March 2012
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C h e c k ou t how c om pa n i e s a r e t u r n i ng t h e i pa d i n t o a n e w ag e a du lt n ov e lt y
Ni k k i E xo t i c a Reveals Her Secret Girl
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C o u rt S ays N o To R e c a l l p g . 8 E as t s i d e D e m o c r at s & E P YS D pa rt n e r u p t o h o l d d e bat e p g . 9
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Welcome to the March issue of My Texas Little Black Book As the months go by, we are adding and upgrading more to each issue. This last month was a month of Transition. My partner/Art Director arrived to El Paso from the military. It’s a big transition, to go from having to make all the decisions to now having a team to work on it. This month’s new addition to the L.B.B. is our downtown guide. This map and directory added has now made our publication an all-inclusive guide. Which includes both LGBT and non-LGBT affiliated businesses. Also, as of this month, I have good news, numbers don’t lie and with the continued success of our magazine, website, digital issue, and social media outlets. I can say My Texas Little Black Book, is now the highest ranked LGBT media source for El Paso. Yes, we’re still considered a new publication, and every month we continue to grow. However, as more advertisers become part of the M.L.B.B. family ( My Little Black Book). We constantly strive to bring our readers a steady dose of diverse and new content. With James and Dustin now able to focus on Marketing and ad creation, I can keep my focus on the L.B.B.’s content. Providing our readers, both mainstream and local content news content that is relevant to our city’s LGBT community. The point I’m trying to make is that there is something in the magazine for everyone so it stays entertaining, informative, and educational. I hope you enjoy this issue of My Texas Little Black Book and sorry my letter was a little long this month. ....You should have seen the rough draft. Until Next time..... Rickey Turner Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rickey@mlbbp.com
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Local News
a
Court says No-Recall By James Gamez
The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected
motion that would set forth the re-call election for Mayor Cook and Reps. Susie Byrd and Steve Ortega. Pastor Tom Brown and organizers of the re-call effort wanted a city re-call election because the mayor and Reps. Byrd and Ortega voted against a voter approved amendment denying gay and unwed couples city health benefits.
“We find that all of the re-call petitions submitted to the city clerk are illegal and invalid,” the court documents said. The World of Life Church broke the law by gathering signatures at places of worship and that violates Texas state law. “I think the mayor was really brave to take this on and to hold people who chose to break the law accountable. I absolutely think they should have to pay his legal bills. I don’t know what the criminal penalty is for this violation but I do think that they should be held to account for breaking the law,” said Rep. Susie Byrd. Brown is appealing the decision and has taken his case to the Texas Supreme Court. Most legal experts agree the court would not likely hear the case because the 8th Circuit Court of appeals voted unanimously and there were no dissenting opinions. “The 8th Court of Appeals made the right decision. El Pasoans have the right to recall their representatives, but Political Action Committees (PACs) that fund those movements must follow the law. And yes, the people who were involved in the recall who broke the law should absolutely cover the mayor’s legal fees,” said County Judge Veronica Escobar. As of deadline there was no ruling on whether the Texas Supreme Court would hear the case and if Brown and his followers would have to suffer legal consequences for breaking the law, and over $250,000 in attorney’s fees
Eastside Democrats & EPYSD partner up to hold debate By Dustin Kearns
Over 200 people were in attendance on Wednesday March 8, 2012 where a debate was held; sponsored in part by the Eastside Democrats, the EPCC Teacher Preparation Program and the El Paso Stonewall Young Democrats.
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  The main focus of this was to find out which democratic candidates would support the idea of extending health-insurance benefits to the gay and otherwise unmarried partners of county employees. When this same topic was tackled by the El Paso City Council the heated debate eventually transformed into an attempt to recall Mayor John Cook and two city representatives. The most recent debate was an intelligent discussion between all where the voice of the gay community was strong. This discussion lead to an agreement between all those attending which included the local commissioner candidates that extended health benefits as well as adding transgender and sexual-identity protection should be added to the county’s anti-discrimination policy.
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ld O e h T @ C EPI Plantation
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February 25, 2012 The Old Plantation celebrated their Entertainment Director’s birthday with a star studded show with performances by: Erica Andrews, Roxy Andrews and from RuPaul’s Drag Race: Carmen Carrera & Jessica Wild.
Shhhh…ee’s got a Secret Nikki Exotika Reveals Her “Secret Girl” By Manny Leiborwirtz
Most particularly, she loved Barbie.
Nikki Exotika first realized she was a woman in a man’s body at five years old. She remembers sitting down to potty like a girl, putting on nail polish and makeup and dressing up in her mother’s clothes. She played with the neighborhood girls and their dolls.
Barbie was the image of female perfection to young Nikki. She would analyze the features on the doll: her beautiful almond cat shaped eyes, her silky blonde hair and tanned body. Barbie was everything the young boy hoped to become in real life. And with the help of plastic surgery, he has. Nikki estimates she has undergone at least twenty head-to-toe surgeries. “Once you have gone under the knife five times, the rest are a piece of cake,” she laughs. It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, though. Nikki says at least a third of the surgeries were to fix mistakes. She also isn’t finished. “I’m a work in progress,” she says. “The tune-up surgeries can be exhausting but when I think about how amazing, new and improved I will look afterwards, it motivates me to keep going.” In the meantime, she has become an entertainment powerhouse, appearing in movies, ad campaigns, and even reality TV. Last year, Nikki appeared on the popular Style Network reality series, Jerseylicious. Now she is preparing to release her debut album. Defining her music as “MAGAGANEY” (Madonna, Gaga, and Britney all wrapped up into one), she presents an electro-pop dance music sound, with catchy lyrics that are provocative,
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Are you hiding secrets in your closet? Nikki Exotika: Of course, but to find out, you will have to buy my book. Besides the obvious, what are some of the biggest secrets you have revealed in your life? Going to jail… and I’ve been open about my botched plastic surgery. Jail? What was that like? Three months of hell! Losing your freedom for something you didn’t do is the worst feeling ever. I could have fought the conviction, but I would have had to stay in jail longer, and I was looking at a three-year prison sentence! So I decided to take the plea deal and get out with five years probation and outpatient drug rehab. inspirational, and a little on the dirty side. Her first two releases, “Manwhore” and “Electric Touch”, are dance floor favorites.
You’re also now forever branded a convicted felon. l know, I know. I’m such a bad girl.
Was there any confusion on whether you should be placed in a men’s or women’s prison? There was! I got strip searched three times. It was the most horrible, humiliating, awkward, uncomfortable “Secret Girl is a song I wrote for a experience of my life. I felt like an insect guy I loved and who loved me but only being inspected under a microscope. conditionally,” said the artist from her home in New York. “He couldn’t accept Where does Nikki Exotika go from here? my living openly and honestly. I will I would like to say straight to the top not live my life in the closet – or stealth, (laughs). I would love to get into acting, as it is called in the trans community. maybe movies. I would love to be on a I am not ashamed of my gender, and reality show and I hope to find an amazing the man that chooses me had better be guy that will love me unconditionally. strong enough to love me in front of the For Full Interview whole world.” Her next track, “Secret Girl”, is an empowering club track about loving yourself for who you are. It’s a comingout song, with Nikki revealing herself as a proud trans-woman and inviting all to celebrate her fabulousness.
, visit MyTexasLittleBlackBook.com
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POSTER
When he was alive, Steve Jobs praised the iPad’s ability to offer freedom from, among other things, pornography. He believed Apple had a moral responsibility to keep porn off their devices and even suggested that anyone that wanted it should by an Android phone. Since his passing, Apple has remained staunchly opposed to allowing pornography on the iPad, yet adult sites like Playboy and Manhunt have found interesting ways around the restrictions.
iSBey CxhipPRaobderts
iPlayboy is an iPad-optimized app that offers access to every single issue published by the magazine, as well as access to new issues, for $8 per month or $60 per year. Manhunt Mobile is a touchscreen version of Manhunt.net that allows iPhone and iPad users full access to the uncensored profiles of its six million members around the world. It seamlessly integrates with all Apple devices so regardless of what device or computer members’ use, they can access and communicate with all six million Manhunt members across platforms. It also uses GPS to instantly display nearby guys. So how did Playboy and Manhunt manage to stand up against the ideology of Steve Jobs? By completely circumventing Apple. iPlayboy may look and feel like an iPad app but it isn’t one. Instead of creating an actual iPad application, Playboy created a website and optimized it for the iPad. Users access the ‘app’ via the iPad’s web browser. The same is true for Manhunt. To access the uncensored Manhunt Mobile, users tap the Safari icon and type m.manhunt.net.
MYTEXASLITTLE
son
It’s a smart move. Not only are PlayBoy and Manhunt able to capitalize on the mass appeal and branding of the iPad but they are able to do so without sacrificing their most significant assets: nudity. “Because Manhunt Mobile is a mobile site running through the browser, there is no need to download any additional software,” says Online Buddies CEO Adam Segel. Online Buddies is the parent company of Manhunt. “Everything you need to find guys nearby, make new friends, get a date, or hook up instantly is on your iPad and iPhone right now.” It’s a win for everyone, including Apple, because they don’t have to backtrack on previous policies and yet they now allow, in a roundabout way, pornography on the iPad. Manhunt and Playboy’s methods offer similar adult content providers a clear and effective model on how to get their content on the iPad while bypassing Apple’s strict app review process: simply go around it.
What’s next? Well, Fleshlight COO Brian Shubin just announced plans for the Fleshlipad, an iPad case with, you guessed it, a masturbation tool attached. By the end of the year, guys will mounting their iPads. Poor Steve Jobs must be rolling in his grave.
BLACKBOOK.COM
ut El Paso Ot & Abou
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Local Spotlight
Wolf + Lamb
Who is Wolf+Lamb? The Wolf and Lamb boy and gal are the coolest individuals in the room. They have the ability to pull off whatever look they’re in the mood for and make it look flawless. At Wolf+Lamb, not only are we free thinkers, we are our customer. We strive for two things. To inspire and be inspired. Our clothing & accessories are from up-andcoming designers and all of our vintage is handpicked, giving you those one of a kind pieces you can’t find elsewhere. What kind of business: We are a Men and Women’s contemporary clothing shop. What is your specialty: Our specialty is our unique and bold clothing choices for our diverse and fashion conscience clientele. This specialty doubles with our ability to style and accessorize. We also offer personalized apparel alterations. Your address and telephone number: We are nestled in the chic Century Plaza shopping center on the West part of town at 5857 N. Mesa St suite 13. (next to Tres Mariposas) Our phone number is 915-667-8252
Follow us on Facebook: Wolf+Lamb
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El Paso O u & About t
Aquarius
January 20th - February 18th
Invest intelligently and you may notice an unexpected bulged in your pocket. I mean money honey. Remember however easy come and easy go so I suggest you put your generous nature in check if you want to keep your pockets full.
Pisces
February 19th - March 20th
Partner up, your upcoming successes may depend on it. You can still have independence in a partnership. Bring your best to the table and your partner will too. In love and in life the ability to be a productive member of a partnership will take you far.
Aries
March 21st - April 19th
If you feel as if the road you are on is the wrong one you are probably right. However you can’t just hop out the car. Slow down make some calls and ask for direction. Sometimes we have to realize that we know where we want to go in life but we may not know how to get there by ourselves. Keep your head up and keep driving on.
Taurus
April 20th - May 20th
Romance is in the air. You will meet someone new who is intelligent and stands out from the rest. Make sure you look your best and expect the unexpected. Let things happen naturally. Be yourself don’t be what you think everyone wants you to be.
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Gemini
May 21st - June 20th
Today when you look at yourself in the mirror it will be through new eyes. You are starting to notice that you are a beautiful person. This is due to transformations from within. Let go of the past, think positive for the future and positive things will happen.
Cancer
June 21st - July 22
A conversation with a current or potential romantic partner could end with both of you revealing a lot of your deepest feelings. This new information will cause you to seriously consider whether or not you want to continue the relationship.
Leo
July 23rd - August 22nd
Work, work, work, it seems that is all you’ve been doing. Things will slow down and open up some time for you to go play. When you finally do get some play time it will be that much more enjoyable because you earned it. Work hard, play harder just remember to always be safe. Life is short live it to the fullest.
Virgo
August 23rd - September 22nd
Sharing an overwhelming amount of love and passion toward a current or potential romantic partner will make them feel a little taken aback, but ultimately flattered and therefore a positive responds should be expected. This might not have the potential so dont except anything just have fun.
Libra
September 23rd - October 22nd
Information that you retrieve from deep within your psyche might lead to a revelation as to a great way to increase your income. So whatever it is, look into it carefully, and then if the information seems to be accurate and useful, go for it.
Scorpio
October 23rd - November 21st
You may encounter an old friend who seems to have changed. You now might find this person very attractive. This may feel strange you’ve always thought of this person as a friend. Just remember the most successful relationships start as friends.
Sagittarius
November 22nd - December 21st
A new creative project of some kind, perhaps involving modern technology, could set your career in a new direction. This may be the break you’ve been hoping for, and you’re apt to be very excited about it. So if it feels right, go for it!
Capricorn
December 22nd - January 19th
Take a trip and you can expect to experience a powerful attraction for someone you meet along the way. However, the friendship might not survive the trip. You may be from opposite sides of the country, and one or both of you could be involved with other people.
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1 Club Alive 601 N. Mesa #1 dance club, live dj, patio
1 San Jacinto Square Park/Meeting Area/Bus
2 Whatever Lounge . 701 E. Paisano Dr (915)532-0215 drag, karaoke, dancing, dj
2 Abraham Chavez Theatre Music hall/theatre
The Old Plantation
3 301 S. Ochoa (915)533-0655 danceclub, drag, 18 and up
San Antonio Mining Company
4 800 E. San Antonio (915)533-9516 drag, dancing, patio
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3 Insights Museum El Paso Science Museum 4 El Paso Museum of ArtPark/Meeting Area/Bus
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10780 Pebble Hills Suite 2 915-422-0779
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5857 N. Mesa (915)667-8252
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511 Western Court (915)544-4400 Fine Dining, Sushi, Burgers, Beer & Wine 115 S. Durango Suite D (915)533-8935 Spanish, Modern American, Tapas 115 S. Durango Suite C (915)351-0445 American, Pizza, Pub Food 101 S. El Paso (915)534-3020 Mexican, American, Southwestern
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m Com
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Calendar Monday.
Thursday
Rainbow Recovery 8p.m.-9p.m @ MCC El Paso .
Tuesday
Factory Drop-in Hours 2p.m.-7p.m. @ M Factor Pflag Meeting 7p.m.@ Desert View United Church of Christ (11160 Montwood Drive) Wednesday
El Paso
Free Hiv & Syphillis 1p.m.-4p.m. @ Tillman Health Center Bible Study 7:30p.m.@ MCC El Paso .
Factory Drop-in Hours 2p.m.-7p.m. @ M Factor Pflag Meeting 7p.m.@ University Presbyterian Church (244 North Resler Drive) Friday Free Hiv & Syphillis 1p.m.4p.m. @ Tillman Health Center Saturday Sunday Sunday Morning Worship 12:30p.m. @ MCC El Paso
Organizations El Paso Sun City Pride
506 N. Stanton El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 351-1896 www.epscp.org Established in 2007 to serve as the social directors of the El Paso LGBT community and to bring the great City of El Paso a PRIDE Celebration it rightfully deserves.
Pflag El Paso
P.O. Box 23086 El Paso, TX 79923 (915) 209-2667 www.pflagelpaso.com Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
Rio Grande Adelante Inc.
P.O Box 23086 El Paso, TX 79923 www.rgadelante.org Community based organization: To empower & celebrate the LGBT community in the Paso del Norte Region through education, advocacy, and engagement.
MCC El Paso
Metropolitan Community Church of El Paso 216 S. Ochoa El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 533-0111 www.mccelpaso.com Their goal has always been to provide for the spiritual enhancement and development of a community that knows that the love of God is for all.
The M Factor
1505 E. Missouri El Paso, TX 79902 (915) 351-0969 www.themfactor. org The M Factor is a social organization centered around young gay and bisexual guys ages 18-39 in El Paso.
For Posting on Community Page email: Staff@mlbbp.com
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Nightcap
with Paul Landerman
Transitions Paul Landerman lives in El Paso. He is a scholar, a published author and has his Doctorate in Education
In 1976 Gail Sheehy wrote one of her most famous books, “Passages”, about the different stages of adult life in American culture. For the most part she was probably on target, although most of us may not experience the stages she wrote about in just the way she intended. For gay men in America, the stages seem to be more or less gaining independence from family; coming out; establishing a career; establishing and refining selfacceptance and self-knowledge; and finally growing gracefully into one’s self-image. I am not suggesting that every gay man loves in or through those stages nor am I suggesting that every gay man will experience those stages in that order, in fact for most of us, the order may be convoluted and helix-like, as in my own personal case. I came out of the closet after age 45, after a divorce and while in the middle of raising kids and finishing my doctorate degree.
The point, conversely, is that while we will experience stages and growth and challenges and turning points and tipping points, how we handle them and how we negotiate them is the far more important factor. My experience has taught me that self-acceptance is the far more important ingredient, and that any challenge or any stage or any relationship or any issue can be dealt with easily if I have first established inside of myself, in the silent secret chambers of the soul where all of life’s most important battles are fought, just who I am and just what I am and just how much I accept those realities about myself. Creating my life’s trajectory is after that acceptance, far easier to accomplish and design and enjoy, if I have accepted those factors. Consequently I do not believe that any special age is tied to a stage or to a turning point- turning 21 or 30 or 45 or 60, are far more easily negotiated if at first I have established who I am and what I am and what I want. I have told my children many times, and any others who have been bored enough to have to ask the question, that what I have found most important in life is to answer the single most important question: “What do you want?” The answer is deceptively simple: “Go get it.” That is about as close as I will ever get to giving advice, and none of this is intended as advice, but just a suggestion for how to think about your own stages. Gail Sheehy was correct in many ways, but how it applies to you, is, after all, up to you. God bless.
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