THE FIGHT SOCAL'S LGBTQ MONTHLY MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2017

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 1

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(844) 201-8687 6 2T HTEH EF IGH T T| |www.thefightmag.com F I GH www.thefightmag.com

Introducing Pride Recovery LA The exclusively LGBTQ treatment center in California • LGBTQ people are nearly 30% more likely than members of the general population to suffer from addiction. • The LGBTQ population are 60% more likely to relapse following addiction treatment in traditional recovery programs. • The same trauma that the LGBTQ commity faces in everyday life – the trauma that lurks beneath the addiction – is replicated in traditional treatment because traditional treatment is a microcosm of the world at large. • LGBTQ-specific treatment transforms the dangerous environment clients face every day and gives them the safety to work through their shame and create connections and community. That’s why we need LGBTQ-specific treatment, not only for drug/alcohol addiction, but for all substance and behavior addictions. At Pride Recovery LA, we’re here to address shame and build pride. Pride in Self. Pride in Sobriety. Pride in Community.

844.303.1551 | West Hollywood _____________

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Addiction Treatment for our LGBTQ Community O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 3

THECONTENTS FEATURES 19 THE PASSING OF AN ICON

EDITH “EDIE” WINDSOR RIP

20 PALM SPRINGS PRIDE PARTY IN THE DESERT

26 ANGELS OF BREAD

ARTIST, ACTIVIST LEO HERRERA

28 PUSHING THE ENVELOPE

BAD DRAGON FANTASY TOYS

30 TO THREE OR NOT TO THREE?

THE DADDY-DADDY-BOY TRIAD

33 PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE THE OFFICIAL GUIDE

50 MARS CREATIONS

PALM SPRINGS ARTIST MARSHA ROBINSON

DEPARTMENTS 08 11 15 16 22 24 27 52 54 58

THE LETTERS READERS RESPOND THE TALK KARAMO BROWN THE STATE OAKLAND CENTER THE CITY ROOSTERFISH RETURNS THE ROSTOW REPORT STANISLAV PETROV THE EPIDEMIC NEW BREAKTHROUGH THE TRANSACTION FINDING KIM THE SHARE LOCAL RECOVERY THE ART LOCAL ARTISTS THE CALENDAR THINGS TO DO

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ON THE COVER BRUIN COLLINSWORTH (L), JACE GRIMM COVER PHOTO, TOC PHOTO AND ALL PSLOD FEATURE PHOTOS BY DUSTI CUNNINGHAM LOCATION THE BARRACKS

Los Angeles’ most comprehensive and effective stand-alone drug and alcohol detoxification center.

Six beds with 24/7 personalized care by highly educated and experienced staff. Every amenity provided to ensure utmost comfort and safety. Private chef preparing healthy meals and snacks. High-end, yet affordable, most PPO insurance accepted. Conveniently located in the Melrose district.

Free airport pick up and local transportation.

3FTQFDUFE "DDFQUFE 4VQQPSUFE 8F BSF QSPVE UP TVQQPSU UIF -(#5 $PNNVOJUZ We also assess and refer clients who come in without a treatment plan or destination.

Our admissions line is always open, call 844-46-REVIVE (844-467-3848) O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 5

THEEDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio MARKETING CONSULTANTS Tom Pardoe Sean Galuszka Jacci Ybarra Joseph Arellano SOCIAL MEDIA Mark Ariel Sinan Shihabi WEBMASTER Nadeen Torio ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Sinan Shihabi >> IN THIS ISSUE <<

Palm Springs Leather Pride takes place this month at various venues on October 26-29. The venue for the Mr. Palm Springs Leather Contest will be the Palm Springs Air Museum. The weekend also includes pool parties, outdoor cruising areas, a formal leather dinner and more. We are proud to have been chosen, once again this year, to produce the Official Palm Springs Leather Pride Guide, in this issue, pages 33-49. For more info visit: www.palmspringsleatherpride.org. Additionally, Palm Springs Pride takes place next month on November 3-5, featuring Missing Persons, The Gand Band, GayC/DC, and others. The Grand Marshals for the annual Palm Springs Pride Parade, taking place on November 5, are Navy SEAL Kristin Beck, singer-entertainer and restaurateur Michael Holmes, fitness expert Craig Ramsay and hairstylist Brandon Liberati. Recognized as the National Grand Marshal is retired United States Navy SEAL Kristin Beck. Kristin Beck, born Christopher Beck is known to be

the first female Navy SEAL. Beck distinguished herself in 20 years of exceptionally meritorious service with Special Operations Forces (SOF) in the U.S. Navy SEAL teams before retiring in 2011 and after taking part in thirteen deployments, including seven combat deployments. She was a member of the United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), a special counter-terrorism unit SEAL Team Six, and received multiple military awards and decorations, including a Bronze Star with a “V” for valor, a Purple Heart and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. “We are proud to work with the Transgender Community Coalition to honor Kristin Beck who is a nationally recognized advocate for equality for all people. Beck’s participation allows us to honor her service and help raise the visibility of transgender and gender non-conforming people, and address the issues the community faces,” said Ron deHarte, President of Greater Palm Springs Pride. For more info visit www.pspride.org.

CONTRIBUTORS Dusti Cunningham Sean Galuszka Orly Lyonne Victor Melamed Paulo Murillo Roxie Perkins Ann Rostow Paul V. Vitagliano 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.

STANFORD ALTAMIRANO Editor-In-Chief

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 © 2017 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 For Display Advertising, please call (323) 297-4001

6 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 7

THELETTERS >> FROM OUR READERS <<

ADDRESS BIGOTRY Dear Editor, Brontez Purnell’s op-ed on his Folsom Street Fair experiences “The Color Of Kink” (THE FIGHT, Issue #80) was a little confusing. On the one hand he bemoans the “omnipresent gaze of whiteness” of the gay community in San Francisco on the other hand—he admits that Folsom is a “fairly mixed crowd of show boaty perverts… gender inclusive.” I’m not saying that the community is perfect (we must always address bigotry within our ranks)—however I feel Folsom makes an effort to reach out to everyone. —Chuck Selway, via the internet

PARADIGM SHIFTS Dear Editor, Gay assimilation/sexual orientation theory and practice, currently the dominant ideology of our community, is being replaced by a gay essentialism/societal contribution model of gay identity. The history of scientific revolutions teaches us that these paradigm shifts in consciousness can happen quickly or slowly over time. In the 1954-55 school year, in my 11th grade in a very good, small high school in rural Pennsylvania, I was taught Newtonian physics even though Einstein’s gamechanging paper on the theory of relativity had been published a half-century previously. Einstein was rarely even mentioned. This paradigm shift in gay awareness announces that the second stage of revolutionary Gay Liberation is upon us. We as gay people must reclaim, revision and relearn anew who we are and why we are here, benefiting all beings and the well-being of the planet in the process. It is important that we do not let the dominant heterosexual culture interpret this new understanding for us as gay people, reducing us to an evolutionary mascot, diminishing us to a mere altruistic support for the hetero family only. —Don Kilhefner, via the internet

> WRITE TO THE EDITOR

Email: editor@thefightmag.com Fax: (213) 281-9648. Letters may be shortened due to space requirements. 8 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 9

1 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

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

Very Affirming

KARAMO BROWN

“When you’re able to open your eyes and see a different person staring back at you in the mirror, it’s a very affirming moment.”

RAMI MALEK —Actor Rami Malek on playing Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody, a new movie chronicling Queen’s meteoric rise into superstardom, to be released next year.

The Nudity

“I did want to pass. It scared me… “I was a little nervous about all the nudity that was originally in the script.” —Actor Armie Hammer on his role in Call Me by Your Name, a coming-of-age gay romance. The movie hits theaters Nov. 24. ARMIE HAMMER

Our Gratitude

“I thought about all the millions of quiet heroes across the decades whose countless small acts of courage slowly made an entire BARACK OBAMA country realize that love is love— and who, in the process, made us all more free. They deserve our gratitude. And so does Edie.” —President Barack Obama, last month on Facebook, on the passing of LGBTQ activist Edith “Edie” Windsor.

Her Legacy

GEORGE TAKEI

“Edith Windsor changed history by winning her case and ushering in marriage equality. Her legacy will live on forever. Rest in peace, Edie.”

—Actor George Takei, in a tweet last month on the passing of Edith “Edie” Windsor, the plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case that required the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages.

Start Demanding

“Why are there not more LGBTQ pop stars? You support Beyoncé, Madonna, everyone else, but we’re not lifting up our own. Music companies, TV executives — are not going to lift us up until we start demanding that.” —Reality star, television host and LGBTQ activist Karamo Brown in an interview last month with The Advocate.

Any Member

She Persisted

“Edith Windsor will be remembered as a great American civil rights hero. #ShePersisted & showed the world that #LoveIsLove. Rest in Power,” —Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), in a tweet last month, on the passing of LGBTQ activist Edith “Edie” Windsor.

JOHN MCCAIN

BARBARA LEE

“Any member of the military who meets the medical and readiness standards should be allowed to serve—including those who are transgender.”

—Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), last month, as he joined Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) in introducing a bill to thwart President Trump’s ban on transgender troops.

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 11

What is TRUVADA for PrEP?

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?

TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that is used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: ® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. ® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-negative. ® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. ® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. ® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. ® To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1: ® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. ® Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. ® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. ® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. ® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: ® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP? Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: ® Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA. ® Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. ® Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. ® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones. Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP? ® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. ® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA. ® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ® All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-thecounter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. ® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection. 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 see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page. 1 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

I'm active, not unaware. I know who I am. And I make choices that fit my life. TRUVADA for PrEP™ is a once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. ® TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you. Learn more at truvada.com O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 13

IMPORTANT FACTS

This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

(tru-VAH-dah) MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative. • Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. • You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. • See the “How To Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information. TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. • To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health. Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. • Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP • Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1. • Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. • Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices. • Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP” section. • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. • Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. • Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. • Bone problems. Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. • Have any other medical conditions. • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. • Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. • Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK • Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. • Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. • Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection. • Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

TRUVADA FOR PREP, the TRUVADA FOR PREP Logo, the TRUVADA Blue Pill Design, TRUVADA, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0131 07/17

1 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

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Oakland Center, RIP Bubbles, Equality Vodka, California legislature. Oakland’s first-ever multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, multigender, and intergenerational LGBTQ Community Center opened last month just days before the annual Oakland Pride parade and festival. The non-profit organization is located at 3207 Lakeshore Ave., in Oakland. For more information visit www.oaklandlgbtqcenter.org.

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LGBT disc jockey, activist, artist and per-

former Anthony Torres, aka Bubbles, was shot and killed near a Tenderloin strip club in San Francisco last month. His attorney Jim Reilly says it was a hate crime. Police have yet to release suspect information.

California could become first state to mandate LGBT training for businesses. Introduced by State Sen. Ricardo Lara, D-Bell Gardens, the proposed legislation mandates including gender identity and sexual orientation training for supervisors, requiring businesses with 50 or more employees to post transgender worker’s rights and enrolling transgender workers in job training programs.

The California Legislature approved a bill last month that would create a “bill of rights” for LGBTQ seniors in long-term care. Senate Bill (SB) 219, authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and sponsored by Equality California, would help protect seniors from discrimination or mistreatment in long-term care facilities and provide standards for culturally-competent care.

Equality Vodka has launched in Southern California. The product is making its way into bars, restaurants and liquor stores in support of the LGBT community. Equality Vodka donates a portion of profits from every bottle sold in the California market to the Los Angeles LGBT Center. n O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 15 THE

THECITY NEON TREES >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

of LGBT groups, including the national Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, the statewide LGBT advocacy group Equality California and The Desert Stonewall Democrats--a local LGBT political club in the Coachella Valley. Palm Springs planning commissioner Lisa Middleton, who is hoping to become California’s first transgender city council person, also gained the endorsement of all three LGBT groups---however gay former Bay Area Reporter film critic and real estate agent Robert Julian Stone, who is also vying for a Palm Springs city council seat— failed to get the same support. Palm Springs has two open seats on the city council in the November 7 elections. The three out candidates are among six people running for city council.

MEMBERS OF VENICE PRIDE’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT ROOSTERFISH

S A N D IE GO VE NICE

GAY BAR ROOSTERFISH TO REOPEN The popular gay bar Roosterfish is reopening by the end of this year. The bar, located at Abbot Kinney in Venice, closed last May after serving the gay community in the Westside for 37 years. According to Grant Turck, president and founder of Venice Pride, the closing of Roosterfish is what prompted him to conceive the Venice Pride event last year. Since the launch of Venice Pride, Turck and his Pride organization played a major role in establishing a permanent status for the Venice Pride Rainbow Flag Lifeguard Tower and now the revival of Roosterfish. For more about Venice Pride, visit venicepride.org. WE ST HOL LYWOOD

AXIS MUNDO: QUEER NETWORKS IN CHICANO L.A. The City of West Hollywood’s WeHo Arts program and WeHo Artes, presents “Axis Mundo: Queer Networks in Chicano L.A.” The exhibit is scheduled to run through December 31. It will map the intersections and collaborations among a network of queer Chicano artists and their artistic collaborators from the late 1960s to the early 1990s. More than two decades of artwork encompassing painting, performance ephemera, print material, video, fashion, and photography will be presented in two locations: ONE Gallery West Hollywood, located at 9007 Melrose Avenue and MOCA Pacific Design Center, located at 8687 Melrose Avenue. L OS ANGE L E S

48TH ANNIVERSARY GALA VANGUARD AWARDS The Los Angeles LGBT Center hosted the 48th Anniversary Gala 1 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

Vanguard Awards last month at the Beverly Hilton with special talk show host Jimmy Kimmel. The event honored Co-CEO of WME | IMG, Ariel Emanuel and former senior advisor for the Obama administration, Valerie Jarrett. The evening brought together more than 1,200 leaders from the civic, corporate, entertainment, and philanthropic communities to celebrate this year’s inspirational honorees for their unwavering support of the LGBT community and their dedication to creating positive change in the world. To learn more, visit: lalgbtcenter.org. PA LM S PR INGS

CITY COUNCIL HOPEFULS ENDORSED BY LGBT GROUPS

Attorney Christy Holstege, a bisexual woman who is running for a seat on the Palm Springs City Council, has won the endorsement of a number

GAY COUPLE ATTACKER SENTENCED TO PROBATION

Teeno Hermoso Amparana, the man who physically attacked a married gay couple in the gay Hillcrest area of San Diego last month, pleaded guilty to battery and a hate crime. The attack happened outside the Whole Foods market on University Ave. Amparana punched, kicked and threw rocks and at the couple while screaming homophobic and racial slurs. San Diego Gay & Lesbian News reports that Amparano, himself a gay man, yelled out, “You white gays think you own everything.” He was fined $655, and was ordered to pay an undisclosed amount in restitution to the victims. Additionally, he was sentenced to three years of probation, has been ordered take anger management classes, is not allowed to own a firearm for 10 years and was ordered to stay away from Whole Foods and the victims for three years. n

In adults with HIV on ART who have diarrhea not caused by an infection

IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION This is only a summary. See complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or by calling 1-844-722-8256. This does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or treatment.

What Is Mytesi? Mytesi is a prescription medicine used to improve symptoms of noninfectious diarrhea (diarrhea not caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on ART. Do Not Take Mytesi if you have diarrhea caused by an infection. Before you start Mytesi, your doctor and you should make sure your diarrhea is not caused by an infection (such as bacteria, virus, or parasite).

Possible Side Effects of Mytesi Include:

Tired of planning your life around diarrhea?

Enough is Enough Get relief. Pure and simple. Ask your doctor about Mytesi. Mytesi (crofelemer): • Is the only medicine FDA-approved to relieve diarrhea in people with HIV • Treats diarrhea differently by normalizing the flow of water in the GI tract • Has the same or fewer side effects as placebo in clinical studies • Comes from a tree sustainably harvested in the Amazon Rainforest What is Mytesi? Mytesi is a prescription medicine that helps relieve symptoms of diarrhea not caused by an infection (noninfectious) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Important Safety Information Mytesi is not approved to treat infectious diarrhea (diarrhea caused by bacteria, a virus, or a parasite). Before starting you on Mytesi, your healthcare provider will first be sure that you do not have infectious diarrhea. Otherwise, there is a risk you would not receive the right medicine and your infection could get worse. In clinical studies, the most common side effects that occurred more often than with placebo were upper respiratory tract (sinus, nose, and throat) infection (5.7%), bronchitis (3.9%), cough (3.5%), flatulence (3.1%), and increased bilirubin (3.1%). For Copay Savings Card and Patient Assistance, see Mytesi.com

Please see complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com. NP-390-12

RELIEF, PURE AND SIMPLE

• Upper respiratory tract infection (sinus, nose, and throat infection) • Bronchitis (swelling in the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs) • Cough • Flatulence (gas) • Increased bilirubin (a waste product when red blood cells break down) For a full list of side effects, please talk to your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. 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.

Should I Take Mytesi If I Am:

Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant? • Studies in animals show that Mytesi could harm an unborn baby or affect the ability to become pregnant • There are no studies in pregnant women taking Mytesi • This drug should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed A Nursing Mother? • It is not known whether Mytesi is passed through human breast milk • If you are nursing, you should tell your doctor before starting Mytesi • Your doctor will help you to decide whether to stop nursing or to stop taking Mytesi Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age? • Mytesi has not been studied in children under 18 years of age • Mytesi studies did not include many people over the age of 65. So it is not clear if this age group will respond differently. Talk to your doctor to find out if Mytesi is right for you

What Should I Know About Taking Mytesi With Other Medicines? If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, herbal supplements, or vitamins, tell your doctor before starting Mytesi.

What If I Have More Questions About Mytesi? For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or speak to your doctor or pharmacist. To report side effects or make a product complaint or for additional information, call 1-844-722-8256.

Rx Only Manufactured by Patheon, Inc. for Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. San Francisco, CA 94105 Copyright © Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Mytesi comes from the Croton lechleri tree harvested in South America.

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 17

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>> DOMA <<

G EDIE WINDSOR AT DC PRIDE 2017

THE PASSING OF AN ICON Marriage equality pioneer Edith “Edie” Windsor dies, age 88. BY O RLY LYO N N E

ay rights pioneer Edith Windsor, whose lawsuit against the federal government helped pave the way for same-sex marriage nationwide, died last month at 88. Windsor is survived by her wife, Judith Kasen-Windsor, whom she married last year. “I lost my beloved spouse, Edie, and the world lost a tiny but tough as nails fighter for freedom, justice and equality,” Kasen-Windsor said in a statement. “Edie was the light of my life. She will always be the light for the LGBTQ community which she loved so much and which loved her right back.” Windsor was thrust into the national spotlight after suing the federal government upon receiving a $363,000 estatetax bill after the death of her first wife, Thea Spyer, in 2009. Her case, United States v. Windsor, went to the Supreme Court, which ruled in her favor in 2013; that decision laid the groundwork for the court’s ruling two years later overturning the Defense of Marriage Act and establishing a constitutional right to gay marriage.

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Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage and Home Equity products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2017 U.S. Bank. 171177 8/17 “World’s Most Ethical Companies” and “Ethisphere” names and marks are registered trademarks of Ethisphere LLC. O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 19

>> PALM SPRINGS PRIDE <<

MISSING PERSONS

GIT’ER DONE

ICONIQUE

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE

The free pride festival takes place next month on November 3-5, featuring Missing Persons, The Gand Band, GayC/DC, Mama Tits and others. BY VICTO R MELA MED

T

he organizers of Greater Palm Springs Pride have announced the entertainment line-up for Pride 2017, Viva la Vida, to celebrate diversity, equality and peacefully resist hate. This year’s line-up will host a diverse group of artists including dancers, singers, musicians, activists, and DJs—and will take place on November 3-5, in downtown Palm Springs. The all-inclusive Palm Springs Pride Festival lineup will be headlined by iconic ‘80s band Missing Persons.

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Festival emcees include the desert’s hostess, social ambassador and Walk of Stars recipient Bella da Ball, on-air personality Alexander Rodriguez, from On the Rocks Radio Show, and making her debut at Palm Springs Pride is performer and host Diva. The free two-day Pride festival features: Seattle-based powerhouse performer Mama Tits who will entertain with comedy, and live singing that will feel a little like Mae West and Divine. British music duo Unsung Lilly brings their epic pop sound to Arenas Rd, and LA’s Iconique, who melds disco rhythms and silky synth highlights, will have the crowds dancing in the streets with with their pop music. Also appearing will be all-girl Git’erDone band featuring classic rock with a little country rock touch, and San Francisco’s Ethel Merman is a drag queen you don’t want to miss. With her huge hair and wonderfully exaggerated make up, singing live, she’ll belt out classic rock gems, in a performance that is uniquely Ethel Merman’s. A Palm Springs favorite, GayC/DC the world’s only all-gay tribute to AC/DC returns and Echo V, an out and proud LGBTQI Boy Band, will join the male-fronted Bananarama tribute act, Boynanarama, to perform in Palm Springs for the first time. The big, bold, and beautiful Sheena Rose, a glamorous deluxe diva from San Francisco, brings her act to the desert. Another diva known for her fabulous drag production numbers, Miss Rusty Waters presents the Risqué Drag Revue. An assortment of electronic, pop, hip hop, and rock ‘n’ roll artists will perform, including soulful pop singer, from London, Ben Davis, electronic dance duo based in Joshua Tree Easier, and pop singer and dancer Z LaLa, from LA. With 80+ performances, the diverse lineup of artists will offer something for everyone including special appearances by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, and Modern Men. All performances take place outdoors on the US Bank stage and the Pride Stage sponsored by Desert AIDS Project. Entertainment will also be featured at the Hyatt Palm Springs stage all weekend. The 2017 Palm Springs Pride Week is scheduled for November 3-5, 2017. For more information about Greater Palm Springs Pride, visit www.pspride.org.

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THEROSTOWREPORT >> BY ANN ROSTOW <<

CYBER TWISTS & DUCK DICKS

I was just looking around for fun LGBT news, when my eye was drawn to news about ducks who grow their penises during mating time and apparently don’t keep them more than a few weeks or months. I’m not sure what exactly happens to the temporary appendages and I didn’t want to delve too closely into that detail, but I thought you guy readers would be interested in the fact that some of these ducks have the largest penis to body size ratio in nature. Personally, I’ve never contemplated such a calculation, but perhaps some of you have allowed your idle thoughts to drift in such directions. Too bad the giant schlongs have to disappear. I won’t report all the cyber twists and turn that took me from duck dicks to the story of the cave insects that have sex for up to three days nonstop, but I do want to share this interesting account from nature.com: “When the flea-sized winged insects mate, the female mounts the male and penetrates deep into a thin genital opening in his back. Membranes in her organ swell to lock her in, and multiple spiky spines act as grappling hooks to anchor her tightly to the male. (When researchers tried to pull apart two mating insects, the female was gripping so tightly that the male was accidentally ripped in half, leaving his genitalia still attached to the female.) The tip of the female’s penis fits neatly into the male’s genitalia to allow her to receive a large, teardrop-shaped sperm capsule over their 40–70 hours of copulation.” Woah, Nellie! Talk about gender bending!

WEDDING GUESTS INTERPRETING CAKES So where did the summer go? One day they’re rolling out

STANISLAV PETROV

RAISING A GLASS TO THE LATE STANISLAV PETROV—THE MAN WHO SINGLE-HANDEDLY SAVED THE WORLD FROM NUCLEAR WAR. the red clay courts at Roland Garros and the next day the grocery stores are filled with five pound bags of Halloween candy. In the mean time, the justices of the Supreme Court are doing God knows what. Fishing, lying on the beach, reading trashy novels, giving lectures? Wherever they were and whatever they were doing, they’re back in business now, holding their first conference of the new session on September 25. My ad nauseam discussion of the Masterpiece Cakeshop petition was proved prescient once the High Court accepted review of the Colorado bakery

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case late last session. But now, even I—obsessed as I have been—have begun to throw up my hands in irritation with the nonstop Masterpiece coverage in the legal press. To top it off, the elfin Attorney General and his evil minions in the Justice Department recently wrote a friend-of-the-court brief, siding with the homophobic baker Jack Phillips. In a complete reversal of Obama’s legal position, the United States government told the Court (among other things) that laws banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were relatively new, and thus

should not demand the same respect as those that protect racial minorities. As for Phillips, the United States insisted that being obliged by law to do business with a gay couple was tantamount to being forced to give the wedding toast. “When Phillips designs and creates a custom wedding cake,” wrote the government lawyers, “there is no clear line between his speech and his clients’. He is not merely tolerating someone else’s message on his property; he is giving effect to their message by crafting a unique product with his own two hands.” (He’s baking a frigging cake for God’s sake!) “In addition,” the attorneys blathered on, “because Phillips knowingly creates each custom cake for a specific couple and a specific event, observers could reasonably attribute to him a message of neutrality or endorsement.” First of all, Phillips didn’t just refuse to design a cake, he refused to discuss the matter with the grooms at all. Second, the notion that wedding guests would interpret a cake as a reflection of an anonymous baker’s political views is absurd. For those two main reasons, it seems likely that Jack Phillips will lose his case before the Supreme Court. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine that a Kennedy-led majority would produce anything short of a slam dunk victory for the state of Colorado’s gay rights bill.

PETITIONS TO WATCH OUT FOR

The facts of Masterpiece Cakeshop are good enough for our side that some people are closely watching a similar case out of Washington state. In this case, a florist declined a wedding gig from one of her regular customers, a gay man who was marrying his partner.

> > C Y B E R T W I S T S • W E D D I N G G U E S T S • P E T I T I O N S T O WAT C H O U T F O R • S TA N I S L AV P E T R O V < <

While a cake is just plopped down at the reception, it’s easier to argue that a florist is required to have a more intimate role in the affair, setting up displays, fixing all the centerpieces and so forth. If the High Court were to accept this case and combine it with the cakeshop litigation, our victory would be less obvious. But it would still be likely. Faith cannot triumph over a neutral statute such as a civil rights law. The florist is not being forced to “speak,” or to deliver an unwanted message, by arranging flowers for a gay wedding. And when states like Colorado and Washington enact anti-bias laws, they are enforcing a compelling public interest. For these reasons and others, our Supreme Court majority will come through for us, with the florist or without her. I just don’t want any hemming and hawing muddying the opinion, that’s all.

While we’re talking about the Court, keep an eye on the Title VII lesbian discrimination case out of the 11th Circuit. Lambda Legal has asked the justices to accept review of what might be the most important gay rights case we’ll ever see. Bigger than marriage even because it could determine once and for all if sexual orientation is a morally neutral class, like race, religion or sex. And finally, have you noticed that from time to time the Supreme Court has slapped down state courts that refuse to recognize same-sex marriage rights? The Court hasn’t even bothered to review the cases. They’ve simply said that state supreme courts in Alabama and Arkansas have been wrong to screw with married couples. (Alabama tried to ignore an out-of-state adoption; Arkansas messed with birth certificates.) Now it’s Texas’s turn for a kick

in the pants (one hopes). The city of Houston has asked the High Court to take a look at a bizarre opinion by the Texas Supreme Court, which ruled back in late June that the Supreme Court’s marriage equality ruling might or might not require Houston to offer benefits to married gay staff. Might or might not? An open question? I don’t think so, and neither does Houston, (which wants to offer the benefits and believes they are required by the Obergefell decision).

RIP STANISLAV PETROV

After more than two decades of writing and editing, I’m still not exactly sure when to use “that” and when to use “which.” Oh, and I’m also married to an English teacher. I wonder if veteran surgeons have little gaps in their professional competence. Like

maybe they never learned the difference between those two little veins that run between the kidney and the...ooops! Or maybe the grizzled airline pilot keeps mistaking the landing gear button for the emergency fuel ejection system. Finally speaking of judgment calls, I am raising a glass to the late Stanislav Petrov, who we only recently learned died last May of pneumonia at 77. In 1983, Petrov was the man in charge of reacting to what turned out to be a false reading, but what seemed at the time to be a U.S. nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. Going by his “gut,” Petrov chose not to raise the alarm, even though a staff of dozens of people were watching his every move. Don’t you wonder if people like that still exist? n Ann Rostow can be reached at arostow@aol.com.

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THEEPIDEMIC >> TRI-SPECIFIC ANTIBODY <<

HIV BREAKTHROUGH New antibody attacks 99% of strains. Human trials will start in 2018. BY VI CTOR MELAMED

S

cientists have engineered an antibody that attacks 99% of HIV strains and can prevent infection in primates, reports bbc.com. It is built to attack three critical parts of the virus—making it harder for HIV to resist its effects. The work is a collaboration between the US National Institutes of Health and the pharmaceutical company Sanofi. Human trials will start in 2018 to see if it can prevent or treat infection. Our bodies struggle to fight HIV because of the virus’ incredible ability to mutate and change its appearance, explains BBC’s health and science reporter James Gallagher. These varieties of HIV—or strains—in a single patient are comparable to those of influenza during a worldwide flu season. So the immune system finds itself in a fight against an insurmountable number of strains of HIV. But after years of infection, a small number of patients develop powerful weapons called “broadly neutralizing antibodies” that attack something fundamental to HIV and can kill large swathes of HIV strains. Researchers have been trying to use broadly neutralizing antibodies as a way to treat HIV, or prevent infection in the first place. The study, published in the journal Science, combines three such antibodies into an even more powerful “tri-specific antibody”. Dr. Gary Nabel, the chief scientific officer at Sanofi and one of the report authors, told the BBC News website: “They are more potent and have greater breadth than any single naturally occurring antibody that’s been discovered.” n

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>> MARSHA ROBINSON <<

ANGELS OF BREAD

Showcasing the gay latino political and sexual experience through provocative imagery, Leo Herrera helps fuel the resistance against racism and homophobia. BY VICTO R MELA MED

I

“

magine the Angels of Bread” is a visual exploration, by artist and activist Leo Herrera, of the experiences of gay Latino men. The exhibit is comprised of eight pieces that explore themes central to the gay Latino experience: HIV, Love, Environmental Racism, Immigration, Labor, Religion and Gay Spaces. In his own words, Herrera shares the inspiration for this series: “In a time where overt racism and homophobia is not only tolerated, but encouraged, this exhibit is a form of resistance against stereotypes and caricatures, demanding that Latino gay men be seen, respected, and celebrated.” “Imagine the Angels of Bread” is set to debut at the Museum of Photographic Arts in San Diego as a pop up exhibit with the show opening on October 26th and running through November 2nd. The exhibit will then tour the country with a few international shows and exhibit dates and locations will be available on Elevate Revolutionary Art’s website at elevaterevolutionaryart.com.

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LEO HERRERA

Elevate Revolutionary Art is a nonprofit arts organization based in San Diego whose mission is to “Build power and solidarity by producing art centered on gay men of color and by supporting movements that fight for their lives and dignity.” There is currently an Indiegogo campaign running to raise funds for the printing and framing costs of “Imagine the Angels of Bread.” For more information or to support this historic exhibit you can visit angelsofbread.org.

THETRANSACTION >> FINDING KIM <<

BEYOND GENDER A journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. BY O RLY LYO N N E

F

“

inding Kim,” an honest, intimate and inspiring documentary that follows three years of a transgender man’s journey as he transitions from female to male, has made its debut on digital platforms. The groundbreaking film showcases the incredible and honest story of a truly remarkable individual managing the beginnings of gender re-assignment. Documenting the entire process including top surgery, it navigates the delicate world of friendships and the torment of what to tell one’s family; finally offering the chance to share joy as Kim experiences life the way he always felt he should: as a happy, confident, human being. Captured by documentary filmmakers Aaron Bear and Gabriel Bienczycki, “Finding Kim” is a journey of self-discovery and selfacceptance. Set in the backdrop of progressive Seattle, this film features insights, advice and real-life experience from Dan Savage, Carmen Carrera, Calpernia Addams, Buck Angel and others. The film’s message is one that speaks beyond gender. It’s about knowing and understanding oneself and who one truly is as an individual. It unveils Kim’s story in the most organic way possible while staying true to the documentary filmmaking process. n

For more info visit the official film site: www.findingkim.com. O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 27 THE

>> I’M FINE <<

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE Bad Dragon’s body safe, unique fantasy toys are made by good people with positivity towards their clients’ wants and needs as individuals. BY VICTO R MELA MED

B

“

ad Dragon came about when our CEO, who was attending university in Scotland for electrical engineering, decided on a whim to grab some sculpting clay and take up a new hobby,” says Steven Vest, the company’s marketing director, in an interview with THE FIGHT. “After discovering that the only thing that he could make with any proficiency were things of a phallic nature, he had people inquire about buying his sculptures. Not intending it to become more than a thing to do in his spare time, he suddenly realized the potential for the sculptures as fantasy adult products,” reveals Vest. When asked if the approach to sexuality and fantasy has changed over the past few years, Vest says that “people are becoming more inclusive and sex positive in regards to gender and fetish… With a more positive approach to gay and gender equality being seen by most American citizens, the level of acceptance for individual kink, sexuality and preference is at an all-time high.” “The importance of things like BDSM, sex education and consent are finally being brought to the forefront of the collective consciousness of America’s youth, which will

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lead to what we feel can be a golden age of sexual discovery,” states Vest. “Our clients all wish to have body safe, unique fantasy toys made by good people with positivity towards their wants and needs as individuals.” The company’s best sellers, reveals Vest, range from the more realistic anthro toys like Rex and Chance to the more mundane and vanilla toys like Echo and Nox. “Our great customers have many different things they prefer in the products they choose. Some like girth, some desire texture, many enjoy some good curvature, and we like to offer something for everyone.” By pushing the envelope with new materials and technology, Bad Dragon has gained a reputation for producing visually appealing, robust, high-quality toys with innovative features at industry standard prices. This dedication and focus on attention to detail has made Bad Dragon the market leader in their field. Folsom Street Fair, says Vest, is one of our favorite events of the year. We absolutely love being able to see our customers up close and talk with them about the company and the opportunities we have to be better. We look forward to getting to visit with you and help you get to the know the products and people that make Bad Dragon great.” For more on their products visit bad-dragon.com.

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 29

>> GAY LONELINESS <<

SZ KA BY SE AN WO LF GA LU

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> > D A D D Y- D A D D Y- B O Y < <

T

hey bought me a vacuum cleaner for Christmas. I said I loved it. I said I loved it for many reasons, none of which had to do with my fondness for vacuuming. My partner and his new, young friend from the Mid West bought me a maid’s gift. I said I loved it simply because this boy made my husband happy. He was an ego stroke, a student, and eventually for better or worse, my husband’s raison d’être. I loved my husband of 15 years and wanted him to be happy. So I “loved” my vacuum cleaner. It wasn’t his fault, the vacuum cleaner, the boy. My husband’s main blueprint for successful marriage was his parent’s, superimposing a heteronormative narrative over our gay lives. And like most men his age, a biological time clock was buzzing an urgent need to care for, nurture, and raise something… besides his own ego. With paternal instincts raging and us not making babies, what to do? Unwittingly he’d begun infantilizing me, parenting, controlling. I responded by pulling away. It happens in long-term relationships. Something is missing. Things get sullen and stale but with no children, it can get confusing. Without proper navigation, it can be a shipwreck. At this point in life’s twisty current, a child reinvigorates most relationships providing focus for hard-wired reflexes. Couples are reunited in a manner only creating a family affords and rifts heal. Some gay male couples; to avoid driving each other crazy, bring in a third. He’s typically younger, commonly referred to as “the boy”, and boy the dynamic changes. Although they met online three years prior, I had no idea this kid existed until he washed upon our shore with two small duffle bags… eventually moving in. What the hell was I thinking? I saw someone in need. Not just the boy, my husband who literally ached for family and especially someone to mentor besides me. Eight years his junior that dynamic was cute in my twenties. By my late thirties, it was downright annoying. So we entered uncharted waters and “adopted” a boy. People clicked their tongues insinuating we were all in bed together. Truthfully, the boy slept on the couch but I think my husband enjoyed the buzz. We thrived in our one-bedroom apartment clubbing, museums, trips, and restaurants.

“THE DADDYDADDY-BOY TRIAD IS PERVASIVE… I ADMIT THE FAMILY ELEMENT WAS WONDERFUL WHEN IT WORKED, AND BROUGHT US ALL TREMENDOUS JOY… WITHOUT NAVIGATIONAL AID HOWEVER, WE LOST OUR WAY.” Time my husband and I spent arguing evaporated in a sea of, “I think the boy would like the Getty,” or, “You’re tired, I’ll take the boy instead.” His presence gave us a desperately needed break from one other and the chance to rediscover each other. My partner saw my caring, older brother side emerge. I watched him shine as a father figure. We formed a family. It was awesome. But a storm brewed. For Christmas the boy got Ray Ban sunglasses, nice clothes, and I got… a vacuum cleaner. I’d experienced emotional distancing and was ganged up on a bit, sure. But the cost/benefit ratio of this “throuple” was such that I tolerated it because my husband actually changed for the better. He was happier. Energetic. Hopeful. I was able to do more independently and consequently, we enjoyed each other more. Any misgivings I had about our arrangement seemed trivial in that light. The summer my stepfather passed away, real life interceded our fantasy, family world, rocking the relation-“ship.” I asked my partner to travel with me for the memorial services. He hemmed and hawed. It would spoil his 50th birthday plans, so I offered he stay home and celebrate with the boy. That was my biggest mistake. He agreed I travel solo. Later, he admitted that was his. It completed the emotional rift that had been forming even before the boy. They partied in L.A. while I dealt with my mom, widowed at 68. Grief struck, I didn’t pay attention to how far I’d sailed from my man’s affection. It hit me like a shit ton of bricks when my mom joked, “I lost mine to cancer. Seems you’re losing yours to a twenty-something”. My biological time clock froze.

Returning home I experienced what can only be described as getting emotionally kicked out. My grief was termed a “drag,” my emotions “too heavy.” I insisted the boy leave, shared my situation with friends to gain support. Then came the gas lighting. My man couldn’t give up his new drug, but didn’t want to look bad. Rumors spread I was mentally ill, bi-polar, anything to smoke screen. (He should’ve gone into politics.) The boy didn’t want to lose his living situation, but didn’t sign up for this bull-honk. The ship was sinking. Without discussion, my partner posted our break up on Facebook. Shocked, I packed what self-respect I had and moved out, continuing paying rent. I spent a miserable summer ironically filled with pinnacle career moments, helped my mom, and prayed for my husband to come to his senses. Countless dramas ensued in which we were all complicit. The holidays passed with not even a vacuum cleaner, and the boy finally moved out. My partner and I began couples counseling with the goal to part properly (not on Facebook) or reunite. There we determined my husband developed an unhealthy, emotional attachment to the boy, excluding me. This clouded, and then shattered his judgment. I used the boy as a shield against dealing with my husband’s needs, pushing him farther away, equally to blame. All relationships after a certain point become a congruous, 50/50 responsibility split, no matter what the circumstances. We willingly stepped into this boat. But the sea swelled so slowly around us, it was impossible to turn back until we were in a capsizing storm. With honest communication, I moved back in and over time we repaired. Our relation-ship sailed steadier than ever. The Daddy-Daddy-Boy triad is pervasive, but is it successful? Statistically, the majority sinks either discretely or in a Facebook torrent of crazy. I admit the family element was wonderful when it worked, and brought us all tremendous joy. Without navigational aid however, we lost our way. I wish we’d discovered the Leather Community. They have a firm handle on myriad non-traditional relationship stuff with clearly defined roles, comfort levels, etc. If you’re thinking of “adopting,” seek knowledge from leather mentors and navigate these waters more safely. The dynamic of three is naturally unstable, like balancing a boat with three men. When two keep to one side, alliances shift and the boat tips. I was just glad it tipped back to me. O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 31

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O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 33

A message from PSLOD President Drew Kramer.

O

nce again, Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert joins with the entire leather community here in the desert to throw the best party we can. We have worked hard all year planning the Mr. Palm Springs Leather Contest, the formal leather dinner, the Victory Dance, the vendor market, and the pool parties, and all the other events that make Palm Springs Leather Pride an event like none other in the world. Check out our great leather bars, shop for gear at our stores that sell stuff you won’t find back home, cheer on the men vying to become the next Mr. Palm Springs Leather, ponder the question “What does a leatherman wear to a pool party?” and hook up with the hot men who come from across the country and around the world to our desert paradise on the last weekend in October. On behalf of Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert, we thank you for attending, the many who continuously volunteer and whose dedication make this weekend possible as well as the many sponsors who play a vital role in our success and finally the beneficiaries of everyone of efforts. We thank all of our sponsors for their support and generous donations that will further the mission of this year’s beneficiaries.

THE LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT The Center creates a vibrant community by helping LGBTQ people along their way, in Coachella Valley and visitors of all ages, totaling nearly 56,000 client visits annually. A thriving, community-based organization, The Center provides a safe and supportive environment for members to enjoy wellness, educational, support and social programming through such programs as The Scott Hines Mental Health Clinic @ The Center (over 2,000 clinical appointments annually), transgender therapy groups, a partnership with Palm Springs Unified School District to offer The Center’s Suicide Prevention and Anti-Bullying curriculum to every ninth-grade student in the district (nearly 2,000 students), public school counseling, The Community Food Bank @ The Center (serving annually over 16,000 family members from ages 1 through 55+), extensive social and recreational offerings

SAFE SCHOOLS COACHELLA VALLEY Safe Schools Desert Cities empowers area Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex youth (LGBTQI+), their allies and GSA advisors and offers opportunities that foster a sense of community and individual growth by providing education, guidance, advocacy, resources, recreational activities and opportunities for self-expression.

UCR STREET MEDICINE Provides compassionate healthcare to those unsheltered and most vulnerable throughout the Coachella Valley. 3 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

MAIN PHOTO BY DUSTI CUNNINGHAM MODELS: BRUIN COLLINSWORTH, JACE GRIMM

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The annual Mr. Palm Springs Leather Contest will take place this month on Saturday, October 28 at 5pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum for VIP Cocktails and private tour. Doors open at 6 pm and the contest at 7pm. For more info visit www.palmspringsleatherpride.org. JAX KELLY MR. CCBC LEATHER 2018

Jax decided to step out of the backrooms and into the spotlight as he aspires to be more public about being a Leatherman. Following two decades in financial services as a VP at a top NY bank, the self-taught chef formed a private catering company in Los Angeles. In 2013, he moved to Palm Springs to write and publish essays, memoirs, and poetry. Formerly a Commissioner on the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV, Jax is the winner of awards for volunteer service in HIV/AIDS advocacy, emotional support and testing/ counseling. He chose Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs (www.lkaps.org) as one of his title year fundraising beneficiaries because of its service to local, long-term survivors of HIV/AIDS. Currently, Jax serves on the board of the California LGBT Arts Alliance and is a member of Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert, Palms Springs Writers Guild, Great Outdoors, CMEN, PSSST and the Leather Archives & Museum in Chicago.

TOM SCHNECK

MR. BARRACKS LEATHER 2018 For over a decade, Tom has been an LGBT activist devoting himself to support the community. His journey began in his hometown of Pittsburgh where he served on the board of the Delta Foundation. As a founder of this new organization, he directed the marketing for the group’s 3 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

numerous events including Pride. Professionally, Tom has lead the marketing for retail real estate around the country for over 20 years. He has excelled at driving millions annually to shop at these destinations. As his career grew and moved him around the country so did his interests in leather and fetishes. As a leatherman, Tom frequently gears up to attend International Mister Leather, Mid-AtlanticLeather, and regional leather events. In early 2017, Tom’s career brought him back to California to lead marketing and tourism for greater Palm Springs’ largest tourist attraction. Soon after his arrival he became an active part of the leather community and is currently pledging the PSLOD.Tom won the Mr. Barracks Leather Contest in August 2017. In his short time as a titleholder, he has fundraised for LGBT hurricane victims, Mama’s Family Foundation, and the Desert AIDS Project.

DAN CARMINE

MR. OFF-RAMP LEATHER 2018 Dan grew up in a small highly wooded mountain town near Lake Tahoe. As a result, he is a very outdoors kind of guy. He loves to explore, hike, camp, and get downright dirty in every sense of the word. The smell of pine and cedar mixed with a hot man’s sweaty pits really gets him going. Currently working towards a career in the medical field, Dan works at CUT Barbershop and to unwind he sweats it off as a go-go dancer at one Palm Springs’ wildest weekly events “Bearcules.” Dan has hosted and volunteered many events held by or benefitting Desert Aids Project, Desert

Aids Walk, PS Gay Pride, and Queen of the Desert 2017, in addition to go-going to raise awareness and funds benefiting the PS Animal Shelter. As Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2018, Dan would like to raise awareness and funds for care, rescue, and humane treatment of animals. In addition, to raising awareness of mental illness and addiction plaguing LGBTQ young adults.

TONY DEWAIN

MR. TOOL SHED LEATHER 2018 Tony is a native of rural Missouri who relocated to Palm Springs in 2014 to live in a thriving gay city with an active leather community. In Missouri Tony participated in leather events in both Kansas City and St. Louis as well as attending International Mr. Leather and was a founding member of the Central Missouri Leather Society CMLS). CMLS organized social and educational leather events in central Missouri with presenters from Kansas City and St. Louis to provide outreach to the leather curious. Tony also organized leather themed fundraisers to benefit the local HIV prevention and assistance programs. Since moving to Palm Springs Tony has volunteered to assist with Palm Springs Leather Pride weekend regularly as well keeping an active and social schedule in the community. He is currently a pledging Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert and is a founding member and secretary of the newly established Desert Boys of Leather. In addition to representing the Tool Shed at leather events, Tony believes it is just as important to be visible in other places in the community and open to anyone with questions about leather opportunities and activities.

MAIN PHOTO BY DUSTI CUNNINGHAM MODELS: BRUIN COLLINSWORTH, JACE GRIMM O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 37

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For more details on these events visit www.palmspringsleatherpride.org. PHOTO BY DUSTI CUNNINGHAM

Thur Octobsday, er 26

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MODELS: BRUIN COLLINSWORTH, JACE GRIMM 4 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

asIo, MD Join Alex Del Ro of a Man; the s nt ce “S g presentin al Attraction,” Science of Sexu ding a slave or masfin SlaveMaster on and Flogging on the g in pp hi W d an and ter ke, Drew Kramer lot with Peter Fis LA Leather 2017. s Scarlet Sinn, M 2om-5pm BBQ RS, GEAR AND EXHAUST: CIGA lm -625 E. Pa The Barracks 67 l City, CA 92234 ra ed th Ca , on ailny Ca us with cigars av Hosted by Maxim ear your dog tag .W able for purchase ices and BBQ complipr for Happy Hour rracks. ments of The Ba 5om-6pm NGS S OF PALM SPRI PRIVATE TOUR D VIP COCKTAILS AN M AIR MUSEU Gene r Museum 745 N Palm Springs Ai Springs, CA Autry Trail, Palm

of nsive collection Explore the exte from the First acts aircraft and artif h the Vietnam Conflict ug useum World War thro nue led by Air M at this unique ve GUEST ONLY. docents. VIP TIX leatherpride.org. gs www.palmsprin

luded e dance floor. Inc Sweat it out on th ckage or Individual Pa in VIP/Commando or. do Tix $10. Online or leatherpride.org. www.palmsprings

6pm-9pm NGS LEATHER MR. PALM SPRI LENT AUCTION SI CONTEST AND Gene r Museum 745 N 2 Ai gs Palm Sprin 9226 CA , gs rin Sp lm Autry Trail, Pa Mr. Palm Springs g The 23rd annual enin emcees for the ev Leather Contest Lenny Broberg and LA’s e the incomparabl my Ronceros. Included re subtle satirist Je Package or Individual do an m m Co P/ VI in door. Tix $25. Online or leatherpride.org. gs rin sp www.palm 6pm-10pm STRUT nyon 170 E Tahquitz Ca Devine Interiors 2 26 92 CA gs rin ToF Way, Palm Sp gear and enjoy d by Wear your best ste ho lay sp di k on and other artwor r of Devine Interiors ne Paul Devine ow ovided by the Sisters with libations pr lgence. of Perpetual Indu 9pm-2am DANCE PARTY AWOL: VICTORY RECON BY D RE SO ON SP -625 E. Palm The Barracks 67 ral City, CA ed Canyon, Cath

Sunday, October

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11am-3pm RTY VERY: POOL PA MEAT AND RECO AND CHOW tel 964 S. Indian Canyon Club Ho rings, CA 92264 Sp lm off Canyon, Pa l pool party and Clothing optiona contests to get you irt sh is being the edge Wet Twhile, the chow riled up. All the t your meat covered grilled and we go . ncluded in VIP/ gs with all the fixin age or Individual Tix ck Pa do an m ringsCom or. www.palmsp $20. Online or do . leatherpride.org 11am-1pm HER BRUNCH WOMEN OF LEAT ringsto: www.palmsp VENUE TBD. Go . leatherpride.org Palm Springs Leather The women of eir sert welcome th ! Order of the De ch un br to !) rs he or. sisters (and brot 0.00 online or do Individual Tix $2 leatherpride.org. gs rin sp www.palm 3pm-8pm ER E: LAST CALL BE FINAL DISCHARG BUST AND BBQ -625 E. Palm The Barracks 67 l City, CA 92234 ra ed th Ca , on age Cany Commando Pack nce. Included in VIP/ tra en at n .00 donatio or suggested $5 leatherpride.org. gs rin sp lm pa w. ww

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Meet this year’s esteemed judges. For more detailed bios visit www.palmspringsleatherpride.org. MAIN PHOTO BY DUSTI CUNNINGHAM

RALPH BRUNEAU

INTERNATIONAL MR. LEATHER 2017, LOS ANGELES, CA Ralph Bruneau is International Mister Leather 2017. He competed at IML as Mr. GNI Leather 2016 representing Gay Naturists International, the largest naturist organization in the world. With a Master’s and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Bruneau has a sex-positive, kinkpositive practice in Los Angeles and has been nationally recognized for his contributions to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy in California. He is actively involved in the campaign to end Conversion Therapy working with NCLR and the #BornPerfect campaign.

LARRY GOLUBSKI

MR. LONG BEACH LEATHER 2005, LONG BEACH, CA Larry first won Mr. Long Beach Leather in 2005 and went on to be First Runner-up at International Mr. Leather, 2006. He resides in Long Beach with the love of his life, Russ Donaldson, whom he legally married in 2013. Currently the owner of his own home improvement contract business, he has been devoted to many causes near and dear to him. A longtime advocate for gay and human rights, often directing homeless clothing drives in Long Beach. For years he’s been a past member and president of the Long Beach AIDS Foundation.

MYSTRYSS LILY FLEUR NOIR, DETROIT, MI.

Mystryss Lily is a leather woman, who’s been enjoying her journey since 1993. She helped run 4 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

many clubs in Detroit from behind the scenes over the years; and then created her own dedicated lifestyle venue, The Kinkdom. As a strong proponent of education within alternative lifestyles, she has taught classes for more than 17 years, at events ranging from The Leather People of Color Workshops, Men of ONYX, International Mr. Leather, Great Lakes Leather Alliance, DomCon LA /Atlanta/New Orleans, Northern Exposure AK, Kink U Cincinnati/WI for The Titans of the Midwest, Sin in the City, Beat Me in St. Louis, the Adult Video Network Awards for Sanctuary Studios LAX and kink.com.

AHMAD REFKY

PHOENIX, AZ Born in Cairo, Egypt, Ahmad immigrated to the US in 2001 and delved into the kink scene shortly thereafter. He honed his skills as a top in the back rooms and dungeons of Chicago, specializing in tactile play, FF, CBT, and electro—skills that he has demoed at events such as the Leather & Lace Kinky Carnival in Des Moines, the Heart of America leather contest in Kansas City, and Kink U at MIR in Chicago. Ahmad served as a Contestant Handler for International Mr. Leather 2011-2015, Den Daddy for Mr. Minneapolis Eagle 2012, and as a Judge for Southwest LeatherSir/boy 2015.

ALAN STROIK

PRESIDENT OF AVATAR LA, REDLANDS, CA Alan has been part of the Leather community for over 30 years. Originally from Milwaukee, he was president of the Beer Town Badgers. Soon after meeting his future partner Mike he moved to California. The two recently celebrated their 25th anniversary. He is

a member and past President, Vice President, Board Member, program chair for Avatar Club Los Angeles and holds the distinction of being the only member to be President for a second two-year maximum term. He is also a Board member of the Los Angeles Leather Coalition and was a member of the former Orange County Leather Coalition.

GRAYLIN THORNTON

INTERNATIONAL DRUMMER 1993, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Over the past three decades Graylin has been honored to judge, emcee, teach workshops and participate at numerous leather events including IML, IMsL, Drummer, ILSb, Master/slave, ABW, Deaf Leather and MLT. He is one of the founding members of the South Bay Leather and Uniform Group (SLUG) formed in 1987 and produced the first South Bay Leather Weekend and the first Ebony Leather Contest held in San Francisco. He was also the former chair of San Diego Leather Pride and produced Southern California Mr. Drummer, Leather Sir/boy and Mr. San Diego Leather.

CLAY SALES WASHINGTON STATE MR. LEATHER 2016, PALM SPRINGS, CA

Clay Sales was Washington State Mr. Leather 2016 and recently moved from Seattle to Palm Springs. He is also a 54-year-old, 6’2”, 260lb bodybuilder sub who gets called “Sir” so often he’s stopped correcting people and just glares at them now. When not tied to a cross and getting the crap flogged out of him, Clay enjoys quilting, reading, and long walks on the beach.

MODELS: BRUIN COLLINSWORTH, JACE GRIMM O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 45

STATE-OF-THE-ART DANCE FLOOR WORLD-CLASS DJS GO-GO DANCERS

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S P I R I T S E L E VAT E D

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TITLE SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD & SILVER SPONSORS

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>> MARSHA ROBINSON <<

Even if you’re an asshole, I give you love because that’s how the world heals. That’s how people change. Your shop is known as a hub for queer and political events, especially during Pride. What kind of events does the shop host during Pride? During pride I open my shop and back alley as a party and meeting space for queer women. You know, there’s a lot of places for gay men to go in Palm Springs, but not as many for queer women. We get queer women flowing in and out of the shop that have come all the way from LA to San Diego. All sorts of women. The Dykes on Bikes use the store as a base to store their helmets in. Musicians come down from festivals. I welcome strangers. It’s fun. It’s really just been growing organically over the past three years. MARSHA ROBINSON (MIDDLE) AND FRIENDS

MARS CREATIONS

An interview with owner and artist Marsha Robinson of Mars Creations in Palm Springs. BY RO XIE PERKIN S

Tell us about yourself. My name’s Marsha Robinson, I own Mars Creations and I’m an artist and a political activist. I ended up in Palm Springs 20 years ago and started Mars Creations—and I believe I’m the only lesbian business owner in downtown Palm Springs! What is Mars Creations? Mars Creations is a politically active, gemstone shop that features artisan jewelry, local artwork, and roadside geology with some local digs. I hand make 80% of our products and mine a lot of the stones myself. I’ve been digging stones out of the ground for 30 years. We also make custom pieces, and welcome people bringing in their own rocks for me to wire wrap. What is Mars Creations’ goal? I’m trying to create a vortex in downtown Palm Springs. Entering the store is like walking into a hoarder’s den that has OCD—in a beautiful way! I feel like owning and operating Mars Creations is a force of good in the community because crystals and gemstones make people feel like they’re getting positive energy and therefore they manifest that energy in their own lives. How do you interact with the queer/activist community in Palm Springs? I am all about supporting local artists, political, and queer groups in Palm Springs. Our shop supports many different social and political causes—ranging from Black Lives Matter to Gay Pride events. We get every kind of walk of life in here and I hug all my customers. 5 0 TTHHEE FFIIGH www.thefightmag.com 50 GH TT || www.thefightmag.com

“I AM ALL ABOUT SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTISTS, POLITICAL, AND QUEER GROUPS IN PALM SPRINGS. OUR SHOP SUPPORTS MANY DIFFERENT SOCIAL AND POLITICAL CAUSES—RANGING FROM BLACK LIVES MATTER TO GAY PRIDE EVENTS.” What about Palm Springs makes it such a great community for lesbians and members of the LGBT family to live in? It’s hard here in Palm Springs. Don’t get me wrong—I love Palm Springs. I love the small, unique, village living. I love the peoplebut to be honest—the political community is really small here. I feel like it’s my duty to grow it through my outspoken, queer, political, gem shop! Since the election there’s been more awareness and the political community is changing because all the young people are starting to move down here and they are very active. We just have to keep things rolling towards progress.

>> LOCALI <<

LOCALI WEST HOLLYWOOD

“

Healthy, fresh and ready-made food in a friendly, quick-service environment. BY VICTO R MELA MED

I

f 7-Eleven and Whole Foods had a love child, Locali would be it. We make eating healthy convenient. Locali provides a nonjudgmental bridge to a healthier lifestyle,” states Locali’s co-founder and CEO Melissa Rosen. Locali was created to provide consumers access to healthy, fresh and ready-made food in a friendly, quick-service environment. The company’s success demonstrates that nutritious food, creatively prepared, can be easily available, delicious and affordable, while supporting sustainable agriculture. “No matter what your dietary preference is, you can dine with us without sacrificing flavor. We cater to everyone’s taste buds and eating lifestyles. We make sure that the food we serve is made with integrity and love for all who enter our doors,” says co-founder and COO Greg Horos. Locali’s delicious organic, vegan and gluten-free options will definitely keep you coming back for more! n Locali’s is located at 8730 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood. The Grand Opening is set for November 16th. The restaurant will be open for business during the day but the Grand Opening celebration will take place from 5pm-8pm. The first 100 guests will receive a free Badass Breakfast Sandwich. O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 51

THESHARE

THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY

>> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

RECOVERY ROYALTY

We asked Tatiana, Lotta Slots and Chanelta, well known in the recovering community, on how being of service at sober events affect their recovery as they prepared for Best in Drag Show, a fundraiser for Aid for AIDS. TATIANNA

SENSE OF PURPOSE

we’re not a glum lot—look, this is a lot of fun. Come join us. Stay sober. You don’t have to get loaded. You can put on a show and be silly. These shows help me to stay sober through the camaraderie and the fellowship and learning how to operate in a social situation that’s not about sex, it’s about service.” —Lotta Slots (Jeffrey Drew), sober since November, 1988 A NELT

“The name Tatianna came from a Diane Von Furstenberg fragrance in the 80s or 90s. CHA She existed way before I got sober. Tati was green before sobriety. She wasn’t very reliable. Today, most of her work is exclusively about being of service and she mostly performs at sober events. The shows keeps me involved in the community and give me a chance to give back what was freely given to me. I can show another alcoholic who might be struggling that it is OK to have fun in sobriety. Service doesn’t always have to be about picking up cigarette butts at the end of a LOTTA SLOTS meeting. Doing a show like Best in Drag is very fulfilling. We don’t get paid for these shows. Tatianna loves a production, so a lot of these elaborate performances come out of my own pocket, but it gives me a sense of purpose.” —Tatianna (Luis Camacho), sober since April, 2004.

THE CAMARADERIE Lotta came about when I competed in Battle for the Tiara, which was a precursor to Best in Drag. I was always kinda of a nelly kid. I’d get drunk and come to in women’s clothing. One of the gifts of sobriety is I became a dancer and did musical theatre in New York. I went from hooker, to chorus boy, to casting director. The sober shows we do are really about showing—especially the newcomer, that 5 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

STAYING CONNECTED “I’ve always been Chanelta. After I got sober, it became a drag persona. I didn’t think I could do drag, and then I did it for [sober retreat] Hot & Dry and the next thing I knew, I went from chorus girl to doing my own numbers and performing at clubs. I love doing this for the sober community— especially a show like Best in Drag. I went from being a volunteer, to working behind the scenes. I sell a shitload of tickets, I’m in the calendar and I feel so good knowing it’s for a greater good. I don’t really look at these shows as keeping me sober. My program is what keeps me sober. Staying connected with other alcoholics, sponsoring, being sponsored, attending meetings—that is the core of my sobriety. These shows are absolutely a form of service. We are doing a production. It’s choreography, props and gimmicks. It costs time and money, but the love we get from the sober community feels amazing.” —Chanelta (Anil Patel), sober since March 2006

>> THE HALAL GUYS <<

THE HALAL GUYS Now open in West Hollywood. Get your gyro on! BY O RLY LYO N N E

F

rom humble beginnings as a New York city hot dog cart to a worldrenowned international restaurant chain, The Halal Guys has finally made it to West Hollywood! “We are so excited to be here and we look forward to serving WeHo’s diverse community,” the founders tell THE FIGHT. The quintessential American Dream, The Halal Guys legend began in 1990, when the three founding partners opened up a hot dog cart in New York city. As business grew, they recognized a huge

the famous white and red sauces! Fast-forward 25 years, The Halal Guys now share American Halal Food all over the country and the world. Come visit their new West Hollywood location at 8919 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069. Other SoCal locations include: • Long Beach: 1804 Ximeno Ave, Long Beach, CA 90815 • Cerritos: 11435 South St, Cerritos, CA 90703 • Koreatown: 3432 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

demand from Muslim cab drivers looking for a halal food meal. That is when the famous platter of chicken and gyro over rice was born. And let’s not forget about

• Downtown LA: 510 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 • Glendale: 201 N Brand Blvd #110, Glendale, CA 91203

O CTO B ER 2017 | TH E F I GH T 53

THEART >>

LGBTQ ARTISTS

<<

LGBTQ ART IN L.A.

Personal and cultural narratives, meditative practices. KOLBE ROPER

K

KOLBE ROPER

olbe Roper uses touchstones in common vernacular of queer subgroups, creating works that play with the ideas of culture, histories, and how they are being presented or forgotten in todays societies. Changing the covers of magazines or manipulating layers of an image speaks to personal and cultural narratives of presentation to a public. Roper received his MFA from California College of the Arts, he works and lives in Los Angeles. Roper has been included in recent exhibitions at Chainlink Gallery and Los Angeles Center for Digital Art (Los Angeles), and past exhibitions include LeGrange Museum (LeGrange, GA), River Market KCAC (Kansas City, MI), Maiden LA (Los Angeles, CA) and SOMA Arts (San Francisco, CA).

ARTWORK BY KOLBE ROPER

BEN CUEVAS

W ARTWORK BY BEN CUEVAS

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ith fiber as his fulcrum, Cuevas views knitting as a meditative practice, exploring and challenging the gendered constructs and physical limitations of craft. From the political to the metaphysical, his practice is steeped in queer feminist ideologies, with an awareness of the mind, body, and spirit. His work spans a wide range of disciplines including installation, sculpture, photography, performance, video and sound. Often incorporating several of these elements into any given piece, he makes use of digital media as a means of documentation. For more info visit bencuevas.com. n

BEN CUEVAS

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Integrating Substance Use, Mental Health, and Primary Care Services in Our Communities: Resilience in a Changing Environment October 25—26, 2017 Hilton Universal City Hotel at Universal City 555 Universal Hollywood Dr.

Universal City, California 91608

Featured Track:

● Topics Include ● Unique Needs of LGBT Seniors Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Youth Family Acceptance Project: Family Support Model of Wellness, Prevention and Care for LGBT Children and Youth 5 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

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THECALENDAR >> THINGS TO DO << tion” by committing to walk and registering. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26

EAST LOS QUEER FLEA MARKET Green’s Center for Plant Based Nutrition and Gluten Free Education. 4906 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA. 7pm–9:30pm. Pumpkin decorating, yummy vegan foods and lots of cool artisan crafts and unique finds! SATURDAY OCTOBER 28

SQURRRL: UNDRRR THE BIG TOP! Akbar Silverlake, 4356 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90029. 9pm–2am. Your favorite San Francisco creators of shenanigans are back in Los Angeles for some circus realness.

WEST HOLLYWOOD HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

5TH ANNUAL LGBT MEGA-MIXER W Hotel Hollywood, 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028. 6pm–9pm. Bringing together LGBT-focused organizations in the greater Los Angeles area under one roof to increase awareness of the resources each organization provides.

BEST IN DRAG SHOW Orpheum Theatre, 842 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014. 7pm–10pm. The legendary fundraiser benefiting Aid for AIDS, a program of Alliance for Housing and Healing returns October 8th to the Orpheum Theatre.

RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE: WERQ THE WORLD Globe Theatre, 740 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA. 8pm–11pm. Tickets & Info: www.WerqTheWorld.com. Your favorite queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race are here to “WERQ your world” in the Official World Tour presented by Voss Events in collaboration with World of Wonder and VH1.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6

JACKSONS NIGHT Akbar, 4356 W Sunset Blvd., 10pm–2am. For more info visit: akbarsilverlake.com. To get you warmed up for Janet’s State of the World Tour stop at the Hollywood Bowl on Sunday.

TG MONDAY / T-TIME Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Grille, 214 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262. 5pm–11pm. Transgender Social Hour, TCC’S monthly Social Event to support our Transgender, Intersex, Gender Non Conforming Community and their allies.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10

DRAG ME TO AIDS/LIFECYCLE Micky’s, 8857 Santa Monica Blvd., 2pm–7pm. To purchase tickets, visit: aidslifecycle.org/dragme. The 2nd Annual AIDS/LifeCycle Drag Competition. Watch Aparticipants ditch their spandex for dresses, and lip synch to become AIDS/LifeCycle Drag Super Stars!

BOOK SIGNING LOGICAL FAMILY: A MEMOIR West Hollywood Public Library—City Council Chambers 625 N. San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069. 7pm. Armistead Maupin discussing and signing “Logical Family: A Memoir.”

STUDIO 69 Faultline Bar, 4216 Melrose Ave., 9pm–2am. Faultline Bar is bringing Studio 54 in the form of Studio 69, sans the velvet rope treatment. $5 cover or free entry if you show up in your best disco look.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11

SNAP OUT of IT! Micky’s WeHo, 8857 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, California 90069. 10pm–2pm. An All-inclusive queer fantasy, Hosted by The House Of Avalon.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15

AIDS WALK LOS ANGELES Los Angeles City Hall, 3550 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 890, Los Angeles, CA. 8am–2pm. Registration & Info: la.aidswalk.net. Join Southern California’s largest event to support people living with HIV and to end AIDS in Los Angeles and beyond. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20

SMOKING HOT UNIFORM CONTEST Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd., 9pm–12am. Join the men of the Regiment for a smoking hot uniform contest Men of Maximus are hosting a cigar bar. SATURDAY, OCT 21

DESERT AIDS WALK 2017 Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs, 700 Tamarisk Ln, Palm Springs, CA . 7:30am–12pm. Registration & Info: www.desertaidswalk.org. Join the “Community in Ac-

CALAVERA LGBTQ COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Latino Equality Alliance & Mi Centro, 553 S Clarence St., Los Angeles, CA. 6pm–11pm. Tickets & Info: http://latinoequalityalliance. nationbuilder.com/calavera. Blending of our LatinX cultural and LGBTQ community experience. Welcoming all LGBTQ and ally members of our community for an evening filled with art, music, food, drinks and dancing! IN FUZZ WE TRUST HALLOWEEN BASH The Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA. 9pm. GayC/Dc. Scary Monsters (All star tribute to Bowie.) SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29

MODELS OF PRIDE CONFERENCE- TOGETHER WE RISE University of California, 3551 Trousdale Pkwy, Los Angeles, CA 90089. 10am. Registration & Info: www.modelsofpride.org. Join the Los Angeles LGBT Center for an all day event that celebrates and empowers LGBTQ youth. The day features 100 workshops, a resource fair, college fair, career fair, an exciting entertainment hour, lunch, dinner and outdoors dance party. All FREE. MUST Register. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31

WEST HOLLYWOOD HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny Dr., and La Cienega Blvd., 6pm–11pm. Each year, the City of West Hollywood hosts one of the most unique Halloween gatherings in the world. With an estimated attendance of several hundred thousand people, the Halloween Carnaval is the world’s largest Halloween festivity.

ONLINE NOW!

Prty SEXY

Looking for a good time, but it’s harder to find…

New to the scene, and the site. I’m a weekend warrior, but PNP anytime. HIV STATUS: ASK ME

CALL: 323-463-7001

VISIT: friendsgettingoff.org

Friends Getting Off provides free drug counseling for gay and bisexual men who use methamphetamine. The program combines group counseling with an intervention that gives rewards for negative urine samples. Participation is 8 weeks followed by a 16 week support group and one follow-up assessment.

1419 North La Brea Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 A clinic of Friends Community Center, a division of Friends Research Institute, Inc. This project is supported by funds received from the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health, Division of HIV and STD Programs and the City of West Hollywood.

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