Getting to Know You

Before Christoph Babka, Christopher Landavazo, and Vincent Jones began their splashy hijinx with the water hose and while waiting for photographer Steven Barston to set up equipment for the cover shoot of this issue, I struck up a conversation with our handsome models. A couple of them were curious about how I like being the editor of this magazine. It’s a question I’ve frequently been asked during the past year, but my answer is always the same and it’s sincere. “I really enjoy the paid education I’m getting,” is my reply. There are few things more rewarding than meeting and learning about people like the three gentlemen on the cover. Besides holding exhausting day jobs, they donate much of their free time to fundraising for favorite charities.

This is Frontiers’ second annual “hot issue.” To some, the term “hot” may be misleading, but our goal is a simple one: To profile openly LGBT people in Greater Los Angeles who are making a positive difference in our community—the unsung heroes, if you will. We think these people redefine the ubiquitous descriptive. While we photographed Christoph, Christopher, and Vincent for our cover, each person on our list is truly an inspiration to us. I think we've compiled a diverse and inclusive group that represents the best and most colorful of our city. I hope you agree.

Besides this wonderful cover feature, I also want to draw your attention to a commentary written by Calpernia Addams. Although I don’t watch much television in general and even less “reality” programming, it’s difficult to escape the Project Runway juggernaut. Any excitement I felt at that little sprite Christian Siriano’s success last season quickly dissipated when his inescapable catch phrase “hot tranny mess” wore out its welcome within hours of his victory. I can be as politically incorrect as the next gay, but I recall asking friends to stop repeating it, not just because it was played out but because of the derogatory implication. Being a member of a minority group doesn't entitle any of us to put down a subculture of our own group. There’s enough hate and ignorance without us perpetuating it ourselves. But rather than listen to me, you should read Calpernia’s eloquent call for a moratorium on page 26.

I’m certain you will find something beneficial in this issue and as always, I welcome your feedback. Write to letters@frontierspublishing.com to let us know what you think.

Yours,

Jeremy Kinser
Editor in Chief