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04 • DECEM B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 LO CA L N EW S
The year 2017 will go down as a have HIV. While Trump stated Indeed, Hollywood applauded at the raising the question of murder. murder for killing his girlfriend’s
watershed in human history with his commitment to ending the Oscars. But Moonlight was the only Buck’s attorney vigorously son, who he thought was gay.
the apparent breaking apart of global HIV/AIDS pandemic, he’s film in 2016 with a gay protagonist. denied their allegation, but Jurors gave Aguirre the death
traditional European alliances, threatened to cut the President’s An August 2017 USC-commissioned Sheriff Jim McDonnell ordered penalty; he will be sentenced
the rise of Russia, China and the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief report analyzed the top 100 films of Homicide detectives to reopen March 8. Gabriel’s mother and the
nuclear threat of North Korea, as (PEPFAR) budget by $1 billion. 2016 and found that only 1.1 percent the investigation. “we felt it was negligent social workers still face
well as the resurgence of white Meanwhile in LA, AIDS Healthcare of speaking characters were LGB our obligation to look into those trial.
identity populism, best signified Foundation celebrated its 30th with no trans speaking characters. issues,” McDonnell told the LA
by the disruptive presidency anniversary with a free concert Advocacy has been unsuccessful, Blade. As of mid-December no
of Donald Trump. California for staff, board and volunteers at concluded study author Professor new report was made public.
6. THe pLIGHT oF
became a bulwark for progressive The Shrine Auditorium, featuring Stacy L Smith. “Film paints a LGBT DREAMERS
values with the Los Angeles LGBT singer Mariah Carey. AHF now distressing portrait of exclusion.” Donald Trump ran for
community reflecting both the ills has 841,293 patients in care
7. THE MURDER OF president on a platform of hatred
of the larger society and serving as in 39 countries and provided
8. THE DEATH OF 8-yeAr oLD GAbrIeL for immigrants. Building “the
a bright beacon of hope. Here are generators, not paper towels, to
GEMMEL MOORE FERNANDEZ wall” and deporting anyone
our staff picks for the top 10 LA devastated Puerto Rico. who is undocumented is a base
LGBT stories of the year. Gemmel Moore died on July 27 The torture-murder of 8-year- rallying cry. But Democrats and
in the West Hollywood apartment old Gabriel Fernandez was so some Republicans in Congress
9. HoLLywooD’S of Stonewall Democratic Club disturbing, LA County was forced want to pass the DREAM Act of
10. LGBT AIDS DIVERSITY PROBLEM donor/activist Ed Buck. The LA to reform its child-welfare system. 2017 (Development, Relief, and
INVISIBILITY Feb. 26, 2017. Gasp! Oscar County coroner ruled Moore’s “when paramedics arrived at the Education for Alien Minors)
Donald Trump, whose mentor presenters Warren Beatty and Faye death an accidental overdose boy’s Palmdale home on May 22, to prevent undocumented
and attorney Roy Cohn died Dunaway accidentally name La from crystal meth, prompting 2013, Gabriel was unconscious and young people, including LGBT
from AIDS, signed his first La Land as best picture. “There’s concerns about the silent meth had a cracked skull, broken ribs, youth, from being deported
World AIDS Day Proclamation a mistake. Moonlight, you guys crisis among black gay men. The burned and bruised skin, missing to countries where their lives
and failed to mention the LGBT won best picture. This is not a Sheriff’s Department conducted teeth and BB pellets lodged in his are at risk from governmental
community. Out scholar Masha joke,” said La La Land producer an initial investigation and groin. He died two days later after and cultural homophobia and
Gessen compared it to Trump’s Jordan Horowitz, beckoning the learned that Moore, a 26-year old being removed from life support,” transphobia. A large percentage
Holocaust Remembrance Day stunned winners onstage. “one of escort, frequently visited Buck, the LA Times reported. Months of LGBT DREAMers (28%) live in
statement in which he neglected the things that I hope doesn’t get 62. But local black activists and before his death, Gabriel was California and more than 75,000
to mention Jews. The Centers for overshadowed is this was a $1.5 Moore’s mother were not satisfied forced to eat cat feces and his own young people identify as LGBT
Disease Control reports that gay million indie film about a black, with the findings and agitated vomit. He slept in a small cabinet, in Los Angeles—with nearly half
and bisexual men account for an gay, poor man ... and that’s a very for the Sheriff to investigate his ankles handcuffed, hands of them actively participating
estimated 70 percent of new HIV significant thing,” director Ava whether Buck, who is white, might bound and mouth gagged with a in the upended Deferred Action
infections in the U.S.; an estimated DuVernay said later. “I’m proud of have a sexual fetish: injecting sock. On Nov. 15, Isauro Aguirre, for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
22 percent of transgender women the Academy for honoring that.” young black escorts with drugs— 37, was convicted of first-degree program, according to the Williams
LOCAL NEWS DE C EMB ER 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 • 0 5
Institute at UCLA. “Deportation is President Pro Tem of the Senate transgender American who wishes in California. Her victory, with Schiff and impeachment-calling
comparable to a death sentence next year. Get ready to rumble. to serve our country faithfully and bisexual Christy Holstege, makes Rep. Maxine Waters underscoring
for LGBTQ people in many parts courageously will not occur on the Palm Springs City Council the how much is at stake with a Trump
of the world,” says Dave Garcia, LA our watch,” said Attorney General first American city government presidency. LA LGBT felt the
LGBT Center Director of Policy and
4. CAlif. groupS Xavier Becerra. with an LGBT majority. #resist!
Community Building. OPPOSE TRANS
MILITARY BAN 3. TRANSGENDER 2. rESiST! 1. A Tipping poinT on
5. CALIFORNIA President Trump’s July 26 ELECTORAL WINS Talk about taking back offensive SEXUAL HARASSMENT
DEMOCRATIC PARTY tweet announced that his The battle for transgender words — the pink “pussy” hat, “Casting couch” allegations
RUN BY GAYS administration “will not accept or civil rights was difficult in 2017— created by two LA-area-based leveled against Hollywood
allow transgender individuals to marked by an uptick in hate women artists, was ubiquitous at heavyweights Bill Cosby and
The Republican Party is now serve in any capacity in the U.S. crimes against trans people — 31 the massive Women’s March, the Harvey Weinstein scorched the
stained by white supremacy and Military.” The major policy shift reported in Los Angeles (30 were day after Donald Trump’s ugly and traditional assumption that men
its leader is perhaps beholden to was orchestrated by Vice President violent), a 72 percent increase sparsely attended inauguration. have the innate right to sexually
the Russians. Aghast, Democrats Pence with help from Family from 2016 with the majority, 69 A multi-pronged grassroots exploit women, which women
want to break the conservative Research Council head Tony perent, against trans Latinas. resistance movement sprung endured to get or keep their jobs.
Republicans’ one-party rule by Perkins. Four lawsuits were quickly But an unprecedented political up to protest Trump, his GOP While equally upset over the
winning back the House in the filed to stop the proposed ban from outpouring yielded positive cronies, and the white nationalist/ power dynamics of the economics
2018 midterm elections, with help taking effect and to challenge its results: eight trans candidates supremacist ideas they stand for. of “consent,” the gay community
from the California Democratic constitutionality. On Dec. 11, a won their elections around the Resistance morphed into action, grappled with more nuanced
Party. At least six vulnerable GOP federal judge in Washington State country. Danica Roem’s election exquisitely symbolized by the defeat issues after gay actor Anthony
incumbents are up for reelection, became the third court to rule the to the Virginia House of Delegates of Trump/Steve Bannon Alabama Rapp revealed that closeted gay
including longtime anti-LGBT ban unconstitutional and issued a will make her the first openly candidate, accused pedophile Judge actor Kevin Spacey, then 26,
legislators Darrell Issa and Dana preliminary injunction, allowing transgender woman seated in Roy Moore. Locally, resistance took tried to “seduce” him when Rapp
Rohrabacher. Leading the charge trans service members to continue statewide office; Minneapolis the form of a refutation of CSW’s was 14 years old. Old Gay Sexual
into electoral battle are Eric serving with admission of trans elected two trans people of tone-deaf approach to transgender Liberation assumptions were
Bauman, the out chair of the CDP enlistees starting Jan. 1.The fourth color—Andrea Jenkins and issues. The #ResistMarch, created shaken: not all gay teens welcome
and Mark Gonzalez, the out chair lawsuit filed by Equality California, Phillipe Cunningham—to their by Brian Pendleton, started at sex with an older man as a rite
of the LA County Democratic with the State of California as city council; Stephe Koontz, Hollywood and Highland, invited of passage and groping is not
Party, both of whom have track a plaintiff, is pending before a Raven Matherne, Tyler Titus, and everyone to join, and culminated equivalent to a handshake. What
records with electoral experience. federal court in California—which Gerri Cannon also won their local in West Hollywood with lesbian had been routinely dismissed
Add to the leadership mix kickass has the most active duty and elections. And in Palm Springs, Black Lives Matter co-founder as a gay bitchy grievance is now
Toni Atkins of San Diego, the first reserve military than any other Lisa Middleton, a lesbian, became Patrisse Cullors, House Minority part of a movement for respect,
lesbian Assembly Speaker, who will state. “Marginalizing transgender the first transgender person Leader Nancy Pelosi, House Russia- boundaries, consideration and
become the first lesbian/woman service members or any elected to a non-judicial office investigation-hero Rep. Adam human dignity.
06 • DECE M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 N AT I O N A L N EW S
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Here are the top 10 international in peace talks that took place in british Virgin islands, the Turks was brutally attacked inside his
LGBT news stories of 2017, as havana. caribe afirmativo has and caicos and the Florida keys. it home in the country’s capital
ranked by the Washington Blade’s
9. lGbT candidaTes opened four “houses of peace” in also damaged an lGbT community of Tegucigalpa in July. karla
editorial staff. around The world northern colombia in support of center in santo domingo, cuba, avelar, executive director of
win elecTion the agreement. when it made landfall on the comunicando y capacitando
Voters in october 2016 island’s north central coast on a mujeres Trans, a salvadoran
10. Trump rolls back a number of prominent lGbT narrowly rejected the agreement sept. 9 with 160 mph winds. trans advocacy group, in october
normalized u.s., elected officials took office around in a referendum. The country’s maria made landfall in puerto sought refuge in ireland after she
cuba relaTions the world in 2017. congress later ratified it after rico on sept. 20 with 155 mph received death threats.
Gay irish prime minister leo president Juan manuel santos winds. The hurricane caused she spoke with the blade
president Trump on June Varadkar assumed office on June renegotiated it. widespread damage in dominica on sept. 22 in her office in the
16 reinstated travel and trade 14. ana brnabić on June 29 became santos’ gay nephew, pedro and st. croix before hitting the salvadoran capital of san salvador.
restrictions with cuba. serbia’s first woman and openly santos, told the washington blade u.s. commonwealth. “To work in the fight for the human
The directive that Trump lesbian prime minister. in september during an interview people with hiV/aids who live rights of my community is part of my
signed at a theater in miami’s michelle súarez, who is the in the colombian capital of on the hurricane-battered islands conviction,” she said. “This is the
Little Havana neighborhood bans first openly transgender person bogotá that his father, former were unable to access medications vision that i have for the future, to see
individual “people-to-people” elected to the uruguayan senate, Vice president Francisco santos, in the aftermath of the storms. that my country gets better.”
trips to the communist island. it was officially sworn in on oct. 11. strongly opposes the agreement. activists in puerto rico with u.n. high commissioner
also says americans who travel diane rodríguez earlier this year pedro santos nevertheless said whom the blade spoke after maria for human rights zeid ra’ad
to cuba on organized trips must won a seat in ecuador’s congress he is willing to support the said the hurricane has made lGbT al-hussein earlier this month
“engage in a full-time schedule when she ran on the ticket of agreement’s implementation. people even more vulnerable to acknowledged during a capitol
of activities that enhance contact current congressman carlos Vera. “i can just cry about it and try discrimination because of their hill panel that anti-lGbT violence
with the cuban people, support to deny it happened or help people sexual orientation and gender persists around the world. he
civil society in cuba, or promote and try to make it work,” he said, identity. san Juan mayor carmen specifically cited a slovenian activist
the cuban people’s independence
8. lGbT-inclusiVe referring to the war that killed Yulín cruz — who champions lGbT who told him in september that
from cuban authorities.” colombian peace more than 200,000 people. rights in the u.s. commonwealth homophobic attacks have increased
Then-president obama in 2014 aGreemenT — remains among the most vocal “very suddenly” in his country,
announced the u.s. would begin to critics of the federal government’s despite efforts to extend rights to
normalize relations with cuba. implemenTed 7. hurricanes response to maria. the country’s lGbT community.
mariela castro, the daughter The colombian government deVasTaTe caribbean “when you’re fighting for rights,
of cuban president raúl castro and the revolutionary armed lGbT communiTies 6. anTi-lGbT you don’t relax for one moment,”
who spearheads lGbT-specific Forces of colombia in 2017 began said al-hussein.
issues, is among those who remain to implement an lGbT-inclusive hurricanes irma and maria Violence persisTs
highly critical of the u.s. embargo peace agreement that ended a caused widespread destruction Violence based on sexual
against cuba that remains in decades-long war. throughout the caribbean in orientation and gender identity
place. The cuban government said representatives of caribe september. remained pervasive throughout
Trump’s policy favors an “extreme afirmativo and colombia diversa irma caused widespread the world in 2017.
minority” of exiles who live in — two lGbT advocacy groups — destruction in barbuda, st. barts, david Valle, a prominent lGbT
Florida. are among those who took part st. martin, anguilla, the u.s. and rights advocate in honduras, CONTINUES AT LOSANGELESBLADE.COM
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12 • DECE M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 I N MEMO RI A M
Many acclaimed LGBT people were people that once ruled the an intestinal infection. “LGBT Gay novelist Mark Merlis died one more time what a difference
died in 2017 from the world world.” activists ... say he played a key on Aug. 15 at 67 from pneumonia she made to the country we love,”
of politics, the entertainment George Weinberg, the role in advancing the city’s fight associated with amyotrophic former President Barack Obama
industry and beyond. They include: psychotherapist who coined the term against HIV/AIDS during the lateral sclerosis at a Philadelphia said.
Acclaimed British actor Alec homophobia in the 1960s, died on early years of the epidemic while hospital. In his debut 1996 novel Gossip column doyenne Liz
McCowen died, at 91, on Feb. March 20 in New York City at 87 of serving as executive director of “American Studies” and three Smith, died on Nov. 12 at 94 at her
6 at his London home. He was cancer. “As long as gay people suffer Whitman-Walker from 1984-1999,” subsequent works, Merlis wrote Manhattan home. For decades,
renowned for playing Mark in from homophobic acts, the word the Blade reported. sensitively about the joy, turmoil Smith on New York City TV and in
the one-man show “St. Mark’s (homophobia) will remain crucial to Queer actor Nelsan Ellis, who and pride of American 20th the tabloids (from the Daily News
Gospel.” our humanity,” Weinberg wrote in the played Lafayette Reynolds, a gay century gay life. to the New York Post) regaled
Max Ferra, founding director of Huffington Post. cook, on the HBO vampire series Kate Millett, the queer, viewers and readers with tidbits
New York City’s INTAR Hispanic Gilbert Baker, creator of the “True Blood” died at 39 on July groundbreaking second wave about the lives of the rich and
American Arts Center, died at rainbow flag, known as the “gay 8 of heart failure due to alcohol feminist writer, whose iconic 1970 famous. She had relationships
79 on February 4 in Miami. The Betsy Ross,” died at 65 at his New withdrawal. Ellis waged a long book “Sexual Politics, transformed withe men and women, including
Center nurtured numerous Latino York City home on March 31. The battle with alcohol and drug our cultural understanding of archaeologist Iris Love.
playwrights, including Pulitzer first rainbow flags were unveiled addiction. gender roles, died at 82 from Drag pageant impresario Jack
Prize winner Nilo Cruz, Lisa Loomer during the San Francisco 1978 gay Tony Award-winning producer cardiac arrest while on vacation in Doroshow died at 78 in Manhattan.
and Milcha Sanchez-Scott. Ferra pride parade. “We ... watched and Stuart J. Thompson died at 62 Paris with her spouse Sophie Keir. As drag queen Flawless Sabrina,
left Cuba, his native country, in saw the flags, and their faces lit from complications of esophageal When “Sexual Politics” came out, Doroshow began organizing
1958. “There were a bunch of young up,” gay rights activist Clive Jones cancer in Manhattan on Aug. the New York Times called the work shows in 1959. “The Queen,” a
Latino playwrights coming of age told the New York Times. “It needed 17. He produced and served as “the Bible of women’s Lliberation.” documentary about his 1967 Town
who were writing plays in English no explanation. People knew general manager to more than Marriage equality icon Edith Hall show in New York, is a queer
that had a Hispanic essence,” he immediately that it was our flag.” 70 Broadway, Off Broadway and (Edie) Windsor died at 88 in cultural touchstone.
told the “New York Times, “but William M. Hoffman, who wrote national touring productions. Manhattan on Sept. 12. In her Actor Jim Nabors, known for
there was no arena for them.” the groundbreaking play “As Is” Gay Republican operative Arthur landmark case the Supreme playing Gomer Pyle on the CBS TV
Turner Classic Movies host during the height of the AIDS J. Finkelstein, who helped boost the Court for the first time granted shows “The Andy Griffith Show”
Robert Osborne, a lifelong epidemic and the libretto for John careers of conservative Republicans federal recognition to same-sex and “Gomer Pyle: U.S.M.C.,” died
aficionado of Old Hollywood and Corigliano’s opera “The Ghosts of from James. L. Buckley to Jesse married couples. The Windsor at 87 on Nov. 30 at his home in
its movies, died at 84 on March 6 Versailles,” died at 78 of cardiac Helms, died at 72, from metastasized decision struck down the Defense Honolulu. Stan Cadwallader, his
in his Manhattan home. During his arrest in the Bronx on April 29. lung cancer on Aug. 18 at his of Marriage Act, which prohibited husband, said he had been in
25 years at TCM, he told viewers Gay attorney Jim Graham, Ipswich, Mass., home. He “sells his same-sex couples from receiving ill health for more than a year.
intriguing stories about stars from who was elected to four terms on talents to lawmakers who would the 1,138 federal benefits available Nabors said that he “never made a
Bette Davis to Audrey Hepburn. “I D.C. Council, died at 71 on June outlaw his family’s very existence,” to heterosexual married couples. big secret” about being queer, but
love those people,” Osborne told 11 at George Washington Hospital a New York Times columnist said of “I had the privilege to speak with he didn’t officially come out until
“CBS Sunday Morning.” “These following complications from Finkelstein in 1996. Edie a few days ago, and to tell her he married Cadwallader in 2013.
VIEWPOINT DE C E M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 • 1 3 VOLUME 01 ISSUE 21
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5455 Wilshire Blvd #1505, Los Angeles, CA 90036
PHONE 310-230-5266
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10. AARON CARTER COMES OUT, show, Carter entered rehab in Yiannopoulos tried to keep his its leads. Emmy Award for hosting.
GETS BUSTED FOR POT October and was released in career afloat. His publishing
Pop singer Aaron Carter, at the December. company Dangerous Books 7. SeaSon 9 of ‘RuPaul’S DRag 6. ‘WONDER WOMAN’ LASSOS
time 29 though he’s since turned published his book “Dangerous.” RACE’ MAKES ‘HERSTORY’ BOFFO
30, came out as bisexual in an open 9. MILO YIANNOPOULOS Yiannopoulos closed out the It was a banner year for box office
letter posted on Twitter in August. GOES DOWN year on a personal note marrying “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in several Although she’d been seen in
“There’s something I’d like Milo Yiannopoulos’ swift his boyfriend, identified only as ways. Debuting in March on new 2016’s “Batman v. Superman:
to say that I feel is important for descent from rising alt-right “John,” in Hawaii. home VH1, the queens went Dawn of Justice,” Wonder Woman
myself and my identity that has media personality to a defamed apeshit when Lady Gaga walked finally got her own film this year
been weighing on my chest for journalist shunned even from his 8. ‘CALL ME BY YOUR NAME,’ ‘TOM into the work room and was with a June release starring Gal
nearly half of my life,” Carter own conservative community was OF FINLAND’ AMONG YEAR’S featured as the guest judge. Gadot as the titular character
writes. “This doesn’t bring me peppered with controversy. best films Seeming to genuinely enjoy and winningly helmed by Patty
shame, just a weight and burden The year started out It was a strong year for LGBT- herself throughout the episode, Jenkins (“Monster”) who won
I have held onto for a long time promisingly for the British political themed movies but two especially Gaga helped series regulars universal praise for her effort.
that I would like lifted off me.” commentator who secured an stand out — “Tom of Finland” and Michelle Visage, Ross Matthews Filmed over a six-month period
The star revealed he has been autobiography book deal with “Call Me By Your Name.” and Carson Kressley assess the starting in November 2015
attracted to both genders since he Simon & Schuster and was invited “Tom,” a Finnish biographical queens’ interpretations of classic (development started in 1996), it
was 13. He also shared that he had as a guest on “Real Time with Bill drama directed by Dome Gaga looks. set numerous box office records.
a sexual experience with another Maher.” He kicked off a university Karukoski, stars Pekka Strang as It turned out to be an unusually It was the fifth highest-grossing
man when he was 17. Carter speaking engagement tour which Touko Laakosenen, better known dramatic season, though. Latina superhero film in the U.S. and the
claimed that Madison Parker, his drew numerous protesters to as the titular artist who specialized diva Valentina emerged early on 20th highest-grossing film ever
girlfriend at the time, broke up University of California, Berkley. in mid-century homoerotic art. as a strong contender but was stateside. It made more than $800
with him when he told her he was The protest became violent The film inspired a Tom of Finland sent packing on episode nine after million internationally and is the
bisexual. Parker denied his sexuality as protesters refused to let renaissance of sorts with books pissing off Ru for initially declining best-ranked superhero film on
was the reason for their spilt. He Yiannopoulos, who has made and an extensive line of home to remove a veil during the lip- Rotten Tomatoes. The American
also said that his older brother Nick racist, misogynistic, transphobic products like shower curtains and sync against Debbie Downer Nina Film Institute called it one of the
Carter had not reached out to him and xenophobic remarks, to throw pillows featuring Tom art. Bo’nina Brown. She said later she best 10 films of 2017.
since he came out. speak at the university. President “Call Me By Your Name,” a was in shock and hadn’t bothered Gadot plays the Amazon
Carter brought his struggles Donald Trump even weighed in leisurely paced gay romance to learn the words to the song, princess Diana, a highly trained
with drug addiction, plastic on Twitter threatening to cut the story between a 24-year-old which all the queens are given in fighter who’s been raised on the
surgery and his family on a school’s federal funding for not intern (Armie Hammer) and the advance should they land in the hidden island of Themyscira by her
tumultuous September episode allowing free speech. 17-year-old son of his employer bottom two. mother Queen Hippolyta (Connie
of “The Doctors.” On the show, Yiannopoulos’ success came to (Timothee Chalamet) in Italy circa The drama continued, though, Nielsen). The island’s security is
Carter learned he weighed a halt when an old interview clip 1983, has drawn strong reviews on perhaps the bitchiest reunion breached when American pilot
only 115 pounds at 6 feet tall. surfaced of him saying that sexual for its taste and restraint. episode of the series’ entire run Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) crashes
He said he feared his weight relationships between 13-year- “(Director Luca) Guadagnino with several queens calling out his plane on the island.
loss was due to being HIV- old boys and adult men could be and his actors emphasize Valentina on her fake charm. The Blade said it was “packed
positive. However, he tested positive. His comments caused him tenderness and feeling capturing The finale, despite featuring with gripping action sequences
negative for all STDs. His drug to lose his job as senior editor for the magic of first-time dalliance no clear standout winner, went but also leavened with generous
test revealed he tested positive Breitbart News, to have his book deal in a way that makes it seem, if to Sasha Velour who bested doses of comedy and deepened
for marijuana, Benzodiazepines with Simon & Schuster revoked and not wholly innocent, at least Peppermint, Shea Coulee and with serious considerations about
(Xanax) and opiates to be disinvited from the Conservative wholesome,” a Blade critic wrote. Trinity Taylor for the title of the horrors of war and mankind’s
(hydrocodone). After initially Political Action Conference. It’s up for three Golden Globe America’s Next Drag Superstar. capacity for both love and hatred.”
refusing to go to rehab on the Despite the negative press, Awards including nods for both RuPaul won his second consecutive
ARTS & ENT E RTA I NM E NT DE C EMB ER 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 • 1 5
Epic Oscar mistake, Bette and Joan return in wild, wacky year
by JoeY diguglielmo & maRiah cooPeR
Photo courtesy FX Networks Photo courtesy ABC Photo by Tim Travers Hawkins via Wikimedia Photo courtesy NBC Photo courtesy a24
5. ‘FEUD’ REVIVES COMPLICATED Diana will premiere in 2018. Helmed by multiple directors Sean Hayes and Megan Mullally of yesteryear stride onstage
PARTNERSHIP OF including writer Dustin Lance — were back after a planned one- reunited to give an award. Many
Davis, Crawford 4. ‘When We Rise’ dRaWs Black and Gus Van Sant, the eight- off mini-episode that ran last fall stars have done it over the years
“Feud,” an FX series from Ryan mixed RevieWs episode arc was framed as an timed to the presidential election. — Jimmy Stewart and Kim Novak,
Murphy, devoted its maiden “When We Rise,” an ABC epic, 45-year survey of the entire The first new episodes of Paul Newman and Elizabeth
season of eight episodes to the miniseries about LGBT rights that gay rights movement. the show since 2006 found the Taylor. This year it was Warren
rivalry of Bette Davis and Joan aired Feb. 27-March 3, drew so- familiar gang at the White House, Beatty and Faye Dunaway, stars of
Crawford, co-stars in the 1962 so reviews from the mainstream 3. CHELSEA MANNING navigating middle-aged gay dating, 1967’s “Bonnie and Clyde.”
cult classic “Whatever Happened press but was sharply criticized in makes glam debut Jack discovering he’s a grandfather On the 50th anniversary of
to Baby Jane.” the gay press. (with a gay grandson), Will making their cinematic classic, they came
Jessica Lange starred as Writing for the Blade, columnist After being released from senior partner, an appearance by on stage at the Dolby Theatre on
Crawford and Susan Sarandon Brock Thompson, said it had prison at Fort Leavenworth on Beverley Leslie (Leslie Jordan) and Feb. 26 to hand out the top prize
played Davis. Both were serious problems. May 17 after nearly seven years many more hijinks. of the evening. “La La Land” was
nominated for Emmys, though “Though I very much appreciate in prison for leaking 750,000 Ratings have been solid — announced as the winner but
the show won none of the 10 what ‘When We Rise’ was documents (some classified) to averaging more than 10 million it quickly became apparent as
Primetime Emmys for which it was attempting, I couldn’t see past its WikiLeaks, many were curious to viewers per episode — and reviews its producers were giving their
nominated (it won two Creative problems,” Thompson said. “Its see how Chelsea Manning would have been mostly positive. acceptance speeches that a
Arts Emmys). The series was tone was preachy. Its messages segue into civilian life. A 10th season has already been mistake had been made and gay-
praised for its period detail and about unity and strength in Manning, 29, made her glam approved. themed “Moonlight” was the true
grand, sweeping recreations of diversity landed like anvils. I debut in the September issue Much less successful, however, winner.
pivotal moments such as a long stopped counting the clunky of Vogue in a red Norma Kamall has been the “Dynasty” reboot, Beatty and Dunaway had been
tracking shot showing Lange cliched lines like ‘we are stronger swimsuit and other high-fashion which debuted in October on the handed the wrong envelope, a
walking backstage at the 1963 together,’ or ‘you don’t know outfits with low-key styling by CW with an all-new cast featuring duplicate of the Best Actress envelope
Academy Awards. how strong we are,’ or perhaps Phyllis Posnick and was praised James Mackay as Steven Carrington, (“La La Land’s” Emma Stone had won
Though declining somewhat ‘strength. let’s get some and be for not being as sexualized and Fallon’s (Elizabeth Gillies) gay that award). Upon seeing its contents,
in ratings after a strong start, the strong with it together.’ All this in-your-face as Caitlyn Jenner environmentalist brother. Now his Beatty was flummoxed; Dunaway,
series fared decently overall. Its gave way to some melodramatic was when she made her debut in being gay is no big issue to dad thinking he was joshing for suspense,
debut was the most-watched moments. Beyond that, actors Vanity Fair in 2015. Blake and gold digger Sammy Jo is saw “La La Land” and announced it as
program on FX that week. were switched out to play their “This is a far cry from the now a gay man. Oh, and the Colbys the winner.
The series had an unexpected role’s older counterparts, making haughty, hyper-feminine are black this time. Dubbed the biggest gaffe in
coda with Olivia de Havilland, the timeline rather confusing.” Hollywood unveiling of Caitlyn Reviews have been highly Oscar history, it turned out to be the
a real-life friend of Davis who Ratings, too, were weak for the Jenner,” wrote Robin Givhan in mixed with Variety saying it “barely mistakeof PricewaterhouseCoopers’
replaced Crawford in their series starring Guy Pearce, Mary the Washington Post. She called gets out of the gate before it managing partner Brian Cullinan
planned follow-up “Baby Jane” Louise-Parker, Whoopi Goldberg Manning’s photos a “message of begins to lose steam.” Ratings who’d been Tweeting backstage.
movie “Hush … Hush Sweet and Rosie O’Donnell as Cleve Jones, … accessibility, normalcy, calm.” have been anemic, averaging less He and Martha Ruiz, who each had
Charlotte,” sued the creators Roma Pauline Guy, Pat Norman than a million viewers per episode. copies of the evening’s envelopes,
claiming in a lawsuit filed a day and Del Martin, respectively. Its 2. ‘Will & gRace’ and were later relieved of any future
before her 101st birthday that she first episode drew 3.26 million ‘DYNASTY’ RETURN 1. ‘moonlight’ Wins Oscar duties though they kept their
was inaccurately portrayed and viewers to come in last of the After 11 years off the air, “Will & BEST PICTURE IN SHOCKING jobs.
her likeness was used without her four major networks for its time Grace” returned to NBC Thursday ENVELOPE MISTAKE “Moonlight” became the first
permission. Catherine Zeta-Jones slot. Viewership dropped sharply nights in September to launch a new, It was supposed to be one of LGBT-themed film and first film with
played her in the series. thereafter. Scheduling was shifted 16-episode run and ninth season. those nice little Oscar moments an all-black cast to win Best Picture.
A second season of 10 after President Trump addressed The original cast — Eric longtime fans of the Academy
episodes devoted to Charles and Congress live on Feb. 28. McCormack, Debra Messing, Awards cherish — beloved stars
16 • DECE M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 Q U EERY
By TROY MASTERS
queery IVY BOTTINI
tmasters@losangelesblade.com How long have you been out and who was “Give ‘em Hell”? I’m looking for a
the hardest person to tell? publisher.
Ivy Bottini was born on Aug. 15, 1926, I have been out out since 1968.
and at a very early age it was clear she was The hardest person to tell was my If science discovered a way to change
going places. husband. sexual orientation, what would you do?
She has spent a lifetime captivated by Everyone could be sexually fluid.
imagery — Charles Lindberg’s flight was Who’s your LGBT hero? People could swing either way and
an an absolute obsession for her. “I was Jeanne Cordova, she was an no one would yell at ‘em.
transported by the idea of movement amazing woman. I miss her.
and meaning; what does it mean to have What do you believe in beyond the
a destination, a purpose. We have to fight What is Los Angeles’ best nightspot, past physical world?
for that,” she told me on her 90th birthday or present? Two things: there is either a god
in 2016. Little Frida’s was a small cafe on or the universe is in charge. Or
She has devoted her life to the West Knoll, very simple food, a maybe we just call the universe
intersections of art, feminist theory and hang out for lesbians from all over. god; something is in control. My life
activism. She was THE first lesbian activist They wanted to expand but the city has been a series of things I never
to demand inclusion in the powerful 1960s made that too hard so they closed. decided on. It just happened. I
women’s movement and her work with Lesbians are still angry about that. planned to be a comedian.
Lavender Menace was groundbreaking.
Ivy is the original template from which Describe your dream wedding. What’s your advice for LGBT movement
much LGBT activism was born. Photo Courtesy Bottini Not in a white gown or a Tuxedo. leaders?
In 1966, she embraced her lesbian I’m not fond of weddings… The Never forget what we’ve been
identity and quickly became a leading feminist voice, establishing and serving as president word and the institution comes with through and always be ready to
of the New York Chapter of the National Organization for Women. too much baggage that oppresses fight.
Her insistence on lesbian inclusion did not sit well with NOW co-founder Betty Friedan. women.
Bottini was famously rejected her because of her lesbian activism. What would you walk across hot coals for?
But her visual thinking was so powerful and attention grabbing, even Betty came around. What non-LGBT issue are you most My two daughters and my grandson.
Her use of strong visuals with powerful messaging heralded a new brand of “in-your- passionate about? And the guy at the coffee shop.
face activism” that preceded the Lesbian Avengers, ACT UP and Queer Nation. Over-development in West
Pink Hats have nothing on her work, though she is certainly satisfied that the women’s Hollywood is driving us out, all the What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?
movement, after 40 years in the wilderness, is back. gay elders who created it. That lesbians hate men.
She is disturbed by “assimilation” and sees cracks in our movement that are being
exploited by the growing forces against us. What historical outcome would you What’s your favorite LGBT movie?
We are well advised to remember her most famous acts: change? I love Julia Roberts. “Pretty Woman.”
An action she created at the Statue of Liberty, draping a 40’ banner over the world The Great Depression changed my I hope some day I’ll meet her...or
famous icon that read “Women of the World Unite,” received worldwide attention. Using mom. We lost our house and my Jennifer Aniston wouldn’t be so bad
her graphic design skills she published The NOW York Times, a parody of the powerful mom lost her power and herself. either!
New York Times in an effort to combat the paper’s sexism. She collaborated with many
other groups to draw tens of thousands of protesters, overtaking Fifth Avenue in 1970 for What’s been the most memorable pop What’s the most overrated social custom?
the Women’s Equality march, months after Troy Perry, Morris Kight and Bob Humphries culture moment of your lifetime? That’s a hard one, too many!
had taken Hollywood Boulevard for the first gay Pride parade in Los Angeles. She toured I’ve lived through every assassination
the U.S. performing her one-woman show “The Many Faces of Woman.” since 1926; the sacrifices for What trophy or prize do you most covet?
Ivy was involved very early on in the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Community Services equality live on forever because of The letter of apology I received
Center and helped beat back The Briggs Amendment, legislation that would have them. from NOW California and NOW
prohibited gay men and lesbians from teaching in public schools. The “No on 6” campaign Hollywood for treating me so badly
employed strategies activists would later copy to defeat Prop 8. On what do you insist? in the ‘70s regarding my lesbian
In the early 1980s, Ivy turned her attention to the AIDS crisis, founding Los Angeles’ first Uncompromising truth. activism.
AIDS service organization, AIDS Network LA, a news and information service that provided
an invaluable model that was copied nationwide. She became a prevention advocate and What was your last Facebook post or What do you wish you’d known at 18?
helped establish APLA. She also helped defeat a move to quarantine people with AIDS. Tweet? That I was a lesbian.
Ivy shows no signs of slowing down and she’s as feisty as ever. She recently ended 17 years The tech world is an impediment to
of service on West Hollywood’s Lesbian and Gay Advisory Board. She helped shed light on the staying connected as human beings. Why Los Angeles?
crystal meth crisis, domestic abuse and senior issues. She established the nation’s first LGBT None. I didn’t choose to live here but I
senior housing complex and is now hoping to create a roommate registry for West Hollywood’s chose to stay here because things
senior LGBT folk. If your life were a book, what would the needed to be done. It’s not the place
She’s really a national treasure but she’s ours. title be? but the issues that matter.
FILM DE C EMB ER 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 • 1 7
It was a very good year for movies, especially for queer and, Todd Haynes’ visionary masterwork “Wonderstruck.” include “Mudbound,” “The Florida Project,” “Beatriz at
movies large and small. There was also, of course, the somewhat disappointing Dinner,” “Brigsby Bear,” “Patti Cake$,” “The Big Sick,”
In a very competitive field, the best LGBT movie of 2017 “Call Me by Your Name” which featured finely layered “The Sense of an Ending” with magnificent performances
was “Professor Marston and the Wonder Women.” performances by Michael Stuhlbarg, Amira Casar and by Jim Broadbent and Charlotte Rampling, and the
Directed by the amazing Angela Robinson (an out and proud Timothée Chalamet, a weak performance by a miscast thoughtful and visually inventive “War for the Planet of
woman of color), the film explores the real-world origins of Armie Hammer and uneven direction by Luca Guadagnino. the Apes.”
the iconic Wonder Woman character. Marston was involved It should also be noted that three other big releases had A few final items to wrap up the year:
in a polyamorous relationship with two women and drew on some interesting appearances by gay characters. The cast A shout out to film restorers who are bringing queer
both their relationship and his controversial theories about of the wonderful “Lady Bird” includes a gay character, but classics back to their original luster. This year, the Cohen
submission and domination to create the classic comic to say more would be a spoiler. Disney’s live-action “Beauty Media Collection released restored movies from the
book. Robinson explores their love with great sensitivity and and the Beast” surprised audiences by outing LeFou, who Merchant Ivory library, including the gay classic “Maurice.”
eroticism and without sensationalism and also celebrates became Disney’s first openly gay character. And, judging Late last year, they released a lush restoration of Julie Dash’s
the power of creativity and intellectual curiosity. by the double frame on the family ofrenda in the stunning revolutionary “Daughters of the Dust” and 13 Gen released
Paired with that, the most notable mainstream movie of “Coco,” Tío Felipe and Tío Oscar may be Miguel’s guncles. a restored print of Cheryl Dunye’s delightful ground-breaking
the year (although not necessarily the best) was “Wonder Other notable LGBT releases included “I Dream in mockumentary “The Watermelon Woman.”
Woman.” Even before the Weinstein scandal and related Another Language,” “Beach Rats,” “The First Girl I Loved,” A spotlight on a fascinating trend: women gone wild.
revelations rocked Hollywood, Patty Jenkins and her team the Norwegian psychological thriller “Thelma,” “After “Girls Trip,” “Bad Mom’s Christmas,” “Snatched” and
made huge strides for women, setting box office records Louie” with searing performances from Alan Cumming and “Rough Night” all explored the cinematic appeal of
and creating a powerful female superhero who is both David Drake, “My Friend Dahmer,” “Princess Cyd,” “Tom female misbehavior and the challenge of blending comedy,
commanding and caring. Gal Gadot proved to be a worthy of Finland,” “Signature Move” by the dazzling triple threat raunchiness and sentimentality. “Rough Night” even
successor to LGBT ally extraordinaire Lynda Carter. Fawzia Mizra, and “Dusk” by rising trans director Jake Graf. included several unruly gay, lesbian and bisexual characters.
Standouts among the other big LGBT releases were Among LGBT documentaries, there’s the heartbreaking A word on late arrivals. This year’s late treats include
Terence Davies’ stirring “A Quiet Passion” with Cynthia “Memories of a Penitent Heart” by break-out director “Phantom Thread,” “Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool,”
Nixon’s bold performance as poet Emily Dickinson; “BPM;” Cecilia Aldarondo and the searing “Whose Streets?” “I, Tonya” “Hello, Again” and “The Current War.” There’s
“God’s Own Country,” a worthy descendant of “Brokeback directed by Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis, along with also “A Fantastic Woman” starring trans actress Daniele
Mountain”; Guillermo Del Toro’s breathtaking “The Shape “Strong Island,” “Major!” and “Chavela.” Vega as a trans woman whose world is torn apart when her
of Water”; “Battle of the Sexes”; “My Cousin Rachel” Some of the mainstream releases worth remembering boyfriend suddenly dies.
18 • DECEM B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 MU S I C
9. KEHLANI
It’s been such a shell-shocking year in so many ways ‘SWEETSEXYSAVAGE’
with keyboardist Sanae Yamada as Moon Duo continues
that the luxury of being diverted by artists who continue to to work magic with two thematically connected albums
create richly inspired new music is perhaps more important This year was dreadful for pop music overall, but released several months apart. The two volumes of “Occult
than ever. You wouldn’t know it by looking at the dreadfully “SweetSexySavage,” the sleek and bold debut by Kehlani, Architecture” are zoned-out psychedelic bliss, music for
malnourished pop charts, but 2017 yielded a long list of is an obvious exception. The album is perfectly described late at night when the haze of smoke is so thick the stereo
superb new albums. by its title, much the same as TLC’s “CrazySexyCool” lights might as well be blurry red eyes staring out from
The 10 (well, make that 12 actually) albums listed two decades earlier. Kehlani is a talented and versatile some lost corner of space. The tracks are long, trippy and
below are among those that must not be lost in the singer, able to deliver a wicked edge when she chooses. resplendently beautiful. They are also timeless: Moon
cacophony of a constant stream of music and endless other She merges pop, soul, EDM and hip-hop vibes on Duo’s hypnotic rhythms, rich layers of dreamy guitar and
information bombarding us. Each album reinforces the songs that show off the power of her voice (“Piece of keyboard, and sinuous melodies travel from the late ‘60s,
certainty that music is for catharsis and healing as much Mind,” for instance) and range from doggedly defiant weave through the ‘70s into the present and back again. Put
as for entertainment, and this process manifests itself in (“Undercover”) to achingly vulnerable (“Advice”). The it on for any random music aficionado and ask what year
wildly diverse styles and voices. All have substantial LGBT hit single “CRZY” could be a younger and more fiercely it was released, you’re liable to get guesses of any year
followings as the lines between gay and straight acts untamed version of Rihanna. At only 22, Kehlani’s debut is from 1968 through … 2017? Yeah, we still need excursions
becomes increasingly a non-issue for music fans. the kind of triumph on which a massively successful career into hazy psychedelic dreamland to escape the sometimes
can be built. rotten stench of reality and Moon Duo provides the perfect
10. RIDE vehicle.
‘THE WEATHER DIARIES’/SLOWDIVE ‘SLOWDIVE’ 8. RYAN ADAMS
Yeah, it’s cheating, but it’s impossible to choose between ‘PRISONER’ 6. MOSES SUMNEY
these superb comebacks by two of the cornerstone bands Always prolific and restless, Ryan Adams has settled into ‘AROMANTICISM’
of the ‘90s “shoegaze” sub-genre: Ride’s first album in 21 what might be the finest sustained groove of his career. Maybe it’s the year, or generation, for “Aromanticism.”
years and the first for Slowdive in 22. “Slowdive” is perhaps His self-titled 2014 release was his best in a decade (and It’s always been mythology that one must attach to another
more in line with the narcotic rock dreaminess for which perhaps his career peak so far), and his first collection of human to attain happiness, although that angle isn’t
the band is known, while “The Weather Diaries” is spikier original material since then is almost as good. “Prisoner” often explored in popular music. Of course, it’s hard to
and explores a wider palette of sonic space. Despite being shows Adams continuing a seemingly endless ability to even put that kind of label on Sumney’s work. His debut
pigeonholed with a lazy and meaningless label (“shoegaze” churn out great songs, but there’s a gravitas and grittiness “Aromanticism” exists in a gauzy connective dimension that
is almost as annoying as “grunge” or “Britpop”), the albums borne from experience that his early-career classics “Gold” touches on sweet soul, jazz, electronica, orchestral and folk
are quite different. Both have an added poignancy and and “Heartbreaker” lack. Emotions are raw and close to the — kinda. Sumney never really lands on any of these labels,
world-weariness, perhaps inevitable for artists who were in bone on “Prisoner,” with a garage-rock sensibility somewhat but rather hints and swirls like a glittery mist just out of reach
their 20s during their “heyday” and are now in the upper- reminiscent of early Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. and firmly in his own realm. Sumney’s sublime voice, often
reaches of their 40s. Still, both bands are obviously fully presented in an exquisite falsetto, is the human anchor that
invested in the new material and the songs glow with 7. MOON DUO wraps the ethereal sounds of his imagination around a heart
unmistakable inspiration and intensity. ‘OCCULT ARCHITECTURE VOLUMES 1 AND 2’ trying to function alone in a culture that typically views such a
The pairing of Wooden Shjips guitarist Ripley Johnson state as naturally unfulfilling and incomplete. “Aromanticism”
MUSIC D E C EMB ER 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 • 1 9
Dismal year for pop yields several wildly creative sonic tapestries
By CHRIS GERARD
is as stunning a collection of decidedly unromantic yet life- life despite its sometimes breezy nature. Price is a first-rate exactly like much of 2017 has felt. Now do something.
affirming songs as you’re likely to ever hear. songwriter, able to express poignancy while still tappin’ the
toes when she feels like it. 1. LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
5. THE NATIONAL ‘AMERICAN DREAM’
‘SLEEP WELL BEAST’ 3. THUNDERCAT “American Dream” is a very different album than Algiers’
Cerebral but also soul-baringly real, there are few bands ‘DRUNK’ but it sounds like 2017 as well, albeit different aspects
that tap so convincingly into the human experience as the Stephen Bruner aka Thundercat showcases his razor-sharp through a different prism. James Murphy had famously
National. The wounded baritone of vocalist Matt Berninger wit, dextrous musical versatility and boundless imagination retired LCD Soundsystem, concluding with an epic farewell
is often whispery and half-spoken, somewhat akin to Lou on “Drunk,” his third and by far most accomplished release. show turned into a box set, so his announcement of a return
Reed. There is no more wrenching and honest a periscope “Drunk” is a bracing marriage of hip-hop, jazz and electronic was met with some degree of cynicism. “American Dream”
directly into a soul’s internal monologue as the stream-of- elements expressed through song snippets with soulful shows conclusively that Murphy made the right decision, as
conscious “Walk it Back.” On the tense title-track, Berninger melodies sparked with sonic flourishes in every direction. it may be his finest work yet.
croaks out in jaded melancholy but, as always, never allows Some of his collaborators include A-listers with whom he’s Murphy operates via long electronic grooves that echo
himself to break. Stripped down electronic-tinged rock worked before (Kendrick Lamar, Flying Lotus and Kamasi the hypnotic rhythms of Talking Heads’ “Remain in Light”
with plenty of space for the sounds to breathe, “Sleep Well Washington to name a few) and some less expected names while seamlessly appropriating from sources like alt-rock
Beast” is the latest top-notch offering by a band that for all (Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins). “Drunk” is bold but and disco, among others. “American Dream” is a sharp
their acclaim still flies under the radar. But then, given the not overbearing, colorful but dreamy and pleasantly chill. collection of sardonic pop, alternately melancholy and
unflinching introspection of their music and the time and It’s an epic 23-track midnight mix-tape cobbled together by defiant. Murphy presents a different kind of struggle: the
repeated listens required to truly unravel it, they could an intuitively talented artist that will indeed have the listener bubbling uncertainty that dominates our reality, the pent-up
hardly fly any other way. drunk on sound by the end. anger riddled with a gnawing fear that perhaps things really
are too late and the bad guys have won.
4. MARGO PRICE 2. ALGIERS Lest that sound like a misery we can achieve simply
‘ALL AMERICAN MADE’ ‘THE UNDERSIDE OF POWER’ by reading the day’s news, Murphy sets the percolating
Following her outstanding 2016 debut “Midwestern It’s a tall order to follow a debut as good as Algiers’ self- unease to a consistently thrilling and inventive feast for
Farmer’s Daughter,” Margo Price digs even deeper into titled 2015 release, but their second album “The Underside the ears, surprising and ingeniously constructed. Listening
the heartland on “All American Made.” Although generally of Power” is a steamroller of human angst, raging against the to “American Dream” feels like waking up and wanting to
defined as a country singer, Price incorporates a variety of machine not in slogans or cliches but with viscerally gripping believe you are indeed reading fake news, but the pulsing
flavors into her gritty and deeply felt studies of life and love. and emotionally charged electro-rock assaults. Complex, anxiety building in the pit of your stomach tells you that it’s
It’s not all weepy maudlin ballads, though, with rave-ups like tense and defiantly in-your-face, Algiers doesn’t hold back all very real. It’s no American dream at all.
the opener “Don’t Say It” channeling the dynamic charm of for a second. Fortunately they have the boundless talent and We are untethered in a strange land with no maps to find
Dolly Parton with the steely-eyed vision of the great Lucinda innovation to present their dystopian visions with enough our way, but hey, at least we can shuffle off into oblivion
Williams. Price’s voice is fresh and disarming and there is manic energy to reach out of the speakers and physically jamming to funky airtight grooves that wrap around our
always more there than first meets the ear. “All American shake the listener into action. “The Underside of Power” is brains as tightly as Paul Ryan’s chokehold on the throats of
Made” is loaded with piercing observations on modern audacious and experimental electronic rock that sounds the 99 percent.
20 • DECEM B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 BOOKS
Trust me on this: when you read more than 300 books a Here’s another chiller, but for a different reason: “When stable (or doesn’t) and what comes from what’s below.
year, you come across some that are not so good. the English Fall” by David Williams. It’s the story of the There never seems to be an end to the ubiquitous
Thankfully, you come across more of them that are good, end of the world, told from the point-of-view of a quiet, Hollywood biography, but “Hank & Jim: the Fifty-Year
great, or even stellar. Here’s my list of the best of 2017, introspective Amish man. It’s one of those “what if?” novels, Friendship of Henry Fonda and James Stewart” by Scott
those things that you absolutely can not miss, the books you with a slight twist of the weird. The ending will leave you Eyman is a keeper. It’s warm and funny, but also very sad and
should want in your hands now, in no certain order. squirming, so what’s not to love? poignant. This book will give you lots of insight, not only to
And finally — a Christmas tale that can be read any time: these two stars and their families, but also how Hollywood
FICTION: “The Deal of a Lifetime” by Frederick Backman is the story
of a man who hates Christmas because of all the horrible
used to work back in its heyday.
For the reader who loves a cheer-worthy story, “Never
Anyone who’s read the “Little House on the Prairie” books things that have happened in his life. What would he give Caught” by Erica Armstrong Dumbar is the story of Oney,
and loved them will want to read “Caroline: Little House, to make the holiday better? Read this under-70-page book who was owned by George Washington. Through a series
Revisited” by Sarah Miller. This book imagines the thoughts but bring the tissues. That is all. of laws, Washington tried to keep her enslaved but she was
and dreams of Laura Ingalls’ mother; the surprise is that Bonus: “One Good Mama Bone” by Bren McClain and smarter than he thought. Not only did she escape, but she
Miller lets Caroline Ingalls be frustrated, angry and real. “The Ada Decades” by Paula Martinac were close runners- stayed free right beneath his nose. It’s a tale that will make
For those who need a good scare, “The Last to See Me” up. The first is about a mother’s love; the second is a look you outraged, but it’ll also amaze you.
by M Dressler is what you need. Narrated by a woman who’s at history through the eyes of two lesbian women. Both are Here’s a surprise: “Scores” by Michael D. Blutrich. It’s the
dead/not dead, it’s a cat-and-mouse tale of a “hunter” who worth a second look. true story of a gay man who ran his New York City nightclub
comes to rid an old mansion of a mischievous spirit. But with help from the Italian mafia. When he was arrested
does he have the right spirit? Gotta find out for yourself.
Everything about “The Trick” by Emanuel Bergmann is
NON-FICTION: for something totally unrelated, he decided to work with
authorities to shut the mob down. Just a little bit dangerous?
going to captivate you. Everything. It’s the story of an old Have you ever wondered where your feet have been? That Yep, and a rompish can’t-miss, too.
man who lived a full, tumultuous, dangerous life; and a little may be an odd question, until you’ve read “The Ground Beneath Another pleasant surprise was “The Long Haul” by Finn
boy who’s losing what he loves best and decides to trust the Us” by Paul Bogard. Indeed, this book is about dirt but that’s not Murphy. It’s a slice-of-life look at over-the-road trucking,
most unlikely person to fix it. It’s about love, most of all, but all: you’ll read what that dirt consists of, what else is down there, including some of those kinds of stories you’d ask a trucker,
it’s not sappy — it’s funny and charming and you can’t miss it. how scientists find fossils and remains, what keeps our ground if you could. For the curious, it’s a must-have.
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Dec 30 #BOOM! Alcohol and Drug-Free New Year’s Event, PM (West Hollywood Library - Council Chambers 625 N. San
DEC. 31st @8:00PM (West Hollywood Park Auditorium – Vicente Blvd). Start your new year performer dreams off
647 N. San Vicente Blvd). #BOOM! is West Hollywood’s with a bang with Outfest alumni, LGBT performers, and open
Drag Queen Story Hour, DEC. 30th @11:00 AM to 12:00 premiere alcohol and drug-free New Year’s Eve event mic rookies like YOU! Join Master of Ceremonies Actor and
PM at the West Hollywood Library (Community Meeting Room celebration complete with DJ, dancing, food, photo booth, Comedian D’Lo for an evening of uncensored, unapologetic,
– 625 N. San Vicente Blvd). Come join Friday Laye from Chico’s and a midnight balloon drop! Admission is free. You must and empowered entertainment. Sign up for a 3-minute
Angels for a special New Year’s/Holiday Drag Queen Story Hour. be 18 years or over to enter. Capacity is limited, to RSVP visit slot by emailing programming@outfest.org. For more info
For children of ALL ages! No registration necessary. Go to boom2017rsvp.eventbrite.com. For additional information contact Kerri Stoughton-Jackson Kerri@outfest.org.
WeHo Arts program (www.weho/org/arts) for more information. contact Robert Gamboa at (323) 212-5352.
DTLgAy New Years Bash 2018, DEC. 31st @ 9:00 PM
Jan 11
Dec 31 to 2:00 AM at Precinct DTLA (357 S. Broadway). Count
down to 2018 with music, dancing, and entertainment
performances Hosted by Pinche Queen No cover, early Family Equality Council Mixer at Netflix, JAN. 11th @
Dita Von Teese’s New Year’s Eve Gala Show, DEC. 31st arrival encouraged! 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Netflix – 1455 N Van Ness Ave). Join
(The Theatre at Ace Hotel – 929 S Broadway). Ring in the New Queers Eve, DEC. 31st @ 8:00 PM to 4:00 AM at The Family Equality Council CEO Stan Sloan for an evening
New Year with Dita Von Teese and friends for a glittering Globe Theatre (740 S Broadway). Join in on the fun as the of food, drink and mingling to meet new members of the
Gala show at the historic Theatre at the Ace. Be amazed by Boulet Brothers host an evening of spectacle, music and a community. The Family Equality Council’s mission is to
this two hour variety show of Dita’s famed haute couture and massive midnight confetti explosion not to be missed!! No ensure legal and lived equality for LGBTQ families, and for
Swarovski drenched costumes galore. Dress code: High Cover, entry on a first come first serve basis. those who wish to form them, through building community,
Glamour/Black Tie. Doors open at 9am. Tickets $49.50 - changing hearts and minds, and driving policy change.
$225 through theatre.acehotel.com
“Drag Me To 2018” New Years Eve Disco Gala, DEC.
Jan 1 Tickets are free and available through Eventbrite.
The same trauma that the LGBTQ community faces in everyday life - the trauma that lurks beneath
the addiction - is replicated in traditional treatment because traditional treatment is
a microcosm of the world at large.
LGBTQ-specific treatment transforms the dangerous environment clients face every day and gives them
the safety to work through their shame and create connections and community.
That’s why we need LGBTQ-specific treatment, not only for drug/alcohol addiction,
but for all substance and behavior addictions.
At Pride Recovery Los Angeles, we’re here to address shame and build pride.
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