Date: Sat, 29 May 1999 17:42:34 -0400 (EDT) From: A Jay Eddy Subject: BLCCF Response to Sexual Roulette..by Jay Cheshes of New Times (fwd) May 29, 1999 For Immediate Release Contact: Broward Log Cabin Club of FL P.O. Box 1281, Ft.Lauderdale, FL 33302 (954) LCR-1995 - Mark Ferrara, Exec.V.P. SEX SELLS THE GOOD NEWS DOESN'T It is often suggested that in marketing and in media hype "Sex Sells and the Good News Doesn't." That parity was recently high- lighted in the May 27th issue of the New Times under "Sexual Roulette," by Jay Cheshes. Cheshes flung open the back door of a few gay-guide establishments focusing on the actions of some individuals in Broward's alleged "anything-goes back rooms" (www.newtimesbpb.com). Unfortunately, this hype focused only upon promiscuous gays while recently other media stories featured a number of promiscuous heterosexual clubs hit during several surprise raids by the local vice squad. Why "unfortunately?" Simply put; the expose' relayed the irre- sponsibility of several men living with HIV/AIDS who, in one form or another benefit from AIDS services and HIV funding, yet carry and use a hidden weapon that kills with extreme physical and financial hardship. A vast number of people who are HIV negative will view these escapades differently, the story will sell. It may very well cause repercussions for many who are HIV positive and living a healthy and conservative lifestyle. We in Log Cabin, who tirelessly work for continued and adequate funding for HIV services, are not at all pleased about these boasted personal actions of recklessness. Yet, we realize, understand and accept the diversity of human nature. We regret that there will be some who will use this story to support their negativism, their negative statistics and negative teachings. Regardless, we do care about people who are not living in the fast lane. We are here to say that there are many who responsibly appreciate every bit of help they receive from those who donate, volunteer and believe that life is sacred regardless of a stigmatized disease. Furthermore, we thank all those who give with an open heart. We deeply appreciate all volunteer who freely serve. We pray for all those who search for the cure coupled to a better life for their sisters and brothers in need. We cherish anyone willing to shed the shell of victimization and assume responsibility. We congratulate those who look beyond this expose' where "Sex Sells and the Good News Doesn't" and proclaim that a silent and less visible majority of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS are genuinely appreciative of such dedication, caring and goodness on their behalf. End * * * BLCCF E-BB (954) LCR-1995