For several weeks now fires have ravaged the greater Los Angeles area, burning everything in their path, houses, vegetation and animal habitats. The scale of this is frightening and rarely seen before, and while some of the fires are starting to be contained, others are not. Thousands of people, and their pets have lost their homes, and besides water to fight the fires, money, food and other supplies are needed, as well as lodging for the displaced. Now is not the time for political games, and we as Californians, it is more important than ever to try to help in any way we can.
In this issue of Outword, we have pulled together some facts and references for anyone seeking to lend a hand, or quite honestly, financial support. This is not by any means a complete list, but the entities on pages 10 and 11 should be able to make the most impact, serving the most that need it, with the resources they are able to acquire. Please take a look, and if you can help, please do. The people in need may not be our blood relatives, but we are all part of the California family, including the pets and animals.
Besides the fires, there is a lot of stuff going on that directly effects our community, and we have touched on a couple of them. There are paradigm shifts at Meta/Facebook/Instagram that are disrespectful towards the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized communites as well. Knowledge is power, so knowing about those changes and how they will impact us.
It is also important that Chris Allan’s tribute to the recently departed 39th President, Jimmy Carter, not be overshadowed. She recalls the ceremonies she attended, and photographed some really heartfelt images. You can read and see this on page 4. Thank you, Chris!
We have included an opinion piece from the publisher of a fellow LGBTQ+ publication, The Philadelphia Gay Times, written by Mark Segal. He has just celebrated a birthday, and reflects on what he has seen and done during personal and professional life. Thank you for sharing.
On a lighter note, Diana Kienle returns with a tale of a wonderful Oregon winery, Mondavi is hosting Sasha Velour and Chris Narloch writes about four possible Oscar-worthy movies that are in theaters now. Matthew Burlingame chimes in with his “Out & About” column, so fun, and we revive the “Question on the Street.” It’s been a long time since we have asked questions and snapped some pics of folks around town. It was fun, and we will bring more like this, but maybe, with some more in-depth questions?
So, there is some, but not all, of our 1-23-25 issue of Outword. We hope you will find the fire information and links helpful. And that you enjoy the remainder of what this issue has to offer.
Times are changing out there. Stay informed and alert, and take care of yourself and the ones that love you. We will see you again the day before Valentine’s day, and as always, join us on the second Friday of each month for our oh-so-fun Liquid Therapy happy hour.
All our Love, from the Outword Staff.
