INDEX
4
That’s What I’m Talkin’ About Helena uses her usual mixture of humor and sarcasm to look at the frantic holiday season.
6
Imperial Court Of Kentucky News The holidays are a very important time of year for the Imperial Court’s fundraising efforts to make our community a better place to live.
7
“
TransKyAdvocate Tuesday’s recent travels turn out to be a surpise spiritual journey that helped teach her to embrace her fears.
A Family Reunion Carol recalls the 2nd Annual Bluegrass Black Pride Awards Dinner, and how much it meant to her, and looks forward with hope for others during the holidays.
“
11 2
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8
Honing In On The Holidays Ranada reveals the secreta climate to enjoying theinhoidays. Buy less, The GLSO is conducting survey order to determine but give more! how we can better serve our community. Please take the time to fill one out! www.surveymonkey.com/r/GLSO
Editor-in-Chief Christopher R. Bauer Assistant Editor - Advertising Tuesday G Meadows Copy Editor Ann Malcolm Photography Christopher R. Bauer & Tuesday G Meadows Cover Design Sarah Brown Calendar Coordinator Chad Hundley Circulation PCSO Board & Chad Hundley
The Pride Community Services Organization seeks to educate, enhance, and empower the community about sexual minority and gender expansive issues. PCSO Executive Committee and Board of Directors Christopher R. Bauer, President Theodore Meacham, Vice-President Paul Brown, Secretary Jacob Boyd, Treasurer Roberto L. Abreu, At Large Kira Goldade, At Large Amy Hatter, At Large
LinQ is published monthly by and for the Pride Community
Dena Lee, At Large
Services Organization members and community. The Pride
Tuesday G Meadows, At Large
Community Services Organization envisions a community
Todd Ryser-Oatman, At Large
that accepts and celebrates each individual. All LinQ submissions and advertisements can be made to the editor (editor@pcsoky.org) or to the PCSO Pride Center (859-253-3233). All submissions may be edited for length.
PCSO Staff Chad Hundley, Office Manager PCSO Pride Center 389 Waller Avenue, Suite 100, Lexington, KY 40504
Like us on Facebook at LinQbyPCSO
859-253-3233, www.pcsoky.org
Follow us on Twitter at LinQbyPCSO
Office hours are:
Follow us on Instagram at LinQbyPCSO
Tuesday-Friday 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Read LinQ Online: www.issuu.com/LinQbyPCSO
Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. LinQ
3
HUMOR
That’s What I’m Talkin’ About T
By Helena Handbasket
his month I’d like to do
best customers and in a great mood
to deal with them and bake cookies,
a little shout out for the
when they finally stop long enough
etc?
to go eat (detect any sarcasm?).
Santa’s reindeer and how hard they
busiest person in the world at this
Have we even considered
time of year. No… I’m not talking
No, the busiest person in the world
have to work that night? I’m not
about the retailer who is constantly
this time of year is, of course, Santa
sure how Rudolph’s nose stays so
merchandising and stocking and
Claus. Can you even imagine what
bright but if there are batteries
navigating through the crowds to
this man must go through year after
involved, I sure hope Santa takes
help people find what they need,
year?
I mean… think of all the
along extras. He wouldn’t want to
then only to have to calm them
pressure he must be under. He has
run out of light on his journey from
when they are 19th in line with only
to sort through the Christmas lists
the North Pole to houses all over
two registers open but 15 registers
of all the little boys and girls who
the world.
in the store. No, I’m not talking
have been good. Of course, the way
Keeping after the elves so that
about the security people in stores
society has changed in the last two
they make all of the toys that the
who are on constant alert because
decades, his list is probably much
precious little ones will want for
shoplifting increases during this
smaller than it used to be. And can
Christmas must be quite a daunting
time of year, which puts the security
you even comprehend the weight
task for Santa each year as well.
people on edge. No, I’m not talking
he has to carry in that sleigh?
Everyone knows that elves just
about those Moms and Dads who
Although, now that gaming systems
sit around on shelves all day until
have been crowding to the malls
have become the rage, they weigh
someone actually makes them do
and shops, fighting for that bargain
considerably less than bicycles
something. And why shouldn’t they
and trying to avoid road rage in
and swing sets.
work?
the parking lots and roadways.
children of today actually have to
deserve to be kept without doing
I’m not even talking about those
go outside… much less get some
their share?
waiters and waitresses who work
exercise.
No, thank God we can
I won’t even go into how many
themselves into a frenzy trying to
keep them all stationary inside the
malls he has to travel to in order
feed all of the crazies who have
house in front of the 55-inch TV
for kids to sit on his lap and have
spent all day shopping and driving
screen. That is so good for them
their photo taken while they tell
and dragging around packages or
and reduces the chance of meeting
him what they want for Christmas.
children or relatives.
We know
neighbor kids that would want to
My goodness, what a great memory
that those people are always the
come over to play. Who has the time
Continued On Next Page
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God forbid that
Do they really think they
Continued From Previous Page
keep his fat ass at home and let
Santa must have to remember all
Mrs. Claus go out and have a little
of those requests.
This must be
fun some Christmas? I bet children
the only time of year that a grown
would be less afraid to sit in her lap
man with a long beard who is not
than in Santa’s.
a member of the family is actually
Anyway,
it’s
Christmastime,
encouraged to grab a youngster and
everyone, so celebrate this precious
sit him or her on his lap. Haven’t
season and try to not get so caught
we all been there and watched kids
up in the stresses of the holiday.
cry and/or scream when placed
May you and yours have a blessed
upon his lap? Thank goodness he
and happy Christmas (or Hanukah,
is an upstanding individual with
or Kwanza, or whatever it is that you
no perverted notions. After all, he
celebrate… I want to be inclusive
does have Mrs. Claus there with
here – I know how you’ll fuss at
him to take care of his every need.
me if I’m not).
But in this world that we live in, we
(Send comments or suggestions to
are always shouting equal rights.
HelenahandbasketKY@gmail.com)
Why, then, has no one even thought
Q
to suggest that maybe Santa can
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5
ACTIVISM
Imperial Court Of Kentucky News
By H.M.I.M. Empress XXXIV of the Imperial Court of Kentucky Kali Dupree hope that everyone enjoyed
including myself, Empress Kali
the beginning of their holiday
Dupree, or there is the convenience
I
season
with
Thanksgiving.
Remember that thanks to all the
of doing the renewal online at imperialcourtkentucky.org.
generous donations and hard work
There are several opportunities
of this community and to the
throughout month of December
dowager Monarch’s show, “Feeding
to bring love, compassion, and
Our Youth,”
giving back to your community.
back
in
October,
many families were able to have
On
December
6
at
Crossings
an amazing meal for the holiday.
Lexington, the Imperial Court will
Bravo, Lexington! Thank you!
team up with AVOL to present our
The holiday season has always
annual “AVOL’s Kid’s Christmas.”
been a time of giving and celebrating
This event raises funds every year
life, love, and family. I have the
to make sure that the children in
distinct honor of not only having
those families affected by HIV and
my biological family, but also a
AIDS are provided with an amazing
the next pageant in our series,
rather large chosen family here
Christmas, one that every child
“Miss Mary Christmas, Benefiting
in the community of Lexington
deserves. It is sure to be a night
Lexington Fairness.” If anyone
and through the Imperial Court of
of amazing fundraising and many
would an application or other
Kentucky. The community and the
moving and touching moments.
information, again, please contact
membership is always growing
One of the most important things
me.
and always looking for the good
anyone can do in their life is to
“Very Fairy Christmas,” a night of
in the world and striving to make
make a difference in the life of
fundraising to benefit PCSO for
it a better place for all. With that
a child. If anyone would like to
Lexington Pride, with sexy Santa
being said, I would like to remind
make a donation or would like any
and Mrs. Claus. You don’t want to
all members of the Imperial Court
more information about this event,
miss this.
of Kentucky that memberships are
please contact me on Facebook or
due by December 31. You can renew
at kenneth.rains4@gmail.com.
your
membership
by
speaking
to any of the board members, 6
LinQ
On December 16 at Crossings Lexington
we
will
be
hosting
December 20 brings about
Lexington, keep up the amazing work! Happy Holidays!
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TransKyAdvocate By Tuesday G Meadows
Embracing My Fears
“It’s been a long day without out you, my friend, and I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again...Everything I went through you were standing there by my side, and now you are going to be with me for the last ride.” See You Again, Wiz Khalifa
M
y article this month was originally
“I’ve turned the corner and things seem to be
able to live outwardly and truthfully. Even
titled, “Traveling While Trans.”
better.” If people believed my words, maybe
after I transitioned, I was fearful of not
I was going write about my recent trip out
they would leave me alone or maybe even
having Linda because she protected me from
west, and how scary it is for transgender
I would begin to believe it. I kept this lie up
cruel people. She had always been there to
people to travel. Instead, my trip was a
throughout the month after Linda died.
comfort me. It felt so hollow when someone
revelation about my reactions to fear and grief.
But lies that you tell yourself only last for so long, and the Monday I packed for my
called me brave, because Linda was my bravery.
For the last 39 years, my wife, Linda, has
two week trip, it hit me that I was going
At the Georgia O’Keeffe museum in Santa
been my constant companion. In September,
alone. Next, I started thinking about being
Fe, Linda spoke to me. Some people have
she died of cancer. Before she died, she had
alone forever, and I started thinking that
said that maybe I missed her so much that I
talked about taking a trip west, mentioning
suicide was the only way to find peace. That
imagined it. Maybe so, but I know that I felt
New Mexico several times. When she was
evening, I wrote a very long suicide note
and heard her. After my encounter, I have
getting close to the end, she again mentioned
on Facebook explaining that I could not
been at peace... maybe for the first time in my
the New Mexico trip that we never got
continue. But as I hesitated to submit, I felt
life. I stopped being afraid at that moment.
to take. After she died, I decided to take
I would be disappointing my wife by not
Some wonder if I transitioned to be happier.
the journey west. After one failed attempt
taking the trip she had wanted. I deleted the
My answer is always “no, it was to be my
(stymied by a stomach bug), I rescheduled
note.
true self.” What that meant for me was that
for November.
So west I went by myself. The first few
even in a world that rejects me, I could at
My challenge was that profound grief and
days were pretty uneventful except for
least stop the battle that was going on inside
depression had taken hold of me even before
the blizzard in Arizona. I went through the
of me. After this trip, I have truly found my
she died. I constantly thought of suicide.
motions, saw the sights. When I got to Santa
inner peace and am ready to embrace the
“Wouldn’t it be easier not to deal with all of
Fe, New Mexico, things changed.
fears that seemed so daunting for so long.
this? Really, who would miss me anyway?”
Fear has always been a big part of my life.
I hope you can embrace that which makes
I did not hide my sadness, and those close
Fear made me hide my true self for most
you fearful and find your own inner peace.
to me tried to help. A lot of well-meaning
of my life. I knew that if my “secret” (being
You may write me at Tmeadows828@
people told me how much that I would be
transgender) got out, the rejection would kill
gmail.com or follow me on Twitter Tuesday
missed and that suicide was not the answer.
me. I imagined losing my job, my family,
Meadows @trishgigi. Now Tuesday is gone
and my friends, which overruled me being
with the wind.
In order not to upset people, I just told them,
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7
A Family Reunion By Carol Taylor-Shim, MSW
T
here is something magical
Acts of hate that are the causes of
kid from taking their own life. It
about being with your family,
death and devastation. Audre Lorde
could keep a closeted genderqueer
your tribe, your people. It fills your
once said, “There is no such thing
peson from withdrawing into their
soul in ways you never knew you
as a single-issue struggle because
own world away from everyone.
needed. The 2nd Annual Bluegrass
we do not live single-issue lives.”
It could give a person questioning
Black Pride Awards Dinner did
For those of us who live at the
their identity the strength to find the
exactly that. John Bentley, Joan
intersection of being a person of
answers. Love is what we all crave.
Brannon, John Moses, Djuan Trent,
color and LGBTQQIA, those words
People who identify as LGBTQQIA
and yours truly were honored and
ring so very true. On any given day
are no different. We want the same
celebrated as trailblazers. Sharing
we are battling to live our lives as
love and affection from our families
a stage with people I have looked
full and authentic people. I used to
that we got when we were kids.
up to with childlike eyes was a
think I couldn’t be gay and Black
Or the love we know we should
feeling I will never ever forget. We
at the same time. But I can and I
have gotten. As we move into the
live in a time where our survival is
am. I am only those things fully
time of year when families come
at risk on countless fronts. While
because of the family I have. My
together, I want to say something
the accolades and celebration were
family, both biological and chosen,
to the families who have chosen to
magnificent, what stood out even
has supported me since the moment
disconnect themselves from their
more to me was family. So many
I was honest with myself and honest
LGBTQQIA relatives. You can fill
families and friends came together
with them about who I am. They
that nagging void that you know
in revelry and pride. The entire
make me want to be my best, and I
is there, whether you admit it or
evening overflowed with love and
am forever thankful for that. I am
not. You can feel what we felt that
affirmation. Yes, homophobia and
nothing without them. We are all
Saturday night when we celebrated
transphobia and a myriad of other
deserving of that kind of love and
our lives together as a community
social evils are rampant in our
care and that warms our souls and
and as a family. You can fill that
communities. People are silenced
heals our wounds.
emptiness with the person who was
every single day and denied the opportunity
The holidays often soften people in
lives. We are inundated daily with
affirmation from their families.
their hearts. My hope for you is that
messages that make us question
Those three things are very different
your heart is softened enough to let
our place in the world. Blatant
than
the joy back in. Happy Holidays!
acts of racism, transphobia, and
different than “love the sinner, hate
homophobia are daily occurrences
the sin.” They are the very things
and intersect in unimaginable ways.
that could keep a 15-year-old trans
LinQ
live
authentic
long
for
love,
tolerance.
support,
meant to be there the entire time.
and
8
to
So many trans and queer people
They
are
very
Follow me on Twitter @ctshim71
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LinQ
9
LIFEST YLE
Healthy Holidays D
By Angel Algarin uring the Christmas season we
class or hot yoga session, give a more
healthy smoothies and this gift will be
are all very excited to spend
thoughtful gift card that encourages
an awesome combo.
time with friends and family, but unfortunately most of us dread searching
your friend to try something new! 2. Activity
Tracker-
Not
4. Fitness Video games- For the only
person who wants to lose weight but
for the perfects gifts for everyone on
do activity trackers allow people to
loves playing on their gaming system,
our lists. We are tempted by traditional
monitor their own activities, but now a
this makes workouts fun and convenient.
options of gifting Christmas cookies,
lot of these devices have the capability
5. Workout Outfits- Having that
bottles of wine, and other tasty treats,
to challenge your friends! Treat yourself
special gym outfit that makes you feel
but what do we get for that someone
and your friend and use competition as
great while working out is one of the
who is trying to lose a few extra pounds?
your motivation.
best gifts for the fashionista.
Here’s a list of some great ideas for that
3. Smoothie Maker- For those
Starting a healthy lifestyle can be
special someone who is serious about
looking for a healthy breakfast drink or
difficult, but with these gifts you will
their health:
a healthier replacement to a milkshake,
be able to demonstrate that you support
1. Workout class gift cards- Instead
a smoothie maker makes the perfect
your friend’s goals by giving them the
of talking about going to that fun spin
gift. Pair this with a recipe book for
tools they need to succeed!
Around The Library: Just Kids, Written by Patti Smith
S
Reviewed by Mattie Henry everal chance encounters set
evolved from that stage and endured
against the backdrop of late-
dramatic sexual and social shifts. The
1960s Brooklyn led to a lasting
pair were distanced by factors like
friendship
between
the emergence of Mapplethorpe’s
young artists Patti Smith and Robert
suppressed sexual identity, individual
Mapplethorpe.
once
pursuits, and fame; however, their
promised him she would, she tells
bond remained strong until his 1989
their story in Just Kids. Smith writes
death from complications arising
of how the two were drawn together
from AIDS. Smith’s lyrical prose
by their mutual commitment to the
and powerful descriptions create a
creation of art and describes what their
poignant snapshot of two young,
lives were like during the years they
creative lives. This book can be found
lived together dedicated to that vow.
in our Adult Nonfiction section under
Beginning as lovers, their relationship
BIO S for Biography.
10
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and
devotion As
Smith
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Q
Q
Honing In On The Holidays By Chef Ranada West-Riley
T
he holidays. It can give a good day
and warm again. I’m fortunate to have
- 1 cup pecans
a bad case of serious heartburn.
a great family that embraces me and my
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For me, ‘tis the season used to mean traffic
wife and my LGBTQ friends. I can say
- 3/4 cup honey, preferably local
on Nicholasville Road coupled with the
I’ve never felt unwelcome in my family’s
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
mania of spending too much money and
home because of my sexual orientation
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
time on thinking about and buying gifts that
and I’m very grateful for that. I know
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
never changed someone’s opinion of me.
not everyone is as fortunate and that just
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Yes, I used to be one of those consumate
breaks my heart. My wife Karin and I open
- 1/4 cup of really good bourbon
people-pleasers who didn’t mind trying to
our doors each year for friends that do not
- 1 crisp apple, peeled, cored, and in thin
buy the love and friendship I felt I needed
have such accepting families as ours. It’s
from others. I’m sure I’m not the only one
about giving back. We volunteer to serve
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
who spent way too much on gifts and lost
at homeless shelters or we donate food
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet.
the meaning of the holidays somewhere
and essentials like socks and blankets.
Cook the potatoes whole, DO NOT punch
amidst the hustle and bustle of gift wrap
It’s about giving back. We seek out a
holes in them. Bake until soft, about 45
and shopping bags. I used to dread this
non-profit who could use some warm,
minutes. Let cool completely.
season for many years, but not these days.
home cooked food for needy families.
- In a small saute pan over high heat,
I can say that I genuinely look forward to
It’s about giving back. Karin and I love
add the pecans and lightly toast. Add 4
the holidays today. As a chef, I cook all
to shop for kids that we’ve never met and
tablespoons of butter, reduce the heat to
the time, so basically from Thanksgiving
tear up a bit knowing we can do that for
medium, add the honey and spices, and
until Christmas, I have a month of some
others. It’s about giving back. It’s about
allow to simmer for 4 to 5 minutes. Add
really long hours of cooking for many
being present more in a person’s life who
the whiskey and continue to simmer for
families who don’t have time to cook
might need it more than you’ll ever know.
5 minutes more. Peel the potatoes and
for themselves. But food brings people
That is when the holidays changed for
cut into 1/2-inch slices. Butter the bottom
together, and I selfishly love being a part
me. I encourage everyone to give more of
and sides of an 8 by 8-inch baking dish.
of that, so you’ll find me cooking away
themselves and see what happens. Until
Arrange the sweet potatoes, alternating
to some Christmas music and getting
then, here’s a really great recipe that will
with the apples. Pour the whiskey-pecan
everyone in the mood that I can. What
win friends and influence people along the
mixture over the top and place in the oven.
did I do to make the change? That’s easy.
way. Happy Holidays!
Bake for 30 minutes, basting the top with
The past several years, I started buying less and giving more. That’s when the holidays became fun
BOURBON-GLAZED SWEET POTATOES - 4 large sweet potatoes
slices
the whiskey sauce once at 15 minutes.
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11
Estate Planning Basics For Same-Sex Couples - Part 5 By Michael T. Palermo Attorney At Law
T
his series began in August,
In doing so, the Grantor sets forth
Trust, and a Trust will not protect
and readers are encouraged
the Trusts goals and terms. The
Trust property from creditors or
to check out the past issues, which
Trustee controls the property owned
lawsuits against you. Rather, most
are available by scrolling down the
by the Trust and carries out the
people have three primary purposes
LinQ Magazine tab on the Pride
terms the Grantor has set, and the
in preparing a Living Trust. First,
Community Services Organization’s
beneficiary(ies) who benefit from
they wish to avoid Probate Court.
new website at pcsoky.org. We’ve
the Trust. Initially, most Trusts
(Note however, that although the
looked at methods of non-probate
are set up so that you (perhaps in
probate process takes a couple of
property
and
conjunction with your committed
months, unlike elsewhere, e.g.,
and
partner) wear all three hats.
California and Florida, it is not an
transfers,
Prenuptial
Wills
Agreements,
the Durable Power of Attorney
Think of a Trust as a vat into
(DPOA). This month we’ll explore
which the Grantor “pours” his or
There
another
tool
her assets. This must be done by
available for do-it-yourselfers.)
that is especially useful in some
formally titling all such financial
situations—the Living Trust.
accounts and other property in the
for
A Living Trust is simply a Trust
name of the Trustee, who manages
property in case of disability. Since
that you create while you are alive,
the property and controls the vat
most folks name themselves as the
as opposed to one that is created
spigot on behalf of the beneficiaries,
original Trustee, it is important to
under the terms of your Will (a
in accordance with the terms and
name a reliable successor Trustee to
Testamentary Trust). But the basics
conditions set out in the Trust
take over in the event of disability
of both types of Trusts are the same.
document.
(or death).
estate
planning
I prefer Living Trusts, however,
expensive nightmare in Kentucky. are
even
online
forms
Secondly, a Living Trust provides the
management
of
one’s
Whatever your Trustee does, he
Thirdly, since your Living Trust
effective
or she has the highest legal duty to
endures after your death, it can
immediately and don’t require the
honor the terms of the Trust and act
substitute for a Will in disposing of
delay of going to Probate Court.
in good faith. Recognize, however,
your property. But a Trust can be
Like many legal instruments, a Trust
that the SWAT team won’t swoop
significantly more flexible than a
document
contains
in to prevent misconduct. That’s
Will by providing for almost any
enough mumbo-jumbo to choke a
why “trust” in your Trustee is so
sort of “strings attached” you desire
horse, but the concept is simple.
important.
to the property to be distributed. For
because
they
become
necessarily
A Trust is really an agreement or
Except in some multi-millionaire
example, it can direct the successor
arrangement among three parties.
situations, there are no tax benefits
Trustee to distribute funds only
The Grantor establishes the Trust.
to holding one’s property in a Living
Continued On Next Page
12
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We’ve only touched briefly on the
information and advice on estate
flexibility and utility of the Living
planning, he can be reached through
to
Trust. While a simple Will can be
the PCSO Pride Center.
college, reaching the age of thirty,
a do-it-yourself project, only an
or buying a home. Alternatively,
attorney will be able to properly
informational purposes only and
a Trust can give the successor
advise you on how to draft and use
not for the purpose of providing
Trustee discretion in handling a
this estate powerful estate planning
legal advice. You should contact
wide
tool.
your attorney to obtain advice with
Continued From Previous Page upon certain
the
beneficiaries
terms—like
variety
of
meeting
going
circumstances,
just as you would do in life—
Mike is a general practice lawyer
withholding distributions to a child
in Lexington and author of the 2008
with a substance abuse problem,
book, The AARP Crash Course
for example.
in
Estate
Planning.
For
This
article
is
presented
for
respect to any particular issue or problem.
more
Q
Announcing Free Legal Consultations Mike Palermo is a semi-retired Lexington attorney and ally of the LGBT community. He is a general practitioner with an emphasis on estate planning. He has offered to provide free consultations to community members, with the goal of assisting people in helping themselves when possible on a variety of legal matters that may come up from time to time. There are many situations that folks can handle with a bit of coaching along the way, but without formal representation. When representation or document preparation are required, however, Mike has agreed to work at greatly reduced rates. You can arrange a telephone, email, or office consultation with Mike through the PCSO Pride Center at 859-253-3233.
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13
FEATURES
World AIDS Day The Time To Act Is Now
By Blake Flaugher, MPH, CHES
W
orld AIDS Day is December
The first HIV antibody test was
rates being among gay and bisexual
1. On the heels of Charlie
developed in 1985, and it took a full
men under 25. There is still a lot of
Sheen’s revelation that he is living
blood draw and at least two anxious
work to do if we want to get the rate
with HIV, it is the perfect time to
weeks to get results. Today, you can
to zero, but right now, we have all
remind everyone how far we’ve come
learn your HIV status in 20 minutes
the tools we need to get there.
in terms of HIV-related prevention
just by swabbing your mouth and
So please, talk to your friends
and treatment. Specifically, I want
dropping it in a vial. While it takes
about HIV. Have honest discussions
to take some time to compare 1985
3-6 months after a risky encounter
with your sexual partner(s) about
with today. What a difference 30
for an antibody test to be accurate,
playing safe and getting tested. Get
years makes!
some testing technologies can now
yourself tested. Talk to your doctor
For starters, consider that the
detect an HIV infection in as little
about PrEP and PEP. If you are
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
as two weeks with a single drop of
already living with HIV, then know
officially noted in 1985 that AIDS
blood. This is important because
that you are worthy of dignity and
was caused by a newly-identified
during the first month after becoming
respect, and that there are several
virus that would later be called HIV.
infected, transmission can occur
resources for you here in Kentucky.
We now know what HIV is, how it
very easily. So, the sooner we can
Just as it did in 1985, stopping the
is transmitted, and how to prevent
detect HIV, the sooner people can
spread of HIV still requires unity
it. There is still no cure for HIV,
begin treatment, stay healthy, and
and diligence. The time to act is —
but studies have consistently shown
prevent the spread to others.
and always has been—now.
that people who stay on their HIV
Finally, 1985 was the first year
treatment live just as long as people
that HIV was confirmed to be a
859-225-3000 x30. Stop by AVOL
who are HIV-negative and are much
global disease. There are currently
at 225 Walton Avenue (Suite 110)
less likely to transmit the virus.
35
with
to pick up condoms and other
There are now also medications
HIV in the world, and 39 million
prevention supplies. Help AVOL
HIV-negative people can take to
people have died since the first
purchase HIV test kits, condoms,
stay HIV-negative: PrEP and PEP
case. Contrary to popular belief,
and other prevention supplies by
(for more information, visit aids.
90% of infections worldwide are
making a financial donation at
gov). Our knowledge about HIV
due to heterosexual sexual contact,
avolky.org.
is increasing exponentially, and
although that cannot be said for the
that could not be true without
United States. Two-thirds of new
was founded in the Lexington
the discoveries made by those
HIV cases each year are among gay
community.
researchers in the early days.
and bisexual men, with the highest
14
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million
people
living
For
testing
1985—two
information,
years
Q
call
later, AVOL
LinQ
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COMMUNIT Y
PFLAG Central Kentucky
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church 2025 Bellefonte Drive • Lexington, KY Tuesday, January 12 • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. A lively presentation about ancient and modern thought regarding sexual orientation and gender identity from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish perspectives. Ancient thinking was more modern than you imagine! Presented by Shana Sippy, teacher of Religion and Gender Studies at Carleton College. Tuesday, February 9 • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Several members of TransParentLex will join us to discuss their experiences supporting and advocating for their transgender children and teens. TransParentLex provides support, information and resources for families in transition. Our presentation and Q&A takes place the first hour, followed by our confidential support group meeting. We welcome LGBTQ persons, their family members, friends and allies, and all who share our vision of acceptance, respect, and equality.
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Performers help the PCSO kickoff its GoodGiving Guide Challenge efforts. LEFT TO RIGHT: JoDee Monroe, Mr. Lexington Pride 2015 AJ Allen Montrese, Aurora Cummings, & Uma Jewels.
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TOP Members of the Seasoned Independent People (50+) social group share a Thanksgiving meal at their monthly Senior’s Bistro (Potluck). LEFT Attendees at the UK Transgender Day of Remembrance Marisa Richmond event participate in a candelight ceremony honoring the lives of those transgender men and women who were murdered over the past year. RIGHT Miss Lexington Pride 2015, Phoxee Esparanza Roxx, performs at the Bluegrass Black Pride/ Ebony Wellness 2015 Honor’s Banquet.
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December Calendar & Telephone Directory All meetings are hosted at the PCSO Pride Center unless noted with * Tuesday, December 1 World AIDS Day Wednesday, December 2 5:00 p.m. Richmond’s Alphabet Soup Support Group* 7:00 p.m. “Heart To Heart” LGBT Discussion Group Thursday, December 3 6:30 p.m. PCSO Board Meeting 7:30 p.m. H.E.A.L./HOPE Pozitive* Saturday, December 5 7:30 p.m. TransKentucky Meeting Sunday, December 6 6:30 p.m. Team Lex Volleyball* 9:00 p.m. AVOL Kid’s Christmas* Monday, December 7 6:30 p.m. Lexington Rainbow Bowling League Night* Wednesday, December 9 5:00 p.m. Richmond’s Alphabet Soup Support Group* 7:00 p.m. “Heart To Heart” LGBT Discussion Group
Community and Social Groups
Thursday, December 10 7:00 p.m. LexPrideFest Sponsorship Sub-Committee Meeting 7:30 p.m. H.E.A.L./HOPE Pozitive* Saturday, December 12 9:00 p.m. Kentucky Bourbon Bears Board Meeting* Sunday, December 13 4:30 p.m. ICK College of Monarchs Meeting 6:00 p.m. Imperial Court Meeting 6:30 p.m. Team Lex Volleyball* Wednesday, December 16 5:00 p.m. Richmond’s Alphabet Soup Support Group* 7:00 p.m. “Heart To Heart” LGBT Discussion Group 9:00 p.m. ICK’s Miss Mary Christmas Pageant* Thursday, December 17 6:30 p.m. LexPrideFest Committee Meeting 7:30 p.m. H.E.A.L./HOPE Pozitive*
Friday, December 18 7:00 p.m. Senior’s Bistro (Potluck) Sunday, December 20 Editorial Deadline for LINQ Magazine 6:30 p.m. Team Lex Volleyball* 8:30 p.m. A Very Fairy Christmas* Wednesday, December 23 5:00 p.m. Richmond’s Alphabet Soup Support Group* 7:00 p.m. “Heart To Heart” LGBT Discussion Group Thursday, December 24 7:30 p.m. H.E.A.L./HOPE Pozitive* Sunday, December 27 6:00 p.m. ICK’s Board of Directors/ Membership Meeting 6:30 p.m. Team Lex Volleyball* Wednesday, December 30 5:00 p.m. Richmond’s Alphabet Soup Support Group* 7:00 p.m. “Heart To Heart” LGBT Discussion Group
Community and Social Groups
HIV/STD Testing, Services
& Information
24-Hour Crisis Line
1-800-929-8000
SisterSound
859-806-0243
24-Hour Teen Crisis Line
1-800-999-9999
Social Services, Lexington
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AIDS Volunteers of Lexington (AVOL) 859-225-3000
AA/Alcoholic Teens
859-277-1877
TransParentLex
859-230-0409
Health Department, Fayette County
859-288-2437
Alcoholics Anonymous
859-967-9960
TransKentucky
cassiemt@yahoo.com
Health Department, Woodford County
859-873-4541
Arbor Youth Services
859-254-2501
Transgender Youth Family Allies 1-888-462-8932
HIV/AIDS Legal Project
502-584-1254
Council for Peace and Justice
859-488-1448
Trevor Lifeline 24/7
1-866-488-7386
Moveable Feast
859-252-2867
Fairness of Louisville
502-893-0788
United Way
859-313-5465
Northern KY Region
859-341-4264
Gay-Straight Alliance, Teens
859-221-4396
UK Adolescent Medicine
859-323-5643
“Heart to Heart” Discussion Group
859-253-3233
College Student Groups 859-958-3633
Religious Groups
HOPE Pozitive
440-703-0050
Berea College ACE
Imperial Court of Kentucky
859-619-7521
BCTC Gay-Straight Alliance
859-246-6365
Ahava Center for Spiritual Living
859-373-8910
KY Survivors Area of Narcotics Anonymous 859-253-4673
Centre College BGLA
859-238-5332
Bluegrass United Church of Christ
859-233-0208
Lexington Fair Housing Council
1-866-438-8617
EKU Alphabet Center
859-622-5041
Embrace Fellowship
859-358-0580
Lexington Fairness
859-951-8565
EKU Pride Alliance
859-622-1027
Faith Lutheran Church
859-266-7621
Lexington Human Rights
859-252-4931
Morehead State University
606-783-2071
First Presbyterian Church
859-252-1919
Lexington Pride Festival
859-253-3233
TUnity (Transy)
859-445-3822
Hunter Presbyterian Church
859-277-5126
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
UK LGBTQ* Resource Center
859-323-3312
Lex Friends, Quakers
859-254-3319
PCSO Pride Center
859-253-3233
Maxwell Street Presbyterian Church
859-255-1075
PFLAG Central Kentucky, Inc.
859-338-4393
St. Martha’s Episcopal Church
859-271-7641
PFLAG Louisville
502-223-1323
Unitarian Universalist Church
859-223-1448
Rainbow Bowling League
270-404-0211
Don’t see your group’s events or contact information? Email it to editor@pcsoky.org and we will add you to our calendar!
Woodland Christian Church
859-266-3416
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DURING THIS MONTH OF GIVING Help Support The Work Of The PCSO By Donating At:
www.pcsoky.org/goodgiving
WHAT DOES DONATING TO THE PCSO SUPPORT? PCSO REGULAR SERVICES: •Lexington Gay-Straight Alliance •Free Mental Health Counseling •Heart to Heart Discussion Group •Free & Reduced Legal Advice •Seasoned Independent People •Pride Community Prom •Hope Pozitive •PCSO Pride Library •Company Q •PCSO Pride Center •TransKY •LinQ Magazine •THE LEXINGTON PRIDE FESTIVAL SPECIAL PROGRAMMING WITH OUR PARTNERS IN 2015: •Last Gospel of the Pagan Babies •Bluegrass Black Pride Honors Banquet •Leelah’s Law Rally •USDA Rural Pride Summit •Ebony Wellness •Lady Valor: Kristin Beck
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