydeposit required. Must takedeliveryby11/30/12. Monthlypayment of $339,
based on$34,645 MSRPof 2013 S60 T5 AWD, includes destinationcharge. Lessee is responsible for excess wear and mileage over 10,000 miles/year at $0.25 / mile. Please visit www.volvocars.com/us/safeandsecure or your local Volvo retailer for details onthe Volvo Safe +Secure Coverage Planand for further details specic to leased vehicles.
Car shownwithoptional equipment. Advertisedlease payment andnancing excludes taxes, title, andregis. fees andare available for qualiedcustomers throughU.S. Bank. Payments may vary, as retailer determines price. Oers available at participating retailers. See retailer or website for details. 72months at $15per monthper $1,000nanced.
Martens Volvo
4800 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. I Washington, DC 20016 I 202.537.3000 I Martensvolvo.com
The 2012 Volvo S60 the highest-rated European luxury
vehicle in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safetys
new Small Overlap Frontal Crash Test. The German guys?
Well, lets just say, they didnt even come close.
SWEDEN 1
GERMANY 0
2.9% APR FINANCING FOR 72 MONTHS ALSO AVAILABLE
IIHS NAMES VOLVO S60 TOP IN SAFETY FOR EUROPEAN LUXURY CARS:
GOOD:
VOLVO S60
MARGINAL:
BMW 3 SERIES
POOR:
MERCEDES BENZ C-CLASS
AUDI A4
SWEDEN 1
GERMANY 0
The 2012 Volvo S60 the highest-rated European luxury
vehicle in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safetys
new Small Overlap Frontal Crash Test. The German guys?
Well, lets just say, they didnt even come close.
Over 200 new VWs to choose from. Save big now!
*2012 XXXXXXX, manual transmission. MSRP $XX,XXX. Monthly payments total $X,XXX. Requires dealer contribution of $XXX. Purchase option at lease end for $X,XXX. Lessee
responsible for $.XX/mile over XX,XXX miles. MSRPs exclude taxes, title, options, transportation and dealer fees. Lessee responsible for damage, excess wear and insurance.
Dealer contribution could affect final negotiated transaction. Closed-end lease offered to approved credit by Volkswagen Credit through participating dealers. Supplies limited.
Additional charges may apply at lease end. Dealer sets actual prices. Example lease may not reflect models shown. See your local Volkswagen dealer or call 1-800-DriveVW for
details. Offers end XX/XX/20XX. 2012 Volkswagen of America, Inc.

|
E Waulnut St
E Foothill Blvd E Foothill Blvd
E Waulnut St
N Sierra Madre Blvd
210
Select Vehicle Image 1
Select Vehicle Image 3 Select Vehicle Image 4
Select Vehicle 1 Offer
Select Vehicle 3 Offer Select Vehicle 4 Offer
The only thing between you and a Volkswagen is the
dotted line.
Lease a 2013 XXXX XXXX for XX months at $XXX/mo.
(excluding title, taxes, options, and dealer fees). Offer good through XX/XX/20XX.
Martens Volkswagen
4800 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
www.martensvolkswagen.com (202) 537-3000
Conveniently located on Wisconsin Avenue, just 3 blocks north of Tenleytown Metro.

|
E Waulnut St
E Waulnut St
N Sierra Madre Blvd
210
dotted line.
*2013 Jetta S, manual transmission. MSRP $17,470. Excludes TDI models. Monthly payments total $7,749.00. Requires dealer contribution of $1,016.80. Purchase option at lease end for $9,609.90. *2013 Tiguan S, fwd with automatic transmission.
MSRP $25,525.00. Monthly payments total $11,439.00. Requires dealer contribution of $395.20. Purchase option at lease end for $14,644.00. *2013 Passat 2.5L S with Appearance Package with automatic transmission. Monthly payments total
$9,799.00. Requires dealer contribution of $1,876.00. Purchase option at lease end for $12,932.00. Lessee responsible for $.20/mile over 42,000 miles. Advertised payment excludes taxes, title, options, transportation and dealer fees. Lessee
responsible for damage, excess wear and insurance. Dealer contribution could affect final negotiated transaction. Closed-end lease offered to approved credit by Volkswagen Credit through participating dealers. Supplies limited. Additional charges
may apply at lease end. Dealer sets actual prices. Example lease may not reflect models shown. See your local Volkswagen dealer or call 1-800-DriveVW for details. Offers end November 31, 2012. 2012 Volkswagen of America, Inc.

|
E Waulnut St
E Waulnut St
N Sierra Madre Blvd
210
dotted line.
4 Duette
Architella
Honeycomb Shades
Plus $25 off each additional unit
2 Duette
Duolite
Honeycomb Shades,
2 Pirouette
Window Shadings,
2 Silhouette
Window Shadings or
2 Vignette
Modern Roman Shades

1 Luminette
Privacy Sheers or Modern

Draperies or 1 Skyline
Gliding Window Panels

SAVE
$
100
*
WHEN YOU BUY:
Save September 15December 15 on select HunterDouglas window fashions.*
Tis the season for you and your guests to celebrate in style.
Dress Up Your Home
for the Holidays.
* Manufacturers rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/12 12/15/12. A qualifying purchase is dened as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specied quantity,
you will not be entitled to a rebate. All rebates will be issued in U.S. dollars, in the form of an American Express
Prepaid Reward Card. This rebate offer may not be combined with any other Hunter Douglas offer or promotion. 2012 Hunter Douglas. All rights
reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.
Duette
Architella
Honeycomb Shades
Pirouette
Window Shadings
WINDOW
WEARS
32515
Window Wears, LLC
Washington DC 20009
Call for an appointment.
M-Fr 10am - 6pm
Sat 11am to 3pm
202-630-4864
www.windowwears.net
The Art of
Window Dressing
TM

ideas booklet
with this ad
Follow Us At Facebook or Twitter
Not only can holiday-themed plants
bring a room together, plants in the
shape of a reindeer cannot go wrong.
Like the mossed ivy reindeer from
American Plant (5258 and 7405 River
Road., Bethesda). They also offer custom
holiday arrangements as well as recycled
tin ornaments and tabletop pieces
(americanplant.net).
For several different gift ideas or must
haves at any party, visit Home Rule (1807
14th St., NW). From ice trays shaped like
the Titanic labeled Gin & Titonic, to an
owl-themed cheese grater, both priced
at $15, these small appliances can become
the cutest things in your kitchen. And
dont forget creative Christmas ornaments
for $5-$13 (homerule.com).
No kitchen is complete without
beautiful kitchen appliances, like ones
found at Good Wood (1428 U St., NW).
They sell be Home Kitchen appliances,
which include wooden teak mortar and
pestle for $37.50, measuring spoons for
$25 and olivewood juice press for $24
(goodwooddc.com).
To take your party to days gone by, you
cant do it without a vintage bar caddy
from Foundry (1522 U St., NW) for $209
(foundrybyfreeman.com).
Or for colorful pieces such as
multicolored espresso cups and a
variety of mirrors, visit Millennium
Decorative Arts (1528 U St., NW). The
HOL I DAY GI F T GUI DE WAS HI NGT ONB L ADE . COM V OL UME 4 3 I S S UE 4 8 NOV E MB E R 3 0 2 0 1 2 PAGE 3 1
By ERIN DURKIN
espresso cups come in several colors
and patterns, for $35 for each cup and
saucer. The mirrors come in different
styles, colors and sizes for $75 to $125
(millenniumdecorativearts.com).
If you are as excited for Christmas as
Miss Pixies (1626 14th St., NW), step in to
check out their small vintage ornaments
that run from 25 cents up to $5, ceiling
ornaments for $30, and even holiday
molds for $12-$30 (misspixies.com).
For classy home dcor for any time
of the year, go to Mitchell Gold + Bob
Williams (1526 14th St., NW).
Their inventory includes blue tinted
glass blows for $50 to $130, decorative
table centerpieces for $135 to $175
and ornamental boxes for $85 to $190
(mgbwhome.com).
To get traditional holiday plants or
landscapes, go to Merrield Garden
Center (8132 Lee Hwy, Merrield).
Customers can also attend their
holiday decorating classes, Santa hours
and a Steinbach Nutcracker event
(merrieldgardencenter.com).
If you dont want to break the bank
giving your home a festive air, Target has
plenty of exclusive items that are colorful
and inexpensive.
Like Santa and Mrs. Claus salt and
pepper shakers ($6.99), Christmas
tree and Santa candles (various sizes
and prices, all under $10), red or green
cocktail shakers ($14.99), snow globes
($12.99) or nutcrackers ($12.99) in dozens
of styles and more.
Another idea if you and your partner
decide to use your gift money toward the
house, are window treatments, which
can spruce up a room like nothing else.
Check out the Hunter Douglas
Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades
or the Pirouette Window Shadings from
Window Wears. Find the store online at
windowwears.net.
Even if youre not crafty, Micheals (with
several locations in the D.C. area) can give
your home a ready-made holiday air with
tons of options.
Give a whole room a silvery, wintry
Michaels air with color-themed pieces
theres everything from Santas, silvery
reindeer, sparkly candles, rhinestone-
studded mirrors and more.
Prices vary. Angels ($34.99) works
as table centerpieces, tree toppers or
decorative accents anywhere in your
winter wonderland.
washingtonblade.com
32 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 HOLI DAY GI FT GUI DE
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Not Just aN LGBt square DaNce cLuB
the oNLy square DaNce cLuB iN Dc!
Free Introductory Session January 2013 (check our web page for date & time)
We Dance to All Kinds of Music
No Previous Dance Experience Needed
No Dance Partner Needed Single Dancers Warmly Welcomed
Social Activities Throughout the Year
DC Lambda Squares is an LBGT nonproft inclusive square dance club that does not discriminate, on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, or sexual
orientation, all are welcome. The club is a member of the International Association of Gay Square Dance Clubs(IAGSDC), a Lesbian and Gay Organization.
National City Christian Church
5 Thomas Circle, NW Music Suite
dclambdasquares.org
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
and warranties.
PROOF #2 ISSUE DATE: 07.27.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: DOMINIC WATKINS (dwatkins@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
1502 Mount Vernon Ave.
Alexandria, VA 22301
(703) 548-0122 I myeye2eye.com
Most insurance accepted.
Lindberg I beveL I Zero g I orgreen
Eye exams. Contacts. Sunglasses.
boutique eyewear from Simple to Chic.
$
75 off
complete eyewear purchase
*
*not to be combined w/insurance benefits
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Local, all natural, free range, grass fed,
sustainably pastured, hormone-free,
antibiotic-free, dry aged for three full weeks
ARTISAN BEEF
1/8 Share: 40-49 lbs of beef at $8/lb
A great mix of steaks, roasts, burgers and ground beef
Vacuum packed and boxed to ft into a home fridge/freezer
Ready between Christmas and New Years
USDA inspected / Home delivery available
Call Adam @ Luscious Valley Foods
540-466-4509
The largest annual gathering of activists,
organizers and leaders in the LGBT movement
Register now!
www.CreatingChange.org
Alfonso Wenker
Activist Leader
January 2327, 2013
Hilton Atlanta
Its not just a conference, its a powerful organizing moment that
feeds me and pushes me to build a broad movement for justice.
Build Power Take Action Create Change www.theTaskForce.org
Celebrating 25 years
of Creating Change
Deepak Bhargava
Center for Community Change
Executive Director
Opening Keynote Address
Thursday, January 24, 8:00 PM
By JOEY DiGUGLIELMO
joeyd@washblade.com
All the mainline Christian denominations by now have
gay subgroups that have formed and many in the U.S.
Episcopalians, United Methodists and others can point to
huge strides theyve made over the last several decades in
persuading their hierarchies to acknowledge their presence.
Dignity/Washington, the largest chapter of the LGBT Roman
Catholic group DignityUSA, has made so little progress making
Vatican teaching less gay-condemning, the group, in many
ways, has moved on to other goals it considers more realistic
and achievable. The lone victories they can count on that
front are being invited indoors for a 1978 rainstorm during a
weekend-long prayer vigil they held at the National Conference
of Catholic Bishops at its former headquarters on Massachusetts
Avenue (it didnt foster a long-term dialogue) and a wave from
current Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger) in the summer of
2010 (accompanying soon-to-be Cardinal Donald Wuerl did not
follow suit).
If anything, the Vatican has become more anti-gay over
the years. Though several regional parishes had long allowed
Dignity groups to meet on their property, in 1986 Ratzinger,
writing as the Vaticans ofcial keeper of church morality,
issued a letter stating that gays and lesbians are intrinsically
disordered and that gay organizations were no longer allowed
the use of church property. Its only gotten worse in recent years
in January, Pope Benedict condemned same-sex marriage
efforts and called gay marriage, in an ironic choice of words,
a threat to human dignity and the future of humanity itself
pride of place goes to the family based on the marriage of a
man and woman.
And it wasnt just talk the Roman Catholic Church gave
$2 million this year to unsuccessful efforts to outlaw same-sex
marriage with Novembers ballot initiatives in Maine, Maryland,
Minnesota and Washington state, according to the Human Rights
Campaign. As pro-LGBT efforts of any kind have taken root
elsewhere, the Vatican has increasingly dug in its heels. Ofcial
church teaching is that although gays should be accepted with
respect, compassion and sensitivity, homosexual acts are
intrinsically disordered and sexual activity only exists for the
purpose of procreation.
DignityUSA, however, has persevered. The Washington
chapter, formed in the fall of 1972 (three years after the
national group) and one of 45 active U.S. chapters, has its 40th
anniversary events (Forty and Fabulous on the First) this
weekend. On Saturday evening, a reception and dinner will be
held at Clydes Restaurant (707 7th St., N.W.) with gay actor/
singer Will Gartshore providing entertainment. On Sunday, Sr.
Jeannine Gramick (Sisters of Loretto) will give the homily at a
special anniversary Mass. The group
meets weekly for a 6 p.m. Mass
at St. Margarets Church,
an Episcopal parish
at 1820 Connecticut
Ave., N.W. Details are
at dignitywashington.
org.
The sheer numbers
are daunting. The
Roman Catholic
Church is the worlds
largest Christian church with more than a
billion members worldwide. It claims it is the
one true church founded by Jesus Christ,
that its bishops are the successors of Christs
apostles and Pope Benedict is the successor
to the biblical gure Peter. Though there was
no recognized papacy until later centuries,
Rome has named an unbroken line of bishops
that dates to Peter and the rst century.
The Archdiocese of Washington did
not respond to a request for comment
for this article. Dignity/Washington
members say relations with them are
prickly at best.
Theres no sense that the local
archdiocese has evolved at all, says Tom
Bower, a gay member for almost the whole
time the D.C. group has existed, a board
member for eight years and co-chair for the
anniversary committee. They absolutely
nd us quite beyond the pale.
DignityUSA, a U.S. group as its name
implies (similar but unafliated gay Catholic
groups exist in other countries), has about
6,000 dues-paying members, according to
Executive Director Marianne Duddy-Burke,
a lesbian, and an operating budget at the
national level of about $550,000 though the
chapters have their own budgets.
Its a big weekend for the organization
the Boston chapter is also celebrating its 40th
anniversary. San Diego, Chicago and New
York also formed chapters in 1972. Dignity/
Washington started with a group of about 20
at its rst Mass. It moved from twice-monthly
to weekly Mass in 1976. Membership and Mass
ART S AND E NT E RTAI NME NT WAS HI NGT ONB L ADE . COM V OL UME 4 3 I S S UE 4 8 NOV E MB E R 3 0 2 0 1 2 PAGE 3 5
40-YEAR-OLD GAY CATHOLIC GROUP DEFIES
VATICAN YET SEEKS COMMUNION
19th Century Cristo Crucicado
PHOTO COURTESY OF GRIFFIN TRADING
By JOEY DiGUGLIELMO
joeyd@washblade.com
Editors note: Shannon Wyss requested and uses gender-neutral pronouns.
After majoring in international studies for hir undergrad degree and womens
studies for hir masters, Shannon Wyss wasnt particularly seeking out AIDS
work, but Wyss is passionate about both hir day job as grants manager for AIDS
United and hir volunteer work at the D.C. Trans Coalition.
My work at AIDS United is not really activist work for me, although we do
have a policy department, Wyss says. What I love about it is that we look
at HIV not as a biomedical issue, which it certainly is, but as an issue of social
justice that focuses very much on why certain groups are affected more than
others by HIV. This is not a coincidence. We nd time and time again that the
people most affected by it are also the most marginalized.
Wyss says moving forward, increased and at times uncomfortable
prevention efforts will be needed.
I feel like medically we have the tools to mostly combat HIV at this point,
Wyss says. The drugs that are out there are pretty effective. We dont have a
way of curing it, but we can treat it. Where were playing catch up is in preventing
new infections. Maybe gay men need some messages that would make straight
people a bit squeamish. Or we need to talk about access to clean syringes, but
were not a culture that wants to acknowledge that it has a drug problem. There
are a whole bunch of things culturally we need to address if were going to stop
new infections. And we also have to address all the issues that go along with
that, poverty, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, race and I dont think
were ready to deal with all that.
Wyss, a 40-year-old St. Louis native, has been in the Washington area about
17 years after going to college in Vassar (in New York) and spending a year
abroad in Senegal on a study program.
Wyss and partner Katie Wanschura have been together nearly 10 years after
meeting in a chorus. Two years ago they bought a house in Hyattsville, Md.
In hir free time, Wyss enjoys giving trans and LGBT seminars, working with
gender non-conforming kids, photography, puttering around the house, reading,
gardening, yard work and caring for the couples three cats and one dog.
washingtonblade.com
36 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 QUEERY: 20 QUESTI ONS FOR SHANNON WYSS
WASHINGTON BLADE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN OUT
AND WHO WAS THE HARDEST
PERSON TO TELL?
Ive been out under varying labels
since 1993. If I recall correctly, the
hardest person to tell at the time was my
favorite teacher from high school, whom
I wasnt sure would still accept me. She
did and has remained one of my biggest
supporters ever since.
WHOS YOUR LGBT HERO?
I deeply admire anyone who is able
and willing to be true to hirself under
difcult circumstances.

WHATS WASHINGTONS BEST
NIGHTSPOT, PAST OR PRESENT?
I dont do bars or clubs since I dont
drink or dance. But I love anyplace quiet
where I can hang out with friends and
loved ones.

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM WEDDING.
I dont believe in assimilating into
an institution that the state should not
be involved in for any couple or group
of people. But I was fortunate enough
to have a wonderful commitment
ceremony with my life partner in July.

WHAT NON-LGBT ISSUE ARE YOU
MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?
Every issue is an LGBTQ issue! But
of those who are commonly dened as
not-LGBTQ, I would put racial and
economic justice at the top of my list.

WHAT HISTORICAL OUTCOME
WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Slavery everywhere, but especially
in the New World.

WHATS BEEN THE MOST
MEMORABLE POP CULTURE
MOMENT OF YOUR LIFETIME?
Answering this would actually require
me to be somewhat in touch with what
pop culture is.

ON WHAT DO YOU INSIST?
Justice and an equitable distribution
of resources of all kinds for everyone.

WHAT WAS YOUR LAST FACEBOOK
POST OR TWEET?
Wonderful session at the Harm
Reduction Conference today on the
anti-trafcking movement and how it is,
overall, incredibly conservative, ageist,
sexist, transphobic, pro-police and
disempowering of youth. The feminist,
LGBTQ, and harm reduction movements
have to think harder about how we can
support sex workers rights.

IF YOUR LIFE WERE A BOOK, WHAT
WOULD THE TITLE BE?
Privileged: How a White, Middle
Class, Well-Educated Genderqueer
Tried to Make Social Change

IF SCIENCE DISCOVERED A WAY TO
CHANGE SEXUAL ORIENTATION,
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Help all of the straight women who
cant nd a decent man!

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IN BEYOND
THE PHYSICAL WORLD?
Im about as agnostic as I can be. So
Im not sure if theres anything beyond
where/what we are now.

WHATS YOUR ADVICE FOR LGBT
MOVEMENT LEADERS?
Its about justice, not just us. Work
with other social justice movements and
ours will advance so much more quickly.

WHAT WOULD YOU WALK ACROSS
HOT COALS FOR?
It would have to be something really
huge, like a cure for cancer or HIV or
world peace. Aside from that, I like my
feet just the way they are, thank you.

WHAT LGBT STEREOTYPE ANNOYS
YOU MOST?
What annoys me the most are our
communitys attempts to run frantically
away from some of the stereotypes
about us. There is nothing wrong with
being a feminine man, a masculine
woman, a radical feminist, sex-positive
or a drag queen.

WHATS YOUR FAVORITE LGBT
MOVIE?
There are so, so many that I havent
seen! But I do love Boys Dont Cry
and But Im a Cheerleader.

WHATS THE MOST OVERRATED
SOCIAL CUSTOM?
Mornings. And the ve-day work
week.

WHAT TROPHY OR PRIZE DO YOU
MOST COVET?
Being seen as an advocate for social
change by my family, friends, and
coworkers and, whats a lot harder, being
someone who actually makes change
happen.

WHAT DO YOU WISH YOUD
KNOWN AT 18?
That my life was about to get
dramatically better when I went to
college and left my small, private,
Catholic, cliquey, conservative, all-girls
high school.

WHY WASHINGTON?
I moved here right after college
in 1995 and never left: great mass
transit, free museums, a really diverse
population and progressive overall.
Whats not to like?
202.747.2077
Gay actor Rodriguez
returns to D.C. for
My Fair Lady
By PATRICK FOLLIARD
For New York-based actor Nicholas
Rodriguez, Washington has become like
a second home. After playing in three
productions in so many years at Arena Stage,
Rodriguez, who is gay, says he experiences
D.C. as more than a place to grow
professionally. Its also somewhere he forges
new friendships and simply enjoys the city.
Im always happy to come back to
D.C., says the strapping Latino actor who
began his collaboration with Arena Stage
in 2010 when he was cast as Fabrizio, the
lovesick young Italian in Adam Geuttels
dreamy musical The Light in the Piazza.
The following season he wowed local
audiences as cowboy Curly in Arenas
stellar production of Rodgers and
Hammersteins Oklahoma! for which he
won a Helen Hayes Award.
And now Rodriguez is back in town
playing Freddy Eynsford-Hill in Arenas
take on Lerner and Loewes My Fair
Lady. Set in Edwardian London, young
dandy Freddy falls hard for Cockney ower
girl turned lady, Eliza Doolittle (Manna
Nichols); but sadly its an unrequited love.
Eliza has her romantic sights set on self-
absorbed phoneticist Professor Henry
Higgins (Benedict Campbell), who on a
bet vows to teach Eliza how to speak, walk
and act like an aristocrat.
When Rodriguez was initially approached
by Arena to do My Fair Lady, his manager
advised him to consider carefully. He pointed
out that Freddy is a much smaller role
than what his client is typically offered. But
Rodriguez knew instantly that he wanted the
part. I thought it might be my only chance to
do this show. When else will I be cast to play
a British gentleman? It was never something
that I saw myself playing, but I love a good
challenge.
Since Rodriguez believed he wasnt
a slam dunk as Freddy type wise, he
was extra keen to honor all facets of the
character including Freddys posh accent,
so he set to work with two dialect coaches.
The gorgeous-voiced tenor was also
eager to do justice to his characters iconic
song On the Street Where You Live.
Its a song that Ive been singing on
some level or another since I was 15, but
never in the show, says Rodriguez, a native
Texan who holds both undergraduate and
graduate degrees in vocal performance from
the University of Texas at Austin. Now is the
rst time Im actually singing it with a British
dialect and genuinely acting part. Beautiful
songs can fall at, so theres no room for
autopilot. It has to be acted and all the songs
questions must be answered.
The other draw that repeatedly brings
Rodrigues back to D.C., he says, is the
ongoing prospect of working with Molly
Smith, Arenas artistic director who has
staged the three Arena musicals in which
Rodriguez has appeared.
She doesnt tell actors what to do, but
rather teaches us to nd our own way, he
says. Under Molly, Arena possesses both
artistic integrity and equally important
resources. All of us leave here better artists.
Rodriguez considers Arenas non-
traditionally cast production of Oklahoma!
the highlight of his career to date. For him,
playing Curly was a magical experience. It
was an emotionally charged time at Arena.
Not just opening a show but it was also the
christening of the new Mead Center for
American Theater. A mediocre show was not
an option. He remains close with much of
the multi-racial cast, especially talented D.C.
favorite Eleasha Gamble who played Curlys
girlfriend Laurey.
Early in his career, Rodriguez garnered
fame playing the third corner of a hot and
heavy gay love triangle on ABCs daytime
drama One Life to Live, but he mostly
works in theater. In addition to originating
the role of Tarzan on Broadway, he has
appeared off-Broadway and toured in
numerous national tours of musicals and
sung in concerts internationally. He also
serves as artistic director of Broadway
Dreams Foundation, a New York-based
non-prot national performing arts
education program that brings the very
best in musical theater training to all parts
of the country. (mybroadwaydreams.com)
Will there be more Arena productions
in his future? Probably. But next up,
Rodriguez returns to New York where he
lives with his partner of almost 10 years.
In January, hes slated to be part of a Joni
Mitchell tribute at Manhattans 54 Below.
Im always looking ahead, Rodriguez
says. Im always excited to encounter the
next lesson thats coming my way.
washingtonblade.com
38 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 THEATER
Triple triumph
at Arena
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Tsunami
Sushi & Lounge
We dont make waves.
We make sushi.
Lunch Specials
$9.95 + tax Deal
$14.95 + tax Deal
Happy Hours
MON-THUR 12-3, 5-12
FRI 12-3, 5-1
SAT 12-1
SUN 12-12
1326 14th St. NW
2nd Floor
202.588.5889
202.588.5599
TSUSHI.US
Owned and Operated by Thai Tanic staff.
MON-FRI EXCEPT HOLIDAYS, FOR DINE-IN ONLY
Offers may vary. Happy Hours
details available at the restaurant.
Frozen Drinks and
Cocktail Specials $8-10
5-7 pm All Areas of Restaurant
$1 Sashimi/Sushi
Dine-in Carry out Delivery Private parties
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
1039 31
ST
ST. NW WASHINGTON, DC 20007 202 965 2684 CAfelAruCHe.COm
Georgetowns
Oldest French Bistro
Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
Daily Specials
Award Winning Pastries
Happy Hour
monday - friday, 4 pm - 7 pm
Half price appetizers, drink specials
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY OFFICE PARTY
SeaSOn'S
GreetinGS
from
New Jersey Ave.
gay-helmed spot
a culinary delight
By JONATHAN HOWARD
Gay chef Art Smith has strong ties to
D.C. his father was a congressional page
and his aunt was a Redskins weather girl.
Smith is a two-time contestant on Bravos
Top Chef Masters, Oprah was one of
his clients and he owns Art & Soul (415
New Jersey Ave. NW). Recently, Art & Soul
unveiled a new fall menu, continued to
serve swing state cocktails and hosted
an election night watch party. With so much
going on at this Capitol Hill eatery it seemed
like the perfect time to pay it a visit.
Smith says a lot goes into planning a
new menu.
My chefs and I talk endlessly about
what is fresh and in season and what
guests will love, he says.
The new menu at Art & Soul is the
epitome of soul food elevated. Our waiter,
Kevin, knew the new menu inside and out
and steered us toward some of his favorite
items. His suggestions did not disappoint.
We ordered a couple of starters
including the soft scotch egg, which
was divine; the delicate pumpkin ricotta
dumplings; and the shrimp and grits
which I didnt have because Im allergic
to shrimp. The other four diners devoured
them immediately though.
For dinner, I had the grilled natural rib
eye with roasted mushrooms and sweet
garlic marrow butter and red wine jus. If
youre looking for your red meat x, this
is it. If youre in the mood for sh, try the
crispy skin gulf pompano with gulf crab,
raisins and brown butter. The Peking duck
was cooked perfectly and enjoyed by all
but one diner, who insisted he had a pet
duck and could never eat his pet.
The red wine glazed beef short ribs
were moist and tender and the mashed
potatoes were so good I was warding off
other diners with my fork. We ended the
meal with almost the entire dessert menu
on our table; however, the various Art &
Soul Baby Cakes were the showstopper.
The red velvet was moist and an original
spin on the traditional red velvet cake.
This fall Art & Soul has also been
featuring election-themed Swing State
Cocktails, the result of a brainstorming
session between Smith, mixologist
Ronald Flores and restaurant manager
Calvin Hines Junior. When designing
these cocktails they, researched each
state because we wanted an element of
each drink to be relevant to the state.
Cocktails like the Virginia gin, viognier
and ginger beer; the New Hampshire
libuster bourbon, pumpkin puree
and dolin rouge; and the ever-important
Ohio Wodka, peanut butter syrup and
chocolate sauce were available through
inauguration day. The most popular
swing state cocktail (and Smiths favorite)
was the Pennsylvania which features
house-made peach-infused vodka that is
displayed in a mason jar on the bar.
These cocktails were the centerpieces
of the election night party. If you wore your
I Voted sticker, you could enjoy two-for-
one swing state cocktails. Plus, every time
a swing state was called, patrons could
enjoy that state cocktail for 50 percent
off for 15 minutes. They didnt have a
Florida cocktail, so nobody had to wait
until Friday to enjoy that at half price. The
excitement in the restaurant was palpable.
People were bustling to see the results
and every time a state was called in favor
of President Obama, cheers could be
heard throughout the room. When asked
about the historic wins on election night
for LGBT individuals Smith said, We
are headed in the right direction but
it comes down to one thing: there is no
room for hatred at the table.
Art & Soul does not disappoint. Every
dish is dynamic but still retains its soul
food feel. The wait staff is exceptional and
well versed. The Swing State Cocktails
were creative and delightful; setting this
watch party apart from others. Overall,
this dinner was one of the best I have
had in Washington, not only because the
food was excellent, but also because of
the impeccable service. Unfortunately,
perfection does not come cheap so be
prepared to spend a bit more for your
meal at Art & Soul, but it will be worth it.
Chef ART SMITH pays attention to culinary detail at Art & Soul.
washingtonblade.com
DI NI NG NOVEMBER 30, 2012 39
PHOTO COURTESY OF ART & SOUL
Art & Soul
of the matter
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
THIS SUNDAY!!!
A DRAG SALUTE TO THE DIVAS
(ITS SCROOGE AND CAST LIP-SYNCING WITH A GAYLARIOUS TWIST!!!)
WIND ME UP
CHUCK, MONDAYS!
FEATURING LEDISI
MONDAY, DECEMBER 3RD
AN EVENING
WITH BABYFACE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6TH
RICHARD MARX
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8TH
JOSE FELICIANO
FELIZ NAVIDAD CONCERT
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14TH
RONNIE SPECTORS
BEST X-MAS EVER!!!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15TH
Nagel exhibit opens next week
Gallery B (7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite E, Bethesda) hosts an exhibition of mixed
media artwork by the late Jude Nagel starting Wednesday.
Nagel lived and worked in the D.C. area her entire adult life. She was connected
with several galleries in the area including the Watergate Gallery and the Circle Gallery.
For more information, visit Bethesda.org.
Candlelight vigil, dinner special slated for AIDS Day
Whitman-Walker Health has events planned to commemorate World AIDS Day on
Saturday. The clinic holds its annual candlelight vigil at 5 p.m. at Dupont Circle. Its mobile
testing unit will be onsite providing free HIV testing.
Zentan Restaurant is also providing a World AIDS Day Red Ribbon Menu where
proceeds from their most popular appetizers and entrees will go to Whitman-Walker
Health. For more information, visit whitman-walker.org.
Chinese pianist Wang to give Chopin concerto
The National Symphony Orchestra presents Yuja Wang playing Chopins Piano
Concerto No. 1, conducted by Hans Gaf on Thursday night at 7 at the Kennedy Center
(2700 F St., NW).
The 21-year-old Chinese pianist is recognized for playing with a youthful and fearless
imagination as well as the discipline of a mature performer. She has already performed
with some of the countrys leading orchestras including Baltimore, Boston, Chicago,
Houston, New World and San Francisco symphonies.
Tickets are $10-$85. For more information, visit kennedy-center.org.
ACT UP doc to screen at Corcoran
Jim Hubbarbs documentary United in Anger: The History of ACT UP screens at the
Corcoran Gallery (500 17th St., NW) Tuesday night at 7.
The documentary tells the story of the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) in
the 1980s. With the combination of archival footage and interviews from the ACT UP Oral
History Project, the documentary puts the audience on the ground with the group as they
execute some of their major actions.
This event is free. For more information, visit thedccenter.org.
washingtonblade.com
40 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 OUT & ABOUT
An untitled piece by late artist Jude Nagel.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GALLERY PLAN B
By ERIN DURKIN
PROOF # ISSUE DATE: SALES REPRESENTATIVE:
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
WWW.AZERCREATIVE.COM AZER@AZERCREATIVE.COM
Sunday, dec 2 10am & 12:30pm
live gospel brunch
w/ howard gospel choir $30
monday, dec 3
julian lage w/ eric harland,
jorge roeder & dan blaKe
friday, dec 7
a very chaise
lounge christmas
lp release party
Sunday, dec 9 10am & 12:30pm
live gospel brunch
w/ honorable voices of praise $30
thurSday, dec 13
wheeler brothers
w/ bronze radio return
friday, dec 14
jane siberry w/ laura baron
monday, dec 17
emily King
w/ special guest nicK haKim
friday, dec 21
the nighthawKs
Saturday, dec 22
empresarios
w/ nayas & congo sanchez
live
upcomi ng performances
thehamiltondc.com
buy ticKets
friday nov 30
aaron
freeman
saturday dec 1
spyro
gyra
wednesday dec 5
anaI s
mITCHeLL
w/ cuddle magic
thursday dec 6
o s
mUTanTes
HOT HITS & HIDDEN JEWELS
FROM CULTURECAPITAL.COM
SEPTI ME WEBRE S, THE NUTCRACKER
THROUGH SUN, DECEMBER 23
THE WASHI NGTON BALLET AT WARNER THEATRE.
202- 362- 3606. WASHI NGTONBALLET. ORG.
The Nutcracker transports us back in time to historic Washington, DC and stars
George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker.
ARTFETE HOLI DAY PARTY
FRI , NOVEMBER 30
THE ART LEAGUE, MADI SON ANNEX. 703- 683- 2323.
THEARTLEAGUE. ORG.
Artfete is The Art Leagues annual holiday party at their Madison Annex featuring
a wearable art runway show, exhibition of instructor artwork, artist demos, live
music from Orquesta Tropikiimba, a live steamroller printing, great food and
drinks, and the highly anticipated Ceramic and Jewelry sales. The Ceramic and
Jewelry sales will continue throughout the weekend.
WOLF TRAP S HOLI DAY SI NG- A- LONG
SAT, DECEMBER 1
WOLF TRAP. 1- 877- WOLFTRAP. WOLFTRAP. ORG.
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Traps 2012 Holiday
Sing-A-Long! This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United
States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs
with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area.
MI CHAEL MONTLACK: DI VI NI NG DI VAS: 100 GAY MEN ON
THEI R MUSES
SUN, DECEMBER 2
THE WRI TER S CENTER. 301- 654- 8664. WRI TER. ORG.
Editor Michael Montlack has assembled an anthology of 100 gay poets--award
winners and fresh voices--in thrall with female icons ranging from Gloria Swanson
to Mary J, Blige, from Edith Piaf to Joni Mitchell, Bette Midler to Lady Gaga.
These are not merely appreciations of the gorgeous and daring but poems that
are confessional to bittersweet to witty.
Image courtesy of The Washington Ballet
washingtonblade.com
42 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 THE GUIDE TO ARTS & CULTURE
OPENINGS
FRI, NOV 30
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story,
Olney Theatre Center. 301-924-3400.
olneytheatre.org.
WED, DEC 5
Ballet West: The Nutcracker, Kennedy
Center. 202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org.
A Trip to the Moon, Synetic Theater.
800-494-8497. synetictheater.org.
THU, DEC 6
Luxembourg at Holiday Time, Embassy
Series at Embassy of Luxembourg.
202-265-4171. embassyseries.org.
Schooner Fare, The Barns.
1-877-WOLFTRAP. wolftrap.org.
Seasonal Disorder, WIT, Source Theatre.
202-204-7770.
washingtonimprovtheater.com.
LAST CHANCE
SAT, DEC 1
All My Sons, Keegan Theatre,
Church Street Theater. 703-892-0202.
keegantheatre.com.
SUN, DEC 2
Woody Sez: The Life and Music of
Woody Guthrie, Theater J. 202-777-3210.
washingtondcjcc.org.
You For Me For You, Woolly Mammoth.
202-393-3939. woollymammoth.net.
LIMITED ENGAGEMENT
NOV 30 - DEC 1
Maryland Dance Ensemble,
Clarice Smith. 301-405-ARTS.
claricesmithcenter.umd.edu.
NOV 30 - DEC 2
Artful Weekend, Arlington Artists
Alliance, Hendry House. 703-243-7329.
arlingtonartistsalliance.org.
Virginia Opera: Die Fledermaus, GMU
Center for the Arts. 703-993-2787.
cfa.gmu.edu.
Flamenco Aparicio Dance Company,
GALA Hispanic Theatre. 202-234-7174.
galatheatre.org.
DEC 1 - DEC 2
Holiday Tribute: Debussy at 150, In Series,
Source Theatre. 202-204-7763.
inseries.org.
ONE NIGHT ONLY
FRI, NOV 30
Danilo Prez Trio, Kennedy Center.
202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org.
Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul, The Barns.
1-877-WOLFTRAP. wolftrap.org.
Boister: Live Soundtrack to Buster
Keatons Silent Film Steamboat Bill, Jr.,
Artisphere. 703-875-1100. artisphere.com.
Chamber Music Concert, Friday Morning
Music Club, Calvary Baptist Church.
202-347-8355. fmmc.org.
SAT, DEC 1
Dan: Christmas in Ireland, GMU Center
for the Arts. 703-993-2787. cfa.gmu.edu.
Joy of Motion Dance Centers Dance
Project, Friendship Heights. 202-520-3692.
joyofmotion.org.
Opening Reception - Year-end Group
Show, Gallery plan b. 202-234-2711.
galleryplanb.com.
MON, DEC 3
Dave Koz and Friends: Christmas Tour
2012, Strathmore. 301-581-5100.
strathmore.org.
WED, DEC 5
Nasar Abadey & SUPERNOVA,
Strathmore. 301-581-5100.
strathmore.org.
Winter Big Band Showcase,
Clarice Smith. 301-405-ARTS.
claricesmithcenter.umd.edu.
THU, DEC 6
Natalie MacMaster: Christmas in Cape
Breton, Strathmore. 301-581-5100.
strathmore.org.

ONGOING STAGE
Six Characters in Search of an Author,
WSC Avant Bard at Artisphere,
703-418-4808. wscavantbard.org.
The Aliens, Studio Theatre. 202-332-3300.
studiotheatre.org.
Young Robin Hood, Round House
Theatre Bethesda. 240-644-1100.
roundhousetheatre.org.
Christmas Carol. Fords Theatre.
202-347-4833. Fords.org
ONGOING EXHIBITIONS
Kreeger Museum. Dan Steinhilber:
Marlin Underground, Sculpture on The
Grounds, 2011 Invitational. 202-337-3050.
kreegermuseum.org.
National Archives. To the Brink: JFK and
the Cuban Missile Crisis. 202-357-5000.
archives.gov.
National Gallery of Art. Roy Lichtenstein:
A Retrospective, Imperial Augsburg:
Renaissance Prints and Drawings,
14751540, The Serial Portrait:
Photography and Identity in the Last One
Hundred Years, Shock of the News, In the
Tower: Barnett Newman, Masterpieces
of American Furniture from the Kaufman
Collection, 17001830. 202-737-4215.
nga.gov.
National Geographic. 1001 Inventions:
Discover the Golden Age of Muslim
Civilization. 202-857-7588. ngmuseum.org.
Museum of Women in the Arts. Women
Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power, High
Fiber--Women to Watch 2012, Fabulous!
Portraits by Michele Mattei, Women
Silversmiths from the NMWA Collection,
New York Avenue Sculpture Project:
Chakaia Booker. 202-783-5000. nmwa.org.
Strathmore. 79th Annual Fine Art in
Miniature, Grayscale. 301-581-5100.
strathmore.org.
ONGOING GALLERIES
WPA, Art Museum of the Americas.
The Ripple Effect: Currents of Socially
Engaged Art. 202-458-6016. wpadc.org.
Artisphere. Jonathan Monaghan: Rainbox
Narcosis, Roberto Bocci: Streams +
Spaces In Between. 703-875-1100.
Dietary supplements
shouldnt be needed with
wide availability of good
food in the U.S.
According to Consumer Report, dietary
supplements have been taken by more than
half of American adults; consumers spent $26.7
billion on supplements in 2009. Common
motivations are to lose weight, stay healthy
and avoid the use of prescription drugs.
With dietary supplements, the substitute
may or may not be a better alternative to
the original source. The supplementation, or
in using the latest vernacular nutraceutical,
industry is a tremendously huge and protable
world-wide market that will continue to grow
at a rapid pace. But is it replacing real food
and are most supplements safe? Everyone
on the planet might think so. So it seems that
everyone is popping some over-the-counter
pill or powder perhaps to prevent disease
or stave off a cold or simply looking for the
perpetual elixir of life.
But dont we all look for an elixir in some
form or another to not only enhance our
quality of life and ward off illness, but
are also to prolong it? In doing so have
we become a synthetically enhanced
pill-popping society looking for the
consummate magic pill in lieu of food
consumed in the average American diet?
This is all well and good, but shouldnt
safety be a consideration as well?
As a personal trainer for almost 20 years,
I have never been a supporter of dietary
supplementation (in the U.S.) and have never
endorsed, sold or distributed a supplement
and I abhor multi-level marketing.
Recommending supplementation
was prohibited in my personal training
certications code of ethics; it was and
continues to be beyond the scope of
knowledge and credentials of the average
personal trainer. Second, my personal view
is that nothing can replace real food and
that everything the average American needs
from a nutritional standpoint is available in a
supermarket or on a farm. The U.S. is blessed
to have an abundant supply of food, nutrient
rich and all, so where is the decit?
We are all free to put whatever it is
we want in our system, particularly if we
think there is a benet, so Im not against
personal choices that do nothing to harm
me or another. But as a personal trainer I
have a responsibility to my clients to know
what they are putting in their system and
refer them to a qualied practitioner who
has the knowledge to educate them.
I also have issue with how supplementation
is marketed, sold and distributed and how
anyone can claim to be an authority from Joe
Schmoe to a highly credentialed medical
doctor. And again, my standpoint is much
in alignment with the top personal training
industries certication programs. Personal
trainers are not Registered Dietitians and
anyone can dub themselves a nutritionist (in
Washington) and in most states, personal
trainers alike.
Despite what many may believe, the
supplementation industry is not regulated
by the government, however they are
monitored, a big difference. The FTC
regulates false labeling claims. There are no
safety testing standards in place prior to a
supplement hitting the shelves. No over-the-
counter supplement requires FDA approval.
The FDA will swoop in only if and when there
is a problem or in a 1995 landmark New York
case, someone dies as an alleged result of
taking an ephedrine-based supplement.
In this case, the personal trainer, gym and
supplement manufacturing company were
sued for hundreds of millions of dollars.
While the case is public knowledge, it was
settled out of court, which seals the outcome.
Granted this is but one example of
what could happen, but it speaks to
the inherent risks and issues within the
supplementation industry.
With the proliferation and inundation of
information available doesnt this mean there
is conclusive evidence to support the safety
and efcacy of a supplement? Absolutely
not. Volume does not mean valid. One must
look at the source, who nanced the study
and what type of study was conducted. The
gold standard is independent, double-blind,
randomized, controlled and conclusively in
support of claims being made. Where are
these studies? They dont exist.
But I only take herbal and natural
remedies, doesnt this mean they are safe
and effective? Hemlock and poisonous
mushrooms are natural would you take
either of those? Enough said.
Where does one go to get the
most accurate information on dietary
supplementation? Not sure the Internet
is the best place to start unless you know
what youre looking for. An dietician would
be a good start and then conrm with your
doctor and pharmacist.
Also, the FDA and the National Institute
of Health ofce of the National Center for
Complimentary and Alternative Medicine
both offer comprehensive information.
Kevin M. Norris is a health and tness columnist for the
Blade and owner of Mind our Own Body, LLC. Personal
Training. Reach him at kevinmnorris@aol.com.
washingtonblade.com
FI TNESS NOVEMBER 30, 2012 43
Pill popping
for health?
At Friendship Hospital for Animals,
we understand there are
times when a
trip to the vet can
be tough for you or
your pet. Thats why we
offer, FriendshipTo Go,
a mobile veterinary care
service.
In-home services include:
Wellness Care
Sick Pet Care
End-of-life Care/Euthanasia
and more.
Call us today to learn more or to arrange an at-home visit.
Located just inside the DC line at
4105 Brandywine Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016
202.363.7300
www.friendshiphospital.com
Open 24/7
365 days
look for us around town!
Because some days,
you just dont feel like leaving
the house.
A service of
Friendship Hospital for Animals
TODAY
Whitman-Walker provides free
condential HIV testing at its Elizabeth
Taylor Medical Center (1701 14th St., NW)
today from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more
information, visit whitman-walker.org.
The Black Cat (1811 14th St., NW) holds
its Dr. Who Happy Hour tonight at 7
p.m. on its backstage. There will be one
episode of Dr. Who along with drink
specials. For more information, visit
blackcatdc.com.
Eileen Ivers, a nine-time All-Ireland
Fiddle champion, performs with Immigrant
Soul tonight at 8 p.m. at Wolf Trap in Vienna,
Va. Ivers combines traditional ddle with
more modern pop sounds. Tickets are $22.
For more information, visit wolftrap.org.
Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) hosts Bear
Happy Hour tonight from 6-11 p.m. This
event is for people 21 and older. There is no
cover charge. For details, visit towndc.com.
The Bachelors Mill (1104 8th St., S.E.) is
having its happy hour this evening starting
at 5 p.m. All drinks are half off until 7:30
p.m. After 9 p.m., admission is $10. The
dance oor opens at 11 p.m. with DJ Tim-
Nice and DJ Cameron. For details, visit
thebachelorsmill.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 1
Burgundy Crescent, a gay volunteer
organization, is helping in food
preparation and packing groceries for
Food and Friends (219 Riggs Road, NE)
this morning at 8. For more information,
visit burgundycrescent.org.
The World AIDS Day Prayer Breakfast
takes place at Howard University School of
Divinity Dining Hall (1400 Shepherd St., NE)
today at 9 a.m. For details, visit ccwdc.org.
Dignity Washington, a group of LGBT
Catholics and Christians, marks its 40th
anniversary tonight at Clydes Restaurant
(707 7th St., NW). There will be a reception,
silent auction, gourmet dinner and
entertainment by local gay actor/singer
Will Gartshore. Tickets are $75. For more
information, visit dignitywashington.org.
The Center Global meeting takes
place at the D.C. Center (1318 U St.,
NW) today at noon. The group is a new
initiative that is focusing on three goals:
looking at all resources and assistance
available to LGBT asylum seekers in the
area, getting the community involved and
raising awareness of global LGBT issues
and planning events that would raise
funds for LGBT asylum seekers.
Bachelors Mill (1104 8th St., S.E.)
opens at 5:30 p.m. today with pool, video
gaming systems and card tournaments.
The dance oors open at 11 p.m.
Admission is free until 9 p.m. and it is
$10 after. For more information, visit
thebachelorsmill.com.
The Black Cat (1811 14th St., N.W.) hosts
Moon Bounce Dancing Affair tonight at
10 on its backstage. The party includes a
dance night of hip hop, house, 90s pop
and not-so guilty pleasures. Cover is $7.
For details, visit blackcatdc.com.
Burgundy Crescent, a gay volunteer
organization, volunteers today for the
Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation at
Falls Church PetSmart (6100 Arlington
Blvd., Falls Church, Va.) from 11:45
a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit
burgundycrescent.org.
SUNDAY, DEC. 2
The ska/punk band Bomb the Music
Industry performs at the Black Cat (1811
14th St., N.W.) tonight at 8. Admission is $10.
For more information, visit blackcatdc.com.
MONDAY, DEC. 3
Dr. Gregory Pappas from the D.C.
Department of Health gives a talk titled
New Reponses to the DC HIV/AIDS
Epidemic this evening at 6:30 at George
Washington Hospital Auditorium (900 23rd
St., NW). There will be light refreshments.
The event is free. For more information,
visit thedccenter.org.
Whitman-Walker Health (1701 14th St.,
NW) holds its HIV+ Newly Diagnosed
Support Group tonight at 7. It is a condential
support group for anyone recently diagnosed
with HIV and the group welcomes all
genders and sexual orientations. For details,
visit whitman-walker.org.
TUESDAY, DEC. 4
Muslims for Progressive Values
invites you to Unshackling Islam from
Patriarchy featuring Mona Eltahawy, an
award-winning columnist and speaker on
Arab and Muslim issues, tonight at 6:30
at the Human Rights Campaign Equality
Center (1640 Rhode Island Ave., NW). For
details, visit thedccenter.org.
Green Lantern (1335 Green Court, N.W.)
hosts its Safer Sex Kit-packing program
tonight from 7-10:30. The packing program is
looking for more volunteers to help produce
the kits because they say they are barely
keeping up with demand. Admission is free
and volunteers can just show up. For more
information, visit thedccenter.org.
Cobalt (1639 R St., N.W) presents its
Flashback dance night with DJ Jason Royce
starting at 10 p.m. There is no cover charge.
For more details, visit cobaltdc.com.
The D.C. Center holds its Freedom
from Smoking Class for members of
the community who are trying to quit
smoking this evening starting 6:30. The
class is an adaptation of the American
Lung Associations group clinic that has
helped thousands of smokers, however
it has been modied to be more relevant
to the LGBT community and people living
with HIV/AIDS. For more information, visit
thedccenter.org.
Banana Caf (500 8th St., SE) has
its open mic night tonight from 7 p.m.
to closing. Admission is free and there
are $3 mojitos after 7:30 p.m. For more
information, visit bananacafedc.com.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5

The National Center for Transgender
Equality celebrates nine years at the
National Press Club Ballroom (529 14th
St., NW) on the 13th oor tonight at 7. For
more information, visit thedccenter.org.
The D.C. Center and Professionals in
the City hosts Lesbian Speed Dating
at the Chi-Cha Lounge (1624 U St., NW)
tonight at 7. Attendees can support the
D.C. Center and receive $5 off admission
price when they use the promo cod DC_
CENTER when they register. For more
Whitman-Walker Health (1701 14th St., NW)
holds its HIV+ Newly Diagnosed Support
Group tonight at 7. It is a condential support
group for anyone recently diagnosed with
HIV and the group welcomes all genders and
sexual orientations. For details, visit whitman-
walker.org.
THURSDAY, DEC. 6
The Mid-Atlantic Leather Womens
Round Table Discussion is held tonight
at the D.C. Center (1318 U St., NW) in
the conference room at 7. For more
Cobalt (1639 R St., N.W) is hosting its
weekly Best Package Contest tonight
at 9 p.m. There is a $3 cover and there
are $2 vodka drinks. Participants in the
contest can win $200 in cash prizes. The
event is hosted by Lena Lett and music by
DJ Chord, DJ Madscience, and DJ Sean
Morris. For details, visit cobaltdc.com.
washingtonblade.com
44 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 CALENDAR
E-mail calendar items to calendars@washblade.com
two weeks prior to your event. Space is limited so
priority is given to LGBT-specic events or those
with LGBT participants. Recurring events must be
re-submitted each time.
Eileen Ivers, an Irish ddler, plays Wolf Trap tonight with the band Immigrant Soul.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WOLF TRAP
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
The Realtors
you refer to
your friends
and
Buying or
Selling a Home?
Licensed VA, MD, DC
info@gayrealtors.us.com www.gayrealtors.us.com
The Gale STorm Team
703.304.1258 301.575.6433
and warranties.
PROOF #2 ISSUE DATE: SPEC SALES REPRESENTATIVE: AARON SMITH (asmith@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
kenergysolar.com 410.729.4499
$
Clever depiction of
tragedy gives voice to
inanimate objects in
powerful way
When you wake up in the morning,
there are certain things you expect to be
the same.
Youll have a brand-new day, of course,
but itll start where you ended last night.
Your alarm will be the same, set at a time you
probably know all too well. A surprise might
await you at some point in each new day, but
the familiar is your comfortable beginning.
And yet, while you slept, the world
changed.
In the new book October Mourning by
Lesla Newman, youll see what happened
on one frosty night, 14 years ago.
He was outnumbered.
It was two against one: two local boys,
placed in a bar with a pitcher of beer. One
petite Matthew Shepard, sitting at the
same bar, alone.
The boys truck knew that the situation
wouldnt turn out well when the two locals
lured Shepard into its cab with promises.
The road on the way out to the Wyoming
vastness thought it had seen everything
but when it noticed Shepard trapped in
the truck, it wanted to heave.
The clothesline that was used to tie Shepard
felt tangled. The fence held him up all night,
though he was heavy as a broken heart. The
fence held on, through wind and prairie alone.
It cradled him, as his mother would.
There are many things you can do in 18
hours.
You can cram for a test. You can drive
cross-country, read a thick book, watch
day turn into night and back again. Or you
can wait to be discovered, tied to a fence,
with wind and deer as companions.
After Shepard was found, the patrolman
thought hed been crying. The doctor
cried when he saw what was left of the boy.
The candle at Shepards vigil grieved and
armbands stood as one. The fence that
held him didnt mind becoming a shrine.
In the days to follow, as news of Shepards
death raced around the world, it changed
some lives: a drag queen went further into
the closet. A police commander removed
gay slurs from his vocabulary. The bartender
who served the local boys felt regrets.
Countless students realized that Shepards
story could have been their own.
Other drivers on the road must think Im crazy.
There I was, cruising down the highway
with tears coating my cheeks, my hand to
my mouth. That doesnt happen often; in
fact, few audiobooks move me as much as
did October Mourning.
Through a series of freestyle verses,
author and poet Lesla Newman imagines
in this book the many points of view from
people and objects that were witness
to Matthew Shepards last moments.
Newmans sparse words, performed by
several different actors in varied voices
and timbres, bring incredible emotion to
her scenarios, making this a book with
beauty on one side, horror on the other.
Though grown-ups can certainly enjoy this
audiobook, I think its best audience is young
adults who are too young to remember
that one night and its aftermath. For them,
October Mourning may wake them up.
Terri Schlichenmeyer has been reading since she was 3
years old. She lives in Wisconsin with two dogs and 12,000
books. Reach her at bookwormsez@yahoo.com.
OCTOBER MOURNING:
A SONG FOR MATTHEW SHEPARD
By Lesla Newman
Candlewick Press
$15.99
128 pages
washingtonblade.com
BOOKS NOVEMBER 30, 2012 45
Poetic tribute
to Shepard
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 05.18
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
RestoReyouRHaiRLine
newFoLLicuLaRunitVaRiGRaFtinG
newFoLLicuLaRunitextRaction
MiniMaL,iFany,DowntiMe
LaseRHaiRRejuVenationPRoGRaM
PeRManentnatuRaLResuLts
FReeinitiaLconsuLtation
oFFicesinDc,Va&MD
MeDicaLLyFoRMuLateDHaiRcaReLine
FaciaLHaiRRestoRation
BoaRDceRtiFieDPLasticsuRGeons
GET YOUR HAIR BACK!
WWW.IGOTHAIR.COM
Locations in Rockville, McLean, and Annapolis
Call (301) 979-7053
attendance peaked at about 500 and 350
respectively in the late 80s. By late 1990,
it had become the largest Dignity chapter
in the U.S., a feat it maintains to this day,
though membership is now about 200 with
an average of 90-100 believers attending
weekly Dignity Mass.
It owns its own building in Eastern
Market that houses ofces and provides
space to other LGBT organizations such as
Brother Help Thyself and Imperial Court.
As with most Dignity chapters, Dignity/
Washington prefers to let other churches
host its services rather than build its own
sanctuary.
Most of our chapters are kind of hand
to mouth, Duddy-Burke says. We pay
our rent and our basic expenses, we have
the weekly bulletins and we underwrite
memberships for low-income people and
most of our chapters give back to their
own communities in some way. Our
model really isnt based on the institutional
model. We focus on the church as more of
a community than a building.
Despite the daunting odds, the group
is celebrating. Bower says the groups
mere survival is a reason to be ecstatic.
The ofcial church would very much
like us to disappear, he says. We show
that you can be gay and Catholic at the
same time and happily so and despite
the major efforts of a much bigger
organization to throw us out. Were part
of a national organization and when the
Pope comes out against something gay,
were able to say, No, thats wrong.
Bob Miailovich, a member for 35 years
someone left a Dignity brochure on his
car while he was in a gay bar agrees.
This small group of gay men got
together back in the early 70s who
would have ever envisioned this thing
being as big as it is and the ongoing
evolution of this group. I mean were a
small group of sort of churchy guys, but its
really opened up and I think were more
broadly attuned to the world at this time
and to what faith is all about.
Despite the political and spiritual
cold shoulder, DignityUSA wants to be
recognized by the Holy See, the Roman
Catholic Churchs central governing body.
Its a key component to the organizations
mission. While many LGBT Christian
groups, Catholic and otherwise, have
started their own denominations with
no interest whatsoever in swaying the
Vatican, Dignity, at its very core, feels that
its important to stay within the church
and ght as much as possible. Though
many gay Christians cannot fathom
wanting anything to do with the Roman
Catholic Church after centuries of anti-
gay teaching, Dignity members say its
essential.
People think, Oh, why do you keep
banging your head against the wall?
Bower says. Thats why we call it faith. Its
a belief that there is within the larger view
of what it means to be Catholic, theres
something there that you just dont have
with other groups.
Miailovich says despite the anti-gay
teachings, he still nd(s) more truth in
the Catholic Church than I do in other
religions. Its not perfect and I dont buy
everything at the end of the day but from
what I know of other religions and what
they teach and believe, I nd more truth
on the Catholic side than elsewhere else.
As one might expect considering its
size, millions have left the Catholic Church
for all kinds of reasons and to varying
degrees. Hard though it may be for LGBT
people to fathom, there are even strains
of Catholicism that have broken off from
Rome because they feel the Vatican has
gotten too liberal.
The most notorious is the Mexico City-
based New Jerusalem, a gated community
of about 3,000 that was founded in 1973 as
a reaction to the Second Vatican Council
of 1962-1965, a hugely inuential change
in Church teaching that allowed Masses to
be said in languages besides Latin among
many other things. Several Traditionalist
Catholic splinter groups also revolted
against Vatican II reform, but New Jerusalem
is widely regarded as the most extreme
TV, radios, alcohol, makeup and pants for
women are forbidden. Residents attend
church three times daily, dont recognize
any post-Vatican II Roman church leaders
and think Benedict is the anti-Christ.
Fundamentalist splinter groups occur in
other religions as well the Fundamentalist
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
received massive media attention in recent
years when its leader was convicted of two
felony counts of child sexual assault.
Other groups have broken away on the
opposite side of the theological spectrum.
The North American Old Catholic Church
considers itself a 2,000-year-old church
with Apostolic succession and teaches
the full inclusion of LGBT persons in our
religious life, sacraments and clergy. It
also advocates for the full inclusion of
LGBT persons throughout society. Two
gay-welcoming Old Catholic churches
were started in Washington one in
2011 and another this year but appear
to be inactive. Neither Presiding Bishop
Rev. Michael Seneco, whos gay, nor Rev.
Kerolos Saleib of Saint Damien of Molokai
Parish responded to requests for comment
or had recently updated websites. The
churches that hosted them say theyre no
longer meeting there.
Denomination hopping between
Episcopalians and Catholics, perhaps the
two most stylistically similar denominations
in the U.S., has been going on for all kinds
of reasons for decades. Many progressive
believers left the Catholic Church to nd more
gay- and women-friendly theology among
Episcopalians, the Anglican Church in the
U.S. The Catholic Church in recent years has
started welcoming a spate of disenfranchised
former Episcopalians who left disappointed
that the church had become more gay-
friendly. Others Episcopalians still, as has
been widely reported, left their U.S. dioceses
to align with more conservative Anglicans in
other countries.
Bower says for him, converting to the
Episcopal faith is not feasible.
There are some basic thelogical
differences between Catholicism and
Episcopalianism, he says. Even in
something as basic as Communion and
the notion of transubstantiation. We really
believe there really is a change in the
body and blood. They see it more as a
memorial. And theres a whole historical
precedent of difference between the
Roman and English churches.
Others are pushing as far as they can
under Vatican leadership and not just on
LGBT issues. A lengthy article in the current
edition of Rolling Stone magazine tells
the stories of Sister Simone Campbell,
Sister Margaret Farley and others who are
refusing to back down from the Catholic
Church itself up to and including the
Pope. On issues ranging from gay rights
to abortion, the nuns are either openly
contradicting church dogma or quietly
undermining it with their silence, choosing
instead to embrace a radical notion of
missionary work that wouldnt be out of
place at an Occupy Wall Street rally: income
inequality, universal health care, corporate
responsibility, immigration reform, and
elsewhere reproductive rights. A group
called Roman Catholic Womenpriests
includes former nuns, ordains women as
priests and holds women-led Masses.
Campbell, who didnt immediately
respond to a Blade interview request, told
Rolling Stone, the same anti-LGBT beliefs
are equally as harmful to women in the
exclusively male-led Vatican.
Youve got to realize that any crowd that
took 350 years to gure out Galileo might be
right is not noted for rapid change, she told
Rolling Stone. This is about a cultural clash
between monarchy, in which the monarch
is always right, and democracy where
everybody has equal dignity, responsibility
and opportunity, women and men. The
whole idea that we live in a pluralistic society
is news to these guys.
Laity out of step with Vatican teaching: research
washingtonblade.com
46 NOVEMBER 30, 2012 ARTS & ENTERTAI NMENT
Dignity/Washington members in a Washington Blade le photo taken at one of their events on Oct. 6, 1991, the groups 19th year in existence.
WASHINGTONBLADE ARCHIVE PHOTOBY DOUGHINCKLE
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 11.23.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: BRIAN PITTS (bpitts@washingtonblade.com
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
The Dermatology Center is here
to help your skin look its youthful best!
For a limited time we are offering an amazing holiday special on Clear + Brilliant treatments.
Clear + Brilliant is a revolutionary, gentle laser treatment, clinically proven to fght the effects of aging skin.
Buy one TreaTmenT geT one Free!
92% of Clear + Brilliant patients claimed their skin looked younger, felt smoother and
they saw a noticeable Clear + Brilliant glow after a series of treatments.

Valid only until December 31, 2012
Call 202-244-4550 to schedule your treatment or a free consultation.
Center for the Arts
GREAT PERFORMANCES AT MASON 20122013 SEASON
Located on the Fairfax campus, six miles west of Beltway
exit 54 at the intersection of Braddock Road and Rt. 123. Tickets
888-945-2468
or cfa.gmu.edu
Visit us at cfa.gmu.edu
The Romeros with
Concerto Mlaga
Saturday, December 15 at 8 p.m.
Two of Spains premiere string ensembles present an evening of
exquisite Christmas music, performing fresh and familiar carols
interpreted through the intricate and velvety sounds of classical
guitar. Known the world over as The Royal Family of the Guitar,
The Romeros were founded in 1960 by the legendary soloist
Celedonio Romero with his three teenage sons. Joining The
Romeros is Concerto Mlaga under the baton of conductor, and
celebrated viola and viola damore soloist, Massimo Paris.
$23, $38, $46
Vienna Boys Choir
Christmas in Vienna
Friday, December 14 at 8 p.m.
Nothing evokes the joy and magic of the Christmas season quite
like the celestial voices of these extraordinary Austrian youngsters.
In their special holiday concert, the Vienna Boys Choir presents
a program of Christmas spirit, performing everything from
Gregorian chant and traditional Christmas carols to popular
holiday favorites and songs from around the world. A delightful
evening of music for the entire family. $25, $42, $50
ff
= Family Friendly: Youth through grade 12 half price
Rockapella
A Rockapella Holiday
Friday, December 7 at 8 p.m.
Rockapella returns to our stage with a rockin concert of classic
carols and holiday tunes, both funky and soulful, celebrating
Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. They have traversed the globe,
enchanting young and old alike with their remarkable harmonies,
breathtaking vocal percussions, and signature full-band sound.
Come enjoy the unique Rockapella holiday! $24, $40, $48

ff
ff
ff
By DAVID M. TAUBE
One of the most important retirement
planning tools is now available online.
Earlier this year, the Social Security Ad-
ministration (SSA) began providing on-
line access to Social Security statements
through a My Social Security account.
The statements, which were previously
mailed annually prior to your birthday,
include a history of earnings, as well as
an estimate of your retirement, disability,
and survivors benefts. This information is
an indispensable part of personal fnan-
cial planning by making available essen-
tial data about future retirement income
and serving as an unmistakable reminder
of the need for personal savings to sup-
plement those benefts.
A survey by SSA to determine the ef-
fectiveness of the statement as an educa-
tional tool found a clear link between re-
ceipt of the statement and understanding
of Social Security benefts. More than half
of those who read the statement reported
that as a result, they increased their sav-
ings rate or revised their fnancial plans for
the future. Twenty-fve percent said they
contacted a personal fnancial adviser.
As part of a 1989 law intended to help
educate workers about their benefts and
allow them to review the accuracy of their
earnings record for calculating benefts, in
1999 SSA began mailing workers age 25
and older annual statements of their esti-
mated Social Security benefts (from 1995
to 1999 the mailings were only sent to
those over age 60). In 2010, more than 158
million statements were mailed to workers.
In April 2011, the SSA stopped mailing
annual beneft statements due to budget
constraints and an effort to save approxi-
mately $70 million per year in printing
and mailing costs. However, it left work-
ers without any reporting about their
benefts and the arduous task of contact-
ing the SSA to simply confrm that wages
had been accurately recorded.
In February, SSA resumed mailing paper
statements to workers close to retirement
(age 60 and older if they are not already re-
ceiving Social Security benefts). Later this
year, the SSA will initiate a one-time mailing
to workers on their 25th birthday.
In May, the SSA launched an online plat-
form so that workers over the age of 18
would have access to information about
their earnings history and estimated So-
cial Security benefts. Because these ben-
efts are based upon average earnings, the
statements should be checked for accu-
racy annually. The online statement can be
saved or printed for future use.
The process for obtaining the online
statements begins by going to the Social
Security web site (ssg.gov) and clicking
the Get your Social Security Statement
online link to create a My Social Security
account. Within minutes you are provided
your estimated benefts and earnings re-
cord, as well as access to an online version
of the previously mailed paper statement.
The statement includes a year-by-year
history of earnings, the total amount of
Social Security and Medicare taxes paid
through the last year reported, as well
as estimates of monthly retirement, dis-
ability, and survivors benefts based upon
current earnings. Retirement beneft esti-
mates are provided for age 62, full retire-
ment age (now 66, gradually increasing to
67 for people born in 1960 or later), and
age 70. Notably, if the earnings record is
not correct, you will still need to call or
write the SSA to resolve the problem.
The My Social Security accounts are
waiting to be claimed. If you are con-
cerned about someone accessing your
account, you should claim your account
with your Social Security number and
then take advantage of the security set-
tings available through the site. You can
also request that the system send a text
message to a specifed cell phone every
time anyone logs into your account so
you will know immediately if your account
has been breached.
The beneft statements are an important
part of the Social Security program by giv-
ing workers ownership over their contribu-
tions and helping to plan for retirement. In
the introduction to the statement, the SSA
Commissioner states: Social Security is
the largest source of income for most el-
derly Americans today, but Social Security
was never intended to be your only source
of income when you retire. You will also
need other savings, investments, pensions
or retirement accounts to make sure you
have enough money to live comfortably
when you retire.
For most retirees, future Social Securi-
ty benefts are a signifcant component of
overall retirement planning. It is impera-
tive that you understand how Social Se-
curity benefts factor into your retirement
income needs.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not f-
nancial, legal, or tax advice. Please consult with your adviser
before making any decisions.
FINANCE
Social Security: Claim your
online beneft statement
David M. Taube, CFA, is CEO and Chief Investment Offcer
of Kalorama Wealth Strategies, LLC, a fee-only investment
advisory and fnancial planning frm in the District. Reach
him at 202-550-7262 or dtaube@kaloramawealth.com.
Therapy for Adults,
Adolescents & Couples
Coming Out
Concerns About Intimacy, Partner Choice,
Family, Relationship Stress,
Anxiety, Depression
Chronic Illness
Douglas L. Romberg, Ph.D.
(202) 296-0033
Dupont Circle
(703) 790-0038
Northern VA
Becky Carroll, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist
Interactive Counseling,
Psychotherapy and
Somatic Experiencing
www.LGBTC.com
202.332.8477
B.Carrol@mac.com
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Sid Binks, PhD, ABPP-CN
Board Certifed in Clinical Neuropsychology
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Individual & Couples Therapy
for the LGBTQ Community
19 years experience!
3000 Connecticut Avenue NW
202.255.5187 SidBinks@aol.com
LGBTC.com/staff/sidney_binks.html
DAVE LLOYD & ASSOCIATES DAVE LLOYD & ASSOCIATES
Top 1% Nationwide
NVAR Life Member Top Producder
703-593-3204
WWW.DAVELLOYD.NET
ENTHUSIASTICALLY
SERVING DC & VIRGINIA
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 01.06.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: PHIL ROCKSTROH (prockstroh@washblade.com)
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
Cognitive-Behavioral
Therapy
Results-Oriented q Affordable
Larry Cohen, LICSW
25 years serving the lgbt community
202-244-0903
socialanxietyhelp.com
See website for NPR story on my work
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
NO REVISIONS
IndividualssCouplessSex
Helping People
Grow Stronger
in Rough Times
Michael Radkowsky, Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist s20 years experience
Near Woodley & Cleveland Park metro
(202) 234-3278
www.personalgrowthzone.com
Joel C. Ang, M.D.
Family Medicine, HIV Diagnosis & Treatment
www.qstreetmds.com
202-667-5041
1759 Q Street NW, Washington, DC
Red Line Metro Dupont Circle
Parking Available Free Wi-Fi
Same Day Appointments
Adult Primary Care
Copies of records at each visit
Insurance Accepted
Instant HIV/Syphilis/Herpes Testing
CLIA Certied In-House Laboratory
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Thomas Jenkins
& Company
Certifed Public Accountants
Corporation, Partnership, Trust, Individual
Income Tax & Financial Planning
202-547-9004
Washington, DC
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Dr. Larry DaLton (Licensed Psychologist)
One of the Top CognitiveBehavioral
Therapists Washingtonian
CBT will give you the Tools and Strategies to:
Stop Panic attacks, anxiety,
Social Fears, Self-Image
Problems, and Depression
CognitivetherapyMD.com 301.951.3668
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Uptown DC Offce 202.362.3400
Valerie M. Blake
Associate Broker, GRI
202.246.8602
Valerie@DCHomeQuest.com
www.DCHomeQuest.com
Valerrealestate.blogspot.com
Little Bo Peep, do not lose sleep
in your rowhouse made of brick.
Stage it to show in its very best light
and Im certain your home will sell quick.
Mother
Goose
is Loose!
and warranties.
REVISIONS
REDESIGN
TEXT REVISIONS
Chris Riss 954-540-7621
ChrisRiss@CastelliHomes.com
With home prices bouncing back, its time to buy in
Ft. Lauderdale, where the summer fun never ends!
Search South FL MLS at:
www.ChrisRissFtL.com
202.747.2077
MASSAGE / CERTIFIED
YOURE WORKING THAT BODY HARD.
Come to a professional massage
therapist offering the best deep tissue
massage available. Stretching, Swedish
& Sports massage. $70-1 hr./$100-90
mins. Dupont. Marcio (202) 271-9440.
www.MarciosMassage.com.
INDULGE YOURSELF WITH RELAXING,
DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE! Feel the
stress leave your body. CMT w/ 17 yrs
exp. Located in Logan/Dupont Circle.
www.DCMassageTherapist.com David
(202) 213-9646. Lic #MT410.
SOMETIMES ITS GOOD TO BE
SELFISH - Celebrate yourself with a
refreshing massage. Swedish, Deep
Tissue, Sports, Energy work. N.
Arlington, near Courthouse & Rosslyn.
Sun-Wed 12-9. Gary 301-704-1158
mymassagebygary.com.
ITALIAN JOCK GIvES full body massage.
Masculine, muscular, VGL masseur,
offers, full-body, Swedish, sports, deep
tissue massage on a table, including
stretching, shower available. See my
photos on www.massagem4m.com/
jockguy. Located downtown, parking
available. Credit Cards Accepted. Brian
312-961-7724.
YOU NEED ME. I knead you.
Experienced healing male hands
release pain, stress, tension & fatigue.
DC/vA appointments. 703-402-6698.
Energy work available.
SWEDISH, DEEP TISSUE, Sports,
Refexology by experienced
professional massage therapist.
VISA, MasterCard, AMEX. For more
information www.tracemassage.
com. To schedule an appointment
tracemassage@gmail.com or call
202-695-9663. LIC#MT375.
AUTOS
FAST CASH!!! WANTED Cars & Trucks.
Don t throw your money away, call
me! I will buy your vehicle. Call Marty
Salins, at Auto Plaza, in Rockville,
(301) 340-1390.
BODY & SOUL
BODY WAXING FOR MEN by Exp.
Licensed Male Tech, 20+ yrs, specialize
in backs, butts, privates. Painless Wax.
www.buffonbeets.com/studiowdc. For
an appt. 202-234-5848. Studio W.
BUY / SELL
CASH FOR GOLD, Silver, Coins,
Costume Jewelry & Watches.
Will travel. 301-520-0755.
CLEANING
TOO NEAT GUYS INC. Residential &
Commercial cleaning in DC & Northern
VA. Over 17 years experience, gay
owned, licensed, bonded & insured.
www.tooneatguys.com, email:
tooneat@comcast.net, (703) 622-5983.
FERNANDOS CLEANING: Residential
& Commercial Cleaning, Reasonable
Rates, Free Estimates, Routine, 1-Time,
Move-In/Move-Out. (202) 234-7050,
202-486-6183.
MAID TO CLEAN. Rated #1 in Metro
DC. Gay owned. Serving DC/VA/MD.
DC & VA (703) 299-0101. MD (301) 656-
7171. Visit www.maidtoclean.com.
COUNSELING
FEELING THE HOLIDAY Blues?
Are you stressed? Want a local
therapist? Call Meisha at Capitol
Hill Psychotherapy, LLC:
202-491-5531, or
email meisha.goodhue@gmail.com
RESULTS-ORIENTED
PSYCHOTHERAPY for individuals &
couples. Learn new ways to cope,
communicate, & connect. Near
Metro. Call Alicia George, MSW,
(202) 328-9055 or see
www.AliciaGeorge.com.
A MINDFULNESS-BASED MENTAL
HEALTH PRACTICE specializing
in a holistic approach to anxiety,
depression, careers, & relationships.
20 years experience helping people
identify & overcome impediments
to a fulflling life, satisfying careers,
& healthy relationships. Jonathan
Kirkendall MA LPC, 202.550.3589,
www.dclpc.com.
LGBTQ AFFIRMING THERAPY at
Dupont Circle Individuals, couples,
families, adolescents. Over 15
years serving the community. Mike
Giordano, LICSW. 202/460-6384
mi ke. gi ordano. msw@gmai l . com.
www.WhatIHearYouSaying.com.
COUNSELING FOR GAY MEN.
Individual/couple counseling with
volunteer peer counselor. Gay Mens
Counseling Community since 1973.
202-265-6495. gaymenscounseling.
org. No fees, donation requested.
CHANGES ARE EASIER WITH
HELP. Small, private practice
group of experienced, caring
therapists. Safe, confdential
setting. Offces in Woodley Park &
Takoma Park near Metro. Licensed
professionals. Insurance
reimbursable. Washington
Therapy Guild. Call 202-483-2660.
www.therapyguild.net.
DATING
12/5/12 7-9PM LESBIAN & Bisexual
Women Thirties & Forties Seated
Speed Dating visit us:
www.prosinthecity.com
to receive $5 off of event
WHEN PURCHASED IN ADvANCE.
Promo Code: BladeLesbian
EMPLOYMENT
TELEPHONE FUNDRAISER Looking
for progressive, social political
minded candidates.
Must work evening/weekend
hours. Competitive salary, f
lexible scheduling, & benefts.
Phone: 202-234-3903.
Email: hr@shareco.us.
LOCKER ROOM ATTENDANTS
NEEDED! The Crew Club, a gay mens
naturist gym & sauna, is now hiring
Locker Room Attendants. We all scrub
toilets & do heavy cleaning. You must
be physically able to handle the work
& have a great attitude doing it. No
drunks/druggies need apply. Please call
Richard at (202) 319-1333. from 9-5pm,
to schedule an interview.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
ADRIAN MICHAEL IS Now Styling at
VSL Hair Design 1607 Connecticut Ave
NW (202) 332-3757 Call & Book Your
Appointment Today or Just Walk-In My
Days of Operation: Friday-Saturday-
Sunday Open till Close
HOME IMPROVEMENT
CHASE RENOvATIONS. DESTINATION
for the most discerning home
improvement client. Kitchen & bath
makeovers, custom painting, hardwood
foors. No trim or millwork is too diffcult
for us. Jacek Kaczmarek. (240) 421-0852.
SHARE / REHOBOTH
REHOBOTH SUMMER PRIvATE room
in house, quiet setting, approximately
equal distance between Rehoboth
& Lewes w/ easy access to beach,
outlet shopping. Memorial-Labor Day.
rbfamingo@comcast.net.
RENT / REHOBOTH
REHOBOTH BEACH YEAR-ROUND
Rental In-Town Rehoboth Beach
cottage for rent year-round. 5 blocks
to ocean. Walk to restaurants, bars &
shops. Completely renovated in 2006.
2 BR, 2 BA, hdwd. foors, central air.
Unfurnished $1600/month or Furnished
$1800/month includes water/sewer/
lawn care. Available January 1.
beachkes@gmail.com 302-227-0509.
A D V E R T I S E
bladeclassifeds
BEST RATES
BEST RESULTS
OPEN HOUSE / DC
WOODRIDGE, DC OPEN Sat 1-3.
Living Area - Over 5000 Sq. Ft. 3 Level
Home with 4 Bdrms, 6 Baths, 3 Master
Bdrms + Top Floor Master Suite w/
wet bar, entertainment rm, Jacuzzi rm,
4 Walk-in Closets and Master Bath w/
bidet. Walk-out Basement w/patio &
off street parking with an extra large lot
for outdoor entertaining. 2612 Myrtle
Avenue, NE. Listing Price $899,000.00.
Contact: Carolyn Wilson, Morris Realty:
202-744-8592.
SALE / MD
HISTORIC MOUNT RAINIER
$289,995 Superb Opportunity!
4 Bedrooms!
2 Bathrooms!
Move-In Ready!
Great Yard!
Terric Renovation!
Emergency Generator Back-Up
just-in-case!
LARRY PERRIN, Realtor (R)
(301) 983-0601. LJPerrin@aol.com.
MONTGOMERY VILLAGE
TOWNHOUSES
* $259,995 3 Lovely Levels! 3
Bedrooms! 2 1/2 Bathrooms! Full
Basement, Fenced Yard
*$199,995 Four Incredible Levels!
3 Bedrooms! 2 1/2 Bathrooms!
Master Suite! Party Room Basement!
Separate Dining! Country Kitchen!
LARRY PERRIN REALTOR (R)
(301) 983-0601 LJPerrin@aol.com.
INSURANCE
NATIONWIDE INSURANCE GAY
Owned Insurance Agency, we are
on your side for Auto, Home, & Life
insurance. David Cropper Agency.
Call today 877-822-9495 or email
cropped@nationwide.com.
LEGAL SERVICES
FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM Representing
the GLBT community for over 30 years.
Family adoptions, estate planning,
immigration, employment. (301) 891-
2200. Silber, Perlman, Sigman & Tilev,
P.A. www.SP-Law. com.
ADOPTION & ASSISTED
REPRODUCTIVE Law Attorney
Jennifer Fairfax represents clients in
Maryland & D.C. interested in adoption
or ART matters. 301-221-9651,
JFairfax@jenniferfairfax.com.
LIMOUSINES / DRIVERS
KASPERS LIVERY SERVICE Gay Veteran
Owned Operated Since 1987! 2013 BMW
740LI Special Airport Rates! 24 Hour
Reservations 202-554-2471 800-455-2471
www.KasperLivery.com Click the rates tab!
MOVERS
JOHN HENRY MOVERS since 1990,
Experienced, Equipped, Honest.
Pianos & Packing. Please visit us at
www.johnhenrymovers.com or call,
703-597-5561.
OUR TWO GUYS at MovingMovers.
com. Professional Movers. Let Our
Guys Do The Heavy Lifting. Mention
the Blade for 10% off of our regular
rates. Call today 202.730.1075.
www.movingmovers.com.
PETS & SUPPLIES
ADOPT AN ADORABLE PUPPY OR
DOG All-breed, non-prot rescue. 100%
volunteer run. Donations welcome &
needed. www.aforeverhome.org.
LOOKING FOR THAT special
someone? Loving vet-checked
cats & kittens waiting to meet
you. Feline Foundation 703-920-
8665. Application & adoption fair
schedule online at www.ffgw.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY
STEVE OTOOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Fine Art Photographer for portraits,
weddings & dating photos for
the internet. Call (703) 532-3031.
www.steveotoolephotography.com.
MEMORIES OF YOUR Lifetime.
Special days & events of your life
should be recorded for posterity -
birthdays, showers, engagement,
weddings, bar nights, club meetings
etc. Call Jim at 202-679-0009 or jim@
throughthelensphotographyllc.com.
ANN LITTLE PHOTGRAPHY Executive
& personal portraits. Available for
weddings & corporate & non-prot
conferences, meetings, & speakers.
www.annlittlephoto.com 202-679-1249
ROOFING
PJ MCTAVISH & CO. Roong Repairs,
New Roof, Gutter Cleaning. Licensed -
Bonded Insured. See our display ad in
this issue. 301-476-8551.
SHARE ADS ARE
OH YES, THEYRE FREE!
Place your housing to share ad on
www.washingtonblade.com
and the ads print free in
the paper and online!
(25 words or less prints free - anything more it is $1.00 per word)
Hours Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat 9 am-8 pm Sun Closed
3371 Fort Meade Road, Laurel
Online Chat Available...24 Hour Website
www.ourismanvw.com
1.888.797.3399
Ourisman VW of Laurel
All prices exclude tax, tags, title, freight and $200 processing fee. Cannot be combined with any previous advertised or internet special. Pictures are for illustrative purposes only.
See dealer for details. 0% APR Up To 72 Months on all GAS Models. Ourisman VW World Auto Certified Pre Owned financing for 72 months based on credit approval thru VW.
Excludes Title, Tax, Options & Dealer Fees. Special APR financing cannot be combined with sale prices. Ends 11/30/12.
YOU ALWAYS GET YOUR WAY
AT OURISMAN EVERYDAY!
OURISMAN VW
OF LAUREL
Das Auto. Das Auto.
OURISMAN VW WORLD AUTO CERTIFIED PRE OWNED
3 Years or 36,000 Miles of No-Charge Scheduled Maintenance.
Whichever occurs first. Some restrictions. See dealer or program for details
300
JETTA / PASSAT /
TIGUAN
IN STOCK
G559188
2012 GTI
#4300593, 200HP, Power Windows/Power Locks,
Bluetooth, CD Changer, Aluminum Wheels
MSRP
$
24,765
0
%
A
P
R

7
2

m
o
s
.
B
a
s
e
d
o
n
A
p
p
ro
v
e
d C
re
d
it
U
p

T
o
MSRP
$
23,460
2012 PASSAT S
BUY FOR
$
18,999 BUY FOR
$
20,995
2012 JETTA SEDAN TDI
#7399053, Power Windows/Power Locks,
Keyless Entry, Up to 42 mpg epa highway
MSRP
$
23,580 BUY FOR
$
20,995
22 Available...Rates Starting at 2.64% up to 72 months
MSRP
$
27,840
2012 ROUTAN S
BUY FOR
$
20,999 MSRP
$
25,005 BUY FOR
$
21,999 MSRP
$
29,725
2012 TIGUAN SE
BUY FOR
$
24,999
#9075929, Appearance Package, Power Windows/
Power Locks, Aluminum Wheels, Automatic
Transmission, Bluetooth, Cruise Control
#13539735, Power Windows, Power Locks, Bluetooth,
Leather Seats
Cruise Control, Bluetooth
#3345696, Power Windows/Power Locks, Keyless
Entry, Heated Seats, Up to 42 mpg epa highway
2012 GOLF TDI
NEW 2012 BEETLE 2 DOOR
Keyless Entry
MSRP
$
19,800 BUY FOR
$
15,999
2012 GOLF 2 DOOR
#3307579, Automatic, Convenience Package, Power
Windows/Power Locks, Keyless Entry, Heated Seats,
Bluetooth, Cruise Control
MSRP $20,320 BUY FOR
$
16,999
LA
ST
O
N
E!
2013 JETTA S
BUY FOR
$
16,299 MSRP
$
17,740
#7383290, Power Windows, Power Locks
LA
ST
O
N
E!
washington blade) and to hold brown naff pitts

Language

121130

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

121130

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

U.S.

CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

Modern Roman Shades

Privacy Sheers or Modern

Gliding Window Panels