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ISSN# 2331-4745 VOL 3 ISSUE 7 JUL/AUG 2015

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ISSN# 2331-4745 VOL 3 ISSUE 7 JUL/AUG 2015

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SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

ArtofPhotopgraphy PrideHouston.org Teesmatter.com BRPride.org Derek Penton-Robicheaux PROJECT PUBLICITY, INC. Mark Dawson Nir Zilberman Tim LaCombe Paul Hutnick GayCities.com Neverland Pride Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: Gulf South Graphic Visions in Print (VIP) Magazine (2331-4746) is published monthly by Visions in Publishing Media Group, LLC 2315 N. Woodlawn Ave., Metairie, LA 70001 in limited areas. Subscriptions can be purchased for $19.99 for 12 issues (one year). For foreign orders please include payments with order and add $44 to subscription price. To subscribe by phone call 1-855-313-2052 or fax orders to 504-455-1758. To order by mail send your name, address, and a check, money order, or credit card authorization forms to our corporate ofﬁce or online at myVIPmag.us. Copyright 2014 Visions in Publishing Media Group, LLC all rights reserved. Reproductions within written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Unsolicited contributions must be submitted with an SASE if they are to be returned. Graphic VIP Magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited materials. All rights in letters, manuscripts, drawings, photography sent to Graphic VIP Magazine will be treated as assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to Graphic VIP Magazine rights to edit and comment editorially. All professional models are at least 18 years of age. Photographs of individuals may or may not be professional models. By posing for photographs, consent to publish is automatically given to the publisher. Neither said photographer nor accompany in editorial matter is indicative of that persons sexual orientation, conduct, or actual quotation. The publisher of the magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers. Queries should be sent to our corporate ofﬁce, printed in the USA.

6 VIP STARS 12 SO INFATUATED 15 THE JOURNEY TO EQUALITY & LOVE BY DEREK PENTON ROBICHEAUX 22 LOCAL HEROES GAY MARRIAGE PASSES

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The Dictionary.com— Infatuated: to inspire or possess with a foolish or unreasoning passion… ”Well, quite frankly, I can’t remember the last time I was foolish or unreasonable, SO let me Inspire! (yes, I left out the passion because that’s a different type of magazine.)”

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The

Journey To

EQUALITY &

(Derek and his husband John)

n July 16, 2013, my husband and I Þled ÒRobicheaux v Caldwell,Ó in hopes to one day secure solid protection for our marriage. On June 26th the Supreme Court of The United States agreed that all families and same sex couples deserve equal protection under law with Kennedy writing, "No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, Þdelity, devotion, sacriÞce, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in

E V

6.26.2015

these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to Þnd its fulÞllment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization’s oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right." PG 15 | VIP

Those 124 words will ring forever throughout history. Here locally some state actors were slow to enforce the law and weren’t so happy with the outcome. Appearing on Sunday’s “Meet The Press,” Governor Bobby Jindal stated that he would wait for direction from the Fifth Circuit before issuing any license or having any agency acknowledge a legal out of state marriage certiÞcate.

(From left: Lester Perryman, SarahJane Brady, Derek Penton Robicheaux)

PG 16 | VIP

On January 9, 2015, a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals panel had heard our case and the ruling was still pending at the time of the SCOTUS ruling. Upon action by our team, we asked that the court issue a ruling in our favor and remand the case back down to the District Court where Feldman had preciously upheld Louisiana’s ban in our case back in September of 2014. The Fifth Circuit agreed, “This court sought and promptly received letter advisories from plaintiffs and the state, asking their respective positions on the proper disposition in light of Obergefell. They are agreed that the judgment should be reversed and remanded for entry of judgment in favor of plaintiffs."

Because this court agrees that that is the required result, the judgment appealed from is REVERSED, and this matter is REMANDED for entry of judgment in favor of the plaintiffs. The district court must act expeditiously on remand, especially in view of the declining health of plaintiff Robert Welles. The court should enter Þnal judgment on the merits (exclusive of any collateral matters such as costs and attorney fees) by July 17, 2015, and earlier if reasonably possible. The mandate shall issue forthwith.”

Bobby Jindal, going back on his word from Sunday, continued to defy the orders of now two courts, and continued to play with people’s lives. His legal excuses were soon to run out. On the morning of July 2, 2015 Federal District Judge Martin Feldman, also followed the Supreme Court and Fifth Circuit Courts orders, paving the way for all state actors to both issue and recognize marriage certiÞcates. Judge Feldman who had given a misguided ruling back in September, had to now rule in our favor. This left Jindal without anymore excuses; marriage equality is now LAW OF THE LAND in Louisiana.

"They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."

My husband and I are extremely grateful for everyone’s support over the past 24 months. While we know this is just a step in the right direction for FULL equality, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done. While we celebrate the victory, let us not forget all of those who didn’t make it to this point with us, and those that still deal with inequality issues. We have to step forward as community to Þght for equality in all areas that are still lacking. The battle may be over on the marriage front, but there are those who still work to hold us back; we must be active, we must stand Þrm, and we must never be silent. Derek Penton-Robicheaux Lead Plaintiff Robicheaux et al. v Caldwell et al.

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S ERVING THE L OUISIANA LGBT C OMMUNITY

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Community

HEROES

June 26, 2015 the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples

have the right to marry. Celebrations broke out all over the country and I had the honor of attending the Marriage Day Rally in Jackson Square. The scene was very powerful with people crying tears of joy, hugging one another, and just the overall sense of victory for our community. As a member of the LGBT community, I believe it is very important that we all take a moment to recognize and thank the individuals responsible for such a pivotal moment not just in LGBT history, but American history itself. I cannot imagine the amount of time and energy spent working to ensure that we have the same rights as everyone else. Without these individuals we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be where we are today, nor would we have the right to marry whom we LOVE. PG 22 | VIP

KAYLA MULFORD

Kayla Mumford is the President of Capital City Alliance in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She joined CCA in 2012 after participating in the very Þrst Louisiana Equality March and was elected President in 2014. CCA’s goal is to focus on the social aspects regarding marriage equality. This year they launched “Louisiana Loves” a campaign focusing on 50 LGBT couples in Louisiana. Moving forward, the CCA plans to become more involved with educators and help give them the resources needed to stand up against bullying of LGBT youth. We would like to thank Kayla and everyone at CCA, especially Dave Samuels and Carrie Wooten Samuels, for all of their hard work in the community.

Capital City Alliance

“While I’m ecstatic to have the right to marry recognized, we must continue to fight for protections of our marriages and family.”

RICHARD G. PERQUE Richard G. Perque was brought into the Þght for Marriage EqualityÓ at the same time that Forum for Equality Þled their complaint in federal court; shortly before oral arguments before the US District Court and appeal to the US Fifth Circuit. Alongside his longtime friend Jon PentonRobicheaux, he stood on the frontlines of the battle for marriage equality and won. When asked about his role in this historic event Richard referenced his grandfather, Risley ÒPappyÓ Triche, a former representative and ßoor leader of the Louisiana Legislature, and his work in 2004 to advance same-sex marriage laws. He said,

“I like to think whatever role I played in this litigation was a continuation of his work against discrimination in Louisiana.”

Law OfÞces of Leslie A. Bonin, LLC & Richard G. Perque, LLC Limited Liabitlity Companies

PG 23 | VIP

Marjorie R. Esman Marjorie R. Esman is the Executive Director of ACLU Foundation of Louisiana. She has been a member of the ACLU Foundation of Louisiana for 13 years and the National ACLU for 10. All of the same-sex marriage cases dating back to 1972 have involved ACLU clients. The ACLU – both the national ofÞce and many afÞliates Ð played a pivotal role in winning the battle of marriage equality. The ACLU Foundation of Louisiana’s next battle will be for comprehensive nondiscrimination protection for all LGBT individuals. ACLU & ACLU Foundation of Louisiana

"Full equality in all spheres of life must be achieved."

SarahJane Brady

SarahJane Brady is the Executive Director of Forum for Equality. She joined the Forum for Equality team in 2010. Forum for Equality played a huge role in the marriage equality battle, but they don’t plan on stopping there. They continue to work tirelessly at both local and state levels to ensure ALL Louisianan’s can enjoy the freedom they deserve.

"For five years I have seen the tides shift significantly, but not enough."

xt? e N s ' t Wh a ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ PG 24 | VIP

Forum for Equality

The Þght for equality is far from over....These are the issues people in the LGBT community still face everyday. Which ones will YOU change?

LGBT Youth Homelessess Violence Against LGBT people ÒQuality of LifeÓ Laws Conversion Therapy LGBT Racial Justice

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Paper Specs: 100# Gloss Text Download Size: 9.5 x 12 Final Cropped Size: 8.5 x 11

N. Causeway Blvd and follow signs to Veterans Blvd. Hotel will be located on the right. South:

Take I-310 North to I-10 East to exit 228 N. Causeway Blvd. Follow signs to N. Causeway Blvd and then Veterans Blvd. Hotel will be located on the the right.

Metairie, LA Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, 2713 N. Causeway Boulevard Metairie, LA Metairie, LA 70002 1-504-835-4141 • www.countryinns.com/metairiela 2713 N. Causeway Boulevard

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N. Causeway Blvd. Metairie,2309 LA 70002 Country InnInn & Suites By Carlson, 1-504-835-4141 • www.countryinns.com/metairiela Country & Suites By Carlson, Paper Specs: 100# Gloss Text Download Size: 9.5 x 12 Final Cropped Size: 8.5 x 11

Metairie, LA 504-835-2022 Paper Specs: 100# Gloss Text Download Size: 9.5 x 12 Final Cropped Size: 8.5 m o n - s at 1 1 a m - 9 p m 1-504-835-4141 • www.countryinns.com/metairiela

Metairie, LA Metairie, LA 2713 N. Causeway Boulevard 2713 N. Causeway Boulevard Metairie, LA 70002 Metairie, LA 70002 1-504-835-4141 • www.countryinns.com/metairiela

www.gumbostop.com

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5 DIFFERENT KINDS OF GUMBO • DAILY SPECIALS ALL MEALS PREPARED BY MULTI AWARD WINNING

CHEF RON

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BIG DIPPER RELEASES “VIBIN’”

...The First Single From His New EP, “Extra Good”

In his newest EP, Extra Good, the gay bear rapper known as Big Dipper proves he sounds as big as he looks. The EP includes five super dope songs. “I chose to release Vibin’ first because the song came together preNy quickly; wriMng it was easy and organic. It’s fun and danceable with a super catchy hook; I have a special place in my heart for pop music.” He considers “Vibin’” his ‘Starships’ moment’, referring to the Nicki Minaj record, one of her first to hit top 40. “Vibin’ is new for me because it is universal and radio friendly. There is sMll a bit of innuendo, but nothing quite explicit as my other music. I think it has real crossover potenMal.” Big Dipper’s Vibin’ and his Extra Good EP are available now on iTunes and at all major online music retailers. View the music video for Vibin’ on Youtube. Big Dipper’s Extra Good, and his first single Vibin’, are available now on iTunes and all major online music retailers. For more informaMon, visithNp://bigdipperjelly.com.

Don't forget to visit myVIPmag.us Serving the Louisiana LGBT Community The Louisiana Equality Foundation was formed in August of 2014 to heighten awareness of the on-going issues that face the LGBT community. We are a state-wide organization based in New Orleans, with goals focused on issues of the domestic and social nature; including, but not limited to homelessness, bullying, substance abuse, suicide prevention, workplace discrimination, public health issues, and the infirm. http://www.louisianaequalityfoundation.org/ We host community speak outs the first Saturday of every month with a different topic each month. 3-4PM - they are an excellent source of education and information that we tend to forget about in our community.

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CLASSIFIEDS Art Gallery Burguieres 736 Royal St New Orleans, LA, 70116 240-994-0851

Automotive

Delaney & Robb 2800 Veterans Blvd, Ste 213 Metairie, LA

RPM Automotive 2432 Williams Blvd Kenner, LA, 70062 504-575-3300

Duo Hearts 330 Seattle St. New Orleans, LA, 70124 901-237-1349

Medical

NOLA Pest Control 828 Orion Ave, Metairie, LA, 70005 504-250-8088

The Retina Institiute 207 N. Causeway Blvd New Orleans, LA, 70002 504-455-0500

Real Estate Craig Mirambell Realty 500 Clearview Pkwy, Metairie, LA 70001 504-908-6777 Primary Residential Mortgage 2201 Veterans Blvd, Ste 405, Metairie, LA, 70002 504-339-5626 Steve Richards Latter & Blum 504-258-1800

Restaurant Babylon Café 7724 Maple Street New Orleans, LA, 70118 504-314-0010 Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop 2309 N Causeway Blvd Metairie, LA Pizza Gusto 1507 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA, 70130 504-309-5900 Silk Road 2483 Royal St. New Orleans, LA, 70117 504-944-6666

Services A Professional Ponchatoula, LA 985-467-0114 Acadian Remodeling 4521 W. Napoleon Ave, Ste. D, Metairie, LA 504-813-9198 Anton Yrle CPA 2809 Lemon St. Metairie, LA, 70006-6407 504-455-2727 AVN construction 1055 Scarlet Oak, Mandeville, LA, 70448 504-228-5130

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Big Easy Lighting 1015 Washington Ave. Ste. B, New Orleans, LA, 70130 504-810-0557

Planet Beach 301 Burgundy St New Orleans, LA Plumbing Concepts LLC 228 Brooklyn Ave, Jefferson, LA, 70121 504-214-0337 Regions Bank See website for locations regions.com Tassin Integrated System PO Box 55355, Metairie, LA, 70055 504-831-2599 The Fence Man PO Box 740926, New Orleans, LA, 70174 504-615-4852 Wellness Water Company 800 Dankin St., Suite B, Jefferson, LA, 70121 504-512-5791

Entertainment Harrah’s Casino 228 Poydras St New Orleans, LA Golden Crown Literary Society New Orleans Conference July 22-26 Napoleon’s Itch 734 Bourbon St In the Bourbon Orleans Hotel Bourbon Pub 801 Bourbon St New Orleans, LA

Lodging Country Inn & Suites by Carlson 2713 N Causeway Blvd Metairie, LA

What is VIP Magazine? New Orleans' Premier LGBT Magazine There is NO better way to reach the LGBT Community

and its supporters than by advertising with VIP Magazine. The LGBT community in New Orleans is one of the strongest in the country, and we are the premier resource for connecting today's LGBT consumer to you and your brand. We aim to highlight both local and national stories, events, products, and personalities that appeal to a diverse group of gay men, lesbians, bi-sexual, transgender, queer, and all members of the LGBT community and those that support the community.

OUR BRAND

# World Rebuild

VIP Celebrates Nir$Zilberman

By Mark Dawson

A clothing retailer in West Hollywood made news earlier this year when the owner announced he was closing one of his three shops and converting it into America’s first privately owned LGBTQ Center. The LA Jock Sport retail shop at 7990 Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood, CA is now “Home”, a help center serving the LGBT community and its allies by offering free support – including legal, mental health and vocational services - to those in need. “Home” does not seek any public donations. All monetary funds come from shop owner Nir Zilberman. “I created ‘Home’ as a space where strong minded individuals can meet and work with other strong minded individuals to make the world a better place for all, gay and straight,” proclaims Zilberman. “It’s time we wake up to the many issues plaguing our society and take action here and now.” As the child of two Holocaust survivors, Zilberman always intended to create a place to help people, but it wasn’t until he made local headlines during the Sochi Olympics that he realized the time to do it was now. It all began with a window display in his LA Jock Sport shop featuring a mannequin dressed as a Jewish Holocaust victim. The uniform included a pink triangle, the badge worn to identify homosexual prisoners of concentration camps. Zilberman meant it as a political statement to highlight the similarities between Hitler and Russia’s Putin. He hoped it would encourage the gay community – especially young Millennials – to protest against Russia, but he was disappointed. “I didn’t realize how complacent we had become,” he says. “We are living in a world where it is a crime to be gay in 78 countries! This is no time to be complacent, people!” Zilberman accuses the gay community of forgetting its past struggles and the heroes who suffered for the rights the community enjoys today. “There was a time, not so long ago, when doctors refused to touch, let alone treat, homosexuals who were infected with HIV and AIDS.” Converting the athletic retail shop into “Home” took over six months to complete. In addition to its support services, it provides meeting spaces for groups working to advance LGBTQ causes, as well as free wifi, computer access, a screening room, and research facilities. “Home” is developing a variety of programs designed to remind all of the rich LGBTQ history and instill a new sense of community among gays and allies. Seminars will include “Living as Transgender”, “Prep and Condom Use” and “What's Next”, a class designed to help individuals realize their life’s potential. There will be political and social groups including one for teens called “LGBTQ Teens Are Our Tomorrow”. Home also houses a museum chronicling the LGBTQ community and its struggles though out history. "We aim to build a bridge that spans the distance between our present situation and our vision of a better world," says Zilberman. “The beauty of the bridge is that once it is in place, anyone can cross it.” Zilberman’s hopes his ‘Home’ will inspire others to build more ‘Homes’ like it in cities throughout the country, including New Orleans. “We can’t rely on our city governments to help us anymore. There is too much red tape and corruption.” He concedes it would be nice if billionaire like Bill Gates were to step forward, but says we can’t rely on the wealthy either. he clarifies. “I’m simply fed up. And I believe everyday people can change the world.” For more information on Home visit https://www.facebook.com/wehohome.

“I’m not rich,”

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