a one ot CULTURE & COMMUNITY => SPRING 2013 * FREE 3 Martha Wash Md eee S| Le rT we rg _ f Ui a f % (reg a= a ie are ac iF 7) })») eR eae Douglas: By) Robbie St. Laurent, Rayceen Pendavis, Tr te EAL y New Documentaries: God Loves Uganda, Taboo PMT PE TetWhat is STRI STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HiV-1 in adults wi have never taken HIV-1 medicine fre. It combines 4 medic pill to be taken once a day w food, STRIBILD is a complete single-tablet regimen and should not sed with ther HIV-1 medicine: STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV- infection and decrease HIV-rel you must keep taking RIBILD. Ask your healthc vestions about into thers. Always practice idoms to lower chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: * Build-up of an acid in your sis), whichis jcal emergency npioms of lactic acidosis include 9 very Weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing stomach pain with nausea oF vomiting, feeling cold cally n your arms and feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat + Serious liver problems. The iver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms Iver problems include your skin or white pat of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark tee-colored” trie ight-clored bowel movements (stools), te for severe days o longer, nausee, and/or stomach pan * You may be more likely to get lactic aeldosis oF serious liver problems if you are female, ven overweight (ode have led Call your healthoare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these condition: Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Ii you also have HBV ind stop taking STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop STRIBILD without frst healthcare provider, d to monitor your health ‘STRIBILD is not approved for the treatment of HBV, Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you: ‘Take a medicine that contains: alfuzosin, cinydroergotamine, smine, methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafil when used for lung problems (Revatio®, tiazolam, oral midazolam, rifampin or the herb St John's wor * For a list of brand names for these medicines, please see the Brief ‘Summary on the following pages. Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepser What are the other possible side effects of STRIBILD? Serious side effects of STRIBILD may also include: « New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your waithcare provider should do lar blood and urine tests to ‘check your kidneys before and during treatment with STRIBILD. iop kidney problems, are provider may tell + Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, ‘which may lead to fractures. Your weaithcare provider may da tes * Changes in body fat can hi in people taking HIV-1 medicines. * Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections, Tel your healthcare you have any new fer you start taking The most common side effects ‘STRIBILD include nausea and diarrhea. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that What should | healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? + All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healtheare provider if you have or had any kidney, bone, orlver problems, including hepatitis virus infection, + All the medicines you take, including prescription and ‘nonprescription medicines vitamin, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works. Keep a listo all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines while taking STRIBILD without fst talking with your healthcare provider: = If you take hormone-based bit contol (ela shots + If you take antacids. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. = If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant Itis not known if STRIBILD ccan harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you come pregnant while taking STRIBILD. = you are breastfeeding (cursing) or pian to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV can be passed tothe baby in breast mik Ago, same medicines in STRIBILD can pass into breast silk, andi is not known if this can harm the baby. 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, Pease see Brief Summary of ull Prescribing Information with portant warnings on the following pages.Rt Re et Co ee RoE ert eerie ur agai) adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines CRN = eee soar kets alaeA LS ic laCh min ersonal revolution aC) your healthcare provider it starting treatment. See eRe) (aaa Tela ODL ENo aCex-0e- [=A Ask if it’s right for you. SM Ld elvitegravir 150mg/ cobicistat 150mg/ emtricitabine 200mg/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300mg tabletsPatient Information ‘STRIBILD™ (STRY-bild) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/ ‘tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets Brief summary of full Preseriting Information. For more information, lease see the fll Presebing information, inuding Patent infomation. What is STRIBILD? «© STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in aduits who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBID isa complete regimen and should not be used with ather HIV-1 medicines. * STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS, You must stay on Continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV=1 infection and decrease Hiv-related illnesses. ‘ Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids (on them. Do nat have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood, What is the most important information | should know about STRIBILD? ‘your blood (lactic acidosi acidosis can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis isa serious ‘medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can ‘be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem ‘ike symptoms of other healt problems. Gall your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: * feel very weak or tired * have unusual (not norma) muscle pain * have trouble breathing * have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting * feel cold, especially in your arms and legs. + foe dizzy or lightheaded ‘have a fast or iregular heartbeat 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in ‘people who take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems. can lead to death Your iver may become large hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare [rovider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: * your skin or the white part of your eyes tums yellow (jaundice) + dark “tea-colored” urine + light-colored bowel movements (stools) * loss of appetite for several days or longer © nausea + stomach pain You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for along time. '3.Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HB) infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking STRIBILD. A flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns ina worse way than before. * Do notrun out of STRIBILD. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone ‘Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first taking to your healthoare provider «Ifyou stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to ‘check your health often and do blood tests regulary for several ‘months to check your HBV infection Tell your healthcare provider ‘about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: * adefovir Hepsera®) + alfuzosn hydrochloride (Uroxatra®) + cisapride (Propusid®,Propulsié Quicksolv®) + ergo-containing medicines, including: ditydroergotamine mesyate (DH. 45°, Migranal®), ergotamine tarvate(Cafergot Migeroot®, Ergostat" MedihalerExgotamine®, Wigraine®, \Wigrettes®, and metylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) * lovastatin (Advicor® Altoprev®, Mevacor®) * oral midazolam * pimozide (Orap®) * rifampin (ifain®, ifamate®,Pfate®, Rimactane”) «sildenafil Revatio®, when used for treating lng problems + simvastatin (Simeor®, Vtorn®, Zocor®) * trazolam (Halcion®) * the herb St, John's wort Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 ‘medicines, including: * Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atipla®, Complera®, Viread®, Truvada®) * Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir (Combivi®, Emtriva®,Epivi® or Epivi-HBV®, Epzicom?®,Kaletra®, Novi, Tizivie®) ‘STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old. What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? ‘STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: * See “What is the most important information I should know ‘about STRIBILD?” * New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems, * Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD, Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fracture). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones. * Changes in body fat can happen in people wo take HN-1 medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck ("buffalo hump"), breast, and around ‘the middle of your body (trunk) Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects ofthese conditions are not known, * Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stonger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine‘The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: * Nausea + Diantea Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that ‘bothers you or that does not go away. + These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more information, ask your healthcare provider. * Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. ‘You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088, What should | tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including * if you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B infection * if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. tis not known if ‘STRIBILD can harm your unbom baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant wile taking STRIBILD, — There isa pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose ofthis registry is to ‘collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk vith your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry. + Ifyou are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take STRIBILD. You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because ofthe risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. Two ofthe medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast milk. itis not known if he other medicines in STRIBILD can ss into your breast milk Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed ‘your baby. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, ‘and herbal supplements: © STRIBILD may afect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works. + Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any ofthe following medicines: - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) Antacid medicines that contains aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacid at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD ~ Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection or high blood pressure ~ amiodarone (Cordarone®,Pacerone®) - atorvastatin Liptr®, Cadet) ~ bepridil hydrochloric (Vascor®, Bepadin®) ~ bosentan (Tracleer®) + buspirone ~ carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegreto®) ~ Garithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) ~ donazepam (Konopin®) ~ dorazepate(Gen-xene®, Tanxene®) ~ colchicine Colors) ~ medicines that contain dexamethasone ~ diazepam (Valium®) ~ digoxin (Lanaxin®) = disopyramide (Noxpace®) ~ estazolam - ethosuximide (arontin®) = flecainide (Tambocor®) - flrazepam = fluticasone (Flovent®,Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus, Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) = raconazole (Sporanox) ~ ketoconazole (Nizoral”) ~ lidocaine (Xylocaine®) - mexiltine ~ oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) + perphenazine ~ phenobarbital (Luminal®) ~ phenytoin (Dantin®, Phenytek®) ~ propafenone (Rythmol®) ~ Quinine (Neudexta®) = iabutin (Mycobutin®) = rifapentine (Pitin®) = risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) - salmeterol (Serevent®) or salmeterol when taken in combination with fluticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) ~ sildonafil(Viagra®), tadalafil Cialis”) or vardenafil (Levitra, ‘Staxyn®), forthe treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). you get dizzy or fant (ow biood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last longer than 4 hous, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away. - tadalafil (Adcica®, forthe treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension = telithromycin (Ketek) = thioridazine - voriconazole (Vfend®) - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) - zolpidem (Ambien®, Edlular®, Intermezzo®,Zolpimist®) Know the medicines you take. Keep a lst of all your medicines and stow itto your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a ew medicine, Do not start any new medicines while you ae taking STRBILD without frst taking with your healthcare provider. Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children. This Brie Summary summarizes the most important information about STRIBILD. If you would ike more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or ‘pharmacist for information about STRIBILD that is writen for health professionals, o cll 1-800-445-3235 or go to www. STRIBILD.com, |ssued: August 2012 @GiLeaD COMPLERA, TEN, GLAD, e GLEAD Loe, 6. HEP, STRELD he STABLD Lop TROD ra EAD ae rodanars of ln Seize trot compan ATIPLR [Ba damarc! tt ljon Sub Glad Ses, LC Moth rxeoercs hon eee papery ote pert es,Ps eT es Creating Change 2013 It All Began in the Ballroom: Icons, Legends and More Architects of Beauty - “Yancy Edwards” LTE Publishers Letter News What's Hot... Music - Martha Wash Travel - Miami Designer - Douglas Says Events For Us et) Ati’ ONTHE COVER: re Decora or ‘onltnt Deco ying Se ire Orel: Dag ony, aye) Maley Vira 52013 SWERY, Get Life Productions. lights reserved. Reproduction of any material within this publication in whole orin pars is , prohibited without writen consent of the publisher Te publahersssumes no responsibilty to ay pay of the information aims Vit SWERVMAGAZINE.COM rads herein to include errs inaccuracies or omissions By advertising the sdlvertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher sgsinat ll claims tating to resulting fom said advertisement :swWerl P.O. BOX 1249 WASHINGTON, DC 20013-1249, e SWERVMAGAZINE.COM Yardé Noir Fashion Editor ‘We are each other’s harvest; are each other’smagnitude and bond. ve are ench other Grwendolyn Brooks ‘n 1990, a student documentary entitled “Paris is Burning” introduced the world to the New York Ballroom scene. Woven throughout this showcase of overthetop dance, music, fashion, and beauty demonstrations was a story about a community of Black and Latino gay men and transgender women coming together. The various “Houses” that made up the scene amounted toa community of extended families. Complete with recognized “Mothers” and “Fathers,” these family units created safe and affirming environments for young folks to grow and prosper against the great challenges posed by homophobia, racial discrimination, poverty, and HIV/AIDS. We proudly celebrate some of the extraordinary people who serve as Ballroom Icons and Legends, The Black LGBTQ community is made up of many segments that don’t always show each other family love. We often behave as if there is some unwritten rule that prevents us from coming together. Men and women don’t engage each other; muscle boys condemn effeminate men; the young dismiss their elders as “old school,” and the tranny’s get attitude from everyone, We canall learn a lesson from the Ballroom Houses Throughout our history, we as a people have always been at our best when we work together. The Civil Rights Movement unified usin ways that only the prospect of a Black president could duplicate. The solution to much of what challenges Black LGBTQ people lies within our ability to come together as an “Extended Family” of sorts. Homophobia, racial discrimination, poverty, and HIV/AIDS are still very real problems for many in our community. I challenge all of you to find a way to get involved at some level. Together, we can make a difference. Jamil A. Fletcher PublisherNews NAPWA Announces Suspension of Operations and Bankruptcy Filing The National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA) - the largest, oldest, and most trusted voice for the 1.2 million People Living with HIV/ AIDS (PLWHA) in the US. -has ceased operations and has filed a petition in United States Bankruptcy Court to discharge its debts in bankruptcy and liquidate. NAPWA was founded in 1983 to implement the Denver Principles, in which those living with the still-new disease syndrome claimed the right to be called ‘People with AIDS, not “AIDS victims’ and to be at the table to speak for themselves when medical and policy decisions were being made. Thirty years later, that is recognized as best practice in medical and policy settings and will continue to be s0 for as long as HIV is still with us. NAPWA pioneered wonderful programs and initiatives like AIDSWatch; the annual Staying Alive Conference (a.k.a. National Healthy Living Summit); SABAR - an HIV advocacy and network _ building program for Hispanics and Latinos; and the Bayard Rustin Project -an HIV- positive peer-led outreach program for African American MSM in the heart ‘of Washington, D.C. In 1998, NAPWA founded National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), the country’s first national HIV awareness day, and supported ‘The Mayors Campaign Against HIV to extend its reach. www.NAPWA.org Sterling Washington Named as Director of GLBT Affairs for the District of Columbia Mayor Vincent C. Gray. selected longtime gay-rights activist Sterling Washington tobecome thenew Director of the Mayor's Office of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Affairs for the District of Columbia. Washington replaces Jeffrey Richardson, who left the GLBT Affairs role to become Executive Director of Serve DC - The Mayor's Office on Volunteerism, ‘A.D.. native, Washington comes to the office with a long history of | | parent, according to findings from a service and activism within the local and national LGBT community. As a student, he co-founded the Bisexual, Lesbian and Gay Organization of Students at (BLAGOSAH), now known CASCADE. Washington also served as a presidential appointee in the Clinton White House, serving as both a Special Assistant tothe Office of Administration and the Coordinator of the Information ‘Technology Management Team. Most | recently, he was the Resource and | Grant Development Manager at the Center for Black Equity, formerly the International Federation of Black Prides “Sterling Washington is acquainted with a broad swath of the District's LGBT community, and I expect him to be a natural fit for this important role,” Mayor Gray said. “I'm proud that DC is a national and international leader in protecting our residents’ rights regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and Sterling is eminently qualified to continue the excellent work that Jeffrey Richardson has done in ensuring we continue to be a city that values safety and equality for all.” Washington holds a political science from Washington University and a music degrve from Howard University. well- degree in Six Million American Children and Adults Have an LGBT. Parent An estimated 37% of Americans have had a child, meaning as_many as six million American children and adults have an LGBT serv 8 Spring 2013 | with ‘children The George | LGBT | lyses highlight the diversity and prevalence of LGBT parents and their children in the U.S. The data show that LGBT families are clearly part of modern American life.” “LGBT Parenting in the United States” provides a demographic portrait of LGBT parenting in the | United States. The report found that same-sex couple parents and their children are more likely to be racial and ethnic minorities. An estimated 39 percent of individuals in same-sex couples with children under age 18 at home are non-white, as are half of their children. LGBT parents live in states from coast to coast, but many do not actually live on the coasts. States with the highest proportions of same-sex | couples raising biological, adopted or step-children include Mississippi (26%), Wyoming (25%), Alaska (23%), Idaho (22%), and Montana (22%). Notably, the report found that LGBT individuals and same-sex couples raising children face greater economic challenges than their non- LGBT counterparts. Single LGBT adults raising children are three times more likely than comparable non LGBT individuals to report household | incomes near the poverty threshold. Married or partnered LGBT individuals living in two-adult households are twice as likely as comparable non-LGBT _ individuals to report household incomes near the poverty threshold. Several factors likely contribute to. the relative | economic disadvantages of same-sex couples with children, including that LGBT parents are more likely to be female, Black, Latino/a, and younger than their different-sex counterparts. In the US,, all of these groups, on | average, have lower incomes. The demographic portrait Gates provides is the result of analysis from several data sources, including the 2008/2010 General Social Survey, the Gallup Daily Tracking Survey, Census 2010, and the Census Bureau’s 2011 American Community Survey (ACS). Williamsinstitute.lawaucla.eduA Film By Selena Blake www:Tabooyardies.com, his controversial documentary explores the reality of homophobia in Jamaica. The film gives voice to those Jamaicans who dare to speak up and ‘out about the intolerance and violence towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. THENEW BLACK Film By Yoruba Richen wwwanewblackfilm,com documentary film that uncovers the complicated and often combative histories of the African-American and LGBT civil rights: movements. Specifically, the film homophobia in the Black community's institutional pillar - the black chu and reveals the Christian right wing's strategy of exploiting this phenomenon in order to pursue an anti-gay political agenda, his enlightening film follows evangelical leaders in America and Uganda along with politicians and missionarie as they attempt the radical task of Asan American influenced bill to make homosexuality punishable by death wins widespread support, tension in Uganda mounts and an atmosphere of murderous hatred takes hold. The Is the conflicting motives of faith and greed, ecstasy and egotism, among Ugandan ministers, American evangelical leaders and the foot soldiers of a theology ground zero in a battle not for millions, but for billions of souls. DIANA KING COMES OUT: PROMINENT JAMAICAN SINGER ADMITS TO BEING A LESBIAN aw at sees Uganda as a test case nternationally acclaimed Jamaican singer, Diana King, has taken an unprecedented step within the country’s local music industry by admitting that she is a lesbian. Known for classies sich as Shy Guy, I Say A Little Prayer, and L-L-Lies made the declaration through her official Facebook page.‘ore than 3,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender(LGBT) rights advocates gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, in January, to strategize ‘on how to advance equality at the 25th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, hosted by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). The conference started with a plenary session, which showcased keynote speaker Deepak Bhargava, Executive Director, Center for Community Change. He identified just and humane immigration reform as the signature issue of 2013, and economic injustice as the signature issue of the decade. In his comments on economic injustice, Bhargava said, “We don’thave a deficit problem in America; we havea sharing problem in America.” On Friday, Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey presented the annual State of the Movement address, in which she shared a vision for the year ahead in the struggle for LGBT ‘equality. On Saturday, a group of LGBT and immigration rights activists that included Sousa-Rodriguez, Paulina Helm-Hernandez, and idiana Martinez. participated in a panel moderated by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and immigration reform WAU CHANGE 2013 A HUGE SUCCESS IN OTA EY activist Jose Antonio Vargas, who is also the founder of Define American, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to elevating and reframing, the immigration conversation. Office Depot EVP of Global Human Resources, Michael Allison, accepted the Corporate Leadership Award. In addition to sponsoring the Task Force and the Creating Change conference, Office Depot has transformed. the company’s HR policies going from a score of 43 on the HRC Corporate Equality Index to 100. Bishop Gene Robinson received the Susan J. Hyde Award for Longevity in the Movement. In his acceptance speech, Robinson highlighted the importance of President’ Obama's inaugural address, in which he mentioned gay folks. “When Obama tied Seneca Falls to Selma to Stonewall, he showed that the intersections of oppressions are so. important.” Robinson also was humbled by the award, by saying “I'm so proud to be part ofthis journey. [ want to hold your hand, stand on your shoulders’ and have you stand on mine.” The formation of a new national organization, the Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity, was announced. Frenchie Davis brought the conference to an amazing ending by performing her smash “Love's Got A Hold on Me.” single Houston, Texas will host the 2014 Creating Change event on January 29 = February 2, 2014, www.NGLTRorg, wwwereatingchange.org Photos Courtesy of NGLTFWA WES oe met (aa Good BRINGS US SOMETHING GOOD artha Wash is back on the scene with a new look and a new sound. The soulful, soprano voice we first heard backing the legendary Sylvester, and as lead vocals on dance classics with The Weather Girls (it's Raining Men”), Black Box ("Strike It Up,” “Everybody Everybody,” “I Don’t Know Anybody Else”), and C+C Music Factory (“Gonna Make You Sweat”) returns witha slightly different sound on her new solo release entitled “Something Good.” SWERV: Congratulations on the new project What should your fans expect from this collection of music? SWERV: Your voice was everywhere in the ‘80's with hits for Black Box, C+C Music Factory, and Seduction. Although your imagery was not front and center ‘on the videos, we all knew that your voice was driving those hits. How did it feel to finally get official recognition through the legal system? SWERV: You began your career singing with the legendary Sylvester. He was such an icon in the LGBT community and a musical pioneer. How would you describe his legacy? SWERV: You have a large fan base within the LGBT community. Tell me about your connection to this unique community. SWERY: You are one of those vocalist who sounds even better live. Are you planning a tour to support this project? USS) AtayMSS ea CO COU Te ey eS @ GILEAD TREATHIVNOW.COM.Dravd fhe Miami/South Beach area is cone of the most popular travel spots for LGBT people, Karen Brown, Executive Director of the LGBT Visitor Center gives us more insight on this intemational hot spot. Any time of the year one decides to visit, there is always something going ‘on in South Beach. Local magazines will give you the latest as events pop up often. Memorial Day Weekend MAY (24-27) means it is time for the annual Sizzle Miami event, and in Miami Beach that means a party. There are parties galore throughout that entire weekend for everyone, but wwwasizzlemiamicom has. its own itinerary for LGBT travelers to enjoy. Visitors may also take advantage of the museums, beaches, parks, tours, films, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to explore and experience any time of year. The calendar listings on www, ‘gogaymiami.com will also help to plan ‘your trip. With over 200 hotels in a square mile radius, we offer a dizzying array of choices. You can turn to WWW, ‘gogaymiami,com for a list of not only LGBT friendly hotels, but other select establishments that have undergone Pink Flamingo Hospitality Diversity Training, assuring their staff has particular knowledge and sensitivity to LGBT guests. From there you ean pick a small boutique hotel or a larger property with fab amenities and eye popping views of the ocean. Shop at LGBT businesses or visit a retailersavvy to gay clientele, There are plenty of both. Choose fun costumes and clothing at Beatnix, or Funky Sexy ‘Couture. Check out the latest fashions at Diesel_on Washington Avenue ‘or head to Lincoln Road (http:// lincolnroadmall.com) to find American Apparel, H&M, Macy’s, BASE and more. For more upscale shopping, g0 to the Design District where Louis Vuitton and Hermes just opened up alongside world famous design houses like Holly Hunt and Fendi Casa. You will have no problem finding a ‘good cocktail on South Beach. From gay bars; Palace, Score, Twist and Mova to South Beach party staples such as the Clevelander, Wet Willies, and Mango's, - there is something for everyone. During special event weekends, be on the lookout for local and international promoters. taking, flooding the clubs with top notch talent from all over. The best bet is to get an idea of what you'd like to do and then get the scoop once you are here as venues and theme nights can change like the weather. Local magazines and club/event guides are available at the LGBT Welcome Center, 1130 Washington Ave. South Beach is a destination like no other in the world when it comes to cuisine. You can find places to eat that reflect a wide cultural spectrum. That also goes for pricing. To get a feel for ‘where the locals might go to get fucled up, check out the Ith Street Diner, The Palace, Balans, or Front Porch Café. The NBA crowd likes to get it’s red meat fix at steakhouses like Prime 112, RED The Steakhouse, or Smith and Wollensky. Other cool spots where the beautiful people dine include Yardbird, Khong River House, and the Haven Gastro- Lounge. For brunch delights, check out (660 at the Angler's or the world famous wer 14 Palace, where the drag shows provide unique entertainment throughout the entire afternoon until dark. Miami Beach is the American Riviera, but the fun doesn’t stop there while visiting South Florida. Just across our bridges check out trendy hotspots like Wynwood for its art and graffiti wall murals as well as cool restaurants and bars. Rent a bicyele, scooter, or exotic car and cover even more territory, South Beach has plenty of options for that.ee eg Oca renee myself “What would I write about?” A eee ea eee Sec eae acer ed eee ae eee en writing about something I knew well, CeCe ec eng of the pessimistic point of views, or Se ee ru ese eee ee aOR ee Cera aed learned as a bartender for the last six Se Rem ee a Se ent ecitated an ee aad ee kee ees Re ed need era Se eee ee ea ee people write about. eee ea Sr aes em CR eo OL aun ear ee eens Sens Smt striking component to this image is Cee ec ed Pee ee eas eRe om eas Serge eee ad Oe ee ead Ca ce Crs eee eg tence een eae ae eee 2 the “sacred space” of the watering hole. es ase cs ee ee cesT ad any of us will be visiting the Serengeti et ene reg Ce ee aa ee ere Oe ena Leen grounds where “animals” of all types ee cee eg a eee ect ee all races. For this reason it is important aa eect ted Ce ee eed PR ee tout eure Pe eg Pere eae eae te Se mua ence ame ccs aa ee general awkwardness stay with us. Se ed easily recalled. The shared experience teeta te Pe Ra ee aR eed eee eae ar Pee eee ad POS ee ee UR eRe Saeed Pearce rea cd Ce eae Rt a ed ec a eee eae UE mca tg eee ee Pe eee Oye Ae ee Rue cd SO ee ce cea Ca ON re atc eee ean er OR erm See eS entertaining, other times they are just So ae Cee Seema eee ese cere a eC eee Cn ace Se eae ead eee ee eae prey to the fox, but the fox falls prey to See T Se ee od seasoned flamboyant bar patron who Seam aad at the top of their lungs. They have See ee Se Rag Cece Snr ae eas ee ee oe Ree a emus through a fox, and have him as a meal, but the hyena falls prey to the jaguar. OSES eee n a jaguar {s at the top of the food chain en era eee its predators. The jaguars tend to be the smoothest and most handsome men in a ec? Cee ed eo ee ee ced Te eS ged with full knowledge that their prey Rr cn eg ee ee ested aus above categories are stereotypes. While te ee eee a eS cg ee Saad unique individuals capable of defying categories, labels and stereotypes. The choice is always up to the individual. Cormeen)What is COMPLERA? CCOMPLERAY is 2 prescription HV medicine that is used asa complete regimen totreat HV in adults who have never taken HIV medicines before and wo have an amount of Vin ther lod (this is ale “vil lad” that sno more than 10,000 copies/mL. COMLERA contains 3 medicines ~ipivtine, emtrtabine and tenofovir disopol fumarate isnt known if COMPLERA is safe and ff imcilren under the age of 18 ears, CCOMPLERA® does not cure HI-1 infection or IDS. To contol IV-1 nfection and cease HN-elatedillesses you must hee taking COMPLERA. vod doing things that can spread HV to thers: always practice safer sex and use condoms to lover the chance of sental contact with bad ids ever ruse or share needles or other items that have boty fis onthe, donot share personal tems that may contain bly Mids Ask your healthare provider you have questions aout howto reduce therisk of passingHN-1 totes, IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ‘Whats the most important information you shoud know bout COMPLERA? CCOMPLERK® can cause serious sie effets: + Build-up of an acid in your blod (tactic acidosis which sa seous medical emergency. Sympioms af lactic acdsis include felng very weak ried, unusual no noma muscle ai, trouble breathing, stomach pin wth nausea or wong ‘ean colt, especially inyour arms andes, feeling day or Hightheaded, andlor a {ast orinogiar heartbeat, + Serious liver problems. The Tier ay become large (hepatomegal) and fatty steatosis) Symptoms offer problems include your skin rte while par of our yes tums yellow (aun), darkYea-olred” urine, ight-colred bal movements stools, lss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and stomach pan +You may be more key to get atic acidosis or serious liver problems i ou ate female very overeight (obese, or have been taking GONPLERS for lag tine in some cases, these seriaus cnditans hav to death Cally bealtcare provider right awayifyou have any symptoms ofthese conditions, + Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) nection, you also have HB and stp taking CCONPLERA your hepatitis may suddenly at worse. Dono top taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider a5 thay wl ned to monitor your health, COMPLERA is not approved forthe treatment of HB. Peat mal Plstown i act i, Who shoud ot take COMPLERA? Do not take COMPLERA f you hae eer taken ater anti-HIV medicines. CCOMPLERA may change the effect af other medicines and may cause serious sie effects. our heltcare provider may change or ter medicines r change ther doses. Do not tke COMPLERA if you also take these medicines: nt-seizure medicines: carbamazepine (Cabata, que, Tepe, Tepe XR, pt oxcarbazepne (lepta), phenobarbital (minal, pheno Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phen +anttuberculsis medicines: ifabutin Mycobuti,fampin (Rifate,Ritamale Rimmactane, Rifain and ifapentine (Prin) + proton punp inhibitors for stomach or intestinal problems: esomeprazole (Nexium, Vino), ansopramle Prevacid), dedansoprazole (Dean), omeprazole (Piste), pantopazle sodium Paton rabeprarle cites) ‘more than | dose of the sterid medicine dexamethasone cr dexamethasone sodium phosphate +51. Jah’s wat Hyperum peroratum you are taking COMPLERA you shuld nat take other HIV medicines octet containing tenofovir Viread,Fuvada, Stilo ipl lhe medicines ning ontrctabine or lamivudine (Entva, Corbi, Ep, Ep HB, Epicom, “iat, Aipa, Stilo Tuva} rine Edurant) or ado Hepsera, In adeton, tll your healthcare prvier if you are taking the follwing mmetications because they may interfere with how GOMPLERA wars and may cause side effects: certain antacid medicines containing aluminum, magnesium hyde er cae carbonate examples: Rolis, TUS) These medicines must be taken a east ‘hours before or 4 hours after COMPLER. ‘metcinas to boc stomach ai including cimatidne Tagamet, famotiine (Pepe, iatidne xi) o ranitidine HCL Zantac), These maticins must be taken atleast 12 hous before or 4 hours after COMPLE, +anyof these medicines: clartromycin Biaxin enthromyin (E-Mycn, Eye, ETab, PCE, Poiazl, sone), carazl (ifulan, itraconazole (Sporanoe, etoconaae (Nall methadone (Dolopinel osaconace (Nx, telithrmycin (Neth or vocnazle (Ven). mines that ae liinaad by he ide ihe acc oie) cid Visti, ancilo (Gfovne I, Virast),valacyco ater) an valgancilo Valet,‘A. A complete HIV treatment in only 1 pill a day. COMPLERA is for adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before and have no more than 100,000 copies/mL of virus in their blood. Ask your healthcare provider if it's the one for you. These are natal the medicines that may cause problems if you take ‘COMPLERA Tel your healthcare provider about al prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamin, or herbal supplements you are taking orplan to take fore taking COMPLERA, tel our healthcare provider if you: “Have iver problems, including hepatitis BoC virus infection, or have alormal iver tests “Have key problems “Have ever had 2 mental health problem “Have bone problems “re pregnant or planing to become pregnant. isnot known if COMPLERA an harm your unborn child + re breastfeeding: Women with HIV should not breastfeed because they can passHIV trough their ilk tothe baby. Aso, COMPLERA may passthrough beast milk and could cause harm tothe baby ‘COMPLERA can cause additonal serious side effects: “Net of worsening kidney problems, including kidney failure, Ifyou have had ney problems, or tae ther medicines that may cause kidney problems, our healthcare provider may ned todo regular blod tests ‘Depression or mood changes. elyour healtcare provider right away you have any ofthe follwing symptoms; eling sad ot hopeless, ling anvous or restless, have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt youre ‘Changes in iver enzymes: People wo have had hepatitis Bor C, or who have had changes in thei Iver function tests inthe past may have an increased risk fr Tver problems while taking COMPLERA, Some people without prior ver isease may also be at risk. Your healtheae provider may ned to check your Tver enzymes bafore and during treatment with COMPLERA “Bone problems can happen in some people ho take CONPLERA, Bone problems include bone pan, softening ortinning which may lead to fractures) Your healthcare provider may ned todo additional tests to check your bones. + Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HN medicine, + Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin t fight infections that have been hidden inyour body for along time, Tell our healthcare provider if you stat having new symptoms after starting COMPLERA The most common side effects reported with COMPLERA are trouble seeping, (insomnia), abnormal deams, headache, dziness, dara, nausea, rash tiredness, and deeession, Some side efcts also reported include vonitng, stomach pain ar discomfort, skin isolation small pasar ecko) and pai. Thisis nota complete ist of side fects. Tl your healthcare provide or pharmacist ifyou notice any side fects while taking COMPLERA and call our healthcare provider for medical advice bout side eet. You are encouraged to report negative side eftecs of prescription drugs tothe FDA Visit tps fda govimednatch or cal 1-00-FDA-IOES. Altona Information about aking COMPLERA: Always tke COMPLERA exact as your healthcare provider els yout take it “Take COMPLERA wth 2 mea. Taking COMPLERA with a meals imprtant tbl ‘ge the right amount of medicine in your bot. Apotin ink does not replace meal. ‘Stay under the car of your healthcare provider during treatment with COMPLERA and see your healthcare provider regula Pease see Bria Summary of full reseriing Information wth important warnings on ‘ho following pages COMPLERA emtricitabine 200mg/rilpivirine 25mg/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300mg tablets Learn more at www.COMPLERA,.comPatient Information CCOMPLERR® (kom-PLEH-rah) {emtriitabine, ipivrine, tenofovir disoproil fumarate) tablets Brief summary of full Presring Information. For more informatio, please see the ful Prescribing Information including Patient Infomation Whats COMPLERA? + COMPLERA is a prescription HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) medicine that is used to reat HIV in adults vi have never taken HIV medicines before, and who have an amount of HIV ther blood (this is called ‘viral load) that ino mare than 100,000 copies/mL. Your healthcare provider will measure your viral oa. (AV is the vitus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), * COMPLERA contains 3 medicines ~rpivirine,emtritabine, tenafvir Aisoprol fumarate — combined in one tablet It is @ complete regimen to treat HN-L infection and should nt be used with other HIV medicines, + It is nat known if COMPLERA is safe an effesive in children under the age of 18 years ol * COMPLERA does not cure HIV infection or AID. You must stay an continuous therapy to contr HIV infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses + Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about hw to prevent passing HIV to other people. Do not share or re-use neadls or other injection equipment, and do nt share personal items that can have blod or body fluids on them ke toothbrushes and razor blades, Always practice safer sax by using a late or polyurethane condom to lower te chance of sexual cantact with semen, vaginal fluids or blood Whats the most important information | should know about COMPLERA? CCOMPLERA can cause serious side effects, including: -up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis) Lactic acidosis can happenin some people who take COMPLERA ot similar (nucleoside analogs) ‘medicines. Lactic acidosis isa serous medical emergency that can lead to ‘oath Lactic acidosis canbe hard to identity early, because the symptoms. could seem ike symptoms of ater health problems. Call your healthea provider right away if you get any ofthe fllowing symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: foo very weak or tied ~ have unusual (ot oral) muscle pain ~ have trubl breathing have stomach pain with nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting fee cod, especially in your ams and legs fee diy or lightheaded havea fast or iegular heartbeat + Severe iver problems, Severe ver prclems can hapan in ape who take COMPLERA In some cases, these liver problems can lea a death Your {iver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis) Gall your healtheare provider right away i you get any ofthe folowing symptoms of ver problems: ~ your skin othe whit prt of your ees turns yellow jaundice) ~ dark light-colored bowel movements (stals) loss of appetite for several days or longer a-clored” urine ~ stomach pain + You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems it you ae female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for along time. + Worsening of Hepatitis 8 infection fyou have hepatitis B virus (HBW) infection and take COMPLERA, your HBV may get worse (lae-up) f you stop taking COMPLER, Aare-up” is when our HBV infection suddenly returns ina worse way than before, CONPLERA snot approved forte treatment of HBV, so you must discuss your HBV with our healthcare provider. —Donot let your COMPLERA runout. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your COMPLERA i all gone — Donot stop taking COMPLERA witout fist taking to your healthcare provide. “Ifyou stop taking CONPLERA, your healthcare provider wil need to check your health often and doblad test regularly to check your HBV infection Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking COMPLERA, Who should nt take COMPLERA? Do not take CONPLERA it: « your HIV infection kas been previously treated with HV medicines. + you ae taking any of the following medicines ~ anti-seizure medicines: carbamazepine (Carbato,Equetro, Tegretol, Togretl-XR, Teri pt); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal; phenobarbital (Lumina; phenytoin (iantn, ilntin-125, Phenytek) ~ anti-tuberculosis (ant-TB) medicines: tabutn(Mycobutin) iti (Pfatey,Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin);itapentin Pritin) ~ proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medicine for certain stomach o intestinal ptblems: esomepraole (Nexium, Vimo); lansoprazole (Prevacid) ealansoprazoe (Dean); omeprazole (Prose, Zegerid); pantoprazle sadium (Proton rabepraale (Aciphex) more than 1 dose ofthe steroid medicine dexamethasone or dexamethasone sidium phosphate ~ St.John’ wort (Afpericum prorat) + Ifyou tke COMPLERA, you should nat take: ~ ter medicines that contain tenofovir (Apa, Stil, wad, Viead) = Other medicines that contain emticitaine or lamivudine (Combi, Emiva, Epivir or Epivir-HBV, Epicom, Tri Atpla,Truvada, Stibild) = ripivrne(Edurant) ~adelovr Hopsera) What should | tell my healthcare provider before taking COMPLERA? efore you take COMPLERA tell your healthcare provider if you: + have orhad liver problems, including hepatitis Bor C virus infection, kidney problems, mental health problem or bone problems + ar pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Iti nt known if CONPLERA can harm your unborn child Pregnancy Registry There isa pregnancy registry fr women who take “antiviral medicines during pregnancy. Te purpose ofthis registry is ocllct information about the healt of ou and your baby Talk to your healtheare provider about how you can take pat in this registry. + ar breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. You should not breastfeed if you hhave HIV because ofthe risk of passing HIV to your baby. Donat breastfeed ifyou aetaking COMPLERA. At least two of the medicines contained in ‘COMPLERA can be passed to your baby in your breast milk We donot know whether this could harm your baby. Talk to your healtheare provider about the best way to fed your baby Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements “ COMPLERA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines ‘may affect how COMPLERA works, and may cause serious side effects, It ‘you take certain meticins with COMPLERA, the amount of COMPLERA in your boy may be to low and it may nt work to hep contol your HI infection ‘The HWV virus in your body may become resistant to CONPLERA or ater HIV medicines that are ike itEspecially tel your healthcare provider i you take: + an antacid medicine that contains aluminum, magnesium bydroxide, or caleium carbonate. you take an antacid during treatment with COMPLERA, {ake he antacid at least 2 hours before or atleast 4 hours after you take COMPLERA, +a medicine to block the acid in your stomach, including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), niatiine (id), or ranitidine hydrochloride (Zantac). If you take oe ofthese medicines during treatment with CCONPLERA ake the acid blocker at least 12 hours before or at last 4 hours after you ake COMPLERA, + any of these medicines ff taken by mouth or injection clarithromycin (Biaxin) ~enjhromyein (€-Wyci, Ee Ey Tb, PCE, Pdiazle,losone) fluconazole (Diftcan) itraconazole (Sporenos) ~ ketoconazole (Nana) ~ methadone (Dolophie) ~ posaconazole Noval) ~teithromycin (Ketek) ~vaticonazoe (lend) + meaicine that ar eliminated by the kidney, including acyclovir (Zovian), cidofoir (Vistide), ganciclovir (CjtoveneW, itraset), valacyclovir Valtrex, and valgancclvir(Valote) ‘What are the possible side effects of COMPLERA? CCOMPLERK can cause serous side effects, including: + Soe “Whats the most important information| should know about ‘COMPLERA?” + New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure, can happen in ‘some people who take COMPLERA. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your kidneys before starting treatment with COMPLERA. Ifyou have had kidney problems in the pastor need to take anther medicine that can cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may ned to do blood tests to check your kidneys during your treatment with COMPLERA, + Depression or mood changes. Tel your healthcare provider right away it you have any ofthe following symptoms: feng sad or hopeless feng arwious or restless ~ have thaughts of hurting yourself suicide) or have tried to hur yourself * Change in lver enzymes. People wit a history of hepatitis B o virus infection a who have certain iver enzyme changes may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening liver problems during treatment with COMPLERA, Liver problems can also happen during treatment with CCOMPLERR in people without history of iver disease. Your healthcare provider may need todo tests to chock our iver enzymes before and during, treatment with COMPLERA + Bone problems can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Bone problems include bone pan, softening or thinning (which may ead to ‘rectues). Your healthcare provider may need to do addtional tests to check your bones, * Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HN medicine, these changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (buffalo up’, breast, and around the main pat of your body (run) Loss of fat fom the legs, rms and face may also happen. The cause and longterm health effect ofthese condition are nt known + Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen wien you start taking HN medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ight infections that have been hidden in your body for long time. Tell your healthcare provider if yu start having new symptoms. afer stating your HV medicine ‘The mast common side effets of COMPLERA include “trouble sleeping (nsomi + abnormal dreams + headache + diziness + dlarhea stash “tiredness + depression ‘Additional common sie effects include + vamiting + slomach pain or discomfort + skin discoloration (small pot o trecles) * pain “ll your healthcare provier if you have any side effet that bothers you or that oes nat go amay. ‘These are not all the possible side effects of COMPLERA. For more information, askyou healthcare provider or pharmacist Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088) How should | take COMPLERAT? + Stay under the care of your healthcare provider during treatment with CCOMPLERA + Take COMPLERA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it + Aways take COMPLERA with a meal. Taking COMPLERA with 2 meal is important ta help gt the right amount of medicine our body A protein rink does nt replace meal + Donat change your dae ar stop taking COMPLERA without fist talking with your healthcare provider See your healthcare provider regualy while taking CCOMPLERA. + lfyou miss a dose of COMPLERA within 12 hours ofthe time you usually take it ake your dose of COMPLERA witha meal as soon as pssible. Then, take your net dose of CONPLERA atthe regularly scheduled time I you miss a ose of COMPLERA by more than 12 hours of the time you usually theif, wat and then take the nxt dose of COMPLERA at the regularly scheduled time + Do not take more than your prescribed dase to makeup fora missed dose This Brief Summary summaries the most important information about COMPLERA. fou would ike more information, talk with our healthcare provider. You cam also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about COMPLERA that is writen for health professionals or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www. COMPLERA.com Issued January 2013 @ GiLead COMPLE the CONPLER ago, ENRINA LEAD, he GILEAD Log, 6, HEPSERA, STIL, TRUVAOA and VREAD ae adears of Gilead Scones, In, os eld companies. ATRPLA sa radon of Btls Sub & led Sciences, LC. lotr macs ‘eeenco etn ae the propery other espectve owes. (©2013 Gla Sconces, nA sre, CONISSA 2/3pec CR Ce eee nee tite oar Pony Nera Gees re Cees aa eerlectricity fills the air as the MC works the eager crowd into a frenzy. Pulsating beats set the stage for another epic battle as contestants approach the runway. Such is the scene in the Ballroom. Whether it’s the fashion forward costumes, unforgettable hair designs, and flawle: makeup, or the intricate dance routines, and over the top levels of ATTITUDE ~ yes, lots, of ATTITUDE ~ Ballroom is a world like no other. The category names alone indicate that something special is about to happen (Butch Queen Realness, Face, Siren, Performance, Vogue Femme, etc. ). What started as pageant events for transgender women in Harlem, NY has emerged into an international phenomenon, influencing pop culture through fashion, music, dance, and more. An extension of African-American culture, overtime the Ballroom community has evolved to produce “Houses” that serve as extended families for gay men, transgender women, and some lesbians who are oftentimes marginalized. Collectively, a strong and vibrant community has been created that continues to fight homophobia, racial discrimination, poverty, and HIV/AIDS. SWERV celebrates the icons and legends of the Ballroom scene. Ladies and Gentlemen, we salute you! fhe Ballroom scene, formerly known as The Harlem Drag Ballroom scene, began in the 1960's as actual drag pageants of transgender women. Ballroom was an extension of the drag fashion shows hosted for white men in New York City gay bars. Black queens would sometimes participate, but were expected to whiten their faces for acceptance. As Black drag. queens began holding their own events. in the 61's, they took the idea to another level. Thus, drag houses like Labeija (Crystal), The LaChanels, Pendavis (Avis), Dorian Corey, Duchess Wong, and Paris Dupree were created and balls were held at the Staircase in Harlem. Later, categories for gay men (aka. “Butch Queens”) were ushered in by Erskine Christian, who started the first house for these men (House of Christian) with Michael Costa, David Padilla, Vanoy Brown, and JR Labeija, amongst others. Categories for heterosexual men, women, and lesbians of the masculine persuasion (aka. “Butch") were added. That's when the Houses began to grow The House of Princess was started The Ballroom scene remained largely in Harlem until 1980 when folks like RR Chanel (Ruben Rivers), and Pamela Cartier came on the scene. In 1981, the first Brooklyn House who was started (The House of Bangees) which would later be renamed the Royal House of Ebony. Later Brooklyn produced The By Efrem Dupree House of Chanel and, The House of Omni. The 80's era produced some of the ‘most memorable moments in Ballroom as many future Icons ruled the day like Michael Princess, Ricky Princess, Margo Princess, Doray Princess, Candi Labeija, JR Labeija, Cappucine Labeija, Lynette Labeija, Michael Dupree, William Dupree, Tonielle Dupree, Fran (Nephra) Dupree, Chinesa Dupree, Kerry Dupree, Jay Dior , Robyn Dior, Felicia Ebony, Susan Ebony, Father Larry Praylowe Ebony, Richard Ebony, Rodney Ebony, Gene Ebony, Chipper Corey, and so many others. New categories were always added. like Face, Realness, Performance, Models Effect, Eveningwear, Body, Executive High Fashion, Nostalgia, and Punk Rock vs Futuristic, making the event more compelling. The decade also saw the debut of new Houses such as The House of St. Laurent, The House of Plenty, The House of Mahogany, and The House of Danka. Also in the 1980's, Ballroom saw the emergence of the first Latino House come on the scene in a major way with The House of Xtravaganza (Mother Angie, Father Hector (1) and members at the time David lan, Danny, Venus, Brenda, Raquel, Hector (2), Michael, and Tito). [AS the Scene continued to grow in popularity, it caught the attention of an NYU Film student named Jenny Livingston, who began a school project spotlighting the underground St. Laurent ~ Founder Runway & Evening Wear 1982 In the case of Robbie St, Laurent it was the rejection he received from another House that spawned a vision. In 1992, Robbie, and best friend, Chris Hall formed The House of St. Laurent. Making Chris the mother and Terrence St. Laurent the father (Terrence is still the overall father). The House of St Laurent is known for its beautiful girls like Tempress, Crystal, LaDawn, and the iconic Octavia. Robbie appeared in the legendary “Paris Is Burning” documentary film, etching the name of St. Laurent in the list of legendary Ballroom Houses. Outside the scene, Robbie worked at Harlem Hospital as a health ‘educator/administrative assistant, and assisted with starting support groups and outreach programs for HIV-positive clients. He had an opportunity to move in the direction. of mental health services and went on to become a case manager and substance abuse counselor. Robbie now holds a BA in Human Services from City college of NY with a concentration in’ substance abuse counseling, Anatural nurturer, Robbie stressed the importance of unity throughout the St. Laurent House. It is one of the elements of the House he is most proud of. “For many, the Ballroom House community _ established family style relationships and ‘became a place of acceptance and connection” says Robbie. In 1990, as a true visionary and leader would do, Robbie St. Laurent passed the torch and retired from. the Ballroom scene. He continues to do work in the community, serving, one client ata time. (continued on Page 23)Africa - (House Mother) Face, Body & Grand Prize Early 1970'S, ‘A native of New Jersey, Tracy Africa was encouraged by friends who worked for Ford modeling agency, and other industry insiders to pursue a professional modeling, career. Open to the idea, she began studying the industry and started training. Makeup artist, Al Grundy, and his brother Darryl, a clothing designer, would alert Tracy of the showsso she could study the models and their walks. She recalls heading to a show ‘on Sth avenue dressed in all black. Tracy recognized some of the models like Peggy Dillard entering a hotel and followed her intuition to trail the ladies where she found herself at a model casting with the editors of Italian Vogue and famed photographer Irving Penn. Two days later, she got a call informing her that she was booked for Italian Vogue, paying $1,500 a day. And that’s how it all began. It was Irving Penn who connected Tracy with Zollie Management, officially launching her career, Described as a young version of Beverly Johnson, Tracy immediately began booking jobs with Essence magazine, Ultra Sheen cosmetics, and Avon. Who can forget the legendary Clariol Color Box..Dark ‘Auburn Box #512, a contract that lasted for more than 4 years, As Tracy began toestablish herself, the rumors began to surface. There ‘was sort of a witch hunt to find out if she was transgender. It was on a shoot for the Essence December 1980, holiday issue when Susan Taylor said to Tracy “these images are beautiful. | believe we will use one of these for the cover.” During the shoot, someone walked in on set and. pulled Susan aside to speak with her in private. Immediately, Susan halted the shoot and later called the Zollie agency to inform them of the news. Tracy knew what happened, she was finally exposed. The agency never confronted her, but the calls, stopped. Blackballed in the New York modeling scene, Tracy took her show to Paris, France, working as a house model for Belanciaga Fashion House for a few years. Later, she relocated to Italy, where she worked. asa model for convention and trade shows. Eventually, she came back home to the States. In the early 90's, Tracy attended «a Ball hosted by the legendary Avis Pendavis where a former roommate fromher daysin Paris introduced her to members of The House of Africa. She was then invited to a meeting, Brooklyn with members and Eddie Smith, who would later become Father of the House. It was that meeting that would induct Tracy as ‘a member, eventually becoming the House Mother. It was the Ballroom scene that made her feel loved, and inspired her during a period of depression. ‘The lesson she learned about the Ballroom was that “no matter who walks away with the trophy, the crowd will let you know if you won.” A lesson she has passed on to the members of her House, One thing she is most proud of is that members of Africa have never been caught in a scandal or been involved in an altercation at a ball Today, Tracy is a professional makeup artist, and a caregiver to her mother. She is also pursuing her interest in interior design. Harlem Ballroom scene. The resulting documentary entitled “Paris is Burning” vaulted Ballroom out from the underground and into pop culture. People all over the world became interested as Ballroom branched out all over the US., Europe, and Asia In the very late 80's and early 90's, things began to change. New Houses began to emerge like The House of Ninja, The House of Revlon, The House of Ovahness, The House of Gendel, The House of Adonis, The House of Jourdan, The House of Montana, The House of Mugler, and The House of Milan, This saw a new crop of Ballroom stars that kept ballroom alive and kicking, As the HIV/AIDS epidemic began to take hold, members of the Ballroom community became advocates in the battle against this disease. Folks like Jay Blahnik, Stephaun Blahnik, Fuzzy Blahnik, Ayana Christian, Luna Khan, and others promoted awareness and testing at Balls and other community events. By Jay Blahnik AS technology transformed the worlds of entertainment, and the way society functioned; 50 too did the Ballroom Community. The early 1990's ushered in the compact disc (CD) that improved the quality and sound of music; thus losing 45 and 33 inch records in a world full of seratches. Commentators with radio savvy rhymes now hosted the ball events, graduating the prior decade’s MCs to prominent seats on the judge's panel. The sequencing of battle movements, known as vogue, inspired an entire nation to dance to the 1990 epic hit, “Vogue” by Madonna. Vogue, a dance art form that was once adored for its masterful and intricate locking poses, now expanded to stretching and acrobatics. Glamour was exchanged for realness, while transgender women performers now competed jointly with (continued on Page 25)Ultima; Original Father Of The House Of Xtravaganza Face, Best Dressed, Town & Country And Designers Delight 1970 ) a Inthe summer of 1982, The House of Xtravaganza was founded by Hector Valle, a man of Puerto Rican descent who was known for his elegant and athletic style of vogue dancing. Hector was familiar with the Ballroom, but was not yet a member of a particular House, Instead of joining one of the Houses that were essentially exclusively African American, Valle decided to create an all-Latino Ballroom house instead. Hector built up the House membership among friends whom he socialized with in the West Village of NYC. One of the first to join was a transgender teen of Puerto Rican descent who came to be known as Angie Xtravaganza, who would later become the House Mother. In 1985, after Hector Valle died ‘of complications from AIDS, Angie Xtravaganza recruited — David Padilla, a young up and coming, star of the Ballroom scene from ‘The House of Ebony, a rival house. David admired what the House of Xtravaganza had accomplished in a short period of time and being Puerto Rican himself, he felt a Kinship to. the primarily Latino house. David joined Xtravaganza and eventually became father of the House. In 1986, during a ball at the Elks Lodge in NYC, David and Angie officially introduced ‘The House of Xtravaganza. Under the direction of David and Angie several members of the House went ‘on to become pioneers and icons. David decided he wanted to move in a new direction, so in 2001, he started The House of Ultima. It was his vision to take the talents of the Ballroom scene beyond just the balls. Leading by example he leveraged skills taught to him by icons like Avis Pendavis, Dorian Corey, and Paris Dupree such as sewing, and beading to build a business. David has done beading for top designers like Oscar de la Renta, and Arnold Skavi. These days David has a T-shirt company, and is working to launch. a clothing line in the near future. He also has plans to further pursue his interest in acting, Currently, you can catch him in local stage productions around the New York tri-state area. BALLROOM gay males for trophies in vogue dancing that celebrated femininity. ‘Also, the expansion of the Ballroom. community up and down the northeast corridor made way for new leaders and exiled others. Cash incentives trumped trophies, and who you knew was valued just as much as what you were able to do. During the nineties, we observed a country that was beginning to accept. and embrace Black and Latino culture even more through Hip Hop, R & B and soul music. nightclubs and bars suffered a significant decline among, those who exclusively played House music, which originated within the gay community. Like such, Ballroom. patronsand supporters begantto take ona more urban persona, attending, ball events in jeans and tennis shoes. More rap music artist played at ball events as well. From 1990-96, the hhyper-macho presence from. hip- hop culture worked its way into Ballroom, but transgender women were still among the most revered. Our female entertainers led Ballroom crowds to roaring cheers with their masterful stage presence and timeless beauty. Octavia St. Laurent, Danielle Revion, Tenay Pendavis, Onjanay Milan, and Stephanie Xtravaganza were among some of the best. With each crash of the popular “Ha Dance,” images of Latisha Revlon, Ashley Icon, Sinia Ebony, Christina Richards, and Alyssa LaPerla fondly come to mind. However, fashion and runway were shared by both genders, Whether it was Duchess LaWong, Stephanie Xtravaganza, Tanya Cartier, Tyra Supreme, or those classic battles between the Houses of Milan, Allure, and Prada, itwastruly ll about the look. Who could ever forget JR Supreme, Al Allure, John Cartier, Patrick Ebony, and Otis Romeo Gigli. The runways departed from the classic walks and military effects of Bernie Jordan, Tony Revlon, Kareem Excellence, and Andre Mizrahi to a new generation of wicked walkers, sinister effects and Broadway- styled productions led by, yours truly (ay Blahnik), and Prentice Karan. Top models like Tyra Mugler, Monica, and Stephanie Cartier kept the feeling of high fashion alive. As the 2000s arrived with a renewed sense of community activism and mobilization, social service agencies began to target HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment efforts directly to the Ballroom community, Arbert Evisu, Alex and Mark Blahnik, Michael Garcon, and Luna Kahn were among a class of Ballroom leaders and experts, who championed the cause. Free community ball events tumed into mini-Gay prides convening 4,000- 10,000 people per event. Leading the way were events like the Latex Ball (Gay Men’s Health Crisis), UNITY (Unity Inc.), Crystal Balls in Philadelphia (COLOURS Organization), and the POCC Ball (People of Color in Crisis). As prevention work became more accepted at ball events, other contributors to the Ballroom culture began to receive status within this complex hierarchical structure, Two primary and essential groups emerged: DJs (Carlton, Paulie Paul, Vjuan Allure, and Robbie Rob) and Commentators (continued on Page 26)om (Erie Bazaar, Kenny Chanel, Selvin Mizrahi, Neiman Marcus Escudo, and yours truly Jay Blahnik) Butch females and women alike began to hold leadership positions within Houses and in the community. Sean Ebony, Reno Prestige, Aisha Prodigy, Jamiee Balenciaga, Yanny Karan, and Theresa Mizrahi have each earned a permanent place in the fabric of fabulousness. Names like Meeka, Allura, Niambi Prodigy, Yalonda Jourdan, Dasia LaPerla, and Ammina Karan-Mizrahi dominated the late 90s-mid 2000s in femme performance. The baton was later passed to Eugene and Armani Milan, Mystery Diore, Baby St. Claire, Kevin Prodigy, Will Revlon, Blahnik’s (Pony, Malechi, Arturo) and Mizrahis errell& Tieffa). This pioneering group of gay men fiercely redefined the art of vogue dancing, cementing their places in Ballroom history. This was a period of ground-breaking creativity. The community's focus on health, wellness, and civic issues also intensified. Over the past two decades, members of the Ballroom community have achieved a great deal. Stars from the Ballroom scene have appeared in film and music videos, hosted major fashion and hair shows, styled Hollywood's Who's Who, coached supermodels, and more, Others made their mark in different areas by creating educational scholarships for deserving, students, and holding leadership positions in local, state, and federal governments. ‘Thus far, this decade appears to be poised to be even better. Millionsof TV viewerssatattheedges of their seats weekly to watch Vogue Evolution annihilate the compet ‘on MTV's America’s Best Dance Crew. Others cheered for Ballroom’s super model, Mariah Balenciaga, asshe paved a road of gold on RuPaul’s Drag Race. “So Excitedly” we sang as Danielle Ninja, a female competitor, boldly vogued alongside the Iconic, Janet Jackson. Lastly, who could forget the tenacity and shear strength of Aneesa Blahnik as she “represented” weekly ‘on MTV's Real World reality TV series. In a world where most try to find their place inline, Roxxy lives to lead movement, Roxxy, 25, understands what it takes to establish a name for herself. The Georgia native showcased her talents as a teen, building a forceful reputation as a triple threat in the underground Ballroom scene, Slaying the Pendavis ~ One Of The Elders Butch Queen in Drag, Big Girl Runway, Fag Out 1971 Rayceen Pendavis recalls the ‘moment she meet her House mother, the Legendary Avis Pendavis in the mid 70's, The native Washingtonian who is known for her signature head wrap, remembers leaving that initial meeting feeling inspired and challenged to’ be better. Avis had competition and winning trophy after trophy. Now the Ballroom’s “It Girl” has her sights set on conquering a new playground, the music industry. Drawing influence from some of musics greatest like Brandy and Faith Evans, her sound is like a date between GoGo and Heartbreak. Roxxy can deliver a ballad that will sum up just how much you love him, then do a 180 degree turn and hit fans with a dance track that will help you kick him out. With a long journey ahead, Roxy has hit the ground running. Since releasing her first two singles, “With U” and “Dead Roses,” Roxxy has been featured in Linesofblow. com, and Boomlikean808.net. Up next, world domination as Roxxy promises to give her all to fan’s with her debut EP Confessions of a Roxxstar, nurturing spirit that reminded Rayceen of her biological mother, a woman with a wealth of knowledge and a desire to see people do their best. With that same spirit, Rayceen, continues Avis’ legacy, becoming a pillar of the community at large. Just like Avis, Rayceen lights up a room when she walks in. Self proclaimed as a “Gender Blender” Rayceen has grown to be one of the Mothers of the LGBTQ Community. Active on a number of levels, Rayceen was one of the first openly gay Advisory Neighborhood. Commissioners in the District of Columbia, advocating, for the LGBTQ, elderly and the disenfranchised “The — Ballroom community taught me how to improve on the microphone, to be a comedian, and to stand on any stage and be articulate” says Rayoeen. A lesson she has used over the years as the official MC for DC Black Gay Pride. For 15 years, Rayceen was very instrumental in Pride’s success. in mobilizing the community to raise significant funds in support of area AIDS Service Organizations. Her(CONTINUED FROM 1 legendary wit and ability to think on her feet has made her the MC of choice, leading the microphone for everything from sorority fashion shows, talent competitions, and all sorts of charity events, These days, Rayceen currently hosts a monthly talk show, “The Ask Rayceen Show,” and is a featured cast member for a new reality show entitled “Living Straight Unveiled,” on the TOS Network (thetosnetwork.com). You will catch Rayceen popping up at a Ball from time to time, lending an encouraging, word, continuing the Pendav’ legacy that Avis left behind. Prodigy- Mother of NYC Chapter Legendary Femme Queen Performance 2003 Born and raised in NYC, the Bronx to be exact, Leiomy has been vogue dancing for 10 years in the Ballroom scene, establishing herself asa force to be reckoned with. Leiomy joined with other dancers from the Ballroom community to form a dance group entitled “Vogue Evolution.” In 2008, the team placed in the top 5 on MTV's America’s Best Dance Crew. As the only transgender woman in the group, Leiomy’s dramatic and acrobatic style made her a standout, Since the exposure of the show, Leiomy has been traveling the world, working as an ambassador of sorts for Ballroom and vogue dancing. She has taught classes/ workshops and also performed in London, Hong Kong, Germany, Finland, Jamaica, Austria, and Sweden. In 2010, Leiomy appeared in Willow Smith's (Will & Jada Smith’s daughter) debut music video, “Whip My Hair,” as. the character of the teacher who breaks fot dancing in the classroom Today Leiomy continues to travel the world, teaching and performing. Next she plans to spread her wings in other creative areas like music. The House of Allure The International DJ/Remixer/ Producer/ Artistis one of the hardest working and widely recognized individualsintheBallroom scene. His “Elite Beatz” brand of remixes and original compositions are designed. specifically for the Ballroom and serve as the soundtrack for the scene. Vjuan pioneered the Ballroom musical genre and is recognized as 4 true innovator by the community, Hundred’s of his songs can be found floating around on the internet from ITUNES to YOUTUBE, and some have made it to a wider audience becoming themes for LOGO TV's Dragtastic. The worlds mainstream has also taken notice as well, Vjuan Allure has remixed for many different acts worldwide. His own CD's are scheduled for release in the coming months. He travels the world playing for audiences that cannot get enough of his signature Ballroom sound. Even before he began making the majority of his tracks he was an exchange student in Naples, Italy spreading the energy of the Ballroom. In Italy, he played Ballroom music on the airwaves wer 27 and in some of the country’s most prestigious clubs. Vjuan also served as an MTV Europe correspondent when the show aired from Naples A walking member of the House of Allure since 2000, he encourages those with extraordinary talent to take their gifts and apply them outside the Ballroom as he has done. With a repertoire of music that spans through every generation and genre, it is easy to see why he is one of the most sought after DJ's in and out of Ballroom. He currently holds residencies in New York City, Los Angeles, Washington, London, Ibiza, and Naples. www.vjuanallure.com www.vjuanselitebeatz.com FALLEN ICONS ema NUNS Ce OT CRY alls call BVT Ce aa it UU BALLROOM The Ballroom community has an amazing resume, setting the stage for an amazing future. I'm calling it a decade of Action.” Transformation inCen YANCEY EDWARDS a \ [| F r DALE! 1 original member ofthe House of Balenciaga this 65” tll style maven, knows hair like Stevie Wonder knows music. Yancey is truly talented at his raft and is a living example that it never too late to start over At age 27, Yancey went back and received his high school diploma and graduated at the top of his cosmetology class at Piscataway Votech in New Jersey Afterward Yancey headed to North Carolina to continue his training, at Dudley Cosmetology Scho From braids, weaves, color and in between, this’ man with the gifted hands lights up the room with his training and talent has catapulted him to the position of Head Stylist forthe Daytime Emmy® Award winning talkshow, ‘The View. He tailors the delicate tresses of Whoopi Goldberg, Elisabeth Hlaselbeck and Sherri Shepherd, and ‘has lent ‘his expertise to guests on the show such as grooming President Barack Obama, Rosario. Dawson, Kenny» Rogers Jason Mraz, Stacey Dash, and more NCIAGA Edwards’ résumé of work with high- profile campaigns, publications and events include MTV, Bravo, BET, The Stellar Awards, Tony Awards, Sherri Shepherd's wig line campaign and 2013 book cover, IMAN Cosmetics, Essence, Vogue, Black Enterprise, Vibe, Leco Harrell, and the New York Jets. His list of celebrity clients is no less impressive, with names such as Prince, Roberta Flack, Faith Evans, Shirley Caesar, TD. Jakes, April Woodard, Lalah Hathaway, and Toccara Jones have all turned to the man with the golden touch. As if all of the above was not enough, Yancey was named the platform artist for RED flatirons, which are sold in fine beauty stores nationwide. As a successful entrepreneur he has been in business as lead stylist and owner ‘of Shear Insanity Hair Salon in East Orange, New Jersey for over a decade now. Hes also founder of The Blackout Awards, a premier awards ceremony that honors several top celebrity fashion stylists, hair stylists, makeup artists, and photographers. When asked “How has the Ballroom he credits a few lessons: to be creative and fulfil “The Fantasy;’ to hone your craft, paying close attention to details; and to compete and fight for what you want; and to attack your career like a Ball Edwards has done just that Yancey continues to travel the country teaching other stylists and cosmetology students his signature weaving and cutting techniques at all the major hair shows. Although Yancey has reached the top of his field, he still remains a humble man, routinely making home visits for the sick and elderly. YANCEY EDWARDS (Balenciaga). An Architect of Beauty! www.shear-insanity.com influenced your life?”Pee cent ee eee) eee Ligon eet icy such as Alex Chatelain, Ghillian Lewin, Se a ae Pe Cee Uae and Jerry Jack. Over the years, many have quietly witnessed Douglas Says...inside or outside (covers) of magazines, on celebrities, eee aco Runes Pee eT ee Pee eae eee “Smooth the Game Is Dead,” “Don’t Go to Strangers,” and “The System Within.” A few Pea CN ce eee Germany, “NYC Go-Go" by Slava Mogutin, Am eo oon od {In 2007, he was one of a few designers chosen ren en ea ecue testng The City of New York. Douglas’s work was featured on B.E.T’s popular R.LP the runway fashion show in both 2006 and 2009. Pee Ren Ts the fashion industry for his specialization in stretch fabrics, color blocking and patch work. Whether you are a plus-sized woman Ce eae See Sse ese look and feel classy, sophisticated, confident Sema eet ee confident woman who is proud of her body and not phased by being sexy. My goal is to sr ea Lee a OM en ean eee eae One re ea cae So clothes and his muses.April 12-14 Atlanta, GA www.MIXFESTATL.com The International LGBT Film + Arts Big Boy Pride April 4-8 Orlando, FL www:BIGBOYPRIDE.com April 22-28 Philadelphia, PA wwwPHILLYBLACKPRIDE.org ~ SERENGETI One could choose to be a bunnie, a fox, a hyena, or a jaguar as long as there is an understanding that no matter what “role” one plays, a person’s humanity is what connects them to others and the In the bar, the lights are dim, the music is loud, and the drinks are strong, Tt can sometimes seem as though there are literally animals roaming, the watering hole. However, for the African American male that environment can offer emotional support, escapism and a sense of family. Our bars and clubs fare an access point to the wider gay community ‘Our community is beautiful and when we approach it positively, nothing but ‘good can come from it, In our community there are wise men, big brothers, supportive uncles, and mentors. These people can uplift ‘ourspirits and be more like family to us, than our blood relatives. After looking past some of the negativity that may come with the bar scene, I would have to say that my personal experience has been a positive one. The people that I chose to engage have enhanced my environment and feed my spirit. They have helped me become the man I am today, and without the bar scene | would never have known how supportive our community could be. Ba ee ON UCR a i Lto R: Real VI Le, Arthur Mitchell cox | PEEEPPEEPEPEPEPEPPEPEP EPP PER ds EEE ETETEEP ET ETE PT ERTS ho do do do te te dh db ch bc dt tect fe & : eu Td 2 ‘ror > 23-28 sis 205 9733 ¥ DETROIT HOTTERTHANJULY.ORG ¢ S cas BM Swer woote 2 of hecho ct chose cto cto cho cto oho ef ocho cho cho cho cho cho cto cto sto KeGILEAD