Compete July 2015 by COMPETE Magazine

SPECIAL ISSUE: #LOVEWINS

JULY 2015 • VOL. 9 NO. 7 • $3.95 COMPETENETWORK.COM

PUBLISHERS Eric Carlyle • eric@competenetwork.com Patrick Gamble • patrick@competenetwork.com COMPETE MAGAZINE Editor-in-Chief Connie Wardman • connie@competenetwork.com CompeteNetwork.com Editor Ty Nolan • ty@competenetwork.com Style Editor Alfonzo Chavez • alfonzo@competenetwork.com Fitness Editor Ken Hunt • ken@competenetwork.com Art Director Jay Gelnett • jay@competenetwork.com Graphic Design Assistant Matt Boyd • mattb@competenetwork.com Contributors Harry Andrew, Ian Colgate, Joseph Gaxiola, Jeff Hocker, Amy Jones, Jeff Kagan, Miriam Latto, Charles Naurath, Dr. Rob Elliott Owens, Brian Patrick, and James Williamson Photo Editor Jacquelyn Phillips • jacquelyn@competenetwork.com Photographers Thomas Fleisher, Leland Gebhardt Sales & Partnerships Tony Apodaca • tony@competenetwork.com

JULY 2015 Volume 9, Issue 7

Photo by Marjolein Annegarn

16 TREATING HIV/AIDS IN THE DEEP SOUTH DESERT AIDS PROJECT: 20 TREATING BODY, MIND & SOUL 22 GET READY TO RACE KICK–OFF

10 COMMUNITY HEROES – JACK MACKENROTH 12 LEFT FIELD Speed Read, Grandstanding, Thumbs UP/DOWN

MVP

24 JONAS RAYNSFORD ATHLETE

27 MUSIC MAN RACES FOR A CURE SPORTS

32 HOCKEY’S CHELSEA CHALLENGE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS 34 LONG BEACH PRIDE RUN DRAWS INTERNATIONAL CROWD

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LIFESTYLE

MISSION STATEMENT Compete unites the world through sports.

Dr. Vanig Answers Your HIV/AIDS Questions

COMPETENETWORK.COM FACEBOOK.COM/COMPETEMAG @COMPETESPORTS

COMPETE MAGAZINE

30 ASK THE DOCTOR 38 FITNESS

Summer Tips

40 TRAVEL

Cruise with Olympian Blake Skjellerup

OVERTIME

42 GYM BAG 44 EVENTS 46 SPORTS YEARBOOK COMPETE ONLINE

Check out more Compete stories online at competenetwork.com www.CompeteNetwork.com

COVER IMAGE BY

Anthony Gaston COVER DESIGN BY

Matt Boyd

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FROM THE SKYBOX BY ERIC CARLYLE, CO-FOUNDER

We’re All Known for Sports Now

@CompeteEric

hen HIV/AIDS first appeared as an epidemic in the 1980s, people were afraid to even discuss the disease. Many bright men and women faced the challenges of this new epidemic that at that time was a true death sentence with virtually no help and no support. HIV/AIDS went on to redefine life for more than a generation of the LGBT community. In recent years the negative stigma associated with HIV/AIDS has begun to change. This is thanks to many people in the LGBT community, such as advocate Jack Mackenroth, and organizations such as AIDS/LifeCycle, AIDS Alabama and Desert AIDS Project among many others. One early HIV/AIDS advocate was Douglas P. Holloway. An executive vice president of Wells Fargo and a member of the bank’s board of directors, Doug was an early advisor to Compete Magazine and husband of Compete co-founder, David Riach. In the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Doug worked tirelessly for such LGBT community organizations as San Francisco’s Shanti Project. Doug’s legacy lives on as the namesake for the 2016 Douglas P. Holloway Sports Diversity Leadership Conference with a mission “To create a more inclusive LGBT sports community by mentoring tomorrow’s sports diversity leaders today.” Compete is holding the diversity conference in affiliation with the Sin City Shootout, the largest annual LGBT sports tournament that draws over 8,000 participants to Las Vegas each January to participate in 23 different sports. The 2016 conference will be held January 13-15. It is because of people like Mackenroth and Holloway that Compete works to “unite the world through sports” and to define a new generation of LGBT individuals through the positive image of athletics instead of the negative stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. Sport On,

Eric Carlyle Chief Executive Officer eric@competenetwork.com 6/26 There is a tremendous buzz around the Compete office today. We are sending this issue to the printer in two hours and the Supreme Court just ruled in favor of marriage equality. We are all overjoyed and had just enough time to add #lovewins to the cover!

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FROM THE CATBIRD SEAT BY CONNIE WARDMAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Spotlight on HIV

e just marked June as PRIDE month. And this Fourth of July we celebrate 50 years since the @CompeteConnie Stonewall riots that marked the beginning of gay people standing up to defend themselves – the genesis of the PRIDE movement. The LGBT community has made a lot of strides since then but the big problem since the 1980s was/still is HIV/ AIDS. With new medications and treatments, it’s no longer the automatic death sentence it once was. But HIV hasn’t gone away. In this special issue we take a look at various people and organizations that are changing the face of HIV. AIDS Alabama and Desert AIDS Project are two organizations who are doing a tremendous amount of work to address the various needs of the community. AIDS Alabama on the east coast and Desert AIDS Project on the west coast offer an all-important holistic approach to HIV treatment, services and education. And then you have stories of gay athletes who show their pride in various forms – individuals like Jack Mackenroth, an openly HIV-positive, medal-winning swimmer who has been living with HIV since 1989. He’s devoted his life to HIV awareness and education, and eliminating the stigma of an HIV-positive diagnosis. Then you have Chris Verdugo, executive director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, who has seen many of his friends dealing with HIV/AIDS. His desire to help others prompted him to take part in last month’s AIDS/LifeCycle to support organizations like the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. And finally you have individuals like Jeff Kagan on the east coast and Charles Naurath on the west coast who are involved with regular team activities. Jeff is a committed hockey player who shared a story of the Chelsea Challenge hockey tournament in New York City while Charles, a runner and frisbee player, shared a story of the Long Beach Pride Run. Please join all of us at Compete Magazine in honoring these individuals and organizations that are changing the face of HIV. And if you’re not already a part of this drive to eliminate HIV/AIDS, jump in – there’s a part for everyone to play. Keep Smiling,

Connie Wardman, Editor-in-Chief connie@competenetwork.com

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KICKOFF

COMMUNITY HEROES

Jack Mackenroth Senior communication officer for The Global Forum on MSM and HIV

JACK MACKENROTH HAS LONG BEEN A POSITIVE role modle for those who are HIV-positive (HIV+). When he was diagnosed as HIV+ in 1989 at age 20, his life expectancy was two or three years at best – ultimately, it was a death sentence. The fact that he has outlived his predicted death for the past 26 years has turned him into one of the most visible and committed advocates for HIV testing and treatment, and for eliminating the stigma attached to being HIV+. Mackenroth has recently been appointed senior communications officer for The Global Forum on MSM (men having sex with men) and HIV (MSMGF). The advocacy network’s mission is “To advocate for equitable access to effective HIV prevention, care, treatment, and support services for gay men and other MSM, including gay men and MSM living with HIV, while promoting their health and human rights worldwide,” and it’s his job to get out the organization’s message via their website, blog, media, press releases and social media. Currently much of the MSMGF’s effort is focused outside the U.S., making sure that high-risk groups in middle and lower income countries have access to funding and services through the organization’s work with governments and organizations to protect marginalized MSM groups in those regions. As a well-known fashion designer, reality television star, radio personality, an award-winning swimmer and Compete Magazine’s 2012 Athlete of the Year, Mackenroth brings to his new position not only his professional experience as a media strategist but also his creative, innovative approach to HIV activism. He became one of the most visible national HIV activists after disclosing his own HIV status on season four of Project Runway and it led to him being a national spokesperson for the HIV education campaign, “Living Positive by Design.” As the director of public relations at World Health Clinicians in 2013, Mackenroth was the creative force behind the multimedia anti-stigma and HIV testing initiative, “HIV Equal.” He created the HIV Equal term to fight the stigma of being HIV+, illustrating that we are all equally valuable, regardless of our personal HIV status. Following on the heels of the HIV Equal campaign, as a media strategist for Housing Works in New York City he

was art director for a new HIV-related campaign. But Mackenroth doesn’t limit his support to work projects. He participates in lots of fundraising efforts for various HIV/AIDS organizations, bringing his characteristic creative approach to his efforts. Although only a novice cyclist, Mackenroth decided to take part in last year’s BRAKING AIDS® Ride, a three-day 300-mile ride from Boston to New York to benefit Housing Works in New York City. He figured while it might be challenging, it would certainly be doable and made the announcement that he’d raise $50,000 in only seven weeks for the AIDS advocacy organization that provides housing, medical, prevention and support services for those living in the New York City area. With a massive social media reach of more than 500,000 followers, he thought donations would start to roll in. But when that didn’t happen, Mackenroth used his chiseled body as a billboard, “selling” personalized seminude selfies for donations over $250. Tagging the name, business, website or social media handle of any major donor, he posted photos on all his social media outlets; the larger the donation, the more provocative the ad placement became. By the time all the money was collected, he raised $52,300, setting an individual fundraising record. Most recently he conceptualized and launched the HIV Shower Selfie Challenge with the hashtag #weareALLclean on World AIDS Day 2014 which went globally viral in multiple countries with over 26 million social media impressions. With today’s Internet providing the global village envisioned by Marshall McLuhan, it’s easy to see why Jack Mackenroth is the perfect community hero for our globally connected world.

DO YOU KNOW A COMMUNITY HERO? Community Heroes is a regular feature in Compete Magazine. Nominate deserving individuals by emailing us at heroes@competenetwork.com and include a brief biography of or a link to your nominee.

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KICKOFF

LEFT FIELD

SPEED READ FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP: CANADA 2015 IN SPITE OF A WORLDWIDE CORRUPTION scandal that includes arrests of key administrators and allegations of money laundering, the women playing in the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada have managed to rise above it all. At the administrative level, soccer is run by a long-time “good old boys” group. But from June 6 through July 5 it’s these women athletes who are providing FIFA with its only positive press right now. Of the 16 spots in the knockout stage already filled, at the time of this writing the U.S. team is the favorite to win the World Cup by a 33 percent chance according to the latest model by Nate Silver of FiveThirtyEight.com. He also lists Germany at a 25 percent chance, Japan at nine percent and Brazil, Canada and France tied at seven percent as the only other teams with a real chance of winning the World Cup. With all international sports tournaments these days there is the issue of LGBT equality finally being raised. Over the years women’s soccer has been pretty inclusive. According to outsports.com, at the World Cup there are 15 publically out players and two coaches who identify as lesbian, bisexual or other. A number of them are high profile players, like U.S. teammates Abby Wambach and Megan Rapinoe, Erin McLeod of Canada, Caroline Seger of Sweden and Nadine Angerer of Germany. And LGBT support in Canada not only includes LGBT citizens’ legal right to same-sex marriage, a number of its national sports organizations have also joined the You Can Play Project. But a number of the national teams competing at the Women’s World Cup have restrictive, even harsh anti-gay laws and policies. In some countries like Nigeria and Cameroon, being gay can land a person in jail and even lead to a death sentence – in Nigeria it can be up to 14 years in jail with some provinces imposing a death penalty for men. So players from these countries must remain closeted, not only so they can play but also for their ultimate personal safety. The Washington Post has a complete infographic of gay rights around the world that is worth a look: www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/world/gay-rights/

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While Canada, as the host country ensures equality for all participants, including gay athletes, what seemsstrange is the contrast in the level of public protest against homophobia between the Sochi Olympics and the Women’s World Cup. With athletes and fans facing expulsion or jail if they were open about their sexuality in Russia, protest against the country’s repressive laws kept the issue in the crosshairs of social media and the press long after the Olympic and Paralympic Games were over. But there doesn’t seem to be the same level of protest over the World Cup. But come the final match that’s being held in the BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, whether it’s the U.S. team or one of its rivals that bring home the trophy, hopefully FIFA will finally recognize the worth of its women athletes and give thanks for the positive reputation they’ve brought their governing body through this exciting event.

NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN SPORTS HALL OF FAME 2015 CLASS INDUCTED OUR CONGRATULATIONS GO TO THE ATHLETES who are being inducted into the National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame (NGLSHOF). The 2015 class includes: Kye Allums, Megan Rapinoe, Roy Simmons, Helen Hull Jacobs, Roger Brigham, Dale Scott, Chris Morgan, Gene Dermody, and Robbie Rogers. The induction ceremony takes place on Friday, July 24 at Center on Halsted in conjunction with the Chicago Cubs 15th annual Out at Wrigley, billed as the nation’s “Original Gay Day.” “The NGLSHOF was established in 2013 to recognize those who have stood up to LGBT stereotypes and worked to break down barriers by bringing people together for the good of the sports,” said Bill Gubrud, the organization’s executive director.

GRANDSTANDING LETTERS TO COMPETE MAGAZINE WADE DAVIS’ WORLD (May 2015) It was nice to see a person of color on the cover of Compete. It is difficult enough to be a gay man in today’s world but to be an openly out gay black man, well it is even harder. Wade Davis is a fine example for those of us wanting to come out but afraid of what the world will think.

COMPETE READER SURVEY Favorite Summer Sport? Other 12%

Martin Johnson Denver (via email) THUMB’S UP (June 2015) I was so glad to see that you gave Caitlyn Jenner (then known as Bruce Jenner) a well deserved “Thumbs Up.” Now, after seeing Caitlyn Jenner’s cover on Vanity Fair I realized that Jenner is much more than a hero to not only the transgendered, but to the entire LGBT community for that matter. Congratulations to Caitlyn and kudos to Compete’s classy thumb’s up.

Baseball/ Softball 43%

Volleyball 19% Swimming/ Diving 26%

Kim Garcia Los Angeles (via email) TALK TO US! Submissions to Compete should include the writer’s name, address and contact phone number and should be sent by email to letters@competenetwork.com. Letters may be edited by Compete and become the property of Media Out Loud, LLC.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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THE LGBT SPORTS COALITION … for taking significant steps forward at their annual Nike Summit held June 11-14 in Portland. In addition to adopting a new logo and releasing a new video, the group approved more than $75k in grants for six projects.

RICK WELTS … openly out president of the Golden State Warriors for being named as celebrity grand marshal of San Francisco’s gay pride parade. And a Thumbs UP also goes to the Warriors for clinching the NBA Championship.

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QUIZ

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

True or False – Cyclists can ride faster in large groups than alone.

A. True. Riders in a group save energy by as much as 40 percent when drag is reduced by riders in the front of the pack. Source: outsideonline.com.

KICKOFF

SPORTS

PRINCE SHEMBO, ATLANTA FALCONS LINEBACKER

… for allegedly kicking his girlfriend’s dog to death. Police charged him with felony animal cruelty and a warrant was issued for his arrest. The Falcons announced that they have waived Shembo.

JEFF SHENG … for the release of his book, “Fearless: Portraits of LGBT Student Athletes.” It contains photographic portraits he took of 202 LGBT athletes from the U.S. and Canada over a 13-year span. It’s on sale now at fearlessbookstore.com for $39.50.

CHANGING THE GAME: Leveling the Playing Field in the Deep South

“NO ONE CARES.””I cannot count the number of times my staff and I have heard young men speak these words. Young, Black, gay, southern men; men who truly believe that their success or failure is of no consequence to anyone. Young, gifted, talented, promising men who have been dealt a bad hand, who have been victimized, who have suffered under a system of racial oppression. Based on their experiences, they have justifiably arrived at this conclusion, “No one cares.” Young Black gay men in the Deep South must feel attacked from all sides at times. On top of the challenges of racial oppression, they are faced with bigotry due to their sexual orientation. Often abandoned by their families, ostracized in their churches and ridiculed in their schools, they do not see themselves represented in LGBTQ organizations. Service providers charged to improve their lives often fail to meet their needs. So how do we change the game? How do we guarantee that these young men have the opportunity to live a life with the same resources, support and advantages enjoyed by others? First we have to acknowledge that a problem exists. The problem that appears to be bubbling to the surface for these young, gay Black men in the Deep South is the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS. But that in itself is the result of a perfect storm of inequities that we have failed to adequately address. According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, Black males engaging in sex with other males represented 69 percent of the state’s new HIV infections in 2013 in the most severely impacted age group (ages 15-29). This is in line with what is being reported throughout the southern United States. Research compiled by the Southern HIV/AIDS Strategy

By Dafina Ward, JD, is the Director, Prevention and Community Partnerships at AIDS Alabama. For additional information visit aidsalabama.org. 16

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Initiative showed HIV and AIDS diagnoses increased fastest among Black men who have sex with men in the targeted deep southern states (HIV/AIDS in the Southern US, April 23, 2014). HIV rates of diagnosis and death in the U.S. also tend to be most severe in the nine “target” Deep South states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas (Journal of Community Health, 19 December 2014). These states account for 49 percent of the people living with HIV/AIDS but only 37 percent of the nation’s population. Clearly, the Deep South has become a new kind of battleground, one where advocates, communities and allies must join forces to fight for the lives of young Black gay men. These men (and often boys) are struggling to overcome countless barriers to health. Leveling the playing field requires a concerted effort to address all of their needs. One such program is the Elite Project, a CDC-funded program that provides support and services to young same-gender loving men of color in Greater Birmingham. Through the program and drop-in center, more than 700 young men have received HIV testing, support, counseling and other services. The program’s success can largely be attributed to the staff, which is composed of four young men who are themselves members of the community they serve. Elite provides a safe place for young men who are dealing with severe challenges. If we want to improve educational attainment then we must also address bullying, lack of non-discrimination policies protecting LGBTQ students and schools’ failure to train teachers to be sensitive to the struggles of young people who are dealing with questions of sexual orientation and gender identity. If we want to improve mental health then we must provide trauma-informed services that take into account the unique challenges faced by young LGBTQ clients. If we want to end new HIV infections then we must effectively promote—and provide feasible access to—Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and other prevention strategies. We can not only chase HIV-testing numbers, we must also serve people. This is how we change the game. A game changing moment for our agency came along when we encountered a young man we’ll call “Thomas.” Thomas is a young Black gay man living with HIV in Birmingham, Alabama. He became a client of our agency when his medical social worker realized he was not taking his medication and felt he could benefit from a peer navigator. Our peer navigators are themselves living with HIV/ AIDS and are thoroughly trained to provide navigation and support. Thomas came to us facing a number of challenges; he didn’t have stable housing, he was unemployed, he did not have a car and his family dynamic prevented him from disclosing his sexual orientation and HIV-status. All of these challenges were overwhelming, he “didn’t have room for HIV” on top of it all. The peer navigator

assigned to Thomas became his lifeline. He encouraged him to focus on his health, transported him to his medical appointments and linked him to AIDS Alabama’s housing services. He then linked Thomas to community partners who provided him with food and clothing. As a result of this support, Thomas began to regain hope that he could live a healthy life with HIV. Thomas continued to improve and desired to do more. His peer navigator then helped him update his resume and even drove him to several job interviews. In the midst of all of this progress, the peer navigator shared his own story with Thomas, encouraging him to rebuild his relationship with his family in an effort to create a larger support system. Thomas did just that. Today, Thomas is back in regular medical care, medically adherent, working a full-time job, stably housed and he even recently purchased a vehicle. Now healthier than ever, he no longer lives in the shadows; he no longer keeps secrets. He credits his success to the help he received from community organizations, and most of all the support of his peer navigator who provided openness, encouragement and support during a time of need. While Thomas will likely continue to face challenges, he is now armed to meet them head on. His playing field is more level because he now sees that he is not in the game alone.

Photos by Anthony Gaston, AIDS Alabama

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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We asked some young Black gay men from the Deep South to share their experiences. ERIC WARD Occupation: Intervention Specialist at AIDS Alabama Age: 30 Featured on cover First time you recognized you were gay? The first time I realized I had an attraction to guys was in the 12th grade. There was a football player that I would find myself staring at a little bit longer than I thought I should. How long have you been out? I officially came out in 2005 when I moved back to Birmingham from Atlanta, Georgia. So I have been out for 10 years now. Does religion affect your sexual identity or social experience? When I first started to be honest with myself about my sexuality, it did. I used to think that I was damaged or weird because I had an attraction to guys because of what I learned in church. So I would try to make myself dress and act a certain way to fit the mold of a “normal” Black man in the south. It wasn’t until my late twenties when I accepted me for me and decided to live life to the fullest with no regrets about who I am that religion no longer played a role in the way that I governed myself socially or personally. Have you ever lived outside of the south? If so where; If not why? No, I have never lived outside of the south. I think for so long I have stayed in the south out of fear of what would happen to my family if I was to move too far away from them. The fear of failing also kept me here for a long time as well because I did not want to be seen as unsuccessful in the eyes of my family and peers. So I just remained where I felt was most comfortable and easiest to maintain a life. What are your favorite recreational sports? I love baseball and I am learning to like basketball as well. Do you see a rise in PrEP among the Black men you know? If not, why? No, I do not see a rise in PrEP within the group of black men that I know. The reason for this is because they either don’t know about it or don’t know where to go to gain access to it. I think that also the stigma around HIV/AIDS is another barrier that keeps Black men from partaking in programs such as PrEP because they don’t want to be associated with anything that has to do with HIV/AIDS. Do you see sports as a way for Black men to learn more about themselves? I think Black men participate in sports for many reasons. Being a Black man is one of the hardest things in the world because so much is expected of us from our family and our peers. So sports for many is a way of living up to others

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expectations of what a man should be, and for others sports is merely a way for them to express their creative talents to the world. Sports are also known to be the easiest way for a Black man to make a living for himself as well. So in my opinion, sports are used in both good and bad ways to project how black men see themselves ideally, or to project what they were told a black man should be.

TY WILLIAMS Occupation: Birmingham Fire Rescue Age 23 Graduating in December First sexual encounter: Age 18 Self-identity of sexuality at the age of seven or eight Is it easy to talk about HIV Prevention with your friends? Yes and no. I said yes because it’s easy to talk with someone that you love, like friends and family because you want them to have their health at the forefront. But no as well because some people, even friends can be very private or uncomfortable talking about HIV prevention, especially among friends that live in the south and are part of the Black male population. They can be very secretive about their sexual behavior – they feel as if you are trying to get in their business and become very defensive. In what sports or fitness regimes do you participate? I’ve been involved in the fitness/sports world since I was a child. My father was a college basketball player and he always emphasized the importance of being healthy and fit. I dance with the Alabama ballet but I have played basketball, football, swimming, baseball and love to do anything that keeps me moving and engaged through a little competitive sports.

What would you tell someone who is in a relationship with someone that is newly-diagnosed with HIV? I would say go with the emotions they are having at that moment because holding it in makes it worse; but also realizing that this is not the end of the world. I would also tell them not to fear that their partner is going to die. My deepest fear was that my partner was going to die, but once I became more involved I understood the elements of HIV and the treatment that allows a person to live a long, healthy lifestyle. I would recommend also that they follow the three basic principles of learning how to protect themselves from transmission, how to help their partner and how to help others.

BRANDON KING

TONY D. CHRISTON-WALKER AND ROBERT CHRISTON-WALKER Couple for 13 years Married illegally in Alabama: October 10, 2009 Married legally in Washington D.C.: October 10, 2014

TONY D. CHRISTON-WALKER Occupation: Men’s Health Coordinator at AIDS Alabama Age: 48 Positive since the late 1990’s Realized he was first gay when he was six; came out when he was 21 Have you ever felt discriminated against because of your HIV status? Yes, I have! I felt discriminated against at a clinic in the area that treated me as if they didn’t want to touch me; it was very impersonal. I wasn’t sure if it was because I was Black or positive. And their lack of willingness to give me a complete and in-depth health examination, like a prostate check, is what led to my late diagnosis of cancer! How has AIDS Alabama impacted your life? It has made me more active and aware in the community, specifically how it affects Black men young and old in their mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing. It’s also made me more open and empowered me to speak more openly and honestly about the effects of HIV on my life personally. Being an active member of the AIDS Alabama family has afforded me the opportunity to speak in front of people that I thought I never would, like Congress about needle exchange programs and the Alabama statehouse members about bad bills that disproportionately affect men of color and HIV-positive Alabamians.

ROBERT CHRISTON-WALKER Occupation: Quality Assurance Specialist Age: 33 Always knew he was gay from a child and has never been in the closet

Occupation: Interventionist specialist at AIDS Alabama Age: 25 Photo featured left on page 16. AAMU Grad: current MBA program Out sexuality and first identifying as gay during the sixth or seventh grade How long have you been HIV-positive: A few years What challenges do you face as a Black man with HIV? I don’t personally feel as if I have dealt with HIV as a challenge, more as a progression of myself. You do have the common stigmas and difficulties informing family members, dating and social circles. But fortunately I have been in an environment that has been productive to me being a healthy person internally and externally. The biggest challenge I faced probably was just telling my mother because we are very close – and her thinking that I couldn’t have children or would never get married or just the common idea of not being able to live a long, healthy, fulfilling life. But once we had the conversation and everything was explained so we were both educated on the disease, it has been good. Because we are in the south, most black men have to deal with religious discrimination which is why I am more spiritual than religious. In the south, the backbone of the black community is rooted in the church so when you have a constant barrage of people telling you that you are wrong and are going to go to hell, it’s hard to seek treatment because you don’t want the church folk whispering about you on Sunday morning. So on top of economic, mental health and living issues, all of that can play into not having the best experience. Does having HIV impact your ability to be active or play sports? It really hasn’t. I’m not so much into sports but I have really gotten into weightlifting lately which is something that correlates to my HIV-positive status. The fact that you have these huge weights and the heavy pressure is something that as a positive person you feel daily. But as with weightlifting, the more you persevere the better you get at it and the easier it becomes. Of course the more weight you add can add a little more pressure. But instead of it being something that is challenging, it becomes a visual representation of something you can overcome.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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Photos courtesy of D.A.P.

#1: Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet #14: Rich Colbert #16:Tim Hayes #142: Juan Florez #150:Jessica Larc #151 Sara Raschiatore #173: Veronica Rust

For Desert AIDS ProjecT

”H” Stands for HUMAN BY CONNIE WARDMAN

I RECENTLY HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO TALK with Barry Dayton, director of marketing and communications for the Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) in Palm Springs. Recognized nationally as one of the most comprehensive HIV/AIDS services providers in the U.S., D.A.P. is one of only a handful of agencies that operates an on-site medical clinic, a full range of client support services as well as a comprehensive HIV education and prevention program that includes free and confidential HIV testing.

cerned nurses, social workers and other community members sprang into action through Desert AIDS Project which was then part of the Community Counseling and Consultation Center. Someday, we hope that people will come to D.A.P. to be cured rather than for ongoing care of their HIV. Until that day, D.A.P.’s holistic model of care focuses on the complete medical and social support needs of those who seek our service. What community does D.A.P. serve?

What is D.A.P.’s mission? Barry Dayton: These words are on the back of every employee’s business card: “Until there’s a cure, the vision of Desert AIDS is of healthy individuals, families and communities despite the existence of HIV. Since 1984, we’ve strived to bring this vision to life because the mission of Desert AIDS Project is to enhance health and well-being.” Please share a brief history of D.A.P. The roots of Desert AIDS Project go back to the earliest diagnoses of a mysterious disease that was causing people to become gravely ill, seemingly overnight – and often dying while still young. That’s when con-

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We say that “H is for Human” when it comes to HIV and AIDS because this has never been a gay disease. Palm Springs is both a vacation destination and a popular retirement choice for many in the LGBT community so it’s not surprising that we serve the HIV-specialty and primary healthcare needs of lots of older gay men. But we also have clients spanning the spectrums of race, ethnicity, gender identity and sexual orientation. As a Federally Qualified Health Center lookalike, our doors are open to anyone and we offer lots of other services as well. Our Annette Bloch Cancer Care Center has invited the public to participate in annual oral cancer screening clinics for three consecutive years, as well as to participate in the 20-year-long Cancer Prevention Study-3

L to R: Michael D. Hughes, Joseph Hahn, Brien O’Brien, Wyatt Smith Photo courtesy of AIDS/LifeCycle positive, we give them appropriate education and connections to additional care if necessary. It’s been proven that those who get on appropriate meds soon after their HIV diagnosis are 96 percent less likely to spread the virus to others. by the American Cancer Society. Mrs. Bloch founded the center with a $1 million gift to D.A.P. because she’d learned that certain kinds of cancers often affect those living with HIV. The Dock, our sexual health wellness clinic specializing in preventing and treating sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been busy since the day it opened. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is one of the services The Dock offers, so we are launching a PrEP campaign through social media and video to help HIV-negative people learn how they can stay that way. How has the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS changed? Fighting against HIV stigma is one of the reasons we opened our Client Wellness Services Center many years ago – so that clients wouldn’t be isolated at home but instead have a place to gather with people who understood the challenges they face every day. We recently launched our Get Tested Coachella Valley initiative with the help of our community partners, like Desert Regional Medical Center and its parent company, Tenet Corporation which made the lead gift of $1.5 million. We have already made significant strides toward getting everyone aged 12 and over tested for HIV free and confidentially. Whether they test negative or Barry Dayton, Desert AIDS Project

How does D.A.P. connect to the sports community? Many of our clients, volunteers and staff members create teams for our annual Desert AIDS Walk which includes a community fair where lots of organizations promote healthy activities in which our clients can become involved. In 2010, our Walk included a 5K run. We also love to promote the work of the annual Tour de Palm Springs bike ride. And lots of locals have annually supported and donated to area cyclists and “roadies” participating in the nationwide AIDS/Life Cycle event, raising tens of thousands of dollars annually to support the great work of so many AIDS organizations over the years. Many of our clients like to attend the Palm Springs Hot Rodeo in April which D.A.P. uses as part of our testing outreach program. This year Revivals, the consignment shops benefiting D.A.P., was one of the rodeo’s buckle sponsors. Lots of our clients also enjoy bowling so some join the gay bowling leagues that run year-round in Palm Springs. Additionally, D.A.P. helps to support the annual bowling event for the Human Rights Campaign, which we see as a great way for us to continue building connections between our staff and other local organizations. What new initiatives does D.A.P. have coming up? Just as we are doing through social media now for PrEP, watch for similar activity to promote upcoming efforts to encourage testing and treatment for syphilis which is still an epidemic sexually-transmitted infection among many segments of the population. We’re also forming an advisory board and a recovery curriculum for meth addiction. How can someone volunteer at D.A.P.? We love our volunteers – they were the start of it all and are still the lifeblood of D.A.P. All of the information, including an online volunteer form is on our website, at desertaidsproject.org.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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RACING IS NOW ON THE MENU BY IAN COLGATE

Move over food and make room on the menu for racing. The number of runs held each year is on the rise and many organizers have turned to unique themed races to increase the number of participants by offering an experience to remember. Whether you want to enjoy eating chocolate, pizza, cupcakes, just getting dirty with the girls or being your out big gay self, there are multiple opportunities to find a race that suits you. We scoured the world to find five unusual running experiences that will get you fit, make you laugh and most importantly, satisfy virtually any craving you may have.

Photos courtesy of RAM Racing

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Dirty Girl Mud Run presented by Human Movement

15 Races Nationwide The Dirty Girl Mud Run is exclusively for women (sorry, guys!) that takes runners through a 5K obstacle course. Even if this is your first obstacle run or 5K, the team at Human Movement will help you get to the finish line. The race series has already attracted over 900,000 women of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels. Many runners participate to challenge themselves, connect with girlfriends or to run in honor of a loved one who has lost his or her battle with cancer. Since its debut in 2011, the Dirty Girl Mud Run race series has offered women the chance to run, walk, climb, jump and laugh their way through the muddy course. And the series is constantly adding new cities to its events calendar. Check out their website at godirtygirl.com for details on upcoming races.

Big Gay 5K presented by Spree Racing

Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder Who doesn’t love the name of this race series? Big Gay 5K is a series of races held throughout Colorado and runners can participate in Denver, Colorado Springs and Boulder. Race organizers are the first ones to point out that the Big Gay 5K is well, both BIG and GAY! All three races are held in partnership with PrideFest and support local LGBT community centers in the host cities. One important thing to remember is that this race is for everyone. The Big Gay 5K invites walkers, runners, really fast runners, kids, adults, families, gay and straight. So come to run, come to have fun, come to support and come to PRIDE. Sign up for the Big Gay 5K in your favorite Colorado city by visiting spreeracing.com.

Krispy Kreme Challenge by North Carlonia State University Students

Raleigh, North Carolina What would it be like to run 2.5 miles, eat a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts, turn around and run another 2.5 miles? You can find out by running the 12th Krispy Kreme Challenge this winter in Raleigh, North Carolina. The race, which attracted over 7,000 runners and raised nearly $200,000 in last year’s race, is organized by a new team of NCSU students each year. And since its inception the race has raised almost $1 million. Runners eat an estimated 84,000 donuts during the race which costs the race organizers over $20,000, definitely a “hole” lot of money. Interestingly, the race

is not affiliated with Krispy Kreme but the group is allowed to use the Krispy Kreme name. The money raised goes to NC Children’s Promise Grants within NC Children’s Hospital. Check them out online at krispykremechallenge. com.

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K brought to you by RAM Racing

14 Races Nationwide The Hot Chocolate 15K/5K is America’s fastest growing race series. The first Hot Chocolate 15K/5K was held in Chicago in 2008 and since then has spread to 13 cities, including Atlanta, Dallas, Nashville and more. Each race includes two options – a 15K (9.3 miles) and a 5K (3.1 miles) run. The best part? The post-race party where participants celebrate with music, a kid-zone (yes, it even includes a bounce house) and, of course, chocolate. Finishers’ mugs are filled with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue and other tasty treats. The Hot Chocolate 15K/5K partners with Ronald McDonald House Charities, giving you just one more reason to love this race series. The series has earned the nickname “America’s Sweetest Race.” So the real question is where will you run for chocolate? Check out hotchocolate15k.com for a list of cities and race dates.

NYC Pizza Run & NYC Cupcake Run

New York City Imagine running two miles and enjoying three slices of New York pizza along the way. That is what participants of the sixth NYC Pizza Run will be doing this September. The NYC Pizza Run takes place in historic Tompkins Square Park. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. If cupcakes are more your style then the NYC Cupcake Run is for you. Runners of the NYC Cupcake Run will devour three cupcakes throughout the 5K run through Astoria Park. The local non-profit, New York Cares, benefits from the race. Both races are open to runners of all ages. You can visit the NYC Pizza Run at nycpizzarun.com and the NYC Cupcake Run at nyccupcakerun.com.

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JONAS RAYNSFORD

TEAM COMPETE MVP

To be included in our MVP section, e-mail: MVP@competenetwork.com

ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS: Anytime I break through a hard lift or have competed. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the steps that matter, not the medal.

GREATEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Seeing my niece or nephew smile when I walk in the room to pick them up. Helping out the people of Mongolia.

SPORTS PLAYED: Collegiate lacrosse, track and CrossFit.

WHY YOU LOVE SPORTS: The constant, evolving challenges which keep me fit as well as the competition.

BEST PHYSICAL FEATURE: My legs/ butt or my eyes or lips, hard to pick.

INTERESTS: Writing, CrossFit, my dog, my family, hiking, swimming, Breast Cancer and AIDS awareness.

FAVORITE TEAM: Phoenix Suns.

FAVORITE ATHLETE(S): Kurt Warner, David Beckham, Jerry Hill (A few inspire me).

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single. TBD.

SPORT(S): Lacrosse, CrossFit, Cycling

CURRENT RESIDENCE: Flagstaff, Ariz.

HOMETOWN: Flagstaff, Ariz.

AGE: 31

Photography by Alfonzo Chavez Courtesy of Crossfit Flagstaff

1950s

Mid-Summer Dance Party Benefiting

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July 25, 2015 8 pm - midnight

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Palm Springs Pavilion Grease back your hair, grab your poodle skirt and LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DANCE!

401 S. Pavilion Way at Sunrise Park (next to City Pool) Fully air-conditioned auditorium with plenty of free parking

$40 General admission $75 VIP (includes VIP lounge access)

desertAIDSproject.org (760) 992-0440 Co-Chaired by Kenny Jervis, Michael Crisp and Kerry Hendrix

ATHLETE

CHRIS VERDUGO

An Athlete With a Song in His Heart BY ERIC CARLYLE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHRIS VERDUGO

WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN YOU put six members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angles (GMCLA) in tight fitting shorts and ask them to cycle from San Francisco to Los Angeles in seven days? Well, you get $80,000 to benefit HIV/AIDS services and raise awareness of HIV/AIDS. Among those participating from the GMCLA this year was its executive director, Chris Verdugo. A good looking yet humble athlete, Verdugo participated in this year’s AIDS/LifeCycle ride, the annual 545mile trek from San Francisco to Los Angeles to push himself both mentally and physically. But more importantly, he did it to help others. Having seen other members of the community live with this disease, he’s a strong supporter of ending HIV/AIDS. While he certainly has an imposing physical body, Verdugo wasn’t always an athlete. As a child with asthma problems, Verdugo wasn’t very active. It wasn’t until he decided to participate in his first marathon in his thirties that he became interested in actively participating in sports. He kicked things off in typical Verdugo fashion by not only running in the 2010 Honolulu Marathon but also managing to raise over $12,000 for AIDS Project Los Angeles. When asked why he decided to run the marathon and later participate in AIDS/LifeCycle, Verdugo responded by saying “I want to do things that push me and help me grow. But for me that is not enough. I want to do things that are attached to something.” In both cases that “something” was to raise funding for HIV/AIDS research, treatment and education programs. The ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles was definitely worthwhile but not always easy. Verdugo’s bicycle suffered six flats along the way. In fact, (Continued on page 28)

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(Continued from page 27) on the last day of the event a fellow cyclist stopped and helped Verdugo with his sixth flat tire. “I really didn’t know why he stopped to help – he was close to the finish – but that is what we do as AIDS/LifeCycle riders,” he said. Such kind and unexpected assistance is part of the “love bubble” that exists during the race. The love bubble is a combination of respect, kindness, generosity and love the riders all show one another during the week-long event. But the love bubble extends beyond the cyclists to include the all-important roadies. The 600-plus roadies make the event possible by supporting the riders through the day and setting up camp each night. The camp houses, feeds and treats the riders each night so they are prepared for the next day’s journey. Verdugo said that his friend Peter Wilson, another GMCLA member has participated in the AIDS/LifeCycle many times, even finishing as early as number seven in the race. In a characteristic show of modesty, he said “I don’t know why you are even talking to me when you could be interviewing Peter.” The reason we asked Verdugo is because he is much more than just a pretty face. As a weekend warrior he loves watching professional football, even to the point his friends have to ask him to quiet down. But he takes it all in stride, enjoying down time with his friends. He’s also committed to cycling as his sport—his new big passion is spin class. Those classes also prepared Verdugo for the 2015 Song Cycle. This fundraising event combined two of Verdugo’s passions – cycling and music. Far from being the strange paring it may appear at face value, the Song Cycle funds were raised for Vox Femina, the female counterpart to GMCLA that they helped found 18 years ago. As the executive director of GMLCA, Verdugo also organized the 2014 Voice Awards last year that honored the likes of out MLS player Robbie Rogers and LGBT allies such as Steve Young and Gary Hall, Jr. Chris Verdugo is truly an athlete and a gentleman with a song in his heart.

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ASK THE DOCTOR DOCTOR

ASK THE DOCTOR IS COMPETE’S NEWEST COLUMN This month we have invited guest physician, Dr. Thanes Vanig, to answer reader questions related to safe sex. Q. In the past I haven’t been responsible when it comes to sex. How do I discuss this with my doctor? Matt, Phoenix, Arizona. A. You have to find a physician that you feel comfortable discussing this with. It is very important to be honest to your provider. A physician has to be open-minded, familiar with MSM sexual activities, and has knowledge about sexually transmitted disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. There are many sexually transmitted infections that you can have without any symptoms such as syphilis, rectal gonorrhea and chlamydia, HIV, etc. so it is important to get appropriate testing even if you do not have any signs or symptoms.

Q. I’ve heard good things about using PrEP to prevent HIV transmission. If I’m on PrEP do I still need to use a condom? Kelvin, Tustin, California. A. We recommend all patients on PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) continue using condoms. PrEP is a way to prevent HIV infection by taking a pill called Truvada daily. In all the clinical trials that showed benefits of PrEP, subjects in the trial were instructed to continue using condoms and practicing safe sex. They also had intensive counseling on safe sex behavior regularly. If used properly with safe sex, it can reduce the risk of HIV infection by 86-92 percent.

ASK THE DOCTOR? Dr. Thanes Vanig of Spectrum Medical Group, P.C. is internationally recognized in the field of HIV medicine. For additional information you may contact Dr. Vanig through his website at spectrummedgroup.com.

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∠ 䴀攀渀ᤠ猀䠀攀愀氀琀栀 ∠ 倀爀䔀倀 ∠ 䤀渀ⴀ䠀漀甀猀攀倀栀愀爀洀愀挀礀

SPORTS

CHELSEA CHALLENGE 2015 WRAP-UP BY JEFF KAGAN CHELSEA CHALLENGE 2015 KICKED OFF AT Chelsea Piers in New York on Saturday, May 23rd. The New York City Gay Hockey Association welcomed over 200 skaters to their 15th annual international LGBT ice hockey tournament held over the Memorial Day weekend. For many players, the best aspect of this event is the camaraderie and friendships that have developed over the years. This is the one time each year that so many of the players get to see one another. That brings a feeling of sentimentality and cheerfulness for those who travel from as far away as France, England and Canada. When they’re not on the ice, the teams get to spend most of their time catching up at the various social events scheduled around the tournament. However, the event most players look forward to is the Players’ Dinner which was held on the Sunset Terrace of Chelsea Piers, right on the Hudson River. The weather was perfect – the food incredible – and for additional entertainment, the Rangers’ game played on a few televisions in the lobby. This year the tournament featured three divisions: competitive, recreational and developmental. The developmental division’s teams are named after various types of naval vessels in honor of Fleet Week which coincided with the event. We had Carriers, Submarines, Cruisers, Battleships, Minesweepers and Destroyers. The competitive division had the usual local teams – the New York Lions and the New York Instinct facing off against the Toronto Trillium. The finals came down to the Lions and Trillium fighting it out with Toronto ultimately taking home the gold medals in a 5-2 game. The recreational division was made up of the American Dragons and Super Ochos (both from New York) and the Toronto Wolfpack. The championship game in this division pitted the Dragons against the Wolfpack (which sounds like something right out of Game of Thrones). The Wolfpack took a bite out of the fiery beasts with a score of 2-1. But the most excitement happened with the developmental division as both playoff games determining who would play for the gold went into overtime. The final game between the Carriers and Destroyers saw the Destroyers taking home the prize after overtime and a shoot-out to a final score of 3-2. Tournament organizers are looking forward to next year’s event with the theme of “Sweet 16.” Rumors of pink

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PHOTOS BY SOPHIE GOSSELIN

& purple taffeta jerseys have surfaced but we’ll just have to wait and see if they’re true. For more information about the New York City Gay Hockey Association, go to www.nycgha.org.

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SPORTS

LONG BEACH PRIDE RUN REVIEW BY CHARLES NAURATH

AS LONG BEACH PRIDE CELEBRATED ITS 32ND year, it was the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pride Run hosted by the Shoreline Frontrunners that burned the socks off its participants. This year the race had the pleasure of running on the new composite running/walking path that was constructed for the citizens of Long Beach. As is becoming the new normal for Pride races, there were two runs available for participantsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a 10K (or 6.2 mile) race and a 5K (or 3.1 mile) race. This year marks the third time the race was held on the same day as the Pride Parade. While there was a slight decrease in participants this year, it was hard to notice as the excitement and energy overcame everyone there. Most exciting, however, was that a good 70 percent of those who participated this year were new runners. According to Mike Klyde, organizer of the Long Beach Pride Run, this was an impressive feat considering how little the Shoreline Frontrunners did to publicize the event. They even managed to snag a lovely lady from Scotland on her honeymoon. Shona McManus, on just her second day in the United States, managed to knock the socks off the 10K participants. She was not only the first female to finish but also came in third overall with an impressive time of 40 minutes and 12 seconds (40:12). What is nice about the Pride Runs in Southern California is that it is not uncommon for fellow Frontrunners from different clubs to occasionally drop by and run as well. As was expected in the Long Beach Pride Run, a good majority of the Los Angeles Frontrunners participated, even having one of their former runners win the 5K race. Eric Alvarez, now a native of Tennessee, managed to slide right into the first place spot with an impressive time of 17:02. Coming in second, and less than 15 seconds behind Eric, was Jose Rojas, another LA native who managed to finish at 17:15. While both races are equally competitive, each holds a separate running factor that differentiates it from the other. Whereas the 5K is short and quick, the 10K requires endurance and discipline. Alvarez stated that the hardest part for him was the second mile of the 5K, which, when I ran the 10K, the toughest part was the fourth mile. Both are past the halfway marks of their respective races, however

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PHOTOS BY RJ ROSS GUIMOND

the 10K is a game of pace and race. While I won the race at 37:45, I slowed down a lot on my fifth mile, completing it at only 6 minutes and 29 seconds. Overall, the Long Beach Pride Run is a great race. Its simplistic course keeps runners from getting lost and allows them to enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather while participating in a quick, yet easy race. For those interested in participating next year, check out the Shoreline Frontrunners website at wp.shorelinefrontrunners.org. Normal pricing is only $35 but if you are 24 years old or younger it is only $25.

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FITNESS

QUICK TIPS TO STAY IN SHAPE THIS SUMMER BY KEN HUNT, CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER, OWNER STEEL GYM FIBER UP! b Fiber helps us feel full (so we eat less) and keeps us regular. It’s also found in abundance in foods that are also naturally rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help slow the aging process. Aim for 25-to-35 grams per day. b Antioxidant-rich, fiber-rich foods are often very brightly pigmented. Spinach, tomatoes, avocados, citrus fruits, berries and squashes are just a few of the whole fruits and vegetables to include in your stay-fit plan. b Looking for low-cal? Half a fresh grapefruit contains just 35 calories. PROTEIN POWER b Be sure to have protein with all meals and snacks. Remember that we’re trying to burn fat and maintain muscle. It’s important to feed our muscles when we’re busy with fattorching exercise! b Edamame is a terrific snack and great source of protein. Keep a few bags in the freezer to thaw and steam anytime. DRINK SMART! b Good hydration is important year-round, especially when you’re actively exercising. It’s even more important in the summer months, so be sure to keep your water bottle with you at all times. b Sunscreen in a glass? Pink and ruby red grapefruit juices contain lycopene which can help protect all of that exposed skin from UV rays during summer months. DINING OUT b Remember, portion sizes are more often super-sized these days; plan to eat half and wrap up the rest to take home. b Choose wisely from the appetizer menu – chances are the portion is large enough for an entrée. DINING IN b Clean out the kitchen cupboards and get rid of temptations like chips and cookies. There are enough temptations outside of the house—no need to have them at home. b Don’t skip a meal or snack. When you deprive yourself for too many hours, it’s really easy to overeat at the next meal. SNACK TIME b Snacks are just as important as your meals. Schedule them and be sure they include some protein.

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b Toss the yolks and instead, fill your deviled eggs with hummus for a low-fat, cholesterol-free alternative. b Go nuts! Sure they’re high in fat, but they’re mostly good fats and a small amount goes a long way. A few almonds and an apple make a quick and portable snack choice. COOKING, SHOPPING AND KITCHEN TIPS b Pick up a spray mister at the drug store and fill it with your favorite cooking oil. Not only does it release a miserly portion of calorie-loaded oil, it contains no toxic hydrocarbons found in commercial oil spray cans. b Stock up on healthy condiments to add layers of flavor in no time flat. b Brush your favorite grilled foods with a small amount of your fav vinaigrette for zippy flavor. b Become an herb expert. Herbs and spices add depth and flavor, making it easier to decrease or eliminate added fats or oil. EXERCISE b Skipping rope for 15 minutes burns about 175 calories. b Take the stairs. Every 10 minutes of stair climbing burns about 110 calories. It all adds up. b Pushups can be done anywhere, require no special equipment and yield priceless results, including toned arms and chest! b Swimming the back-stroke can work wonders to tone and firm your arms. b Love your laps! An hour of swimming burns off 500 calories. b Park your car at the far end of the parking lot or hop off the bus a stop or two early to add a little exercise to your day. b Be intense. Short periods of high-intensity exercise burn a lot of calories. b Add intervals to your workouts. Swapping medium to highintensity intervals to your cardio routine increases your body’s fat-burning potential. EMOTIONS AND REST b If you do overindulge, don’t beat yourself up. The next day, jump back in the game. b Get plenty of sleep. It’s easier to overeat when you’re tired. b Avoid boredom or stress which lead to mindless eating. b Reward your successes when you achieve a short-term goal.

TRAVEL

COMPETE ALL-STAR

ATHLETES AT SEA BY JAMES WILLIAMSON WHILE MORE AND MORE LGBT ATHLETES are coming forward to break down barriers and stereotypes by telling their stories to the general public, there remains limited opportunity for the local community to interact with these trailblazers. There is one event, however, that is aiming to change that. The 2015 Athletes At Sea Halloween Cruise, an annual event in its second year, is giving our community the opportunity to meet some of the athletes making headlines by announcing their LGBT status while still competing at the highest level of amateur and professional sports. It is a seven-day Caribbean Cruise sailing out of Galveston, Texas on October 25 on the Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas. This year the event benefits the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA), the organization that puts on the Gay Softball World Series and annual NAGAAA Cup Invitational softball tournament. This year’s featured guest is Olympic speed skater and LGBTQ advocate, Blake Skjellerup. Competing for New Zealand, Skjellerup gained an international profile as an elite competitor and one of the few world-class male athletes to come out as gay while still competing. Now living in New York City, he continues to speak openly and honestly about his career as an elite athlete and his fight for equality, youth empowerment and pride through sport. Blake will host an intimate gathering on the cruise where he will speak openly about his time in school where he was bullied for his perceived sexuality and how his difference in life empowered him. It inspired him to follow his own passion. “I am so excited to be attending the Athletes at Sea cruise,” said Skjellerup. “Sport has been a great part of my life and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and PHOTO COURTESY OF BLAKE SKJELLERUP

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experiences on how being involved in sport at any level can create a positive and lasting impact on lives and communities. Being able to come together with a group of sport-loving and sea-going people will be a fantastic way to engage and promote leadership within sporting communities while enjoying some time in the sun!” The Athletes At Sea event was originally started to provide an opportunity for LGBTQ athletes, their families, friends and supporters to spend time together in a fun, vacation environment while celebrating the positive role sports can play in the community, according to James Williamson, former NAGAAA assistant commissioner and co-owner of All Out Vacations, the event host. “NAGAAA has over 14,000 members in cities all across the U.S. and Canada. And when you see these players come together on the field at regional and national tournaments, you realize what a special bond there is in the LGBTQ sports community,” explained Williamson. “We’ve had players and fans tell us that they have come to feel like family and they really wanted a place to spend time together off the field. We came up with Athletes At Sea as a great fit for athletes as well as those who have never seen a sporting event. It’s an opportunity to have an awesome, fun vacation with old friends and make some new ones – all for a good cause.” In addition to hearing Skjellerup’s inspirational story, Athletes At Sea participants will also enjoy a welcome aboard party, nightly mixers before group dining time, exclusive nightly discos, special shows with guest entertainment, optional excursions at the fun ports of call and an exclusive Halloween Party with cash prizes.

F or more information or to make plans to attend this year’s Athletes At Sea, you can visit www.AthletesAtSea.com.

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OVERTIME

EVENTS

GAY SPORTS EVENTS AROUND THE COUNTRY

BOWLING

TENNIS

Houston Invitational Houston, July 3 Liberty Belle Invitational Philadelphia, July 3 Greater Indianapolis Fourth of July Indianapolis, July 3 City of Palm Invitational Tournament Ft. Myers, Fla., July 3 Music City Invitational Tournament Nashville, July17 San Diego Invitational San Diego, July 31 Aces High Tournament Atlantic City, July 31

Seattle Classic 2015 Seattle, July 3-5 San Diego Open San Diego, July 3-5 Liberty Open 2015 New York City July 3-5, Columbus Classic 2015 Columbus, Ohio, July 17-19 Philadelphia Open 2015 Philadelphia, July 24-26

PRIDE! LGBT 50th Anniversary Celebration â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Get Your Pride On! Philadelphia, July 2-5

SOFTBALL MAGIC Tournament Washington, D.C., July 3 Liberty Classic Long Beach, July 3 Emerald City Classic Seattle, July 4 Metro Nashville Classic Nashville, July 4 Minuteman Classic Boston, July 5 K-Town Klassic Knoxville, July 25

RODEO Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo Denver, July 10-12 North Star Regional Rodeo Minneapolis/St. Paul, July 24-26

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OVERTIME

SPORTS YEARBOOK THIS MONTH IN SPORTS HISTORY: JULY

Nevada Athletic Commission suspends Mike Tyson for biting Holyfield - 1997

Great Britain boxers beat U.S. team in 1st International Golden Gloves - 1935

2 men become 1st hot-air balloon travelers to cross Atlantic - 1987

Wimbledon Men’s Finals, Roger Federer beats Andy Roddic - 2004

6 London is declared the host city for the 2012 Summer Olympics - 2005

NY Mets are 12 games back in NL & go on to win pennant - 1973

Jack Nicklaus wins Golf’s British Open, 4th to win all 4 majors - 1995

U.S. Major Soccer League folds after 14 seasons - 1992

LeBron James, former Miami Heat, returns to Cleveland Cavaliers - 2014

Michael Jordan signs NBA contract for 1 year for $25 million - 1996

XXVI Olympic Games open in Atlanta, Georgia - 1996

1st U.S. intercollegiate track meet held, Saratoga, New York; Princeton wins - 1876

45th U.S. Women’s Open Golf Championship won by Betsy King - 1990

22 Greg LeMond of U.S. wins his 3rd Tour de France - 1990

Florence Joyner runs 100 m in women’s world record 10.49 seconds - 1988

23 Tracy Kerdyk wins LPGA JAL Big Apple Golf Classic - 1995

Hulk Hogan beats Ric Flair to win WCW wrestling championship - 1994

Lance Armstrong retires after winning 7th straight Tours de France - 2005

25th Olympic Summer games opens in Barcelona, Spain - 1992

35th U.S. Women’s Open Golf Championship won by Amy Alcott - 1980

Nolan Ryan strikes out 100th batter for 23rd consecutive seasons - 1992

NBC TV awarded 1996 Olympic coverage for $456 million - 1993

NFL divides into two 5-team divisions - 1933

Monica Seles beats Martina Naratilova in her return to tennis - 1995

Tommy Lasorda retires as Los Angeles Dodger manager - 1996

Michael Phelps wins record 19th Olympic medal with gold in 4x200m freestyle relay - 2012

Source: www.brainyhistory.com

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7 Tiger Woods wins golf’s Western Open-1997

14 Ump Doug Harvey ejects Don Sutton after discovering 3 scuffed balls - 1978

21 In Scotland, 2013 Open Championship won by U.S. golfer Phil Mickelson - 2013