Vanguard March 2013

MARCH 2013

L .A . GAY & LESBIAN CENTER’S MONTHLY NE W SLE T TER­­–RE AD BY MORE THAN 60,000 PEOPLE

GROWING LAWN

How women are planting the seeds for Center support pg. 7

Generous donor’s surprise gift pg. 11

One woman’s quest pg. 12

MELROSE PLACE

W e l l s Fa r g o presen ts

F O O D • W I N E • S P I R I T S

S

F O O D • W I N E • S P I R I T S Stroll the charming tree-lined street of Melrose Place.

Sample food from the city’s top chefs and California farmers. Taste incredible wine, beer and spirits.

Apr iL 7, 2 013 2 – 5 p.m.

CLub Vip tAs t i n g 1 – 3 p.m.

simplydiVineLA.org Presenting sPonsor

silver sPonsor

ContriButing sPonsors

Co- Chairs

susan Feniger D av i D B a i l e y WenDy MelForD

BeneFiting

CEO Letter

Women on the Vanguard Center CEO Lorri L. Jean

March is Women’s History Month, a time for us to reflect on our national history and celebrate the substantial contributions made by those women (lesbians, bisexual, transgender, and allies) who are making a difference in our community.

Some are well-known celebrities, like Jane Lynch, Linda Perry, Rachel Maddow, Ellen DeGeneres, Lily Tomlin, Melissa Etheridge, k.d. lang and Wanda Sykes, just to name a few (and many of whom are strong allies of the Center). Others are well-known athletes, like the incomparable Billie Jean King, or politicians, like Tammy Baldwin and the late Barbara Jordan (who never came out while in office).

There are also lesser-known influential women, like: • • •

Elaine Noble, the very first openly gay or lesbian person ever elected to office in the U.S. (contrary to many erroneous reports, Harvey Milk was not the first) Katherine Lee Bates, who wrote “America the Beautiful,” the song that really should be our national anthem Jane Addams, the founder of Hull House and the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (in 1931)

Here in California, the list of lesbian pioneers continues, including: • •

Angeleno Edith Eyde, who created the nation’s first lesbian publication Vice Versa in 1947 under the pen name of “Lisa Ben” Phyllis Lyon and the late Del Martin, who founded the nation’s first lesbian civil and political rights organization Daughters of Bilitis in 1955, and who were the first same-sex couple to get legally married in California 53 years later

This month, let’s all celebrate women who are truly changing lives for LGBT people every day.

I am thankful for their dedication and grateful for the work they do on behalf of us all.

Of course, since the Center’s founders first began providing help to our community in 1969, countless amazing women have been involved with us. From staff and board members and clients to donors and other volunteers, women of all sexual orientations and gender identities have contributed to our success: • • •

Founding board member June Herrle was one of the first of many lesbians who dedicated themselves to making our community and movement stronger through the Center LuAnn Boylan is following in her footsteps as she begins her 21st year on our Board of Directors—the longest tenured female board member in our history Kathy Kloves, who you’ll read about in this issue of Vanguard (page 12), is blazing her own trail on our behalf—one in a long line of straight women who have stood shoulder-toshoulder with us, determined to help us build a better world for LGBT people

This month, let’s all celebrate women—across the broad spectrum of our community—who are truly changing lives for LGBT people every day. I am thankful for their dedication and grateful for the work they do on behalf of us all.

MARCH 2013

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group meetings at the village Social Networking Groups

Community Workshops

Bi-osphere* Explore and discuss the many shades of today’s diverse bisexual community Every 2nd & 4th Mon., 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Coming Out Workshop for Women Coming Out Workshop for Men Coming Out Workshop for Youth Three safe and nurturing workshops for anyone who is facing their own coming out process Call 877-OUT-4-LIFE (877-688-4543) for information and to register

The Village Readers An LGBT reading and discussion group. Mar. 6, The Stranger’s Child, by Alan Hollinghurst. Apr. 3, Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit, by Jeanette Winterson Every 1st Wed., 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Lesbian Chat* Great conversation for lesbians and bisexual women Every Mon., 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Canceled, Apr. 1, Cesar Chavez Day Lesbian 30+ Friday Night Chat Meet women outside of the bars Every 1st & 3rd Fri., 7:30 - 9 p.m Men’s Speakeasy* Great conversation for gay and bisexual men Every Tues., 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Transgender Perceptions* Conversation and communitybuilding for transgender people Every Fri., 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Community Groups Bears L.A. 3rd Wed., 7 - 10 p.m.

L.A. Leather Coalition 1st Thurs., 7 - 9 p.m.

Positive Images HIV+ Men’s Forum Every Mon., 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Call 323-860-7321 to RSVP Positive & Powerful Connect with other gay and bisexual men who have recently tested positive Every Thurs., 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Call 323-860-7321 to RSVP Prostate Cancer Support Group Every 1st & 3rd Tues., 7 - 9 p.m.

RSVP required Email ED_Brotherhood@yahoo.com or call 323-860-7340

Coming Out Workshop for Families A safe and compassionate space to learn how to support and accept a loved one who is “coming out” Visit lagaycenter.org/comingout for information

12-Step Groups Al-Anon Gay Focus Thurs., 7 - 8 p.m.

Alcoholics Anonymous It’s Come to This Mon., 6:10 - 7:10 p.m.

AA Happy Hour Tues. - Fri., 6:10 - 7:10 p.m.

Women’s AA Wed., 8 - 9 p.m.

One Page at a Time Thurs., 8 - 9 p.m.

Gay & Lesbian CODA Tues., 8 - 9 p.m.

seniors services Tai Chi Every Mon., 10 -11 a.m. $6 suggested donation; no one turned away for lack of funds Call 323-860-5830 to RSVP. Women’s Lunch Every 1st & 3rd Mon., 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Women’s Chat, drop-in Mon., 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Grief and Loss Support Group Every 2nd & 4th Tues., 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Call 323-932-5414 for location MahJong Club Tues, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Comunidad Latina Every 2nd Wed., 3 - 4:30 p.m.

Metropolitan Community Church-Los Angeles 4607 Prospect Ave. RSVP at 323-860-7369 Men’s Lunch Every 2nd & 4th Wed., 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Larry’s Computer Club Wed., 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Chair Yoga with Master Lakshmi Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 11 a.m.

Cardio Fusion Workout with Bobby Wed., 11 a.m. $5 suggested donation

Crystal Meth Anonymous Sat., 9:10 - 10:10 a.m.

Men’s Drop-In Support Group Wed., 10 a.m. - noon with Steve

Debtors Anonymous Tues., 8 - 9 p.m.

Valley Social and Networking Group Thurs., 12:30 - 2 p.m.

Call 323-860-5830 for location

Marijuana Anonymous Wed., 8:15 - 9:15 p.m.

Overeaters Anonymous Big Book/Meditation Meeting Wed., 7 - 8 p.m.

Thurs., 7 - 8 p.m.

Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous Thurs., 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Mon., Tues., Wed., 8 - 9 p.m.

Thurs., 8:15 - 9:15 p.m.

Fri., 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Sat., noon - 1:15 p.m.

S.M.A.R.T. Recovery Every Sat., 9 - 11 a.m.

NA—Heartbeat of Recovery Mon., 7 - 8:15 p.m.

Gay Men’s Sexual Dysfunction Support Group If you’re a gay man facing any type of sexual dysfunction, this group is for you Every 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 - 9 p.m RSVP and short questionnaire required.

Email GMSHF@yahoo.com or call 323-860-7340

CMA—Let Go and Let God Fri., 8 - 9:30 p.m. *group may not welcome late arrivals

Caregiver Support Group Every 1st & 3rd Thur., 1 - 3 p.m.

Call 323-932-5414 for location Men’s In-Depth Support Group Closed group facilitated by Steve Call 323-860-7339 for more information Women’s In-Depth Support Group Closed group facilitated by Gabriela Call 323-860-7369 for more information Center Angels The Center Angels give back through various volunteer opportunities. Call 323-860-7367 for more information.

For more information about Seniors Services classes, please call 323-860-7322.

Email seniors@lagaycenter.org or call 323-8605830 to RSVP. Parking permits are required at The Village during office hours; please call ahead for information.

Unless stated otherwise all activities occur at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza,1125 N. McCadden Pl.

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MARCH 2013

march calendar

advertising You can effectively reach more than 60,000 members of the coveted lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender market in Los Angeles! Advertise in the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s monthly newsletter Vanguard and gain unparalleled (and direct) access to this niche demographic.

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

march 7 – april 21

march 9 – 10

International Women’s Day Exhibit

Michele Balan: Live in L.A.

Advocate & Gochis Galleries Opening reception Thurs., Mar. 7 lagaycenter.org/art

Renberg Theatre $25 general admission $40 VIP eating + reception lagaycenter.org/theatre

contact info General Information 323-993-7400

Legal Services 323-993-7670

AIDS/LifeCycle 323-860-7380

Mental Health 323-993-7669

Cultural Arts 323-860-7324

Pharmacy 323-993-7513

Domestic Violence 323-860-5806

Room Rentals 323-860-7301

Family Services 323-993-7430

Seniors Services 323-860-5830

Health Education & Prevention 323-860-7312

Social Networking Groups 323-860-7332

HIV/STD Testing 323-860-5855

Village Box Office/ Tickets 323-860-7300 or lagaycenter.org/ boxoffice

Jeffrey Goodman Special Care Clinic 323-993-7500 Learning Curve 323-860-7332

vanguard staff Jim Key

Chief Public Affairs Officer

Kimiko Martinez

Associate Director of Marketing & Communications

Christopher Jones

Vanguard Editor/Communications Manager

Jesse Finley Reed Creative Director

march 21 An Evening Honoring Amy Pascal & Ralph L. Rucci Benefiting homeless youth services at the Center For table and ticket info: allison.k.rice@gmail.com or 310.576.7825

event spotlight: march 21 – 27 LA Women’s Theatre Festival: Seeing the world through a woman’s eyes For the Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival, it’s not all about women. It’s about exploring the feminine experience through song, dance, spoken word, storytelling and more. But it’s also about celebrating a diversity of voices and viewpoints from people around the world.

What: The longest-running annual solo festival for women in Los Angeles When: Champagne Gala and Awards Ceremony hosted by Danny Glover and Hattie Winston, Mar. 21 at 7 p.m.; Performances: Mar. 22 at 8 p.m., Mar. 23 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Mar. 24 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and bonus show Mar. 27 at 8 p.m.

Where: Renberg Theatre, The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 McCadden Place, Hollywood, CA 90038 Tickets: General admission single show tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $18 for students, seniors and groups of 10 or more, $10 for children 12 and under Gala admission: $45 each or two for $80 (includes light fare and Champagne) Reservations: Call 818-760-0408 or visit lawtf.com

Manny Sanchez

Marketing Communications Coordinator

subscriptions Vanguard is published monthly by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, a nonprofit corporation. 1625 N. Schrader Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028, Voice 323-993-7400 • TDD 323993-7698. Copyright 2012, Vanguard. All rights reserved.

Subscription rate: free to membership. Printed in the USA.

center signature events april 7

may 18

aug. 17

Simply diVine

An Evening with Women

Beach Classic

simplydivine.org

aneveningwithwomen.org

beachclassic.org

Publication of the name, quotation or photograph of a

person in articles or advertising is not an indication of the sexual orientation or the HIV status of such person.

Moving, getting duplicate mailings or wish to be removed

from the Vanguard mailing list? Call us at 323-993-7620 or visit lagaycenter.org/newsletter.

sept. 6 - 8

nov. 9

Rapid Quest

42nd Anniversary Gala and Auction

rapidquest.org

anniversarygala.org

MARCH 2013

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JUNE 2-8, 2 013

AIDSLifeCycle.org 2 decades of commitment Register today and Save $20 Discount code VANGUARD 6

MARCH 2013

PRODUCED BY & BENEFITING:

How LAWN cultivates female support through community

By Kimiko Martinez It was fall 2008. Prop 8 was on the ballot, Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin were making waves for women in politics, and protections for women’s health and reproductive rights were taking a beating across the country.

Women wanted to be heard. And the country’s leadership was about to get that message loud and clear.

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Around the same time, leadership at the Center was realizing the same thing: it was time to focus on expanding access to women’s services and engaging our female supporters.

“Attending Center events, I kept seeing that I was in the minority and that there was a lack of feminine support and engagement,” says Tina Shaw, one of the founders of the Los Angeles Women’s Network (LAWN). “Those experiences sparked conversations with Center leadership and LAWN was born.”

Planting the Seeds About 30 women gathered for the first LAWN event in 2008—a wine tasting and lecture at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza. Four years later, LAWN gatherings regularly draw between 120 and 300 women for events ranging from comedy nights to clothing drives; from bingo to bartending.

“LAWN has grown exponentially over the last three years due to the sheer willpower and dedication of the Center’s staff, key board members and a small core group of volunteers who we now call LAWN Chairs,” Shaw says.

“We’ve matured from a committee of four putting on quarterly networking events, to organizing 12 networking events a year for more than 1,000 members (and growing!). But what I’m most happy to see, is that with each event, the audience is different. It’s rare when I’m not introducing myself to new attendees and discussing what LAWN is about.”

Open to all women, LAWN is a professional social networking group that not only brings awareness and support to the Center but

“I got involved with LAWN because I firmly believe in what the Center does and stands for. LAWN is an opportunity to bring awareness about the many services available to women and to hopefully get more women active with the Center.”

– Kathleen Dimpfl, LAWN chair

creates opportunities for community, career, friendship, acceptance and more.

Monthly networking events at The Village and LGBT-friendly locations throughout Los Angeles provide an opportunity for women of all ages, personalities and beliefs to come together and learn something new, meet new people and make connections—personally and professionally.

“We are serious about making everyone who joins or attends an event feel like an important part of the group,” said Kathleen Dimpfl, a LAWN Chair.

A Community Garden Those roots in community, acceptance and fun have all contributed to LAWN’s impressive growth spurt the past couple of years.

“At every event, I’m struck by the realization that we’re all hungry for a sense of community,” Shaw says. “At the core, we all want to be a part of something real, that’s tangible and doing

About LAWN

LAWN Chairs

LAWN (the Los Angeles Women’s Network) is a diverse organization of women whose

Tina Shaw, High Chair Nessa Andrea Pat Branch Debbie Canada Elinor Chin Kathleen Dimpfl Andi Franklin Wendy Hartmann Laura Khorshid Patti Rayne Julie Wiegmann Lynne Witmer

purpose is to create a community that supports the work of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, while enhancing the lives of its members personally and professionally by providing opportunities for inspiration, education and networking.

LAWN:speak is its quarterly program of panels, speakers and conversations by and with women of excellence from around the globe. LAWN:speak is always followed

by LAWN:court happenings; culturally engaging social networking opportunities for LAWN members and guests.

For more information, please contact lawn@lagaycenter.org.

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good. But we like to learn, have fun and enjoy ourselves in the process.”

But it’s all firmly planted in the soil of purpose.

Each event takes at least a couple of minutes to educate attendees about Center services or ways to get involved in programs like youth mentoring through LifeWorks or working as a roadie on AIDS/LifeCycle. Some events have gone a step further and doubled as drives for food, clothing or gift cards for the homeless youth that rely on Center support.

“I got involved with LAWN because I firmly believe in what the Center does and stands for,” Dimpfl says. “However, I always felt—as with most things in the gay community—it was geared toward more male issues/events.

LAWN is an opportunity to bring awareness about the many services available to women and to hopefully get more women active with the Center.”

MARCH 2013

“At every event, I’m struck by the

realization that we’re all hungry for a sense of community. At the core, we all want to be a part of something real, that’s tangible and doing good. But we like to learn, have fun and enjoy ourselves in the process.”

– Tina Shaw, LAWN high chair

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The L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center is extremely grateful for the support of the following new Sustaining Donors and Circle of Life members, as of January 24, 2013 DIAMOND CIRCLE $18,000-$49,999

SILVER CIRCLE $1,800-$2,399

SILVER CIRCLE (continued)

Jay Ayers & Matthew Walker* Myron & Ruth Counts Loren Ostrow & Brian Newkirk*

John Ayvazian David Gajda & Louis Malagon* Jason Hendler, Esq. & Chad Billmyer Darren Higman James McNamara* Madison Offenhauser & Hobie Sheeder Gregory Okin & John Kelleher, M.D.* Joe Patrick Josh Ravetch Cory Sweat *

Brad Ong Jonathan Reeves Gary Roberts Terra & Kelly Russell-Slavin John Schwartz Fred Silberberg Myles Silton James Stovitz Thomas Tarr David Tolbert Patty Vazquez-Bello & Natasha Hass Maria Woods & William Woods Michael Worner

PLATINUM CIRCLE $12,000-$17,999 Dean Hansell* Thomas Swan* GOLD CIRCLE $6,000-$11,999 Christopher Caldwell & Richard Llewellyn* Nicolas Hamatake* Jeffrey & Marilyn Katzenberg Lin & Esther Weinberg Brian Wilson STERLING CIRCLE $3,600-$5,999 Jack Bankowsky & Matthew Marks Case Graber Foundation Roger Coggan* Adam Kawalek, M.D.* Matthew Marks & Jack Bankowsky The Morrison & Foerster Foundation John E. Robinson* Louis Russo & Joseph Dwyer Florence Shore* Susan Silton Skadden, Arps, Sleate, Meagher and Flom, LLP* Monina Verano Ayelet Waldman & Michael Chaben Leonard Wechsler* SILVER CIRCLE $2,400-$3,499 Cengiz Alaettinoglu* Tamra Barney Beats for Boobs Charles Carrathers Betty Kharrazi David Kuivanen* Lauren McCollum Susan Swingle *

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MARCH 2013

SILVER CIRCLE $1,500-$1,799 Luke Abbott Andrew Abowitz & Michael Levin Sheila Becker William Bowen Sharon-Franklin Brown George Budd James Cain Caldwell, Leslie & Proctor, PC Michael Cagle Danielle Carrig & Patsy Cox Richard Clair & David Hubbard Dawn T. Collins & Latrice Lewis Kimberly Culmone & Anita Peatross Austreberto Deharo Daniel Edelman David Eisman & Jennifer Eisman John Galich Kris Gallagher Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP Karen Griffith Gregory Guy & Donald Larson Kevin Hamilton & Michael Gapinski Dennis Herzig & Ernie Torres Andrew Holinsky Kenneth Jamison Roy Jimenez Donald Larson & Gregory Guy Daniel McQueen Raymond Neal Michael Oard

CIRCLE OF LIFE Mark Brower Bernard Buchanon, M.D. Denis Cagna and Carlos Medina Francisco George and William Escalera Raymond Geyer and John Welch Nicholas Hamatake Peter M. Nardi Park W. Wagers Robert A. White Doris Williams

*Indicates an increase in membership level

For information about Planned Giving or becoming a sustaining donor, please contact: Lauren Custer Director of Major Gifts and Special Events 323-993-7465 or lcuster@lagaycenter.org Nellie Sims Director of Planned Giving 323-993-7691 or nsmis@lagaycenter.org

ALL A-BOARD!

Generous donor’s incredible final gift

Center welcomes 2 new board members

by Christopher Jones

LA GL C

by Manny Sanchez

It started as a routine call to paramedics in the quiet suburb of Arcadia, just outside of Los Angeles. A concerned colleague called 911 after Ronald Morrison, a 78-year-old man in poor health and with no close relatives, missed several days of work.

When the paramedics arrived at Ronald’s home, they discovered he had passed away.

Among his possessions near a stack of newspapers and old issues of the Center’s Vanguard newsletter, was a simple, handwritten note, which read: “I hereby name as Executor and sole heir to my home and all my worldly possessions, the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center.”

When in poor health, those who lack the resources or physical capacity to have a will professionally drafted, sometimes choose to write their own. Because California law honors such documents (known as “holographic wills”), the City of Los Angeles contacted the Center’s Director of Planned Giving, Nellie Sims.

“We were shocked,” says Sims. “Though many people include the Center in their estate plan, it’s usually people who have some relationship to the Center. No one here knew Ronald, and he wasn’t in our database. And it was just as surprising that he had named the Center as executor of his estate. I think that’s a first for us.”

The bulk of Ronald’s estate was his fully paid home, valued at more than $500,000.

“This was such a huge and surprise gift,” says Center CEO Lorri L. Jean. “Our services must have touched him in some way, and now his generosity will make a world of difference for the many clients and patients we serve. My only regret is that I never met Ronald and can’t thank him myself.”

The Center will honor Ronald by adding him to its donor wall and inducting him into its Circle of Life, a group of supporters who have included a gift to the Center in their will or trust.

“Many people are unaware that even if they don’t have monetary wealth, they can support the Center by joining our Circle of Life and pledging to leave property or other holdings to the Center once they have passed on,” says Sims. “I consult with donors on the options that make the most sense for them and we can help with whatever paperwork may be necessary.”

To learn more about the Circle of Life and our Planned Giving Program, please contact Nellie Sim at nsims@lagaycenter.org or 323-993-7691.

Brad W. Ong President and Creative Director for the Equinox Group, Brad W. Ong is at the forefront of strategic marketing and creative development for some of the LGBT community’s most beloved film and entertainment icons.

When he isn’t coming up with the next big idea to promote “The Hunger Games” or developing Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh (which he helped to launch internationally) as global brands, you might find the 20-year entertainment industry pro and two-time AIDS/LifeCycle veteran balancing his creative passion with community service by teaching yoga and breathwork.

Ong lives in Hancock Park with his two loves: a beagle-mix rescue named Sumner and coffee (the real source to rumors that he doesn’t require sleep).

Tyler Cassity President and Co-owner of the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Tyler Cassity is no stranger to being of service to his community.

The four-time AIDS/LifeCycle veteran and co-captain of Team LAGLC manages a full calendar of events at Hollywood Forever, including multiple concert series, theatrical performances, summer movie screenings and, most recently, the AIDS/LifeCycle Soiree. He’s also the generous donor of the complete collection of artist Keith Haring’s Apocalypse series on display in the McDonald/Wright building.

Cassity resides in the Hollywood Hills and is the proud father of three cats: Jackie O, Rufus Pufus and Nina Simone; not to mention the 60-plus cats in the feral colonies at Hollywood Forever—as well as 18 peacocks and peahens and one lonely swan for whom he’s currently trying to broker a marriage.

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The youth are AMAZING kids who deserve the best in life like any other. To my dying day I will do anything in my power to make them have the great lives that they deserve.

-Kathy Kloves, Gold Circle donor

‘Their future is my future’ One woman’s quest to build better lives for LGBT youth

by Christopher Jones Kathy Kloves isn’t fazed by the amount of work it takes to put on a show.

The working mother of two has already hosted two hugely successful, starstudded fundraisers for the Center and now she’s set to host the biggest and grandest one yet: an awards dinner at the Beverly Hills Hotel on March 21 honoring Amy Pascal, Co-Chairman of Sony Pictures, and Ralph Rucci, top luxury American fashion designer and artist.

What drives the tireless and hard-charging fan of the Center? Just one thing: raising the most money to provide the best programs for the young people who rely on the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center. And to do it, she throws amazing events.

Kloves was inspired to support the Center after a chance encounter with the Center’s Director of Children, Youth & Family Services at a dinner party. She, with husband and screenwriter Steve Kloves, were staggered by the statistics Curt Shepard shared: Los Angeles is among the counties with the highest number of homeless youth in the nation (5,000), an estimated 40 percent of whom identify as LGBT. But what really alarmed Kloves was the fact that the Center had only 30 beds (six for overnight stays and 24 for 18-month stays) to care for the thousands of abandoned and homeless LGBT youth on the streets of L.A. “I just couldn’t believe it,” she says. “I wanted to get to work immediately to help increase the number of beds, because no kid should be sleeping on the streets. And the fact that so many of these kids are LGBT shocked me. I just don’t understand how parents can abandon their kids—it sickens me.”

Kloves began by organizing dinner parties for her friends and family, asking them to make small donations to the Center—everything from socks and underwear to books and electronics.

“No one goes untouched in my life when it comes to the Center,” says the raven-haired New York native. “After hearing their stories, I think anybody 12

MARCH 2013

would do the same thing. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone who has faced the worst possible adversity, succeed. And to play just a small part in that… there’s truly nothing more rewarding.”

Kloves has become familiar with the personal stories of many of the homeless youth through the private events she hosts just for them: career days with industry professionals, beauty/fashion makeover days with volunteer stylists who pamper the youth, and holiday parties where gifts are given and gingerbread houses are built. Center staff see these events as vital to the department’s success.

“Kathy is unlike any volunteer I’ve ever known,” Shepard says. “She has turned her outrage over the fact that there are so many homeless LGBT youth in Los Angeles into action. She produces these incredible star-studded fundraising events that continue to grow and spends lots of quality time with our young clients, encouraging and helping them begin to see a better future for themselves. And the youth adore her for it.”

What started two years ago as a 100-person breakfast at Barneys that raised more than $24,000, followed by an awards dinner at the Tower Bar that raised close to a quarter million dollars last year, will surely be eclipsed by the fabulous 500-person dinner she’s hosting this month.

Even though this year’s event will mark her biggest and most profitable yet (requiring the most work), the generous sustaining donor to the Center has no plans to slow down.

“The youth are AMAZING kids who deserve the best in life like any other,” says Kloves. “To my dying day, I will do anything in my power to help them have the great lives that they deserve—their future is my future.”

Donate to support the Center’s services for homeless LGBT youth lagaycenter.org/donation.

For table and ticket information to An Evening For Homeless LGBT Youth Honoring Amy Pascal & Ralph L. Rucci, contact allison.k.rice@gmail.com or 310.576.7825.

PHOTOS BY MANNY SANCHEZ

2 PHOTOS BY CHRIS PANAGAKIS

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(1-2) Whole Food’s Grab & Give: Whole Foods Market West Hollywood held a special luncheon for our Seniors Services where they presented a check of more than $13,000 from December’s “Grab & Give” campaign! Seniors also went home with bags full of generously donated organic groceries.

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(3-11) AIDS/LifeCycle Soiree: Guests experienced the best of AIDS/LifeCycle’s seven incredible days in one magical night of fun, food and good friends. Held at the historic Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, guests were treated to whimsical cirque-style performances

by Kinetic Theory Performing Arts; prizes, including a drawing for a bike from AIDS/LifeCycle sponsor Cannondale; and more.

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Learning Curve Creativity & Fun

Performance

LIFE DRAWING Capturing the Beautiful Human Body

VOICEOVER TALENT Introduction to Voiceover for Beginners

GUITAR FOR BEGINNERS Introduction to Guitar

This popular course is perfect for anyone interested in developing their artistic abilities. Nothing is more difficult to draw than the complexities of the human body. This fun and low-pressure course is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. Each session features a live model.

Instructor: Ron Anderegg

Unleash the vocal giant inside of you. This hands-on class will teach you tricks of the trade and how to present yourself to casting and talent agents. Held in a recording studio and includes actual mic time.

Instructor: M.J. Lallo

4-Week Course Tues., Mar. 19 - Apr. 9, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $69

(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/18) Course meets off-site.

Learn the fundamentals of playing the guitar in a fun and easy-going environment. All of the basics are covered, including basic scale, chord theory and open chords. Learn to play familiar songs and how to create songs of your own. Student’s must provide their own guitars (acoustic and electric guitars are both welcome).

Instructor: Marc Flores

(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/18)

WRITING FOR THE STAGE An Intensive Playwriting Workshop

Through creative tools and exercises, you will learn the craft of playwriting in this fun writersgroup styled course. By reading and discussing each student’s work you will learn structure, character development, conflict, motive, climax and resolution. All experience levels welcome.

Instructor: Richard Steel

6-Week Course Sat., Mar. 23 - Apr. 27, 1 - 4 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/22)

Workshop Tues., Mar. 19, 7 - 10 p.m.

YOUR WORLD PREMIERE AT THE COMEDY STORE Stand-Up Comedy Workshop

Perfect for anyone who wants to make’em laugh.

Topics include: joke-writing, character creation, improv skills and stage persona. At the end, you will perform your own comedic stand-up piece at the Comedy Store!

Instructor: Adam Barnhardt

6-Week Course Thurs., Mar. 21 - Apr. 25, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

No class on Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. The Comedy Store performance: 11/18 Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/20)

Senior & Student Discounts Available when you enroll in person at the box office.

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MARCH 2013

6-Week Course Wed., Mar. 6 - Apr. 10, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/5)

FLAMENCO AND CLASSICAL GUITAR Stylized Guitar for Beginners

Whether you know how to play traditional guitar or you’ve never held a guitar in your hands, this class will teach you all the basics of creating beautiful music. Course includes a mix of classical and flamenco playing styles.

Instructor: Darryl Denning

6-Week Course Wed., Mar. 20 - Apr. 24 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/19)

THE L.A. GAY & LESBIAN CENTER’S ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAM DESIGNED TO HELP ELEVATE THE LIVES OF LGBT PEOPLE

Technology

Photography Workshop Series

LEARN ADOBE PHOTOSHOP EXT. Levels I & II

Series enrollment packages are now available.

Mix-n-match any courses and get discounted enrollment, free bonus classes and more. Visit lagaycenter.org/learningcurve for more information.

Photoshop is the graphic world’s most powerful tool. You will learn how to retouch, create composites, work with layers, paint, color correct and much more. Two companion courses which may be taken together or separately.

Instructor: Dali Sadhana

Level 1 Tues., Mar. 19 & 26, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Level 2 Tues., Apr. 2 & 9, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $89 Each Level Combine Levels I & II Enrollment Fee: $149 (No Additional Discounts) (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. 3/18)

World Traveler VOULEZ-VOUS PARLER FRANCIAS? Conversational French for Beginners

Learn this most romantic of languages in only six weeks. Course will focus on basic vocabulary, casual conversation, and simple grammar constructs that will be helpful to travelers and connoisseurs alike.

Students will practice speaking French in this fun and unintimidating classroom environment.

Instructor: Nadine Cohen

6-Week Course Tues., Mar. 19 - Apr. 23, 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $120 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/18)

Health & Wellness GET CENTERED Saturday Morning Meditation

Begin your weekend feeling centered and balanced. Develop a healthier connection to your thoughts, create greater balance with your emotions and get in touch with your body and mind.

Instructor: Marc Caldwell

Guided Class Every Sat. Morning, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Fee: Free (donations are welcome) Walk-up, no RSVP necessary.

CAMERA TECH & PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS Digital Photography Primer

This intense and information-filled course is specifically designed to help photographers master their cameras and begin developing a masterful creative eye.

Instructor: Dali Sadhana

4-Week Course Thurs., Mar. 21 - Apr. 11, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $99 This course is free with all Package Enrollments (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/20)

FLESH PHOTOGRAPHY Photographing the Human Body

This fun course will teach you different and creative ways of capturing the beauty of the human body through the lens of your digital camera.

Instructor: Johnny Ciotti

4-Part Course Tues., Mar. 26 - Apr. 16, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $129 (Enrollment Closes at 5 p.m. on 3/25)

PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY Basics of Table-Top Photography

This course will teach you how to light and photograph all types of items, big and small, dark or light and for a variety of different uses.

Instructor: Daniel Meyer

4-Part Course Wed., Mar. 27 - Apr. 17, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment Closes at 5 p.m. on 3/26)

ADOBE LIGHTROOM 4 Photo Editing & Management

Adobe Lightroom 4 is today’s industry standard for professional photographers. Learn how to import, process, edit, retouch, manage and showcase your images with ease.

Instructor: Mary Grace McKernan

4-Part Course Mon. , Mar. 18 - Apr. 15, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Enrollment Fee: $149 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 3/17)

REGISTER by calling 323-860-7300 ext. 3 or lagaycenter.org/learningcurve

MARCH 2013

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L.A. GAY & LESBIAN CENTER

McDonald/Wright Building 1625 N. Schrader Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90028

Moving, getting duplicate mailings or wish to be removed from the Vanguard mailing list?

Call 323-993-7620 or visit lagaycenter.org/newsletter.

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