Volume 42, Issue 52 - December 30, 2011

D E C E M B E R 3 0 2 0 1 1 V O L U M E 4 2 I S S U E 5 2 O U R C O M M U N I T Y, O U R S T O R I E S S I N C E 1 9 6 9 W A S H I N G T O N B L A D E .
C O M
kamenys death
BILL KILLED
ANTI-TRANS VIOLENCE
BEATING ON VIDEO EBBIN ELECTED
CELEBRATING MILESTONES WONE SETTLES
SAYING GOODBYE
TRANS GROUP FORMS DELAWARE CIVIL UNIONS
dont ask is history

DEFENDING DOMA YOUNG SUICIDES
MARRIAGE NEW YORK
BARNEY FRANK
GAY INTERN HERO INTERNATIONAL RIGHTS
ANTI-GAY GOP
PROP 8 HRCS LOSS

2012 PROMISES IT GETS BETTER
anticipating the year

WE MATTER
outspoken DANCING CHAZ out of the closet

gaga for gays TELEVISION WEDDINGS
HOMOPHOBIA THE TALKIES
GAY ON GAY HATE STAGE NOTES
AWARDING GAYS a gleeful lesbian

SHEEPISH BUNCH
theatrical high GETTING GAME countdown
02 DECEMBER 30, 2011
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LOCAL NEWS
Kamenys death is local LGBT story of the year
Activist FRANK KAMENY died on Oct. 11, which is National Coming Out Day.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
Activists, public ofcials mourn loss of pioneering gure

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. [email protected]
Local and national public ofcials joined D.C.s LGBT community in remembering the life and accomplishments of veteran gay rights leader Frank Kameny at memorial events this fall following Kamenys death in Washington on Oct. 11. Kameny, 86, is credited with being one of the leading strategists for the early gay rights movement beginning at least a decade before the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New Yorks Greenwich Village, which historians consider the starting point for the modern LGBT rights movement. LGBT movement leaders who knew Kameny say he laid the groundwork for the movement to advance following the Stonewall Riots and going forward, playing a pivotal role in advancing the cause of LGBT equality over a period of 50 years. Frank Kameny is one of the most
signicant gures in the history of the American gay rights movement, said D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray at a Nov. 3 memorial viewing for Kameny at the citys Carnegie Library building. Gray was joined at the memorial viewing by several members of the D.C. City Council, including gay Council members David Catania (I-At-Large) and Jim Graham (D-Ward 1); D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier and D.C. Congressional Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D). A gay Air Force sergeant and four gay military veterans in full dress uniform, including gay former Army Lt. Dan Choi, joined Catania and Graham as pallbearers, carrying an American ag-draped cofn bearing Kamenys remains into the buildings ceremonial atrium. Organizers of the ceremony, led by local activists and Kameny friends Bob Witeck and Charles Frances, said the ag-draped cofn honored Kameny, among other things, for his service in the Army in World War II, where he served in combat in Europe. Among other accomplishments, activists said Kameny became the rst known gay person to publicly challenge an act of anti-gay discrimination when he
sued the federal government for ring him from his job in 1957 as a civilian astronomer with the U.S. Army Map Service because of his sexual orientation. After losing his case in the lower courts, Kameny set yet another precedent by bringing the rst known gay-related case before the U.S. Supreme Court. The high court upheld a lower court ruling against Kameny and refused to take his case on the merits. But in a 61-page legal brief petitioning the court to take the case, which Kameny wrote, he pulled together what some gay historians consider a gay rights manifesto that became the underpinning of the LGBT rights movement for years to come. In a second memorial for Kameny held Nov. 15 at the Cannon House Ofce Building on Capitol Hill, several public ofcials, including members of Congress and an Obama administration ofcial, cited Kamenys role as a national civil rights gure. His life cleared the path that I and countless others followed into public service, said John Berry, director of the U.S. Ofce of Personnel Management, who in 2009 became the Obama administrations highest-level openly gay appointee. His unrelenting and unceasing ght
for gay rights enabled other Americans to step out of the closet and into the full light of equality, Berry told the gathering. But most importantly, his long battle and eventual triumphs show the miracles that one person wrought upon the world. Kamenys friends and colleagues said they were saddened over his passing but uplifted in knowing that Kameny lived to see many of the LGBT rights initiatives he fought for come to fruition, including an apology by the government, more than 50 years later, for its decision to re him. Kameny also lived to see the Library of Congress acquire more than 50,000 documents from his gay rights-related papers collection; the Smithsonian Institutions American History Museum acquire and display picket signs he and his fellow activists carried in gay rights protests in the 1960s; the D.C. governments naming a section of 17th Street, N.W., near Dupont Circle as Frank Kameny Way; and a decision by city ofcials to designate Kamenys house as an historic landmark. Arrangements are being made for a burial service for Kamenys ashes at D.C.s historic Congressional Cemetery in the spring.
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LOCAL NEWS
The rest of the years top local stories

Md. marriage ght, trans shootings dominate headlines
By LOU CHIBBARO JR. [email protected]
Frank Kamenys death is our pick for the top local news story of 2011. Here are the rest of the top 10 local news stories of the year.
Maryland Gov. MARTIN OMALLEY announced he would sponsor a 2012 bill to legalize samesex marriage after the measure died in 2011.
Md. marriage bill killed, resurrected

A bill to legalize same-sex marriage in Maryland died in the state legislature in March following a controversial behind-thescenes decision by supportive lawmakers and leaders of LGBT rights groups to cancel a nal vote on the bill on grounds that they lacked enough votes to pass it. The action to pull the bill took place March 11 when the Maryland House of Delegates approved a motion by voice vote to recommit the bill to committee following an emotional two-and-a-half-hour debate over the measure on the House oor. The withdrawal of the bill came less than a month after the Maryland Senate passed the measure, the Civil Marriage Protection Act, by a vote of 25-21. A little over a month after the bills demise, the board of directors of Equality Maryland, the state LGBT advocacy group
that led lobbying efforts for the bill, red its executive director Morgan MenesesSheets. The ring prompted the groups development director, Matthew Thorn, to resign in protest, worsening the groups existing nancial problems and leading to a major shakeup of the board and staff. Meanwhile, Maryland Gov. Martin OMalley, who backed the bill but didnt aggressively lobby for it, promised later in the year to take a lead role in pushing the measure in the legislatures 2012 session, which convenes in January. Supporters are hopeful the bill will pass this time around but are uncertain whether it could survive an expected voter referendum.
Rash of anti-trans violence in D.C.

More than a dozen reported violent attacks against transgender women in D.C. in 2011, including two murders, prompted transgender activist Ruby Corado to declare that the transgender community of D.C. was in crisis. D.C. police, who made arrests in some of the assaults but not for the two murders, said
they have no evidence to indicate a single perpetrator is responsible for the attacks. In August, an unidentied male suspect shot 23-year-old transgender woman Lashai Mclean to death on Dix St., N.E., near the D.C.-Maryland line. Eleven days later a male suspect red a gun at another transgender woman just a block from where Mclean was killed. The woman was not hit, but police expressed concern that trans women might have been targeted in that area, which is known as a location where transgender prostitutes congregate. In September, aerospace engineer Gaurav Gigi Gopalan, 35, was found dead on a sidewalk in a residential section of the citys Columbia Heights neighborhood. Most of his friends said he identied as a gay man, but he was dressed in womens clothes when found unconscious by police, who said the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head. No suspects have been identied in the case. The string of attacks and two murders of victims believed to be targeted because of their gender identity prompted at least two protests by trans activists, who called on police to devote more resources to investigate the mostly unsolved cases of anti-trans violence.
The attack of CHRISSY LEE POLIS in a Baltimore-area McDonalds was captured in a video that went viral online.
Beating of Md. trans woman caught on video

The beating of 23-year-old transgender woman Chrissy Lee Polis at a McDonalds restaurant outside Baltimore in April created a national sensation when a video of the attack went viral over the Internet. The video, made by a McDonalds employee, showed two teenage girls punching and kicking Polis as she was sprawled on the oor covering her face and head with her arms. At one point, the video showed one of the female attackers dragging Polis across the oor by her hair. Polis, who suffered non-life threatening injuries, became a human face for what transgender activists say is the longstanding prejudice, misunderstanding and haterelated violence experienced by the transgender community. Public ofcials,
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LOCAL NEWS
Top local stories of 2011

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 06
including Maryland Gov. Martin OMalley, promised in the wake of the Polis attack to redouble efforts to pass a transgender non-discrimination bill in the Maryland Legislature in 2012. The two women who attacked Polis, a 19-year-old and a 14-year-old, pleaded guilty to assault and hate crime charges. The 19-year-old was sentenced to ve years in prison. Authorities said the 14-year-old was given an undisclosed sentence in the states juvenile justice system.
The D.C. COWBOYS announced it would disband after 18 years of memorable performances on local, national and even international stages.
Notoriously anti-gay Virginia elected its rst openly gay state senator, ADAM EBBIN, who has served in the House of Delegates since 2004.
PHOTO COURTESY OF EBBIN
Adam Ebbin elected rst gay Va. state senator

Gay Democrat Adam Ebbin, who has served in the Virginia House of Delegates since 2004, won election in November to the Virginia Senate, becoming the states rst openly gay senator. Ebbin defeated Republican challenger and political newcomer Timothy McGhee by a margin of 64 percent to 35 percent. He ran in a district in Northern Virginia with a solid Democratic majority that includes parts of the City of Alexandria and Arlington and Fairfax Counties. He emerged as an outspoken advocate for LGBT equality during his tenure as the states only out gay member of the
House of Delegates. He said one of his top priorities in the Senate will be to push legislation to ban job discrimination against state government employees based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. I am honored by the trust the voters have shown in me, Ebbin said following his election to the Senate. During the campaign I listened to the voters concerns and will work on behalf of the values we all share: improving our public schools, expanding our transit system and cleaning up Virginias environment.
Ganymede, D.C. Cowboys, Apex say goodbye

Two popular gay arts and entertainment groups announced plans in 2011 to disband and a third venue, the Dupont Circle gay nightclub Apex, closed its doors for good in July. Ganymede Arts, D.C.s only gay-specic
theater and arts company, announced in April it was closing after a four-year run that included Broadway-style productions of shows such as Naked Boys Singing and Falsettos. Members of the companys board, including director Jeffrey Johnson, cited nancial difculties as the main reason for their decision to close the company. Artistically its always been very successful, Johnson said. But theres never been anything left over after each production. The D.C. Cowboys, a local dance troupe for gay men, also announced its closing, in this case in 2012, after 18 years of performances at clubs, gay rodeos, and the citys annual LGBT Pride parade and festival. The group, which some considered a gay Chippendale troupe geared to country-western music, has been praised for the dance talent of its members who sometimes perform bare-chested. Apex surprised many of its loyal customers when it closed in July without advance notice. Owner Glen Thompson, who also owns the nearby gay bar Omega, sold Apex to Alan Carroll, the owner of
the D.C. gay clubs Ziegfelds-Secrets and the lesbian club Phase One. Carroll said he plans to open a new club in the Apex building at 22nd and P St., N.W., that will cater to a mostly lesbian clientele.
New Md. trans group forms after bill dies

A transgender non-discrimination bill died in the Maryland Legislature in April after the State Senate startled supporters by voting 27 to 20 to send the Gender Identity Non-Discrimination Act back to committee. LGBT advocates lobbying for the bill, including ofcials with the state LGBT group Equality Maryland, said at least seven Democratic senators who promised to vote for the bill changed their positions and indicated they would vote no if the measure came up for a vote. The Senate action came one month after the House of Delegates voted 86 to 52 to approve a compromise version of the bill that included protections against discrimination in employment and housing
LOCAL NEWS
Top local stories of 2011
Transgender advocate DANA BEYER co-founded the group Gender Rights Maryland in 2011.
but did not include a prohibition against public accommodations discrimination. Supporters of the bill in the House, including its lead sponsor, said they didnt have the votes needed to pass the bill if it included a public accommodations provision, which would cover public bathrooms and locker rooms in facilities such as health clubs and gyms. The bills demise prompted transgender activists in the state to launch Gender Rights Maryland, the states rst statewide transgender advocacy organization. Transgender activist Dana Beyer of Montgomery County, one of the groups cofounders, said Gender Rights Maryland would coordinate efforts to pass a transgender rights bill in the legislatures 2012 session.
D.C.s AIDS WALK, organized by Whitman-Walker Health, turned 25 in 2011.

they didnt have the political support in the state to pass a same-sex marriage bill. Goodman, an attorney, said the civil unions law would provide same-sex couples and their families, including children, with crucial legal protections that they would not have without the civil unions measure.
Delaware approves civil unions

The Delaware Legislature in April approved a civil unions bill that provides same-sex couples with all of the rights and benets of marriage under Delaware law. The measure cleared the Delaware House of Representatives by a vote of 2615 and cleared the State Senate by a vote of 13-6. Gov. Jack Markell, a Democrat, signed the bill. Lisa Goodman, president of the board of Equality Delaware, a statewide LGBT group coordinating lobbying efforts for the bill, said the group and other LGBT organizations and advocates determined
Local groups celebrate milestones

The D.C. Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance, the citys oldest continuously operating LGBT rights group, celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011. And Whitman-Walker Health, the citys largest private clinic treating people with HIV and AIDS, organized its 25th annual Washington AIDS Walk, the groups main fundraising event. Nov. 15 marked the 50th anniversary of the founding by the Mattachine Society of Washington, the citys rst gay rights advocacy organization. That milestone
became less of a celebration than had been expected due to the death a few weeks earlier of Frank Kameny, the groups co-founder and leader. Mattachine Society of Washington ceased operating as an organization in the early 1970s, when Kameny and other leaders of the group shifted their efforts to the then newly formed Gay Activists Alliance, which later became the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance. But activists familiar with the citys gay movement history say Mattachine Society of Washington left an important legacy as a groundbreaking gay advocacy group.
Wone case settlement

Three gay men named as defendants in a $20 million wrongful death lawsuit over the 2006 murder of attorney Robert Wone inside their Dupont Circle area townhouse agreed in August to an out-of-court settlement in the case with Wones widow,
who led the lawsuit. A statement released Aug. 3 by attorneys representing Kathy Wone said defendants Joseph Price, Victor Zaborsky, and Dylan Ward have agreed to a monetary settlement, including payments to the Robert E. Wone Memorial Trust. The statement didnt disclose the amount of money the defendants agreed to pay Mrs. Wone. It said she would use some of the money to advance the causes her husband believed in, including college scholarships and free legal services to people in need. The three gay defendants were found not-guilty at a criminal trial in which they were charged with obstruction of justice, conspiracy to obstruct justice and evidence tampering in connection with Wones murder. Authorities havent charged anyone with the murder. D.C. police and the U.S. Attorneys ofce say the case remains open and they continue to seek more evidence to charge someone with Wones murder. Price, Zaborsky, and Ward and their attorneys didnt respond to requests for comment.
NATIONAL NEWS
Top story of 2011: Dont Ask is history
PRESIDENT OBAMA signed the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell in December 2010, but it didnt take effect until September 2011.
Gay service members rejoin military, come out after anti-gay law disappears
By CHRIS JOHNSON [email protected]
The anti-gay law known as Dont Ask, Dont Tell nally came to an end on Sept. 20 after prohibiting open gays from serving in the U.S. military for 18 years. No other news event had as much impact on the LGBT community as the lifting of the ban allowing an estimated 66,000 gay people to begin serving openly which is why were naming the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell as the story of the year for 2011. The law came to an end thanks to repeal legislation that President Obama signed into law in December 2010. The bill provided for an end to Dont Ask, Dont Tell after 60 days passed following certication from the president, the defense secretary and the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. After months of training and preparing service members for open service, Obama
and defense leaders sent notication to Congress that they had certied an end to Dont Ask, Dont Tell on July 22. In accordance with the repeal legislation, the ban was lifted 60 days later from the books. Alex Nicholson, executive director of Servicmembers United, said the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell was the result of persistent hard work of unwavering advocates, especially those who have been directly impacted by this issue, and some courageous politicians over the past six years. As a result, those who continue to serve can sleep easier tonight knowing that they can no longer be arbitrarily red because of their sexual orientation, Nicholson said. Justice has prevailed and Dont Ask, Dont Tell is dead. According to Servicemembers United, an estimated 14,346 service members were discharged under Dont Ask, Dont Tell over the course of 18 years before the ban was lifted. Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, called the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell a historic milestone along the journey to achieving LGBT equality in Americas military. Thanks to veterans, active duty, leaders, allies and supporters everywhere, this is a monumental day for our service members
and our nation, Sarvis said. Indeed, we have taken a tremendous leap forward for LGBT equality in the military. In the wake of lifting the ban, a number of service members who had previously kept their sexual orientation hidden made public the fact that they are gay. Air Force 1st Lt. Josh Seefried, co-director of the group OutServe who formerly went under the alias J.D. Smith, was among those who made his sexual orientation known. Seefried, a New Jersey-based nance director for the Air Force, said during a news conference on Sept. 20 that being able to take part fully in the military family was particularly important to him. Thats what the military brags about so much is having that aspect of being part of the family, being part of the team, Seefried said. I almost resented the Air Force for not giving me that opportunity to be part of that team, not being able to bring someone to an event. Now I feel like I can go back to work and I can be part of that team now and actually be honest. Capt. Sarah Pezzat, a D.C.-based Marine Corps reservist who served in operations in Haiti, Iraq and Somalia, said at the same event that the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell made Sept. 20 feel markedly different than previous days.
For me, it feels different because Ive been waiting for this day for a long time, Pezzat said. I can post about it on Facebook, I can tell my co-workers if I want to what I did last weekend, things like that. The end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell preceded a number of other rsts for the U.S. military after the implementation of open service. For example, at the Marine Corps balls throughout the country where attendees celebrated the services 236th birthday, gay Marines attended with samesex partners for the rst time. Observers have also said the end of the militarys ban would make gay service members more visible, and, in turn, build on efforts to advance same-sex marriage or employment non-discrimination protections for LGBT people. Jeff Krehely, director of the LGBT research and communications project at the Center for American Progress, said prior to the lifting of the ban that open service would be signicant for many Americans not just those in the military. Dont Ask, Dont Tell repeal is huge and tremendous, but I think there are much larger implications for society because a lot of people really respect the military, Krehely said.
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NATIONAL NEWS
2011: A year of milestones, tragedies, courtroom ghts

From N.Y. marriage to Franks retirement, another year to remember in LGBT news
The story of the year was the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell. Here are our picks for the rest of 2011s top LGBT news stories.
N.Y. approves marriage

The Empire State became the sixth and most populous state in the country to legalize same-sex marriage in June when the legislature passed and Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) signed into law a bill legalizing marriage rights for gay couples. Upon passage of the legislation, Cuomo said New York has nally torn down the barrier that has prevented same-sex couples from exercising the freedom to marry and from receiving the fundamental protections that so many couples and families take for granted. The achievement marks the rst time that a Republican-controlled legislative chamber in this case, the New York State Senate passed legislation in this country legalizing same-sex marriage. The law went into effect in the state on July 24. Kitty Lambert and Cheryle Rudd, a lesbian couple from Buffalo, N.Y., wed in Niagara Falls at midnight and became the rst couple in the state to benet from the law.
NEW YORKERS celebrated the passage of a same-sex marriage law during Junes Pride festivities.
Rep. Barney Frank retires

The longest-serving openly gay member of Congress announced in November that he wouldnt seek a 17th term in the U.S. House. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), 71, was rst elected to Congress in 1980. The lawmaker made his sexual orientation known in 1987 becoming the second to do so after Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.). Frank said redistricting in Massachusetts and his desire to retire before reaching age 75 prompted his decision not to run. I have enjoyed indeed been enormously honored by the chance to represent others in Congress and the State Legislature, but there are other things I hope
to do before my career ends, Frank said. The lawmaker is credited with helping shepherd through the passage of hate crimes protections legislation and Dont Ask, Dont Tell repeal in the 111th Congress. But Frank was criticized by transgender activists in 2007 for dropping gender identity protections from the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. The gay-only bill ultimately died in the Senate. His most enduring legacy will likely be the passage of Wall Street reform legislation commonly known as DoddFrank, which he pushed through as chair of the House Financial Services Committee.
Obama wont defend DOMA; Boehner hires counsel

The Obama administration made a signicant reversal in policy in February when it announced it would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court. In a Feb. 22 letter, the U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder notied Congress that laws related to sexual orientation,
Rep. Barney Frank announced in November that he wouldnt seek a 17th term in the House.
House Speaker John Boehner announced that he would hire counsel to defend DOMA in court after the Obama administration said it would no longer do so.
such as DOMA, which prohibits federal recognition of same-sex marriage, should be subjected to heightened scrutiny. The president has also concluded that Section 3 of DOMA, as applied to legally married same-sex couples, fails to meet that standard and is therefore unconstitutional, Holder said. Obamas decision riled House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), who accused the
president of abandoning his constitutional duties. In March, Boehner convened the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group, which on a 3-2 party-line basis voted to defend the law in court in the administrations stead. To assist the House general counsel in defending the law, Boehner hired private
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NATIONAL NEWS
Top national stories of 2011
Hillary Clinton delivered a sweeping pro-LGBT speech in December calling for other nations to respect gay rights as human rights.
Gay intern DANIEL HERNANDEZ was credited with helping to save the life of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords after she was shot.
WASHINGTON BLADE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
attorney Paul Clement, a U.S. solicitor general under former President George W. Bush. The cost of the private attorney was initially announced at a blended rate of $520 an hour and total cost cap of $150,000, but Boehner later bumped up the cost cap to $1.5 million.
Giffords shot; gay intern hailed as hero

The nation recoiled in horror in January after pro-LGBT Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) became one of 20 people shot people by a gunman during a town hall event in her district. Daniel Hernandez Jr., a gay 20-yearold who had worked as an intern for Giffords for just ve days at the time of the shooting, was credited with providing the rst aid that saved her life. The attitude that I had, Hernandez said, was trying to make sure that those who had been injured were going to be OK, so to try to provide whatever rst aid I could until someone else could come in and take over. Medics arrived on the scene to take Giffords and others to the University Medical Center in Arizona. Giffords slowly recovered and made her rst appearance on the House oor in August to vote in favor of the agreement to raise the debt ceiling limit. At a memorial service, President
Obama called Hernandez a hero during his eulogy. The White House invited Hernandez along with his father, Danny Hernandez Sr., to sit alongside rst lady Michelle Obama during the State of the Union address in January.
Clinton, Obama endorse intl LGBT rights

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in December gave a high-prole speech in Geneva, Switzerland in which she spoke out against human rights abuses committed against LGBT people overseas. During the speech, Clinton reiterated her previously held belief that human rights are gay rights and gay rights are human rights and said LGBT people overseas have an ally in the United States of America. It is a violation of human rights when people are beaten or killed because of their sexual orientation, or because they do not conform to cultural norms about how men and women should look or behave, Clinton said. Clinton gave the speech on Dec. 6 in
observance of Human Rights Day, which recognizes the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on Dec. 10, 1948 by the U.N. General Assembly. More than 1,000 diplomats and experts were in attendance. On the same day, President Obama issued a memorandum to government agencies urging them to step up efforts against anti-LGBT human rights abuses abroad. Among other things, the memo calls on agencies to work against the criminalization of homosexual acts overseas and directs the State Department to lead a standing group to respond swiftly to serious incidents threatening LGBT human rights abroad.
JAMEY RODEMEYER was just 14 when he committed suicide.

WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO
Jamey Rodemeyer commits suicide

A 14-year-old from Williamsville, N.Y. took his own life in September after his parents said he was subjected to bullying in school over his sexual orientation. Jamey Rodemeyer, who attended Williamsville North High School, took his life in an apparent hanging. Prior to his death, he sent his last message in
the form of a tweet to Lady Gaga, which read, Bye Mother Monster. Thank you for all you have done. Paws up forever. Rodemeyer made a video for the It Gets Better project, a website dedicated to preventing teen suicide, in which he identied as bisexual and described the harassment he endured
NATIONAL NEWS
Top national stories of 2011
Former Sen. RICK SANTORUM said he would resinstate Dont Ask, Dont Tell if elected president.
from other students. I just want to tell you that it does get better [be]cause when I came out for being bi I got so much support from my friends and it made me feel so secure, Rodemeyer says in the video. Rodemeyers death inspired outrage across the nation. Lady Gaga told her fans via Twitter she spent the days after his suicide reecting, crying and yelling. She later met with President Obama over the issue of bullying.
HRC President JOE SOLMONESE announced in August that he would step down after six years at the helm of the nations leading LGBT advocacy group.
GOP hopefuls tout anti-gay views

Presidential election season ofcially kicked off this year as Republican candidates seeking to oust President Obama from the White House touted their anti-gay views. Former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum likely took the prize for emphasizing anti-gay positions most often in his campaign. In addition to pledging to reinstate Dont Ask, Dont Tell, Santorum said, our country will fail as a result of same-sex marriage. He also raised eyebrows in August when he said same-sex marriage is like saying this glass of water is a glass of beer. Activists with Truth Wins Out revealed the therapy clinic that Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) co-owns with her husband, Marcus Bachmann, engages in widely discredited exgay conversion therapy aimed at turning gay people straight. The
candidate has refused to answer questions about the clinic. A total of ve contenders former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Santorum, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Bachmann each penned their name to an anti-gay pledge from the National Organization for Marriage. Signing the document commits them to backing a U.S. constitutional amendment against same-sex marriage and to defending the Defense of Marriage of Act in court.
Prop 8 ght continues in California

Litigation seeking to overturn Proposition 8 progressed through the courts this year amid questions over whether proponents have standing to defend the law and whether the sexual orientation of the judge who ruled against the marriage ban should have disqualied him. In the case of Perry v. Brown, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in January sent the question of whether Prop 8 proponents had standing to
defend the amendment in court to the California Supreme Court. The question emerged after state ofcials declined to litigate on behalf of the same-sex marriage ban. In November, the California high court issued a unanimous decision that Protect Marriage and other groups who worked to pass the anti-gay initiative in 2008 indeed could continue the case. Another challenge to U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walkers decision emerged in April after the retired magistrate told reporters hes gay and has been living with a samesex partner for 10 years. Proponents of Prop 8 said Walker should have recused himself from the case. But in June, U.S. District Judge James Ware ruled that Walkers sexual orientation wasnt a factor in the judges decision to rule against Prop 8 and upheld the previous decision. The antigay activists appealed the ruling to the Ninth Circuit. The Ninth Circuit heard oral arguments on whether Walkers sexual orientation should have disqualied him as well as whether the tapes of the trial should be made public. The appellate court has yet to make a decision on any of these issues.
Solmonese steps down from HRC

The head of the Human Rights Campaign announced in August that after six years he would be stepping down as president of the nations largest LGBT organization. The co-chairs of the board of directors of HRC and its sister organization, the HRC Foundation, said Joe Solmonese will remain as head of both organizations until the completion of his contract in March to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Solmonese oversaw the defeat of the Federal Marriage Amendment in 2006 as well as passage of hate crimes protections legislation and repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell. But he alienated many transgender activists in 2007 when he declined to oppose a decision by House Democratic leaders to remove protections for transgender people from the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. The search committee seeking Solmoneses replacement is being cochaired by board members Joni Madison of North Carolina and Dana Perlman of Los Angeles. The replacement has yet to be announced.
1 6 DECEMBER 3 0 , 2 0 1 1
NATIONAL NEWS
2011: A year of milestones, tragedies, courtroom ghts

From N.Y. marriage to Franks retirement, another year to remember in LGBT news
The story of the year was the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell. Here are our picks for the rest of 2011s top LGBT news stories.
N.Y. approves marriage

The Empire State became the sixth and most populous state in the country to legalize same-sex marriage in June when the legislature passed and Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) signed into law a bill legalizing marriage rights for gay couples. Upon passage of the legislation, Cuomo said New York has nally torn down the barrier that has prevented same-sex couples from exercising the freedom to marry and from receiving the fundamental protections that so many couples and families take for granted. The achievement marks the rst time that a Republican-controlled legislative chamber in this case, the New York State Senate passed legislation in this country legalizing same-sex marriage. The law went into effect in the state on July 24. Kitty Lambert and Cheryle Rudd, a lesbian couple from Buffalo, N.Y., wed in Niagara Falls at midnight and became the rst couple in the state to benet from the law.
NEW YORKERS celebrated the passage of a same-sex marriage law during Junes Pride festivities.
Rep. Barney Frank retires

The longest-serving openly gay member of Congress announced in November that he wouldnt seek a 17th term in the U.S. House. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), 71, was rst elected to Congress in 1980. The lawmaker made his sexual orientation known in 1987 becoming the second to do so after Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.). Frank said redistricting in Massachusetts and his desire to retire before reaching age 75 prompted his decision not to run. I have enjoyed indeed been enormously honored by the chance to represent others in Congress and the State Legislature, but there are other things I hope
to do before my career ends, Frank said. The lawmaker is credited with helping shepherd through the passage of hate crimes protections legislation and Dont Ask, Dont Tell repeal in the 111th Congress. But Frank was criticized by transgender activists in 2007 for dropping gender identity protections from the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. The gay-only bill ultimately died in the Senate. His most enduring legacy will likely be the passage of Wall Street reform legislation commonly known as DoddFrank, which he pushed through as chair of the House Financial Services Committee.
Obama wont defend DOMA; Boehner hires counsel

The Obama administration made a signicant reversal in policy in February when it announced it would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court. In a Feb. 22 letter, the U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder notied Congress that laws related to sexual orientation,
Rep. Barney Frank announced in November that he wouldnt seek a 17th term in the House.
House Speaker John Boehner announced that he would hire counsel to defend DOMA in court after the Obama administration said it would no longer do so.
such as DOMA, which prohibits federal recognition of same-sex marriage, should be subjected to heightened scrutiny. The president has also concluded that Section 3 of DOMA, as applied to legally married same-sex couples, fails to meet that standard and is therefore unconstitutional, Holder said. Obamas decision riled House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), who accused the
president of abandoning his constitutional duties. In March, Boehner convened the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group, which on a 3-2 party-line basis voted to defend the law in court in the administrations stead. To assist the House general counsel in defending the law, Boehner hired private
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The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network held a celebration at the K Street Lounge on Sept. 20 the day that the repeal of the militarys Dont Ask, Dont Tell policy went into effect. PHOTO BY PETE EXIS
The Gay Mens Chorus of Washington held a show called Lets Hear it for the Boys celebrating the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell at the Church of the Epiphany In February. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
Lesbian Maryland Del. Mary Washington (D - District 43) gave an impassioned speech for marriage equality during the debate over the issue in March. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
A spontaneous rally erupted in front of the White House following the news that Osama Bin Laden had been killed. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray congratulated graduates of a city jobs training program for transgender residents called Project Empowerment in October. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
Troops were trained on issues surrounding the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell at the Quantico Marine Base on May 23. Trainings like this one took place across the military. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY
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Anticipating the whirlwind year ahead

2012 to deliver more historic moments in LGBT movement
The year to come promises even bigger news, as cases on marriage work their way through the courts, Maryland attempts to pass gender identity non-discrimination and marriage equality bills, and, of course, the 2012 elections approach. Were not just electing a president in 2012, but the nation could see its rst openly gay senator as Rep. Tammy Baldwin attempts to make history in Wisconsin. We will work hard to cover all the LGBT angles to those stories and more, starting immediately in the New Year as we dispatch political reporter Chris Johnson to Iowa and New Hampshire to report on the caucuses and primary. Photographer Michael Key and reporter Lou Chibbaro, Jr. will also be hitting the road early in 2012 (stay tuned for details) as we commit more resources to our core work of quality journalism. As we close out another year, a word of thanks to our readers, advertisers, staff and other supporters who make working here such a pleasure. When my business partners Lynne Brown, Brian Pitts and I re-launched the Blade nearly two years ago, we decided that community service and giving back would be a key element of our corporate culture. We made good on that pledge in 2011 in myriad ways, from many event sponsorships to news coverage that highlights those in need in our community. Last week, we highlighted a group of local LGBT nonprofits that need monetary donations, ofce products and other basic supplies in 2012. I hope our readers will respond and help. In 2011, the Blade supported a wide array of community organizations with cash contributions and advertising. We will continue that commitment in 2012, starting with sponsorship of the Washington Literacy Councils Love Letters for Literacy event on Feb. 15. Be sure to check out their good work at washingtonliteracycouncil.org. Well be announcing many new sponsorships and plans early in the year. Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@washingtonblade), Facebook and washingtonblade.com for all the latest. Thanks for reading the Blade and best wishes for a happy and healthy 2012.
Kevin Naff is editor of Washington Blade and can be reached at [email protected].
I marked my ninth year at the Blade in 2011 and cant recall a busier time in the LGBT rights movement. From President Obamas decision not to defend DOMA to the death of Frank Kameny, to the advent of marriage equality in New York and Barney Franks retirement from Congress, there has never been more news to cover. And thanks to the Blades growing online and social media presence, weve never had more readers to satisfy.
INSIDE LGBT WASHINGTON
Lets lift our glasses to the promise of 2012

Many challenges await as we reect on the year that was
dates running for the Republican presidential nomination is painful to watch. So I lift my glass to 2012 though I know it wont be an easy year. Hope springs eternal that before it is over we will have elected leaders who will return our government to civility in discourse and set us on a path to rationality. Im hopeful that the inuence of the Glen Becks of the world begins to fade and the nonsense that he spews begins to fall on deaf ears. And I hope that the far right pundits exit stage right and the strident voices on the other side exit stage left. The Republican Party debates have been humorous in many ways, especially for Democrats, but they have also been frightening. The candidates appear to be striving to appeal to the very worst in our nature. Some recently even called into question our independent judicial system, one of the hallmarks of our democracy. Newt Gingrich went so far as to say he would use federal marshals to haul judges into Congress to explain themselves. Collectively they want to drive the LGBT community back into the closet or worse. In 2012 I look forward to seeing President Obama elected to a second term. However, we will rst have to endure a long battle that will be both expensive and divisive. Each side will accuse the other of class warfare highlighting the divide between the haves and have-nots. My support of the president is not purely based on what he has accomplished, and he has accomplished much, but on what I hope he will stand up for in his second term. After the shackles of campaigning are lifted from the presidents back, I hope he is free to speak out in his second term on what many people thought he believed when they rst voted for him. I look forward to hearing his clarion call for the right of all women to choice and to contraception; to having the federal government move forward with regulations that will protect our environment and peoples health; to guaranteeing the right of all members of the LGBT community to live in dignity with the full panoply of civil and human rights afforded to all Americans. 2012 will be a year of destiny for our nation and for the world. We can either move further into the abyss of economic turbulence and political disintegration or we can come together here at home and with our global partners and move toward higher ground. We must agree that we all need to make sacrices today if we are to ensure a better world for future generations. As individuals we must move beyond just being satised with our own comfort and successes and while being thankful we must refocus ourselves and our government to ensure that everyone has the same opportunity to live their lives to their full potential.
Peter Rosenstein is a D.C.-based LGBT rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.
As 2011 fades, the year that was stirs mixed emotions. I was fortunate to work at a job I love and have the opportunity to enjoy my friends and family. The end of the Iraq war, the ofcial end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell, and the victory for marriage equality in New York were exciting. On the down side: There remain too many people still out of work and suffering; the contentious debates and continued lack of civility in public policy discussions persist; the hurtful actions of the Congress and the president with regard to poor women and choice in the District is disappointing; the war in Afghanistan rages on; and the general meanness emanating from the candi-
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OUR BUSINESS MATTERS
Our Business Matters: A year-end update

A look back at the challenges and concerns of community businesses
fare increases requested by drivers and demanded better service, including the ability to accept credit and debit card payments and the forced retirement of aged vehicles. zens associations, tiny cadres of random residents forming business licensing protest groups and many Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) members ghting local economic development, of his business start-up experiences and participation in industry advocacy efforts regarding D.C. regulatory hurdles as the Duplex Diner pioneer hands over the keys to former bartender and new owner Kevin Lee at mid-year. Hirsheld detailed his experience with the exasperating and notorious so-called Voluntary Agreement process leading up to a 1998 opening and continuing operation. The popular community venue enjoys the renewed affection of customer stakeholders under Lees stewardship, and the business has recently reinstituted a Sunday brunch. Hirsheld currently assists area businesses in navigating the arduous regulatory process as he examines potential commercial and residential development projects in his Adams Morgan neighborhood. The highly successful second annual 17th St. Festival unites area to promote business in late September, doubling the number of attendees according to festival co-chair and coordinating sponsor Urban Neighborhood Alliance (UNA) vice president Stephen Rutgers. UNA hopes to continue to build alliances unifying Dupont Circle businesses and residents to overcome the legacy of bitter past regulatory battles, allowing the area to create a more favorable environment for enterprise success such as that experienced to the more business-friendly east where the 14th and U streets Arts District blossoms into more. Despite the fact that D.C. gives ANCs great weight on medical marijuana, the city continued a glacial pace toward implementing its uber-cautious and restricted program. Fear of a threatened federal crackdown resulting from President Obamas assault on medical marijuana laws has not yet stopped the District from preparing to sometime in the next year issue business licenses for the small number of cultivation centers and dispensaries. Although the D.C. marriage law engages fewer than predicted during the nearly two years since the initiation of marriage equality in the nations capital, minimizing the projected revenue benet for local businesses and the citys tax coffers, marriage between heterosexuals has certainly fallen out of favor. Barely half of American adults a record low of only 51 percent are currently married, continuing a long downward trend in marriage market share unrelated to economic cycles, according to a Pew Research Institute analysis of U.S. Census data released on Dec. 14. 2012 will present both usual and unique challenges and controversies affecting community business activities. A celebratory toast to the hardworking and dedicated purveyors of the amenities enhancing our shared cultural lives is appropriate as we enter the New Year.
2012 will present both usual and unique challenges and controversies affecting community business activities.
Mark Lee is a local small business manager and longtime community business advocate. Reach him at [email protected].
The past nine months have provided this columnist the privilege of sharing observations, information and feature news proles on some of the issues, challenges, people and perspectives originating with the local business community. The following is a special year-in-review update on several 2011 Our Business Matters topics. A scandal scarred D.C. Council reverses vote on taxes by dropping its opposition to raising local income taxes, already among the very highest in the nation, with a new top rate hitting the small business community hard allowing for yet another District government spending increase. As the year comes to a close, the Council rushed last week to mask some of the stench emanating from the Wilson Building by approving a timid ethics bill after more than two months of discussion punctuated by a nine-hour federal raid and property seizure by IRS and FBI agents at the home of D.C. Council member Harry Thomas Jr. (D-Ward 5). Meanwhile, criminal and ethical investigations into alleged improprieties by several elected ofcials drag on, while other Council members suffer the unabated suspicions of residents regarding potential wrongdoing or questionable ethical behavior in total engulng a majority of the Council as well as the mayor. Earlier this month, D.C. Council legislation was introduced addressing taxicab confusions: inferior service, regulatory chaos. Overcondent taxi drivers, believing that their support of Mayor Vincent Grays successful 2010 campaign would lead to adoption of their call for a nearly doubling of fares, went ballistic when the D.C. Taxicab Commission instead recommended more modest increases, elimination of most surcharges including for extra passengers, and a number of service improvements. Local hospitality industry and business organizations, joined by the grassroots consumer group D.C. Taxi Watch organized by gay Dupont Circle Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Jack Jacobson, led the opposition to the huge
A hearing on the bill is expected in January. Even if passed, dont expect to see implementation of service improvements for at least a year. While the annual Small Business Survival Index will soon be issued for 2011, little suspense surrounds whether the District will again rank last among itself and all 50 states detailing how D.C. small businesses face worst-in-nation obstacles. The release of this nationwide study will undoubtedly herald D.C.s last place reign again this year a dishonorable distinction held for as long as anyone can recall and disproportionately affecting the outsized percentage of lesbians and gays engaged in entrepreneurial activities. D.C. Council member Mary Chehs Scarlet Letter legislation to post sporadic, outdated, meaningless and arbitrary snapshot health inspection letter grades at the entrances of all food service and hospitality establishments again languished in limbo with no pick-up of support among her colleagues. Reective of the folly of this proposal by the Democratic Ward 3 Council member, the citys meager number of inspectors remains insufcient to conduct timely regular inspections or fulll required re-inspections. Washington remained one of the very few locations reecting on its D.C. bag tax: paper, plastic or puffery? Although neighboring Montgomery County, Maryland, institutes a mandatory fee next month, nearly all other jurisdictions across the country have rejected similar business mandates, some by voter referendum. While retailer compliance remains a signicant and serious problem, local consumers have resigned themselves to either paying the minor nuisance price of paper or plastic bag usage or toting around their own household bags. The city has discontinued its recent advertising campaign reminding residents that the law remains in effect and checkout clerks now often wait for a customer to volunteer whether they want a bag without needing to ask except when serving befuddled visitors and tourists. The last year saw little let-up in the usual shenanigans by neighborhood citi-
commercial projects and alcohol licensing applications. It became more apparent, however, that these squeaky wheels enjoy less support among their neighbors than ever before. It became widely known in the Dupont Circle area that VIDA Fitness faces opposition by provocateurs protesting a liquor license application for the rooftop pool and lounge atop the new U Street tness center location that opened in mid-July. Prominent community businessman David von Storch was only days ago ultimately successful in acquiring an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license -- but not before suffering several hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees, expenses and lost revenue. The unique amenity will be available to neighborhood residents enjoying one of the soldout pool memberships beginning April 1 upon the return of warm weather. A 25-year D.C. entrepreneur, von Storch long ago became familiar with the business obstacles easily and often cavalierly posed by an extraordinarily small number of people agitated by new development and change. The irony of this all, he now says, is that as much as the license protestants fought it, the rst thing they will mention when selling their home will be its proximity to amenities such as a world-class tness center, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment. A few blocks away, disappointment that a foreign government Chancery replacing a gay-owned community bed-andbreakfast hobbled by operating restrictions urged by a small number of residents paved over the front lawn and removed three towering trees underscored that Dupont denizens doth protest too much and illustrated the oftentimes unintended consequences following in the wake of neighborhood obstructionists. For the record, the Chancery recently removed the concrete ground cover, illegal under the Districts applicable public space restrictions, at the urging of the U.S. State Department. No word yet on tree replacement. In the same vein, Eric Hirsheld provided readers with a personal reection
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It bothers me when I hear these reporters and jocks get on TV and say: Oh, no guy can come out in a team sport. These guys would go crazy. First of all, quit telling me what I think. Id rather have a gay guy who can play than a straight guy who cant play.
NBA HALL OF FAMER AND NOW SPORTS ANALYST CHARLES BARKLEY (WASHINGTON POST, MAY 17)
in my own experience, to be homophobic. But I do think the straight folks will continue to play the straight roles.
ACTRESS JANE LYNCH, WHO PLAYS CHEERLEADING COACH SUE SYLVESTER ON GLEE, EXPLAINING THAT STUDIOS STILL WANT STRAIGHT ACTORS IN STRAIGHT ROMANTIC LEADS. (AFTERELTON. COM, JAN. 12)
a magazine with the caption I am gay. I apologize for not doing so if this is what was expected.
JONATHAN KNIGHT OF THE NOW-REUNITED BOY BAND NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK, RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS AFTER 80S POP STAR TIFFANY, WHOM HE ONCE DATED, DISCUSSED HIS SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN A RECENT TELEVISION INTERVIEW. (MSNBC.COM, JAN. 31)
80S POP SINGER TIFFANY, DISCUSSING FORMER BOYFRIEND JONATHAN KNIGHT FROM BOY BAND NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK, ON BRAVOS WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE. (MSNBC.COM, JAN. 31)
Justin Bieber looks just like a lesbian, so Im gonna say hot as shit.
LESBIAN SINGER K.D. LANG, ASKED ON AN AUSTRALIAN TALK SHOW TO ANSWER THE RANDOM QUESTION, JUSTIN BIEBER: HOT OR NOT? (SHEWIRED.COM, NOV. 7)
Just got spam letter from M. Bachmann! My reply! Woman go back 2 school take history! & if I was on my deathbed & your best friend was JESUS!!! I WOULDNT VOTE 4 YOUR GAY HATING, BULLY LOVING, POSER CHRISTIAN ASS!
MUSIC ICON CHER, MOM TO TRANSGENDER SON CHAZ BONO, ON TWITTER, EXPLAINING WHY SHE WILL NOT VOTE FOR U.S. REP. MICHELE BACHMANN FOR PRESIDENT. (ON TOP MAGAZINE, AUG. 1)
Should I talk about [having breast cancer]? Because how many things could I have? You know black, lesbian Im like, I cant be the poster child for everything. At least with the LGBT issues we get a parade and a oat and its a party.
COMEDIAN AND ACTRESS WANDA SYKES, DISCUSSING HER BATTLE WITH BREAST CANCER FOR THE FIRST TIME IN AN INTERVIEW WITH OUT TALK SHOW HOST ELLEN DEGENERES. (THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, SEPT. 26)
Ive just never talked about it. But its so liberating. It was interesting to be coming to have a conversation that I was always afraid to have. This is my coming out ball. Ive been dying to do this.
ACTOR SEAN MAHER, STAR OF THE SHORT-LIVED NBC SERIES PLAYBOY CLUB, WHERE HE PLAYED A CLOSTED GAY MAN MARRIED TO A LESBIAN BUNNY, COMING OUT IN AN INTERVIEW WITH ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY. (EW.COM, SEPT. 26)
You know just because you dont like the way it sounds when I say it or you dont like my haircut or you dont like that Im gay, it does not mean that what we say is not true. If you squint a little bit, it is true I do sometimes look like a dude, and I am denitely gay.
RACHEL MADDOW, HOST OF THE RACHEL MADDOW SHOW ON MSNBC, DENYING CLAIMS THAT SHE ERRED IN REPORTING ON THE WISCONSIN LABOR UNION CONTROVERSY. (ON TOP MAGAZINE, FEB. 27)
Ive never been turned down for a role because Im gay. Im a character actor, and thats probably why. I dont nd Hollywood,
I have lived my life very openly and have never hidden the fact that I am gay. Apparently the prerequisite to being a gay public gure is to appear on the cover of
He became gay later. I didnt do it. I had issues with that. I was thinking maybe I did. Now looking back when we were dating, he was so much fun. We used to do facials together. He was so easy to talk to.
CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Top 10 moments in 2011 pop culture

Coming out stories, dancing with Chaz among years top stories
By JULIETTE EBNER
It was another big year for LGBT visibility in pop culture. Here are our picks for the top 10 pop culture stories of 2011.
Chaz Bono on Dancing with the Stars

Chaz Bono became the rst transgender participant to compete on ABCs Dancing with the Stars this year on the shows 13th season. He was partnered with professional dancer Lacey Schwimmer for the season, which premiered Sept. 19. From the start there was controversy over Bonos inclusion in the show. There was backlash from conservative supporters and threats of boycotts, leading producers to hire extra security for his time on the show. Bonos mother, Cher, spoke out on Twitter in support of her son as did many others. He was voted off the show during week six.
The Chicago Cubs included a message from lesbian part owner Laura Ricketts and the L.A. Dodgers were the only team to specically mention gender identity. The Boston Red Sox included their fans and the Tampa Bay Rays featured a personal message from Johnny Damon, who was bullied as a child. The Seattle Mariners produced their video with Seattles other professional sports teams. All the videos are available on YouTube.com.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO
Actor ZACHARY QUINTO came out in 2011.
Lady Gaga rallies around LGBT fans

Lady Gaga has done a lot for her LGBT fans in terms of making noise. The title track off her most recent album, Born This Way, deals with selfacceptance and specically mentions sexual orientation and gender identity. She appeared at Europride this summer, giving a speech in which she criticized the state of gay rights in many European countries. Most recently, during the iHeartRadio Festival held in September in Las Vegas, Gaga dedicated her performance of Hair to 14-year-old Jamey Rodemeyer, who committed suicide after being bullied the same week as the concert.
threatening to kill his son if he were gay. He later apologized for the remarks and agreed to make appearances with GLAAD. L.A. Lakers star Kobe Bryant was ned for using an anti-gay slur against a referee, as was Chicago Bulls Joakim Noah and Atlanta Braves coach Roger McDowell.
Another coming out on Glee

There have already been three main characters to openly acknowledge being somewhere on the LGBT spectrum on Foxs hit show Glee and yet another main character has joined them. Santana Lopez, played by Naya Rivera, was outed in a third season episode in a political ad targeting Sue Sylvester. The following episode, titled I Kissed a Girl featured the club rallying around Santana as she came to grips with being out and singing P!nks F****** Perfect, Melissa Etheridges Im the Only One, a slowed down version of Cyndi Laupers Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Katy Perrys I Kissed a Girl and k.d. Langs Constant Craving.
Gay-helmed talk shows proliferate

What is it with talks shows and gay hosts? There is of course Ellen DeGeneres, who began her eighth season this year and Rosie ODonnell has returned to television with her talk show on Oprah Winfreys OWN, which premiere in October. Then theres Sara Gilbert, famous for her role of Darlene on the sitcom Roseanne, who is not only one of ve hosts, but is also an executive producer on The Talk. Nate Berkus also has his own show as does Rachel Maddow. And Anderson Cooper debuted a talk show this year; its rumored that hes (nally) planning to come out during Februarys ratings sweeps period.
Celebrities come out

Several celebrities and sports gures came out this year. Zachary Quinto, star of 2009s Star Trek and currently on FXs American Horror Story, came out in October, explaining on his blog that after the suicide of Jamey Rodemeyer, he realized living a gay life without publicly acknowledging it, is simply not enough to make any signicant contribution to the immense work that lies ahead on the road to complete equality. Evan Rachel Wood, who played teen lesbian Jessie on Once & Again and starred in HBOs True Blood, came out as bisexual in an interview with Esquire in April. CNN anchor Don Lemon came out in his memoir Transparent, released in May.
Arizona and Callie wed on Greys Anatomy

In the May 5 episode of Greys Anatomy, orthopedic surgeon Callie Torres, played by Sara Ramirez, and pediatric surgeon Arizona Robbins, played by Jessica Capshaw, tied the knot. The couple became engaged after getting into a car accident that nearly cost Callie and her unborn childs lives. There havent been many lesbian weddings on television and even fewer weddings that were actually shown and involved lead characters. The lesbian wedding between Rosss ex-wife Carol and her girlfriend Susan on Friends in 1996 was one of the rst.
A-List: Dallas stars attacked

Logo expanded its A-List franchise this year with The A-List: Dallas starring Levi Crocker, James Doyle, Chase Hutchinson, Ashley Kelly, Philip Willis and Taylor Garrett. There was controversy surrounding the show when Garrett, a Republican fundraiser, tweeted that his house was vandalized and included a picture of a broken window. Bloggers found this suspect when a producer tweeted back to Garrett about making headlines and it was discovered that Garrett didnt make a police report. Both tweets have since been removed. Later, Logo provided the Hufngton Post Gay Voices with copies of two police reports, one reported by Garretts building manager and another made by Garrett himself. In an unrelated incident, Crocker said he was attacked at a gay bar in Oklahoma City, Okla., in November.
Gays host award shows

Neil Patrick Harris, star of CBSs How I Met Your Mother, hosted the Tony Awards this year, opening the show with a musical number that included lines like Broadway has never been broader, its not just for gays anymore, had a host-off with Hugh Jackman and rapped a wrap-up of the evenings events that was written as the show progressed. Jane Lynch of Glee fame hosted the Emmys this year. Lynch spent her hosting gig making fun of the celebrity crowd as well as herself. Neither Harris nor Lynch are the rst gays to host either award show, still the visibility was impressive for such highprole events.
MLB teams make It Gets Better videos

Several Major League Baseball teams lmed videos for the It Gets Better campaign, starting with the San Francisco Giants. And while the videos were similar, each team added a personal touch.
Celebs make homophobic remarks

30 Rock star Tracy Morgan went on a homophobic rant during a stand-up routine at a show in Nashville this summer saying kids should get over being bullied and
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THEATER
A year of theatrical highs

Many stellar gay-helmed productions played D.C.s stages in 2011
By PATRICK FOLLIARD
It was a particularly good year for Washington theater. Included among the many solid offerings were numerous shows made by and about LGBT people. Woolly Mammoth presented works by rising gay playwrights Robert OHara and Samuel D. Hunter. OHaras autobiographical comedy Bootycandy, about growing up black and gay in America, follows the misadventures of young Sutter as he grapples with nding his place in the world and his own burgeoning sexuality. OHara who also directed led a terric design team and got some great comedic performances from a talented ve-person ensemble who portrayed a much larger number of characters ranging in age, portrayed many more characters ranging in age, sexual orientation and gender. Hunters A Bright New Boise is a dark comedy set in the break room of a big box store in Idaho. Woollys production was staged by gay director John Vreeke and featured an nely drawn performance from gay actor Michael Russotto. Leading dramatists were honored. In the spring, Arena Stage celebrated the work of Edward Albee with a festival featuring the gay playwrights entire canon (mostly staged readings). The festivals centerpiece were fully staged productions of Albees searing domestic drama Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? which starred Tracy Letts and Amy Morton as the boozy, battling spouses George and Martha; and Albees more recent work At Home at the Zoo, a riveting peek into the lives of three New Yorkers. At the same time, the Georgetown University Theater and Performance Studies Program presented an equally ambitious celebration of another gay playwrights stunning oeuvre: the Tennessee Williams Centennial Festival (Tenn Cent Fest for short). Included in the extensive, multidisciplinary program was a production of The Glass Menagerie featuring Sarah Marshall, who is gay, as the former Southern belle matriarch Amanda Wingeld, whos based on the playwrights overbearing mother. In May, the Kennedy Center presented Follies (gay composer Stephen
PHOTO BY DRU SEFTON; COURTESY OF WSC
DELIA TAYLOR as Winnie in WSC Avant Bards production of Samuel Becketts Happy Days.
Sondheims paean to ex-chorines and messy relationships) starring Bernadette Peters. Staged by local gay director Eric Schaeffer, it was a little uneven but boasted a sublime second act. Since its run here, an improved version of the same production moved on to Broadway and is slated for a limited Los Angeles run in the spring. At Synetic Theater, gay actor Philip Fletcher continued to do amazing things with his body during 2011. A longtime regular with the movement-based theater group, Fletcher played Edmund in a stunning, punk rock King Lear in April, and in October he reprised his role as the most maniacal third of a triadic Iago in Othello. At WSC Avant Bard in Rosslyn, director Jose Carrasquillo directed Delia Taylor (both gay) in a splendid production of Samuel Becketts daunting Happy Days. Tony Cisek also gay designed the set. In fact, Cisek designed sets for many productions throughout the year including Fords Parade, Folgers Othello and After the Fall at Theatre J. Other news from 2011: The
Shakespeare Theatre Companys gay artistic director Michael Kahn celebrated 25 years at the troupes helm; legendary (and lanky) Broadway choreographer Tommy Tune came to town to accept the Helen Hayes Tribute for an exceptionally successful career in theater; awardwinning local actor Holly Twyford (who is gay) made an impressive directing debut at No Rules Theater Company with Stop Kiss. On a sadder note, Ganymede Arts, Washingtons only gay-specic theater closed, citing straightened nances as the main reason. The company was known for successfully staging works of special interest in LGBT audiences and for four years, it held fun fall arts festival, which attracted cool notables like Karen Black, Charles Busch and Holly Woodlawn. For Helen Hayes Award-winning actor and DC theater scene veteran Rick Hammerly, 2011 was an especially busy and professionally fullling year. In addition to acting in the Kennedy Centers long-running Shear Madness, the Tenn Cent Festivals And Tell Sad Stories of the
Deaths of Queens,and most recently as Mr. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol at Fords Theatre, he also produced Magnicent Waste for Factory 449, a progressive theater company that he and a small group of other theater artists founded several years ago. And in what Hammerly describes as the highlight of his year, he staged a timely production of Dead Men Walking at American University in the fall. The play was created for universities by Tim Robbins through his Dead Man Walking School Theatre Project. It closely follows Robbins 1995 award winning lm adaptation of the book by Sister Helen Prejean, based on her time spent with Death Row inmates. The experience gave me the opportunity to introduce the students to the power of theater what it can really accomplish if youre tackling things that are current. We used the story of Troy Anthony Davis execution in the play to tie whats taking place on stage to something that is actually happening in the world. It demonstrated the strength of art and theater.
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CON CERTS
Notes from the stage

Gays, allies worked the region with memorable concerts in 2011
By JOEY DiGUGLIELMO [email protected]
Washington is always a big concert town most major tours have stops here but this year was especially teeming with gay and gay-friendly big-name musical acts. There was such an abundance of options, some evenings like July 31 when Dolly Parton was at Wolf Trap and Britney Spears was at the Verizon Center or Sept. 1 when Stevie Nicks was at Jiffy Lube (Nissan) and Olivia Newton-John was in Baltimore music fans had to make tough choices. I didnt get to everything but did see a lot. Among the highlights: Janet Jackson brought her Up Close and Personal Tour to DAR for two nights in March. Signicantly scaled back from the previous Rock Witchu Tour, it was still a hits-packed extravaganza that followed her usual medley-heavy format. Glimpses of Michael on duet Scream and in a childhood shot during Together Again, were especially poignant. A trim and svelte Jennifer Holliday (Dreamgirls) was here twice she performed with the Gay Mens Chorus of Washington June 4, then was back the next weekend to play Pride for a MIA Kelly Rowland. Her powerful, growlheavy vocals were as solid as ever. She and the Chorus brought down the house with soulful covers of Lean on Me and I Believe I Can Fly. Rhianna was in Baltimore the same night. Gay crooner Michael Feinstein brought his booming baritone to the Kennedy Center in April for a delightful old-school-infused evening of standards, Sinatra and more. Also sporting a much-trimmer gure, Aretha Franklin played an odd-butenjoyable Wolf Trap show June 21. That rainy, muggy night found the Queen ignoring all her trademark hits in favor of show tune covers (As If We Never Said Goodbye for one) and second-tier favorites (Baby I Love You). For long-time fans, it was a refreshing change of pace. First-timers were likely disappointed not to hear Respect and Natural Woman. Two local gay talents played cabaret shows at Signature Theatre in late July Will Gartshore and Peter Fox and, while
TORI AMOS shes straight but has a legion of gay fans played DAR Constitution Hall Dec. 5. It was a huge year for gay faves in D.C. concert venues.
both good, were a study in contrasts. Gartshores booming voice carried an autobiographical show. Fox won the crowd over with his charm and unpretentiousness during a standards-heavy set. It was hard to tell how much of Dolly Partons Better Days World Tour, which stopped down at Wolf Trap in July, featured live singing but you have to give her this at two-and-a-half hours, it was a generous evening that found the Blue Valley Songbird darting through covers (River Deep Mountain High), hits (9 to 5, Islands in the Streams), gospel, bluegrass and more. 90s hit-maker Joan Osborne was at the Birchmere in August with an unpredictable, eclectic 90-minute set. Relish classics (One of Us and St. Theresa) coalesced nicely with covers and lesser-known recent material. She doesnt tear it up like she did in the old days, but what Stevie Nicks lacks in passion and grit, shes made up for in pitch and nesse. Her In Your Dreams Tour, supporting her amazing 2011 new album (her rst in a decade), found the Fleetwood Mac singer taking her time, giving her band plenty of chances to shine and balancing
a wealth of cuts from the new album with trademark Mac and solo hits like barnburner Edge of Seventeen and Rumors-era wonder Gold Dust Woman. One of the years most exquisite musical moments was undoubtedly Patti LuPones simple one-woman cabaret show Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda at University of Maryland in early September. Wearing simple black, the stark stage featured only a Steinway grand, an adept accompanist, a vase of roses and LuPones undiminished talent. And with that kind of voice and interpretive skill, no other bells and whistles were needed. Knowledge of LuPones life and battles gave her cover of Sinatras My Way added subtext. Just weeks later, another Broadway legend Audra McDonald gave a similar show at the Kennedy Center. In ne voice, she focused on lesser-known (but hardly obscure) material and previewed her upcoming Porgy and Bess. Loretta Lynn, whod canceled in the spring, made it to the 9:30 club in midOctober. Prospects were dicey shed been off the road most of the year and lost
her voice halfway through the night before but she delivered brilliantly, shared her trademark self-deprecating wit with the crowd and after a few songs, just took requests pretty much the rest of the night. Cyndi Lauper was back at the 9:30 club again this year just days after Lynn and tore through a ferocious 80-minute set on which she balanced smoldering blues classics from her latest album with ery new arrangements of her trademark hits. The tour, albeit with an alternate set list, is out on DVD. Lesbian country singer Chely Wright sat on a bar stool two nights later at the Birchmere throughout a story-heavy set. It was as much Storytellers as concert but that worked Wright, who just came out last year, has a lot to say. Occasionally long winded, the overall effect was greater appreciation for her life and songs. Other acts that played the region this year included Lady Gaga, Kathy Grifn, Kylie Minogue, Scissor Sisters, Blondie, Indigo Girls, k.d. lang, Dave Koz (twice!), Pink Martini (twice!), Melissa Etheridge, Ani DiFranco, John Waters, Catie Curtis, Kate Clinton and more.
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SPORTS
Getting in the game

Local LGBT sports groups celebrate several 2011 triumphs
By KEVIN MAJOROS
It was another incredible year for the Washington LGBT sports community. We continue to grow and are one of the largest and most organized LGBT sports communities in the world. There were many things to celebrate in 2011 such as the District of Columbia Aquatics Club traveling to Honolulu where members won the large team title at the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatic Championships. It was the 10th time they have claimed the trophy. Next theyll head to Reykjavik, Iceland to defend their title in June. Swimdcac.org. The D.C. Strokes Rowing Club celebrated its 20th anniversary and once again members hosted the Stonewall Regatta to kick off the summer racing circuit. The Strokes sent 13 members to the USRowing Masters National Regatta in Oklahoma City, Okla., and medaled in seven events. Dcstrokes.org. Stonewall Kickball and the D.C. Gay Flag Football League both exploded in 2011 with around 200 players joining each league. Members of the football league went to the inaugural Sunshine Bowl in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and brought home the winning trophy. The footballers 2012 calendar is available online and the proceeds go to the Team D.C. College Scholarship. stonewallkickball.com and dcgf.org. The D.C. Sentinels basketball team won two national tournaments in 2011 taking A division honors at both the Sin City Shootout in Las Vegas and the Coady Roundball Classic in Chicago. teamdcbasketball.org. The Chesapeake and Potomac Softball League won the bid to host the 2013 North American Gay Amateur Athletic Association Softball World Series. The event is expected to bring more than 160 teams and 2,000 players from member cities across North America. eteamz.com/caps. The D.C. Front Runners celebrated their 30th anniversary and continue to host multiple runs and walks on a weekly basis along with a seasonal race circuit. dcfrontrunners.org. The Washington Renegades rugby football club sent their Reds squad to Dallas where they won Hellfest going 5-0 for the day. The renegades nished league play with their best record ever going 8-1 and qualifying for the MidAtlantic Rugby Football Union playoffs two years in a row. dcrugby.com. The Federal Triangle Soccer Club hosted the second season of the Summer of Freedom League, the second annual Womens Winter Wrap-Up Indoor Cup and the 13th annual Rehoboth Beach Classic soccer tournament. federaltriangles.org. Lambda DanceSport moved the bulk of its dance classes from Chevy Chase to the Dupont Circle area along with adding several special events. dupontdance.com. The international LGBT watchdog group AllOut.org collected 46,000 signatures in a petition to bring action against Eucharia Uche, head coach of the womens Nigerian soccer team. The petition prompted the FIFA to begin an investigation into the allegations that Coach Uche was conducting lesbian witch hunts. allout.org. Team D.C.s Night Out series grew to include ve local professional sports teams, the Washington Nationals, the Washington Kastles, the Washington Mystics, D.C. United and the Washington Capitals. Look for more to be added in 2012. teamdc.org. Support from the above mentioned pro teams grew exponentially in 2011 with several of them lming It Gets Better videos and expressing interest in future partnerships with the LGBT sports community in D.C. thetrevorproject.org. Organizations such as the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), Athlete Ally and the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation drew national attention for their efforts to further LGBT sports and combat bullying. Along with these organizations, incredible straight sports allies made national news with their show of support to our community. Thank you Hudson Taylor, Ben Cohen, Paul Tagliabue, Brian Burke and all the others who stepped forward to say that its OK to play sports and be gay.
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY PETE EXIS
HUDSON TAYLOR at the October presentation of the Team D.C. scholarships.
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BOOKS
Best of the bunch

This years LGBT books featured a handful of must reads
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 [email protected].
OK, so the years wound down and youre ready to grab a hot cuppa and curl up somewhere. Or youre heading to the beach and cant stand to go empty handed. Whatever your destination, you cant go wrong if you take these books with you. They were, in my opinion, the years best. Now that the holidays are over and you can look back with a grin (or a growl), you can also safely read Its All Relative by Wade Rouse. This funny, sad, makes-youcry book is about holidays: those you spend alone, those you wish youd spent alone and those youd never in a million years be caught dead spending alone. I loved this book for its humor but the best part is that love between parent and child, friends or partners shines through every laugh. Even though Dont Ask Dont Tell is over, this book cant be dismissed: The Last Deployment by Bronson Lemer, a funny, wry and all-around great story
of one gay mans reluctant service in the North Dakota National Guard. Lemer signed up for the education benets and never thought hed serve overseas but overseas he went and not just once. While he was a soldier, he listened to his buddies as they teased and talked trash about gay men but Lemer never came out to fellow soldiers, friends or family until this book. Even though you can now be loud and proud in uniform, its denitely worth reading. If a weekend in the country sounds good to you about now, rst read Sheepish by Catherine Friend. Friends partner, Melissa, always wanted to be a farmer. Friend grew up
in the city, but she compromised and hated it. But who can resist a sweet lamb? Who doesnt love baby animals? Who could foresee the backbreaking work and heartbreaking loss that comes from falling in love with a farmer and her ock? Not you, so if you love a good yarn, youll want this book ba-a-a-a-d. And if youre looking forward to some sun, sand and pampering this year, then youll want to take Concierge Condential by Michael Fazio (with Michael Malice) along. This memoir is an intimate look at what goes on at those high-priced hotels and how the concierges will do anything to make their customers happy. I loved the gossipyness of this
book, mostly because it packs peeks but lacks snark. And nally, you simply will not nd a more lush or gorgeous book than Beautiful Unbroken by Mary Jane Nealon. This is the true story of a nurse who spends her life running away from the one thing she always wanted to do. For her entire life, it hurt to dream the dream she had, until she nds the very patients who heal the healer. Read this book, for sure, but bring a tissue with you. And there you are. A passel of pages you simply cant miss, for your vacation, your evening alone, your weekend away or just because you love a good book.
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1/26/2011 10:07:55 AM
QUEERY: 20 QUESTIONS FOR AARON RIGGINS
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN OUT AND WHO WAS THE HARDEST PERSON TO TELL? I rst came out to friends at 15 when I was a sophomore in high school. The most difcult, but rewarding coming out experience was with my mother when I was 16. Considering her conservative tendencies, the outcome continues to be much better than it could have been otherwise. WHOS YOUR LGBT HERO? I have to cheat and choose two. There are quite a few heroic and courageous LGBT activists who have relentlessly fought for the rights we enjoy today. Even before there was a major motion picture about him, I had always admired Harvey Milks courage and passion. On a more local and personal level, Shea Van Horn has been a hero for me. Like no one else, Shea has taught me to be myself, be diplomatic and to be a great friend. WHATS WASHINGTONS BEST NIGHTSPOT, PAST OR PRESENT? Warning: Shameless self-promotion. Washingtons best nightspot is my WTF party with Ed Bailey at Town Danceboutique on the day before any federal holiday. The energy and programming are always ridiculous and so much fun. The next one is Jan. 15. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM WEDDING. Strangely, I havent given this much thought. I suppose my dream wedding would be a relatively small destination wedding somewhere on the Mediterranean. I wouldnt need much, just my future husband, my closest friends and my family. WHAT NON-LGBT ISSUE ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Recently, Ive been traveling to Mexico and Colombia quite a bit. Ive met several people from these countries whose lives and families have been so adversely affected by the violence and death resulting from the war on drugs. I hope to see progress on that front very soon. WHAT HISTORICAL OUTCOME WOULD YOU CHANGE? The series Summer Heights High only airing one season. WHATS BEEN THE MOST MEMORABLE POP CULTURE MOMENT OF YOUR LIFETIME? As clich and predictable as this now is, Id have to say the rise of Lady Gaga. She is an amalgam and the epitome of everything pop culture over the last few decades. It seems she is trying to be a positive voice for the LGBT community. ON WHAT DO YOU INSIST? People treating each other respectfully.
WHAT WAS YOUR LAST FACEBOOK POST OR TWEET? I think a song by Lana Del Ray, one of my favorite new artists. IF YOUR LIFE WERE A BOOK, WHAT WOULD THE TITLE BE? A travel narrative with Wanderlust somewhere in the title. IF SCIENCE DISCOVERED A WAY TO CHANGE SEXUAL ORIENTATION, WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Find a way to make Rick Santorum gay, if he isnt already. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IN BEYOND THE PHYSICAL WORLD? Magic and unicorns WHATS YOUR ADVICE FOR LGBT MOVEMENT LEADERS? I dont think LGBT movement leaders need any advice from me. Id like to say thanks and just keep going! WHAT WOULD YOU WALK ACROSS HOT COALS FOR? My friends. WHAT LGBT STEREOTYPE ANNOYS YOU MOST? See the American Family Association websites Homosexual Agenda section and take your pick. WHATS YOUR FAVORITE LGBT MOVIE? Le Fate Ignorati. Its an Italian lm about a woman who discovers her suddenly deceased husband has been living a separate life with a male lover. While searching for the truth, she nds herself woven into his other life and becoming close with her husbands friends. The lm is a great example of the strength of the non-traditional family so often found in the LGBT community. WHATS THE MOST OVERRATED SOCIAL CUSTOM? I hate waiting until all of the food has arrived at the table to begin eating. WHAT TROPHY OR PRIZE DO YOU MOST COVET? Global Services status on United Airlines. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOUD KNOWN AT 18? That everything was going to be OK. WHY WASHINGTON? Washington, D.C. is a dynamic community of highly educated and ambitious individuals from all over the world. There are endless opportunities for culture and creativity. It keeps me engaged, on my toes and I cant imagine myself living in many other cities in the U.S.
By JOEY DiGUGLIELMO [email protected]

Aaron Riggins wears a lot of gay hats. He tends bar at Number Nine, hosts the WTF parties at Town, coordinates the monthly Homo Hotel Happy Hour each month (its usually the third Thursday) and is working on launching Floq Travel, an agency he hopes will give gay men travel opportunities to destinations they may not be as likely to visit on their own. Its for urban destinations theyre not currently ocking to but should be because they have rich culture, history, nightlife, culinary scenes and so on, the 28-year-old Jacksonville, Fla., native says. Im thinking of places like Mexico City, Istanbul, Tel Aviv. I was in Mexico City for Pride last year and was completely blown away by the volume of people, the energy. It was a completely different experience from the Prides Ive been to in the U.S. Riggins, whos worked in Washingtons travel industry since he came here in 2006, hopes to launch his rst trip in June to Mexico City. In the meantime, he tends bar three nights a week and enjoys planning his events. So is he a party animal by nature? Riggins says not especially. Theres a difference between hosting a party and making yourself vulnerable to someone, he says. I think its more the bringing people together I enjoy. I have the same insecurities as everyone else. Hes launching a new party called Pop Goes the World on the third Friday of each month at Green Lantern. Hell co-DJ and will feature pop music from around the world. It ties into the concept behind Floq as well. The idea is that there are destinations that might seem a little daunting to do by yourself, he says. Its so easy to just keep going back to Provincetown but I like the idea of us dispersing a little. WTF happens three-to-four times per year and is always the night before a federal holiday. Visit homohotelhappyhour.com for information on all of Riggins activities. Hes single and lives in the U Street corridor. He enjoys traveling, cooking and tness in his free time.
CALENDAR TODAY
Busboys & Poets will be hosting ASL open mic poetry tonight at 11 p.m. in the Langston Room at its 14th and V streets location (2021 14th St., N.W.). Anyone with sign language knowledge may sign up to recite a poem or sign a song by e-mailing [email protected]. There is a $5 cover. SAGE Metro D.C., D.C. Black LGBT Coalition, the Metropolitan Community Church of D.C. and other community partners are celebrating Kwanzaa at MCC (474 Ridge St., N.W.) at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, visit thedccenter.org. Cajun cellist Sean Grissom hosts Holiday Vaudeville at the Kennedy Center (2700 P St., N.W.) tonight at 6 p.m. with Mallory Lewis, daughter of Shari Lewis, appearing with Lamb Chop, and the Alexandria Kleztet, a modern Klezmer quartet. This is a free performance. For more information, visit kennedy-center.org. Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md.) tonight. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is $25 with special kids rates available. Visit tomcunningham.com for more information. The Lambda Sci-Fi group has a potluck video party tonight for LGBT fans of sci-, fantasy and horror lms and stories. Bring your favorite DVDs, blu-ray discs or AVI les (on USB) to share along with food and nonalcoholic drinks. The group will meet at 1425 S Street, N.W. Contact Peter at 202-483-6369 or [email protected] for details. Or visit the group online at lambdasci.org.
SUNDAY, JAN. 1
Black Cat (1811 U St., N.W.) presents the Post Amateur-Hour happy hour for everyone who had to work Saturday night. This is a free event and doors open at 8 p.m. The Kennedy Center (2700 F St., N.W.) presents its production of Billy Elliot: The Musical directed by Stephen Daldry and featuring music by Elton John, today at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $150 and can be purchased online at kennedy-center.org.
IMAGE COURTESY OF TOUCHSTONE GALLERY
Okvango Delta is one of the paintings by Paula Lantz on display at Touchstone Gallery starting Wednesday.
SATURDAY, DEC. 31
Black Cats (1811 U St., N.W.) New Years Eve Ball will feature Peaches ODell and her Orchestra performing throughout the night as well as Tony Anthony and his Malvivants and DJ Dredd and Grap Luva on the Backstage. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at blackcatdc.com. Doors open at 8 p.m. The Kennedy Center (2700 F St., N.W.) presents A Celtic New Year with Zan McLeod, New Century Dancers, Peter Brice and Rosie Shipley at 6 p.m. This is a free performance. For more information, visit kennedy-center.org. Nellies (900 U St., N.W.) will be showing the Washington Capitals take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at 7 p.m. Omega Party, a new black gay entertainment company, presents New Years Eve Extravaganza at 901 Lounge (901 9th St., N.W.). Tickets are $15 in advance and only 100 are available. Tickets will be sold at the door as space permits. VIP packages are $50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit omegapartydc.com. A live big band called the Tom Cunningham Orchestra will perform tonight in the Spanish ballroom at Glen
MONDAY, JAN. 2
The D.C. Center (1318 U St., N.W.) is having its monthly volunteer night tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tonights activities could range from sorting through book donations, cleaning up around the center and taking inventory for Fuk!ts, as well as socializing. Pizza will provided. Busboys & Poets presents Monday night open mic poetry hosted by Rich Hanks tonight at 8 p.m. at its Shirlington location (4251 South Campbell Ave., Arlington). Wristbands are $4 and will be on sale starting at 10 a.m. in the Global Exchange store until sold out.
Riot Act Comedy Theater (801 E St., N.W.) presents its weekly trivia night, hosted by Ashley Linder and Lauren Zoltick tonight at 8 p.m. in the upstairs bar. There are also bonus question worth three extra points online at riotactcomedy.com. Join Burgundy Crescent Volunteers to help pack safer sex kits from 7 to 9 p.m. tonight at FUK!Ts packing location, Green Lantern, 1335 Green Ct., N.W.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4
Riot Act Comedy Theaters (801 E St., N.W.) monthly gay and gay-friendly comedy show Gay-larious returns tonight at 8:30 p.m. with Jim David and co-founders Chris Doucette and Zach Toczynski. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at riotactcomedy.com. Emmy Award-winning actress Holland Taylor comes to the Kennedy Center (2700 F St., N.W.) with her one-woman play Ann, tonight at 7:30 p.m. The show tells the story of Ann Richards, the second female governor of Texas. Tickets range from $54 to $95 and can be purchased online at kennedy-center.org. Touchstone Gallerys (901 New York
Ave., N.W.) newest exhibit, Into the Wild, featuring abstract paintings by Paula Lanta, opens today. There will be a reception on Jan. 13. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information and the rest of the gallerys hours, visit touchstonegallery.com. The Tom Davoren Social Bridge Club, for gay bridge players, meets tonight for social bridge at the Dignity Center (721 8th Street, S.E.). No partner is needed. Visit lambdabridge.com for details and click on social bridge in Washington.
THURSDAY, JAN. 5
D.C. Lambda Squares, a local gay square dancing group, is having its plus with as-needed mainstream club night tonight from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at National City Christian Church (5 Thomas Circle, N.W.). For more information, visit dclambdasquares.org. Busboys & Poets presents Thursday night open mic poetry hosted by Regie Cabico tonight at 9 p.m. at its Hyattsville location (5331 Baltimore Ave., Suite 104). Wristbands are $4 and will be on sale starting at 10 a.m. and until sold out.
TUESDAY, JAN. 3
The Chesapeake Squares, a gay square dancing group, are having a mainstreamthrough-advanced club night tonight at the Waxter Center (1000 Cathedral St.) in Baltimore from 8 to 10 p.m. For more information, visit chesapeakesquares.org.
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OUT & ABOUT
Ten, nine, eight, seven .

Opportunities abound for local gays to get their New Years Eve party on
By JULIETTE EBNER
S.H.E. Productions and Grand Central (1001 N. Charles St.) in Baltimore present the fourth annual New Years Eve Bash Resolution 2012 on Dec. 31 starting at 9 p.m. DJ Image and Deejay Aruto will be spinning. Cover is $10 before 11 p.m. and $15 afterward. For more information, visit facebook.com/sheproductions. Black Cats (1811 U St., N.W.) New Years Eve Ball will feature Peaches ODell and her Orchestra performing throughout the night as well as Tony Anthony and his Malvivants and DJ Dredd and Grap Luva on the Backstage. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at blackcatdc.com. Doors open at 8 p.m. Red Palace (1212 H St., N.E.) presents Ball Drop Burlesque and Variety Blowout Bash tonight with three sets at 9, 10 and 11 p.m. featuring intermissions with go-go dancing, and the ball drop and toast at midnight. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 day of show. Doors open at 8 p.m. and all attendees must be 21 or older. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit redpalacedc.com. U Street Music Hall (1115 U St., N.W.) presents Moombahton Massive X New Years Eve featuring Nadastrom, Sabo, Jen Lasher and more. Ticket are $20. Doors open at 9 p.m. for this 21 and older event. Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) presents New
PHOTO COURTESY OF ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
All the gay bars in D.C. have New Years Eve festivities planned.
Years Eve 2012 featuring a countdown of the top 10 songs of 2012, a glowing midnight explosion, music and video by DJs Ed Bailey and Wess, live performance by Tha Dance Camp and more. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets are available at Number Nine (1435 P St. N.W.) or at groovetickets. com. Town box ofce will open at 7 p.m. and doors open at 9 p.m. All attendees must be 21 or older. Ultrabar (911 F St., N.W.) presents Ultra New Years Eve 2012 from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. featuring all kinds of music, complimentary party favors, video projectors showing the
ball drop live and a midnight champagne toast. Tickets are $40 and available online at ultrabardc.com. The BFF New Years Eve Party at Remingtons (639 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E.) starts at 10 p.m. on the second oor featuring a free buffet and champagne toast. Admission is $8. Phase 1 (525 8th St., S.E.) is having its Countdown to 2012 Womens New Years Eve Party from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. with DJ Staylo spinning, a balloon drop and champagne split. Admission is $10 and doors open at 7 p.m. Omega Party presents New Years
Eve Extravaganza at 901 Lounge (901 9th St., N.W.). Tickets are $15 in advance and only 100 are available. Tickets will be sold at the door as space permits. VIP packages are $50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit omegapartydc.com. Drive-By Truckers will be nishing off a three-day appearance at 9:30 Club (815 V St., N.W.) on New Years Eve along with Booker T and Alabama Shakes. There will be a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased online at 930.com. Doors open at 8 p.m.
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ARTS & CULTURE
HOT HITS AND HIDDEN JEWELS
OPENINGS
WED, JAN 4
The Religion Thing, Theater J. 202-777-3210. washingtondcjcc.org. Time Stands Still, The Studio Theatre. 202332-3300. studiotheatre.org.
Spoiler Alert: Everybody Dies, Woolly Mammoth. 202-393-3939. woollymammoth.net. Romeo and Juliet, Synetic Theater, Crystal City Theatre. 800-494-8497. synetictheater.org.
THU, JAN 5
Washington Stage Guild: Amelia by Alex Webb, Washington Stage Guild, Undercroft Theatre. 240-582-0050. stageguild.org. TH E S O UN D O F M U S IC TH RU J AN 22 OLNEY THEATRE CENTER. 301-924-3400. OLNEYTHEATRE.ORG. This gracious and charming story of the von Trapp family who come together through the power of song makes The Sound of Music one of the most beloved shows in musical theatre. Warm your heart with this all-time favorite. N E W YE ARS E V E AT T HE K E N N E D Y C EN TER SAT, DE C 31 K E NNE DY CE N T E R . 8 0 0 - 4 4 4 - 1 3 2 4 . K E N N EDY- CEN TER. ORG Ring in the New Year at a dazzling concert conducted by Murry Sidlin with members of the NSO and guest guitarist Pepe Romero playing a program featuring selections from Rossini, Enesco, DeFalla, Bernstein, Copland, Tchaikovsky, and others. Patrons are then invited to the Grand Foyer Party. Welcome 2012 with waltzing to music performed by the Salon Orchestra of Washington and swing dancing to music by Full Swing in the Grand Foyer from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. Theres a big balloon countdown at midnight. FILM SERIES: ANDY WARHOL 16 MM: VELVET UNDERGROUND AND NICO D E C 31 N AT I O NAL G A L L E RY OF A RT. 2 0 2 - 7 3 7 - 4 2 1 5 . N GA . GOV. This lm (in the original 16 mm format) is presented in association with the National Gallerys exhibition Warhol: Headlines. 80 works representing the full range of Warhols practice--from paintings, drawings, prints, photography, and sculpture to lm, video, and television--demonstrating the artists career-long obsession with the tabloid news. The exhibition closes on Mon, Jan 2. WH AT S CO O K IN G U N C L E S A M ? TH RU T UE , J A N 3 N AT I O NAL AR C HIV E S . 2 0 2 - 3 5 7 - 5 0 0 0 . A RCH IV ES. GOV. We demand that our Government ensure that it is safe, cheap, and abundant. In response, Government has been a factor in the production, regulation, research, innovation, and economics of our food supply. It has also attempted, with varying success, to change the eating habits of Americans.From the farm to the dinner table, explore the records of the National Archives that trace the Governments effect on what Americans eat.
The Guide to Arts & Culture is compiled CultureCapital, a program of the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington. For more events visit culturecapital.com. Photo provided by Olney Theatre.
ONGOING EXHIBITIONS
National Gallery of Art. The Invention of Glory: Afonso V and the Pastrana Tapestries, Harry Callahan at 100, Antico: The Golden Age of Renaissance Bronzes, In the Tower: Mel Bochner, A New Look: Samuel F.B. Morses Gallery of the Louvre. 202-737-4215. nga.gov. National Geographic. Anglo-Saxon Hoard: Gold from Englands Dark Ages, Big Cats. 202-857-7588. nglive.org/dc. Museum of Women in the Arts. TROVE: The Collection in Depth, Visions of the Orient: Western Women Artists in Asia 1900-1940. 202-783-5000. nmwa.org. Corcoran Gallery of Art. The Exceptional Everyday: Design Post-Process, 30 Americans, Claire Healy & Sean Cordeiro: Are We There Yet? 202-639-1700. corcoran.edu.
LAST CHANCE
SAT, DEC 31
Pride and Prejudice, Round House Theatre Bethesda. 240-644-1100. roundhousetheatre.org. A Christmas Carol, Fords Theatre. 202-347-4833. fords.org. An Irish Carol, Keegan Theatre, Church Street Theater. 703-892-0202. keegantheatre.com. Exhibition for Andrew Christenberry, Reyes + Davis Independent Exhibitions. 202-255-5050. reyesdavis.com. Field of Vision, Washington Printmakers Gallery. 301-273-3660. washingtonprintmakers.com.
SUN, JAN 1
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, Olney Theatre Center. 301-924-3400. olneytheatre.org.
ONGOING GALLERIES
Floating Utopia: Mobile Art Gallery Designs & Jesse Kanda: Waking From A Coma, Artisphere. 703-875-1100. artisphere.com. Tadeusz Lapinski: Past and Present, Brentwood Arts Exchange. 301-277-2863. arts.pgparks.com. Years End / New Beginnings, Zenith Gallery, Chevy Chase Pavilion. 202-6865335. zenithgallery.com. The Blues and Other Colors, DCAC. 202-462-7833. dcartscenter.org. VSA Exhibition: Momentum, Kennedy Center, Smithsonian Resident Associate Program. 202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org. Shining Stars, Zenith The Gallery. 202-783-2963. zenithgallery.com.
MON, JAN 2
Warhol: Headlines, National Gallery of Art. 202-737-4215. nga.gov. From Impressionism to Modernism: The Chester Dale Collection, National Gallery of Art. 202-737-4215. nga.gov. Ocean Soul Exhibit: Photographs by Brian Skerry, National Geographic. 202-857-7588. nglive.org/dc. Guy & Marco Randos Transitions, The Art League. 703-683-1780. theartleague.org.
ONE NIGHT ONLY

FRI, DEC 30
The Calverts by Candlelight, Riversdale House Museum. 301-864-0420. pgparks.com.
THU, JAN 5
Your link to the arts in Metro DC is one click away!
Friday Morning Music Club: Chamber Music Concert, Friday Morning Music Club, Strathmore. 301-581-5100. fmmc.org. Info Ex: Information Exchange with curator Jean-Michel Ross, WPA, UBS Financial Services. 202-234-7103x1. wpadc.org.
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ONGOING STAGE
Billy Elliot the Musical, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org. ANN: An Affectionate Portrait of Ann Richards, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org.
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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WASHINGTON DC 20001 CIVIL DIVISION IN RE: BETH AMBO FOMUkONG CASE NO. 0009915-11 ORDER OF PUBLICATION Pursuant to SCR-205 and DC Code 16-2501, 2502 and 2503 Beth Ambo Fomukong having filed complaint for judgment changing Beth Ambo Fomukong name to Joseph Smith and having applied to the court for an Order of Publication of the notice required by law in such cases; and it is by the Court this 16th day of December 2011, hereby ORDERED, that all persons concerned show cause, if any there be, on or before the 25th day of January 2012, why the prayers of said complaint should not be granted; provided that a copy of this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks before the said day in the Washington Blade newspaper. PROVIDED FURTHER: that pursuant to SCR-205(b) notice be sent to the applicants creditors by registered or certified mail and that proof of service of mailing be made in the manner provided in SCR Probate Rule 19(b). SO ORDERED, R. Wertheim A True Copy, Clerk, Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Natalie E. Byrd Court Clerk, Judge in Chambers. SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WASHINGTON, DC 20001 CIVIL DIVISION IN RE: DAVID ALExANDER PLOUFFE CASE NO. 0009930-11 ORDER OF PUBLICATION Pursuant to SCR-205 and DC Code 16-2501, 2502 and 2503 David Alexander Plouffe having filed a complaint for judgment changing David Alexander Plouffe name to David Alexander Morgan Plouffe and having applied to the court for an Order of Publication of the notice required by law in such cases; and it is by the Court this 19th day of December 2011, hereby ORDERED, that all persons concerned show cause, if any there be, on or before the 23rd day of January 2012, why the prayers of said complaint should not be granted; provided that a copy of this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks before said day in the Washington Blade newspaper. PROVIDED FURTHER: that pursuant to SCR-205(b) notice be sent to the applicants creditors by registered or certified mail and that proof of service of mailing be made in the manner provided in SCR Probate Rule 19(b). SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WASHINGTON, DC 20001 CIVIL DIVISION IN RE: OLIVIA DUDLEy MORGAN CASE NO. 0009931-11 ORDER OF PUBLICATION Pursuant to SCR-205 and DC Code 16-2501, 2502 and 2503 Olivia Dudley Morgan having filed a complaint for judgment changing Olivia Dudley Morgan name to Olivia Dudley Morgan Plouffe and having applied to the court for an Order of Publication of the notice required by law in such cases; and it is by the Court this 19th day of December 2011, hereby ORDERED, that all persons concerned show cause, if any there be, on or before the 23rd day of January 2012, why the prayers of said complaint should not be granted; provided that a copy of this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks before said day in the Washington Blade newspaper. PROVIDED FURTHER: that pursuant to SCR-205(b) notice be sent to the applicants creditors by registered or certified mail and that proof of service of mailing be made in the manner provided in SCR Probate Rule 19(b).
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EMPLOYMENT
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.
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WAT MASSAGE Imagine being transported to an oasis of serenity where your own nature is rested, renewed & refreshed. A luxurious studio near 18th & Florida Ave. FALL SPECIAL- $90/ 90 min. session (with this ad). (202)5889393. http://watmassage.com. AWESOME MASSAGE AT a great price. Relax and enjoy a full body massage by my strong hands and warm caring heart. Gift certificates available for that someone in your life. DC 202-6411078 Hagerstown 202-641-1078 Treat yourself to a top quality massage. SHIATSU By DAVID David Kupferschmid Licensed Shiatsu & Massage Therapist www.davidshiatsu.abmp.com. 240-4917829. [email protected]. Same day appointments, 7:00 am - 9:00 pm Silver Spring, MD & Northwest, DC. ENJOy WONDERFUL MASSAGE! Experienced hands willing & able to help you get rid of stress, fatigue, toxins & waste products. DC/VA. Appts. 703402-6698. yOUR GO TO guy in Virginia Square. Client-specific Swedish, Deep-tissue & Athletic massage, to help you attain better health & fitness. Virgina Square Metro. www.GuyMassage.com. SEASON GREETINGS & HAPPy HOLIDAYS! Whether you are planning a luncheon, an intimate dinner, a holiday brunch, or a barbecue we have your back! We bring to the table far more than spectacular food with impeccable service. We provide an elegant presentation of culinary delights that will have your guests talking about your event long after its over. Contact Ms. Wanda today about pricing & services. (301) 653-1190 or [email protected]
MASSAGE / CERTIFIED
yOURE WORkING THAT BODY HARD. Come to a professional massage therapist offering $10 OFF (mention this ad) for the best deep tissue massage available. Stretching, Swedish & Sports massage. Dupont. Marcio (202) 2719440. www.MarcioMassage.com. INDULGE yOURSELF WITH RELAXING, DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE! Feel the stress leave your body. CMT w/ 15 yrs exp. Located in Logan/Dupont Circle. www.DCMassageTherapist.com David (202) 213-9646. Lic #MT410. N. ARLINGTON - DC STRESSING YOU OUT? Stop in to decompress & refresh yourself with a massage. SunTues & Thurs. Gary 301-7041158. mymassagebygary.com. ITALIAN JOCk GIVES full body massage. Masculine, muscular, VGL masseur, offers, full-body, Swedish, sports, deep tissue massage onPROOF #1 a table, including stretching, shower available. See my photos on www.massagem4m.com/ jockguy. Located downtown, parking available. Credit Cards Accepted. Brian REVISIONS 312-961-7724.
COUNSELING
COUNSELING FOR GAy MEN. Individual/couple counseling with volunteer peer counselor. Gay Mens Counseling Community. 202-265-6495. gaymenscounseling.org. No fees, donation requested. 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 fulfilling life, satisfying careers, & healthy relationships. Jonathan Kirkendall MA LPC, 202.550.3589, www. dclpc.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY
STEVE OTOOLE PHOTOGRAPHy Fine Art Photographer for portraits, weddings & dating photos for the internet. Call (703) 532-3031. www. steveotoolephotography.com.
LIMOUSINE
kASPERS LIVERy SERVICE Town Car Service since 1987 Gay & Veteran Owned! 24 Hour Reservations & ITS ALL ABOUT CHANGE! Lesbian Information (202)-554-2471. (800)-455Group, 30-65. Relationships, Careers, 2471. http://www.KasperLivery.com. Retirement, ISSUE DATE: 11.04.11 the rates tab! SALES REPRESENTATIVE: PHIL Interpersonal Skills, ROCKSTROH (prockstroh@w click Assertiveness. Tuesday evenings in Northwest DC. Call 301-942-3237. REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must GRACE RIDDELL, hours of theGRiddell@ be submitted within 24 LICSW. date of proof. Proof will be considered final and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24 hours of the date lgbtc.com. LGBTC.com. 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 LGBTQ AFFIRMING THERAPy at BARTENDERS WITH THAT PERSONAL the advertisement. Advertiser represents that its advertisement will not violate any criminal laws or any rgihts of third Dupont Circle Individuals, couples, parties, including, but not limited to, suchwait staff as infringement or misapporpriation of any copyright, patent, TOUCH Bartenders & violations ready trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety right, false advertising, unfair competition, families, adolescents. Over 15 to assist you with of celebrity, private defamation, invasion of privacy or rightsyour nextviolation of anti-discrimination law or regulation, or any other right years serving the community. Mike of any person affair. Contact us at 202-390-4018, for pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) and or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff Giordano, any and 202/460-6384 mike. to hold brownmore information. llc (dba the washington blade) harmless fromLICSW. all liability, loss, damages, naff pitts omnimedia Our 20th year! claims, or causes of action, including reasonable legal fees and expenses that may be incurred by brown naff pitts [email protected]. www. omnimedia llc, arising out of or related to advertisers breach of any of the foregoing representations and warranties.
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CHANGES ARE EASIER WITH HELP. Small, private practice group of experienced, caring therapists. Safe, condential setting. Ofces in Woodley Park & Takoma Park near Metro. Licensed professionals. Insurance reimbursable. Washington Therapy Guild. Call 202-483-2660. www. therapyguild.net.
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.
MOVERS
GEORGETOWN MOVING STORAGE CO. - Excellent Local Movers - Licensed, Insured, BBB A+ Get Free Estimates (202)536-3868. www.GeorgetownMoving.com JOHN HENRY MOVERS Since 1990, the areas favorite gay owned crew. Expert packing, pianos. Experienced, equipped & punctual as hell. Cheapskates love us! 703-597-5561 GULLIVERS MOVERS SWIFT & gentle relocations. Packing, pianos, antiques. Local & long distance 202-483-9579. www.gulliversmovers.com. We Recycle & Donate. Call Anthony 202 635-7860. GREAT SCOTT MOVING INC. Local & Long Distance, Pianos! Call us For a Great Move at a Great Price (301) 6992066. Highly rated in Consumer Check Book, Better Business Bureau, Yelp & Angies List. TWO GUYS AND a Truck. Manly Movers. Let us break a nail on your next move. Mention this ad for 10% off. 202.223.8838.
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 202-270-2967, VA (703) 2990101. MD (301) 656-7171. Visit www. maidtoclean.com HOME CLEANING, DEEP down, one time or weekly, bi-weekly. Move-in/ move-outs. Fully licensed & insured, outstanding references. By Rent-AHand. Free Estimates. Call Now! (202) 251-1044. www.MyRentAHand.com. POWER CLEANERS, LLC. Experienced, dependable service seven days a week. Gay owned & operated. Call Matt for free estimates at 202-352-0739. or visit www.powercleaningdc.com. HOME / OFFICE CLEANING HANDYGUY Super clean, neat, responsible & experienced guy available to help with chores at home or ofce. Weekly or occasionally at reasonable rates. 202-491-6399. A CLEANING SERVICE invites you to relax while our team of experts cleans your home. Established in 1985, we are licensed, bonded & insured. Please email [email protected] or call for an online estimate and be sure to include the size of your home or ofce & the frequency with which you would like the services. A Cleaning Service, winner of the 2011 Angies List Super Service award. 703.892.8648.
ROOFING
PJ MCTAVISH & CO. Roong Repairs, New Roof, Gutter Cleaning. Licensed Bonded Insured. See our display ad in this issue. 301-476-8551.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
BOOKKEEPING, ACCOUNTING & TAX preparation for individuals & businesses offered by full-service rm. 25 years experience. Reasonable rates. Call 202-390-4018 or email PJSumm@ aol.com.
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) 3401390. PORSCHE OF ARLINGTON 2010 Porsche Panamera S #LO62567. $84,955 plus tax and tags. Sale ends 12/31/2011. Plus processing fee of $399 and freight. 3100 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington VA. 1-877-567-5878. PORSCHEOFARLINGTON.COM
SHARE / DC
CAPITOL HILL (2-1/2 blocks eastern mkt) small bright furn/unfurn BR share w/ 3 gay friendly men, $675+utilities. Avail Dec 1. Pete 202-544-5688. BEARS, CUBS, DADDY Bears. Spacious Shared housing in 3 sep. apts same oor. ($700.00 - $950.00) High Rise/ Connecticut Ave. NW DC [near Zoo] Heat/AC included . Gym. 12 mo. lease, then month to month. Call 202 465 0980 or [email protected] for details.
LEGAL SERVICES
EMPLOYMENT LAW ATTORNEY Wrongful Discharge, Sexual Harassment, Contract Review, Whistleblowers. The Law Ofce of Carl Roller (202) 531-2777, www.carlroller. com. FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM Representing the GLBT community for over 30 years. Family adoptions, estate planning, immigration, employment. (301) 8912200. Silber, Perlman, Sigman & Tilev, P.A. www.SP-Law. com. ADOPTION & ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE Law Attorney Jennifer Fairfax represents clients in Maryland and D.C. interested in adoption or ART matters. 301-221-9651, JFairfax@ jenniferfairfax.com.
PETS & SUPPLIES

ADOPT AN ADORABLE PUPPY OR DOG All-breed, non-prot rescue. 100% volunteer run. Donations welcome & needed. www.aforeverhome.org.
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CLEANING
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PAINTERS
GIL PAINTING COMPANY INC. 18 Years Of Experience! Bonded, Licensed & Insured. Interior/Exterior Painting. Plaster & Dry Wall. Power Washing. Carpentry. Roong & Remodeling. www.Gilpainting. Com. Walter (301) 370-9940 [email protected].
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DAVID EROTIC MASSAGE by certied therapist. Deep tissue also available. On table. Handsome man with class. Thank you for your repeat business. Days & evenings. Easy parking or metro. Call 202-421-8900. ALL-AMERICAN BOY 59, 138 lbs, 29w. Very cute & clean-cut, w/a smooth lean build. Affectionate & versatile, loves older guys. [email protected]. # 1 PROOF 703-568-1560.
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Volume 42, Issue 52 - December 30, 2011

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D E C E M B E R 3 0 2 0 1 1 V O L U M E 4 2 I S S U E 5 2 O U R C O M M U N I T Y, O U R S T O R I E S S I N C E 1 9 6 9 W A S H I N G T O N B L A D E .

dont ask is history

MARRIAGE NEW YORK

PROP 8 HRCS LOSS

anticipating the year

outspoken DANCING CHAZ out of the closet

AWARDING GAYS a gleeful lesbian

theatrical high GETTING GAME countdown

02 DECEMBER 30, 2011

look your best in 2012

new yeAr SpeCiAl Mention thiS Ad

Dr. H. Michael Rassael - Cosmetic Surgeon

MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF COSMETIC SURGERY

D ECEMB ER 30, 2011 03

04 DECEMBER 30, 2011

Kamenys death is local LGBT story of the year

Activists, public ofcials mourn loss of pioneering gure

DECEMBER 30, 2011 05

Washingtonian Plastic Surgery

Laser Liposuction Body Contouring Facial Rejuvenation Laser Treatments Rhinoplasty

CALL TO ASK ABOUT OUR LASER LIPO SPECIALS

06 DECEMBER 30, 2011

The rest of the years top local stories

Md. marriage bill killed, resurrected

Rash of anti-trans violence in D.C.

Beating of Md. trans woman caught on video

DECEMBER 30, 2011 07

08 DECEMBER 30, 2011

Top local stories of 2011

Adam Ebbin elected rst gay Va. state senator

Ganymede, D.C. Cowboys, Apex say goodbye

New Md. trans group forms after bill dies

DECEMBER 30, 2011 09

Top local stories of 2011

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 08

D.C.s AIDS WALK, organized by Whitman-Walker Health, turned 25 in 2011.

Delaware approves civil unions

Local groups celebrate milestones

Wone case settlement

14 DECEMBER 30, 2011

Top story of 2011: Dont Ask is history

DECEMBER 30, 2011 15

2012 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

NEW DESIGN CONTRACTS

Call for your FREE Design Consultation 301-850-0035

Murphy Beds and more...

16 DECEMBER 30, 2011

2011: A year of milestones, tragedies, courtroom ghts

N.Y. approves marriage

Rep. Barney Frank retires

Obama wont defend DOMA; Boehner hires counsel

DECEMBER 30, 2011 17

January 2529, 2012 Hilton Baltimore Maryland www.CreatingChange.org

Thursday, January 26, 8:00 PM Opening Keynote Address

Benjamin Todd Jealous

President and CEO of the NAACP

See you there!

Build Power Take Action Create Change

18 DECEMBER 30, 2011