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10.01.2023 – 10.31.2023 October January 2025 2026
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THE LOS ANGELES LGBT NEWSPAPER
CulverHollywood City Names First Openly With LGBTQ+ Mayor West Man Charged Killing Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful as Council Selects New Leadership Dog, Burglary of Former Roommate’s Home Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias Councilmember Mayor Konstantine Freddy Puza Chosen Anthony as MayorDefends for 2026, Actions Amid Bubba Fish Named Controversy Over Vice Mayor Video
New leadership took shape in Culver City as the City Council made a series of By Dolores Quintana unanimous and historic selections before a packed at the MikeAnthony Balkman Burbank audience Mayor Konstantine is Council Chambers. facing criticism from conservatives following Puza was theCouncilmember circulation of a Freddy video showing himchosen being to serve as mayor for 2026, marking the spanked by a drag queen during an event first time an openly LGBTQ+ individual on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has held the position in the city’s 108-year has responded that some of his critics are history. Puza, who was elected to the City motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the Council in 2022, will serve a one-year term incident was harmless. as mayor. In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Prosecutors have multiple felony "This is a new dayfiled in Culver City, and Mayor Anthony is27-year-old seen beingman spanked by charges against a accused I’m honored to work with the new City aofdrag artist, backed by the Village People’s breaking into his former roommate’s Manager to create new opportunities and “Macho Man.” Anthonyapartment, described the events West way of Hollywood operating in the city," said killing Mayor as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was the small dog,present, and damaging Puza.victim’s "The past, the and the property during the incident. future, they’re all right here, right now. Anmol Bhatiamade facesbefore one count eachthe of Every decision us created first-degree residential burglary, felony city we love today. We honor that. But we animal cruelty, what and vandalism involving also remember we were. We were a more than $400 in damage. Prosecutors sundown town. That’s our history. We don’t have who get to also forgetalleged it. We that don’tthe get victim, to pretend it is at least 65 years old, was particularly
27-Year-Old Suspect Faces Animal Cruelty and Burglary Charges After a Violent Attack
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group. In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community didn’t We’re not responsible for and draghappen. performers.” theHesins of the past. ButSaturday we are absolutely added, “On a busy filled with responsible for the future we build. the various independent gatherings, I And attended decisions make this year will echo for the Santa we Clarita Valley Democrats’ private decades. not hyperbole. the fundraiserThat’s for their organization.That’s Notably, job. you,endorsed I will treat it with thereAnd wereI promise no officially candidates the seriousness it deserves. To everyone or state and federal political figures present. who has was everopen livedto here, here, The event young worked adults ages 15 and above.inHowever, were noofattendees invested this city:there you’re part Culver below story. 18. Additionally, City’s You matter." no children were present.” In his remarks, Puza emphasized that WhileCity not stands specifying thewith particular hate Culver firmly immigrant group in question, it is possible that Anthony families, LGBTQ+ residents, andortenants, vulnerable and that Bhatia knew should was referring to at the now have known theTwitter timeactively ofaccount, the crime. pledging thatthis the City will protect known as X,and called “Libs of TikTok,” Therights attack occurred around 11:30which p.m. civil human dignity.
onHe September 4, three whenmajor Bhatia allegedly outlined his priorities for forced hismonths: way advancing into the affordability apartment. the coming Investigators saidthrough video stronger evidencehousing shows and sustainability him violently slamming the dog to the and climate initiatives, strengthening fiscal ground, stomping on it, and then throwing responsibility with clearer budgeting and the lifeless animal offand a balcony onto a public transparency, raising Culver nearby construction site, where it was
reposted the video and garnered over 8 million views. In response to the video, the Libs of TikTok account claimed that children were present at the event. Mayor Anthony disputed this assertion, stating that “actually, there weren’t any children at this private 21+ event. But of course, lying is totally on brand for you.” While the account correctly pointed out that individuals aged 15 and older were permitted to attend, the event’s organizer, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats, released a statement City’s profile by promoting the city as a true clarifying that no individuals under the age of destination. He emphasized that each effort 18 were in attendance. is aimed at ensuring stability, belonging, Mayor Anthony reiterated this point during and opportunity for all residents. a City Council meeting and expressed his "It’s a new day in Culver City. Let’s concern that the video’s circulation had led to meet this moment with courage. With city officials receiving “some of the most vile conviction. With a unified vision of what hate speech that I have ever seen.” this city can be," Puza said. Anthony encouraged those with concerns Councilmember Bubba Fish was about his actions to communicate with him unanimously selected as vice mayor, directly via email at kanthony@burbankca. creating Culver City’s first openly gov. He stated, “IfAuthorities you want toalso talkaccuse to me later found dead. LGBTQ+ mayor–vice mayor leadership about what happened over the weekend, send Bhatia of vandalizing property inside the team. Fish joined the City Council in 2024. me an before email. Send me an email. I will talk to home fleeing.
In addition to selecting its political Beverly Hills Bhatia leadership, the police councilarrested unanimously on September 21 following two-week approved Odis Jones as Culvera City’s next search. city manager. Jones will succeed John He waswho arraigned on Tuesday at the Nachbar, is stepping down after 15 Airport Courthouse and entered not years in the role. You can read more aabout guilty plea. Bail was set at $175,000, and Jones here. a preliminary hearing is scheduled for
you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It wasn’t even in the city of Burbank.” In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley their Jones brings moreDemocrats than three voiced decades of support for Mayor Anthony and strongly executive leadership experience in local and state government, havingand served as a denounced the sensationalized inaccurate city manager, chief executive officer, and portrayal of their event for political purposes executive director in jurisdictions across that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, Texas, Ohio,The Michigan, andreaffirmed New Jersey. and bigotry. Democrats their His professional background includes work commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and October 9. development, public finance, in economic drag performers,on refusing to engage withcould what If convicted all counts, Bhatia organizational management, and largethey referred to asyears “fakeand outrage.” face upinfrastructure to seven and eight months in scale redevelopment
state prison. projects. The is beingcited handled by the Animal City case officials Jones’ emphasis Cruelty Section of equity, the Loscommunity Angeles on transparency, County District Attorney’s Office and engagement, and collaborative leadership remains under investigation by the Los as key strengths as he prepares to assume Angeles the role. County Sheriff’s Department, West Hollywood Station.
Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” Premiere at TIFF Federal Judge Blocks California From
Thomson Hall, where the documentary was setSeek A spokespersonPossible for the Toronto police security swept the scene and cleared it within WeHo LASD Detectives Additional World Premiere of Teacher to be screened. informed CTV News Toronto that on the threat Student 20 minutes,” noted Constable Victor Kwong. Restricting Disclosures Lung stated, “Our standard security had been conveyed to the festival’s private Toronto police also clarified that the threat Victims After Indecent Exposure Arrest Documentary Was measures remained in place during this time, security by a passerby. “Out of an abundance had a general nature and did not specifically Gender Identity and the screening commenced with a slight of caution, the Toronto police and the private target any individual or entity. with an incident that occurred on Sept. delay. To our knowledge, this was a general Sheriffs SayAfter a Man Screened may not barsaid public school federal appeals court has temporarily 19,California 2025. Investigators Harrington threat and not directed at the film or the artist.” Ruling FindsAfter teachers from informing parentsinside abouta stayed enforcement of the ruling while it allegedly approached a woman Was Arrested 20-Minute Delay OR UNFILES how students their gender a longer-term laundry room andexpress exposed himself before considers whether to issue BACK
State Guidance Allegedly Exposing By Dolores Quintana Himself to a Woman Unconstitutional,
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Detectives withToronto the LosInternational Angeles County Montero” at the Film Sheriff’s Department West Festival (TIFF) faced a momentaryHollywood setback on Station are asking the public’s Saturday night due tofor a bomb threat. help in identifying Judy Lung,additional TIFF’s Vicevictims Presidentfollowing of Public the arrest a man accused confirmed of indecent Affairs andofCommunications, to exposure. CTV News Toronto via a written statement Harrington taken into thatJackie the festival was alertedwas to an investigation “in the vicinity the2025, red carpet” at Roy custody on Sept.of28, in connection
but Enforcement Is Paused While Appeal Moves Forward
identity the at school, federalconfrontation judge ruled leaving area. Noa further last reported. month, finding the state’s guidance was unconstitutional. Authorities believe there may be other victims haveJudge not yetRoger come Benitez, forward. in U.S. who District information about this case a Anyone Dec. 22with decision, said the restrictions is urged to contactdue Westprocess Hollywood Station violate parents’ rights and Detectives 310-855-8850. Tips may also infringe onatthe First Amendment speech be anonymously through Crime andsubmitted religious rights of parents and teachers. Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS The ruling also enjoins public (8477), school using the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or visiting employees from misleading parents about lacrimestoppers.org. a student’s gender presentation on campus. The investigation remains ongoing. state immediately appealed. A
stay. The case began in 2023 when two San Diego County public school teachers challenged state guidance warning that violated parents’ religious rights by failing ALL FORMS • ALL • ALL STATES to provide notice or opt-out options for disclosure of a student’s transgender statusTYPES without consent could violate state anti- instruction involving LGBTQ+-inclusive SAMUEL B. MOSES, discrimination law and privacy protections. materials. CPA He said the decision underscored The lawsuit later expanded into a class parents’ constitutional interest in their action involving both teachers and parents. children’s education and 90401 upbringing. Benitez100 citedWilshire the U.S. Supreme Court’s1753 Blvd., Suite • Santa Monica The appellate court has not ruled on the recent decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which held that a Maryland school district merits of California’s appeal.
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West Hollywood Honors Chloe Opalo for Leadership in HIV Prevention and LGBTQ+ Health The Los Angeles LGBT Center and Trans Wellness Center Leader Received the City’s Paul Andrew Starke Warrior Award
West Hollywood officials recognized Chloe Opalo, a senior leader at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and Trans Wellness Center, for her work advancing HIV prevention, care, and community-based research. Opalo, who serves as supervisor for community-engaged research at both organizations, received the city’s Paul Andrew Starke Warrior Award, an honor presented annually to individuals working on the front lines of HIV/AIDS and substance use prevention and treatment. “For nearly a decade, Chloe has been
on the front lines of health equity and HIV prevention for the LGBTQ+ community— especially trans and nonbinary people,” said Anne-Marie Williams, Chair of the city’s Human Services Commission. “Whether she’s publishing on PrEP persistence for Black and Latinx trans women, or pushing for systems change, she turns community voices into real program design and better outcomes. She doesn’t just close gaps in access. She refuses to accept that those gaps should exist at all.” City officials said Opalo was selected for her leadership and her role in connecting LGBTQ+ individuals with affirming health care, research opportunities, and support services. Colleagues described her as a hands-on advocate whose work has helped dozens of people access critical resources. “I’ve seen the passion she brings to this work and the care she shows for clients,” said Sydney Rogers, senior manager at the Trans Wellness Center. “She deserves this recognition.” Several other advocates and service providers were also honored during the ceremony, including Miguel Arevalo of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Jack Crozier
Inman Jr. of Life Group LA, Rob Lester of Men’s Health Foundation, Maricor Lopez of APLA Health, Alexandra Magallon of TransLatin@ Coalition, Andrew Ramos of C.I.T.Y x1 Youth Group, and Jim Scott of Being Alive. Russell Ybarra, a pharmacy consultant at Capitol Drugs West Hollywood and an officer on the city’s HIV Commission, received a Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously. Opalo’s work is closely tied to the Trans Wellness Center, a Koreatownbased facility that provides comprehensive services for transgender and nonbinary individuals. The center offers a range of programs under one roof, including mental health services, gender-affirming care, housing navigation, legal assistance, and a community clothing closet. The Trans Wellness Center was established through a partnership of six local organizations and developed by community leaders and allies committed to advancing awareness and access to care for transgender communities.
It seems like the battle for equality never ends, and that’s certainly true for health care. Access to health care has long been an equality issue for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans. Look at the facts. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, studies show that nearly 27 percent of transgender people and 7.7 percent of lesbian, gay and bisexual people said they were refused needed medical care. Covered California refuses to accept that. The battle for equality is part of our history, and our efforts continue to this day. This year, nearly 10,000 Covered California enrollees self-identified as gay or lesbian, bisexual, queer, or another sexual orientation, and nearly 2,400 enrollees self-identified as non-binary or another gender identity, or as transgender. That’s more than 12,000 Californians who felt confident being openly themselves, knowing that doing so will not get them denied care. This year, it’s time to take action. Getting health insurance is the first step toward protecting your physical, mental, and financial health. All health insurance plans offered through Covered California provide access to leading doctors, hospitals and specialists across California and includes essential health benefits — from preventive care and maternity care to mental health services and emergency coverage. Plans also include prevention, treatment, and care for HIV/AIDS.
Now is the time to explore your options. It’s Open Enrollment, which means you can shop and compare health insurance plans at COVEREDCA.COM and choose the one that works for you and your budget. Open Enrollment runs through Jan. 31. Covered California is the only place where Californians who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Depending on your income, you may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program. Learn more about your options at COVEREDCA.COM, see if you qualify for financial help and compare health plans in your area. You can also get free and confidential assistance by phone, in a variety of languages from more than 14,000 certified agents and community-based organizations throughout the state that provide help in whatever language you prefer, or call Covered California at (800) 300-1506 for assistance in English or (800) 300-0213 for help in Spanish. Covered California is your ally in the fight for equality in health care. Join us and start the new year with a healthy foundation.
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Barry Manilow Postpones January Shows After Early Lung Cancer Found Health-Related Pause Forces Changes to the Singer’s January Tour Plans.
Barry Manilow announced he will undergo surgery to remove an earlystage cancerous spot from his left lung, prompting the postponement of his January arena concerts, though doctors do not believe the cancer has spread. The singer shared the update following a series of Christmas charity concerts at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, where he recently completed five performances benefiting nonprofit organizations across the Coachella Valley. The concerts marked the seventh time Manilow has staged the annual holiday shows, which have raised millions of dollars for local charities over
the years. Manilow said the cancer was discovered during an MRI ordered as a precaution after he spent more than two months battling bronchitis, including a relapse. While he had recovered enough to return to the stage at the Westgate Las Vegas, the imaging revealed a cancerous spot on his left lung that doctors said needs to be surgically removed. According to Manilow, physicians believe the cancer was caught early and do not expect it to have spread. He said additional tests are being conducted to confirm that assessment. No chemotherapy or radiation treatment is currently planned. He wished his followers a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year and reminded everyone that if they have even the slightest symptom to get tested. The surgery will require approximately one month of recovery time, leading to the rescheduling of Manilow’s January arena dates. Updated concert dates have been announced, and ticket holders are advised
to check the revised schedules. Manilow apologized to fans for the inconvenience, noting that both he and his team had been looking forward to the January performances.
He is expected to return to the stage for Valentine’s weekend concerts at the Westgate Las Vegas on Feb. 12, 13, and 14, with additional performances scheduled throughout 2026.
West Hollywood Chamber Names Leonard Lanzi as New President and CEO Veteran Civic Executive Lanzi to Guide West Hollywood Chamber’s Next Chapter
The Board of Directors of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced the selection of Leonard “Len” Lanzi as the Chamber’s new President & CEO. Lanzi replaces Genevieve Morrill, who announced her resignation earlier this year in March. After 15 years of service, Morrill will remain in her role until Lanzi comes on board. “Len participated in a lengthy interview process with several long-standing and new board members who understand the Chamber’s past and can visualize the future. As a forward-looking executive, we believe Len will carry the Chamber into the future,” said Dr. Raja Sannidhi, the Chamber’s Board Chair. In addition to Sannidhi, the other members of the CEO Search Committee included Sarah Adolophson, Rod Gruendyke, Joan Henehan, and Mark Lehman. Lanzi brings more than three decades of leadership across Southern California’s entrepreneurial and civic communities. He most recently served as the director
of the Preccelerator Program, an initiative founded by the Los Angeles law firm, Stubbs Alderton & Markiles, LLC. As director, Lanzi guided early-stage founders who built one of the strongest startup and investment communities in Los Angeles. He also served as the executive director of the Los Angeles Venture Association (LAVA) and has served on the board of directors, including as treasurer, of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce. “It is clear that Len’s career is rooted in strengthening local economies, supporting small businesses, and connecting innovation with community impact,” said Sarah Adolphson, who served as chair of the CEO Search Committee. In response, Lanzi replied, “I’m honored to be selected as the new President & CEO of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. I look forward to working with the business community, elected officials and their staff, and other leaders in the city.” Lanzi’s start date is January 12, 2026.
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Dry January in LA Without Missing the Nightlife: Kavahana Offers a New Way to Go Out
Kavahana partnered with Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty Impact Fund, serving their craft “Paradise Nectar” zero proof kava nectar cocktail, along with strawberry matcha and traditional style Kava Nectar.
Kava Nectar “Starter Kit,” featuring Kavahana’s Relax Edition Pouch of Kava Nectar Powder Dry January does not have to mean staying in. In Los Angeles, it simply means knowing where to go, and Kavahana has quietly become one of the city’s favorite places to hang out without alcohol, offering the kind of social energy many people miss when they skip the bar. Located on Pico Boulevard just blocks from the beach in Santa Monica, Kavahana is a late-night hangout that blends café comfort with the energy of a neighborhood gathering space. It is not a “traditional” bar, nor is it a coffee shop. It is a place where mornings turn into afternoons, afternoons turn into evenings, and people stay a little longer than they planned. At the heart of the experience is a neat drink called kava nectar. What is Kava Nectar? Kava Nectar is a natural, zero-proof drink made from the root of the kava plant, a member of the peppercorn family traditionally enjoyed across the South Pacific Islands and Hawaii in social and ceremonial settings. Kavahana’s kava nectar is coldpressed kava root nectar gently dried into a fine powder. The result is a drink that offers a subtle tingle on the tongue followed by a calm, uplifted, and social feeling. It supports presence and ease without intoxication, hangovers, or next day fog. If you’re curious about the coconut shell cups, that’s part of the point. In many Pacific Island cultures, kava is served exactly this way. Kavahana keeps that format, pouring
traditional style kava nectar into coconut shells as part of the experience. For many guests, kava nectar becomes a natural alternative during Dry January because it still feels like going out. Their menu features thoughtfully crafted zero proof kava nectar cocktails made with real ingredients like mango, coconut milk, ginger, pineapple, and spirulina. Drinks like their “Beach Nectar” and “Paradise Nectar” are designed to mask the naturally earthy taste of kava while still offering the same tingly benefits. Beyond kava nectar, Kavahana serves Kona coffee sourced from Hawaii’s Big Island, along with ceremonial matcha, roasted hojicha, and other delicious drinks. The team is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to guide first time guests through the menu. Open Late - a rarity on the Westside! What makes Kavahana especially unique in LA is its late night energy. While many cafés and restaurants close early, Kavahana stays open into the evening and often until 1 AM on weekends. It is a place where you can meet friends after work, go on a date, or enjoy a night out without alcohol, while still feeling connected to the city’s social rhythm. Many brands and spaces claim to be community driven, but Kavahana backs it up with action. Tuesdays feature the Santa Monica Open Mic Night with local musicians, poets, and storytellers.
Wednesdays bring Comedy Night, drawing a relaxed, welcoming crowd. Both events are free and open to everyone, whether you are performing or just listening. And if you’re reading this and not local to LA, you can still be part of the Kavahana experience. Kavahana ships its kava nectar powder nationwide, making it easy to enjoy at home as a relaxing alternative or to create your own zero proof cocktails. Orders ship
to all 50 states and Canada, so Dry January does not have to end at city limits! Visit Kavahana 306 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405 Open daily (morning to late night) Tuesdays: Open Mic Night Wednesdays: Comedy Night Website: Kavahana.com Instagram: @kavahanabar
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40 Years Later: Delphi Remains Westside’s Landmark for Authentic Hellenic Cuisine
Welcome to Urban Jungle Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
Delphi Greek Restaurant Celebrates 40th Year Anniversary By Susan Payne Delphi welcomes all. For the last 40 years, Delphi Greek Restaurant and Bar has been more than a place to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine. It serves as a temple of culture, community and tradition. Inspired by the ancient Temple of Delphi, where Greeks once gathered to seek wisdom and celebrate life, Delphi Greek is Los Angeles’ own sacred house of hospitality. Five years after the emergence of the COVID-19, during which Delphi served 94,500 meals to seniors home locked due to restrictions, Delphi is celebrating its 40th anniversary — 40 years of authentic Hellenic cuisine and hospitality. Under the passionate ownership of Roozbeh Farahanipour, Delphi Greek has flourished as a living bridge between ancient traditions and modern Los Angeles as the hub for Hellenic life in Southern
California. “We have customers that have been with us since day one still dining and enjoying the experience that we offer,” Farahanipour said. “We are delighted to remain a landmark for authentic Hellenic cuisine for years to come.” Over the last few years, Delphi Greek has added additional experiences that add a touch of new to the restaurant while still cherishing the values the restaurant was founded on 40 years ago. Located in Westwood Village, diners experience more drink and beverage options through its full bar, in addition to affordable daily happy hour specials from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Delphi Greek has earned recognition from the Senate, the city of Los Angeles, several well-known review sites and magazines for doing what they do best — serving the best authentic Greek food around. With over 17 Zagat ratings, countless awards, and media features, Delphi Greek is proud to be recognized not just for its food — but for its unwavering spirit. The restaurant’s 40 years of excellence is a milestone that reflects its dedication to preserving and sharing the beauty of Greek culinary heritage. Friends of Delphi — both new and
longtime — experience true Mediterranean flavors and a hospitable staff that speaks the Greek language, an ode to the culture and Farahanipour’s commitment to upholding authentic tradition. While dining, the white-washed stucco walls and lively blue accents channel the national colors of Greece. Made to feel as if you are in Greece, Delphi’s shark tank was installed to remind diners of the Mediterranean Sea. The menu, all Greek, has remained unchanged in the last four decades, only improved to reflect the delicacies of Greek cuisine — more authentic dessert and more authentic Greek ingredients. “From the menu to the people, Delphi Greek is an experience,” Farahanipour said. For those wanting to share this experience outside of the restaurant, Delphi Greek offers catering for corporate events, weddings, and more. “We can share our food outside of these walls and that’s something we love to do — sharing our culture with others. It’s delightful to have the opportunity to serve one person, couples, families, groups and even larger groups,” Farahanipour said. Delphi Greek is open daily from 11:30 a.m .to 10:30 p.m. Visit DelphiGreek.com to learn more.
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House Passes Bill to Criminalize GenderAffirming Care for Transgender Minors this bill also creates an incredibly Legislation Approved But dangerous precedent far beyond the specific care at issue, criminalizing care on a Narrow Vote based on ideology and placing Washington Would Impose Fines politicians between families and their We strongly condemn the passage and Prison Terms on doctors. of this measure and urge members of the Senate to do everything in their power to Providers prevent it from ever becoming law.” The U.S. House on Wednesday narrowly approved legislation that would make it a federal crime for health care providers to offer gender-affirming medical care to transgender patients younger than 18. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., passed by a 216-211 vote. If enacted, the measure would impose steep financial penalties on providers and allow for prison sentences of up to 10 years for those who violate the law. Mike Zamore, National Director of Policy & Government Affairs at the ACLU, said, “Politicians should never prohibit parents from doing what is best for their transgender children. These families often spend years considering how best to support their children, only to have illequipped politicians interfere by attempting to criminalize the health care that they, their children, and their doctors believe is necessary to allow their children to thrive.
The proposal targets medical and mental health treatments commonly referred to as gender-affirming care, which major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, support. While the bill would prohibit such care for transgender minors, it explicitly permits surgical procedures on intersex infants and children, including operations that advocates say are often performed without the patient’s consent. The House is also scheduled to vote on Thursday on separate legislation introduced by Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, that would bar Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming medical care for individuals under 18. That measure similarly allows coverage for surgical procedures performed on intersex youth and infants.
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Richard Simmons’ Longtime Los Angeles Estate Gets Major Price Cut to $5.89 Million
1937 Architectural Estate from Richard Simmons’ Collection Gets New Asking Price The longtime Los Angeles residence of fitness icon Richard Simmons is now listed for $5.89 million, marking a significant price reduction, as reported by Mansion Global. The 1937 Neo-Classical Revival home first appeared on the market last June for $6.99 million. Listing records show the price was lowered to $6.5 million in August and then dropped again to $6.3 million in September before settling at its current figure. Listing agent John Lucy of Keller Williams Hollywood Hills said sluggish market conditions have prevented the property from attracting stronger offers. The slowdown reflects broader trends in the neighborhood, where the median sales price for single-family homes fell almost 11% year-over-year in the third quarter, according to Douglas Elliman. Simmons purchased the half-acre estate in 1982—the same year he released his platinum motivational album “Reach”— and lived there for decades. The gated compound sits above the Sunset Strip and features a stately columned portico and
formal center-hall entry. Architectural elements include custom wood floors, Palladian-style windows, and French doors. The main level offers a step-down living room, music room with a double-sided fireplace, formal dining room, and an updated kitchen outfitted with Thermador appliances and a breakfast area. A maid’s suite with service access is also located on the ground floor. Upstairs, a sweeping staircase leads to a spacious primary suite arranged across two levels, with a dressing area, large bathroom, and an upper-level room equipped as a gym. The second floor also includes a guest suite and a separate den. Outdoor spaces feature a covered veranda, terraced gardens, a distinctive swimming pool, and a detached pool house. Additional quarters on a lower level provide space for staff or guests. Lucy described the property as a rare opportunity to purchase a landmark estate or redevelop the site into a new luxury residence.
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Andy Bell on Ten Crowns, Touring With a New Band and His Collaboration With Dave Audé A Candid Conversation About Creativity, Collaboration and the Future of Erasure
Erasure frontman Andy Bell is in the midst of a prolific chapter, one that includes a charting solo album, a renewed collaboration with producer Dave Audé and an ambitious North American tour. His latest project, Ten Crowns, has allowed him to explore songwriting in new ways, work with a fresh lineup of musicians and collaborate with artists who have long inspired him. Tickets are still available for Bell’s two concerts at The Fonda Theater on December 12 and 13 and you can purchase them here. In a conversation that spans studio stories, tour life and his admiration for icons like Debbie Harry, Bell offers a candid look at the creative process behind the record. He also reflects on the challenges of independent releasing, the joy of hearing his work embraced by audiences and the excitement of preparing for Erasure’s 40th anniversary. Below, he discusses the making of Ten Crowns, the tour, and what comes next, presented in full, in his own words. How did the collaboration with Dave Audé come about, and what do you think he brought to the table for this project? To be honest I’d never thought of myself as a songwriter before, even though I’d been a co-writer with a few other people (excluding Vincent!). I felt very fortunate when my partner Stephen mentioned that Dave was a huge fan, which is very flattering. He suggested that we might try and write a few dance tunes. I love club music and Dave is very accomplished in his own musical sphere, and has worked with everybody in the industry. He works incredibly hard. Our first two collaborations were very successful on the US Billboard dance charts, so we thought it only natural to meet and write again when time allowed. Dave remains unjaded by the ‘business’ which I find very refreshing, and he’s maintained his integrity throughout. I can always tell when someone likes my voice. We are equal partners on everything we write which is something I got quite comfortable with. You've formed a live band for the tour to promote Ten Crowns, who are they, and how much have they shaped the way the songs are performed live?
All the musicians were initially selected by Dave Audé and are all Nashville-based, which is very handy and puts me in the thick of the country music writing scene which is quite remarkable being a white gay electro boy. So the dynamic is one of excitement, opposites attract and it’s a real fun eccentric bunch full of energy and undeniable talent. Jerry Fuentes brings a Siouxsie-type ethereal atmosphere to the songs apart from being a total flirt, and Sarah Tomek is unlike anyone I’ve ever met. She is a rock goddess feminist with a filthy imagination (like mine) and she kicks ass as hard as she plays the drums. Our new singer, Chelsea King-Blank is a natural successor to Hailey and gives off the same Charlie’s Angels infectious charisma, as well as being a singer at the top of her game. Dave goes without saying… for the Erasure tracks, he has reprogrammed all the stems, which Vince kindly sent over, and has put his own stamp on them. He gets slightly nervous but the whole show is dependent on him, myself and our incredible crew. The whole sound is fresh and dynamic.
The tour seems to have been going down incredibly well, has it been an enjoyable one for you? So far so good, not too many shows in one go, a great time on the bus, and general camaraderie at a good level, it’s a bit like being on a boat. The shows become this source of great energy. Your North American tour runs for the best part of three months and takes you right across the country. How intimidating is it to have that many shows ahead of you, and what can we expect from the show? It is quite a daunting prospect, but we have done it before. We are visiting loads of new towns and the venues are not too big, so I think we’re gonna have a great laugh. People have been saying it’s the best we’ve ever been, which is great to hear at 61. Ten Crowns includes a collaboration with Debbie Harry on the track “Heart's a Liar.” What does it mean to you, as such a public fan of Blondie, to have her on your album? This means the world to me. I know that she loves me, and the feeling is mutual, but you still need to keep a distance out of respect. Every time I hear her voice
anywhere — in a taxi or in a supermarket — it’s like she’s saying hello.
Sarah Potenza features on the track “Lies So Deep.” How did she come to be involved? Sarah was a Dave special discovery via a US television show and her voice is a tour de force which completely transformed the track. You made full videos for the tracks “Don't Cha Know” and “Heart's a Liar,” which isn't something that everyone does these days. How important was it to you to present those tracks in that way? I have to say that each of the directors were very kind to us and they really put their hearts and souls into the two projects. I feel like I’m finally having my Madonna moment and they made me look and feel fantastic. Ten Crowns was a significant hit in the UK albums charts, including a Number One in the Independent Albums chart. How important is that commercial success to you these days? It’s still nice to be recognized within the industry, but as you become older (if not wiser!) formats change and it’s harder and harder to chart so you just want to make quality material. You've released the album on your own Crown Recordings label. Do you have
more plans for the label? Might you sign and release other artists, for example? We might do, but it was a hell of a lot of work for Stephen, which I wouldn’t like to put him through again. We had amazing support from Mute and PIAS. I had no idea how much work they do behind the scenes. Has Vince Clarke been involved in this project at all? Do you know what he thinks of Ten Crowns?
Yes, Vince has done an incredible mix for us and he told me he was very proud of me and this project. He says he doesn’t know where I get the stamina from… and neither do I! How did you come up with the name Ten Crowns? Does it have a special meaning? The name refers to the tarot — the ten crowns on the tree of life — which is a very powerful card to have. Also, I’d just got the crowns on my teeth done in Miami when I was trying to think of a title. What’s next for Erasure? Vince and I are currently working together in the studio. It’s the 40th anniversary of Erasure’s first album next year, and we hope to have a new album ready to coincide with that.
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