ISSUE NUMBER 28, VOLUME 3 | DEC. 27, 2019 – JAN. 9, 2020 12.27 – 01.09.2020
WeHo, Long Beach Earn Top Marks in 2019 Equality Index MORE ON PAGE 3
LOS ANGELES
⚫ 1
⚫ 2
NEWS
NATIONAL
` ⚫ BY AMY PATTON
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
LOS ANGELES
>
YEAR OF THE QUEER
WeHo, Long Beach Earn Top Marks in 2019 Equality Index 2019 was a great year for the LGBTQ+ communities in West Hollywood and Long Beach.
Both cities earned a score of 100 on the recently released Human Rights Campaign’s 2019 Municipal Equality Index. The MEI is a nationwide evaluation of municipal laws that affect the LGBTQ+ community. “Eight consecutive years of receiving a top score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index is something the City of West Hollywood is incredibly proud of and not something we take for granted,” said West Hollywood Mayor John D’Amico. “As we know, the current administration is attempting to dismantle legislation that protects the equality and dignity of the LGBTQ community.” On top of a perfect score of 100,WeHo also
COMMUNITY LONG BEACH
` ⚫ BY AMY PATTON
>
received 17 bonus points for specific services that help LGBT youth, seniors and homeless folks; programs for people with HIV/AIDS; and services for transgender people. Long Beach received 11 bonus points for supportive services including nondiscrimination policies in City employment, workplace inclusivity and the availability of domestic partner benefits for City employees. “Long Beach is, and will always be, a place where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live, work and love,” Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said, as reported by the Long Beach Post. HRC’s annual report rates over 500 municipalities from each state for their policies and services that support the LGBTQ+ people who live and work there. MEI launched in 2012. “We cannot rest for a moment in protecting our hard-won rights as LGBTQ people,” D’Amico said. “The City of West Hollywood will never stop fighting for our community members here and for LGBTQ people everywhere.”
YEAR OF THE QUEER
Long Beach Drag Queen Jewels Awarded Key to the City The first drag queen in Long Beach history received a Key to the City last week. Jewels is a household name for most Long Beachers. From her residency at Hamburger Mary’s, to hosting the Long Beach Pride Parade in May, Jewels sparkles across all of the City. Jewels received the honor during the Tuesday, Dec. 17 City Council meeting. “It fills me with immense pride to be recognized by our community with a Key to the City,” Jewels said in a statement. “ As someone who has called Long Beach my home for over 20 years, I have been so happy to bring smiles to so many in the city though comedy, performance and art. I love this city and the unique people in it.” Jewels is recognized for her philanthropy and volunteer work for several local charities and programs, including the Long Beach LGBTQ Center, the AIDS Food Store, the C.A.R.E. Program and the Long Beach Imperial Court. She has previously received
honors including the Rick Ford Humanitarian Award from the Imperial Court and the Community Icon Award from the Center. Long Beach City Council is held on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. in the Civic Chambers at 411 W. Ocean Blvd.
Want to Publish a LETTER TO THE EDITOR?
CALL TODAY 310.310.2637
12.27 – 01.09.2020 NEWS
LA PRIDE
>
LOS ANGELES
⚫ 3
SEEING 2020
` ⚫ BY STAFF WRITER
2019 Reflections from LA Pride Executive Director
With 2020 on the horizon, we can’t help but look back at all the progress and success this year has brought.
5.75 in.
For LA Pride, 2019 brought more expansion and inclusion, specifically in the form of the free “Pride on the Boulevard” festival on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. Christopher Street West – the nonprofit in charge of LA Pride – also hosted its first opening ceremony to kick off Pride Weekend. Some more Important firsts: CSW launched a new PLATform (Policy, Leadership, and Training) program for the trans community. Lead by board members Alexandra Magallon and Johanna Padilla, the program calumniated in a graduation cere-
mony during the annual Trans Brunch. 2019 was also the first year that the Pride Parade was live broadcasted and livein. streamed10.0 on ABC7.
“All of these key milestones together explain why LA Pride has been recently recognized for contributing a positive economic impact on West Hollywood's busi-
nesses and well beyond across all of Los Angeles,” CSW Executive Director Madonna Cacciatore said in a recent e-blast. Projecting to next year, 2020 will be the 50th anniversary of LA Pride. “So, as you can imagine, LA Pride 2020 will be bigger and better than ever,” Cacciatore said. LA Pride 2020 will see an expansion of the free “Pride on the Boulevard” event, welcoming local businesses and programs to offer info and services to attendees. 2020 will also see growth in grants and scholarship programs to ensure that more folks can attend and support Pride Week. CSW provided ,000 free tickers to nonprofits, and offered grants, scholarships and donations to support local LGBTQ+ college students. Small queer businesses and other small nonprofits. “As you can see, next year is going to be a big year for the entire LA Pride team. That's why it's important to take this time, during the holidays, to rest up and recharge for what's going to be a truly remarkable and moving year ahead,” Cacciatore said.
Helping you take pride in your health Free preventive care is included in every plan
Covered California offers a choice of quality health plans, with free annual check-ups and a variety of health screenings included. Let our experts help find a health plan that fits your needs and your budget. CoveredCA.com
Open enrollment ends January 31, so get covered today.
⚫ 4
LOS ANGELES
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
12.27 – 01.09.2020 NEWS
HEALTH
` ⚫ BY AMY PATTON
>
LOS ANGELES
⚫ 5
Be PrEPared
Open Letter to FB Demands Removal of Ads Attacking HIV Medication The ads for a lawsuit are described as “factually inaccurate”
Dozens of LGBTQ+, HIV and public health organizations have signed an open letter calling on Facebook to remove law firm ads that promote “factually inaccurate” side effects of HIV-prevention medication Truvada, a type of PrEP prescription. “The signers of this letter, including members of Facebook’s LGBTQ Network of Support, request that Facebook and Instagram remove the advertisements and also publicly address the misinformation that the platforms allowed to spread,” the letter states. Various law firms used the social media platform’s targeting advertising capabilities to recruit LGBTQ+ med for a class-action lawsuit against Gilead Science, the manufacturer of Truvada. “This issue goes beyond misinformation, as it puts real people’s lives in imminent danger,” the letter states. “The U.S. Cen-
ters for Disease Control and Prevention reports that when taken daily, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV from sex or injection drug use.” The open letter states that lawsuit advertised claims bone density and kidney issues, despite numerous studies supporting the safety of these preventative drugs. According to the CDC, PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by 99% when taken correctly. “By allowing these advertisements to persist on their platforms, Facebook and Instagram are convincing at-risk individuals to avoid PrEP, invariably leading to avoidable HIV infections,” the letter states. “You are harming public health.” NBC News reported that a Facebook spokesperson said that the company values its “work with LGBTQ groups” and both welcomes and seeks out the community’s input. “While these ads do not violate our ad policies nor have they been rated false by third-party fact-checkers, we’re always examining ways to improve and help these key groups better understand how we ap-
ply our policies,” the spokesperson wrote, according to NMC News. The open letter states that the signers reached out to Facebook about the advertisements, but an agreement could not be reached. “Given the history of how our community was met by deadly indifference during the early years of the AIDS crisis, the refusal to take action is deeply concerning,” the letter states. Since a resolution was not reached, immediate action must be taken by Facebook to ameliorate the harm which has already been caused to those who may be seeking preventative treatment against HIV.“ The co-signatories of the open letter listed the following demands: • Facebook and Instagram immediately remove the advertisements outlined above that are harming public health. • Facebook and Instagram be transparent with users and the LGBTQ community on their advertising policy around misinformation which states that “in certain circumstances” Facebook prohibits ads that include “claims debunked by organizations
with particular expertise.” • Facebook commits to a review and potential update of current advertising policies to prevent false or misleading public health statements from reaching users. Co-signers of the December 9 open letter included GLAAD, APLA Health, the Trevor Project and dozens more. To read the full open letter, visit https:// www.glaad.org/blog/open-letter-facebook
⚫
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
LOS ANGELES
6
COMMUNITY BOOK READING
` ⚫ BY STAFF WRITER
>
READING IS SUCH A DRAG
Drag Queen Story Hour with a Holiday Twist
Dozens of children city eagerly await story hour at the West Hollywood public library. Suddenly, a princess emerges to read to them! Or so they think… The City of West Hollywood’s Drag Queen Story Hour is exactly what sounds like – Drag Queens reading stories to children in libraries, schools, and bookstores. “DQSH captures the imagination and play of childhood and gives kids glamorous, positive, and unabashedly queer role models.,” the event page reads. The Pride LA spoke with event coordinator Joe Faragher, aka Pickle the Drag Queen about what the event is like. Check it out: Can you introduce yourself? I'm Pickle, LA's PTA Singing Drag Sensation! In one sentence, what is Drag Queen Story Hour? Drag Queen Story Hour is just what it sounds like--Drag Queens reading stories to kids in Libraries, Bookstores and venues throughout the world! Can you explain more? Drag Queen Story Hour shows kids the
joy and wonder of expressing yourself and accepting people for who they are through the storytelling magic of Drag and Books! Why start this program? Bringing Drag Queen Story Hour to you means sharing in the global phenomenon of acceptance, love and glitter that DQSH brings to children in over 40 cities worldwide. Beyond standing for principles of self-expression, compassion and creativity, DQSH is fun for the whole family and allows kids to see examples of non-binary gender expression. How do the children receive Pickle? Kids love Pickle! From laughing at the
CENTURY CITY CONDOMINIUMS
2222 Ave. Of The Stars #906E
$721,500
2122 Century Park Lane #209
$799,000
2131 Century Park Lane #117
$925,000
2102 Century Park Lane #415
$940,000
2132 Century Park Lane #313
$950,000
2160 Century Park East #706N
$955,000
2170 Century Park East #1702
$980,000
2160 Century Park East #1806
$1,175,000
2220 Ave. Of The Stars #1903
$1,450,000
2222 Ave. Of The Stars #504
$2,110,000
10110 Empyrean Way #104
$2,550,000
1 West Century Drive #7D
$3,100,000
10106 Empyrean Way #302
$3,258,000
1 West Century Drive #9A
$6,600,000
1 West Century Drive #29A
$7,000,000
2019 vs. 2018
stories to taking photos with this 6'4" glamazon, kids and adults alike can share in the fun and magic of DQSH with any queen! Where did the character Pickle come from? What’s her origin story? Pickle was born in my imagination and came to fruition about four years ago-she's a star who loves all aspects of entertaining and spreading light. Did you like reading growing up? I loved reading and enjoy sharing my passion for literature with kids and adults of all ages!
What is the ultimate goal of the Drag Queen Story Hour program? Drag Queen Story Hour is on a mission to spread the light and joy of Drag and storytelling to as many kids and adults as possible! Our goal is to bring DQSH to a library, bookstore or venue near you! The next Drag Queen Story Hour is on Saturday, December 28 with Hummingbird Meadows as the guest reader. The event is free and open to the public. It is presented in partnership with the West Hollywood Library and City of West Hollywood's Arts Division. For more information, visit www.weho.org/arts.
50BRAZILIAN sqft 50 SQFT GRANITE SLABS GRANITE SLABS FROM $300/SLAB $200/SLAB 50 SQFT ITALIAN 50 sqft MARBLE WHITE CARRARA WHITE CARRARA SLABS MARBLE SLAB $999/SLAB FROM $700/SLAB
NUMBER SOLD: 15 UP 7.14%
MEDIAN PRICE: $1,175,000 DOWN 0.42%
While supplies last
AVERAGE PRICE: $2,234,233 UP 73.78%
UNIVERSAL TILE & MARBLE, INC. Tel 310-451-1900/ Fax: 310-394-1800 www.utminc.us
SPECIALIZING IN WESTSIDE REAL ESTATE & COMPLETE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
MURRAY A. WEISBERG
A S S O C I AT E M A N A G E R | 2005 P R E S I D E N T B H / G L A A R DRE#00916751
310.729.6156
mw729@aol.com www.rodeore.com
Rodeo Realty
LOCAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL
YOUR NO 1 SOURCE FOR NATURAL AND ENGINEERED STONES
1431 Colorado Avenue (corner 15th Street) Santa Monica, CA 90404 Stocking Distributor for Silestone and Dekton
of
a
C).
ic a
s
f
t,
No-Obligation 45-Day Trial3 12.27 – 01.09.2020 Complimentary Lyric Consultation Invisible Hearing Device
Spaces are limited. Reservations are required. Invisible Hearing Device
Dr. Melissa Alexander, Au.D. CCC-A
⚫
Dr. Alexander has served Southern California 7 LOS ANGELES impaired since 2010. She holds a doctorate f Medical Center in Chicago, IL, and completed doctoral residency at West Coast Hearing an Our Audiologist inMeet Thousand Oaks. Prior to her doctoral studi Alexander earned a Bachelor of Arts degree f California State University Northridge, and a Arts from the University of California Santa B
We are proud to be one of the few select Invisible Hearing Device practices nationwide to earn certification as SPECIAL LYRIC EVENT Dr. Alexander is licensed by the State of Cali Month of November a Lyric Provider. During this special event, a holds her Certificate in Clinical Competency 805-284-0899 Lyric-trained hearing CALL professional will work The contact lens for your ear.™ American Academy of Audiology (CCC-A), all Dr. Melissa Alexander, Au.D. CCC-A with you to assess whether Lyric matches to train other doctors to be experts in her fie No-Obligation 45-Day Trial3 Dr. Alexander has served Southern California’s hearing Lyric is the world´s only 100% invisible, member of2010. theSheAmerican Tinnitus Associatio since holds a doctorate from Rush your hearing needs. The IfComplimentary it contact does, youlens could forwalk your ear.™ impaired Lyric Consultation Medical Center in Chicago, IL, and completed Certified Occupational HearingherConservation extended-wear hearing device you can doctoral residency at West Coast Hearing and Balance out wearing Lyric with ais the world´s only 100% invisible, Lyric in Thousand Oaks. Prior to her doctoral studies, Dr. 1 Spaces are limited.24/7 Reservations are required. at a time. wear for months Alexander earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Dr. Alexander has served on the Practice Com no-obligation 45-day trial. extended-wear hearing device you can We are proud to be one of the few select wear 24/7 for months at a time.1
practices nationwide to earn certification as a Lyric Provider. During this special event, a Lyric-trained hearing professional will work with you to assess whether Lyric matches your hearing needs. If it does, you could walk out wearing Lyric with a no-obligation 45-day trial.
LYRIC SPECIAL HEARING EVENTEVENT LYRIC SPECIAL HEARING Month of November Month of Month ofNovember JANUARY CALL 805-284-0899 CALL 805-284-0899 CALL 424-738-3778
Call 805-284-0899 to Call 805-284-0899 to experience the world’s Complimentary Lyricexperience Consultation the world’s only 100% only invisible, 100% invisible, extended-wear hearing extended-wear hearing device today! device today!
No-Obligation 45-Day Trial Complimentary Lyric Consultation No-Obligation 45-Day Trial3 3
California State University Northridge, and a Bachelor of
Committee of theof California American of Aud Arts from the University SantaAcademy Barbara. and was instrumental in creating guidelines Dr. Alexander is licensed by the State of California. She regulations with compliance for au holds her Certificate in Clinical Competency standards from the American Academy of Audiology (CCC-A), allowing her She was the Doctor of Audiology at the Hou to train other doctors to be experts in her field. She is a of the American Tinnitus Association and isIn a addition inmember Santa Monica for over 5 years. Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (CHAOC). frequent lecturer at hospitals and communit Dr. Alexander has served on the Practice Compliance she also volunteers her time fitting Holocaus Committee of the American Academy of Audiology, with hearing aids at noguidelines cost and has a charit and was instrumental in creating for federal regulations with for audiology. program of compliance no/low standards cost aids for those in nee She was the Doctor of Audiology at the House Ear Clinic Alexander awarded a commendation by in Santa Monicawas for over 5 years. In addition to being a frequent Monica lecturer at hospitals andservice communityto centers, Santa for her the hearing she also volunteers her time fitting Holocaust survivors with hearing aids at no cost and has a charitable program of no/low cost aids for those in need. Dr. Alexander was awarded a commendation by the City of Alexander Audiology, in 2017, Santa Monica for her service to established the hearing impaired.
M aim top provider of premium hearing care in LosC Alexander Audiology, established in 2017, aims to be the
We provide concierge audiology services, one top provider of premium hearing care in Los Angeles. N hearing hearing tests, tinnitus m We provide counseling, concierge audiology services, one-on-one hearing counseling, hearing tests,aid tinnitus management, C hearing aids, hearing batteries and hearin hearing aids, hearing aid batteries and hearing aid accessories. accessories.
Learn more at www.phonak-us.com/lyric
1260 15th St., Suite P2 Learn more at www.phonak-us.com/lyric
Santa Monica, CA 90404 www.alexanderaudiology.com
1 Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged in water. 2 Individual replacement needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions. 3 Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of the trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. 4 Based on results from two surveys totaling 109 patients who had worn Lyric for at least 30 days. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2017. All rights reserved.
MS-052307 937CLNEW4V
L
650 Alamo Pintado Rd., Suite 101 Solvang, CA 93463 www.alexanderaudiology.com
650 Alamo Pintado Rd., Suite 101
⚫
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
LOS ANGELES
8
ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION
` ⚫ BY STAFF WRITER
>
GIVE IT A WATCH
announcing the addition of
Southeast Asia va c at i o n s
5 Holiday Movies and TV Episodes Featuring Happy Queer Plot Lines Christmas is just around the corner and yet, you’re still searching for more holiday cheer? Flip on Lifetime or Hallmark and its a sea disappointing heteronormativity and expected cliches. What’s a festive gay to do?! We’ve got you covered. Here are some fun holiday-themed viewing materiel to view at your leisure.
BOOK AMAZING MULTI-DESTINATION VACATIONS TO
Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam BOOK:
• Flights on all major airlines • 50+ hotels and resorts featuring real-time rates and availability • River Cruises • Airport transfers • 85+ sightseeing tours and excursions • Travel protection coverage CAMBODIA
1
Courtyard Siem Reap Resort S IEM REA P ............... from $243 Deluxe Double/Double Room. Includes: Reduced rate and FREE Wi-Fi.
THAILAND
1
Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam B A N GKO K ........ from $132 Standard Queen Room. Includes: Reduced rate, daily Express Start Breakfast and FREE Wi-Fi.
1
Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa P H UKE T ......... from $274 Deluxe Garden View King Room. Includes: Reduced rate.
VIETNAM
InterContinental Danang 2 Sun Peninsula Resorts DA N A N G . . . . . . . . ................. from $745 Classic Ocean View King Room.
VACATIONS INCLUDE: 3 nights’ accommodation and taxes. AAA Member Benefit: Members receive $50 per booking discount at time of booking.3 Ask about complete vacation packages including convenient flights, hotel accommodations, transfers, exciting activities and more.
AAA TRAVELS WITH YOU CALL: 310.855.6000 CLICK: AAA.com/Travel VISIT: 8761 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 1Rate is per person, based on double occupancy, for check-in on 02/17/20, in room category shown. Reduced rate requires full payment at time of booking and is entirely nonrefundable. No refunds or credits will be made for any changes, cancellations or non-arrival for any reason. 2 Rate is per person, based on double occupancy, for check-in on 02/17/20, Classic Ocean View King Room. 3 AAA Member Benefit: Discount does not apply to air/car only bookings. Discount is per booking, taken at time of booking and not reflected in rates shown. Unless otherwise indicated: rates quoted are accurate at time of publication, & are per person, based on double occupancy. Airfare, taxes, surcharges, gratuities, transfers & excursions are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, government taxes, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to baggage limitations & fees, standby policies & fees, nonrefundable tickets & change fees with pre-flight notification deadlines, & blackout dates. Fees & policies vary among airlines. Contact airline directly for any details or questions. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for cruise & tour providers listed. CST# 1007939-10. Copyright©2019 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
1. Season of Love (Tello Films) – This movie follows tight-knit group of queer-identifying women navigating adventures of love, life and friendship during the holiday season. Essentially, it is a funny Holiday RomCom in the truest for – plus the aded bonus of lesbian plot lines. “It centers the lives of Queer Women in a way that we rarely see; their dreams, successes, mishaps, friendships, and romances. It does this without falling into the many tropes that I am tired of being the limited lens through which our community is portrayed,” actress Jessica Clark said in an interview. “We’re just as funny, ambitious, messy, loving and silly as anyone else… duh.” 2. Let It Snow (Netflix) – What is
essentially a quintessential holiday movie, but with a lesbian twist! A snowstorm hits a small town on Christmas Eve, affecting lives and futures of several high school students. 3. Merrily Happily Whatever (Netflix) – This sitcom is the campy, laugh-track-using-binge-all-weekend you need. Plus, in Episode 3, a character comes out as a lesbian on Christmas Day and everything is fine. What a gift! 4. Wynonna Earp (SyFy) – For those in the “Wynonna Earp” fandom, we already know and love the queerness innate to this show. As a special gift to us, the Christmas Episode in Season 3 is both incredibly sweep and very dramatic – as all good Christmas fodder should be. And of course, all the cute lesbian holiday cuteness between Waverly and Nicole makes our hearts swoon. 5. The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (Netflix) – A Trans holiday story complete with magic and horror, this is one holiday episode you do not want to miss. Christmas magic allows Susie to dress as an elf to present as Mal and explore the male gender.
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT – LOOKING FOR PARTNER INVESTORS Single Family Homes • Cabins • Tiny Homes Lake Arrowhead – Los Angeles – Crescent Heights NO RISK – HIGH PROFITS
RNINVESTMENT.COM 323.898.8603
Contact@RNinvestment.com
12.27 – 01.09.2020 ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION
` ⚫ BY STAFF WRITER
>
LOS ANGELES
⚫ 9
EQUAL REPRESENTATION
Hallmark Apologizes, Reinstates Commercials Featuring Same-Sex Couple Hallmark Channel faced a wave of social backlash after its parent company – Crown Media Family Networks – quietly removed commercials featuring a same-sex couple. On Sunday, December 15, Hallmark released a press release stating Crown Media made the “wrong decision” to stop airing wedding planning company Zola’s commercials. The decision happened after pressure
WANTED
Gay videos circa 2003
from KINK VIDEO and ARENA ENTERTAINMENT
Please email TAHERDIN@hotmail.com
from anti-LGBTQ group One Million Moms. GLAAD then created a petition that urged Hallmark to reinstate the ads. The petition stated that the decision to remove the series of six commercials that had been airing since December 2 was discriminatory and hypocritical, considering the company “recently stated they are open to holiday movies featuring LGBTQ characters.” “The Crown Media team has been agonizing over this decision as we’ve seen the hurt it has unintentionally caused,” said Mike Perry, President and CEO of Hallmark Cards, Inc. “…Our mission is rooted in helping all people connect, celebrate traditions, and be inspired to capture meaningful moments in their lives. Anything that detracts from this purpose is not who we are. We are truly sorry for the hurt and disappointment this has caused.” The press release stated that Hallmark will be working with GLAAD to better represent the LGBTQ+ community. “Hallmark is, and always has been, committed to diversity and inclusion – both in our workplace as well as the products and
A series of Zola commercials for the Hallmark channel featured a lesbian wedding.
experiences we create,” the press release stated. Since the news of the lesbian commer-
Photo: Screenshot.
cial removal broke, over 25,000 people have signed a petition, asking Hallmark to decline future LGBTQ+ content.
@ROMANCEATTACKRH
OPEN 24 HOURS 19266 E Walnut Dr N Rowland Heights, CA 91748 626.854.3575
20% Off Select Wrist Restraints! xXx Arcade has 100+ HQ Channels
25% Off Select Holiday Lingerie!
Wide Selection of Adult Toys + Vibrators
50% Off Wildman T Menswear! Adult Arcade + Group Viewing
25% Off Nasstoys + 30% Off XxX DVDs!
Straight Size + Plus Size Lingerie + Shoes + Wigs
⚫
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
LOS ANGELES
10
COLUMN TRAVEL
` ⚫ BY STAFF WRITER
>
LGBTQ+ FAMILY VACATION
TRAVEL REVIEW: LGBTQ+ Family Vacation: Holiday Edition – Las Vegas
Boost Your Member Benefit! $150 IN VALUE
This column is the second in a reoccurring series about LGBTQ+ family travel. Check online for a preview of this travel column. For more information, please email amy@ thepridela.com
1
GET UP TO PER BOOKING ® ON PLEASANT HOLIDAYS AAA VACATIONS !
PLUS, SAVE AN ADDITIONAL
100
$
2
PER ELIGIBLE BOOKING
WHEN YOU USE YOUR AAA MEMBER REWARDS VISA® CARD
after qualifying purchases3
Choose From Over 100 Participating Hotels & Resorts Around The World:
Hawai’i
708
5 NIGHTS FROM $
Wasn’t it just Thanksgiving last week? Somehow, Christmas is nigh and my family is franticly preparing for C-Day. We are staying put in Long Beach this holiday, but for those traveling to big cities with their little ones, here’s a quick review of how “LGBTQ+ Family Vacation Takes on Las Vegas” went for my family during Thanksgiving. 10 Things We Loved and Hated About a Holiday in Las Vegas 1. WE LOVED – There were so many family-friendly options we were able to find in the day! There’s more to Las Vegas that “Hangover”-style debauchery, and I think we found the jackpot. 2. WE LOVED – For example, Madame
4 LAND ONLY
YOUR VACATION INCLUDES:
Five nights’ resort view king room accommodations and kids 17 & under stay free5
PRODUCTION MANAGER AMY PATTON
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Sam Catanzaro
BOOK NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2019 ASK YOUR AAA TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT CURRENT OFFERS AND OTHER DESTINATIONS
AAA TRAVELS WITH YOU
VP OF ADVERTISING
JUDY SWARZ | judy@smmirror.com
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Frankie Morales | frankie@thePrideLA.com
Please call (310) 310-2637 for advertising rates and availability.
CALL: 310.855.6000 CLICK: AAA.com/CreditCardOffer VISIT: 8761 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069 Must be booked by December 31, 2019 with travel complete by June 30, 2020. Minimum five night stay at participating AAA Vacations® properties required. $150 activity voucher is nonrefundable, nontransferable, has no cash value and applies to the following destinations: Mexico, Hawai‘i, Central & South America and select Caribbean destinations. Savings not reflected in rates shown and applies to the following destinations $75 savings: USA (excluding Hawai’i), Canada; $150 savings: Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, select Caribbean destinations (Anguilla, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Curaçao, Grand Cayman, Grenada, Martinique, St. Barts, St. Croix, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Martin and St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks & Caicos), Tahiti (French Polynesia), Fiji and Cook Islands. 2For information about the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the credit card or to apply, go to AAA.com/Creditcard or visit your local AAA branch. Pleasant Holidays/Journese Savings Offer: Save $100 per booking on Pleasant Holidays/Journese transaction(s) that have a transaction date from November 1 – December 31, 2019. Valid on new bookings only. Purchases made through merchants other than Pleasant Holidays/Journese will not qualify for the savings. 3For information about the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the credit card or to apply, go to AAA.com/Creditcard or visit your local AAA branch. How You Earn Points: You earn points when you use your card to make purchases, minus returns, credits and adjustments (“Net Purchases”). The following transactions are not considered purchases and will not earn points: Balance Transfers and Cash Advances (each as defined in your Credit Card Agreement), fees, interest charges, fraudulent transactions and certain other charges. 1 Point: Earn 1 point (base point) for every $1 of Net Purchases charged to the credit card each billing cycle. 2 Points: Earn 2 points (consisting of 1 bonus point and 1 base point) per $1 for Net Purchases made with the card at any eligible gas, grocery store, wholesale club and drugstore merchant categories as designated by Bank of America. 3 Points: Earn 3 points (consisting of 2 bonus points and 1 base point) per $1 for Net Purchases made with the card through any participating AAA Club when AAA is the merchant of record, or at eligible retail travel merchant categories as designated by Bank of America. Points Expiration: Points expire 5 years after the month they were earned. Points Forfeiture: If the owner(s) of the card account voluntarily closes the card account, or if for any reason we close the card account, any unredeemed points associated with the account are subject to immediate forfeiture, unless specifically authorized by us. Rewards Program Rules: Program Rules containing additional details will be sent to you with your new account materials. Other significant terms apply. Program subject to change. This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Bank of America is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation. AAA is a registered trademark of American Automobile Association, Inc. Auto Club and the Auto Club logos are registered service marks of the Automobile Club of Southern California. ©2019 Bank of America Corporation ©2019 AAA. ARGS6NSF. 4Rate is per person, land only, based on double occupancy, for check-in on April 1, 2020 in resort view king room accommodations at the Hilton Hawaiian Village® Waikiki Beach Resort on O’ahu and includes government taxes. 5Kids 17 and under stay free in same room as adults using existing bedding. Occupancy limits apply. Unless otherwise indicated: Rates quoted are accurate at time of publication & are per person, based on double occupancy. Airfare, taxes, fees, surcharges, gratuities, transfers & excursions are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, taxes, fees, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity-controlled. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Rates may be subject to increase after full payment for increases in government-imposed taxes or fees & supplier-imposed fees. Blackout dates & other restrictions may apply. Not responsible for errors or omissions. The Automobile Club of Southern California acts as an agent for Pleasant Holidays®. CST 1016202-80. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2019 Automobile Club of Southern California. All Rights Reserved.
BUSINESS MANAGER MAX MONTEMER max@smmirror.com
NATIONAL DISPLAY ADVERTISING Rivendell Media / 212.242.6863
DISTRIBUTOR: distribution@mirrormediagroupla.com
1
Century City/ Westwood
NEWS
CenturyCity-WestwoodNews.com
THE PRIDE L.A., The Newspaper Serving Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender L.A., is published by MIRROR MEDIA GROUP. Send all inquiries to: THE PRIDE L.A., 2116 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA. Phone: 310.310.2637 Written permission of the publisher must be obtained before any of the contents of this paper, in part or whole, can be reproduced or (c) 2017 The Pride L.A. redistributed. All contents THE PRIDE L.A. is a registered trademark of MIRROR MEDIA GROUP. T.J. MONTEMER, CEO 310.310.2637 x7
Tussauds Wax Museum. Have you ever been to a wax museum? It is such a fun experience! Have you ever taken a child to one? Even better! Our 8-year-old was absolutely delighted, trying to recognize the dozens of celebrities and mimicking their poses. It was a cool and interactive way to spend the afternoon! 3. WE LOVED – All that MGM had to offer the whole family. From all the rides at the Adventuredome, to Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage, to the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, it was enough to keep our family busy for several days. 4. WE LOVED – All the Food! For foodies like my partner and I, Vegas is a great food destination – and the holidays are no exception. We had a prix fix dinner at STK in the Cosmopolitan hotel. Let me tell you, they pulled out all the stops! Our dessert was lit on fire, people! Does it get any more lit than that? 5. WE LOVED – There’s so much to do off the Strip.We were able to take a local bus from our hotel to both the Smith Center to watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and to the Discovery Children’s Museum right next door. The Museum might have been our daughter’s favorite part of the trip — she’s already asking when we can go back. 6. WE HATED – I know it wouldn’t quite be Vegas without all the cigarette smoke, but this was by far the most unpleasant adjustment for the trip. Even family hotels reeked of stale smoke. Our daughter began holding her breath trough the casino portions of hotels. Not the most fun. 7. WE HATED – This probably goes without being said, but as soon as the sun goes down on on the Strip, the daytime family-friendliness quickly recedes too. Be advised. 8. WE HATED – Where did all my gambling money go?! You sneak off to the slots inside the White Castle – of all places – for literally five minutes, and suddenly all your pocket money is gone. Oh, well – such is Vegas. 9. WE HATED – We thought we were being clever by avoiding the peak season of Sin City, but as it turns out, SO MANY other people had the same idea. Everything was so crowded, all the time. So hang on tight to your little ones and be ready to do some expert stroller weaving. 10. WE HATED – Going back to reality is always a mixed bag. Yes, we couldn’t wait to see our kitties and sleep in our own beds, but are you ever really ready to face the daily grind again? Until the next LGBTQ+ Family Vacation it is!
12.27 – 01.09.2020 SEE 68-ACROSS
BY ELIZABETH A. LONG / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ ACROSS
1 ____ aisle, part of a church 5 Prayer books 12 Bit of baloney 15 Rep 19 Two, in Toulouse 20 Neighbor of New York 21 Pesticide ingredient 23 Still a contender 24 Cousins of jaguarundis 25 City in Los Angeles County 26 Leave in the dust 28 European eruption site 29 Search engine failure? 30 Is able to translate what was heard on the wall? 32 Thwart 34 Choler 35 Not stay the course? 36 Gin, lime and soda combo 38 Things that are bought and soled 40 Arizona tribe 43 Scotland’s longest river 45 River through Russia and Kazakhstan 46 Is expecting 48 Oddity 50 More in order 52 Dole (out) 53 Tactic in a war of attrition 54 It goes after go 55 Mattress tester’s compensation? 61 Word after big or oil 62 Suggestion of what to do, slangily 64 Opposite of ennemies 65 Basics of education, briefly 66 Super superstar 68 Supercilious sort … or the title for this puzzle 72 A bushelful 73 Make faces in front of a camera 74 European capital named after a saint 75 “____ your head!” 76 Monster.com posting 77 Dress code requirement for the Puritans? 80 Peak in Suisse 83 City on the Erie Canal
NY TIMES CROSSWORD PUZZLE
86 Tops 87 Goads 89 Test-prep aid 90 Dark beer 92 France’s ____ Noël 93 What may follow a school period? 95 Connect, as picture with sound 96 Annual CBS awards broadcast, with “the” 97 Playoff matchup 99 Years ago 101 “Mudbound” director Rees 102 Actress Rowlands 103 Hoped-for conclusion by someone with sore knees? 108 Make a really long-distance call? 113 Rani’s raiment 115 Matador’s foe 116 Infamous Chicago bootlegger 117 Mediterranean resort island 119 “____ go bragh!” 120 Swimmers with flippers 121 Rufous ruminant 122 Census datum 123 Sp. miss 124 Follower of hi or lo 125 Slips into at a store, say 126 Louver
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
12
20
21
23
24
25
27
28
30
40
31
41
42
43
48
32
44
49
50
53
66 73
69
45
46
90
55 63
70
79
86
87
56
101 110
111
80
81
82
83
88
98
94 99
103 113
104
105
114
115
122
125
126
124
H O P Q U I S I E R I C O M U G P R I M A P O R T O N Y D E E P H O N E M A L C A P O S E A L I O S R T A R
I S S A N T A R C E L O E T N F L Y R G A Y U N E A T K A R T R E A M E D F I A L O R S E E R P E S E R I G E N A R S N E M N S R E S T
L I T A F I R E C R U G R E A S I E R
S O S
F U T B I O I L M L E A L R S L U A M O P P S E A L P G S O E E S E A A R I N O R D D E I E S
I R O N
60 What mos. and mos. add up to 63 French vineyard 66 Devilkin 67 Apt rhyme for “grr” 68 Everybody’s opposite 69 New York Titans and Dallas Texans, in ’60s sports 70 Mine, in Milano 71 Plains tribe 72 Lackadaisical sorts 74 Glaswegians, e.g. 76 Protrude 78 With 77-Across, red, blue and yellow 79 Welcome at the front door 81 “The Oblong Box” writer 82 Witch’s home 84 Against 85 Electrical connection? 88 Like fried food vis-à-vis grilled food, typically 90 Fey’s co-star in “Baby Mama” and “Sisters”
T A M M I E E N D O R C E O
B C R E T H A R R A N G E R R I S H O W A I T E T E B E R P E S R R L O J O B U T I T U T U S Y N C E L Y A M E L T O A E R R R A N S L
107
100
121
M O O U N K S E E T K E G N S O C O O N T E S
106
95
120
E X T R A V I R G I N
85
89
ANSWERS S U I T E
84
72
117
29 With 29Across, surprise in the mail 31 With 30-Across, is blunt 33 Khayyám and others 36 Left only the exterior of 37 Green of the L.P.G.A. 38 Fills 39 24 heures ago 40 Central command spots, for short 41 Sénat affirmative 42 Polish dumpling 44 Senate affirmative 47 Big brand of grills 49 Gunpowder holder 51 Overdue amount 56 Things that might be grabbed by someone in an argument 57 Authority on diamonds? 58 Uprightness 59 With 55-Across, big sleepover
60
65
116
123
P E N U P
58
93
112
This Week’s Sudoku Puzzle A D I O S
57
76
102 109
59
39
64
92 97
18
47
71
78
96
108
38
75
91
17
52
74
77
16
34 37
62 68
15 22
36
54
67
14
33
51
61
13
29
35
1 “Hasta la vista” 2 Corral 3 Software package 4 Like high-quality olive oil 5 Nighttime event in the western sky 6 Business magazine 7 Resolve 8 Coarse, as language 9 Elvis ____ Presley 10 Engaged in arson 11 Request for aid 12 Pointless 13 Go over one’s wardrobe? 14 Titanic’s undoing 15 Burn a little 16 Went wild 17 Added numbers 18 Many mowers 22 Number of i’s in “Sicilia” 27 Hula accompaniment, for short
11
19
26
DOWN
10
E N C O R E S
D E E R E S
A Y R R T S C A O R N C E R I C A
N O N E T
118
119
91 Simple variant of baseball 92 Part of Potus: Abbr. 94 Break, as a habit 96 QB’s feat 98 Way out 100 Threedimensional fig. 103 Wear down 104 Buenos ____ 105 End of story? 106 With 103Across, simple furniture style 107 Schubert’s “Eine Kleine Trauermusik,” e.g. 109 Lion queen in “The Lion King” 110 Prefix with dermis 111 Anchor 112 With 108-Across, not talking loudly on a cell, e.g. 114 “The King ____” 117 “D.C. Cab” co-star 118 Board hiree, for short
⚫
LOS ANGELES 11 STAR GAZING By Samuel Prince
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries will not immediately realize that the five-day working period has finally almost ended. You will not have a plan ready on how to spend this evening, and therefore you will willingly support all the initiatives of your best friend (aka second half). TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Taurus on this day will be very picky about the little things in your current project. For this task, you work longer than you expected, but it will bring you tangible benefits. GEMINI (May 21-June 21) Gemini today will be caught unaware by some sensational news. You will not be emotionally prepared for the fact that your former boss resigned from his position, and that another person will soon take his place. However, when you see your new leader, you will breathe a sigh of great relief. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Cancers on this day will be able to perfectly relax body and spirit. Immediately after work, you will go to a party at the home of your best friend, and a little later this event will move to the nearest sauna. You will return home by midnight, collapse on the sofa, fall asleep and sleep like a rock. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) To Leos, this Friday will bring both pleasant and exciting experiences. You will be delighted with the report cards of your children (or the children of one of your relatives). At the same time, you will not like the news that the school is organizing another fundraiser for some “important” event. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Virgos on this day should not be too hasty in making important decisions about their family’s future. Do not reject the idea proposed by your partner in marriage, since you will gain more from this move than lose. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Libras will find Friday to be extremely uneventful. Your day will be limited to a few obligatory affairs and poor rest in front of the TV. Somewhat dissipating the dull atmosphere of this day is the visit of one of your close neighbors. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21) Scorpios will require universal obedience. Demonstrating such despotism, you will not achieve what you so eagerly sought. In order to get others to fulfill your requests, you must behave not as a tyrant, but as a diplomat. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Sagittarians will delve deeply into a subject that is not related to their main profession. Perhaps it’s about some newfangled trend, which you will be introduced to by the Internet, or about a new hobby. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Capricorns today will not think about what impression their appearance makes on others. You will put emphasis not on beauty, but on the convenience of your wardrobe, knowing that you will have to work in very crowded conditions. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Aquarius will have a chance to win at the casino or by betting on the lottery. You will immediately have a powerful temptation to go and spend all your winnings on a bunch of small purchases. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Pisces on this day will not resist the temptation to spend a little more than their budget allowed them. You will find yourself within a luxurious entertaining establishment, and you will be accompanied by a person who you do not want to look stupid in front of.
⚫ 12
LOS ANGELES
12.27.2019 – 01.09.2020
The One-Stop Shop for all Your CBD Needs 7559 Melrose Ave., L.A. | (323)-939-9339 | avecbd.com Follow us on social media! @avenue_cbd