THE FIGHT L.A.'S LGBT MONTHLY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2014

ABOUT PREZISTA®

PREZISTA® does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and you may continue to experience illnesses associated with HIV-1 infection, including opportunistic infections. You should remain under the care of a doctor when using PREZISTA.® Please read Important Safety Information below, and talk to your healthcare provider to learn if PREZISTA® is right for you.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about PREZISTA®?

• PREZISTA® can interact with other medicines and cause serious side effects. See “Who should not take PREZISTA®?”

• PREZISTA® may cause liver problems. Some people taking PREZISTA,® together with Norvir ® (ritonavir), have developed liver problems which may be life-threatening. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests before and during your combination treatment with PREZISTA®. If you have chronic hepatitis B or C infection, your healthcare provider should check your blood tests more often because you have an increased chance of developing liver problems • Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these signs and symptoms of liver problems: dark (tea-colored) urine, yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes, palecolored stools (bowel movements), nausea, vomiting, pain or tenderness on your right side below your ribs, or loss of appetite • PREZISTA® may cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions or rash. Sometimes these skin reactions and skin rashes can become severe and require treatment in a hospital. You should call your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a rash. However, stop taking PREZISTA® and ritonavir combination treatment and call your healthcare provider immediately if you develop any skin changes with these symptoms: fever, tiredness, muscle or joint pain, blisters or skin lesions, mouth sores or ulcers, red or inflamed eyes, like “pink eye.”

Rash occurred more often in patients taking PREZISTA® and raltegravir together than with either drug separately, but was generally mild Who should not take PREZISTA®?

• Do not take PREZISTA® if you are taking the following medicines: alfuzosin (Uroxatral®), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E.45,® Embolex,® Migranal®), ergotamine (Cafergot,® Ergomar®), methylergonovine, cisapride (Propulsid®), pimozide (Orap®), oral midazolam (Versed®), triazolam (Halcion®), the herbal supplement St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), lovastatin (Mevacor,® Altoprev,® Advicor®), salmeterol (Advair,® Serevent®), simvastatin (Zocor,® Simcor,® Vytorin®), rifampin (Rifadin,® Rifater,® Rifamate,® Rimactane®), sildenafil (Revatio®) when used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, indinavir (Crixivan®), lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra®), saquinavir (Invirase®), boceprevir (Victrelis®), or telaprevir (Incivek®)

• Before taking PREZISTA®, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking sildenafil (Viagra,® Revatio®), vardenafil (Levitra,® Staxyn®), tadalafil (Cialis,® Adcirca®), atorvastatin (Lipitor®), rosuvastatin (Crestor®), pravastatin (Pravachol®), or colchicine (Colcrys,® Col-Probenecid®). Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking estrogen-based contraceptives (birth control). PREZISTA® might reduce the effectiveness of estrogenbased contraceptives. You must take additional precautions for birth control, such as condoms Serious problems can happen if you or your child takes any of these medicines with PREZISTA®.

This is not a complete list of medicines. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you are taking or plan to take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking PREZISTA® without first talking to your healthcare provider.

What should I tell my doctor before I take PREZISTA®?

• Before taking PREZISTA®, tell your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, including liver problems (including hepatitis B or C), allergy to sulfa medicines, diabetes, or hemophilia • Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding — The effects of PREZISTA® on pregnant women or their unborn babies are not known. You and your healthcare provider will need to decide if taking PREZISTA® is right for you — Do not breastfeed. It is not known if PREZISTA® can be passed to your baby in your breast milk and whether it could harm your baby.

Also, mothers with HIV should not breastfeed because HIV can be passed to your baby in the breast milk What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA®?

• High blood sugar, diabetes or worsening of diabetes, and increased bleeding in people with hemophilia have been reported in patients taking protease inhibitor medicines, including PREZISTA® • Changes in body fat have been seen in some patients taking HIV medicines, including PREZISTA®. The cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known at this time • Changes in your immune system can happen when you start taking HIV medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden • The most common side effects related to taking PREZISTA® include diarrhea, nausea, rash, headache, stomach pain, and vomiting.

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you experience these or other side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking PREZISTA® or any other medicines without first talking to your healthcare provider You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please refer to the ritonavir (Norvir®) Product Information (PI and PPI) for additional information on precautionary measures.

Please see accompanying full Product Information for more details.

013729-140415

PREZISTA® (darunavir) is a prescription medicine. It is one treatment option in the class of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) medicines known as protease inhibitors.

PREZISTA® is always taken with and at the same time as ritonavir (Norvir®), in combination with other HIV medicines for the treatment of HIV infection in adults. PREZISTA® should also be taken with food.

ily

Once-Da

Once-Daily PREZISTA® (darunavir) taken with ritonavir and in combination with other HIV medications can help lower your viral load and keep your HIV under control.

The PREZISTA® Experience isn’t just an HIV treatment.

It’s an HIV treatment experience as unique as you.

Call

**PRZ (**779)

on your mobile phone to watch videos of people living the PREZISTA® Experience.

Please read the Important Safety Information and Patient Information on adjacent pages.

Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP © Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP 2014 05/14 014606-140430

IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION PREZISTA (pre-ZIS-ta) (darunavir) Oral Suspension PREZISTA (pre-ZIS-ta) (darunavir) Tablets Read this Patient Information before you start taking PREZISTA and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.

Also read the Patient Information leaflet for NORVIR® (ritonavir).

What is the most important information I should know about PREZISTA? • PREZISTA can interact with other medicines and cause serious side effects. It is important to know the medicines that should not be taken with PREZISTA. See the section “Who should not take PREZISTA?” • PREZISTA may cause liver problems. Some people taking PREZISTA in combination with NORVIR® (ritonavir) have developed liver problems which may be life-threatening. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests before and during your combination treatment with PREZISTA. If you have chronic hepatitis B or C infection, your healthcare provider should check your blood tests more often because you have an increased chance of developing liver problems.

• Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the below signs and symptoms of liver problems.

• Dark (tea colored) urine • yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes • pale colored stools (bowel movements) • nausea • vomiting • pain or tenderness on your right side below your ribs • loss of appetite PREZISTA may cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions or rash.

Sometimes these skin reactions and skin rashes can become severe and require treatment in a hospital. You should call your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a rash. However, stop taking PREZISTA and ritonavir combination treatment and call your healthcare provider immediately if you develop any skin changes with symptoms below: • fever • tiredness • muscle or joint pain • blisters or skin lesions • mouth sores or ulcers • red or inflamed eyes, like “pink eye” (conjunctivitis) Rash occurred more often in people taking PREZISTA and raltegravir together than with either drug separately, but was generally mild.

See “What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA?” for more information about side effects.

What is PREZISTA? PREZISTA is a prescription anti-HIV medicine used with ritonavir and other anti-HIV medicines to treat adults with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. PREZISTA is a type of anti-HIV medicine called a protease inhibitor. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

When used with other HIV medicines, PREZISTA may help to reduce the amount of HIV in your blood (called “viral load”). PREZISTA may also help to increase the number of white blood cells called CD4 (T) cell which help fight off other infections. Reducing the amount of HIV and increasing the CD4 (T) cell count may improve your immune system.

This may reduce your risk of death or infections that can happen when your immune system is weak (opportunistic infections).

PREZISTA does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and you may continue to experience illnesses associated with HIV-1 infection, including opportunistic infections. You should remain under the care of a doctor when using PREZISTA. Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 infection.

• Do not share needles or other injection equipment.

• Do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes and razor blades.

• Do not have any kind of sex without protection. Always practice safe sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions on how to prevent passing HIV to other people.

Who should not take PREZISTA? Do not take PREZISTA with any of the following medicines: • alfuzosin (Uroxatral®) • ergot-containing medicines: dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45®, Embolex®, Migranal®), ergotamine (Cafergot®, Ergomar®) methylergonovine • cisapride • pimozide (Orap®) • oral midazolam (Versed®), triazolam (Halcion®) • the herbal supplement St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) • the cholesterol lowering medicines lovastatin (Mevacor®, Altoprev®, Advicor®) or simvastatin (Zocor®, Simcor®, Vytorin®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifater®, Rifamate®, Rimactane®) • sildenafil (Revatio®) only when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Serious problems can happen if you take any of these medicines with PREZISTA. What should I tell my doctor before I take PREZISTA? PREZISTA may not be right for you. Before taking PREZISTA, tell your healthcare provider if you: • have liver problems, including hepatitis B or hepatitis C • are allergic to sulfa medicines • have high blood sugar (diabetes) • have hemophilia • are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if PREZISTA will harm your unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: You and your healthcare provider will need to decide if taking PREZISTA is right for you. If you take PREZISTA while you are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can be included in the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry. The purpose of the registry is follow the health of you and your baby.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. We do not know if PREZISTA can be passed to your baby in your breast milk and whether it could harm your baby. Also, mothers with HIV-1 should not breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in the breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using PREZISTA and certain other medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. PREZISTA may affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect how PREZISTA works.

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the medicines listed below. The generic name is provided, followed by examples of possible brand names for the drug product: • medicine to treat HIV • estrogen-based contraceptives (birth control). PREZISTA might reduce the effectiveness of estrogen-based contraceptives. You must take additional precautions for birth control such as a condom.

• medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection such as cyclosporine (Gengraf®, Sandimmune®, Neoral®), tacrolimus (Prograf®), sirolimus (Rapamune®) • amiodarone (Pacerone®, Cardarone®) • artemether/lumefantrine (Coartem®) • atorvastatin (Lipitor®) • bepridil (Bepadin®, Vascor®) • boceprevir (VictrelisTM) • bosentan (Tracleer®) • buprenorphine (Butrans®, Buprenex®, Subutex®) • buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone®, Zubsolv®) • carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®, Epitol®) • clarithromycin (Prevpac®, Biaxin®) • colchicine (Colcrys®, Col-Probenecid®) • desipramine (Norpramin®) • dexamethasone (Ozurdex®) • digoxin (Lanoxin®) • felodipine (Plendil®) • flecainide (Tambocor®) • fluticasone (Advair Diskus®, Veramyst®, Flovent®, Flonase®) • itraconazole (Sporanox®, Onmel®) • ketoconazole (Nizoral®) • lidocaine (Xylocaine Viscous®) • methadone (Methadose®) • metoprolol (Lopressor®, Toprol-XL®) • nicardipine (Cardene®) • nifedipine (Procardia®, Adalat CC®, Afeditab CR®) • paroxetine (Paxil®, Pexeva®) • phenobarbital

IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION • phenytoin (Dilantin , Phenytek ) • pravastatin (Pravachol®) • propafenone (Rythmol®) • quinidine (Nuedexta®) • rifabutin (Mycobutin®) • risperidone (Risperdal®) • rosuvastatin (Crestor®) • salmeterol (Advair®, Serevent®) • sertraline (Zoloft®) • sildenafil ( Viagra®, Revatio®) • tadalafil (Cialis®, Adcirca®) • telaprevir (IncivekTM) • thioridazine (Mellaril®) • timolol (Cosopt®, Betimol®, Timoptic®, Isatolol®, Combigan®) • trazodone (Oleptro®, Desyrel®) • warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) • vardenafil (Levitra®, Staxyn®) • voriconazole (VFend®) This is not a complete list of medicines that you should tell your healthcare provider that you are taking. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if your medicine is one that is listed above. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your doctor or pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking PREZISTA without first talking with your healthcare provider.

How should I take PREZISTA? • Take PREZISTA every day exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• You must take ritonavir (NORVIR®) at the same time as PREZISTA. • Do not change your dose of PREZISTA or stop treatment without talking to your healthcare provider first.

• Take PREZISTA and ritonavir (NORVIR®) with food.

• Swallow PREZISTA tablets whole with a drink. If you have difficulty swallowing PREZISTA tablets, PREZISTA oral suspension is also available. Your health care provider will help decide whether PREZISTA tablets or oral suspension is right for you.

• PREZISTA oral suspension should be given with the supplied oral dosing syringe. Shake the suspension well before each use. See the Instructions for Use that come with PREZISTA oral suspension for information about the right way to prepare and take a dose.

• If your prescribed dose of PREZISTA oral suspension is more than 6 mL, you will need to divide the dose. Follow the instructions given to you by your healthcare provider or pharmacist about how to divide the dose. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure.

• If you take too much PREZISTA, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

People who take PREZISTA one time a day: • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by less than 12 hours, take your missed dose of PREZISTA right away. Then take your next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time.

• If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by more than 12 hours, wait and then take the next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time.

People who take PREZISTA two times a day • If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by less than 6 hours, take your missed dose of PREZISTA right away. Then take your next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time.

• If you miss a dose of PREZISTA by more than 6 hours, wait and then take the next dose of PREZISTA at your regularly scheduled time.

If a dose of PREZISTA is skipped, do not double the next dose. Do not take more or less than your prescribed dose of PREZISTA at any one time.

What are the possible side effects of PREZISTA? PREZISTA can cause side effects including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about PREZISTA?” • Diabetes and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Some people who take protease inhibitors including PREZISTA can get high blood sugar, develop diabetes, or your diabetes can get worse. Tell your healthcare provider if you notice an increase in thirst or urinate often while taking PREZISTA. • Changes in body fat. These changes can happen in people who take antiretroviral therapy. The changes may include an increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the back, chest, and stomach area. Loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face may also happen. The exact cause and longterm health effects of these conditions are not known. ®

®

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Call your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after starting your HIV medicine.

• Increased bleeding for hemophiliacs. Some people with hemophilia have increased bleeding with protease inhibitors including PREZISTA. The most common side effects of PREZISTA include: • diarrhea • headache • nausea • abdominal pain • rash • vomiting Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all of the possible side effects of PREZISTA. For more information, ask your health care provider.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store PREZISTA? • Store PREZISTA oral suspension and tablets at room temperature [77°F (25°C)].

• Do not refrigerate or freeze PREZISTA oral suspension.

• Keep PREZISTA away from high heat.

• PREZISTA oral suspension should be stored in the original container.

Keep PREZISTA and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General information about PREZISTA Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use PREZISTA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give PREZISTA to other people even if they have the same condition you have. It may harm them.

This leaflet summarizes the most important information about PREZISTA. If you would like more information, talk to your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about PREZISTA that is written for health professionals.

For more information, call 1-800-526-7736.

What are the ingredients in PREZISTA? Active ingredient: darunavir Inactive ingredients: PREZISTA Oral Suspension: hydroxypropyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, methylparaben sodium, citric acid monohydrate, sucralose, masking flavor, strawberry cream flavor, hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment), purified water.

PREZISTA 75 mg and 150 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® White (polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide).

PREZISTA 600 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® Orange (FD&C Yellow No. 6, polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide).

PREZISTA 800 mg Tablets: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose. The film coating contains: OPADRY® Dark Red (iron oxide red, polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide).

This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration.

Product of Ireland Manufactured by: PREZISTA Oral Suspension PREZISTA Tablets Janssen Pharmaceutica, N.V. Janssen Ortho LLC, Beerse, Belgium Gurabo, PR 00778 Manufactured for: Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP, Titusville NJ 08560 Revised: April 2014 NORVIR® is a registered trademark of its respective owner.

PREZISTA® is a registered trademark of Janssen Pharmaceuticals © Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2006 014859-140506

THECONTENTS

>> MORE TO COME <<

COVER STORIES AND FEATURES A MAGICAL EVENING

20 The Regiment of the Black and Tans 20

26

28

THE LINES 24 BETWEEN Novelist Marcelino Rosas

30 24

A YOUNG AMERICAN 26 James Duke Mason: WeHo Politics LATINO ROLE MODELS 28 HONORING Honor 41: Awareness, Positive Images SCHOOL 30 PrEP Eric Paul Leue On Truvada ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER 33 BIGGER The Reverse Side Of Anorexia CLEAN 34 COMING Jeremy Manning: My Confession POP TART 36 Artist, Model Trevor Wayne GAY AT THE MUSEUM 39 Reel To Real: LGBT Portrayals

ON THE COVER COVER MODEL: MARCELINO ROSAS COVER PHOTO, MAIN TOC PHOTO AND MAIN COVER FEATURE PHOTO

BY KURT R. BROWN PHOTO EDITOR: JEFF KING

DEPARTMENTS 13 THE LETTERS More Pressing 14 THE TALK Dolly Parton, Billy Bean 17 THE STATE Modern Family 18 THE CITY WeHo’s Water Wars 22 THE ROSTOW REPORT Happy Endings 32 THE LAW Entrapment Pointers 38 THE MONEY Financial Infidelity 41 THE EPIDEMIC “Deleting” HIV 42 THE EVENT 1Life Festival

33

44 THE CALENDAR Events

34 6 T H E F I GH T | A UGU S T 2014

36

39

46 THE FINAL FIGHT Rob Smith

THEEDITOR >> IN THIS ISSUE <<

In his powerful, tell-all confession, personal trainer Jeremy Manning reveals a lifetime of deception and how he finally found the strength to seek help (“Coming Clean,” page 34).

“Everything was out of control and I hadn’t learned how to manage my life.

I just got better at covering things up,” says Manning.

“I went to AA meetings and told everyone I was doing great. I told them I was sober, took chips and even spoke at a meeting where I accepted a cake for ‘one year of continuous sobriety.’ When I hadn’t stayed sober for more than a few months. In fact, I smoked pot on the way to accept my cake and I was stoned when I spoke,” reveals Manning.

“I felt on the top of my game and in the dregs of alcoholism at the same time,” writes Manning. “My dreams of being published had been realized. I was a partner at a high-end personal training facility in West Hollywood where I helped nearly double profits. My name popped up in press for numerous achievements and community efforts, while I lied about my drinking and drug use. I tormented my exes, created conflicts among friends and made every effort to sabotage all the good I’d been offered. Everything got worse.”

Eventually, says Manning, “I admitted to myself with unrelenting honesty that I had a problem and I needed help.”

In rehab, reveals Manning, “I learned that drinking wasn’t the problem—it was a symptom of something deeper and the solution was love. The love of my family and all the friends who supported me when I gave up everything to go into treatment.”

Also in this issue—Eagle Mr. LA Leather 2014 and community leader Eric Paul Leue talks to Paulo Murillo about the side effects and side benefits of the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) drug Truvada (“PrEP School,” page 30).

“For almost three decades it was ingrained in us that irresponsible, promiscuous bareback sex spreads HIV,” states Leue.

“It was easy to divide the community into good-responsible, and bad-irresponsible. The dawn of new HIV prevention methods like ... PrEP adds a whole new spectrum to what it means to be ‘responsible,’ ‘safer’ and ‘protected.’”

“Realistically,” says Leue, “I believe there will be some people who choose to abandon condoms once they are on PrEP, but I also know that there are people that chose not to use condoms before PrEP came around.”

“I don’t think it is wise to oppose PrEP on the same grounds on which we would have to abandon every other prevention tool too,” states Leue. “PrEP prevents the most dangerous of the common STIs with the highest efficacy.”

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio MARKETING CONSULTANTS Paul Vallejo John Michael Gamban Conor Lane Stephen Lewis SOCIAL MEDIA Paulo Murillo WEBMASTER Nadeen Torio 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 © 2014 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.

TheFightMag.com STANFORD ALTAMIRANO Editor-In-Chief

8 T H E F I GH T | A UGU S T 2014

For Display Advertising, please call (323) 297-4001

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THECONTRIBUTORS

>> OUR WRITERS <<

ORLY LYONNE Orly Lyonne is a freelance journalist, focusing on issues related to LGBT equality, culture and art. Her passions include skydiving, community theater and vegan restaurants. Orly can be reached at orlylyonne@gmail.com.

PAULO MURILLO West Hollywood resident Paulo Murillo has been writing for gay media for over twelve years. He got his start writing a biweekly column called “Luv Ya, Mean It” for FAB! Newspaper. Visit his website at thehissfit.com, or friend him on Facebook.

ROB SMITH Rob Smith is an author, lecturer, writer, and LGBT activist. His first book “Closets, Combat, and Coming Out: Coming of Age as a Gay Man in the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Army” is in stores now. He can be found at www.robsmithonline.com.

GRANT GOCHIN Grant Gochin is a Wealth Advisor and Certified Financial Planner professional located in Encino.

Grant is married (to a man) and he and his husband have one son. He can be reached at (818) 827-3410 or via email at: grant.gochin@raymondjames.com.

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.

ROBERT E. BLACKMON In 2001, writer and on-air talent Robert E. Blackmon, became the first leather man to hold the title “Mr. Sister Leather,” sponsored by the International fundraising organization the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

Later that year he competed at Los Angeles Mr. Leather where he placed 2nd Runner up. Blackmon has served as secretary, vice chair and co-producer of Los Angeles Leather Pride, since its inception.

DAVID HAKIMFAR Los Angeles based Attorney David Hakimfar received his law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego. While there, he made the Honor Roll and National Dean’s List. Currently David Hakimfar is a Trial Attorney and Senior Partner of Hakimfar Law, PLC. He can be reached at: 1-888-789-PRIDE (7743).

JEREMY MANNING Jeremy Manning is the Founder of Manning UP, LLC, a media company dedicated to incorporating health and fitness to overcome adversity.

A lifetime athlete and survivor of addiction and mental illness, Jeremy created manningupusa.com as a resource for those still fighting for their lives.

JAMES F. MILLS James F. Mills has been reporting on West Hollywood and its city politics since 2006. An awardwinning journalist, he finds the city enthralling and is continually astounded by how much news can come out of a city of just 35,000 people. James can be reached at jfmills777@gmail.com

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TOO The Fight Magazine- 1/2 Page Horizontal

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 11

THELETTERS

>> FROM OUR READERS <<

US OLDER Dear Editor, Thank you for your piece on men over 50 (“Role Models,” THE FIGHT Issue 42). It’s nice to see some of us older guys in the pages of a gay magazine. And kudos to the photographer Jay R. Lawton (R.I.P.) for coming up with the project and to everyone who helped it to come to fruition.

—Gerald Moss, via the internet

ALMOST CHOKED Dear Editor, OMG—Jackie Beat is HYSTERICAL (“And The Beat Goes On,” THE FIGHT Issue 42)! When I read her take on the “T controversy”—“It’s being used within the confines of a TV or cabaret show, not by someone at the DMV: ‘Okay tranny, you’re next!’”—I actually almost choked on my chicken sandwich—in a very Mama Cass kind of way. (It’s alright though—I’m okay.) Thank GOD for smart, funny, level-headed drag queens like Miss Jackie!

—Dale Saunders, via the internet

MORE PRESSING Dear Editor, Not to throw a wet blanket on the LA Gay Center’s smartphone study (“Apping Responsibly,” THE FIGHT Issue 42)—but aren’t the results kind of obvious? If you engage in frequent anonymous sexual encounters on Grindr—chances are you have a higher risk of getting STIs. Not exactly surprising. I hope that study didn’t cost a lot of money. I would think that the Center could use those funds for more pressing issues—like—I don’t know—helping more LGBT homeless kids?

—B. Levine, via the internet

WOULD SUIT Dear Editor, I have been reading your magazine for the past several months and overall, I’m satisfied with the content and quality of writing. In particular, I would like to commend you on representing the entire community, not just the traditional West Hollywood party boys. May I suggest, however, a travel column? I think a column on LGBT vacation spots throughout the world would suit THE FIGHT. —George Reyes, Los Angeles

> WRITE TO THE EDITOR Email: editor@thefightmag.com Fax: (213) 281-9648. Letters may be shortened due to space requirements.

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 13

THETALK

> > W H AT T H E Y ’ R E S AY I N G < <

AT SOME POINT

FEEDING A FANTASY

“I feel more fully expressed...

After ‘Prison Break,’ I came to grips with the fact that my public persona was in misalignment with how WENTWORTH MILLER I actually felt.

I was out to a handful of people in my twenties, and once I hit 30, I was out to family and friends. But professionally, I was feeding a fantasy.”

—”Prison Break” star Wentworth Miller to Details magazine about the freedom he feels since coming out.

DOLLY PARTON

JUST A WEE BIT

“I would like to do a dance record... I have a song called ‘Just a Wee Bit Gay.’ It’s a great little dance tune—it’s funny and it’s got a lot of comic in it. I do write a lot of songs along those lines with people that are different and are just themselves.”

—Music legend Dolly Parton at a press conference last month.

FRANKIE VALENTI

TOM DALEY

“Family is something that has always been really important to me and yes, at some point I would love to marry and have kids.”

—Out gay Olympic diver Tom Daley in an interview with the UK-based Attitude magazine.

IAN THORPE

PHOTO BY LILA JAVAN

BILLY BEAN

PHYSICAL BOUNDARY “[Fans] kind of have this lack of physical boundary... If they’re talking to me they feel the need to put their hand on my waist or rub my shoulder. You don’t do that if you just met someone—there’s that boundary that is completely obscured.”

—Former porn star Frankie Valenti (aka Johnny Hazzard) in an interview with OUT magazine. Valenti has a role in the new film “Tiger Orange.” For more info visit: www.tigerorangemovie.com.

FELT THE LIE “What happened was I felt the lie had become so big that I didn’t want people to question my integrity... And I don’t want young people to feel the same way that I did. You can grow up, you can be comfortable, and you can be gay.”

—Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe’s coming-out interview on Australian television last month.

GOD WOULDN’T BE “I am absolutely, utterly and completely certain that God wouldn’t be homophobic.”

—Archbishop Desmond Tutu in an interview with NBC News. Tutu ARCHBISHOP called for an end to the oppression of people because of their sexual orientation.

1 4 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

WHAT YOUR CULTURE TRUE POTENTIAL “I want this generation’s coming-out stories to be uplifting, happy, and inspire others to be who they are, and fulfill their true potential.”

—Former professional baseball player Billy Bean, who publicly came out as gay in 1999, in an interview with Outsports. Bean has been appointed as Major League Baseball’s first “ambassador for inclusion.”

“I don’t care what your culture is.

Inhumanity is inhumanity is inhumanity. Prejudice is prejudice is prejudice.”

—Vice President VP JOE Joe Biden to a BIDEN gathering of international gay rights advocates, last month.

Register today at ocrideforaids.com!

Ride for a Reason Orange County Ride for AIDS Saturday, October 25, 2014 Start and finish at the William R. Mason Regional Park, Irvine, CA benefiting

1 6 T H E F IGH T | A UGU S T 2014

presented by

THESTATE

>> FAMILY LAW <<

ASSEMBLYMAN TOM AMMIANO

8 1 r e b o t c O ark r Ruth Ha

MODERN FAMILY WITH SAME-SEX MARRIAGE LEGALIZED IN CALIFORNIA LAST YEAR, THE SENATE IS CONSIDERING ASSEMBLYMAN TOM AMMIANO’S “MODERN FAMILY ACT.”

BY VICTOR MELAMED California lawmakers will consider updating family law and parental rights to keep up with the evolving nature of families when they return from summer break, reports The Associated Press.

Bitter, high-profile disputes have inspired legislators to modernize laws molded for “Leave it to Beaver”-era families. Jason Patric, star of “The Lost Boys,” has been seeking custody rights over a son he fathered through sperm donation. The children of radio personality Casey Kasem had been in a legal fight with their stepmother to visit their father in the last years of his life.

Supporters of these bills say such cases demonstrate that laws are lagging behind technology and social change.

Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, a San Francisco Democrat and longtime gay rights advocate, said updating the laws is just one way for nontraditional families to gain acceptance.

“As a lawmaker, what you can accomplish is changing what’s in the law that’s being detrimental and dehumanizing,” Ammiano said.

For example, legislation signed by Gov. Jerry Brown last month deletes the definition of marriage as “between a man and a woman” in family law and replaces references to husband and wife with the word spouse.

With same-sex marriage legalized in California last year, the Senate is considering Ammiano’s “Modern Family Act” to confront thorny situations same-sex and other couples have found themselves in under existing law.

The bill, AB2344, would expedite adoptions for non-biological parents, such as a lesbian woman whose spouse gave birth to their child.

The bill would remove a procedural requirement that adds a state investigation and court hearing. Non-biological parents are encouraged to formally adopt children because some states do not recognize them as parents even though California does.

The bill also creates methods to clarify the financial and legal responsibilities of surrogate mothers and sperm donors.

That’s an important step to prevent disputes from happening, some family law experts say. n

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AUG UST 2014 | TH E F I GH T 17

THECITY

>>

BY PAULO MURILLO

<<

MISSING WEHO MAN FOUND IN COMA AT HOSPITAL

“IT GETS BETTER” SONGWRITER HONORED

Mystery surrounding the disappearance of West Hollywood resident Ramon RAMON Estrada led ESTRADA investigators to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was found in a coma as a “John Doe.” Police believe Estrada’s broken shoulder, head trauma, pneumonia and heart issues are injuries caused by a severe beating.

Estrada vanished on his way home from the Gold Coast Bar in West Hollywood on July 7. According to reports, he last communicated with his partner Michael Shutt at 1:45am before he went missing.

He was found unconscious on the corner of Mansfield Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, between two parked cars—a short distance from his home—about 20 minutes after he phoned Shutt. He is currently on the mend at Cedars. The family has opened a GoFundMe account to help with the medical bills.

Point Foundation’s third annual “Voices On Point” fundraiser takes place next month at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, Saturday, September 13, starting at 6pm. Point Foundation empowers promising lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender, and queer students to achieve their full academic and DIANE leadership potential. The WARREN fundraising dinner and concert will feature Point Scholars sharing their stories of perseverance. The foundation will also present its Leadership Award to Grammy winner songwriter Diane Warren. Warren has repeatedly spoken out against discrimination directed at the LGBTQ community. The “It Gets Better” musical theater project currently touring the U.S. in support of LGBTQ youth includes songs written by Warren.

Donations can be made at gofundme.com/blbxuw

For more information, visit pointfoundation.org/VOP2014

SAN DIEGO GAY REPUBLICAN RUNS FOR CONGRESSIONAL SEAT Carl DeMaio of San Diego is one of three openly gay Republicans running for a congressional seat this year. The two other gay Republicans are Dan Innis of New Hampshire and Richard Tisei of Massachusetts. DeMaio won a seat on the San Diego City Council in 2008 and credits himself for helping turn the city around from the brink of bankruptcy. DeMaio will face Democratic incumbent, Rep. Scott Peters CARL who is being indorsed by the Human Rights DEMAIO Campaign. The last openly gay Republican to serve in Congress was Jim Kolbe of Arizona in 1996.

OUTFEST 2014: THE POWER OF STORYTELLING

COMIC-CON 2014 FOCUSES ON TRANSGENDER ISSUES Comic-Con organizers at this year’s popular comic book convention in San Diego orchestrated a panel focusing specifically on transgender issues called “Breaking Barriers: Transgender Trends in Popular Culture.” The panel was the first of its kind and consisted solely of panelists who identify as transgender. The panel analyzed the appearances and representations of trans characters in comic books. Comic-Con also featured four additional panels on comics and issues affecting the LGBT community, which included: LGBT Geek Year in Review, LGBT Comics for Young Readers, Queer Horror and Gays in Comics XXVII: It’s a Queer, Queer World.

For more on the event, visit comic-con.org/cci

WEHO’S WATER WARS

The 2014 Los Angeles Outfest LBGT Film festival featured 175 films and videos from 28 countries in 6 different venues across Los Angeles last month. The film festival provided porn star Johnny Hazard a chance to flex his acting muscles in his dramatic big screen debut in the movie “Tiger Orange.” There was a also an up close look at the king of sleaze Mario Diaz in the Jon Bush documentary “Club King,” that tours the dark leather bars of Silver Lake, to the rainbow colored façade of WeHo’s Boystown.

The City of West Hollywood is making efforts to use less water and to promote conservation among WeHo residents in light of ongoing news about the severity of drought conditions in California. The region is suffering from the lowest amounts of rainfall on record. The City has made adjustments to its irrigation controllers to reduce water consumption by as much as 50 percent. It is also releasing water-conservation information to WeHo residents and businesses and is enforcing water utility restrictions, such as rules against hosing down sidewalks.

For a list of all screenings at this year’s Outfest, visit outfest.org/fest2014

For tips on water conservation, visit weho.org.

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A Magical Evening The Regiment of the Black and Tans celebrate “40 Years of Service in Uniform.”

BY ROBERT E. BLACKMON

One of the country’s longest running gay uniform clubs The

Regiment of the Black and Tans held its 40th Anniversary Dinner and Officer’s Change of Command last month at the “Center for the Arts Eagle Rock.”

More than one hundred guests were treated to an exhibit by the Tom of Finland Foundation. It’s founder—Tom himself—was an honorary member of the Regiment.

Guests perused through an impressive archival exhibit of memorabilia from the Regiment’s forty years. The jewel of the collection was more than six thousand photographs chronicling the clubs unique history.

After hors d’oeuvres and cocktails members welcomed their guests with the traditional toast and were then invited into the formal dinning area for dinner.

20 T H E F I GH T | A UGU S T 2014

BACK ROW L-R: ALEX BUTLER, KEVIN CASEY, JON WRIGHT, ESTEBAN JIMENEZ, ROD WOOD, ROBERT BLACKMON, RILEY BLACK, WILL HILDRETH. FRONT ROW (INDUCTED OFFICERS) L-R: REX BAILEY, DIEGO GALTIERI, JEFFREY SCHOONOVER, LEONARDO IRIARTE, MARLON MORALES.

In grand style known of classic Black and Tans dinners, several members pushed away moveable walls revealing an elegant table setting complete with fourteen foot hanging banners in the Black and Tan colors.

After the meal the new officers were inducted with a ceremony. Celebrating his 25th year with the club, incoming Commander Jeffrey Schoonover took his eighth tour as Commander—more than any other in the clubs history.

A very special honor went to Riley Black who has been with the club for its entire forty year run.

665 Leather & Fetish Co. and Rough Trade Leather were honored for their years of continued service to the community. And the One Archives were presented with a photo album of highlights of the Regiment’s forty years.

“It was a magical evening”, stated one guest. “The club captured the feeling of the grand celebrations the club used to host many years ago.”

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 21

THEROSTOWREPORT

BY

ANN

President Obama has added sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of groups that have been protected against discrimination by federal contractors since the Nixon years.

Federal contractors employ about a fifth of the nation’s workforce, some 28 million people, so the move is significant.

MAINSTREAM MEDIA, SIDESTREAM MEDIA AND A SLEW OF POSITIVE RULINGS

Hello THE FIGHT readers! I cannot tell you how excited I am, writing on Tuesday, July 29, after reading the 2-1 pro-marriage opinion from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. As you probably know, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit issued not one, but two separate pro-marriage decisions last month, both from the identical 2-1 panel of judges. So we now have three rulings upholding our right to marry from the federal appellate bench one rung down from the Supreme Court.

Many in the mainstream media, and maybe even in the sidestream media, have become overwhelmed by the parade of court rulings. Also in July, we had a slew of rulings out of Colorado state courts, a federal ruling from the Ski State, and two other state court rulings out of Florida. Some Colorado counties began issuing marriage licenses, although the clerk in the Denver area was told to stop by the state supreme court. Meanwhile, marriages were still being held in Boulder County (until the state supreme court shut them down as I write) so let’s just say that the situation in Colorado is too confusing to deal with and throw up our hands. After all of this hoopla, piled on top of the hoopla from other recent months,

2 2 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

ROST OW

who could blame people from reacting with a yawn when they heard that the Fourth Circuit had struck Virginia’s marriage amendment?

But the news out of Richmond is indeed a bombshell.

There are twelve federal (circuit) appellate courts, who issue opinions that become binding law for all the states in their jurisdictions. If you don’t like one of their panel decisions, you can appeal to the full appellate court, or to the Supreme Court. Those are your only options. Four of those circuits govern states where marriage is already legal; the first, second, third and the DC circuit. Two more have now ruled in our favor. A third, your very own Ninth Circuit, has sort of ruled in our favor in the Prop 8 case, and has now ruled in a separate case that sexual orientation discrimination is presumptively unconstitutional. Marriage cases are headed to oral arguments in the ninth in September, and we will win them. No doubt.

That leaves five circuits outstanding. In the Sixth Circuit, the court is about to hear oral arguments in five cases coming out of four states; Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and Michigan. And they’re going to hear those cases in one long day on August 6.

In the Seventh Circuit, arguments have been scheduled for August 26 on cases from Wisconsin and Indiana.

The Fifth Circuit is dragging its heels on the Texas case, and has yet to set a date for oral arguments, while the Eighth and Eleven Circuits have not yet received an appeal, although federal cases are expected to reach them both shortly.

Remember that we have won every one of these lawsuits in lower court, and we now have three victories in the appellate court; Utah and Oklahoma out of the Tenth, plus Virginia out of

the Fourth. The Utah Attorney General has already announced plans to appeal directly to the U.S. Supreme Court, bypassing a review by all the active judges on the Tenth Circuit. That’s great in my book. As I write, Virginia’s defense, two clerks and an administrator, have not revealed whether they will ask for a full court review, or join Utah in petitioning the High Court to take a look at marriage rights.

Obviously, if the High Court takes one or both of these cases, we will likely have a marriage equality ruling by next June.

GEORGE W NOMINEES: A SMALL SENSE OF FOREBODING

But for all my glee, I have a small sense of foreboding. Not the kind of foreboding you get when the other team ties you up in the fourth quarter, but more like the feeling when you’re up three touchdowns and the other team gets one back.

Those appellate court rulings were 2-1. There were two judges (and I read their dissents) who believed profoundly, not just in marriage discrimination, but in the absurd legal arguments that are used to defend it.

Will we really be so lucky as to avoid this type of judge throughout the rest of our federal lower court cases around the country?

And what about our federal appellate panels? The panels are chosen a week or so before oral arguments, so we just learned the names of the three judges who will review marriage for the sixth circuit. Unfortunately, two of them were appointed by George W, and the third is a Clinton pick.

Just because someone was appointed by a Republican doesn’t make them anti-marriage, but I’m nervous. I tried to research these Bush judges, and although I didn’t find any right wing religious sentiments, nor did I discover

>> MAINSTREAM MEDIA, GEORGE W NOMINEES, HAPPY ENDINGS <<

anything that might give me comfort.

Does it matter? With all our victories? Yes, it does. It’s important that our arguments win the day in all but one or two of these remaining appellate courts. The Fifth circuit is generally bad news, so a loss there would not really count. But imagine if we ended up with defeats in the Sixth, Seventh, Eighth and Eleventh as well? Our wins in the Tenth, 4ourth and Ninth would look good, but would the High Court look for a way to split the difference? For example to allow states to ban marriage while forcing them to recognize marriage from other states?

Imagine on the other hand if marriage equality swept the appellate courts. How could the High Court avoid upholding the principles articulated en masse by the lower courts? They couldn’t.

That’s why any ruling from a federal appellate court is a zillion times more important than those from the district courts. That’s why I’m on cloud nine, although I sort of expected a win from the Fourth Circuit, I didn’t necessarily expect the ringing opinion we got; an opinion that said in no uncertain terms that the “fundamental right to marry” includes gay couples, and made mockery of the idea that “the right to marry a samesex partner” was a modern quirk, undeserving of constitutional respect.

TOWING THE LINE AND HAPPY ENDINGS So, I should probably discuss President Obama’s great executive order, adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the employees that must be protected against bias by all federal contractors. That covers about 20 percent of the U.S. workforce. The

POTUS also banned trans bias in the federal workforce, so all in all, he’s had a good month as far as we’re concerned.

But haven’t we had enough of law and policy?

Here’s a story we can all appreciate. Some bozo tow truck driver removed 100 cars from a parking lot near a celebration of Gay Days in Orlando. Was he targeting gay drivers? Were all these cars illegally parked? Who knows for sure? What we do know is that the drivers were obliged to find a cab, pay $165 to the tow people, plus a $40 “gate fee” that appears to be illegal.

And here’s the happy ending. It turns out 44-year-old Jason Combs had no valid towing contract and has now been arrested and charged with 49 counts of grand theft auto.

Don’t you love it?

The man claims this has nothing to do with gay people, and that all the cars were illegally parked. But really? Do you think 100 people would park in a lot across the street from a celebration if they were not confident that their cars were safe and legal? At worst, this guy targeted gays. At best, he was part of a towing scam.

This satisfying story is for all of us who have had the experience of walking up to our car, finding empty space, and noticing the fine print of a sign twenty yards down the street that prohibits parking from 10 to 10:30 on alternate Monday nights. Believe me, I’ve done this a dozen times, although ten of those times my car was actually parked on the next block, to be discovered only after a lengthy and exhausting tour of the bar district.

AUG UST 2014 | TH E F I GH T 23

Between The Lines Novelist Marcelino Rosas on writing books, being taken seriously as a former model and the struggle of being a young gay Latino growing up on the rough side of town.

4 2 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

n

BY PAULO MURILLO | PHOTO BY KURT R. BROWN

“My general goal in life is to make a

positive contribution to the world and achieve anything and everything I set my mind to,” states emphatically local novelist Marcelino Rosas in an interview with THE FIGHT. “Publishing two novels has been a wonderful achievement for me personally. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Rosas’ achievements include modeling throughout Europe, Australia and the U.S. He also had his first novel, “Afuera: A Young Latino’s Journey” published in 2013 at the ripe age of 24, and is currently set to release his second novel called “Fuerte: A Journey Continued” - a follow-up to his first novel.

YOUNG ADULTHOOD “Afuera” (“Out” in Spanish) is the coming out story of young Roberto Salas, who rebels against his family traditions and Latino culture in his struggle to come to terms with being gay. The story explores Roberto’s relationship with his abusive father, the influences of his conservative and religious family, and his survival in the homophobic world of athletics. The book follows Roberto’s life from school, to excelling in sports, to some graphic forbidden sex, with some unexpected twists and turns.

In Rosas’ second novel, “Fuerte,” Roberto’s self-discovery continues. Here we find a more confident young man who must struggle with work and school, while he adjust to the fast pace of Los Angeles.

The sex is more intense the second goaround. There is also love on the horizon,

“I feel that there is very little material on the market that other young gay Latinos are able to relate to... Although my books are not specifically aimed at Latinos, I feel that it covers some of the issues many young Latinos face.”

but Roberto must stay strong (fuerte) and juggle the curve balls that life throws at him while he slips into young adulthood in a new city.

face, but people were forced to recognize otherwise after the release of his first novel.

FIGHT FOR EVERYTHING

“Writing and modeling don’t really go together,” reveals Rosas. “People are actually surprised. I have been seen a certain way for many years and I guess it’s a bit of a change for them, but after they read my books they come around to understand me a bit better.

I’m not modeling as much anymore, but yeah, people assume you’re stupid because you do shoots in front of a camera.”

“I’m a married man,” he reveals. “That’s important. We’re going on one year of being married. We married here in California. It’s good. He’s supportive and a great cheerleader. I run everything by him and he’s pretty honest. We stay active. I’m not much of a crazy person, I don’t party or anything. I’m kind of an old soul.”

“The key message that I hope people will get from the second book is that even when you are going through a rough patch in your life, things eventually find their way to a better place. Life is rarely easy, but you gotta hang in there,” Rosas says.

Both books are written in first person, but Rosas insists that though there may be similarities between him and Roberto’s personal journeys, the story is fiction.

“It is definitely not autobiographical, even though most people who read the book think that I am Roberto, because of how it’s written,” he said. “I did get some inspiration from my life, family, and friends, which I over-dramatized for the books. I think everyone has a bit of Roberto in them. There are some similarities. I grew up in poverty in a very Mexican oriented city and I kind of had to fight for everything I have now and get out of that situation, but in many ways, he is different from me.

He’s a bit of a lost soul that is slowly gaining confidence after being mentally and physically beat up for years.”

A PRETTY FACE Rosas grew up in Bell Gardens, a rough neighborhood in south Los Angeles. He is the oldest of a brother and sister. Though his parents are loving and supportive, they didn’t always understand his writing endeavors. “They didn’t consider writing a job for a while, but they’re supportive now,” he says. “To be honest, I told them not to read my book, because it’s too intense for them. There is a lot of gay sex, and there are a lot of similarities to my life, so they’re going to think what’s in the book is what I think of them. They’re happy and proud of me.

That’s all I can ask for.”

Rosas joined Model Mayhem in 2007, where he caught the attention of several photographers, and recognition all over the world—however, youth and beauty can attach itself to the price tag of not being taken seriously as anything other than a pretty

AN OLD SOUL

CULTURAL BACKGROUND The Spanish titles for both his novels were intentional, says Rosas. “I had maybe over 10 different title suggestions and they were all kind of cookie cutter or boring,” he said. “I wanted my book title to be simple and to the point and to fit in with Roberto’s cultural background.”

“I feel that there is very little material on the market that other young gay Latinos are able to relate to,” he added. “Although my books are not specifically aimed at Latinos, I feel that it covers some of the issues many young Latinos face.”

A third novel by Marcelino Rosas is in the works that will be completely different from his first two novels. He reveals that “Fuerte: A Journey Continued,” could also conclude Roberto’s story. “It can end there,” he said.

“It can potentially have a follow up book but I might just leave it where I left it. Never say never right?”

“I’m so happy that my novels have resonated so well with readers,” Rosas says.

“People write to me about their coming out and how the book affected them, and they thank me for sharing Roberto’s story.”

“Afuera: A Young Latino’s Journey” can be purchased at amazon.com or wherever books are sold. “Fuerte: A journey Continued” is slated for a release date in late August. For more on Marcelino visit: goodreads.com/ author/show/6960905.Marcelino_Rosas AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 25

g n u o AY n a c i r e m A James Duke Mason (son of “The Go-Go’s” Belinda Carlisle) to run for West Hollywood City Council. Coming out, Arnold Schwarzenegger movies and developing a passion for politics.

BY JAMES MILLS | PHOTO BY SCOTT HOOVER

At the age of 22 James Duke Mason

has garnered more political experience than many aspiring politicians twice his age.

He came out at age 14, volunteered for Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential campaign at age 15, served as a page in U.S. Congress at 16 and worked as a surrogate for Barack Obama’s reelection in 2012, the campaign flying him around the country to talk to youth and LGBT groups.

And just last month—Mason threw his hat into the ring to run for West Hollywood City Council in its March 2015 election.

“West Hollywood is so close to my heart in terms of the gay factor,” says Mason, (who goes by his middle name of Duke) in

2 6 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

an interview with THE FIGHT. “I think the issues here are so specific to me and to what I care about. Of course, I care about healthcare and immigration and the environment and lots of national issues. But this is an area where I really feel like I could make a tangible impact and have a real influence.”

CELEBRITY BACKGROUND

Mason has lived in West Hollywood for the past four years, but throughout his childhood, he always considered West Hollywood home, even though he grew up in provincial France, near Cannes, with his parents.

His parents? His mother is Belinda Carlisle, best known as the lead singer of the Go-Go’s,

the all-girl rock group that had the beat back in the 1980s with hits like “Our Lips Are Sealed,” “Vacation” and “We Got the Beat,” as well as her solo hit, “Heaven Is A Place on Earth.”

His father is Morgan Mason, who worked in public relations and later became a movie producer, best known for 1989s “Sex, Lies And Videotape.” His grandfather was actor James Mason, best remembered for films like 1954’s “A Star is Born” and 1959’s “North by Northwest.”

LARGER THAN LIFE

With all that celebrity in his background, one would expect him to go into music or try his hand at acting. While he says he can’t

sing, he did score some small parts in a few films, but says he’s put acting behind him.

It’s politics that Mason is passionate about.

He credits his father’s serving as Deputy Chief of Protocol and a Special Assistant to Ronald Reagan from 1981-1982 with introducing him to the idea of public service.

He cites his mother’s being rabidly antiGeorge W. Bush with helping him appreciate political activism and social justice. “[Living in France] was a real crisis of identity for me because I so closely identified with LA and America,” he reveals. “For most of my childhood, I felt isolated from where I really felt like I belonged. So, being away from America played a large part on my interest in politics. It was a way to reconnect with my roots...

“I think if anything, being away from America made me more patriotic . . . Even though I did come back to America often, the way that my impression of America was built was through watching movies. As silly as it sounds, watching Arnold Schwarzenegger movies where America was this larger than life place was a huge factor. I really grew up seeing America as this incredible place where anything was possible. I still feel very idealistic and very patriotic.”

SENSE OF IDENTITY

Mason’s deep understanding of political processes is evidenced by his insightful opeds in the Huffington Post and The Advocate website, as well as his personal blog, The Daily Duke (which has been inactive since he started writing for The Advocate).

While he focused on national and international issues in his op-eds, he was mum on West Hollywood politics until early 2014 when the city removed the rainbow flag from atop City Hall (eventually replacing it with a new version of the city flag that incorporates the rainbow colors).

He took to his blog and wrote about the importance of the rainbow flag to the city’s gay population.

“The rainbow flag was a symbol of how we were losing our sense of identity or at

“I’d like to think that I’m the kind of person who would be best qualified to help reinforce our values and use those values to take us in new directions...”

least how we were in danger of doing that,” he says. “Even though I’d always followed West Hollywood politics, that was the thing that really convinced me to get out there and start talking publicly.”

READY TO COME OUT

Being gay also added to the isolation he felt in France. He first realized he was gay when he was seven years old, although he didn’t have a name for it at the time. It would be another five years before he connected the word “gay” to the feelings he was having, but once he did, he began researching the social and political history of the gay movement extensively.

Mason credits watching the 2002 gay romance “The Trip” with giving him the courage to come out at age 14.

“I saw [“The Trip”] by chance on television,” he recalls. “We were in LA in summer 2006.

We were staying in a hotel and I clicked on the pay-for-view menu. My mom and dad were asleep in the other room. The poster had this guy wrapping his arm around another guy. I went, “Oh my God, it’s a gay movie.” I put it on and in two hours, my entire life had changed. All of a sudden, I realized I could live as a gay man, I could live honestly and openly.

After that, I watched a bunch of other gay movies. I saw the movie in June. By October 2006, I was ready to come out.”

A BONDING MOMENT

His friends at school (an international school with about 450 students of many nationalities), were surprised, but accepting to the point that he was elected student body president in his senior year.

His mother was initially shocked and worried for him, but came around quickly. His father, reveals Mason, took a bit longer to accept it. “[My father] was never anti-gay; they had plenty of gay friends, but it was still an adjustment,” Mason says. “He had to get used to this aspect of his son that he had never even contemplated. What brought us together was watching ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ (the 1967 movie starring Sidney Poitier as the black boyfriend brought home to meet his white girlfriend’s upper middle class parents). We watched it together. He cried. I cried. It was a bonding moment.

Since then, we’ve had zero problems. He’s very supportive of my activism.”

INITIAL CORE VALUES

With movies playing such a large part in

his evolution, it’s only natural that Mason has been involved with Outfest, LA’s LGBT film society, where he’s been on the board of directors for the past three years.

“I was actually approached by Outfest when they were looking for someone to serve as a voice for youth and for the new generation,” he says. “The last couple years have been a time of major expansion for Outfest.

We just recently merged with Newfest in New York with the intention of becoming a nationwide organization, so I’m really proud of the work we’ve done and my role in that.”

And now he’s hoping he can make a difference in the direction of West Hollywood.

In a time where West Hollywood is experiencing increasing gentrification, Mason wants to make sure the city maintains its gay identity. He feels that gay identify is especially important as West Hollywood begins its 30th anniversary celebration later this year.

“We have to start thinking about the next 30 years,” explains Mason. “I’d like to think that I’m the kind of person who would be best qualified to help reinforce our values and use those values to take us in new directions ... someone young and someone who hasn’t been part of the system and part of the entrenched stuff that goes on between the City Council and the people.”

In addition to preserving the city’s gay identity, Mason wants to make sure the city’s initial core values of supporting marginalized groups are upheld. He’s also concerned about development, saying the city needs to adopt a “smart development” approach that allows new “socially responsible” buildings to go up, but also preserve the city’s historic buildings too.

FACEBOOK LOVE

Mason reveals that his partner, Shawn Mimbs, who served two years on the city’s Lesbian and Gay Advisory Board, is offering insights on how the city functions. The two met via Facebook and quickly fell in love.

“I never imagined at 19 that I would find someone who I would be together with for three years,” Mason says. “We have a lot of mutual interests and goals.”

But the two are not talking marriage yet.

“At 22, the thought of marriage is daunting. As much as I love him, I don’t think that’s on the radar now. But it’s incredible to know we can get married now. The gay movement has progressed so much in such a short amount of time.”

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 27

DAY 1: MARLON MORALES, MR. LA LEATHER 2012

To get help for drug and alcohol addiction,

Honoring Latino Role Models

to start your day one now.

“Honor 41” promotes awareness and positive images of the Latino LGBTQ Community.

BY ORLY LYONNE

“HONOR 41” is proud to announce the 2014 edition of “The

Residential and Outpatient Treatment in Palm Springs, California

(866) 494.7787

2 8 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

41 List” honoring and celebrating 41 Latina/o LGBTQ role models. This year’s list includes activists, actors, community leaders, activists, and artists, elected officials, students and more.

“Honor 41” is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and positive images of the Latino LGBTQ Community.

This year’s honorees include: Helen Jaramillo, Azusa Unified High School District Board Member, Alfredo Pedroza, Wells Fargo Executive, Ralfa Gonzalez, international artist, Daniel Armando, film maker, Yojanze Jimenez, hairstylist to the stars, and various community leasers/activists such as Ari Gutierrez, Co-Chair of LA’s Latino Equality Alliance, George Raya longtime LGBTQ Leader in CA, Herb Sosa, Founder of Florida’s Unity Coalition and Marlon Morales, Mr. LA Leather 2012, philanthropist.

“Everyone has a story, so having the opportunity to capture the stories of these amazing role models and sharing them with others is incredible,” said Alberto B. Mendoza, Founder of “Honor 41” and Producer of “The 41 List.”

“I know by sharing these stories, we are making it easier for Latino LGBTQ individuals to come out and live their lives with honor and pride.”

“Honor 41”’s name originates from a hate crime in Mexico City in which 41 men were beaten, arrested, and eventually disappeared for their sexual orientation.

Since the incident in 1901, the number 41 has been used as slang in Mexico to refer to a person of different sexual orientation. “Honor 41” confronts the terrible history behind the number and reclaims it to honor inspirational individuals in the LGBTQ community and proudly remember the arduous path toward acceptance and equality.

For more information about this year’s honorees or “Honor 41,” visit their website at www.honor41.org.

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AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 29

PrEP School Eric Paul Leue, HIV/AIDS activist and Eagle Mr. LA Leather 2014, on the side effects and side benefits of the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) drug Truvada.

BY PAULO MURILLO | PHOTO BY ERIC SCHWABEL

Eagle Mr. LA Leather 2014

and community leader Eric Paul Leue has worked for HIV awareness and fought against HIV-related stigma and discrimination for over 10 years.

In an interview with THE FIGHT, he discusses the side effects and side benefits of the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) drug Truvada, and what it means, in 2014, to be “responsible,” “safer” and “protected.”

Where do you think we are—as gay men—in the dialogue regarding HIV/ AIDS and its prevention?

I believe we have arrived at a turning point.

As Peter Staley [American HIV/AIDS-LGBT rights activist] said: “...when this crisis is finally over, there will be two kinds of people remembered: those who fought to end it, and those

3 0 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

who slowed us down.” Thirty years after the HIV crisis began, we finally have scientific proof that we are able to stop the virus from spreading further with efficacies beyond 99%.

Do you feel there is a divide between HIV- and HIV+ men in the gay community?

The divide that I see is solely based in heaps of one-sided misinformation as well as cultural and personal judgments over others. I am HIV negative. Two of my three long-term relationships were with HIV positive men. Both basically ended because my partners were afraid of the “What if Eric was to become HIV positive through me?” This was not about whether we could or couldn’t fuck raw, but because from their perspective the fear of infecting me took the pleasure out of our intimacy.

For almost three decades it was ingrained in us that irresponsible, promiscuous bareback sex spreads HIV. It was easy to divide the community into good-responsible, and bad-irresponsible. The dawn of new HIV prevention methods like TasP (Treatment as Prevention) and PrEP adds a whole new spectrum to what it means to be “responsible,” “safer” and “protected.”

There are other forms of PrEP, what makes Truvada the drug of choice?

Truvada is the only FDA approved antiretroviral drug (ARV) combination for PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) since 2012.

Other forms of PrEP such as long-term injections, gels & rings, as well as other drugs such as maraviroc and ripilvirine are currently being researched. Truvada was first FDA

“The question you need to ask yourself is ‘Am I more likely to adhere to a pill in the morning, or putting on a condom right before intercourse?’” approved in 2004 for use as anti-retroviral treatment (ART). It is the most prescribed HIV treatment medication, shows the least side effects, consists of only one pill per day and consists of two active agents (tenofovir, TDF and emtricitabine, FTC).

Exactly what does Truvada do to your body?

Truvada’s active agents TDF and FTC are so called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. In order for HIV to successfully infect a person, it needs to reproduce. There are different enzymes we know of that the virus needs to do that. Truvada prevents the virus from reproducing by blocking one of the enzymes.

What are the side effects?

There are side effects and side benefits.

Most people I have talked to experience what we call the starter syndrome. Those mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, night sweats, etc. usually occur within the first four weeks and disappear. Other side effects that show over time are usually bone density loss, and effects on liver and kidneys.

While none of the side effects are irreversible after the prevention regime is discontinued, they also don’t appear as often in HIV- people as in HIV+ people. People are always concerned about toxicity levels and like to get polemic by comparing Truvada to the first ever ART called AZT. AZT has a toxicity switch ratio of 43.5%. TDF is at 6.4% and FTC at even less with 1.2%. The regular check ups are what I call a side benefit, just like the reduced chance of getting herpes.

One of the most valuable side benefits though is the alleviation of anxiety about HIV. How important is a daily dosage as directed?

“As directed” does not just mean daily, but daily at about the same time of day. This is important for two reasons: efficacy and adherence. A daily routine is generally easier to adhere to than if I do something every other day.

The 2014 CDC guidelines about PrEP state that with 7 doses per week an HIV transmission prevention efficacy of 92% is achieved.

What happens if you miss a dosage or two?

First of all, only you know what works for you. Truvada is very different from condoms when looking at how adherence affects efficacy. Taking PrEP is, for example, part of the morning routine right after brushing your teeth. Condoms are used the moment before the anal or vaginal fuckery commences.

So the question you need to ask yourself is “Am I more likely to adhere to a pill in the morning, or putting on a condom right before intercourse?”

Condoms are 70% efficacious in preventing HIV, but only for the 16.4% of the MSM who always use them during anal intercourse. For the “small” number of 83.6% of the MSM that do not always use them, the efficacy of condoms is basically 0%.

PrEP is different, because even if I miss a dose, PrEP’s half-life is between 31 hours (TDF) and 37 hours (FTC), meaning the drug levels only slowly decrease. A regression model calculation based on the iPrex study showed in 2012 that PrEP’s efficacy is 99% with 7 pills per week, 96% with 4 pills per week and 76% with 2 pills per week. In the iPrex Open Label Extension (OLE) the researchers found that no patients that adhered to more than 4 doses per week were infected with HIV. Where does PrEP fit in with other STIs? Counter question: where do contraceptives fit in with STIs, or where do condoms fit in with oral, skin-to-skin, or smear-infections?

PrEP (in form of Truvada) prevents HIV infections in the entire body of an HIV negative person and it reduces the chance of getting infected with herpes. While Truvada (specifically tenofovir) is also used as treatment for Hepatitis B, it does not prevent any other STIs. One of the biggest challenges regarding the conversation about PrEP is the misconception that STIs are only contracted through vaginal/anal intercourse and hence a condom stops every infection.

There are bacterial STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis, and viral STIs like HIV, herpes, HPV and hepatitis B. All of these bacteria / viral infections can be transmitted through other ways than just condomless anal/ vaginal intercourse. Most of them even through

oral sex, “intense” kissing, or even as a smear infection from a toilet seat or door handle.

I have personally had chlamydia & gonorrhea in my throat, and I have had a cold sore on my lips once or twice, which would mean that I have herpes just like pretty much everybody else in the U.S. does.

Scary? No, but I suppose if you don’t know what that means it could be.

First of all, I mentioned this before, regular testing (knowing of an infection) is key in preventing transmissions by enabling us to stop the transmissions cycle. In the U.S. only half of all people between 18-44 have at least had one HIV/STI test in their life. That’s a very low number. PrEP users will at least have four tests per year and hence inspire others to do the same by making regular testing normal.

Secondly, let’s put it in perspective, in numbers. HIV is often referred to as the only STI that can’t be cured. While there are other incurable infections like HSV (herpes), specific types of hepatitis, and HPV (human papillomavirus), untreated HIV remains to be the most fatal.

The iPrex OLE study—as well as every other study—found that there was “no sign of increased risk behavior among PrEP users.”

Realistically I believe there will be some people who choose to abandon condoms once they are on PrEP, but I also know that there are people that chose not to use condoms before PrEP came around. In either case we wouldn’t abandon contraceptives for not preventing STIs, nor would we abandon condoms for not preventing oral, skin-to-skin, or smear-infections.

I don’t think it is wise to oppose PrEP on the same grounds on which we would have to abandon every other prevention tool too.

PrEP prevents the most dangerous of the common STIs with the highest efficacy.

What are some testimonials on PrEP that stand out in your mind?

Quite honestly the one I hear the most is by the generation that had to experience the first years of HIV: “If we had had this 30 years ago we would have all been on it. We would have demonstrated, broken down gates and doors to get it cheaper, make it more accessible, and to protect everybody.”

For more info visit: aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/prevention/ reduce-your-risk/pre-exposure-prophylaxis/.

Eric Paul Leue can be reached via Facebook at Mr L.A. Leather.

AUG UST 2014 | TH E F I GH T 31

THELAW >> ENTRAPMENT <<

Police officers working undercover are exempt from certain criminal laws. For instance, law enforcement officers directly engaged in the enforcement of controlled substance laws are exempt from laws surrounding the purchase, possession, sales or use of illegal substances.

ENTRAPMENT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IT IS A WELL ACCEPTED PRACTICE FOR POLICE TO USE DECEPTION TO CATCH THOSE WHO BREAK THE LAW.

BY DAV I D H AK I M FA R Whether watching the movie “Blow,” or Season 2, Episode 8 of “Breaking Bad” (Episode: “Better Call Saul”), you will have heard discussed the legal defense of “entrapment.” If you’ve ever wondered what “entrapment” is, here we’ll discuss how it works and, of even greater importance, what it’s not.

Entrapment is a defense to criminal charges that deals with police officers and a defendant prior to the alleged crime taking place. A typical situation arises when a police officer utilizes coercion and other overbearing tactics to convince someone to commit a crime.

However, the key aspect of entrapment is: judges expect people to resist any ordinary urge to violate the law. An entrapment defense arises when government agents are left to repulsive behavior, such as the use of threats, harassment, abuse, fraud, or even flattery, to induce defendants to commit crimes.

EXPOSE ILLICIT ACTIVITY Entrapment can essentially occur in two ways.

In one example, a person is offered the opportunity to commit a crime, unbeknownst to him/her, by law enforcement. In the second, 3 2 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

the would-be-criminal is actively enticed to commit the crime by a “person of authority,” such as a law enforcement officer.

If an officer or his agent simply gave a person the opportunity to commit a crime, or merely tried to gain the person’s confidence through reasonable and restrained steps, that conduct is not entrapment.

For example, in the early 1990s, the defense of entrapment was used after government agents used of underage, but mature-looking, decoys to expose unlawful sales of alcoholic beverages to minors.

Government agents used no pressure or overbearing conduct, and targets could have protected themselves by routinely checking customer IDs. Therefore, the Court ruled that the use of “ruses, stings, and decoys” to expose illicit activity does not constitute entrapment, as long as no pressure or overbearing conduct is employed by the decoy.

“ARE YOU A COP?” Using entrapment in defending against a violation is a complicated and detailed endeavor. Many factors must be analyzed in order to determine if entrapment has indeed occurred and what are the best ways to defend against it.

Historically, entrapment has been defined by two tests. These are the “subjective test” and the “objective test.” In general, the

subjective test focuses on the individual’s previous behaviors. If that person was not “predisposed” to commit the crime in question or has no history of doing so, entrapment can be claimed.

The objective test, however, asks whether or not the action of the authorities created an opportunity for the individual to commit a crime that they normally would not have committed.

California adheres to the “objective test.” And it’s with this in mind that we’ll answer the question I get asked most about this defense: “If I ask ‘Are you a cop?’ and the police officer lies, is it still entrapment?”

Well, the question of whether or not on-duty police may lie to civilians goes hand in hand with the question of entrapment.

WORKING UNDERCOVER

It is a well accepted practice for police to use deception to catch those who break the law. There is no question that police officers are currently allowed to directly mislead and/or deceive others about their identity, their law enforcement status, their history, and just about anything else you can think of, without breaking the law or compromising their case.

Conversely, it is illegal in many jurisdictions for an ordinary citizen to lie to the police.

Police officers working undercover are exempt from certain criminal laws. For instance, law enforcement officers directly engaged in the enforcement of controlled substance laws are exempt from laws surrounding the purchase, possession, sales or use of illegal substances. YES, this means that there is no way to identify an undercover officer based on their willingness or refusal to use an illegal drug. Be careful out there!

David Hakimfar is a trial attorney and senior partner of Hakimfar Law, PLC, and a member attorney of Pride Legal.

He can be reached at 310-730-1250.

Studies suggest that muscle dysmorphia is often found in individuals who are involved in weight lifting and other muscle development activities. could be due to a combination of various factors that may include:

GENETIC FACTORS

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

The reverse side of anorexia: muscle heads who see a scrawny underweight weakling when they look in the mirror.

BY PAULO MURILLO

Most in recovery recognize that the addiction to

drugs and alcohol can easily turn into an addiction to working out and building muscles, but it turns out that bigger isn’t always better—at least not to muscle heads who suffer from of a form of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) known as bigorexia, where an individual is addicted to going to the gym, consuming muscle building powders and weighing over 200lbs, but all he sees is a scrawny underweight weakling when he looks in the mirror.

Bigorexia is defined as a mental disorder characterized by a normal person’s obsession with an imagined defect in physical appearance; also called muscle dysmorphia and dysmorphophobia. It is considered the reverse side of anorexia, another BDD where a skinny person looks in the mirror and all they see is an overweight person looking back.

Bigorexia tends to affect males more than females because men are under more pressure to be toned with big muscles.

Common symptoms for bigorexia are as follows: • Spending mornings avoiding a mirror because a person tends to wake up feeling smaller after many hours of sleep and the sight of a deflated figure can make a person depressed and obsessed over an imagined weight loss.

• A person is known as narcissistic or an exhibitionist because he feels insecure about his physical appearance and is always seeking outside validation and reassurance that he has big muscles.

• A person has trouble accepting compliments because he feels being lied to, because they don’t feel attractive.

• A person belongs to several different gyms and spends nearly half their paycheck on supplements, food, and anything that might help him go bigger.

• A person centers his life around the gym and finds himself avoid social settings where he might stay up too and risk not getting enough sleep, therefore ruining his workouts the following day.

Though the exact cause of bigorexia is unknown, studies indicate that it

Insufficient levels of serotonin in the brain, which is an important brain chemical that determines the mood and well-being of an individual.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS Such as troubled families, extreme stress, and other emotional and cultural factors as well.

Studies suggest that muscle dysmorphia is often found in individuals who are involved in weight lifting and other muscle development activities.

Many people who are unable to achieve personal goals or handle pressures from coaches regarding an unrealistic ideal body image may turn to anabolic steroids or other dangerous substances to satisfy their aspirations.

Currently, no specific programs have been developed to help people with BDD because not many people recognize they suffer from this disorder and fail to seek treatment. It’s hard to convince a person with BDD and recommend help. Different approaches to help a person recognize the condition include: having open discussions about body image, encouraging a group or team discussion, and soliciting the help of coaching and support staff to address the topic.

The devastating psychological and social consequences often go unrecognized and, thus, untreated.

If you, or someone you know suffers from bigorexia or any other form of body dysmorphia, seek the help of a health professional.

AUG UST JUNE 2014 2014 | T|H TEHFEI GH F I GH T T3328

COMING CLEAN

My name is Jeremy and I’m an alcoholic, a drug addict and I have bipolar Disorder. I should feel shame about these things but I don’t. I should keep these things secret but I can’t. To hide in the shadows means I’m still a victim and I refuse to be that. This is my confession.

BY JEREMY MANNING

In October of 2011 I wrote my first article for THE FIGHT. I was featured on the cover and wrote about my recovery, my childhood and all the shitty things I’d been through.

A recipe of entitlement - the moment when my ego began to manifest into physical form.

When my addict secretly plotted my demise.

For most of my life milestones were recorded by wreckage and devastation.

Car crashes and near death experiences outweighed successes and all I saw was 3 4 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

hopelessness on the horizon. It’s all I ever thought I deserved. Then I lost my mom and everything began to change for the better.

My view of myself changed and I challenged the world to accept me. Embracing the challenges I once viewed as failures, they became lessons and I used my torrid history as a means to gain an audience. In what seemed like an instant, I became a published writer and radio show host and the image of my newfound-self began to grow.

I fancied myself a champion over the desire to drink and boasted almost daily of my conquest over meth addiction. All the while I was sinking further into the abyss than I’d ever been before. The bigger I perceived my image, the greater my fear became of admitting the truth. I was telling readers that I was sober and drinking more than ever.

On my radio show I hosted guests who also struggled with alcoholism, who were sober and called into my show through Skype. No

PHOTO BY ANN BRASSEUR-GATES

JEREMY MANNING, STANDING, 4TH FROM R, AND FAMILY

Drinking, drugs and mental illness converged into a massive path of destruction. I love you. I hate you. Fuck off. Don’t leave me. I’m afraid, I’m unstoppable. I can do anything. I can’t get out of bed. Don’t fucking talk to me. Why won’t you answer me? Why do you hate me? If you leave me I’ll die. I can live forever. one saw me drinking from my sound station...from my hiding place.

For the next couple of years I drank and smoked pot to manage my rising success. I drank and I used drugs to deal with whatever reason or rationale that fed my addiction.

During phases of fleeting sobriety I acquired more allies and opportunities. Still, I returned to the bottle over and over again. It often began with a couple of sips or cocktails and quickly escalated to shots of tequila for breakfast and a steady flow of booze to get me through each day.

Everything was out of control and I hadn’t learned how to manage my life. I just got better at covering things up. Or maybe I got better at convincing myself that no one knew the truth. When the only person who believed I was getting away with anything was me.

I went to AA meetings and told everyone I was doing great. I told them I was sober, took chips and even spoke at a meeting where I accepted a cake for “one year of continuous sobriety.” When I hadn’t stayed sober for more than a few months. In fact, I smoked pot on the way to accept my cake and I was stoned when I spoke.

Everything started to feel like cheating at Solitaire and the deeper I dug myself into a hole, the harder it was to find my way out. I was convinced that if I could figure out how to stop drinking everything would be okay.

But I didn’t really want to stop as much as I wanted to avoid inevitable defeat. In spite of my best efforts, I’m not a very good liar and

trying to exist in recovery while I was drinking got exhausting pretty fast.

What’s worse was trying to represent the best image of myself while I knew I wasn’t that person. Maybe that’s life. Maybe that’s how a lot of people live, somewhere between the perception of self and the image we express to everyone else. All I know is that the line between who I thought I was and who I wanted everyone else to think I was became blurred by self-induced delirium.

I felt on the top of my game and in the dregs of alcoholism at the same time. My dreams of being published had been realized. I was a partner at a high-end personal training facility in West Hollywood where I helped nearly double profits. My name popped up in press for numerous achievements and community efforts, while I lied about my drinking and drug use. I tormented my exes, created conflicts among friends and made every effort to sabotage all the good I’d been offered. Everything got worse.

I thought I deserved to be praised for my efforts because I spent so much time being punished for my failures. I was the greatest, most admirable piece of shit you could fathom and goddamn-it-all I deserved to feel like the glorious trash I’d become.

Inside I felt worthless and bathed in misery while I put forth every effort to convince you otherwise. Because your opinion of me was the mark by which I was measured—If you didn’t love me, you hated me. There was no in between.

Drinking, drugs and mental illness converged into a massive path of destruction.

I love you. I hate you. Fuck off. Don’t leave me. I’m afraid, I’m unstoppable. I can do anything. I can’t get out of bed. Don’t fucking talk to me. Why won’t you answer me?

Why do you hate me? If you leave me I’ll die.

I can live forever. This is my legacy. This is my goodbye. I’ll be legendary. I just wanna die. I can’t deal with any of this. I can handle more than you can dish out. I just want it all to end. I need to find oblivion. I needed to find answers. To stop my racing thoughts, my rollercoaster emotions and get a grip on the vortex of sadness and rage I’d created before everyone saw the smoke when I crashed and burned. I needed to get high.

There was this moment when I sat alone in my apartment after a few days of smoking meth and drinking. I scanned the room with tired eyes and squinted at piles of unpaid bills and garbage bags filled with empty

tequila bottles. Trash was scattered everywhere. My dogs were dirty and sad-faced.

The place smelled like piss and burnt plastic and it hit me for the first time, this was an unmanaged life. I had to decide then to get sober or die. There were no other choices.

They had all been used up.

I was done pretending I was something I wasn’t. I’d grown so tired of trying to convince everyone that I was better than them.

That’s what I thought they needed to think and I was tired of being wrong. Because I didn’t care anymore and I was done feeling less than everyone else too. I didn’t know what any of it meant or how to fix my thinking. All I knew was that I wasn’t the one to be asking for answers.

The words of my dear friend Mylee YC stayed in my heart for months after she and others discovered my secrets. She told me the night they’d seen me drunk that I needed to give up everything I’d come to believe was my own. That everything I’d been doing was what lead me to this place so I had to do something different to create real change. So I did the one thing I’d avoided all along. I admitted to myself with unrelenting honesty that I had a problem and I needed help.

It took a lot of determination and faith to get into rehab. There were a lot of obstacles along the way and I really didn’t want to stop drinking. Not yet. People often asked, “Are you willing to do whatever it takes to get sober?” and I couldn’t say yes. I didn’t know how to and I didn’t even want to. I just felt like I had to.

So I did, but this time I did things differently and embraced the help I was given.

It was in rehab when I realized that addiction and mental illness were both responsible for my suffering. I decided not to argue or analyze chicken and egg theories or wonder why I had to deal with these issues.

All that mattered was that I had a problem and needed help. That no matter what, I couldn’t and wouldn’t drink or use. I learned that drinking wasn’t the problem it was a symptom of something deeper and the solution was love. The love of my family and all the friends who supported me when I gave up everything to go into treatment.

One of the best lessons I learned was, doing what I want all the time leads me to places I don’t want to be. Doing what I need to leads me to places where I never thought possible and everything else will just fall into place.

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 35

How do you prefer to be addressed in terms of what you do?

Artist. It covers all bases.

At what point in your life did you decide to nurture your art and go pro?

I don’t know that I’ve gone pro as much as this is just what I do.

I don’t have anything else, or a fallback career. Sink or swim.

Did anyone ever tell you to get a “real job?”

Just the teachers at my art school [laughs].

PHOTO BY GREG GORMAN

What should people love most about your prints?

They’re meant to bring in some fun, positive energy. I am not claiming to be the best pop artist, or even the best artist. My work isn’t meant to be pretentious. It is silly and fun. I love that. I think there is way too little of that in the art world right now. I don’t want to walk into an apartment and see ravens with baby doll heads crying

PoptArt

LA-based artist and model Trevor Wayne on the art of male frontal nudity, dark comedy, and hate mail.

BY PAULO MURILLO

Tattooed pin-up model and pop artist Trevor Wayne injects humor into horror with brightly colored prints where bananas replace threatening objects in classic horror films, classic Hollywood sex symbols hold a hotdog, and iconic characters get switched around to create The Golden Girls as the Super Friends, Elvis as Superman and Jerri Blank as Shera, to name a few.

Aside from being a walking colorful work of permanent tattooed art (Wayne’s likeness has appeared in print ads, coffee table books and he’s even graced the cover of THE FIGHT) he wants to be recognized for his own contribution to the pop art world.

In an interview with THE FIGHT, Wayne discusses the art of male frontal nudity, dark comedy, his dislike of baby doll heads crying blood and how his art form is all about having some silly fun.

3 6 T H E F I GH T | A U GU S T 2014

blood, and paintings of teeth scattered on a doctor’s table. I don’t like dark imagery like that.

Your “Horror Banana” series pokes fun at some horror movie classics what inspired that?

I was a huge horror movie fan. I now try to stay away from it. I’m aware of how fake it is.

That being said...I still love dark comedy, the kind of horror where you leave laughing, like “Cabin in the Woods,” “Evil Dead”—the first ones, “Little Shop of Horrors” or “Death Becomes Her.” That idea of dark imagery shaping us subconsciously made me want to pay homage to the most classic, terrifying, iconic horror scenes—but replacing the horror with something funny and non-threatening.

You offer to a personal hand delivery of your art to collectors anywhere in the U.S. for a fee, any takers?

I actually have had buyers fly me out to NYC, Chicago, Omaha,

and San Francisco a few times. It has been a great experience and not as creepy as it sounds. Some people don’t have time to travel and love the idea of having artists they admire come to them to hang out and have a few drinks with. It’s been a great way of meeting new people.

What sort of reactions do you get for your nude pics in your website?

Some people really like them and appreciate the underlying humor.

Some people have written me hate mail telling me I’m ugly, and that I must think I’m so hot, and I should stop. I’m not going to stop. I am just me. I just do it. I wish more people would. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there because you’re not the typical gay or straight standard of what a model is. The idea of what our community thinks is the standard for sexy is absurd to me, and I can’t be the only one who feels that way.

Why do you consider full-male frontal nudity “pop art?”

Because now that being gay is more accepted in our culture, many

gay artists are stepping up and painting male nudes and using men in their art. Fine art in the late 20th century seems to be mostly all female nudes. I think men were afraid to photograph men, or paint them nude for fear of being accused of being gay. Now we are having such a swing in the other direction, that I consider male nudes pop art, because to me it is very much a sign of our modern times.

me personally, I don’t want to have sex with another person on camera. I like that my pics are for guys and girls—even if I am wearing a fox mask, and fucking a blow-up sheep in one photo.

You are at full attention in some of your pin-up prints.

Where do you draw the line between nude art and porn?

I think sexuality in art is powerful because sex is one of our most basic instincts. I’m sure people in the old days beat off to the statue of David—all while calling it art. I have seen some wonderful fine art of male nudes with erections. I think having an erection doesn’t make it porn— and also porn can be art. It can be pop art. Sex can be art. For

What projects are you currently working on?

I’m still painting my “Horror Banana” series in oils—almost done. Then I have a new series in mind that is not pop art. I’m kind of nervous about it, but that’s what makes it exciting. n

What are some of your best-selling prints?

Golden Girls for sure. Then probably Madonna, Little Edie, Harry Potter, Marilyn Monroe, and my Horror Banana work.

Trevor Wayne’s artwork will be on display throughout the month of August at Groundwork Coffee, 1501 N. Cahuenga Blvd. (at Sunset) in Hollywood. To purchase his artwork, visit trevorwayne.com.

6641 SANTA MONICA BLVD. (Next to Arena Nightclub) TEL: (323) 469-1951 Monday-Friday: 6:30am-5pm Saturday: 8am-12noon Sunday: Closed

Kitchen Cabinets Starting at Only: $1228.15 Proudly Serving The LGBT Community

Fiberon Decking: Starting at $2.99 Per Foot

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 37

THEMONEY

>> FINANCIAL INFIDELITY <<

Both spouses should have equal access to account passwords, and review the data and financial plans regularly in an open, trusting fashion, so that the only infidelities any couple need to consider are emotional and sexual, not financial. cheating can get you into big trouble with the government!

RED FLAGS

PREVENTING FINANCIAL INFIDELITY 35% OF ADULTS WITH COMBINED FINANCES ADMIT TO HAVING HIDDEN A PURCHASE, BANK ACCOUNT, STATEMENT, BILL, OR CASH FROM THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER.

BY G R A N T G OC H I N Has your spouse cheated on you? No, I am not asking about emotionally or sexually—I mean financially! A January 2014 online survey by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE.org) found that 35 percent of adults with combined finances admit to having hidden a purchase, bank account, statement, bill, or cash from their significant other.

Thirteen percent of respondents said they have committed more severe deceptions, like lying about the amount of debt that they owe or the amount they earn. 76 percent of the time, this deception affects the relationship.

The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) even has a rule about cheating spouses when it applies to jointly filed tax returns, called “Innocent Spouse Relief”. It provides an exception to the general rule that both signers of a joint return are individually liable for the entire tax due plus penalties and interest.

Generally, when a taxpayer signs a joint return they are liable for the entire tax due, even if the taxpayer later divorces their spouse, did not earn the income that generated the tax, and did not know about the omission of income from the joint tax return, nor of claiming erroneous deductions.

Under the innocent spouse rule, a spouse may claim to not be jointly liable if they did not know about the errors and did not benefit from them. Therefore, cheating isn’t only about a tryst on the side, 3 8 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

Becoming married is a legal contract between the marrying spouses, a 2012 study showed that arguing about money is a top predictor of divorce.

Certainly, trouble from the IRS based on deliberate lies would be grounds for any divorce, so ethics is mandatory.

Red flags that could indicate financial infidelity include such items as one spouse becoming resistant to talking about finances, or becoming defensive or angry around the subject of money.

It could be large purchases without prior discussion, the discovery of bills or receipts for items previously unknown, and dramatic changes in monthly account balances. It could also be finding that new lines of credit were opened in your spouse’s name, or even worse, in your name without telling you first!

Your spouse could be hiding bills or bank statements, or suddenly they could turn to cash spending instead of credit card spending. Your spouse may suddenly change account passwords and refuse to give you the new ones… there can be many signs of financial infidelity, you need to be aware and to pay attention.

A FINANCIAL ROADMAP Preventing financial infidelity should be the priority for couples, rather than overcoming infidelity afterwards; prevention should be based on having a financial roadmap for the married couple, a

determined budget, an agreement on savings, expenses and investment, and an open dialog on long term financial goals. It is important that both spouses work through financial differences so that there is no perception of unfairness, and that common financial goals are agreed upon in a trusting environment. Both spouses should have equal access to account passwords, and review the data and financial plans regularly in an open, trusting fashion, so that the only infidelities any couple need to consider are emotional and sexual, not financial. n Grant Gochin is a Wealth Advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional at 16200 Ventura Blvd # 415, Encino, CA 91436 Ph: (818) 827-3410. Grant is married (to a man) and he and his husband have one son.

Questions and suggestions for future articles should be sent to him at grant.gochin@ raymondjames.com.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/ SIPC The Fight Magazine is not affiliated with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. RJFS does not provide tax advice or tax preparation. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with a qualified professional. Any opinions are those of the author and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the forgoing material is accurate or complete.

I’m a good cook but sometimes my pantry is bare. Kathy, D.A.P. client

Gay At The Museum Reel to real: portrayals and perceptions of gays in Hollywood at The Hollywood Museum.

BT ORLY LYONNE

Due to popular demand, The Hollywood Museum

is pleased to announce that its LGBT exhibit “Reel to Real: Portrayals and Perceptions of Gays in Hollywood” has been extended to September 28. Launched in June to coincide with LGBT Heritage Month, this exclusive exhibition is an entertaining and informative retrospective of LGBT images in film and television throughout the decades. Featuring photos, costumes, props and iconic imagery from the past and present, “Reel to Real” provides a unique perspective on how gays have been portrayed in Hollywood from early stereotypes to modern representations.

The Hollywood Museum’s presentation places the exhibit in the historical context of Hollywood, which is home to a large LGBT entertainment industry population.

“The museum welcomes the opportunity to create and showcase this important exhibition, sharing with the public the artistic expression of the LGBT culture and its transformative impact on the world through the entertainment industry,” said Donnelley Madigan, Founder and President of The Hollywood Museum.

Some of the fascinating items displayed in the “Reel to Real” exhibition include a photo wall with images of renowned actors who have portrayed characters that have become gay icons over the years, including Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stone street (“Modern Family”); Colin Firth (“A Single Man”); Sean Hayes and Eric McCormack (“Will & Grace”); Sean Penn and James Franco (“Milk”) and Hilary Swank (“Boys Don’t Cry”).

Additionally, award-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black’s on-set chairs are shown with various awards he has received.

Featured outfits include Michael Douglas’ suit from “Behind the Candelabra,” Nathan Lane’s costume from “The Birdcage,” cast costumes from the gay wedding from “Days of Our Lives” and outfits worn by Sonny and Cher.

D.A.P. treats and supports the whole person My case manager says that “food is medicine” because a healthy diet...along with medication and my doctor visits...is an important part of keeping my HIV in-check. Since I can’t work anymore, it’s been a life-saver to live right across the parking lot from D.A.P., in a comfy apartment with my own kitchen.

Their monthly food voucher helps fill my cabinets... and my refrigerator loves the fruits and vegetables from their Farmer’s Market.

This and more...all under one roof Thanks to your generous support, Desert AIDS Project has been saving lives for 30 years.

Please continue to help by donating at desertAIDSproject.org, joining one of our annual giving programs, or by saving the date for one of our upcoming fundraising events.

Desert AIDS Walk | October 18, 2014 Dancing With The Desert Stars | November 15, 2014 World AIDS Day | December 1, 2014

760.323.2118 The Hollywood Museum located at 1660 N. Highland Ave. (at Hollywood Blvd), Hollywood, CA 90028. For more info call (323) 464-7776 or visit: www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com.

desertAIDSproject.org

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 39

THEEPIDEMIC

>> DELETING HIV <<

“DELETING” HIV FROM CELLS RESEARCHERS HAVE FOUND A COMBINATION OF CELLS THAT CAN RADICALLY CHANGE THE PATH OF FINDING A CURE FOR HIV/AIDS.

BY VICTOR MELAMED A research team at Temple University School of Medicine effectively deleted the HIV virus from human cells in the lab, reports hivplusmag.com.

“The research findings we are now reporting could be a game changer in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” said Dr. Kamel Khalili in a video posted by EurekAlert. “The goal is to cure AIDS and the time is now.”

According to EurekAlert, scientists at the facility deployed a combination of a DNA-snipping enzyme (nuclease) and a targeting strand of RNA (guide RNA or gRNA) that hunts down the viral genome.

The combination of the nuclease and gRNA target the genome by removing the HIV-1 DNA. Once the genome is removed the cell’s repair machinery takes action and fuse the loose ends of the genome. Once the nuclease/gRNA combination leaves the cell what is left is an HIV-free cell.

“Current therapies have transformed AIDS into a chronic illness,” Dr. Khalili said in the video. “But the root of the problem, the virus, has not been eliminated, only suppressed.”

According to Dr. Khalili, 33 million people worldwide are living with the HIV virus and 1 million people in the United States live with the virus. There are 50,000 new infections every year in the United States.

According to EurkeAlert, Dr. Khalili says the treatment still faces many challenges before it is ready for patients. The main focus of the research was targeting T-cells, which are the most impacted by HIV. Also, he adds, since HIV-1 is prone to mutating, the techniques used for eradication would have to be tailored for the patient’s individual viral load. n

Creative solutions for your individual and business marketing needs.

web | digital | print | soCial media | video | photography

contact ntoriodesign@yahoo.com www.ntoriodesign.com AUG UST 2014 | TH E F I GH T 41

THEEVENT

>> 1LIFE FESTIVAL <<

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IGGY

1Life Festival

Thousands gathered at the NOS Event Center in Southern California last month for 1Life Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Gay Massive. The historical 14-hour main event, produced in association with White Party founder Jeffrey Sanker, was the first-ever EDM festival designed for the LGBT community and their friends and featured more than 30 internationally acclaimed DJs and performers appearing on three separate stage areas.

4 2 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

THECALENDAR

>> THINGS TO DO <<

APLA BARTENDER AUCTION 2014 The Abbey, 692 N Robertson Blvd., WeHo, 4pm.

For more info: sbe.com/nightlife/brands/theabbeyfoodandbar/ Tom Whitman, FLIP, and The Abbey Food & Bar present the 11th Annual West Hollywood Bartender Auction.

3RD ANNUAL CLITORAL MASS Grand Park, 200 N Grand Ave, 1pm. For more info: grandparkla.org.

Represents solidarity between women, queer, femme, trans, gender non-conforming and twospirited individuals from different walks of life.

TIGHTY WHITEY FUNDRAISER Cave Cross Fit, 7773 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, 8am-12pm. For more info: cavecrossfit.com.

Show some skin to save skin. Benefiting the Melanoma Research Foundation.

FRIDAY AUGUST 22

PHOTO BY NEW BERLIN

TIGHTY WHITEY FUNDRAISER. SEE SATURDAY, AUGUST 16.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9

OC PRIDE Downtown Santa Ana, 10am-12 midnight. For more info: PrideOC.com Free festival celebrating the culture, identity, and achievements of the LGBTQ community in Orange County. With comedian Ana Gasteyer and recording artist Bonnie McKee. SUNDAY, AUGUST 10

THE MISMATCH GAME The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Pl., Hollywood, 8pm-10pm. For more info: lalgbtcenter.org/calendar Enjoy the return of this cult classic. Dennis Hensley’s wacky production starring some of L.A.’s most creative, hilarious, and demented comedians.

REHAB Avalon Hollywood, 1735 North Vine, 10pm-4am.

For more info call: 818.854.4393.

College party. 19+ to enter, 21+ to drink. It’s all happening on the day after finals so SoCal’s sexy college people are expected to attend.

LGBT NIGHT OUT Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave, Los Angeles, 6:30pm. For more info: dodgers.com/OUT. Over 2,000 LGBT fans, gather to watch the “Boys in Blue” take on the NY Mets. DJ Manny Lehman will spin to the famous Friday Night Fireworks.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24

QUEEN U.S.A. PAGEANT 2014 Circus Disco, 6655 Santa Monica Blvd, Hollywood, 7pm. For more info call: (213) 999-0456.

The Imperial Court of Los Angeles & Hollywood presentation. Queens battle it to be the last woman standing with a tiara on her head.

MR. SISTER LEATHER 2015 CONTEST: “THE ROCKY LEATHER PORNO SHOW” Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, 9pm-2am. For more info: www.eaglela.com The Los Angeles Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence presentation. Proceeds benefit the first-ever Sisters’ Team for AIDS/Lifecycle.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30

RHONDA, DIVA FROM THE DEEP The Standard Hollywood, 8300 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, 1pm. For more info: bit.ly/Sayees.

Rhonda, Diva From The Deep returns to The Standard Hollywood, to make a splash on the three-day summer holiday. Prepare for a wet and wild tour of the property, 14-hour amphibious marathons and more.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15

DOUBLE BUBBLE GRAND OPENING Arena, 6655 Santa Monica Blvd (at Las Palmas), Hollywood, 9:30pm-2am. For more info call: 323-350-0196.

Hollywood’s new massive LGBT party for 18 and older.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16

REFLEX: 10TH ANNIVERSARY Metropolitan Nightclub, 652 N LA Peer Dr. (at Santa Monica Boulevard), 2:30am-7:30am, Saturday night/ Sunday morning. For more info: reflexpresents.com.

Maestro EDDIE X spins you into another world.

4 4 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

OUT ON THE MOUNTAIN Six Flags Magic Mountain, 6pm-1am. For more info: OutontheMountain.com/fight.

A private LGBT party. Special performance by Alyssa Edwards, with Dance Party DJ Ray Rhodes.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

SGV VALLEY PRIDE Memorial Park, Levitt Pavilion and Holly Street, Pasadena, 11am-6pm. For more info: sgvpride.org.

Top-notch entertainment will cover the breadth of the LGBT experience in music, song and dance. Free Drag Queen Bingo from the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Classic Car & Motorcycle Show and more!

GROUPS

ASIAN/PACIFIC GAYS AND FRIENDS www.apgf.org GAY ASIAN PACIFIC SUPPORT NETWORK www.gapsn.org LOS ANGELES GAY AVIATION CLUB Pilots, Flights Attendants, Mechanics. www.unusualattitudes.info CLUB NUR Gay Middle Eastern. www.clubnur.com GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF LOS ANGELES www.gmcla.org GAY & LESBIAN SALSA Every Monday, 8 p.m. Little Temple Bar, 4519 Santa Monica Blvd., Silverlake, 90029. gaysalsanight@yahoo. com or www.facebook.com/gaysalsanight GAY TRAFFIC SCHOOL Third Tuesday and Wednesday of every month, 6-10 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N. McCadden Place, Los Angeles 90038. 1-800-Gay-4-You or www.laglc.org HIV MEDICAL & CASE MANAGEMENT Valley Community Clinic in North Hollywood offers HIV Testing and Medical Services including counseling and medical treatment. For more info: www.valleycommunityclinic.org POP LUCK CLUB Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m. Locations vary.

Los Angeles based organization for Gay Dads, Prospective Dads, and their families. www.popluckclub.org PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, at the Gay & Lesbian Center. RSVP to Dennis@malecare.org or call (323) 860-7340.

GREAT AUTOS OF YESTERYEAR The largest LGBT classic car club on the West Coast. www.greatautos.org LOS ANGELES PRIME TIMERS Social group for older mature gay men and admirers. www.laprimetimers.org LOS ANGELES GAY BRIDGE CLUB www.communityvisions.org/IAGLBC LOS ANGELES GAY/LESBIAN SCIENTISTS www.lagls.org LOS ANGELES GAY FOR GOOD Gays making a commitment to volunteer for social welfare and environmental service projects. www.gayforgood.org LOS ANGELES GAY NATURISM California Men Enjoying Naturism. cmen.info BI-OSPHERE P.O.V. Every 2nd Wednesday, 8-9:30 p.m., The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles.

For more information, call (323) 860-7302. M-F between 6-9 p.m. Topic-driven discussion for women and men who identify as, or are exploring bisexuality.

MEN’S SPEAKEASY Every Tuesday at 8 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302. Fun, alternative space for gay and bisexual men to meet and make new friends.

LGBT BOOK CLUB First Wednesday of each month, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302, M-F between 6-9 p.m.

USC LAMBDA LGBT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION alumnigroups.usc.edu/lambda/ LOS ANGELES BLACK PRIDE www.myblackpridela.com GREATER PASADENA AID FUND www.greaterpasadenaaidfund.org POSITIVE IMAGES WORKSHOP Every Monday, from 7-9 p.m. The Village at Ed

> EMAIL YOUR EVENT OR GROUP TO Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. If you’re looking for ways to deal with HIV, the Live Life Better Workshop can help you learn coping skills, build a support system, and work toward your health goals. An RSVP is required. For more information or to reserve your place, call (323) 860-7321. The e-mail contact is positiveimages@lagaycenter.org.

TRANSGENDER PERCEPTIONS Every Friday, 8 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302. M-F between 6-9 p.m. Social networking group offers a safe and welcoming opportunity for people of any age and gender identity to learn from others and to share experiences.

GET CENTERED Meditation Class. Every Saturday, 10-11 a.m., $10. Gay & Lesbian Center, 1625 N Schrader Blvd.

Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7300.

SENIORS SERVICES Ongoing, The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7359.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT Ongoing, L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, 1625 N Schrader Blvd., Los Angeles.

For more information, call (323) 860-5806.

MPOWERMENT WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Tuesdays and fridays, 6 p.m. APLA, 3550 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Los Angeles. More info: Donta Morrison, tel: (213) 201-1561. For young gay men of color—ages 18 thru 24—looking for a safe place to hang out.

TRAVEL

FRIENDS TRAVEL www.FriendsTravel.com Gay Owned & Operated, Since 1985.

12 STEP GROUPS

All groups meet at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302 M-F between 6-9 p.m.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Mondays, 6:10-7:10 p.m.

>> LISTINGS <<

editor@thefightmag.com CRYSTAL METH ANONYMOUS Saturdays, 9:10-10:10 a.m.

DEBTORS ANONYMOUS Tuesdays, 8-9 p.m.

MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS Wednesdays, 8:15-9:45 p.m.

Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m.

SEXUAL COMPULSIVES ANONYMOUS Mondays, 8-9 p.m.

Tuesdays, 8-9 p.m.

Wednesdays, 8-9 p.m.

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

Saturdays, 12:15-1:45 p.m.

WOMEN’S NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Saturdays, Noon-1 p.m.

SPORTS

LOS ANGELES LESBIAN SOFTBALL www.lagaysoftball.com LOS ANGELES LESBIAN TACKLE FOOTBALL www.californiaquakefootball.com LOS ANGELES LESBIAN RUGBY www.eaglerockrugby.com WOMEN’S SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GOLF www.womensgolf.org/wscga LOS ANGELES LESBIAN POKER www.lalpg.com LOS ANGELES WOMEN ON A ROLL Luncheons, Comedy Nights, and Conversation Groups. www.womenonaroll.com LOS ANGELES GAY RODEO CLUB www.gsgra.org LOS ANGELES GAY FLAG FOOTBALL www.laflagfootball.com There’s also lesbian tackle football.

WEST HOLLYWOOD GAY RUGBY www.larebellion.org

SAGA LA Gay Ski & Snowboard Club. www.sagala.org V.O.I.L.A. Volleyball. www.lagayvolleyball.com GREAT OUTDOORS The largest gay outdoor recreational organization in Southern California. www.greatoutdoorsla.org GAY AND LESBIAN SIERRANS Camping, Outdoors, Hiking Angeles. www.sierraclub.org CHEER LA Cheerleading. www.cheerla.org LA ROWING www.larowing.org DIFFERENT SPOKES Cycling www.differentspokes.com Rides start in various locations in the greater Los Angeles area.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BLADES Ice Hockey. www.bladeshockey.com LOS ANGELES FRONTRUNNERS Running and walking club. www.lafrontrunners.com WEST HOLLYWOOD SOCCER CLUB Comfortable, supportive environment for learning and playing the world’s most popular game. www.gaysoccer.com LOS ANGELES GAY SCUBA CLUB www.barnaclebusters.org LOS ANGELES GAY ROCK CLIMBING www.lalgbtclimbing.com WEST HOLLYWOOD AQUATICS Swim and Water Polo Teams. www.wh2o.org WORSHIP

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH mccla.org, 4953 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027

LOS ANGELES POOL LEAGUE Friendly Billiard teams. www.lapl8ball.com

BETH CHAYIM CHADASHIM SYNAGOGUE bcc-la.org, 6090 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

GAY & LESBIAN BOWLING LEAGUE www.tavernguildleague.com

KOL AMI REFORM SYNAGOGUE kol-ami.org, 1200 North La Brea Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90038

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES fccla.org 540, South Commonwealth Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90020 HOLLYWOOD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH hollywoodumc.org, 6817 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOLY SPIRIT holyspirit-la.org, 4201 West Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029 UNITED UNIVERSITY CHURCH uniteduniversitychurch.org, 817 West 34th St., Los Angeles, CA 90089 DIGNITY CENTER dignitylosangeles.org, 126 South Avenue 64, Los Angeles, CA 90042 HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH-HLYWD hopelutheranchurch.net, 6720 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038 WEST HOLLYWOOD PRESBYTERIAN wehopres.org, 7350 W Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046 MOUNT HOLLYWOOD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH mthollywood.org, 4607 Prospect Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027 IMMANUEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH immanuelpres.org, 3300 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010 ST. MATTHEW’S LUTHERAN CHURCH stmatthewsnoho.org, 11031 Camarillo St., North Hollywood, CA 91602 CHRIST CHAPEL OF THE VALLEY christchapel.com, 11050 Hartsook St., North Hollywood, CA 91601 ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH stpaulssm.org, 958 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90403 ST. MONICA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY stmonica.net, 725 California Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90403 WEHO CHURCH wehochurch.com, 916 N. Formosa Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90046 ST. VICTOR’S CATHOLIC CHURCH saintvictor.org, 8634 Holloway Dr. West Hollywood, CA 90069 ST. LUKE LUTHERAN stlukelutheran.com, 5312 Comercio Way, Woodland Hills, CA 91364

For Breaking Daily LGBT News Visit

www.thefightmag.com

AUG UST 2014 | T H E F I GH T 45

THEFINALFIGHT

>> MODERN GAY LIFE <<

PASSING FOR STRAIGHT I RECENTLY DATED SOMEONE WHO WOULD DEFINITELY BE CONSIDERED A “FEM” GUY. THE EXPERIENCE OPENED MY EYES TO A LOT OF DIFFERENT THINGS I HADN’T EXPERIENCED BEFORE.

BY R OB S M I T H There are few things in modern gay life that are more prized than masculinity.

Politically we may desire to create the illusion of one big umbrella.

Though we support the transgender movement and know that a party isn’t a party without at least one good drag queen, when it comes to dating, masculinity seems to be—for many of us—the ultimate goal in a partner.

And, of course, why wouldn’t it be? For the most part images of gay male desirability in the media is that of a masculine man with big muscles and big arms, which is all the better to combat gay shame with, I suppose.

Although we are a community of many types of people—of varying levels of masculinity—it seems like the total package is that of a man who can “pass,” someone who we can proudly walk down the street with—hand in hand—and declare to society “yes, two men can be together and this is what it looks like.”

While I am usually attracted to the more “masculine” types of guys—I recently dated someone who would definitely be considered a “fem” guy. The experience of dating “Derek” actually opened my eyes to a lot of different things I hadn’t experienced before.

I’m a big, black man. There’s simply no other way to say this. I work out a lot. I eat like a pig. I have paid actual money to see more than one Fast & Furious sequel. Suffice it to say that when I go about my daily life in New York City, there isn’t very much about me that screams GAY to casual passerby. Whether it be from a subconscious attempt to project masculinity or the result of my socialization from five long years of military service, I read as heterosexual to the untrained eye.

Derek is not a big, black man. He’s a lean blonde kid from Connecticut with blue eyes, a delicate way of speaking, and soft features. Derek does read gay, and there’s simply no other way around that, either. That didn’t really bother me for two reasons. First of all because Derek is a sweet, smart, and special guy. Secondly, I never felt that Derek’s femininity was some sort of socialized act that was put on for the benefit of others. Everything about Derek was very natural, and there was something very appealing about being with someone who was completely comfortable with himself.

During the month I dated Derek, I started to notice things that I never noticed before. When Derek held onto my arm while walking on the Upper West Side, it wasn’t only a visual indication of our coupledom, but also a safety mechanism for him. I had 65 pounds on him.

We spent more than one night with him wrapped in my arms. He felt protected by me, and in turn I felt more protective of him than anyone 4 6 T H E F IGH T | A UGU ST 2014

I’m a big, black man. There’s simply no other way to say this. I work out a lot. I eat like a pig. I have paid actual money to see more than one Fast & Furious sequel.

Suffice it to say that when I go about my daily life... there isn’t very much about me that screams GAY to casual passerby.

I’ve ever dated. I knew that if we were to run into some homophobes or if anyone wanted to start any trouble, I would have to protect both of us. After one particular date I noticed his visible discomfort with taking the subway back downtown alone.

I realized that in his daily life, he lives with the constant threat of harassment by people who deem him an easy mark. Even though it didn’t work out between us, I came out of the situation with a great deal of respect for the gay men who aren’t able to “pass.”

Yes, there is a certain level of privilege that comes with being someone who doesn’t instantly read as gay, but what are we

gonna do about it? I have no idea how to answer that question, but now that I notice the sneers that are directed at men who present themselves as a bit more feminine and have become a little bit more aware of their challenges, I realize that they are much bolder than I. Even though my presentation is fundamentally who I am, it’s much easier to throw on a t-shirt and jeans and blend into the proceedings than it is to go out into a world that believes who you are isn’t right, throw caution to the wind, and be yourself at all costs. Derek and the millions of other guys just like him are doing that every single day, and they definitely deserve our respect.

FOUR DAYS OF POOL PARTIES, DANCE EVENTS AND WOOFY MEN!

Hosted at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15

MONDAY FEBRUARY 16

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TM