O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 1
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O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 3
THECONTENTS ON THE COVER
BRANDEN JAMES JAMES CLARK COVER PHOTO, TOC PHOTO AND FEATURE PHOTO BY JUSTIN E. BAKER, FUZZY IMAGE MEDIA
FEATUR ES 18 SOLIDARITY THROUGH PRIDE THE PALM SPRINGS LGBTQ PRIDE FESTIVAL
22 LIVING OUT LOUD
MR. SISTER LEATHER 2017 24 END OF AN ERA THE RISE AND FALL OF FRONTIERS
28 DON’T HURT ME
SAME-SEX DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 30 LOVE STORY BRANDEN JAMES AND JAMES CLARK 33 PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE THE OFFICIAL GUIDE. CONTESTANTS, EVENTS & MORE 50 ALTERNATIVE TO BPH MEDICATIONS DR. LANCE WALSH, WALSH UROLOGY ASSOCIATES
DEP AR TM ENT S 11 THE LETTERS
READERS RESPOND
12 THE TALK
CHRIS PINE
14 THE STATE
NEW LEGISLATION 16 THE CITY ALEXIS ARQUETTE 20 THE ROSTOW REPORT VOTE FOR HER 46 THE TRANSACTION QUEEN USA 2016 48 THE PROFILE LUXURY HOTEL PALM SPRINGS 52 THE SHARE TRANS SOBRIETY 54 THE JOYSTICK GAMING 57 THE EPIDEMIC PREP EDUCATION 58 THE CALENDAR OUT & ABOUT
Correction
On the cover of last month’s issue— September 2016, Issue # 68—the jewelry worn by Ms. Daphne Von Rey was graciously provided by Michael Schmidt Studios, online at www.michaelschmidtstudios.com. We inadvertently omitted that information and we sincerely apologize for the error. 4 TTH GHT www.thefightmag.com 4 H EE FFII GH T || www.thefightmag.com
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THEEDITOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio MARKETING CONSULTANTS Tom Pardoe Eric Slayton Sean Galuszka SOCIAL MEDIA Paulo Murillo Sinan Shihabi >> IN THIS ISSUE <<
This month we are proud to be the official media sponsor of Palm Springs Leather Pride. A guide to the events and listings of the contestants, judges, sponsors and more starts on page 33 in this issue. THE FIGHT is also a media sponsor for Palm Springs Pride in November. For details see page 18. Our cover models, the musical and romantic duo Branden and James, appearing at Palm Springs Pride, talk to Mark Ariel on relationships, being marginalized and finding your truth (“Love Story,” page 30). Branden and James recently created a heartfelt musical video entitled “You Belong.” (See the video on their site brandenjames.com.) “Both of us have experienced the loneliness and isolation of being marginalized, simply for being who we are,” states James Clark. “We both feel strongly that its important for people to know they belong in this world, that there’s a place for them. We have both found such freedom in being authentic and honest and we want to encourage others to be the same, while at the same time allowing others to be who they are… The song is a musical expression of this.” Also in this issue Dr. Steve Ganzell writes about same-sex domestic
violence (“Don’t Hurt Me,” page 28). “You don’t deserve to be the victim of violence,” states Ganzell. “Your safety and wellbeing are not contingent on your perfection.” “Most of the people I treat—as director of the Center for the Study and Treatment of Domestic Violence—are good men and women who are surprised by the consequences of their behavior,” reveals Ganzell. “They may hesitate initially, but the vast majority begin to find what they did unacceptable. In the best outcomes, they take ownership of their behavior, try to understand how it happened and work really hard to stop the violence. They may need help to do it. They may even be encouraged by the court to get that help. But the vast majority change,” writes Ganzell. If your partner is abusive to you, or if you are abusive to your partner, the Los Angeles LGBT Center can help. The Center’s STOP Intimate Partner Abuse / Violence Program and Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DVLAP) offer services by licensed and certified counselors, mental health professionals, and attorneys who have been trained in LGBT intimate partner abuse / domestic violence issue. For more info call the STOP Intimate Partner Abuse / Violence Program at 323-860-5806.
WEBMASTER Nadeen Torio ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Sinan Shihabi GET THE FIGHT AT HOME Sent Via First Class Mail 12 Issues: $36 6 Issues: $24 Mail check or money order to: Third Step, LLC 611 S. Catalina St. Suite 307 Los Angeles, CA 90005 PUBLISHER Third Step, LLC DISTRIBUTION Pride In Media The Fight Magazine is published monthly by Third Step, LLC. 611 South Catalina Street, Suite 307 Los Angeles, CA 90005 Telephone (323) 297-4001 Fax (213) 281-9648 Email info@TheFightMag.com THE FIGHT MAGAZINE LEGAL CAVEATS By listing in The Fight Magazine, advertisers acknowledge that they do business in the spirit of cooperation, fairness and service, maintaining a high level of integrity and responsibility. Providers of products or services are fully and solely responsible for providing same as advertised. The Fight Magazine assumes no liability for improper or negligent business practices by advertisers. Advertisers and their agencies assume responsibility and liability for the content of their advertisements in The Fight Magazine. Publisher assumes no liability for safe-keeping or return of unsolicited art, manuscripts or other materials. The Fight Magazine reserves the right to edit all material for clarity, length and content. All contents © 2016 Third Step LLC. All rights reserved. Content may be reproduced with permission. The Fight Magazine assumes no liability for any claims or representations contained anywhere in this magazine and reserves the right to cancel or refuse advertising at publisher’s discretion.
STANFORD ALTAMIRANO Editor-In-Chief
6 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com
TheFightMag.com For Display Advertising, please call (323) 297-4001
O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 7
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THECONTRIBUTORS >> WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS <<
PAULO MURILLO West Hollywood resident Paulo Murillo has been writing for gay media for over twelve years. He got his start writing a bi-weekly column called “Luv Ya, Mean It” for FAB! Newspaper. Visit his website at thehissfit.com, or friend him on Facebook. ANN ROSTOW Ann Rostow writes news analysis columns for THE FIGHT and other gay publications across the country. For weekly LGBT News updates, visit her blog at: annrostow.blogspot.com. Ann can be reached at: arostow@aol.com. JOSEPH ARELLANO A stage and film actor from Bedford, Indiana, Joe has been involved in community events such as The Friendly House Luncheon, PATH, and LA PRIDE. Joe has appeared in Titus Andronicus, Dark Side of the Moon, and Take
Murillo
Arellano
Rostow
Me Out. He also co-starred in the music video Hopeful Romantic, Hallmarks’ Holly’s Holiday, and other various short films. DR. STEVE GANZELL Dr. Steve Ganzell is a board member of Christopher Street West (CSW), the organization that produces LA Pride. Additionally, he “works in a large federal healthcare system providing mental health services and training other providers. It has been my dream
8 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com
Samone-Loreca
Ganzell
Shucart
job because I have been allowed to do new and creative things and to work with fascinating people. I have often described my job is sitting on sacred ground and hearing things that no one else will ever hear.” SABEL SAMONE-LORECA Sabel Samone-Loreca has engaged in HIV prevention and care work for much of her adult life. Samone-Loreca is currently a Commissioner on the Los
Angeles County Commission on HIV, holding the SPA 4 Consumer seat. Samone-Loreca continues to remain a visible, out, HIV-positive trans woman. She has participated in numerous panels and workshops, training both the community and the providers who serve them. BRENDEN SHUCART Brenden Shucart is an HIV AIDS-LGBT rights advocate, actor, and writer whose work has been featured in Out There,The Advocate and HIV Plus magazine among others. His essays around HIV-related health issues and stigma have been described as “humanizing and heartbreaking” and “beautiful, honest, and important.” As an actor Shucart has appeared in the short film “Bug Chaser,” James Franco and Travis Mathews’ “Interior. Leather Bar.,” and Mathews’ 2010 short film “I Want Your Love.”
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1 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
THELETTERS >> FROM OUR READERS <<
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MORE ENCOMPASSING Dear Editor, Beautiful and well written article on Daphne Von Rey (“Making Every Moment Count,” THE FIGHT, Issue #68). I was surprised to see you put her on the cover—as many LGBT mags are really mostly about gay men—the L and the B and the T are only there to make it seem more encompassing. Our community has to embrace all of its members—not just the privileged white male segment. —Amanda Fields, via the internet
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Dear Editor, While it is sad to see Frontiers—a magazine with a long history in the community—fold suddenly—I do not think their demise has anything to do with the future of niche market print magazines, as some have suggested. Frontiers’ main problem was that it did not connect with its targeted market. The more it tried to reinvent itself as the new cool, hip and edgy—pandering to what they perceived would attract advertisers—it became less and less community based. Many niche market print publications are still doing well—as social media has not proven itself to be a sufficient “stand alone” marketing resource. As much time as people spend online chronicling the latest minutiae of their existence and sending their newest selfie poses across the virtual world, most people actually take less than 15 seconds to scan a website. On the other hand, people often take their time reading a magazine including the ads therein. There’s something about the tactile experience that makes them linger and browse and possibly, make a purchase. The problem is when—as in the case of Frontiers—a publication is not truly serving the community—content wise—it had initially set out to serve. Your magazine is a good example of a local LGBTQ publication on the right track. THE FIGHT has always been very community based—focusing on segments of the LGBTQ population sometimes overlooked by others in gay media. The Pride LA, GED and Adelante are also much more community driven than Frontiers was in their latest—and what seems to be last—reincarnation. —Eric Charles, via the internet
TINA is a C#NT
COMMUNITY DRIVEN
O CTO B ER EEF F I GH T T 11 SEP TEMB ER2016 2016| |TH TH I GH 11
THETALK >> W H AT T H E Y ’ R E S AY I N G <<
HER TRUTH
“Alexis was a brilliant artist and painter, a singer, an entertainer and an actor… Her career was cut short, not by her passing, but by her decision to live her truth and her life as a transgender woman.” —The Arquette family in a joint statement on the passing of actress and transgender activist Alexis Arquette, last month. Arquette, 47, died of cardiac arrest.
ALEXIS ARQUETTE
CAN’T BE WRONG
“That was a very, very hard thing for me. I tried everything, but finally I just said to myself, ‘This child is innocent. He was like this when he was a baby, it can’t be wrong. It can’t be wrong.’” COOKIE —Cookie Johnson is getting canJOHNSON did with Oprah Winfrey about having to reconcile her religious beliefs with her love for her son EJ after he came out as gay. IDINA MENZEL
A REAL JOURNEY
“I have struggled with my sexuality and in some ways I still do; it has been a real journey to reach this point.” —Lord Ivar Mountbatten — cousin to Queen Elizabeth II and greatgreat-great-grandson of Queen Victoria — in LORD IVAR MOUNTBATTEN an interview with the UK’s The Mail on Sunday about his lifelong struggle to accept his sexuality. Mountbatten is the first member of the extended royal family to come out as gay.
AN UNDESIRABLE
GONNA HATE
“I went on my Twitter feed and saw somebody who wrote, ’Idina, I love you, but it’s sacrilege that you’re doing this!’ I called my agent and I was like, ’Tell them I can’t do it. All these gay men are mad at me and they’re gonna hate me!’” —Idina Menzel on accepting the role of wisecracking CC Bloom in the remake of the 1988 Bette MidlerBarbara Hershey classic Beaches. “It’s just such a great role for me,” she confessed, “it was just hard to turn down. So I hope they’ll forgive me! I understand if they cannot,” she said in an interview with PrideSource.
STILL ROOM “It’s about fucking time… The fact that there’s still a conversation about it means that there’s still room to go in terms of it being normalized.” —Actor Chris Pine on the “Star Trek” franchise making history this year by revealing that one of its most iconic characters is gay, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
12 2 TTH HEE FFIGH IGHTT || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com 1
CHRIS PINE
MALUSI GIGABA
“I have identified Steven Anderson as an undesirable person to travel to South Africa.” —South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba in a statement on barring controversial US pastor Steven Anderson from visiting the country because of his critical remarks about homosexuality.
EVEN THINK “I remember how a friend of mine in the first grade didn’t fit in with the other boys. When I got to high school, I made another friend who was struggling. Looking back on it now, I understand. I feel like gay people have always been present in my life from a really early age, so I don’t even think about it.” —Renée Zellweger (Bridget Jones’s Baby) in an interview with The RENÉE Advocate. ZELLWEGER
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Co-sponsored by the Los Angeles LGBT Center and APLA Health.
L
andmark legislation to boost awareness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV infection was signed into law last month by California Gov. Jerry Brown, becoming the first statewide legislation of its kind. Co-sponsored by the Los Angeles LGBT Center and APLA Health and introduced by Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson), AB 2640 will ensure high-risk HIV-negative individuals receive information about methods that reduce the risk of contracting HIV, including PrEP and PEP, during HIV post-test counseling. “We are extremely pleased that Governor Brown has signed this bill into law,” APLA Health Chief Executive Officer Craig E. Thompson said. “This is one of several proposals the governor has supported to increase information about and the availability of PrEP and PEP, and we thank him for his continued leadership on this issue. AB 2640 is a crucial step toward raising awareness about effective HIV prevention tools, reducing new infections, and ending the epidemic in California.” PrEP is an HIV prevention strategy in which HIV-negative individuals take a daily medication to reduce their risk of becoming infected. PrEP has been shown to be up to 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission. PEP involves taking anti-HIV medications as soon as possible after a potential exposure to reduce the risk of becoming HIV-positive. According to a 2015 survey of gay and bisexual men by the California HIV/AIDS Research Program, only 1 in 10 respondents had ever used PrEP and nearly 85% had never talked to their doctor about PrEP. n
1 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
“It’s better at Pedder!” More Than Just “Gay Friendly” Hi! My name is Rebecca Bond. As a lesbian woman, along with my colleague, Chris Gagnon-Reyes, a gay man, we warmly welcome members of our community. We know that heteronormative environments such as car dealerships can be very intimidating, to say the least. Not knowing how “safe” you can feel about being out—can make the car buying process less than pleasant. We will do our utmost to make your visit with us at Pedder Nissan a fun, stress free experience. We also have a few amazing LGBTQ Pride specials which will make your visit with us even more enjoyable :)
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Pedder Nissan, 200 Carriage Circle Hemet, CA 92545 O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 15
THECITY NEON TREES >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<
LA CENTER’S GALA VANGUARD AWARDS
JESSE TYLER FERGUSON
KIM MADDOX
For more on the Vanguard Awards, visit lgbtvanguardawards.org. SD GAY MEN’S CHORUS
PADRES SPONSOR SAN DIEGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS
The San Diego Padres announced that they will sponsor the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Show this year in continued efforts to mend the relationship between the Padres and the LGBT community after a mishap last May when the wrong audio track was played during a SDGMC’s performance of the National Anthem. The upcoming holiday show “Jingle,” is scheduled for December 10 and 11, at 8pm at the Balboa Theatre. For ticket information, visit sdgmc.org.
YOUTUBE STAR PLEADS NOT GUILTY YouTube star Calum McSwiggan appeared at the Los Angeles Airport Courthouse last month where he entered a not guilty plea to filing a false police report after he claimed he was assaulted by three men in West Hollywood on June 27. CALUM McSwiggan posted a photo MCSWIGGAN on Instagram as he lay in a hospital bed after the alleged attack, telling his followers that he suffered three broken teeth and required six stitches to his head. However, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said officers investigated the incident and were not able to substantiate the assault. According to police reports, McSwiggan was arrested for vandalizing a car and was taken to hospital after he began injuring himself with a police station payphone. 1 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
The life of retired police officer and former Co-President of Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride, Kim Maddox, was celebrated last month at the Police Officer’s Association Park. Maddox battled Stage IV ovarian cancer for two years. She passed away peacefully on September 9. Maddox leaves behind her wife Macias and the children she and her wife adopted.
ALEXIS ARQUETTE CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A Celebration of Life event was held last month in Hollywood to honor the memory of the late Alexis Arquette. Alexis Arquette, actress, activist and staunch supporter for gender transition passed away at the age of 47 from AIDS related complications. Born Robert Arquette, Alexis transitioned into her female self during the late 1990s. Alexis comes from a family of actors. Her father, Lewis was known for his role on the Waltons; her siblings are actors, Richmond, Patricia, David ORGANIZER and Rosanna Arquette. SHAM IBRAHIM Many of Alexis’s close friends, fellow transgender activists and supporters came to pay respects and honor her memory last month at The Celebration of Life Event in Hollywood, organized by Sham Ibrahim,. A sound and visual tribute payed homage to Arquette, featuring footage from the late star’s movies and short videos, edited by friend Martin Pierron. The music playlist included her favorite artists; David Bowie, Tears for Fears, Madonna, the Killers and the Pet Shop Boys. (Joey Krebs)
PHOTO BY JOEY KREBS
The Los Angeles LGBT Center held the 47th annual Gala Vanguard Awards at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood last month. Star of the show Modern Family, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and husband Justin Mikita were honored for their organizations, Tie the Knot, and Thread Experiment, which donates highquality linens for the homeless youth who receive services at the LALGBT Center.
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The Palm Springs LGBTQ Pride Festival returns November 4-6, 2016 with expanded talent lineup.
alm Springs Pride will host a diverse group of artists including, dancers, singers, musicians, activists, and DJs gathering under the theme of Solidarity through Pride to celebrate diversity, equality, and solidarity. The November 4-6 Pride Celebration will take place in downtown Palm Springs. The lineup was announced today by the organizers of the annual celebration Greater Palm Springs Pride. This year’s all-inclusive Palm Springs Pride Festival lineup will be headlined by ska legends and iconic ‘80s band The English Beat, Book of Love who is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a USA reunion tour. Chicago-based rock ‘n’ roll band, Jinx Titanic and the Ladykillers, queer rock band Pansy Division, and the high energy The Gand Band. The free two-day Pride Festival features all-girl Americana style rock ‘n’ roll band Ashleigh Flynn and the Riveters, East Nashville’s Amelia White and the musical, and romantic duo Branden & James. GayC/DC the world’s only all-gay tribute to AC/DC and the four-piece all female rock band from Los Angeles No Girlfriends, along with electropop band Devin Tait and the Traitors will help highlight the unique musical styles that celebrate diversity in our community. The Trans Rally on Sunday, November 6 at 1:00 p.m. will feature performances by Allison Annalora, Lindsey
1 8 TTHHEE FFIIGH www.thefightmag.com 18 GH TT || www.thefightmag.com
Deaton, and Paulina Angel. An assortment of electronic, pop, hip hop, and rock ‘n’ roll artists will perform, including singer and guitarist Shea Freedom, Young Jibwe, an Ojibwa hip-hop artist from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Ciscofoya, and a hot new artist on the rise Yaysh. Popular southern California singer and Rock ‘n’ roll band Tomasina round out the list of stellar performers. DJ KinkyLoop, DJ Aaron C, and DJ Waide will join over 100 artists scheduled to perform throughout the festival weekend including the DJ Baz “Cuban Nights” show. Festival Emcees include the desert’s hostess, social ambassador and Walk of Stars recipient Bella da Ball℠, Pauly and Monks, Ruba Wilson, and KJ as Joan Rivers. With 100 performances, the diverse lineup of artists will offer something for everyone including special appearances by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Modern Men and Harmonic Voices. All performances take place outdoors on the US Bank stage, Tahquitz stage, Pride Palm Canyon Stage sponsored by Desert AIDS Project, and the Hyatt Palm Springs stage. ASL will be provided for the deaf community at the Arenas, Tahquitz, and Palm Canyon stages. The Arenas Rd. Block Party on Saturday, Nov 5, 6:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. will feature performances of psychedelic rock, pop, drag, and rock ‘n’ roll. The party starts with the Dyke March Rally at 6:00 p.m. then the all-girl rock band Corday. Rusty Waters takes the stage and hosts the Drag Me to Brunch troupe to start the night with feather boas and a little glitter. The night continues with pop artist Z LALA, and YouTube star Madilyn Bailey whose channel has 2.9 million subscribers. The glamorous and cutting-edge Priscilla Empress of Pop will get you dancing in the street before LA’s punk-pop electronica band Ediblehead headlines the night. Features of the Pride Festival include a Children’s Headquarters (CHQ) space for games and crafts, the Youth Zone by Safe Schools Desert Cities, and HIV/AIDS testing by Get Tested Coachella Valley. Over 150 exhibitors, non-profit organizations, food, and beverage vendors will be on hand along with the Tahquitz and Arenas Rd. Beverage Gardens by Trio. The Festival is a free community event held on Palm Canyon Dr. between Amado and Baristo Rd. and on Arenas Rd. and Tahquitz Canyon Way from S. Calle Encilia to Balardo. For more info visit pspride.org.
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O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 19
THEROSTOWREPORT >> BY ANN ROSTOW <<
TRAIN WRECK
A couple of non sequiturs before we start to frolic in the nitty gritty of LGBT news. First, why is my favorite cable news channel force feeding me hours of “news” about a train crash that killed one person (sorry for that of course) rather than serving up the addictive political blather than provides me with so much pleasure? Yes I know I’m not obliged to watch it, and to be honest I have the sound off while I wait for something else to show up on the small screen. But my point remains valid. It was an accident! I bet there’s a fatal car wreck within fifty miles of my house right now—a sad probability but not something that warrants endless television coverage. With Brian Williams no less! He of the theatrically grave and solemn voice.
ELECTION 2016: LET’S DO THIS
I got so heated up over this that I forgot my second pet peeve. It will come to me, I’m sure. For now, let’s get to work, shall we? It’s our last month before the election, Dear Readers, our last opportunity to put our shoulders to the wheel and give our last measure of strength to help defeat this hateful bulbous menace. He is not a joke. This is not a chance to “turn things upside down” for the fun of it or because you’re tired of the status quo. He is as dangerous as Hitler, a man who was also seen as a ludicrous clown, until he wasn’t. As for being tired of the “status quo,” have people not noticed that much has changed, for better and for worse? Plenty of bad things have happened. But good things too. Crime has plummeted. Unemployment is back below 5 percent. Last year was the sharpest upswing in the
PERSONALLY, I DON’T ADHERE TO THE “LESSER OF TWO EVILS” IDEA. I SUPPORT HILLARY CLINTON WITH ENTHUSIASM, HAVING WATCHED HER DEVOTE HERSELF TO PUBLIC SERVICE FOR MY ENTIRE ADULT LIFE… BUT WHETHER YOU LIKE HER OR NOT, I BEG YOU TO VOTE FOR HER. WE ALL SHARE OUR GAY PRIDE AND HAVE FOUGHT TOGETHER FOR CIVIL RIGHTS. NOW WE HAVE TO FIGHT TOGETHER FOR OUR COUNTRY. incomes of the American poor and middle class in years. Look at the dramatic change in our energy use. Look at the technological development of the last decade. We’re not exactly treading water here, so why the bitching about “change.” We don’t have to worry about change itself, we have to worry about its direction. This is to say that you cannot vote for Gary Johnson, a man who can’t name a single foreign leader, who can’t remember the name of the former Mexican president he claimed to admire, a man who had not heard of Aleppo, the iconic Syrian city that had been in the news for weeks.
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And worse—a clown with crazy ideas who sticks out his tongue and mugs for the camera and giggles like a school girl. Also, for those Millennials who still pick Johnson over Clinton, do you realize that he thinks we should take no action to combat global warming because it’s not the role of government? Do you care? Hey, I’m not going to be around to watch Miami Beach turn into a lagoon. But you are. Finally, are you one of those citizens who bemoans the fact that we “only have two parties?” Well, you’re wrong. We have several parties within each of the two main ones. Do you really think Donald Trump
and Mitt Romney represent the same party? What about Sanders and Clinton? They had quite the primary battle. Where do the Christian conservatives fit in? How about the tea party? Our system allows the many interest groups to coalesce into a majority. If you’ve noticed, other countries with several parties wind up in majority coalitions just as we do. If the Libertarians or the Green parties could generate partners and policies, they could commandeer their place in one of the two main groups. The fact that they cannot muster that kind of support tells you something.
SCOTUS BACK IN THE SADDLE
So, as September came to an end, not one but two federal judges issued rulings in favor of transgendered public school students, one in Ohio and another in Wisconsin. Earlier, an anti-trans federal judge in Texas had ruled against the U.S. government in a related case. On the other hand, as we’ve mentioned, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit ruled for Gavin Grimm, a Virginia trans-teen trying to use the facilities at his high school back in March. The situation seems clear. The law is on our side when it comes to the question of whether or not transgender discrimination should be considered a subset of sex discrimination in federal statutes. We will eventually win; even as a few conservative judges rule against us here and there, our side will prevail. Further, our victory is (possibly) close at hand. The U.S. Supreme Court has been asked to hear the case of the Virginia student. They have just
>> TRAIN WRECK, ELECTION 2016, SCOTUS, WHERE’S MY LINE <<
returned to work, still short handed, so keep an eye out for whether or not they take the case. If they don’t, they will leave in place a strong victory for transgender rights. They will also face new appeals on the same subject coming up through the court system. If they do take the case, and it requires four justices to accept review, a four-four split would confirm the victory without producing a stronger precedent. Obviously, a Clinton justice would likely provide a supportive majority for trans plaintiffs, which would create binding law throughout the country. But at this rate, it looks as if the Court will remain tied throughout most of this session’s oral arguments. It doesn’t look as if Clinton will keep Merrick Garland as her nominee, so we will likely see the confirmation process con-
tinuing into next Spring regardless of who wins the election.
WHERE’S MY LINE?
I just have to point out that the train crash is back, this time under the “Breaking News” banner even though it has been going on for hours and hours and hours. That said, it looks as if we are settling back into regular election drivel. At last! Hey. Did all of you watch that debate? I know Howard Dean got into trouble for his “unfounded” suggestion that Mr. Trump was on coke, but hell, after watching the spectacle for about five minutes Mel and I both wished we could pay a quick visit to Trump’s pre-debate green room. Seems like it might have been party time back there! Seriously, the empty inhala-
tions? Those weren’t the type of “sniffles” you have with a cold. They were symptoms of having recently snuffed up a line of powdery somethin’ somethin’. The rapid speech patterns that over time slowed down into incoherent weirdness? We’ve all been there and done that. Just not in the middle of running for president, and of course, not recently. I know I should dig up a little more LGBT dirt, but I’m stuck in election mode. Please everyone. I know none of us really matter as voters, you in all-blue California and me in all-red Texas. But we do matter of course. That’s the magic—almost Tinker Bellesque—of the electorate. If I vote, so do a thousand others like me around the country. If you vote, so do a thousand like you. It’s how polls work. It’s how elections work. If for
some reason, nothing in the last 18 months has inspired you enough to send you to the ballot box, well there’s a cohort of people just like you who stay home as well. Personally, I don’t adhere to the “lesser of two evils” idea. I support Hillary Clinton with enthusiasm, having watched her devote herself to public service for my entire adult life. When people claim she hides a money grubbing or criminal soul, I have to wonder why she chose to work her ass off for decades rather than pursue her dark goals? Perhaps it was a clever scheme to disguise her true self-serving nature by serving others. Nefarious indeed! But whether you like her or not, I beg you to vote for her. We all share our gay pride and have fought together for civil rights. Now we have to fight together for our country. n
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>> DAVID SANFORD <<
LIVING OUT LOUD The Sisters’ new titleholder, David Sanford, on sobriety, kink and exploring possibilities. B Y M A R K ARIEL | PH O TO BY RO BERT G REEN , MO TORBOOT PHOTOGRAPHY
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he results of The Los Angeles Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence contest are in— David Sanford is the new Mr. Sister Leather 2017. The Sisters’ first titleholder— Robert Blackmon—received his patch as well (he graciously donated his sash to the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives). “Winning this title means that I have a greater forum to showcase the causes and charities I support. It also allows me the opportunity to meet other title holders from all over the world and to learn more from them and grow as a person and as a leatherman,” states Sanford in an interview with THE FIGHT. “I was introduced to the community a few years ago when Tom Pardoe ran and won the title of Mr. Eagle Leather,” reveals Sanford. “I was immediately fascinated and turned on by so much of what I saw. At that time though, I wasn’t in a place where I felt I could pursue my interest.
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Then I met and became close friends with Daniel Blair who was already involved and I watched him and followed him to events. He lives his life out loud and that gave me the courage to dip my toe in the water. And then I found the pups and they were so friendly and encouraging. Once I began getting into that headspace, I started to meet other people and getting to know them. I asked questions and sought advice and made my way along the path. And now, here I am, being interviewed by THE FIGHT as a new title holder! It’s still so surreal.” Sanford, who grew up as an only child in Fresno, confides that he “was always the token sissy boy in school. Everyone knew I was gay even though I didn’t. Things got better in high school where I found a select group of friends who didn’t care about my being gay or not. They just saw a nice guy. I told a few friends here and there with no problems. I didn’t officially come out until after high school. I had already met the man who is today my husband and he encouraged me to tell my parents. They didn’t even blink an eye. They were just happy that I was happy.” Sanford, sober for over eight and a half years, says that he credits “everything that has happened to me in the past couple of years to my sobriety. I wouldn’t have ever been able to walk up on that stage and be honest and open about who I am if it wasn’t for the serenity and relationships I’ve found by being sober.” “As Mr. Sister Leather, there are two things I’m specifically passionate about,” states Sanford. “One is education in our community. Not only talking to people who are new and curious or anxious to get involved but also people who have been a part of for a long time who might need some clarification on how some groups operate and what we’re about. The other thing is that I want to show other people who are sober and wanting to participate in leather and kink that it’s a possibility. I’ve been approached by many sober men in recent months and they’ve expressed how my journey has inspired them to continue to explore themselves. Sometimes the kink that they have engaged in was directly related to their addiction. I’m here to show that it’s very possible to be clean, sober and kinky. I also hope to share some love with some of my favorite charities such as the Alliance for Housing and Healing who put on the annual Best in Drag show every year. I have been involved with them for the past six years and I really believe in what they stand for and what they do for the HIV/AIDS community.”
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>> LEATHERMEN <<
BOB CRAIG’S LEADERSHIP
FRONTIERS 2016. FINAL PRINT ISSUE.
END OF AN ERA
In its heyday Frontiers was a queer institution, and in many ways the beating heart of the Southland’s LGBTQ communities.
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BY BREN D EN SH U CA RT
he staff of Frontiers magazine has been laid off, and its future remains in doubt as a loan deal secured by parent company Multimedia Platforms Worldwide (MMPW) over the summer has reportedly fallen apart and assets have been seized by a Massachusetts court order, according to South Florida Gay News. Bobby Blair, the CEO of MMPW (which also owns New York nightlife magazine Next, and publications in Florida) has told employees the company is in “suspension,” and has publicly stated that he intends to legally challenge the court order. But even if he is successful, or another buyer steps forward to rescue Frontiers, it would almost certainly be with an entirely new editorial staff. It would mean the end of an era in LGBTQ media. 2 24 4 T TH HE E F F IGH IGH T T || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com
One of the longest running and most well respected LGBTQ news publications in the country, Frontiers was founded by Bob Craig in 1981 shortly after The Advocate made the jump to national publication. And with the addition of News Editor Karen Ocamb a few years later it quickly became regarded widely as “Southern California’s LGBTQ Publication of Record.” Under Craig’s leadership the magazine aimed to be a tribune of L.A.’s gay community, speaking on behalf of gay men and always championing their interests, even when they conflicted the wishes and opinions of local advertisers. It was also a platform for communication for queers of all stripes, playing host to personal ads and missed connections long before Craigslist and Grindr rose up to take their place. When the Plague Years hit, Frontiers was quick to take up AIDS as a community issue, and was fearless in its coverage. Regularly holding the City of Los Angeles accountable in its handling of the crisis, it was often the only source Southern California’s Gay and Lesbian community could turn to in an era when the decimation of our people regularly went unreported in the traditional media. Frontiers was among the first gay publications to attempt to publish comprehensive obituaries for the AIDS dead, against the early objection of many owners of gay bars and clubs. And it was an early champion of West Hollywood city-hood, in many ways shepherding the ideal of an inclusive city, a sanctuary from the predations of the LAPD, run by queers and minorities.
PERSONAL HISTORY Personally, news of Frontiers’ probable passing has hit me particularly hard. Growing up in San Diego, it was probably the first gay publication I ever read. As a young faggot struggling to find his identity, I found it to be both a lifeline and a window into a world I could scarcely imagine—a world that seemed free, and unapologetic about its gayness. It always seemed to reliably push back against those voices calling for us to pull the drag queens and go-go boys off of our Pride floats and get “respectable.” Many years later (and much to my astonishment) I would find myself working at Frontiers. First as a regular contributor to the publications national HIV blog, Positive Frontiers, under its founding editor Alex Garner. I was an activist with no college degree and only a couple of
>> FRONTIERS <<
years of journalistic experience, I never expected to have a real career as a writer. But Alex patiently taught me how to choose my stories and hone my voice. Alex was one of the first voices to champion PrEP to the gay community, and when Alex accepted a position in the nonprofit world, then-publisher David Stern took a chance on me, first naming me as Alex’s replacement at Positive Frontiers and later associate editor of Frontiers proper, where I attempted to maintain that struggle as part of Frontiers DNA. I felt honored to be part of such a storied institution, and my time at Frontiers was a priceless education. Working under Editorin-Chief Stephen Horbelt I learned all I could about the painstaking and often less than glamorous work of piecing a bi-weekly publication together. And I taught myself all that I could about the craft of hard journalism by observing News Editor Karen Ocamb.
RECENT HISTORY In recent years Frontiers has struggled. The combined forces of the near economic collapse of The Great Recession and the
“I FELT HONORED TO BE PART OF SUCH A STORIED INSTITUTION, AND MY TIME AT FRONTIERS WAS A PRICELESS EDUCATION.” rise of digital advertising hit the publishing industry—and particularly LGBTQ media— exceptionally hard. Floundering in the new economic realities, the magazine went into bankruptcy where it was purchased. First by Michael Turner, who moved Frontiers away from its roots as a hard-hitting, news-driven publication and toward a more broadly palatable “lifestyle” magazine. And then sold it to Bobby Blair’s MPWW, who added it to his burgeoning, scandal-ridden (and ultimately short-lived), gay media empire.
THE FUTURE With its legacy of in depth political reporting, honest examination of the ever evolving LGBTQ experience, and unflinchingly fearless coverage of issues such as the AIDS Crisis, PrEP, and the struggles for gay and trans rights, Frontiers was a queer institution, and in many ways the beating heart of the Southland’s LGBTQ communities. The apparent death of this once well respected community publication has already inspired much predictable handwringing about the “dire future of LGBTQ print media,” but Frontiers’ great failing was being unable to adapt quickly to a changing media environment. And when it did finally pivot, an ever shifting series of names at the top of the masthead with very little connection to the community moved Frontiers’ focus away from the interests of the people they hoped to serve. The end of Frontiers is the end of an era, but the continued success of publications like THE FIGHT prove that there is a place for magazines that find their voice and stay true to the communities that they aim to represent.
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> > C O V E R F E AT U R E < <
You don’t deserve to be the victim of violence. Your safety and wellbeing are not contingent on your perfection.
Y
ou know that image you have in your head of the people who perpetrate domestic violence? It is wrong. They are not the rampaging monsters sitting at home in a torn athletic t-shirt (you called it the other thing didn’t you?) swilling beer and beating the crap out of their partner because he didn’t make dinner yet. Most of the people I treat—as director of the Center for the Study and Treatment of Domestic Violence—are good men and women who are surprised by the consequences of their behavior. They may 2 8 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
BY DR. STEVE GANZELL
hesitate initially, but the vast majority begin to find what they did unacceptable. In the best outcomes, they take ownership of their behavior, try to understand how it happened and work really hard to stop the violence. They may need help to do it. They may even be encouraged by the court to get that help. But the vast majority change. It has been a privilege for me to watch that change happen. To see people tell themselves the truth and do something about it. When I was tasked with exploring how to go about starting a domestic violence abatement program that would meet the
requirements of the county department of probation—I learned several things really fast. Most of what providers think about domestic violence is wrong. Most of what people in violent relationships think is “wronger,” and most treatment programs are the “wrongest.”
POWER AND CONTROL Let me begin with the first bunch. Lots of people involved in providing mental health services seem to think they are a panacea for all of life’s problems. “If you were to understand an issue, you could
> > DOMESTIC VIOLENCE < <
obviously deal with it better.” So when someone asks for help to decrease the violence or potential violence in their life, those therapists offer to help. They often recommend couple’s therapy. Here’s the problem. The very nature of therapy (as opposed to counseling) is to explore issues that are not obvious. Sometimes we call this making the unconscious, conscious. In counseling, there is usually a more psychoeducational approach. A counselor tries to give you information or skills. A therapist tries to help you discover things that you don’t know. Not everybody agrees with that distinction but hey, it works for me. If you are in a relationship with someone who uses violence, imagine what happens when therapy starts to bring up difficult issues? That’s right! They go with their strong suit to deal with what they are feeling. If you are in a violent relationship and get involved in some kind of couple’s therapy, you are very likely to get the crap beat out of you on the way home from your therapist’s office. No matter how well-meaning your friends or family members are when they offer to pay for your sessions, you might want to reconsider. If might make more sense for you to seek out individual treatment until things change. Most people in violent relationships think the violence is about anger. Victims will often describe anger or frustration as the motivation behind the violence that was directed at them and then of course they blame themselves for causing those feelings. Here is something to consider. Violence is not about anger. It is about power and control. The problem isn’t that you were arguing with your violent partner, the problem is that your argument was better. They couldn’t convince you with their reasoning so they controlled you with their body. Often the stories I hear start out with the description of some kind of verbal altercation that segues into pushing or shoving. “I was just trying to leave; he blocked my way, so I pushed him. I have a right to leave
THOSE IN VIOLENT PARTNER RELATIONSHIPS OFTEN FEEL LOVE FOR EACH OTHER. THERE ARE GOOD TIMES. THAT IS NOT THE PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE VIOLENCE CAN KILL YOU. don’t I?” The pushing or shoving isn’t about leaving. It is about controlling another person’s behavior. Anger is often what people are feeling when they behave violently. But part of being an adult is not acting on pure feeling. Part of being an adult is being continent with our feelings the same way we are with other body functions. A while ago someone said that if they had caught their partner cheating on them, they would “have no choice” but to beat them. They claimed they wouldn’t be able to control themselves. I asked them how hard they would have to hit their partner to “un-fuck them.” They stopped for a minute and realized that their violence would only change one thing. It would help them control their own emotions. They would eventually stop feeling angry and start to feel something different, even if it was remorse.
COURT MANDATED TREATMENT Lastly let me tell you about some of my experiences with some treatment programs. Some of the programs run in the community are for profit. In other words, they provide treatment to court ordered cases for a fee. It’s not a very high fee. That means that they
do as little as possible and try to make as big a profit as they can. And quite frankly they do a lousy job. Rather than actually working with violent offenders to change, they tend to just help them comply with a court order to be in treatment. This is a common problem with any court mandated treatment. This is not the place to blather on about how the world ought to change and we ought to fix this. Here is what is important to know—it is totally possible for someone to participate in the usual 52 weeks of two-hour sessions designed to help them stop being violent and not have it do a damn bit of good. One of my southern friends used to say that “just ‘cuz ya raise puppies in an oven, don’t make ‘em biscuits.” This quaint saying is two-fold. One it points out that some participants in court ordered treatment will sit in a room for 104 hours over 12 months and not change at all. And two it explains why I have a deep and abiding fear of the south.
YOUR SAFETY Most folks who work in this area talk about what is called the cycle of violence. It is a pattern of explosions followed by a honeymoon phase. After the explosion, you have great make up sex, there are promises to change, and things are pretty good. Until the problems start to escalate leading up to the next explosion. Don’t make your decision to stay based on 10% of the data. Those in violent partner relationships often feel love for each other. There ARE good times. That is not the problem. The problem is that the violence can kill you. You don’t deserve to be the victim of violence. Your safety and wellbeing are not contingent on your perfection. If you are in danger, or even THINK you might be; go online and look at what things you need to gather together if you have to leave to stay safe. Remember, that none of your stuff is worth your life. You just want to be prepared. You may want to make sure that your search is erased—but find out what resources there are.
IF YOU NEED HELP If your partner is abusive to you, or if you are abusive to your partner, the Los Angeles LGBT Center can help. The Center’s STOP Intimate Partner Abuse / Violence Program and Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DVLAP) offer services by licensed and certified counselors, mental health professionals, and attorneys who have been trained in LGBT intimate partner abuse / domestic violence issue. For non-legal related services, call our STOP Intimate Partner Abuse / Violence Program at 323-860-5806 or email domesticviolence@lalgbtcenter.org. For the Center’s Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project, call 323-993-7649 or email dvlap@lalgbtcenter.org. O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 29
> > C O V E R F E AT U R E < <
LOVE STORY
The musical duo Branden and James, appearing at Palm Springs Pride in November, on relationships, being marginalized and finding your truth. BY MA RK A RIEL | PHOTO BY JUSTI N E. BAKER, FUZZY I MAGE MEDI A
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wo artists meet on a dating app, fall madly in love, create a musical duo and travel the world spreading joy and happiness. Hey—just because it may seem almost nauseatingly romantic doesn’t mean you can’t unabashedly fall in love with their love story. American tenor Branden James (a finalist on season 8 of America’s Got Talent) met Australian cellist James Clark on the dating app Scruff. “We told our parents we met at Starbucks for about a year,” confides James in an interview with THE FIGHT. “Our meeting was magic. Our connection was so intense.” “As Branden was traveling a lot in the first two months after we met, we spent a lot of time chatting over FaceTime and text messages. It was actually a great way to get to know each other beyond the superficial to decide whether we wanted to pursue a relationship or not,” reveals Clark. “It became pretty obvious, pretty quickly, how we both felt about each other and that evolved reasonably quickly into a partnership neither of us wanted to do without.” Both James and Clark grew up in conservatives families. James, born and raised in Anaheim, states that while his parents “always loved and supported me, it was very hard for them and for my family to wrap their head around my sexuality. They wondered how could I ‘choose’ such a lifestyle.” “Coming out, for me, was mostly an internal faith struggle,” says Clark. “I really
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“SOMETIMES IT’S THE SIMPLEST THINGS YOU NEED TO HEAR IN ORDER TO GET MOTIVATED.” believed God didn’t want me to be gay, and neither did I. I kind of had to come out twice... the first time was just before I left to go to Bible School, where my statement was ‘I’m gay, but I don’t want to be and after Bible School I won’t be... or I’ll be celibate.’ A year after returning from Bible School I finally came to terms with my sexuality and found a boyfriend. Upon wanting to tell my family about him, I had to admit (again) that I was gay. My parents both told me they loved me and after a short period of discomfort, welcomed my boyfriend with open arms into our home and their hearts. My siblings and friends were also very supportive.”
AUDITION DATES At the age of 17 James auditioned for his high school choir upon the advice of a friend in his church youth group. “Apparently, I had some amazing voice inside of me that I never knew about. With some encouragement from my choir teacher, family and friends, I became a singer. It became my identity and I never looked back.”
“When I was 20 years old, I was asked to spend several months outside of Bern, Switzerland singing vocal jazz in a quartet,” reveals James. “The other singers in the quartet were in their 30s and 40s and very accomplished. I learned a lot from them in those early days. I also traveled all over Europe and some of The Middle East in those nine months I spend abroad. I really think that travel helped me grasp what was necessary for me to have a career in music. I went to opera performances and observed some of the best singers in the world in Italy, France, Germany, Scandinavia, the UK, etc. It was really motivating…” “When I got back to the states, I moved to New York and began to study with a teacher/mentor of mine. I paid for my lessons and coaching by waiting tables over a period of five years. By the time I was 25, I was ready to start auditioning for things,” says James. “I participated in several young artist programs in various opera houses around the US and then eventually started getting work as a soloist both in opera and concerts. In 2006, I became burnt out from the grind of auditioning and the cut-throat business that opera can be. I moved to LA for a very short period, sang at LA Opera (even though my heart wasn’t in it) and spent some time under development with Universal Music Group. My deal was dropped and I ended up auditioning for a group out of London called The Twelve Tenors. I toured around the world with them and recorded two albums. I’ll never forget those days…”
> > AARON VALENZUELA < <
“After that tour, I settled back in New York City and the very next day, I auditioned and got into The Metropolitan Opera. I spent two seasons at The Met before auditioning for Lyric Opera of Chicago. I was thrilled to move to Chicago. I’d never been there—I had recently gotten out of a relationship and was ready for a new adventure… I spent 4 years at the company, but again, my heart was always elsewhere. I remember seeing audition dates for America’s Got Talent come up. I’d just returned from two weeks in Sydney, Australia for New Year’s Eve celebrations. I was completely jet lagged and was not in any mood to go to a cattle call audition. A friend of mine however, convinced me at the time to go. He said, ‘If you don’t audition for things you want, you’ll never get them.’ Sometimes it’s the simplest things you need to hear in order to get motivated.”
REALITY OF MORTALITY Clark confides that music “has always been my life. I went into education because I thought I wasn’t good enough to pursue music as a performer. When my sister died of cancer in 2010, I was struck
with the reality of mortality for the first time and I didn’t want to live out my days with any regrets. I broke up with my partner of 6 years, sold my house and decided to go back to school to study music performance and to try and make a go of being a full-time cellist. Luckily, whilst teaching I had been playing cello on the side, and had the good fortune to play with some great singers (Bernadette Peters, Olivia Newton John, Lea Salonga, Idina Menzel) which had fueled the performance flame... I met Branden at the beginning of the second year of my Masters program. As we got to know each other and got into a relationship, we also started to perform together. The more we performed, the more we developed and people seemed to like us! It was very organic.”
YOU BELONG
“We both feel strongly that its important for people to know they belong in this world, that there’s a place for them. We have both found such freedom in being authentic and honest and we want to encourage others to be the same, while at the same time allowing others to be who they are.” “The song is a musical expression of this. When Branden was on America’s Got Talent and told the story of the struggle of his family’s acceptance of his being gay, tons of kids reached out to him for help and advice. He realized that this was a problem that wasn’t going away and here he was a public figure and in a place to do something about it. It prompted him to come out (again) as HIV positive in 2015. Simply sharing your story can help so many people and so can speaking about things openly. It takes the power away from the stigmas that are associated with all of these labels.”
Branden and James recently created a heartfelt musical video entitled “You Belong.” (See the video on their site brandenjames.com.) “Both of us have experienced the loneliness and isolation of being marginalized, simply for being who we are,” states Clark.
Catch Branden & James at Palm Springs Pride, on Friday, November 4 at the US Bank Stage at 7:15pm. The duo will also playing at The Purple Room Supper Club in Palm Springs on November 19. For more information visit www.brandenjames.com. Follow them on twitter and instagram @BrandenJMusic. O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 31
For Breaking Daily LGBT News Visit
www.thefightmag.com
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IN CONJUNCTION WITH MAGAZINE O CTO B ri ER EEF F I GH T T 33 Pal m Sp ri n gs Leath er P d e2016 2016| |TH TH I GH 1
PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E
WELCOME TO PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE
PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
A message from PSLOD President Leo Newcomb.
O
n behalf of Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert (PSLOD) I’d like to welcome you to Top Gun Desert Ops celebrating 22 years of Palm Springs Leather Pride. Since the 90s Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert has invited leather men and women from around the world to come together in our desert oasis for a hot and sweaty weekend, a celebration of leather, fetish, fellowship and fun. Today, Palm Springs Leather Pride is one of the city’s most popular LGBT events and was recently named a Palm Springs signature event by the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. It’s also one of the largest longest running and most successful Leather/Fetish events in the country.
TOUR OF DUTY This year we decided to take you on a hot “tour of duty” where no contest has been before. The theme of the weekend “Top Gun Desert Ops” showcases the Mr. Palm Springs Leather Contest in the main hangar of the Palm Springs Air Museum. The museum is ranked among the top air and aviation museums in the world. VIP package holders will be able to participate in a docent-led private tour of the museum and enjoy an exclusive cocktail party before the contest. We’ve also taken our street fair up a notch or two with “Hawkers and Vendors: Cruise Alley” hosted by Spurline Video Bar, Christopher Durbin, Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2015, and PSLOD. We’re sure that this entirely new venue and vibe will get you off TH 34 T HEE FFIGH IG HTT || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com
no matter what you’re into while LA’s DJ Manuelito spins your groove until the wee hours.
THE EVENTS Our weekend begins on Thursday, October 27 with a “Meet and Greet” at Hunter’s nightclub where we introduce our esteemed judges and the 2016 contestants. On Friday, October 28, Christopher Durbin, Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2015 hosts “Commando” a clothing optional pool party at All Worlds Resort Annex. In the evening, VIP package holders congregate at the Hilton for cocktails and formal leather dinner. Meanwhile, “Hawkers and Vendors: Cruise Alley” gets under way and grinding until 2 a.m. at the corner of Arenas and S. Indian Canyon. Saturday take your pick, Cigars and Gear at The Barrack’s or “Stand Guard: T-dance” at the Scorpion Room at Chill Bar. Late afternoon, in a hangar at the Palm Springs Air Museum, the Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2016 Contest commemorates our 22nd annual weekend of Leather
Pride and all things kink and fetish. The evening culminates with “AWOL: the Victory Dance” sponsored by Recon. At the dance we’re honored to welcome home Palm Springs’s very own International Mr. Leather 2008 Gary Iriza as your DJ to spin and funk with you at The Barrack’s. We’re bringing the weekend to a close with a bang in a variety of ways on Sunday, we start off with “Recovery Forces: Pool Party and Chow” at the clothing optional All Worlds Resort Annex or “The Women of PSLOD Brunch” and followed by “Final Discharge: Beer Bust and BBQ” at The Barracks.
RAISING AWARENESS AND FUNDS We thank you for your continued support over the years and assisting us in our mission. Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert is a 501(c)(3) Organization dedicated to providing a safe space for growth and support of the leather fetish lifestyle while pursuing a sense of camaraderie within the community. We strive to raise awareness and funds for deserving nonprofit projects, clubs, organizations or charities which we have given to directly or indirectly to support the leather/ fetish community or a community at large. This year our beneficiaries are AIDS Assistance Program, For The Children and The LGBT Community Center of the Desert. Yours in Leather, fetish and fun, Leo Newcomb, President
PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
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PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
THE CONTESTANTS
The annual Mr. Palm Springs Leather Contest will take place on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 7pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. For more info visit www.desertleatherpride.com. PHOTOS BY JAY HOOKER
SIR ERIC D’ANDRE MR. BARRACKS LEATHER 2017
Sir Eric D’Andre was born and raised in the south side of Chicago, IL as one of 19 children. He worked his way through MIT and received a Master’s Degree in Robotic Engineering which he worked in for 6 years with IBM. He performed volunteer work for several agencies including Department of Children and Family Services TPAN and social services assistance for ADAP applicants. He visited Palm Springs on a regular basis before moving here and performed volunteer work on several occasions for the Desert AIDS Project. As a young leatherman his main goals are to mentor young ethnic gay men on the practices of safer sex both with and without condoms and to bring diversity and merge old school traditions with new ideas in the leather community. He has a love of animals, plants and flowers and hopes to assist in fund raising activities to help animals.
STEVEN CRAWFORD MR. CHILL LEATHER 2017
Steven’s journey began almost 20 years ago in a city known for its leather lifestyle, San Francisco. Embracing the brotherhood, he was quick to become a leader in the community through his visibility and fundraising. He has received honors and proclamations from a State Senator and the Lieutenant Governor. He moved to the desert six years ago after many years of visiting and helping in local fundraising events. He continues his quest to be a leader in the leather community with his commitment to serving others. Competing for Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2017 is his next step in this journey. TH 36 T HEE FFIGH IG HTT || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com
JIMMY HICKS
MR. OFF RAMP LEATHERS 2017
Jimmy is a massage therapist and has lived in the Desert for eight years. He enjoys the beaches, mountains, and all of Southern California. He also likes to golf, ride his Harley, and travel. He is proud to represent Off Ramp Leathers in the Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2017 contest.
TRENT HERSEY
MR. TOOL SHED LEATHER 2017
Trent is a retired Navy Petty Officer where he served under the United States Forces Command, the Central Forces Command and the United States Pacific Fleet. He is a Public Health Nurse with retirement from the City and County of SanFrancisco where he worked at San Francisco General Hospital in the AIDS Ward, The Gay and Lesbian Focus Unit, Psychiatric Emergency Services and the African American Focus Unit. He has worked for a Coachella Valley Medical group where in Social Services he helped develop a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Program, again for the public developing a Psychiatric Forensic Focus and currently is in the Emergency Department at a local area hospital as a Psychiatric Nurse. He first became familiar to the leather community when, shortly after being widowed, he had been invited to the memorial service of a long time family friend, John Embry. Mr. Embry started Drummer Magazine, and requested those attending his memorial service do so in full leather. It was then that he began to see a place where he could thrive and heal from the wounds of the past. He is committed to a compassionate world where everyone matters and where diverse communities flourish.
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O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 37
PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
THE EVENTS
For more details on these events please visit desertleatherpride.com. Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262. Included in VIP Package or Individual Tix $25.00 online or door. This year’s 22th annual Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest is sponsored by Chill Bar at the Palm Springs Air Museum which is ranked one of the very best among the top 14 air museums in the world. In the contest hanger there will be several military fighter jets on display to checkout as well as the annual silent auction with full service cash bars available. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 6pm–10pm.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2016
REGISTRATION (PACKAGES AND TICKET PICK-UP) Hunters Nightclub 302 Arena Road Palm Springs, CA 92264. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 5pm–10:30pm. MEET & GREET (STAGE INTRODUCTIONS AT 10PM) Hunters Nightclub 302 Arena Road Palm Springs, CA 92264. Introduction of contestants and judges. Contestants draw numbers. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 9pm–11 pm. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2016
“COMMANDO” POOL PARTY All Worlds Annex, 545 S Warm Sands Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92264. Included in VIP Package or Individual Tix $20. Online or door. A clothing optional pool party hosted by Christopher Durbin, Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2016. Cash bars available. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 1pm–5pm. FORMAL LEATHER COCKTAILS/DINNER AND ROAST ENTERTAINMENT OF MR PS LEATHER 2016 Palm Springs Hilton (Horizon Ballroom) 400 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262. Ticket limited to VIP Package Holders. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 6pm–10pm. “HAWKERS & VENDORS—CRUISE ALLEY” Spurline Parking Lot—Arenas and South Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, CA 92264. Included in VIP Package (suggested $5.00 donation at entrance).
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A new scene for cruising and hawking with vendors presented by Spurline, PSLOD and Mr Palm Springs Leather 2016 Christopher Durbin and featuring DJ Manuelito from LA spinning LIVE till close, full service cash bars available throughout the venue. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 7pm–2am. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016
“EXHAUST: CIGARS, GEAR AND BBQ” The Barracks 67-625 E. Palm Canyon, Cathedral City, CA 92234. Hosted by Maximus with cigars available for purchase. Wear your dog tag for Happy Hour prices and BBQ compliments of The Barracks. The Barracks 67-625 E. Palm Canyon, Cathedral City, CA 92234. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 2pm–5pm. “STAND GUARD AND DANCE” AT THE SCORPION ROOM AT CHILL BAR Chill Bar 217 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92234. Dancing Air-Men and DJ spinning hosted by Chill Bar at Scorpion Room. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 2pm–5pm. PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR OF PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM Palm Springs Air Museum 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA. VIP Tix Guests Only. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 5pm–6pm. MR. PALM SPRINGS LEATHER CONTEST AND SILENT AUCTION (CONTEST BEGINS AT 7PM) Palm Springs Air Museum 745 N Gene
“AWOL: VICTORY DANCE PARTY SPONSORED BY RECON The Barracks 67-625 E. Palm Canyon, Cathedral City, CA. Included in VIP Package or Individual Tix $10.00 online or door. Gear up, or not and head for the Barracks, the back club room is transformed into dark dance space with men dancing on rafter stages and a guest DJ spinning until closing. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 9pm–2am. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2016
“MEAT AND RECOVERY FORCES: POOL PARTY AND CHOW” All Worlds Annex, 545 S Warm Sands Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264. Included in VIP Package or Individual Tix $20.00 online or door. Clothing optional pool party and off the edge Wet T-shirt contests to get you riled up. All the while, the chow is being grilled and we got your meat covered with all the fixings. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. 11am–3pm. WOMEN OF LEATHER BRUNCH Venue TBD. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com. Individual Tix $15.00 online or door.Hosted exclusively by the women of PSLOD. 11am–1pm. “FINAL DISCHARGE: LAST CALL” BEER BUST AND BBQ The Barracks 67-625 E. Palm Canyon, Cathedral City, CA 92234. Included in VIP Package or suggested $5.00 donation at entrance. For more info visit desertleatherpride.com 3pm–8pm.
FIND FETISH MEN
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PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
THE JUDGES
Over the last two decades Palm Springs Leather Pride has been proud to have had a wide array of judges—everyone from IML, MAL, IMsl, ILSb, American Leatherman to non-titleholder men and woman revered for their unique contributions to our community. DAVID “TIGGER” BAILEY INTERNATIONAL MR LEATHER 2016, HOWELL, NJ
David “Tigger” Bailey is Mr. New Jersey Leather 2016 and International Mister Leather 2016. A Massachusetts native, Tigger grew up on the east coast and attended MIT graduating with a degree in Management Science. He is currently a senior retail executive. Tigger resides in Howell, NJ with his husband Cubby and their three dogs, and is a proud collared Sir to his extended leather family.
CHRISTOPHER DURBIN MR PALM SPRINGS LEATHER 2016, PALM SPRINGS, CA
Christopher has gratefully held the distinction of being Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2016, and is thrilled and honored to be in the company of his fellow judges for his successor. With a finish in the Top 20 at IML, and as the current titleholder, Christopher has raised approximately $20,000 for local charities, and won’t be stopping any time soon.
SHAE FLANIGAN MS SANCTUARY LEATHER, 2014, SEATTLE, WA
Shae Flanigan is a Pacific Northwesterner whose heart found its home in Southern California. Shae is a BDSM educator, panelist and performer who believes strongly in the good of the titleholder and contest system. Shae was the inaugural Ms. Sanctuary Leather in 2014 and is the current owner and producer of the Ms. Los Angles Leather contest. She is one of three founders and TH 40 T HEE FFIGH IG HTT || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com
the current President of the Southland Title Sisters - an organization created to help and support female titleholders in Southern California during and after their title years.
LANCE HOLMAN MR SAN FRANCISCO LEATHER 2010, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
A San Francisco Bay Area resident for over 20 years Lance began his leather journey in the heart of the Castro. Lance holds the title of Mr. San Francisco Leather 2010 and was selected Leather Alliance 2010 Man of the Year. He also enjoys the honor of being named International Mr. Leather 2010 First Runner Up. Lance is involved in a number of community activities, including Leather Walk in conjunction with Folsom Street Events and the AIDS Emergency Fund board.
ADAM LATHAM PRODUCER, SAN DIEGO, CA
Adam has served the community as past President of San Diego Leather Pride Inc., producer the Mr. and Ms. San Diego Leather Contests, Knight of Leather, The Leather Realm at San Diego Pride and many other events. Adam had the honor of being named Mr. San Diego Leather 2004, His ongoing efforts in the community have been recognized by the San Diego City Council who named a day in his honor, along with being acknowledged by the San Diego Leather Awards as Man of the Year in 2005 & 2007, and Kinkster of the Year 2007.
RAY TILTON PRODUCER/COMMUNITY ORGANIZER/ACTIVIST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Ray’s 34+ years of service to the leather/ kink community includes producing Mr. San Francisco Leather, Northern California Drummer and LeatherSir/boy regional contests, the Imperial/Ducal courts, gay softball and other community productions spanning across California to Canada and places in between. Ray won the title of San Francisco/Northern California Mr. Drummer 1998 and Mr. San Francisco Leather 1990. He is also the Founder and President of the San Francisco Band of Brothers and has served as Den Daddy for Mr. Leatherman Toronto, Mr. Bolt Leather (Sacramento) and various other contests.
BOB WEBER MR PHOENIX LEATHER 2009, PHOENIX, AZ
Originally, from California Bob Weber is first winner of the Mr. Phoenix Leather title first held in 2009. Bob is a member of Avatar Los Angeles and competed in the first Oil Can Harry’s Mr. Leather contest in 2003 proudly winning 1st runner up. He actively participates in local charity events, a former member of the Imperial Court and has judged several local contests. He is a member of the Phoenix boys of Leather, A-PAH, APEX, and the Arizona Men of Leather, and a permanent staff member of the Mr. Phoenix Leather Contest. For more info on the judges—visit www.desertleatherpride.com.
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THE MASTER OF CEREMONIES Lenny Broberg is an officer with the San Francisco Police Department. He won the International Mr. Leather title in 1992. He is one of the most visible icons in the Bay Area. Besides his full-time occupation in law enforcement, Lenny manages to animate dozens of events throughout the year as emcee, including hosting International Mr. Leather in Chicago. His sharp but tactful wit has gained him a reputation as a stimulating presence onstage and off. He’s also known as “Mama’s Officer.”
Congratulations to All at Palm Springs Leather Pride and Out Going Mr. Leather, Christopher Durbin.
Job Well Done! And Cheers To All The Contestants
From Ralph Bruneau (Mr. GNI Leather 2016) And All The Folks At Gay Naturists International (gaynaturists.org) TH 42 T HEE FFIGH IG HTT || www.thefightmag.com www.thefightmag.com
THE SILENT AUCTION The annual silent auction takes place during the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest on Saturday evening during the contest. You’ll have the opportunity to bid on numerous items of significant value, everything from trip tickets to leather gear. Not only is this a great opportunity to possibly bid and win some amazing items but you’ll be helping PSLOD reach their financial goals which generate their charitible contributions to local charities which provide numerous services to our community.
PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E
THE BENEFICIARIES AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AIDS Assistance Programâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Food Samaritans was founded 25 years ago with the goal of helping the most at-risk members of the Greater Palm Springs communityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;people who are low-income and compromised by HIV/AIDS. It recently expanded its services to include people suffering from cancer, MS, heart or liver disease, and other chronic illnesses. Its ongoing mission is to ensure that all AAP clients can continue to live their lives with dignity and self-respect.
FOR THE CHILDREN For the Children Foster Adoptive Parent Association (FTC) is a nonprofit organization that recruits and supports foster and adoptive and relative caregivers in the Coachella Valley. It is their mission to encourage new families to open their homes and their hearts to the children in our area of desperate need.
THE LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT The Center creates a vibrant community by enriching the lives of LGBT people living in Coachella Valley and visitors of all ages, totaling nearly 45,000 client visits annually. A thriving, communitybased organization, The Center provides a safe and supportive environment for members to enjoy wellness, educational, support and social programming through wide array of programs. Learn more about The Center online at www.TheCenterPS.org. O CTO ER2016 2016| |TH THEEFI FG I GH 43 P SL O D G UI B DE H TT 43
PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE 2016
EVENT SPONSORS
We thank all of our sponsors and our friendly media outlets for their generous donations or coverage. Please support them! PRESENTING SPONSOR
Our Voice. Community Is Back. PLATINUM
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
COMMUNITY
FRIENDLY MEDIA The Leather Journal NicholasSnowLive.com
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PA L M S P R I N G S L E AT H E R P R I D E
THANK YOU!
A list of folks and businesses who help make Palm Springs Leather Pride possible PSLOD BOARD President - Leo Newcomb Vice President - Nina Ruedas Treasurer - Clifton Tatum Secretary - Tom Oliva VOLUNTEER STAFF Leather Pride Chair - Skip Mlaker Media Chair/Contest Co-Chair - Dave Murdock Contest Co-Chair - Drew Kramer Vendor Market Chair - Dave Murdock Silent Auction Chair - Leo Newcomb Judges Coordinator - Skip Mlaker Contestant Coordinator - Todd Parker Tally Master - Karen Atkins Women’s Brunch Captains - Karen Atkins, Nina Ruedas The Men and Women of PSLOD MASTER OF CEREMONIES Lenny Broberg LEATHER PRIDE STAFF ASL Interpret - Michael Klynn Lighting and Sound - Dennis Beisbier DJ’s Gary Iriza, Manuelito, Thomas Oliva, OUR GRACIOUS FACILITY HOSTS The Barracks, All Worlds Annex, Hunters Nightclub, Palm Springs Hilton, the Palm Springs Air Museum and Oscar’s. OUR SILENT AUCTION DONORS All Worlds Resorts Aspen Mills Bakery and Bread Company Bones ‘n Scones Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar and Grille Canyon Club Hotel CCBC Resort Hotel Chaps Inn Cheeky’s Palm Springs Gear Leather and Fetish International Bear Convergence Hot Desert Knights Lulu California Bistro Not So Innocent Offramp Leathers Palm Springs Piercing Q trading Santiago Tropicale Restaurant Trio Restaurant Tyler’s Burgers World Gym And to anyone who helped but didn’t get listed… WE LOVE YOU!
665LEATHER.COM 8722 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood
Proudly Serving The Leather Community Since 1993 600 E Sunny Dunes Rd Palm Springs, Calif. 760.320.3299 TOOLSHED-PS.COM ER 2016 2016 || TH THEE FI F IG GH T 45 P SL O O D CTO G UIBDE HT
THETRANSACTION >> COMPILED BY SABEL SAMORE-LORECA <<
QUEEN USA 2016
The 15th annual Queen USA national trans beauty pageant will take place at The Theatre at The Ace Hotel on October 22, 2016.
Q
ueen USA will feature national contestants, notable musical talent, host, and judges, and awards honoring three contemporary trans pioneers and advocates. Queen USA celebrates the heights of transgender beauty culture and identity in the grand pageant tradition while honoring
CELEBRATING THE HEIGHTS OF TRANSGENDER BEAUTY CULTURE AND IDENTITY IN THE GRAND PAGEANT TRADITION WHILE HONORING TRANS PIONEERS.
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Save $240 a year! When you bring in this Ad to redeem offer. Monthly membership fees required and vary by location. Offer valid towards 12-month billing membership only. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. Kaiser Senior Advantage Plus, Silver & Fit, Silver Sneakers, and Global Fit accepted.
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CANDIS CAYNE trans pioneers and engaging contestants and audience in a broader awareness of transgender issues. All proceeds from Queen USA & TransNation Festival go to St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Transgender Health Program and the Nicole Ramirez
Scholarship Fund through the Imperial Court of Los Angeles and Hollywood. Co-Hosted by Curly Velasquez and Candis Cayne, judges include Caitlyn Jenner, Kelly Osbourne, Geena Rocero, Angelica Ross, Alexandra Billings, iO Tillet Wright, Flawless Sabrina, Cecilio Asuncion (Owner, Slay Models), Gia Coppola (Director, Palo Alto), David Clark (Creative Director, Vidal Sassoon), Nikki Calabrese (Producer, Transcendent), City Commissioner Nicole Murray Ramirez, Assistant Chief Beatrice M. Girmala, LAPD. Performers include former Miss America 2016 Betty Cantrell, Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles and The Prancing Elites. n Buy tickets at www.axs.com.
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THEPROFILE >> RESIDENZA SAN LORENZO <<
RESIDENZA SAN LORENZO
The perfect place for a luxury short getaway or long term stay in Palm Springs.
L
uca Volpe, co-owner of the luxurious new condominium hotel Residenza San Lorenzo, also known as RSL, in Palm Springs, moved to the USA 6 years ago, after living 2 years in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Originally from Italy, Volpe got involved in the hospitality field after meeting his current partner Charlie Hines, who had recently retired after 30+ years from the hotel industry. Together they decided to start a new business and opened RSL. The property, explains Volpe on an interview with THE FIGHT, is an upscale hotel featuring twelve condos. “We purchased RSL, formerly Random Haus, in November 2015, reveals Volpe. “One of the main motivating factors that contributed to our decision to move up to a more upscale and challenging opportunity was my realizing how rewarding and satisfying the day-to-day interaction with our guests—and the difference
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LUCA VOLPE
we can make to their Palm Springs experience.” “Our product, both in design and furnishing, is modern and high-end,” states Volpe, explaining what makes RSL stand out in comparison to other accommodations in Palm Springs.” “What our guests usually comment upon is the size for
living space (all units are two bedrooms and two bathrooms). Having a full kitchen, wine cooler, and washer and dryer enhances the experience for guests seeking extended stays… Our product has been very suitable for traveling workers, temporary relocations and seasonal visitors. Also the private gated parking and lush garden patios, pool and spa, water features, BBQ social area and fire pits, contribute to the overall relaxation and quiet ambiance.” “Although we welcome everyone, we are very supportive of the LGBTQ community.” says Volpe. “RSL is the perfect place for a luxury short getaway or long-term stay.” n For more informations, please visit their website: rslpalmsprings.com
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>> BPH <<
effective than just one drug, but also associated with added side effects. It can require two pills a day, or there is Jalyn which has both drugs in one pill.
PRESERVES SEXUAL FUNCTION
AN ALTERNATIVE TO PROSTATE PILLS
The UroLift® System is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue B Y L A N CE PATRICK WA LSH , MD , PH .D .
H
aving to go all the time? You are not alone. Over 70% of men in their 60s have symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), a condition in which the prostate enlarges as men get older. While BPH is a benign (non-cancerous) condition, it can certainly decrease one’s quality of life. The most common treatment for BPH is drug therapy which requires that patients take a pill each day for the rest of their lives. Until recently, the only other option was invasive surgery which left many with undesired side effects including sexual dysfunction. In 2013, the FDA cleared the UroLift® System, a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue. Medications to treat BPH include alpha blockers and alpha reductase inhibitors. However, over 17% of men on BPH drug therapy discontinue treatment early due to undesirable side effects or not getting adequate symptom relief and it is easy to see why.
A PILL A DAY Alpha blockers (Flomax, Rapaflo, Hytrin, Uroxatral, Cardura) are most widely used to treat BPH and work by relieving the amount of tension in the smooth muscle of the prostate and bladder neck, which allows easier urination. These drugs require a pill a day for 5 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
the rest of your life in order to keep symptoms from worsening. While they provide rapid improvement of urinary symptoms and some improvement in urinary flow, associated side effects include impotence, retrograde ejaculation (dry orgasm) and decreased sex drive, as well as other physical effects such as wheezing, fatigue, dizziness or hypotension (low blood pressure).
SIDE EFFECTS 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors, or 5-ARI’s, include Proscar (finasteride) and Avodart (dutasteride). These medications work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT. 5-ARI’s shrink the overall prostate gland size and reduce the obstruction that causes problems with urination. They also require ongoing daily dosage and can take 3 to 6 months to be effective. Side effects of 5-ARI’s may include impotence, decreased sex drive, reduction in semen during ejaculation, swelling of the breasts, and artificially low readings of PSA levels. When alpha blockers are not enough and the prostate grows to a certain size, a combination of an alpha blocker and 5-ARI may be prescribed. This is called combination therapy and has been shown to be more
As an urologist, I have treated BPH for decades and welcome the UroLift system as a safe and effective option for patients, which do not require a lifetime of medications. The minimally invasive procedure can be done in an office setting and most importantly, preserves sexual function. Numerous clinical studies involving hundreds of patients across the world have demonstrated that the UroLift provides a similar level of symptom relief (compared with other BPH procedures) with fewer side effects. Most common adverse events reported include hematuria, dysuria, micturition urgency, pelvic pain, and urge incontinence. Most symptoms were mild to moderate in severity and resolved within two to four weeks after the procedure. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH or would like to consider options to medication, speak with your urologist to see if you are a candidate for this innovative technology. Dr. Walsh is a specialist in urology, treating a variety of conditions ranging from cancer of the genitourinary tract (kidney, prostate, bladder) to benign conditions including kidney stone, BPH, incontinence, bladder prolapse, and hematuria. He specializes in minimally invasive and robotic assisted laparoscopic surgery using the latest techniques to help his patients. For more information call (760) 346.7191or visit walshurology.com.
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O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 51
THESHARE
THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY
>> BY PAULO MURILLO <<
RECOVERY IN THE TRANS COMMUNITY Three local trans women, with various lengths of recovery, on their journey being clean and sober. OUR CHALLENGES
“I
don’t think trans women have a harder time staying sober. I think we have a harder time not sexualizing ourselves for money—because of society and the way we are treated. It’s harder for us to get out of the house and get a job—but we all have our challenges. If I can be sober, and go to school and have a job, then that’s possible for anyone. Before it was all craziness and chaos, but my life is amazing now that I’m sober… I MADALYN AMBROSINI pray everyday that I’m sober for the rest of my life. I have no desire to go back to using.” —Madalyn Ambrosini, sober since November 11, 2015.
HAVE INTEGRITY
“I
think trans women have a harder struggle in sobriety. We struggle to get acceptance by society. I come from a very strict Catholic household and growing up in Mexico was not easy… I did not feel I was loved growing up and that became an excuse for my alcoholism. Being transgender women who don’t feel acceptance, it is
5 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
common for us to think that if we have bigger breasts, or 20 plastic surgeries, that we will get that love… I’m okay with who I am today as a woman. It’s okay not to be perfect. Today I love myself. I have integrity. I also know how to love unconditionally. I didn’t have any of that before sobriety. It’s a miracle and a gift.” —Claudia Estrada, sober since May 15, 2008.
ABOUT SPIRITUALITY
“I
OCTAVIA HAMLETT
don’t think being trans and sober is a special struggle. I believe the only reason why I am sober is because of my Higher Power. I have a God who I have a relationship with, who is keeping me sober. What happens is a lot of trans women devalue themselves, because of society, or family, and a lot of them live in shame. LAUDIA They idenESTRADA tify with their physical bodies and they don’t have much worth unless they’re sexual beings 24/7… When you devalue yourself, any person can come along and ruin your self-esteem. There are conversations that need to take place. We can’t just keep talking about condoms and tit jobs. We need to feed the spirit, not the ego. We need to talk about shame and fear and address our self-loathing. Then you have the African American issue, where young trans black women feel rejected and feel shame, so they need validation from everybody. It’s a merry-go round of insanity and the only conversation we’re having is, where did you get your butt done? We need to do the internal work, because trust and believe if you’re not willing to trust in a God of your own understanding, you’re not going to be happy. We need to start talking about spirituality and have a better connection with God.” —Octavia Hamlett, sober since March 18 1995.
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www.lighthealing.com O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 53
THEJOYSTICK
THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY
>> VIDEO GAMES <<
BETTER GRAPHICS
TO PRO OR NOT TO PRO
The Sony Playstation Pro—is it worth it? BY JO SEPH A RELLA N O
What does the PS Pro do? Well, to be honest, it does what the PS4 should of done when it first released. The CPU allows better graphics, smoother movements, and textures upon textures on environments and characters. Allowing for faster response times and 4K televisions to really demonstrate the power of video-games. Also, Playstation games will play better on the PS Pro. It might not be noticeable, but titles such as Final Fantasy XV, Uncharted, Last of Us, and Fallout 3 will see a little facelift at the time of release.
LESS TECH ISSUES Devil is in the details....And sure enough...it is. The Playstation 4 allows games to be played with less frame rate drops, tech issues, and not to mention, makes them look stellar. Above is a picture of FFXV releasing in November after the PS Pro launches...and well....judge for yourself...yea, looks great right?
A
lright, so Sony unveiled their new plan for the next four years. It was surprising to see that they invested so much on a upgraded console of their pervious PS4. They believe the Sony Playstation Pro is the next step… but is it worth it?
THE NEXT LEVEL Here is the beef...If you have a PS4 right now, then it doesn’t make since to upgrade unless want 4K compatibility, play the VR headset, and want a faster, stronger CPU. Already the PlayStation 4 has conquered the market in gaming and has had triple A titles. But, technology moves quickly and Sony knows this. Already they have numerous ideas for the PS Pro that games need for their basic functionality. Batman VR, Resident Evil 7, and numerous virtual reality titles. It is the next level gaming and to think, it has been a long time coming. 5 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com
SHOULD YOU BUY? Well, lets look at the question… if you are a hardcore gamer and want the VR, 4K compatibility, and just, the better console for future games… then yes. But as a average gamer… I would say no. Already there is a slew of games that one can play on the PS4 and many that release in the future will be compatible with both consoles. Personally, I would get the PS PRO because of the VR and better graphics...but then again... I am hardcore. Wink, wink. n
Married and your spouse needs a green card? Deportation a problem in your life? Citizenship with personal twists? Transgender issues?
Areyou youinterested interested in in trying trying to Are tryingto to Are you interested improve theway way your your brain works? improve brain works? improve the way works? Are the you interested in trying to
improve the way your brain works?
If yes, join If yes, you youmay maybebeable ableto tojoin join where you add FDAa Ifstudy FDAa study where you add FDAyes, you may be able to join approved medication(s) to approved to a studymedication(s) where you addto FDAyour HIV-regimen to improve your HIV-regimen to improve yourapproved HIV-regimen to improve medication(s) to neurocognitive performance. neurocognitive performance. your HIV-regimen to improve neurocognitive performance. neurocognitive performance.
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This study HIV-positivepeople people who who also have This study is is forfor HIV-positive also haveHIV-associated HIV-associated This study is for HIV-positive people who also have HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) as defined defined by the Frascati criteria. This study is for HIV-positive people who also have HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) as by the Frascati criteria. neurocognitive disorder (HAND) as defined by the Frascati criteria. neurocognitive disorder (HAND) as defined by (MVC) the Frascati criteria. It will help us to identify if adding Maraviroc and/or It will help us to identify if adding Maraviroc (MVC) and/or It will help us us to their identify if adding Maraviroc (MVC) and/or It will help to identify if adding Maraviroc (MVC) and/or Dolutegravir (DTG) to current antiretroviral therapy will improve Dolutegravir (DTG) to their current antiretroviral therapy will improve Dolutegravir (DTG) their current antiretroviral therapy will improve Dolutegravir (DTG) to to their current antiretroviral therapy will neurocognitive performance. Participants will be enrolled inimprove this neurocognitive performance. Participants will bebeenrolled ininthis neurocognitive performance. Participants will enrolled this study for about 96 weeks. Compensation provided. neurocognitive performance. Participants willwill bebe enrolled in this studystudy for about 96 weeks. Compensation will for about 96 weeks. Compensation willbe beprovided. provided. study for about 96 weeks. Compensation will be provided.
To join you must be: Toyou joinmust you must To join be:orbe: 18 years of age be: older To join must 18you years ofor age or older 18 years of age older HIV-positive with an undetectable 18 years of age with or older HIV-positive an undetectable HIV-positive viral load with an undetectable viral load HIV-positive with an undetectable viral loadhad a HIV-associated Have Have had a HIV-associated viral load Have had a HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder within 45 45 neurocognitive disorder within Have had atoHIV-associated neurocognitive disorder within 45 days prior entry days prior study to study entry days to complete studydisorder entry neurocognitive Able to complete thethe within 45 prior Able to days prior to study entry Able to complete the neuropsychological testtest in English neuropsychological in English neuropsychological test in English Able to complete the neuropsychological test in English
For more information contact For more information contact For more information contact the UCLA CARE Center contact at Forthe more information UCLA CARECenter Centerat at the UCLA CARE careoutreach@mednet.ucla.edu thecareoutreach@mednet.ucla.edu UCLA CARE Center at careoutreach@mednet.ucla.edu or via phone 310-557-9062 or phone 310-557-9062 careoutreach@mednet.ucla.edu or viavia phone 310-557-9062 There are limitations to the confidentiality of email communications. arephone limitations the confidentiality email communications. Do notThere include any sensitivetohealth information ifofyou choose to or via 310-557-9062 There are limitations tovia the confidentiality of emailif communications. Do not include any sensitive health information you choose to contact the study team email. the study team via email. Do notcontact include any sensitive health information if you choose to There are to the confidentiality of email communications. contact thelimitations study team via email. Do not include any sensitive health information if you choose to contact the study team via email.
Protocol ID:IRB#15-000159 UCLA IRB Approved Approval 12/16/2015 Through: 12/15/2016 Committee: Medical Protocol ID:IRB#15-000159 UCLA IRB Approved Approval Date:Date: 12/16/2015 Through: 12/15/2016 Committee: Medical IRB IRB 1 1
Protocol ID:IRB#15-000159
UCLA IRB Approved Approval Date: 12/16/2015 Through: 12/15/2016 Committee: Medical IRB 1
Protocol ID:IRB#15-000159 UCLA IRB Approved Approval Date: 12/16/2015 Through: 12/15/2016 Committee: Medical IRB 1
O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 55
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THEEPIDEMIC >> PrEP <<
PrEP EDUCATION
Many health care providers don’t even discuss PrEP with high-risk patients. BY VICTO R MELA MED
O
nly four in ten gay and bisexual men without HIV are aware that pre-exposure prophylaxis medication (PrEP) may significantly reduce their risk of contracting the virus, even those who had recently visited a doctor or been tested for a sexually transmitted disease, new Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health research suggests. Studies have shown that PrEP, a once-daily pill, reduces HIV incidence by 92 percent in HIV-negative people who are at high risk for HIV, including men who have unprotected sex with men, and it is recommended for that group by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved PrEP in 2012, only five percent of high-risk individuals have taken it for HIV prevention. The new findings, published online in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, suggest that many health care providers don’t even discuss PrEP, even with high-risk patients they know are gay or bisexual or have been tested for other sexually transmitted diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that as many as one-third of physicians may not even know PrEP is an option. “Doctors have limited time with their patients, but with gay and bisexual male patients, physicians definitely need to make it a point to discuss HIV risks and whether PrEP is a good option,” says study leader Julia R.G. Raifman, ScD. Health care providers may be unfamiliar with PrEP or may be uncomfortable broaching sexual health topics with their patients. Whatever the reason, we need to find a way to get PrEP to the people who can most benefit. n O CTO B ER 2016 | TH E F I GH T 57 THE
THECALENDAR >> THINGS TO DO << PUTERÍA
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14
RIBBON CUTTING BIF WELLNESS & ACTIVITIES CENTER THE BROTHERHOOD IMPACT FUND
8704 Santa Monica Blvd Suite 300, West Hollywood, 11:00am-2:30pm. Tickets & Info: http://brotherhoodimpactfund.org/ This unique space will be a first-of-its-kind judgment-free safe space for Gay, Bi and Trans Men to gather in fraternity and fellowship.
FOX HOLE
The Bullet Bar, 10522 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, 9pm-2am. Info: www.bulletbarla.com Green Mirror Entertainment’s tribute to the golden days when men gathered at bathhouses to socialize and play.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21
QUEEN KONG
Precinct, 357 S Broadway, Los Angeles, 9pm-2am. jkInfo: www.precinctdtla.com The Boulet Brothers Present DTLA’S hornee homo party palace & stage show spectacular every Friday night at Precinct. SHE’S HUGE, H0RNY, HUNG & READY TO PARTY. Prepare yourself for High Faggotry, Art, Trash, Disco, Dick & Rock & Roll.
OCTOBEARFEST
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15
SAN GABRIEL VALLEY PRIDE 2016
Pasadena Memorial Park, 85 E Holly St. 11am-6pm. Visit sgvpride.org for more information. Join 15 years of celebrating Pride in the San Gabriel Valley with SGV Pride 2016 “XV on the 15th.” Enjoy a Pet Area, Author’s Forum, Health Fair, Cultural Music Experience, Community Art Experience, Children’s Area and Exhibitor Area.
TACTICAL MR. REGIMENT 2017 LEATHER CONTEST
Precinct, 357 S Broadway, Los Angeles, California. 9pm-2am. Info: www.precinctdtla.com Help us launch the Halloween season with muertos, brujas, and things that go HUMP in the night.
Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, 9pm-2am. Info: www.eaglela.com. Join the Regiment of the Black and Tans in the search of the Next Mr Regiment Leather 2017 at the infamous Mr Regiment Leather contest and a crazy fun Victory pool Party in a private residence in NoHo on Sunday Oct 16th.
The Crest, 5935 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, 8pm-1am. Info: www.thecrestlongbeach.com Sir Frank, Mr. LA Leather Bear 2015 Presents: OctoBEARfest Beer Bust. SATURDAY OCTOBER 22
WERESQURRRL
Akbar, 4356 W Sunset Blvd (Fountain Avenue), Los Angeles, 9pm-2am. Info: www.akbarsilverlake.com. SQURRRL in the magic mirror, come from the farthest space, through wind and darkness I summon thee. Speak! Let me see thy face!
DESERT AIDS WALK 2016
Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs, 804 E Tamarisk Rd., Palm Springs, 10am-1pm. Celebrating 30 years of “Walking To Make A Difference.”
REVEALED: A Masquerade Affair
Brad Brafford LGBT Center on 4th, 305 East 4th Street, #200, Santa Ana, 7pm-10pm. A new fundraiser for the LGBT Center OC! Admission includes dinner, drinks, and entertainment including costume and mask contests in addition to a silent auction. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23
AIDS WALK LOS ANGELES
Grand Park, Los Angeles. For more info: la.aidswalk.net. A 10K fundraising walk. This event benefits APLA Health and 20 other L.A. County HIV service organizations. SATURDAY OCTOBER 29
HARD VILLAINS 5
Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, 8pm-2am. Info: www.eaglela.com. Annual Halloween Coplay Erotic Costume Contest. With thousands of dollars in prizes in several categories. MONDAY, OCTOBER 31
WEST HOLLYWOOD HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL
Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood 6pm–11pm. The largest Halloween street party in the world happens in West Hollywood. Admission is free to this world-famous event, which includes live music and entertainment on multiple stages along Santa Monica Blvd. Put on your Halloween best and come join the party!
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