Queer Frontier & Windmills 2.0.

Here we are, mid-week in the midst of moving on and upwards from another a marker in our personal lives and histories. Overwhelmed as we all perhaps have been from the passing weeks' grief moments, ultimately life must go on. On we shall go with the latest updates, breaking news, commentaries, links, people and just plain ole stuff. Let's go for it...

New Targeted Therapy Could Eradicate HIV, Study Finds

Researchers from Oregon State University's Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute (VGTI) Florida and the University of Montreal say they have discovered a potential way to eradicate HIV by suppressing viral replication and stopping the division of certain T-cells in the body, according to a study published on Sunday online in the journal Nature Medicine, the Treasure Coast reports (Copsey, Treasure Coast, 6/21). Lead researcher Rafick-Pierre S kaly, scientific director for VGTI Florida and a professor at the University of Montreal, and colleagues say that a new therapy that combines traditional antiretroviral treatment with what they call "intelligent targeted chemotherapy," might completely destroy "HIV reservoirs," where the virus hides inside immune system cells and cannot be reached by existing treatments.
Co-author Jean-Pierre Routy, associate professor of hematology at McGill University in Montreal, said that if a patient responds to traditional antiretroviral therapy, then they would be a good candidate for the new treatment, which could kill the remaining cells that keep the virus alive in the body. He said the patient could "remain virus-free for a long time or forever." A study will begin in September to test the validity of the findings (Minsky, Canwest/Calgary Herald, 6/21).

BarWatch: If you've been keeping count or not, entertainment venues and outlets are surfacing here, there and maybe over there. So let's try to sort some of this out, if we may. First up, I finally got a chance to get a closer look and further understanding about what's really going on in the former Factory nightspot now christened, Speakeasy Supper Club under the helm of former Easy Street manager, M. Henderson & partners. The construction is certainly ongoing and from my viewing is quite extensive and may cause a delay in the scheduled August 12 opening. So far, only the unfinished stage and "U" shaped bar are recognizable, with a proposed "VIP- loft area in the making and some other "areas" being mapped out for cabaret seating. Grand plans on paper yet as one who has worked with construction folk, not always feasible or practical. One item that I didn't see, that I thought should be lurking some where with this type of work, was construction dumpster for all the debris that currently taking up space and more to come. Henderson did allude to the fact that some materials had been recycled and other usables found life elsewhere. As I spoke with the trio partnership, they were filled with enthusiasm and optimism about the upcoming venture. According to a marketing piece, "Speakeasy Supper Club, has a concept for entertainment and cuisine that is simple and exciting. Two parts modern-Two parts nostalgia-one part kitsch- with a dash of really? Wow!.." I'm not sure about what "wow" they are speaking of but in my opinion this venture needs to go into warp drive if it plans on meeting that opening deadline. After all, the line up calls for a SpeakEasy Revue featuring female show girls, a male chorus, bartenders, servers, and (OMG) a Chef that needs to be in place before the doors open. I hope that they know that good help is hard to find and good golly to Keep! These brave souls are hammering and tinkering away daily in search of capturing a mature, income disposable, arty crowd. Well, I say, "good luck with that!" In other Barwatch news, I've learned the alleged moniker of that other venture going in at 610 Center Street. Are you ready? TA- DAH!...it's ( are you really ready?) SWAY. Say what? Oh come now, don't you know what a SWAY is? Well, nope. Therefore, I had to go to the streets of Little Rock dictionary for some clarity. Apparently, this is slang lingo for what I'm defining as "having it all together with a self confidence," not the protective automobile suspension device that came up when I Googled. I was told by one of my "Peeps in the Streets" that I should know because I, meaning little old me, has a "swag about myself." I guess you could relate it to what former President Bush sorta displayed in a "swagger" about himself and current President O's brotherly stride that exudes a certain demeanor or how he handles certain situations. Anyway, the club is slated to be a private nightclub and it's beverage license is being bounced at the Alcohol Beverage Control board. Please stay locked in, things are just getting interesting...

Mirror, Mirror... The Man, Me & You

J-DAY, has arrived as the news of Michael Jackson's death has spreaded to every corner of of every hemisphere, except perhaps North Korea, it's time to lay the idol to rest. It's been a long journey from that faithful day to the spirit inspired memorial production taking place in the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Hopefully, this "final curtain call," will facilitate some closure for some and peace for his immediate family and children. God's speed and thanks for the sharing your talents across the globe. It's no doubt that you will be truly missed....

This forum is always seeking items or content such as the one below as foundation pieces to "teachable moments." Every day I try to find at least some time in my busy day to enjoy a moment of inspiration as the turblence of the world goes on around me. I implore each and every one of you to find the time to reflect, mediatate, prayer or quiet time to allow yourself to appreciate the wonderfulness of yourself in the ongoing "6 degree" paradigm which we all share. Have Safe and Proud day!

The Echo Of Life By: Author Unknown

A man and his son were walking in the forest. Suddenly theboy trips and feeling a sharp pain he screams, "Ahhhhh." Surprised, he hears a voice coming from the mountain,"Ahhhhh!" Filled with curiosity, he screams: "Who are you?", but the only answer he receives is: "Who are you?" This makes him angry, so he screams: "You are a coward!",and the voice answers: "You are a coward!"

He looks at his father, asking, "Dad, what is going on?" "Son," the man replies, "pay attention!" Then he screams,"I admire you!" The voice answers: "I admire you!"

The father shouts, "You are wonderful!", and the voice answers: "You are wonderful!" The boy is surprised, but still can't understand what isgoing on. Then the father explains, "People call this 'ECHO', but truly it is 'LIFE!'

Life always gives you back what yougive out! Life is a mirror of your actions. If you wantmore love, give more love! If you want more kindness, givemore kindness!

If you want understanding and respect, giveunderstanding and respect!

If you want people to be patientand respectful to you, give patience and respect!

This rule of nature applies to every aspect of our lives."

Life always gives you back what you give out.

Your life is not a coincidence, but a mirror of your own doings.

FED UP 101

I'm fed up. Yup, I'm fed up with just being fed up. And the list is just getting longer by the day and it seems that I'm not alone. My Fed Up tirade consist of that far reaching Star Trek type radar of subjects, persons and or issues. So here's my list. I'm Fed Up with some of my neighbors whom don't share my view of keeping tidy surrounding's that doesn't include refuse, non-working cars and loose beer cans running about. I'm pretty Fed Up with the concept that I must pay sales taxes on a used car, my dog's grooming, personal property tax, income taxes, hamburger tax, and just about any taxes that exist. Although I realize that without doing so just would me more Fed up with missing essential services such as fire and police protection. While I'm being Fed Up, I guess I'm also put out with those whom obliviously and openly chirp on cell phones while shopping or "text manics" trying to drive as well. Then, there's employees who have more insipid reasons why they can't come to work, not to mention why they are not working when they do arrive late. Adding to my dismay, I can't leave out my creditors ability to change the rules of my credit cards at their greedy pleasure, sparring to get a doctors appointment when I want it, waiting in line at the U Scan because the customer before me seems clueless, the excessively loud rap music that jar the walls of my home even though we have a neighborhood "noise ordinance" and the Wall Street wizards whom created those slug mechanism that not many knew how they worked resulting in massive government bailouts. And damn it, I'm still Fed Up about loosing my best friend to AIDS and my inability to find a person to fill that void. Hell, I'm just FED Up with life itself, but when I think about it, isn't everybody? Yet, the only alternative is simply not living which I'm not ready to embrace, so does it really matter how fed up I am about anything. Especially, since the overall determination of my piece of mind is based on my own personal responsibility tied to choices that I ultimately decide. I may have a distaste for all the above, but we all have a list of items that cause us angst and discord. I'm fully aware that the playing field in life hasn't and most likely will never be the same for the masses. History has sound illustrations to that fact and our present day situation isn't faring well either. I'm not blinded to the inadequacies within our society or the systems that have allowed such disenfranchisement to co-exist, but the recent chatter from the Fed UP Queer group concerning their "position" in regards to local businessman Norman Jones caused me pause. For the record, I've known Jones for numerous years and let me be clear, we've not seen eye to eye on a variety of issues including some that were quite public. I feel comfortable with the stance that as mature adults, we can agree to disagree, and move on respectfully. I re-read this stated position again to refresh my senses and I respect their right to protest, opinions and civil discourse. However, it's the outcomes that I'm trying to assess as well as the broadness of their bullet points. They cite Jones' "monopoly" in this city. Well, that may be true now, but their were other owner/operators who were the only game in town long before Jones entered the market. Furthermore, their have been numerous individuals to coincide in this area, even as Jones operated then and now, offering the LGBTQ community choice. I personally remember all of them with their own questionable "sense and sensibilities" that often didn't please one faction or another, including myself. It's fact that each of those business people called the shots for their establishments irrespective of the communities needs or wants. They supported when they desired to do so and as they deemed appropriate. The "gay" business segment of this city has had a cautious approach in supporting the community. Basically because many of these entrepreneurs outside the nightlife venues have cited the lukewarm support they've received. On 4.27.07, this forum sponsored a free Networking Event for businesses which garnered marginal results. I was personally told by a local business person, "why should I attend to promote my business, when most gay people don't really support my business..." In retrospect, it wasn't protest that led to those bar closures, it was the art of doing business vs market forces. If Jones has been a survivor, it's due his adept business acumen, tenacious work ethic and his passion for success. Getting in business can be easy, but staying in businesses is the true test. Especially while attempting to provide a venue for a diverse group as the lavender set with its ever changing satisfaction level. Further in their outline, they use terms such as "exploitative" and denote the lack of access in Mr. Jones entities for HIV/AIDS literature, of which I had heard about before this eruption from a former outreach worker of Many Men, Many Voices. If my memory serves me correctly, then Coordinator J. Martin recounted to me that Jones referred to his tri-folds as "racist," due to the nature that this JCCSI sanctioned outreach focused distinctively to the Black MSM population. I found that observation remarkably narrow minded with hopes that perhaps NJ could be positioned for ongoing "teachable moments." Meanwhile, Jones is called out concerning, incidents of folks being singled out for their uniqueness or expression as detailed supposedly by a shirtless cub but not the PYT (pretty young thing) with a six pack. His lack of cash outlay for Act 1 and the operating of HWPA have these members "fed up" as well. In my opinion, are these random situations or discernable patterns that actually warrants attention? To what realistic standard is this corporate citizen vs other business citizens held accountable for their interaction within this community? Where's the responsibility or culpability zone for those who have "willingly" supported Jone's outlets over the years? Has it not been just easy to abdicate the collective consciouness? Apparently FUQ wants to make a point and it's going down for discussion in public view on Tuesday at 6 pm in Mac Arthur Park. I have to assume that anyone and everyone is invited, so let's let the chips fall where they may...stay tuned I'm sure I'll have some more to say about this one. In the meantime, don't forget that the floor is always open for your thoughts.

TGIF: A Firecracker Edition

It's a star spangled mash up this outing with a burst of news, commentary, links and breaking news in Central City and beyond. As other's make their way to lakes or invited to yet another cook out, I'm taking a fast dash in the Big Chair before a brief break in the action. COP:24/7 has been putting it all out there and more just for you. Do the 4th of July, but stay locked and loaded with CorneliusOnpoint!

Barth in the House: Actually that's Jay Barth looking to be in the Arkansas Senate as stated by his latest ccampaign e-blast which cited his candidacy being supported by the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund. According to Barth, "...I believe that the tremendous support for my campaign--evidenced in contributions and commitments to volunteer--shows confidence that I have the characteristics that we need in a State Senator at this time of great opportunity for Arkansas." His bid for the Senate seat appears to have broad based appeal from both the LGBTQ community and allies. During the Pride Picnic, Barth urged attendees to become motivated and get energized as volunteers in his organization. The Victory Fund, founded in 1991, is the only national organization dedicated to growing the number of openly LGBT elected officials at all levels of government. If you would like to donate you can do so at the campaign website: http://www.jaybarth.org/ or http://www.actblue.com/

Bar Watch: Holy Rainbows! Just how many entertainment outlets will take to entertain us? Well, it seems local entrepreneurs are not deterred with the economy or the ebbing/flowing patrons. I've mentioned the forthcoming addition to the Off Center mix, which will be sanctioned, PULSE. According to Norman Jones, this offering will feature a lounge/ dance/ show atmosphere adjacent to the live entertainment of the sister club. It will be a 21 and up private club venture with the "Eyes of Texas," Whitney Paige (picutred) slated as show director. Construction continues with an opening date still pending. On the heels of that update, Backstreet has sliced off another operating day, Saturdays. The multi-bar concept is now only open on Friday's from 9 until 5 a.m. In a previous post I openly speculated about the lack of people in the cavernous outlet versus days gone by and what affect that would have on the bottom line. Although my observations didn't make the difference but certainly the lack of dollars spoke volumes, as well as the continuing trend that this forum also has mentioned that such entities are seeking to downsize to either die out. Then comes the news of another "private club" outlet at 310 Center reportedly being helmed by former short term The Factory proprietor, Mr. Marcus. At this posting, it's all about the devil in the details when it comes to posting about these movements. However, I did notice a ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) notice in the storefront window citing a licensing effort. On my visit, there were no signs of construction, which in opinion will have to be one those extensive and probably expensive "tear outs" to get it right. If Mr. M. want to compete for the minds and pockets of the lavender set, I expect that he will have to "bring some to get some," if this business is to be successful. Hey, Mr. M. I'm all ears if you want to update a brother. Meanwhile, the construction work continues on the "Michael & Company Project" in the defunct The Factory spot on Louisiana Street. To date there's no opening date, but there's an allegedly "speakeasy" theme, however as I researched for that all important ABC date, there doesn't appear to be one on the docket. Of course, there's lots of paperwork and busy work involved in getting through the gates of the "Arkansas Beverage Gods." With all this activity occurring, does this mean that Little Rock is trying to develop it's own version of Chicago's Loop, Dallas' Cedar Springs, or Houston's Montrose hubs? Can this city's community visualize such a move and then be capable of supporting these brave business movers and shakers? Will this type of "consumerism" be met with open arms or disdain? Only time will tell and this forum hopes to be the first to bring it to you! If you've got back talk, you can reach out and touch in our comment section.

Talking Out Loud Thursday

Did you sense it? Do you remember that this "thing that I do" was upon our own milestone? Well, did ya? O.K. at least one of you sent me a nice "kudos" on the fact that this forum has, strike the band...TA DA! Surpassed the 500 post mark. That's right readers, this little exercise has over 500 postings encompassing about some 100,000 words, verbiage, tirades, commentaries, back talk, BS and our damnest attempts to educate, empower and enrichment the GLBTQ community and beyond. It's COP:24/7 in full affect, meanwhile taking no prisoners while we "stay on point" as we keep it real about what's really going on! After all, we are the only daily online portal for Arkansas' rainbow family and allies. And now after that shameless plugging, let's roll..

Capital Pride Re-Tool: It's no secret that this forum has no problem with asking the hard questions or musing about the internal workings of organizations with assumptions of serving the community at large. Therefore, I was somewhat bemused with an announcement from Little Rock Capital Pride concerning it's apparent "re-tooling," as it's searches for candidates for it's non-functioning board. Previously, I've posted concerns and observations about not only this group, but any of these community mash ups that proposes to be some type of working apparatus. Just to refresh your memory, this is the organization that promoted itself with putting together this year's Pride event, which subsequently was cancelled due to what they cited as "circumstances." To date, this outfit has sidestepped just exactly what those circumstances were, but from those former board members that I've spoken to whom stated that first problem was not sufficient cash flow for what was being possibly or remotely being planned. Despite a few funders, which netted a speculated $1000.00 or so dollars just wouldn't produce the event. Furthermore, I was told that there was lack of synergy among board members and most notably President Chagoya. Now, comes this posting on their website about elections for "seven" positions including the VP spot but which I hope includes the Presidency. In my opinion this group can't continue to operate in a leadership vacuum based on the "Three Faces of Eve" concept. If this group really intends to be a player for 2010 as well taken seriously, then I suggest that they re-vamp, re-tool and get busy doing it with a quickness. If not, then step aside and shuttered it's existence. It's just that simple. I'm reprinting that post, as I urge that only those qualified, committed and prepared individuals seek a position. In other words, if you are not up to the task, then don't pretend to be so. In the meantime, this forum will continue our efforts in promoting the momentum behind the successful Pride Picnic held June 21 in which we celebrated "unity in community," with a colorful mix of supporters as well as allies. As we set eyes on Pride 2010, it' not a "us" against "them" matter, but rather a "Yes We Can," approach that can and will make the difference.

Here's the post: (unedited)

We are now accepting applications for those interested in joining the Board of Directors for Little Rock Capital Pride. We have 7 open position including that of Vice President. If you are interested in joining and helping out please understand the following:
1. Your term of service if for 2 years. Starting August 2009 ending July 2011.
2. You will be helping to plan the 2010 and 2011 Pride events in Little Rock.
3. This is as fun and as exciting as you make it.
4. You are in on the planning and can influence how pride will look for the next 2 years.
So if you want to join please send a resume or letter introducing yourself to:
Ari Chagoya, President.
The email needs to be sent by July 24th. Elections will be held the last Sunday in July with time and place to be announced.

RED, WHITE, BLUE and Rainbow U

On the heels of Pride comes more pride as we prepare to celebrate the long 4th of July weekend. It's that chest busting, head held high, attention saluting commemeration of this nations declaration of independence some 200 years ago. Even as those preparations are in full swing, there's still updates, breaking news, and at least one kitchen sink to report about in this forum. Therefore, prior to the sparklers and other fireworks, let's get firecracking!!!

Jackson A Go-Go: You can't say that you've not heard almost every little tidbit or tawdry fact, fiction or foolishness about the life and death of iconic entertainer Micheal Jackson. My condolences are with his entire family in this time of bereavement, however, this tribute funeral is rivaling that of President Lincoln which went on a 180 city, seven state, 1,654 mile trek before his internment in Illinois. It now appears that the final prep is being decided in L.A. to send MJ into the afterlife befitting of pop royalty. Meanwhile, MJ's big tent of complex deals, constructs, mash-ups and just plain on mayhem will continue even after the final good-bye. Especially from the talking media heads who are living and breathing every nuanced quip, dip or unscripted word about Jackson. Every so tipping through the glass house without seen as exploiting his legacy. It's all so surreal that you would think that Jackson was the head of state or something. Well, I guess he was the monarch of Neverland and personally I believe that this is where he should reign in burial, so that those inclined can make this there ultimate yearly, monthly or daily pilgrimage. At this time, It's all becoming just a bit much for myself and I'm ready and most likely many of you are ready to turn the page.

Movie Night Out: West Little Rock restaurant Lilly's Dim Sum, Then Some is hosting a movie night in support of local art house Market Street Cinema, July 5 at 4 pm. According to an e-blast the film "Performance" is supposedly being screened however, this film is not listed as currently running their, therefore, I'm assuming that perhaps organizers are leasing a theater for the presentation. I've seen several films at MSC and have always enjoyed my retreat into the darkness of a movie house. Also, Market Street offers adult beverages in the concession stand, sells tickets in advance and offers many quirky films that you just can't see in other theatres around town. It's a cash only house, but has one of those ATM machines in the lobby. In the meantime, if we can get a clarification, then it will be posted here or call the theatre at 501.312.8900 and tell em you heard it here!

BLK Pride & HIV: The second Annual Awareness Luncheon in conjunction with Black Pride Weekend will be held Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Theresa Hoover HMC, 4000 13th street, 11-3pm. There will be HIV testing and complimentary food and beverage. This is sponsored by IFBP (International Federation of Black Prides), Arkansas Department of Health, C.A.R., JCCSI, Theresa Hoover U.M.C. and an entity that's new to me, the Arkansas Black AIDS Foundation. For more info contact: Desmond at 501-529-1538 or Stanley at 501-398-0307 This forum will continue to highlight all activities from this "Open to all" event!

Taking it to the Streets...The Tuesday Edition

Even though this city celebrated Pride last week, these celebrations are actually spreaded over several months throughout the summer. I heard from many of you during the week that you've attended other larger events in Q-metropolitan areas that seem to impress your senses. I lived in San Francisco, witnessing the notable pride parade their, but I've never ever considered that event comparable to this city, As I've stated previously, this is not "their" and selling our selves short because we've seen it done bigger elsewhere isn't helping improve our offerings locally. Those cities such as NYC, ATL or even Dallas for that matter, have these determining factors that create those highly visible efforts. First: MONEY. The budgets for those cities are funded through various revenue sources including some city grants. In Philadelphia, local Pride events have received $10,000 for single day events and additional funding up to $10,000 for multi-day events. Can you imagine if the city of Little Rock had a "community festival funding program" equipped with such funding? How about the Mayor or Ward Representative attending? Meanwhile, in Fort Lauderdale, their festival was almost cancelled due to a $50,000 short fall for a "weekend" slate of activities, based on a budget topping over $100,000. In Columbus, budgeted items included $27,000 for staging, $20,000 for security and contracted services as well as $19,000 for catering for purchase after an admission fee. At this year's picnic co-sponsors COP:24/7 and CAR were generous in offering FREE food and beverages. Secondly, Sponsorships. Ranging from Local adult beverage vendors to AARP, each offering in-kind donations to on-site booths ran the gamut at the big events. Could this level of sponsorship be a reality for the capitol city? If not, why not? Thirdly, PEOPLE. Many of these festivals have "functioning" Board of Directors, some paid Executive Directors and distinctively committed individuals/volunteers who make these memorable events happen. For those who braved the heat and came in support, also who have send this forum "congrats," I again personally thank you and appreciate your support. However, If Little Rock wants more big city fare, then making your personal commitment starting TODAY is the challenge. Here are the building blocks of the blueprint to 2010 success. The question becomes: what can you contribute to show some pride? I promised that there would be ongoing perspectives on what it will take to give you more of what you are looking for in PRIDE 2010. Stay locked in, share your observations, participate with our widgets and get on board NOW!...