Heart to Heart- 12/28/07

MY RANT FOR THE DAY:

Everyone,

I think its time we had a heart to heart. If I run into another bitter, lonely, jaded , and narrow-mind black gay man in Atlanta I am going to scream! I am not going to preach, TODAY, however I would like to illuminate a few thoughts.

1. Are we as a community so bitter, jaded, and scared to be hurt that when we do decide to take a chance to interact with one another in the backdrop of the possibility of dating or a relationship that we can only see and deal in "absolutes"?

ie. "If he isnt driving "this" kind of car, then its not going to work", "If he doesn't look like this, then we can't date", or even the more recent, "If he cheats on me even once, then its over!".

I know someone out there understands me! When did our world become so black and white? I talk to other brothers in the community, and they could remember a time when black gay men would stick together (for better or worse), although just a couple of decades ago, partly because they never knew when the next black gay man would appear.

ARE WE REALLY THAT EXPENDABLE TO EACH OTHER IN CURRENT DAY?

In case you might not have picked up on my point, I am trying understand at what point did we as individuals lose our value to the point that if in a relationship your partner makes a mistake, that its automatic grounds for termination? No room for human error? No room for allowing each other to experience life and be human? Are no other factors important? Does maturity factor in this at all?

PREVENTING AIDS PREVENTION

December 28, 2007

NY Times Editorial

Preventing AIDS Prevention (Click Here for Article)

Congress and President Bush have done the right thing, lifting a disastrous nine-year ban that prevented Washington from using locally raised tax dollars on needle-exchange programs that help fight the spread of AIDS. Unfortunately, that still leaves in force an even broader and more damaging law that prohibits the use of federal funds for needle-exchange programs in the United States or abroad.

That ban must also be rescinded.

The country’s most important medical and public health organizations endorsed needle-exchange programs more than a decade ago, and such programs have proved highly successful all over the world. Opponents’ charges that needle exchanges would encourage addiction have turned out to be nonsense.

Meanwhile, the AIDS epidemic continues to spread, driven in part by intravenous drug addicts who become infected when they share dirty needles. They then pass H.I.V., the virus that causes AIDS, on to wives and lovers and unborn children.

A recent report by the District of Columbia’s health department found that more than 20 percent of the city’s AIDS cases could be traced to intravenous drug users. The city, meanwhile, has the highest AIDS rate in the nation, with 128.4 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 14 cases per 100,000 in the country as a whole.

The number of cases is growing faster in Washington than in other cities where needle-exchange programs have had more support. Barred from using its own tax dollars, Washington was scraping by with a privately funded program that reached only a small fraction of those who need it.

First enacted by Congress 20 years ago, the prohibition against using federal dollars for these crucial needle-exchange programs has hobbled AIDS prevention efforts both in this country and abroad. Health organizations using American tax dollars should be encouraged rather than blocked from developing these programs.

Eliminating the federal ban would save many thousands of lives every year.

December 28, 2007

Editorial

Preventing AIDS Prevention

Congress and President Bush have done the right thing, lifting a disastrous nine-year ban that prevented Washington from using locally raised tax dollars on needle-exchange programs that help fight the spread of AIDS. Unfortunately, that still leaves in force an even broader and more damaging law that prohibits the use of federal funds for needle-exchange programs in the United States or abroad.

That ban must also be rescinded.

The country’s most important medical and public health organizations endorsed needle-exchange programs more than a decade ago, and such programs have proved highly successful all over the world. Opponents’ charges that needle exchanges would encourage addiction have turned out to be nonsense.

Meanwhile, the AIDS epidemic continues to spread, driven in part by intravenous drug addicts who become infected when they share dirty needles. They then pass H.I.V., the virus that causes AIDS, on to wives and lovers and unborn children.

A recent report by the District of Columbia’s health department found that more than 20 percent of the city’s AIDS cases could be traced to intravenous drug users. The city, meanwhile, has the highest AIDS rate in the nation, with 128.4 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 14 cases per 100,000 in the country as a whole.

The number of cases is growing faster in Washington than in other cities where needle-exchange programs have had more support. Barred from using its own tax dollars, Washington was scraping by with a privately funded program that reached only a small fraction of those who need it.

First enacted by Congress 20 years ago, the prohibition against using federal dollars for these crucial needle-exchange programs has hobbled AIDS prevention efforts both in this country and abroad. Health organizations using American tax dollars should be encouraged rather than blocked from developing these programs.

Eliminating the federal ban would save many thousands of lives every year.

Pioneering Journalist Dies After 20-year Battle with HIV

Pioneering Journalist Dies After 20-year Battle with HIV
December 24, 2007

The Black AIDS Institute mourns the death of one of Black America's shining stars this holiday. Thomas Morgan, former New York Times editor and trailblazing ex-president of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), died Monday of an AIDS-related heart attack, according to NABJ and friends. He was 52.

Morgan lived for 20 years as an openly HIV-positive, gay man and worked in some of America's largest, most influential newsrooms. He was a reporter and editor at the Times, The Washington Post and the Miami Herald. From 1989 to 1991, he presided over one of NABJ's most explosive periods of growth and organization.

"He had the ability to walk into a room divided and help those who held opposing viewpoints find common ground," said NABJ President Barbara Ciara in a statement announcing Morgan's death. "His loss is not only a personal one for me, but a great loss for NABJ. As recent as last week he was making his voice heard as we debated the recent FCC ruling affecting minority media ownership. I will miss his counsel, his dedication to NABJ, and most of all his friendship."

In the years following his presidency, Morgan was a tireless advocate on behalf of fellow gay and HIV-positive journalists of color, both within NABJ and in the news industry at-large. And he always stepped forward to help all journalists learn to cover the HIV/AIDS epidemic smartly and compassionately. "I want members to know," he told the NABJ Journal in 1995, "that AIDS is a disease no different than things like breast cancer or prostate cancer. It is simply a disease. We are all mortal, and we will all die of something."

Today, NABJ boasts an active LGBT Task Force that has a significant presence at national conventions and has repeatedly tackled the AIDS epidemic in its programming-an achievement that would have been impossible without Morgan's leadership. "When we talk about standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, we mean Tom," wrote Marcus Mabry, the task force's founding co-chair, in marking Morgan's death Monday. "In a very real literal way, we are here thanks to him."

Morgan is survived by his long-time partner, Tom Ciano, in Brooklyn, N.Y. For more information about Morgan's life and career, see NABJ's statement and his obituary in Richard Prince's Dec. 24 Journal-isms column.

Learn More at BlackAIDS.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Phill Wilson
Executive Director
Black AIDS Institute
213-353-3610
phillw@blackaids.org

DEEPER LOVE RECAPS DECEMBER THEME: FAMILY

DEEPER LOVE DECEMBER RECAP: FAMILY

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26TH, 2007:

TONIGHT @ 7PM
1605 PEACHTREE STREET
ATLANTA, GA 30309
(404) 870-7746
www.deeperloveproject.org
www.myspace.com/deeperloveproject


AND FOR TOMORROW:

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27TH, 2007:
PARIS IS BURNING: A Screening and Discussion
TOMORROW, DECEMBER 27TH @ 7PM
1605 PEACHTREE STREET
ATLANTA, GA 30309

Mike Huckabee on Homosexuality and Necrophilia

Republican Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee

CAMP- Here's Where I Stand!!!!!

This was a very emotional part of the movie for me, and I am glad that I found it on youtube. Check it out below. As we enter the last bend of this holiday season, let us not forget that we are all connected to one another by spirit.

"Do let your light shine before men....that they may see your gifts....."

Just a Thought...

Something I wrote and wanted to share it with everyone:

As you walk through this life, take note that you are living your life through your own mind, body and soul. Although you are the only person a part of "that" space, always know that those that care for you and truly love you for being who you are are NEVER too far away, even if only in spirit. Cherish the memories you have, as they become your columns of support. Cherish the expression of love in your life, as it will become your truth and reality. Cherish the people who you encounter, as they become your motivation, and always know that no matter where you are in your life and no matter how far you have gone....that love will always be right beside you....

Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik

Quote of the Month!!!!

'Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. it is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and famous'? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does nothing for the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us, and when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others'. - Marianne Williamson

Madea on Life, Family, and Love....

Wow. This is my first 30th holiday season! I truly have so much to be thankful for. This time of year is always a period of reflection of my life, past decisions and choices, and contemplating how to make the next year even better. I started this entry after reflecting upon the concept of "forgiveness". Its something I have thought a lot about this year.

This is a clip that I truly enjoy.....I hope you enjoy it as well.

Madea

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Paris is Still Burning......

This commentary was taken from my brotha J.Brothalove's blog (thebrotherlove.com). I didnt get a chance to sum up my thoughts on this, so I will share his thoughts since we viewed it the same. By the way, thanks for the plug on the ball!! To catch this on his blog, goto: Revisiting Paris is Burning

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I caught the Scion-sponsored screening of 1990’s Paris Is Burning last night (11/29/07) at CenterStage in Atlanta. I’ve seen the legendary documentary countless times but not recently. The crowd was a good mix of race, gender and age groups. Watching it again brought back bittersweet memories of growing up during the 80s.

Afterwards, there was a question and answer period with Richard Ninja, Andre Mizrahi and Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik.

Some of the questions:

Has the ball scene changed since the movie?
Like everything else in the world, the ball scene has changed quite a bit since it grabbed the world’s attention in the early 90s. Andre mentioned that you learn to adapt to the changes if you want to survive in the scene.

Is there a ball house scene in Atlanta?
I forget how "underground" my interests are to many. So I was surprised by this question because I know that there is a very active ball scene in Atlanta. In fact, Final Fantasy is Sunday, December 2 at The Georgia World Congress Center, sponsored by AID Atlanta. Doors open at 5:00, ball starts at 6:00pm. Best of all, it’s free.

Where is ______? What is s/he doing now?
Unfortunately, most of the featured subjects of Paris Is Burning are dead. Dorian Corey, Pepper La Beija, Angie Extravaganza and Willi Ninja have all passed on. Octavia St. Laurent is still being fabulous and slated to judge a ball during Martin Luther King weekend in Atlanta.

How do ball mothers and fathers address psychological needs of their children? / How are HIV/AIDS involved with the ball scene?
There was quite a bit of discussion about these topics. Richard and Andre admitted they give their guidance to the hundreds of kids in their houses but there is a noticeable disconnect with AIDS Service Organizations (ASO) in general. Andre attributed this to fear. However, many ASOs are becoming more active in connecting with kids in the ball scene.


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My feedback: I was honored to be granted an opportunity to be connected to the discussion and respond to some of the questions of the audience. I am committed to speaking and addressing the concerns and disparities of the LGBT communities of color and larger People of Color community in anyway that I can. HIV is a disease that is not going anywhere anytime soon, and as long we as a community close our eyes to it and its effects, how can we expect anyone else to care about how it affects us?

FINAL FANTASY COMMENTARY

THIS IS A REPORT FROM ONE OF MY HOUSE BROTHAS MAGNUM MANOLO BLAHNIK:
**************************************************

Aiight, this of course is my first time doing this so....bare wit me.
Imma do this in an organized kind of way first by just listing shit.

FIRST I WANT TO SAY THAT IT WAS NICE TO SEE PEOPLE COME OUT AND SUPPORT AID ATLANTA FOR WHAT THEY ARE TRYING TO DO. I DON'T THINK IT ALWAYS HAS TO BE ABOUT WINNING A BIG BALL. WELL....NOT TO ME ANYWAYS.

IT WAS MOST DEF GREAT TO SEE MY BLAHNIK FAM IN DA BUILDING. KEVIN MB, ALEX MB, MARK MB, TANIA MB, ALFONSO MB, PACHMAN MB, NAIMA MB, KHAOS MB, STEVEN MB, RON (MY NIGGA) MB, STEPHAUN MB (OF COURSE), KAMARO MB, WHARI MB, ANEESA MB, LADY MB....YESSIR!!

AIIGHT....NOW ON TO DA BALL AND SHIT!

Venue: The venue was a nice size for this type of ball. It was neither too big or too small. It seemed as if it was perfect. There were a hell of alot of tables though...its all good (love u Stephaun lol.)

MC's: Jay Blahnik, Patrick 007, Stephaun Manolo Blahnik (Host)

LSS (1st time) Kay Blahnik, Fred Chanel, Clint Cavalli, Brandon Omni, Booty Prodigy, Kitty Mizrahi, Andre Mizrahi, Dee Mizrahi, Ron Blahnik, Gia Belladora, Kenyatta Prodigy, Rashad Prodigy, GiGi Prodigy, Norman Prodigy, DeAsia Omni, Keisha Chanel, Gail, Tom Lacroix, Tygur Khan, Darnell Mizrahi, Cavalli girl (womens face/body), Overseer Sahid Labeija, ...I cant really think of anyone else, it was so many.

Judges (First Half): Andre Mizrahi, Fred Chanel, Ron Blahnik, Father Brandon Omni, Clint Cavalli, GiGi Prodigy

Categories

Best Dressed - Two walked..someone and Reecho Escada I believe
Reecho Escada(GP) He looked nice as hell.
Womens Face - A Cavalli (GP) more to come about this later in the post
Foot and Eyewear - Father Brandon Ultra Omni (GP)
Drags Face - DeAsia Ultra Omni (GP)
Virgin Runway - Brooklyn 007, Alphonso Blahnik (AA), A Cavalli, and two others
Cavalli (GP)
Virgin Vogue - 3 people walked, two got chopped. The one tho won did pretty well, my fault for not knowing who or what house,
Butch Realness - Two out of towner's from Philly walked...1 won.
Prettyboy Realness - A Chanel(?), Rocky Evisu(chopped)
Chanel (GP)
New Face - ummm...I believe 4 walked...only one made it.
007 (GP)


OK...THEN THERE AN INTERMISSION FOR ABOT 20 MINUTES OR SO...MAD PEOPLE AND MORE LEGENDS STARTED TO SHOW UP. ALSO...SHIT GOT A LIL HOT UP IN THERE.

LSS (second time around) Mother Jaimee Balenciaga, Luna, Amina Prodigy, Aneesa Blahnik, Lady Blahnik, Tania Blahnik, Naima Blahnik, Icon Malshon Milan..I dont remember them all...soo damn many

Categories: not in any particular order

Runway (this shit was hotttt) Cavalli, Neyhi 007, Orlando Mugler, Booty Prodigy..
aiight...the category said that your effect could not fall apart. There was a discrepancy with Andre Miza and some members of Omni/Cavalli b/c he chopped this female figure cause he said some of her effect flew off. They were saying that she threw it off on purpose. Andre was telling them to "keep it cute" and saying that he's not stupid and all this other stuff. He decided to let her stay.
1st battle: the Cavalli wanted to battle Booty because he said her effect fell apart. Well...they walked and walked, it was hot, a nice battle, and all dat. Jay Blahnik used his America's Next Top Model speech to jelp determine the winner. The picture of the model he has in his hand was none other than................ Booty Prodigy. He stays!!
2nd Battle: Nehyi 007 vs Mugler - Mugler Stays
Last Battle: Booty vs Mugler - Booty Prodigy (GP)

Face: Maxwell Milan, a 007 - Maxwell Milan (GP)
FQ Face - Closed
Thug Realness - Closed
Schoolboy Realness - 2 007's and someone else (not sure if he was in a house) 007 (GP)
Butch Face - (GP) a butch from philly
BQUID Realness: Dee Dee Mizrahi, Sincere Cavalli, an Omni, Tygur Khan (yup), a Beladora (chopped)
The final battle was between Sincere and Dee Dee. Dee Dee Mizrahi (GP) Some of the Omni/Cavalli Kids had a problem with Dee Dee winning becuase she has Micros in her hair. Welp...


OK...SOMETHING HOTT!!!
STEPHAUN STOPPED THE BALL BECAUSE SOMEONE OF A CERTAIN HOUSE DID NOT SEE THE FEMALE FROM THE HOUSE OF CAVALLI WHO WON WOMENS FACE. HE CALLED HER (the Cavalli) UP. AND THEN CALLED UP.........ANEESA MANOLO BLAHNIK! THEY BEGIN TO SELL IT, AND SELL IT, AND SELL IT, ALL WHILE THE DJ IS PLAYING "LOST YOUR MIND" BY BEYONCE. THE FUCKING PEOPLE ARE GOING WILD, MOTHER JAIMEE AGA IS TAKING PICTURES FROM THE JUDGES PANEL, THEY ARE ALL INTO IT!!THEN JAY BLAHNIK GETS THE CROWD INVOLVED BY ASKING WITH A ROUND OF AN APPLAUSE WHO SHOULD WIN. THE JUDGES START TO VOTE, AND THE VOTES ARE TIED UP AT 3-3....THE LAST JUDGE WAS KAMARO BLAHNIK. I GUESS I DONT HAVE TO SAY WHO WON!! AS THE CAVALLI GIRL WAS WALKIN OFF THE STAGE ANESSA CONTINUES TO SELL IT. A LIL CONFRENTATIONS STARTS )NP PHYSICAL STUFF, JUST SOME WORDS), BUT IT IS HANDLED QUICKLY. ANEESA BRABS THE MIC AND SAYS " I DON'T WANT TO FIGHT FOR YOU, THIS IS ALL IN FUN, ITS JUST A BALL. U CAN KEEP THE TROPHIE, I HAVE I HAVE 14 AT HOME BOO!!" THAT WAS ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF DA BALL!

NOW BACK TO UR FEATURE PRESENTATION.....

RWT - A Chanel, Kenyatta Prodigy, Rashad Prodigy, Keyshawn Prodigy, A Cavalli, and a Mizrahi.
Keyshwan and the Cavalli walked runway - Keyshawn (GP)
Twisters twist and twist. Mizrahi (GP)

VF OTA: Jay Escada, Naima Blahnik, Amina Prodigy, Cavalli, the Cavalli who walked runway against Booty, couple Mizrahi's, Akasha Prodigy, and some other people.

At this point the light in the venue turn start to turn off, and the homo get scared and all and start to run outside. After a couple minutes, the light come back on and the category continues with the battles. I cannot remember all the battle because I did not watch them all..I did see the good ones though.

Naima Blahnik vs Jay Escada - the votes are tied 3-3. They start the beat again..and battle for the votes. For some reason, there was only 6 jydges on the panel this time. Jay Escada Stays.
Amina Prodigy vs Cavalli FF - They both did well, Amina Stays
Amina Prodigy vs Jay Escada - of course you know they both did the damn thing. Jay with his energetic type performace, and Amina with her FF performace. The ended was sooooo fuckin hott...sorry i can even describe it lol. Amina Stays!!
Amina Prodigy vs Cavalli (dramatics!!). This one was HOTT!! They both did so well. The votes were tied 3-3. So...the idea was to go to the back of the runway and do ALL 5 elements. Amina get on the mic and proceeds to say "I have been walking balls for 15 years and the original 5 elements of vogue did not consist of spins, it consists of floor performance." Soo they go to the back and when the beat drop...let's just say...it was on homie!! Tehy both did the damn thing, but the Cavalli was in pain or something, so he had to stop.
Amina Prodigy (GP)

[b]Sex Siren[/b] - Angel 007, Melvin Mizrahi, Trevor Blahnik, Polo Beladora (chopped), someone else (chopped)
Angel vs Melvin - Melvin Stays
Trevor vs Melvin...................Trevor Blahnik (GP)


yo, on da real, I had a good ass time here. Whether it was because I had me some Jose Quervo straight up and some of those big ass cookies...or just because I was out there taking mad pictures...it was all good!!


STEPHAUN U DID A GOOD ASS JOB!!!

PS...FORGIVE ME IF I HAVE ANY SPELLING ERRORS, I DIDN'T FEEL LIKE DOING SPELL CHECK, IM NOT DUMB THO LOL.

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My Comments: (I was on vacation when I wrote it!!!)

Well well well.....I am on vacation ladies and gents so I didn't know about this message until like 5 mins ago. I don't have a report or anything, however, I would like to make a couple important announcements.

1. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank EVERYONE who thought enough to show up, regardless of your reason. I was pleased with the turn out. This event meant a lot to me personally and professionally. Personally because I put so much of myself in to it, working very hard to cross every "t" and dot every "i" to give everyone a very nice event overall, and judging by the responses I have been getting.....I did that! Professionally, this event meant a lot to me because my agency is breaking ground into this culture in a real way and I am glad that I am here to facilitate that process as well as bridge service providers with the ballroom community (something thats been needing to be done for years). This event was more than just a ball, and if you ask anyone who was there (especially from the beginning), they will vouch for that!

2. I have learned a few things from this experience, made many mental notes, and trust me when I say that NEXT YEARS is going to be even bigger. HIV Prevention Balls in my opinion are VERY important to creating linkage and access to care and services, and as long as I am able, I will push for them to happen here in Atlanta. I am looking forward to collaborating with a few people and houses in the near future who have expressed a sincere interest in seeing more work done with Prevention Balls and the ballroom scene.

I appreciate all the Youth Board members of The Evolution Project who showed up to support. Thanks again to all the sponsors: Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, EM Designs Group, New York State Black Gay Network, Fulton County Health Department and Wellness, Youth Pride, NAESM/DA CRIBB, and Our Common Welfare.

Thanks to AID Atlanta's STD Program team for providing syphilis screens, and to the 100 Distinguished Studs and 100 Extraordinary Femmes of Atlanta for providing their volunteer service.

Thank you again to all of those who came, traveled, walked, spectated, and even those that didn't come. You all helped make this event totally memorable for me. I also had a lot of fun commentating.....I might try that again in the future.

A few notables in the building:

Icon Andre Mizrahi
Icon Malshon Milan (sp)
Legend Tommy Avant Garde
Legendary Jay Manolo Blahnik
Legendary Jon Massai
Legendary Jamiee Balenciaga
Legendary Gigi Prodigy
Legendary Clint Cavalli
Legendary Luna 007
Legendary Fred Chanel


If I missed anyone, charge it to the drinks and not my heart!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you Magnum for the thread and The UNDENIABLE HOUSE OF MANOLO BLAHNIK for coming out and supporting this!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FINAL FANTASY BALL I

The Evolution Project of AID Atlanta

presents...

FINAL FANTASY I

This year marks the first anniversary of AID Atlanta’s Evolution Project. The Evolution Project aims to empower young African American men with probable social, behavioral, HIV/STD risk factors to become proud, self-sufficient, responsible members of our community who know their HIV status.

The members of our program, along with Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, have been working tirelessly to produce a Ballroom Extravaganza on December 2, 2007 at the Georgia World Congress Center in observance of World AIDS Day December 1, 2007. This event will serve two purposes. The first is to utilize a creative modem that provides prevention education in a fun, culturally appropriate way. The second is to celebrate members of Atlanta community who are role models and leaders in community mobilization and HIV/STD Prevention.

We hope to have you join us as we commemorate this experience and celebrate the youth in the community. This ball will take place December 2nd, 2007 at The Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. This weekend is not only special because of our ball, but its significance reaches outward as it is also the weekend of World AIDS Day as well as the HIV Prevention Conference hosted by the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sunday, December 2nd, 2007
The Legendary Georgia World Congress Center- Building C
Doors Open at 5pm, LSS Starts at 6pm
Cover: Open to Public
Master of Ceremony: Legendary Overall Father Jay Manolo Blahnik
Dj: Robbie Rob Manolo Blahnik

CONTACTS: 404.870.7812 or www.myspace.com/evolutionfinalfantasy

Ending the Epidemic Atlanta Events Mark World AIDS Day

http://www.southernvoice.com/2007/11-23/locallife/feature/7743.cfm

By RYAN LEE
NOV. 23, 2007

Letter to the Editor
With HIV infection rates among black gay and bisexual men rising in recent years, compounded by the scarcity of HIV-prevention messages that explicitly address the experience of being black and gay, AID Atlanta is turning to the source to come up with creative ways to get these men to embrace safer sex.

AID Atlanta’s “Evolution Project,” which targets young black gay men, celebrates it first anniversary by hosting the ­­­­­­ “Final Fantasy Ball” on Dec. 2 in conjunction with World AIDS Day, which is observed Dec. 1.

“We thought it was really important to tap into the community and get some of their creative input,” says Stephaun Clipper-Wallace, a community building specialist at AID Atlanta and a mainstay in Atlanta’s gay ballroom scene.

Known for their flamboyant fashion and their imaginative environment, house balls are pageants where gay “house” members compete in a variety of make-up, fashion, voguing and gender-twisting categories. Themed after the popular “Final Fantasy” video game, the “Final Fantasy Ball” features several categories inspired by the video game’s characters and themes, including who can most realistically impersonate specific characters.

The event culminates with a trio of categories where house members will apply their creative genius to come up with novel HIV-prevention messages. In one category, participants must create a two-minute HIV-prevention public service announcement, and create an outfit that incorporates their favorite brand of lube and condoms.

In another category, contestants are charged with countering the notion that safer sex is boring by creating a cleverly erotic HIV-prevention message into their appearance.

“Our goal is to put on a really good event, and one where people can learn and get information,” says Clipper-Wallace, who is also known by his ballroom name, Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik.

The Final Fantasy Ball, which takes place at the Georgia World Congress Center, is one of several house balls the “Evolution Project” has produced this year in an attempt to tap into an underserved population that is also the group hit hardest by HIV/AIDS, black gay men.

“The ballroom scene is a population here that is really consistent with the target population for our agency — there’s a lot of overlap there,” says Clipper-Wallace, who notes that AIDS agencies in Atlanta have not been as successful reaching out to the ballroom scene as agencies have in other large cities.

“Since the ballroom community had typically not been tapped, I thought it was something good for the ballroom scene and the community in general,” he says. “This is not just about us coming into the ballroom community, this is about us nurturing a relationship with the ballroom community.”

SEVERAL LEADING NATIONAL FIGURES in the ­­fight against HIV/AIDS bring their voices to Atlanta for World AIDS Day. Emory University hosts a Dec. 1 networking breakfast and speeches by Helene Gayle, president and CEO of CARE USA, and former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders.

Also on Dec. 1, AIDS Survival Project hosts a “Call to Action” fundraiser featuring speeches by state Rep. Kathy Ashe (D-Atlanta) and Robert Greenwald of the Harvard Law School’s Health Law Clinic. A foremost authority on healthcare issues, Greenwald says he plans to talk about the lack of access to healthcare in the U.S., as well as recent efforts to improve a “system that is basically broken.”

“Healthcare should be a right, and not a privilege in this country, and somehow, that our elected officials have failed to make sure that healthcare is available to all is unacceptable,” says Greenwald, author of the Early Treatment for HIV Act now stalled in Congress.

“What ETHA would do is, the moment a person tests positive for HIV, if they are poor or low-income, they would immediately be enrolled in Medicaid,” says Greenwald, noting that current Medicaid rules allow many states to wait until a person has full-blown AIDS until granting them Medicaid eligibility.

Speaker of the U.S. House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) has been ETHA’s chief sponsor in the past, but that has yet to help the bill’s prospects for becoming law, Greenwald says.

AIDS Survival Project also hosts a “Call to Worship” on Dec. 2, with a special AIDS-themed service at Central Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Bradley Schmeling, who is gay.

THE NATIONAL CENTER for Human Rights Education is also coordinating a faith-based World AID Day campaign, asking black churches to display panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in their churches from Nov. 28-Dec. 2.

“Ignorance, prejudice and silence are fueling the spread of a preventable disease,” says Dorinda Henry, an Atlanta lesbian serving as interim executive director of NCHRE. Some 800 panels of the AIDS Quilt will also be on display at Emory University’s Quad area on Nov. 30.

Georgia representatives of the Prevention Justice Mobilization, a national group designed to increase political awareness about the inter-connected social factors that help spread HIV, host a World AIDS Day “Speak Out” at the Martin Luther King Center on Dec. 1. The group will continue advocacy and protests throughout the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s National HIV Prevention Conference, which starts Dec. 2.

Also on Dec. 1, the Spruill Gallery in Dunwoody hosts a one-day show by gay artist Terry S. Hardy entitled

“The Lost Boxes — Mourning the Loss,” which features boxes Hardy created after his partner died of AIDS complications.

Ending the Epidemic Atlanta Events Mark World AIDS Day

http://www.southernvoice.com/2007/11-23/locallife/feature/7743.cfm

By RYAN LEE
NOV. 23, 2007

Letter to the Editor
With HIV infection rates among black gay and bisexual men rising in recent years, compounded by the scarcity of HIV-prevention messages that explicitly address the experience of being black and gay, AID Atlanta is turning to the source to come up with creative ways to get these men to embrace safer sex.

AID Atlanta’s “Evolution Project,” which targets young black gay men, celebrates it first anniversary by hosting the ­­­­­­ “Final Fantasy Ball” on Dec. 2 in conjunction with World AIDS Day, which is observed Dec. 1.

“We thought it was really important to tap into the community and get some of their creative input,” says Stephaun Clipper-Wallace, a community building specialist at AID Atlanta and a mainstay in Atlanta’s gay ballroom scene.

Known for their flamboyant fashion and their imaginative environment, house balls are pageants where gay “house” members compete in a variety of make-up, fashion, voguing and gender-twisting categories. Themed after the popular “Final Fantasy” video game, the “Final Fantasy Ball” features several categories inspired by the video game’s characters and themes, including who can most realistically impersonate specific characters.

The event culminates with a trio of categories where house members will apply their creative genius to come up with novel HIV-prevention messages. In one category, participants must create a two-minute HIV-prevention public service announcement, and create an outfit that incorporates their favorite brand of lube and condoms.

In another category, contestants are charged with countering the notion that safer sex is boring by creating a cleverly erotic HIV-prevention message into their appearance.

“Our goal is to put on a really good event, and one where people can learn and get information,” says Clipper-Wallace, who is also known by his ballroom name, Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik.

The Final Fantasy Ball, which takes place at the Georgia World Congress Center, is one of several house balls the “Evolution Project” has produced this year in an attempt to tap into an underserved population that is also the group hit hardest by HIV/AIDS, black gay men.

“The ballroom scene is a population here that is really consistent with the target population for our agency — there’s a lot of overlap there,” says Clipper-Wallace, who notes that AIDS agencies in Atlanta have not been as successful reaching out to the ballroom scene as agencies have in other large cities.

“Since the ballroom community had typically not been tapped, I thought it was something good for the ballroom scene and the community in general,” he says. “This is not just about us coming into the ballroom community, this is about us nurturing a relationship with the ballroom community.”

SEVERAL LEADING NATIONAL FIGURES in the ­­fight against HIV/AIDS bring their voices to Atlanta for World AIDS Day. Emory University hosts a Dec. 1 networking breakfast and speeches by Helene Gayle, president and CEO of CARE USA, and former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders.

Also on Dec. 1, AIDS Survival Project hosts a “Call to Action” fundraiser featuring speeches by state Rep. Kathy Ashe (D-Atlanta) and Robert Greenwald of the Harvard Law School’s Health Law Clinic. A foremost authority on healthcare issues, Greenwald says he plans to talk about the lack of access to healthcare in the U.S., as well as recent efforts to improve a “system that is basically broken.”

“Healthcare should be a right, and not a privilege in this country, and somehow, that our elected officials have failed to make sure that healthcare is available to all is unacceptable,” says Greenwald, author of the Early Treatment for HIV Act now stalled in Congress.

“What ETHA would do is, the moment a person tests positive for HIV, if they are poor or low-income, they would immediately be enrolled in Medicaid,” says Greenwald, noting that current Medicaid rules allow many states to wait until a person has full-blown AIDS until granting them Medicaid eligibility.

Speaker of the U.S. House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) has been ETHA’s chief sponsor in the past, but that has yet to help the bill’s prospects for becoming law, Greenwald says.

AIDS Survival Project also hosts a “Call to Worship” on Dec. 2, with a special AIDS-themed service at Central Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Bradley Schmeling, who is gay.

THE NATIONAL CENTER for Human Rights Education is also coordinating a faith-based World AID Day campaign, asking black churches to display panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in their churches from Nov. 28-Dec. 2.

“Ignorance, prejudice and silence are fueling the spread of a preventable disease,” says Dorinda Henry, an Atlanta lesbian serving as interim executive director of NCHRE. Some 800 panels of the AIDS Quilt will also be on display at Emory University’s Quad area on Nov. 30.

Georgia representatives of the Prevention Justice Mobilization, a national group designed to increase political awareness about the inter-connected social factors that help spread HIV, host a World AIDS Day “Speak Out” at the Martin Luther King Center on Dec. 1. The group will continue advocacy and protests throughout the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s National HIV Prevention Conference, which starts Dec. 2.

Also on Dec. 1, the Spruill Gallery in Dunwoody hosts a one-day show by gay artist Terry S. Hardy entitled

“The Lost Boxes — Mourning the Loss,” which features boxes Hardy created after his partner died of AIDS complications.

Circumcision Status and HIV Infection Among Black and Latino Men Who Have Sex With Men in 3 US Cities

Epidemiology and Social Science
JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 46(5):643-650, December 15, 2007.
Millett, Gregorio A MPH *; Ding, Helen MD, MS, MSPH *; Lauby, Jennifer PhD +; Flores, Stephen PhD *; Stueve, Ann PhD ++; Bingham, Trista MPH, MS [S]; Carballo-Dieguez, Alex PhD [//]; Murrill, Chris PhD, MPH [P]; Liu, Kai-Lih PhD, MPH [P]; Wheeler, Darrell PhD, MPH #; Liau, Adrian PhD *; Marks, Gary PhD *

Abstract:
Objective: To examine characteristics of circumcised and uncircumcised Latino and black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States and assess the association between circumcision and HIV infection.

Methods: Using respondent-driven sampling, 1154 black MSM and 1091 Latino MSM were recruited from New York City, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. A 45-minute computer-assisted interview and a rapid oral fluid HIV antibody test (OraSure Technologies, Bethlehem, PA) were administered to participants.

Results: Circumcision prevalence was higher among black MSM than among Latino MSM (74% vs. 33%; P < 0.0001). Circumcised MSM in both racial/ethnic groups were more likely than uncircumcised MSM to be born in the United States or to have a US-born parent. Circumcision status was not associated with prevalent HIV infection among Latino MSM, black MSM, black bisexual men, or black or Latino men who reported being HIV-negative based on their last HIV test. Further, circumcision was not associated with a reduced likelihood of HIV infection among men who had engaged in unprotected insertive and not unprotected receptive anal sex.

Conclusions: In these cross-sectional data, there was no evidence that being circumcised was protective against HIV infection among black MSM or Latino MSM.

(C) 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

Robert J. Reinhard
425 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-2482
Tel: 415/268-7469
Fax:415/268-7522
email: rreinhar@mofo.com

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2008 Presidential Candidates and their Policy Positions on HIV/AIDS Issues

This is a really great resource. The 2008 Presidential Candidates were given a questionnaire regarding their positions on domestic and global policy related to HIV/AIDS. The site lists their responses.

http://www.aidsvote.org/candidates

Matthew Shepard Act at Risk

The Matthew Shepard Act is at risk!

Tell your lawmakers to protect the hate crimes legislation we've worked so hard for.

The Matthew Shepard Act could be abandoned by Congressional leaders unless we act immediately.

Email Congress today and stand up against hate crimes.


Dear Stephaun,

I have alarming news. The Matthew Shepard Act – whose passage in the Senate and House required months of effort – is now in serious jeopardy of not making it to the President's desk.

The hate crimes legislation we've fought for has reached its final step before being sent to President Bush, but some lawmakers are working to derail it. Right now there is a very real danger that the Matthew Shepard Act won't even make it to the President for his signature or veto. If that happens, we could lose months or years of progress.

We likely have less than a week to act. Tell your lawmakers the Matthew Shepard Act must not be abandoned by the Conference Committee next week.

How can a hate crimes victory be so close and yet still so much in jeopardy?

Here's what's happening: Senate leadership employed a commonplace strategy with this bill. They calculated that the only chance of the Matthew Shepard Act surviving Bush's veto pen was if it were attached to a "must-pass" Department of Defense bill. But now that House and Senate are reconciling their versions of the DoD bill, it is under attack from anti-GLBT conservatives against hate crimes legislation, as well as progressive, pro-equality lawmakers who oppose some of the bill's provisions for the war in Iraq.

We cannot let the Matthew Shepard Act be abandoned when we have come so close to getting it to the White House! We only have a matter of days before Congress is back in session and the final decision is made. This issue is especially timely right now. Last week, the FBI reported that hate crimes rose nearly 8% last year.

You know how hard we've worked to pass the Matthew Shepard Act. Since April, hundreds of thousands of HRC supporters like you have bombarded Congress with letters and phone calls. You've enlisted friends in the fight, written to local papers, passed out postcards at events. You've given time and you've given financial support.

Don't back down now – not if you care about the safety of GLBT Americans.

Ask your Senators and Representative to make sure the Department of Defense bill passes with the Matthew Shepard Act included.

Thank you, again, for your ongoing commitment to equality and justice.

Warmly,
Joe Solmonese
President

APD Targets Another Gay Leather Party

http://www.sovo.com/2007/11-23/news/localnews/7753.cfm

Atlanta police target gay leather party
Tactics similar to ’06 raid that led to three arrests


By RYAN LEE
NOV. 23, 2007


Atlanta police recently raided a local gathering of gay leather enthusiasts for the second time in 12 months, even though organizers of the second event took specific steps to avoid attracting the police attention that shut down a leather party at the same location in 2006.

Organizers of last month’s “Blackout” party hosted by Onyx Southeast, a black gay leather group, said they are considering filing a complaint against the Atlanta Police Department officers who “threateningly” broke-up the private party without providing a sufficient reason. No one was arrested and there is no police report from the Oct. 7 incident.

An undercover police officer attempted to enter the “Blackout” party at the Spring 4th Center at 726 Spring St., but was told by the doorman that it was a private party and no one could pay to get inside, according to Ejay Session, president of Onyx Southeast.

“No sooner than the security guard left [the front area], that’s when the police came in,” Session said. “The police came in and were being very disrespectful to what was going on. Nobody got arrested because nobody was doing anything — it was just the way they went about it.”

The half-dozen officers that raided the party allegedly made sly comments about there being “a lot of cakes and pies in here,” and them “never having seen motorcycle riders look like that,” said Session, who added that his brother allegedly heard officers calling more police to the scene.

“He heard them on their radio, calling other officers, saying, ‘Oh, you gotta see this,’” Session said. “It wasn’t like they were calling for back-up, but instead, ‘Come and see this freak show.’”

Police searched Spring 4th supposedly looking for the venue’s capacity certificate, although with only about 20 people present, the Onyx crowd was “well under the occupancy,” Session said. But before Spring 4th owners arrived at the club with the capacity certificate, Onyx organizers decided to close their event.
“We ended up shutting down the party,” Session said.

There is no official paperwork on the incident, said APD spokesperson Officer E. Schwartz.

“I don’t know the circumstances because there’s no report on it,” said Schwartz, who added that police could have been responding to “noise complaints.”

Officer Darlene Harris, LGBT liaison for APD, could not be reached for comment by press time.

APD raided a different gay leather social at Spring 4th in October 2006, shutting down the party and arresting three organizers for collecting money for a cover charge and for drinks.

“Which is why I stressed it will be a dry party, just water —we didn’t even get a chance to buy juice,” Session said of the “Blackout” event, which also didn’t have a cover charge.

“They were looking to see if we had money on the premises, or if we had been charging at the door,” Session said. “The only people who were there were invited guests.”

“You could just hear comments flying,” Session said of the officers. “I find it a shame that there’s not a space were you can be yourself and practice your craft.”



this poem might provide an interesting context:

"First they came…"
by: Martin Niemoller


When the Nazis came for the communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a communist.

When they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.

When they came for the trade unionists,
I did not speak out;
I was not a trade unionist.

When they came for the Jews,
I remained silent;
I wasn't a Jew.

When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out.

Sen. Kennedy's statement on ENDA

Subject: Sen. Kennedy's statement on ENDA

November 12, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Last night the House passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act with a strong bipartisan vote. The House bill prohibits employers from discriminating against workers on the job because of their sexual orientation. It protects Americans from being fired, denied a job or promotion, or otherwise intentionally discriminated against because of their sexual orientation. Although the bill is narrower than many of us had hoped, the House action is still a main step in the long journey toward full civil rights for every American.

In the Senate, I will work to move the Employment Non-Discrimination Act this Congress. The bill that the House passed is being held at the desk and I'm working with leadership to move this bill forward as quickly as possible.

This nation was founded on the principle of equal justice for all. That noble goal represents the best in America – that everyone should be treated fairly and should have the chance to benefit from the many opportunities of this country. The House action brings us closer to that goal.

Forty-three years ago, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1964. At that time, some in our country were violently opposed to outlawing racial discrimination, and it was very difficult for Congress to reach a consensus. But the best in America, and the best in the Senate, prevailed. My first major speech in this body as a freshman Senator was on the Civil Rights Act. I said then that I "firmly believe a sense of fairness and goodwill also exists in the minds and hearts" of Americans, and that laws creating the conditions for equality will help that spirit of fairness win out over prejudice. I still believe that today.

Since the 1964 Act was passed, we've seen enormous progress in this beloved nation of ours. Civil rights laws giving national protection against discrimination based on race, national origin, gender, age, and disability have made our country a stronger, a better, a fairer land. African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asians have made extraordinary advances in the workplace. People with disabilities have new opportunities to fully participate in our society. The workplace is far more open to women in ways that were barely imagined four decades ago. In countless businesses (large and small), glass ceilings are being shattered. Women and girls have far greater opportunities in the classroom and in the boardroom.

But that progress has left some Americans out. Civil rights is still the nation's unfinished business. Today, it's perfectly legal in most states to fire an employee because of sexual orientation or gender identity. Many hard-working Americans live every day with the knowledge that, no matter what their talents and abilities, they can be denied a job simply because of who they are. Many young students grow up knowing that no matter how hard they study, the doors of opportunity will be locked by prejudice and bigotry when they enter the workplace.

Although some states have outlawed job discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, in most of the country, workers have no recourse at all if they fired because simply because of who they are. That's unacceptable, and we have a duty to fix it, and to do so on our watch.

In the past 40 years, our country has made great progress in guaranteeing fairness and opportunity.

When we passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and then the Fair Housing Act of 1960, we took courageous steps, and we were proud that the Senate did the right thing each time. We must also do the right thing -- the courageous thing -- today. In the 1960s, these laws were controversial. But today, none of us, Democrat, Republican, or Independent, would question that they were the right steps to take, and we must take the right steps today.

Over the years, the Senate has recognized time and again the importance of our goal of equal employment opportunity. Even if we have sometimes disagreed over the years about its proper interpretation, there is no division among us that the principle of equal employment opportunity is a core American value.

That is what the Employment Non-Discrimination Act is all about -- equal job opportunities for all Americans. By extending the protection of Title VII to those who are victimized because of their sexual orientation, we are moving closer to that fundamental goal. No one should be denied a job simply because of who they are.

That ideal is at the heart of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

In 1996, we fell one vote short of passing the bill in the Senate. In the decade since, public support for outlawing such discrimination has only grown stronger. Now that the House has acted, I hope that we will be able to finally succeed in the Senate in passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act this Congress, and I look forward to the coming debate.

America stands for justice for all. Congress must make clear that when we say "all" we mean all. America will never be America until we do.

SAVE THE DATE: 2008 National African American MSM Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS in Oakland, CA January 24 - 27, 2008!


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Press Contact

Melissa Wagoner (202) 224-2633

Donna Crews
Director
Government Affairs
AIDS Action
1730 M Street, NW Suite 611
Washington DC 20036
Tel. 202 530 8030 x3040
Fax. 202 530 8031
dcrews@aidsaction.org
www.aidsaction.org

Without Prejudice!!!!!!!

First impressions are not always what they seem. Would you be able to judge someone…

WITHOUT PREJUDICE???

Join us for a special 2nd Sunday Event. We will be recreating the hit show Without Prejudice (From The Game Show Network) as a special discussion. But this is not your average discussion. It is a competition that will look at just how much our prejudices affect our decision-making processes.


For More Details: http://www.gsn.com/withoutprejudice/


Join us THIS Sunday for

Second Sunday of Atlanta, Inc.

Sunday, November 11,2007

3:00PM - 5:00PM

139 Ralph McGill Blvd.

(Off Piedmont Road)

Atlanta, GA 30308

Atlanta To Debut Two HIV Prevention Balls

(By: Father Jon Jourdan-Zion)

Atlanta is about to finally expose itself to the world of "Houses" and "Drag Balls" with not one but two upcoming FREE HIV Prevention House Balls!!!

If you haven't heard of the "Ballroom Scene", "House Balls" or Paris Is Burning then you've been living in the dark ages for far too long. But before we can talk about that, it is important to give a brief intro to the ballroom scene.

BALLROOM 101
Back in the `70s the streets of Harlem bursted into flames by the evolution of the then Drag Pageants into what is known in modern day society as "Balls" (also known as House Balls, Drag Balls, Ballroom Scene). This underground subculture founded mainly by New York Blacks and Latinos gay kids and drag queens from various houses (think fraternities or sororities) to compete at a "ball" for prizes, which can range from trophies to cash. The ballroom scene is a place where lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people of color can go and not be judged for their sexuality or alternative gender. Throughout the years they have opened up to include all orientations (YES Heteros do walk balls as well, but not with the same flair that the homos do, lol).

Back in the day, these surrogate family constructs were created to deal with the reality that many people in the scene were being rejected by their families, and often-times by their communities. Many found refuge in these alternative families which also provided a space for them to explore and shape sexual and gender orientations. However, is important to point out that not everyone in the ballroom community is a product of rejection especially since homosexuality has arguably become more tolerant throughout the years.

Understanding the makeup of a “house” can be confusing. While they loosely follow the models of fraternities and sororities, they have a heavy influence of heteronormative family constructs. Each House has a Mother and Father (neither being gender-specific) and Children. Each house has itz own flair, credo, and mode of operandi. The House Name is adopted by each member of the house…thereby each member of the House of Xtravaganza would be named Such and Such Xtravaganza.


ATLANTA’s TURN AT BAT

New York saw early that there was a great need to bring HIV Awareness to the ballroom scene, thereby forming the House of Latex, founded in 1989 to support the efforts of youth and young adults to stay healthy and prevent the spread of HIV.


New Jersey soon followed with Project: Fire Ball which was the brainchild of People of All Colours Together (PACT) to bring HIV Awareness and Prevention strategies to The Greater Newark “Houses". This project was the first to successfully bring together a coalition of houses for a common cause greater than the pageantry of the balls.


Throughout the years almost every large urban city has adopted some form of the ballroom scene and often time have held “community service” balls either on a yearly bases or in conjunction with special health conferences.


Now Atlanta, which debatably has the largest ballroom population, second only to the originating New York scene, will be taking its turn at focusing HIV prevention methods to the ballroom scene. Although the ballroom scene has existing neatly tucked beneath the underground club scene, two of Georgia prominent HIV powerhouse organizations, NAESM and AID Atlanta, will seek to expose the ballroom community to mainstream social service community.


On Sunday, November 11, 2007, the National AIDS Education And Services for Minorities (NAESM) will sponsor Da C.R.I.B.B.'s Kombat Ball. Da C.R.I.B.B., a drop-in "safe space" and educational resource center for young gay and bisexual men of color, will invite participants to not only but to incorporate HIV Prevention messages within many of their categories. The Kombat Ball will be held at the TRAXX Niteclub (1287 Columbia Drive Decatur, GA 30332) from 3pm – 12Midnight.


Shortly after on Sunday, December 2, 2007 AID Atlanta’s Evolution Project, whose mission is similar to Da C.R.I.B.B., will feature The Final Fantasy Ball at the Georgia World Congress Center from 4pm – 12Midnight. This event will serve two purposes. The first is to utilize a creative modem that provides prevention education in a fun, culturally appropriate way. The second is to celebrate members of Atlanta community who are role models and leaders in community mobilization and HIV/STD Prevention. It is being held on the weekend of World AIDS Day when Atlanta will be home to the HIV Prevention Conference hosted by the Centers for Disease Control and The 2007 Prevention Justice Mobilization.


Both The Kombat Ball and the Final Fantasy Ball are FREE of Charge. They both will be filled with fun. Excitement, Creativity, Fierce Competition. Arrive early because seating will be limited and Standing Room Capacity will definitely be a sure thing.

My Two Pennies: National Black Out Day

My two pennies.....

This is probably one of the most ill-thought-out plans I have seen in my 30 years on this planet. WHY IN FUCKIN GAY HELL do our people continue to operate in "principle" with the hopes of gaining liberation in a society that does NOT operate in "principle", but in "results". This whole thing is upsetting to me, and while I do support our community standing up to the establishment (I mean, I have went days without buying anything before), UNLESS every black person follows through on this (to include not stocking up days before or days after) then the impact will be hardly felt. Do not get me wrong, I am not the antagonist sitting in the corner with my arms folded, but I tend to think about things strategically, and this "plan" does not exude that. Movements and media "hot buttons" like Genarlow Wilson and the Jena 6 are not situations in which demonstrating economic influence could've had any real impact. Political and economic mobilization however, could have greatly changed those situations. But, I guess we still think its important to let "master" know that we exist, instead of just existing.....

I am reminded of a quote by Carter Godwin Woodson:

"When you control a man's thinking you do not have to worry about his actions. You do not have to tell him not to stand here or go yonder. He will find his 'proper place' and will stay in it. You do not need to send him to the back door. He will go without being told. In fact, if there is no back door, he will cut one for his special benefit. His education makes it necessary."

Book Review: Choices by Skyy

New young author Skyy has brought some light to the forefront. In her debut novel, she sheds some positive yet dramatic light on the lives of black lesbian women. The story line brought me into the world and experiences of the characters in such a magical yet surreal way, and it certainly lends itself to the authors' credit that although the characters do not exactly look like me, I can relate to their experiences and lifestyle. Concepts such as homophobia, misogynistism, domestic abuse, acceptance, self-esteem, and other psycho-social issues are highlighted. If you like to read, (I won't carry that line too far...lol) then pick up this fictional novel, you will sure to enjoy it!

Prior Intro

Kings Crossing Publishing

A Beautiful Sight

Speaking of freedom (refer to the post prior to this one), I headed out of my Midtown highrise residence this past Friday to a bar for a drink. As I was crossing the street to go into the bar, on the other side of the street I saw two young black gay men holding hands walking down the street. I was immediately struck. It was such a beautiful sight. No pretense, no bullshit, no shouting, just walking down the street quietly holding hands in their own world. They looked so peaceful, content, happy. I really felt something from that. The few people that were with me didn't feel the emotion I felt from it, but I appreciated it because men demonstrating compassion and showing affection towards each other still isn't looked upon favorably by the majority in our society.

I am even still reminded of the words of a very passionate and revered pastor of one of the mega-church's here who stated plainly, "I would rather see two men holding guns than holding hands...".

I will certainly be glad when more of our men of color with same sex desires are empowered in their beings and relationships to where our communities will be transformed into ones more accepting and inclusive (there is a quantum difference between those two words in my mind).

Free At Last!!!!!

The Georgia Supreme Court on Friday ordered the release of Genarlow Wilson, the Douglas County man who has been serving a controversial 10-year sentence for having consensual oral sex with a 15-year-old girl when he was 17.

More at: Atlanta Journal Constitution or CNN.com and Wikipedia

My Thoughts:
I am thoroughly happy that Genarlow has been released on time served and will not carry with him the label of "child molester/predator. I am pleased that the justice system worked in this situation, and although I have some very strong concerns about the 4-3 split on the votes, I think that justice was served. Some politicians and the prosecution are furious with how this case has turned around. I think it should be noted that their concern about widespread appeals based upon this new law should only be considered as applicable as the number of people who have been put into prison based on the old legislation (which based on my research doesn't seem to warrant their proported concern). Congratulations Genarlow on your freedom, I wish you much success in your future endeavors.

Recent Ballroom Community Article

Hey everyone,

Just wanted to "fyi" ya......on a recent article done on the ballroom and community.....


http://www.atllifemagazine.com/gallery.html

*pages 20 - 31*

Blacks Don't Read

For years this article continues to circulate cyberspace, and while I agree with some of its points, I want to share with you all the value of doing even simple research. Dee Lee , the CFP with Harvard Financial Educators is NOT the author of article below.

*****************************************************************
"Blacks Don't Read"
~Author Unknown

THEY ARE STILL OUR SLAVES We can continue to reap profits from the Blacks without the effort of physical slavery Look at the current methods of containment that they use on themselves: IGNORANCE, GREED, and SELFISHNESS.

Their IGNORANCE is the primary weapon of containment. A great man once said, "The best way to hide something from Black people is to put it in a book." We now live in the Information Age. They have gained the opportunity to read any book on any subject through the efforts of their fight for freedom, yet they refuse to read. There are numerous books readily available at Borders, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.com, not to mention their own Black Bookstores that provide solid blueprints to reach economic equality (which should have been their fight all along), but few read consistently, if at all.

GREED is another powerful weapon of containment. Blacks, since the abolition of slavery, have had large amounts of money at their disposal. Last year they spent 10 billion dollars during Christmas, out of their 450 billion dollars in total yearly income (2.22%).

Any of us can use them as our target market, for any business venture we care to dream up, no matter how outlandish, they will buy into it. Being primarily a consumer people, they function totally by greed. They continually want more, with little thought for saving or investing.

They would rather buy some new sneaker than invest in starting a business. Some even neglect their children to have the latest Tommy or FUBU, And they still think that having a Mercedes, and a big house gives them "Status" or that they have achieved their Dream.

They are fools! The vast majority of their people are still in poverty because their greed holds them back from collectively making better communities. With the help of BET, and the rest of their black media that often broadcasts destructive images into their own homes, we will continue to see huge profits like those of Tommy and Nike. (Tommy Hilfiger has even jeered them, saying he doesn't want their money, and look at how the fools spend more with him than ever before!). They'll continue to show off to each other while we build solid communities with the profits from our businesses that we market to them.

SELFISHNESS, ingrained in their minds through slavery, is one of the major ways we can continue to contain them. One of their own, Dubois said that there was an innate division in their culture. A "Talented Tenth" he called it. He was correct in his deduction that there are segments of their culture that has achieved some "form" of success. However, that segment missed the fullness of his work. They didn't read that the "Talented Tenth" was then responsible to aid The Non-Talented Ninety Percent in achieving a better life. Instead, that segment has created another class, a Buppie class that looks down on their people or aids them in a condescending manner. They will never achieve what we have. Their selfishness does not allow them to be able to work together on any project or endeavor of substance. When they do get together, their selfishness lets their egos get in the way of their goal their so-called help organizations seem to only want to promote their name without making any real change in their community.

They are content to sit in conferences and conventions in our hotels, and talk about what they will do, while they award plaques to the best speakers, not to the best doers. Is there no end to their selfishness? They steadfastly refuse to see that TOGETHER EACH ACHIEVES MORE (TEAM).

They do not understand that they are no better than each other because of what they own, as a matter of fact, most of those Buppies are but one or two pay checks away from poverty. All of which is under the control of our pens in our offices and our rooms.

Yes, we will continue to contain them as long as they refuse to re ad, continue to buy anything they want, and keep thinking they are "helping" their communities by paying dues to organizations which do little other than hold lavish conventions in our hotels. By the way, don't worry about any of them reading this letter, remember, 'THEY DON'T READ!!!!

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Read The William Lynch Speech here: http://www.reference.com/browse/wiki/William_Lynch_Speech

…although, if memory serves me correctly, I think the “Willie Lynch Papers” may be something quite different - more extensive and elaborate; a written, instructional guide, and I remember that it was at least two or three pages long. I have a copy in storage that I can’t get my hands on at the moment. If anyone has or has seen that copy, please let me know.

This group questions the authenticity of the Speech, although they make no reference to the Papers: http://www.takeourword.com/Issue060.html They may have some points in terms of language, but some of that may be due to translation or reinterpretations. (Even The Bible loses some of its original meaning with each translation.) Take Our Word is a cool word-origin website nonetheless.

National Black Out Becomes Widespread

Many people marched in Jena , La last month in support of the 6 young men unjustly charged with attempted murder for a school yard fight. There are many situations all over the nation that scream of injustice and unfair treatment of people in this country. There is the woman in West Virginia who was raped and tortured for days with barely any national coverage. They called her the N word but as of this writing, they still had not confirmed they are treating this as a hate crime. We all know the young groom in NYC who was murdered by the NYPD on the eve of his wedding. There is the teenage girl in Texas who was sentenced to jail time for an altercation with a school official. How about the teenage girl who was sprayed with mase for missing curfew. You can see her in the video restrained by a police officer twice her size. She was in handcuffs when she was sprayed. Maybe you heard of the California girl who had her arm broken by a school security official when she refused to pick up a piece of cake from the floor. It was filmed by a school mate and is all over You Tube. You may have heard of the young man in Georgia who was sentenced to 10 years in prison for having consensual sex with a young girl. He was 17, she was 15. There was also the young brother in Florida who died in the custody of the state when he was admitted to their boot camp. They said he had diabetes but they couldn't explain his battered body. All of these stories happened within the last year or two.

Those are just a few instances where peop le in this country have been treated unfairly, while 4 young men in Raleigh , NC sue the state for 10 million dollars each because they were "falsely" accused of rape. There are people who spend YEARS in prison and are exonerated that don't get nearly that much coin. By the way, who else is tired of the Princess Diana wrongful death inquiry? I mean, come on, it's very sad how she died but does her death need to be the top news story 10 years and 2 months after her death?

On Friday, November 2, 2007, Warren Ballentine, Reverend Al Sharpton and other civil rights leaders are calling for a national boycott . Black people alone spend 2 billion dollars a day in the United States and we are only approximately 12% of the population. 2 billion dollars a day, lining the pockets of companies that have shown no interest in our interests. We ARE living in the new civil rights movement. We cannot allow the march in Jena to be only an event. It MUST be a movement. In the 1950s, the bus boycott was only supposed to be for a few da ys or weeks. It ended up being over a year. The goal was for fair treatment and bus integration. Our parents and grandparents sacrificed and showed that with faith and strength, they could show corporate America the power of the community and demanded fair treatment. As we know, those buses were integrated. This is not about color. This is about class. The middle class and poor people in this country are not treated as the Declaration of Independance says we should be treated. It states that "all men are created equal". Clearly the governing class of the United States disagrees with their document.

Join us on on Friday, November 2, 2007 and don't spend ANY money. If you have to shop, do i t the day before or the day after. If you need gas, get it the day before or the day after. We have to join together as a community . You may be thinking, it's only one day, what difference will it make? I had the same thought at first, but just think about it. If we all save our money that day, it WILL make a difference. That day may become a weekend. That weekend may become a week and that week a month. As we showed in the 1950s, we can make a difference if we do this together.

If you can pass the many dumb jokes and forwards we all get, you most certainly can pass this important email to all your friends and family.
Show a sign of solidarity.

No Amnesty for Phone Companies

I thought you might want to know about something. There is one Senator who holds the key to making sure phone companies are not rewarded for unlawfully spying on innocent Americans - Senator Jay D. Rockefeller.

Instead of pushing to hold phone companies accountable for violating Americans’ privacy, Sen. Rockefeller is rushing to give them immunity. Rockefeller needs to hear from every American who wants him to stand up for our privacy and not let phone companies off the hook.

We must gather 50,000 petition signatures by Monday, October 29th when the ACLU and other organizations will deliver these petitions publicly on Capitol Hill. Only this kind of public outcry will get Sen. Rockefeller's attention.

Join me in signing the ACLU’s “Don’t Let Lawbreakers Off the Hook” petition to Senator Rockefeller now:

https://secure.aclu.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=Rockefeller_petition

URGENT: ENDA vote this week!!!!!!!

URGENT – IN LESS THAN 48 HOURS CONGRESS WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO ADD PROTECTIONS FOR TRANSGENDER WORKERS IN THE FINAL ENDA.

TELL YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO SUPPORT THE BALDWIN AMENDMENT!

Dear Friend,

I need your help in the next 48 hours.
Congress will vote Wednesday on H.R. 3685, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) plans to offer an amendment to ENDA to add protections based on gender identity. This amendment is crucial! This is our last chance to get gender identity back into the bill. We need your help right away to make sure your representative supports the amendment. We've called and emailed, but now we're sending faxes to show we mean business. Send an automatic fax to your representative in support of the Baldwin amendment to ENDA, to make sure gender identity is included in the bill.

There is not a moment to spare – this is your last chance to speak out on behalf of each and every member of the GLBT community. Once you've taken action, please forward this message to your friends and family to help us get the word out. This is a historic vote. For the first time ever, the House of Representatives is poised to vote on employment protections for the GLBT community. Help us make sure every member of the GLBT community is included in those protections. Fax your representative to support the Baldwin amendment, before the vote happens, and go to HRC.org to follow ENDA's progress through the House this week! Thank you for all that you do.

Warmly,

Joe Solmonese
President

Having trouble clicking on the links above? Simply copy and paste this URL into your browser's address bar to take action today: http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/enda_baldwin_final
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Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik
Community Activist-Health Educator-Empowerment Specialist

SOVO's 2007 Best of Gay Atlanta- Reader's Choice "Up & Coming Activist" Award Winner
2007 Recipient of Icon Kevin Ultra Omni's- Ballroom Community Leadership Award

www.stephaunelite.blogspot.com
www.groups.yahoo.com/group/southeast_ballroom_scene

"Love is the ability and willingness to allow those that you care for to be what they choose for themselves without any insistence that they satisfy you."- Wayne Dyer

Releasing The Reigns

I found this insightful and wanted to share it with you.

Changing Others
Our perception of humanity as a whole is, to a large extent, dualistic. We paint people with a broad brush—some are like us, sharing our opinions and our attitudes, while others are different. Our commitment to values we have chosen to embrace is often so strong that we are easily convinced that our way is the right way. We may find ourselves frustrated by those who view the world from an alternate vantage point and make use of unusual strategies when coping with life's challenges. However ardently we believe that these people would be happier and more satisfied following our lead, we should resist the temptation to try to change them. Every human being has been blessed with a unique nature that cannot be altered by outside forces. We are who we are at any one point in our lives for a reason, and no one person can say for certain what another should be like.

The reasons we try to change one another are numerous. Since we have learned over time to flourish in the richness of lives we have built, we may come to believe that we are qualified to speak on behalf of the greater source. The sum total of our knowledge will never compare to what we do not know, however, and our understanding of others’ lives will forever be limited. The potential we see in the people who are a part of our lives will never be precisely the same as our own, so we do these individuals a disservice when we make assumptions about their intentions, preferences, and goals. Our power lies in our ability to accept others for all their quirks and differences and to let go of the need to control every element of our existence. We can love people for who they are, embracing their uniqueness, or we can love them as human beings from afar.

Your ability to influence people may grow more sophisticated because others sense that you respect their right to be themselves, but you will likely spend more time gazing inward, into the one person you can change: yourself.

"Choices" by SKYY

Greetings,

In my work, I am not just a political and community activist/advocate nor do I solely work in public health. I actually love a good book (when I can sit down long enough to read it...lol). Here is an excerpt of a review of a book that I will provide a full review of when I finish reading it. So far, I am hearing the book is HOT!!! So, GO PICK IT UP AND HELP THE SISTAS OUT!!!!!
********************************************************************************

Choices by Skyy gets four lips and two hot peppers on TwoLipsReviews.com.
You can access it at the following url:
http://www.twolipsreviews.com/content/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2517&Itemid=36
--
Lena heads to Freedom University to be with her man, but the education she receives from a trio of new gay friends has her longing for higher learning. In the school of life and love, what choices would you make? Pick up your copy of "Choices" by Skyy on sale now at your local bookstore or online at www.kingscrossingpublishing.com.

- "This fresh voice will entertain readers for years to come." - Laurinda D. Brown, "Walk Like A Man" 2006 Lambda Literary Award Winner.

- "From the first few paragraphs of Choices you become so attached to the characters and storyline that you can't put your eyes to rest, not even to blink." "The book is fabulous." - Sincere, The Myne Spotlight, www.pmyner.com.

- "Choices, the debut novel by newcomer Skyy, is an excellent read. It depicts raw, honest and real lifestyles, emotions and friendships...I definitely look forward to reading more from this author." - S. Reign, www.TwoLipsReviews.com

Just A Thought....

Something I wrote and wanted to share it with everyone:

As you walk through this life, take note that you are living your life through your own mind, body and soul. Although you are the only person a part of "that" space, always know that those that care for you and truly love you for being who you are are NEVER too far away, even if only in spirit. Cherish the memories you have, as they become your columns of support. Cherish the expression of love in your life, as it will become your truth and reality. Cherish the people who you encounter, as they become your motivation, and always know that no matter where you are in your life and no matter how far you have gone....that love will always be right beside you....

Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik

Second Sunday Session- Online Dating

Online Dating, Meeting & Greeting:

Have you logged on to any of the websites where brothers are meeting, hooking up and connecting? Do you have an amazing or horror story to tell about meeting a brotha online? Have you had problems meeting brothers OFFLINE?

Join Second Sunday of Atlanta, Inc.
Sunday, October 14,2007 from 3:00PM - 5:00PM
as Montee Jamal Evans facilitates a discussion about the
most popular “hook up” sites and raises key questions
about the quality of connections made online.

Is there value in setting up a profile on these sites?
What language do we use that helps or hurts us?
Are there any other ways of connecting with brothas?
Can you have a healthy relationship with someone you met online? If so, how?

Second Sunday of Atlanta, Inc. was founded some 15 years ago as a support organization working towards advancing the growth and development of same-gender-loving men of African descent through cultural, educational, social and spiritual activities. We are "Brothers Speaking Out" about our lives, our relationships, our communities and our concerns.

Southern Voice: Best of Gay Atlanta- Reader's Choice

Here's to putting MANOLO BLAHNIK on the map.....

(read up & coming activist of the year: "readers choice")

Southern Voice Best of Gay Atlanta

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Greetings,

It is so awesome to have your work valued and appreciated. I thank all of those who continue to support me and the work that I do. For me, the job is never over, but the path that I have laid course on, has taken me to and through some excellent experiences that I might in totality share with everyone at some point in a book about my life.

I was watching the Pursuit of Happiness this morning starring Will Smith, and boy, even though this was like the 30th time, it still hits me so close to home. The struggles depicted in this film resonate something so familiar and close to my childhood experiences that I always get teary eyed. Anyway, my experiences make up part of who I am as a person, I appreciate my past and am thankful to have you all in my present experience. Thank you Southern Voice and the readers for your acknowledgment.

In Solidarity,

Stephaun Clipper-Wallace
(Stephaun Elite Manolo Blahnik)

The BUSH Vetoes Child Insurance Bill

Here is the story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21111931/

And here is how you can address this situation:

There's an easy way to contact your representatives and persuade them
to overturn Bush's veto. Go to this site:

http://www.democrats.org/RejectBush

All or None???

Greetings Community,

I have been pondering a really serious concern to creation of a safe space for our community in the larger society. Something very important and yet controversial happened late last week. Late last week, House leaders announced their decision to change the language of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) so that it only includes sexual orientation and not gender identity. These House leaders have said that they do not have enough votes to move forward with the original fully-inclusive bill.

For more info on ENDA, click here: ENDA

Many people are caught up in this issue on both sides, and I would like to get your opinion. Throughout history, change and the inclusion of oppressed cultures (however partial) has typically happened over time and in incremental steps.

Some proponents of removing the "gender-identity" clause might probably ensure the passage of this bill, but would exclude Transgender persons from protection at this point (there is discussion about adopting a provision after the passage of ENDA that would protect Transgender persons). So for those people, it seems that the passage of this historic and controversial bill even in fragments is ultimately a step in the right direction.

Then there are those who have been in the trenches fighting to get this bill passed, who feel that if the "gender identity" clause was removed, that it would circumvent the purpose (to be inclusive) of this bill and then no longer warrant its passage or the support of its passage.

I want to know how do you feel about this? Do you feel like the clause should be removed or should it remain? Strong arguments on both sides.....any thoughts?

John Edwards Addresses Black AIDS Epidemic

Fail to plan, and plan to fail
October 1, 2007

Democratic presidential hopeful John Edwards became the first candidate in either party to substantively address the Black AIDS epidemic on Sept. 24 by publishing a comprehensive HIV/AIDS platform. Black America must now demand that every candidate similarly explain how he or she will end this epidemic.

Edwards wisely makes the development of a "National HIV/AIDS Strategy" a priority in his platform. The U.S. government rightly insists that any country receiving foreign aid for HIV/AIDS first craft a national strategy, but 26 years into the epidemic the U.S. shockingly still doesn't have its own overarching plan. Edwards highlights the consequences of this failure in his AIDS platform.

"In 2001, the CDC set a national goal of reducing the annual number of new infections in half by 2005," the Edwards platform reads, "but the actual number of infections has barely budged. A 1998 presidential initiative set a goal of eliminating racial disparities in HIV/AIDS by 2010, but disparities are as bad today as they were then. Our disappointments can be explained in part by the failure to create a national strategy, backed by necessary funding and with clear and bold goals, specific action steps, real accountability and broad participation and buy-in from stakeholders both inside and outside of government."

Edwards' platform goes on to stress that "any serious effort to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic must begin in the African-American and Latino communities," including addressing the impact on Black gay and bisexual men and inside the nation's prisons.

Edwards vows to develop a national strategy with these goals in mind, which will coordinate inter-agency programs and make the secretary of Health and Human Services responsible for publishing an annual progress report.

In addition to his call for a national HIV/AIDS strategic plan, Edwards vows to support "fully funding" the Ryan White CARE Act, which is the federal government's primary vehicle for AIDS care programs, and to "put an end to waiting lines for HIV drugs." Every year, state-run AIDS Drug Assistance Programs face massive budget shortfalls, leading to service reductions and hundreds-deep waiting lists. In 2006, at least four people died in South Carolina awaiting AIDS drugs; the state announced this week that it had finally cleared its waiting list.

Edwards further stresses the need for science-based prevention policy. Specifically, he vows to lift the ban on federal funding for syringe exchange programs and to promote "comprehensive, age-appropriate sex education."

Edwards highlights his broader universal health insurance plan as the primary tool for securing adequate treatment for all, and he promises to support the Early Treatment for HIV Act, which would expand Medicaid to include those who are HIV positive but not yet diagnosed with AIDS. But his platform does not discuss how he'd resolve the ongoing crisis for Medicaid overall. The massively expensive program has forced every state in the nation to consider ways to reign in costs, including restricting services.

It may be that Edwards' larger health insurance plan relieves the pressure on Medicaid. But he must tell voters how he'll reform the program to make it both affordable and accessible to all of America's poorest, whether he achieves universal coverage or not.

The Institute continues to urge all candidates, in both parties, to publish an AIDS platform.

Black journalists have put candidates on notice by questioning them on their response to AIDS, and some have been able to answer with positions on individual AIDS policy questions. But without an overarching plan, those efforts are wasted.

Black America's message to any candidate seeking our votes in 2008 must be clear: First, show us the plan.

Click here to read the Edwards plan.

Learn More at BlackAIDS.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Phill Wilson
Executive Director
Black AIDS Institute
213-353-3610
phillw@blackaids.org

Black AIDS Institute